UNIT TITLE: Weather and Climate

Quarter 3

UNIT CONCEPT
Concept of Weather
Weather refers to the short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific place at a specific time. It
includes variables such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, air pressure, and precipitation.
Weather is influenced by local and global factors, including latitude, altitude, and proximity to
large bodies of water. Meteorologists use instruments such as thermometers, barometers, and
satellites to measure and predict weather conditions. Changes in weather occur due to air
masses, fronts, and pressure systems. Weather impacts daily human activities, agriculture,
transportation, and disaster preparedness. Extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes,
tornadoes, and blizzards are also part of weather phenomena.

Difference between Climate and Weather

While weather refers to short-term atmospheric changes, climate represents the long-term
patterns of temperature, precipitation, and other weather elements in a specific region over
decades. Climate is determined by factors such as latitude, ocean currents, altitude, and
prevailing winds. Weather can change daily or even hourly, whereas climate is more stable and
changes over thousands or millions of years. Scientists study historical climate records using ice
cores, tree rings, and sediment deposits to understand past climate changes and predict future
trends. Human activities, especially greenhouse gas emissions, have led to climate change,
altering global temperature and weather patterns.

Concept of Climate
Climate is the average weather conditions of a region over a long period, typically 30 years or
more. Different regions have distinct climates, classified into types such as tropical, temperate,
and polar. Factors influencing climate include latitude, altitude, ocean currents, and atmospheric
circulation. Climate affects ecosystems, wildlife distribution, and human settlements. The study
of climate is essential for agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management. Climate
change, driven by natural and human-induced factors, is causing shifts in global climate
patterns, leading to rising temperatures, melting ice caps, and more extreme weather events.

Impact of Climate Zones on Ecosystems

Climate zones influence the distribution of plants, animals, and human populations. Tropical
zones, characterized by high temperatures and abundant rainfall, support dense rainforests and
diverse ecosystems. Temperate zones experience distinct seasons and moderate rainfall,
fostering deciduous forests and grasslands. Polar regions, with their cold temperatures and low
precipitation, are home to tundra and specialized species like polar bears and penguins.
Changes in climate zones due to global warming threaten biodiversity, causing habitat loss,
species migration, and ecosystem imbalances. Human activities such as deforestation and
urbanization further disrupt ecosystems, impacting food chains and biodiversity.

Climate Change
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global and regional climate patterns. It is primarily
driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial emissions,
which increase greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane. These gases trap heat in
the atmosphere, causing global temperatures to rise. Consequences of climate change include
rising sea levels, more frequent and intense weather events, changes in precipitation patterns,
and disruptions to agriculture and water supply. Scientists and policymakers emphasize the
importance of reducing carbon emissions, adopting renewable energy sources, and enhancing
climate resilience through global cooperation.

GLOBAL CONTEXT
Scientific and Technical Innovation
Scientific advancements and technological innovations play a crucial role in understanding,
predicting, and mitigating the effects of weather and climate change. Meteorological tools such
as satellites, weather balloons, and climate models help scientists analyze atmospheric
conditions and make accurate forecasts. Innovations like solar and wind energy, carbon capture
technologies, and sustainable urban planning aim to reduce human impact on climate.
Governments and organizations worldwide invest in climate research, policy-making, and
sustainable practices to combat global climate challenges.

KEY CONCEPT
Change
Change is a fundamental concept in studying weather and climate. Atmospheric conditions
constantly fluctuate due to natural and human-induced factors. Short-term changes include daily
weather variations, while long-term changes encompass climate shifts due to factors such as
volcanic eruptions, solar radiation, and human activities. Understanding climate change is
critical for predicting future environmental conditions, developing policies, and implementing
sustainable practices to mitigate adverse effects.

RELATED CONCEPT
Patterns & Trends
Patterns and trends in weather and climate help scientists identify recurring phenomena such as
seasonal cycles, monsoons, and ocean currents. By analyzing long-term data, meteorologists
and climatologists can predict climate trends and assess the impact of climate change.
Identifying trends in temperature rise, extreme weather occurrences, and ice sheet melting
provides critical insights for climate adaptation strategies.

STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
"As climatic systems change, so does the pattern of where and how we live." This statement
emphasizes the interconnectedness between climate and human societies. Climate changes
influence agriculture, infrastructure, migration, and urban development. Rising temperatures,
desertification, and extreme weather events force populations to adapt through technology,
policy, and sustainable living practices.

CRITERIA TO BE ASSESSED
● Criterion A – Knowing and Understanding
● Criterion B – Investigating
● Criterion C – Communicating
● Criterion D – Thinking Critically

UNIT CONTENT
Meaning of Weather and Climate
Weather is the temporary state of the atmosphere, while climate represents long-term weather
trends. Weather conditions fluctuate daily, whereas climate patterns persist for decades. The
study of both is essential for understanding environmental changes, preparing for natural
disasters, and developing sustainable practices.

Difference between Weather and Climate

Weather and climate differ in duration, variability, and influencing factors. Weather changes
rapidly due to short-term atmospheric interactions, while climate remains stable over time but
can shift due to natural and human-induced factors. Understanding these differences is crucial
for predicting environmental conditions and preparing for climate-related impacts.

Elements of Weather
The key elements of weather include temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind, air pressure,
and cloud cover. These elements interact to create diverse weather patterns across the globe.
Meteorologists analyze these factors using instruments such as thermometers, anemometers,
and barometers to forecast weather conditions accurately.

Importance of Temperature in Weather and Climate

Temperature influences other weather elements, including air pressure, wind, and precipitation.
It plays a crucial role in defining climate zones and seasonal variations. Rising global
temperatures due to climate change impact ecosystems, weather patterns, and human
activities.

Heat Zones and Prevailing Winds

Earth is divided into three major heat zones: tropical, temperate, and polar. Each zone
experiences different temperature ranges and climate conditions. Prevailing winds, including
trade winds, westerlies, and polar easterlies, help distribute heat and moisture globally,
influencing regional weather patterns.

Ocean Currents
Ocean currents play a vital role in regulating climate by transferring heat across the planet.
Warm currents, such as the Gulf Stream, bring warm temperatures to coastal regions, while
cold currents, like the California Current, cool surrounding areas. Phenomena like El Niño and
La Niña disrupt oceanic and atmospheric interactions, affecting global climate patterns.

Interpretation of Climate Graphs

Climate graphs, also known as climographs, represent temperature and precipitation trends
over time. They help scientists and policymakers analyze climate patterns, predict future
changes, and develop adaptation strategies for environmental challenges. Understanding
climate graphs is essential for studying global climate trends and assessing the impacts of
climate change.