The distance from the equator has the greatest impact on an area's climate, influencing temperature and seasonal weather patterns.

The distance from the equator is the most significant factor affecting an area's climate. Areas closer to the equator receive more direct sunlight throughout the year, leading to warmer temperatures and typically a tropical climate. In contrast, regions farther from the equator, such as the poles, receive less sunlight, resulting in colder temperatures and polar or temperate climates. This variation in solar energy directly influences weather patterns, precipitation, and the types of ecosystems found in different regions. Understanding the distance from the equator is key to predicting and explaining climate variations across the globe.