The Arctic or Polar Climate - UPSC MCQ

Polar climate is found mainly north of the Arctic circle in the northern hemisphere. It is characterized by very low annual mean temperatures, long freezing winters, and brief cool summers.

Precipitation in polar regions is mainly in the form of snow falling in winter due to the low rate of evaporation and lack of moisture in the cold polar air.

Despite the long duration of sunshine in summers, when the sun does not set, the temperature remains low as the sun rays are too oblique, with much of it getting reflected by the snow, and the remaining being used up in melting the ice.

Tundra vegetation includes the lowest form of vegetation, such as mosses, lichens, and sedges, due to the short growing season and low temperatures.

In the tundra regions, reindeer moss is a hardy grass that grows along the coastal lowlands, providing the only pasturage for herbivore animals like reindeer.

The Lapps live in the Eurasian tundra region, specifically in northern Finland and Scandinavia. They are a semi-nomadic tribe that survives in the harsh polar climate.

Eskimos live in igloos during the winter season. During the summer, they move out to hunt and live in portable tents made of skin.

The Arctic region has gradually become more important due to the discovery of minerals such as gold, petroleum, coal, nickel, shale gas, copper, and iron ore.

Blizzards are caused by severe snowstorms with high winds, and they are frequent in the polar regions.

Mammals like the Arctic hare, as well as wolves, foxes, musk-ox, and lemmings, can be found in the tundra regions.