UPSC Prelims 2012 · Question 89 of 98
UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Tropical Savannah Climate
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2012
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectGeography
- TopicClimatology
- DifficultyEasy
- TypeDirect
Which one of the following is the characteristic climate of the Tropical Savannah Region?
Show answer
Answer: D. A definite dry and wet season
Verdict
Correct Answer: A definite dry and wet season
Analysis
The Tropical Savannah Region, also called Sudan type climate, is found between equatorial rainforests and hot deserts. Its main feature is the clear alternation of wet and dry seasons.
1. Rainfall throughout the year — Incorrect
Rainfall throughout the year is a feature of equatorial climate, not tropical savannah climate.
Equatorial regions receive regular convectional rainfall due to high temperature and humidity.
2. Rainfall in winter only — Incorrect
Winter rainfall is a feature of Mediterranean climate.
Tropical savannah regions receive most rainfall during the summer or high-sun season.
3. An extremely short dry season — Incorrect
A very short dry season is not the defining feature of savannah climate.
Savannah regions have a distinct and often long dry season.
4. A definite dry and wet season — Correct
This is the characteristic feature of tropical savannah climate.
The wet season occurs when the ITCZ shifts over the region, while the dry season occurs when dry trade winds dominate.
Extra UPSC info
* Tropical savannah climate is also called Sudan type climate.
* It is usually found between equatorial rainforests and tropical deserts.
* Natural vegetation includes tall grasses with scattered trees like acacia and baobab.
* Natural fires are common in the dry season and help maintain grasslands.
* Major savannah regions include Sudan and East Africa, Llanos of Venezuela, Campos of Brazil and northern Australia.
* The climate supports large herbivores and carnivores, making African savannahs famous as “big game country”.
How to crack it
The tropical savannah region is best identified by its definite wet and dry seasons, not by rainfall throughout the year or winter-only rainfall.