The statement that the axis of the Earth is inclined at an angle of 66 1/2 degrees is incorrect. The axial tilt of the Earth, also known as obliquity, is approximately 23.5 degrees. It is this tilt that gives rise to the changing seasons on our planet.
The Earth's axis of rotation is an imaginary line around which the Earth rotates. This axis is not perpendicular to the plane of its orbit around the Sun. Instead, it is tilted at an angle of about 23.5 degrees relative to the plane of the Earth's orbit.
This axial tilt is the primary reason why we experience different seasons throughout the year. As the Earth orbits the Sun, different parts of the planet receive varying amounts of sunlight. During summer in the Northern Hemisphere, for example, the North Pole is tilted towards the Sun, resulting in longer days and warmer temperatures. In contrast, during winter in the Northern Hemisphere, the North Pole is tilted away from the Sun, leading to shorter days and colder temperatures.
It's important to note that the Earth's axial tilt is not fixed and undergoes small variations over long timescales due to various factors such as gravitational interactions with other celestial bodies. However, the average tilt remains around 23.5 degrees.