Why is the climate near oceans generally more humid?

The climate near oceans is generally more humid primarily due to the evaporation of water. Oceans serve as vast reservoirs of water, and the process of evaporation occurs at a significant rate, especially in warmer temperatures. This evaporation introduces moisture into the atmosphere as water vapor. When this moisture accumulates, it contributes to higher humidity levels in coastal regions.

In addition to this, the proximity of large bodies of water affects local weather patterns, with the ocean acting as a source of heat and moisture. As air passes over the water, it absorbs moisture, resulting in increased humidity. Areas near oceans tend to have more precipitation as this humid air can lead to cloud formation and rainfall. This intrinsic connection between the ocean and atmospheric moisture is what makes coastal climates typically more humid.

The other options do not directly contribute to higher humidity in coastal areas. While trees can influence local climates and lower temperatures do play a role in weather patterns, neither are as significant as the role of water evaporation in increasing atmospheric moisture. Higher elevations often lead to cooler, drier air rather than increased humidity.