What effect does the heat capacity of water have on coastal regions compared to Land-locked areas?

Answer 1

The heat capacity of the ocean tends to moderate the extremes of temperature in the coastal areas. Their winters are generally warmer than inland areas of the same latitude. And their summers are generally cooler.

For example, let's compare Wichita, Kansas and Virginia Beach, Virginia - the largest cities in both states. They lie less than a degree apart in latitude, with Va. Beach at 36.83 deg N and Wichita at 37.68 deg N.

Wichita's mean yearly temperature is 56.2 F, and Va. Beach averages 60 F - a difference which can mostly be explained by their difference in elevation - Va. Beach is at nearly sea level, while Wichita sits at about 1300 ft. But let's look at their variations over the year.

mean hi - Jan: mean lo - Jan:
W., KS = 40 F = 20 F
V.B., VA = 47 F = 31 F

mean hi - July: mean lo - July:
W., KS = 93 F = 69 F
V.B., VA = 87 F = 71 F

As you can see, Wichita has colder winters and hotter summers than Virginia Beach, with greater variation in temperatures in both seasons. Even though their yearly averages are not that different. Which is almost entirely to do with the ocean.

Answer 2

the specific heat is how much energy it takes for a gram of water to be raised one degree C at sea level. a coastal region will probably have a higher specific heat because the water is being constantly replaced...an inland area will have more stagnant water and it will be more likely to be heated up.....