OM

Weather_and_Climate_Chapter13(audio)

  • Classroom Topics Overview

    • Final topic to be discussed on Friday.
    • Possible addition of exam questions related to this topic.
    • Bonus assignments discussed, with options related to climate classification.

  • Global Distribution of Climates

    • Focus on the global distribution of climates and the Koppen climate classification system.
    • Six key variables that affect climate distribution will be examined.
    • Discussion of five major climate classes from the Koppen classification.

  • Key Factors Influencing Climate

    • Latitude:
    • Most significant factor in determining climate; influences intensity and duration of solar insulation.
    • Divided into climatic zones: Torrid, Temperate, and Polar.
    • Altitude:
    • Impact of elevation on climate; higher elevations generally cooler.
    • Proximity to Water:
    • Proximity to large bodies of water influences climate stability (maritime vs. continental climates).
    • Coastal regions tend to have milder climates compared to inland areas.
    • Ocean Currents:
    • Warm and cold ocean currents moderate coastal climates.
    • Example: Vancouver vs. Brandon due to oceanic influence.
    • Wind Patterns:
    • Prevailing winds dictate climate and precipitation patterns.
    • Geographic Features:
    • Mountains affect precipitation patterns (orographic lift and rain shadows).

  • Climate Classifications

    • Importance of realizing that multiple factors contribute to the climate of a location.
    • Koppen Classification System
    • Based on mean monthly and annual temperature and precipitation.
    • Classifies climates into types based on empirical data.
    • Empirical vs. Genetic Classification:
    • Empirical: Based on measurable characteristics (temperature, precipitation).
    • Genetic: Based on processes of formation (used in rock and soil classifications).

  • Impact of Climate

    • Vegetation Distribution:
    • Climate is a primary determinant in the distribution of biomes (e.g., rainforest, desert).
    • Human Activities:
    • Cultural development and agricultural practices influenced by climate.
    • Natural Hazards:
    • Climate affects vulnerability to hazards like hurricanes and drought.

  • Climate and Time

    • Discussion of climate normals:
    • Thirty-year periods used to identify climate averages and trends.
    • Example: Change from cold winter to cool summer climate in Wasagamy due to a small temperature increase.

  • Visualization of Climate Distribution

    • Identification of climate zones through maps, demonstrating spatial relationships between climate types.
    • Examples of specific climates:
    • Tropical, temperate, polar, and variations such as arid and humid climates.

  • Conclusion

    • Climate is a major determinant in the global distribution of life and environmental conditions.
    • Understanding these concepts is crucial for understanding broader environmental and geographical issues.