Question

Choose the correct statement(s) regarding monsoon rainfall distribution.

1. Rainfall decreases with increasing distance from the sea
2. The spatial distribution of monsoon rainfall is uniform across India.
3. Topography significantly influences monsoon rainfall patterns.

• A. None of these
• B. 1, 3 correct
• C. All are correct
• D. 1 only correct

Answer 1

Answer:

B. 1, 3 correct

• Rainfall decreases with increasing distance from the sea - This statement is correct. As monsoon winds move inland from the sea, they gradually lose moisture. Areas closer to the coast generally receive more rainfall than interior regions. This is why coastal areas like the Western Ghats and northeastern states receive more rainfall than interior parts of the Deccan Plateau.

• The spatial distribution of monsoon rainfall is uniform across India - This statement is incorrect. Monsoon rainfall in India is highly variable across different regions. Some areas like the Western Ghats and Northeast India receive very heavy rainfall (over 200 cm annually), while regions like western Rajasthan receive minimal rainfall (less than 50 cm annually).

• Topography significantly influences monsoon rainfall patterns - This statement is correct. Mountains and highlands play a crucial role in rainfall distribution. The Western Ghats force the moisture-laden southwest monsoon winds to rise, cool, and precipitate, causing heavy rainfall on the windward side. Similarly, the Himalayas block the monsoon winds and cause rainfall in northern India. Rain shadow areas like the Deccan Plateau receive less rainfall due to topographical influences.

• Therefore, statements 1 and 3 are correct, making option B the right answer.