Influence of the sea from three sides.
Explanation
The temperature distribution in India is influenced by latitude, altitude, distance from the sea, and ocean currents. The climate of Peninsular India is distinct from the continental climate of North India primarily due to its proximity to water bodies.Detailed Analysis:
- Influence of the Sea: The Peninsular Plateau is surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean on three sides. The sea exerts a moderating influence (maritime effect) because water heats up and cools down more slowly than land. This prevents the region from experiencing extreme diurnal or annual temperature ranges, resulting in moderate temperatures year-round.
- High Altitude: While altitude reduces temperature according to the normal lapse rate (e.g., in the Western Ghats), it is a local factor. The moderate character of the climate across the entire peninsula is fundamentally driven by the maritime influence rather than elevation alone.
- Other Options: The presence of forests and the absence of mountain barriers are secondary factors. They do not play as significant a role as the distance from the sea in determining the overall thermal regime of the region.
Key Takeaway: The moderating effect of the sea is the primary reason why Peninsular India does not have a well-defined cold weather season and maintains an equable climate.