2 SECTION 1Factors Affecting ClimateQuestion:By which processes does the Sun interact with the Earth’s atmosphere?
3 Factors Affecting Climate SECTION 1Factors Affecting ClimateThe Sun’s Effect on EarthThe Sun’s energy reaches EarthHalf of the energy is reflected back into space or absorbed by the atmosphere.The other half is absorbed by Earth’s surface and converted into heat energy.The atmosphere traps this heat in a process called the greenhouse effect.The greenhouse effect helps keep the planet warm.
4 SECTION 2Weather FactorsQuestion:What are the steps in the formation of precipitation, and what are the four common types of precipitation?
6 SECTION 3Climate and Vegetation PatternsQuestion:What are the characteristics of tropical humid and tropical wet and dry climates?
7 Tropical humid climate Tropical wet and dry climates SECTION 3Climate and Vegetation PatternsTropical humid climateTropical wet and dry climatesclose to equatorwarm temperatures, rainfall all yearreceives Sun’s rays directly all yearrising warm, unstable airmonsoonsnorth and south of tropical humidseasonal change in how Sun’s rays hit Earthalternating wet and dry seasonssavannas
8 Chapter Wrap-Up CHAPTER 3 1. How does latitude relate to climate? 2. How do atmospheric pressure zones and ocean currents affect Earth’s energy balance?3. On a global scale, where is precipitation most common?4. What effects can hurricanes have on local environments?5. Where will you find climates that are generally warm and wet all year? What creates dry weather conditions in arid regions?