Question

how does nearness to water affect climate? define and explain orographic (rainshadow) effect and continentality.

Explanation:

Nearness to water moderates climate due to water's high heat - capacity, leading to smaller temperature ranges. The orographic (rain - shadow) effect occurs when moist air rises over a mountain range, cools, and condenses to form precipitation on the windward side, leaving the leeward side dry. Continentality refers to the greater temperature extremes and less moisture in the interior of continents compared to coastal areas due to the lack of moderating influence of water.

Answer:

Nearness to water moderates climate. The orographic (rain - shadow) effect is when moist air rises over mountains, precipitating on the windward side and leaving the leeward side dry. Continentality means greater temperature extremes and less moisture in continental interiors due to lack of water's moderating influence.