Chapter 10: Problem 14

Explain the distribution of the bumid subtropical bot-summer and Mediterranean dry-summer climates at similar latitudes and the difference in precipitation patterns between the two types. Describe the difference in vegetation associated with these two climate types.

Short Answer

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Both humid subtropical and Mediterranean climates are found at similar latitudes, but the former is located on the eastern side of continents while the latter is on the western side due to influences of ocean currents. Humid subtropical climates have evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year while Mediterranean climates have a dry summer and wet winter. The former supports deciduous and evergreen forests while the latter supports sclerophyllous shrubs.

Step by step solution

Understanding the Climates

Humid Sub-tropical or hot-summer climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. It is found on the eastern sides of continents typically between 20 and 40 degrees latitude. The Mediterranean or dry-summer climate, is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It is typically found on the western sides of continents between 30 to 45 degrees latitude.

Comparing Distribution

Both climates are found at similar latitudes, however, their distribution is determined by the geographical configuration of the continents and ocean currents. Humid subtropical climates are typically found on the eastern sides of continents, influenced by warm ocean currents. Mediterranean climates are found on the western sides of continents, also influenced by ocean currents but with significant impact of high pressure systems during summer imparting a dry period.

Differences in Precipitation

In a humid subtropical climate, precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year with a slight peak during the summer months due to convective thunderstorms. In Mediterranean climates, the precipitation is highly seasonal, with the summers being dry and the majority of rainfall occurring during the winter months.

Differences in Vegetation

Humid subtropical climates support vegetation types such as deciduous and evergreen forests, while Mediterranean climates support vegetation adapted to long dry summers and mild, wet winters such as sclerophyllous shrubs or „Mediterranean scrub‟.

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Explain the distribution of the bumid subtropical bot-summer and Mediterranean dry-summer climates at similar latitudes and the difference in precipitation patterns between the two types. Describe the difference in vegetation associated with these two climate types.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding the Climates

Comparing Distribution

Differences in Precipitation

Differences in Vegetation

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