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Examine how solar energy is redistributed through circulation patterns in the atmosphere and oceans. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 22 - 2019
Question 22
Examine how solar energy is redistributed through circulation patterns in the atmosphere and oceans.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Examine how solar energy is redistributed through circulation patterns in the atmosphere and oceans. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 22 - 2019
Step 1
Identifying aspect 1: Atmospheric Circulation Patterns
Answer
Solar energy is absorbed by the Earth's surface, primarily in equatorial regions, leading to significant temperature differences between the equator and the poles. This uneven heating drives atmospheric circulation patterns such as the Hadley cells, Ferrel cells, and polar cells.
- Hadley Cells: Warm air rises at the equator, moves poleward, cools, and descends around 30° latitude, creating trade winds.
- Ferrel Cells: These circulate between 30° and 60°, where the interaction of warm and cold air occurs, influencing weather patterns and transferring heat.
- Polar Cells: Cold air descends at the poles and moves towards lower latitudes near the surface, continuing the cycle of redistribution.
Step 2
Identifying aspect 2: Oceanic Circulation Patterns
Answer
Oceans also play a crucial role in redistributing solar energy. The major ocean currents, such as the Gulf Stream and the California Current, facilitate the movement of warm and cold water across different regions.
- Gulf Stream: A warm current that moves north along the eastern coast of the U.S., warming the climate of Western Europe.
- Thermohaline Circulation: This global 'conveyor belt' movement of water is driven by variations in water density, which is affected by temperature and salinity, redistributing heat and impacting global climate.
Step 3
Identifying aspect 3: Interaction between Atmosphere and Oceans
Answer
The atmosphere and oceans interact through processes such as evaporation and precipitation, further influencing circulation patterns.
- Evaporation: Solar energy heats ocean water, causing evaporation, which increases humidity in the atmosphere and contributes to weather systems.
- Precipitation: The redistribution of solar energy leads to variations in precipitation patterns, impacting ecosystems and climate in different regions.