Why Are Tropical Climates So Hot?
Tropical climates are found near the equator and are known for their hot and humid weather. But why are tropical climates so hot? The answer lies in several factors, from the Earth’s atmosphere to the way the land and ocean interact.
1. Sun Angle and Earth’s Atmosphere
The sun’s rays are more direct and intense near the equator than in other parts of the world. This is because the sun’s rays hit the Earth at a more direct angle near the equator, and the atmosphere is thinner in these regions, letting more of the sun’s rays reach the surface.
2. Heat Retention
Tropical climates tend to be very humid, which traps heat near the surface of the Earth. This is because the warm air holds more water vapor than cold air, and this water vapor prevents heat from radiating out into space.
3. Water and Land Interaction
The oceans and land masses near the equator also play a role in creating hot and humid climates. The land absorbs heat energy from the sun during the day and then releases it at night, creating warm temperatures. The oceans absorb and retain more heat than land, and this heat is released into the atmosphere, creating more humid conditions.
4. Global Circulation Patterns
The global circulation patterns of the atmosphere also contribute to tropical climates. Warm air rises near the equator, creating low pressure systems that bring moist air from the oceans. This moist air is then cooled by higher altitudes, creating clouds and rain. This cycle creates the hot and humid climate characteristic of tropical regions.
Conclusion
Tropical climates are hot and humid due to several factors, including the sun’s angle, the Earth’s atmosphere, heat retention, water and land interactions, and global circulation patterns. Together, these factors combine to create the warm and humid conditions characteristic of tropical climates.
Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.