Multiple Choice
Why is it generally warmer at the equator than at the poles?
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20. Heat and Temperature
Temperature
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Which region on Earth receives the most solar radiation per unit area over a year?
A
The South Pole
B
The Equator
C
The Tropic of Cancer
D
The North Pole
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that solar radiation received per unit area is influenced by the angle at which sunlight strikes the Earth's surface. This is known as the angle of incidence.
Recognize that the Equator is the region where the sun's rays strike most directly throughout the year, meaning the angle of incidence is closest to 90 degrees, minimizing the area over which the sunlight is spread.
Consider the tilt of the Earth's axis, which causes variations in solar radiation received at different latitudes throughout the year. However, the Equator experiences relatively consistent solar exposure year-round.
Compare this with the poles, where the sun's rays strike at a much lower angle, spreading the same amount of solar energy over a larger area, resulting in less energy per unit area.
Conclude that due to the direct angle of sunlight and consistent exposure, the Equator receives the most solar radiation per unit area over the course of a year.
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