IB ESS HL 2.4.12 Tropical Cyclones Question Bank

Explain tropical-cyclone formation, structure and environmental impacts.

Exam points

identify the climate mechanism or pattern
trace the atmospheric or oceanic process
evaluate impacts and uncertainty using evidence

[Maximum number: 1]

Figure:Hurricane history of Dominica since 1900

Figure:Average global sea surface temperature, 1900-2015

Figure:Impacts of Hurricane Maria

Figure:Landslide caused by heavy rains after a hurricane

Figure:Impacts of Hurricane Maria

- 100% of food crops were destroyed.
- 90% of housing was damaged.
- Almost 10000 landslides occurred.
- Extreme damage to tropical rainforest: leaves removed and many trees knocked down.
- Major damage to coral reefs caused by waves and soil erosion.
- Freshwater was contaminated by oil spills and chemicals.

Using Figure: Hurricane history of Dominica since 1900, identify why Hurricane Maria was so destructive.

strongest hurricane in Dominica's history / fastest (maximum) wind speeds/wind speed of over $250 \mathrm{~km} / \mathrm{hr}$ and therefore most destructive; has been many/22 years since the last hurricane, so people were not prepared; last hurricane had much lower maximum wind speeds, so people were not expecting such a damaging storm;

Note: Do not accept only 'very high wind speed'.

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2.4.12 (HL)—Tropical cyclones question 1