What is Climate? Section 16.1 Pg

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.