Explanation: The Aravalli Range is a significant mountain range in Rajasthan that plays a crucial role in the state's climate. It runs from the southwest to the northeast of the state, spanning approximately 800 kilometers. The Aravalli Range is the oldest mountain range in India, formed over 1.8 billion years ago during the Archean era.
The Aravalli Range acts as a natural barrier, blocking the South-West monsoon winds that bring rain to the western part of India. This blocking effect is due to the orientation and height of the Aravalli Range, which is generally higher in the southwest and gradually decreases towards the northeast. The monsoon winds, which typically blow from the southwest, are obstructed by the Aravalli Range, leading to a rain shadow effect in the western part of Rajasthan. This results in arid conditions in the western part of the state, while the eastern part receives more rainfall due to the monsoon winds that manage to pass over the lower parts of the range.
The Western Ghats, located in the western part of India, are not relevant to Rajasthan's climate because they are too far south and west to influence the state's weather patterns. Similarly, the Kasi Garo Hills in northeastern India and the Vindhya Ranges in central India are also too distant to affect Rajasthan's climate.
Understanding the role of the Aravalli Range in blocking the monsoon winds is essential for comprehending the arid conditions prevalent in western Rajasthan. This knowledge is crucial for students studying the geography of Rajasthan and the broader climatic patterns of India.