The factor that determines the distribution of biomes on Earth is primarily climate, including factors such as temperature and precipitation patterns. Climate influences the types of vegetation and animal life that can thrive in a particular region. For example, deserts are characterized by low precipitation and high temperatures, while tropical rainforests receive abundant rainfall and have warm temperatures. Other factors, such as soil types, elevation, and latitude also play roles, but climate remains the dominant influence in shaping global biome distribution and biodiversity.