Which of the following factors has a direct effect on precipitation and climate?

1. Altitude: Higher altitudes often have cooler temperatures, which can affect precipitation patterns. Mountains, for example, can influence the distribution of rainfall and snowfall.
2. Proximity to Water Bodies: Areas near oceans or large bodies of water tend to have more moderate climates due to the heat capacity of water. Water heats up and cools down more slowly than land, influencing local climate and precipitation.
3. Wind Patterns: Prevailing wind patterns, such as the trade winds and westerlies, can affect the distribution of moisture and precipitation around the globe.
4. Topography: The physical features of the land, such as mountains and valleys, can influence the movement of air masses and contribute to variations in precipitation.

It's important to note that these factors are interconnected, and changes in one can influence the others, contributing to the complexity of Earth's climate system.