Chapter 29, Problem 1FIB

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The climate and weather is driven by the Sun, which is a thermonuclear engine. In a range of wavelengths, the solar energy reaches the Earth. The average temperature yearly is determined by the proportion of sunlight, which reaches the Earth’s surface in various regions that in turn, depends on the latitude.

Answer to Problem 1FIB

Correct answer:

The tilt of Earth on its own axis produces the pronounced seasons. Coastal climate is moderate because of the ocean currents. A dry region on the side of a mountain range which faces away from the prevailing winds direction is called a rain shadow.

Explanation of Solution

As the axis of the Earth is tilted during a year, there are significant changes in the latitudes of south and north of the equator in the duration and angle of sunlight that result in seasons. When the northern hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, then there is direct sunlight in this region and so, the area experiences summer. Climatic zones are produced when, at an angle, the sunlight strikes the surface of the Earth. Thus, at the equator there is greatest warming.

From the oceans, heat is evaporated thus; the air at the equator consists of moisture. As the warm moist air rises, it condenses as rain. This in turn produces a wet and warm climate. The friction that is produced between the ocean’s surface and wind is called as the ocean currents.

These currents are interrupted by the continents. In the coastal areas there is moderate climate due to ocean currents. Climate is also affected due to the mountains. It is due to the variations in elevation that the climate is altered. On the side of a mountain, there is a dry region, which faces away from the winds direction. It is called as a rain shadow.

Conclusion

The mountains, proximity to the oceans, prevailing winds and the tilting of the Earth on its axis is responsible for the change in climatic patterns.