Climate Basics
What is climate?
the long-term pattern of weather over 30 years or more
If a location is close to the equator, what will the climate be like and why?
Warmer, more direct rays from the sun are absorbed
Why do coastal areas have milder climates?
because of the nearby large bodies of water
----------------climates have temperatures which are usually below freezing and can reach -60°C in winter. Polar areas are usually covered by snow and ice throughout the year.
Polar climate zone
Which areas get the most direct sunlight: near the equator or the poles?
near the equator
How is climate different from weather?
climate is long-term, weather is short-term
What influence does an area near a large body of water have on the climate of that area?
It has a moderating effect. This means that the temperatures will stay fairly stable all year long.
Why are cities usually warmer than forests?
concrete and asphalt absorb more heat
lack natural water sources, with little rainfall. They are very dry and hot.
Arid Climate Zone
As latitude increases, what happens to the temperature?
decreases (gets colder)
What are the two main features used to describe climate?
average temperature and precipitation
What is an albedo and give me an example of something with a high albedo.
How much sunlight is reflected by an object.
- Snow
- anything that is light in color
Why is Glasgow, Scotland milder than Moscow, Russia?
Glasgow is near the ocean and Moscow is inland
-----------Climates have high temperature rainfall and humidity all year. Some areas may have a wet and dry season.
Tropical
What is elevation?
the height above sea level
Q: Which zone is located near the equator?
the tropical zone
How do ocean currents impact climate?
Ocean currents carry the warm water from the equator towards the poles and the cool water from the poles towards the equator
How do mountains affect climate on each side ?
they block winds and cause different climates on each side
------have a different climate to their surrounding areas. The temperature on --------------becomes colder the higher the altitude gets. They also tend to have much wetter climates than the surrounding land.
Mountain Climate Zone
Why are mountain areas cooler than nearby valleys?
higher elevation has thinner air that holds less heat
Why do polar zones receive less heat?
the Sun’s rays hit them at a slant
What is a rain shadow?
When one side of the mountain gets a lot of rain and has lush/green vegetation and the other side of the mountain is dry and brown
--------- climates vary greatly at different times of year, with four distinct seasons.
Temperate Climate Zone
---------- climates have long, warm, dry summers and wet winters.
Mediterranean
Two cities are at the same latitude, but one is higher in elevation. Which will be colder?
the city at higher elevation