Heat Zones of the Earth Explained

The Earth receives different amounts of sunlight at different latitudes. Based on the angle and intensity of the sun's rays, the Earth is divided into three Heat Zones: the Torrid Zone, the Temperate Zone, and the Frigid Zone.

Question (Click to Flip)

Which is the largest heat zone?

Answer

The Torrid Zone is the largest of the three heat zones, as it spans from 23.5°N to 23.5°S — a total width of 47° of latitude.

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Key Facts

India lies primarily in the Torrid Zone (south of Tropic of Cancer) and partly in the North Temperate Zone (north of Tropic of Cancer). This is why northern India experiences distinct cold winters while southern India remains warm year-round.

The Three Heat Zones

1. Torrid Zone (Hot Zone):

Boundaries: Between the Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) and the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5°S)
The sun's rays fall vertically (directly overhead) on some part of this zone throughout the year
Climate: Very hot, high temperatures all year — no cold seasons
Also called the Tropical Zone

2. Temperate Zones (Moderate Zones):

There are TWO temperate zones:
- North Temperate Zone: Between Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) and the Arctic Circle (66.5°N)
- South Temperate Zone: Between Tropic of Capricorn (23.5°S) and the Antarctic Circle (66.5°S)
The sun never shines directly overhead; rays are always slanted
Climate: Moderate — distinct four seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter)

3. Frigid Zones (Cold Zones):

There are TWO frigid zones:
- North Frigid Zone: Between the Arctic Circle (66.5°N) and the North Pole (90°N)
- South Frigid Zone: Between the Antarctic Circle (66.5°S) and the South Pole (90°S)
Sun's rays are always very slanted, providing little heat
Climate: Extremely cold; ice and snow covered most of the year

Questions and Answers

Which is the largest heat zone?+

The **Torrid Zone** is the largest of the three heat zones, as it spans from 23.5°N to 23.5°S — a total width of 47° of latitude.

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