NCERT Class 9 Geography — Chapter 1: Climate

mcqeasy

Which of the following is the most significant factor for the moderate temperatures in the Peninsular Plateau?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AAbsence of mountain barriers.
BPresence of dense forests.
CHigh altitude.
DInfluence of the sea from three sides.

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Solution

The correct option is

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.

Your note

More from Chapter 1: Climate

Consider the following statements regarding the climatic conditions in India: 1. The climate of India is described as the 'Mediterranean' type. 2. There is a wide difference in day and night temperatures in the Thar Desert. 3. Coastal areas generally experience less contrast in temperature conditions compared to the interior. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Which one of the following is the most likely reason for the wide difference between day and night temperatures in the Thar Desert compared to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

medium

With reference to the 'Climatic Controls', consider the following statements: 1. Air temperature generally increases from the equator towards the poles. 2. As one goes from the surface of the earth to higher altitudes, the atmosphere becomes less dense and temperature decreases. 3. Ocean currents have no influence on the climate of coastal areas. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Consider the following statements regarding the factors affecting India's climate: 1. The Tropic of Cancer passes through the middle of the country. 2. The entire country lies in the tropical zone south of the Tropic of Cancer. 3. India's climate has characteristics of tropical as well as subtropical climates. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Which of the following best explains why the Indian subcontinent experiences comparatively milder winters as compared to Central Asia?

easy

Keep practising Chapter 1: Climate

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The correct option is

Influence of the sea from three sides.

Explanation

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.