Question 1: What event marks the shortest day and longest night in the year?
A. Vernal Equinox
B. Winter Solstice
C. Summer Solstice
The winter solstice occurs around December 21 or 22 and is recognized as the shortest day and longest night, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. This is when one of Earth’s poles is tilted the farthest from the sun, causing less daylight.
Correct Answer: Winter Solstice
Question 2: Which ancient site in England is aligned with solstice events?
A. Easter Island
B. Stonehenge
C. Machu Picchu
Stonehenge is one of the famous ancient sites that is aligned with the sun during solstices, illustrating how prehistoric peoples were attentive to astronomical events and their significance.
Correct Answer: Stonehenge
Question 3: Which festival is associated with the winter solstice in ancient Rome?
A. Saturnalia
B. Lughnasadh
C. Beltane
Saturnalia was a festival in ancient Rome that celebrated the solstice and included feasting, giving gifts, and revelry to mark the return of longer days after the winter solstice.
Correct Answer: Saturnalia