4.8 - Earth's Geography and Climate Flashcards

1
Q

Climate is largely determined by what?

A

Insolation - latitude causes the angle isolation and atmosphere

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2
Q

How does latitude relate to climate?

A
  • higher latitudes receive less insolation: cooler, less precipitation (especially 30°)
  • Equator receives most intense insolation: higher temperature, air rises, more precipitation
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3
Q

How does geography play a role in climate?

A
  • Mountains: disrupt wind and produce rain shadow effect
  • Oceans: moderate temperature and add moisture to the air
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4
Q

Explain Rain Shadows

A
  • Warm, moist air from the ocean hits the “windward” side of the mountain, rises, and cools causing lush, green vegetation
  • Dry air descends down the leeward (opposite) side of the mountain, warming as it sinks causing airid desert condition
  • An example of this is the andes mountains
    - Wind blows from the East onto South America
    - The eastern side of the mountains are rainforests while the coastal, weartn side is airid and dry
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