Understanding Climate, Population Growth, and European Union Dynamics
Terms and Concepts Related to Climate and Population
Temperature: The air temperature is affected by sunlight. It is usually measured in degrees Celsius. This data is provided daily or annually.
This pressure at: The pressure exerted by air on the Earth’s surface. The average pressure at sea level is 1.013 millibars. High pressure is considered normal, while low pressure is considered unusual.
Isotropic: Imaginary lines that serve to represent temperatures on maps.
Latitude and Altitude: These coordinates are used to locate a specific point on the Earth’s surface. We utilize latitude at the equator, the tropics, and polar circles, along with altitude.
Precipitation: Refers to the water that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth’s surface, including rain, snow, or hail.
Condensation: This occurs when water vapor changes from a gas to a liquid state, forming clouds, which can lead to precipitation.
Wind: Wind is the movement of air from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure. The intensity of the wind depends on the difference in pressure between locations.
Factors Influencing Temperature:
Latitude: The temperature in Ecuador is intense due to direct sunlight. However, as the rays become more oblique, the temperature decreases.
Distance to the Sea: In coastal areas, temperature differences between day and night are less pronounced compared to inland areas. The sea moderates temperatures, keeping them cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Altitude: The temperature decreases by approximately 6°C for every 1,000 meters of altitude.
Climate Zones:
Zone D is characterized by a warm climate, while Zone C is a cold zone. This area is located near the Tropic of Capricorn. In winter, the temperature can drop significantly. We can distinguish three types of climates: equatorial, tropical, and desert climates.
Climate in Europe:
Ocaña Climate: Affects the western facade of Europe, characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year and abundant rainfall due to Atlantic winds.
Mediterranean Climate: Typical of coastal areas and islands in Spain, Italy, France, and Greece. It has mild temperatures and abundant rainfall in spring and autumn, influenced by storms.
Continental Climate: Found in the interior regions of Europe, characterized by extreme temperatures and low precipitation.
Polar Mountain Climate: Found in northern regions like Iceland, Norway, Finland, and Russia, characterized by very low temperatures and scarce precipitation.
Mountain Climate: Located in high-altitude areas, with low temperatures and significant precipitation.
Population Growth Trends:
Phase 1: Stabilization or Demographic Equilibrium
For many centuries, world population growth was slow due to high birth and death rates. By the 20th century, life expectancy increased above 40 years, leading to population growth.
Phase 2: Decline in Mortality
As hygiene improved and access to food and medical services increased, many diseases were eradicated, leading to a decline in mortality rates.
Criteria for Defining a Town:
The number of inhabitants and economic activity are key criteria. In most countries, a population of over 10,000 is considered urban.
The Geometry of Cities:
In Europe, cities often have historical layouts.
The Old City: Characterized by narrow, winding streets, typically found in historical centers.
The Expansion: Formed by wider, more planned streets, often housing commercial centers.
Peripheral Neighborhoods: Located around the city center, integrated into the urban fabric.
The Primary Sector: Includes activities related to the extraction and production of raw materials, such as agriculture and livestock.
Agriculture:
Types of Agriculture:
Livestock Around the World:
The Primary Sector:
What is Industry?
Industry refers to the secondary sector, which transforms raw materials into consumable goods. This includes mining, energy production, and construction.
Mining:
Most minerals are found underground, and mining can be open-pit or underground. Underground mining presents significant challenges and risks.
Energy Production:
Energy resources can be renewable or non-renewable.
Traditional Energy Sources:
These include fossil fuels like oil and coal.
Alternative Energy Sources:
These are less commonly used due to challenges in development.
Understanding Commerce:
Commerce involves the buying and selling of goods to meet the needs of the population. Historically, trade was conducted through barter.
Types of Commerce:
Domestic Commerce and Foreign Commerce.
Commercial Balance:
This is the difference between exports and imports. A positive balance occurs when exports exceed imports.
Balance of Payments:
This includes all economic transactions, both material and service-related.
The European Union:
The Origin of the European Union:
The EU was created to establish a commercial bloc, eliminating rivalries and facilitating trade among member countries. The European Communities were formed in 1951, focusing on coal and steel.
In 1957, the Treaty of Rome established the European Economic Community (EEC), allowing free movement of goods and services.
Over the years, more countries joined, and the Maastricht Treaty in 1992 formed the European Union, introducing a common currency and various policies.
Objectives of the European Union:
To promote economic growth, ensure free movement of goods, and establish a common identity on an international level.
Institutions of the European Union:
European Council: Composed of heads of state and government, it defines general policy directions.
Council of Ministers: Represents member states and coordinates decisions.
European Parliament: Elected by universal suffrage, it exercises legislative functions.
European Commission: Proposes legislation and ensures compliance with EU laws.
Court of Justice: Ensures the interpretation and application of EU law.