Pressure in different climate zones. Climate zones of the earth
As already noted, Russia stretches from north to south for 4.5 thousand km. Therefore, its territory is located in four climatic zones, from arctic to subtropical. The largest area is occupied by the temperate climate zone, stretching from western reaches Russia ( Kaliningrad region) to Kamchatka. Different regions of the temperate zone experience different influences from the oceans, and therefore, according to the degree of continentality, several climatic regions are distinguished (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 2).
Rice. 1. Types of climates in Russia
Rice. 2. Climate zones and regions
The Arctic type of climate is represented on the North Islands Arctic Ocean and in the Far North of Siberia. This is the Arctic climate zone, all year round Arctic air masses dominate here. Due to its geographical location, the territory receives very little solar radiation. In winter, under polar night conditions, average temperatures are around -30°C. The lowest temperatures are observed in the eastern part of the belt.
IN summer time The sun does not set below the horizon, but the angle of incidence of the sun's rays is small. In this case, a significant part of the radiation is reflected by the surface. In addition, heat is used to melt snow and ice. Thus, the average temperature itself warm month Most of the territory is close to 0°C.
Due to the low temperature, Arctic air is not able to contain much water vapor. Therefore, despite the island and coastal position of the territory, there is little precipitation - from 100 to 200 mm. But even such a small amount of moisture is not able to evaporate, and the territory is characterized by excess moisture (K > 1).
In the European part of Russia southern border The distribution of this type of climate runs along the Arctic Circle, and in the Asian part it drops south to 60° N. w. and even further south. The main area of distribution of the subarctic climate is northeast Siberia.
In the subarctic climate zone, moderate air masses dominate in summer, and arctic ones in winter. Winters here are as cold as in the Arctic climate zone, and in some places even more severe. However, summers are significantly warmer. Average July temperatures are positive and vary from +4°C in the north to +12°C in the south.
Compared to the Arctic, the amount of precipitation increases approximately twice (200-400 mm or more). Their summer maximum is more clearly expressed. The annual amount exceeds the evaporation value and the moisture is excessive.
Moderately- continental climate typical for the European part of the country. As a result of the western transfer of air masses, air masses from Atlantic Ocean. The ocean warms up more slowly and cools down more slowly. Therefore, winter temperatures here are not as low as in the Asian part. At the same time, in the west it is warmer in winter: - 4ºC, and in the east it is colder: up to - 20ºC. In winter, due to intrusions of Atlantic air, thaws occur.
Summer is warm: average July temperatures range from +12ºC in the north to +24ºC in the south. In accordance with this, the evaporation value increases from north to south - from 400 to 1000 mm.
Annual precipitation decreases when moving from northwest to southeast from 800 to 250 mm. As a result, the moisture conditions are not the same: in the north - excessive, in the central part - sufficient, in the south - insufficient.
The continental climate of the temperate zone is widespread in the central and southern parts West Siberian Plain and the Ural Mountains. Compared with European part the influence of the Atlantic Ocean is less noticeable here. This leads to a decrease in annual precipitation, a decrease in winter temperatures, and an increase in the annual temperature range.
In most of the territory, with the exception of the extreme south, the annual amount is equal to evaporation.
A sharply continental type of climate has formed over most of the Central Siberian Plateau. The inland location of the territory determines the dominance of continental air. The oceans do not prevent the territory from becoming very hot in the summer and cooling in the winter.
Average January temperatures are 24-40ºC below zero, i.e. lower than on the islands of the Arctic Ocean in the Arctic climate zone. Summer is quite warm, but short-lived, average temperatures in July are +16… +20ºC.
The annual precipitation does not exceed 500 mm. The humidification coefficient is close to 1.
A moderate monsoon climate is typical for the south of the Far East. In winter, dry continental air comes here from Eastern Siberia. Average temperatures in January are -16… -32º C. Winter is cold and with little snow.
In summer, the area is filled with cool, moist air from Pacific Ocean. Average temperatures in July are 16-20ºC above zero.
Annual precipitation is from 600 to 1000 mm. Their summer maximum is clearly expressed. Humidity coefficient is slightly more than 1.
A moderate maritime climate is typical for the Kamchatka Peninsula. The climate of the peninsula is formed all year round under the influence of temperate sea air from the Pacific Ocean. As a result, compared to neighboring Primorye, winters are warmer and summers are cooler, i.e., the annual temperature range is smaller. Typical for the marine climate is a significant annual amount of precipitation (about 1800 mm) and its distribution over the seasons.
Sub tropical climate has a very limited distribution in our country. It is represented on a narrow strip of the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus from Novorossiysk to Sochi. The Caucasus Mountains protect the coast of the warm Black Sea from cold air masses from the East European Plain. This is the only territory of Russia where the average temperatures of the coldest month are positive.
Summer, although not too hot, is quite long. In any season, humid sea air comes here, which, rising along the slopes of the mountains and cooling, gives precipitation. The annual amount of precipitation in the Tuapse and Sochi region exceeds 1000 mm with their relative distribution throughout the year.
Areas of high-mountain climate include the territories of the Caucasus, Sayan and Altai mountains.
Bibliography
- Geography of Russia. Nature. Population. 1 part 8th grade / V.P. Dronov, I.I. Barinova, V.Ya Rom, A.A. Lobzhanidze.
- V.B. Pyatunin, E.A. Customs. Geography of Russia. Nature. Population. 8th grade.
- Atlas. Geography of Russia. Population and economy. - M.: Bustard, 2012.
- V.P. Dronov, L.E. Savelyeva. UMK (educational and methodological set) “SPHERES”. Textbook “Russia: nature, population, economy. 8th grade". Atlas.
- ).
- Climate of Russia ().
- Main features of the Russian climate ().
Homework
- Which climate zone has the greatest variety of climate types?
- What type of climate is typical for your locality?
- latitude;
- geographical conditions;
- quantity and quality solar energy;
- unevenness earth's crust;
- features of the atmosphere.
Main climate zones
Paying attention to the nature of the winds, geographical location, temperature conditions and dominant atmospheric masses,There are 7 main zones:- at the poles - Arctic and Antarctic;
- Equatorial at Earth's longest latitude;
- two Tropical ones on either side of the Equator;
- two Moderates on the side of the poles closer to the center.
Important! Throughout the year, weather conditions in each main climate zone do not experience significant changes.Now let's look at climate zones in more detail.
Antarctic and Arctic
The average monthly temperature of these latitudes is below 0. In winter these lands are not reached Sun rays. Twilight is observed there for a long season, when the aurora can serve as the only source of light. In summer, the sun does not warm the surface of the earth, since the rays slide at an oblique angle and are reflected by the ice. Frost prevails in these zones all year round.However, the Arctic regions are considered warmer than the Antarctic regions. This is explained by southern mainland larger and higher, and the Arctic Ocean makes the climate of the North Pole mild. Precipitation per extreme points There are few planets and they fall in the form of crumbs of icy fog or snow.Strong winds blow frozen particles from higher elevations, creating blizzards and snowfalls. The activity of these belts includes:- Canada;
- Greenland;
- Alaska;
- Russia, its northern regions.
Temperate zone
On eastern lands This belt is dominated by monsoons, in the rest of the territory - winds western directions. Precipitation directly depend on the proximity to the sea and the features of the relief where they fall.In the northern and western regions they are more abundant than in the central and southern regions. The air temperature in the cold season is usually above zero. Sometimes, when exposed to Arctic air masses, it drops to -17-20 degrees. When influenced by tropical winds, it rises to +10 degrees. In summer average annual temperature air temperature is 16-17 degrees and rarely exceeds 30 degrees. The frequency of cyclones on the map of a given territory dictates cloudy and rainy weather. Up to 600-1000 mm of precipitation falls per year. At higher elevations - 3000-5000 mm.Important! The weather conditions of Russia in the regions of Transbaikalia and Siberia are a clear example of a continental temperate climate.Also included in the zone under consideration are:
- lands of Canada;
- northern USA and Great Plains zone;
- European countries;
- southern Sweden;
- steppes of Mongolia;
- countries of the former USSR: Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan;
- territory of the DPRK;
- northern zones China.
Tropical zone
It has year-round dry and hot weather. The temperature between seasons does not fluctuate much: in summer the air warms up to +30-35 degrees, in winter - +10° . But with regard to daily differences, the opposite is true -at night the thermometer may show 10-20 degrees less than during the day. Such fluctuations cause dust storms. This climate region experiences low precipitation. Most of them fall in winter, which amounts to only 50-150 mm per annum. This does not apply to coastal areas. The climate there is much milder: no Cold winter and mild, non-dry summers. There are no harsh winds, and most of the precipitation falls in summer. To one degree or another, the belt lies on the territory of all continents except Antarctica. The following areas fall under the influence of the tropical belt:- lands of Peru;
- Bolivia;
- northern Chile;
- Paraguay;
- main part of Australia Great Desert;
- SOUTH AFRICA;
- southern Africa;
- states of India;
- In Asia - regions Saudi Arabia, Yemen and parts of Oman;
- island of Cuba.
Equatorial belt
The average temperature for the year is +27-29 degrees and its interseasonal differences are insignificant. Dense vegetation, stable clouds and humidified air prevent daily temperature fluctuations and keep the temperature within 5 degrees. There is approximately 1500-2000 mm of precipitation per year. During the year, there are two periods of maximum rainfall, with drier days in between. The zone of influence of the belt includes:- Ecuador, Colombia;
- Venezuela, Brazil;
- Tanzania, Rwanda;
- Burundi;
- Gabon, Cameroon;
- the shores of the Gulf of Guinea;
- Congo;
- DRC, Ghana;
- Malacca;
- islands in south Asia.
Intermediate climate zones
Each main belt of the Earth alternates with an intermediate zone.There are only 6 of them. Intermediate climate zones:- Subantarctic and Subarctic are closer to the poles.
- Two on either side of the equator.
- Two Subtropical between the tropics and the temperate zone.
- The weather of the subtropics in summer is similar to the climate of the tropics, while in winter weather conditions of temperate zones prevail there.
- The subequatorial zone is influenced by the warm equatorial zone in summer, and the tropical zone in winter.
Subarctic and subantarctic belts
In these belts, as intermediate ones, seasonal replacement occurs atmospheric masses. In calendar winter, the air temperature drops to -50; in summer, the daily maximum can be +20-25 degrees. This climate is characterized by a wide annual temperature range. Most of the annual precipitation falls in summer.On hills - up to 400 mm, on plains - 200 mm. Subpolar zones affect the weather of the following countries:- Canada;
- Alaska;
- countries of the Far East;
- Iceland;
- lands of Siberia;
- Regions Scandinavian Peninsula;
- Antarctic Islands;
- parts of New Zealand.
Important! The northern lands of America are more subject to temperature fluctuations than the northern edge of Europe and Asia.
Subtropical zone
The weather of the subtropics is determined by the periodic change of temperate and tropical atmospheric masses. Temperatures in winter reach -10 degrees; in summer, daytime thermometer readings can reach +45. The largest temperature range over the year averages 40-60 degrees and is observed in the regions of Mongolia and China. In the rest of the area under subtropical influence, summers are hot and long, winters are mild and warm. Annual precipitation is 800-2500 mm, and its precipitation is uniform and systematic. In winter, cold rains are brought by characteristic cyclones, in summer - warm thunderstorms. In autumn, hurricanes are observed in the subtropical zone of the Northern Hemisphere.The temperature record was recorded in Death Valley in America. In 1922 it was +57 degrees! Humid climate subtropics is observed in the following areas:- California and Florida;
- Some African regions;
- Mediterranean;
- northern India;
- northeast Argentina;
- coast of Australia;
- southeast Europe;
- Chile, Uruguay;
- Black Sea coast Russia;
- northern Myanmar;
- Japan and surrounding islands;
- Eastern part of China;
- Brazil;
- Tasmania.
Subequatorial belt
This climate zone is located on both hemispheres of the Earth. In summer it is influenced by humid equatorial winds, which is when most of the precipitation falls. The proximity of the equator provokes heavy precipitation: the closer to it, the more abundant it is. This fact contributes to river flooding in the summer, but by winter there is less precipitation and the reservoirs dry up. The average annual air temperature in this intermediate zone is +28 degrees. The differences between day and night are negligible.Important! Vegetable world has adapted favorably to such weather conditions, the flora and fauna of this hospitable belt is diverse and beautiful.The subequatorial belt includes:
- Bangladesh, Panama;
- Sri Lanka;
- Costa Rica, ;
- Vietnam, Cambodia;
- Thailand, Laos;
- Ecuador, Panama;
- Brazil, Bolivia;
- Colombia, Venezuela;
- India;
- Senegal, Guinea;
- Niger, Ethiopia, Sudan, Chad;
- Somalia, Madagascar, Kenya;
- Angola, Malawi, Mozambique;
- northern part of Oceania.
Features of climate classification in different zones
Climatic features and weather conditions in different parts of the planet differ significantly. At all latitudes, the climate is divided into continental, which is observed on land, and marine.
Nautical
This climate is formed over the water surface and is characterized by constant cloudiness. Precipitation is plentiful and without excessive fluctuations. The temperature difference in the off-season is small. Currents have a noticeable influence on the formation of this climate.Warm - gently warms the areas near which they leak. The fact that dense forests grow in the south of the Scandinavian Peninsula is a merit of the North Atlantic Current. While the territory of Greenland is covered with ice all year round, although it is located at approximately the same latitude.Continental
The distance from the ocean is fraught with large temperature fluctuations and relatively low cloudiness. There are almost always hot summers and frosty winters. How much light and heat a specific area of the continent will receive depends on the latitude and degree of incidence on it sunlight. Areas far from water are not subject to large amounts of precipitation, and their fall is not uniform. In summer in such an area the level of precipitation is higher, in winter - less than on the coasts. Such weather conditions are typical for places far from the oceans, and the climate there is called continental.Important! Relief also plays important role in the formation of climate. The further the terrain goes uphill, the colder the air with every kilometer. Mountain ranges can block winds and on the seaward side more precipitation accumulates on the slopes than on the leeward side. The mountains prevent northern winds, which bring with them colder temperatures. You should remember the prevailing winds characteristic of a particular area. They significantly influence the climate and dictate weather conditions.Everything on Earth is interconnected. Over the course of many centuries, the climate was formed and climatic zones emerged. To continue to maintain balance in nature, you need to be careful about the consumption of its resources. The video below clearly shows a map of the Earth's climate zones, which will help you better understand the topic.
Definition 1
Climate zone is a latitudinal strip on the Earth’s surface with a relatively uniform climate.
Climate zones differ from each other air temperature And dominant air masses. In accordance with their properties, the main features of the climate are determined. Climate zones on the planet are changing zonally, i.e. from equator to poles. The classification of climate zones, which is used in Russia and in most countries of the world, was created by a Soviet climatologist B.P. Alisov in $1956$ He highlights basic and transitional climatic zones.
There are seven main climatic zones:
- Equatorial belt;
- Two tropical zones;
- Two temperate zones;
- Two polar belts - Arctic and Antarctic.
In these climatic zones, only air masses with the same names dominate throughout the year.
Equatorial climate ic belt located on both sides of the equator. The territory and water area of the belt receives throughout the year a large number of heat, and average monthly temperatures are $24$-$28$ degrees. On land, the radiation balance reaches $90$ kcal/cm2. in year. Annual precipitation is up to $3000$ mm per year, and on the windward slopes - up to $10,000$ mm. There is excessive moisture here because the amount of precipitation is much greater than evaporation.
Tropical climate zones. One tropical zone is located in Northern hemisphere of the planet, the second - in South hemispheres. Tropical zones cross all continents except Antarctica and are well expressed in the oceans between the $20$ and $30$ parallels of both hemispheres. The formation of the tropical climate is influenced by tropical air masses, with their characteristic high atmospheric pressure and anticyclonic circulation. There is very little cloud cover throughout the year, relative humidity and annual precipitation. The prevailing winds are trade winds. Summer average monthly air temperatures are +$30$-$35$ degrees, winter temperatures are not lower than +$10$ degrees. The daily and annual amplitudes are quite high. Annual precipitation ranges from $50$-$200$ mm. The exception is the eastern outskirts of the continents, and on the islands the windward slopes of the mountains receive up to $2000$ mm or more. For example, about $13,000 mm falls in the Hawaiian Islands. On the western coasts of the continents, the climate will be cooler, which is associated with cold ocean currents. There will be higher air humidity, an even temperature change and frequent fogs.
Temperate climate zones. One temperate zone is located in Northern hemisphere, between $40$ and $65$ parallel, the other - in South between $42$ and $58$ parallel. These are the largest climatic zones in terms of area. One of the differences between these belts is that in the Northern Hemisphere the belt occupies more than half sushi, while in the Southern Hemisphere it is the opposite. There $98\%$ comes from ocean. In temperate zones there is a clear seasonality of climate. It is expressed in the large difference between summer and winter temperatures. Moreover, in the Northern Hemisphere, the annual and daily amplitude is significantly higher than in the Southern Hemisphere. Western transport of air masses dominates here temperate latitudes, intense cyclonic activity is observed. Towards the outskirts of the continents, the amount of precipitation increases, and the annual amount is $800$-$2000$mm. On windward oceanic slopes their number increases and reaches $5000$-$8000$ mm.
Polar climate zones(Arctic and Antarctic). In the Northern Hemisphere arctic the belt begins north of the $70$ parallel, and Antarctic south of the $65$ parallel. Both zones are characterized by polar nights and polar days. Eternal ice and snow emit a huge amount solar heat, which causes very cool air. Atmosphere pressure all year round high and dominant easterly winds. Located in Antarctica pole of cold planets. In summer, the average air temperature is $30$ degrees, and in winter -$70$. At the Russian polar station " East"The temperature drops to -$88.3 degrees. On the Antarctic coast, average monthly summer temperatures range from -$1$ to -$5$ degrees, and winter temperatures from -$18$ to -$20$ degrees. Above the Greenland ice sheet in Arctic climatic conditions are similar, but milder. In the Atlantic regions Arctic and to the pole, the summer temperature is about $0$ degrees, and with warm air invasion it rises to +$5$. Average winter temperatures are around -$20$ degrees. American The Arctic sector is more severe with temperatures of -$50$ degrees in winter and -$10$ degrees in summer. Largest quantity precipitation falls on European sector of the Arctic, where $300$-$350$ mm falls, and in Asian and American sector from $160$-$250$ mm.
Transitional climatic zones.
Between the main climatic zones there are zones transition zones . There are $6$ and they are characterized by seasonal changes in the prevailing air masses, i.e. In summer, one air mass dominates there, and in winter, another. The names of all transition zones are appended with the prefix “ sub", which translated from Latin means " under", i.e., a belt located under main.
Transitional belts include:
- Two subequatorial belts;
- Two subtropical zones;
- Subarctic belt;
- Subantarctic belt.
Subequatorial climate ic belt. These belts are located south and north of the equatorial one. As a result of the shift in climate zones according to the seasons of the year, humid equatorial air comes here in the summer, and dry tropical air comes here in the winter. Summer for subequatorial belts it will be wet, A winter is dry. Despite this, the average annual precipitation is excessive and reaches $1500$ mm per year. On the slopes of the mountains, precipitation falls even more - $6000$-$10000$ mm per year. The difference between summer and winter temperatures is small, but the difference with the equatorial belt is noticeable. Summer temperatures range from $22$-$30$ degrees. In addition to the oceans, the subequatorial belt passes through South America, Central Africa, Hindustan, Indochina, and Northern Australia.
Subtropical climate zones. They are located within $30$-$40$ degrees of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. In the south, the subtropics border on the tropical zone, and in the north on the temperate zone in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, there is a tropical zone to the north of the subtropics, and a temperate zone to the south. Thermal regimes alternate by half of the year - in winter there is a moderate regime, and in summer - tropical. For the subtropics, frosts are already possible. Within the ocean, the belts are characterized by high temperatures and high salinity of water.
Subarctic climate zone. This transitional belt is closest to North Pole Earth. Temperate and arctic air masses replace each other throughout the year. The belt occupies Northern Canada, Alaska, the southern tip of Greenland, northern Iceland and the Scandinavian Peninsula. Within Russia it passes through the northern part of Western and Central Siberia, as well as the Far East.
Subantarctic climate zone. Located in the Southern Hemisphere, this belt occupies a number of Antarctic islands and the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. The belt is characterized by short summers with temperatures below + $20$ degrees. Cold air masses in winter reduce temperatures to negative values. And it stays below zero for most of the year. The same is typical for the subarctic zone. There is little precipitation and it decreases from $500$-$250$ mm and below.
Climate-forming factors
The formation of the planet's climate is greatly influenced by external and internal factors. Most external factors influence the total amount of incoming solar radiation and its distribution across seasons, hemispheres and continents.
External factors include the parameters of the earth’s orbit and the earth’s axis:
- Distance between the Sun and Earth. It determines the amount of solar energy received;
- The inclination of the rotation of the earth's axis to the orbital plane, which determines seasonal changes;
- Earth's orbital eccentricity. Affects heat distribution and seasonal changes.
TO internal factors relate:
- Configuration of oceans and continents and their relative positions;
- The presence of active volcanoes that can change the climate until a volcanic winter;
- Albedo of the Earth's atmosphere and its surface;
- Air masses;
- The proximity of oceans and seas that moderate the climate, with the exception of cold currents;
- The nature of the underlying surface;
- Human economic activity;
- Heat flows of the planet.
CLIMATE ZONES
Climatic zones.
The climate, like all meteorological quantities, is zonal. There are 7 main and 6 transitional climatic zones.
The main ones include:
equatorial,
two subequatorial (in the northern and southern hemispheres),
two tropical
two moderate
two polar.
The names of transitional zones are closely linked to the names of the main climatic zones and characterize their location on Earth: two subequatorial, subtropical and subpolar (subarctic and subantarctic). The basis for identifying climatic zones is thermal zones and dominant types of air masses and their movement.
In the main zones, one type of air mass dominates throughout the year, and in transitional zones, the types of air masses change in winter and summer due to the change of seasons and shifts in atmospheric pressure zones.
Equatorial belt. Equatorial air predominates throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures are 25-28 ° C, their amplitudes are small, calm or weak winds prevail in the belt, humidity is high, cloudiness is significant, often represented by cumulus and cumulus-thunderstorm (vertically developed) clouds. Precipitation 1000-2000 mm/year. The equatorial belt is characterized by two rainy periods in transition seasons, often after the equinoxes, separated by less rainy or short rainless periods, with excessive moisture. The equatorial climate is characteristic of the river basin. Amazon (Amazon Lowland, South America), the coast of the Gulf of Guinea and the Congo River basin (West Africa, Congo Lowland), the Malacca Peninsula, the Sunda Islands and New Guinea (borders of the Indian and Pacific oceans).
Subequatorial belts . Air masses change throughout the year. In summer, equatorial air dominates, summer is humid; in winter - tropical, winter is dry. Rainy (summer) and dry (winter) periods are clearly defined. Winter is only slightly cooler than summer, average temperatures vary from 22 to 30 ° C, and temperature amplitudes increase. The annual amount of precipitation varies significantly: if on average it falls 1000-1500 mm, then on the windward slopes of the mountains it can be 6000-10000 mm. Almost all precipitation falls in summer. A subequatorial climate is observed in the Brazilian and Guinean highlands (South America), in Central Africa adjacent to the Congo River basin on all sides, in Hindustan and Indochina ( South Asia) and Northern Australia.
Tropical climate zones located on both sides of the tropics, approximately between 18 and 30 ° N. and S. Tropical air (dry air with high temperatures) dominates here throughout the year, and trade winds (northeast and southeast) predominate. The weather is mostly clear, winter is warm, but noticeably colder than summer. The average temperature of the warmest month is +30-35 ° C, the coldest month is not lower than +10 ° C. The tropical zone is characterized by very large daily temperature amplitudes - up to 40 ° C, and the average annual temperature is about 20 ° C. Cloudiness is insignificant, precipitation in the majority areas receive little precipitation: 50-150 mm/year (except eastern parts continents under the influence of oceanic trade winds). In the tropical zone there are two climatic regions: 1) dry , desert climate - west and center of continents and 2) wet tropical climate - on eastern coasts continents.
Subtropical climate zones follow the tropical ones and are found approximately between 30 and 40° latitude in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. In summer, tropical air dominates here, in winter - temperate. Characterized by the presence of dry and wet periods. In these zones, anti-oxidation predominates in summer cyclonic weather(except monsoon areas). Summer is dry, hot, with an average temperature of about 30 ° C. In winter, cyclonic weather associated with the polar (temperate) front prevails. Winters are wet and warm, but temperatures below 0°C are also possible. Snow rarely falls, so snow cover not formed. The amount of precipitation is from 200 to 500 mm per year, but on the windward slopes of the mountains it is much higher (Crkvice - 8000 mm, Balkan Peninsula). In subtropical zones there are climatic regions : 1) Mediterranean I - on the western coasts of the continents - the Mediterranean, Central Chile (South America), southwest Australia, California (N. America), South coast Crimea (Europe). It is characterized by clear, dry and hot summers and rainy warm winter; 2) monsoon subtropical - Florida (N.America), Uruguay (South America), Eastern China, Japanese Islands (East Asia). In this area, summers are hot but rainy, winters are relatively cold and dry; 3) subtropical continental climate region, located in the central parts of the continents. Summers are hot and dry, winters are relatively cold with little precipitation (southern Australia, Turkmenistan, Iran, Taklimakan Desert, western China, dry western USA). Certain areas of the subtropical zone have uniform moisture throughout the year: southeast Australia, Tasmania, and the middle part of Argentina (South America).
Temperate climate zones occupy the space between 40°N. and S. and polar circles (66 ° 33 N and S). Throughout the year, moderate air masses dominate here, with arctic and tropical air often invading. The belt is dominated westerly winds , and on the eastern coasts - monsoons. Plays an important role throughout the year cyclonic activity on the polar (temperate) and Arctic (Antarctic) fronts. Precipitation often occurs, mainly of frontal origin. However, anticyclonic weather in temperate zone Not unusual. Anticyclones bring predominantly dry weather, especially to continental areas in winter. The regime and amount of precipitation in the temperate zone vary and depend on two main factors: proximity to the sea and the nature of the relief. The following pattern can be traced: when moving inland, the amount of precipitation and days with precipitation becomes less. In the northern and western parts of the continents, moisture is excessive (i.e. K > 1.0), and in the southern and central parts it is insufficient (K< 1,0). Наблюдаются существенные температурные различия между летом и зимой, между сушей и морем. Годовая amplitude air temperatures in winter over the continent reach 50-60 ° C, and over the oceans about 15 ° C. In winter, snow falls on the continents, a stable snow cover is formed that lasts for several months. The diversity of temperature and circulation regimes of the temperate zone predetermines its division into 4 climatic regions:
1)maritime temperate climate(western coasts of the continents) with relatively warm winter, cool and cloudy summers with maximum precipitation. This is most of Western Europe, the coastal strip of the north-west. North America, southern Chile (South America);
2) transitional from maritime to continental- most of Europe, Patagonia (South America);
3) continental climate with varying degrees of continentality and maximum precipitation in the warm season(inland USA, south and southeast of Eastern Europe, Siberia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, etc.);
4) monsoon temperate climate (n and the eastern coasts of the continents) with cold and dry winters, cool and rainy summers ( Far East, Northeast China, North Korea, Japanese Islands and etc.).
Subpolar climate zones (subarctic and subantarctic). There is also a change in air masses: in winter Arctic (Antarctic) air dominates, in summer - air masses of temperate latitudes. Cyclones and anticyclones are frequent, the frequency of which is approximately the same. There is a polar day and polar night. Winter is long and severe, the average temperature in January (July) is -40 ° C and lower, but in the oceanic parts up to -5-10 ° C. Summer is short and cool, with the temperature of the warmest month not exceeding 10 ° C. There is little precipitation, their annual amount is up to 200 mm and lower, in oceanic areas up to 400 mm/year. Evaporation is very low, so there is excess moisture, the air is damp, there is a lot of cloudiness, there are many days with rain and especially with snow. In any month, temperatures can drop below 0°C and snow can fall. Winds are frequent and strong. The tundras are located in this belt - the northern coast of Eurasia and North America (continental climate), the Commander and Aleutian Islands, as well as the Antarctic islands (oceanic subpolar climate).
Polar climate zones (Arctic and Antarctic). Arctic air dominates in these zones throughout the year. What is atypical for the belts is that in the western part of the Arctic there is intense cyclonic activity over the sea surface and sea temperate air very often invades. An anticyclone dominates over Antarctica. Characteristic is the absence of solar radiation in winter (polar night) and round-the-clock lighting in summer. However, snow and ice surfaces strongly reflect the sun's rays, which here fall at an angle close to 180°, and emit a lot of heat. Air temperature and humidity are very low, average temperatures are negative, only in some places summer months rise to +5 ° C. There are maritime Arctic and continental Antarctic climates. The latter is particularly harsh. The average temperature recorded here in December (summer) is -32 ° C, and in August (winter) -71 ° C, the maximum temperature rarely rises above - 20 ° C. There is little precipitation, the air is dry, and strong winds periodically occur, especially in the transition seasons. The climate does not remain unchanged. That it is changing is evidenced by observational data on the state of the atmosphere over almost 200 years. Information about weather and climate is available in chronicles and in the works of scientists ancient world. The climate of the prehistoric past can be judged by some rocks(coral limestones, coal, salts, band clays, etc.), landforms, remains of organisms, plant pollen. The causes of climate change are many and overlapping, making it difficult to study. Nowadays, human activity has a great influence on the climate: it changes the state of the atmosphere (increased CO 2 content, dust, heat emissions, etc.), the underlying surface (deforestation, creation of reservoirs, irrigation and drainage of territories). The influence of people on the climate can be considered spontaneous and unfavorable.
Characteristics of climatic zones (the table below) is the topic of this article. We will talk about what types of climate exist on our planet, and also consider each of them in detail. To do this, recall that climate is the weather pattern established over the years, which depends on the specific territory and its geographical location.
Equatorial belt
This climate zone is characterized by low pressure, as well as the year-round presence of air masses. There are no separate climatic regions within the belt. Concerning temperature regime, then it's hot here. There is a lot of precipitation throughout the year and there is plenty of moisture. The weather here changes very dramatically during the day. The first half is sultry, and the second half begins with heavy rains.
The names of climate zones are associated with their characteristics. The equatorial belt is located near the equator, which is why it has this name.
The subequatorial belt is characterized by changes in air masses that occur seasonally. In summer, equatorial air masses predominate, and in winter, more tropical ones. in summer they fully correspond to the equatorial type of climate, while the weather in winter resembles the conditions of the tropical zone. Winter is dry and slightly colder than summer.
Tropical zone
As we already know, the names of climate zones are associated with their location. This type of climate is characterized by tropical air masses all year round. The air is continental. Real weather tropical zone - high pressure and temperature, a big difference temperatures not only throughout the year, but also throughout the day. Water is very scarce in this climate. It is very hot and dry here, and dry winds often occur. There is almost no rain. The weather is usually dry and sunny.
However, the tropical belt is deceptive. The eastern shores of the continents, which are washed by warm currents, are also in this zone, but have a different climate. Marine tropical air, heavy rainfall, monsoons. Climatic conditions similar to the equatorial climate.
Subtropical zones are characterized by changes in air masses. The climate is tropical in summer and temperate in winter. Pressure surges in summer and winter are quite high. In winter the pressure is low and in summer it is high. Despite the strong differences in temperature and precipitation throughout the year, the thermometer is above zero the entire year. Sometimes the temperature can even drop to negative values. During such periods snow falls. In flat areas it melts quickly, but in the mountains it can remain for several months. As for the winds, the trade winds rule in winter and the trade winds in summer.
Temperate zone
The temperature of climatic zones largely depends on the air masses that prevail over the territory. The temperate zone, as the name suggests, has a temperate climate. But not always. Sometimes tropical or arctic air masses invade. Temperate climate characterized by large temperature differences. Summers are hot, and winters are cold and long. Relatively low pressure, cyclonicity, instability weather conditions in winter. They blow throughout the year westerly winds, in summer there are sometimes trade winds, and in winter - northeast winds. Massive snow cover every winter.
Arctic and Antarctic belts
In the characteristics of climate zones in the table, you can see what temperatures prevail in these zones. The features of these belts are: low temperatures oh all year round, strong winds and cold summers. There is very little precipitation.
Subarctic and subantarctic belts
These zones are distinguished by the fact that in summer a temperate climate prevails here. Because of this, a large amplitude of temperature fluctuations occurs. There is a lot in these belts permafrost. In winter, north-east and south-east winds predominate, and in summer - westerlies. The belts have 2 climatic regions, about them below.
Territories of climate zones
Each belt is characteristic of certain territory. Natural climatic zones have been formed on the planet for a long time, so we can confidently identify certain areas in which the climate of the zone is pronounced.
The equatorial climate is characteristic of Oceania, South America and Africa. Subequatorial climate is typical for Northern Australia and South-East Asia. central part Australia and North Africa are a tropical zone. Subtropics are characteristic of the interior regions of continents. A temperate climate prevails in the western part and eastern outskirts of Eurasia. the belt predominates in North America and northern Eurasia. The Arctic and Antarctic belts are characteristic of Australia and the Arctic Ocean.
Table of climate zones
The table shows the characteristics of the zones.
Belt | Average temperature in January | Average temperature in July | Atmosphere |
Equatorial | Moist warm air masses |
||
Subequatorial | Monsoons prevail |
||
Tropical | |||
Subtropical | Cyclonicity, high atmospheric pressure |
||
Moderate | Western winds and monsoons |
||
Subarctic | |||
Arctic (Antarctic) | Anticyclones |
Climatic regions of the belts
Subtropical zones have three climatic regions:
- Mediterranean climate. Prevails in the northern hemisphere, on the southern and western shores of continents. In summer there is a continental climate, and in winter there are continental and maritime air masses. Summers are dry and warm, and winters are relatively cool and wet. Insufficient hydration.
- Monsoon climate. Distributed on the eastern shores of continents. The summer monsoons produce intense heat and heavy rainfall, while the winter monsoons produce cool, dry conditions. Humidity in this area is moderate. Precipitation is typical for the winter season.
- Marine climate. Distributed on the continents of the southern hemisphere. Marine air masses are characteristic. Summer and winter are warm. There is enough moisture, it is distributed evenly throughout the year.
The temperate zone consists of 5 climatic regions:
- Moderate Prevails on the western shores of continents. The weather is formed under the influence of warm currents and western winds. Winters are quite mild and summers are warm. There will be a lot of precipitation throughout the year. Winter is characterized by heavy and frequent snowfalls. There is more than enough moisture. The geography of the climate zone contributes to weather instability.
- Continental temperate climate. Characterized by warm summers and cold winter. Arctic air masses sometimes provoke a sharp cooling, and tropical air masses - warming. There is little precipitation, it is uniform (cyclonic and frontal).
- Continental climate. Applies only to the northern hemisphere. Moderate air masses prevail here throughout the year. Sometimes arctic air masses appear (in this area their invasion is possible even in summer). In the warm season there is more precipitation, but in general it is insignificant. A small amount of snow and the predominance of low temperatures contribute to the existence of permafrost.
- Sharply continental climate. Characteristic of the interior regions of North America and Eurasia. The territory is practically isolated from the influence of seas and oceans and is located in the center high pressure. Sometimes summer is hot, winter is always frosty. There is a lot of permafrost. Weather type - anticyclonic. There is little precipitation and little moisture.
- Monsoon climate. Distributed on the eastern side of continents. Characterized by the seasonality of air masses. Summers are humid and warm, while winters are dry and cool. Summer precipitation is more numerous and there is excess moisture.
The subarctic and subantarctic belts have two regions:
- continental climate (severe but short winters, little precipitation, swampy areas);
- oceanic climate (fog, high rainfall, mild winters and cool summers).
The characteristics of climatic zones in the table do not include two areas of the Arctic and Antarctic zones:
- continental (little precipitation, temperatures below zero all year);
- oceanic climate (cyclones, little precipitation, negative temperatures).
Temperatures in oceanic climates can rise to +5 during the polar day.
To summarize, let's say that the characteristics of climatic zones (in the table) are necessary for every educated person.