Question

Columbus, Ohio is located at about 40° N, and has an average daily low temperature in January of about 20°F. Rome, Italy is located at about 42° N, about two degrees closer to the North Pole than Columbus. Rome has an average daily low temperature in January of about 40°F, about twenty degrees warmer than Columbus. Why is it so much warmer in Rome than in Columbus during January?

A. Oceanic influence

B. Altitude difference

C. Latitude difference

D. Continental climate

Answer 1

The difference in latitude and oceanic influence are the main factors that make Rome warmer than Columbus during January.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason why it is so much warmer in Rome than in Columbus during January is primarily due to the difference in latitude. Rome is located at about 42° N, which is about two degrees closer to the North Pole than Columbus, which is at about 40° N. This means that Rome receives more direct sunlight and has a longer duration of daylight during the winter months, leading to warmer temperatures.

Additionally, Rome benefits from the oceanic influence, as it is surrounded by bodies of water like the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The water acts as a heat reservoir, moderating the climate and preventing extreme temperature fluctuations.