The Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn are two important lines of latitude located at approximately 23.5 degrees north and south of the equator, respectively. These tropics mark the boundaries of the Earth's tropical zone, where the sun can be directly overhead at noon during the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere and the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere. The Tropic of Cancer is situated in the northern hemisphere, while the Tropic of Capricorn is in the southern hemisphere. These lines play a significant role in climate patterns, influencing weather and ecosystems in the regions they traverse, which include parts of Africa, Asia, Australia, and South America.