fv8 - geography and climate

AP Environmental Science: Earth's Geography and Climate

Page 1: Factors That Influence Climate

  • The Sun

    • Primary energy source for Earth's climate system.

    • Variations in solar radiation intensity affect climate.

    • Seasonal and latitudinal differences contribute to unique climates.

  • Earth's Orbit

    • The elliptical shape of Earth's orbit affects solar energy reception.

    • Proximity to the sun can lead to climate changes.

  • Greenhouse Gases

    • Gases like CO2 and methane trap heat in the atmosphere.

    • Human activities (deforestation, fossil fuel burning) increase greenhouse gas concentrations.

    • Contributes to climate change and global warming, leading to extreme weather and natural disasters.

  • Volcanic Eruptions

    • Eruptions release ash and gases that can temporarily cool the Earth's surface.

    • Effects last for several decades but are not a permanent solution to global warming.

  • Ocean Currents

    • Oceans have a large heat capacity, influencing climate by storing heat.

    • Warm ocean currents can raise temperatures in coastal regions.

  • Land Masses

    • The shape and elevation of land (e.g., mountains) affect air movement.

    • Creates temperature and precipitation differences (rain shadow effect).

Page 2: Rain Shadow Effect

  • Influence on Precipitation Patterns

    • Windward side: Receives more precipitation due to rising moist air.

    • Leeward side: Experiences dry conditions as air loses moisture.

    • Alternating wet and dry areas can occur on both sides of a mountain range.

Page 3: Key Terms and Concepts

  • Climate Change

    • Long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns.

    • Primarily caused by human activities leading to increased greenhouse gases.

  • CO2 (Carbon Dioxide)

    • Released through fossil fuel burning and deforestation.

    • Traps heat, contributing to global warming.

  • Global Warming

    • Long-term increase in average global temperatures.

    • Results in environmental changes like rising sea levels and extreme weather.

  • Greenhouse Gases

    • Include CO2, methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and fluorinated gases.

    • Trap heat and contribute to the greenhouse effect.

  • Land Masses

    • Distinct areas of land, including continents and islands.

  • Methane Gas

    • Released during decomposition and human activities.

    • Stronger warming effect than CO2 but shorter atmospheric lifespan.

  • Ocean Currents

    • Directed movements of seawater that distribute heat and influence climate.

  • Rain Shadow Effect

    • Occurs when mountains block moisture-laden winds, creating dry and wet areas.

  • Solar Radiation

    • Energy emitted by the Sun, including visible light and infrared radiation.

  • Volcanic Eruptions

    • Natural events that can impact climate through ash and gas emissions.