Winter: A Season of Wonder
Winter, a term that brings images of snow, ice, and cold, is a fascinating season of wonder. As Earth orbits the sun, the tilt causes the sun's rays to strike different parts of the globe more directly during each of Earth's spins. That's why we experience seasons. During winter, the sun's rays strike the Earth at a shallow angle, resulting in a significant reduction in daylight hours. Winter's icy grip leads to dormancy in many plants, but it is not merely a time of decay. It’s an essential part of the cycle of life. The dormancy period allows plants to conserve water and survive the cold. Similarly, many animals hibernate or migrate to warmer areas to survive the harsh winter conditions. Human adaptation to winter is also fascinating. We layer ourselves with clothes, drink warm beverages, and indulge in comfort food. Winter also heralds the arrival of numerous cultural celebrations like Christmas and Hanukkah, which light up the darkness of the season. Winter also presents opportunities for unique sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice hockey. The captivating beauty of winter landscapes, as if nature has draped a white blanket over itself, is a sight to behold. However, climate change is altering the characteristics of winter. Warmer winters with less snowfall could potentially disrupt ecosystems, affect winter sports, and even impact various cultures. Our collective actions can help alleviate climate change effects and help preserve the awe-inspiring wonder that is winter.
Question 1
What is the primary reason for the sun's rays to strike the Earth at a shallow angle during winter?
Earth's rotation
Earth's revolution
Cloud coverage
Moon's gravitational pull
Climate change
Question 2
What’s the purpose of the dormancy period for plants during winter?
To grow faster
To conserve water and survive the cold
To produce more seeds
To attract pollinators
To shed leaves
Question 3
What does the term 'hibernate' mean in the context of winter adaptation by animals?
Migration to warmer areas
Gathering food
Becoming active
Sleeping through the winter
Shedding fur
Question 4
What is the potential impact of warmer winters with less snowfall due to climate change?
Increase in winter sports activities
Enhancement of ecosystems
Disruption in ecosystems and impact on winter sports
Better plant growth
Increase in animal hibernation
Question 5
What does the phrase 'draped a white blanket' metaphorically refer to in the text?
The spread of snow across landscapes
The arrival of spring
The migration of animals
The beginning of hibernation
The onset of climate change
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