Solar Energy
What is the main source of energy for Earth's weather systems?
The Sun
What is the mixture of gases that surrounds Earth called?
Atmosphere
What is the process of water turning into vapor?
Evaporation
What is a jet stream?
A fast, high-altitude wind current
This tool measures temperature.
Thermometer
What form of heat transfer warms Earth through empty space?
Radiation
What is measured by a barometer?
Air pressure
Define humidity.
The amount of water vapor in the air
What is the Coriolis effect?
The bending of winds due to Earth’s rotation
This measures wind speed.
Anemometer
Which type of heat transfer causes warm air to rise and cool air to sink?
Convection
How does air pressure affect wind
Wind moves from high to low pressure
What is precipitation?
Any form of water falling from clouds
Name one ocean current that affects weather.
Gulf Stream
This measures precipitation.
Rain gauge
Explain how the sun affects land and ocean temperatures differently.
Land heats and cools faster than water
What happens to air pressure as altitude increases?
It decreases
Explain how condensation is important in weather.
Forms clouds and precipitation
How do ocean currents influence coastal climates?
Move warm or cold water that changes air temperature
Define “weather.”
Current conditions of the atmosphere
Describe the role of thermal energy in atmospheric movement.
Drives convection currents that create wind
How does uneven heating cause wind?
Different areas heat differently, creating pressure differences
How does the sun influence the water cycle?
Powers evaporation and drives the entire cycle
Explain how the jet stream affects local weather.
Steers storm systems and temperature patterns
How is climate different from weather?
Climate is the average over time; weather is day-to-day