Understanding Climate and Weather

These flashcards cover key concepts related to climate and weather, differentiating between types of climates, important factors influencing climate, and definitions of relevant terms.

Weather

The temporary condition of the atmosphere at a place.

Climate

The overall average weather at a place over a period of time.

Latitude

The geographic coordinate that specifies the north-south position of a point on the surface of the Earth, influencing sun exposure.

Perihelion

The point in the orbit of a planet where it is closest to the sun, occurring in January for Earth.

Aphelion

The point in the orbit of a planet where it is farthest from the sun, occurring in July for Earth.

Prevailing Winds

The wind direction that a particular area experiences most frequently.

Altitude

The height above sea level, which affects climate; higher altitudes experience cooler temperatures.

Koppen Climate Classification

A climate classification system developed by Wladimir Peter Koppen based on temperature and precipitation.

Tropical Climate

Found in places near the equator with temperature averages above 18°C year-round, having dry and wet seasons.

Dry Climate

Characterized by very hot summers with seldom rains, typical of arid or semiarid areas.

Temperate Climate

Characterized by moderate rainfall throughout the year, warm summers, and cool winters.

Continental Climate

Includes variations in temperature year-round with hot summers, cold winters, and small amounts of rainfall.

Polar Climate

Characterized by cool summers and very long, cold winters, often with permafrost beneath the soil.