UPSC PYQPrelims 2025

Civil Services Examination · Question 47

Statement I: In January, in the Northern Hemisphere, the isotherms bend equatorward while crossing the landmasses, and poleward while crossing the oceans. Statement II: In January, the air over the oceans is warmer than that over the landmasses in the Northern Hemisphere. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

  1. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
  2. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct but Statement II does not explain Statement I
  3. Statement I is correct but Statement II is not correct
  4. Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct
Show answer & explanation

Answer: (A) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I

Explanation

In winter, oceans retain more warmth than landmasses, which is exactly why isotherms bend poleward over oceans.