Correct Option
The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The climate of a region is significantly influenced by its latitude. The Tropic of Cancer divides India roughly into two equal halves, creating distinct climatic zones based on solar insolation and temperature distribution.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Tropic of Cancer passes through the middle of the country from the Rann of Kuchchh in the west to Mizoram in the east. It cuts across eight Indian states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Only the southern half of the country, which lies south of the Tropic of Cancer, falls within the tropical zone. The remaining area, situated north of the Tropic of Cancer, lies in the sub-tropics. Therefore, the entire country does not lie in the tropical zone.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Since the Tropic of Cancer divides the country into the tropical zone (south) and the subtropical zone (north), India experiences climatic characteristics of both zones. The northern part experiences high annual temperature ranges and cooler winters, typical of the subtropics, while the southern part maintains high temperatures throughout the year with smaller daily and annual ranges, typical of the tropics.
Key Takeaway: The Tropic of Cancer divides India into a tropical southern half and a subtropical northern half, resulting in a climate that exhibits characteristics of both tropical and subtropical regions.