Final answer:
The two tropics are the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, located at 23.5 degrees north and south of the equator, respectively. Their unique characteristics include high biodiversity, environmental stability, and being the primary zone where hurricanes can form.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two tropics are the Tropic of Cancer, located at 23.5 degrees north of the equator, and the Tropic of Capricorn, located at 23.5 degrees south of the equator. These lines mark the farthest points north and south where the sun can be directly overhead and mark the boundaries of the earth's tropical zone.
The tropics are unique because they receive the most direct sunlight throughout the year. This abundance of sunlight, along with typically adequate moisture, creates a warm climate favorable to a diverse range of plant and animal life, leading to high biodiversity. Tropical rainforests, for instance, can be found near these regions and are known for their rich biodiversity. Additionally, the environmental stability in the tropics can promote the development of highly specialized ecological niches and contribute to speciation.
Another aspect that makes the tropics unique is the phenomena such as hurricanes, which mainly occur here due to the warm water temperatures that provide the energy needed for their formation. Hurricanes can be particularly dangerous because of their potential to cause extensive damage through high winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges.