Earth Science - Climate

Front

What is the biggest factor in determining climate?

Back

Latitude is the biggest factor in determining climate.

Front

How does the climate at the top of a mountain compare to the climate at the bottom?

Back

The climate at the top of a mountain is cooler compared to the climate at the bottom.

Front

Why is the interior of the western United States arid to semi-arid?

Back

The interior of the western United States is arid to semi-arid because the western mountains block moisture coming from the west.

Front

What are the characteristics of the surface ocean current that flows along most of the west coast of South America under normal climate conditions?

Back

The surface ocean current that flows along most of the west coast of South America is characterized by cool water moving toward the equator.

Front

What causes the paths of surface planetary winds to be curved?

Back

The paths of surface planetary winds are curved due to Earth’s rotation.

Front

What role does latitude play in climate variation?

Back

Latitude affects the amount of solar energy received, influencing temperature and climate patterns.

Front

How does elevation affect climate?

Back

As elevation increases, temperature generally decreases, leading to cooler climates at higher altitudes.

Front

What is the rain shadow effect?

Back

The rain shadow effect occurs when mountains block moist air, causing one side to receive rain and the other side to be dry.

Front

What is the significance of ocean currents in climate?

Back

Ocean currents help regulate climate by distributing heat across the planet, influencing weather patterns.

Front

How does the Coriolis effect influence wind patterns?

Back

The Coriolis effect causes winds to curve due to Earth's rotation, affecting global wind patterns.