Ecology & Biosphere CIAT

What is a defining characteristic of an equatorial climate?

• Low precipitation and high temperatures year-round

• High precipitation and high temperatures year-round

• High precipitation in the summer and cold, dry winters

• Constantly changing weather patterns with no distinct seasons

Seasonal variations in light intensity are most extreme at:

• The equator

• The Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn

• The Arctic and Antarctic Circles

• The Prime Meridian

Which factor contributes to the seasonal variations of light intensity on Earth?

• The Earth's rotation on its axis

• The Earth's orbit around the Sun

• The tilt of the Earth's axis

• The distance between the Earth and the Sun

What is the primary cause of trade winds?

• The rotation of the Earth

• The uneven heating of the Earth's surface

• The gravitational pull of the moon

• The presence of large landmasses

During which season does the Northern Hemisphere experience the most direct sunlight?

• Winter

• Spring

• Summer

• Autumn

How do ocean currents like the Gulf Stream influence climate?

• By transporting cold water from the poles to the equator

• By transporting warm water from the equator to the poles

• By causing seasonal variations in temperature

• By increasing precipitation in inland areas

What is the effect of the Earth's tilt on seasonal light variations?

• It causes the equator to receive less sunlight year-round

• It leads to constant daylight at the poles year-round

• It results in varying day lengths and sun angles throughout the year

• It has no significant effect on sunlight distribution

Which of the following best describes the role of air circulation patterns in climate?

• They have no significant impact on climate

• They primarily affect ocean currents but not land climates

• They distribute heat and moisture around the Earth

• They only affect weather in the tropics

Why do equatorial regions have little to no seasonal variation in temperature?

• Because they are isolated from the rest of the world by oceans

• Due to the constant angle of sunlight throughout the year

• Because of the high altitude of most equatorial regions

• Due to the influence of cold ocean currents

What is the primary driving force behind the movement of ocean currents like the Gulf Stream?

• Tidal forces from the moon

• Wind patterns

• Earth's rotation

• Temperature differences in water masses