The latitudinal differences in pressure delineate a number of major pressure zones, which correspond with

The correct answer is: A. zones of climate.

The latitudinal differences in pressure delineate a number of major pressure zones, which correspond with zones of climate. These zones are:

• The equatorial low-pressure zone, which is located near the equator and is characterized by warm, moist air.
• The subtropical high-pressure zones, which are located at about 30 degrees north and south latitude and are characterized by dry, sinking air.
• The mid-latitude low-pressure zones, which are located at about 60 degrees north and south latitude and are characterized by stormy weather.
• The polar high-pressure zones, which are located at the poles and are characterized by cold, dry air.

The Earth’s climate is determined by a number of factors, including the amount of solar radiation that it receives, the distribution of land and water, and the presence of oceans and mountains. The latitudinal differences in pressure are one of the most important factors that influence the Earth’s climate. The equatorial low-pressure zone is the warmest part of the Earth because it receives the most direct sunlight. The subtropical high-pressure zones are the driest parts of the Earth because the sinking air prevents clouds from forming. The mid-latitude low-pressure zones are the stormiest parts of the Earth because the rising air causes clouds to form and thunderstorms to develop. The polar high-pressure zones are the coldest parts of the Earth because they receive the least direct sunlight.

The latitudinal differences in pressure also influence the Earth’s weather patterns. The trade winds, which are the prevailing winds that blow from the northeast in the Northern Hemisphere and from the southeast in the Southern Hemisphere, are caused by the difference in pressure between the equatorial low-pressure zone and the subtropical high-pressure zones. The jet streams, which are fast-flowing bands of air that are located in the upper atmosphere, are caused by the difference in temperature between the polar high-pressure zones and the mid-latitude low-pressure zones.