Unit 2: World Climate Patterns

Question 1

Climate

Answer 1

The average weather conditions of a region. The recorded average is the result of many years of observations of weather.

Question 2

Equinox

Answer 2

Having a day and night of equal length. See also solstice.

Question 3

Solstice

Answer 3

The time (21 June or 22 December) at which the overhead sun is furthest from the equator and appears to stand still before returning towards the equator. The longest day occurs at the summer solstice, the shortest day occurs at the winter solstice. See also Equinox.

Question 4

Temperature Range

Answer 4

The range between the highest and lowest average annual temperatures of a region.

Question 5

Wind

Answer 5

The movement of air from an area of high pressure to an area of low pressure.

Question 6

Prevailing Wind

Answer 6

The most frequently occurring wind direction at a given location.

Question 7

Rain Shadow

Answer 7

An area of relatively low rainfall to the leeward side of uplands. The incoming air has been forced to rise over the highland, causing precipitation on the windward side, and thus decreasing the water content of the air which descends on the leeward side.

Question 8

Weather

Answer 8

The state of the atmosphere at any one place or time. This includes humidity, temperature, sunshine hours, cloud cover, visibility, and precipitation (fog, rain, snow, sleet, and frost). See also climate.