Explanation: The Tropic of Cancer is a significant geographical line that marks the northernmost latitude where the sun can be directly overhead at noon. This line is located at approximately 23.5 degrees north latitude and is one of the five major circles of latitude on Earth. The Tropic of Cancer is named after the constellation Cancer, which the sun appears to be in when it crosses this line during the June solstice.
In India, the Tropic of Cancer passes through several states, starting from the Rann of Kuchch in the western state of Gujarat and moving eastward. The states through which the Tropic of Cancer passes include Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and finally Mizoram. Mizoram, located in the northeastern part of India, is the easternmost point where the Tropic of Cancer crosses the country.
Understanding the geographical significance of the Tropic of Cancer is important for several reasons. It helps in identifying the regions that experience the direct overhead sun during the summer solstice, which affects climate, agriculture, and biodiversity. The Tropic of Cancer also plays a role in defining the tropical and temperate zones, which have different climatic characteristics.
In the context of Indian geography, knowing the states through which the Tropic of Cancer passes is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC Civil Services Examination, State Public Service Commission (PSC) exams, and Geography Olympiads. It is also important for general knowledge and understanding the geographical layout of the country.
The mnemonic "Cancer, Kuchch to Mizoram" can help students remember the starting and ending points of the Tropic of Cancer in India. This mnemonic links the name of the line (Cancer) with the starting point (Kuchch) and the ending point (Mizoram), making it easier to recall the geographical path of the Tropic of Cancer through India.
In conclusion, the Tropic of Cancer is a vital geographical feature that influences climate and biodiversity in the regions it passes through. In India, it starts from the Rann of Kuchch in Gujarat and ends in Mizoram, making Mizoram the correct answer to the question.