Factors affecting climate

What is the condition of the atmosphere at a certain time and place?

• climate

• weather

What is the average weather of an area over a long period of time?

• climate

• weather

What are four factors that affect climate?

• latitude

• proximity (closeness) to large body of water

• earthquakes

• ocean currents

• elevation

What are the major climate zones?

• tundra, desert, mediterranean

• grasslands, mountains, rainforest

• polar, temperate, tropical

Describe the climate for the polar zone.

• Very cold

• Very hot

• Different seasons (hot, cold, warm, cool)

Describe the climate for the tropical zone.

• Very cold

• Very hot

• Different seasons (hot, cold, warm, cool)

Describe the climate for the temperate zone.

• Very cold

• Very hot

• Different seasons (hot, cold, warm, cool)

Fill in the blank: The higher the altitude, the ______ the temperature.

• warmer

• colder

Which BEST describes why latitudes closest to the equator have warmer climates?

• they are at lower elevations

• they receive high angle sunlight

• they are nearer to ocean currents

• they get more winds that carry energy in the form of heat

What effect does a large body of water usually have on a nearby landmass?

• The water causes cooler summers and colder winters. 
• The water causes cooler summers and warmer winters. 
• The water causes hotter summers and warmer winters. 
• The water causes warmer summers and colder winters.