Climatic Controls MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This Class IX Geography quiz focuses on the Unit ‘Climate’, specifically the topic of Climatic Controls. It covers essential concepts such as latitude, altitude, and pressure systems that influence weather patterns. Test your understanding of these geographical factors, submit your answers to see the score, and download the solution PDF for revision.

Overview of Climatic Controls

The climate of any place depends on a variety of geographical factors known as climatic controls. In Class IX Geography, under the unit Climate, we learn that there are six major controls: latitude, altitude, pressure and wind system, distance from the sea (continentality), ocean currents, and relief features. Understanding these elements helps explain why different regions experience distinct weather patterns.

Key Factors

  • Latitude: Due to the curvature of the earth, the amount of solar energy received varies according to latitude. Air temperature generally decreases from the equator towards the poles.
  • Altitude: As one goes from the surface of the earth to higher altitudes, the atmosphere becomes less dense and temperature decreases. This is why hills are cooler during summers.
  • Pressure and Winds: The pressure and wind system of any area depends on the latitude and altitude of the place. It influences the temperature and rainfall pattern.
  • Distance from the Sea: The sea exerts a moderating influence on climate. As the distance from the sea increases, its moderating effect decreases and people experience extreme weather conditions (Continentality).
  • Ocean Currents: Ocean currents along with onshore winds affect the climate of coastal areas. For instance, any coastal area with warm or cold currents flowing past it will be warmed or cooled if the winds are onshore.
  • Relief: High mountains act as barriers for cold or hot winds; they may also cause precipitation if they are high enough and lie in the path of rain-bearing winds.

Comparison of Controls

Factor Description Example Effect
Latitude Distance north or south of the Equator Tropics are hotter than polar regions
Altitude Height above sea level Himalayas are colder than the Northern Plains
Pressure Weight of air column Low pressure attracts winds and rain

Quick Revision Notes

1. The Tropic of Cancer passes through the middle of India, dividing the country into the tropical zone (south) and subtropical zone (north).
2. The Coriolis force, caused by earth’s rotation, deflects winds towards the right in the Northern Hemisphere and towards the left in the Southern Hemisphere.
3. Jet streams are fast-flowing narrow air currents located in the upper atmosphere (troposphere).

Extra Practice Questions

Q1. What is Ferrel’s Law related to?
Answer: It relates to the deflection of winds caused by the Coriolis force.

Q2. Why does Mumbai have a moderate climate while Delhi has an extreme climate?
Answer: Mumbai is coastal (maritime influence), whereas Delhi is far from the sea (continentality).

Q3. What is the average height of jet streams?
Answer: Approximately 12,000 meters (12 km) above sea level.

Q4. Which relief feature prevents cold winds from Central Asia entering India?
Answer: The Himalayas.

Q5. How does the pressure condition change in winter over the north of the Himalayas?
Answer: A high-pressure area develops north of the Himalayas causing cold dry winds to blow towards the south.