CK12 Earth Science

(Marvins-Underground-K-12) #1

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.

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