NCERT Class 11 Geography — Chapter 2: Movements of Ocean Water

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What is the climatic impact of warm currents flowing parallel to the east coasts of continents in tropical and subtropical latitudes?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AWarm and rainy climates.
BFoggy and arid climates.
CSnow and ice accumulation.
DCold and dry climates.

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Solution

The correct option is Warm and rainy climates..

Explanation

Ocean currents significantly influence the local climate of coastal regions by modifying air temperature and humidity. The impact depends on whether the current is warm or cold relative to the latitude it flows through.

Analysis:

Mechanism of Warm Currents: Warm ocean currents transport warm water from the equatorial regions towards the poles. As they flow along the east coasts of continents in tropical and subtropical latitudes, they transfer heat to the overlying atmosphere.
Impact on Precipitation: The warming of the lower atmosphere increases its moisture-holding capacity and promotes instability. This leads to rising air currents, cloud formation, and subsequent precipitation.
Resultant Climate: Consequently, the east coasts of continents in these latitudes (e.g., the southeastern USA due to the Gulf Stream, or the east coast of Brazil due to the Brazil Current) experience warm and rainy climates. This is in distinct contrast to the west coasts in similar latitudes, where cold currents often result in arid, desert-like conditions.

Key Takeaway: Warm ocean currents increase atmospheric instability and moisture levels, leading to higher rainfall and warmer temperatures in the coastal regions they border.

Your note

More from Chapter 2: Movements of Ocean Water

Consider the following factors: 1. The shape of bays and estuaries has no influence on the magnitude of tides. 2. Presence of wide continental shelves. 3. Presence of mid-oceanic islands. Which of the above factors can influence the height or magnitude of tidal bulges?

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Which of the following best describes the general movement of warm ocean currents?

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With reference to the movements of ocean water, consider the following statements: 1. Ocean currents represent the horizontal motion of water while tides represent the vertical motion. 2. In waves, the water moves ahead from one place to another along with the wave train. 3. The upwelling of cold water from the subsurface is a form of horizontal motion. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Consider the following statements regarding the characteristics of ocean waves: 1. The largest waves are typically found in open oceans rather than enclosed seas. 2. Steep waves are generally old and originate from far away places. 3. Slow and steady waves usually originate from far away places. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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The maximum height of a wave is determined by which of the following factors? 1. The strength of the wind has no role in determining wave height. 2. The duration for which the wind blows. 3. The area over which the wind blows in a single direction. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

easy

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The correct option is Warm and rainy climates..

Explanation

Analysis:

Mechanism of Warm Currents: Warm ocean currents transport warm water from the equatorial regions towards the poles. As they flow along the east coasts of continents in tropical and subtropical latitudes, they transfer heat to the overlying atmosphere.
Impact on Precipitation: The warming of the lower atmosphere increases its moisture-holding capacity and promotes instability. This leads to rising air currents, cloud formation, and subsequent precipitation.
Resultant Climate: Consequently, the east coasts of continents in these latitudes (e.g., the southeastern USA due to the Gulf Stream, or the east coast of Brazil due to the Brazil Current) experience warm and rainy climates. This is in distinct contrast to the west coasts in similar latitudes, where cold currents often result in arid, desert-like conditions.

Key Takeaway: Warm ocean currents increase atmospheric instability and moisture levels, leading to higher rainfall and warmer temperatures in the coastal regions they border.