Climate

The world's physical features have great influence on climate and on the activities of the people in various regions. Plains and valleys with suitable temperatures and ample moisture are conducive to farming. Some mountain ranges act as barriers to moisture-laden winds, causing ample rain on the windward side and shortage of moisture on the other side. Large lakes have a moderating effect on the atmospheric temperatures of surrounding areas—making them warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer than they would otherwise be.