Climate Graphs

Question 1

Climate Graphs

Answer 1

Climate graphs show the average monthly temperature and rainfall for a place over a year. These graphs combine line and column graphs. The temperature is recorded as a red line graph using a scale on the left-hand vertical axis in °C. The rainfall is recorded as a blue column graph using a scale on the right-hand vertical axis in mm.

Question 2

Working out the Average

Answer 2

Add together all the temperature, then divide the sum by 12.

Question 3

Working out the Range

Answer 3

Highest temperature minus the lowest temperature.

Question 4

Working out the Total

Answer 4

Add the rainfall for each month together, answering in mm.

Question 5

Comparing Climate Graphs

Answer 5

1. Select two graphs for two locations to compare.
2. Describe the climate of these two locations - The rainfall pattern → Mention whether rainfall is consistent during the year, whether there are clear dry and wet seasons, when the highest rainfall month is and any periods with little or no rainfall. The temperature pattern → Mention periods of warmer and colder temperatures, whether there is a more even temperature throughout the year.
3. Point out the obvious differences.
4. Explain these differences - Places nearer to the Equator are warmer than places closer to the poles, and tend to have more rainfall. Places near or beside oceans have milder climates with fewer extremes than places in the centre of large land masses. Places at high altitude are colder than places at sea level.
5. Point out any similarities as well.