What factor primarily determines the amount of sunlight an area receives, thereby affecting its temperature and seasons?

The amount of sunlight an area receives, which directly influences its temperature and the seasons experienced there, is primarily determined by latitude. Latitude refers to how far north or south a location is from the equator. Areas close to the equator receive more direct sunlight year-round, resulting in warmer temperatures and less variation in seasons. Conversely, regions at higher latitudes receive sunlight at a more oblique angle, leading to cooler temperatures and more pronounced seasonal changes.

This relationship between latitude and sunlight is crucial because it shapes climatic patterns across the globe. For instance, tropical regions near the equator experience consistent warm weather, while polar regions endure long, cold winters due to limited sunlight. Consequently, understanding latitude is essential when studying climate and the seasons, as it plays a pivotal role in how energy from the sun is distributed across the Earth's surface.