Equatorial climate zone occupies the region of the Congo River basin and the coast of the Gulf of Guinea in Africa, the Amazon River basin in South America, and the Sunda Islands off the coast of Southeast Asia. The rupture of the climate zone on the eastern shores of the continents is explained by the dominance of subtropical pressure maxima over the oceans. The greatest flow of air occurs along the equatorial peripheries of baric maxima; it covers the eastern shores of the continents. In the equatorial belt, tropical air brought by trade winds is humidified. Equatorial air is formed at low pressure, weak winds and high temperatures. The amount of total radiation 580–670 kJ/cm2 per year is slightly reduced due to high cloudiness and humidity at equatorial latitudes. The radiation balance on the continent is 330 kJ/cm2 per year, on the ocean it is 420–500 kJ/cm2 per year.

At the equator, equatorial VMs dominate throughout the year. The average air temperature ranges from +25º to +28º C, high relative humidity remains, 70–90%. In the equatorial latitudes, on both sides of the equator, an intertropical convergence zone is distinguished, which is characterized by the convergence of the trade winds of the two hemispheres, causing powerful upward air currents. But convection develops not only for this reason. Heated air, saturated with water vapor, rises, condenses, and cumulonimbus clouds form, from which rainfall falls in the afternoon. In this belt, the annual precipitation exceeds 2000 mm. There are places where the amount of precipitation increases to 5000 mm. High temperatures throughout the year and large amounts of precipitation create conditions for the development of rich vegetation on land - moist equatorial forests - gils (in South America, moist forests are called selva, in Africa - jungles).

Continental and oceanic types of equatorial climate differ slightly.

Climate of the subequatorial zone confined to the vast expanses of the Brazilian Highlands, Central Africa (north, east and south of the Congo River basin), Asia (on the Hindustan and Indochina peninsulas), Northern Australia.

Total solar radiation is about 750 kJ/cm2 per year, the radiation balance is 290 kJ/cm2 per year on land and up to 500 kJ/cm2 per year on the ocean.

The subequatorial climate zone is characterized by monsoon air circulation: air moves from the tropical latitudes of the winter hemisphere as the winter dry monsoon (trade wind), after crossing the equator it transforms into the summer wet monsoon. A characteristic feature of this belt is the change of air masses according to the seasons: equatorial air dominates in summer, and tropical air in winter. There are two seasons – wet (summer) and dry (winter). In the summer season, the climate differs slightly from the equatorial one: high humidity, heavy precipitation caused by rising currents of equatorial air. The total amount of precipitation is 1500 mm; on the windward slopes of the mountains, their amount increases sharply (Cherrapunji - 12,660 mm). During the winter season, conditions change dramatically with the arrival of dry tropical air: hot, dry weather sets in, grasses burn out, trees shed their leaves. Within the continents and on their western shores, the vegetation cover of the subequatorial belt is represented by savannas, while moist equatorial forests dominate on the eastern shores.

Tropical climate zone in the Southern Hemisphere it spreads in a continuous strip, expanding over the oceans. The oceans are dominated throughout the year by constant baric maxima, in which tropical EMs are formed. In the Northern Hemisphere, the tropical belt breaks over Indochina and Hindustan; The gap in the belt is explained by the fact that the dominance of tropical VMs is not observed throughout the year. In summer, equatorial air penetrates into the South Asian minimum; in winter, moderate (polar) air forces invade from the Asian maximum far to the south.

The annual value of total radiation on the continents is 750–849 kJ/cm2 per year (in the Northern Hemisphere up to 920 kJ/cm2 per year), on the ocean 670 kJ/cm2 per year; radiation balance is 250 kJ/cm2 per year on the continent and 330–420 kJ/cm2 per year on the ocean.

In the tropical climate zone, tropical VMs dominate throughout the year, which differ high temperatures. The average temperature of the warmest month exceeds +30º C, on some days the temperature rises to +50º C, and the Earth's surface heats up to +80º C (the maximum temperature is +58º C recorded on the northern coast of Africa). Due to the increased pressure and downward air currents, condensation of water vapor almost does not occur, so there is very little precipitation in most of the tropical zone - less than 250 mm. This causes the formation of the greatest deserts in the world - the Sahara and Kalahari in Africa, the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, and Australia.

The climate in the tropical zone is not dry everywhere. The climate of the eastern coasts (trade winds blow from the ocean) is characterized by a large amount of precipitation - 1500 mm (Large Antilles, eastern coast of the Brazilian plateau, eastern coast of Africa in the Southern Hemisphere). The climate features are also explained by the influence of warm currents approaching the eastern shores of the continents. The climate of the western coasts (called “garua” - drizzling fog) is developed on the western shores of North and South America and Africa. The peculiarity of the climate is that in the absence of precipitation (in Atacama 0 mm per year), the relative humidity is 85–90%. The formation of the climate of the western coasts is influenced by a constant pressure maximum over the ocean and cold currents off the coasts of the continents.

Subtropical climate developed in a continuous strip approximately between 25º and 40º latitude in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. This belt is characterized by a change in air masses by season: in summer, tropical air masses are formed in pressure maxima on the oceans and in thermal depressions on land; In winter, moderate VMs dominate. Therefore, in the subtropical zone there are two climate regimes - temperate and tropical.

The total solar radiation is 585–670 kJ/cm2 per year, the radiation balance is 200 kJ/cm2 per year on the continent and 290–330 kJ/cm2 per year on the ocean.

The climate of the western coasts is called Mediterranean (coast Mediterranean Sea in Europe, California in North America, northern Chile in South America, southwest Africa and Australia). Its peculiarity is that in summer a high-pressure area from the tropics moves here, where tropical dry air is formed, and in winter air from temperate latitudes comes here and, thanks to the activation of the polar front, precipitation falls (up to 1000 mm).

The climate of the eastern coasts is monsoonal in nature and is especially pronounced on the eastern coast of Asia and the southeastern part of North America. In summer, humid tropical air masses arrive here from the ocean (summer monsoon), bringing heavy clouds and precipitation (temperature is +25º C). Winter monsoons bring flows of continental air from temperate latitudes, the temperature of the coldest month is +8º C. The total precipitation is about 1000 mm.

Continental climate (arid) is developed in North America (Great Basin) and in the interior of Asia (Eastern Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan). Throughout the year, dry air masses predominate: in summer – tropical, in winter – continental air of temperate latitudes. The average monthly temperature in summer is about +30º C, the maximum temperature is more than +50º C; in winter – +6º – +8º C, minimum temperature falls below 0º C. The annual temperature range is 25º C. The total amount of precipitation is 300 mm. Deserts are located in the central regions of the continents.

Temperate climate zone distributed approximately between 40º north and south latitudes and the polar circles. In the Southern Hemisphere, the climate is mainly oceanic; in the Northern Hemisphere, there are four types of climate: continental, oceanic, western and eastern coasts.

The total radiation is 330–500 kJ/cm2 per year, the radiation balance is 85–170 kJ/cm2 per year. In summer, the value of the radiation balance is almost equal to the value of the radiation balance of tropical latitudes due to the long day length. In winter, the radiation balance is negative due to the low height of the Sun above the horizon, short day length and high albedo of snow cover.

In the temperate climate zone, temperate (polar) air masses dominate throughout the year, but their dominance is relative: very often arctic and tropical air masses invade temperate latitudes. Features of atmospheric circulation are westerly winds, most stable in winter, and cyclonic activity.

Continental climate is widespread in Eurasia (central regions middle zone Russia, Ukraine, northern Kazakhstan) and North America (southern Canada). In summer, there is an intensive transformation of air masses coming from the ocean and the north over the continents. The air is heated and additionally humidified by moisture evaporating from the surface of the continent. The average monthly temperature in July increases from +10º C at the border with the subarctic zone to +24º C at the border with the subtropical zone. July isotherms are located sublatitudinally, deviating poleward on continents due to stronger heating. The maximum summer temperature reaches +46º C on the border with the subtropical zone. January temperatures decrease from –5 – –10ºС in a temperate continental climate to –35 – –40ºС in a sharply continental climate. The annual temperature range increases to 60º.

The continental climate is characterized by a moderate continental type of annual precipitation with a summer maximum. The total amount of precipitation decreases from west to east: in a temperate continental climate 800 mm, in a continental climate – 600 mm, in a sharp continental climate – about 300 mm. Winter is characterized by stable snow cover, the duration of which increases from 4 months in a moderate continental climate to 9 months in a sharply continental climate. A wide range of zones has been developed, from taiga forests to deserts.

The climate of the western coasts (marine) is formed under the influence of westerly winds coming from the ocean (Western Europe, western North America, Canada, southern South America - Chile). The average monthly temperature in July is +12 – +15º C, the average monthly temperature in January is +5º C, the annual temperature range is 10º. There is a moderate marine type of annual precipitation: precipitation falls almost evenly throughout the year with a slight winter maximum. The total precipitation is 1000 mm; on the western slope of the Cordillera in North America, its value increases to 3000 mm; broad-leaved oak and oak-hornbeam forests grow here.

The climate of the eastern coasts is most widespread on the eastern coast of Asia (northeast China, Far East). The uniqueness of the climate lies in the monsoon air circulation. In summer, from constant pressure maxima on the oceans, the marine tropical air mass moves to the eastern shores, along the way it transforms and turns into a marine temperate (polar) air mass.

The average monthly temperature in July is
+18 – +20º C.

In winter, from the seasonal pressure maxima on the continents, a cold moderate (polar) air mass approaches the coast. The temperature in winter is –25º C, the annual temperature range is 45º. There is a monsoon type of annual precipitation with a large summer maximum, the total amount is 600–700 mm, coniferous and mixed forests grow.

The oceanic climate is developed in the Southern Hemisphere over a continuous ring of water in temperate latitudes. In the northern hemisphere, it is formed in the northern part of the quiet and Atlantic Oceans. Constant baric minimums remain over the ocean throughout the year: in the Northern Hemisphere - Icelandic, Aleutian, in the Southern - Antarctic belt low blood pressure. Summer temperature is +15º C, winter – +5º C, the annual temperature range is 10º. Cyclonic activity is observed throughout the year, intensifying in winter. Precipitation falls throughout the year with a slight winter maximum, the total amount being about 1000 mm.

Subpolar climate located north of the temperate zone in the Northern Hemisphere and south in the Southern Hemisphere. These are transitional zones - subarctic and subantarctic, which are characterized by changes in air masses by season: in summer - air of temperate latitudes, in winter - arctic (Antarctic).

The amount of total radiation is 330 kJ/cm2 per year, the radiation balance is about 40 kJ/cm2 per year. Most of the year the radiation balance is negative. The phenomenon of polar night and polar day is observed in the belt.

Continental subarctic climate is developed in the Northern Hemisphere in North America and Eurasia. Summer is relatively warm, short, the average monthly temperature in July is +5 – +10º C. Winter is severe, the average monthly temperature in January decreases from –10º C on the western shores (the influence of warm currents and westerly winds) to –55º C inland. At the cold poles in Oymyakon and Verkhoyansk, a minimum temperature of –71º C was noted. The annual temperature range is 60º. The continental climate is characterized by low precipitation with a maximum in summer, the total amount being 200 mm. In winter, a stable snow cover is established, permafrost is widespread, and tundra landscapes dominate.

The oceanic climate in the Northern Hemisphere is formed in the Greenland and Norwegian Seas, in the Southern Hemisphere - around Antarctica. The average monthly temperature in summer (July in the Northern Hemisphere, January in the Southern Hemisphere) is +3 – +5º C, the average monthly temperature in winter is from –25º to –30º C, the annual temperature range is 30º. Cyclonic activity is widespread throughout the year; the amount of precipitation compared to the continental climate is greater - 400 mm. Fogs are typical due to high relative air humidity (about 80–90%).

Climate of the polar regions(Arctic and Antarctic) developed around the poles and is characterized by cold air masses under conditions of high pressure.

The amount of total radiation is 250 kJ/cm 2 per year, the radiation balance is about zero. Most of the year the radiation balance is negative. The duration of the polar day and polar night increases from one day at the Arctic Circle to six months at the pole. In the climate zone in the Northern Hemisphere, Arctic VMs dominate throughout the year; in the Southern Hemisphere, Antarctic VMs dominate over Antarctica.

The continental climate is formed in constant pressure maxima - Greenland in the Northern Hemisphere and Antarctic in the Southern Hemisphere. A polar type of annual temperature variation is observed: one maximum after the summer solstice (in the Northern Hemisphere), the average monthly temperature in July is –8º C, in the Southern Hemisphere in January the temperature is –30 ○ C. In winter, temperatures drop to –50 – –55º C. An absolute minimum temperature of –89.2º C is recorded in Antarctica. The annual temperature range is 30º C. Winds of 100 m/s are observed on the outskirts of Antarctica. There is little precipitation, the total amount is about 100 mm. In Greenland and Antarctica there is frequent fog and relative humidity is about 80%. Modern sheet glaciation has developed here; the thickness of the ice sheet in Antarctica reaches 4–4.5 km.

On Earth it is very diverse due to the fact that the planet heats unevenly, and precipitation also falls unevenly. 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. Let's look at the main characteristics and features of climate zones.

Types of climate zones:

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 this belt has a lot of wetlands, as well as a lot of dense rain forests, due to the marshy soil. Precipitation in these areas of the equatorial belt is brought by trade winds, that is, rainy winds. This type of climate is located over the north of 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 parts of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, which are located in Asia, and over the shores of Lake Victoria, which is located in Africa.

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 climates. The mainland is located over a larger area of ​​high pressure area, therefore, there is little precipitation in this belt, 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 of rocks.

Due to the great disintegration of rocks, great amount dust and sand, which later 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 a little similar to, 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. There is a lot of precipitation on the coasts - 3000 mm, and in the 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 subclimates predominate in western 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 one, which predominates in Kamchatka, Korea, northern Japan, and parts 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 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. All year round Polar air masses dominate here. 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

Here, in the summer, equatorial masses arrive, and in the winter, tropical masses dominate. There is a lot of precipitation only in the summer - about 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 drainage. The air temperature here reaches +14 degrees and in terms of precipitation, there is very little in winter. Good drainage of the soil prevents water from stagnating and forming, as in. 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 and 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.

Tropical air masses predominate here in summer, and in winter they come here from temperate latitudes and carry large amounts of precipitation. Summer is dry and hot, and temperatures reach +50 degrees. Winters are very mild with a maximum temperature of -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. Monsoon winds prevail here. 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 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, while the southern parts have very little. 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), ( Cold winter and rainy summers), as well as a climate transitional from the maritime climate zone to the continental climate zone.

and 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. There are several climate zones in the subtropics: the monsoon, which brings rain from the ocean to the land and the coast, the Mediterranean, which has a high amount of precipitation, and the continental, which has much less precipitation and is drier and warmer.

and 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 the heavy rains that prevail 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 the characteristics of air mass circulation;
• 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 the earth's surface. The determination of solar climate is influenced by astronomical indicators, season and latitude;
• Mountain. Climatic conditions at altitude in the mountains are characterized by low atmospheric pressure and clean air, increased solar radiation and increased precipitation;
• . Dominates in semi-deserts. There are large fluctuations in temperature between day and night, and there is practically no precipitation and is a rare occurrence once every few years;
• . 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 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 over the cities, and precipitation occurs more often, although in some settlements the humidity level is lower.

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 zone where anthropogenic influence is most pronounced, 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

In order to define such a concept as a climate zone, it is necessary to distinguish between such concepts as climate and weather.

Climate is usually called the average established weather regime, and the definition of weather sounds like the state of the troposphere at a certain time in a certain place. What is a climate zone, and what are its types?

The concept of a climate zone and its features

A latitudinal strip of the earth's surface, which differs from other strips in the intensity of solar heating and atmospheric circulation, is usually called a climate zone.

In total, there are 7 types of climate zones on planet Earth. But these types also have their own classification; they are divided into two types of climatic zones: main and transitional. The main belts are also called permanent belts.

Main and transition belts

The main or permanent type of climate zone is considered to be the zone in which one air mass predominates throughout the year. And transitional ones are characterized by a change in air masses - colder ones come in winter, and hotter ones come in summer. The names of transition zones are written with the prefix “sub”.

The equatorial, temperate, arctic and tropical zones are considered to be permanent climatic zones. And among the variables, the subequatorial belt, subtropical and subarctic are distinguished.

Equatorial belt

This type of permanent belt is located in the equator region. It is considered to be the only belt that is torn into several parts. Throughout the year it is influenced by one air mass, which is also called equatorial.

The main characteristics of the belt: heat (temperature from 20°C), large amounts of precipitation - up to 7000 mm per year, high humidity. The natural zone of this belt is humid forests, which are home to many poisonous animals and plants.

The equatorial belt includes the Amazon Lowland, which is located in South America, the Greater Sunda Islands and equatorial Africa.

Subequatorial belt

This type of belt is located between tropical and equatorial. This means that throughout the year two air masses of these belts alternate on its territory.

The subequatorial belt is characteristic of northern South America, the Hindustan Peninsula, Northern Australia and Southeast Asia.

Tropical and subtropical zones

The tropical type of climate zone is characteristic of tropical latitudes. In the tropics, the weather will depend on the height of the sun above the horizon. The tropical zone is characterized by sharp changes in temperature - from cold to hot.

For this reason it natural area presented in the form of semi-deserts and deserts, plant and animal world of which is very scarce. The tropical zone is typical for Mexico, North Africa, the Caribbean islands, southern Brazil and Central Australia.

The subtropical zone is located between the temperate and tropical zones. They separate the southern and northern subtropical zones. In summer, tropical heat reigns here, which is characterized by dryness, and in winter a moderate cold air mass prevails.

The subtropical zone is located in North America (USA), it is characteristic of southern Japan, North Africa and the Great Chinese Plain. And in the southern hemisphere, the subtropical zone occupies the north of New Zealand, the south of Australia and the south of Africa.

Temperate zone

The main characteristic of this belt is that the temperature of one air mass varies by season: cold winter, hot summer, spring and autumn can be clearly distinguished. The temperate zone is characterized by negative temperatures.

Climate zones - These are climatically homogeneous regions of the Earth. They look like wide continuous or intermittent stripes. They are located along the latitudes of the globe.

General characteristics of the Earth's climate zones.

Climatic zones differ from each other:

• degree of heating by the sun;
• peculiarities of atmospheric circulation;
• seasonal changes in air masses.

Climatic zones differ significantly from each other, gradually changing from the equator to the poles. However, climate is influenced not only by the latitude of the Earth, but also by the terrain, proximity to the sea, and altitude.

In Russia and in most countries of the world, the classification of climate zones created by the famous Soviet climatologist is used B.P. Alisov in 1956.

According to this classification, there are four main climatic zones on the globe and three transitional ones - with the prefix “sub” (Latin “under”):

• Equatorial (1 belt);
• Subequatorial (2 zones - in the northern and southern hemispheres);
• Tropical (2 zones - in the northern and southern hemispheres);
• Subtropical (2 zones - in the northern and southern hemispheres);
• Moderate (2 zones - in the northern and southern hemispheres);
• Subpolar (2 zones - subantarctic in the south, subarctic in the north);
• Polar (2 zones - Antarctic in the south, Arctic in the north);

Within these climatic zones, four types of Earth's climate are distinguished:

• Continental,
• Oceanic,
• The climate of the western shores,
• Climate of the eastern shores.

Let us consider in more detail the climate zones of the Earth and the types of climates inherent in them.

Climatic zones and types of climates of the Earth:

1. Equatorial climate zone– the air temperature in this climate zone is constant (+24-28°C). At sea, temperature fluctuations can generally be less than 1°. The annual amount of precipitation is significant (up to 3000 mm); on the windward slopes of the mountains, precipitation can fall up to 6000 mm.

2. Subequatorial climate– is located between the equatorial and tropical main types of Earth’s climate. In summer, this belt is dominated by equatorial air masses, and in winter by tropical ones. The amount of precipitation in summer is 1000-3000 mm. Average summer temperature is +30°C. In winter there is little precipitation, the average temperature is +14°C.

Subequatorial and equatorial belts. From left to right: savannah (Tanzania), wet forest(South America)

3. Tropical climate zone. In this type of climate, a distinction is made between continental tropical climate and oceanic tropical climate.

• mainland tropical climate – annual precipitation – 100-250 mm. The average summer temperature is +35-40°C, winter +10-15°C. Daily temperature fluctuations can reach 40 °C.
• oceanic tropical climate – annual precipitation – up to 50 mm. The average summer temperature is +20-27°C, winter +10-15°C.

Tropical zones of the Earth. From left to right: deciduous forest (Costa Rica), veld ( South Africa), desert (Namibia).

4. Subtropical climate– is located between the tropical and temperate main types of Earth’s climate. In summer, tropical air masses dominate, and in winter, air masses of temperate latitudes invade here, carrying precipitation. The subtropical climate is characterized by hot, dry summers (from +30 to +50°C) and relatively cold winters with precipitation; no stable snow cover is formed. Annual precipitation is about 500 mm.

• dry subtropical climate - observed inside continents in subtropical latitudes. Summer is hot (up to +50°C) and in winter frosts down to -20°C are possible. Annual precipitation is 120 mm or less.
• Mediterranean climate – observed in the western parts of the continents. Summer is hot, without precipitation. Winter is cool and rainy. The annual precipitation is 450-600 mm.
• subtropical climate of the eastern coasts continents is monsoon. Winter, compared to other climates of the subtropical zone, is cold and dry, and summer is hot (+25°C) and humid (800 mm).

Subtropical zones of the Earth. From left to right: evergreen forest (Abkhazia), prairie (Nebraska), desert (Karakum).

5. Temperate climate zone. Forms over areas of temperate latitudes - from 40-45° northern and southern latitudes to the polar circles. Annual precipitation ranges from 1000 mm to 3000 mm on the outskirts of the continent and up to 100 mm in the interior. Temperatures in summer range from +10°C to +25-28°C. In winter - from +4°С to -50°С. In this type of climate, a distinction is made between marine, continental and monsoon climates.

• maritime temperate climate – annual precipitation - from 500 mm to 1000 mm, in the mountains up to 6000 mm. Summers are cool +15-20°C, winters are warm from +5°C.
• continental temperate climate – annual precipitation is about 400 mm. Summers are warm (+17-26°C), and winters are cold (-10-24°C) with stable snow cover for many months.
• monsoon temperate climate — annual precipitation is about 560 mm. Winter is clear and cold (-20-27°C), summer is humid and rainy (-20-23°C).

Natural zones of the Earth's temperate zones. From left to right: taiga (Sayan Mountains), deciduous forest (Krasnoyarsk Territory), steppe (Stavropol region), desert (Gobi).

6. Subpolar climate- consists of subarctic and subantarctic climatic zones. In summer, humid air masses come here from temperate latitudes, so summers are cool (from +5 to +10°C) and about 300 mm of precipitation falls (in the northeast of Yakutia 100 mm). In winter, the weather in this climate is influenced by Arctic and Antarctic air masses, so there are long, cold winters, temperatures can reach -50°C.
7. Polar climate type - Arctic and Antarctic climate zones. Forms above 70° north and below 65° south latitudes. The air is very cool, the snow cover does not melt all year. There is very little precipitation, the air is saturated with small ice needles. As they settle, they provide a total of only 100 mm of precipitation per year. The average summer temperature is not higher than 0°C, winter - -20-40°C.

Subpolar climate zones of the Earth. From left to right: arctic desert(Greenland), tundra (Yakutia), forest-tundra (Khibiny).

The characteristics of the Earth's climates are presented more clearly in the table.

Characteristics of the Earth's climatic zones. Table.

Note: Dear visitors, hyphens in long words in the table are placed for the convenience of mobile users - otherwise the words will not be transferred and the table will not fit on the screen. Thanks for understanding!

Climate type	Climate zone	Average temperature, °C			Atmospheric circulation	Territory
		January	July
Equatorial	Equatorial	+26	+26	During a year. 2000	In the area of ​​low atmospheric pressure warm and humid equatorial air masses form	Equatorial regions of Africa, South America and Oceania

Climate type	Climate zone	Average temperature, °C		Mode and quantity atmospheric precipitation, mm	Atmospheric circulation	Territory
		January	July
Tropical monsoon	Subequatorial	+20	+30	Mainly during the summer monsoon, 2000	Monsoons	South and Southeast Asia, Western and Central Africa, Northern Australia

Climate type	Climate zone	Average temperature, °C		Mode and amount of precipitation, mm	Atmospheric circulation	Territory
		January	July
Mediterranean	Subtropical	+7	+22	Mainly in winter, 500	In summer - anti-cyclones at high atmospheric pressure; in winter - cyclonic activity	Mediterranean, Southern coast of Crimea, South Africa, Southwestern Australia, Western California

Climate type	Climate zone	Average temperature, °C		Mode and amount of precipitation, mm	Atmospheric circulation	Territory
		January	July
Arctic (Antarctic)	Arctic (Antarctic)	-40	0	During the year, 100	Anticyclones predominate	The waters of the Arctic Ocean and the continent of Antarctica

Types of climates (climatic zones) of Russia:

• Arctic: January t −24…-30, summer t +2…+5. Precipitation - 200-300 mm.
• Subarctic: (up to 60 degrees N). summer t +4…+12. Precipitation is 200-400 mm.
• Moderate continental: January t −4…-20, July t +12…+24. Precipitation 500-800 mm.
• Continental climate: January t −15…-25, July t +15…+26. Precipitation 200-600 mm.

Climate appears in a specific and systematic change different types weather. Some sectors of the economy also become dependent on it, such as Agriculture and agricultural industry. The quality of life of animals, plants, the condition of water bodies and continental soils depends on the favorable effects of climate. The formation and development of climate in the world is influenced by the following factors:

• latitude;
• geographical conditions;
• quantity and quality of solar energy;
• irregularities of the earth's crust;
• features of the atmosphere.

Main climate zones

Paying attention to the nature of the winds, geographical location, temperature conditions and dominant atmospheric masses,There are 7 main zones:

• at the poles - Arctic and Antarctic;
• Equatorial at Earth's longest latitude;
• two Tropical ones on either side of the Equator;
• two Moderates on the side of the poles closer to the center.

Important! Throughout the year in each major climate zone weather do not experience significant changes.

Now let's look at climate zones in more detail.

Antarctic and Arctic

The average monthly temperature of these latitudes is below 0. In winter, the sun's rays do not reach these lands. Twilight is observed there for a long season, when the aurora can serve as the only source of light. In summer, the sun does not warm the surface of the earth, since the rays slide at an oblique angle and are reflected by the ice. Frost prevails in these zones all year round.However, the Arctic regions are considered warmer than the Antarctic regions. This is explained by the fact that the southern continent is larger and higher, and the Arctic Ocean makes the climate of the north pole mild. There is little precipitation at the extreme points of the planet and it falls in the form of crumbs of icy fog or snow.Strong winds blow frozen particles from higher elevations, creating blizzards and snowfalls. The activity of these belts includes:

• Canada;
• Greenland;
• Alaska;
• Russia, its northern regions.

Temperate zone

On eastern lands This belt is dominated by monsoons, in the rest of the territory - westerly winds.Atmospheric precipitation directly depends on the proximity to the sea and the features of the relief where it falls.In the northern and western regions they are more abundant than in the central and southern regions. The air temperature in the cold season is usually above zero. Sometimes, when exposed to Arctic air masses, it drops to -17-20 degrees. When influenced by tropical winds, it rises to +10 degrees. In summer, the average annual air temperature is 16-17 degrees and rarely exceeds 30 degrees. The frequency of cyclones on the map of a given area dictates cloudy and rainy weather. Up to 600-1000 mm of precipitation falls per year. At higher elevations - 3000-5000 mm.

Important! The weather conditions of Russia in the regions of Transbaikalia and Siberia are a clear example of a continental temperate climate.

Also included in the zone under consideration are:

• lands of Canada;
• northern USA and Great Plains zone;
• European countries;
• southern Sweden;
• steppes of Mongolia;
• countries former USSR: Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan;
• territory of the DPRK;
• northern zones China.

Tropical zone

It has year-round dry and hot weather. The temperature between seasons does not fluctuate much: in summer the air warms up to +30-35 degrees, in winter - +10° . But regarding daily differences, the opposite is true -at night the thermometer may show 10-20 degrees less than during the day. Such fluctuations cause dust storms. This climate region experiences low precipitation. Most of them fall in winter, which amounts to only 50-150 mm per annum. This does not apply to coastal areas. The climate there is much milder: not cold winters and mild, not dry summers. There are no harsh winds, and most of the precipitation falls in summer. To one degree or another, the belt lies on the territory of all continents except Antarctica. The following areas fall under the influence of the tropical belt:

• lands of Peru;
• Bolivia;
• northern Chile;
• Paraguay;
• main part of Australia, Great Desert;
• SOUTH AFRICA;
• southern Africa;
• states of India;
• In Asia - the regions of Saudi Arabia, Yemen and parts of Oman;
• island of Cuba.

Equatorial belt

The average temperature for the year is +27-29 degrees and its interseasonal differences are insignificant. Dense vegetation, stable clouds and humidified air prevent daily temperature fluctuations and keep the temperature within 5 degrees. There is approximately 1500-2000 mm of precipitation per year. During the year, there are two periods of maximum rainfall, with drier days in between. The zone of influence of the belt includes:

• Ecuador, Colombia;
• Venezuela, Brazil;
• Tanzania, Rwanda;
• Burundi;
• Gabon, Cameroon;
• the shores of the Gulf of Guinea;
• Congo;
• DRC, Ghana;
• Malacca;
• islands in south Asia.

Intermediate climate zones

Each main belt of the Earth alternates with an intermediate zone.There are only 6 of them. Intermediate climate zones:

• Subantarctic and Subarctic are closer to the poles.
• Two on either side of the equator.
• Two Subtropical between the tropics and the temperate zone.

In the geography of intermediate zones, the weather conditions change throughout the year, dividing it into seasons.The weather “mood” of these latitudes is dictated by the air masses and dominant climate of the neighboring main zones. This is due to the periodic interseasonal movement of atmospheric pressure following the sun. The influence of the main climatic zones on the intermediate ones:

• The weather of the subtropics in summer is similar to the climate of the tropics, while in winter weather conditions of temperate zones prevail there.
• The subequatorial zone is influenced by the warm equatorial zone in summer, and the tropical zone in winter.

Subarctic and subantarctic belts

In these belts, as intermediate ones, there is a seasonal replacement of atmospheric masses. In calendar winter, the air temperature drops to -50; in summer, the daily maximum can be +20-25 degrees. This climate is characterized by a wide annual temperature range. Most of the annual precipitation falls in summer.On hills - up to 400 mm, on plains - 200 mm. Subpolar zones affect the weather of the following countries:

• Canada;
• Alaska;
• countries Far East;
• Iceland;
• lands of Siberia;
• Regions of the Scandinavian Peninsula;
• Antarctic Islands;
• parts of New Zealand.

Important! The northern lands of America are more subject to temperature fluctuations than the northern edge of Europe and Asia.

Subtropical zone

The weather of the subtropics is determined by the periodic change of temperate and tropical atmospheric masses. The temperature in winter reaches -10 degrees; in summer, daytime thermometer readings can reach +45. The largest temperature range over the year averages 40-60 degrees and is observed in the regions of Mongolia and China. In the rest of the area under subtropical influence, summers are hot and long, winters are mild and warm. Annual precipitation is 800-2500 mm, and its precipitation is uniform and systematic. In winter, characteristic cyclones bring cold rains, in summer - warm thunderstorms. In autumn, hurricanes are observed in the subtropical zone of the Northern Hemisphere.The temperature record was recorded in Death Valley in America. In 1922 it was +57 degrees! The humid subtropical climate is observed in the following areas:

• California and Florida;
• Some African regions;
• Mediterranean;
• northern India;
• northeast Argentina;
• coast of Australia;
• southeast Europe;
• Chile, Uruguay;
• Black Sea coast of Russia;
• northern Myanmar;
• Japan and surrounding islands;
• Eastern part of China;
• Brazil;
• Tasmania.

Subequatorial belt

This climate zone is located on both hemispheres of the Earth. In summer it is influenced by humid equatorial winds, and then it falls most of precipitation. The proximity of the equator provokes heavy precipitation: the closer to it, the more abundant it is. This fact contributes to river flooding in the summer, but by winter there is less precipitation and the reservoirs dry up. The average annual air temperature in this intermediate zone is +28 degrees. The differences between day and night are negligible.

Important! Vegetable world has adapted favorably to such weather conditions, the flora and fauna of this hospitable belt is diverse and beautiful.

The subequatorial belt includes:

• Bangladesh, Panama;
• Sri Lanka;
• Costa Rica, ;
• Vietnam, Cambodia;
• Thailand, Laos;
• Ecuador, Panama;
• Brazil, Bolivia;
• Colombia, Venezuela;
• India;
• Senegal, Guinea;
• Niger, Ethiopia, Sudan, Chad;
• Somalia, Madagascar, Kenya;
• Angola, Malawi, Mozambique;
• northern part of Oceania.

Features of climate classification in different zones

Climatic features and weather conditions in different parts of the planet differ significantly. At all latitudes, the climate is divided into continental, which is observed on land, and marine.

Nautical

This climate is formed over the water surface and is characterized by constant cloudiness. Precipitation is plentiful and without excessive fluctuations. The temperature difference in the off-season is small. Currents have a noticeable influence on the formation of this climate.Warm - gently warms the areas near which they leak. The fact that dense forests grow in the south of the Scandinavian Peninsula is a merit of the North Atlantic Current. While the territory of Greenland whole year covered with ice, although located at approximately the same latitude.

Continental

The distance from the ocean is fraught with large temperature fluctuations and relatively low cloudiness. There are almost always hot summers and frosty winters. How much light and heat a specific area of ​​the continent will receive depends on the latitude and degree of incidence of sunlight on it. Areas far from water are not susceptible a large number precipitation, and its fall is not uniform. In summer in such an area the level of precipitation is higher, in winter - less than on the coasts. Such weather conditions are typical for places far from the oceans, and the climate there is called continental.

Important! Relief also plays an important role in climate formation. The further the area goes uphill, the colder air with every kilometer. Mountain ranges can block winds and on the seaward side more precipitation accumulates on the slopes than on the leeward side. The mountains prevent northern winds, which bring with them cold temperatures. You should remember the prevailing winds characteristic of a particular area. They significantly influence the climate and dictate weather conditions.

Everything on Earth is interconnected. Over the course of many centuries, the climate was formed and climatic zones emerged. To continue to maintain balance in nature, you need to be careful about the consumption of its resources. The video below clearly shows a map of the Earth's climate zones, which will help you better understand the topic.