Consider the following statements about the Indian desert - Thar Deser...
Thar desert: The climate of this region is characterized by excessive drought, the rainfall being scanty and irregular.
The winter rains of northern India rarely penetrate the region. The relative humidity of the atmosphere is always low. The climate is hostile to all vegetation, only plants and animals possessing special adaptations being able to establish themselves.
Consider the following statements about the Indian desert - Thar Deser...
Introduction:
The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, is a large arid region in Northwestern India. It covers parts of the Indian states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Punjab, as well as parts of Pakistan. The climate of the Thar Desert is influenced by its geographical location and topography.
Statement 1: The climate of this region is characterized by excessive drought, the rainfall being scanty and irregular.
This statement is correct. The Thar Desert is characterized by an arid climate with low annual rainfall. The region receives an average annual rainfall of less than 250 millimeters (10 inches), making it one of the driest regions in India. The rainfall is highly erratic and unpredictable, with long periods of drought. The scarcity of rainfall and the aridity of the region contribute to its desert-like conditions.
Statement 2: The winter rains of northern India rarely penetrate the region.
This statement is incorrect. The winter rains of northern India do penetrate the Thar Desert region. During the winter months (December to February), the northern parts of India, including the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, receive rainfall due to the Western Disturbances. These winter rains often extend into the Thar Desert region, providing some relief from the aridity. The winter rainfall is crucial for agricultural activities in the region.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, statement 1 is correct as the Thar Desert experiences excessive drought with scanty and irregular rainfall. However, statement 2 is incorrect as the winter rains of northern India do penetrate the Thar Desert region, providing some relief from the aridity. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'D' - Neither 1 nor 2.