Which of the following best describes how terrestrial biomes are typically distinguished on a precipitation and temperature graph?

• A. Biomes are only distinguished by temperature, not precipitation.
• B. Biomes are randomly distributed with no relation to temperature or precipitation.
• C. All biomes overlap completely in both temperature and precipitation ranges.
• D. Each biome occupies a specific range of average annual temperature and precipitation values.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of terrestrial biomes: Terrestrial biomes are large ecological areas on Earth's surface, defined by specific climate conditions, vegetation types, and animal communities. Climate factors like temperature and precipitation play a key role in determining the characteristics of each biome.
2. Recognize the relationship between temperature and precipitation: Each biome has a unique range of average annual temperature and precipitation values. These ranges influence the types of plants and animals that can thrive in the biome.
3. Learn how biomes are represented graphically: On a precipitation and temperature graph, biomes are typically shown as distinct regions or zones. Each region corresponds to a specific combination of temperature and precipitation values.
4. Understand why biomes do not overlap completely: While some biomes may share similar temperature or precipitation ranges, they are distinguished by their unique combinations of these factors. For example, a desert biome has low precipitation and high temperatures, while a tundra biome has low temperatures and low precipitation.
5. Conclude that biomes occupy specific ranges: The correct answer is that each biome occupies a specific range of average annual temperature and precipitation values. This distinction allows scientists to classify and study biomes based on their climate characteristics.