Describe the changes in the atmosphere and oceans associated with El Nino and La Nina events. Include discussions of changes in atmospheric pressure, winds, equatorial surface currents, coastal upwelling and downwelling, sea surface temperature, and the position of the thermocline. Then, describe the global effects of severe El Nino events.Include in your answer a discussion of current conditions in the equatorial Pacific - are we in an El Nino, normal, or La Nina period? How do you know?
From Module (8), you will have this question:

On September 13, 2008, Hurricane Ike struck the Texas coast as a Category 2 hurricane with hurricane force winds extending 110 miles from the eye of the hurricane. However, in the days preceding landfall, under sometimes sunny skies, very large waves were seen breaking along the seawall at Galveston, Texas. Using your knowledge of wave formation and the factors that affect wave height, please describe why such large waves were seen on the coast long before hurricane winds reached the shore. Your answer should integrate the three factors that cause wind waves to form and move.

Short answer questions MUST be answered in complete sentences and your own words. Your answer should be 5-10 sentences in length. You will receive a zero for copied answers or answers that are not grammatically correct.Your answer to short answer questions should fully demonstrate your knowledge of concepts from the modules.

Complete grades for this quiz will be available within the next week. Keep in mind that it will take your instructor a week or two to grade all typed responses. You will receive an email or announcement when quiz grades are included in your course grade in the gradebook.