Weather Patterns and Ocean Currents Impacting North Carolina

The video explores the causes of North Carolina's weather conditions, distinguishing between weather and climate. It explains the role of jet streams and ocean currents in shaping weather patterns, including the impact of the California and Gulf Stream currents. The formation and movement of hurricanes are discussed, along with the cyclical weather patterns of El Nino and La Nina. The video concludes with an explanation of how Earth's tilt affects seasonal changes.

What is the primary difference between weather and climate?

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

• Weather is only about temperature, while climate includes precipitation.

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

• Weather is affected by latitude, while climate is not.

Which of the following best describes a jet stream?

• A high-pressure weather system.

• A fast, narrow air current.

• A slow-moving ocean current.

• A type of hurricane.

What direction do the westerly jet streams travel?

• From east to west.

• From north to south.

• From west to east.

• From south to north.

Which ocean current brings cold water from Alaska down the west coast of the US?

• North Atlantic Current

• California Current

• Equatorial Current

• Gulf Stream Current

How do ocean currents affect the climate?

• They only affect the temperature of the ocean.

• They have no impact on the climate.

• They influence the temperature of the air and prevailing winds.

• They only affect the shape of coastlines.

What conditions are necessary for the formation of hurricanes?

• Cold water and low pressure.

• Warm water and low pressure.

• Cold water and high pressure.

• Warm water and high pressure.

What happens to hurricanes when they hit land?

• They become more violent.

• They gain strength.

• They slow down and break apart.

• They change direction.

What is the warm phase of the El Niño and La Niña cycle called?

• La Niña

• El Niño

• Neither

• El Niño and La Niña

How often does the El Niño and La Niña cycle occur?

• Every decade

• Every two to seven years

• Every century

• Every year

What causes different areas of the Earth to experience different seasons?

• The Earth's rotation speed.

• The Earth's distance from the sun.

• The Earth's magnetic field.

• The Earth's tilt.