Climate

Definition

Climate is the long-term average of weather patterns in a particular region, typically assessed over decades. It encompasses factors such as temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind, and precipitation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Earth's climate is significantly influenced by its atmosphere, including greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane.
2. The tilt of Earth's axis and its orbit around the Sun create seasonal variations that are key components of Earth's climate.
3. Oceans play a critical role in regulating Earth's climate by absorbing heat and distributing it around the globe.
4. Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, have been altering Earth's climate by increasing greenhouse gas concentrations.
5. Climate change can lead to significant changes in weather patterns, sea level rise, and impacts on ecosystems.

Review Questions

• How do greenhouse gases influence Earth's climate?
• What role do oceans play in regulating Earth's climate?
• What are some human activities that contribute to changes in Earth's climate?

Related terms

Weather: Short-term atmospheric conditions including temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed, and visibility.

Greenhouse Effect: The warming of Earth's surface caused by the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Global Warming: The ongoing rise in global average temperatures due to increased concentrations of greenhouse gases resulting from human activities.