Overview
This lecture covers the main factors that influence climate, explaining how each factor affects temperature and precipitation patterns around the world.
Main Factors Influencing Climate
- Latitude affects the intensity and duration of sunlight a region receives, influencing average temperature.
- Elevation or altitude affects climate; higher areas are generally cooler than areas at sea level.
- Proximity to bodies of water moderates temperature, resulting in smaller temperature changes and more humidity.
- Ocean currents transfer heat between the equator and poles, influencing coastal climates.
- Topography, such as mountains, can block air masses and create rain shadows, affecting local climate.
- Wind patterns move air masses, distributing heat and moisture globally.
- Vegetation influences climate by affecting humidity, temperature, and precipitation in an area.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Latitude — distance north or south of the equator, measured in degrees.
- Elevation — height above sea level.
- Rain shadow — dry area on one side of a mountain caused by mountains blocking rain-producing weather systems.
- Ocean currents — large-scale movement of water within the oceans that distribute heat and affect climate.
- Topography — the arrangement of the natural and artificial physical features of an area.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review textbook chapter on climate and weather factors.
- Complete any assigned worksheet or questions on climate influences.