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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.
Consider the role of water in coastal climates: Coastal areas are influenced by large bodies of water, such as oceans or seas. Due to water's high specific heat, these bodies of water can absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, moderating temperature fluctuations.
Compare coastal and inland climates: Inland areas lack the moderating influence of large bodies of water, leading to more extreme temperature changes between day and night or between seasons.
Evaluate the options given: Surface tension and adhesion are properties related to the behavior of water molecules, but they do not directly affect climate moderation. Heat of vaporization involves the energy required for water to change from liquid to gas, which is not the primary factor in moderating climate.
Conclude with the correct answer: The high specific heat of water is the primary reason coastal climates are more moderate than inland climates, as it allows water to buffer temperature changes effectively.