Climate and Ecosystems Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What role do the oceans play in moderating global temperatures?

  • They release heat into the atmosphere during the day.
  • They primarily cool the planet by reflecting sunlight.
  • They prevent the formation of cloud cover.
  • They absorb and store solar energy. (correct)

How do ocean currents influence regional climates?

  • They directly create rain by evaporating water.
  • They only affect coastal climates.
  • They distribute heat around the globe. (correct)
  • They have no significant impact on climate.

What is the primary purpose of the ozone layer in the atmosphere?

  • To protect life from harmful UV radiation. (correct)
  • To regulate temperature and precipitation.
  • To maintain the Earth's magnetic field.
  • To absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

What percentage of the air's composition is nitrogen?

<p>78% (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary function of land in Earth's ecosystems?

<p>To provide habitats and resources for life. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes ecosystems?

<p>Ecosystems consist of living organisms interacting with their physical environment. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding weather and climate systems crucial?

<p>They influence ecosystems, agriculture, and human activities. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What types of environments can be classified as ecosystems?

<p>Dynamic systems including biomes like forests, tundras, and aquatic environments. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary distinction between weather and climate?

<p>Weather involves short-term atmospheric conditions, while climate refers to long-term patterns. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors is NOT typically included in the definition of weather?

<p>Seasonal temperature trends (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes how weather conditions can change?

<p>Weather conditions can change frequently, often within minutes or hours. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How long is climate typically measured over to determine long-term patterns?

<p>30 years or more (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best represents an example of weather?

<p>A thunderstorm occurring in the afternoon (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which atmospheric conditions are commonly associated with changes in weather?

<p>Significant shifts in atmospheric pressure, temperature, and moisture (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding the difference between weather and climate important?

<p>It provides insight into immediate and long-term environmental effects. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect does NOT typically change dramatically in weather forecasting?

<p>Long-term climate averages (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of ocean currents in climate systems?

<p>They distribute heat around the globe. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which phenomenon is typically associated with a temporary drop in global temperatures?

<p>Volcanic eruptions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do human activities contribute to climate change?

<p>They release greenhouse gases. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What climate classification focuses on moisture availability?

<p>Thornthwaite Classification (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following climate types is NOT part of the Köppen Climate Classification?

<p>Equatorial (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the major characteristic of winter in a hemisphere?

<p>Tilted away from the Sun, leading to shorter days. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of reduced solar activity, such as during the Maunder Minimum?

<p>Cooler global temperatures. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of climate classification systems?

<p>To understand and predict climate conditions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What annual rainfall range characterizes the zone primarily found in Eastern India?

<p>200cm-300cm (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which crops are primarily affected by the timely arrival of the Southwest Monsoon?

<p>Kharif crops (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When does the Northeast Monsoon typically occur?

<p>October to December (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which region primarily benefits from the Northeast Monsoon?

<p>Southeastern India (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How much of its annual rainfall does Tamil Nadu receive from the Northeast Monsoon?

<p>50-60% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant challenge associated with the Southwest Monsoon?

<p>Localized flooding (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primarily causes the Northeast Monsoon?

<p>Reversal of wind patterns (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true about the rainfall from the Northeast Monsoon?

<p>It supports agriculture in southeastern states (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of cold waves?

<p>Severe cold stress on humans and animals (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following geological hazards is most likely to be triggered by deforestation?

<p>Landslides (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During which months is India most affected by heatwaves?

<p>April to May (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major health risk associated with dense fog?

<p>Respiratory conditions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon can result from the sudden shaking of the Earth's crust?

<p>Earthquakes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant impact can flooding during the monsoon season have on the population?

<p>Loss of life and property (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are cyclones particularly known to affect during their occurrence?

<p>Coastal regions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can volcanic eruptions lead to in affected communities?

<p>Pyroclastic flows and ash clouds (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a necessary condition for the formation of cyclones?

<p>Warm tropical waters with temperatures exceeding 26.5°C (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the Coriolis effect influence cyclones?

<p>It results in counterclockwise rotation in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of a cyclone is characterized by the most intense winds and heavy rainfall?

<p>The eye wall (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During which seasons are cyclones most commonly formed in the Indian Ocean?

<p>Pre-monsoon (April-June) and post-monsoon (October-December) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic structure defines the central portion of a tropical cyclone?

<p>The eye (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of warm ocean waters in the formation of cyclones?

<p>They provide the energy needed to fuel the cyclone's development. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of cyclone structure helps maintain its symmetrical shape?

<p>The Coriolis force (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What negative impact can cyclones have on the regions they affect?

<p>They can lead to significant damage and pose threats to life and property. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Weather

The state of the atmosphere at a specific place and time, including temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind, and visibility.

Climate

The long-term patterns and averages of weather conditions in a region, typically measured over 30 years or more.

Short-term atmospheric conditions

The change in atmospheric conditions over a short period of time, such as minutes, hours, or days.

Long-term weather patterns

The consistent weather patterns of a place over a long period of time, typically 30 years or more.

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Meteorology

The study of the atmosphere, weather, and climate.

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Atmosphere

The layer of gas surrounding Earth, crucial for life, acting as a shield against harmful solar radiation and regulating the planet's temperature.

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Ozone Layer

A protective layer within the atmosphere, composed of ozone gas, that absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation

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Heat Reservoir (Oceans)

The process of absorbing and storing solar energy by oceans, influencing global temperatures and weather patterns.

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Ocean Currents

The movement of ocean water, driven by temperature differences and winds, carrying heat across the globe, influencing regional climates.

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Ecosystem

The continuous interaction between living organisms and their physical environment, forming a system that supports different life forms.

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Climate Change

Changes in global climate patterns driven by human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases, leading to significant impacts on the planet.

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Southwest Monsoon

The Southwest Monsoon, bringing rain from June to September, is crucial for the Kharif crop season in India.

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Northeast Monsoon

The Northeast Monsoon, also known as the retreating monsoon, occurs from October to December and primarily affects the southeastern part of India.

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Mechanism of the Southwest Monsoon

The Southwest Monsoon is triggered by a low-pressure area over the Indian subcontinent, pulling in moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean.

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Mechanism of the Northeast Monsoon

The Northeast Monsoon occurs as the Indian subcontinent cools down, creating a high-pressure zone over the landmass and causing winds to blow from northeast to southwest.

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Rainfall Distribution - Southwest Monsoon

The Southwest Monsoon provides most of the yearly rainfall in India, primarily in the northern and central parts of the country.

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Rainfall Distribution - Northeast Monsoon

The Northeast Monsoon primarily affects the southeastern coastal regions of India, particularly Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Karnataka and Kerala.

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Impact of Southwest Monsoon

The Southwest Monsoon is vital for the Kharif crop season, which includes crops like rice, millets, and pulses.

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Impact of Northeast Monsoon

The Northeast Monsoon is important for replenishing water reservoirs and supporting the Rabi crop season, which includes crops like wheat and barley.

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Volcanic Activity and Climate

Volcanic eruptions release ash and gases into the atmosphere, affecting climate. For example, the Mount Pinatubo eruption caused a temporary global cooling.

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Solar Radiation Variations

Changes in solar radiation received by Earth can influence climate. Periods of reduced solar activity, like the Maunder Minimum, are associated with cooler temperatures.

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Human Activities and Climate

Human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes release greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming and climate change.

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Climate Classification

A system classifying climate types based on factors like temperature, rainfall, and seasonal patterns. It helps us understand and predict climate conditions of a specific region.

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Köppen Climate Classification

A type of climate classification that divides climates into groups like tropical, dry, temperate, continental, and polar, based on temperature and precipitation.

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Thornthwaite Classification

A climate classification focused on moisture availability and how water is used and stored in an area, like how much water evaporates or is used by plants.

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Heat Waves

Prolonged periods of excessively high temperatures that pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.

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Cold Waves

Periods of unusually low temperatures that can cause severe cold stress on humans and animals, damage crops, and disrupt energy systems.

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Fog

Dense fog that reduces visibility, leading to transportation accidents and health risks, especially for respiratory conditions.

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Landslides

The downward movement of soil, rock, or debris due to gravity, often triggered by heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or human activities like deforestation. Landslides can block roads, damage buildings, and cause fatalities.

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Earthquakes

Sudden shaking or movement of the Earth's crust due to the release of energy along fault lines. Earthquakes can lead to severe structural damage, ground rupture, and secondary hazards like tsunamis and landslides.

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Volcanic Eruptions

When magma from beneath the Earth's surface is ejected through a volcano, causing pyroclastic flows, ash clouds, lava flows, and volcanic gases. Volcanic eruptions can devastate communities, ecosystems, and infrastructure.

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Monsoon Flooding

Flooding caused by heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June-September) in India, often resulting in loss of life and property.

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Indian Heat Waves

Severe heat waves that affect northern and central India (April-May), leading to soaring temperatures that can cause heat-related illnesses and agricultural losses.

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What is a cyclone?

A powerful storm with a rotating air mass around a low pressure center, characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges.

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What fuels a cyclone?

Warm ocean water exceeding 26.5°C provides the energy for cyclone formation.

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How does wind shear impact cyclone formation?

Low vertical wind shear, meaning minimal changes in wind speed and direction with altitude, aids in cyclone development.

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How does the Coriolis effect influence cyclone rotation?

Cyclones rotate counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere due to the Coriolis effect.

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What is the eye of a cyclone?

The eye is the center of the cyclone, characterized by calm conditions.

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Where are the strongest winds and rainfall in a cyclone?

The eye wall is the area immediately surrounding the eye, experiencing the most intense winds and heavy rainfall.

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What are spiral rainbands in a cyclone?

Spiral rainbands are bands of clouds and precipitation spiraling outward from the center, contributing to the storm's characteristic spiral shape.

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How are cyclones classified?

Cyclones typically form over warm tropical waters and are classified as tropical cyclones, hurricanes, or typhoons depending on their location and intensity.

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Study Notes

National Meteorological Olympiad 2025 Study Materials (Senior)

  • Jointly organized by India Meteorological Department, South Asian Meteorological Association, and Indian Meteorological Society.
  • The Olympiad covers weather and climate science for society.
  • Study materials are for a senior level.

Authors

  • Dr. Ananda Kumar Das
  • Dr. M. T. Bushair
  • Dr. Poulomi Chakravarty
  • Dr. S.N. Mishra

Editors

  • Dr Prashant Kodgire
  • Dr. Someshwar Das
  • AVM (Retd) Dr Ajit Tyagi
  • Dr. M. Mohapatra

Support Team

  • Dr Swagata Payra
  • Mr. Nimish Pandey
  • Mr. Ankit Yadav
  • Ms. Laxmi Patak
  • Dr TV Lakshmi Kumar

Content Overview

  • Chapter 1: Introduction to Weather & Climate System
    • Introduction to weather and climate
    • Earth in the solar system
    • Origin and evolution of atmosphere & ocean
    • Composition and structure of atmosphere & ocean
    • Role of atmosphere and ocean
    • Land, air, water, and ecosystem
  • Chapter 2: Weather and Climate Processes
    • Principles of weather and climate systems
    • Weather and climate forecasting process
    • Dynamics of atmosphere and ocean
    • Seasons
    • Rainfall and monsoons
    • Basic atmospheric parameters and measurements
  • Chapter 3: Natural Hazards and Disasters
    • Introduction to natural hazards
    • Hydro-meteorological hazards over India
    • Cyclones
    • Thunderstorms and lightning
    • Heat waves and cold waves
    • Floods and droughts
    • Fog
  • Chapter 4: Weather and Climate, Hazard Prediction, Warning Systems, and Disaster Management
    • Prediction of natural hazards
    • Disaster preparedness and management
    • IMD's website and community involvement in hazard preparedness
  • Chapter 5: Climate Change: Causes, Impacts, Mitigation and Adaptation
    • Climate change
    • Global warming and climate change
    • Causes of climate change (historical, anthropogenic)
    • Natural causes of climate change
    • Global warming and climate change (historical, anthropogenic, natural)
    • Climate change: Proof for climate change (indicators)
    • Impacts of climate change on India (extreme weather events, floods, cyclones, drought, health, socioeconomic impacts)
  • Chapter 6: Climate Services to Socio-economic sectors
    • Global framework for climate services (GFCS)
    • National framework for climate services (NFCS)
    • Climate services by IMD
    • Applications of weather and climate information in socio-economic sectors (agriculture, water, health, energy, transportation, insurance)

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