Question

which of the following best explains why coastal regions generally have more moderate air temperatures than inland regions of the same latitude?
a. coastal regions have a lower altitude.

b. the ocean has a moderating effect on the area.

c. heat energy is transferred from inland areas to coastal areas during the summer and from coastal areas to inland areas during the winter.

d. most of the sunlight that reaches the ocean’s surface is reflected.

Explanation:

• Option A: Altitude affects temperature, but the question compares coastal and inland regions of the same latitude, so altitude isn't the main reason here.
• Option B: Oceans have a high specific heat capacity, meaning they absorb and release heat slowly. This moderates the temperature of coastal areas, making them less extreme than inland regions (which have land with lower specific heat, heating and cooling faster). This matches the phenomenon.
• Option C: Heat transfer direction described is incorrect; generally, heat transfer patterns don't explain the moderate temperatures of coasts.
• Option D: Most sunlight reaching the ocean is absorbed (not reflected) to warm the water, so this is incorrect.

Answer:

B. The ocean has a moderating effect on the area.