Which of the following regions receives less than 50 cm of rainfall?
ADelhi
BJharkhand
CLadakh
DWestern Uttar Pradesh
Answer:
C. Ladakh
Read Explanation:
Understanding Arid Regions and Rainfall Patterns
- Ladakh, situated in the northernmost part of India, is characterized by its high-altitude desert climate.
- This region falls under the rain shadow effect, meaning it receives very little rainfall because the Himalayas block the monsoon winds from reaching it.
- The average annual rainfall in Ladakh is significantly less than 50 cm, often recorded at around 10 cm or even lower in some parts.
- Contrastingly, most other regions of India receive much higher rainfall, especially the coastal areas and the northeastern states which are among the wettest places on Earth.
Factors Contributing to Low Rainfall in Ladakh:
- Geographical Location: Nestled deep within the Himalayas, it is shielded from the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea monsoon systems.
- Altitude: The high elevation contributes to the cold desert conditions and limited moisture-holding capacity of the air.
- Topography: Mountain ranges surrounding Ladakh create a barrier, preventing moisture-laden clouds from entering the region.
Significance for Competitive Exams:
- Questions on regional rainfall patterns, climate zones, and geographical features of India are common in competitive examinations.
- Understanding the concept of rain shadow regions and specific examples like Ladakh is crucial for answering such questions accurately.