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What is Climate?. Section 16.1 Pg. 452-455. Climate. Is the characteristic weather of a region Includes: temperature, precipitation, air pressure, humidity, and days of sunshine. Latitude affects climate. Solar energy received at a location depends on the tilt of the Earth.
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What is Climate? Section 16.1 Pg. 452-455
Climate • Is the characteristic weather of a region • Includes: temperature, precipitation, air pressure, humidity, and days of sunshine
Latitude affects climate Solar energy received at a location depends on the tilt of the Earth. Latitude closest to equator gets the most sun.
Latitude affects climate • Polar zones: • Radiation hit poles at low angles. Ice reflects radiation, so its never warm there.
Latitude affects climate • Tropics: • Close to equator • Always hot, except at high elevation
Latitude affects climate • Temperate Zones: • Ex. Continental United States • Temperature is moderate
Topographic Features Affect Climate • Large bodies of water affect costal areas by making it cooler in the summer and warm in winter • Large cities are warmer because buildings and streets absorb radiation
Topographic Features Affect Climate • Mountains: • Colder in the mountains than at sea level • On one side of the mountain there is wind, air rises, cools, and drops its moisture as precipitation • On the other side , the air descends, heats up, and dries out the land, often forming deserts.