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Multiple Choice
The reason that coastal climates are more moderate than inland climates primarily water's high __________.
A
surface tension
B
adhesion
C
heat of vaporization
D
specific heat
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of specific heat: Specific heat is the amount of heat required to change the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius. Water has a high specific heat, meaning it can absorb or release a large amount of heat with little change in temperature.
Recognize the role of water's specific heat in climate moderation: Coastal areas are influenced by large bodies of water, which absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, leading to more moderate temperatures compared to inland areas.
Compare specific heat with other properties: Surface tension, adhesion, and heat of vaporization are different properties of water. Surface tension refers to the elastic tendency of a fluid surface, adhesion is the attraction between different substances, and heat of vaporization is the energy required to convert a liquid into a gas. None of these properties directly moderate climate like specific heat does.
Consider the impact of water's high specific heat on seasonal temperature changes: During summer, water absorbs heat, preventing coastal areas from becoming too hot. In winter, the stored heat is released, preventing these areas from becoming too cold.
Apply this understanding to real-world examples: Think about how coastal cities often have milder winters and cooler summers compared to cities further inland, due to the moderating effect of nearby oceans or seas.