Tropic of Cancer

Circle of latitude 23°26′11.7″ north of the Equator

World map with the Tropic of Cancer

The Tropic of Cancer is one of the five major circles of latitude that mark maps of the Earth. It is the most northerly circle of latitude on Earth at which the Sun can be directly overhead. This event occurs at the June solstice, when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun to its maximum extent.

Geographical Significance

The Tropic of Cancer is currently positioned at 23°26′11.7″ north of the Equator. This latitude is significant because it marks the northern boundary of the tropics, the region of Earth that experiences the most direct sunlight and the least variation in day length throughout the year.

Diagram showing axial tilt and tropical circles

The position of the Tropic of Cancer is not fixed, but varies in a complex manner over time. This is due to a phenomenon known as the axial precession of the Earth, which causes the tilt of the Earth's axis to change over a 41,000-year cycle. As a result, the Tropic of Cancer is currently drifting southward at a rate of about 15 meters per year.

Cultural and Historical Context

The Tropic of Cancer has been significant in various cultures throughout history. It was named because, at the time of its naming, the Sun was in the constellation Cancer at the June solstice. Due to the precession of the equinoxes, the Sun is now in the constellation Gemini during the June solstice.

Countries and Regions

The Tropic of Cancer passes through 16 countries, including Mexico, Bahamas, Western Sahara, Mauritania, Mali, Algeria, Niger, Libya, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Oman, India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and China.

In these regions, the Tropic of Cancer is often marked by signs or monuments, and it is a point of interest for travelers and geographers alike.

Climate and Ecology

The regions around the Tropic of Cancer are typically characterized by a tropical climate, with high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. However, the specific climate can vary significantly depending on local geographical features such as mountains and bodies of water.

Related Pages

• Tropic of Capricorn
• Equator
• Arctic Circle
• Antarctic Circle
• Circle of latitude

Tropic of Cancer sign

See Also

• Solstice
• Equinox
• Earth's axial tilt

   Coordinates:
   
       23°26 
       12°N