Final answer:
Latitude affects the creation of air masses in tropical, temperate, and polar zones through temperature variations, leading to the formation of distinct air masses associated with different biomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Latitude plays a significant role in the creation of air masses in the tropical, temperate, and polar zones. As you move from the equator towards the poles, temperature decreases due to the tilt of the Earth's axis and the angle of direct sunlight. This temperature variation leads to the formation of different air masses, each with distinct characteristics.
In the tropical zone, which is closer to the equator, warm air rises and creates tropical air masses. These air masses are typically humid and carry moisture, resulting in the formation of tropical rainforests.
In the temperate zone, which is located between the tropical and polar zones, temperature fluctuations are more pronounced. Warmer air masses from the equator and colder air masses from the poles interact, leading to the formation of mid-latitude air masses. These air masses bring varying weather conditions, like rain, snow, and temperate forests.
In the polar zone, which is closer to the poles, cold air masses form due to the low angle of direct sunlight. These polar air masses contain cold, dry air that influences the formation of tundra and polar ice caps.