Describe the factors controlling the horizontal distribution of temperature.

(1) Latitude: As a general rule, temperature decreases from the equator to the poles. Because the sun rays fall more obliquely as we go north or south of the equator. The oblique rays spread on a bigger area than the perpendicular rays and also pass thicker layers of the atmosphere where their heat is absorbed by water-vapour, dust particles and carbon dioxide.

(2) Land-water contrasts: It is another important factor affecting the horizontal distribution of temperature. The land gets heated and cooled down more rapidly than the seas. Thus, the contrasts between land-sea temperature affect the horizontal distribution of temperature and isotherms take sudden bends at lands-water edges.

(3) Ocean currents: The ocean currents also have great influence on the horizontal distribution of temperature. The warm currents increase the temperature while cold currents reduce it in the coastal regions.

(4) Winds: Cold and warm winds also affect the horizontal distribution of temperature. Warm winds increase the temperature whereas the cold winds reduce it.