Which geographic feature plays a critical role in determining climate regions around the world?

Latitude is a fundamental factor in determining climate regions because it measures the distance of a location from the equator. Regions closer to the equator generally experience warmer temperatures and more direct sunlight year-round, leading to tropical climates. As one moves toward the poles, the angle of incoming sunlight becomes less direct, resulting in cooler temperatures and varying climate zones, such as subtropical, temperate, and polar climates.

This gradient of temperature and sunlight based on latitude is why it plays such a critical role in shaping climate patterns globally. For instance, the tropics are characterized by high humidity and abundant rainfall, while higher latitudes can be arid or experience distinct seasonal changes. Thus, latitude provides a primary framework for understanding the distribution of ecosystems and weather patterns across the planet.