What has a significant influence on temperature variations across the Earth?

Latitude plays a significant role in determining temperature variations across the Earth due to the angle at which sunlight strikes the surface. As one moves from the equator toward the poles, the angle of sunlight becomes less direct. At the equator, sunlight strikes the Earth at a nearly perpendicular angle, resulting in more concentrated solar energy and, consequently, warmer temperatures. In contrast, at higher latitudes, the angle of incidence is more oblique, spreading the solar energy over a larger area and leading to cooler temperatures.

Furthermore, latitude also affects the length of daylight hours throughout the seasons. Near the equator, day length remains relatively constant throughout the year, while at the poles, there can be extended periods of daylight in summer and darkness in winter. This seasonal variation further contributes to the overall temperature differences experienced at various latitudes, resulting in distinct climate zones from tropical to polar regions.

While proximity to forests, atmospheric pressure, and soil types can influence local weather and climate conditions, latitude is fundamentally the primary factor driving large-scale temperature variations across the globe.