Why do parts of the low latitude zone typically have warm to hot climates?

• A. Because they are farther from large bodies of water, resulting in less temperature moderation.
• B. Because they receive more direct sunlight throughout the year due to their position near the equator.
• C. Because they experience longer nights than days, leading to heat accumulation.
• D. Because they are located at higher elevations, which increases temperatures.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of latitude zones: Latitude zones are divided into low, middle, and high latitudes. The low latitude zone is near the equator, typically between 0° and 30° latitude.
2. Recognize the relationship between sunlight and latitude: Areas near the equator receive more direct sunlight throughout the year because the sun's rays strike the surface at a near-perpendicular angle.
3. Explain the impact of direct sunlight: Direct sunlight leads to higher energy absorption by the Earth's surface, resulting in warmer temperatures in low latitude zones.
4. Clarify why other options are incorrect: For example, proximity to large bodies of water moderates temperature, but this is not the primary reason for warm climates in low latitude zones. Similarly, higher elevations generally lead to cooler temperatures, not warmer ones.
5. Conclude with the correct reasoning: The warm to hot climates in low latitude zones are primarily due to their position near the equator, where they receive more direct sunlight throughout the year.