Climate and Weather Patterns Flashcards

Grade 7 · Science · Flashcards

Key vocabulary for understanding Earth's weather systems, climate factors, and the water cycle.

Flashcards

Weather: The short-term state of the atmosphere at a specific time and place (temperature, humidity, wind, precipitation).
Climate: The average weather conditions in a region measured over a long period, typically 30 or more years.
Water cycle: The continuous movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff/collection.
Evaporation: The change of liquid water into water vapor due to solar energy; primary way water enters the atmosphere.
Condensation: The change of water vapor into liquid water when air cools; forms clouds and dew.
Precipitation: Any form of water that falls from clouds to Earth's surface, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.
Air pressure: The force exerted by the weight of air molecules on Earth's surface; measured with a barometer.
High pressure system: An area where dense, sinking air creates higher atmospheric pressure; associated with clear, calm weather.
Low pressure system: An area where warm, rising air creates lower atmospheric pressure; associated with clouds, wind, and precipitation.
Front: The boundary between two different air masses; weather changes often occur along fronts.
Ocean current: A large-scale movement of ocean water driven by wind, temperature, salinity differences, and Earth's rotation; affects regional climates.
Greenhouse effect: The natural warming of Earth's surface when greenhouse gases in the atmosphere absorb and re-emit infrared radiation from the sun.
Climate change: Long-term shifts in global temperatures and weather patterns, primarily caused by increased greenhouse gas emissions from human activities.
Humidity: The concentration of water vapor in the air; relative humidity compares actual water vapor to the maximum possible at a given temperature.

Get a personalized course on Climate and Weather Patterns built around your child.