Factors Influencing Climate and Climate Change

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to climate factors, the carbon cycle, and climate change effects.

Latitude

The distance from the equator; affects temperature and climate, with warmer climates closer to the equator.

Elevation

Altitude above sea level; higher elevations result in colder temperatures.

Proximity to Water

Distance to large bodies of water which moderates temperature and contributes to climate conditions.

Ocean Currents

Movements of ocean water that affect coastal climate; warm currents lead to warmer air, and cold currents lead to cooler, drier conditions.

Rain Shadow Effect

A phenomenon where mountains block wind and precipitation, creating a dry area on one side.

Vegetation

Plant life in an area; affects humidity and climate, with forests increasing moisture and deserts retaining heat.

Carbon Cycle

The movement of carbon among the atmosphere, biosphere, oceans, and geosphere.

Carbon Sink

Natural systems that absorb more carbon dioxide than they release, such as oceans, forests, and soils.

Carbon Source

Processes or entities that release carbon into the atmosphere, including burning fossil fuels and deforestation.

Human Impact on Carbon Cycle

Activities such as fossil fuel combustion and deforestation that increase CO₂ levels and affect carbon sinks.

Greenhouse Effect

The trapping of heat in Earth's atmosphere by greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming.

Temperature Rise

The increase in average surface temperature due to climate change, approximately 1.2°C since pre-industrial times.

Extreme Weather Events

Severe weather occurrences that are becoming more frequent due to climate change, like hurricanes and droughts.

Ecosystem Disruptions

Changes in ecosystems due to climate change, including coral bleaching and altered species migrations.

Polar Ice Melting

The loss of ice in polar regions which contributes to sea level rise and habitat loss for species like polar bears.

Slope Calculations

Mathematical method used to analyze the rate of increase in temperature or carbon levels.