Table of contents

0. Math Review31m
- Math Review
  31m
1. Intro to Physics Units1h 29m
2. 1D Motion / Kinematics3h 56m
3. Vectors2h 43m
4. 2D Kinematics1h 42m
5. Projectile Motion3h 6m
6. Intro to Forces (Dynamics)3h 22m
7. Friction, Inclines, Systems2h 44m
8. Centripetal Forces & Gravitation7h 26m
9. Work & Energy1h 59m
10. Conservation of Energy2h 54m
11. Momentum & Impulse3h 40m
12. Rotational Kinematics2h 59m
13. Rotational Inertia & Energy7h 4m
14. Torque & Rotational Dynamics2h 5m
15. Rotational Equilibrium3h 39m
16. Angular Momentum3h 6m
17. Periodic Motion2h 9m
18. Waves & Sound3h 40m
19. Fluid Mechanics4h 27m
20. Heat and Temperature3h 7m
21. Kinetic Theory of Ideal Gases1h 50m
22. The First Law of Thermodynamics1h 26m
23. The Second Law of Thermodynamics3h 11m
24. Electric Force & Field; Gauss' Law3h 42m
25. Electric Potential1h 51m
26. Capacitors & Dielectrics2h 2m
27. Resistors & DC Circuits3h 8m
28. Magnetic Fields and Forces2h 23m
29. Sources of Magnetic Field2h 30m
30. Induction and Inductance3h 38m
31. Alternating Current2h 37m
32. Electromagnetic Waves2h 14m
33. Geometric Optics2h 57m
34. Wave Optics1h 15m
35. Special Relativity2h 10m

20. Heat and Temperature

Temperature

Physics

20. Heat and Temperature

Temperature

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Multiple Choice

Why is it generally warmer at the equator than at the poles?

The Earth's rotation causes heat to accumulate at the equator.

The equator has more landmass, which absorbs more heat.

The equator receives more direct sunlight throughout the year.

The equator is closer to the sun than the poles.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of solar radiation: The Earth receives energy from the Sun in the form of solar radiation. This energy is distributed unevenly across the planet due to the curvature of the Earth.

Consider the angle of sunlight: At the equator, sunlight strikes the Earth at a near perpendicular angle, meaning the energy is concentrated over a smaller area, leading to higher temperatures.

Contrast with the poles: At the poles, sunlight arrives at a much shallower angle, spreading the energy over a larger area, which results in less warming.

Factor in the Earth's tilt: The tilt of the Earth's axis means that the equator consistently receives direct sunlight throughout the year, while the poles experience extreme variations in sunlight exposure.

Summarize the effect of direct sunlight: The consistent direct sunlight at the equator leads to higher average temperatures compared to the poles, which receive less direct sunlight.