UPSC Prelims 2001 Q79: Geography – Atmosphere & Climatology
- (a) 22.5 °C - 25.0 °C
- (b) 25.0 °C - 27.5 °C
- (c) 27.5 °C - 30.0 °C
- (d) 30.0 °C - 32.5 °C
Answer: (c) 27.5 °C - 30.0 °C
Explanation
Mean July temperature in the shaded area of the map
| July mean temperature | Typical areas of India (IMD normals) |
|---|---|
| 30.0-32.5 °C | Western Rajasthan and adjoining dry areas |
| 27.5-30.0 °C | Much of the northern plains |
| 25.0-27.5 °C | Much of the peninsula and the monsoon-cooled east |
| 22.5-25.0 °C | Hills, the Western Ghats and the north-east highlands |
The figure for this question is not available, and no published copy we could find shows it or confirms the answer. The answer below is the key held in our question bank and is not independently verified. One published copy (dalvoy) gives (b) 25.0-27.5 °C instead; with the map unavailable, the two cannot be settled. In July the monsoon keeps temperatures well below the May–June peak.
Answer: (c) 27.5 °C - 30.0 °C.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The bank key does not give 22.5-25 °C.
- (b) Incorrect. The bank key does not give 25-27.5 °C, though one published copy does.
- (c) CORRECT. The bank key gives 27.5-30.0 °C.
- (d) Incorrect. The bank key does not give 30-32.5 °C.
Key point
India's hottest month is May (north) or April (south); in July the monsoon lowers temperatures.
Remember
July means: 27.5-30 °C over much of the northern plains; cooler in the peninsula.
Common mistakes
- Thinking July is the hottest month everywhere in India.
- Ignoring the cooling effect of monsoon clouds.
- Choosing the highest range by default.
Exam tip
For July isotherm maps, remember that the monsoon has already cooled most of India.
Sources
- NCERT Class XI — India: Physical Environment, chapter 'Climate' (temperature distribution)
- India Meteorological Department — Climatological Normals (mean July temperature maps)