Important Questions Test: India Climate Vegetation And Wildlife - CTET & State TET MCQ

Gir National Park is famous for its majestic Asiatic lions and is the only place where you can find them in the wild. Located in Junagadh district in the state of Gujarat, Gir forest is spread over an area of 1412 sq km including the national park area of 258 sq km.

National Bird of India: Peacock
The national bird of India is the peacock, which is known for its vibrant and colorful plumage. Here is a detailed explanation of why the peacock is chosen as the national bird:
1. Cultural Significance:
- The peacock holds immense cultural significance in India and is considered a symbol of grace, beauty, and pride.
- It is often associated with the Hindu god Krishna, who is depicted wearing peacock feathers on his head.
2. Distinctive Appearance:
- The male peacock, known as a peafowl, is known for its striking appearance with a long, iridescent blue-green tail.
- The peacock's feathers are considered one of the most beautiful natural creations, captivating people with its vibrant colors.
3. Symbolism:
- The peacock symbolizes integrity, immortality, and protection.
- Its regal and majestic appearance represents the rich cultural heritage of India.
4. Ecological Significance:
- Peacocks play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance by helping control the population of small creatures like insects and reptiles.
- They also help in seed dispersal and act as indicators of a healthy ecosystem.
5. Historical Background:
- The peacock has been associated with Indian traditions, art, and literature for centuries.
- It has been depicted in various ancient Indian sculptures, paintings, and textiles.
6. Popular Choice:
- The peacock was chosen as the national bird of India in 1963 due to its widespread popularity and cultural significance.
- Its selection reflects the country's rich biodiversity and unique heritage.
In conclusion, the peacock represents the cultural, ecological, and historical significance of India. Its vibrant appearance and symbolism make it a fitting choice as the national bird of the country.

Sundari is a well-known species of trees in mangrove forests after which Sunderbans have been named.

Monsoon forest, also called dry forest or tropical deciduous forest, open woodland in tropical areas that have a long dry season followed by a season of heavy rainfall.

Hot weather season is also referred to as summer season that lasts from March to May. Warm weather season in India is characterized by warm days and warm nights. In India May is the hottest month. Average temperature in India during this season ranges from 32 – 40 °C.

Day to Day Changes in the Atmosphere

• Weather: Day to day changes in the atmosphere are referred to as weather. Weather includes elements such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure.


• Factors: Various factors influence daily weather changes, including the movement of air masses, the presence of fronts, and the interaction between land and water bodies.


• Forecasting: Meteorologists use weather data from satellites, radars, weather stations, and computer models to predict short-term weather changes.


• Importance: Understanding day to day weather changes is crucial for activities such as agriculture, transportation, construction, and disaster preparedness.


• Difference: Weather should not be confused with climate, which refers to long-term patterns and averages of weather conditions in a specific region.

India's Cold Season:
India experiences different climatic conditions throughout the year, including a cold season. The cold season in India typically occurs from December to February.
Explanation:
Here is a detailed explanation of India's cold season:
1. Duration:
- The cold season in India lasts for approximately three months, from December to February.
- It is during this period that temperatures drop significantly, especially in northern and central parts of the country.
2. Weather Conditions:
- During the cold season, India experiences cooler temperatures compared to other seasons.
- The weather is characterized by cool mornings and evenings, and sometimes foggy conditions.
3. Regional Variations:
- The intensity of the cold season may vary across different regions of India.
- Northern regions, such as Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, experience much colder temperatures and even snowfall.
- Southern regions, like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, have milder winters compared to the north.
4. Festivals and Activities:
- The cold season in India coincides with several festivals and celebrations.
- Major festivals like Christmas and New Year are celebrated during this time.
- Many people also engage in outdoor activities like bonfires and picnics to enjoy the pleasant weather.
5. Winter Tourism:
- The cold season attracts tourists from within India and abroad, especially to hill stations and areas with snowfall.
- Popular winter destinations in India include Shimla, Manali, Gulmarg, and Auli.
Conclusion:
India's cold season occurs from December to February, with variation in intensity across different regions. It is a time when temperatures drop, festivals are celebrated, and winter tourism flourishes.

Explanation:
The correct answer is option D:

Falls slantly

Here is a detailed explanation:
1. During the winter season, the angle at which the sunlight reaches the Earth's surface is lower compared to other seasons.
2. This means that the sun's rays have to travel through a greater distance of the Earth's atmosphere, resulting in more scattering and diffusion.
3. As a result, the sunlight appears to fall slantly or at an angle during winters.
4. This slanting of the sun's rays leads to longer shadows being cast by objects on the ground.
5. Additionally, the slanting rays of the sun also contribute to the lower intensity of sunlight during winters, as the same amount of energy is spread over a larger area.
6. The slanting angle of the sun's rays also affects the temperature distribution on the Earth's surface, causing variations in climate patterns.
7. It is important to note that the exact angle at which the sun's rays fall during winters can vary depending on the latitude and geographical location.
8. Overall, the slanting of the sun's rays during the winter season is a natural phenomenon caused by the tilt of the Earth's axis and its orbit around the sun.
In conclusion, during the winter season, the sun's rays fall slantly, which leads to longer shadows, lower intensity of sunlight, and variations in temperature distribution on the Earth's surface.

During the summer season, there are several characteristics that define the weather. Here is a detailed explanation:
High Temperature:
- One of the main features of summer is the significant increase in temperature.
- The sun is at its highest point in the sky, leading to longer and hotter days.
- The average temperatures during summer can vary depending on the location, but it is generally considered a hot season.
Heatwaves:
- Heatwaves are common during summer, especially in regions with a continental or desert climate.
- Heatwaves are prolonged periods of excessively hot weather, often accompanied by high humidity.
- These extreme temperatures can be dangerous and lead to health risks such as heat stroke or dehydration.
Sunshine:
- Summer is characterized by longer days and shorter nights due to the tilt of the Earth's axis.
- This results in more sunlight and fewer hours of darkness.
- The increased sunlight provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and promotes the growth of plants and crops.
Heavy Rainfalls:
- While summer is typically associated with hot and dry weather, it is not uncommon to experience heavy rainfalls or thunderstorms.
- These rain showers can be sporadic but often provide relief from the heat and help maintain the ecosystem.
- In some regions, summer is considered the rainy season, and these heavy rainfalls are crucial for agriculture and water resources.
Increased Humidity:
- With the rise in temperature, there is also an increase in humidity during summer.
- Humidity is the amount of moisture present in the air.
- High humidity can make the hot weather feel even more uncomfortable and can affect people's ability to cool down through sweating.
Dry Conditions:
- While heavy rainfalls can occur during summer, there are also regions where the season is characterized by dry conditions.
- These areas may experience droughts or water scarcity, leading to challenges for agriculture and water supply.
In conclusion, summer is a season of high temperatures, longer days, and increased sunlight. It can bring both dry and wet conditions, depending on the region. It is important to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to cope with the heat during this time of the year.

The magnificent tiger, Panthera tigris is a striped animal. It has a thick yellow coat of fur with dark stripes. The combination of grace, strength, agility and enormous power has earned the tiger its pride of place as the national animal of India.

Jaisalmer is a small town in the state of Rajasthan. The town is named after its founder Maharawal Jaisal Singh, a Rajput king. It is also called as the "Golden City of India" because of the yellow sand and yellow sandstone used in the town's architecture giving a golden tinge. Jaisalmer is located at around 575 km west from Jaipur the capital of Rajasthan. It is situated near the border of India and Pakistan in West Rajasthan and is the administrative headquarters of Jaisalmer District. 

The barrier from which wind strikes to cause rainfall is:

• Mountain

Explanation:

When wind encounters a mountain barrier, it is forced to rise and is lifted upwards. As the air rises, it cools down and condenses, forming clouds. The moisture in the air then precipitates as rainfall. This process is known as orographic or relief rainfall.

Here is a step-by-step explanation of how mountain barriers cause rainfall:

1. When moist air approaches a mountain, it is forced to rise due to the obstruction.


2. As the air rises, it undergoes adiabatic cooling. The temperature decreases with increasing altitude.


3. As the air cools, its ability to hold moisture decreases, and water vapor condenses to form clouds.


4. When the condensation process continues, the clouds become saturated, and precipitation occurs in the form of rain, snow, or hail.


5. Once the air has passed over the mountain and descends on the other side, it undergoes adiabatic warming. This warming causes the air to become drier, resulting in a rain shadow effect on the leeward side of the mountain.

Therefore, it is the mountain barrier that plays a crucial role in causing rainfall by forcing the air to rise, cool, and condense.

Agriculture in India depends upon
There are several factors that influence agriculture in India, but the most significant one is the availability of rainfall. Rainfall is crucial for the growth of crops and the overall productivity of the agricultural sector. Here are the key points to consider:
1. Rainfall:
- India has a monsoon climate, with the southwest monsoon being the primary source of rainfall for agricultural activities.
- The timely arrival and distribution of rainfall are essential for sowing, crop growth, and proper maturation.
- Adequate rainfall helps in the replenishment of groundwater levels and maintains soil moisture, which is vital for crop growth.
2. Irrigation:
- In addition to rainfall, irrigation is another important factor in agricultural production.
- India has an extensive network of irrigation systems, including canals, reservoirs, tube wells, and tanks, which help supplement rainfall during dry periods.
- Irrigation is crucial in areas with low rainfall or during drought conditions to ensure crop survival and productivity.
3. Soil fertility:
- Soil fertility plays a vital role in agriculture, and it depends on various factors like organic matter, nutrients, and pH level.
- Adequate rainfall helps in the leaching of nutrients into the soil, making it fertile and suitable for crop cultivation.
- Excessive rainfall, however, can lead to soil erosion and nutrient loss if proper soil conservation measures are not implemented.
4. Climate and temperature:
- Apart from rainfall, the climatic conditions and temperature variations also influence agricultural practices.
- Different crops have distinct temperature and climatic requirements for optimal growth and yield.
- Some crops like wheat, rice, and sugarcane require specific temperature ranges and seasonal variations for successful cultivation.
5. Technology and infrastructure:
- The availability of modern agricultural technologies, machinery, and infrastructure also impact agriculture in India.
- Efficient irrigation systems, improved seed varieties, mechanized farming methods, and better storage and transportation facilities contribute to higher agricultural productivity.
In conclusion, while there are other factors like drought, flood, and snowfall that can affect agriculture in India, the availability and distribution of rainfall are the primary drivers of agricultural productivity in the country. Adequate rainfall, along with proper irrigation, soil fertility, and favorable climatic conditions, are crucial for successful crop cultivation and overall agricultural growth.

Answer:
The correct option among the given choices is A: Climate. Climate is not a season, but rather a long-term pattern of weather conditions in a particular region. In India, there are four main seasons. Let's break down each season and provide a detailed explanation:
1. Winter:
- Winter in India generally occurs from December to February.
- It is characterized by cooler temperatures, especially in northern regions.
- Some parts of India experience snowfall during this season.
2. Retreating Monsoon:
- The retreating monsoon season, also known as the post-monsoon or autumn season, occurs from September to November.
- During this season, the monsoon winds start withdrawing from the Indian subcontinent.
- It brings relief from the heavy rainfall and humidity of the monsoon season.
3. Rainy:
- The rainy season, also known as the monsoon season, occurs from June to September.
- It is characterized by heavy rainfall due to the southwest monsoon winds.
- This season is crucial for agriculture in India as it provides water for crops.
Therefore, the correct answer is A: Climate, as it is not a specific season but rather an overall pattern of weather conditions.

The word monsoon comes from the Arabic word mausim, which means weather. Owing to the yearly appearance of torrential rain, indicating a marked shift in weather, mausim gradually became monsoon.

They are called mangrove forests. They are found in marshes near the sea.

The Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve is a non-use conservation area and biosphere reserve in the Satpura Range of Madhya Pradesh state in central India.The conservation area was created in 1999 by the Indian government. UNESCO designated it a biosphere reserve in 2009.

During the cold weather season (winter), the sun rays do not fall directly in the region. As a result the temperatures are quite low in northern India. In the hot weather season (summer), the sun rays fall directly in the region. Hence, the temperature becomes very high.

Explanation:
India has a wide range of natural vegetation due to its climate condition. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Climate diversity:
- India experiences various climatic conditions across different regions.
- The country has tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates, which support the growth of diverse types of vegetation.
2. Monsoon climate:
- The monsoon climate in India, characterized by heavy rainfall, is one of the major factors contributing to the rich vegetation.
- The southwest monsoon brings rain from June to September, while the northeast monsoon brings rainfall to the southeastern coast during October and November.
- These prolonged rainy seasons provide ample water for the growth of vegetation.
3. Himalayan range:
- The Himalayan mountain range in the northern part of India has a significant influence on the climate and vegetation.
- The higher altitudes have alpine vegetation, including coniferous forests, while the lower slopes have temperate forests.
- The Himalayas also act as a barrier, preventing the cold winds from the north, thus creating a favorable climate for vegetation.
4. Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats:
- The Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats are mountain ranges that run parallel to the western and eastern coasts of India, respectively.
- These ranges receive heavy rainfall due to the southwest monsoon winds, leading to the growth of dense tropical rainforests.
5. Coastal regions:
- India has a long coastline, which includes coastal plains and mangrove forests.
- The coastal regions have unique vegetation adapted to the saline and marshy conditions.
6. Biodiversity hotspots:
- India is known for its biodiversity hotspots, such as the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayas.
- These regions support a wide range of plant species, including endemic and rare ones.
In conclusion, the climate condition in India, which includes diverse climates, monsoon rainfall, the presence of mountain ranges, and coastal regions, contributes to the wide range of natural vegetation found in the country.

The Western Ghats are home to four tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forest ecoregions – the North Western Ghats moist deciduous forests, North Western Ghats montane rain forests, South Western Ghats moist deciduous forests, and South Western Ghats montane rain forests.