Iilmastovyöhykkeet

Iilmastovyöhykkeet, or climate zones, are regions of the Earth that share similar temperature and precipitation patterns. These zones are primarily determined by latitude, distance from the sea, and altitude. The most fundamental division is based on the average annual temperature and the amount of rainfall.

The polar climate zone is characterized by extremely cold temperatures and low precipitation, with long periods of darkness and light. Temperate climate zones, found between the tropics and the polar regions, experience distinct seasons with moderate temperatures and varied rainfall. Tropical climate zones, located near the equator, are warm year-round with high humidity and significant rainfall, often divided into wet and dry seasons.

Within these broader categories, various sub-zones exist. For instance, continental climates, found in the interior of continents, have greater temperature extremes than maritime climates, which are moderated by proximity to large bodies of water. Mountainous regions often exhibit unique climate zones due to their elevation, with temperatures decreasing and precipitation patterns changing as altitude increases. Understanding these climate zones is crucial for studying ecosystems, agriculture, and human settlement patterns.