What is the primary reason maritime climates experience mild temperature ranges?

Maritime climates are characterized by mild temperature ranges primarily due to the influence of ocean temperatures. The oceans have a high specific heat capacity, meaning they can store and retain heat effectively. During the warmer months, ocean waters absorb heat, which helps to moderate temperatures in coastal regions, preventing extreme heat. Conversely, during the colder months, the ocean releases heat, which keeps coastal areas warmer than they would be if they were farther inland.

The proximity to the ocean also leads to more stable temperatures, as land heats up and cools down more quickly than water. As a result, regions near large bodies of water experience less variation between their hottest and coldest months. This moderating effect results in milder winters and cooler summers compared to areas further away from the ocean, which tend to have more extreme temperature fluctuations.

The other options, while they may influence local climate characteristics, do not primarily account for the mild temperature ranges seen in maritime climates. High levels of precipitation, geographical location near mountains, and rich vegetation cover can certainly affect climate but do not directly correlate with the moderation of temperature as effectively as oceanic influence does.