Metrology Final

Revolution

The orbiting of Earth around the sun.

Perihelion

The point where Earth is closest to the sun, occurring on January 4th.

Aphelion

The point where Earth is farthest from the sun, occurring on July 4th.

Summer Solstice

Occurs on June 21st when the sun is at 23.5° N.

Winter Solstice

Occurs on December 21st when the sun is at 23.5° S.

Equinoxes

Occur on March 21st and September 22nd when the sun is at 0° equator.

Rotation

The spinning of Earth on its axis, which causes day and night.

Causes of Seasons

Tilt of the axis, revolution around the sun, and parallelism.

Conduction

Transfer of energy through solids when molecules collide.

Convection

Transfer of energy in liquids and gases where less dense material rises.

Radiation

Transfer of energy through a vacuum.

Global Warming

Increase in Earth's average temperature due to human and natural causes.

Main causes of Global Warming

Pollution from human activities and natural events.

Dangers of Global Warming

Rising sea levels, stronger hurricanes, droughts, and extinction of species.

Temperature

Measure of the motion of molecules.

Temperature Scales

Kelvin (K) used by scientists, Celsius (C) used outside the U.S., Fahrenheit (F) used in the U.S.

Causes of Temperature Differences

Latitude, altitude, oceans, and mountain ranges.

Air Mass

A large volume of air having unified temperature and moisture.

Types of Air Masses

MT (Maritime Tropical), MP (Maritime Polar), CT (Continental Tropical), CP (Continental Polar), E (Equatorial), A (Arctic).

Areas of Origin of Air Masses

MT from the Gulf, CP from Canada, MP from the North.

Weather Systems

Highs and lows influence weather patterns.

High Pressure System

Associated with clockwise movement and clear, dry weather.

Low Pressure System

Associated with counterclockwise movement and precipitation.

Fronts

Boundaries between different air masses.

Station Models

Used to read and analyze weather data.

Violent Weather

Includes thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes.

Climate

The average weather conditions over extended periods of time.

Koppen System

Classification system to identify climates.