Introduction to Geography, 6e (Dahlman/Renwick)
Chapter 2 Weather, Climate, and Climate Change
1) The fuel driving the weather is
A) gravity.
B) inertia of motion.
C) solar energy.
D) convection.
Answer: C
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 1. Describe the difference between weather and climate
2) Which of the following factors plays a relatively small role in the amount of solar energy
received at a particular place on the Earth?
A) the angle of the sun
B) the season of year
C) the length of day
D) distance of the Earth to the sun
Answer: D
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Comprehension
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
3) On a daily basis, the sun is most intense at
A) 6:00 AM.
B) 12 Noon.
C) 3:00 PM.
D) 6:00 PM.
Answer: B
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 4. Demonstrate the quantitative skills needed to succeed in Introductory
Geography.
Learning Outcome: 2. List ways that solar energy varies in time
1
4) The axis of rotation of the Earth is inclined how many degrees away from being perpendicular
to the sun's rays?
A) 23.5°
B) 66.5°
C) 45°
D) 90°
Answer: A
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Comprehension
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 4. Demonstrate the quantitative skills needed to succeed in Introductory
Geography.
Learning Outcome: 4. Explain how solar energy variations affect the weather
5) At the Tropic of Cancer the sun is directly overhead at noon on the
A) vernal equinox.
B) summer solstice.
C) autumnal equinox.
D) winter solstice.
Answer: B
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 2. List ways that solar energy varies in time
6) Latent heat is
A) heat in storage in water and water vapor.
B) detectable by sense of touch.
C) heat reflected into the atmosphere.
D) heat left behind by a resting object.
Answer: A
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 4. Explain how solar energy variations affect the weather
2
7) Movement of a fluid when part of it is heated is
A) convection.
B) advection.
C) sublimation.
D) conduction.
Answer: A
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 5. Discuss Convection
8) The energy with wavelengths between 0.4 to 0.7 microns is known as
A) infrared.
B) radio waves.
C) X-rays.
D) visible light.
Answer: D
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 4. Demonstrate the quantitative skills needed to succeed in Introductory
Geography.
Learning Outcome: 4. Explain how solar energy variations affect the weather
9) What best explains the movement of heat from tropical areas toward the poles?
A) advection
B) orographic fronts
C) polar fronts
D) specific heat
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 5. Discuss Convection
3
10) Temperatures in cities are higher as a result of
A) pavement and buildings storing heat during the day and releasing it at night.
B) increased evapotranspiration in the city.
C) greater insolation.
D) increased number of trees.
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
11) The amount of solar energy intercepted at a particular area on the Earth's surface is
A) insolation.
B) angle of incidence.
C) convection.
D) sensible heat.
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 2. List ways that solar energy varies in time
12) At which angle (of incidence) will the intensity of energy striking Earth be greatest?
A) 90°
B) 60°
C) 30°
D) 0°
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 4. Demonstrate the quantitative skills needed to succeed in Introductory
Geography.
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
4
13) Which area receives the most seasonal variation in incoming radiation?
A) equator
B) high latitudes
C) low latitudes
D) tropics
Answer: B
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
14) During the vernal equinox, which location receives the greatest amount of insolation?
A) poles
B) Tropic of Cancer
C) Tropic of Capricorn
D) equator
Answer: D
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
15) In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun is lowest in the sky with less radiation in the
A) winter.
B) spring.
C) summer.
D) fall.
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
5
16) From September to March, the Southern Hemisphere receives
A) less radiation than the Northern Hemisphere.
B) more radiation than the Northern Hemisphere.
C) exactly 12 hours of daylight and darkness.
D) 24 hours of daylight.
Answer: B
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
17) At what date will 50°N receive the largest amount of daylight?
A) March 21
B) June 21
C) September 22
D) December 21
Answer: B
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
18) In which zone would temperature vary more in a single day than between months?
A) low latitudes
B) mid-latitudes
C) polar areas
D) highlands
Answer: A
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Evaluation
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
6
19) Areas near oceans have ________ than areas in the interior of continents because of the great
storage capacity of water.
A) cooler winters, warmer summers
B) warmer winters, cooler summers
C) warmer winters, warmer summers
D) cooler winters, cooler summers
Answer: B
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 4. Explain how solar energy variations affect the weather
20) The conversion of water from vapor to liquid is the process of
A) convection.
B) condensation.
C) evaporation.
D) saturation.
Answer: B
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
21) Continental polar air masses tend to be
A) cool and wet.
B) cool and dry.
C) warm and dry.
D) warm and wet.
Answer: B
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
7
22) The maximum amount of water vapor the air can hold is
A) relative humidity.
B) saturation vapor pressure.
C) latent heat.
D) supersaturated.
Answer: B
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
23) Which of the following typically does NOT cause summer thunderstorms?
A) frontal uplift
B) convection
C) orographic uplift
D) adiabatic cooling
Answer: C
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
24) Rain shadows in mountainous areas are a result of
A) convection.
B) orographic uplift.
C) frontal uplift.
D) adiabatic cooling.
Answer: B
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
8
25) Regions on the rain-shadow (leeward) side of mountains (such as the Rockies and Andes) are
generally
A) humid continental.
B) tundra.
C) semi-arid.
D) Mediterranean.
Answer: C
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
26) In tropical climates, the combination of ________ with ________ creates intense daily
convective storms.
A) low temperatures, humidity
B) high temperatures, humidity
C) low temperatures, dry air
D) high temperatures, dry air
Answer: B
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Evaluation
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
27) If you were at a location that just experienced a thunderstorm with heavy downpours, what
could you predict about a location 25 miles to the southwest?
A) It received approximately the same rainfall.
B) It received more rainfall.
C) It received less rainfall.
D) It is not predictable.
Answer: D
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
9
28) Winds are deflected by ________, caused by the rotation of Earth.
A) the Coriolis effect
B) the greenhouse effect
C) the Milankovitch cycles
D) gyres
Answer: A
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 9. Describe general circulation patterns of the atmosphere
29) Which climate is influenced by the ITCZ most of the year?
A) humid tropical
B) desert
C) polar
D) marine west-coast
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 9. Describe general circulation patterns of the atmosphere
30) Most of the world's deserts occur in what zone?
A) Intertropical Convergence Zone
B) Subtropical High Pressure Zone
C) Mid-latitude Low Pressure Zone
D) Polar High Pressure Zones
Answer: B
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 9. Describe general circulation patterns of the atmosphere
10
31) If cold ocean currents hit the coast of a continent, it is likely that the coastal area will
A) have extensive precipitation.
B) be relatively arid.
C) have higher levels of evaporation than with warm currents.
D) be subtropical.
Answer: B
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 10. Describe oceanic circulation patterns
32) Regional large scale storms where winds converge on areas of low pressure are
A) tornados.
B) fronts.
C) cyclones.
D) hurricanes.
Answer: C
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 10. Describe oceanic circulation patterns
33) Off the coast of South America, as a result of a circulation change called El Niño,
A) the normal warm-water flow is often replaced by cool waters.
B) the normal cool-water flow is replaced by warm waters.
C) the fisheries off the coast increase in productivity.
D) no effect has been observed.
Answer: B
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 10. Describe oceanic circulation patterns
11
34) La Niña
A) always lasts for the same period of time as the previous El Niño.
B) only affects the Northern Hemisphere.
C) can lead to drought in the southern United States.
D) has nothing to do with ocean temperatures and circulation.
Answer: C
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 10. Describe oceanic circulation patterns
35) The seasonal reversal of pressure and wind over a large continent, known as monsoon
circulation, is characterized by
A) wind blowing toward the continental interior in the summer and toward the ocean in the
winter.
B) wind blowing toward the poles.
C) wind blowing toward the ocean in the winter and toward the continental interior in the winter.
D) wind blowing toward the equator.
Answer: A
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Evaluation
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 9. Describe general circulation patterns of the atmosphere
36) When climbing a mountain, what would you predict about temperatures?
A) The temperature will drop about 3.5°F for every 1000 feet climbed.
B) The temperature will drop about 5.6°F for every 1000 feet climbed.
C) The temperature will be the same as the temperature at the base of the mountain.
D) The temperature will begin to drop above 5000 feet.
Answer: A
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Climate
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 4. Demonstrate the quantitative skills needed to succeed in Introductory
Geography.
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
12
37) Where would higher levels of potential evapotranspiration occur on an average?
A) tropics
B) mid-latitudes
C) polar regions
D) continental interiors
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Climate
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 11. Explain the purpose of classifying climates
38) Which of the following is NOT considered when classifying climates?
A) weather patterns over several years
B) vegetation
C) terrain
D) unique weather events
Answer: D
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Climate
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 11. Explain the purpose of classifying climates
39) What climate region is designated as humid and tropical?
A) A
B) B
C) C
D) D
Answer: A
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
13
40) Most of the world's tropical rainforests lie within
A) 10°N and 10°S.
B) 30°N and 60°N.
C) 30°S and 60°S.
D) 60°S and 80°S.
Answer: A
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Comprehension
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
41) Boreal forest climates are associated with
A) subarctic climates.
B) Mediterranean climates.
C) tundras.
D) humid low latitude climates.
Answer: A
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
42) In the low latitudes the average temperature is between ________ °C.
A) 26 and 28
B) 35 and 37
C) 50 and 54
D) 65 and 72
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 4. Demonstrate the quantitative skills needed to succeed in Introductory
Geography.
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
14
43) On the Pacific Islands of Oceania, which climate would you expect to find?
A) humid continental
B) humid tropical
C) tundra
D) semiarid
Answer: B
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
44) Potential evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation in
A) dry lands.
B) the tropics.
C) continental climates.
D) the tundra.
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
45) Which side of China, South America, the United States, and Australia, has the driest climate?
A) North
B) South
C) East
D) West
Answer: D
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
15
46) In the Southeastern United States, which climate is dominant?
A) AW
B) BS
C) Cfa
D) Dwc
Answer: C
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
47) Marine west-coast climates are NOT
A) mild climates with a small annual temperature range.
B) plentifully moist year round.
C) found in places like Kodiak, Alaska.
D) commonly found in low latitudes.
Answer: D
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
48) Which of the following climates would you expect to find in coastal southern California?
A) humid tropical
B) desert
C) humid continental
D) Mediterranean
Answer: D
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
16
49) Permafrost occurs in what kind of climate?
A) Dfa
B) Csa
C) ET
D) Aw
Answer: C
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
50) If you are told you are in a BWh climate, in which of the following locations might you be?
A) Poland
B) Sahara Desert
C) Florida
D) Iceland
Answer: B
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
51) Warm Midlatitude Climates have seasonal variations of insolation that profoundly influence
temperature, which is a result of
A) El Niño.
B) hilly terrain.
C) the tilt of the Earth's axis.
D) the distribution of oceans.
Answer: C
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
17
52) During the twentieth century, the Earth's atmospheric temperature increased by about
________ degree(s) Celsius.
A) .3
B) 1
C) 2
D) 3
Answer: B
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
53) Climate over the past 2 million years has
A) stayed the same.
B) become progressively cooler.
C) become progressively warmer.
D) shifted between warm and cool periods.
Answer: D
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
54) Which gas, contributed in part by burning fossil fuels, is used by scientists as an indicator of
future global warming?
A) CO2
B) nitrogen
C) oxygen
D) hydrogen
Answer: A
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
18
55) As distance from the equator increases, the difference between winter and summer amounts
of solar radiation increases.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Comprehension
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
56) Water vapor plays a significant role in the greenhouse effect.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 4. Explain how solar energy variations affect the weather
57) On a sunny day water heats up more quickly than land, and at night the water cools down
more quickly than land.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
58) When water vapor condenses in the atmosphere, sensible heat is absorbed and converted to
latent heat.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 4. Explain how solar energy variations affect the weather
19
59) Precipitation occurs because air is warmed adiabatically as it rises.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
60) A front is a boundary between two different types of air, such as warm air and cold air.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 7. Describe cold fronts
61) When warm air advances into cooler air, a warm front is formed.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 8. Describe warm fronts
62) Precipitation associated with cold fronts is usually more intense and localized than
precipitation from warm fronts.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 7. Describe cold fronts
63) The Intertropical Convergence Zone is a low-pressure zone generally located near the
equator.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 9. Describe general circulation patterns of the atmosphere
20
64) El Niño is a shift in the circulation in the Pacific Ocean that occurs every year in December.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 10. Describe oceanic circulation patterns
65) Hurricanes are weakest over oceans during the winter.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 9. Describe general circulation patterns of the atmosphere
66) La Niña usually causes a drought in Southeast Asia.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 10. Describe oceanic circulation patterns
67) Temperature is usually measured 20 meters above the ground in a sealed container.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Climate
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 11. Explain the purpose of classifying climates
68) Desert climates do not occur in coastal areas.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
21
69) Mediterranean climates are generally found on the west coasts of continents.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
70) Most of the rainfall in seasonally-humid tropical climate comes from passing cold fronts.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
71) Mediterranean climates have the least rainfall in the season when potential
evapotranspiration (POTET) is the highest.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Evaluation
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
72) Climatic variations during the Quaternary Period had very little effect on Earth's
environments outside the areas covered with glacial ice.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Comprehension
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
73) Periods of increasing glacier mass would likely be accompanied by decreasing ocean levels.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Comprehension
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
22
74) Volcanic eruptions are a cause of global warming.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Comprehension
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
75) Unusual weather events seem to have increased in frequency over the last few decades.
Answer: TRUE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Comprehension
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
76) Extreme weather should be less frequent and less intense over the next century.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
77) Scientists who study climate change are about evenly divided on whether or not the Earth's
atmosphere is getting warmer.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
78) Global warming will likely lead to less intense hurricanes.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
23
79) Global warming will result in a worldwide decrease in precipitation.
Answer: FALSE
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
80) Define "climate."
Answer: Weather, especially temperature and precipitation, averaged over a period of years.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 11. Explain the purpose of classifying climates
81) Indicate the approximate date or dates at which the noonday sun is seen directly overhead at
the following latitudes:
23.5°S ___________________________
0°
___________________________
23.5°N ___________________________
Answer: Dec. 21; Mar 21 and Sept. 22; June 21.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 4. Demonstrate the quantitative skills needed to succeed in Introductory
Geography.
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
82) Describe the greenhouse effect in terms of radiant energy exchanges.
Answer: Shortwave energy from the sun passes through the atmosphere, is absorbed by Earth's
surface, and is re-radiated as longwave energy, which is absorbed by the atmosphere, thus
warming it.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
24
83) On an average annual basis the tropics receive more radiation from the sun than they send
back as longwave radiation, and high-latitude areas send out more longwave radiation than they
receive as shortwave radiation from the sun. How is this possible?
Answer: Excess heat absorbed in the tropics is advected in the atmosphere and ocean currents to
high latitudes where it is radiated to space.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 3. List ways that solar energy varies in space
84) Why do hurricanes develop mostly over ocean areas, and usually in late summer and early
autumn?
Answer: They develop over ocean areas because they depend on latent heat as a major source of
energy; latent heat is most plentiful in late summer and early autumn when the ocean is warmest.
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 10. Describe oceanic circulation patterns
85) Explain how precipitation is usually measured.
Answer: It is usually measured by collecting rain or snow in a cylindrical container that is
marked in millimeters or hundredths of an inch. Snowfall is normally recorded as the amount of
liquid water.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Climate
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 4. Demonstrate the quantitative skills needed to succeed in Introductory
Geography.
Learning Outcome: 11. Explain the purpose of classifying climates
25
86) In climate classification and mapping, what is the advantage of defining climate types based
on vegetation?
Answer: Vegetation is influenced by climate, so differences in vegetation can be used as
indicators of climate type where weather data are lacking.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Climate
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 7. Demonstrate the ability to make connections across Geography.
Learning Outcome: 11. Explain the purpose of classifying climates
87) D climates occur exclusively in the ________ Hemisphere.
Answer: Northern
Diff: 1
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Knowledge
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
88) Consider a Mediterranean climate in the Northern Hemisphere. In what months does the
rainy season occur? Why does rainfall occur mostly at this time of year and not at other times?
Answer: The rainy season is in the winter (December-February) because during this season the
mid-latitude low dominates, while in the summer the subtropical high dominates this climate.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
89) During what months of the year does the rainy season occur in a seasonally humid tropical
climate in the Southern Hemisphere?
Answer: During the high-sun period: December-February.
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Evaluation
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
26
90) In the Köppen climate classification, humid climates are grouped according to temperature,
but dry climates are identified by a combination of temperature and precipitation information.
Why are both types of data needed to identify dry climates?
Answer: Because dry climates are defined in terms of the amount of moisture needed to support
vegetation, which is higher in warm climates than in cool climates.
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
91) What causes the precipitation shifts of seasonally humid tropical climates?
Answer: When the ITCZ moves from one hemisphere to the next it brings maximum
precipitation with it.
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Earth's Climate Regions
Bloom's Taxonomy: Evaluation
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 9. Describe general circulation patterns of the atmosphere
92) Identify two different geologic processes that may cause climatic change.
Answer: Plate tectonics changes the distribution of land and water, influencing circulation.
Volcanic eruptions eject dust and sulfur oxides into the atmosphere, causing temporary cooling.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
93) Discuss the role of latent heat exchange in energy movements at the global scale.
Answer: Latent heat exchange is when water changes state and is a key component of the
precipitation process and involves the transfer of tremendous energy from low latitudes to high
latitudes causing the development of major weather systems and hurricanes.
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Energy and Weather
Bloom's Taxonomy: Evaluation
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
27
94) Describe the mechanisms that cause precipitation.
Answer: The mechanisms that cause precipitation are condensation, the conversion of water
vapor to a liquid state, and rising air through convection, orographic uplift or frontal uplift.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Precipitation
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the principals of scientific inquiry.
Learning Outcome: 6. Discuss convection's relationship to weather
95) Describe the weather you would experience with the passage of a mid-latitude cyclone.
Answer: During a mid-latitude cyclone you would encounter significant changes in temperature
and precipitation and would experience shifting winds.
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Circulation Patterns
Bloom's Taxonomy: Analysis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 10. Describe oceanic circulation patterns
96) Describe the five major categories of the Köppen Climate Classification.
Answer: Climate A - Tropical, climates that are warm all year; Climate B - Dry Climates;
Climate C - Midlatitude Climates with warm summers and cool winters; Climate D - Midlatitude
Climates with warm summers and cold winters; Climate E - Polar Climates
Diff: 2
Topic/Section: Climate
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Learning Outcome: 11. Explain the purpose of classifying climates
97) What two weather conditions contribute to climate classifications? What role does vegetation
play in classifying climates?
Answer: The two summary weather conditions that contribute to climate classification are
precipitation and temperature. Precipitation helps to determine wet or dry climates where
temperature is used to determine hot or cold climates. Vegetation was used by Köppen to provide
more meaning to climate classifications than arbitrary temperature and precipitation levels.
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Climate
Bloom's Taxonomy: Synthesis
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 2. Demonstrate the ability to think critically and employ critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcome: 12. Describe the major climate types
28
98) Explain global warming, its causes, and its consequences.
Answer: Global warming is the result of the Earth's temperature increasing during the 20th
century by approximately 1 degree Celsius. This increase in global temperature is due to
increases in greenhouse gases such as CO2 that enhance the greenhouse effect. The effects of
global warming are a reduction in the size of glaciers and the polar ice sheets and consequently a
rise in sea level.
Diff: 3
Topic/Section: Climate Change
Bloom's Taxonomy: Evaluation
Nat Geo Standard: 7. Physical Systems: The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth's
surface
Global Sci LO: 5. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of science on society.
Learning Outcome: 13. Describe three major causes or climate change
29