Air near the equator averages higher temperatures than air near the poles because
A) polar air is cooled by the ice and snow on the ground.
B) there is more carbon dioxide and water vapor in equatorial air to absorb infrared radiation from the earth.
C) sunlight falls more nearly vertically at the equator than near the poles.
D) the oceans near the equator are warmer than those near the poles.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sunlight falls more nearly vertically at the equator than near the poles, causing more direct heating and higher temperatures near the equator.

Air near the Equator Averages Higher Temperatures Than Air near the Poles