Answer:
Latitude is the distance north or south of the equator. It is one of the most important factors that affect climate. The closer a location is to the equator, the more direct sunlight it receives, and the warmer the climate is. The farther a location is from the equator, the less direct sunlight it receives, and the cooler the climate is.
Here are some points on how latitude affects climate:
- Temperature: The equator receives the most direct sunlight, so temperatures are warmest there. The poles receive the least direct sunlight, so temperatures are coldest there.
- Precipitation: The equator receives the most precipitation because the sun's rays are more direct and there is more water vapor in the air. The poles receive the least precipitation because the sun's rays are less direct and there is less water vapor in the air.
- Vegetation: The equator is home to a wide variety of plants and animals because the climate is warm and wet. The poles are home to a more limited variety of plants and animals because the climate is cold and dry.
Here are some examples of how latitude affects climate:
- The Amazon rainforest is located near the equator, so it is warm and wet.
- The Sahara desert is located near the Tropic of Cancer, so it is hot and dry.
- The Arctic tundra is located near the North Pole, so it is cold and dry.
It is important to note that latitude is not the only factor that affects climate. Other factors, such as elevation, ocean currents, and wind patterns, can also affect climate. However, latitude is one of the most important factors that affect climate.