Multiple Choice
Why is it generally warmer near the equator than near the poles?
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20. Heat and Temperature
Temperature
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Why is the equator generally hotter than the poles?
A
The equator has more volcanic activity, which increases temperatures.
B
The equator has a thicker atmosphere that traps more heat.
C
The equator is closer to the sun than the poles.
D
The equator receives more direct sunlight throughout the year.
Verified step by step guidance1
The Earth is a sphere, and sunlight hits different parts of it at different angles. At the equator, sunlight strikes the Earth more directly compared to the poles.
Direct sunlight means that the energy from the sun is concentrated over a smaller surface area, leading to higher temperatures.
At the poles, sunlight arrives at a more oblique angle, spreading the same amount of energy over a larger area, which results in cooler temperatures.
The tilt of the Earth's axis also plays a role, as it causes variations in sunlight distribution throughout the year, but the equator consistently receives more direct sunlight.
This consistent direct sunlight at the equator leads to generally higher temperatures compared to the poles, which receive less direct sunlight.
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