Geography·Physical Geography · NSSCO 1.6b
Pressure, rainfall & the factors affecting climate
Narrated lesson · press play
You already know how to measure the weather — now let's find out what drives it. In this lesson we learn what air pressure is, and see how high pressure brings clear, dry, sunny days while low pressure brings cloud, wind and rain. We discover where rain really comes from by meeting the three types — convectional, relief and cyclonic — then learn to read synoptic charts and satellite images like a forecaster. Finally we study the six factors that shape a whole region's climate, and use them to explain why Namibia's coast is cool and foggy while its interior is hot and dry.
What you'll learn in this lesson
By the end you should be able to (NSSCO Geography 1.6b):
- Describe the weather associated with high and low pressure systems
- Name and explain the three types of rainfall: convectional, relief (orographic) and cyclonic (frontal) rainfall
- Analyse synoptic charts and interpret weather satellite images
- Describe the factors influencing climate: latitude, altitude, ocean currents, distance from the sea (continentality), prevailing winds and pressure systems
Loading your lesson…
You're watching a free 3-minute preview — create a free account to keep going.
Quick revision
Revise this in 5 minutes
Mr Thomas and Mike talk through the whole topic — with the figure and working drawn live.