Question

How does proximity to water affect climate in Western Europe?

A. It leads to warmer temperatures and milder winters.
B. It causes extreme temperature fluctuations.
C. It has no impact on climate.
D. It results in a higher likelihood of hurricanes.

Answer 1

Proximity to water affects the climate in Western Europe by A) leading to warmer temperatures and milder winters because of the moderating influence of oceans and the warming effect of the Gulf Stream.

Step-by-step explanation:

Proximity to water, specifically the ocean, has a significant effect on the climate in Western Europe. The presence of large bodies of water like the Atlantic Ocean and the influence of the Gulf Stream lead to milder climates in these coastal regions.

Water moderates the climate by heating and cooling more slowly than land, which results in coastal areas having less extreme seasonal temperatures compared to inland areas.

Consequently, Western Europe experiences warmer temperatures and milder winters despite being at a northern latitude.The Gulf Stream is particularly influential, as it carries warm water from the Gulf of Mexico across the Atlantic to Western Europe.

Providing a moderate type C climate. Unlike Eastern Europe, which can encounter colder type D climates, Western Europe benefits from this temperate maritime climate with fewer extremes in temperature and a reduced likelihood of severe weather such as hurricanes.