Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 138

Which latitude line passes through India?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the geographical location of India in relation to the equator.

Correct Answer: D) Tropic of Cancer.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, CLAT

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Tropic of Cancer is a significant latitude line that passes through India. It is located at approximately 23.5 degrees north of the equator and marks the northernmost point where the sun can be directly overhead at noon. This line is one of the five major circles of latitude that are used to divide the Earth into different climatic zones.

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. This line is important in understanding the climate and weather patterns of the regions it passes through, as it marks the boundary of the tropics. The tropics are characterized by high temperatures and significant solar radiation throughout the year.

India is a large country that spans a significant portion of the Northern Hemisphere, and the Tropic of Cancer passes through several states in the central and southern parts of the country. These states include Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. The Tropic of Cancer is an important geographical feature that helps in understanding the climatic conditions and agricultural practices in these regions.

It is important to distinguish the Tropic of Cancer from other significant latitude lines such as the Tropic of Capricorn, the Arctic Circle, and the Antarctic Circle. The Tropic of Capricorn is located in the Southern Hemisphere and does not pass through India. The Arctic and Antarctic Circles are located much farther north and south, respectively, and also do not pass through India. Understanding the geographical position of these latitude lines is crucial for comprehending the climatic and environmental conditions of different regions around the world.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. The Antarctic Circle is located in the Southern Hemisphere and does not pass through India. It is much farther south than the Tropic of Cancer.
  • Option B: Incorrect. The Arctic Circle is located in the Northern Hemisphere but is much farther north than the Tropic of Cancer and does not pass through India.
  • Option C: Incorrect. The Tropic of Capricorn is located in the Southern Hemisphere and does not pass through India. It is much farther south than the Tropic of Cancer.
  • Option D: Correct. The Tropic of Cancer passes through India, marking the northernmost point where the sun can be directly overhead at noon. It is located at approximately 23.5 degrees north of the equator.

Mnemonic: Cancer is closer to the equator than Capricorn.

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