In this section you will examine the impact of climate on various biomes. Watch the following video for more information.

Climate is the overall picture of the weather in a place over a long period of time.

Click on each of the factors of climate to learn more.

Climate is further impacted by other factors. Some of these factors include the following:

• Latitude - Temperatures vary with latitude.
• Proximity to water - Water temperatures affect land temperatures.
• Vegetation - Ground cover and seasonal changes affect climate.
• Winds - Winds bring air masses that effect the temperature of a place.

Below are examples of how climate varies from place to place. In your notes, write your own description of the climate of each pictured area. Write your description using the key factors of climate (precipitation, humidity, elevation, and temperature) and other climatic factors, whenever possible.

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This is an example of a rainforest with a tropical climate.
Precipitation - Rainfall is heavy most of the year.
Humidity - There are high levels of humidity.
Elevation - This climate is found mainly in areas near the equator.
Temperature - Rainforests maintain an average temperature of 77°F. Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.

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This is an image from an arctic coastal area with a tundra climate.
Precipitation - Annual precipitation is relatively low.
Humidity - There are low levels of humidity due to the arctic or polar winds.
Elevation - This climate is found in higher elevations.
Temperature - There is a long, harsh winter season with a short, mild summer-like season. Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.

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The image is of a desert, which has a hot and dry climate.
Precipitation - Annual precipitation is less than one inch.
Humidity - Deserts are typically dry and arid.
Elevation - Most deserts lie just north and south of the equator.
Temperature - Deserts have very dry heat.