Q. Consider the following statements with respect to the climate of Western Europe:
1. Western Europe receives rainfall in all months.
2. Western Europe is located in the belt of Westerlies.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) Both 1 and 2
b) Neither 1 nor 2
c) Only 1
d) Only 2
Question from UPPSC Prelims 2024
Correct Answer: a) Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
1. Statement 1: Western Europe receives rainfall in all months.
– Western Europe experiences a maritime climate, heavily influenced by the North Atlantic Drift (a warm ocean current) and the prevailing westerly winds. This region typically receives rainfall throughout the year due to the consistent influence of moist air masses from the Atlantic Ocean. The rainfall is evenly distributed across all months, with no distinct dry season. Hence, this statement is correct.
2. Statement 2: Western Europe is located in the belt of Westerlies.
– The westerlies are prevailing winds that blow from the west to the east in the mid-latitudes (approximately 30° to 60° latitude in both hemispheres). Western Europe lies within this belt of westerlies, which brings moist air from the Atlantic Ocean, contributing to its moderate temperatures and year-round precipitation. Therefore, this statement is also correct.
Since both statements are correct, the correct answer is a) Both 1 and 2.
