All of the following are critical determiners of climate EXCEPT ---
A. Elevation
B. Latitude
C. Longitude
D. proximity to water
C. Longitude
To determine which of the options is the correct answer, we need to understand the concept of climate and what factors affect it.
Climate refers to the long-term average weather conditions of a particular region, including temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind patterns, and other atmospheric conditions. Various factors contribute to the formation of climate patterns, including the ones mentioned in the options: elevation, latitude, longitude, and proximity to water.
Elevation: Elevation refers to the height above sea level, and it has a significant impact on climate. As elevation increases, temperature decreases due to the presence of thinner air and lower atmospheric pressure. Therefore, elevation is an important determiner of climate.
Latitude: Latitude refers to the distance from the equator. The Earth's curvature results in variations in solar radiation received at different latitudes, significantly influencing temperature patterns. Therefore, latitude is an essential determiner of climate.
Longitude: Longitude refers to the distance east or west from the Prime Meridian. It primarily affects time zones rather than climate. While longitude can indirectly influence climate through factors such as topography and proximity to large water bodies, it is not a direct determiner of climate.
Proximity to water: Water bodies, such as oceans and large lakes, influence climate by moderating temperature, generating moisture, and impacting wind patterns. Regions near water bodies tend to have milder and more moderate climates. Therefore, proximity to water is a critical determiner of climate.
Based on this analysis, the correct answer is C. Longitude.