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Exchanges of water between oceans and atmosphere, over the earth’s surface, impact on precipitation and its distribution patterns - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 23 - 2021
Question 23
Exchanges of water between oceans and atmosphere, over the earth’s surface, impact on precipitation and its distribution patterns. Discuss.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Exchanges of water between oceans and atmosphere, over the earth’s surface, impact on precipitation and its distribution patterns - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 23 - 2021
Step 1
Impact of Evaporation
Answer
The exchange of water between oceans and the atmosphere begins with evaporation. When the sun heats the ocean surface, water molecules gain energy and transition from a liquid state to a gaseous state, forming water vapor. This process significantly affects humidity levels in the atmosphere, which in turn influence precipitation patterns. Regions with high evaporation rates, such as tropical areas, tend to experience higher humidity and, consequently, more rainfall.
Step 2
Role of Condensation
Answer
As water vapor rises, it cools and condenses into tiny droplets, forming clouds. This condensation process releases latent heat, which warms the surrounding atmosphere and influences weather patterns. The structure and behavior of clouds are critical in determining whether precipitation occurs and how it is distributed spatially. Therefore, understanding the evaporation-condensation cycle is essential for analyzing precipitation distribution.
Step 3
Geographical Influences
Answer
Geographical features such as mountains and bodies of water alter precipitation patterns by affecting atmospheric circulation. For instance, orographic lift occurs when moist air encounters mountains, causing the air to rise, cool, and release precipitation on the windward side. Conversely, the leeward side, known as the rain shadow, receives significantly less rain. This illustrates how geographic features directly influence local climate and precipitation distribution.