Geographic map of climate zones. Climatic zones and types of climates of the Earth

The Earth has a very diverse climate due to the fact that the planet heats unevenly and also falls unevenly. precipitation. Climate classification began to be proposed back in the 19th century, around the 70s. Moscow State University professor B.P. Alisova spoke about 7 climate types that make up their own climate zone. In her opinion, only four climatic zones can be called basic, and three zones are transitional.

Types of climate zones:

Equatorial belt

Here, equatorial air masses predominate throughout the year. At a time when the sun is directly above the belt, and these are the days of the spring and autumn equinox, it is hot on the equatorial belt, the temperature reaches approximately 28 degrees above zero. The water temperature does not differ much from the air temperature, about 1 degree. There is a lot of precipitation here, about 3000 mm. Evaporation is low here, so there are a lot of wetlands in this belt, as well as a lot of dense rain forests, due to swampy soil. Precipitation in these areas of the equatorial belt is brought by trade winds, that is, rainy winds. This type of climate is located above the north South America, over the Gulf of Guinea, over the Congo River and the upper Nile, as well as over almost the entire Indonesian archipelago, over part of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, which are located in Asia and over the shores of Lake Victoria, which is located in Africa.

Tropical zone

This type of climate zone is located simultaneously in the Southern and Northern Hemispheres. This type of climate is divided into continental and oceanic tropical climate. The mainland is located over a larger area of ​​the region high pressure Therefore, this belt has little precipitation, approximately 250 mm. Summers are hot here, so the air temperature rises to 40 degrees above zero. In winter, the temperature does not drop below 10 degrees above zero. There are no clouds in the sky, so this climate is characterized by cold nights. Daily temperature changes are quite large, so this contributes to high destruction rocks. Due to the great decay of rocks, a huge amount of dust and sand is formed, which further forms sandstorms. These storms pose a potential danger to humans. The western and eastern parts of the continental climate differ greatly. Since cold currents flow along the western coast of Africa and Australia, and therefore the air temperature here is much lower, there is little precipitation, approximately 100 mm. If you look at the east coast, warm currents flow here, therefore, the air temperature is higher and there is more precipitation. This area is quite suitable for tourism.

Oceanic climate

This type of climate is somewhat similar to equatorial climate, the only difference is that there is less cloudiness and strong, stable winds. The summer air temperature here does not rise above 27 degrees, and in winter it does not fall below 15 degrees. The period for precipitation here is mainly summer, but there is very little of it, approximately 50 mm. This arid area is filled with tourists and guests of coastal cities in the summer.

Precipitation here occurs frequently and occurs throughout the year. This occurs under the influence of western winds. In summer, the air temperature does not rise above 28 degrees, and in winter it reaches –50 degrees. On the coasts there is a lot of precipitation - 3000 mm, and in central regions– 1000 mm. Vivid changes appear with the changing seasons of the year. The temperate climate is formed in two hemispheres - northern and southern and is located above a moderate latitude. The area of ​​low pressure prevails here.

This type of climate is divided into subclimates: marine and continental.

Marine subclimate predominates in the western part North America, Eurasia and South America. The wind is brought from the ocean to the mainland. From this we can conclude that summers here are cool (+20 degrees), but winters are relatively warm and mild (+5 degrees). There is a lot of precipitation - up to 6000 mm in the mountains.
Continental subclimate - predominates in the central regions. There is less precipitation here, since cyclones practically do not pass here. In summer the temperature is approximately +26 degrees, and in winter it is quite cold -24 degrees with heavy snow cover. In Eurasia, a continental subclimate is clearly expressed only in Yakutia. Winters here are cold with little rainfall. This is because in the interior of Eurasia, the areas are least exposed to the influence of the ocean and oceanic winds. On the coast, under the influence of large amounts of precipitation, the frost is softened in winter, and the heat is moderated in summer.

There is also a monsoon subclimate, which prevails in Kamchatka, Korea, northern Japan, and part of China. This subtype is expressed by frequent changes in monsoons. Monsoons are winds that, as a rule, bring rain to the mainland and always blow from the ocean to land. Winters here are cold due to cold winds, and summers are rainy. Rains or monsoons are brought here by winds from the Pacific Ocean. On Sakhalin Island and Kamchatka there is quite a bit of precipitation, approximately 2000 mm. Air masses throughout the temperate climate are only moderate. Due to the high humidity of these islands, with 2000 mm of precipitation per year for an unaccustomed person, acclimatization in this area is necessary.

Polar climate

This type of climate forms two zones: Antarctic and Arctic. Polar air masses dominate here all year round. During the polar night, in this type of climate, the sun is absent for several months, and during the polar day, it does not go away at all, but shines for several months. The snow cover here never melts, and ice and snow, which radiate heat, carry constant cold air into the air. Here the strength of the winds is weakened and there are no clouds at all. There is catastrophically little precipitation here, but particles resembling needles are constantly flying in the air. The maximum precipitation here is 100 mm. In summer the air temperature does not exceed 0 degrees, and in winter it reaches –40 degrees. In summer, periodic drizzle predominates in the air. When traveling to this area you may notice that your face tingles a little with frost, so the temperature seems higher than it actually is.

All the types of climates discussed above are considered basic, because here the air masses correspond to these belts. There are also intermediate types of climates, which have the prefix “sub” in their names. In these types of climates, air masses change characteristically during the coming seasons. They move from nearby belts. Scientists explain this by the fact that when the Earth moves around its axis, climate zones shift alternately, now to the south, now to the north.

Intermediate types of climates

Subequatorial climate type

Here, in the summer, equatorial masses arrive, and in the winter, tropical masses dominate. There is a lot of precipitation only in summer period- approximately 3000 mm, but despite this, the sun here is merciless and the air temperature reaches +30 degrees all summer. Winter is cool. This climate zone has good ventilation and drying of the soil. The air temperature here reaches +14 degrees and in terms of precipitation, there is very little in winter. Good soil drainage prevents water from stagnating and forming swamps, as in the equatorial climate. This type of climate makes it possible to settle. Here are states that are populated to the limit by people, for example, India, Ethiopia, Indochina. Many cultivated plants grow here, which are exported to various countries. In the north of this belt are Venezuela, Guinea, India, Indochina, Africa, Australia, South America, Bangladesh and other states. In the south are the Amazon, Brazil, northern Australia and the center of Africa.

Subtropical climate type

Here in summer tropical air masses predominate, and in winter they come here from temperate latitudes and carry a large number of precipitation. Summers are dry and hot, and temperatures reach +50 degrees. Winter is very mild with maximum temperature-20 degrees. Low precipitation, approximately 120 mm. The west has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and rainy winters. This area is different in that it receives slightly more rainfall. Approximately 600 mm of precipitation falls here per year. This area is favorable for resorts and people's lives in general. Crops grown here include grapes, citrus fruits and olives. Here they prevail monsoon winds. In winter it is dry and cold, and in summer it is hot and humid. The precipitation here is approximately 800 mm per year. Through the forest, monsoons blow from the sea to the land and carry precipitation with them, and in winter the winds blow from the land to the sea. This type of climate is pronounced in the Northern Hemisphere and eastern Asia. Vegetation grows well here thanks to the abundant rainfall. Also, thanks to the abundant rains, agriculture is well developed here, which gives life to the local population.

Subpolar climate type

Summers here are cool and humid. The temperature rises to +10, and precipitation is approximately 300 mm. There is more precipitation on mountain slopes than on plains. The swampiness of the territory indicates that the territory is poorly weathered, and there are also a large number of lakes. Winters here are quite long and cold, with temperatures reaching -50 degrees. The boundaries of the poles do not run smoothly, which is precisely what indicates the uneven heating of the Earth and the diversity of the relief.

Antarctic and Arctic climate zones

Arctic air dominates here, and the snow crust does not melt. In winter, the air temperature reaches -71 degrees below zero. In summer, temperatures can only rise to -20 degrees. There is very little precipitation here.
In these climatic zones, air masses change from arctic, which predominate in winter, to moderate air masses, which predominate in summer. Winter here lasts 9 months, and it is quite cold, since on average the air temperature drops to -40 degrees. In summer, on average, the temperature is around 0 degrees. For this type of climate there is high humidity, which is approximately 200 mm, and fairly low moisture evaporation. The winds here are strong and blow frequently in this area. This type of climate is located on the northern coast of North America and Eurasia, as well as Antarctica and the Aleutian Islands.

In this climate zone, winds from the west prevail over the rest, and monsoons blow from the east. If the monsoons blow, the precipitation that falls depends on how far the area is from the sea, as well as on the topography of the area. The closer to the sea, the more precipitation falls. The northern and western parts of the continents carry a lot of precipitation, and in southern parts there are very few of them. Winter and summer are very different here, and there are also differences in the climate on land and at sea. The snow cover here lasts only a couple of months; in winter the temperature differs significantly from the summer air temperature.

The temperate zone consists of four climatic zones: the marine climate zone (quite warm winter and rainy summers), continental climate zone (a lot of precipitation falls in summer), monsoon climate zone ( Cold winter and rainy summers), as well as a climate transitional from the maritime climate zone to the continental climate zone.

Subtropical and tropical climate zones

In the tropics, hot and dry air usually prevails. Between the winter and summer periods the difference in temperature is large and even very significant. In summer the temperature averages +35 degrees, and in winter +10 degrees. Large temperature differences here occur between day and night temperatures. In the tropical climate there is little precipitation, a maximum of 150 mm per year. On the coasts, there is more precipitation, but not much, since moisture comes to land from the ocean.

In the subtropics, summer air is drier than winter. In winter it is more humid. Summer here is very hot, as the air temperature rises to +30 degrees. In winter, the air temperature rarely drops below zero degrees, so even in winter it is not particularly cold here. When snow falls, it melts very quickly and leaves no snow cover. There is little precipitation here - about 500 mm. In the subtropics there are several climatic zones: the monsoon, which brings rain from the ocean to the land and the coast, the Mediterranean, which differs big amount precipitation and continental, where there is much less precipitation and it is drier and warmer.

Subequatorial and equatorial climate zones

The average air temperature is +28 degrees, and its differences from day to night temperatures are insignificant. Quite high humidity and weak winds are typical for this type of climate. The precipitation here is 2000 mm every year. A couple of rainy periods are followed by less rainy periods. The equatorial climate zone is located in the Amazon, on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, Africa, on the Malacca Peninsula, and on the islands of New Guinea.

On both sides of the equatorial climate zone there are subequatorial zones. In summer, the equatorial climate prevails here, and in winter it is tropical and dry. This is why there is more precipitation in summer than in winter period. On the slopes of the mountains, precipitation even goes off scale and reaches 10,000 mm per year, and this is all thanks to heavy rains that dominate here all year round. On average, the temperature is approximately +30 degrees. The difference between winter and summer is greater than in the equatorial climate. The subequatorial climate is located in the highlands of Brazil, New Guinea and South America, as well as in Northern Australia.

Climate types

Today there are three criteria for climate classification:

• according to circulation features air masses;
• by the nature of the geographical relief;
• according to climatic characteristics.

Based on certain indicators, the following climate types can be distinguished:

• Solar. It determines the amount of receipt and distribution of ultraviolet radiation over earth's surface. The determination of the solar climate is influenced by astronomical indicators, season and latitude
• Mountain. Climatic conditions at altitude in the mountains are characterized by reduced atmospheric pressure And clean air, increased solar radiation and increased precipitation
• Arid. Dominates in deserts and semi-deserts. There are large fluctuations in temperature between day and night, and there is practically no precipitation and there is a rare occurrence once every few years
• Humid. Very humid climate. It forms in places where there is not enough sunlight, so moisture does not have time to evaporate
• Nivalny. This climate is characteristic of areas where precipitation falls mainly in solid form, it settles in the form of glaciers and snow debris, and does not have time to melt and evaporate.
• Urban. The air temperature in the city is always higher than in the surrounding area. Solar radiation arrives in reduced quantities, therefore daylight hours are shorter than at natural objects nearby. There are more clouds concentrated over cities and precipitation occurs more often, although in some populated areas humidity level is low

In general, on earth, climatic zones regularly alternate, but they are not always pronounced. In addition, climate features depend on the relief and terrain. In the area where it is most pronounced anthropogenic influence, the climate will differ from the conditions of natural objects. It should be noted that over time, a particular climatic zone undergoes changes, climatic indicators change, which leads to changes in ecosystems on the planet.

Main climate zones - video

Climate zones represent continuous or discontinuous areas that are located parallel to the latitudes of the planet. They differ among themselves in the circulation of air flows and the amount of solar energy. The terrain, proximity to or are also important climate-forming factors.

According to the classification of the Soviet climatologist B.P. Alisov, there are seven main types of Earth’s climate: equatorial, two tropical, two temperate and two polar (one each in the hemispheres). In addition, Alisov identified six intermediate zones, three in each hemisphere: two subequatorial, two subtropical, as well as subarctic and subantarctic.

Arctic and Antarctic climate zone

Arctic and Antarctic climate zone on the world map

The polar region adjacent to North Pole, called the Arctic. It includes the territory of the Northern Arctic Ocean, outskirts and Eurasia. The belt is represented by ice and, which are characterized by protracted harsh winters. The maximum summer temperature is +5°C. Arctic ice influence the Earth's climate as a whole, preventing it from overheating.

The Antarctic belt is located in the very south of the planet. The nearby islands are also under its influence. The pole of cold is located on the mainland, so winter temperatures average -60°C. Summer temperatures do not rise above -20°C. The territory is in the zone arctic deserts. The continent is almost completely covered with ice. Land areas are found only in the coastal zone.

Subarctic and Subantarctic climate zone

Subarctic and Subantarctic climate zone on the world map

The subarctic zone includes Northern Canada, southern Greenland, Alaska, northern Scandinavia, northern regions of Siberia and the Far East. The average winter temperature is -30°C. With the arrival of short summer, the temperature rises to +20°C. In the north of this climate zone it dominates, which is characterized by high air humidity, swampiness and frequent winds. The south is located in the forest-tundra zone. The soil has time to warm up during the summer, so shrubs and woodlands grow here.

Within the subantarctic belt are the islands of the Southern Ocean near Antarctica. The zone is subject to seasonal influence of air masses. In winter, arctic air dominates here, and in summer masses come from the temperate zone. The average winter temperature is -15°C. Storms, fog and snowfalls often occur on the islands. During the cold season, the entire water area is occupied by ice, but with the onset of summer they melt. Indicators for warm months average -2°C. The climate can hardly be called favorable. Vegetable world represented by algae, lichens, mosses and forbs.

Temperate climate zone

Temperate climate zone on the world map

A quarter of the entire surface of the planet lies in the temperate zone: North America, and. Its main feature is the clear expression of the seasons of the year. The prevailing air masses produce high humidity and low pressure. The average winter temperature is 0°C. In summer the mark rises above fifteen degrees. The prevailing cyclones in the northern part of the zone provoke snow and rain. Most of the precipitation falls as summer rain.

Areas inland of continents are prone to drought. represented by alternating forests and arid regions. In the north it grows, the flora of which is adapted to low temperatures and high humidity. It is gradually being replaced by a mixed zone deciduous forests. A strip of steppes in the south encircles all continents. The semi-desert and desert zone covers western North America and Asia.

Temperate climates are divided into the following subtypes:

• nautical;
• temperate continental;
• sharply continental;
• monsoon.

Subtropical climate zone

Subtropical climate zone on the world map

In the subtropical zone there is part Black Sea coast, southwest and , south northern and . In winter, areas are influenced by air moving from the temperate zone. The mark on the thermometer rarely drops below zero. In summer, the climate zone is affected by subtropical cyclones, which warm the earth well. In the eastern part of the continents it dominates wet air. There are long summers and mild winters without frost. The western coasts are characterized by dry summers and warm winters.

In the interior regions of the climate zone, temperatures are much higher. The weather is almost always clear. Most precipitation falls during the cold period, when air masses shift to the side. On the coasts there are hard-leaved forests with an undergrowth of evergreen shrubs. In the northern hemisphere, they are replaced by a zone of subtropical steppes, smoothly flowing into the desert. In the southern hemisphere, steppes give way to broad-leaved and deciduous forests. Mountainous areas are represented by forest-meadow zones.

In subtropical climatic zone The following climate subtypes are distinguished:

• subtropical oceanic climate and Mediterranean climate;
• subtropical inland climate;
• subtropical monsoon climate;
• climate of high subtropical highlands.

Tropical climate zone

Tropical climate zone on the world map

The tropical climate zone covers certain territories in all except Antarctica. The region dominates the oceans all year round high blood pressure. Because of this, there is little rainfall in the climate zone. Summer temperature indicators in both hemispheres exceed +35°C. Average winter temperatures are +10°C. Average daily temperature fluctuations are felt in the interior of the continents.

Most of the time the weather here is clear and dry. The bulk of precipitation falls on winter months. Significant temperature changes provoke dust storms. On the coasts the climate is much milder: winters are warm and summers are mild and humid. Strong winds practically absent, precipitation occurs in the calendar summer. Dominant natural areas are rainforests, deserts and semi-deserts.

The tropical climate zone includes the following climate subtypes:

• trade wind climate;
• tropical dry climate;
• tropical monsoon climate;
• monsoon climate on tropical plateaus.

Subequatorial climate zone

Subequatorial climate zone on the world map

The subequatorial climate zone affects both hemispheres of the Earth. In summer, the zone is influenced by equatorial humid winds. In winter, trade winds dominate. Average annual temperature is +28°C. Daily temperature changes are insignificant. Most of the precipitation falls in the warm season under the influence of the summer monsoons. The closer to the equator, the heavier the rains. In summer, most rivers overflow their banks, and in winter they dry up completely.

The flora is represented by monsoon mixed forests and woodlands. The foliage on trees turns yellow and falls off during drought. With the arrival of rains it is restored. Grasses and herbs grow in the open spaces of savannas. The flora has adapted to periods of rain and drought. Some remote forested areas have not yet been studied by humans.

Equatorial climate zone

Equatorial climate zone on the world map

The belt is located on both sides of the equator. The constant flow of solar radiation forms hot climate. On weather influenced by air masses coming from the equator. The difference between winter and summer temperatures is only 3°C. Unlike other climate zones, the equatorial climate remains virtually unchanged throughout the year. Temperatures do not fall below +27°C. Due to heavy precipitation, high humidity, fog and cloudiness occur. There are practically no strong winds, which has a beneficial effect on the flora.

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The climate within the Earth's surface varies zonally. The most modern classification, which explains the reasons for the formation of one or another type of climate, was developed by B.P. Alisov. It is based on the types of air masses and their movement.

Air masses– these are significant volumes of air with certain properties, the main ones being temperature and moisture content. The properties of air masses are determined by the properties of the surface over which they form. Air masses form the troposphere like the lithospheric plates that make up the earth's crust.

Depending on the area of ​​formation, there are four main types of air masses: equatorial, tropical, temperate (polar) and arctic (Antarctic). In addition to the area of ​​formation, the nature of the surface (land or sea) over which the air accumulates also matters. In accordance with this, the main zonal types of air masses are divided into marine and continental.

Arctic air masses are formed in high latitudes, above the icy surface of the polar countries. Arctic air is characterized by low temperatures and low moisture content.

Moderate air masses clearly divided into marine and continental. Continental temperate air is different low content moisture, high summer and low winter temperatures. Maritime temperate air forms over the oceans. It is cool in summer, moderately cold in winter and constantly humid.

Continental tropical air formed over tropical deserts. It's hot and dry. Sea air characterized by lower temperatures and significantly higher humidity.

equatorial air, forming in the zone at the equator both over the sea and over land, it has high temperature and humidity.

Air masses constantly move after the sun: in June - to the north, in January - to the south. As a result, territories are formed on the surface of the earth where one type of air mass dominates throughout the year and where air masses replace each other according to the seasons of the year.

The main feature of the climate zone is the dominance of certain types of air masses. are divided into basic(one zonal type of air mass dominates throughout the year) and transitional(air masses change each other seasonally). The main climatic zones are designated in accordance with the names of the main zonal types of air masses. In transition zones, the prefix “sub” is added to the name of the air masses.

Main climatic zones: equatorial, tropical, temperate, arctic (Antarctic); transitional: subequatorial, subtropical, subarctic.

All climatic zones except the equatorial one are paired, that is, they exist in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

In the equatorial climate zone Equatorial air masses dominate all year round and low pressure prevails. It is humid and hot throughout the year. Seasons of the year are not expressed.

Tropical air masses (hot and dry) dominate throughout the year tropical zones. Due to the downward movement of air that predominates throughout the year, very little precipitation falls. Summer temperatures here are higher than in the equatorial zone. The winds are trade winds.

For temperate zones characterized by the dominance of moderate air masses throughout the year. Western air transport predominates. Temperatures are positive in summer and negative in winter. Due to the predominance low blood pressure There is a lot of precipitation, especially on the ocean coasts. In winter, precipitation falls in solid form (snow, hail).

In the Arctic (Antarctic) belt Cold and dry arctic air masses dominate all year round. Characterized by downward air movement, north- and south-easterly winds, the predominance of negative temperatures throughout the year, and constant snow cover.

In the subequatorial belt There is a seasonal change in air masses, the seasons of the year are expressed. Due to the arrival of equatorial air masses, summer is hot and humid. In winter, tropical air masses dominate, making it warm but dry.

In the subtropical zone temperate (summer) and arctic (winter) air masses change. Winter is not only harsh, but also dry. Summers are significantly warmer than winters, with more precipitation.

Climatic regions are distinguished within climatic zones with different types of climates – maritime, continental, monsoon. Marine climate type formed under the influence of marine air masses. It is characterized by a small amplitude of air temperature across the seasons, high cloudiness, and a relatively large amount of precipitation. Continental climate type forms far from the ocean coast. It is distinguished by a significant annual amplitude of air temperatures, a small amount of precipitation, and distinct seasons. Monsoon climate characterized by changing winds according to the seasons of the year. At the same time, with the change of season, the wind changes direction to the opposite, which affects the precipitation regime. Rainy summer gives way to dry winter.

Largest number climatic regions available within the temperate and subtropical zones of the Northern Hemisphere.

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Climatic zones. The cycle of heat, moisture and general circulation of the atmosphere form the weather and climate in the geographic envelope. Types of air masses, features of their circulation in different latitudes create conditions for the formation of Earth's climates. The dominance of one air mass throughout the year determines the boundaries of climate zones.

Climate zones- these are territories that encircle the Earth in a continuous or intermittent strip; They differ from each other in temperature, atmospheric pressure, amount and regime of precipitation, prevailing air masses and winds. The symmetrical distribution of climate zones relative to the equator is a manifestation of the law geographical zonation. Highlight basic And transitional climatic zones. The names of the main climatic zones are given according to the dominant air masses and the latitudes in which they are formed.

There are 13 climatic zones: seven main and six transitional. The boundaries of each zone are determined by the summer and winter positions of climate fronts.

There are seven main climatic zones: equatorial, two tropical, two temperate and two polar (Arctic and Antarctic). In each of the climatic zones, one air mass dominates throughout the year - equatorial, tropical, temperate, arctic (Antarctic), respectively.

Between the main zones in each hemisphere, transitional climate zones are formed: two subequatorial, two subtropical and two subpolar (subarctic and subantarctic). IN transitional belts There is a seasonal change in air masses. They come from neighboring main belts: in summer the air mass is from the southern main belt, and in winter from the northern one. The proximity of oceans, warm and cold currents, and topography influence climatic differences within zones: climatic regions with different types climate.

Characteristics of climatic zones. Equatorial belt formed in the region of the equator in an intermittent strip, where equatorial air masses predominate. Average monthly temperatures range from +26 to +28 sC. Precipitation falls 1500-3000 mm evenly throughout the year. The equatorial belt is the wettest part of the earth's surface (the Congo River basin, the coast of the Gulf of Guinea in Africa, the Amazon River basin in South America, the Sunda Islands). There are continental and oceanic climate types, but the difference between them is small.

For subequatorial belts , encircling equatorial belt from the north and south, monsoon air circulation is characteristic. A feature of the belts is the seasonal change of air masses. In summer, equatorial air dominates, in winter - tropical. There are two seasons: wet summer and dry winter. In summer, the climate differs slightly from the equatorial one: high humidity, abundance atmospheric precipitation. During the winter season, hot, dry weather sets in, grasses burn out, and trees shed their leaves. The average air temperature in all months ranges from +20 to +30 °C. The annual precipitation is 1000-2000 mm, with maximum precipitation falling in summer.

Tropical zones are between 20¨ and 30¨s. and Yu. w. on both sides of the tropics, where trade winds prevail. (Remember why in tropical latitudes the air sinks and high pressure prevails.) Throughout the year, tropical air masses with high temperatures dominate here. The average temperature of the warmest month is +30...+35 ¨C, the coldest month is not lower than +10 ¨C. In the center of the continents the climate is tropical continental (desert). Cloud cover is insignificant, precipitation in most parts is less than 250 mm per year. Low rainfall causes the formation of the greatest deserts in the world - the Sahara and Kalahari in Africa, the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, and Australia.

In the eastern parts of the continents, which are influenced warm currents and trade winds blowing from the ocean, intensified by monsoons in the summer season, a tropical humid climate is formed. The average monthly temperature in summer is +26 ¨C, in winter +22 ¨C. Average annual precipitation is 1500 mm.

Subtropical zones (25-40¨ N and S) are formed under the influence of tropical air masses in summer and moderate ones in winter. The western parts of the continents have a Mediterranean climate: summers are dry, hot, the average temperature of the warmest month is +30 ¨C, and winters are wet and warm (up to +5...+10 ¨C), but short-term frosts are possible. On eastern coasts continents, a subtropical monsoon climate is formed with a hot (+25 ¨C) rainy summer and cool (+8 ¨C) dry winter. The amount of precipitation is 1000-1500 mm. Snow rarely falls. In the central parts of the continents, the climate is subtropical continental, with hot (+30 ¨C) and dry summers and relatively cold winter(+6…+8 ¨С) with low precipitation (300 mm). The subtropical humid climate is characterized by more uniform temperatures and precipitation. In summer +20 ¨С, in winter +12 ¨С, precipitation falls 800-1000 mm. (Use the climate map to determine the differences in sub-climates tropical zones.)

Temperate zones stretched in temperate latitudes from 40¨ n. and Yu. w. almost to the polar circles. Temperate air masses dominate here throughout the year, but arctic and tropical air masses can penetrate. In the Northern Hemisphere in the western continents, westerly winds and cyclonic activity predominate; in the east there are monsoons. As you move deeper into the territory, it increases annual amplitude air temperature (the coldest month - from +4...+6 °C to –48 °C, and the warmest month - from +12 °C to +30 °C). IN Southern Hemisphere The climate is mainly oceanic. There are 5 types of climate in the Northern Hemisphere: maritime, moderate continental, continental, sharply continental, and monsoon.

The maritime climate is formed under the influence of westerly winds blowing from the ocean (Northern and Central Europe, western North America, Patagonian Andes of South America). In summer temperatures are about +15…+17 °C, in winter - +5 °C. Precipitation falls throughout the year and reaches 1000-2000 mm per year. In the Southern Hemisphere, the temperate zone is dominated by an oceanic climate with mild summers, mild winters, heavy rainfall, westerly winds, unstable weather (“roaring” forties latitudes).

Continental climate is characteristic of the interior regions of large continents. In Eurasia, a moderate continental, continental, sharply continental climate is formed, in North America - moderate continental and continental. On average, July temperatures vary from +10 °C in the north to +24 °C in the south. In a temperate continental climate, the January temperature drops from west to east from –5° to –10 °C, in a sharply continental climate - to –35…–40 °C, and in Yakutia below –40 °C. The annual precipitation in a temperate continental climate is approximately 500-600 mm, in a sharply continental climate - about 300-400 mm. In winter, as you move eastward, the duration of stable snow cover increases from 4 to 9 months, and the annual temperature range also increases.

The monsoon climate is best expressed in Eurasia. In summer, a stable monsoon from the ocean prevails, the temperature is +18...+22 °C, in winter - –25 °C. At the end of summer - beginning of autumn, typhoons from the sea with gusty winds and heavy precipitation are frequent. Winters are relatively dry as the winter monsoon blows inland. Precipitation in the form of rain predominates in summer (800-1200 mm).

Subpolar belts (subarctic and subantarctic) located north and south of the temperate zone. They are characterized by seasonal changes in air masses: moderate air masses dominate in summer, and arctic (Antarctic) air masses dominate in winter. Continental subarctic climate characteristic of the northern margins of North America and Eurasia. Summer is relatively warm (+5…+10 °C) and short. Winter is severe (up to –55 °C). Here is the pole of cold in Oymyakon and Verkhoyansk (–71 °C). Small amount of precipitation - 200 mm. Permafrost and excessive moisture are widespread, and large areas are swamped. Oceanic climate in the Northern Hemisphere it is formed in the Greenland and Norwegian seas, in the Southern Hemisphere - around Antarctica. Cyclonic activity is widespread throughout the year. Cool summer (+3…+5 °C), floating sea and continental ice, relatively mild winter (–10…–15 °C). Winter precipitation is up to 500 mm, fog is constant.

Rice. 16. Characteristic types annual

Polar belts (Arctic and course of air temperatures of different Antarctic) located around the climatic zones of the poles. Continental climate prevails in Antarctica, Greenland, and the islands of the Canadian Arctic archipelago. There are negative temperatures all year round.

Oceanic climate is observed mainly in the Arctic. Temperatures here are negative, but during the polar day they can reach +2 °C. Precipitation - 100-150 mm (Fig. 16).

Bibliography

1. Geography 8th grade. Tutorial for 8th grade institutions of general secondary education with Russian as the language of instruction / Edited by Professor P. S. Lopukh - Minsk “People's Asveta” 2014

It is quite diverse and changes naturally with latitude, i.e. zonally. Therefore, the planet is divided into climatic zones - latitudinal bands, each of which has a relatively uniform climate. In total, there are 13 climatic zones in both hemispheres (Northern and Southern) (see the map of the atlas “Climatic zones and regions”). Their boundaries are determined by two factors: the amount of solar radiation and superior air masses.

There are main and transitional climatic zones. The main climatic zones, where one of the zonal types of air masses predominates throughout the year, include the equatorial, tropical, temperate, Arctic and Antarctic zones.

Transitional climatic zones are also called sub-zones (from the Latin “sub” - “under”, that is, under the main ones). Zonal air masses change here seasonally, coming from neighboring main belts. At the same time, they move with the Sun. So, when it is a warm season in the Northern Hemisphere, all air masses shift to the north, and when it is cold, on the contrary, to the south.
Using the map of the atlas “Climatic zones and regions”, find the main and transitional climatic zones.

Main climate types

Climate type is understood as a constant set of climate indicators, characteristic of a long period of time in a certain territory. These indicators are:

• amount of solar radiation;
• average temperature of the warmest and coldest months;
• annual amplitude of temperature fluctuations;
• prevailing air masses;
• average annual precipitation and its precipitation regime.

The equatorial, Antarctic and Arctic climate zones have only one type of climate, since they are characterized by constant air masses throughout the year. Climatic regions are also distinguished in the tropical, temperate zones and all climatic subzones. Each of them has its own type of climate.

Equatorial climate zone

At the equator, where the Sun is at its zenith twice a year, high air temperatures are observed throughout the year (+26 ° C - +28 ° C). The annual amplitude is small, approximately 2 ° -3 ° C. Humid equatorial air masses predominate here. Daily downpours cause a large annual amount of precipitation - about 2000-3000 mm. They fall out evenly throughout the year.

Tropical zones

Over tropical latitudes the Sun is also at its zenith. (What time?) The dryness of tropical air masses in the belt causes high transparency of the atmosphere.
Therefore, the amount of solar radiation here is high, which causes very high air temperatures. The usual temperature of the warmest month is +30 ° C, the coldest is +15 ° - +16 ° C. In summer, over land, the air temperature can reach its highest value at globe- almost +58 ° C. But in winter the surface cools down very quickly, and frosts occur on the soil.
Depending on the amount of precipitation in the tropical zone, there are sharp climatic contrasts. In the west and in the interior of the continents, an area of ​​tropical desert type climate is formed. Downward air movements prevail here; less than 100 mm of precipitation falls per year.

In the east of the tropical zones of the continents there is an area of ​​humid tropical climate. Marine tropical air masses that come with trade winds from the oceans reign here. Therefore, on the eastern coasts, especially in the mountains, several thousand millimeters of precipitation may fall during the year.

Temperate zones

In temperate latitudes, the amount of solar radiation fluctuates noticeably over 12 months, so the seasons are clearly defined. Moderate air masses prevail here all year round.

The temperate zone is characterized by significant climatic differences due to the nature of the underlying surface and the characteristics of the circulation of air masses. There are several climatic regions with corresponding climate types.
Region marine type climate is formed over oceanic expanses and on the western edges of continents. The culprit here is the annual temperature range due to the influence of the ocean. The amount of precipitation is high, over 1000 mm per year. Summer is cool, winter is mild.
Region temperate continental climate type(transitional to continental) is typical for the territory of Ukraine. Thus, in Kyiv the average temperature in January is -6 ° C, July is +19 ° C, and the amount of precipitation is 660 mm per year.

The interior regions of the continents, distant from the ocean, are located in the area of ​​continental climate type. It is characterized by low precipitation and significant annual temperature fluctuations. In some areas, such as Siberia, the difference between maximum summer and winter temperatures is more than 100° (more than +40°C in summer, -60°C in winter).
On the eastern edges of the continents in the temperate zone, a region of monsoon climate has formed. It is characterized by an annual alternation of two seasons - warm wet and cold dry. The wet summer season, with heavy rainfall, accounts for tens of times more precipitation than the dry season. For example, on the Pacific Coast, up to 95% of the annual precipitation sometimes falls in the summer. The average July temperature exceeds +20 ° C, and in winter it drops below -20 ° C.

Arctic and Antarctic belts have similar climatic conditions. The amount of solar radiation is very high on a polar day, but the high albedo causes the predominance of cold and dry Arctic or Antarctic air masses in these zones. Temperatures throughout the year are mostly negative. Precipitation is less than 200 mm per year.