Final answer:
Water is much hotter in areas with geothermal activity and cooler in polar regions or upwelling zones. The inherent high specific heat of water makes it effective in moderating climates and limiting extreme temperatures through processes such as evaporation in humid regions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Areas where water is much hotter than average are typically found in regions with high geothermal activity, such as hot springs or geysers. For instance, the areas around the 'Ring of Fire' in the Pacific Ocean are known for having warmer waters due to volcanic activity.
In contrast, regions where water is much cooler than average can be found in polar areas, such as the Arctic and Antarctic, where ice and low temperatures are prevalent. Another example includes upwelling zones where colder water from the deep ocean surfaces due to specific ocean current patterns.
The experiment given with three buckets of water demonstrates the concept of water's high specific heat, meaning it takes a significant amount of energy to change its temperature, making it an excellent coolant. In geography and climate science, this property contributes to moderate coastal climates, in contrast to extreme temperatures often found in inland or desert areas. Additionally, evaporation in humid climates like Florida's limits high temperatures, as the process requires heat and thereby reduces the surrounding temperature.