What directly causes the pressure difference between the equator and the poles?

the rotation of Earth on its axis
the length of each season
the direction where wind blows
the amount of heat in each area

The amount of heat in each area is what directly causes the pressure difference between the equator and the poles. The equator receives more direct sunlight and therefore is warmer, causing air to rise and creating low pressure. In contrast, the poles receive less sunlight and are colder, causing air to sink and creating high pressure.