The western coast of Ecuador, Peru, and northern Chile has a colder climate than areas to the east. What best accounts for this difference?
The difference in climate between the western coast and eastern areas in this region is primarily due to the cold Humboldt Current that flows along the western coast of South America. This current originates in the Antarctic and brings cold water to the surface, which cools the air above it. As a result, the western coast experiences cooler temperatures and lower humidity compared to the eastern areas, which are influenced by warmer ocean currents and air masses from the Amazon rainforest. Additionally, the presence of the Andes mountains to the east can block some of the moisture and warmth coming from the east, further contributing to the cooler climate on the western coast.
The western coast of Ecuador, Peru, and northern Chile has a colder climate than areas to the east. What best accounts for this difference?
A.
different elevations
B.
different latitudes
C.
different populations
D.
different governments
B. different latitudes
The difference in climate between the western coast and eastern areas in this region is primarily due to the geographical location and different latitudes. The western coast is influenced by the cold Humboldt Current, which flows along the coast and brings cooler temperatures, while the eastern areas are influenced by warmer ocean currents and air masses from the Amazon rainforest. The differing latitudes play a significant role in determining the overall climate and temperature variations between the two regions.