Based on the data in the Average Surface Temperature (Day), 2001-2010 folder, which of the following climate controls best explains the global patterns of average daytime temperature?

On a global scale, seasonal differences in solar radiation best explain global-scale temperature patterns. What climate control is most directly related to seasonal changes in insolation?

a. elevation

b. latitude

c. general circulation of the oceans

d. distribution of land and water

e. general circulation of the atmosphere

The answer is b. latitude.

Explanation:

The climate control that most directly related to seasonal changes in insolation is latitude; this reflects any position on Earth, and determines the period of daylight and angle/intensity of solar rays being received. In return, the intensity of solar rays and period of daylight/radiation affect the amount of insolation received in different parts of the world: depending on the latitude and angle of solar radiation cast by the sun on different latitudes, different locations will receive different amounts of isolation.