Weather, Climate and Biogeology

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts related to weather, climate, biogeology, atmospheric processes, biodiversity, and human impact on the environment.

What is the main driver of Earth's climate?

The Sun's energy drives atmospheric and oceanic circulation.

How much solar radiation reaches the Earth?

About 174 petawatts, equal to 174 quadrillion joules per second.

What is absorbed and reflected solar radiation on Earth?

51% is absorbed at the surface, 19% is absorbed by the atmosphere and clouds, while some is reflected by the atmosphere (4%), clouds (20%), and the Earth's surface (6%).

What causes the seasonal changes on Earth?

The tilt of the Earth (23.4 degrees) changes the angle of the Sun in the sky throughout the year.

What are the layers of the Earth’s atmosphere based on?

They are divided based on temperature.

What is the Hadley cell?

A large-scale atmospheric convection cell in which air rises at the equator and sinks at mid-latitudes.

Describe the Ferrel cell.

It is characterized by sinking air near 30 degrees and rising air farther poleward to 60 degrees.

What happens in the polar cell?

At the poles, air cools and descends, creating a high-pressure area that produces the polar easterlies.

What is the energy distribution from solar radiation across the Earth?

Energy gained from solar radiation decreases from the equator to the poles.

How have organisms affected changes in the Earth’s atmosphere?

Life modifies the environment, and changes in the environment can affect the evolution of life.

What is the significance of the Great Oxygenation Event?

The rise of atmospheric oxygen due to cyanobacteria fundamentally changed Earth's atmosphere and supported the development of complex life.

How does the carbon cycle work?

Carbon cycles between the atmosphere, biosphere, geosphere, and hydrosphere, primarily through processes like photosynthesis and respiration.

What are the potential effects of global warming?

Rising sea levels, inundation of cities, and increased melting of polar ice affecting climate.

Why is biodiversity related to environmental change?

Changes in the environment have historically affected biodiversity and vice versa.

What role do microbes play in soil development?

Microbes help produce soil by breaking down rock and organic material, allowing plants to establish.

How do reefs influence landforms?

Coral reefs accumulate sediment and slow erosion, impacting beach ecosystems.

What are estuaries and what role do they play in ecosystems?

Estuaries are nutrient-rich areas that support unique plant species like mangroves, which help form land from sea.