Explanation: The longitudinal extent of India refers to the distance and time difference from the westernmost point of the country, which is in Gujarat, to the easternmost point, which is in Arunachal Pradesh. This geographical feature is significant because it affects the time zones and the distance covered across the country.
India spans a considerable longitudinal distance, which results in a time difference of about 2 hours between the western and eastern parts of the country. This is because the Earth rotates 360 degrees in 24 hours, meaning that each degree of longitude corresponds to 4 minutes of time difference. Therefore, the longitudinal span of India, which is approximately 30 degrees, results in a time difference of about 2 hours.
The distance between Gujarat and Arunachal Pradesh is approximately 2,933 kilometers. This distance is a direct result of the longitudinal span of the country and is a key geographical feature that students should be familiar with for understanding the extent of India.
It is important to note that the time difference and distance are not arbitrary figures but are based on the actual geographical coordinates of the country. Understanding these concepts is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC Civil Services, SSC CGL, and State PSC Exams, where questions on Indian geography are common.
In summary, the longitudinal extent of India from Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh is approximately 2,933 kilometers, which results in a time difference of about 2 hours. This is a fundamental geographical fact that reflects the vastness of the country and its longitudinal span.