Consider the following description:

Annual and daily range of temperatures is low.
Precipitation occurs throughout the year.
Precipitation varies between 50 cm – 250 cm.

What is this type of climate?

(a) Equatorial climate
(b) China type climate
(c) Humid subtropical climate
(d) Marine West coast climate

Correct Answer: (d) Marine West coast climate

Annual and daily range of temperatures is low: The Marine West Coast climate is characterized by minimal temperature extremes and a small annual temperature range of about 10-15 °C (50-59 °F).
Precipitation occurs throughout the year: This climate type experiences abundant precipitation year-round, with annual accumulations generally ranging from 50 to 250 cm (20 to 98 inches).
Precipitation varies between 50 cm – 250 cm: The Marine West Coast climate typically has precipitation totals within this range, although local totals can exceed 500 cm (197 inches) where onshore winds encounter mountain ranges .

Explanation of Options:

(a) Equatorial climate:
- High temperatures year-round: Equatorial climates have consistently high temperatures, averaging around 26-28 °C (79-82 °F).
- High annual rainfall: These regions receive significant rainfall, often exceeding 200 cm (79 inches) annually, with no dry season .
- Small temperature range: The annual temperature range is very small, typically around 3 °C (5.4 °F).
(b) China type climate:
- Hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters: This climate features significant temperature variations between summer and winter, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters .
- Moderate to high rainfall: Rainfall ranges from 60 to 150 cm (24 to 59 inches) annually, with a distinct summer peak due to monsoonal influences .
- Seasonal variations: The climate is influenced by monsoons, leading to distinct wet and dry seasons .
(c) Humid subtropical climate:
- Hot, humid summers and mild winters: This climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and cool to mild winters .
- Evenly distributed precipitation: Rainfall is generally well-distributed throughout the year, with annual totals ranging from 75 to over 200 cm (30 to 79 inches).
- Summer peak in rainfall: Many regions experience a summer peak in rainfall due to convectional thunderstorms and tropical cyclones .
(d) Marine West coast climate:
- Mild temperatures year-round: This climate has mild summers and winters, with a small annual temperature range .
- Year-round precipitation: Precipitation occurs throughout the year, with annual totals ranging from 50 to 250 cm (20 to 98 inches).
- High humidity and cloud cover: The climate is noted for its high humidity and frequent cloud cover .

Learn more

Geographical Distribution: The Marine West Coast climate is found on the western sides of continents between 35° and 60° N and S latitude. Notable regions include the Pacific Northwest in North America, western Europe, and parts of New Zealand and southeastern Australia.
Temperature Characteristics: This climate is characterized by mild temperatures with minimal extremes. Mean annual temperatures typically range from 7-13 °C (45-55 °F) in lowland areas.
Precipitation Patterns: Precipitation is abundant and evenly distributed throughout the year, with annual totals generally between 50 and 250 cm. Local variations can occur, especially where onshore winds encounter mountain ranges, leading to higher precipitation totals.
Climate Influences: The climate is influenced by mid-latitude westerlies and traveling frontal cyclones, which bring frequent and reliable precipitation. The orientation of mountain ranges can significantly affect the distribution and intensity of precipitation.
Vegetation and Ecosystems: The Marine West Coast climate supports lush vegetation, including temperate rainforests. The high humidity and frequent rainfall create ideal conditions for diverse plant and animal life.

Reflection in IAS EXPRESS