The diagram below shows three approximate locations of the sun along the western horizon. Which number indicates the location of the sun at sunset on autumnal equinox for an observer at a latitude of 45 N?
A) 1
B) 2
C) 3
D) The sun will set in the east for an observer in the northern hemisphere.
E) The sun will not set on autumnal equinox at this latitude.

Question

The diagram below shows three approximate locations of the sun along the western horizon. Which number indicates the location of the sun at sunset on autumnal equinox for an observer at a latitude of 45 N? 
A) 1 
B) 2 
C) 3 
D) The sun will set in the east for an observer in the northern hemisphere. 
E) The sun will not set on autumnal equinox at this latitude.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

On autumnal equinox, the sun sets due west for an observer at any latitude. Option 1 shows the sun setting in the northwest, and option 3 shows the sun setting in the southwest, neither of which is due west. Option 2 shows the sun setting due west, which is the correct location for sunset on autumnal equinox at any latitude. During autumnal equinox, the sun sets due west for an observer at the equator. As the latitude of the observer increases, the location of the sunset moves towards the south. Option 2 appears to be towards the south compared to options 1 and 3, hence it is the best choice for the location of the sun at sunset on autumnal equinox for an observer at a latitude of 45 N.

The Diagram Below Shows Three Approximate Locations of the Sun