Answer the following question (this answer, 5 points). 40. Why do the polar regions have six months of light and six months of dark- ness?

The polar regions experience six months of continuous daylight followed by six months of darkness due to the tilt of the Earth's axis. As the Earth orbits the Sun, the poles tilt towards or away from the Sun, creating a phenomenon where the sun can be seen for 24 hours during the summer months while it dips below the horizon during winter. This unique positioning results in the extreme variations in light and darkness. This fascinating pattern plays a crucial role in the ecosystems at the poles. For instance, during the long summer days, polar plants and animals flourish, taking advantage of the abundant sunlight to grow and reproduce. Conversely, the prolonged darkness of winter challenges survival strategies for both wildlife and indigenous human populations, leading to adaptations like hibernation and seasonal hunting practices.