The celestial equator and the ecliptic:
A) are parallel paths across the sky and thus never intersect.
B) intersect at two points because they are perpendicular to each other.
C) intersect because they are inclined at an angle of 23.5° to each other.
D) lie on top of each other because they are on the same path across the sky.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The celestial equator and the ecliptic intersect because they are inclined at an angle of 23.5° to each other. This angle is caused by the tilt of the Earth's rotational axis in relation to its orbit around the Sun. The two points of intersection are called the vernal equinox and the autumnal equinox, where the ecliptic crosses the celestial equator.

The Celestial Equator and the Ecliptic