The Tropic of Cancer is an imaginary line of latitude located at exactly 23.5° North of the Equator. It marks the northernmost point on Earth where the sun can be seen directly overhead at noon. Knowing which countries it passes through is a common competitive exam question.
The word 'Cancer' in the Tropic of Cancer has nothing to do with the disease. It was named over 2,000 years ago because, during the summer solstice, the sun was located in the star constellation of Cancer (the Crab).
The Tropic of Cancer passes through exactly 16 countries, spread across three major continents.
Here is the list broken down by continent (moving from West to East):
The line cuts straight through the massive, hot Sahara Desert.
It crosses all three major oceans: The Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Indian Ocean. It also crosses smaller significant bodies like the Red Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Taiwan Strait.
As Far as Hemisphere is Concerned — India Lies In Which Hemisphere?
Which hemisphere does India lie in? India is in the Northern Hemisphere and Eastern Hemisphere. Latitude, longitude, and geographic position of India explained.
What is India's Longest River Bridge?
Learn about the Bhupen Hazarika Setu (Dhola-Sadiya Bridge), India's longest river bridge. Discover its massive length, location in Assam, and strategic importance.
Indira Point — Southernmost Tip of India
Indira Point is the southernmost point of India, located on Great Nicobar Island at approximately 6°45'N latitude. Also called Pygmalion Point. Key geography facts.
Length of the Indus River and the Lowest Population State
Geography facts: Find out the total length of the mighty Indus river, and discover which state has the lowest population in India (Sikkim).
Indus River System: Origin, Tributaries and Key Facts
The Indus River originates in Tibet near Lake Mansarovar and is 3,180 km long. Its tributaries — Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, Sutlej — form Punjab.
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