Dmae Earth Science (Page 3 of 4) in pdf

Part 2: Color-Coded Climate Data

Most people are ‘visual,’ so color-coded maps effectively show climate patterns.

First, to become familiar with these, examine some of the images available at

Use the selection boxes to open and examine various maps.

5) On an attached sheet of paper, describe at least five examples of what you view and what you have

learned from this format. .

Next, go to

The image shows the sea surface temperatures over the past few days.

6) Write a paragraph describing the patterns you observe. Tell the general latitude pattern, going from the

equator to the poles. Also, identify areas where the waters are warmest.

Part 3 Using Anomalies to Understand Patterns

“Anomalies” means variations from the expected. Scientists often use anomaly maps to learn more about

processes. For example, it means one thing of a temperature measurement is 20

C, but much more if this is 2

above normal or 3

C below normal.

Here is a link to an animation that shows sea surface temperature anomalies over the past few months:

You can watch where the ocean is

unusually warm or cold. Since the ocean is coupled with the atmospheric circulation, these patterns play a major

role in create weather and climate worldwide.

One area to pay special attention to is the west coast of South America. Normally, waters are cool, but over the

time period shown, you’ll see that the area closest to the coast of Chile becomes unusually warm. This is called an

El Nino event, and is associated with weather changes.

Now look at this image of temperature anomalies:

Observe the departure from normal with latitude, especially in the northern hemisphere.

7) Discuss what you have learned with these. (At least 2 -3 paragraphs.)

TRMM (Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission) is a satellite that monitors precipitation and other variables,

primarily between 35

N and 35

S. Go to

and study

the images. Then click on the animations and study them.

Now look at the monthly data and anomaly images at

Even though the data is no longer updated in this format, it still provides valuable information about our planet

8) Explain at least three advantages and three disadvantages of “current data,” “anomalies,” and “animations.”

Summary

Write four-five paragraphs summarizing what you have learned in these activities.

Dmae Earth Science Page 3