Despite being near the same latitude, why is Denver's climate cooler and drier than Richmond, Virginia?

Despite being near the same latitude, why is Denver's climate cooler and drier than Richmond, Virginia?

• A. Because Denver is farther north
• B. Because Denver has a higher elevation
• C. Because Richmond is closer to the Atlantic Ocean
• D. Because Denver receives more sunlight

Answer: (B)

Elevation affects both temperature and humidity. At higher elevations, air is thinner and expands as it rises, which causes cooling as you move up the atmosphere. This lapse rate means Denver, sitting about 1,600 meters (roughly 5,280 feet) above sea level, ends up with cooler overall temperatures than cities at lower elevations even if they share a similar latitude. The air also holds less moisture up high, contributing to a drier climate in Denver. Richmond, Virginia sits near sea level and is warmed and moistened by moist air from the Atlantic, leading to a warmer, more humid climate. So the cooler, drier conditions in Denver come mainly from its high elevation.

Elevation affects both temperature and humidity. At higher elevations, air is thinner and expands as it rises, which causes cooling as you move up the atmosphere. This lapse rate means Denver, sitting about 1,600 meters (roughly 5,280 feet) above sea level, ends up with cooler overall temperatures than cities at lower elevations even if they share a similar latitude. The air also holds less moisture up high, contributing to a drier climate in Denver. Richmond, Virginia sits near sea level and is warmed and moistened by moist air from the Atlantic, leading to a warmer, more humid climate. So the cooler, drier conditions in Denver come mainly from its high elevation.