Question

which statement best describes how the distance from a large river affects an area’s climate in the summer?
regions far from rivers experience less variation in air temperatures.
regions far from rivers have land surfaces that remain cool during the entire season.
regions near rivers have water surfaces that rapidly change in temperature from cold to hot.
regions near rivers experience winds from the water that prevent extreme temperature changes.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

1. Regions far from rivers: Land has low specific heat, so temperatures vary more (eliminates first option).
2. Far from rivers: Land surfaces heat up in summer, so they aren’t cool (eliminates second option).
3. Near rivers (water): Water has high specific heat, so it changes temperature slowly (eliminates third option).
4. Near rivers: Water’s high specific heat keeps it moderate. Winds from water (like sea breezes) carry this moderate temp, reducing extreme changes. This matches the fourth option.

Answer:

D. Regions near rivers experience winds from the water that prevent extreme temperature changes.