Biosphere

This set of flashcards covers important concepts related to the biosphere, climate, and weather, examining definitions, effects, and driving factors.

Biosphere

All ecosystems and landscapes on Earth.

Difference between climate and weather

Climate refers to long-term conditions; weather refers to short-term variations.

Abiotic variable

A non-living environmental factor such as precipitation, lightning, or nitrogen.

Primary source of energy for Earth’s systems

Solar radiation from the sun.

Where is solar radiation strongest?

At the equator.

Why is Earth heated unevenly?

Because of the angle and path of incoming solar radiation.

Greenhouse effect

Infrared radiation absorbed and re-radiated by atmospheric gases.

Is the greenhouse effect inherently negative?

No, it is a natural and necessary process.

Major greenhouse gases

Carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, water vapor.

Albedo

The proportion of solar energy reflected by a surface.

Surfaces with low albedo

Asphalt, dark roofs, forests.

Urban heat island effect

Urban areas are warmer due to heat absorption and re-radiation.

What drives global wind patterns?

Uneven heating and Earth’s rotation.

Coriolis effect

Deflection of moving air due to Earth’s rotation.

Hadley cells

Large-scale atmospheric circulation cells in the tropics.

Deep ocean currents

Differences in temperature and salinity (density) drive them.

Thermohaline circulation

Global ocean conveyor belt circulation.

ENSO

Periodic ocean-atmosphere fluctuation affecting climate.

What follows El Niño?

La Niña.

Rain shadow

Air losing moisture over mountains then descending as dry air.