1. KEY CONCEPT Climate is a key abiotic factor that affects the biosphere.

2. Climate is the prevailing weather of a region.
Climate is the long-term pattern of weather conditions.
average temperature
precipitation
relative humidity
Key factors shape an area’s climate.
temperature
sunlight
water
wind

3. A microclimate is the climate of a small specific place within a larger area.

4. Earth has three main climate zones.
The three main zones are the polar, tropical, and temperate climates.
polar climate: the far northern and southern regions of Earth
tropical zone: surrounds the equator
temperate zone: the wide area in between the polar and tropical zones

5. The angle of the Sun’s rays help determine an area’s climate.
temperate
polar
tropical
90 N

6. Earth’s tilt on its axis plays a role in seasonal change.
Solar heating causes movements in both water and air.
wind
ocean currents
Earth’s rotation also has effects on the winds and currents

7. Landmasses shape inland climates.
larger changes in temperatures
less precipitation
Oceans shape coastal climates.
smaller changes in temperatures
higher humidity
more precipitation

8. Mountains have an effect on climate.
Precipitation occurs on the side of the mountain facing the wind.
On the downwind side, drier and cooler air produce a rain shadow.
A rain shadow is an area of decreased precipitation.
western slope
eastern slope

9. Many organisms survive in a specific climate due to their adaptations.