What are the sources of cold on Earth?

Cold on Earth can originate from various sources. The primary source of cold on Earth is the atmosphere, particularly in regions away from the equator. In these areas, air masses from the polar regions bring colder temperatures. Additionally, cold can be generated through the process of evaporation, where heat is extracted from the environment, leaving behind cooler air and surfaces. Cold can also be produced through radiation, with objects losing heat to their surroundings. Another significant source of cold is the presence of bodies of water, as water has a higher specific heat capacity compared to land, causing it to absorb and retain less heat, resulting in cooler temperatures near coastlines and bodies of water. Finally, cold can be formed through atmospheric cooling, such as during the night when the absence of sunlight leads to a decrease in temperature.

This mind map was published on 31 August 2023 and has been viewed 61 times.