Intro to Weather and Climate final exam chapters 9-10
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As sea ice melts and becomes liquid water, __________ heat is then absorbed from the Sun, creating warmer surface waters. less the same more
precipitation
Decreased rate of _____________ due to climate change can lead to drought.
New Zealand
Rising seas levels have impacted the inhabitants of the tiny Pacific Island of Tuvalu. Plans are now in place to evacuate some of the island's population to what country? Vietnam New Zealand The United States The Philippines Australia
proxy methods; climate proxies
Scientists use ________ to study past climates, using ________ to reconstruct climates that extend back further than our present instrumentation allows. indirect evidence; conjecture computer models; algorithms inference; supposition direct measurements; historical records proxy methods; climate proxies
a warming trend.
Since 1880, global land-ocean temperatures have shown a cooling trend until 1950, then a rapid warming trend. a warming trend. a cooling trend. no trend. an oscillation between warming and cooling.
2010, 2014, and 2015.
Since 1880, the years with the highest land surface temperature were 1910, 1940, and 1950. 2010, 2014, and 2015. 1900, 1940, and 1962. 1985 and 1992. 1990 and 2000.
50 to 200 years.
The residence time of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere is approximately 90 days. 12 years. 50 to 200 years. 45 days. 500 years.
Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)
What is this location?
short, relatively mild, winters
Which of the following is not a characteristic of tropical climates? unstable air masses influence of the ITCZ warm ocean temperatures consistent day lengths short, relatively mild, winters
chaparral
Which type of vegetation is common in the Mediterranean climate? rain forest selva boreal forest chaparral taiga
subarctic cold-winter
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? Mediterranean humid subtropical winter-dry tropical rain forest subarctic cold-winter marine west coast
tropical savanna
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? midlatitude cold desert highland tropical rain forest tropical savanna subtropical humid
climatology
What is the study of the collective patterns of atmospheric conditions over many years, including averages, extremes, and variability? microclimate climatology climate meteorology geology
dendrochronology
What method can be used only for short-term climate reconstruction? paleontology, the study of fossils such as foraminifera and plants ice cores dendrochronology oxygen isotope analysis ocean sediment cores
decreasing atmospheric water vapor
Which of the following is not a key indicator of present climate change? decreasing mass of glaciers and ice sheets decreasing atmospheric water vapor increasing sea-surface temperatures decreasing extent of sea ice rising sea level
400-ppm
According to readings from the Mauna Loa Observatory, CO2 concentrations currently exceed ________. 500-ppm 300-ppm 100-ppm 400-ppm 200-ppm
1° Fahrenheit
At the Little Ice Age's start in the fourteenth century, temperatures in Europe fell by about how much? 4° Fahrenheit 5° Fahrenheit 10° Fahrenheit 1° Fahrenheit The temperature stayed the same.
speleothems.
Mineral deposits within caves and caverns are known as foraminifera speleothems. latewood. earlywood. varves.
21.5° to 24.5°
Obliquity, i.e. variations in the Earth's axial tilt, range from ________ to ________ over a 41,000-year cycle. 23.5° to 27.5° 21.5° to 24.5° 20.5° to 23.5° 10.5° to 24.5° 11.5° to 15.5°
The climate of the North Atlantic Ocean for the past million years
Ocean sediments
shows a negative cumulative annual mass balance.
Annual mass balance of glaciers worldwide from 1980 to 2012 shows a negative cumulative annual mass balance. trends near zero, indicating snowfall and melting are mostly equal. has fluctuated greatly, with some positive and some negative years. was positive through 1995 and has been slightly negative since. indicates a positive cumulative annual mass balance.
two-thirds
Approximately ________ of total atmospheric methane comes from anthropogenic sources. half 25% one-third one-eighth two-thirds
expands; contracts
Arctic sea ice naturally __________ during the dark, cold winters and __________ during the spring and summer. expands; expands contracts; contracts contracts; expands expands; contracts
one-half
Arctic sea ice reached a historic minimum in 2012 that was approximately __________ the size of the long-term average recorded during 1979-2000. three-quarters one-half the same as one-quarter
water-vapor feedback.
As air temperatures increase, evaporation increases. Warmer temperatures also increase the capacity to absorb water vapor. More water vapor in the atmosphere accelerates the greenhouse effect. This is known as the permafrost-carbon feedback. wildfire-carbon feedback. water-vapor feedback. ice-albedo feedback. CO2-weathering feedback.
permafrost-carbon feedback.
As permafrost thaws, increased microbial activity in the soils results in the release of more carbon to the atmosphere. More carbon in the atmosphere accelerated the greenhouse effect. This is known as the permafrost-carbon feedback. CO2-weathering feedback. wildfire-carbon feedback. water-vapor feedback. ice-albedo feedback.
100,000
Changes in Earth's elliptical orbit around the Sun (eccentricity) varies over a ________ year cycle. 100,000 12.000 41,000 175,000 26,000
asphalt
Changes in the land surface, such as more ___________, can increase heat absorption, which can increase the rate of evaporation.
deforestation
Changes in the land, such as ____________ through "slash and burn" practices and wildfires following overgrazing, cause the ground to dry and lead to drought.
the long-term atmospheric condition-including extremes that may occur.
Climate is the weather of a region. a reference to temperature patterns only. the average precipitation an area receives in a month. the long-term atmospheric condition-including extremes that may occur. the short-term condition of the atmosphere.
The climate of Antarctica for the past 100,000 years
Ice cores
The highest average values occur along the equator.
Regarding average annual precipitation, which of the following is correct? Precipitation values tend to be greatest in central Australia. The precipitation tends to increase with latitude toward the poles. The highest average values occur along the equator. The highest amounts occur throughout subtropical latitudes. The drier regions are associated with the eastern portions of major landmasses.
decreasing; increasing
The minimum area of Arctic sea ice cover has been __________ as air and water temperatures have been __________ over the past several decades. decreasing; decreasing increasing; increasing decreasing; increasing stable; increasing decreasing; stable
China
As of 2014, which country led the world in CO2 emissions? China Germany Canada the United States France
latitudinal energy imbalance between tropical and polar regions.
Global circulation patterns of winds and ocean currents, which drive weather systems and, ultimately, climate patterns are created by differential cloud cover over Earth's surface. frictional force caused by the Earth's spinning on its axis. the Coriolis force. the differential heating properties of land and water. latitudinal energy imbalance between tropical and polar regions.
evaporation
Increased in the rate of _________ due to climate change can lead to drought.
more easily; less easily
The 16O evaporates ________ than 18O, and condenses ________. more easily; less easily less easily; less easily more rapidly; more slowly less easily; more easily more easily; more easily
Mediterranean
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? humid subtropical winter-dry tropical monsoon Mediterranean marine west coast highland
farmlands
Which of the following is not considered an important carbon sink? forests farmlands oceans rocks soils
speleothems
Which proxy data source for past climate conditions examines mineral deposits in caves? varves ice cores speleothems paleontology, the study of fossils dendrochronology
a climatic region
An area defined by characteristic, long-term weather patterns is called a biome. a climatic region. a Humboldt Zone. an ecosystem. an average weather place.
30 years
Data from what length of time are represented on a climograph? 300 years 30 years It varies from one climograph to another; there is no standard length of time. 30 days 30 months
Miami, Florida
Excluding the state of Hawaii, which city in North America has a tropical climate? Dallas, Texas Miami, Florida Toronto Los Angeles, California Atlanta, Georgia
seasonal influence of the ITCZ.
Factors that influence dry climates include all the following except location in continental interiors. dry, subsiding air associated with subtropical high pressure systems. cool, stabilizing ocean currents along the western margins of continents. seasonal influence of the ITCZ. location in the rain shadow of mountains.
Mesothermal climates.
More than half of the world's population resides within the Tropical climates. Desert climates. Mesothermal climates. Microthermal climates. Highland climates.
mid latitude cold desert.
The climate regime exemplified by Asia's Taklamakan Desert, Argentina's Patagonia, and areas of central Nevada is marine west coast. subarctic cold winter. midlatitude cold desert. humid subtropical hot-summer. tropical savanna.
subtropical hot steppe
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? highland marine west coast subtropical hot steppe Mediterranean tropical savanna
climate regimes
What are general climate types defined by temperature and precipitation? climate classes climate zones climate regions climate regimes
H - Highland (complex mountain climates)
What climate type is found in Cheyenne, Wyoming? Dfa - Humid continental, warm summer H - Highland (complex mountain climates) Cfa - Humid subtropical, without dry season, hot summers ET - Tundra BWh - Subtropical desert, a dry climate
Since 1979, summer sea ice minimum extent and winter sea ice maximum extent have declined.
Which of the following is correct regarding Arctic sea ice? Until recently, seasonal variations in sea ice extent were rare. Because of high latitudes, sea ice remains throughout the year. However, for the past 30 years, the extent of sea ice has diminished. Since 1979, summer sea ice minimum extent and winter sea ice maximum extent have declined. In the summer, most to all sea ice melts, only to refreeze in the winter. However, less water has been refreezing over the past decade. Summer sea ice reached its minimum extent in 2001 and has gradually increased since then.
carbon dioxide (CO2)
Which of the following gases accounts for the largest amount of radiative forcing? chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) carbon dioxide (CO2) hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) nitrous oxides (N2O) methane (CH4)
the burning of fossil fuels
Which of the following is not considered a mechanism of natural climate change? solar variability changes in Earth-Sun relationships volcanic eruptions movement of continents via plate tectonics the burning of fossil fuels
Permafrost thawing releases massive amounts of methane into the atmosphere, which could further amplify warming.
Why is the thawing of permafrost in the Arctic of special concern? Permafrost thawing releases massive amounts of methane into the atmosphere, which could further amplify warming. Thawing permafrost will lead to increased solifluction. Wet peatland forests will be further drained and logged as the conditions are conducive for such activity. Most permafrost is in the Southern Hemisphere where the thawing is contributing to a decline in global biodiversity. As permafrost thaws, it will contribute to global sea level rise.
general circulation models
What are mathematical representations of the processes and interacting factors that make up Earth's climate systems that scientists use to forecast future climate change? historical records proxy data sources Milankovitch cycles measurements of current conditions general circulation models
Milankovitch cycles
What natural mechanism is accepted as the cause for patterns of long-term climatic fluctuations over tens of thousands of years? solar variability continental position Milankovitch cycles radioactive decay atmospheric gases and aerosols
maritime tropical (mT)
Which air mass appears to predominately influence the humid subtropical region? maritime polar (mP) continental tropical (cT) maritime equatorial (mE) maritime tropical (mT) continental polar (cP)
ocean sediment cores
Which climate reconstruction methods provides the longest record of Earth's climate history? dendrochronology carbon isotope analysis ice cores speleothem analysis ocean sediment cores
stratospheric ozone (O3)
Which of the following has a negative radiative forcing (i.e. cools the planet)? methane (CH4) carbon dioxide (CO2) chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) nitrous oxides (N2O) stratospheric ozone (O3)
extremes of daylength between summer and winter
Which of the following is a causal element of polar and highland climates? high sun altitude during the summer months small differences of day length between winter and summer high precipitation, primarily in the form of snow extremes of daylength between summer and winter low surface albedo due to ground cover
Scientists can say with 100% certainty that current climate change can be solely attributed to anthropogenic causes.
Which of the following is incorrect? Human activities have increased the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Scientists can say with 100% certainty that current climate change can be solely attributed to anthropogenic causes. The rise of global temperatures causes global climate change. Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) causes warming temperatures. Carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations are growing more quickly today than is seen throughout most of the long-term climate record.
Both the 16O and 18O isotopes occur in water molecules.
Which of the following is true of 16O and 18O? Both the 16O and 18O isotopes occur in water molecules. Only the 18O isotope occurs in water molecules. Neither the 16O nor 18O isotopes occur in water molecules. Only the 16O isotope occurs in water molecules. The 16O and 18O isotopes are so radically different they are not used in paleoclimate reconstructions.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
Which organization released the Fifth Assessment Report on climate change? Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) JOIDES Resolution U.S. Global Change Research Program Mauna Loa Observatory Scripps Institute of Oceanography
tropical rain forest
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? marine west coast tropical rain forest polar Mediterranean tropical savanna
rose 17 to 21 cm (6.7 to 8.3 in.).
During the last century, sea level remained fairly constant, though some areas (such at the Atlantic coast) experienced moderate rises. rose 30 to 46 cm (11.8 to 18 in.). dropped 3 to 5 cm (1.18 to 3.15 in.). rose 17 to 21 cm (6.7 to 8.3 in.). dropped 10 to 13 cm (3.93 to 5.12 in.).
are based on statistical three-dimensional grids that characterize portions of the atmosphere and ocean in terms of climate-related variables.
General circulation models (GCMs) of the atmosphere are pre-computer based models that estimated atmospheric and oceanic circulation and are now being used to study climate change. are a combined GIS and remote sensing technique to monitor atmospheric and ocean currents. calculate the concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere based on data from weather stations located around the globe. are highly simplistic models that use one or two variables to test the veracity of climate proxies, such as ice core and ocean sediment core samples. are based on statistical three-dimensional grids that characterize portions of the atmosphere and ocean in terms of climate-related variables.
Lake sediments contain organic materials that can be identified and radiocarbon dated, giving insight into past plant communities and climatic conditions.
How do scientists use lake sediments to study past climates? Isotopic analysis of the relative proportions of 18O to 16O enable determination of evaporation rates from ancient lakes. Lake sediment analysis is used to determine which fish species have persisted in a particular lake over long periods of time. During warmer conditions, lake sediments form wider rings, whereas in cooler conditions, these rings are narrower. The amount and type of pollen in lake sediments is an indication of the macrovertebrate assemblages that dominated an area. Lake sediments contain organic materials that can be identified and radiocarbon dated, giving insight into past plant communities and climatic conditions.
The low proportions of 13C and 14C within atmospheric CO2 indicates the source is fossil carbon.
How have scientists used isotopic analysis to determine the rise of atmospheric CO2 is mostly from the burning of fossil fuels? Both coal and oil contain a high proportion of 14C. By analyzing, 14C /12C ratios, scientists have been able to determine the source based on this fact. Since 14C is an unstable isotope, scientists have dated the atmospheric carbon to the period since the Industrial Revolution. The relative low amount of 12C in atmospheric carbon demonstrates that the carbon dates from about the 1800s or later. The low proportions of 13C and 14C within atmospheric CO2 indicates the source is fossil carbon. 14C concentrations are much higher in urban areas than in rural areas, indicating fossil fuels must have a higher 14C /12C ratio than carbon from other sources.
Cities may face long-term water shortages as the amount of water generated by glacial melt will decline as glaciers shrink.
How might global warming affect cities that rely on glacial runoff for their water supply? Cities will likely be unaffected as increased runoff will form natural lakes where glaciers used to be. Cities may face short-term water shortages but will have long-term water surpluses. Cities may face long-term water shortages as the amount of water generated by glacial melt will decline as glaciers shrink. Cities will likely be unaffected as global warming affects melting only along the leading edge of the glacier. Cities may face long-term water surpluses as the amount of water generated by glacial melt will continue to increase as temperatures rise.
latitude.
Insolation, the energy input for the climate system, is largely determined by altitude. upper atmospheric circulation. local and regional winds. location of high pressure cells. latitude.
The climate for each year over the past 200 years in the heavily vegetated northwest United States
Tree rings
changes in Earth-Sun relationships, namely the Earth's orbit around the sun, the Earth's axial rotation, and the Earth's axial tilt.
Milankovitch cycles refer to topographic changes from orogeny, erosion, and mass wasting. cyclical changes in solar irradiance caused by increases and decreases in sunspot activity. changes in Earth-Sun relationships, namely the Earth's orbit around the sun, the Earth's axial rotation, and the Earth's axial tilt. increases and decreases in atmospheric gases and aerosols, primarily caused by natural activity such as volcanic activity and changes in net primary productivity. tectonic changes in continental positions.
70 million
Ocean sediment cores provide a climate record for the past ________ years. 50,000 2 million 70 million 10 million 800,000
50,000
Radiocarbon dating of organic material may provide a climate record for up to ________ years before present. 150,000 25,000 50,000 10,000 75,000
agricultural activity.
Scientists attribute the recent rise in atmospheric concentrations of nitrous oxide (N2O) primarily to agricultural activity. wastewater management. drainage of wetlands. automobile combustion. industrial practices.
a mild climate episode that lasted from 800 to 1200 and involved warmer than normal conditions in the North Atlantic region (e.g. Greenland and Iceland).
The Medieval Climate Anomaly was a global cooling trend that lasted from approximately 1250 to 1850. a mild climate episode that lasted from 800 to 1200 and involved warmer than normal conditions in the North Atlantic region (e.g. Greenland and Iceland). a warming trend that occurred from the Last Glacial Maximum until the Little Ice Age (1250). the current period of unprecedented warming that has occurred since 1980. higher than average temperatures throughout Asia, but mostly affecting China, that occurred during the Classical Chinese Medieval Period.
a brief return to near-glacial conditions during the transition period from the last glacial period to the present interglacial period.
The Younger Dryas refers to an interglacial period, characterized by a general warming trend, lasting since the last glacial maximum (LGM) to the present. a global cooling episode, lasting from approximately A.D. 1250 to 1850. a 400-year period, from A.D. 800 to 1200, characterized by warmer than normal conditions in the North Atlantic region (e.g. Greenland and Iceland). a brief return to near-glacial conditions during the transition period from the last glacial period to the present interglacial period. any interglacial period lasting more the 100 years.
study of past climates, measurement of current climatic change, and projection of future climate scenarios
The key elements of climate change science include which of the following? study of past climates, only measurement of current climatic change, only establishing policy on CO2 emissions projection of future climate scenarios, only study of past climates, measurement of current climatic change, and projection of future climate scenarios
20,000
The last glacial maximum (LGM) occurred approximately ________ years ago. 20,000 50,000 110,000 150,000 10,000
125,000 years ago (Eemian interglacial).
The last interglacial period with temperatures similar to the present interglacial period was the 385,00 years ago (Holstein interglacial). 781,000 years ago (Pastonian Stage). 500,000 years ago (Günz-Mindel interglacial). 125,000 years ago (Eemian interglacial). 12,000 years ago (Flandrian interglacial).
melting of land ice and thermal expansion of seawater.
The primary factors contributing to present sea-level rise are melting of land ice, only. melting of sea ice and thermal expansion of seawater. melting of land ice and thermal expansion of seawater. thermal expansion of seawater, only. melting of land ice and melting of sea ice.
is higher than predicted by most climate models, and appears to be accelerating.
The rate of sea-level rise is higher than predicted by most climate models, though appears to be decreasing. is lower than predicted by most climate models, and appears to be decreasing. is lower than predicted by most climate models, though appear to be accelerating. is higher than predicted by most climate models, and appears to be accelerating. has remained constant throughout the past century, though appears to be accelerating.
12 years.
The residence time of methane (CH4) in the atmosphere is 45 days. approximately 90 days. 500 years. 12 years. 50 to 200 years.
The master ocean current is called the Thermohaline Conveyor.
There is one master ocean current that is also the drive belt of our weather systems. What is this current called? The master ocean current is called the Thermohaline Conveyor. The master ocean current is called the Labrador Current. The master ocean current is called the South Equatorial Counter Current. The master ocean current is called the North Equatorial Current. The master ocean current is called the Gulf Stream.
subtropical hot desert
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? marine west coast microthermal subtropical hot desert humid subtropical hot-summer tropical rain forest
tropical monsoon
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? semi-arid steppe humid subtropical winter-dry tropical monsoon highland Mediterranean
humid continental hot-summer
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? subtropical hot desert tundra humid continental hot-summer marine west coast Mediterranean
humid subtropical hot-summer
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? midlatitude cold desert humid subtropical hot-summer tropical savanna Mediterranean highland
humid continental hot-summer
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? subtropical hot desert tundra humid continental hot-summer marine west coast Mediterranean
farming methods
Although there was low precipitation during the 1930s Dust Bowl, it was the_________________, rather than low precipitation, that caused the extreme drought.
A: Monthly precipitation B: Temperatures C: Average minimum temperature D: Average Maximum temperatures E: Precipitation
Label each letter for the Climograph
The climate of the last 10,000 years in the southeastern United States - with several inland water bodies such as lakes
Lake sediments
Keeling Curve
The ________ is a graph which plots monthly averages of CO2 concentrations since 1958. Keeling Curve Younger Dryas PETM MCA Maunder minimum
clockwise
What is the direction of the prevailing wind flow in high-pressure systems in the Northern Hemisphere? in a straight north-to-south flow in a straight east-to-west flow clockwise The pattern is random. counterclockwise
The winter dry season is related to the seasonal pulse of the monsoons.
Which is true of humid subtropical winter-dry climates? It is sparsely populated. They extend poleward from adjacent tropical rain forest climates. They have cold ocean currents offshore. The winter dry season is related to the seasonal pulse of the monsoons. Though rain falls in every season, spring receives 5 times more rainfall than autumn.
The bulk of precipitation occurs in the summer months.
Which of the following is false regarding the Mediterranean classification? Seventy percent of the precipitation occurs in the winter months. Summers are influenced by shifting subtropical high cells. The bulk of precipitation occurs in the summer months. Cool offshore ocean currents produce stability in the overlying air masses. Summers are hot.
Dry
________ climates occupy the most extensive area of land on Earth. Dry Microthermal Tropical Polar Mesothermal
Mediterranean
________ is a mesothermal climate with a long, hot, dry summer. Humid continental hot-summer Mediterranean Humid subtropical hot-summer Semiarid steppe Tropical savanna
high elevations with highland climates.
At low latitudes, the only interruption to tropical rainforest climates results from: cP air masses bring cool, stable air to the region. topographic features creating a rain shadow. high pressure areas forming deserts. coastal upwelling and a strong thermocline. high elevations with highland climates.
dry; the cold California current off the coast
Los Angeles, located in a Mediterranean climate zone, is kept ________ during the summer because of the presence of ________. dry; presence of the ITCZ. wet; the warm California current off the coast dry; the cold California current off the coast dry; mountains along the western side of the city wet; mountains along the western side of the city
have a high degree of air mass interaction.
Mesothermal climates occupy more land and sea surface area than any other climate region. are sparsely populated by humans. have very little seasonal variability. are essentially seasonless. have a high degree of air mass interaction.
Most of the world's freshwater is locked in the ice at the poles.
Most of the world's water is found in two locations. The first is the world's oceans. Where is the second location, the one with most of the world's freshwater? The Nile, Amazon, Huang He and Mississippi River systems. The Great Lakes of North America. The underground aquifers of North America. All of the water locked into Earth's soils. Most of the world's freshwater is locked in the ice at the poles.
was much warmer 70 m.y.a. compared to the present.
Over the span of 70 million years, the Earth's climate did not fluctuate greatly from approximately 500 m.y.a. to 65 m.y.a., then widely fluctuated until the current stable period. has remained fairly constant, only showing a warming trend during the past 200 years. was much cooler 70 m.y.a. compared to the present. was much warmer 70 m.y.a. compared to the present. was warmest approximately 10 million years ago and coolest about 56 million years ago.
solar activity, volcanic activity and/or multiyear changes in global circulation.
The Little Ice Age likely resulted from changes in Earth's axial tilt (obliquity). a cooling of the Gulf Stream from rapid glacial melt in Greenland. the Pleistocene megafauna extinction. solar activity, volcanic activity and/or multiyear changes in global circulation. changes in Earth's orbital shape (eccentricity).
a period of low sunspot activity from 1645 to 1715.
The Maunder minimum during the Little Ice Age has been linked to a period of low sunspot activity from 1645 to 1715. changes in Earth's orbital shape (eccentricity). volcanic activity and multiyear changes in global circulation. changes in Earth's axial tilt (obliquity). a cooling of the Gulf Stream from rapid glacial melt in Greenland.
transitions zones of gradual change.
The boundaries of the Köppen system (as well as other climate classification systems) are abrupt, but variable throughout the year, migrating with high and low pressure cells. transitions zones of gradual change. determined by longitude and are, therefore, only estimates. very abrupt corresponding to air mass interaction. determined by latitude and are, therefore, only estimates.
straddling the equator between 20° N/S.
Tropical climates are typically located higher latitudes influenced by continental tropical air masses. all areas of the Earth influenced by a subtropical high pressure system. primarily in areas associated with cold ocean currents. straddling the equator between 20° N/S. almost exclusively at high altitudes due to closer proximity to the sun.
The driest climates are located in the western parts of the United States, but not along the West Coast. The climates of the eastern half of North America are primarily the result of latitudinal range.
Using the information included in the map above to guide you, which two of the following statements are probably true? All mountain ranges in North America have highland climates. The driest climates are located in the western parts of the United States, but not along the West Coast. The climates of the eastern half of North America are primarily the result of latitudinal range. Anchorage, Alaska, has a polar climate.
dominated by grassland with scattered trees.
Vegetation in the tropical savanna is desert-like succulents. broadleaf evergreen forests. mixed deciduous and evergreen forests. dominated by grassland with scattered trees. lush (thick and green year-round).
from east to west
What is the direction of the prevailing winds along the equator? from north to south The pattern is random. from east to west from west to east from south to north
from west to east
What is the direction of the prevailing winds that push storms along the low-pressure cell storm track north of the Tropic of Cancer? from east to west The pattern is random. from south to north from north to south from west to east
Approximately 70 percent of the Earth's surface is composed of water.
What percentage of the Earth's surface is composed of water? Approximately 90 percent of the Earth's surface is composed of water. Approximately 50 percent of the Earth's surface is composed of water. Approximately 85 percent of the Earth's surface is composed of water. Approximately 20 percent of the Earth's surface is composed of water. Approximately 70 percent of the Earth's surface is composed of water.
continental polar (cP) and maritime tropical (mT), especially in winter
Which air masses influence the humid continental hot-summer climates in North America? continental Arctic (cA) year-round continental polar (cP) and maritime tropical (mT), especially in winter continental polar (cP) and continental tropical (cT), especially in summer continental polar (cP) year-round continental polar (cP) in summer and continental Arctic (cA) in winter.
subarctic cold-winter
Which climate is characterized by the largest change in monthly average temperatures; i.e., the greatest change in temperatures from one month to the next? subarctic cold-winter Mediterranean dry-midlatitude marine west coast tundra
A higher ratio of oceanic 18O to 16O indicates a warmer period during which more 18O evaporates and precipitates onto ice sheets.
Which of the following accurately describes 18O/16O ratios of ice sheets? During warmer periods, 16O evaporates more readily and, therefore, the 18O/16O ratio is significantly lower than cooler periods. The higher the ratio of oceanic 18O to 16O, the cooler the temperature is because 18O will be locked up in ice sheets. During periods of colder temperatures, the 18O/16O ratio is higher because only the 18O isotope is being evaporated. During cooler periods, 18O evaporates more readily and, therefore, the amount of 16O in glaciers is negligible. A higher ratio of oceanic 18O to 16O indicates a warmer period during which more 18O evaporates and precipitates onto ice sheets.
The width of annual tree rings indicates the climatic conditions; wider rings suggest favorable conditions, whereas narrower rings suggest harsher conditions.
Which of the following accurately describes the use of tree rings for studying past climates (dendroclimatology)? Tree ring analysis is best suited for short-lived species because it enables scientists to quickly and easily correlate tree ring growth to documented climatic conditions. Dendrochronology is primarily used in the tropical regions, where one can easily correlate a tree species' age with the climatic conditions there. The age of trees can be determined by tree ring analysis. By establishing the age of long-lived trees, one can determine the climate conditions of the area the year the tree sprouted. Because most trees only live 60 to 100 years, dendrochronology can only serve as a climate record for recent history and are primarily used to supplement instrument data. The width of annual tree rings indicates the climatic conditions; wider rings suggest favorable conditions, whereas narrower rings suggest harsher conditions.
Climate is the collective pattern of atmospheric conditions in a given region over long periods of time, whereas weather is the atmospheric conditions at a given time and place.
Which of the following best describes the difference between weather and climate? Weather is the collective pattern of atmospheric conditions in a given region over long periods of time, whereas climate is the atmospheric conditions at a given time and place. Climate refers specifically to the temperature of a given place at a given time, whereas weather refers to temperature, humidity, pressure, and wind conditions of a given place at a given time. Weather refers specifically to the temperature of a given place at a given time, whereas climate refers to temperature, humidity, pressure, and wind conditions of a given place at a given time. Climate is the collective pattern of atmospheric conditions in a given region over long periods of time, whereas weather is the atmospheric conditions at a given time and place. Weather and climate are essentially the same thing.
The sun's direct rays are overhead (subsolar point) are overhead twice each year.
Which of the following characterizes a tropical savanna climate? It experiences a summer wet season, and is dominated by the ITCZ for nearly 12 months of the year. It is dominated by the ITCZ for nearly 12 months a year. The sun's direct rays are overhead (subsolar point) are overhead twice each year. Its annual temperature variability is less than that of the tropical rain forest. All months receive precipitation in excess of 6 cm (2.4 in.).
The only month with an average temperature above freezing corresponds to the summer solstice (June in the Northern Hemisphere, December in the Southern Hemisphere).
Which of the following is incorrect regarding ice-sheet climates? The only month with an average temperature above freezing corresponds to the summer solstice (June in the Northern Hemisphere, December in the Southern Hemisphere). The area of the North Pole is a sea covered by ice rather than an ice sheet. There is very little precipitation . The climate is dominated by dry, frigid air masses. There are vast expanses that never warm above freezing.
Broadleaf deciduous trees, such as maple and sweetgum, dominate the area.
Which of the following is not true of the subarctic climate regions of Canada and Asia? Precipitation is low, but so is potential evapotranspiration. This climatic zone experiences exceptionally large annual temperature ranges. This climate zone constitutes the maximum poleward extent of forests. Broadleaf deciduous trees, such as maple and sweetgum, dominate the area. Permafrost occurs here.
In the Southern Hemisphere, these climates develop only in highland regions.
Which of the following is true of microthermal climates? Because of the latitude at which they occur, these climates occupy the largest land area of any climate. In the Southern Hemisphere, these climates develop only in highland regions. All of the subtypes of this climate have a uniform annual precipitation regime. They have a small seasonal temperature range, hence the term microthermal. Diurnal differences are limited throughout the year.
Snowfall is notably heavier in humid continental mild-summer climates than in humid continental hot-summer climates and plays an important role in soil moisture recharge.
Which of the following is true regarding humid continental hot-summer and humid continental mild-summer climates? Snowfall is notably heavier in humid continental mild-summer climates than in humid continental hot-summer climates and plays an important role in soil moisture recharge. The humid continental hot-summer and mild-summer climates are influenced by a single air mass year-round. Humid continental mild-summer climates are located further equatorward than humid continental hot-summer climates. Agriculture is not feasible in humid continental mild-summer climates due to the cooler weather, whereas it is very important in humid continental hot-summer climates. Overall, humid continental mild-summer climates receive more precipitation than humid continental hot-summer.
Tropical → Dry → Mesothermal → Microthermal → Polar
Which of the following lists the correct, generalized sequence of climates from the equator to the poles? Polar → Microthermal → Dry → Mesothermal → Tropical Tropical → Dry → Mesothermal → Microthermal → Polar Tropical → Mesothermal → Dry → Microthermal → Polar Tropical → Dry → Mesothermal → Microthermal → Highland Dry → Tropical → Mesothermal → Microthermal → Polar
Continental records are fragmented and discontinuous, missing parts of the climate record.
Why might ocean floors be better than continental locations for studying long-term changes in the size of ice sheets? Scientists do not need permission to take cores from the sea floor in international waters. Ocean floors have been less extensively cored than land areas. Ocean basins were created by ice sheets, making them more suitable locations to collect data. Ocean floors are much older than continental areas, thus providing a longer period from which to collect data. Continental records are fragmented and discontinuous, missing parts of the climate record.
The Intertropical Convergence Zone is associated with weather patterns near the equator. The Westerlies move storm systems across the midlatitudes. Winds in the high pressure cells generally flow in a circular pattern.
Winds in the high pressure cells generally flow in a circular pattern. Weather systems flow mostly in a north-south pattern. The Westerlies move storm systems across the midlatitudes. Weather patterns are random. The Intertropical Convergence Zone is associated with weather patterns near the equator.
tropical climates
In terms of total land and ocean area, which of the following climate classifications is the most extensive at 36% of Earth's surface? microthermal climates tropical climates polar climates mesothermal climates dry climates
5,730 years.
In the case of radiocarbon dating of organic material, the half-life of 14C is 5,730 years. 75,000 years. 1,255 years. 113,257 years. 15,397 years.
Each have growth bands, yielding evidence of the conditions under which they formed and grew.
In which of the following ways is the study of tree rings, speleothems, and corals for understanding past climatic conditions similar? Both are examples of macrofossils and can be used to determine plant and animal assemblages of bygone times. Each are composed of organic materials and are therefore used solely for radiocarbon dating. The chronology each can provide only dates back to a maximum of 1,000 years and are, therefore, only useful for relatively recent climatic trends. The fossilized form of each is used for understanding past climatic conditions. Each have growth bands, yielding evidence of the conditions under which they formed and grew.
an extreme ice house climate from 600 to 700 million years ago with ice sheets extending to the tropics.
"Snowball Earth" refers to a hypothesized model of climate change based on massive volcanic eruptions and/or nuclear fallout creating a global winter. an extreme icehouse climate from 600 to 700 million years ago with ice sheets extending to the tropics. a supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras. a climate model that predicts large expanses of ice sheets due to negative feedback loops triggered by climate change. the Pleistocene glaciation ending 12,000 years ago when the Laurentide Ice Sheet covered large portions of North America.
warmer; cooler
A lower 18O/16O ratio in ocean sediment cores indicates a(n) ________ climate, whereas a higher 18O/16O ratio indicates a(n) ________ climate. stable; unstable cooler; warmer warmer; cooler cooler; cold imbalanced; balanced
they are influenced by maritime environments.
Annual temperature ranges near South Georgia Island are low despite their high latitude because they are influenced by maritime environments. high elevation mitigates against the extreme cold events that otherwise occur at these latitudes . higher than average precipitation for the climate type mitigates against the extreme cold weather. the climate is dominated by dry, frigid air masses year-round. the island is oriented on the sunward side of a large topographic feature.
January
In Terre Haute, Indiana, which month has the lowest average precipitation? November July September January April
precession.
Changes in the orientation of the Earth's axis over a 26,000-year cycle is known as precession. obliquity. declination. eccentricity. inclination.
The climate each year over the past few hundred years for a small island located in the Pacific Ocean near the equator
Coral
deserts and steppe.
Dry climates are divided into two types according to moisture. These are chaparral and selva. steppe and chaparral. chaparral and tundra. deserts and tundra. deserts and steppe.
The presence and relative dominance of different species of forams reveal different global climate conditions.
How does the analysis of forams in ocean sediment cores reveal climate change? Forams are markedly larger during periods of global cooling. Forams are absent during periods of global warming. The presence and relative dominance of different species of forams reveal different global climate conditions. Forams are absent during periods of global cooling. Forams are markedly smaller during periods of global cooling.
800,000
Ice cores provide a climate record for the past ________ years. 800,000 70 million 50,000 10 million 2 million
biomes.
Major ecosystems determined largely by climatic regions and classified largely based on predominant vegetation are called ecotones. biomes. climate zones. zoogeographic regions. associations.
maritime polar (mP)
Marine west coast climates are dominated by what air masses? continental tropical (cT) continental polar (cP) continental Arctic (cA) maritime polar (mP) maritime tropical (mT)
experience dry conditions in summer due to the subtropical high overhead.
Mediterranean dry-summer climates experience wet conditions in summer due to the ITCZ overhead. experience dry conditions in summer due to the subtropical high overhead. experience wet conditions in winter due to the ITCZ overhead. are bordered poleward by steppe climates. experience wet conditions in the summer due to the subtropical high overhead.
The highest average values occur along the equator.
Regarding average annual precipitation, which of the following is correct? Precipitation values tend to be greatest in central Australia. The precipitation tends to increase with latitude toward the poles. The highest average values occur along the equator. The highest amounts occur throughout subtropical latitudes. The drier regions are associated with the eastern portions of major landmasses.
global temperatures have continued to warm at accelerating rates.
Since the Industrial Revolution, global temperatures rapidly increased, then steadied out over the past 25 to 30 years. global temperatures have continued to warm at accelerating rates. sun spot activity has accelerated, resulting in an apparent warming that will subside when this activity ceases. human population growth rates have decreased with a subsequent decrease in the warming trend that characterized pre-Industrial Revolution times . no observable warming or cooling trends have occurred, rather temperatures have oscillated between warm and cold periods.
marine west coast
This climograph is characteristic of which climate type? Mediterranean marine west coast tropical monsoon humid subtropical winter-dry humid subtropical hot-summer
the ITCZ has moves away from the region.
The dry season in the tropical monsoon climate occurs when the northeast trade winds reverse direction during late winter. cold ocean currents shift into the region. the ITCZ has moves away from the region. a continental polar air mass influences the region. the Hadley cells reverse.
resulted in lowered global temperatures for several years.
The graph shows that from 1850 to 2000, five large volcanic eruptions have caused a sudden rise in global temperatures, often lasting a decade or more. resulted in lowered global temperatures for several years. had no noticeable effects on global temperatures, only local and regional temperatures. led to dramatic increases in regional temperatures over the past century. increased the amount of acid deposition in areas surrounding the eruptions.
temperature and precipitation.
The two principal climate components are temperature and pressure. wind speed and precipitation temperature and precipitation. pressure and wind speed. precipitation and pressure.
urban heat islands.
World temperature patterns are primarily controlled by the following control except latitude. land-water heating differences urban heat islands. continentality. elevation.
