Exploring Earth’s Dynamic Systems: Climate, Geology, and Hydrology
Geo-Astronomical Areas and Solar Radiation
The sun’s rays fall perpendicularly on the land located north and south of the Equator.
Heat Transfer
Driving transmits heat through contact.
Circular Winds and Low Pressure
Cyclones are circular winds around low-pressure areas.
Roraima Group Formation
The Roraima group was formed during the third tecto-thermal event.
Internal Hydrosphere Movement
Tsunamis are an internal cause of hydrosphere movement.
Low-Level Condensation
Mist occurs when condensation happens at
Read MoreUnderstanding Iberian Peninsula’s Hydrology, Climate, and Soil
Factors of the Iberian Peninsula
Climate
Influenced by temperature and rainfall, Spain has two main climatic zones: wet (oceanic) Spain and dry (Mediterranean) Spain.
Relief
The relief influences watersheds, the erosive capacity of rivers and lakes, and aquifers. The terrain also affects the feasibility of hydraulic works. The type of rock determines water filtration capacity.
Vegetation
Vegetation curbs erosion, protects from solar radiation, and reduces evaporation.
Human Impact
Humans both utilize water
Read MoreCosmic Perspective and Evolution: From Big Bang to Modern Diseases
1. Cosmic Perspective and the Evolution of Life
1.1 Anthropocentric vs. Geocentric View
The anthropocentric perspective places humans at the center of the universe, while the geocentric system, like Ptolemy’s model, positions Earth at the center.
1.2 The Copernican Revolution
The Copernican Revolution shifted from a geocentric to a heliocentric system, with the sun at the center, resolving issues with Ptolemy’s model and explaining the movement of stars.
1.3 The Immensity of the Universe
Our sun is a
Read MoreUnderstanding Weather and Climate: Elements, Factors, and Impacts
Weather vs. Climate
Often confused, weather and climate are distinct concepts. Weather refers to the atmospheric conditions at a specific time and place, determined by elements like temperature, pressure, wind, humidity, and cloud cover. It’s characterized by its rapid changes.
In contrast, climate represents the long-term average weather patterns of a region, typically over 30 years. While Madrid, Paris, and Caracas might experience similar rainy weather on a given day, their climates differ significantly,
Read MoreSpain’s Diverse Climate: From Mediterranean Coasts to Mountain Peaks
Weather in Spain
Spain’s diverse weather patterns are influenced by its latitudinal position on the Iberian Peninsula and its location within the atmospheric general circulation. Air masses from both north and south bring varied characteristics, resulting in hot and cold, humid and dry conditions. This temperate zone experiences a mix of warm and cold air, leading to remarkable climatic diversity across its varied terrain.
Oceanic Climate
The oceanic climate dominates northern and northwestern Spain.
Tracing Human Evolution: From Early Primates to Homo Sapiens
II.2.2. Human Evolution
Geologists divide Earth’s history into eras, periods, and epochs. Life began about three or four billion years ago. Around 600 million years ago, the first animals large and hard enough to leave abundant fossils appeared. The phylum of chordates, the subphylum of vertebrates, and the superclass of tetrapods were present in the Devonian Period (300-400 million years ago). Mammals appeared during the Mesozoic Era (200-150 million years ago). Towards the late Mesozoic or early
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