Kälteklimaten

Kälteklimaten, also known as polar climates, are found at high latitudes and high altitudes. These regions are characterized by extremely low temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature in these climates is typically below freezing. Precipitation is generally low, often falling as snow, and is referred to as orographic precipitation if it is caused by mountains. The growing season, if one exists at all, is very short.

There are two main types of Kälteklimaten: tundra climates and ice cap climates. Tundra climates are found in the Arctic regions, along the northern coasts of North America, Europe, and Asia, as well as on some high mountain plateaus. In these areas, summers are short and cool, with temperatures that can reach above freezing for a few months, allowing for the growth of low-lying vegetation like mosses, lichens, and shrubs. Permafrost, a layer of soil that remains frozen year-round, is a defining feature of tundra regions.

Ice cap climates, also known as polar desert climates, are even more extreme. These are found in the interior of Antarctica and Greenland, as well as on the highest mountain peaks. Temperatures here are consistently below freezing, with average monthly temperatures rarely exceeding 0 degrees Celsius. Precipitation is very scarce, and any snow that falls accumulates over long periods, forming thick ice sheets and glaciers. Life is extremely limited in ice cap climates, with only a few hardy organisms adapted to the harsh conditions. These climates play a significant role in global weather patterns and sea levels due to the vast amounts of ice they contain.