What is the relationship between the Earth’s axial tilt and seasonal changes?

The relationship between the Earth’s axial tilt and seasonal changes is primarily due to the tilt itself, which is approximately 23.5 degrees. This tilt causes various parts of the Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year as the Earth orbits the Sun. Consequently, when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted towards the Sun, it experiences summer, receiving more direct sunlight and longer days, resulting in warmer temperatures. Conversely, when it is tilted away from the Sun, the Northern Hemisphere experiences winter, with less direct sunlight and shorter days, leading to cooler temperatures.

This cyclical nature of the Earth's tilt relative to its orbit around the Sun results in the four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season corresponds to a specific point in this orbit where the tilt results in different sunlight exposure. Therefore, seasonal changes are a direct consequence of the Earth’s axial tilt relative to its movement around the Sun, making cyclical seasons the correct answer.