Geography Test: The Greenhouse Effect and Climate Factors

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the greenhouse effect, types of storms, the impacts of rising temperatures, climate factors, and different climate types.

What is the greenhouse effect?

A process that warms the earth's surface by trapping heat from the sun in the atmosphere.

What role do greenhouse gases play in the greenhouse effect?

Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and methane, trap heat in the atmosphere, keeping the planet warm.

What is a tropical storm?

A rotating storm formed from cold and warm moist air, often starting over warm seas.

What scale is used to measure hurricanes?

The Saffir-Simpson scale.

What impacts have been observed due to rising temperatures?

Melting polar ice, rising sea levels, unpredictable weather, and changes in vegetation and animal habits.

What climate type is found near the equator?

Tropical climate, which is hot all year with lots of rainfall.

How does altitude (elevation) affect climate?

Higher altitudes are colder, meaning mountains are colder than low valleys even if they are at the same latitude.

What is the effect of being near water on climate?

Areas near water have a more mild and stable climate because water heats and cools slowly.

What factors affect climate?

Latitude, altitude, distance from water, ocean currents, and air and wind masses.

What are the characteristics of a polar climate?

Cold all year with ice, snow, tundra, and low precipitation, considered a cold desert.