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Give an explanatory account of any one global climate you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 22 - 2009
Question 22
Give an explanatory account of any one global climate you have studied.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Give an explanatory account of any one global climate you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 22 - 2009
Step 1
Identifying the global climate
Answer
One significant global climate that can be analyzed is the Tropical Rainforest Climate. This climate is characterized by high temperatures and substantial annual rainfall, typically exceeding 2000 mm. Tropical rainforests are usually found near the equator and experience a lack of seasonality, with little variation in temperature throughout the year.
Step 2
Causes of the Tropical Rainforest Climate
Answer
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Latitude: The tropical rainforest climate is predominantly located within the latitudes of 5° North to 5° South of the equator. This positioning results in consistent solar heating year-round, which contributes to the high temperatures.
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High Humidity: The proximity to the equator also means high evaporation rates from oceans and surface water. This moisture-laden air contributes to significant rainfall, usually distributed evenly throughout the year, sustaining the lush vegetation typical of rainforests.
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Convection Currents: As the ground heats up due to intense sunlight, it causes warm moist air to rise. This rising air cools, condenses, and results in precipitation. Updrafts and downdrafts of these convection currents cycle moisture in the atmosphere, often leading to daily rainfall.