2-Climate

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary difference between climate and weather?

Weather is influenced by periodic changes, while climate is static.

Climate is determined by human activities, while weather is natural.

Climate refers to long-term averages while weather refers to short-term conditions. (correct)

Weather patterns can be predicted for decades, whereas climate cannot.

Which gas is primarily responsible for the greenhouse effect?

Nitrogen

Carbon dioxide (correct)

Hydrogen

Oxygen

Microclimates are influenced by which of the following factors?

Geographical location and altitude (correct)

Population density and urban development

Large bodies of water and mountain ranges

Humid versus dry climates in the same region

What is a key distinction between global climate and regional climate?

Regional climate considers the average conditions of broader geographical areas. Signup and view all the answers

What is one impact of climate change on ecosystems?

Species migration towards the poles. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary distinction between climate and weather?

Weather is short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate refers to long-term patterns. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a microclimate?

A local zone where the climate significantly differs from surrounding areas. Signup and view all the answers

How do mountain ranges influence regional climate?

By deflecting winds, creating rain gradients. Signup and view all the answers

What role do greenhouse gases play in climate change?

They trap heat, contributing to global warming. Signup and view all the answers

Which situation exemplifies climate rather than weather?

The average temperature in January in Miami is 70°F. Signup and view all the answers

What effect does the Gulf Stream have on climate?

It moderates temperature and rainfall, keeping areas warm and wet. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary factor contributing to the current increase in Earth's climate temperature?

Rising levels of greenhouse gases. Signup and view all the answers

In what way do oceans affect global climate?

They maintain stable temperatures and moderate rainfall. Signup and view all the answers

What primarily drives ocean surface currents in large-scale gyres?

Prevailing winds and Coriolis forces Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributes to the formation of Hadley cells?

Heating and cooling of air at the equator Signup and view all the answers

How does the Coriolis Force affect wind patterns on Earth?

It alters wind direction due to Earth's spherical shape and rotation Signup and view all the answers

What would likely result from a significant cosmic event causing Earth's axis to be perpendicular to its orbital plane?

Elimination of seasonal variation Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes global climate from regional climate?

Global climate encompasses broad trends, while regional climate accounts for local conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is most directly impacted by rising greenhouse gas levels?

Global average temperatures Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes the relationship between climate and weather?

Climate refers to average atmospheric conditions over time, while weather indicates short-term conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a likely outcome of climate change on microclimates?

Altered precipitation patterns in localized areas Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Climate and Organisms

Organisms live where the climate supports their survival
Biogeographic realms (ecozones) are regions with similar climates and organisms
Key factors influencing organism distribution are light, temperature, and precipitation

Pumpkin Toadlet

Tiny frog with tiny ears and semi-circular canals
Included in news section of presentation

Climate Overview

Understanding how climates are formed and changing is vital
Crucial concepts include Coriolis forces, the ITCZ, Hadley cells, regional climate drivers, climate vs. weather, greenhouse gases, and global warming

Global Climate Drivers

Sunlight, Earth's movement, and atmospheric/ocean circulation are key drivers of global climate
Sunlight is most intense at tropical latitudes due to the angle of incidence

Earth's Tilt and Seasons

Earth's 23.5° tilt causes seasonal variations in temperature and day length
The tilt determines the angle of sunlight striking different latitudes

Atmospheric Circulation

Air rises at the equator, cools, loses moisture, and falls at higher latitudes
This creates precipitation patterns and wind systems like the Hadley cells

Coriolis Effect

Earth's rotation affects wind and ocean current directions
The Coriolis effect deflects winds and currents to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere

Regional Climate Modification

Landmasses, mountain ranges, and ocean currents influence regional climates
Coastal regions experience moderating effects from cooler ocean temperatures

Climate vs. Weather

Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions
Climate describes long-term atmospheric patterns

Global Climate Change

The composition of the atmosphere and human activities contribute to changes in global climate
Greenhouse gases trap solar energy, warming the planet

Greenhouse Gases

Gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide trap heat, causing global warming
Human activities are increasing the concentrations of these gases

Impacts and Feedbacks

Climate change is linked to extreme weather events, loss of sea ice, ocean acidification, and coral bleaching
Impacts cascade through ecosystems and societies.

Mitigation and Adaptation

Various actions can reduce climate change impacts
Transitioning to renewable energy and adopting sustainable practices are key strategies

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Description

Explore the intricate relationships between climate and organisms in various biogeographic realms. This quiz covers key climate drivers, seasonal variations, and the unique adaptations of species like the Pumpkin Toadlet. Enhance your understanding of how climate shapes life on Earth.