Geography's Effect on Earth's Climate

Flashcards on the effects of geography on climate, covering topics such as wind patterns, mountain ranges, and bodies of water.

Climate

Largely determined by insolation, with the equator receiving the most direct sunlight and highest precipitation.

Rain Shadow Effect

Occurs when mountains disrupt wind movement, causing the windward side to receive heavy rainfall due to rising, cooling air, while the leeward side experiences dry, desert-like conditions.

Windward Side

The side of a mountain facing the ocean or prevailing winds, characterized by lush vegetation and high rainfall due to moist air rising and cooling.

Leeward Side

The side of a mountain facing away from the ocean or prevailing winds, known for dry, desert-like conditions due to descending, dry air.

prevailing winds between 30 degrees and 0 degrees

East to west in direction.

Bodies of Water Effect on Climate

Oceans add moisture to the air of nearby land and can moderate or stabilize the temperature.

Subduction Plate Boundary

Responsible for forming coastal mountains like the Andes, where a denser oceanic plate is forced beneath a less dense continental plate, causing magma and lithosphere to rise.