Year 9 End of year Exams (TOPIC 2) Flashcards
(29 cards)
What is global atmospheric circulation?
The movement of air in the atmosphere that redistributes heat across the Earth.
What causes air to circulate in the atmosphere?
The uneven heating of the Earth by the sun – hotter at the equator, colder at the poles.
What are the three main circulation cells?
Hadley Cell, Ferrel Cell, Polar Cell.
What type of pressure is found at the equator?
Low pressure – warm air rises, causing clouds and rain.
Where do we find high-pressure zones?
Around 30° north and south of the equator – air sinks, creating dry conditions (deserts).
What is a tropical storm?
A powerful rotating storm system with strong winds and heavy rain, forming over warm oceans.
What are tropical storms called in different regions?
Hurricanes (USA), Typhoons (Asia), Cyclones (Indian Ocean).
What conditions are needed for a tropical storm to form?
Sea temperature above 27°C, ocean depth of at least 60m, low wind shear, and the Coriolis effect.
How does climate change affect tropical storms?
It may increase their intensity and possibly their frequency due to warmer sea temperatures.
What is found at the centre of a tropical storm?
The eye – calm, low wind, clear skies.
What surrounds the eye?
The eye wall – where the most intense weather occurs (strong winds, heavy rain, thunder).
What are rainbands?
Spiralling clouds with rain and thunderstorms that stretch out from the eye wall.
What happens when a tropical storm reaches land?
It loses strength (energy source – warm water – is cut off).
When and where did Typhoon Haiyan occur?
November 2013, the Philippines.
What caused Typhoon Haiyan?
Exceptionally warm ocean water and low pressure led to a super typhoon forming.
Name 3 primary effects of Typhoon Haiyan.
Over 6,000 people died, 1.1 million homes damaged, 5m storm surge flooded coastal areas.
Name 3 secondary effects of Typhoon Haiyan.
Disease outbreaks, jobs lost, looting and violence.
What were some immediate responses to Typhoon Haiyan?
Evacuation, food and water aid, rescue operations.
What were some long-term responses to Typhoon Haiyan?
Rebuilding, improved warning systems, better shelters.
What are the 4 key strategies to reduce the effects of tropical storms?
Monitoring, Prediction, Protection, Planning.
How does monitoring help?
Satellites and radar detect storm development and movement.
What does prediction involve?
Forecasting storm paths using computer models.
How can buildings be protected?
Storm shutters, raised foundations, reinforced roofs.
What does planning include?
Emergency drills, evacuation plans, public education.
