Climate zones. The cycle of heat, moisture and general circulation of the atmosphere form the weather and climate in the geographic envelope. The types of air masses and the characteristics of their circulation at different latitudes create the conditions for the formation of the Earth's climate. The dominance of one air mass throughout the year determines the boundaries of climate zones.

Climate zones- these are territories that encircle the Earth in a continuous or intermittent strip; They differ from each other in temperature, atmospheric pressure, amount and regime of precipitation, prevailing air masses and winds. The symmetrical distribution of climatic zones relative to the equator is a manifestation of the law of geographic zonation. Highlight basic And transitional climatic zones. The names of the main climatic zones are given according to the dominant air masses and the latitudes in which they are formed.

There are 13 climatic zones: seven main and six transitional. The boundaries of each zone are determined by the summer and winter positions of climate fronts.

There are seven main climatic zones: equatorial, two tropical, two temperate and two polar (Arctic and Antarctic). In each of the climatic zones, one air mass dominates throughout the year - equatorial, tropical, temperate, arctic (Antarctic), respectively.

Between the main zones in each hemisphere, transitional climate zones are formed: two subequatorial, two subtropical and two subpolar (subarctic and subantarctic). IN transitional belts There is a seasonal change in air masses. They come from neighboring main belts: in summer the air mass is from the southern main belt, and in winter from the northern one. The proximity of oceans, warm and cold currents, and topography influence climatic differences within zones: climatic regions with different types climate.

Characteristics of climatic zones. Equatorial belt formed in the region of the equator in an intermittent strip, where equatorial air masses. Average monthly temperatures range from +26 to +28 sС. Precipitation falls 1500-3000 mm evenly throughout the year. The equatorial belt is the most humidified part earth's surface(Congo River basin, coast of the Gulf of Guinea in Africa, Amazon River basin in South America, Sunda Islands). There are continental and oceanic climate types, but the difference between them is small.

For subequatorial belts , encircling the equatorial belt from the north and south, is characterized by monsoon air circulation. A feature of the belts is the seasonal change of air masses. In summer, equatorial air dominates, in winter - tropical. There are two seasons: wet summer and dry winter. In summer, the climate differs slightly from the equatorial one: high humidity, abundance atmospheric precipitation. During the winter season, hot, dry weather sets in, grasses burn out, and trees shed their leaves. The average air temperature in all months ranges from +20 to +30 °C. The annual precipitation is 1000-2000 mm, with maximum precipitation falling in summer.

Tropical zones are between 20¨ and 30¨s. and Yu. w. on both sides of the tropics, where trade winds prevail. (Remember why in tropical latitudes the air sinks and high pressure prevails.) Throughout the year, tropical air masses with high temperatures dominate here. The average temperature of the warmest month is +30...+35 ¨C, the coldest month is not lower than +10 ¨C. In the center of the continents the climate is tropical continental (desert). Cloud cover is insignificant, precipitation in most parts is less than 250 mm per year. Low rainfall causes the formation of the greatest deserts in the world - the Sahara and Kalahari in Africa, the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, and Australia.

In the eastern parts of the continents, which are influenced by warm currents and trade winds blowing from the ocean, intensified by the monsoons in summer season, a tropical humid climate is formed. The average monthly temperature in summer is +26 ¨C, in winter +22 ¨C. Average annual precipitation is 1500 mm.

Subtropical zones (25-40¨ N and S) are formed under the influence of tropical air masses in summer and moderate ones in winter. The western parts of the continents have a Mediterranean climate: summers are dry, hot, average temperature the warmest month is +30 ¨C, and winter is humid and warm (up to +5...+10 ¨C), but short-term frosts are possible. On the eastern coasts of the continents, a subtropical monsoon climate with hot (+25 ¨C) rainy summers and cool (+8 ¨C) dry winters. The amount of precipitation is 1000-1500 mm. Snow rarely falls. IN central parts The continental climate is subtropical continental, with hot (+30 ¨C) and dry summers and relatively cold winters (+6...+8 ¨C) with little precipitation (300 mm). The subtropical humid climate is characterized by more uniform temperatures and precipitation. In summer +20 ¨С, in winter +12 ¨С, precipitation falls 800-1000 mm. (Determine by climate map differences in climates of subtropical zones.)

Temperate zones stretched in temperate latitudes from 40¨ n. and Yu. w. almost to the polar circles. Temperate air masses dominate here throughout the year, but arctic and tropical air masses can penetrate. In the Northern Hemisphere in the western continents, westerly winds and cyclonic activity predominate; in the east there are monsoons. As you move deeper into the territory, the annual amplitude of air temperature increases (the coldest month is from +4...+6 °C to –48 °C, and the warmest month is from +12 °C to +30 °C). IN Southern Hemisphere The climate is mainly oceanic. There are 5 types of climate in the Northern Hemisphere: maritime, moderate continental, continental, sharply continental, and monsoon.

The maritime climate is formed under the influence of westerly winds blowing from the ocean (Northern and Central Europe, western North America, Patagonian Andes of South America). In summer temperatures are about +15…+17 °C, in winter - +5 °C. Precipitation falls throughout the year and reaches 1000-2000 mm per year. In the Southern Hemisphere, the temperate zone is dominated by an oceanic climate with mild summers, mild winters, heavy rainfall, westerly winds, and unstable weather (“roaring” forties latitudes).

Continental climate is characteristic of the interior regions of large continents. In Eurasia, a moderate continental, continental, sharply continental climate is formed, in North America - moderate continental and continental. On average, July temperatures vary from +10 °C in the north to +24 °C in the south. In a temperate continental climate, the January temperature drops from west to east from –5° to –10 °C, in a sharply continental climate - to –35…–40 °C, and in Yakutia below –40 °C. The annual precipitation in a temperate continental climate is approximately 500-600 mm, in a sharply continental climate - about 300-400 mm. In winter, as you move eastward, the duration of stable snow cover increases from 4 to 9 months, and the annual temperature range also increases.

The monsoon climate is best expressed in Eurasia. In summer, a stable monsoon from the ocean prevails, the temperature is +18...+22 °C, in winter - –25 °C. At the end of summer - beginning of autumn, typhoons from the sea with gusty winds and heavy precipitation are frequent. Winters are relatively dry as the winter monsoon blows inland. Precipitation in the form of rain predominates in summer (800-1200 mm).

Subpolar belts (subarctic and subantarctic) located north and south of temperate zone. They are characterized by seasonal changes in air masses: moderate air masses dominate in summer, and arctic (Antarctic) air masses dominate in winter. Continental subarctic climate is characteristic of the northern margins of North America and Eurasia. Summer is relatively warm (+5…+10 °C) and short. Winter is harsh (up to –55 °C). Here is the pole of cold in Oymyakon and Verkhoyansk (–71 °C). Not a large number of precipitation - 200 mm. Permafrost and excessive moisture are widespread, and large areas are swamped. The oceanic climate in the Northern Hemisphere is formed in the Greenland and Norwegian Seas, in the Southern Hemisphere - around Antarctica. Cyclonic activity is widespread throughout the year. Cool summers (+3…+5 °C), floating sea and continental ice, relatively mild winters (–10…–15 °C). Winter precipitation is up to 500 mm, fog is constant.

Rice. 16. Characteristic types of annual

Polar belts (Arctic and course of air temperatures of different Antarctic) located around the climatic zones of the poles. Continental climate prevails in Antarctica, Greenland, and the islands of the Canadian Arctic archipelago. There are negative temperatures all year round.

Oceanic climate is observed mainly in the Arctic. Temperatures here are negative, but during the polar day they can reach +2 °C. Precipitation - 100-150 mm (Fig. 16).

Bibliography

1. Geography 8th grade. Tutorial for 8th grade institutions of general secondary education with Russian as the language of instruction / Edited by Professor P. S. Lopukh - Minsk “People's Asveta” 2014

On Earth it is very diverse due to the fact that the planet heats up unevenly, and precipitation also falls unevenly. 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 the spring and autumn equinox, it is hot on 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 this belt has a lot of wetlands, as well as a lot of dense rain forests, due to the marshy soil. Precipitation in these areas of the equatorial belt is brought by trade winds, 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 above larger territory region high pressure Therefore, this belt has little precipitation, 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 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: the marine climate zone (quite warm winter and rainy summers), continental climate zone (a lot of precipitation falls in summer), ( Cold winter and rainy summers), as well as a climate transitional from the maritime climate zone to the continental climate 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 there are subequatorial zones. 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 the 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 climate zone undergoes changes, changes climate indicators, which leads to changes in ecosystems on the planet.

Main climate zones - video

Climatic (geographical) zone is a vast strip of the Earth's surface that has a latitudinal direction and similar climatic conditions throughout the entire territory.

The difference between climate zones is expressed in the prevailing air masses and air temperature. The main climate characteristics are determined based on these parameters. Climatic zones change in the direction from the equator to the poles. The climatic zones were classified by the Soviet climatologist B.P. Alisov. This was done in 1956, and now this classification is used in the Russian Federation and other countries. B.P. Alisov identified 2 types of belts - basic and transitional.

Main belts:

• arctic;
• northern temperate;
• northern tropical;
• equatorial;
• southern tropical;
• southern temperate;
• Antarctic;

These geographical zones are dominated by air masses of the same name.

The equatorial belt is located between the two tropical ones. It receives a lot of heat and rainfall throughout the year. The average monthly temperature is +23...+28 °C. The radiation balance reaches 90 kcal/sq. cm per year. Precipitation up to 3000 mm per year; on windward slopes this figure reaches 10,000 mm per year. The equatorial belt receives excess moisture due to the fact that the evaporation rate is lower than the monthly precipitation amount.

Tropical zones are located north and south of the equatorial zone. They cross every continent except Antarctica. Tropical zones are most pronounced between the 20th and 32nd parallels of both hemispheres. The tropical climate is formed by air masses of the same name, with anticyclonic circulation and high atmospheric pressure. In the tropical zones there is low cloudiness and humidity throughout the year, with little precipitation. Trade winds predominate among the winds. During the summer average monthly temperature in the tropics it is +30...+35 °C. In winter, the average monthly temperature is above +10 °C. Annual precipitation is 40-200 mm. However, in island regions, windward slopes can receive 2000 mm per year or more. In Hawaii, up to 13,000 mm falls per year. Cold currents make the western coasts of continents cooler compared to the eastern and southern ones. On the western outskirts the air humidity is higher.

The northern temperate zone is located within the 42nd and 64th parallels, and the southern one - between the 41st and 58th. These are the biggest geographical zones by area. The land occupies only a few percent of the southern temperate zone. In the northern part of the planet, the temperate zone has a large area. The climate in temperate zones is characterized by significant differences in average monthly temperature. In temperate latitudes, winter is much colder than in the equatorial zone or the tropics. Here, daily temperature changes are more pronounced. Air masses are transported mainly in a westerly direction. Cyclones are more active than anticyclones. On the outskirts of continents, humidity and precipitation are higher. 650-2000 mm of precipitation falls annually. The windward oceanic slopes receive 5000-8000 mm of precipitation per year.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the polar climate zone is called the Arctic, and in the southern hemisphere, the Antarctic. The Arctic belt occupies the territory north of the 70th parallel. sh., Antarctic - south of the 65th parallel south. w. Both zones have a polar night and a polar day. Permafrost and snow covers reflect large amounts of sunlight. This is one of the reasons for the low air temperature. High in the polar zones Atmosphere pressure. Eastern winds of the same name predominate. The Pole of Cold is located in Antarctica. In summer the average temperature is -30...-35 °C, and in winter -70 °C. On Antarctic station“Vostok” it drops to -87...-90 °C, and on the coast of Antarctica the average monthly temperature is in the range of -1...-5 °C in the summer and in the range -18...-22 °C in winter. Similar climatic conditions are observed over the Greenland ice sheet, but are warmer by an average of 15 °C. The Atlantic regions of the Arctic are warmer - up to +5 °C in summer, with the invasion of warm air masses. In the summer season at the North Pole, temperatures reach 0...+2 °C, and the absolute maximum temperature is +5 °C. In winter, the air temperature in the ocean area averages about -20 °C. The American Arctic sector is characterized by a colder climate. In the European part of the Arctic, less than 350 mm of precipitation falls per year, and in the American and Asian sectors it is 160-250 mm.

Transition belts

Between the main belts there are six transition belts. They are characterized by seasonal changes in the prevailing air masses. They alternate between summer and winter. The names of these belts have the prefix “sub”. This means location under the main climate zone.

Transition belts:

• subarctic belt;
• northern subtropical;
• northern subequatorial;
• southern subequatorial;
• southern subtropical;
• subantarctic.

Subequatorial climate zones are located north and south of the main equatorial zone. As a result of the seasonal movement of the belts, dry air from the tropics comes in in winter, and in the summer season there is more humid equatorial air. Accordingly, summers in subequatorial climates are humid and winters are dry. At the same time, the amount of precipitation per year reaches 1400-1500 mm. Mountain slopes receive significantly more - 6000-10000 mm. The difference between winter and summer temperatures is small, but unlike the equatorial zone, it exists. In summer, the air temperature is within +22...+30 °C. Subequatorial belts pass through Northern Australia, Central and South America, Hindustan, Indochina, Central Africa.

Subtropical zones are located in both hemispheres, within the 30th and 40th parallels. In the Northern Hemisphere, the subtropics are bordered on the south by the tropics, and on the northern side by the temperate zone, and in the Southern Hemisphere these zones are located in reverse order. The thermal regime changes twice a year. The climate here is temperate in winter and tropical in summer. Frosts are possible in subtropical zones. In the subtropics, ocean waters differ high salinity and high temperature (in summer).

The subarctic zone is located between the northern temperate and arctic zones. Arctic and temperate air masses displace each other throughout the year. The belt is located in Northern Canada, Alaska, Russia, the southern edge of Greenland and the Scandinavian Peninsula. Within the borders of Russia, it stretches from the north of Western Siberia to the eastern coast.

Sub Antarctic belt located in the Southern Hemisphere, and passes through some of the Antarctic islands and the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula. The warm period here is short, and the temperature never rises above +20 °C. With the end of summer, cold air masses reduce temperatures below 0 °C. For most of the year it has negative values, which is also typical for the subarctic zone. 250-550 mm of precipitation falls here annually.

Climate-forming factors

The planet's climate is influenced by various factors - both external and internal. External factors mainly influence the amount of incoming radiation and its distribution across seasons, hemispheres and continents.

These factors include the position of the earth's axis and the parameters of the earth's orbit:

Current distance to the Sun. Thanks to this indicator, the amount of solar energy received is determined.
• Earth's orbital eccentricity. This characteristic influences seasonal changes.
• The tilt of the earth's axis.

Internal factors:

• The presence of active volcanoes that can provoke the onset of a volcanic winter or other climate changes.
• Configuration of oceans and continents.
• Air masses.
• Albedo of the atmosphere and surface of the Earth.
• Proximity of seas and oceans.
• Human life activity.
• The nature of the underlying surface.
• Heat flows.

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 slightly cooler than summer, average temperatures vary from 22 to 30 ° C, and temperature amplitudes increase. The annual amount of precipitation varies significantly: if on average it falls 1000-1500 mm, then on the windward slopes of the mountains it can be 6000-10000 mm. Almost all precipitation falls in summer. A subequatorial climate is observed in the Brazilian and Guinean highlands (South America), in Central Africa adjacent to the Congo River basin on all sides, in Hindustan and Indochina (South Asia) and Northern Australia.

Tropical climate zones located on both sides of the tropics, approximately between 18 and 30 ° N. and S. Tropical air (dry air with high temperatures) dominates here throughout the year, and trade winds (northeast and southeast) predominate. The weather is mostly clear, winter is warm, but noticeably colder than summer. The average temperatures of the warmest month are +30-35 ° C, the coldest - not lower than +10 ° C. The tropical zone is characterized by very large daily temperature amplitudes - up to 40 ° C, and the average annual temperature is about 20 ° C. Cloudiness is insignificant, precipitation in the majority There is little precipitation in areas: 50-150 mm/year (with the exception of 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 winters; 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 winter, 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 occasional precipitation occurs. strong winds, especially during 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.

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 temperatures air, large amounts of precipitation.

Tropical zones characterized by high atmospheric pressure, dry and warm air, low 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.