What factors affect climate according to geographical science?

The correct answer highlights several key physical features and phenomena that are foundational in understanding climate as per geographical science. Elevation is significant because it affects temperature and pressure; higher altitudes generally lead to cooler temperatures. Mountain barriers are essential as they can obstruct the movement of air masses, leading to distinct climate patterns on either side, creating rain shadows or differing weather conditions.

Land and water distribution plays a vital role because land heats and cools more quickly than water, impacting regional climates and weather patterns. Latitude is crucial as it determines the angle of sunlight received, influencing the amount of solar radiation, which directly correlates with climate zones—ranging from tropical near the equator to polar at the poles.

The other options, while they may influence aspects of human life and their interactions with the environment, do not directly address the physical principles that shape climates. Political boundaries and historical events relate more to human geography and socio-political dynamics rather than climatic conditions. Population density and urbanization influence local climate in terms of heat islands or resource use but are secondary to the primary geographical factors. Soil type and vegetation cover do have implications for local ecosystems and weather, but they are not as fundamental to understanding overall climate systems as elevation, mountain barriers, land and water distribution,