Final answer:
A large variation in energy results in a negligible temperature change in water due to its high heat capacity, leading to milder winters and cooler summers near large bodies of water.
Step-by-step explanation:
A large loss or gain of energy only causes a negligible temperature change in water because water has a high heat capacity. This means that water has a large impact on weather and climate. For example, near large bodies of water, winters are usually warmer, and summers are usually cooler than inland regions nearby. The correct answer is b) Negligible; Heat capacity; Warmer; Cooler.
Water's high specific heat means it absorbs or releases large amounts of heat before its temperature changes significantly. This property of water aids in moderating the environmental temperature variation, especially in coastal areas. Unlike the swift temperature changes observed in land or metals like iron (Fe), water's temperature remains relatively stable as energy is added or removed, which has a significant impact on climate regulation and habitat sustainability for wildlife.