All Flashcards
Describe the steps of the rain shadow effect.
Warm, moist air rises on the windward side, cools, precipitates. Dry air descends on the leeward side, resulting in less precipitation.
Outline the process of heat transfer by ocean currents.
Warm water moves from equator towards poles, releasing heat. Cold water moves from poles towards equator, absorbing heat.
Describe how volcanic eruptions cool the climate.
Volcanoes erupt, releasing ash and gases. These particles block solar radiation, leading to temporary cooling.
Significance of solar radiation?
Primary driver of Earth's climate system.
Importance of greenhouse gases?
Trap heat, influence global temperatures.
Role of ocean currents?
Distribute heat around the globe.
Effect of Earth's elliptical orbit?
Changes amount of solar energy reaching Earth.
How do mountains influence climate?
Block air masses, cause rain shadow effect.
Volcanic activity impact on climate?
Short-term cooling by blocking solar radiation.
Define solar radiation.
Energy emitted by the sun in the form of electromagnetic waves.
What are greenhouse gases?
Gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere.
Define rain shadow effect.
Dry area on the leeward side of a mountain.
What is the windward side?
The side of a mountain facing the wind; receives more precipitation.
What is the leeward side?
The side of a mountain sheltered from the wind; receives less precipitation.
Define ocean currents.
Continuous, directed movement of ocean water.
Define heat capacity.
The amount of heat required to change an object's temperature.
What is Earth's orbit?
The path Earth takes around the Sun, which is elliptical.
Define latitude.
The angular distance of a place north or south of the Earth's equator.
Define global warming.
A gradual increase in Earth's average surface temperature.