The angle of the Sun’s rays decreases towards the poles.
Explanation
The Earth is divided into specific heat zones based on the angle of incidence of the Sun's rays and the resulting insolation. The Temperate Zones lie between the Tropics (23.5°) and the Polar Circles (66.5°) in both hemispheres.Statement-wise Analysis:
- The Sun is overhead exactly twice a year. is Incorrect. The phenomenon of the Sun being overhead exactly twice a year occurs only in the Torrid Zone (the region between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn). In the Temperate Zones, the mid-day Sun is never overhead.
- The angle of the Sun’s rays decreases towards the poles. is Correct. Due to the spherical shape of the Earth, the angle of the Sun’s rays decreases as one moves from the equator towards the poles. In the Temperate Zones, the rays are always slanting (oblique). Slanting rays spread solar energy over a larger surface area and travel through a greater depth of the atmosphere, resulting in less intense heating and, consequently, moderate temperatures.
- The region is located in close proximity to the poles. is Incorrect. While the Temperate Zones are situated closer to the poles than the Torrid Zone, "proximity to the poles" specifically characterizes the Frigid Zones, which experience extremely cold temperatures rather than moderate ones. The primary factor for "moderate" temperature is the angle of insolation, not merely distance.
- The region receives vertical solar rays throughout the year. is Incorrect. Receiving vertical (direct) solar rays throughout the year is a characteristic associated with the equatorial region within the Torrid Zone. The Temperate Zones never receive vertical rays.
Key Takeaway: The angle of incidence of solar rays is the primary determinant of temperature distribution; as the angle decreases towards the poles, insolation intensity reduces, creating the moderate climate characteristic of Temperate Zones.