The Ocean’s Effect on Weather and Climate Interactive E-book* investigates concepts related to the defining role oceans have in influencing Earth’s weather and climate. Earth’s weather patterns—which consist of different conditions of temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind, air pressure, and other atmospheric phenomena—create various climate zones across the globe. Because weather and climate result from the transfer of energy from the Sun at and near the surface of Earth, the cycling of water and thermal energy in and out of the atmosphere and oceans affects Earth’s climates by influencing patterns of precipitation and energy transfer. The oceans have such a profound effect on climate that even relatively small changes in atmospheric or ocean content or temperature can have widespread consequences on climate if the change lasts long enough. Although these changes are natural, present artificial modifications far exceed natural rates.
*Interactive E-books are highly interactive, self-directed learning experiences designed to augment understanding of science content and pedagogy. These e-books include high-resolution images, animations, videos and interactive simulations.