The main factor that determines a climate zone is typically latitude, which affects the amount of solar radiation received. Different latitudes experience varying sunlight intensity throughout the year, influencing temperature and precipitation patterns. Other factors include elevation, proximity to oceans, and prevailing wind patterns, which can also moderate climate effects. Regions closer to the equator generally have warmer, wetter climates, while polar areas are colder and receive less sunlight. Understanding these variables is critical for categorizing Earth’s diverse climate zones, which range from tropical to polar climates.