Concept explainers
Describe how mountains affect local climate with respect to the following three factors:
- a. sunlight
- b. temperature
- c. rainfall
a.
To describe: In what way mountains affect the local climate with respect to sunlight.
Introduction: The climate of an area can be affected by several factors, namely latitude, terrain, elevation, rivers, lakes, geographic proximity of mountains and ocean. Mountains have a vast effect on the climate. Mountains affect the local climate by obstructing wind and thereby receiving more rainfall when compared to the low-lying areas.
Explanation of Solution
In the Northern Hemisphere, the south-facing slopes get more sunlight. Thus, the south-facing slopes are warmer and drier when compared to the north-facing slopes. This is how mountains affect the local climate with respect to sunlight.
b.
To describe: In what way mountains affect the local climate with respect to temperature.
Explanation of Solution
Air temperature decreases with an increase in elevation. Moreover, high-altitude communities may be alike to higher latitude communities. This is how mountains affect the local climate with respect to temperature.
c.
To describe: In what way mountains affect the local climate with respect to rainfall.
Explanation of Solution
The windward side of a mountain gets more rainfall when compared to the leeward side. The moist, warm air rising over the mountain releases moisture and the cooler, drier air absorbs moisture while it falls away from the other side. This is how mountains affect the local climate with respect to rainfall.
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