Factors Affecting Climate

Front

What is a rain shadow?

Back

A dry area on the leeward side of a mountain where precipitation is significantly less than on the windward side.

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How does altitude affect precipitation patterns?

Back

Higher altitudes often experience different weather patterns than lower areas, including variations in precipitation.

Front

What does 'weather' encompass?

Back

Weather includes conditions such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed at a specific time and place.

Front

What is the role of warm ocean currents like the Gulf Stream?

Back

They transport warm water from the equator toward the poles, influencing climate and weather patterns.

Front

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Back

Weather refers to the short-term state of the atmosphere at a specific time and place, while climate is the long-term average of atmospheric conditions.

Front

What is the term for the area that receives more precipitation on the windward side of a mountain?

Back

Windward zone.

Front

What is the effect of urbanization on local climate?

Back

Urbanization can create 'urban heat islands' where cities are warmer than surrounding rural areas due to human activities and infrastructure.

Front

What is the greenhouse effect?

Back

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat, keeping the planet warm.

Front

What are the main greenhouse gases?

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The main greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).

Front

How do ocean currents affect climate?

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Ocean currents regulate temperatures and weather patterns by distributing heat across the planet.