Final answer:
The primary factor determining climate on a global scale is the latitude of the area. It affects the amount of solar energy the area receives which in turn influences the climate. Other factors like atmospheric conditions and air masses are part of weather, not climate.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of global scale, the primary factor in determining climate is B. The latitude of the area. Latitude plays a critical role as it influences the amount of solar energy an area receives.
Solar energy is stronger at the equator and weaker at the poles due to Earth's curve. More solar energy results in higher temperatures, shaping the local climate.
Conditions such as atmospheric conditions and the meeting of warm and cold air masses do affect the weather, which is the short-term state of the atmosphere.
These entities however, change rapidly and are not consistent over long periods. Climate refers to the long-term, predictable atmospheric conditions of a specific area, defined by consistent seasonal temperature and rainfall patterns.
It's important to note that human activity and global phenomena like global climate change also have an impact on climate. This includes the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide leading to a worldwide increase in temperature, altering traditional climate patterns.
Learn more about Climate Determination