What is the characteristic temperature variation for continental climates?

Continental climates are typically characterized by significant temperature variations, both seasonally and daily. In these regions, the land heats up and cools down more rapidly than water bodies, leading to more extreme temperature fluctuations.

A temperature variation of over 20 degrees Celsius is common as continental climates often experience hot summers and cold winters. This sharp contrast between summer and winter temperatures is a defining feature of this climate type. For example, a place with a continental climate might experience summer highs of 30 degrees Celsius or more and winter lows that fall below -10 degrees Celsius.

In contrast, the other options suggest characteristics that do not accurately reflect the nature of continental climates. The idea that temperatures rarely exceed 10 degrees is not representative, as this option implies a much cooler climate than typical continental areas. Consistently the same temperatures throughout the year would describe climates such as oceanic or tropical climates rather than continental. Lastly, the assertion of high humidity levels with constant temperatures aligns more closely with maritime climates, not continental ones, where humidity levels can be lower and temperatures more variable. Thus, the correct choice highlights the true nature of continental climates and their notable temperature variability.