Describe the climate graph of both the savanna (tropical grassland) in figure 7.11 (page 147) and the temperate deciduous forest in figure 7.13 (page 149) in several sentences highlighting the temperature and precipitation ranges_ and the yearly distribution found on their climate graphs Write your answer in the areas below: See the example for what to include your description: For example_ Figure 7,11 the temperate grassland (prairie) climate graph may be described like this: The temperature range of the prairie for year is lowest December and January (winter) at just below 0 %C. The highest temperature reached June and July ‘ (summer) at about 30 % Precipitation greatest the spring the months of April and May at about 125 mm of rain: The lowest precipitation probably snow January and February, with about 25 mm during Those months_ Savanna: Temperate deciduous forest:
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Savanna (Tropical Grassland):
The temperature in the savanna stays warm throughout the year, typically ranging from about 20°C to 30°C. The hottest months are usually around October to March, with temperatures reaching near 30°C. The coolest months fall around June and July, with temperatures dropping slightly to around 20°C. Precipitation shows a strong seasonal pattern. Most of the rain falls between November and March, peaking around January or February at about 250 mm. The dry season occurs from May to September, with very little rainfall, often less than 25 mm each month. This climate supports grasses with scattered trees and experiences a long dry season followed by a short but intense rainy season.
Temperate Deciduous Forest:
The temperature in the temperate deciduous forest varies significantly with the seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures in December, January, and February dropping to about -5°C. Summers are warm, with temperatures reaching around 25°C in July. The annual temperature range is therefore quite large. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with monthly rainfall typically ranging between 50 mm and 100 mm. The wettest months may be May and June, while the driest months might be February or August, but differences are not extreme. Snowfall in winter contributes to the total precipitation. This climate allows for four distinct seasons and supports a wide variety of broad-leaved trees that shed their leaves in the fall.
Explanation:
Climate graphs are tools that show the average monthly temperature and precipitation over a year for a specific biome or location. In the case of the savanna, also known as tropical grassland, the graph typically reveals a consistent high temperature throughout the year, since it is located near the equator. This biome experiences only slight variations in temperature, with a hotter wet season and a cooler dry season. Rainfall is highly seasonal, with a distinct wet season during the warmer months and a prolonged dry period during the rest of the year. This pattern supports grasses and drought-resistant trees.
In contrast, the temperate deciduous forest is found in regions with a more variable climate and is typically located farther from the equator. The temperature in these forests changes significantly with the seasons. Cold winters and warm summers are typical, and this variation helps drive the life cycles of the forest’s plant and animal species. Precipitation is moderate and relatively consistent year-round, supporting lush vegetation. These conditions lead to forests with trees that lose their leaves in autumn as a way to conserve water and survive the cold winter.
Both biomes show a connection between climate and vegetation. The savanna supports species adapted to long dry periods and fire, while the temperate deciduous forest supports a wide variety of plant life due to its moist and seasonally balanced climate. Climate graphs provide a clear visual of these patterns.
