Vocabulary
climate Weather averaged over a long period of time, usually about 30 years.
continental climate A location in which the climate is dominated by a vast expanse of
land. Continental climates are more variable.
Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) A low pressure zone where the Hadley Cells
in the northern and southern hemispheres meet. The trade winds meet at the ITCZ.
maritime climate A location in which the climate is dominated by a nearby ocean. Mar-
itime climates are less variable than continental climates.
rainshadow Dry conditions that are created on the leeward side of a mountain range.
upwelling Upward flow of deep water to the surface because the deep water is less dense
than the surface water.
Points to Consider
- Describe how two cities at the same latitude can have very different climates. For
example, Tucson, Arizona has a hot, dry desert climate and New Orleans, Louisiana
has a warm, muggy climate even though both cities are at approximately the same
latitude. - How does climate influence the plants and animals that live in a particular place?
- Wouldyouexpectclimateatsimilarlatitudestobethesameordifferentontheopposite
side of the equator, e.g. how would the climate of a city at 45oN be similar or different
to one at 45oS latitude?
17.2 World Climates
Lesson Objectives
- Describe the relationship between the climate zones and the factors that influence
climate. - Discuss the relationship between climate zones and biomes.
- Discuss the different biomes based on a general description.