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 zone located on both sides of the equator. The territory and water area of ​​the belt receives a large amount of heat throughout the year, 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.

Finished works on a similar topic

• Course work Climate zones 430 rub.
• Essay Climate zones 230 rub.
• Test Climate zones 200 rub.

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 big difference between summer and winter temperatures. Moreover, in the Northern Hemisphere, the annual and daily amplitude is significantly higher than in the Southern Hemisphere. The western transport of air masses of temperate latitudes dominates here, and 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 the 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 enormous amounts of solar heat, causing the air to become very chilled. Atmosphere pressure all year round high and easterly winds prevail. Located in Antarctica pole of cold planets. During the summer average temperature air -$30$ degrees, and 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;
• Sub Antarctic belt.

Subequatorial climate zone. 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, belts are characterized by high temperatures and high salinity 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.

Internal factors include:

• 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 belts 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 a little cooler than summer, average temperatures change from 22 to 30 ° C, 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. Average temperatures warm month+30-35 ° C, cold - 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 most areas is low: 50 -150 mm/year (except for the eastern parts of the continents, which are 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 the eastern coasts of the 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, anticyclonic weather prevails in summer (with the exception of 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 humid and warm, but temperatures below 0 °C are also possible. Snow rarely falls, so snow cover does not form. 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), the southern coast of Crimea (Europe). It is characterized by clear, dry and hot summers and rainy warm winter; 2) monsoon subtropical - Florida (N.America), Uruguay (S.America), East 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, anticyclone weather is not uncommon in the temperate zone. 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 winters, cool and cloudy summers with maximum precipitation. This is the big part Western Europe, coastal strip 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 warm time of the year(inland US, 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, 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 a 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. The air temperature and humidity are very low, the average temperatures are negative, only in some places in the summer months they 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 certain rocks (coral limestones, coal, salts, ribbon clays, etc.), landforms, remains of organisms, and 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, let us recall that climate is the weather regime established over the years, which depends on a 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. As for the temperature, it is 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. The real weather of the tropical zone is high pressure and temperature, a large temperature difference not only throughout the year, but also during 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. Prevails in summer tropical climate, in winter - moderate. Pressure surges in summer and winter are quite high. In winter the pressure is low and in summer it is high. Despite big difference temperatures and precipitation throughout the year, the thermometer is above zero all 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 big difference temperatures Summers are hot, and winters are cold and long. Relatively low pressure, cyclonicity, instability weather conditions in winter. Westerly winds blow throughout the year, with occasional trade winds in summer and north-easterly winds in winter. 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 strong winds and cold summer. 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 of permafrost in these belts. 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, countries South America and Africa. Subequatorial climate is typical for Northern Australia and Southeast Asia. The central part of Australia and North Africa is 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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:

1. Moderate Prevails on the western shores of continents. The weather is formed under the influence of warm currents and westerly 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.
2. 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).
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.

Climate- long-term weather regime characteristic of a given area. Climate, unlike weather, is characterized by stability. It is characterized not only by meteorological elements, but also by the repeatability of phenomena, the deadlines for their occurrence, and the values ​​of all characteristics.

We can highlight the main groups of climate-forming factors :

1. latitude of the place , because the angle of inclination depends on it sun rays, which means the amount of heat;
2. atmospheric circulation – prevailing winds bring certain air masses;
3. ocean currents ;
4. absolute height of the place (temperature decreases with altitude);
5. distance from the ocean – on the coasts, as a rule, there are less sharp temperature changes (day and night, seasons of the year); more precipitation;
6. relief(mountain ranges can trap air masses: if a moist air mass encounters mountains on its way, it rises, cools, moisture condenses and precipitation occurs);
7. solar radiation (the main source of energy for all processes).

The climate, like all meteorological elements, is zonal. Highlight:

• 7 main climatic zones - equatorial, two each tropical, temperate, polar,
• 6 transitional - two each subequatorial, subtropical, subpolar.

The basis for identifying climatic zones is types of air masses and their movement . In the main zones, one type of air mass dominates throughout the year; in transition zones, the types of air masses change depending on the time of year and the displacement of atmospheric pressure zones.

Air masses

Air masses– large volumes of troposphere air that have more or less identical properties (temperature, humidity, dust, etc.). The properties of air masses are determined by the territory or water area over which they are formed.

Characteristics zonal air masses: equatorial– warm and humid; tropical– warm, dry; moderate– less warm, more humid than tropical, characterized by seasonal differences; arctic And Antarctic- cold and dry.

Within the main (zonal) VM types there are subtypes - continental(forming over the mainland) and oceanic(forming over the ocean). An air mass is characterized by a general direction of movement, but within this volume of air there can be different winds. The properties of air masses change. Thus, marine temperate air masses carried by westerly winds to the territory of Eurasia, when moving eastward, gradually warm up (or cool), lose moisture and turn into continental temperate air.

Climate zones

Equatorial belt Characterizes low atmospheric pressure, high air temperatures, and large amounts of precipitation.

Tropical zones characterized by high atmospheric pressure, dry and warm air, insignificant amount of precipitation; winter is colder than summer, trade winds.

Temperate zones Characterized by moderate air temperatures, westerly transports, uneven distribution of precipitation throughout the year, and distinct seasons.

Arctic (Antarctic) belt Characterized by low average annual temperature and air humidity, constant snow cover.

IN subequatorial belt In summer, equatorial air masses arrive, summer is hot and dry. In winter, tropical air masses arrive, so it is warm and dry.

IN subtropical zone Summer is tropical (hot and dry) and winter is temperate (cool and humid).

IN subarctic belt In summer, temperate air prevails (warm, a lot of precipitation), in winter - arctic air, making it harsh and dry.

Climatic regions

Climatic zones change from the equator to the poles, as the angle of incidence of the sun's rays changes. This, in turn, determines the law of zoning, i.e. the change in the components of nature from the equator to the poles. Within climatic zones there are climatic regions- part of a climate zone with a certain type of climate. Climatic regions arise due to the influence of various climate-forming factors (peculiarities of atmospheric circulation, influence ocean currents and so on.). For example, in temperate climate zone The Northern Hemisphere is divided into areas of continental, temperate continental, maritime and monsoon climates.

Nautical The climate has high humidity, large amounts of annual precipitation, and small temperature ranges. Continental- little precipitation, significant temperature range, distinct seasons. Monsoon characterizes the influence of monsoons, wet summers, dry winters.

The role of climate.

Climate has a major impact on many critical industries economic activity and human life. It is especially important to consider climatic features territories during organization agricultural production . Agricultural crops can produce high, sustainable yields only if they are placed in accordance with the climatic conditions of the area.

All types modern transport depend to a very large extent on climatic conditions. Storms, hurricanes and fogs, drifting ice make navigation difficult. Thunderstorms and fogs make it difficult and sometimes become an insurmountable obstacle for aviation. Therefore, the safety of the movement of ships and aircraft is largely ensured by weather forecasts. To ensure uninterrupted movement of railway trains in winter, snow drifts have to be dealt with. For this along all railways the country has planted forest belts. Traffic is hampered by fog and ice on the roads.

The Earth is very diverse for the reason that the planet heats up unevenly, and also falls unevenly. precipitation. Climate classification began to be proposed back in the 19th century, around the 70s. Moscow State University professor B.P. Alisova spoke about 7 climate types that make up their own climate zone. In her opinion, only four climatic zones can be called basic, and three zones are transitional. Let's look at the main characteristics and features of climate zones.

Types of climate zones:

Here, equatorial air masses predominate throughout the year. At a time when the sun is directly above the belt, and these are the days of spring and autumn equinox, it is hot in the equatorial belt, the temperature reaches approximately 28 degrees above zero. The water temperature does not differ much from the air temperature, about 1 degree. There is a lot of precipitation here, about 3000 mm. Evaporation is low here, so there are a lot of wetlands in this belt, as well as a lot of dense rain forests, due to swampy soil. Precipitation in these areas equatorial belt trade winds bring, that is, rainy winds. This type of climate is located over the north of South America, over the Gulf of Guinea, over the Congo River and the upper Nile, as well as over almost the entire Indonesian archipelago, over part of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, which are located in Asia and over the shores of Lake Victoria, which is located in Africa.

This type of climate zone is located simultaneously in the Southern and Northern Hemispheres. This type of climate is divided into continental and oceanic tropical climates. The mainland is located over a larger area of ​​high pressure area, therefore, there is little precipitation in this belt, approximately 250 mm. Summers are hot here, so the air temperature rises to 40 degrees above zero. In winter, the temperature does not drop below 10 degrees above zero.

There are no clouds in the sky, so this climate is characterized by cold nights. Daily temperature changes are quite large, so this contributes to high destruction of rocks.

Due to the great disintegration of rocks, a huge amount of dust and sand is formed, which subsequently forms sandstorms. These storms pose a potential danger to humans. The western and eastern parts of the continental climate differ greatly. Since cold currents flow along the western coast of Africa and Australia, and therefore the air temperature here is much lower, there is little precipitation, approximately 100 mm. If you look at the east coast, then here flow warm currents Therefore, the air temperature is higher and there is more precipitation. This area is quite suitable for tourism.

Oceanic climate

This type of climate is a little similar to, the only difference is that there is less cloudiness and strong, stable winds. The summer air temperature here does not rise above 27 degrees, and in winter it does not fall below 15 degrees. The period for precipitation here is mainly summer, but there is very little of it, approximately 50 mm. This arid area is summer time filled with tourists and guests of coastal cities.

Precipitation here occurs frequently and occurs throughout the year. This occurs under the influence of western winds. In summer, the air temperature does not rise above 28 degrees, and in winter it reaches –50 degrees. On the coasts there is a lot of precipitation - 3000 mm, and in central regions– 1000 mm. Vivid changes appear with the changing seasons of the year. The temperate climate is formed in two hemispheres - northern and southern and is located above a moderate latitude. The area of ​​low pressure prevails here.

This type of climate is divided into subclimates: marine and continental.

Marine subclimates predominate in western North America, Eurasia and South America. The wind is brought from the ocean to the mainland. From this we can conclude that summers here are cool (+20 degrees), but winters are relatively warm and mild (+5 degrees). There is a lot of precipitation - up to 6000 mm in the mountains.
Continental subclimate - predominates in the central regions. There is less precipitation here, since cyclones practically do not pass here. In summer the temperature is approximately +26 degrees, and in winter it is quite cold -24 degrees with heavy snow cover. In Eurasia, a continental subclimate is clearly expressed only in Yakutia. Winters here are cold with little rainfall. This is because in the interior of Eurasia, the areas are least exposed to the influence of the ocean and oceanic winds. On the coast, under the influence of large amounts of precipitation, the frost is softened in winter, and the heat is moderated in summer.

There is also one, which predominates in Kamchatka, Korea, northern Japan, and parts of China. This subtype is expressed by frequent changes in monsoons. Monsoons are winds that, as a rule, bring rain to the mainland and always blow from the ocean to land. Winters here are cold due to cold winds, and summers are rainy. Rains or monsoons are brought here by winds from the Pacific Ocean. On Sakhalin Island and Kamchatka there is quite a bit of precipitation, approximately 2000 mm. Air masses throughout the temperate climate are only moderate. Due to the high humidity of these islands, with 2000 mm of precipitation per year for an unaccustomed person, acclimatization in this area is necessary.

Polar climate

This type of climate forms two zones: Antarctic and. Polar air masses dominate here all year round. During the polar night, in this type of climate, the sun is absent for several months, and during the polar day, it does not go away at all, but shines for several months. The snow cover here never melts, and ice and snow, which radiate heat, carry constant cold air into the air. Here the strength of the winds is weakened and there are no clouds at all. There is catastrophically little precipitation here, but particles resembling needles are constantly flying in the air. The maximum precipitation here is 100 mm. In summer the air temperature does not exceed 0 degrees, and in winter it reaches –40 degrees. In summer, periodic drizzle predominates in the air. When traveling to this area, you may notice that your face tingles a little with frost, so the temperature seems higher than it actually is.

All the types of climates discussed above are considered basic, because here the air masses correspond to these belts. There are also intermediate types of climates, which have the prefix “sub” in their names. In these types of climates, air masses change characteristically during the coming seasons. They move from nearby belts. Scientists explain this by the fact that when the Earth moves around its axis, climate zones shift alternately, now to the south, now to the north.

Intermediate types of climates

Here, in the summer, equatorial masses arrive, and in the winter, tropical masses dominate. There is a lot of precipitation only in the summer - about 3000 mm, but despite this, the sun here is merciless and the air temperature reaches +30 degrees all summer. Winter is cool.

This climate zone has good ventilation and drainage. The air temperature here reaches +14 degrees and in terms of precipitation, there is very little in winter. Good drainage of the soil prevents water from stagnating and forming, as in. This type of climate makes it possible to settle. Here are states that are populated to the limit by people, for example, India, Ethiopia, Indochina. Many grow here cultivated plants which are exported to various countries. In the north of this belt are Venezuela, Guinea, India, Indochina, Africa, Australia, South America, Bangladesh and other states. In the south are the Amazon, Brazil, northern Australia and the center of Africa.

Tropical air masses predominate here in summer, and in winter they come here from temperate latitudes and carry large amounts of precipitation. Summers are dry and hot, and temperatures reach +50 degrees. Winter is very mild with maximum temperature-20 degrees. Low precipitation, approximately 120 mm.

The west has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and rainy winters. This area is different in that it receives slightly more rainfall. Approximately 600 mm of precipitation falls here per year. This area is favorable for resorts and people's lives in general.

Crops grown here include grapes, citrus fruits and olives. Monsoon winds prevail here. In winter it is dry and cold, and in summer it is hot and humid. The precipitation here is approximately 800 mm per year. Through the forest, monsoons blow from the sea to the land and carry precipitation with them, and in winter the winds blow from the land to the sea. This type of climate is pronounced in the Northern Hemisphere and eastern Asia. Vegetation grows well here thanks to the abundant rainfall. Also, thanks to the abundant rains, agriculture is well developed here, which gives life to the local population.

Subpolar climate type

Summers here are cool and humid. The temperature rises to +10, and precipitation is approximately 300 mm. There is more precipitation on mountain slopes than on plains. The swampiness of the territory indicates that the territory is poorly weathered, and there are also a large number of lakes. Winters here are quite long and cold, with temperatures reaching -50 degrees. The boundaries of the poles do not run smoothly, which is precisely what indicates the uneven heating of the Earth and the diversity of the relief.

Antarctic and climate zones

Arctic air dominates here, and the snow crust does not melt. In winter, the air temperature reaches -71 degrees below zero. In summer, temperatures can only rise to -20 degrees. There is very little precipitation here.

In these climatic zones, air masses change from arctic, which predominate in winter, to moderate air masses, which predominate in summer. Winter here lasts 9 months, and it is quite cold, since on average the air temperature drops to -40 degrees. In summer, on average, the temperature is around 0 degrees. For this type of climate there is high humidity, which is approximately 200 mm, and fairly low moisture evaporation. The winds here are strong and blow frequently in this area. This type of climate is located on the northern coast of North America and Eurasia, as well as Antarctica and the Aleutian Islands.

In this climate zone, winds from the west prevail over the rest, and monsoons blow from the east. If the monsoons blow, the precipitation that falls depends on how far the area is from the sea, as well as on the topography of the area. The closer to the sea, the more precipitation falls. The northern and western parts of the continents carry a lot of precipitation, while the southern parts have very little. Winter and summer are very different here, and there are also differences in the climate on land and at sea. The snow cover here lasts only a couple of months; in winter the temperature differs significantly from the summer air temperature.

The temperate zone consists of four climatic zones: a maritime climate zone (fairly warm winters and rainy summers), a continental climate zone (a lot of precipitation falls in the summer), (cold winters and rainy summers), as well as a climate transitional from the maritime climate zone to the continental one. climatic zone.

and climate zones

In the tropics, hot and dry air usually prevails. Between the winter and summer periods the difference in temperature is large and even very significant. In summer the temperature averages +35 degrees, and in winter +10 degrees. Large temperature differences here occur between day and night temperatures. In the tropical climate there is little precipitation, a maximum of 150 mm per year. On the coasts, there is more precipitation, but not much, since moisture comes to land from the ocean.

In the subtropics, summer air is drier than winter. In winter it is more humid. Summer here is very hot, as the air temperature rises to +30 degrees. In winter, the air temperature rarely drops below zero degrees, so even in winter it is not particularly cold here. When snow falls, it melts very quickly and leaves no snow cover. There is little precipitation here - about 500 mm. There are several climate zones in the subtropics: the monsoon, which brings rain from the ocean to the land and the coast, the Mediterranean, which has a high amount of precipitation, and the continental, which has much less precipitation and is drier and warmer.

and climate zones

The average air temperature is +28 degrees, and its differences from day to night temperatures are insignificant. Quite high humidity and weak winds are typical for this type of climate. The precipitation here is 2000 mm every year. A couple of rainy periods are followed by less rainy periods. The equatorial climate zone is located in the Amazon, on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, Africa, on the Malacca Peninsula, and on the islands of New Guinea.

On both sides of the equatorial climate zone are subequatorial belts. In summer, the equatorial climate prevails here, and in winter it is tropical and dry. This is why there is more precipitation in summer than in winter. On the slopes of the mountains, precipitation even goes off scale and reaches 10,000 mm per year, and this is all thanks to the heavy rains that prevail here all year round. On average, the temperature is approximately +30 degrees. The difference between winter and summer is greater than in the equatorial climate. The subequatorial climate is located in the highlands of Brazil, New Guinea and South America, as well as in Northern Australia.

Climate types

Today there are three criteria for climate classification:

• according to the characteristics of air mass circulation;
• by the nature of the geographical relief;
• according to climatic characteristics.

Based on certain indicators The following climate types can be distinguished:

• Solar. It determines the amount of receipt and distribution of ultraviolet radiation over earth's surface. The determination of solar climate is influenced by astronomical indicators, season and latitude;
• Mountain. Climatic conditions at altitude in the mountains are characterized by low atmospheric pressure and clean air, increased solar radiation and increased precipitation;
• . Dominates in semi-deserts. There are large fluctuations in temperature between day and night, and there is practically no precipitation and is a rare occurrence once every few years;
• . Very humid climate. It forms in places where there is not enough sunlight, so moisture does not have time to evaporate;
• Nivalny. This climate is characteristic of areas where precipitation falls mainly in solid form, it settles in the form of glaciers and snow debris, and does not have time to evaporate;
• Urban. The air temperature in the city is always higher than in the surrounding area. Solar radiation arrives in reduced quantities, therefore daylight hours are shorter than at natural objects nearby. There are more clouds over the cities, and precipitation occurs more often, although in some settlements the humidity level is lower.

In general, on earth, climatic zones regularly alternate, but they are not always pronounced. In addition, climate features depend on the relief and terrain. In the zone where anthropogenic influence is most pronounced, the climate will differ from the conditions of natural objects. It should be noted that over time, a particular climatic zone undergoes changes, climatic indicators change, which leads to changes in ecosystems on the planet.

Main climate zones - video