Earth's Energy Balance and Weather Systems

These flashcards cover the main concepts related to the Earth's energy balance, weather systems, global pressure belts, and their effects on climate and weather patterns.

What are the key components of the Earth's energy balance?

Reflected Shortwave Radiation, Incoming Shortwave Radiation, Absorbed Energy by Atmosphere and Surface.

Why are equatorial areas warmer than polar areas?

Due to unequal heating from latitudinal and seasonal temperature differences.

What is latitude?

Latitude refers to the position of a place North or South of the equator.

How does the angle of sunlight differ at the equator compared to the poles?

The sun strikes the equator at a 90° angle, while at the poles, it is less than 90°.

What is Albedo?

Albedo measures the amount of light or heat that's reflected away.

How does surface color affect heat absorption?

Darker colors absorb more heat while lighter colors reflect more heat.

What happens during the Earth's revolution around the sun?

It causes seasonal temperature differences due to varying sunlight exposure.

What characterizes low-pressure areas?

Air rises and creates unstable conditions with clouds and rain.

What characterizes high-pressure areas?

Air descends and creates stable conditions with clear skies.

What are the four global pressure belts?

Equatorial Low, Subtropical High, Subpolar Low, and Polar High.

What is the Hadley Cell?

A circulation cell that extends from the equator to 30° N and S.

How does the Coriolis force affect wind direction?

It causes winds to deflect to the right in the Northern hemisphere and to the left in the Southern hemisphere.

What is the difference between El Nino and La Nina?

El Nino leads to warmer ocean temperatures and unstable conditions, while La Nina is characterized by colder ocean temperatures and typically brings rainfall.

What is a synoptic weather map?

A map that shows a range of weather conditions for a particular area on a specific day.

What causes desertification?

Causes include human factors like overgrazing, deforestation, and environmental factors like climate change.

What are management strategies to combat drought?

Control livestock numbers, plant drought-resistant crops, create water storage solutions, and educate on water use.