Weather and Climate Concepts

Front

What is energy?

Back

A measurable quantity that describes how much change can occur within a system.

Front

What is the source of energy on Earth?

Back

The Sun.

Front

What happens to more of the radiant energy received on Earth?

Back

It is reflected back into space than is actually absorbed by the Earth.

Front

What is the hydrosphere?

Back

The system on Earth that contains all of the liquid and frozen water on Earth’s surface as well as groundwater below the surface and water vapor in the atmosphere.

Front

What is the atmosphere?

Back

The system of gases that surrounds the Earth.

Front

What are the main types of clouds?

Back

Cirrus, cumulus, stratus, and nimbus.

Front

What is specific heat?

Back

The amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a substance.

Front

How do land and water differ in specific heat?

Back

Land has a lower specific heat than water.

Front

What is the highest specific heat of all substances?

Back

Water (except hydrogen gas and liquid ammonia).

Front

How do oceans affect Earth's temperature?

Back

Oceans help regulate the temperature of Earth.