Weather vs climate

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What is the difference between weather and climate?

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Weather refers to the short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific place at a specific time, while climate refers to the long-term average of weather patterns in a particular area over a significant period.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

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What does climate describe?

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Climate describes the average weather conditions, including temperature, humidity, and precipitation, in a region over a long period, typically 30 years or more.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

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What does weather describe?

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Weather describes the current atmospheric conditions, including temperature, precipitation, wind, and visibility, at a specific time and place.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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How does weather change over time?

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Weather can change rapidly, often within hours or days, due to various atmospheric conditions.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

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How does climate change over time?

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Climate changes very slowly, often over decades or centuries, due to factors like global warming, natural cycles, and human activities.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

NGSS.MS-ESS3-5

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What is an example of weather?

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An example of weather is a sunny day with a temperature of 75°F.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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What is an example of climate?

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An example of climate is the average temperature of 60°F in a region during the summer months over several decades.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

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What is a characteristic of weather?

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Weather is characterized by its variability and can include sudden changes like storms or temperature fluctuations.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

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What is a characteristic of climate?

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Climate is characterized by its stability and long-term patterns, such as seasonal changes and average temperatures.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

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What is a common misconception about weather and climate?

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A common misconception is that weather and climate are the same; however, they refer to different time scales and concepts.