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Climate Explain how any three of the following factors influence climate: - Latitude - Prevailing winds - Distance from seas and oceans - Altitude - Relief. - Junior Cycle Geography - Question B - 2017
Question B
Climate Explain how any three of the following factors influence climate: - Latitude - Prevailing winds - Distance from seas and oceans - Altitude - Relief.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Climate Explain how any three of the following factors influence climate: - Latitude - Prevailing winds - Distance from seas and oceans - Altitude - Relief. - Junior Cycle Geography - Question B - 2017
Step 1
Latitude
Answer
Latitude refers to the distance of a location from the equator, measured in degrees.
- Locations closer to the equator receive more direct sunlight year-round, leading to warmer temperatures.
- As one moves towards the poles, sunlight becomes less direct, resulting in cooler climates.
- Therefore, latitude significantly influences temperature, precipitation, and the overall climate of a region.
Step 2
Prevailing winds
Answer
Prevailing winds are the winds that blow predominantly from a single direction over a particular point on the Earth's surface.
- These winds can influence weather patterns by transporting warm or cold air masses.
- For example, winds blowing from the ocean can bring moisture and moderate temperatures, while continental winds might bring dry, hot air.
- Consequently, prevailing winds affect local climates by altering temperature and precipitation conditions.
Step 3
Altitude
Answer
Altitude, or elevation above sea level, significantly impacts climate.
- As altitude increases, temperature generally decreases; this is due to the thinning atmosphere which cannot retain heat.
- Higher altitudes experience colder conditions compared to lower areas, often resulting in different vegetation and ecosystems.
- Additionally, altitude can lead to increased exposure to weather systems, affecting climate variability in mountainous areas.