What is the significance of the Tropic of Cancer?

The Tropic of Cancer holds significant geographic importance as it represents the northernmost latitude at which the sun can be directly overhead at noon, which occurs during the summer solstice around June 21. This phenomenon occurs because the Earth is tilted on its axis, causing different latitudes to receive direct sunlight at varying times of the year. At the Tropic of Cancer, located at approximately 23.5 degrees north, the sun's rays strike directly on this line during the summer solstice, marking a key point in understanding the Earth's solar patterns and climate zones. This alignment influences agricultural practices, ecosystems, and weather patterns in regions located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, which lies on the southern side at the same latitude.