How Does The Latitude Affect Climate?
The latitude of a location on Earth has a significant effect on the climate of the region, as the angle of the sun’s rays changes with the changing latitude. The closer an area is to the equator, the more direct the sun’s rays are, and the warmer it will be. This is why tropical climates are found near the equator and polar climates are found near the poles.
Tropical Climates
Tropical climates are found near and on the equator, between the latitudes of 23.5° North and 23.5° South. These regions experience very high temperatures year-round, with high levels of humidity. The climate is also affected by the ocean currents of the surrounding area. Trade winds blow from the east in these regions, which helps to keep temperatures from getting too hot. This area also experiences more rainfall than other areas of the world, due to the warm, moist air coming from the ocean.
Temperate Climates
Temperate climates are found between the tropics and the polar regions, between the latitudes of 23.5° North and 66.5° North. This region experiences more seasonal changes in temperature, with warm summers and cold winters. This climate type also experiences more variation in humidity levels, with drier air in the summer and more moisture in the winter. These regions usually experience more precipitation than tropical climates, but it is not as consistent as in tropical climates.
Polar Climates
Polar climates are found near the poles, between the latitudes of 66.5° North and 66.5° South. These regions experience the coldest temperatures on Earth, due to the low angle of the sun’s rays. Polar climates are also very dry, with very little precipitation. The air is also very cold, which can cause snow and ice to accumulate in the region.
Conclusion
The latitude of a location on Earth has a significant effect on the climate of the region. Closer to the equator, tropical climates are found, with high temperatures and high levels of humidity. Further away from the equator, temperate climates are found, with more seasonal changes in temperature. At the poles, polar climates are found, with the coldest temperatures and the least amount of precipitation.
Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.