Module 9 climate zones Flashcards
What are the four main climate zones classified by latitude?
- Tropical zone
- Subtropical zone
- Temperate zone
- Polar zone
These classifications are based on variations in climate, vegetation, air pressure, and average temperature.
What is the latitude range for the Tropical zone?
0° to 23.5° north and south
This zone is located around the equator.
What is the latitude range for the Subtropical zone?
23.5° to 40° north and south
This zone follows the Tropical zone.
What is the latitude range for the Temperate zone?
40° to 60° north and south
This zone can be split into warm and cold temperate zones.
What is the latitude range for the Polar zone?
60° to 90° north and south
This zone is characterized by extremely cold temperatures.
Who developed the Köppen climate classification system?
Wladimir Peter Köppen
He was a German climatologist who classified climates based on features like precipitation and temperature.
What are the five primary types in the Köppen climate classification system?
- Tropical Climates (A)
- Dry Climates (B)
- Temperate Climates (C)
- Continental Climates (D)
- Polar Climates (E)
Each type is further divided into subtypes.
What characterizes Af (Tropical Rainforest) climate?
High temperatures and abundant rainfall throughout the year
An example is the Amazon rainforest.
What is the difference between Af and Am (Tropical Monsoon) climates?
Am has distinct wet and dry seasons
Both are found near the equator.
What characterizes BWh (Hot Desert) climate?
Extremely hot temperatures and very low precipitation
An example is the Sahara Desert.
What distinguishes Dfa (Hot Summer Continental) climate?
Hot summers, cold winters, and moderate precipitation
It can be found in parts of the Midwest in the United States.
What characterizes ET (Tundra) climate?
Cold temperatures with a short growing season and limited vegetation
Found in areas like the Arctic tundra.
Fill in the blank: The Köppen system classifies tropical climates into subtypes such as Af, Am, and _______.
Aw
Aw refers to tropical savanna climates.
What is a microclimate?
Localized variations in climate within a larger climate zone
Caused by geographical features like elevation or urbanization.
How do heat islands form in urban areas?
Through heat absorption by asphalt and concrete
These materials absorb and radiate heat, creating warmer temperatures in cities.
What does a climate graph typically represent?
Average monthly temperatures and rainfall
It can show how climate in a region changes over time.
What is the significance of climate zones according to the text?
They showcase God’s creation and the diversity within nature
Each zone supports unique ecosystems and life forms.
