Oceanography: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Geography)

Explanation

The annual range of temperature is the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures recorded in a particular place or region over the course of a year.

Statement 1 is incorrect: The annual range of temperature (the difference between the highest and lowest average monthly temperatures) is generally smaller in the Pacific Ocean compared to the Atlantic Ocean. This is primarily due to the Pacific’s larger size and greater thermal inertia. The vastness of the Pacific allows for more heat absorption and distribution, moderating temperature extremes. Atlantic’s relatively smaller size and its greater contact with Arctic waters leads to more pronounced seasonal temperature variations. Also the Atlantic Ocean is narrower and more enclosed, allowing for greater temperature variability.

Statement 2 is correct: The Northern Hemisphere has a greater annual range of temperature than the Southern Hemisphere. This is primarily due to the larger landmasses in the Northern Hemisphere, which heat up and cool down more quickly compared to the predominantly oceanic Southern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, the presence of vast oceans helps stabilize temperatures.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The Horse Latitudes are sub-tropical regions located at approximately 30° to 35° North and South latitudes. These are high-pressure zones characterized by calm winds and minimal precipitation. The name "Horse Latitudes" is believed to have originated from the historical practice of sailors throwing horses overboard to conserve water when ships were stranded in these calm regions.

Statement 2 is incorrect: The Horse Latitudes are high-pres-sure belts, not low-pressure belts. These regions are associated with the subtropical high-pressure zones, where air from the equator descends, creating stable and dry conditions. The high-pressure conditions result from the descending air of the Hadley cells, which suppresses cloud formation and leads to arid climates. Many of the world’s major deserts, such as the Sahara and the Australian Outback, are situated under the Horse latitudes. Low-pressure belts, on the other hand, are found near the equator (Intertropical Convergence Zone) and at higher latitudes (subpolar lows).