A&O SCI 1 Study Guide - Midterm Guide: Background Radiation, Atmospheric Circulation, Hadley Cell
2 Aug 2018
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Freezing point of water : 0 c = 273. 15 k. Kelvin scale has temperature of zero associated with no molecular motion (most commonly used in science) Key features of the planet"s temperature distribution : Tropics = generally about 60 c warmer than high latitudes. In the tropics, seasonal variation is small (marked by north-south movement of the maximum) In mid- to high- latitudes seasonal variations are much greater. Seasonal variation is much greater in the northern hemisphere, than in the southern hemisphere. Conduction often occurs between the atmosphere and the earth"s surface ( sensible heat flux ) Measured in power per unit area (w/m 2 ) If positive flux is from surface to atmosphere. If negative is from atmosphere to surface. Key features of planet"s sensible heat flux distribution : Upward sensible heat fluxes are greatest in: Hot, dry land surfaces (ex. deserts) can be seen in north africa.
