Photo AI
Climate characteristics change over time and space - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 24 - 2020
Question 24
Climate characteristics change over time and space. Discuss.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Climate characteristics change over time and space - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 24 - 2020
Step 1
Identifying Aspect 1: Historical Climate Variability
Answer
Throughout history, climate characteristics have experienced significant variability due to natural factors. For instance, the Medieval Warm Period (approximately 950 to 1250 AD) was a time of warmer temperatures in Europe compared to the Little Ice Age that followed, which caused notable cooling from the 1300s to the 1850s. Factors contributing to these changes include volcanic eruptions, solar radiation variations, and Earth's orbital dynamics, illustrating how climate can shift considerably over centuries.
Step 2
Identifying Aspect 2: Regional Climate Differences
Answer
Climate varies widely across different regions due to geographical factors such as elevation, proximity to oceans, and prevailing winds. For example, coastal areas typically have milder climates compared to inland areas, seen in the contrasting climates of San Francisco and the inland areas of California. Additionally, mountain ranges can create rain shadows, leading to dry conditions on one side and lush environments on the other, demonstrating spatial climate variability.
Step 3
Identifying Aspect 3: Modern Climate Change
Answer
In contemporary times, human activities have accelerated climate change, contributing to shifts in patterns such as increased global temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events. For example, the rise in greenhouse gas emissions is linked to global warming, resulting in altered climate zones and affecting ecosystems worldwide. This highlights the urgent need for strategies to mitigate climate change impacts.