by Q. Consider the following statements:
UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims) 2025 – General Studies Paper I
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct but Statement II does not explain Statement I
(c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is not correct
(d) Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct
Answer: (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
Explanation:
Statement I is correct.
In January (winter in the Northern Hemisphere), isotherms show noticeable bending. While crossing continents, they bend equatorward because land cools rapidly. While crossing oceans, they bend poleward because oceans retain heat for longer.Statement II is correct.
During January, oceans are warmer than adjacent landmasses in the Northern Hemisphere due to the high specific heat of water, which causes slower cooling compared to land.Link between the statements:
The warmer ocean temperatures and colder land temperatures directly cause the observed bending of isotherms described in Statement I.
Answer: (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
