Question

Explain why the west coast is colder in 8 lines​

Answer 1

The west coast is colder due to the influence of the California Current, which is a cold water Pacific Ocean current that moves southward along the western coast of North America, beginning off southern British Columbia and ending off southern Baja California Sur. The movement of Alaskan and northern ocean currents southward down the west coast results in much cooler ocean temperatures than at comparable latitudes on the east coast of the United States, where ocean currents come from the Caribbean and tropical Atlantic. The cooler ocean current along the west coast also makes summer temperatures cooler on the west coast compared to the east coast. Additionally, extensive upwelling of colder sub-surface waters occurs, caused by the prevailing northwesterly winds acting through the Ekman Effect. The winds drive surface water offshore, which draws water up from below to replace it. The water along the west coast of the United States comes from the Gulf of Alaska and is much cooler than at the same latitude along the east coast where the Gulf Stream brings warmer tropical water north. The surface temperature of the water off the California coast can be as much as 30°F (17°C), or more, lower than at the same latitude on the east coast. The colder water means the air in contact with the water is colder and therefore denser.

Answer 2

The West Coast of the United States is generally colder than other regions at the same latitude due to a few key factors. One of the main reasons is the influence of the cold California Current, which flows southward along the coast from the Gulf of Alaska. This current cools the air and water temperatures along the coast, leading to cooler temperatures overall.

Additionally, the West Coast is also affected by the Pacific Ocean's large size and depth, which creates a more stable and cooler climate. This is because the ocean absorbs and retains heat more effectively than land, which can lead to cooler temperatures along the coast.

Another factor is the presence of coastal mountains, which can block warmer air from moving inland and can create a "marine layer" of cool, moist air along the coast. This layer can keep temperatures lower even on sunny days.

Finally, the West Coast also experiences more frequent and intense weather patterns, including storms and heavy rainfall, which can further contribute to the cooler climate.