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Weather Phenomenon

2 UPSC Prelims MCQs tagged "Weather Phenomenon". Free practice with answer keys, explanations, and timed mock tests on Anantam IAS.

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  1. In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does…

    In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the reason?

    1. ASea surface temperatures are low
    2. BInter-Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs
    3. CCoriolis force is too weak
    4. DThe absence of land in those regions
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: B

    Tropical cyclones require specific atmospheric and oceanic conditions to originate, including warm sea surface temperatures (above 26.5°C), the presence of the Coriolis force, and a pre-existing low-pressure disturbance.

    1. Role of the ITCZ: The Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a region where the trade winds of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres converge, creating the low-level atmospheric instability and rising moist air necessary for cyclone formation. In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific, the ITCZ stays mostly north of the equator and seldom migrates into these regions, leaving them without the necessary 'trigger' for cyclones.

    2. Vertical Wind Shear: These regions are also characterized by strong vertical wind shear (the change in wind speed and direction with height). High shear prevents the vertical development of thunderstorms and prevents them from organizing into a cyclonic structure.

    3. Sea Surface Temperatures: While the explanation notes temperatures are generally warm enough, these specific regions are influenced by cold ocean currents (the Benguela Current in the South Atlantic and the Humboldt Current in the South Eastern Pacific), which keep the waters relatively cooler than other tropical basins, further inhibiting cyclone genesis.

    Among the given options, the lack of the ITCZ is the primary reason why cyclones do not originate in these areas.

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    Geography UPSC 2015 Hard

  2. Consider the following statements: 1. Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only. 2.…

    Consider the following statements: 1. Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only. 2. Only some cyclones develop an eye. 3. The temperature inside the eye of a cyclone is nearly 10°C lesser than that of the surroundings. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    1. A1 only
    2. B2 and 3 only
    3. C2 only
    4. D1 and 3 only
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: C

    Statement 1 is incorrect: Jet streams occur in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. They are fast-moving air currents found at high altitudes, typically around 10-15 kilometers above the Earth's surface, and exist in both hemispheres.

    Statement 2 is correct: Not all cyclones develop an eye. Only certain strong cyclones, especially intense hurricanes or typhoons, develop a well-defined eye—a calm, low-pressure area at the center of the cyclone surrounded by the strongest winds.

    Statement 3 is incorrect: The temperature in the eye can be several degrees Celsius warmer (typically 2–10°C) than the outer regions of the storm. This warmth is due to subsiding (sinking) air in the eye, which compresses and heats up adiabatically. Hence, option C is the correct answer.

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    Geography UPSC 2020 Medium