The amount of solar radiation decreases from the equator to the poles, and air masses are formed along thermal zones, i.e. depending on latitude. Latitude also determines the climatic zone - huge territories within which the main climate indicators practically do not change. Climate zones was determined by the Russian climatologist B.P. Alisov. Their definition is based on the dominant types of air masses, from which the climatic zones received their name.

Climatic zones are divided into main and transitional. Where the influence of one type of air mass predominates throughout the year, the main climatic zones have formed. There are only seven of them: equatorial, two tropical, two temperate, Arctic and Antarctic. Four types of air masses correspond to the seven main climatic zones.

In the equatorial climate zone, low atmospheric pressure and equatorial air masses predominate. The sun here is high above the horizon, which contributes to high air temperatures, and due to the predominance of rising air currents and the influence of moist oceanic air masses that come with the trade winds, a lot of precipitation (1000-3500 mm) falls in this belt.

Tropical zones are dominated by tropical air masses, high pressure and low air masses. Tropical air masses are always dry, because the air that comes from the equator in the tropics at an altitude of 10-12 km already contains little moisture. As it descends, it heats up and becomes even drier. Therefore, it does not rain here often. The air temperature is high. Such climatic conditions contributed to the creation of zones of tropical deserts and semi-deserts.

The temperate climate zone is influenced by westerly winds and moderate air masses. There are clearly defined four seasons here. The amount of precipitation depends on the distance of the territory from the ocean. Thus, the most precipitation falls in the western part of Eurasia. They are brought by the western winds from Atlantic Ocean. The further you go to the east, the less precipitation, i.e. the continental climate increases. In the far east, under the influence of the ocean, the amount of precipitation increases again.

Arctic and Antarctic climate zones are areas high pressure, which are influenced by katabatic winds. The air temperature rarely rises above 0⁰C. The climatic conditions in both zones are very similar - it is always cold and dry here. Precipitation falls less than 200 mm for the whole year.

Territories where air masses change seasonally twice a year belong to transitional climatic zones. In titles transition zones the prefix “sub” appears, which means “under”, i.e. under the main belt. Transitional climatic zones are located between the main zones. There are only six of them: two subequatorial, two subtropical, subarctic and subantarctic.

Thus, the subarctic zone is located between the Arctic and temperate, the subtropical - between the temperate and tropical, the subequatorial - between the tropical and equatorial zones. In transitional zones, the weather is determined by air masses that come from neighboring main zones and change with the seasons. For example, the climate of the subtropical zone in summer is similar to the climate of the tropical zone, and in winter - to the climate of the temperate zone. And the climate of the subequatorial zone in summer has signs of equatorial, and in winter - tropical climate A. In the subarctic zone, the weather in summer is determined by moderate air masses, and in summer by arctic ones.

Thus, climate zones are located zonally and this is due to the influence of solar radiation. Thus, the type of climate on Earth varies zonally. Climate type is understood as a constant set of climatic indicators characteristic of a certain period of time and certain territory. But the earth's surface is heterogeneous, therefore, different types of climate can form within climate zones.

The boundaries of climate zones do not always coincide with the direction of the parallels. And in some places they deviate significantly to the north or south. This is primarily due to the nature of the underlying surface. Therefore, within the same climate zone, different types of climate can form. They differ from each other in the amount of precipitation, the seasonality of its distribution and the annual amplitudes of temperature fluctuations. For example, in the temperate zone of Eurasia there are maritime, continental and monsoon climates. Therefore, individual climatic zones are also divided into climatic regions.

Thus, 13 climatic zones are conventionally distinguished on Earth: 7 of them are main and 6 are transitional. The determination of climate zones is based on the air masses that dominate the region throughout the year. Individual climatic zones (temperate, subtropical, tropical) are also divided into climatic regions. Climatic regions are formed under the influence of the underlying surface within the boundaries of one climate zone.

Climate zones - These are climatically homogeneous regions of the Earth. They look like wide continuous or intermittent stripes. They are located along the latitudes of the globe.

General characteristics of the Earth's climate zones.

Climatic zones differ from each other:

• degree of heating by the sun;
• peculiarities of atmospheric circulation;
• seasonal changes in air masses.

Climatic zones differ significantly from each other, gradually changing from the equator to the poles. However, climate is influenced not only by the latitude of the Earth, but also by the terrain, proximity to the sea, and altitude.

In Russia and in most countries of the world, the classification of climate zones created by the famous Soviet climatologist is used B.P. Alisov in 1956.

According to this classification, there are four main climatic zones on the globe and three transitional ones - with the prefix “sub” (Latin “under”):

• Equatorial (1 belt);
• Subequatorial (2 zones - in the northern and southern hemispheres);
• Tropical (2 zones - in the northern and southern hemispheres);
• Subtropical (2 zones - in the northern and southern hemispheres);
• Moderate (2 zones - in the northern and southern hemispheres);
• Subpolar (2 zones - subantarctic in the south, subarctic in the north);
• Polar (2 zones - Antarctic in the south, Arctic in the north);

Within these climatic zones, four types of Earth's climate are distinguished:

• Continental,
• Oceanic,
• The climate of the western shores,
• Climate of the eastern shores.

Let us consider in more detail the climate zones of the Earth and the types of climates inherent in them.

Climatic zones and types of climates of the Earth:

1. Equatorial climate zone– the air temperature in this climate zone is constant (+24-28°C). At sea, temperature fluctuations can generally be less than 1°. The annual amount of precipitation is significant (up to 3000 mm); on the windward slopes of the mountains, precipitation can fall up to 6000 mm.

2. Subequatorial climate– is located between the equatorial and tropical main types of Earth’s climate. In summer, this belt is dominated by equatorial air masses, and in winter by tropical ones. The amount of precipitation in summer is 1000-3000 mm. Average summer temperature is +30°C. In winter there is little precipitation, the average temperature is +14°C.

Subequatorial and equatorial belts. From left to right: savannah (Tanzania), rainforest (South America)

3. Tropical climate zone. In this type of climate, a distinction is made between continental tropical climate and oceanic tropical climate.

• mainland tropical climate – annual precipitation – 100-250 mm. The average summer temperature is +35-40°C, winter +10-15°C. Daily temperature fluctuations can reach 40 °C.
• oceanic tropical climate – annual precipitation – up to 50 mm. The average summer temperature is +20-27°C, winter +10-15°C.

Tropical zones of the Earth. From left to right: deciduous forest (Costa Rica), veld ( South Africa), desert (Namibia).

4. Subtropical climate– is located between the tropical and temperate main types of Earth’s climate. In summer, tropical air masses dominate, and in winter, air masses of temperate latitudes invade here, carrying precipitation. The subtropical climate is characterized by hot, dry summers (from +30 to +50°C) and relatively cold winters with precipitation; no stable snow cover is formed. Annual precipitation is about 500 mm.

• dry subtropical climate - observed inside continents in subtropical latitudes. Summer is hot (up to +50°C) and in winter frosts down to -20°C are possible. Annual precipitation is 120 mm or less.
• Mediterranean climate – observed in the western parts of the continents. Summer is hot, without precipitation. Winter is cool and rainy. The annual precipitation is 450-600 mm.
• subtropical climate of the eastern coasts continents is monsoon. Winter, compared to other climates of the subtropical zone, is cold and dry, and summer is hot (+25°C) and humid (800 mm).

Subtropical zones of the Earth. From left to right: evergreen forest (Abkhazia), prairie (Nebraska), desert (Karakum).

5. Temperate climate zone. Forms over areas of temperate latitudes - from 40-45° northern and southern latitudes to the polar circles. Annual precipitation ranges from 1000 mm to 3000 mm on the outskirts of the continent and up to 100 mm in the interior. Temperatures in summer range from +10°C to +25-28°C. In winter - from +4°С to -50°С. In this type of climate, a distinction is made between marine, continental and monsoon climates.

• maritime temperate climate – annual precipitation - from 500 mm to 1000 mm, in the mountains up to 6000 mm. Summers are cool +15-20°C, winters are warm from +5°C.
• continental temperate climate – annual precipitation is about 400 mm. Summers are warm (+17-26°C), and winters are cold (-10-24°C) with stable snow cover for many months.
• monsoon temperate climate — annual precipitation is about 560 mm. Winter is clear and cold (-20-27°C), summer is humid and rainy (-20-23°C).

Natural zones of the Earth's temperate zones. From left to right: taiga (Sayan Mountains), deciduous forest (Krasnoyarsk Territory), steppe (Stavropol region), desert (Gobi).

6. Subpolar climate- consists of subarctic and subantarctic climatic zones. In summer, humid air masses come here from temperate latitudes, so summers are cool (from +5 to +10°C) and about 300 mm of precipitation falls (in the northeast of Yakutia 100 mm). In winter, the weather in this climate is influenced by Arctic and Antarctic air masses, so there are long, cold winters, temperatures can reach -50°C.
7. Polar climate type - Arctic and Antarctic climate zones. Forms above 70° north and below 65° south latitudes. The air is very cool, the snow cover does not melt all year. There is very little precipitation, the air is saturated with small ice needles. As they settle, they provide a total of only 100 mm of precipitation per year. The average summer temperature is not higher than 0°C, winter - -20-40°C.

Subpolar climate zones of the Earth. From left to right: Arctic desert (Greenland), tundra (Yakutia), forest-tundra (Khibiny).

The characteristics of the Earth's climates are presented more clearly in the table.

Characteristics of the Earth's climatic zones. Table.

Note: Dear visitors, hyphens in long words in the table are placed for the convenience of mobile users - otherwise the words will not be transferred and the table will not fit on the screen. Thanks for understanding!

Climate type	Climate zone	Average temperature, °C			Atmospheric circulation	Territory
		January	July
Equatorial	Equatorial	+26	+26	During a year. 2000	Warm and humid equatorial air masses form in areas of low atmospheric pressure	Equatorial regions of Africa, South America and Oceania

Climate type	Climate zone	Average temperature, °C		Mode and quantity atmospheric precipitation, mm	Atmospheric circulation	Territory
		January	July
Tropical monsoon	Subequatorial	+20	+30	Mainly during the summer monsoon, 2000	Monsoons	South and Southeast Asia, Western and Central Africa, Northern Australia

Climate type	Climate zone	Average temperature, °C		Mode and amount of precipitation, mm	Atmospheric circulation	Territory
		January	July
Mediterranean	Subtropical	+7	+22	Mainly in winter, 500	In summer - anti-cyclones at high atmospheric pressure; in winter - cyclonic activity	Mediterranean, Southern coast of Crimea, South Africa, Southwestern Australia, Western California

Climate type	Climate zone	Average temperature, °C		Mode and amount of precipitation, mm	Atmospheric circulation	Territory
		January	July
Arctic (Antarctic)	Arctic (Antarctic)	-40	0	During the year, 100	Anticyclones predominate	The waters of the Arctic Ocean and the continent of Antarctica

Types of climates (climatic zones) of Russia:

• Arctic: January t −24…-30, summer t +2…+5. Precipitation - 200-300 mm.
• Subarctic: (up to 60 degrees N). summer t +4…+12. Precipitation is 200-400 mm.
• Moderate continental: January t −4…-20, July t +12…+24. Precipitation 500-800 mm.
• Continental climate: January t −15…-25, July t +15…+26. Precipitation 200-600 mm.

Remember

What do you know from your 6th grade geography course about the conditions that determine climate?

Climate is determined by the latitude of the area (angle of incidence of sunlight), the nature of the underlying surface, and the general circulation of the atmosphere.

This I know

1. List the main climate-forming factors. What is the most important factor?

The main climate-forming factors are geographic latitude, general atmospheric circulation and the nature of the underlying surface. The most important factor is the geographic latitude of the area.

2. Explain how the underlying surface affects the climate of the territory?

Firstly, different temperature conditions and humidity are formed over the surface of the oceans and land. Above the oceans there is greater humidity and less temperature fluctuations. On land, the climate changes as you move further inland from the coasts. At the same time, temperature fluctuations are increasing, cloudiness and precipitation are decreasing. Climate is influenced by currents. Cold currents off the coast make the climate of the coasts cool and very dry. Warm currents make the climate milder. Relief and absolute altitude play a major role in climate formation.

3. Give examples of the influence of distance from the oceans on the climate of the territory.

A striking example of the influence of distance from the oceans on climate is the difference between the climate of the coasts and interior regions of Eurasia. The coasts of the continents have a mild climate with warm summer and mild winters with frequent thaws. Up to 800 mm of precipitation falls here. Inland areas are characterized by dry, hot summers and very frosty winters with little snow.

4. How does the main climate zone differ from the transition zone?

In the main climate zone, one air mass dominates throughout the year. In transition zones, two air masses replace each other.

I can do this

5. Using the map “Climatic zones and regions of the Earth,” name the main and transitional climatic zones.

Transitional belts have the prefix “sub-” in their name.

6. Determine the climate type based on a set of characteristics: January temperature -10...-150C, July +20...+250C. precipitation occurs throughout the year, but with a summer maximum. The annual precipitation is 250-300 mm. Which continents have this type of climate?

This is a temperate continental climate type. It is represented in Eurasia and North America.

7. Using the climate diagram (see Figure 35), determine the type of climate.

The climate is characterized by small temperature fluctuations. The air temperature does not drop below 10 0C in winter, summer temperatures are +20...+250C. Precipitation has a winter maximum. The subtropical Mediterranean type of climate may have these characteristics.

8. Fill out the table

This is interesting to me

9. Which climate zone would you like to go on vacation in the summer? What clothes will you especially need while traveling?

For a summer vacation, I would go to the subtropical Mediterranean climate zone. The Mediterranean climate is extremely favorable for human life, which is why the most famous summer resorts are located here. Valuable subtropical crops are grown here: citrus fruits, grapes, olives.

When traveling, you will need light clothing made from natural fabrics that does not leave the skin exposed, beachwear and hats.

Climate- This is a long-term weather regime characteristic of a particular area. It manifests itself in the regular change of all types of weather observed in this area.

Climate influences living and inanimate nature. Water bodies, soil, vegetation, and animals are closely dependent on climate. Certain sectors of the economy, primarily Agriculture, are also very dependent on climate.

The climate is formed as a result of the interaction of many factors: the amount of solar radiation reaching the earth's surface; atmospheric circulation; the nature of the underlying surface. At the same time, climate-forming factors themselves depend on the geographical conditions of a given area, primarily on geographical latitude.

The geographic latitude of the area determines the angle of incidence of the sun's rays, obtaining a certain amount of heat. However, receiving heat from the Sun also depends on proximity to the ocean. In places far from the oceans, there is little precipitation, and the precipitation regime is uneven (more in the warm period than in the cold), cloudiness is low, winters are cold, summers are warm, and the annual temperature range is large. This climate is called continental, as it is typical for places located in the interior of continents. A maritime climate is formed over the water surface, which is characterized by: a smooth variation in air temperature, with small daily and annual temperature amplitudes, large clouds, and a uniform and fairly large amount of precipitation.

The climate is also greatly influenced by sea ​​currents. Warm currents warm the atmosphere in the areas where they flow. For example, the warm North Atlantic Current creates favorable conditions for the growth of forests in the southern part of the Scandinavian Peninsula, while most of the island of Greenland, which lies at approximately the same latitudes as the Scandinavian Peninsula, but is outside the zone of influence warm current, is covered with a thick layer of ice all year round.

A major role in climate formation belongs to relief. You already know that with every kilometer the terrain rises, the air temperature drops by 5-6 °C. Therefore, on the high mountain slopes of the Pamirs the average annual temperature is 1 ° C, although it is located just north of the tropics.

The location of mountain ranges greatly influences the climate. For example, the Caucasus Mountains trap moist sea winds, and their windward slopes facing the Black Sea receive significantly more precipitation than their leeward slopes. At the same time, the mountains serve as an obstacle to cold northern winds.

There is a dependence of climate on prevailing winds. On the territory of the East European Plain, westerly winds coming from the Atlantic Ocean prevail throughout almost the entire year, so winters in this territory are relatively mild.

Districts Far East are under the influence of monsoons. In winter, winds from the interior of the mainland constantly blow here. They are cold and very dry, so there is little precipitation. In summer, on the contrary, winds bring a lot of moisture from the Pacific Ocean. In autumn, when the wind from the ocean subsides, the weather is usually sunny and calm. This best time years in this area.

Climatic characteristics are statistical inferences from long-term weather observation series (25-50 year series are used in temperate latitudes; in the tropics their duration may be shorter), primarily on the following basic meteorological elements: atmospheric pressure, wind speed and direction, temperature and air humidity, cloudiness and precipitation. The duration of solar radiation, visibility range, and temperature are also taken into account. upper layers soil and water bodies, evaporation of water from earth's surface into the atmosphere, height and condition of snow cover, various atmospheric phenomena and ground hydrometeors (dew, ice, fog, thunderstorms, snowstorms, etc.). In the 20th century The climatic indicators included the characteristics of the elements of the heat balance of the earth's surface, such as total solar radiation, radiation balance, the amount of heat exchange between the earth's surface and the atmosphere, and heat consumption for evaporation. Complex indicators are also used, i.e. functions of several elements: various coefficients, factors, indices (for example, continentality, aridity, moisture), etc.

Climate zones

Long-term average values ​​of meteorological elements (annual, seasonal, monthly, daily, etc.), their sums, frequency, etc. are called climate standards: corresponding values ​​for individual days, months, years, etc. are considered as a deviation from these norms.

Maps with climate indicators are called climatic(temperature distribution map, pressure distribution map, etc.).

Depending on temperature conditions, prevailing air masses and winds, climatic zones.

The main climatic zones are:

• equatorial;
• two tropical;
• two moderate;
• Arctic and Antarctic.

Between the main zones there are transitional climatic zones: subequatorial, subtropical, subarctic, subantarctic. In transitional zones, air masses change seasonally. They come here from neighboring zones, so the climate of the subequatorial zone in summer is similar to the climate of the equatorial zone, and in winter - to the tropical climate; The climate of the subtropical zones in summer is similar to the climate of the tropical zones, and in winter - to the climate of the temperate zones. This is due to the seasonal movement of atmospheric pressure belts over the globe following the Sun: in summer - to the north, in winter - to the south.

Climatic zones are divided into climatic regions. For example, in the tropical zone of Africa, areas of tropical dry and tropical humid climate, and in Eurasia the subtropical zone is divided into areas of Mediterranean, continental and monsoon climate. In mountainous areas it is formed altitudinal zone due to the fact that the air temperature decreases with altitude.

Diversity of Earth's climates

The climate classification provides an orderly system for characterizing climate types, their zoning and mapping. Let us give examples of climate types that prevail over vast territories (Table 1).

Arctic and Antarctic climate zones

Antarctic and Arctic climate dominates in Greenland and Antarctica, where average monthly temperatures are below 0 °C. During the dark winter season, these regions receive absolutely no solar radiation, although there are twilights and auroras. Even in summer, the sun's rays hit the earth's surface at a slight angle, which reduces the efficiency of heating. Most of the incoming solar radiation is reflected by the ice. In both summer and winter, the higher elevations of the Antarctic Ice Sheet experience low temperatures. The climate of the interior of Antarctica is much colder than the climate of the Arctic, since the southern continent is different large sizes and altitudes, and the Arctic Ocean moderates the climate, despite the widespread distribution of pack ice. During short periods of warming in summer, drifting ice sometimes melts. Precipitation on ice sheets falls in the form of snow or small particles of freezing fog. Inland areas receive only 50-125 mm of precipitation annually, but the coast can receive more than 500 mm. Sometimes cyclones bring clouds and snow to these areas. Snowfalls are often accompanied by strong winds that carry significant masses of snow, blowing it off the slope. Strong katabatic winds with snowstorms blow from the cold glacial sheet, carrying snow to the coast.

Table 1. Climates of the Earth

Climate type	Climate zone	Average temperature, °C		Mode and amount of atmospheric precipitation, mm	Atmospheric circulation	Territory
Equatorial	Equatorial			During a year. 2000	Warm and humid equatorial air masses form in areas of low atmospheric pressure	Equatorial regions of Africa, South America and Oceania
Tropical monsoon	Subequatorial			Mainly during the summer monsoon, 2000		South and Southeast Asia, Western and Central Africa, Northern Australia
tropical dry	Tropical			During the year, 200		North Africa, Central Australia
Mediterranean	Subtropical			Mainly in winter, 500	In summer there are anticyclones at high atmospheric pressure; in winter - cyclonic activity	Mediterranean, Southern coast of Crimea, South Africa, Southwestern Australia, Western California
Subtropical dry	Subtropical			During a year. 120	Dry continental air masses	Interiors of continents
Temperate marine	Moderate			During a year. 1000	Western winds	Western parts of Eurasia and North America
Temperate continental	Moderate			During a year. 400	Western winds	Interiors of continents
Moderate monsoon	Moderate			Mainly during the summer monsoon, 560		Eastern edge of Eurasia
Subarctic	Subarctic			During the year, 200	Cyclones predominate	Northern edges of Eurasia and North America
Arctic (Antarctic)	Arctic (Antarctic)			During the year, 100	Anticyclones predominate	The Arctic Ocean and mainland Australia

Subarctic continental climate is formed in the north of the continents (see climate map of the atlas). In winter, arctic air predominates here, which forms in areas of high pressure. On eastern regions Canada's arctic air spreads from the Arctic.

Continental subarctic climate in Asia is characterized by the largest annual amplitude of air temperature on the globe (60-65 °C). The continental climate here reaches its maximum value.

The average temperature in January varies across the territory from -28 to -50 °C, and in the lowlands and basins due to stagnation of air, its temperature is even lower. In Oymyakon (Yakutia), a record negative air temperature for the Northern Hemisphere was recorded (-71 °C). The air is very dry.

Summer in subarctic belt although short, it is quite warm. The average monthly temperature in July ranges from 12 to 18 °C (daytime maximum is 20-25 °C). During the summer, more than half of the annual precipitation falls, amounting to 200-300 mm on the flat territory, and up to 500 mm per year on the windward slopes of the hills.

The climate of the subarctic zone of North America is less continental compared to the corresponding climate of Asia. There are less cold winters and colder summers.

Temperate climate zone

Temperate climate of the western coasts of the continents has pronounced features of a marine climate and is characterized by the predominance of marine air masses throughout the year. It is observed on the Atlantic coast of Europe and the Pacific coast of North America. The Cordillera is a natural boundary separating the coast with a maritime climate from inland areas. The European coast, except Scandinavia, is open to free access of temperate sea air.

The constant transport of sea air is accompanied by large clouds and causes long springs, in contrast to the interior of the continental regions of Eurasia.

Winter in temperate zone It's warm on the western coasts. The warming influence of the oceans is enhanced by warm sea currents washing the western shores of the continents. The average temperature in January is positive and varies across the territory from north to south from 0 to 6 °C. When arctic air invades, it can drop (on the Scandinavian coast to -25 °C, and on the French coast - to -17 °C). As tropical air spreads northward, the temperature rises sharply (for example, it often reaches 10 °C). In winter, on the western coast of Scandinavia, large positive temperature deviations from the average latitude (by 20 °C) are observed. The temperature anomaly on the Pacific coast of North America is smaller and amounts to no more than 12 °C.

Summer is rarely hot. The average temperature in July is 15-16 °C.

Even during the day, the air temperature rarely exceeds 30 °C. Due to frequent cyclones, all seasons are characterized by cloudy and rainy weather. There are especially many cloudy days on the west coast of North America, where cyclones are forced to slow down their movement in front of the Cordillera mountain systems. In connection with this, great uniformity characterizes the weather regime in southern Alaska, where there are no seasons in our understanding. Eternal autumn reigns there, and only plants remind of the onset of winter or summer. Annual precipitation ranges from 600 to 1000 mm, and on the slopes of mountain ranges - from 2000 to 6000 mm.

In conditions of sufficient moisture, broad-leaved forests develop on the coasts, and in conditions of excess moisture, coniferous forests develop. The lack of summer heat reduces the upper limit of the forest in the mountains to 500-700 m above sea level.

Temperate climate of the eastern coasts of the continents has monsoon features and is accompanied by a seasonal change in winds: in winter, northwestern currents predominate, in summer - southeastern ones. It is well expressed on the eastern coast of Eurasia.

In winter, with the north-west wind, cold continental temperate air spreads to the coast of the mainland, which is the reason for the low average temperature of the winter months (from -20 to -25 ° C). Clear, dry, windy weather prevails. IN southern regions There is little precipitation along the coast. The north of the Amur region, Sakhalin and Kamchatka often fall under the influence of cyclones moving over Pacific Ocean. Therefore, in winter there is a thick snow cover, especially in Kamchatka, where its maximum height reaches 2 m.

In summer, temperate sea air spreads along the Eurasian coast with a southeast wind. Summers are warm, with an average July temperature of 14 to 18 °C. Frequent precipitation is caused by cyclonic activity. Their annual quantity is 600-1000 mm, with most of them falling in summer. Fogs are common at this time of year.

Unlike Eurasia, the east coast of North America is characterized by monkfish climate, which are expressed in the predominance of winter precipitation and marine type annual progress air temperatures: the minimum occurs in February, and the maximum in August, when the ocean is warmest.

The Canadian anticyclone, unlike the Asian one, is unstable. It forms far from the coast and is often interrupted by cyclones. Winter here is mild, snowy, wet and windy. IN snowy winters the height of the snowdrifts reaches 2.5 m. With a southerly wind, there is often black ice. Therefore, some streets in some cities in eastern Canada have iron railings for pedestrians. Summer is cool and rainy. Annual precipitation is 1000 mm.

Temperate continental climate most clearly expressed on the Eurasian continent, especially in the regions of Siberia, Transbaikalia, northern Mongolia, as well as in the Great Plains in North America.

A feature of the temperate continental climate is the large annual amplitude of air temperature, which can reach 50-60 °C. During the winter months, with a negative radiation balance, the earth's surface cools. The cooling effect of the land surface on the surface layers of air is especially great in Asia, where in winter a powerful Asian anticyclone forms and partly cloudy, windless weather prevails. The temperate continental air formed in the area of ​​the anticyclone has a low temperature (-0°...-40 °C). In valleys and basins, due to radiation cooling, the air temperature can drop to -60 °C.

In midwinter, the continental air in the lower layers becomes even colder than the Arctic air. This very cold air of the Asian anticyclone extends to Western Siberia, Kazakhstan, and the southeastern regions of Europe.

The winter Canadian anticyclone is less stable than the Asian anticyclone due to the smaller size of the North American continent. Winters here are less severe, and their severity does not increase towards the center of the continent, as in Asia, but, on the contrary, decreases somewhat due to the frequent passage of cyclones. Continental temperate air in North America has a higher temperature than continental temperate air in Asia.

On the formation of the continental temperate climate significant influence are influenced by the geographical features of the continents. In North America, the Cordillera mountain ranges are a natural boundary separating the maritime coastline from the continental inland areas. In Eurasia, a temperate continental climate is formed over a vast expanse of land, from approximately 20 to 120° E. d. Unlike North America, Europe is open to the free penetration of sea air from the Atlantic deep into its interior. This is facilitated not only by the westerly transport of air masses, which dominates in temperate latitudes, but also by the flat nature of the relief, highly rugged coastlines and deep penetration of the Baltic and North Seas into the land. Therefore, a temperate climate of a lesser degree of continentality is formed over Europe compared to Asia.

In winter, sea Atlantic air moving over the cold land surface of temperate latitudes of Europe retains its properties for a long time. physical properties, and its influence extends throughout Europe. In winter, as the Atlantic influence weakens, the air temperature decreases from west to east. In Berlin it is 0 °C in January, in Warsaw -3 °C, in Moscow -11 °C. In this case, the isotherms over Europe have a meridional orientation.

The fact that Eurasia and North America face the Arctic basin as a broad front contributes to the deep penetration of cold air masses onto the continents throughout the year. Intense meridional transport of air masses is especially characteristic of North America, where arctic and tropical air often replace each other.

Tropical air entering the plains of North America from southern cyclones, also slowly transforms due to the high speed of its movement, high moisture content and continuous low clouds.

In winter, the consequence of intense meridional circulation of air masses is the so-called “jumps” of temperatures, their large inter-day amplitude, especially in areas where cyclones are frequent: in northern Europe and Western Siberia, the Great Plains of North America.

During the cold period, they fall in the form of snow, a snow cover is formed, which protects the soil from deep freezing and creates a supply of moisture in the spring. The depth of the snow cover depends on the duration of its occurrence and the amount of precipitation. In Europe, stable snow cover on flat areas forms east of Warsaw, its maximum height reaches 90 cm in the northeastern regions of Europe and Western Siberia. In the center of the Russian Plain, the height of the snow cover is 30-35 cm, and in Transbaikalia - less than 20 cm. On the plains of Mongolia, in the center of the anticyclonic region, snow cover forms only in individual years. Lack of snow along with low winter temperature air causes the presence of permafrost, which is not observed anywhere else on the globe at these latitudes.

In North America, snow cover is negligible on the Great Plains. To the east of the plains, tropical air increasingly begins to take part in frontal processes; it aggravates frontal processes, which causes heavy snowfalls. In the Montreal area, snow cover lasts up to four months, and its height reaches 90 cm.

Summer in the continental regions of Eurasia is warm. The average July temperature is 18-22 °C. In the arid regions of south-eastern Europe and Central Asia The average air temperature in July reaches 24-28 °C.

In North America, continental air in summer is somewhat colder than in Asia and Europe. This is due to the smaller latitudinal extent of the continent, the large ruggedness of its northern part with bays and fjords, the abundance of large lakes, and the more intense development of cyclonic activity compared to the interior regions of Eurasia.

In the temperate zone, the annual precipitation on the flat continental areas varies from 300 to 800 mm; on the windward slopes of the Alps more than 2000 mm falls. Most of the precipitation falls in summer, which is primarily due to an increase in the moisture content of the air. In Eurasia, there is a decrease in precipitation across the territory from west to east. In addition, the amount of precipitation decreases from north to south due to a decrease in the frequency of cyclones and an increase in dry air in this direction. In North America, a decrease in precipitation across the territory is observed, on the contrary, towards the west. Why do you think?

Most of the land in the continental temperate climate zone is occupied by mountain systems. These are the Alps, Carpathians, Altai, Sayans, Cordillera, Rocky Mountains, etc. In mountainous areas, climatic conditions differ significantly from the climate of the plains. In summer, the air temperature in the mountains drops quickly with altitude. In winter, when cold air masses invade, the air temperature on the plains is often lower than in the mountains.

The influence of mountains on precipitation is great. Precipitation increases on windward slopes and at some distance in front of them, and decreases on leeward slopes. For example, differences in annual precipitation between the western and eastern slopes of the Ural Mountains in some places reach 300 mm. In mountains, precipitation increases with altitude to a certain critical level. In the Alps the level the largest number precipitation occurs at altitudes of about 2000 m, in the Caucasus - 2500 m.

Subtropical climate zone

Continental subtropical climate determined by the seasonal change of temperate and tropical air. The average temperature of the coldest month in Central Asia is below zero in some places, in the northeast of China -5...-10°C. The average temperature of the warmest month ranges from 25-30 °C, with daily maximums exceeding 40-45 °C.

The most strongly continental climate in the air temperature regime is manifested in the southern regions of Mongolia and northern China, where the center of the Asian anticyclone is located in the winter season. Here the annual air temperature range is 35-40 °C.

Sharply continental climate in the subtropical zone for the high mountain regions of the Pamirs and Tibet, the altitude of which is 3.5-4 km. The climate of the Pamirs and Tibet is characterized by cold winter, cool summers and little rainfall.

In North America, the continental arid subtropical climate is formed in closed plateaus and in intermountain basins located between the Coast and Rocky Ranges. Summers are hot and dry, especially in the south, where the average July temperature is above 30 °C. The absolute maximum temperature can reach 50 °C and above. A temperature of +56.7 °C was recorded in Death Valley!

Humid subtropical climate characteristic of the eastern coasts of continents north and south of the tropics. The main areas of distribution are the southeastern United States, some southeastern parts of Europe, northern India and Myanmar, eastern China and southern Japan, northeastern Argentina, Uruguay and southern Brazil, the coast of Natal in South Africa and the eastern coast of Australia. Summer in the humid subtropics is long and hot, with temperatures similar to those in the tropics. The average temperature of the warmest month exceeds +27 °C, and the maximum is +38 °C. Winters are mild, with average monthly temperatures above 0 °C, but occasional frosts have a detrimental effect on vegetable and citrus plantations. In the humid subtropics, average annual precipitation amounts range from 750 to 2000 mm, and the distribution of precipitation across seasons is quite uniform. In winter, rain and rare snowfalls are brought mainly by cyclones. In summer, precipitation falls mainly in the form of thunderstorms associated with powerful inflows of warm and humid oceanic air, characteristic of the monsoon circulation of East Asia. Hurricanes (or typhoons) occur in late summer and fall, especially in the Northern Hemisphere.

Subtropical climate with dry summers, typical for the western coasts of continents north and south of the tropics. IN Southern Europe and North Africa, such climatic conditions are typical for the coasts Mediterranean Sea, which was the reason to call this climate also Mediterranean. Similar climate in southern California, central regions Chile, southernmost Africa and parts of southern Australia. All these areas have hot summers and mild winters. As in the humid subtropics, there are occasional frosts in winter. In inland areas, summer temperatures are significantly higher than on the coasts, and often the same as in tropical deserts. In general, clear weather prevails. In summer, on the coasts near which they pass ocean currents, there are often fogs. For example, in San Francisco, summers are cool, foggy, and the most warm month- September. The maximum precipitation is associated with the passage of cyclones in winter, when the prevailing air currents mix towards the equator. The influence of anticyclones and downdrafts of air over the oceans cause dryness summer season. The average annual precipitation in a subtropical climate ranges from 380 to 900 mm and reaches maximum values ​​on the coasts and mountain slopes. In summer there is usually not enough rainfall for normal tree growth, and therefore a specific type of evergreen shrubby vegetation develops there, known as maquis, chaparral, mali, macchia and fynbos.

Equatorial climate zone

Equatorial climate type distributed in equatorial latitudes in the Amazon basin in South America and the Congo in Africa, on the Malacca Peninsula and on the islands South-East Asia. Usually the average annual temperature is about +26 °C. Due to the high midday position of the Sun above the horizon and the same length of day throughout the year, seasonal temperature fluctuations are small. Wet air, cloud cover and dense vegetation cover prevent night cooling and maintain maximum daytime temperatures below +37 °C, lower than in more high latitudes. The average annual precipitation in the humid tropics ranges from 1500 to 3000 mm and is usually evenly distributed over the seasons. Precipitation is mainly associated with the Intertropical Convergence Zone, which is located slightly north of the equator. Seasonal shifts of this zone to the north and south in some areas lead to the formation of two maximum precipitation during the year, separated by drier periods. Every day, thousands of thunderstorms roll over the humid tropics. In between, the sun shines in full force.

On the climate (and, therefore, climate zone) influence and shape it, depending on geographical conditions, climate-forming factors. These include: the amount of radiation from the sun reaching a certain surface of the Earth; atmospheric circulation processes; volumes of biomass. These factors that determine climate can vary significantly depending on the latitude of the area. It is latitude that determines at what angle sunlight falls on the surface of the globe and, accordingly, how intensely the surface located at different distances from the equator will warm up.

The thermal regime of a particular area depends to a large extent on its proximity to the oceans, which act as heat accumulators. On land surfaces bordering the oceans, more mild climate climate zone, compared to the climate in the interior of the continents. Daily and seasonal temperature changes near large volumes of water are more gradual than in a continental climate closer to the center of the continents. There is more rainfall here and the sky is often covered with clouds. In contrast, continental climates are characterized by sharp temperature changes and less rainfall.

A phenomenon associated with the oceans, sea currents are also the most important factor determining the weather on Earth. Carrying warm masses of water around the continents, they warm the atmospheric air and bring cyclones with large amounts of precipitation. How radically a current can influence nature can be seen using the example of the North Atlantic Current. In those areas that fall within the zone of its influence, dense forests grow. And in Greenland, located in the same latitudes, there is only a thick layer of ice.

It has no less influence on the climate and topography (which also affects the formation of the climate zone). Everyone knows the footage of climbers climbing mountains, who, starting from green meadows at the foot of the mountain, a few days later stand on snow-capped peaks. This happens due to the fact that with every kilometer above sea level, the ambient temperature drops by 5-6 °C. In addition, mountain systems prevent the movement of both warm and cold air masses. Often the climate on one side and the other of a mountain range can differ significantly. A striking example of this is the difference in air temperature and humidity in Sochi and Stavropol, which are located across different sides Caucasus mountains.

To correctly define the concept " climate zone“We need to distinguish between terms such as weather and climate.

Weather is the state of the troposphere at a certain period of time in a specific area. Climate is considered to be the average established weather pattern. What's happened climate zone, what are its varieties?

Climatic zone and its properties.

Climatic zone It is customary to call the latitudinal band, which differs from other bands in the circulation of the atmosphere, as well as the intensity of heating of the Sun.

There are a total of 7 species on the planet climatic zone c, which in turn are divided into main and transition zones. The category of main belts is also commonly called permanent.

Permanent and transitional climatic zones.

Constant (basic) is called climate zone, in which one air mass dominates throughout the whole year. The main types of zones include: temperate, tropical, equatorial and arctic.

Transition zones are characterized by a change in air masses, that is, it becomes hot in the summer and colder in the winter. There are subarctic, subtropical and subequatorial zones.

Equatorial climate zone.

This subspecies of the main climate zone located in the equator region. This is a one-of-a-kind belt that is divided into several parts. Throughout the year it is influenced by the equatorial air mass.

The main features of the equatorial belt:

• high humidity;
• high precipitation (up to 7 thousand mm per year);
• high temperature (from 20°C and above).

Natural area of ​​this climate zone are considered to be moist forests that are filled with various poisonous plants and animals.

The Amazonian lowland is located in this belt, equatorial Africa, as well as the Greater Sunda Islands.

Subequatorial climate zone.

This subspecies is transitional climate zone located between the equatorial and tropical zones. Consequently, 2 air masses change on its territory during the year.

IN subequatorial belt Northern Australia, northern South America, the Hindustan Peninsula, and Southeast Asia are located.

Tropical and subtropical zones.

The tropical zone is characteristic of tropical latitudes. Weather in the tropics depends on the height of the sun above the horizon. For the tropical climate zone characterized by sharp temperature changes - from hot to cold.

This counts main reason, according to which the world of flora and fauna is very poor. In this subspecies permanent belts is located in North Africa, Mexico and the Caribbean Islands.

The subtropical zone is located in the middle of the temperate and tropical zones. It is customary to distinguish between northern and southern subtropical zones. In summer, tropical heat prevails here, which is characterized by dryness, and in winter there is a cold air mass.

The climate zone characteristic of the Great Chinese Plain, North Africa, North America and southern Japan.

Temperate climate zone.

A distinctive feature of the temperate zone is the ability of temperatures to vary seasonally. For such climate zone negative temperature is typical.

Temperate latitudes contain large parts of Europe, Great Britain, Russia, Canada and the northern United States.