February

Definition

February is the second month of the year in the Gregorian calendar. It has 28 days in a common year and 29 days in a leap year.

The length of February is due to the fact that it was originally the last month of the Roman calendar, which had 10 months. The first two months of the year were added later, and February was left as the shortest month.

February is a month of transition. It is the last month of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, and it marks the beginning of spring. Some cultures celebrate the beginning of spring with festivals, such as Valentine's Day and Chinese New Year.

How can the word be used?

The February thaw is a period of warm weather that often occurs in February.

Different forms of the word

Noun: February.

Synonyms: Feb, Feburary.

Etymology

The word "February" comes from the Latin word Februārius, which means "purification." It was the month in which the Romans celebrated the festival of Februa, which was a purification ceremony.

Question

What months come before and after February?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the seasonal changes and astronomical events that occur in February in the Northern Hemisphere. Describe the significance of the winter solstice and its impact on daylight hours during this month. Provide examples of observable natural phenomena that are influenced by these events.

Answer:

In February, the Northern Hemisphere experiences the final stages of winter. During this month, the most significant astronomical event is the winter solstice, which occurs around December 21-22. The winter solstice marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year, as the Northern Hemisphere tilts farthest away from the Sun. As a result, daylight hours are at their minimum during this period.

In February, although the winter solstice has already passed, the impact is still evident as daylight hours gradually increase. This change in daylight affects various natural phenomena, such as the awakening of certain plant species from dormancy, the migration patterns of birds returning to their breeding grounds, and the emergence of hibernating animals as they sense the lengthening days and increasing warmth.

Overall, February is a transitional month that showcases the influence of the winter solstice on the lengthening of daylight hours and its significant impact on various natural processes in the Northern Hemisphere.