Weather and climate

Weather describes the day-to-day condition of the atmosphere. Climate describes average weather conditions over longer periods and over large areas.

The UK's changeable weather is affected by five air masses. Different weather systems, depressions and anticyclones bring different weather conditions.

The Equator is closer to the sun than the poles and receives sunlight more directly and all year round. This results in different climate zones in different parts of the Earth having different climate conditions.

Tropical deserts are hot and dry with summer and winter seasons. They have wide variation in daily temperature. They are home to many different animals and plants that have adapted to survive in the hot, dry conditions.

Rainforests are located in the tropical climate region. They are hot and wet all year round – this creates a humid climate. Rainforests contain an enormous variety of plants and animals – approximately 90 per cent of all of the world's species.

The tundra climate region are found in the Arctic and Antarctic. They are very cold and have little precipitation. Plants and animals have adapted to stay warm and preserve water.