Syllabus Edition

First teaching 2024

First exams 2026

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Weather & Climate (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))

Revision Note

Weather & Climate

What is the difference between weather and climate?

  • Weather refers to the current state of the atmosphere at a specific time and place

  • Weather conditions can change rapidly (e.g. over just a few hours)

  • This includes short-term variations in:

    • Temperature

    • Humidity

    • Cloud cover

    • Precipitation

    • Wind speed

    • Air pressure

    • Other atmospheric conditions

  • Climate refers to the long-term average of weather conditions in a particular region or location

    • It describes the overall patterns, trends and variations in atmospheric factors (temperature, humidity etc.) over relatively long time periods

      • Climate is the average of these conditions over approximately 30 years or more

    • Climate is influenced by various factors such as solar radiation, atmospheric circulation patterns, ocean currents, land features and greenhouse gas concentrations

  • Climate provides a broader perspective on long-term atmospheric behaviour

  • Whereas, weather is more concerned with immediate atmospheric conditions and forecasts

  • Understanding the difference between climate and weather is crucial for:

    • Analysing long-term climate trends

    • Predicting short-term weather events

    • Assessing the impacts of climate change on weather patterns

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Alistair Marjot

Author: Alistair Marjot

Expertise: Biology & Environmental Systems and Societies

Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.

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