Choose three climate controls and decscribe how they affect the climate where you live....I live in NJ
New Jersey's climate is controlled by the Atlantic Ocean, its latitude, and its relatively low elevation.
Thanks Ms. Sue. Do you know how they affect my climate?
Three climate controls that can affect the climate in NJ are latitude, ocean currents, and prevailing winds.
1. Latitude: Latitude refers to the distance from the equator. As one moves further away from the equator, the climate tends to become colder. NJ is located at a latitude of approximately 39°N, which puts it in the mid-latitude zone. This means that NJ experiences all four seasons throughout the year, with chilly winters and warm summers. The angle at which sunlight hits NJ's surface is responsible for the varying temperatures across the seasons.
2. Ocean Currents: NJ is situated along the Atlantic coastline, and the nearby ocean currents have an impact on its climate. The Gulf Stream, a warm ocean current, flows along the NJ coast. This current brings warmer waters from the south, influencing the temperature in the area. During the winter, the Gulf Stream helps to moderate the cold temperatures, making it milder than other places at the same latitude. In the summer, it can have a cooling effect, reducing extreme heat.
3. Prevailing Winds: Prevailing winds are the dominant winds that blow in a particular direction over a particular region. In NJ, the prevailing winds generally come from the west or northwest. In the summer, these winds can bring warm air masses from the interior of the continent, contributing to higher temperatures and increased humidity. In winter, when the winds come from the northwest, they can bring colder air masses from Canada, resulting in cooler temperatures and snowfall.
Understanding these climate controls can help explain why NJ has a temperate climate with distinct seasons, moderate winters, and warm summers. However, it's important to note that climate is a complex system influenced by various factors, and other variables such as elevation, local geography, and weather patterns also play a role in determining the specific climate of an area.