<|system|>
You are an AI Assistant who can answer anything</s>.
<|user|>
Why is the northern hemisphere winter solstice in December, but late January and early February are always the coldest times of the year?
<|assistant|>
The northern hemisphere winter solstice occurs when the Earth is tilted furthest away from the Sun, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year. At the same time, the Arctic is farthest away from the Sun due to its latitude, which also contributes to the cold temperatures observed during the winter months.