4.8 - Earth's Geography and Climate

Insolation def

It measures how much solar radiation arrives at a specific area over a set period (often expressed in watts per square meter, W/m², or kilowatt-hours per square meter for cumulative time).

insolation

climate is largely determined by _____

less insolation

Higher latitudes receive ____. Results in Cooler temp, less precipitation (especially 30˚)

most intense insolation

Equator receives _______. High temp, air rises, and high precipitation

Mountains affecting climate

Disrupts wind + produce rain shadow effect

Oceans affecting climate

They moderate temperature and add moisture to the air

Rain Shadows

Warm, moist air from ocean hits the "windward" side of the mountain, rises, cools (condensing H2O vapor & causing rain) → lush, green vegetation

descends down; warming

Dry air ______ "leeward" side of mountain, _______ as it sinks.

- leads to arid (dry) desert conditions

Example

Eastern trade winds blow moist air from Atlantic across SA

- Windward (E) side of Andes receives heavy rainfall

- Leeward (W) side of Andes receives arid (dry) air

~30o latitude also contributes to lack of rain

- high pressure, dry, descending air