27/07/2026
Temperature
Temperature is the degree of hotness or coldness of the air at a particular place and time. It is measured with a thermometer, usually in °C (Celsius), °F (Fahrenheit), or K (Kelvin).
👉Factors Affecting Temperature
1. Latitude
The most important factor.
Temperatures decrease from the Equator towards the Poles because the Sun's rays become more slanting.
Example: Singapore is hotter than Greenland.
2. Altitude
Temperature decreases with increasing height.
Normal lapse rate: 6.5°C per 1,000 m (or 1°C per 165 m).
3. Distance from the Sea (Continentality)
Coastal areas have moderate temperatures due to the sea's influence.
Interior areas experience greater extremes of heat and cold.
4. Ocean Currents
Warm currents raise the temperature of nearby coasts.
Cold currents lower coastal temperatures.
5. Prevailing Winds
Winds carry the temperature characteristics of their source region.
Maritime winds are generally moist and moderate; continental winds are drier and more extreme.
6. Cloud Cover
Clouds reduce daytime heating by reflecting sunlight.
At night, they reduce heat loss, keeping temperatures higher.
7. Slope and Aspect
Sun-facing slopes receive more solar radiation and are warmer.
In the Northern Hemisphere, south-facing slopes are warmer; in the Southern Hemisphere, north-facing slopes are warmer.
8. Nature of the Surface
Dark surfaces absorb more heat than light-colored surfaces.
Urban areas are warmer than rural areas due to the urban heat island effect.
9. Vegetation
Dense vegetation lowers temperature through shade and evapotranspiration.
Areas with little vegetation heat up more quickly.
10. Atmospheric Conditions
Humidity, dust, aerosols, and greenhouse gases influence the amount of heat absorbed and retained in the atmosphere.
