Which term describes long-term atmospheric patterns?

• A. Weather
• B. Climate
• C. Temperature
• D. Humidity

Answer: (B)

Long-term atmospheric patterns are described by climate. Climate refers to the average conditions and the range of variability of the atmosphere over extended periods and across regions—typically decades. It tells us what the typical temperatures, rainfall, and humidity look like in a place and how those patterns recur over seasons and years. Weather, in contrast, is the short-term state of the atmosphere—what you experience today or this week. Temperature and humidity are specific measurements that can vary daily and do not themselves convey long-term patterns. Because we’re focusing on behavior over long timescales, climate is the best fit.