Keywords 3.1

Climate

Climate

The average weather in a place over a long period.

El Niño

A climate pattern where warm water in the Pacific Ocean causes strange weather worldwide.

High-pressure area

An area with sinking air, often bringing dry and sunny weather.

Mediterranean climate

A climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Mountainous climate

A cooler, wetter climate found in high mountains.

Oceanic climate

A mild climate with small temperature changes and regular rain, often near the sea.

Rain shadow

A dry area on the leeward side of a mountain where little rain falls.

Relief rainfall

Rain formed when moist air rises over hills or mountains, cools, and drops rain.

Subtropical high

A zone of high pressure near 30° latitude with dry, sunny weather (like deserts).

Water vapour

Invisible gas in the air made from water; it's key for making clouds and rain.

Climate zone

A region with similar climate patterns (like tropical or polar zones).

Coriolis effect

The way Earth's rotation causes winds and ocean currents to curve.

Latitude

How far a place is from the equator, which affects its climate.

Leeward side

The side of a mountain that faces away from the wind—usually drier.

Low-pressure area

An area with rising air, often causing clouds and rain.

Temperature factor

Something that affects the temperature of a place (like altitude or ocean currents).

Windward side

The side of a mountain that faces the wind—usually wetter.