The $\underline { \text { mean } }$ (average) temperature of a given location on Earth is controlled primarily by its ________ whereas its temperature $\underline { \text { range } }$ is controlled primarily by its ________.
A) latitude; elevation
B) elevation; location with respect to large water bodies
C) evaporation; latitude
D) latitude; location with respect to large water bodies

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Latitude primarily controls the mean temperature of a location on Earth, as it determines the amount of solar radiation received by the area. However, the temperature range of the location is primarily controlled by its location with respect to large water bodies. Water has a higher specific heat capacity than land, meaning it takes longer to heat up and cool down. Therefore, areas near large water bodies tend to have smaller temperature ranges. Elevation and evaporation may also play secondary roles in controlling temperature variability, but they are not the primary factors.

The mean ‾\underline { \text { mean } } mean ​ (Average) Temperature of a Given Location on Earth Is Controlled

The $\underline { \text { mean } }$ (Average) Temperature of a Given Location on Earth Is Controlled