Heating of the Earth, Winds & Currents 2022

Front

What is convection in the context of ocean water movement?

Back

Convection is the process that results in the continual circulation of ocean water on a global scale, driven by temperature differences.

Front

What causes wind?

Back

Wind is caused by the unequal heating of Earth’s surface by the Sun, leading to differences in air pressure.

Front

How does a mountain range affect climate on its sides?

Back

A mountain range can create a rain shadow effect, where the west side is wet due to moist winds, and the east side is dry.

Front

What happens to temperature as latitude increases?

Back

As latitude increases, the temperature generally decreases due to the angle of sunlight and distance from the equator.

Front

What are the Prevailing Westerlies?

Back

Prevailing Westerlies are winds that blow from the west to the east and are responsible for moving weather systems, including hurricanes.

Front

Define the term 'jet stream'.

Back

A jet stream is a fast-flowing air current in the atmosphere that influences weather patterns and can affect the movement of storms.

Front

What is the role of the Sun in Earth's heating?

Back

The Sun heats the Earth's surface unevenly, which creates temperature differences that drive wind and ocean currents.

Front

Explain the concept of a rain shadow.

Back

A rain shadow is a dry area on the leeward side of a mountain range, where moist air rises, cools, and loses moisture as precipitation on the windward side.

Front

What is the difference between conduction and convection?

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact, while convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases).

Front

What are trade winds?

Back

Trade winds are steady winds that blow from east to west in the tropics, influencing ocean currents and weather patterns.