15.2 Climate

KEY CONCEPT Climate is a key abiotic factor that affects the biosphere.

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

• A microclimate is the climate of a small specific place within a larger area.

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.

15.2 Climate

• Many organisms survive in a specific climate due to their adaptations.