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15.2 Climate
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
15.2 Climate
Earth has three main climate zones.
• The three main zones are the polar, tropical, and temperate climates.– polar climate: the far northern
and southern regions ofEarth
– tropical zone: surrounds the equator
– temperate zone: the wide area in betweenthe polar and tropical zones
15.2 Climate
• The angle of the Sun’s rays help determine an area’s climate.
temperatetemperate
polarpolar
tropicaltropical
temperatetemperate
polarpolar
90 N
15.2 Climate
• Earth’s tilt on its axis plays a role in seasonal change.• Solar heating causes movements in both water and air.
– wind– ocean currents
• Earth’s rotation also has effects on the winds and currents
15.2 Climate
• Landmasses shape inland climates. – larger changes in
temperatures– less precipitation
• Oceans shape coastal climates.– smaller changes in
temperatures– higher humidity– more precipitation
15.2 Climate
• Mountains have an effect on climate.
western slope eastern slope
– 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.
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