Earth–Sun Geometry – Seasonal Extremes (Southern Hemisphere) On which date does the southern hemisphere experience its longest day (and shortest night), corresponding to the December solstice?

Introduction / Context:
Seasons result from Earth’s axial tilt and revolution around the Sun. Solstices mark the annual extremes of daylight length: one for each hemisphere. This question targets the southern hemisphere’s longest day, which occurs around the December solstice when the Sun is overhead near the Tropic of Capricorn (~23.5° S).

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Southern summer solstice occurs in December.
• Day length is maximized in the hemisphere tilted toward the Sun.
• Dates can vary slightly (21–22 December), but the exam-standard value is acceptable.

Concept / Approach:
At the December solstice, the south pole is tilted toward the Sun. Southern latitudes receive their greatest daylight duration, while the northern hemisphere has its shortest day. Hence, the longest day in the southern hemisphere corresponds to about December 22 in many exam keys (sometimes December 21 depending on the year).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Almanacs list the southern solstice near December 21–22; either date corresponds to the same astronomical event, ensuring the conceptual correctness of choosing December 22 for standardized quizzes.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• June 21 / July 21: Around the northern summer solstice or later; not southern longest day.
• November 22: Not a solstice; daylight not maximal.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming both hemispheres share the same longest-day date. Remember: the hemispheres experience opposite seasons.

Final Answer:
December 22