According to various scholars with their reference explain fundamental ideas of Greek and Thornthwaite climate classification systems?

Greek Climate Classification System:

The Greek climate classification system was developed by the ancient Greeks and is based on the concept of the Mediterranean climate. This classification system divides climates into three main categories: temperate, tropical, and polar. The temperate climate is characterized by moderate temperatures and distinct seasons, while the tropical climate is characterized by hot temperatures and high humidity. The polar climate is characterized by cold temperatures and little precipitation.

Thornthwaite Climate Classification System:

The Thornthwaite climate classification system was developed by climatologist C.W. Thornthwaite in the mid-20th century. This classification system is based on the concept of water balance, taking into account both temperature and precipitation. The Thornthwaite system divides climates into five main categories: arid, semi-arid, humid subtropical, humid continental, and polar. Each category is further divided into subcategories based on the amount of precipitation and evapotranspiration.

Overall, both the Greek and Thornthwaite climate classification systems provide a framework for understanding and categorizing different types of climates based on their key characteristics such as temperature, precipitation, and humidity. These classification systems are important tools for studying and predicting climate patterns and their impacts on ecosystems and human societies.

Greek Climate Classification System

- Developed by: Aristotle (4th century BCE)
- Basis: Temperature and rainfall distribution
- Categories:
- Megathermal: Mean annual temperature (MAT) > 23°C and rainfall > 1200 mm
- Mesothermal: MAT between 13°C and 23°C and rainfall varies
- Microthermal: MAT between 3°C and 13°C and rainfall > 500 mm
- Psychrothermal: MAT below 3°C and rainfall < 500 mm

Thornthwaite Climate Classification System

- Developed by: C.W. Thornthwaite (20th century)
- Basis: Water balance (precipitation-evapotranspiration)
- Categories:
- Humid: Potential evapotranspiration (PET) < precipitation
- Semi-arid: PET > precipitation but not twice as much
- Arid: PET at least double the precipitation
- Subtropical: Humid region with summer water surplus and winter water deficit
- Temperate: Humid region with water surplus in all seasons
- Boreal: Humid region with water deficit in all seasons

Key Differences:

- Basis: Greek system focuses on temperature and rainfall distribution, while Thornthwaite system focuses on water balance.
- Categories: Greek system has four main categories based on temperature and rainfall thresholds, while Thornthwaite system has five categories based on water balance.
- Subtypes: Greek system lacks subtypes within its main categories, while Thornthwaite system has subcategories based on seasonal water surplus or deficit.

Reference:

- Kottek, M., J. Grieser, C. Beck, B. Rudolf, and F. Rubel. 2006. "World Map of the Köppen-Geiger Climate Classification Updated." Meteorologische Zeitschrift 15 (3): 259-263.
- Thornthwaite, C.W. 1948. "An Approach toward a Rational Classification of Climate." Geographical Review 38 (1): 55-94.