Explanations:The Tropic of Cancer is a significant latitude line that runs at approximately 23.5 degrees north of the equator. This line marks the northernmost point on Earth where the sun can be directly overhead at noon. This phenomenon, known as vertical sunlight, occurs when the sun's rays are perpendicular to the Earth's surface, creating a shadow that is directly beneath the observer. This happens only in the tropics and subtropics, specifically between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
For a place to experience vertical sunlight, it must be located on or south of the Tropic of Cancer. This is because the sun's rays are most direct at the equator and gradually become more oblique as one moves away from the equator. The Tropic of Cancer is the northern boundary where the sun can be directly overhead at noon on the summer solstice (around June 21st).
Let's consider the latitudes of the cities mentioned in the options:
- Mumbai is located at approximately 19.0760° N, which is south of the Tropic of Cancer.
- Thiruvananthapuram is located at approximately 8.5241° N, which is also south of the Tropic of Cancer.
- Srinagar is located at approximately 34.0779° N, which is north of the Tropic of Cancer.
- Chennai is located at approximately 13.0827° N, which is south of the Tropic of Cancer.
Since Srinagar is located north of the Tropic of Cancer, it never experiences vertical sunlight. The sun's rays are always oblique at Srinagar, meaning they never reach a position directly overhead. This is why Srinagar is the correct answer to the question.
Understanding the concept of the Tropic of Cancer and its implications for vertical sunlight is crucial for geographical studies and competitive examinations. It helps in comprehending the distribution of solar energy across different latitudes and the resulting climatic conditions.