climate · 2016-05-13 · area, north of the tropic, lies in the sub-tropics. therefore, india’s...

Climate 1

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ANIL TUTORIALS

1. What is monsoon ? Explain any two features of monsoon. (CBSE 2013)

Ans. (1) A complete reversal of winds over a large area leading to a change of seasons is called monsoon.

(2) Following are the features of monsoon :

(i) The monsoon, unlike the trade winds, are not steady winds but are pulsating in nature.

(ii) The duration of the monsoon is between 100-120 days from early June to mid-september.

(iii) Around the time of its arrival, the normal rainfall increases suddenly and continues constantly for several

days. This is called as the ‘burst’ of monsoon.

(iv) The monsoon arrives at the southern tip of the Indian Peninsula generally by the first week of June.

(v) It has two branches —the Arabian Sea branch and the Bay of Bengal branch.

(vi) The Arabian Sea branch reaches Mumbai about 10 days later on approximately l0th of June. The Bay of

Bengal branch also advances rapidly and arrives in Assam in the first week of June.

(vii) Its withdrawal is a gradual process that begins in the North-East India by early september.

2. “India has diverse climatic conditions.” Explain by giving two examples each of temperature and precipitation.

(CBSE 2011)

Or

“India has diverse climatic conditions”. Support this statement by giving three examples. (CBSE 2013)

OrDescribe the regional variations in climatic conditions of India with the help of suitable examples.

(CBSE 2011)

Ans. Regional variations in the climatic conditions in India :

(1) In summer, the mercury occasionally touches 50CC in some parts of the Rajasthan desert, whereas it may

be around 20°C in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir.

(2) On a winter night, temperature at Drass in Jammu and Kashmir may be as low as - 45°C. Thiruvananthapuram,

on the other hand, may have a temperature of 22°C.

(3) The annual precipitation varies from over 400 cm in Meghalaya to less than 10 cm in Ladakh and western

Rajasthan.

(4) Most parts of the country receive rainfall from June to September. But some parts like the Tamil Naducoast gets a large portion of its rain during October and November.

(5) While precipitation is mostly in the form of snowfall in the upper parts of Himalayas, it rains over the rest of

the country.

(6) Coastal areas experience less contrasts in temperature conditions. Seasonal contrasts are more in the

interior of the country.

(7) There is decrease in rainfall generally from east to west in the Northern plains.

3. What are the elements of weather and climate ? Distinguish between weather and climate. (CBSE 2011)

OrDistinguish between weather and climate. Name the type of Indian climate.

Or

Climate

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ANIL TUTORIALS

State three differences between climate and weather.

Or

Define climate and weather. What are the common elements between the two ? (CBSE 2012)

Ans. (1) The elements of weather and climate are : temperature, atmospheric pressure, wind, humidity and precipitation.

(2) Difference between weather and climate :(i) Weather refers to the state of the atmosphere over an area at any point of time. (ii) Climate refers to the

sum total of weather conditions and variations over a large area for a long period of time (more than thirty

years).

4. Describe any five factors responsible for climatic conditions. (CBSE 2011)

Or

State any three factors which play a major role in determining the climate of a place.

(CBSE 2012 )Or

Explain major determiners of the climate of a place. (CBSE 2012)

Ans. Factors responsible for climatic conditions :

(1) Due to the curvature of the earth, the amount of solar energy received varies according to latitude. As a

result, air temperature generally decreases from the equator towards the poles.

(2) As one goes from the surface of the earth to higher altitudes, the atmosphere becomes less dense and

temperature decreases. The hills are, therefore, cooler during summer.

(3) The pressure and wind Systems of any area depends on the latitude and altitude of the place. Thus, it

influences the temperature and rainfall pattern.

(4) The sea exerts a moderating influence on climate. As the distance from the sea increases, its moderating

influence decreases and the people experience extreme weather conditions.

(5) Relief also plays a major role in determining the climate of a place. High mountains act as a barrier for coldor hot winds. They may also cause precipitation if they are high enough and lie in the path of rain-bearingwinds.

CLIMATE CONTROLS1. How is the climate of India governed by the atmospheric conditions ? Explain with three suitable examples.

(CBSE 2013)

Ans. The climate of India is governed by the atmospheric conditions in the following ways :

(1) Pressure and surface winds : During winter, the north of Himalaya has a high pressure area and over theocean, to the south, there is a low pressure area. So, cold wind blows towards the sea. In summer, a lowpressure area develops over north-western India, So, there is a complete reversal of direction of winds. So,

wind rich in moisture gathered from ocean moves towards the mainland and brings widespread rainfall.

(2) Upper air circulation : It is dominated by a westerly flow. Jet stream is one of its important components.These are located over 27°-30° north latitude, therefore, they are also called subtropical westerly jet streams.Over India, these jet streams blow south of the Himalaya throughout the year except in summer. This brings

western cyclonic disturbance in the north and north-western India.

(3) Tropical cyclones : These occur during the monsoon as well as in October-November and are part of theeasterly flow. These disturbances; affect the coastal regions of the country.

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2. ‘Location and relief are important factors in-determining the climate of India.’ Explain with examples.

(CBSE 2013)

Ans. Following are the ways in which location and relief features affect the climate of a place :(1) Location :(i) The amount of solar energy varies according to latitude. Air temperature generally decreases

on moving from equator to poles. This is why, Antarctic is the coldest region.

(ii) When we move from the surface of the earth to higher altitudes, the atmosphere becomes less dense

and temperature decreases. The hills, therefore, are cooler during summers.

(2) Relief :

(i) High mountains act as barriers for cold and hot winds.

(ii) They may also cause precipitation if they are high enough and lie in the path of rain-bearing winds.

For example, the leeward side of mountains remains relatively dry.

3. How does relief affect the climate of India ? Explain. (CBSE 2012)

Ans. Effect of relief on climate :

(1) Altitude has a great impact on the climate of a place. The higher the place, the cooler it is. The mighty

Himalayas along with its extension prevent us from northern chilly winds.

(2) The mountains also force the moist winds blowing from the sea in the south to cause rain in the sub-

continent.

(3) It is because of the difference in relief that hilly areas have very low temperature even during summer,

whereas plains like Punjab, Haryana and U.P. have very high temperature.

4. How does the distance from the sea affect the climate of India ? Explain with examples. (CBSE 2013)Ans. (1) As the distance from the sea increases, it’s moderating influence decreases.

(2) People living away from the sea, experience extreme weather conditions. For example, the summers of

Delhi are very hot and winters are very cold.

(3) This condition is known as continentality, i.e., very hot during summer and very cold during winter.

(4) Areas near the sea experience moderate climate — summers are cool and winters are warm. Example :

Thiruvananthapuram.

FACTORS AFFECTING INDIA’S CLIMATE1. Explain the factors that influence the climate of India. (CBSE 2012)

Or

How do pressure and winds affect the climate of India ? Explain with examples. (CBSE 2013)

Or

Explain any three factors affecting India’s climate. (CBSE 2013)

OrState any three atmospheric conditions which govern the climate and associated weather conditions in India.

(CBSE 2012)

Ans. (1) The locational and relief features : The Tropic of Cancer passes through the middle of India. Almosthalf of the country, lying to the south of the Tropic of Cancer, belongs to the Tropical area. All the remainingarea, north of the Tropic, lies in the sub-tropics. Therefore, India’s climate has characteristics of tropical as

well as sub-tropical climates. India has mountains to the north, which have an average height of about 6,000

metres. The Himalayas prevent the cold winds from Central Asia from entering the sub-continent.

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(2) Pressure and surface winds : During winter, there is a high-pressure area north of the Himalayas. Cold

dry winds blow from this region to the low-pressure areas over the oceans to the south. In summer, a low-

pressure area develops over north-western India. This causes a complete reversal of the direction of windsduring summer. Air moves from the high pressure area over the southern Indian Ocean, in a south-easterlydirection, crosses the equator, and turns right towards the low-pressure areas over the Indian sub-continent.These are known as the south-west monsoon winds. These winds bring widespread rainfall over the mainlandof India.

(3) Upper air circulation :(i) The upper air circulation over India is dominated by a westerly flow. An important component of this flow

is the Jet Stream.

(ii) These Jet Streams blow south of the Himalayas, all through the year except in summer.(iii) The western cyclonic disturbances experienced in the north and north-western parts of the country are

brought in by this westerly flow.

2. Write any four characteristics of Arabian Sea branch of south-west monsoons ? (CBSE 2011)Ans. (I) The Arabian Sea branch strikes the Western Ghats between last week of May and first week of June and

provides abundant rainfall.(2) This branch precipitates heavily along the western coast from Kerala to Gujarat.(3) The eastern part or leeward side of Western Ghats does not receive much rainfall. Therefore, southern

plateau remains comparatively dry.

(4) Rajasthan receives scanty or almost no rainfall.

3. What are western disturbances ? How do they affect the climate of India ? (CBSE 2011)Ans. (1) The western disturbances are weather phenomena of the winter months. These are the temperate cyclones

which originate over Mediterranean Sea and Western Asia and move into India, along with the westerlyflow of Jet Streams.

(2) They disturb the calm and quiet weather of north and north-western India by causing cyclonic rains overthe plains and snowfall in the mountains.

(3) Winter rainfall caused by them locally known as ‘Mahawat is of immense importance for the cultivation ofrabi crops.

4. How do the following factors influence the climate of India ? (CBSE 2012)

(1) Latitude, (2) Altitude, (3) Distance from the sea.Ans. (1) Latitude : The part lying to the south of the Tropic of Cancer experiences the vertical rays of the sun but

the part lying beyond the Tropic of Cancer experiences the slanting rays of the sun therefore, India’s

climate has the characteristics of tropical as well as sub-tropical.(2) Altitude : The Himalayas do not allow the cold Arctic winds to enter India, hence, it experiences milder

winters. High mountains act as barriers and obstruct the winds to cause precipitation and the leeward sideremains dry.

(3) Distance from the sea: India has a long coastline and the sea exerts a moderating influence on the coastalareas.

5. Define the term ‘Jet Streams’. Give any two features of Jet Stream. (CBSE 2012)

Or

Mention any three characteristics of the Jet Streams. (CBSE 2012)

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Ans. Jet Stream :(1) These are a narrow belt of high altitude (above 12,000 metres) westerly winds in the

troposphere. Their speed varies from about 100 km/h in summer to about 184 km/h in winter.(2) Following are the features of Jet Streams :

(i) They blow at high altitude.(ii) Jet Streams are located approximately over 27°-30° North latitude.(iii) A number of separate Jet Streams have been identified.

6. How does the westerly Jet Stream help in bringing the western disturbances to the Indian sub-continent duringwinter ? (CBSE 2013)

Ans. (1) The western disturbances originate near the Mediterranean Sea in the winter and move eastwards.(2) Westerly Jet Stream prevails over the Northern Plain of India in winter.(3) The disturbances come under the influence of the westerly Jet Stream which brings them to the Indian sub-

continent and causes widespread rainfall in the region.

7. How does the change in pressure conditions over the southern oceans affect the monsoons? (CBSE 2012)

Ans. (1) When the tropical eastern South Pacific Ocean experiences high pressure, the tropical eastern Indian

Ocean experiences low pressure. In this condition the monsoon rainfall will be average.

(2) In some years it is reverse when pressure difference is negative — means below average and late

monsoon.

(3) The change in pressure conditions is connected to the El-Nino.

8. “Pressure and wind conditions over India are unique”. Give any three examples to support this statement.

(CBSE 2012)

Ans. (1) During winter there is a high-pressure area north of Himalayas. Cold winds blow from here to low pressure

areas over oceans towards the south.

(2) There is a complete reversal in the direction of winds during summers. Air moves from high pressure areas

to low pressure areas as south-west Monsoon winds.

(3) The winds collect moisture from warm oceans and cause rainfall over Indian mainland.

9. Explain the following terms :

(a) Coriolis force, (b) Jet stream, (c) Monsoon. (CBSE 2013)

Ans. (a) Coriolis force : It is an apparent force caused due to earth’s rotational motion. In the northern hemisphere,

it deflects winds towards the right and in the southern hemisphere, it reflects winds towards left.

(b) Jet stream : These are a narrow belt of high altitude westerly winds located approximately over 27°-30°north latitude, therefore they are known as subtropical westerly jet streams. During summer months oneasterly jet stream blows over peninsular India, approximately over 14°N. These westerly jet streams blow

over India through the year (except in summer) south of the Himalayas.

(c) Monsoon : It is the seasonal reversal of the wind system. It is not steady, but pulsating in nature. It lasts for100-120 days from early June to mid-september. It has two branches — the Arabian Sea branch and the

Bay of Bengal branch. Its withdrawal is a gradual process that Starts by early September and it is completelywithdrawn by mid-October from northern part of the country. By early December, it is completely withdrawn

from the country.

THE INDIAN MONSOON1. Describe the mechanism of monsoons. (CBSE 2011)

Or

Describe any three facts which affect the mechanism of monsoons. (CBSE 2013)

Or

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State any three factors which help us to understand the mechanism of monsoons. (CBSE 2012)

Ans. Mechanism of monsoons :

(1) The differential heating and cooling of land and water creates low pressure on the landmass of India whilethe seas around experience comparatively high pressure.

(2) The position of Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) in summer shifts over the Ganga plain (This is theequatorial trough normally positioned about 5°N of the equator. It is also known as the monsoon-trough

during the monsoon season).

(3) The high-pressure area exists east of Madagascar, approximately at 20°S over the Indian Ocean. The

intensity and position of this high-pressure area affect the Indian monsoon.

(4) The Tibetan plateau gets intensely heated during summer, which results in strong vertical air currents and

the formation of low pressure over the plateau at about 9 km above sea level.

(5) The movement of the westerly Jet Stream to the north of the Himalayas and the presence of the tropical

easterly Jet Stream over the Indian peninsula during summer.

2. Explain what is monsoon ? Name the two branches of monsoon and explain any one. (CBSE 2011)

Ans. (1) Monsoon refers to the seasonal reversal in the wind direction during a year. The two branches of monsoon

are : (i) Arabian Sea Branch, (ii) Bay of Bengal Branch.

(2) Bay of Bengal Branch

(i) This branch of monsoon advances rapidly and arrives in the north-eastern part of the country. Mawsynram

in the southern ranges of the Khasi Hills receives the highest average rainfall in the world.

(ii) The lofty mountains cause the monsoon winds to deflect towards the west over the Ganga plains.

(iii) Delhi generally receives the monsoon showers from the Bay of Bengal branch by the end of June.

(iv) The Bay of Bengal branch merges with the Arabian Sea branch over the north-western part of the Ganga

plains.

3. Explain any three characteristics of the Indian monsoon. (CBSE 2013)

Ans. (1) The sailor who came to India in historic times were the first to have noticed the phenomenon of themonsoon. They benefited from the reversal of wind system as they came by sailing ships at the mercy of

winds.

(2) The monsoons are experienced in the tropical area roughly between 20° North and 20° South. It has been

noticed that changes in the pressure conditions over the southern oceans also affect monsoon.

(3) Normally, when the tropical eastern South Pacific Ocean experiences high pressure, the tropical easternIndian Ocean experiences low pressure. But in certain years, there is a reversal in the pressure conditions

and the eastern Pacific Ocean has lower pressure in comparison to the eastern Indian Ocean.

(4) This periodic change in pressure conditions is known as the Southern Oscillation. The difference in pressureover Tahiti (Pacific Ocean, 18°S/149°W) and Darwin in northern Australia (Indian Ocean, 12°30’S/131°E)

is computed to predict the intensity of the monsoons.

(5) If the pressure differences were negative, it would mean below average and the late monsoon. A featureconnected with the SO is the El-Nino phenomenon in which a warm ocean current that flows past thePeruvian coast, in place of the cold Peruvian current, every 2 to 5 years. The changes in pressure conditionsare connected to the El- Nino, hence, the phenomenon is referred to as ENSO (El-Nino Southern Oscillations).

4. What is Inter Tropic Convergence Zone (ITCZ) ? Explain. (CBSE-SAII, 2012-48028)Or

Explain the term “Inter Tropical Convergence Zone”. Mention any two features of it. (CBSE 2013)Ans. (1) Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) : Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a broad trough of

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low pressure in equatorial latitudes.(2) Features of ITCZ are as follows :

(1) It lies more or less parallel to the equator.

(2) It moves north or south with the apparent movement of the sun.

(3) North-east and south-east trade winds converge here.5. What is ‘El-Nino’ ? Explain any two features of it. (CBSE 2012)Ans. (1) El-Nino is a name given to the periodic development of warm ocean current

along the coast of Peru as a temporary replacement of the cold Peruvian current.(2) Features of ‘El- Nino’ are as follows :(i) It is a spanish word meaning ‘the child’ and refers to the baby Christ, as the current starts flowing during

Christmas.(ii) The presence of the El-Nino leads to an increase in sea-surface temperatures.(iii) It weakens the trade winds in the regions.(iv) It causes heavy rainfall, floods or droughts in different regions of the world.(v) Sometimes it is responsible for the bad monsoon in India.

THE ONSET OF THE MONSOON AND WITHDRAWAL

1. How is the Arabian Sea branch of South-west monsoons responsible for good rainfall in Northern Plains ofIndia ? Why doesn’t it give rain in Central Peninsula ? (CBSE 2011)

Ans. (1) The part of South-west monsoons which blows over Arabian sea is responsible for high rainfall on thewestern coast of India.

(2) These winds enter through Saurashtra and enter Northern plains. These winds strike the Himalayas andgive fairly good rainfall as they have abundant moisture.

(3) South-west monsoons are perpendicular to the direction of Western Ghats. Thus they give heavy rainfall onthe windward side of the Western Ghats.

(4) Central Peninsula lies on the leeward side of the Western Ghats. Thus, Arabian sea branch of South-westmonsoon does not reach at this region.

2. Define monsoon. Differentiate between ‘Burst of the monsoon’ and ‘Break of the monsoon.

(CBSE 2011 )

Ans. (1) Monsoon refers to the seasonal reversal in the wind direction during a year.(2) (i) Burst of the monsoon : When monsoon arrives in India the normal rainfall increases suddenly and

continues constantly for several days. This is known as the “burst of the monsoon.(ii) Break of the monsoon : Monsoon’s tendency is to have “breaks’ in rainfall. Thus, it has wet and dry

spells. In other words, the monsoon rains take place only for a few day& at a time. They are interspersedwith rainless intervals.

3. Define burst of monsoons. Give an account of the climatic conditions of the cold weather season in India.

(CBSE 2011)

Ans. (1) When monsoons arrive in India, the normal rainfall increases suddenly and continues constantly for several

days. This is called ‘burst of monsoon’.

(2) Climatic conditions of the cold weather :

(i) Cold weather season prevails from November to February.

(ii) The temperature decreases from south to the north.

(iii) Days are warm and nights are cold.

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(iv)The north-east trade winds prevail over the country. From these winds some amount of rainfall occurs on

the Tamil Nadu coast.

(v) The weather is marked by clear sky, low temperatures and low humidity and feeble, variable winds.(vi) Low pressure systems, originate over the Mediterranean Sea and move into India, along with the westerly

flow. They cause the much needed winter rains over the plains and snowfall in the mountains.

4. Give any three characteristics of the monsoon rainfall in India. (CBSE 2012)

Ans. Following are the characteristics of monsoon rainfall in India :

(1) The monsoon is known for its uncertainties.

(2) It is often irregular in its arrival and its retreat which disturbs the farming schedule of the country.(3) Owing to the nature of monsoon, the annual rainfall is highly variable from year to year and region to

region.

THE COLD WEATHER SEASON1. Why North-west India receives rainfall in winter ? Give any three reasons. (CBSE 2011)

Ans. North-west India receives rainfall in winter because :

(1) Cyclonic disturbances occur from the west and the north-west.

(2) These low-pressure systems, originate over the Mediterranean Sea and westem Asia and move into India,

along with westerly flow.

(3) They cause winter rains over Punjab, Haryana and Northern Plains.

2. Why are South-west monsoons less rainy in Tamil Nadu ? Explain. (CBSE 2011) Ans. (1) Tamil Nadu happens to be in the rain shadow area. (Tamil Nadu is on the leeward side of the Western

Ghats which obstructs the South-west monsoon).

(2) The section of Western Ghats bordering Tamil Nadu and Kerala captures the South-west monsoon from

the Arabian Sea branch.

(3) Therefore, South-west monsoon winds provide less rainfall in Tamil Nadu.

(4) This region receives rainfall from retreating monsoon.

3. Why does India have a monsoon type of climate ? (CBSE 2012)

Ans. India has a monsoon type of climate because :

(1) Climate of India is strongly governed by the monsoon “winds. Monsoon winds are confined to tropical landsbetween 20° North and 20° South.

(2) In the Indian sub-continent, the Himalayas guide the flow of the monsoon winds bringing the whole of

sub-continent under the influence of these winds.

(3) These winds account for 75% to 90% of annual rainfall from June to September. It is influenced by South-

west monsoons, retreating monsoons and North-east monsoons.

4. Highlight the main features of cold weather season in India. Mention any three points. (CBSE 2012)

Or

Highlight any three characteristics of cold weather season in India. (CBSE 2013)

Ans. Following are the features of cold weather season in India :

(1) Duration of this season is mid-November in the northern plains and stays till February. December and

January are the coldest months in the northern parts of the country.

(2) The temperature decreases from south to north. The days are warm and nights are cold.

(3) Frosts are common in the north and the higher slopes of the Himalayas experience snowfall.

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(4) North-east trade winds blow over the country. They blow from land to sea. For most part of the country itis dry season. Some amount of rainfall occurs on the coast of Tamil Nadu from these winds as here they

blow from sea to land.

(5) In the northern part of the country, a feeble high pressure region develops, with light winds moving outwards

from this area.

THE HOT WEATHER SEASON1. Explain the features of the hot weather season in India. (CBSE 2013 )

Or

What are the three characteristic features of hot weather season ? (CBSE 2012)

Ans. (1) Hot weather season prevails from March to May in India.

(2) Due to apparent northward movement of the Sun, the heat belt shifts northwards. As a result temperature

increases in northern plains.

(3) There is a rise in temperature and fall in air pressure in the northern parts of the country.

(4) Towards the end of May a low pressure area develops in the region extending from the Thar desert in the

north-west to Chhotanagpur plateau in the east.

(5) In the Peninsular India, temperature remains lower due to the moderating influence of the oceans.

(6) The local winds which blow during summers in different parts of India are Loo, Kaal Baisakhi and Mangoshowers.

2. Define ‘Kaal Baishakhi’ and ‘Loo’. In which parts of India are they experienced ?

Or

Define “Kaal Baisakhi”, “Mango Showers” and “Loo” ? (CBSE 2012)

Ans. (1) Kaal Baisakhi : These are local thunderstorms associated with violent winds, torrential downpours,

often accompanied by hail.

(2) Loo : These are strong, gusty, hot, dry winds blowing during the day over the north and north-westernIndia. Sometimes they even continue until late in the evening . Direct exposure to these winds may even

prove to be fatal. Kaal Baisakhi is experienced in West Bengal and Loo in north and north-western

India.

(3) Mango showers : Towards the close of summer season, pre-monsoon showers are common, especiallyin Kerala and Karnataka. They help in early ripening of mangoes. These are called as mango showers.

(THE COLD WEATHER SEASON + THE HOT WEATHER SEASON)

1. Why does Mumbai receive more rainfall in summer season while Chennai receives rainfall in winter ?

(CBSE 2011)

Ans. (1) (i) Mumbai receives more rainfall in summer from Arabian Sea branch from June to September.

(ii) Mumbai is located on the western coast which comes in the way of Arabian Sea branch at its earliest.

(iii) It is located on the windward side of the Western Ghats which receives very heavy rainfall, more than

250 cm.

(2) (i) Chennai is located on the leeward side of the Western Ghats which obstructs the south-west monsoon.

(ii)Bay of Bengal branch moves parallel to the eastern coast where Chennai is located. So, it does not

receive rainfall from this branch.

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2. Differentiate between the cold weather season and the hot weather season of India by explaining two distinctive

features of each. (CBSE 2011)

Or

Differentiate between cold and hot weather seasons in three points. (CBSE 2011)

Ans. (1) Cold weather season :

(i) The cold weather season begins from mid-November in northern India and stays till February.

(ii) The temperature decreases from south to the north. The average temperature of Chennai, on the eastern

coast, is between 24°C - 25°G, while in northern plains, it ranges between 10°C - 15°C.

(iii) Days are short and warm while nights are long and cold.

(iv) Frost is common in the north and the higher slopes of the Himalayas experience snowfall.

(v) The weather is marked by clear sky, low temperatures and low humidity and feeble, variable winds.

(vi) Another feature over the northern plains is the inflow of cyclonic disturbances from the west and the north-west.

(vii)The total amount of winter rainfall is locally known as ‘Mahawat’. It is of immense importance for the

cultivation of Rabi crop.

(2) Hot weather season :

(i) The hot weather season prevails from March to May.

(ii) The summer months experience rising temperature and falling air pressure in the northern part of the

country.

(iii) Days are hot and long and nights are warm and short.

(iv) In Peninsular India, temperature remains lower due to the moderating influence of the ocean.

(v) Strong, gusty, hot, dry winds blow over the north and north-western India.

(vi) In this season local thunderstorms, associated with violent winds, torrential downpours, often accompanied

by hail are common. In West Bengal, these storms are known as the ‘Kaal Baisakhi’.

(vii) Pre-monsoon showers are common in Kerala and Karnataka. They help in the early ripening of mangoes.

3. Why do the Western Ghats receive more rainfall than the Eastern Ghats ? Explain briefly. (CBSE 2011)

Ans. Western Ghats receive more rainfall than the Eastern Ghats because :

(1) Western Ghats receive rainfall from the Arabian Sea monsoon winds. As these winds blow over warm

oceans, they bring abundant moisture.

(2) The Ghats do not allow the winds to cross over without shedding their moisture on the western slopes.

(3) When these winds reach the eastern coast they are almost dry.

(4) Another branch of South-west monsoon i.e. the Bay of Bengal branch moves parallel to the eastern coast. In

this way, this region is located in an unfavorable position | with reference of the monsoon winds.

ADVANCING MONSOON (THE RAINY SEASON)

1. Explain any four features of advancing monsoon with reference to India. (CBSE 2013)Ans. (1) Monsoon has two branches. The Arabian Sea branch reaches Mumbai in the second week of June. By

mid-June, it reaches Gujarat and Central India.

(2) The Bay of Bengal branch reaches Assam in the first week of June. Due to lofly mountains, it deflects

towards the west over the Ganga plains.

(3) The two branches merge over the north-western part of Ganga plains.

(4) By the first week of Jury, western U.P., Punjab, Haryana and eastern Rajasthan receive the monsoon.

(5) By mid-July, the monsoon reaches Himachal Pradesh and rest of the country.

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(6) The islands receive monsoon from south to north from the last Week of April to the first week of May.

2. Describe any three features of “advancing monsoon”. (CBSE2013)

Ans. (1) It brings a total change in weather.

(2) Early in the season, the wind ward side of Western Ghats receives very heavy rainfall.

(3) The maximum rainfall of this season is received in the north-eastern part of th country. It has wet and dryspells.

(4) The spatial distribution of rainfall is uneven.

(5) The monsoon is known for its uncertainties.

3. Where is Mawsynram located ? Why does Mawsynram receive the highest amount of rainfall ?

(CBSE 2012)

Ans. (1) Mawsynram is located in the southern ranges of the Khasi Hills at a height of 1500 m above the sea level.

It receives the highest (annual rainfall 1140 cm) rainfall of the world.

(2) Mawsynram receives the highest amount of rainfall because:(i) This place is enclosed by hills on threesides.

(ii) The relief features give this place funnel shaped location.

(iii) The Bay of Bengal monsoon is trapped in these hills. These winds try to get out of it, but are forced to pour

down there.

4. Why is it said that “Monsoon wind is known for its uncertainties” ? Explain any three reasons.

(CBSE, 2012)

Ans. Monsoon wind is known for its uncertainties because:

(1) The movement of low pressure trough controls the spatial distribution of rainfall.

(2) The alternation of wet and dry spells varies in intensity, frequency and duration.

(3) It sometime causes heavy floods in one part, it may be responsible for drought in other.

(4) It is often irregular in its arrival and retreat.

5. Mention any three phenomenal features associated with the South-west monsoon. (CBSE 2012)

Ans. South-west monsoon :

(1) Trade winds of southern hemisphere, cross the equator and blow in south-western direction.

(2) This inflow brings total change in the weather condition.

(3) The maximum rainfall is received in the north-eastern part of India.

(4) Another phenomenon associated with the monsoon is its tendency to have ‘breaks’ in rainfall.

(5) Heavy rains bring devastating floods causing damage to life and property in the plains. Tropical depressions

form at the head of the Bay of Bengal and cross ever to the mainland.

(6) The depression follows the axis of the monsoon through the low pressure. The monsoon is known for its

uncertainties.

RETREATING/POST MONSOONS (THE TRANSITION SEASON)1. Describe the climatic conditions of India during retreating monsoon. (CBSE, 2013)

OrDescribe any three main features of retreating monsoon. (CBSE 2012)

Ans. Following are the phenomena of the retreating monsoons :

(1) It occurs in the months of October and November.

(2) The monsoon trough or the low-pressure trough over the northern plains becomes weaker and it is graduallyreplaced by a high-pressure system.

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(3) The South-west monsoon winds weaken and start withdrawing gradually. The months of October-November

form a period of transition from hot rainy season to dry winter conditions.

(4) The retreat of the monsoon is marked by clear skies and rise in temperature.

(5) Day temperatures are high, nights are cool and pleasant. The weather becomes rather oppressive during the

day, it is commonly known as ‘October heat’.

DISTRIBUTION OF RAINFALL1. Why is the distribution of rainfall in India uneven ? Give four reasons. (CBSE-2011)

Or

Why is the distribution of rainfall in India not uniform ? Explain any three reasons. (CBSE 1014)

Ans. The distribution of rainfall in India is uneven because :

(1) The monsoons are not steady winds but are pulsuating in nature. The duration of the monsoon is between

100-120 days from early June to mid-September.

(2) The topography of India leads to more rainfall in some regions while less in others.

(3) Himalayas receive precipitation in the form of snow because of higher altitude.

(4) Areas which come first in the way of moisture laden winds receive more rainfall than the area which comeslast of all. For example, western coast and north-eastern India come first in the way of Arabian Sea branchand Bay of Bengal branch respectively. So, they receive 400 cm of rainfall. Rajasthan comes in the last, so,

it receives scanty rainfall.

(5) Areas which have no mountain to work as barriers get scanty rainfall, like, Rajasthan receives less than 60 cm

of rainfall.

(6) Areas of rain shadow do not get much rainfall for example, eastern part of Western Ghats.

(7) Whole of India does not receive rain by monsoon winds. Eastern coast of India gets rain only from North-east

monsoons during the month of December- January.

(8) Cyclones help rain scatter at places, while other places remain without rain.

2. Why is the annual rainfall in India highly variable ? Explain any three reasons. (CBSE-2012)

Ans. Following are the reasons of variability in the annual rainfall in India :

(1) The monsoon are not steady winds but are pulsuating in nature.

(2) Sometimes monsoon comes late in many regions.

(3) Sometimes monsoon departs earlier than normal dates from various areas.

(4) Due to ENSO, sometimes the rainfall is not adequate, resulting in droughts.

3. Describe any three characteristics of the distribution of rainfall in India ? (CBSE 2012)

or

Describe the distribution of rainfall in India. (CBSE 2013)or

Describe the regional variations in the distributions of rainfall in India. (CBSE 2013)

Ans. Following are the characteristics of the distribution of rainfall in India :

(1) Parts of western coast and north-eastern India receive over 400 cm of rainfall annually.

(2) Western Rajasthan and adjoining parts of Gujarat, Haryana and Punjab receive rainfall less than 60 cm.

(3) Interior of the Deccan plateau and east of the Sahyadries also receive low rainfall.

(4) Snowfall is restricted to Himalayan region.

(5) Annual rainfall in India is highly variable from year to year.

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MONSOON AS A UNIFYING BOND1. Explain the importance of monsoon rainfall in India. (CBSE 2011)

Or

Give any three characteristics of the monsoon rainfall in India. (CBSE 2013)

Ans. India would have been an arid land or desert if there had been no phenomena of monsoons because :

(1) India receives 75% to 90% rainfall from monsoons.

(2) Himalayas do not allow the South-west monsoons to cross over to Tibet. They deflect the monsoon winds

towards the west over the Ganga plain where they provide rainfall.

(3) The triangular shape of Peninsular India divides the South-west monsoons into two branches — Arabian Sea

branch and Bay of Bengal branch. In the first week of June the Arabian Sea branch hits the Western coast

and Bay of Bengal branch arrives in Assam. Both the branches merge over the north-western part of India.

(4) With the exception of the extreme north-west, the monsoon winds cover the country in about a month.2. Explain how monsoon acts as a unifying bond in the country ? (CBSE 2011)

OrExplain the role of monsoon as a unifying bond in India. (CBSE 2012)

OrExplain how monsoon plays a role of a unifying bond in the country. (CBSE 2012)

OrExplain with examples the unifying role of the monsoon. (CBSE 2013)

Ans. Roles of monsoon as a unifying bond in India are as follow :(1) The Himalayas protect the sub-continent from extremely cold winds from central Asia. This enables northern

India to have uniformly higher temperatures when compared to other areas on the same latitude.(2) It provides a rhythmic cycle of season.(3) The Indian landscape, its animal, plant life, its entire agricultural calendar, life of people, including their

festivals, all depend on monsoon.(4) The monsoon provides water for the whole country.(5) Rivers which carry rain water also unite as a single river valley unit.

3. Distinguish between the South-west Monsoon and North-east Monsoon. (CBSE 2012)Ans.

4. Study the following climatic data and answer the questions that follow :

North-east Monsoon(1) This seasons starts from December and ends in

February.(2) It does not possess any rainless intervals.(3) It does not have any branches.(4) Minor portion of the annual rainfall in India is due to

this type of monsoon.

South-west Monsoon

(1) This season is from June to September.(2) It does not rain continuously. There are rainless intervals

in this season.(3) It blows in India as the ArabianSea branch and Bay of

Bengal branch.(4) Major portion of annual rainfall in India is due to this

type of monsoon.

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(1) Name the rainiest month of the year. How much is the rainfall in this month?

(2) What is the annual range of temperature here ?

(3) Name the hottest month and write the temperature. (CBSE 2011)

Ans. (1) The rainiest month of the year is July. The rainfall in this months is 19.3 cm.

(2) The annual range of temperature is 33.3°C 14.4°C = 18.9°C

(3) The hottest month of the year is June and the temperature is 33.3°C.

5. Study the climatic data of the given place and answer the following questions :

(1) Calculate the total annual rainfall for this station.

(2) What is the annual range of temperature here ?(3) Name the rainiest month. (CBSE 2011)

Ans. (1) The total annual rainfall for this station is 889 cm.

(2) The annual range of temperature is 30.4°C - 19.6°C = 10.8°C.(3) The rainiest month is September.

6. Study the data carefully and answer the following questions :

(1) Which station has the higher range of temperature and why ?(2) Which station receives the higher amount of rainfall ? Name the two most rainy months of this station.

(CBSE 2011)Ans. (1) Delhi has the higher range of temperature because it is located far away from the sea, so, its moderating

influence decreases.

(2) Mumbai receives higher amount of rainfall. The two rainiest months of this station are June and July.7. Study the following climatic data and answer the questions that follow :

(1) Name the rainiest month of the year. How much is the rainfall this month ?

(2) What is the annual range of temperature here ?

(3) Name the hottest month and write the temperature. (CBSE 2011)

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Ans. (1) Rainiest month of the year is August. Rainfall in this month is 33.4 cm.

(2) Here annual range of temperature is 30.4°C -19.6°C = 10.8°C

(3) Hottest month is May and the temperature is 30.4°C.

8. Study the following data and answer the questions that are given below :

(1) Name the rainiest month of the year. What is the total amount of rainfall this month ?

(2) What is the annual range of temperature of this Station ?

(3) Explain the meaning of annual range of temperature. (CBSE, 2012)

Ans. (1) July is the rainiest month of the year.

(2) The total amount of rainfall of this month is 28.9 cm.

(3) Annual range of temperature means the difference between the maximum temperature and minimumtemperature.

9. Study the climatic data of a station given below and answer the following questions : (CBSE 2012)

(1) Calculate the annual range of temperature of this Station.

(2) Which month receives less rainfall and how much ?

Ans. (1) The annual range of temperature of this Station is 27.1°C - 18.9° = 8.2°C.

(2) January receives least rainfall and it is 7 mm.

10. Study the climate data of a station given below and answer the following questions :

(a) Calculate the annual range of temperature of this station.(b) Which month receives less rainfall and how much ? (CBSE 2013)

Ans. (a) The annual range of temperature is the difference between the highest and the lowest temperaturesrecorded in the given year. The highest temperature recorded = 26.7°C The lowest temperaturerecorded = 10.9°C Annual ränge of temperature = 26.7°C - 10.9°C = 15.8°C

(b) (i) The month that received the lowest rainfall is January.(ii) The rainfall in January was 7 mm.

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VALUE BASED QUESTIONS1. “You have visited a place as a leader of your school team. The Principal has asked you to make a report on

the climate of the place.”

To conclude about the climate which factors would you take into consideration ?

Ans. (i) Latitude of the place. (ii) Distance from the sea.

(iii) Altitude of the place. (iv) Precipitation received at the place.

(v) Relief features of the place.2. “Indian monsoon is said to be a unifying bond for the people of the country.” Suppose the monsoon is disturbed

for a prolonged period of time. What do you think, how will it affect the country ?

Ans. (i) There will be a change in landscape.

(ii) The fauna and flora will be disturbed.

(iii) Due to change in cycle of season, Indian agricultural cycle will be disturbed.

(iv) Many of the festivals like baisakhi, pongal, onam, bihu, etc. will come to an end.

(v) Rivers will run short of water so religious rituals will be disturbed.

(vi) Drinking water will go short.(vii) River navigation and many of the recreational activities will come to halt.

3. “The monsoon is considered a unifying bond in India. What moral values you could inculcate from this statement?

Explain with three examples. (CBSE 2013)

Ans. Following are the moral values that the very unifying nature of the monsoon inculcate in us :

(1) Bringing happiness to all without any bias.

(2) Service to the mankind without any desire.

(3) Developing the feelings of integrity and oneness.

(4) Respect for variations and differences.

(5) Treating all whether it be a plant, an animal or humans equally to the best.

(6) Providing life and livelihood to all.

(7) Promoting equality and uniformity.

(8) Leading a routined and disciplined life.

(9) Respecting the value of time.

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climate · 2016-05-13 · area, north of the tropic, lies in the sub-tropics. therefore, india’s...

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