The Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a low-pressure belt that circles the Earth generally near the equator. Its position is not static; it shifts seasonally with the apparent movement of the sun. In July, the Northern Hemisphere experiences summer, leading to a significant northward shift of the ITCZ. We need to identify the latitude range that corresponds to this shift, particularly over the Indian subcontinent.
Correct Option: A) 20°N-25°N latitudes over the Gangetic plain. This option correctly identifies the approximate position of the ITCZ (Monsoon Trough) over the Indian subcontinent during July, which is significantly shifted northward due to intense summer heating.
The question asks for the approximate date when the southwest monsoon typically arrives on the Kerala coast. This is a factual question related to the climatology of India, specifically the onset of the monsoon season.
B) 1st June — The southwest monsoon typically sets in over the Kerala coast around June 1st. This date is widely recognized as the official onset date for the monsoon in India.
The question asks to identify the jet stream responsible for the 'burst' of monsoon in India. This requires knowledge of the different types of jet streams affecting the Indian subcontinent and their role in the monsoon mechanism.
C) Easterly jet stream along 15°N latitude — The Tropical Easterly Jet (TEJ), which flows along approximately 15°N latitude, is a key factor in the 'burst' of the Indian monsoon. Its presence signifies the establishment of monsoon circulation and enhanced rainfall activity.
The question asks for the definition of El Niño. This is a fundamental concept in climatology and geography, often covered in competitive exams. We need to identify the correct description among the given options.
A) A warm ocean current off the coast of Peru affecting global weather — This accurately describes El Niño. It is characterized by the warming of the surface waters in the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, particularly off the coasts of Peru and Ecuador, and it indeed has far-reaching effects on global weather patterns.
The question asks about the number of branches in which the Southwest Monsoon approaches the Indian landmass. Understanding the geographical features surrounding India is key to answering this, as these features influence the monsoon's path.
Correct Option: B) Two branches: Arabian Sea branch and Bay of Bengal branch
This option correctly identifies the two main branches of the Southwest Monsoon as it approaches the Indian landmass. The geographical features, particularly the peninsular shape of India and the presence of the Western Ghats, cause the monsoon winds to diverge into these two distinct streams.
The question asks why the Tamil Nadu coast receives little to no rainfall during the southwest monsoon season. This requires understanding the two main branches of the southwest monsoon and the geographical features influencing their path and precipitation patterns in India.
B) It is parallel to Bay of Bengal branch and in rain shadow of Arabian Sea branch — This option accurately describes the two primary reasons for Tamil Nadu's dry spell during the southwest monsoon. The Western Ghats create a rain shadow for the Arabian Sea branch, and the Bay of Bengal branch flows parallel to the coast, preventing significant moisture deposition.