Question

which statement describes solstices?
they occur when the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky.
they affect the amount of sunlight in the southern hemisphere in may.
they contribute to the cycling of winters all year long in the northern hemisphere.
they increase the amount of rays from the sun directly received in the southern hemisphere.

Explanation:

Solstices occur when the Sun reaches its highest (summer solstice) or lowest (winter solstice) point in the sky. The other options are incorrect. Option 2: Solstices in June (summer solstice in Northern Hemisphere) and December (winter solstice in Northern Hemisphere) are more significant for sunlight distribution rather than May. Option 3: Winters don't cycle all - year. Option 4: Solstices affect sunlight distribution but not just increase rays in Southern Hemisphere (it depends on which solstice - summer solstice in Northern Hemisphere is winter solstice in Southern Hemisphere and vice - versa).

Answer:

They occur when the Sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky.