Direct rays of the sun fall on the Tropic of Cancer on :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:

The correct option is 2 (21st June):
This date marks the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. Due to the Earth’s axial tilt of approximately 23.5 degrees, on or around June 21st, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted maximum towards the sun. As a result, the sun's direct rays fall perpendicularly (at a 90-degree angle) upon the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° N latitude). This occurrence is the zenith of the sun's northward apparent movement and results in the longest day and the shortest night for locations in the Northern Hemisphere. This event is vital for understanding the distribution of solar energy and the establishment of seasons.

The incorrect option is 1 (21st March):
March 21st is generally known as the Vernal (Spring) Equinox. On this day, the sun's direct rays fall directly on the Equator (0° latitude), not the Tropic of Cancer. During the equinox, the Earth's axis is neither tilted toward nor away from the sun, resulting in roughly equal day and night lengths across the entire globe.

The incorrect option is 3 (22nd December):
December 22nd is typically the date for the Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. On this day, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the sun. Consequently, the sun's direct rays fall perpendicularly on the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° S latitude), marking the longest day for the Southern Hemisphere.

The incorrect option is 4 (23rd September):
September 23rd marks the Autumnal Equinox. Similar to the Vernal Equinox, on this date, the direct rays of the sun fall exactly on the Equator (0° latitude). The Earth experiences nearly equal day and night lengths worldwide as the sun appears to cross the celestial equator, transitioning from the Northern to the Southern Hemisphere.