Q. Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other as Reason (R).
Assertion (A) : In the Himalayan mountains different types of vegetation are found.
Reason (R): In Himalayas, there are variations in climate with change in altitude.
Select the correct answer from the code given below :
a) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
b) (A) is false, but (R) is true
c) (A) is true, but (R) is false
d) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
Correct Answer: d) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
Question from UPPSC Prelims 2025
Explanation:
Both statements are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.
– The Himalayas exhibit altitudinal zonation: as altitude increases, temperature generally decreases (~6.5°C per 1000 m), and moisture and exposure also vary. This leads to distinct climatic belts and hence different vegetation types.
– Consequently, vegetation changes from tropical/subtropical forests at the foothills to temperate broadleaf and coniferous forests, then to sub-alpine forests, alpine meadows, and tundra-like vegetation at higher elevations. Thus, climatic variation with altitude explains the diversity of vegetation.
