20.4.2. Thornthwaite Method

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does the Thornthwaite Method estimate?

   Hint

   Think about water loss and evaporation.

2. 2.

   Which parameter is NOT in the Thornthwaite equation?

   Hint

   Look at the given variables in the equation.

3. 3.

   What is the Thornthwaite Method primarily used for?

   • Estimating precipitation
   • Estimating potential evapotranspiration
   • Measuring soil moisture

   Hint

   Consider the topic we've just discussed.

4. 4.

   In the Thornthwaite formula, what does 'I' represent?

   Hint

   Recall our discussion about annual factors in evapotranspiration.

5. 5.

   Given the following mean monthly temperatures (in °C): January (2), February (5), March (10), April (15), July (25), calculate PET for April using the Thornthwaite Method if Annual Heat Index 'I' is estimated at 50.

   Hint

   Don't forget to apply the formula carefully!

6. 6.

   Discuss how climate variability might affect the empirical exponent 'a'. What implications does this have on the accuracy of the Thornthwaite Method in different regions?

   Hint

   Consider how different environments respond to temperature changes.