Climate System 1
This imaginary line circles Earth at 0 degrees latitude and gets the most direct sunlight.
Equator
Water near the equator is warmed more than at the poles, creating this that drives ocean currents
Temperature difference
The interaction of ocean currents and winds is a key factor in shaping this long-term weather pattern in a region.
Climate
This rotating system in the ocean moves clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and counterclockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
Gyre
Winds that blow from east to west in the tropics are part of this global wind system.
Trade Winds
These steady winds blow across Earth and help drive ocean currents and weather patterns.
Prevailing winds
The combined movement of ocean currents and atmospheric winds creates this global pattern of heat and moisture transfer.
Earth's climate system
The topmost point of the Northern Hemisphere is called this.
North Pole
The bottommost point of the Southern Hemisphere is called this.
South Pole
Winds that blow steadily from west to east in the mid-latitudes are called this.
Westerlies
A large system of circulating ocean currents, often moving in a circular pattern, is called this.
Gyre
Regions near the equator are generally warmer because they receive more of this from the Sun.
Solar Energy
The poles are much colder than the equator because they receive less of this.
Sunlight
This effect causes moving air and water to curve, influencing winds and ocean currents.
Coriolis effect
The area around the equator that experiences consistent high temperatures and heavy rainfall.
Tropical Zone
These movements of ocean water distribute heat around the globe and affect climate.
Ocean Currents
Ocean currents that carry cold water from the poles toward the equator are called this.
Cold Currents
The uneven heating of Earth between the equator and the poles causes this type of movement in air and water.
Convection
The point on Earth that receives the least direct sunlight and is extremely cold year-round.
Poles
The areas near 90 degrees north and south latitude that are the coldest regions on Earth.
Polar Regions