[Campbell Biology P.1220] What are the primary climatic factors illustrated by a climograph t... | Practice Question

What are the primary climatic factors illustrated by a climograph that determine the distribution of terrestrial biomes, and which combination best represents the general conditions of a temperate grassland according to Figure 52.11?

  • A: Temperature and Precipitation; High temperature, low precipitation
  • B: Temperature and Precipitation; Moderate temperature, low precipitation
  • C: Sunlight and Humidity; High humidity, variable sunlight
  • D: Wind and Altitude; High altitude, strong winds

Explanation

A climograph plots annual mean temperature and precipitation, which are the primary climatic factors determining biome distribution. According to Figure 52.11, temperate grasslands generally have moderate annual mean temperatures above 0°C but below 15-20°C and relatively low annual mean precipitation below 100 cm, often overlapping with deserts at the drier end but warmer .