Earth Science Regents Practice Exam 2026 - Free Regents Practice Questions and Study Guide

Continental climates are characterized by greater temperature extremes compared to other climate types. This occurs primarily because continental areas are located away from the moderating influence of oceans, which have a stabilizing effect on temperatures. As a result, continental climates experience hot summers and cold winters, leading to a significant range between the highest and lowest temperatures throughout the year.

In contrast, marine climates are influenced by nearby oceanic bodies, which help maintain a more moderate temperature with less variation between seasons. Tropical climates are typically warm year-round, showing less temperature variation since they are near the equator. Polar climates, while having low average temperatures, do not exhibit as wide a range of temperatures throughout the year as continental climates do. Thus, the distinct characteristic of continental climates is their marked temperature fluctuations, making them the correct choice.