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UPSC CSE 2024 · PYQ · Climatology / Atmosphere Structure · easy

Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Thickness of the troposphere at the equator is much greater as compared to poles. Statement-II: At the equator, heat is transported to great heights by strong convectional currents. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

  1. A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I✓ Correct
  2. B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
  3. C.Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
  4. D.Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

Explanation

The troposphere is about 18 km thick at the equator and only about 8 km at the poles. The greater thickness at the equator is directly caused by strong convectional currents arising from intense solar heating, which lift heat and air masses to greater heights. At the poles, surface heating is minimal and convection is weak, restricting the troposphere's vertical extent. Therefore, both statements are correct, and Statement-II provides the correct explanation for Statement-I.
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