Exploring Climatic Conditions

This video tutorial from Homk Middle School's Earth Science Department explores the factors influencing climate on Earth. It begins by distinguishing between weather and climate, emphasizing the long-term nature of climate. The tutorial covers seven key factors affecting climate: latitude, altitude, mountain ranges, oceans, ocean currents, and planetary wind belts. Each factor is explained with examples, such as how latitude affects temperature and how ocean currents influence coastal climates. The video also discusses the impact of wind belts on storm tracks, including hurricanes and mid-latitude cyclones.

What is the primary difference between weather and climate?

• Weather is measured by precipitation only.

• Weather is short-term, and climate is long-term.

• Climate is measured by daily temperature changes.

• Weather is long-term, and climate is short-term.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

How does latitude affect climate?

• Temperature increases as you move away from the equator.

• Temperature decreases as you move away from the equator.

• Latitude has no effect on climate.

• Latitude only affects precipitation, not temperature.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Why does Quito have a colder climate than Guayaquil, despite being at the same latitude?

• Quito is further from the equator.

• Quito receives more sunlight.

• Quito has a higher altitude.

• Quito is closer to the ocean.

What is the windward side of a mountain?

• The side that receives less precipitation.

• The side that is cool and wet.

• The side that faces away from the ocean.

• The side that is dry and warm.

What causes the rain shadow effect?

• Proximity to the equator.

• Expansional cooling on the windward side.

• Compressional warming on the leeward side.

• High altitude of mountains.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

How does the specific heat of water influence coastal climates?

• Water heats and cools slowly, moderating temperatures.

• Water heats and cools quickly, causing extreme temperatures.

• Water has no effect on coastal climates.

• Water only affects winter temperatures.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Why does Vancouver have milder winters compared to Winnipeg?

• Vancouver is closer to the equator.

• Vancouver is influenced by warm ocean currents.

• Winnipeg is at a higher altitude.

• Winnipeg is influenced by cold ocean currents.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

How do ocean currents affect the climate of nearby regions?

• Ocean currents have no effect on climate.

• Warm currents cool the air above them.

• Cold currents warm the air above them.

• Warm currents warm the air above them.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

What is the primary direction of storm tracks on the planet?

• West to East

• South to North

• East to West

• North to South

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

What is a typical storm track for hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean?

• From the West Coast to the East Coast

• From the Atlantic Ocean towards the United States

• From the East Coast to the West Coast

• From the Gulf of Mexico to the West Coast

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2