Questions and Answers
What is the difference between weather and climate?
Weather refers to the present state whereas climate refers to the average state over a period of time.
Identify four factors that determine climate.
Latitude, atmospheric circulation patterns, oceanic circulation patterns, local geography.
Explain why different parts of the Earth have different climates.
The distance from the equator affects how much solar energy different parts of the Earth receive.
Explain what causes the seasons.
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Explain why Earth's atmosphere is like the glass in a greenhouse.
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Explain why carbon dioxide in the atmosphere appears to be increasing.
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Why do scientists think that the Earth's climate is becoming increasingly warmer?
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Name some of the possible consequences of a warmer Earth.
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Study Notes
Weather vs. Climate
- Weather describes the current atmospheric conditions, such as temperature and precipitation.
- Climate is the long-term average of weather patterns over a significant period, typically 30 years.
Factors Determining Climate
- Climate is influenced by multiple factors including:
- Latitude: Most significant factor, impacting solar energy received.
- Atmospheric Circulation Patterns: Wind and air pressure systems influence weather patterns.
- Oceanic Circulation Patterns: Ocean currents affect temperature and precipitation locally.
- Local Geography: Topography can create rain shadows and local climate variations.
- Solar Activity: Variations in solar energy output can impact climate.
- Volcanic Activity: Ejections of ash and gases can temporarily cool the atmosphere.
Regional Climate Differences
- Distance from the equator is a crucial determinant of climate variability across regions.
- Solar energy distribution varies; for instance, cities like Seattle (farther north) and Phoenix (closer to the equator) experience different climatic conditions.
Seasons
- Seasonal changes result from the tilt of Earth's axis, affecting how sunlight strikes the planet.
- The angle of solar radiation shifts as Earth orbits the sun, leading to variations in temperature and day length during the year.
Greenhouse Effect
- Earth's atmosphere functions like greenhouse glass, allowing sunlight to enter and trapping heat.
- Heat is absorbed by greenhouse gases in the troposphere, preventing it from escaping into space, thereby warming the planet.
Carbon Dioxide Levels
- Carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere show an upward trend, with winter levels increasing annually and summer levels not falling as low.
- Primary cause linked to the combustion of fossil fuels, contributing to higher greenhouse gas levels.
Global Warming Concerns
- Scientists observe a trend of increasing global temperatures attributed to the accumulation of greenhouse gases.
- Higher greenhouse gas concentrations lead to more heat being retained in the atmosphere.
Consequences of a Warmer Earth
- Potential impacts of a warmer planet include:
- Rising sea levels, threatening coastal areas.
- Increased frequency and intensity of hurricanes and typhoons.
- Health risks such as heat exhaustion and respiratory issues.
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Description
Test your understanding of the key concepts from Chapter 13, focusing on the distinctions between weather and climate, as well as the factors that influence climate. These flashcards will help reinforce your knowledge and clarify these important distinctions.
