Question

Use what you know about convection to explain why temperatures along coastlines are more moderate than temperatures inland.

a) Convection currents from the ocean regulate coastal temperatures.
b) Coastal areas have less solar radiation.
c) Inland areas have more landmass, causing temperature variations.
d) Convection has no impact on temperature differences.

Answer 1

Temperatures along coastlines are moderated by convection currents from the ocean and the high specific heat capacity of water, which allows water to act as a buffer by absorbing and releasing heat, resulting in a more moderate climate.

Step-by-step explanation:

The more moderate temperatures along coastlines compared to inland areas are largely due to convection currents from the ocean that regulate coastal temperatures. This is because water has a high specific heat capacity, meaning it can absorb or release large amounts of heat without substantially changing its own temperature. Ocean water thus acts as a buffer, absorbing heat during hot periods and releasing it during cool periods, leading to more moderate climate in coastal areas.

During the day, land heats up more quickly than the ocean, causing air to rise over the land due to its lower density when hot. This rising air is replaced by cooler air from over the water, creating a sea breeze that moderates the coastal climate. At night, this process is reversed as land cools down faster than water, creating a breeze from the land towards the ocean.

In conclusion, convection and the high specific heat capacity of water are responsible for the moderation of temperatures in coastal regions, leading to smaller temperature variations compared to inland areas.