UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2020

With reference to Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT), which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. OMT is measured up to a depth of 26 degrees C isotherm which is 129 meters in the south-western Indian Ocean during January-March. 2. OMT collected during January-March can be used in assessing whether the amount of rainfall in monsoon will be less or more than a certain long-term mean.

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer

Correct Answer

2 only

Explanation

OMT, the average temperature of the ocean column down to the 26 C isotherm, is used as a predictor of monsoon rainfall relative to the long-term mean (statement 2 correct). The depth figure and setting given in statement 1 do not match the official facts, so the key marks it incorrect.

Topics: geography, ocean mean temperature - monsoon forecasting, oceanography & monsoon, physical geography