Large Bodies of Water: A Key Factor Affecting Climate — Passage and Quiz

Large bodies of water, such as oceans and lakes, have a significant impact on climate. Water heats up and cools down more slowly than land, creating a moderating effect on nearby areas.

Coastal regions tend to have milder climates with smaller temperature variations between summer and winter. For example, San Francisco, located near the Pacific Ocean, has cooler summers and warmer winters compared to inland areas.

Water also contributes to humidity and precipitation. As water evaporates, it adds moisture to the air, which can lead to rain or snow. This is why coastal areas often receive more rainfall than inland regions.

Ocean currents, like the Gulf Stream, also influence climate by transporting warm or cold water across the globe. For instance, the Gulf Stream brings warm water to Western Europe, making its climate milder than other regions at similar latitudes.

Fun fact: The city of London, located near the Gulf Stream, has a milder climate than Newfoundland, Canada, even though they are at the same latitude!