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Chapter 2: Problem 11

Spruce Knob (latitude \(38.625^{\circ} \mathrm{N}\) ) in eastern West Virginia is named for the spruce trees dominating the forests at this site. Spruce trees are typically found in the colder forests of the more northern latitudes (northeastern United States and Canada). What does the presence of spruce trees at Spruce Knob tell you about this site?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The presence of spruce trees at Spruce Knob indicates that the site has a colder microclimate suitable for spruce tree growth, despite its relatively low latitude. This could be due to geographical factors, such as altitude or proximity to mountain ranges, that influence the climate at Spruce Knob.

Step by step solution

01

Analyze the typical environment of spruce trees

Spruce trees are typically found in the colder forests of more northern latitudes, such as northeastern United States and Canada. This means that we can expect spruce trees to grow in regions with colder temperatures and possibly a higher precipitation rate.
02

Identify the latitude and location of Spruce Knob

Spruce Knob is located at a latitude of \(38.625^{\circ} \mathrm{N}\), which is in the eastern region of West Virginia. This latitude is not typically associated with the colder climates found in the northeastern United States and Canada where spruce trees usually thrive.
03

Consider geographical factors influencing the site

The presence of spruce trees at Spruce Knob despite its relatively low latitude might be due to other geographical factors, such as altitude or proximity to a mountain range, which could create a colder microclimate suitable for spruce trees growth.
04

Conclude what the presence of spruce trees tells us about the site

The presence of spruce trees at Spruce Knob tells us that the site has a colder climate, despite its relatively low latitude, which might be influenced by geographical factors like altitude or mountain ranges. This colder microclimate allows spruce trees to thrive at Spruce Knob, resulting in the dominance of these trees in the area.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Explain how proximity to the coastline influences climate.

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