Question

why do cities located farther inland often experience hotter summers and colder winters than coastal cities? a) they are closer to mountain ranges that block rainfall b) they are influenced by storm tracks and wind belts c) they lack the moderating effect of large bodies of water (continentality) d) they receive more direct sunlight year-round

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Mountain ranges blocking rainfall affects precipitation, not temperature extremes between seasons, so this is incorrect.
• Option B: Storm tracks and wind belts relate more to weather patterns like precipitation and storm frequency, not the temperature moderation difference between inland and coastal cities, so this is incorrect.
• Option C: Large bodies of water (like oceans) have a moderating effect on temperature (high specific heat capacity), meaning coastal areas have milder temperatures. Inland cities lack this, leading to hotter summers and colder winters (continental climate effect), so this is correct.
• Option D: The amount of direct sunlight year - round is more related to latitude, not inland vs. coastal location. Inland and coastal cities at the same latitude get similar direct sunlight, so this is incorrect.

Answer:

C. They lack the moderating effect of large bodies of water (Continentality)