CLIMATE


Meaning of CLIMATE in English

n.

Condition of the atmosphere at a particular location over a long period of time (from one month to many millions of years, but generally 30 years).

Climate is the sum of atmospheric elements (and their variations): solar radiation, temperature, humidity, clouds and precipitation (type, frequency, and amount), atmospheric pressure, and wind (speed and direction). To the nonspecialist, climate means expected or habitual weather at a particular place and time of year. To the specialist, climate also denotes the degree of variability of weather, and it includes not only the atmosphere but also the hydrosphere , lithosphere , biosphere , and such extraterrestrial factors as the sun. See also urban climate .

Britannica Concise Encyclopedia.      Краткая энциклопедия Британика.