Which factor is most influential in determining climate?

Latitude is the most influential factor in determining climate because it affects the angle and intensity of sunlight that different parts of the Earth receive. As latitude increases, the angle of solar radiation decreases, leading to cooler temperatures. This variation in sunlight is a primary driver of temperature and seasonal changes across the globe.

For instance, regions near the equator, which have low latitude, experience consistent and intense solar energy, resulting in warm climates year-round. Conversely, areas closer to the poles, which have high latitudes, endure colder temperatures due to the more oblique angle of sunlight.

While elevation can influence climate due to altitude effects, such as cooler temperatures at higher elevations, and proximity to water can affect local weather patterns, latitude fundamentally shapes the overall climate zones of an area. Wind patterns also play a role in distributing heat and moisture but are influenced by the geographic position and latitude of the Earth. Therefore, latitude stands out as the most significant determinant of climate across different regions.