Climate is determined by temperature and precipitation, which are affected by various natural factors. Latitude affects temperature, with warmer temperatures closer to the equator and colder temperatures farther from the equator. Elevation also impacts temperature, with higher elevations experiencing cooler temperatures due to less dense air. Ocean currents influence nearby land temperatures, with warm or cold currents causing temperature variations. Precipitation is impacted by prevailing winds and mountain ranges, with windward sides of mountains receiving more rain and leeward sides receiving less. The world's climates can be divided into polar, temperate, and tropical zones based on average temperatures.

1. Climate P. Lobosco