Question

Why are average temperatures higher near the equator than near the poles?

-Solar energy strikes the Earth at an angle at the equator and directly at the poles.
-Solar energy strikes the Earth at an angle at the poles and directly at the equator.
-Days are longer at the equator, resulting in warmer average temperatures than at the poles.
-The equator is located at a higher elevation, so it is closer to the sun than the poles.

Answer 1

Average temperatures are higher near the equator because solar energy strikes more directly there than at the poles, where sunlight hits at a sharper angle and is more reflected, leading to cooler climates.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason average temperatures are higher near the equator than near the poles is due to the angle at which solar energy strikes the Earth. Near the equator, solar energy strikes directly, causing more intense sunlight and higher temperatures. By contrast, at the poles, solar energy strikes the Earth at a sharper angle, leading to more reflected sunlight and thus cooler climates.

Moreover, the 23.5° tilt of the Earth's axis during its orbit around the Sun affects the amount of direct sunlight received at different latitudes, contributing to varying climatic seasons. This tilt ensures that regions near the equator consistently receive more direct sunlight throughout the year compared to the poles, resulting in warmer average temperatures.