The 5 Factors that Affect Climate

The 5 Factorsthat Affect

Climate

Latitude

3

How does latitude affect climate?

As latitude ________, the averageannual temperature _________.

0° Latitude 90°

Tem

pera

ture

decreasesincreases

5

Prevailing Winds

How do prevailing winds affect an area?

Winds that blow across water will make an area more _________. Winds that travel across

land will be more ________. (even if they are near an ocean!)

moistdry

Mountains

The windward sides of the Adirondacks & Catskills receive a great deal more

precipitation

The leeward sides of the Adirondacks &

Catskills receive much less precipitation

How does the Orographic Effect

affect climate?Windward Side: ___________Leeward Side: _____________

cool, moistwarm, dry

Elevation

How does elevation affect climate?

As elevation _________, the averageannual temperature __________.

Elevation

Tem

pera

ture

increasesdecreases

Closeness to Large Bodies of Water

15

How do large bodies of water affect climate?

Large bodies of water absorb and release heat ________ than land.

Temperatures of land near large bodies of water tend to be more _____________ than

temperatures further inland.moderate

slower

How does closeness to a large body of water affect climate?

Water __________ the temperature._______ summers. _______ winters.

City B is closer to a large body of water.

Its temperature line is flatter (moderated).

moderates

Cities A & B are located at the same latitude.

Cooler Warmer

Ocean Currents

The Gulf Stream

20

How do ocean currentsaffect climate?

Warm Currents: warmer climateCold Currents: cooler climate