INSIGHTSIAS IPM TEST SERIES-2020 IPM 3 Synopsis

1 WWW.MAINS.INSIGHTSIAS.COM WWW.INSIGHTSONINDIA.COM

INSIGHTSIAS IPM TEST SERIES-2020

IPM 3 Synopsis

1. Examine the role of raw materials in the location of the Iron and Steel Industry in India. Illustrate your answer with suitable examples.

What to look for?

Introduction -A relevant Introduction on Iron and Steel Industry

Body -Role of Raw materials in location of Iron and steel Industry -Question demands an Illustration with an examples

Conclusion -A relevant closing statement

Introduction

o Iron and Steel Industry has remained the most important Industry, right from playing its role as harbinger of Industrial Revolution to present day Globalisation

Body o Iron and Steel Industry uses large quantities of heavy and weight losing

raw materials. Hence its location, is controlled by the availability of raw materials

o Coal and Iron ore are two basic raw materials used in Iron and steel Industry and are used on basis of minimum transportation cost

o Hence, most steel plants are located at three distinct places: Near coal fields Near iron ore mining centres At places between areas of coal and iron ore production

o Location of a water source for cooling purposes after moulding also influences location of Industry

o Other raw materials such as manganese, Limestone, Dolomite, Chromite are used in small quantities. Hence, they do not affect Industry's Location

o Most steel plants in India such as Jamshedpur, Durgapur and Rourkela are located in Jharkhand, West Bengal and Odisha, because of presence of Iron and coal deposits in these states

o Example: Tata Iron and Steel Company (TISCO) was established in Singhbum

district of Jharkhand It receives high grade Haematite ore from Noamundi mines of

Sighbum district Coal from Jharia & Raniganj coal mines

Website - https://upscpdf.com


https://t.me/UPSC_PDF https://t.me/UPSC_PDF

http://www.mains.insightsias.com/

upscpdf.com


Sufficient water is obtained from Subarnarekha river and from Storage dam on Kharkai river

Durgapur Steel Plant Iron ore comes from Mayurbhanj Coal comes from Jharia and Raniganj Water is available from Durgapur barrage, built across Damodar

river

Conclusion o Thus, the raw materials play a key role in locating this basic Industry and

lay the foundation for a Vibrant Industrial economy





upscpdf.com


2. Analyse the ecological significance of forests in different regions of India indicating the impact of rapid deforestation.

What to look for?

Introduction -What are Forests?

Body -Ecological significance of forests -Impact of rapid deforestation in India


Introduction

o Ecologically, A forest is a certain plant community, predominantly of trees and other woody vegetation, usually with a closed canopy

Body o Ecological Significance of Forests are:

They are a great source of Carbon storage and sequestration They provide Provisional Services, by supplying products directly

from Ecosystems, like food, fibre, Timber They regulate Ecosystem processes by providing benefits such as

Climate regulation, Pest and Disease regulation Trees trap water in the soil, and release them in dry conditions. Thus,

forests preserve and protect the Hydrological water table Forests changes lifeless rock into a living Ecosystem, by building

green cover over thousands of years and eventually aids in Conservation of Biodiversity

Forest makes soil, by breaking down plants and dead animals, with the help of Bacteria .This along with other Supporting services such as Nutrient Cycling and Photosynthesis are necessary for the production of provisioning, regulating or cultural services

Forests Conserve soil, by holding soil with its roots, and not letting it get washed away in rain or streams

Forests make clouds and rain, through the process of transpiration and Maintains Local Climate

They provide Cultural services, which are Non-material benefits people obtain from Ecosystem like aesthetic values, recreation and Eco tourism

o Impact of Deforestation in different regions of India:

Deforestation in India has resulted in decline in Rainfall, especially in North and North east, because of decline in Evapotranspiration in these regions, eventually resulting in Summer Monsoon to weaken

Shifting Cultivation has become Unsustainable, and has caused water erosion and soil fertility decline in North East India





upscpdf.com


Destruction of forests, has led to decline in many species such as Asiatic Cheetah, Himalayan Wolf, Andaman shrew

Aravalis often referred to as the lungs of the NCR, have lost 25% of their range due to illegal mining activities

A study held Deforestation, as one of the reason for Flood Havoc in Kerala in 2018

Displacement of Indigenous communities in Andaman Island, is mainly because of Deforestation from commercial activities in the region

IPCC report notes the impact of shrinking forest cover on Climate change

Conclusion o The forests are the heritage of people. Hence, they should be treated with

respect, so as to last forever and supply the people's needs.

3. Examine the problems and prospects of Agro-based Industry in India

What to look for?

Introduction -What are Agro-based Industries?

Body -Problems of Agro-Based Industry in India -Prospects of Agro-based Industry in India


Introduction

o Agro based Industries are those which obtain raw material from Agriculture, like Cotton textile, Jute textile, Sugar and Vegetable oil Industry

Body o Problems of Agro-Based Industry in India:

Majority of units lack finance from financial Institutions, in addition to cost overruns, high interest rate from financial Institutions and high cost of raw materials

Infrastructure problems such as high transportation cost, ware houses located in far flung areas of cities

These Industries have less market to sell their products and have to remain dependent on Government agencies like Food Corporation of India

They face stiff competition from changing conditions of market and lack of viable market conditions





upscpdf.com


Many units face problems due to lack of professional management, as most of them run as partnered organisation with vested interests of the partners

Production issues such as power break down, obsolete machinery and seasonality of crops

Human resource problem such as lack of skilled labour and high labour investment costs

Research and Development problems such as lack of well-equipped lab for testing products

As agro based goods need to delivered when consumers need them, lack of proper transportation facilities has hindered their development in rural places

Scarcity of raw material and obsolete machinery are a common problem in Cotton textile Industries in India

Substitute for Jute material and decreasing overall demand are common problems faced by Jute Industry in India

o Prospects of Agro-based Industry:

It is widely realized that agro-based industries are essential ways for the attainment of national objectives, especially poverty alleviation and economic development in the rural areas

Agro based industry is regarded as the sunrise sector of the Indian economy in view of its large potential for growth and likely socio economic impact specifically on employment and income generation

Measures by the state Government, such as in West Bengal, to make jute bags compulsory to buy rice from farmers would increase demand for this Industry

Poor post-harvest management, have resulted in higher losses in farm produce in India, which can be reduced by Agro-Based Industries

India's large Agricultural base can be translated to increasing exports, to have better implications on Indian Economy

Conclusion o Hence, the need of the hour is a well furbished government policy, like PM

Kisan Sampada Yojana, to actively contribute to better development of Agro-based industries and double farmers income by 2022





upscpdf.com


4. Distinguish between the west and east coast of India in terms of their evolution, present topography and drainage pattern.

What to look for?

Introduction -Ant statistics, Data on Indian coasts

Body -Differences in evolution of two coasts -Differences in topography and Drainage pattern of two coasts

Conclusion -A relevant way forward on coasts

Introduction

o The western and Eastern coast provide for 6100 km of coastline along Indian Mainland

Body o Differences in Evolution of West and East coast

West coast The landmass initially subsided or sea level came up, forming a coast of

Submergence Marine erosion took place rigorously later, that resulted in irregular

coastline East coast

Initially the land mass came up or sea level went down, resulting in very gentle and smooth coastline development, known as coast of emergence

The gentle slope caused reduced erosional activity and increased depositional work which resulted in Marshes, Deltas

o Differences in Present Topography and Drainage pattern:

West coast The submergence and erosional activity by the waves have resulted in

an irregular coast line, providing Natural conditions for development of ports

It is narrow in middle and get broader towards north and south Estuaries are predominant, instead of Deltas as in Eastern coast It is intersected by Mountain ridges in between The Malabar coast has certain distinguishing feature in form of 'Kayals'

which are used for fishing, inland navigation East coast

Major part of the coast is formed as result of alluvial fillings of the littoral zone by the rivers

It runs smoothly from North to South, with a broad plain and level surface





upscpdf.com


Because of its emergent nature, it has lesser number of ports and harbours

Large rivers make wide deltas with sediment deposition on Eastern coastal Plains

Significant feature is the presence of large brackish water lakes and lagoons on this coast. Ex: Chilika lake, Pulicat lake

Conclusion o The long extension of coastline along west and East, offers great

opportunities for Blue Economy

5. Analyse various reasons for increase in landslides and suggest suitable measures for mitigation

What to look for?

Introduction -What is a Landslide?

Body -Reasons for Increase in Landslides -Suitable Mitigation measures

Conclusion -A relevant way forward

Introduction

o A Landslide is defined as the movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope

Body o The primary cause of a landslide is the influence of gravity acting on

weakened materials that make up a sloping area of land. o Reasons for increase in Landslides:

Indiscriminate Tree felling External loads such as buildings, reservoirs, highway traffic,

accumulation of alluvium on slopes Mining and quarrying, that leads to loss of vegetation cover and

vibrations during blasting operations Heavy rainfall cause Flash floods and increase the fragility along

slopes, which have resulted in Landslides in North-Eastern region Immature and rugged topography, high seismicity and high rainfall,

all contribute to Landslide Vulnerability in the Himalayan region Loose overburden deposits which is basically loose soil, tumbling

stones and debris, triggers landslides in Western Ghats region More Intensive Cultivation, which means more irrigation and more

denudation of watersheds, is also being blamed





upscpdf.com


River Bank erosion, because of Intense Monsoon and Cyclone induced rainfall

Building of roads and canals, which result in deep slope cutting and land saturation

o Steps for reducing risk/damage from Landslides are:

Demarcate Landslide prone area and plan future development activities

Stabilise surface soil by planting fast growing plants with sturdy root system

Decrease water content on soil by diverting surface runoff above slope, providing surface drainage

Stabilisation measures such as grading the unstable portion of slope to a lower gradient, construction of Rock Buttresses and retaining walls

Prevention of commercial activities in the Ecologically sensitive regions, could be helpful in the Western Ghats region

Maintenance and Monitoring strategies include routine observation and assessment of slope conditions, weather instrumentation and landslide warning fences

Conclusion o A combination of above factors may trigger Slope failure. Hence

understanding cause of Landslide in particular area, will result in better mitigation strategies

6. Examine the temperature and salinity distribution in oceans. Examine the impact of climate change on their distribution

What to look for?

Introduction -Any facts/data on Ocean

Body -Temperature distribution in Oceans -Salinity distribution in oceans

Conclusion -A relevant Way forward on Oceans

Introduction

o Out of the total world’s free water, almost 97% is contained within oceans. So any disturbance will have implications on Ocean waters

Body





upscpdf.com


o Temperature distribution in Oceans: Temperature of ocean waters is mainly decided by the relationship

between heat absorbed and heat lost Horizontal distribution:

There is decrease in temperature from equator towards poles at rate of 0.27 degree/latitude

Presence of cold and warm ocean currents influence temperature of oceans

Melting of ice near polar regions alter temperature of waters Temperature of Marginal seas depends on latitudinal location; like seas

in tropical region such as Mediterranean sea, Red sea record higher temperature; seas in temperate region like Baltic sea, North sea record lower temperature Vertical Distribution

This is dependent mainly on Insolation received, along with contact with land, rainfall and melting of ice

In general, ocean water temperature decreases with depth due to decreasing insolation

Temperature variation with Depth Thermocline represents transition layer witnessing very rapid

change in temperature with depth After thermocline depth, the temperature remains almost

constant with depth Hydrothermal vents at bottom of ocean might increase

temperature during volcanic activities

o Salinity distribution in oceans:

Horizontal distribution This mainly has latitudinal control, which in effect determines

evaporation and precipitation regime Near Equator, Salinity is lower due to high precipitation





upscpdf.com


Near Poles, Salinity is lower due to melting of Polar Ice caps Max salinity is found between 20-30 degree latitudes due to higher

evaporation and lesser precipitation Planetary winds influence Salinity of oceans Enclosed water bodies' salinity depends on latitudinal location and river

influx Vertical Distribution of Salinity

Evaporation dominant in upper layers increases Salinity, as near equator

Melting of ice caps decreases salinity at Surface and increases with depth

Zone where drastic change in salinity occurs is known as Halocline Vertical trends may be influenced by local conditions such as river

influx and ocean currents

o Impact of Climate change on Oceans: Oceans of world are warming, and their average temperatures are

being pushed up Uppermost skin of sea is heating up by an average of about 0.11

degrees Celsius each decade since the 1970s. Marine heat waves are increasing in frequency and strength, spiking

up ocean temperature several degrees above average The high-latitude regions, where precipitation dominates over

evaporation, were generally fresher than average, while the already dry subtropics were even saltier than the long-term average

From 2004-2013, seawater became increasingly salty in the western Indian Ocean and near the equator in the western and central tropical Pacific, as well as in the high evaporation areas of the eastern subtropical Pacific in both hemispheres.

Conclusion o The effects of variations in temperature in a sensitive system like an

Ocean, can be Catastrophic. Hence action needed towards agreed pacts on Climate Change





upscpdf.com


7. Examine the climatic characteristics and floral make-up of the Mediterranean and British type of climate regions.

What to look for?

Introduction -What influences Climate of a region?

Body -characteristics and floral make-up of the Mediterranean and British type of climate regions


Introduction

o Climate of a region is influenced by elements such as temperature, precipitation, pressure and winds

Body o The Mediterranean type of Climate

The basic cause of this type of climate is the 'Shifting of the Wind Belts'

The best developed form of this climate is found in Central Chile Other regions include California, South Western tip of Africa,

Southern Australia and South West Australia

Climatic Characteristics:

Dry warm summer with Off-shore trades Summer months have relatively high temperature in

month of July When sun is overhead at Tropic of cancer, belt of influence

of westerlies is shifted Poleward, hence do not reach Mediterranean lands

The prevailing trade winds are off shore and hence no rain Air is dry and relative humidity is low





upscpdf.com


Concentration of rainfall in winter with on-shore westerlies In winter, westerlies shift equator wards and hence are on

shore, which brings cyclonic rain from Atlantic to countries bordering Mediterranean sea

Rain comes in heavy showers, with only few sunny periods between them

Local Winds

Sirocco, a hot, dry dusty wind originates in Sahara desert, and blows towards Mediterranean sea. This causes 'blood rain' because of wind carrying dust from Sahara desert

Mistral, cold wind from north blows down the Rhone Valley A cold North easterly wind is experienced along Adriatic coast

called Bora Floral make-up

With half year dry, natural vegetation is not luxuriant Small broad leaved trees, with few branches are distinct feature

of Mediterranean lands Mediterranean evergreen forests

These are open woodlands with oaks, which are valued for their thick barks used for making wine-bottle corks

Evergreen coniferous trees, which include pine, firs, cedars and cypresses, which appear on cooler highlands

Mediterranean bushes and shrubs This is the most predominant, includes species of myrtle,

lavender and rosemary Orchards: wide range of citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons,

limes, grapes are grown here; The thick leathery skin of citrus fruits prevents excessive transpiration





upscpdf.com


Olive tree is the most typical of all Mediterranean cultivated vegetation

Many nut trees such as chesnuts, walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds are grown here

Cereals specially wheat is leading food crop

o British Type of Climate region Known as the Cool Temperate Western Margin type of Climate Oceanic influence is predominant on this climate In northern Hemisphere, it is experienced from Britain to lowlands of

North-West Europe In southern Hemisphere, it is experienced in Southern Chile,

Tasmania, New Zealand

Climatic Characteristics:

Mean annual range of temperature is 40-60 degree Fahrenheit Summers are never very warm Heat waves are welcome feature of such cool temperate

latitudes Climate is ideal for ideal mental alertness Winters are abnormally mild, with warming effect from oceans Sometimes, unusual cold spells, caused by invasion of cold polar

continental air from interior may hit western margins It has adequate rainfall throughout the year, with tendency

towards winter or autumn maximum from cyclonic sources





upscpdf.com


Floral make-up

Natural vegetation is deciduous type, and trees shed their leaves in cold season

Trees yield temperate hardwood, and species include oal, birch, poplar, willows, alder

The deciduous trees in these region have greater lumbering value, because of ease of penetration of forests

The deciduous trees are replaced by conifers in higher latitudes of New Zealand and Southern Andes

Market gardening is popular in urban areas of North-West Europe

This region is known for Horticulture industry in areas of Netherlands

Mixed farming is practised in these regions Although this region is net food importer, Wheat, barley are

grown Among other food crops, Potatoes feature predominantly for

consumption as well as animal fodder and as source of Industrial Alcohol

Conclusion o Thus, Varied elements determine climate, which further influences the

vegetation and culture of a region





upscpdf.com


8. Examine the difference between the tropical monsoons with the temperate Monsoons.

What to look for?

Introduction -What are Monsoon winds?

Body -Difference between the tropical monsoons with the temperate monsoons

Conclusion -A summarising statement as to show what elements differentiate the two type of Monsoons

Introduction

o Monsoon are a major wind system that seasonally reverses its direction, and accompanies changes in precipitation, which prominently occur in South Asia, Australia and the Pacific coast of Central America

Body o Tropical Monsoon

These are experienced on Tropical lands with on-shore wet monsoons in summer and off-shore dry monsoons in the winter

Basic cause of monsoon climates in the difference in the rate of heating and cooling of land and sea

In summer, when sun is overhead Tropic of Cancer, the great land masses of northern hemisphere are heated, which sets up an intense low pressure

So winds after crossing equator, are drawn towards continental low pressure area reaching Indian sub-continent as South west monsoon

With burst of Monsoon, torrential downpours sweep across in the months of mid-June to September

This pattern of concentrated heavy rainfall in summer is a characteristic feature of the Tropical Monsoon Climate

The shifting of ITCZ after summer months, causes the reversal of winds, which is known as the North-East Monsoon

o Temperate Monsoon

This type of monsoon is found on the eastern margins of continents in warm temperate latitudes

This modified form of Monsoonal climate, influences most part of China, and is thus called China type or Temperate Monsoon climate

The great land mass of China with its mountainous regions induces great pressure changes between summer and winter

Intense heating in heart of Asia, sets up a low pressure in summer and the pacific air stream is drawn in as the rain bearing South-East Monsoon





upscpdf.com


Most of the rainfall here is in the months of June and July Monsoon does not burst suddenly, nor pour heavily as the Tropical

monsoon in India In winter, a steep pressure gradient is set up between cold interior of

Mongolia and warmer pacific coastlands. Hence, the continental polar air stream flows outwards as the North-west Monsoon

Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with maximum in months of June and July

Conclusion o Even though similar in mechanism, it is orientation of on-shore winds and

the time of arrival, that differentiates Tropical and Temperate Monsoon

9. Examine the meteorological significance of the polar frontal zone.

What to look for?

Introduction -What is a Frontal zone?

Body -What is Polar frontal Zone? -Meteorological significance of the polar frontal zone.


Introduction

o An extensive transitional zone between two converging air masses is called Frontal Zone, which represents the zone of discontinuity in properties of contrasting air masses

Body o Polar Frontal Zone known as 'Atlantic Polar front', as these are formed

over the North-Western parts of the Atlantic Ocean o They are formed because of convergence of Polar continental

airmass(cold and dense) and tropical maritime airmass(warm and light) o This process associated with the creation of new fronts or the

regeneration of decaying fronts already in existence is called Frontogenesis

o They are more active during winter seasons, as the temperature contrast is more pronounced

o Jet streams are formed when there is large temperature difference between two air masses. The Polar Jet stream is found high up in the atmosphere where the Ferrel and Polar cells meet

o The meeting of cold air from poles and warm air from mid-latitudes, meet at Polar front, which can further undergo Cyclogenesis





upscpdf.com


o Meteorological Significance: Cold and dense air along polar front, pushes warm air upwards when

it invades warm air region If it passes soon, weather becomes clear If front becomes stationary, sky becomes overcast with

cumulonimbus clouds and frontal thunderstorms are formed, resulting in heavy precipitation of short duration

Consequent weather is characterised by decrease in air temperature, increase in air pressure, decrease in specific and relative Humidity and change in wind direction

The temperate cyclones produced along Polar front travel from west to east under influence of Westerlies and yield widespread precipitation over large area, extending form the eastern parts of North America to the Western Europe

Conclusion o Thus, Polar front plays a role on controlling weather conditions in middle

latitudes

10. What are geomorphic processes? Explain their interplay in the formation of landforms. Also explain the significance of weathering

What to look for?

Introduction -What are Geomorphic processes?

Body -Their interplay in the formation of landforms - Significance of weathering


Introduction

o The endogenic and Exogenetic forces causing physical stresses and chemical actions on earth materials and bringing about changes in the configuration of the surface of the earth, are known as Geomorphic process

Body o Interplay of Geomorphic processes in formation of landforms:

Endogenetic forces These are forces coming from the Earth in form of Horizontal and

Vertical Movements These are caused due to contraction and expansion of rocks, because

of varying thermal conditions and temperature changes inside the earth





upscpdf.com


Sudden forces, which are a result of long years deep inside earth, known as constructive forces as they create certain relief features on Earth's surface For example: Volcanic eruptions resulting in formation of cones,

mountains, while fissure flows resulting in lava Plateaus Earthquakes creating faults, fractures and lakes

Diastrophic forces, include horizontal and Vertical movements Epeirogenetic movements cause upward movements of

continental masses, which cause emergence and submergence Ex: This is evident along the western and Eastern coasts,

which are the coast of submergence and emergence respectively

Orogenetic movement, are horizontal forces Tensional/divergent forces cause ruptures, cracks, fracture

and faults Example: San Andreas Fault, California and Anatolian

fault, Turkey Compressional/Convergent forces cause crustal bending

leading to formation of folds Examples: Fold mountains such as Himalayas, Alps,

Andes, Rockies

Exogenetic forces These derive energy from atmosphere, determined by the ultimate

energy from the sun and also the gradients created by tectonic forces All exogenetic geomorphic processes are covered under Denudation,

which includes Weathering, mass wasting/movements, erosion and transportation

Gravitational force producing stresses, Chemical processes loosening bonds, Structure of Rocks, along with climatic elements such as Temperature and Precipitation control these processes

Three major groups of weathering: Chemical weathering, on rocks to decompose, dissolve or reduce

them to a fine clastic state Physical weathering, leading to rock fracture, with action of

gravitational forces, temperature changes and water pressures Biological weathering, due to growth or movement of

organisms, such as burrowing by earthworms. This causes moisture to penetrate and produced humic, carbonic acids, which exerts pressure on earth materials

Erosional process from running water, sea waves, glaciers , wind result in depositional landforms





upscpdf.com


Example: Erosional features include river valleys, Gorges, Water falls etc.

Depositional features include Delta, Sand dunes, beaches, Barrier island etc.

o Significance of weathering

They are responsible for breaking down rocks into smaller fragments and prepare way for formation of regolith and soils

Biomes and bio-diversity is basically a result of forests (vegetation) and forests depend upon the depth of weathering mantles.

It aids in erosion and mass wasting, which consequentially result in reduction of relief Ex: Deforestation in Garhwal and Kumaon Himalayas has

increased weathering of rocks, which has resulted in increased Fluvial Erosion

Reduction in relief are caused by removal of weathered materials from landslides, rockfall

Weathering of rocks and deposits helps in the enrichment and concentrations of certain valuable ores of iron, manganese, aluminium, copper etc.,

Conclusion o Thus, it is through combination of factors of Various Geomorphic

processes over millions of years, that such varied landforms are evident today

11. Discuss the major characteristics of Indian Monsoon with special emphasis

on the causative factors.

What to look for?

Introduction -What are Monsoon winds?

Body - Characteristics of Indian Monsoon, with mentioning of their causative factors


Introduction

o Monsoon are the winds which reverses their direction seasonally, and is influenced by: Shifting of Inter-tropical convergence zone Upper air circulation - Sub Tropical westerly Jet stream





upscpdf.com


Indian Ocean temperature Heating of Tibet Plateau

Body o Major characteristics of Indian Monsoon:

Rainfall by Monsoon is seasonal in character, with Major part received between June and September This is because of the ITCZ being placed over Northern Plains Placing of ITCZ over Northern plains causes the trade winds to

converge The South East trade winds after crossing equator suffer

rightward deflection becoming South Westerly Monsoon Winds, which take moisture from Indian Ocean and cause rainfall

After summer, ITCZ starts shifting equator wards and different regions are replaced by North East Trade winds

It is largely orographic and is governed by relief

Himalayas obstruct the moisture laden winds from Indian ocean and cause rainfall in North Eastern states and in the Indus-Ganga-Brahmaputra plain

Western Ghats cause rainfall by acting as a barrier to moisture laden winds

Monsoon rains occur in wet spells of a few days with sudden 'onset' and are interspersed with rainless interval known as 'breaks' The breaks in Monsoon is because of the 'Sub Tropical Westerly

Jet streams' entering India and getting Bifurcated by Tibetian Plateau, into two branched-North and South

The southern branch shifts northwards in summers, causing the South westerly winds to converge over Northern plains, which causes the sudden onset/burst of Monsoon





upscpdf.com


During Monsoon season, the southern Branch of jet stream temporarily re-established itself for few days, causing break in Monsoon

'Break' in Monsoon are also related to cyclonic depressions formed at the head of Bay of Bengal, and their crossing to Mainland Their paths are determined by the position of ITCZ, which is

generally termed as Monsoon trough As monsoon trough oscillates, there are fluctuations in the track

and direction of these depressions Besides the frequency and intensity of these depressions, the

passage followed by them determines the spatial distribution of Rainfall

Rain-bearing systems and Rainfall distribution Among the two rain bearing system, first originated in the Bay

of Bengal causing rainfall over the plains of North India Second is the Arabian sea current of the South West Monsoon

which brings rain to the west coast of India The intensity of rainfall over west coast of India is related to:

Offshore meteorological conditions The position of Equatorial Jet stream along the Eastern

coast of Africa Beginning of rain is sometimes delayed considerably, and sometimes

rainfall is Higher than normal This is because of the effect of El-Nino and La-Nina In Normal conditions, a branch of rising air of 'Walker Cell' at

Australian coast descends at a permanent high pressure region near Madagascar, which in turn help in pushing South West Monsoon winds to India

During El-Nino, the walker cell is reversed resulting in weakening of Monsoon

During La-Nina, due to strengthening of Walker Cell, the Monsoon strengthens resulting in high rainfall in India

The impact of Indian Ocean Dipole, also results in similar effect on Monsoon

Spatial distribution is uneven, with the amount of rainfall decreasing with increasing distance from sea

Summer rainfall comes in heavy downpour, leading to considerable run off and soil erosion

Monsoon rains are vital for agrarian economy of the country, as over 75% of rainfall is received during South West Monsoon season

Conclusion o Thus, the lifeline of India - Monsoon, is influenced by a range of factors





upscpdf.com


12. Critically examine the marine resources of India and discuss the problems encountered in their development.

What to look for?

Introduction -What are Marine Resources?

Body -Marine resources in India -Basic definition of the types of resources -Their potential and amount of their present usage

-Problems encountered in development of marine resources

Conclusion -A relevant way forward on Marine resources

Introduction

o Marine Resources are materials and attributes found in the ocean that are considered to have value - which can be intrinsic or Monetary

o They include biological diversity, fish and seafood supplies, oil an gas, minerals, sand and gravel, renewable energy resources, tourism potential and unique ecosystem like coral reefs

Body o India is endowed with a variety of Marine Resources such as:

Indian Marine Fisheries West coast of India has wider continental shelf and is known for

primary production and supports 75% of India's total fish landings

Demersal sources(which live on or near ocean bottom) accounts for half of total Indian catch

Large quantities of prawn and shrimp resources are found in coasts of India in major Estuaries, creeks, Brackish water lakes and backwaters

United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation's, estimate annual catch data of India to be approximately 3.2 million tonnes

FAO also states that, while other world oceans are nearing their fisheries limit, the Indian ocean's resources have potential to sustain increased production

The number of fish species in India constitute 9.7% of fish known from the world

Indian marine fisheries account for 1% share in GDP, and 5.4% share in agricultural GDP

Fisheries sector constitute 3% in total exports





upscpdf.com


Marine protected areas have been created to enrich the potential of fisheries

Mineral reserves Minerals dissolved in sea water

Sea water contains minerals such as Sodium, bromine, Magnesium, Gold, Zinc, Uranium and Thorium

India has the third largest Salt producing country in the World after China and USA, with an annual production of 230 million tonnes

Deep ocean Bottom deposits Deep ocean has a vast repository of minerals, like cobalt,

zinc, Manganese and rare earth materials They are present in form of Polymetallic manganese

nodules, Sulphide deposits around Hydrothermal vents Ministry of Earth sciences has allocated 122 crores for

exploration of Exclusive Economic Zone, for bathymetric mapping and system sampling to harness the deep ocean minerals

Energy Reserves Renewable

Ocean thermal energy conversion(OTEC) uses temperature difference between cooler deep and warmer shallow seawaters to run a heat engine and produce electricity India's maiden OTEC project is coming up in Kavaratti,

Lakshadweep OTEC has a theoretical potential of 180,000 MW in India

Wave Energy is produced when electricity generators are places on surface of ocean The total potential of wave energy along country's coast is

estimated to be about 40,000 MW Tidal energy converts energy from tides to useful forms using

Generators Total identified potential of tidal energy is about 12455

MW, with potential locations at Khambat and Kutch regions

Offshore wind energy refers to construction of windfarms on water bodies India has an estimated 127GW of offshore wind power

potential, mostly off the coasts of Tamilnadu, Gujarat and Maharashtra





upscpdf.com


Non-Renewable Mineral oil

India has an estimated 590 million tonnes of crude oil reserves

Being one of the most important raw material for all Industries, it provides large employment

Natural Gas This is needed to meet global energy demand and limit

Carbon Dioxide emissions India has set a target of raising natural gas share in energy

mix to 15%, realising its potential reserves Gas hydrate is a solid ice-like form of water that contains gas

molecules in form of Methane They exist on the World's continental Margins, are a future

source of Natural gas US Geological survey estimates, India to have the second

largest gas Hydrate reserve after America

o Problems Encountered in development of Marine resources: Fisheries sector hasn't developed fully due to unscientific

management of aquaculture, lack of reliable database, Poor yield optimisation, post-harvest issues, weak marketing and Environment issues related to Bottom trawling

Deep sea mining of polymetallic nodules are not economically feasible yet, and also has grave implication for deep sea species still unknown to science

High cost of production of renewable energy, and lack of affordable technology is the limiting factor for its expansion in other regions in India

Shortage of oil refining capacity, lack of intent to find new reserves and technical problems have made us dependent on Foreign countries for crude oil

Difficulty in detection of Gas hydrate reserves, with seismic methods, make production challenging

Conclusion o As with most developing countries with vast coastlines, the rich resources

of the ocean play a major role in the National Economy and the Culture of the Indian people





upscpdf.com


13. Give a reasoned account of flood hazards occurring in India and also suggest measures for their management.

What to look for?

Introduction -What are floods?

Body - Reasoned account of flood hazards occurring in India -Measures for managing flood hazards

Conclusion -A relevant way forward on floods

Introduction

o Flooding is the overflowing of water onto land, because of Heavy rain, ocean level rising, dams breaking etc.

Body o Why is there increasing risk of Floods in India?

Climate change Rise in global average temperatures have led to a worrying

trend of no rain for long periods and then a sudden bout of excessive rainfall, causing extreme floods

Rise in temperatures would increase flood events in frequency, according to ''Climate change and India: A 4 X4 assessment a sectoral and regional analysis for 2030s'' report.

The Indian Meteorological department (IMD) had predicted 14% rainfall deficit for North east regions of India. But heavy rainfall in 48 hours, have ravaged parts of North East and Bihar

Kerala, which experienced floods killing more than 500 people, last year also faced a dormant monsoon before the rains began, which did not stop for almost two weeks.

Poor management of Dams Intense rain over few days, is coinciding with dams being full

due to poor management, resulting in 'Dam-induced' Floods Most of the dams along Krishna Basin were more than 50%full

before IMD issued high rain alerts. Even after receiving alerts, Dam authorities release water

A sufficient space to receive excess rain to help moderate flood situation was not created, instead release of large quantities only exacerbated the situation

Senseless degradation of Landscape This was evident in flooding of Western Ghats region this year Degradation of landscape accentuates the water flow Loss of forest cover along slopes of Ghats resulted in lowered

infiltration and retention of water in rain catchment areas





upscpdf.com


Mushrooming of resorts and Homestays along Western Ghats region is also the reason for increased risk

Illegal Sand mining along river beds, has altered the natural flow of rivers in North Karnataka region, increasing the impact of excess water flow

Mining and Quarrying activities along Hill slopes, caused mudslides, which blocked the streams and increased the intensity of floods in Kerala

Deforestation leading to excessive siltation in River streams This has been evident in western Ghats regions Cutting of trees has resulted in increased erosion of top layer of

soil, which get deposited in river catchment areas Improper Land regulation along river beds

Increased settlements along river bed, was the reason for increased fatalities along Periyar river in Kerala

Most of the embankments have not been reinforced in several decades because there is a huge contractor-administration nexus that benefits monetarily from a flood situation

o Measures for management of flood Hazards

Simulation models to estimate the flow from catchment areas could, moderate the timing of intense release of water from dams

Proper coordination at state and inter-state level for proper management of dams and operation of reservoirs should be done

Unplanned developmental activities close to forest lands should be prevented. Categorisation of western Ghats into Ecologically sensitive areas as per recommendation of Madhav Gadgil and Kasturiranagan would be a great move

There is need to respect the hydrological and remediation capability of natural drains that aid infiltration and groundwater recharge, by stopping concretisation of water drains

A policy that is sustainable for long-term development, would increase the resilience of disaster struck areas

Construction of embankments and flood walls along flood zones, would reduce impact of floods

Interlinking of rivers might be an option, after thorough Environment impact assessment

Improved warning and alert systems by the district Authorities with aid of IMD, could help mitigate floods better

Conclusion o Although Nature is partly responsible for Hazards, It is the increased

Human activity that translates into a Calamity. Hence, sustainable solutions are needed in long run





upscpdf.com


14. Examine the fossil fuel resources of India with particular reference to the present and future demands for energy.

What to look for?

Introduction -What are fossil fuels?

Body -Present demand for energy in India, and how we are meeting the demand -Future demands for energy in India

-Directive is to 'Examine' -Hence, detailed explanation with implication and limitation needed

-Address the dimension, if India will be able to meet this future energy demand -Suggest measures to address the future energy demand


Introduction

o Fossil fuel are hydrocarbon containing materials of biological origin, occurring within Earth's crust that can be used as a source of Energy

Body o Present demand for energy in India:

According to the 'International Energy Agency (IEA's) Global Energy and CO2 status' report, India saw primary energy demand increase of 4% , which accounts for 11% of global demand growth

India is among top five global emitters of Green House gases(GHGs), which indicates its present dependence on fossil resources

About 80% of India's electricity generation is from fossil fuels The pie chart below, from the 'Ministry of Statistics' indicates the

high dependency on fossil sources for Energy in India:





upscpdf.com


o Fossil fuel resources of India, meeting this energy demand: Coal deposits found in eastern and south central parts of country, in

states of Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh account for 90% of coal reserves found in the country

Estimated reserves of crude oil in India stands at around 600 million

tonnes, and maximum reserves are in the Western Offshore, followed by Assam

Maximum reserves of Natural gas are in the eastern offshore





upscpdf.com


o Future demand for energy in India: With the economy projected to grow at 8-9% per annum, rapid

urbanization and improving standards of living for millions of Indian households, the demand is likely to grow significantly

In the last six decades, India’s energy use has increased 16 times and the installed electricity capacity by 84 times.

Pressure to maintain emission standards at global level necessitates production of energy in a technically efficient, economically viable and environmentally sustainable manner using different fuels and forms of energy

India's primary energy demand is expected to grow to 1500 million tonnes of oil equivalent by 2030

Although India is increasing dependent on fossil fuels, a sizeable quantum of energy requirements (40% of total energy requirement), especially in the rural household sector, is met by non-commercial energy sources, which include fuel wood, crop residue, and animal waste, including human and draught animal power; which is an indicator of increased energy demand in coming days





upscpdf.com


India is largely dependent on fossil fuel imports to meet its energy demands – by 2030, India's dependence on energy imports is expected to exceed 53% of the country's total energy consumption.

o Will the Fossil fuel resources meet the future energy demand?

Strategies to meet India's energy requirements are constrained by country's energy resources and import possibilities

Unfortunately, India is not well endowed with fossil resources to meet future demands

While coal is abundant, it is regionally concentrated and is of low calorific value and has high ash content

The extractable reserves , based on current extraction technology remain limited

Environmental impact of usage of fossil fuels, like coal mining causing groundwater contamination, Airborne mercury contamination, etc

o What should be done to meet this energy demand?

The potential for improvement of energy efficiency of processes and equipment through awareness creation is vast.

A sound policy for creation, retention and up gradation of skills of Human Resources is very crucial for penetration of energy efficient technologies and practices in various sectors.

The government is planning to meet this future demand of energy by focusing on renewable energy, for which it has set a target of 175GW

On one hand, in the generation side, the Government is promoting greater use of renewable in the energy mix mainly through solar and wind and at the same time shifting towards supercritical technologies for coal based power plants

Conclusion o Energy is vital for development of India's growth trajectory, for which it

should ensure reliable availability of energy, by keeping in mind the transition need for cleaner fuel to reduce impacts of Climate Change

15. Explain the causes of soil erosion occurring over extensive areas in certain parts of India. What measures would you suggest for solving this problem?

What to look for?

Introduction -What is Soil Erosion?

Body -Causes of soil erosion in parts of India





upscpdf.com


-Mentioning of areas where a specific cause is leading to soil erosion becomes important, in the demand of question

-Measures to solve this problem

Conclusion -A relevant way forward

Introduction

o Soil Erosion refers to the wearing away of Top layer of soil by physical forces of water and wind, combined with Anthropogenic factors, resulting in degradation of Landscape

Body o Causes of Soil Erosion in India:

Natural disasters Unusual Soil piping and lateral spread, which is causing soil

movement downhill were visible in Kerala during intense Floods During extreme rains, cracks develop in earth and muddy

water containing deep sand and soil pumps through these cracks, which geologists call 'Soil Piping'

Tsunami, Cyclones cause littoral erosion, because of the intensity they strike, which is evident along coast of Kerala

Land degradation Practices Large scale cutting of trees Quarrying, in sensitive areas of

Western Ghats Massive encroachment and deforestation in the catchment

areas of rivers, accelerates soil run off Diversion of forest land for resorts in Hill stations Large scale shift to cultivation of coil-eroding monoculture

plantations of tea, coffee, cardamom, rubber on steep slopes Poor livestock management, causes over grazing which results

in loosening of top layer of soil and eventual run off. This is evident in areas of Himachal pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir

Faulty methods of agriculture, such as, Wrong Ploughing, lack of crop rotation, lack of mulching and intensive irrigation, and other are the reasons of erosion in regions of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh

Cultivation along Hilly slopes, without making terraces exposes top soil for erosion. This is common in parts of Himalayas and hilly areas of Peninsular plateau

'Shifting Cultivation' by the primitives in North east, has destroyed the top soil resources since ages





upscpdf.com


Wind erosion It is active in region of arid and semi arid regions It occurs through process of deflation and attrition It is common in Rajasthan and adjoining areas of Haryana,

Punjab and Gujarat Natural Phenomenon

Uniform flow of water erodes top layer of soil, which is known as sheet erosion. This is usually seen along Hilly regions of North East and Flood plains in North

Increases surface run off can cause grooves or channels where water flow is rapid, which is known as rill erosion

Rill erosion may deepen further to form gullies, and eventually turn to Badlands. Ravines of Yamuna and Chambal have been formed in this manner

High tides and storm surges have impact on tiny island, as they cause coastal erosion and shrink the area of Island, which has been observed in two islands of Gulf of Mannar

o Measures to Solve this problem:

Implementation of 'United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)' would help, in the long run to prevent soil run off





upscpdf.com


Gadgil report guidelines, should be supported to prevent natural flow of soil along slopes of 'Ecologically sensitive regions'

Setting up regional authorities to stop encroachment of forest land could help

Important methods such as contour tillage, contour bunding, terrace farming should be practised in Hilly areas

Checking the extension of gullies ,construction of check dams should be implemented in regions of high rainfall

Strip cropping and shelter belts, afforestation, controlled grazing would prove beneficial in arid areas

Better agricultural practices such as mixed cropping, mixed farming, rotation of crops and mulching, should be inculcated

Conclusion o Soil is most precious, as it ensures prosperous agriculture which forms the

basis of economic development and ensures living of societies. Hence, conservation and management through sustainable practises is necessary

16. Explain the factors that influence ocean currents. Also examine its importance on human life. Analyse the effect of climate change on ocean currents.

What to look for?

Introduction -What are ocean currents?

Body -Factors influencing Ocean Currents -Importance of Currents on Human life -Effect of Climate Change on Ocean currents

Conclusion -A relevant Closing statement

Introduction

o Ocean currents are continuous directed movements of ocean water, that influence Climate and local ecosystem

Body o Factors influencing Ocean Currents

Rotation of earth on its axis, results in genesis of deflective force or Coriolis force, that orients the currents;

Temperature Cold water sinks and warm water rises; The difference in

temperature creates a natural gradient and hence water flows from a high temperature to low temperature region





upscpdf.com


Salinity More the salinity, higher is the density of waters This difference in density creates a gradient from low salinity to

high salinity region and movement thereof Air pressure on oceanic water cause variations in ocean density.

Hence, the movement of water Planetary winds blowing on water surface, drags water in its

direction Ex: Equatorial currents flow westwards under influence of Trade

winds Rainfall and Evaporation, influence the density and Salinity of ocean

waters, and cause the flow of currents Configuration of coast

Disposition of coast line perpendicular to the natural flow direction of ocean currents obstructs the current and causes it flow parallel to coastline Ex: Equatorial current after it hits Brazilian coast is

bifurcated to two branches Irregularities in Bottom relief modify the ocean currents. This is

evident with the Submarine ridges deflecting the course of currents Ex: North Atlantic drift is deflected to right, when it crosses over

Wyville Thompson Ridge Seasonal Variations like the Monsoon winds also influence flow

direction of currents





upscpdf.com


o Importance of Currents on Human life They modify the weather conditions along the coasts they flow

The origin of ideal and favourable European type of climate, of Western coasts of Europe is due to effects of North Atlantic Warm current,, which is extension of Gulf stream

Gulf stream raises temperature of Atlantic and Gulf coastal plains of USA during Summer months and cause intensified heat waves and thus becomes responsible for hazardous weather conditions

Winds blowing over warm currents increase the amount of Precipitation in the affected coastal areas Example: North Atlantic drift and Kuroshio current bring

sufficient rainfall along western coasts of Europe and eastern coasts of Japan respectively

Cold currents result in harsh conditions for humans Example: Kalahari desert and Atacama desert owe their

existence to some extent to Benguela and Peru current respectively

Ocean currents act as distributing agents of nutrients, oxygen and other elements necessary for existence and survival of fishes Gulf stream carries Planktons from Mexican Gulf to coasts of

New Foundland, and has resulted in significant fishing ground in the region

Ocean Currents determine the major routes for navigation since ancient times

Also, occurrence of fogs due to convergence of warm and cold currents pose serious threats for navigation

Icebergs brought by the cold currents(Labrador and Falkland cold currents) pose threat for shipping activities

o Effect of Climate Change on Ocean currents:

Global warming resulting in increased rainfall, melting of glaciers and sea ice is causing disruptions in sinking of cold water. This sequence of events could stop the 'Conveyor belt' in oceans

Climate change is affecting the Chemistry of sea water, by varying its acidity, Salinity, which will have direct implications on flow of currents

String of mooring across middle of Atlantic, from Canary islands to the Bahamas, has detected a disturbing drop in ocean's massive circulation pattern

Scientists have traced imminent collapse of the commercially important cod fishery along US coast, because of Global warming leading to slowing of Atlantic circulation





upscpdf.com


Studies show the Atlantic current wobbling and weaken by as much as 30%, turning down the dial on a dramatic heat pump that transports warmth toward northern Europe.

Conclusion o Oceans are a crucial and fragile Eco system, that have a complex system

operating in them to sustain life on Earth. Hence, it is imperative to prevent the cascading effects of climate change on Oceans

17. What are coral reefs? What is coral bleaching. Examine the factors leading to coral bleaching and suggest measures to protect the reef system.

What to look for?

Introduction -What are Coral reefs?

Body -What is coral bleaching? -Factors leading to Coral bleaching -Measures needed to protect the reef system

Conclusion -A relevant way forward on coral reefs

Introduction

o Coral reefs are skeletal remains of minute marine organisms called Coral Polyps, which cannot make their own food and hence live in a symbiotic relationship with Zooxanthale Algae

Body o The corals get their food from algae and in turn provide shelter to algae o The corals secrete limestone and Dolomite as a protective mechanism

around their body o When corals die, these skeletal remains coalesce together to form physical

structure of calcium carbonate, known as reefs o The coral reefs are a rick site of Biodiversity and hence are known as

'Rainforests of the Ocean'

o Coral Bleaching refers to loss of Algae from the corals, when stressed by changes in conditions such as temperature, light or nutrients, resulting into the white colour, which is an indication of death of corals When a coral bleaches, it is not dead. Corals can survive a bleaching

event, but they are under more stress and are subject to mortality. The Australian Great Barrier Reef suffered worst bleaching in history

in 2016-17, with estimation that about half of its coral were killed Survey found that in the Maldives, 60-90% of coral colonies were

bleached





upscpdf.com


o Factors leading to Coral Bleaching:

Change in Ocean temperature is the leading cause Construction and Mining along sea coasts creates silt and soil run off.

When sediments enter ocean, it can smother coral reefs, depriving them of sunlight and nutrients

When temperatures are high, high solar irradiance contributes to bleaching in shallow water corals

Exposure to the air during extreme low tides can cause bleaching in shallow corals

Poison or dynamite fishing, use Cyanide to fish for coral reef dwelling creatures. When cyanide gets in the nooks and crannies of the reef, the coral often dies in the cloud of Poison. This is evident in Philippines and Indonesia

Floating trash can also cut young coral polyps off from the nutrients they need to grow into a thriving reef.

Increased careless unsustainable tourism damage coral reefs due to: Uncontrolled building and irresponsible business operations Increased discharge of wastewater Careless tourist behaviour

o Measures to protect the reef system:

With real leadership, carbon runaway to oceans need to be stopped. This is possible by transitioning to renewable energy today

Conserving water, would result in less run off and hence less wastewater will eventually find way back to oceans

Controlling the movement of vessels over coral rich water could be way out

Bottom trawling and fishing near reef should be prevented Educating tourists to be responsible enough to respect ocean, by not

throwing garbage on beaches, picking up 'Ghost nets' lying on shore could be productive

Putting the climate change mitigation strategies into practise An International Conference on Status and Protection of Coral

reefs(STAPCOR -2018) was held at Bangram Island, Lakshadweep, with the theme – ‘’Reef for life’’ to highlight the importance of coral reefs and the need for its protection, with an emphasis to convert science into adequate policies for conservation

Conclusion o The productivity of 'Rainforests of Ocean' is beyond Imagination. Hence

need to act in a sustainable way to prevent mass killings of Ocean Ecosystems





upscpdf.com


18. Examine the different landforms created by a river in its youth, mature and old stage. Also explain the phenomenon of river rejuvenation and the landforms created due to such rejuvenation

What to look for?

Introduction -A relevant introduction on fluvial landforms

Body -Landforms created by River in different stages - Phenomenon of river rejuvenation -landforms created due to such rejuvenation

Conclusion -A relevant closing statement on rivers

Introduction

o The work of running water is most important of all exogenetic or Planation processes, which forms landforms either due to erosional or depositional work

Body

o Landforms created by River in different stages Youth Stage

Down cutting by rivers is most dominant, along with head ward erosion, resulting in Valley deepening

Gorges and Canyons They represent deep and narrow valleys having steep sides They are formed due to active down cutting of the valleys

through mechanism of pothole drilling Examples: Hundrughagh gorge on Subarnarekja river

Water falls Waterfalls develop when a change of lithology (rock type) takes

place along the river’s course resulting in differential erosion. When the rock type of the river’s channel changes from a

resistant rock to a less resistant one (e.g. granite to limestone), the river erodes the less resistant rock faster producing a sudden drop in the gradient of the river with the resistant rock being higher up than the less resistant rock.

As the river flows over the resistant rock, it falls onto the less resistant rock, eroding it and creating a greater height difference between the two rock types, producing the waterfall.

Pot holes These are small depressions in the rocky beds of river valleys Potholes of much bigger size are called plunge pools

Structural benches These are step-like flat surfaces on either side of the valley floors





upscpdf.com


They are formed due to differential erosion of alternate bands of hard and soft rock beds

Mature stage

Erosion of Interfluves starts in this stage Towards end of Mature stage, river becomes a graded stream ie Rate of

deposition = Rate of removal of load by river Meanders

These are the sinous bends of longitudinal courses of rivers One side is characterised by Concave slope which is subjected to

severe erosion Other side is the convex slope, which receives depositions of

alluvium and rocks

Old stage Region gets reduced to a featureless plain Ox bow lakes

Lakes formed due to impounding of water in the abandoned meander loops

When curvature of meander loops is accentuated due to lateral erosion, the meander loops come closer, the streams straighten their courses to form ox-bow lakes





upscpdf.com


Leeves

Levees are long narrow ridges of Alluvium which are found along the banks of many old rivers, formed as a result of flooding

Each time the river floods it will carry its load out to the floodplain as it has a great deal of energy.

However, when the flood subsides it does not have the energy to carry the load back into the channel and so deposits it. After numerous floodings these deposits build up to form Levees

Alluvial fans and cones Formed due to accumulation of materials at the base of foothill,

when there is abrupt drop in the channel gradient Usually, the streams which flow over fans are not confined to

their original channels for long and shift their position across the fan forming many channels called distributaries.





upscpdf.com


Deltas

A Delta is a triangular area of land which has been formed by a river depositing its load as it enters the sea or a lake

o Rejuvenation means acceleration of erosive power of the fluvial process

caused by variety of facts such as: Upliftment in the landmass Tilting of land area Lowering of river outlet to sea Changes in sea level due to floor subsidence or glaciation Increase in volume of water due to increased rainfall or melt-water

o Landforms created due to rejuvenation:

Knick points It represents break in slope in the longitudinal profile of river

caused by rejuvenation It represents head of rejuvenation





upscpdf.com


River Terraces These are narrow flat surfaces on either side of the valley floor,

which represents remnants of older flood plains Formed because of accelerated rate of vertical erosion, because

of rejuvenation Incised meanders

These are developed through vertical erosion leading to valley incision or deepening

They are formed due to accelerated valley incision inside simple meanders

Conclusion o A gradational structure exists with the interplay of various factors in a

river system

19. Trace the understanding of formation of oceans and continents from continental drift theory of Alfred Wegner to the coming of theory of plate tectonics

What to look for?

Introduction -A relevant introduction on how oceans and Continents were formed

Body -Continental drift theory of Alfred Wegner, and how it first explained formation of oceans and Continents -Theory of Plate tectonics and formation of oceans and continents

-Need to bring in relevance between two theories and connect them






upscpdf.com


Introduction o From a world as a ball of burning gases, it took hundreds of millions of

years for the first land masses to emerge and evolve to present form Body

o Continental drift Theory: formation of oceans and Continents The theory was given by Alfred Wegner in 1912, to explain the

present distributions of oceans and continents on Earth According to this theory, all land masses were combined, around 250

million years ago into a single landmass known as Pangea, surrounded by huge water body called Panthallassa

During Triassic period, Pangea broke into two parts - Laurasia/Angaraland to north and Gondwanaland to south

These land masses started moving away from poles and westward During the movement, due to friction and differential dragging

forces, they further grew to form present day continents Evidences in support of Wegner:

Coastal Jigsaw fit: He found that the eastern coast of South America fit into western coast of Africa. Similar fit was found between North America and Europe

Nature of mountains were found to be similar across Atlantic ocean

Fossils of similar species were found to be spread over distant places

o Tracing the same formation by the theory of Plate Tectonics Rigid lithospheric slabs or solid crustal layers are technically called

'Plates' The whole mechanism of evolution, nature and motion of plates and

resultant reactions is called 'Plate Tectonics' These plates move over Asthenosphere over surface of Globe This theory is based on:

The concept of continental drift The concept of sea floor spreading

This theory mentions different types of Plate Boundaries, and their role in forming oceans and continents: Divergent Boundary: Plates move apart at mid-ocean ridges,

where new sea floor forms Convergent Boundary: Ocean -Continent plate convergence

results in volcanic mountains, above subducting plate, known as Continental Arc When two oceanic plates converge, line of volcanoes grow

on the upper oceanic plate, to form an Island arc





upscpdf.com


When two continental plates converge, they create some of world largest mountain ranges like the Himalayas

Hary Hess postulated the concept of 'Plate tectonics' in support of continental drift

The unsatisfactory explanation of Wegner, of the force behind movement of continents (Tidal and Pole fleeing force), was explained by Tectonic movements of Plates over Asthenosphere

The contradictory viewpoints of Wegner’s Sial floating over Sima leading to formation of mountains, was overcome by the concept Tectonic Plates’ interaction, along Plate boundaries

The lack of evidence for Island arc formations in Wegner’s theory, was explained by Plate Tectonic theory

The continents and oceans move with the movement of these plates The present shape and arrangement of the continents and ocean

basins could be attained because of continuous relative movement of different plates of Pangea, since Carboniferous period

Conclusion o The Scientifically based, Plate Tectonic theory in a way strengthened with

more evidences and proof, the shortcomings of basic theory of the formation of oceans and Continents

20. Analyse the factors for the formation of planetary winds across the globe and provide a comparative analysis of planetary, secondary and tertiary winds.

What to look for?

Introduction -What are planetary winds?

Body -Factors for the formation of Planetary winds across Globe -Comparative analysis of planetary, secondary and tertiary winds


Introduction

o Winds blowing almost in same direction throughout the year are called prevailing or permanent winds, which are also called Planetary winds because they involve larger areas on the globe





upscpdf.com


Body o Factors for the formation of Planetary winds across Globe:

The high and low pressure regions are created on earth's surface, due to differential heating because of Insolation received on earth's surface This pressure difference creates 'Pressure Gradient', which

influences the direction of flow of winds i.e. Winds blow perpendicular to Isobars

The speed of wind flow is also determined by Pressure Gradient Example: High insolation received at the ''Inter tropical

Convergence Zone'', causes low pressure region around equator. This region attracts the 'Trade winds' from both hemispheres

Dynamic movement of air Air rising near equator due to heating, diverges near tropopause

and moves towards poles In covering its distance, it cools along the way before reaching

poles, and descends at sub-tropical region creating high pressure region

Hence, dynamically induced condition, due to movement of air cause Planetary winds

Coriolis force The winds are deflected from their original path, because of

Coriolis force, which is the result of earth's rotation Due to this effect, winds in the northern hemisphere get

deflected to the right of their path and those in the southern hemisphere to their left, following Farrel’s Law.

This deflection force does not seem to exist until the air is set in motion and increases with wind velocity, air mass and an increase in latitude

Example: Winds blowing from 'Sub tropical high pressure region' towards equator are deflected to right in northern hemisphere, and to left in southern hemisphere

Centripetal Acceleration Due to inward acceleration of air towards the centre of rotation

of earth, it is possible for air to maintain a curved path(parallel to isobars), about a local axis of high/low pressure





upscpdf.com


o Comparative Analysis of Planetary, Secondary and Tertiary Winds

Parameter Planetary Secondary Tertiary

Examples -Trade winds -Westerlies -Polar winds

-Cyclones -Anti cyclones -Monsoons -Air masses

-Land and sea Breezes -Mountain and Valley Breezes -Others with local names such as Chinook. Sirocco, Foehn

Cause -Differential heating of Earth -Pressure gradient created -Coriolis force

-local conditions such as low pressure region -formation of airmass front

-localised differential heating -Localised pressure variation due to difference in temperature

Direction of flow

-From high pressure to low pressure regions -Flow direction influenced by Coriolis force

-Direction of Monsoon in influenced by Coriolis force -Cyclones and Anti cyclones move under influence of Planetary winds

-Mainly localised differential heating determines flow direction





upscpdf.com


Coverage -They involve larger areas of globe

-Cyclones influence the areas they traverse -Airmass influence the extent of stationary front

-Very localised coverage like the bottom of valley in case of valley breezes -Others influence only the path of their flow

Climatic Influence

-Influence climate by transporting heat form excess region to cooler areas -They also cause moisture in air to condense, form clouds and cause precipitation

-These influence climate the most -Monsoon is responsible for maximum share of rainfall in India -Cyclones create havoc over the region they traverse

-These are known for the characteristic changes each particular wind brings to a region -Ex: Chinook warming the leeward side of Rockies

-Mistral causing the temperature to drop below freezing point in Spain and France

Conclusion

o A combination of factors combined with elements of earth forces, control the movement of winds on earth surface, having wider implications on climate, oceans and life on earth





upscpdf.com

Documents

INSIGHTSIAS IPM TEST SERIES-2020 IPM 3 Synopsis