Correct Option (b):
Statement 2 is correct. The Northern Hemisphere contains a significantly larger proportion of landmass compared to the Southern Hemisphere, which is predominantly oceanic. Land heats up and cools down more rapidly and to a greater extent than water. This fundamental difference in thermal properties leads to more pronounced seasonal temperature variations over land-dominated regions. Consequently, the annual range of temperature is greater in the Northern Hemisphere.
Incorrect Options:
Statement 1 is incorrect. The annual range of temperature is generally greater in the Atlantic Ocean than in the Pacific Ocean. The Atlantic Ocean, especially in its northern parts, is narrower and has greater proximity to large continental landmasses. This configuration allows for a stronger influence of continental climates, which are characterized by larger temperature variations. In contrast, the vastness and more open nature of the Pacific Ocean exert a greater moderating influence on temperature fluctuations, resulting in a lower annual temperature range.