Examine the characteristics of tropical and extratropical climates.

Tropical Climate:
1. High temperatures: Tropical climates are characterized by consistently high temperatures throughout the year, with little variation between seasons.
2. High humidity: Tropical climates are typically very humid, with high levels of moisture in the air.
3. Heavy rainfall: Tropical climates experience heavy rainfall, often in the form of daily afternoon thunderstorms.
4. Little temperature variation: There is minimal variation in temperature between day and night in tropical climates.
5. Abundant vegetation: The high temperatures and rainfall in tropical climates support lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems.
6. Tropical cyclones: Tropical climates are prone to tropical cyclones, which are intense storms that can bring strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Extratropical Climate:
1. Seasonal variation: Extratropical climates experience distinct seasons, with significant variations in temperature and weather patterns throughout the year.
2. Moderate temperatures: Extratropical climates typically have moderate temperatures, with cooler winters and warmer summers.
3. Lower humidity: Extratropical climates tend to have lower humidity levels compared to tropical climates.
4. Variable precipitation: Precipitation in extratropical climates can vary widely, with some regions experiencing heavy rainfall and others experiencing drought conditions.
5. Vegetation diversity: Extratropical climates support a wide range of vegetation types, from deciduous forests to grasslands to deserts.
6. Extratropical cyclones: Extratropical climates are prone to extratropical cyclones, which are large-scale weather systems that can bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and sometimes snowfall.

Tropical Climates

- High temperatures: Average temperatures typically exceed 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit) year-round.
- Abundant precipitation: Receive high amounts of precipitation, often in the form of frequent rainfall.
- Seasonal variability: Limited seasonal variation in temperature and precipitation patterns.
- Types:
- Tropical rainforest: High rainfall and year-round high temperatures.
- Tropical savanna: Wet and dry seasons with alternating periods of high rainfall and drought.
- Tropical monsoon: Seasonal rainfall patterns heavily influenced by wind patterns.

Extratropical Climates

- Mid-latitude location: Occur outside the tropics, between 30 and 60 degrees latitude.
- Moderate temperatures: Experience both warm and cold seasons, with average temperatures varying significantly throughout the year.
- Seasonal precipitation: Precipitation patterns influenced by seasonal changes in wind patterns and humidity levels.
- Types:
- Humid subtropical: Hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters.
- Mediterranean: Mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
- Marine west coast: Cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers.
- Continental: Large temperature variations between summer and winter, with significant precipitation.
- Polar: Cold temperatures year-round, with limited precipitation.

Key Differences

| Feature | Tropical Climates | Extratropical Climates |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | High year-round | Moderate with seasonal variations |
| Precipitation | Abundant and frequent | Variable depending on type |
| Seasonal variability | Limited | Significant |
| Geographical location | Near the equator | Between 30 and 60 degrees latitude |
| Wind patterns | Trade winds and monsoon winds | Westerlies and polar easterlies |
| Vegetation | Rainforests, savannas | Forests, grasslands, deserts |
| Human activities | Agriculture, tourism, resource extraction | Agriculture, industry, urban development |