Q79 · UPPSC Prelims 2024 · Set A · General Studies

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Consider the following statements with reference to Mediterranean climate:1.It receives rainfall in winter season.2.Due to winter solstice, air pressure belts shift to the South.Which of the above statements is/are correct?Select the correct answer from the code given below:

A Only 2
B Neither 1 nor 2
C Only 1
D Both 1 and 2

Correct answer: (d) Both 1 and 2

Explanation

  1. A

    Only 2

    Option (a) claims that only statement 2 is correct while statement 1 is incorrect. However, statement 1 is factually correct because Mediterranean regions experience winter rainfall due to the westerlies. Thus, this option fails.

  2. B

    Neither 1 nor 2

    Option (b) claims that neither statement 1 nor statement 2 is correct. This is inaccurate because both statements correctly describe the characteristics and causes of the Mediterranean climate. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

  3. C

    Only 1

    Option (c) claims that only statement 1 is correct while statement 2 is incorrect. Although statement 1 is true, statement 2 is also correct as the apparent movement of the sun causes pressure belts to shift. Hence, this option is incomplete.

  4. D

    Both 1 and 2

    Option (d) claims that both statement 1 and statement 2 are correct. Statement 1 is correct because these regions receive rainfall in winter due to the shifting of wind belts. Statement 2 is also correct because during the winter season, the pressure belts shift equatorward or southward due to the southward migration of the sun, bringing the Mediterranean regions under the influence of moisture-bearing westerlies, making this option the correct key.

Summary. Official key is (d) Both 1 and 2. The Mediterranean climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During winter, the southward shift of pressure belts brings the region under the influence of cyclonic westerlies, causing rainfall. Both given statements accurately explain the climatic mechanism.