What role does ocean proximity play in temperature moderation?

Ocean proximity plays a significant role in temperature moderation due to the high specific heat capacity of water. Water can absorb and store large amounts of heat energy without undergoing significant changes in temperature. This means that areas close to the ocean tend to experience more stable temperatures compared to regions further inland.

When the sun heats the ocean during the day, the water absorbs this heat, which then radiates back into the atmosphere, helping to warm the surrounding land. At night, the process reverses; the ocean releases the stored heat, which helps to keep coastal areas warmer than they would be otherwise. Thus, the presence of the ocean results in a more gradual increase and decrease of temperatures, preventing extreme fluctuations.

This effect leads to milder temperatures throughout the seasons, making coastal areas generally cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter compared to areas further away from the ocean. Therefore, the role of ocean proximity in moderating temperature is crucial for creating a more stable and temperate climate.