Several key factors influence global temperature patterns: 1) Latitude - Temperature generally decreases as one moves from the equator towards the poles. 2) Land-water contrasts - Land temperatures fluctuate more than ocean temperatures, moderating coastal climates. 3) Ocean currents - Warm currents move heat towards the poles while cool currents move it towards the equator. 4) Wind patterns - Prevailing winds influence whether locations experience more continental or maritime climates. 5) Altitude - Higher elevations are generally cooler than lower elevations.