The Arctic Tundra

Question 1

What underlies much of the tundra

Answer 1

Permafrost

Question 2

How does the temperature of the tundra change with seasons

Answer 2

Summer months above freezing but rest is way below (can reach up to minus 40)

Question 3

What are the main features of the water cycle in tundra

Answer 3

Low annual precipitation
Small atmospheric store of water
Limited transpiration (seasons)
Low evaporation
Limited groundwater and moisture stores
Accumulation of snow and ice during the winter
Extensive wetlands, ponds and lakes in the summer

Question 4

Carbon cycle in the tundra

Answer 4

Permafrost is a vast sink (methane)
Slow decomposition (due to temperature)
Plants grow rapidly in the short summer

Question 5

What is the productivity of tundra regions like

Answer 5

Poor