The main factor influencing the climate of a region is latitude because different latitudes receive different amounts of solar radiation. The equator receives the most solar radiation. Days are equally long year-round and the sun is just about directly overhead at midday.
How does latitude relate to climate zones?
There is a relationship between latitude and temperature around the world, as temperatures are typically warmer approaching the Equator and cooler approaching the Poles. There are variations, though, as other factors such as elevation, ocean currents, and precipitation affect climate patterns.
The first three climate zones relate to latitude. Tropical climates occur near the equator, in the low latitudes. Temperate climates occur about halfway between the equator and the poles, in the middle latitudes. Polar climates occur near the poles, in the high latitudes.
Why are both latitude and longitude lines necessary when identifying a location what is the role of latitude in climate?
The Earth is divided into degrees of longitude and latitude which helps us measure location and time using a single standard. … Longitude and latitude lines measure the distance from the Earth’s Equator or central axis – running east to west – and the Prime Meridian in Greenwich, England – running north to south.
What is the relationship between latitude the sun and climate?
Latitude and Temperature
At the equator, the Sun’s rays are most direct. This is where temperatures are highest. At higher latitudes, the Sun’s rays are less direct. The farther an area is from the equator, the lower its temperature.
Why is it important to know the difference between latitude and longitude?
Latitude and longitude make up the grid system that helps us identify absolute, or exact, locations on the Earth’s surface. You can use latitude and longitude to identify specific locations. Latitude and longitude are also helpful in identifying landmarks.
How does latitude differ from longitude?
Latitude implies the geographic coordinates that determine the distance of a point, north-south of the equator. Longitude alludes to the geographic coordinate, which identifies the distance of a point, east-west of the Prime Meridian.
Which climate zones are found nearest to the equator?
The Earth has three main climate zones: tropical, temperate, and polar. The climate region near the equator with warm air masses is known as tropical. In the tropical zone, the average temperature in the coldest month is 18 °C.
Which type of climate is usually found closest to the equator?
A tropical rainforest climate or equatorial climate is a tropical climate usually found within 10 to 15 degrees latitude of the equator. They experience high mean annual temperatures, small temperature ranges, and rain that falls throughout the year.
How does latitude affect the climate and environment of a place?
Latitude or distance from the equator – Temperatures drop the further an area is from the equator due to the curvature of the earth. … As a result, more energy is lost and temperatures are cooler.
Why are latitudes also called parallels of latitude?
Circles of latitude are often called parallels because they are parallel to each other; that is, planes that contain any of these circles never intersect each other. A location’s position along a circle of latitude is given by its longitude.