geography - weather

• How does latitude affect temperature patterns in the UK?

  The lower the latitudes, the warmer it is; the higher the latitude, the colder it is.
• Why are places closer to the equator warmer?

  They are closer to the sun due to the curvature of the earth.
• What is the temperature change associated with altitude in the UK?

  Every 100m climbed results in a temperature loss of 1ºC.
• How does distance from the sea affect winter temperatures in the UK?

  Coastal places are warmer than inland places in winter because the sea retains heat longer.
• Why are inland places warmer in summer compared to coastal areas?

  Inland places heat up quicker than coastal areas.
• What effect do ocean currents have on temperature in western UK?

  Western places are warmer due to the North Atlantic drift bringing warmer water from the Gulf of Mexico.
• What are the characteristics and source regions of the air masses affecting the UK?

  • Tropical maritime: Azores, wet, hot
  • Tropical continental: Sahara Desert, dry, hot
  • Polar maritime: Canada and Greenland, wet, cold
  • Polar continental: Siberia and Russia, dry, cold
  • Arctic maritime: Arctic Ocean, wet, cold
• What is a benefit of a tropical continental air mass for outdoor businesses?

  Outdoor businesses are busier due to people wanting to be outside in the heat.
• How does a tropical continental air mass affect solar energy production?

  There is an increase in solar energy obtained from the sun.
• What is a disadvantage of a tropical continental air mass for farmers?

  Farmers' crops grow poorly due to lack of water.
• How does a tropical continental air mass affect productivity in workplaces?

  Workers may lack motivation due to the heat, decreasing productivity.
• What is a disadvantage of an arctic maritime air mass regarding accessibility?

  Areas may be cut off by snow, making them inaccessible.
• How can an arctic maritime air mass impact water supply in homes?

  Pipes may freeze and burst, leaving homes without water.
• What is a financial impact of an arctic maritime air mass on households?

  Increased energy usage for heating homes leads to higher costs.
• What is an advantage of an arctic maritime air mass for recreational activities?

  People can enjoy sledding and fun in the snow, increasing productivity when they return to work.
• What do isobars indicate about wind conditions on a synoptic weather chart?

  • Isobars far apart: calm conditions
  • Isobars close together: very windy conditions
• What weather is experienced in an anticyclone?

  • High pressure (1 air mass)
  • Calm conditions (isobars far apart)
  • Minimal clouds due to sinking air
  • Can last over a week
• What are the differences between summer and winter anticyclones?

  Summer anticyclones:

  • Bring dry hot weather
  • Can be unstable (hail/thunderstorms)
  • Light winds and calm conditions

  
  

  Winter anticyclones:

  • Bring cold nights, frost, fog, and mist
  • Generally stable, prolonged cold weather
  • Can produce stronger winds