Question

Regarding the variability of rainfall, choose the correct statement(s).

1. Variability is calculated using the formula (Standard deviation/Mean) x 100.
2. Higher variability indicates more consistent rainfall.
3. Higher variability indicates more consistent rainfall.

• A. All
• B. None of these
• C. 1, 3
• D. 1, 2

Answer 1

Answer:

C. 1, 3

• Variability is calculated using the formula (Standard deviation/Mean) x 100.This is correct.

  This formula calculates the coefficient of variation, which is a standard statistical measure of rainfall variability.

• Higher variability indicates more consistent rainfall. This is incorrect. Higher variability actually indicates less consistency in rainfall. A higher coefficient of variation means there are greater fluctuations from the mean, showing more unpredictable or irregular rainfall patterns.

• Variability contributes to droughts and floods. This is correct. Greater variability in rainfall patterns increases the likelihood of extreme weather events like droughts (when rainfall is significantly below normal) and floods (when rainfall is significantly above normal).

• Rainfall variability is a measure of how much precipitation deviates from the average over time. The coefficient of variation formula (Standard deviation/Mean × 100) expresses this variability as a percentage. Lower values indicate more consistent rainfall patterns, while higher values indicate greater unpredictability.

• When rainfall has high variability, regions may experience extended dry periods (leading to droughts) followed by periods of intense rainfall (leading to floods). This inconsistency makes agricultural planning and water resource management more challenging.