Home Preparation for National Talent Search Examination (NTSE)/ Olympiad
Chapter : 1. Climate
Climate Controls
There are six major controls of climate of any place. They are - 1. latitude 2. altitude 3. pressure and wind system 4. distance from the sea 5. ocean current 6. relief features. Latitude : Due to the curvature of the earth, the amount of solar energy received varies according to the latitude. Altitude : Air temperature decreases from the equator towards the poles. As one goes from the surface of the earth to higher altitudes. The atmosphere becomes less dense and temperature decreases. The hills are therefore cooler during summer. The Pressure and Winds : The system of any area depends, on the latitude and altitude of the place. Thus it influences the temperature and rain fall pattern. Distance from the sea : The sea exerts a moderating influence on climate. As the distance from the sea increases, its moderating influence decreases. Ocean current : Ocean current along with on shore winds affects the climate of the coastal areas. Relief : It plays a major role in determining the climate of a place. High mountains act as barriers for cold or hot winds. They may also cause precipitation.