14.2 Climate Classification
TSWBAT describe the criteria used to classify climates; compare and contrast different climates
Climate Classification
Koeppen Classification System A widely used classification system for
climates Uses both temperature and precipitation
for monthly data Also takes into account the distinct
vegetaton
Koeppen Classification System
Tropical Climates Constant high temperatures Less than 600cm of rain per year
Tropical rain forests Maritime tropical air Wet and dry zones
Koeppen Classification SystemDry Climates
Cover 30% of Earth’s land areaDeserts regions and arid regions/steppes
Continental tropical air Low precipitation Scarce vegetation Located near the tropics High amounts of solar radiation
Koeppen Classification System
Mild Climates Humid subtropical
Influenced by” High pressure systems found over
oceansSouthern U.S.
Warm, muggy weather – summer Dry, cool conditions - winter
Koeppen Classification System
Mild Climates Marine west coast climate
Constant inland flow of ocean airMild wintersCool summersAbundant precipitation
West coast U.S.
Koeppen Classification System
Mild Climates Mediterranean climates
Influenced by the Mediterranean sea
Italy and Spain warm summers
Koeppen Classification SystemContinental Climates
Warm summer climate Cool summer climates Subarctic climates
Located in zones with polar frontsTropical and polar air masses collideExtreme temperatures (both summer
and winter)Wet summers
Koeppen Classification System
Polar Climates Coldest regions on earth Low precipitation Low solar radiation High elevations
Andes Mountains
Microclimates
Microclimates A localized climate that differs from the
main regional climate Mountain tops
Heat Islands The climate is warmer than the
surrounding rural areas Cities
With a partner
In complete sentences answer questions 1-5 on page 368.
Turn in when complete Finish for homework
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