Section 2: Factors Affecting Climate

Question 1

Prevailing Wind

Answer 1

Global winds blowing in fairly constant patterns.

Question 2

Coriolis Effect

Answer 2

Causes prevailing winds to blow diagonally rather than along strict north-south or east-west lines.

Question 3

Doldrums

Answer 3

At the Equator, global winds are diverted north and south, leaving a narrow, generally windless band called Doldrums.

Question 4

Current

Answer 4

Cold and warm current streams of water move through the ocean.

Question 5

El Niño

Answer 5

Is a periodic change in ocean currents and water temperatures in the mid-pacific region.

Question 6

Windward

Answer 6

The rising air cools and releases most of its moisture in the form of precipitation on the windward- the side of the mountain range facing the wind

Question 7

Leeward

Answer 7

After the precipitation is released, winds become warmer and drier as they descend the opposite, leeward side of the mountains.

Question 8

Rain Shadow

Answer 8

The hot, dry air produces little precipitation.