BIO120H1 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Rodent, Atmospheric Circulation, Upwelling
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BIO120H1 Full Course Notes
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Climate is the long-term prevailing weather in an area and is largely determined by temperature and precipitation. Desert = hot & dry, tropics = warm & wet. Climate of particular area is largest determinant to life found. Sun provides energy for living organisms, drives planet"s weather and climate patterns. Energy from sun does not reach all areas with equal strength. Areas exposed more directly to sun rays receive greatest solar input, higher latitudes receive sunlight spread over a larger area (receives less energy) Sunlight intensity on some parts of earth varies over the course of year as the earth changes its orientation in space. Seasonal variation in solar input occurs because the earth is tilted on its axis by 23. 5 . Winter in northern hemisphere occurs as the northern tip of the planet tilts away from the sun, during this time southern hemisphere receives greater solar input and experiences summer. Season reverse when earth reaches opposing point of its orbit.
