A heat island is an example of what type of climate?
a. trropical climate
b. microclimate
c. dry climate
d. polar climate
The most common "heat island" is an urban heat island in which a small pocket near big buildings and asphalt pavement are warmer than the surrounding area. Therefore, it must be a microclimate.
b. Ms Sue is correct
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urban_heat_island
http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/index.htm
To determine the answer to this question, we need to understand the concept of a heat island and its relationship to climate.
A heat island refers to a localized area within an urban environment that experiences significantly higher temperatures compared to its surrounding rural areas. This phenomenon occurs due to a combination of factors, including the large concentration of buildings and artificial surfaces that absorb and retain heat, the limited vegetation and green spaces, and the waste heat generated by human activities.
Now, let's match this description with the given options:
a. Tropical climate: While tropical climates can be hot, they are generally not associated with heat islands. Therefore, a tropical climate is not the correct answer.
b. Microclimate: A heat island can be considered a type of microclimate. A microclimate refers to the climate conditions within a small, specific area that may differ from the surrounding areas. This can occur due to factors like terrain, elevation, and local conditions. Heat islands are a specific example of microclimates, so this option could be the correct answer.
c. Dry climate: A dry climate is generally characterized by low humidity and limited precipitation rather than excessive urban heat. Therefore, a dry climate is not the correct answer.
d. Polar climate: Polar climates are cold and occur near the Earth's poles, which are quite different from the conditions associated with heat islands. Therefore, a polar climate is not the correct answer.
Based on the analysis above, the correct answer is b. microclimate. Heat islands are a specific example of microclimates within urban environments.