Atmosphere & Weather

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What is the Polar Jet Stream?

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A fast-flowing air current in the upper atmosphere that influences weather patterns by bringing cold polar air down to lower latitudes.

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What are Trade Winds?

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Winds that blow from east to west in the tropics, affecting weather patterns and ocean currents.

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What are Prevailing Westerlies?

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Winds that blow from west to east between 30° and 60° latitude, responsible for much of the weather movement across North America.

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What is the Gulf Stream Current?

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A warm ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and influences the climate of the eastern United States.

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What is the Temperate Zone?

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A climate region characterized by warm/hot summers and cool/dry winters.

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What are Polar Easterlies?

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Cold winds that blow from the poles towards lower latitudes, affecting weather patterns.

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How do ocean currents affect climate?

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Ocean currents can bring warm or cool air to coastal regions, influencing local weather and climate.

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What is the difference between weather and climate?

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Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate refers to long-term average weather patterns in a region.

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What role do winds play in hurricane movement?

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Winds such as Trade Winds and Prevailing Westerlies help steer hurricanes across the ocean.

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What is the significance of latitude in climate zones?

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Latitude affects the amount of sunlight received, influencing temperature and climate characteristics of a region.