1. Climate vs. Weather….what’s the difference?

2. KEY CONCEPT Climate is a key abiotic factor that affects the biosphere.
Climate is the prevailing weather of a region.
Earth has three main climate zones.

3. Climate is the prevailing weather of a region.
Climate is the long-term pattern of weather conditions.
average temperature
precipitation
relative humidity
Key factors shape an area’s climate.
temperature
sunlight
water
wind

4. Within a specific region, climate conditions vary
Within a specific region, climate conditions vary. A microclimate is the climate of a small specific place within a larger area.
Ex: a small hole in a decaying log where mushrooms grow
Ex: City neighborhood
San Francisco-fog, cool temps

5. Earth has three main climate zones.
Scientists use average temperature and precipitation levels to categorize a region’s climate.
The three main zones are the polar, tropical, and temperate climates.
polar climate: the far northern and southern regions of Earth
tropical zone: surrounds the equator
temperate zone: the wide area in between the polar and tropical zones

6. The angle of the Sun’s rays help determine an area’s climate.
temperate
polar
tropical
90 N

7. Earth’s tilt on its axis plays a role in seasonal change.
As Earth orbits the sun, areas receive varying amounts of sunlight
Solar heating causes movements in both water and air.
wind
ocean currents
Earth’s rotation also has effects on the winds and currents

8. Oceans shape coastal climates.
Landmasses shape inland climates.
larger changes in temperatures when compared to coastal areas
less precipitation
Oceans shape coastal climates.
smaller changes in temperatures
higher humidity
more precipitation

9. Mountains have an effect on climate.
Precipitation occurs on the side of the mountain facing the wind.
On the downwind side, drier and cooler air produce a rain shadow.
A rain shadow is an area of decreased precipitation.
western slope
eastern slope

10. Many organisms survive in a specific climate due to their adaptations.
Example: Water-holding frog lives in dry grasslands and deserts of inland Australia (rainy season once a year). Dry periods can last 20 months or more. This frog burrows underground where water evaporates more slowly. They come out of their burrows to mate during the rainy season.