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Study Diagrams Q5A and Q5B - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 5 - 2023
Question 5
Study Diagrams Q5A and Q5B. (a) Describe the origin and characteristics of the tropical maritime and tropical continental air masses. Study Diagrams Q5A, Q5B, Q5C a... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Study Diagrams Q5A and Q5B - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 5 - 2023
Step 1
Describe the origin and characteristics of the tropical maritime and tropical continental air masses.
Answer
The tropical maritime air mass originates from the Atlantic Ocean, particularly the Gulf of Guinea. It is characterized by high humidity, comfortable temperatures, and generally high precipitation. The air mass brings moist air that contributes to significant rainfall, especially during the wet season.
In contrast, the tropical continental air mass originates over land, specifically in the Sahara Desert. This air mass is characterized by low humidity and higher temperatures. As it moves over land, it tends to have lower precipitation levels, contributing to dry conditions.
Step 2
describe the changing rainfall pattern as you move inland from Abidjan to Timbuktu
Answer
As one moves inland from Abidjan, which experiences high levels of rainfall (approximately 1545 mm annually), the total precipitation decreases significantly. Bamako, located further inland, receives about 935 mm of rainfall annually, illustrating a marked reduction in precipitation.
Finally, Timbuktu receives only about 161 mm of precipitation annually, indicating a drastic drop in rainfall levels as the distance from the coast increases. This pattern reflects the influence of the ITCZ, which migrates seasonally, impacting rain distribution.
Step 3
suggest reasons for these differences.
Answer
The differences in rainfall between these locations can be attributed to the position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). When the ITCZ is positioned over the coastal areas, such as in Abidjan, the region experiences significant rainfall due to the convergence of moist air from the ocean.
As one moves inland towards Timbuktu, the ITCZ shifts, leading to reduced humidity and lower rainfall levels. The Sahara's influence also becomes stronger, resulting in a drier climate characterized by the continental air mass. Additionally, the topography and distance from the ocean play significant roles in the diminishing rainfall as one moves inland.