Tropical Environment and Climate Quiz
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Questions and Answers

The temperature in tropical climates seldom exceeds 35° C.

True (A)

Tropical climates experience only one wet season.

False (B)

Abundant cloud cover at night in tropical climates helps retain heat.

True (A)

Tropical regions are known for significant atmospheric pressure and low rainfall.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The average temperature in a tropical climate must always be above 18° C.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are rarely associated with tropical climates.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is an area defined by high pressure.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The greatest rainfall in tropical climates occurs when the sun is overhead at noon.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Tropical rainfall can exceed 3000 mm in equatorial climates.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Weather reflects long-term atmospheric conditions while climate reflects short-term conditions.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The average temperature in equatorial climates usually ranges from 20° C to 25° C.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Tropical monsoon climates have no dry seasons.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Areas with 600 – 1250 mm of rainfall per annum in tropical monsoon climates are suitable for perennial crops.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In equatorial climates, crops such as banana, cacao, and coconut can be grown.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ITCZ drifts throughout the year but generally remains near the poles.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Mean monthly temperatures in tropical monsoon regions are generally below 18° C.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Kenya's rainfall of 1500 – 1800 mm is unsuitable for crops like coffee and tea.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Areas with a long dry season can support crops such as maize and yam.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In tropical dry climates, agricultural use is significantly enhanced due to high rainfall.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

High intensity rainfall in tropical regions leads to increased soil nutrients.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Wet coastal climates have a few drier months and are suitable for a variety of crops.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Humidity is uniformly low in wet equatorial climates throughout the year.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Tropical regions are characterized by high humidity only during the rainy season.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Sorghum and millet are examples of crops suitable for areas with one long rainy season.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Tropical Climate Influence

Tropical climates are affected by factors like the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), land/sea temperature differences, and altitude, which impact soil, vegetation, and agricultural choices.

Equatorial Climate

Found near the equator, this climate experiences heavy, consistent rainfall (2000-3000mm per year), high humidity, and consistent warm temperatures(25-30 degrees Celsius).

Tropical crops

Common crops in equatorial areas include rubber, oil palm, plantains, coffee, coconut, cacao, yam, cassava, and cocoyam.

Tropical Monsoon Climate

A climate found between 5° and 15° latitude, with alternating rainy and dry seasons. Rainfall amounts vary, from 1000–2000mm, but it always has at least one dry month.

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Rainy Seasons (Tropical Monsoon)

Variations in tropical monsoon regions experience varying rainy season lengths and amounts. Some regions experience one long season whilst others experience multiple short rainy seasons.

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Crop Suitability (Monsoon)

The suitability of crops in monsoon climates depends on the amount and distribution of rainfall. Regions with more consistent rainfall support a wider variety of crops.

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ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone)

The area of low pressure near the equator, where trade winds meet; its position varies slightly throughout the year.

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Land and Sea Affect

Temperature differences between land and sea affect the position of the ITCZ, influencing rainfall patterns in tropical regions.

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Tropical Zone Latitude

The area around the Earth's equator, between 30° North and 30° South latitude.

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Tropical Atmospheric Pressure

Generally low atmospheric pressure in the tropical zone.

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Tropical Rainfall

Heavy rainfall associated with thunderstorms in the tropics.

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Tropical Temperatures

Warm temperatures, usually above 18°C throughout the year, rarely exceeding 35°C.

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Weather

The short-term condition of the atmosphere, like temperature, rainfall, etc.

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Climate

Average weather conditions over a long period of time and space.

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Tropical Seasons

Tropical seasons are distinguished by variations in rainfall and cloudiness.

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Equatorial Rainfall

The highest rainfall at the equator occurs twice a year (March and September) due to the direct sunlight.

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High Altitude Climate

This climate has significant rainfall (1500-1800mm) and is suitable for perennial crops like coffee and tea, supporting two annual crops and good grazing land.

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One Long Rainy Season Climate

Marked by a single extended rainy season followed by a lengthy dry period, this climate receives 750-1250mm rainfall spread over 5-6 months. It's suitable for annual crops like maize and cotton, with tea and coffee possible in higher altitudes.

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One Short Rainy Season Climate

Featuring a short rainy season followed by an extended dry period, this climate is best for short-term annual crops like sorghum, millet, groundnut, and sesame.

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Wet Coastal Climate

Found along coasts, this climate receives rainfall year-round. It's warm with cool nights (24-27°C), making it suitable for both perennial (coconut, sugarcane) and annual crops (maize, rice, yam).

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Tropical Dry Climate

Located within latitudes 15-30 degrees north and south, this arid climate is characterized by limited rainfall, hot temperatures, and extensive deserts, limiting agricultural potential.

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Rainfall's Effect on Crops

Rainfall provides water for plant growth and productivity. The amount, duration, distribution, and reliability of rainfall determine agricultural potential. Heavy rainfall can lead to soil erosion and reduced crop yields.

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Humidity's Effect on Crops

Humidity levels vary with rainfall patterns and affect the rate of transpiration (water loss from plants). High humidity reduces transpiration, potentially impacting water uptake.

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Transpiration - Water Loss

Transpiration is the process where plants lose water from their leaves. High humidity slows down transpiration, which can affect how much water plants take up.

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Study Notes

Tropical Environment

  • Tropics are centred on the equator, between 30°N and 30°S latitudes
  • Low atmospheric pressure in the tropics
  • Abundant rainfall associated with thunderstorms
  • High sunshine levels
  • Temperatures rarely exceed 35°C, with daytime highs around 32°C and lows above 18°C
  • Abundant cloud cover at night preventing heat loss
  • Rainfall patterns marked by variations in rainfall and cloudiness
  • Two wet seasons and two dry seasons at the equator
  • Weather describes conditions of the atmosphere (rainfall, temperature, humidity, sunshine, cloudiness) at a specific time
  • Climate describes average weather conditions over a long period

Weather vs. Climate

  • Weather = short-term atmospheric conditions
  • Climate = long-term average weather conditions

Types of Tropical Climates

  • Equatorial climate (tropical rainforest): High rainfall, frequent rainfall, high humidity, average temperature 25°C - 30°C
  • Tropical monsoon climate: distinct wet and dry seasons, rainfall >1000 mm per annum, temperatures >18°C
  • Tropical dry climate: limited rainfall, hot and dry, suitable for limited agriculture

Climatic Factors Affecting Crop Production

  • Rainfall: Amount, duration, distribution, and reliability determine crop potential and productivity. High rainfall intensities can cause problems
  • Humidity: High humidity in tropical regions can reduce the rate of transpiration and increase the risk of plant diseases.
  • Temperature: Plant growth is affected by variations in temperature, some plants are more sensitive to temperature fluctuations than others
  • Solar Radiation: Direct sunlight provides energy for photosynthesis. Amount of sunlight (Leaf Area Index, LAI) is an important factor.
  • Photoperiod: Length of day/night influences plant flowering and growth patterns (short-day vs. long-day vs. day-neutral)

Crop Domestication and Evolution

  • Domestication is the process of altering wild plants by humans for agricultural purposes.
  • Wild plants are selected for desired traits.
  • Natural selection occurs naturally, driven by environmental factors.
  • Artificial selection is a purposeful process of choosing wild plants based on preferred traits.
  • Important changes seen after domestication: reduction in shattering, removal of toxic substances, shorter life cycles, and increased yield.

Natural and Artificial Selection

  • Natural selection: Environmental pressures lead to the dominance of certain traits.
  • Artificial selection: Human intervention selects plants/animals with desirable characters for breeding.

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Related Documents

Tropical Environment PDF

Description

Test your knowledge on the tropical environment, including its characteristics, weather patterns, and types of tropical climates. Understand the differences between weather and climate and explore the unique features of equatorial and tropical monsoon climates. This quiz is perfect for students studying geography or environmental science.

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