Question 1: Define 'climate' in a geographical context.

Answer: Climate refers to the long-term patterns of temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation in a region.

Question 2: What is 'weather' and how does it differ from climate?

Answer: Weather describes short-term atmospheric conditions, whereas climate is the long-term average of weather patterns in a region.

Question 3: Explain the term 'microclimate' with an example.

Answer: A microclimate is a localized climate that differs from the surrounding area, such as a city park being warmer than nearby rural areas.

Question 4: Name two major factors that influence climate in the US.

Answer: Latitude and ocean currents are two major factors influencing climate.

Question 5: Define 'hurricane' and identify where they most commonly occur in the US.

Answer: A hurricane is a large, powerful storm with strong winds and heavy rain, most common along the Gulf Coast and southeastern US.

Question 1: Which US state is most affected by tornadoes due to its location in Tornado Alley?

Answer: Oklahoma

Question 2: Name the ocean current that significantly influences the climate of the California coast.

Answer: The California Current

Question 3: What is the primary cause of the seasonal variations in weather in the US?

Answer: The tilt of the Earth's axis and its orbit around the Sun cause seasonal variations.

Question 4: Identify one region in the US that experiences a humid subtropical climate.

Answer: The southeastern US, including Florida and parts of Georgia.

Question 5: Which natural disaster is most associated with the Gulf of Mexico region?

Answer: Hurricanes

Question 1: Read the following scenario: California has experienced a prolonged drought over the past five years, affecting agriculture and water supply. Analyze the climatic factors contributing to this drought and discuss its potential impacts.

Answer: The drought is primarily driven by a combination of reduced rainfall, high temperatures, and persistent high-pressure systems that block storms. Climate change has also intensified drought conditions. The impacts include crop failures, water shortages, increased wildfire risk, and economic losses in agriculture.

Question 2: Based on the case study, suggest two strategies the government could implement to mitigate the effects of such droughts.

Answer: Implement water conservation measures and invest in sustainable water management infrastructure.

Question 1: Analyse the causes of the seasonal hurricane activity along the Gulf Coast.

Answer: The warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean provide energy for hurricanes. The warm sea surface temperatures, combined with moist air and atmospheric conditions like low wind shear, facilitate hurricane formation during late summer and early autumn.

Question 2: Explain why the Pacific Northwest experiences a temperate climate with high rainfall.

Answer: The prevailing westerly winds bring moist air from the Pacific Ocean, and the presence of the Cascade Mountains causes orographic rainfall, resulting in a temperate, rainy climate.

Question 1: To what extent have climate change and urban development contributed to increased flooding in Houston, Texas?

Answer: Climate change has led to increased intensity and frequency of heavy rainfall events, while urban development with concrete surfaces reduces natural drainage, exacerbating flooding. Both factors significantly contribute, but the extent varies with specific storm events and urban planning measures. Effective flood management strategies can mitigate some impacts, but addressing climate change remains crucial.