Question Details

Consider the following description:
1. Annual and daily range of temperatures is low.
2. Precipitation occurs throughout the year.
3. Precipitation varies between 50 cm - 250 cm.
What is this type of climate?

Options

A

Equatorial climate

B

China type climate

C

Humid subtropical climate

D

Marine West coast climate

Show Answer

Correct Answer :

Option D

Marine West coast climate

Solution :

The correct option is Marine West coast climate.

Here is a detailed, step-by-step explanation of why the given characteristics define the Marine West Coast climate:

1. Low Annual and Daily Range of Temperatures:
The Marine West Coast climate (also known as the marine temperate climate) is typically located on the western windward margins of mid-latitude continents (usually between 40° and 60° latitude). Because of prevailing westerly winds blowing from the ocean onto the land, these regions experience a strong marine influence. The ocean moderates the climate, keeping summers cool and winters mild. As a result, the temperature difference between day and night (daily range) and between summer and winter (annual range) is remarkably small.

2. Precipitation Occurs Throughout the Year:
Due to the continuous inflow of moist maritime air carried by the westerlies and the frequent passage of frontal cyclonic storms, these regions do not have a distinct dry season. Rainfall is relatively well-distributed across all twelve months of the year.

3. Precipitation Varies Between 50 cm - 250 cm:
The annual rainfall in this climate zone typically falls within the range of 50 cm to 250 cm. Lowlands and interior valleys generally receive rainfall towards the lower end of this range (around 50 cm to 100 cm), whereas coastal mountains facing the oncoming ocean winds experience significant orographic rainfall, pushing the annual totals toward the higher end (up to 250 cm or more).

Why other options are incorrect:
Equatorial climate: Although it has a low temperature range and year-round rainfall, it is located in the low latitudes (warm all year round) and generally receives much higher annual precipitation (often exceeding 200 cm to 250 cm) characterized by daily afternoon convective thunderstorms.
China type / Humid subtropical climate: These climates are located on the eastern sides of continents and experience much warmer, humid summers and colder winters, resulting in a significantly higher annual temperature range. Their precipitation is also heavily influenced by summer monsoons or tropical cyclones, creating a more pronounced seasonal variation.

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