What is the main factor determining the climate of a region?

Latitude is the primary factor influencing a region's climate because it determines the angle and intensity of sunlight that reaches the Earth's surface. Areas closer to the Equator, which is at 0 degrees latitude, receive more direct sunlight throughout the year, resulting in warmer temperatures and generally drier conditions. In contrast, regions near the poles experience less direct sunlight, leading to cooler temperatures and distinct seasonal variations.

While altitude, longitude, and proximity to water also affect climate, they are secondary factors. Altitude can create temperature gradients and influence weather patterns, leading to cooler climates at higher elevations. Longitude primarily affects time zones rather than climate directly. Proximity to water, such as oceans or lakes, can moderate temperatures, but the fundamental climatic patterns are largely dictated by latitude, as this factor determines the overall energy received from the sun. Thus, latitude plays a critical role in shaping the climate characteristics of different regions around the world.