UPSC PYQPrelims 2020

Civil Services Examination · Question 93

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°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. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer & explanation

Answer: (B) 2 only

Explanation

OMT is measured up to the 26°C isotherm, which during January–March in the SW Indian Ocean is about 59 m deep, not 129 m. OMT for Jan–Mar is used to predict whether monsoon rainfall will be above or below the long-term mean.