What You Need to Know

Key Concept Diagram

Climate is the long-term average of weather conditions; weather is what happens day to day

The Sun's energy drives global climate: the equator receives more direct sunlight than the poles

Ocean currents transfer heat around the globe, moderating temperatures in coastal regions

The greenhouse effect naturally keeps Earth warm; enhanced greenhouse effect from human activities is causing climate change

Key Vocabulary

Climate

The long-term pattern of weather conditions in a particular region, measured over decades

Weather

The atmospheric conditions at a specific place and time (temperature, rainfall, wind, etc.)

Greenhouse effect

The process by which greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trap heat from the Sun, warming Earth's surface

Ocean current

A continuous, directed movement of ocean water driven by temperature, salinity, and wind

Knowledge Check

Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.

Question 1

What is the difference between weather and climate?

They are the same thing Weather describes day-to-day conditions; climate is the long-term average pattern Weather is the long-term average; climate is the day-to-day conditions Climate only applies to tropical regions

Question 2

Why does the equator generally have a hotter climate than the poles?

The equator is closer to the Sun The poles are always in darkness The equator receives more direct sunlight because of Earth's curved surface Ocean currents carry cold water to the equator

Question 3

What is the natural greenhouse effect?

The process by which plants in greenhouses grow faster The reflection of sunlight back into space by ice and snow The artificial warming of Earth caused entirely by human activities The way greenhouse gases trap some of the Sun's heat in the atmosphere, keeping Earth warm enough for life

Climate Systems