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Asia: Climate, Natural Vegetation and Wildlife - Questions & Answers

A. Tick the correct option.

1. Which of the following factors does not affect the climate of Asia?
Answer: Longitude

2. The Southwesterly winds bring rainfall to the Mediterranean region during:
Answer: Winter

3. The trees of the Mediterranean region have thick barks and long roots to:
Answer: Survive the summer drought

4. Which of the following is a critically endangered antelope found in the steppes of Asia?
Answer: Saiga

5. The region that remains frozen for most of the year is:
Answer: The Arctic Circle

B. Fill in the blanks.

1. The Southwesterly winds cause moderate rainfall during the winter season in the Mediterranean region.

2. The Mediterranean trees like olive and oak are characterized by long roots and thick barks.

3. The monsoon type of climate is characterized by the seasonal reversal of winds.

4. The Steppe type of climate is experienced in a wide area extending from southwestern Siberia through Ukraine and Kazakhstan.

5. Animals like the Mediterranean monk seal and the northern bald ibis are critically endangered in the Mediterranean region.

C. State whether the following statements are true or false.

1. Asia's vast latitudinal extent ensures that it covers all the heat zones of the Earth.
Answer: True

2. The central part of Asia is located close to the sea and has a maritime climate.
Answer: False

3. The Mediterranean region experiences warm, wet summers and cool, dry winters.
Answer: False

4. Wildlife is scarce in the Mediterranean region because most of the land has been cleared for human settlement.
Answer: True

5. The Steppe region is found near the Equator.
Answer: False

D. Answer the following questions in brief.

1. Name the factors that affect the climate of Asia.
Answer: The factors affecting the climate of Asia include its vast latitudinal extent, distance from the sea, relief features (like mountains), and the direction of winds.

2. Describe the climate of the Mediterranean region.
Answer: The Mediterranean region experiences warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Moderate rainfall occurs in winter due to temperate cyclones brought by the Southwesterly winds.

3. Why is wildlife scarce in the Mediterranean region?
Answer: Wildlife is scarce in this region because most of the natural land has been cleared by humans for agriculture and the construction of settlements.

4. Where is the Cool Temperate Continental (Steppe) type of climate found in Asia?
Answer: This climate is found in a wide area extending from southwestern Siberia, through Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, up to the Tian Shan ranges.

5. Name some animals found in the Mediterranean region.
Answer: Animals found here include the Mediterranean monk seal, northern bald ibis, white-headed duck, red-breasted goose, saker falcon, and the loggerhead sea turtle.

E. Give reasons for the following.

1. Mediterranean trees have long roots and thick barks.
Answer: They have these features to help them survive the drought-like conditions and lack of moisture that prevail during the dry summer months.

2. Asia has a wide variety of climates.
Answer: Asia has a wide variety of climates due to its immense size, its vast latitudinal extent from 10°S to 77°N, and its diverse physical features like high mountains and vast plateaus.

3. Central Asia has a dry continental climate.
Answer: Central Asia is located almost 3,000 km away from the sea. Because it is far from the moderating influence of the ocean, it experiences extreme temperatures and very low rainfall.

F. Answer the following questions in detail.

1. Explain how latitude and distance from the sea affect the climate of Asia.
Answer: Latitude affects Asia because the continent stretches from the Equator to the Arctic Circle, covering all heat zones. Places near the Equator are hot and wet, while those near the Arctic are frozen. Distance from the sea affects the climate because interior regions, far from the ocean's moderating influence, experience extreme "continental" climates with hot summers and very cold winters, whereas coastal areas have moderate climates.

2. Describe the natural vegetation of the Mediterranean region.
Answer: The natural vegetation of the Mediterranean region includes trees such as olive, laurel, walnut, chestnut, oak, and fig. These plants are specifically adapted to the climate; they are evergreen and possess long roots to reach deep groundwater and thick barks or waxy leaves to reduce transpiration during the dry summer season.

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Multiple Choice Questions - Test your understanding with these MCQs. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the correct answer.

Question 1What is the approximate latitudinal extent of the continent of Asia?

Correct Answer: 10°S to 77°N

Question 2Which factor is primarily responsible for the extreme temperature range found in places like Omsk, Russia?

Correct Answer: Distance from the sea

Question 3Omsk in central Russia has an annual precipitation of barely:

Correct Answer: 40 cm

Question 4Unlike Omsk, which island location on the same latitude has a moist, equable climate?

Correct Answer: Sakhalin

Question 5How do the Himalayas influence the climate of India during winter?

Correct Answer: They block the cold Arctic winds from blowing southwards into India

Question 6Why does Guangzhou (Canton) in China sometimes receive snowfall while Delhi does not, despite being closer to the Equator?

Correct Answer: There is no major mountain range to block cold winds in eastern China

Question 7Which cold ocean current makes the winters of Kamchatka and north Japan very cold?

Correct Answer: Oyashio Current

Question 8Which warm ocean current has a moderating effect on south Japan during winter?

Correct Answer: Kuroshio Current

Question 9During summer, a belt of intense low pressure develops over which part of Asia?

Correct Answer: The interior parts

Question 10The winds that bring rain to South and Southeast Asia from July to October are called:

Correct Answer: Southwest Monsoon winds

Question 11What type of rainfall occurs when moist winds are obstructed by mountains?

Correct Answer: Orographic rainfall

Question 12The side of a mountain that faces the wind and receives heavy rain is known as the:

Correct Answer: Windward side

Question 13Which region is known as a 'rain shadow' region?

Correct Answer: The leeward side

Question 14Why has the Thar Desert formed in Rajasthan?

Correct Answer: The Aravalli Range runs parallel to the Southwest Monsoon winds

Question 15During October, the winds that blow from the land towards the sea are called:

Correct Answer: Northeast Monsoons

Question 16Which Indian state receives rain from the Retreating Monsoons (Northeast Monsoons)?

Correct Answer: Tamil Nadu

Question 17The Punjab Plains receive winter rain from:

Correct Answer: Cyclonic depressions from the Mediterranean Sea

Question 18Which countries experience the Equatorial or Rainforest type of climate?

Correct Answer: Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore

Question 19What is the average annual temperature in the Equatorial region?

Correct Answer: 30°C

Question 20Rainfall in the Equatorial region that typically occurs around 4 pm is known as:

Correct Answer: Convectional rainfall

Question 21Which type of clouds are associated with convectional rainfall in the equatorial region?

Correct Answer: Cumulonimbus clouds

Question 22Trees found in the tropical evergreen rainforests include:

Correct Answer: Mahogany, Ebony, Rosewood

Question 23The proboscis monkey is endemic to which island?

Correct Answer: Borneo

Question 24Which bat, one of the largest in the world, is found mainly in Malaysia?

Correct Answer: Flying fox bat

Question 25The Tropical Monsoon climate is also known as:

Correct Answer: Humid Subtropical

Question 26Which hot, dry wind blows from the Thar Desert during summer in the Tropical Monsoon region?

Correct Answer: Loo

Question 27The natural vegetation in the Tropical Monsoon region consists mainly of:

Correct Answer: Tropical broadleaf deciduous forests

Question 28Why do deciduous trees shed their leaves during the hot dry summer?

Correct Answer: To conserve water (prevent transpiration)

Question 29Which tree species is NOT typical of the Tropical Monsoon forest?

Correct Answer: Mahogany

Question 30The Malabar whistling thrush is native to which climatic region?

Correct Answer: Tropical Monsoon

Question 31The Warm Temperate Eastern Margin climate is also known as:

Correct Answer: China Type

Question 32Which destructive tropical cyclones affect the China Type climatic region?

Correct Answer: Typhoons

Question 33Tung oil, used as a waterproofing agent, is obtained from a tree found in:

Correct Answer: South China

Question 34Camphor oil is extracted from which part of the camphor tree?

Correct Answer: Bark and leaves

Question 35Which animal is a famous inhabitant of the Warm Temperate Eastern Margin (China Type) region?

Correct Answer: Giant panda

Question 36The Cool Temperate Eastern Margin climate is also known as:

Correct Answer: Manchurian Type

Question 37What is the average daily temperature during winter in the Manchurian climatic type?

Correct Answer: Minus 4°C

Question 38Which pheasant species is found in the Manchurian region?

Correct Answer: Brown-eared pheasant

Question 39The Desert type climate in Asia includes which two types of deserts?

Correct Answer: Hot and Cold

Question 40Which of the following is an example of a cold desert in Asia?

Correct Answer: Gobi Desert

Question 41What happens to the temperature at night in hot deserts?

Correct Answer: It drops sharply due to rapid terrestrial radiation

Question 42Vegetation in desert regions is often described as:

Correct Answer: Drought-resistant (Xerophytic)

Question 43Which feature distinguishes a Bactrian camel from an Indian camel?

Correct Answer: It has two humps

Question 44Which animal is NOT typically found in the cold deserts?

Correct Answer: Hippopotamus

Question 45The Mediterranean climate is characterized by:

Correct Answer: Warm dry summers and cool wet winters

Question 46Which winds bring rainfall to the Mediterranean region in winter?

Correct Answer: Southwesterly Winds (Westerlies)

Question 47Trees in the Mediterranean region have long roots and thick barks to:

Correct Answer: Survive summer drought

Question 48Which tree is a common example of Mediterranean vegetation?

Correct Answer: Olive

Question 49Which critically endangered seal is found in the Mediterranean region?

Correct Answer: Mediterranean monk seal

Question 50The Cool Temperate Continental climate is also known as:

Correct Answer: Steppe
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True or False Questions - Determine whether each statement is true or false. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the correct answer.

Statement 1Asia extends from approximately 10°S to 77°N latitude.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 2Places in Central Asia located far from the sea experience a moist, equable climate.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 3Omsk in central Russia has an annual precipitation of barely 40 cm.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 4The island of Sakhalin has a dry continental climate.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 5The Himalayas lie in the path of the Monsoon Winds and cause rainfall in India.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 6Tibet receives heavy rainfall because it is on the windward side of the Himalayas.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 7The cold Oyashio Current makes the winters of Kamchatka very cold.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 8The warm Kuroshio Current lowers the temperature of south Japan during winter.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 9In summer, a belt of high pressure develops over the interior parts of Asia.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 10The Southwest Monsoon winds blow from the sea to the land.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 11Orographic rainfall is caused when moist winds are obstructed by mountains.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 12The leeward side of a mountain is also known as the rain shadow region.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 13The Thar Desert exists because the Aravalli Range blocks the Monsoon Winds.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 14The Retreating Monsoon winds are also known as the Northeast Monsoons.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 15Coastal Tamil Nadu receives rain during October and November from the Retreating Monsoons.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 16The Punjab Plains receive winter rain from typhoons originating in the Pacific.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 17Indonesia and Malaysia experience the Equatorial type of climate.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 18In the Equatorial region, rainfall typically occurs at 4 o'clock in the morning.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 19Convectional rainfall is associated with towering cumulonimbus clouds.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 20Trees in the equatorial rainforests shed all their leaves at the same time.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 21Mahogany and Rosewood are trees found in tropical evergreen rainforests.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 22The proboscis monkey is endemic to the island of Sri Lanka.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 23The sun bear is found in the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 24The Tropical Monsoon climate is also known as the Humid Subtropical type.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 25The 'Loo' is a cold wind that blows during winter in North India.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 26Tropical deciduous trees shed their leaves during the hot dry summer.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 27Teak and Sal are examples of coniferous trees.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 28The Asiatic lion is found in the Gir Forest of India.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 29The Malabar whistling thrush is a bird native to the Tundra region.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 30The Warm Temperate Eastern Margin climate is also called the China Type.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 31The China Type climate experiences typhoons that originate over the Pacific Ocean.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 32Tung oil is used as a waterproofing agent.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 33Camphor oil is extracted from the roots of the camphor tree.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 34The Giant Panda is found in the Warm Temperate Eastern Margin region.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 35The Manchurian climate type is characterized by warm wet summers and cold dry winters.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 36The average winter temperature in the Manchurian region is around 20°C.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 37The brown-eared pheasant is found in the Manchurian climatic region.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 38The Gobi Desert is an example of a tropical hot desert.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 39In hot deserts, the temperature at night drops sharply due to rapid terrestrial radiation.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 40Vegetation in deserts includes drought-resistant plants like cacti and thorny bushes.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 41Bactrian camels have one hump.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 42The chinkara is also known as the Indian gazelle.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 43The Mediterranean climate is found in countries like Syria, Israel, and Turkey.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 44The Mediterranean region receives rainfall mainly during the summer season.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 45Rainfall in the Mediterranean region is caused by the Southwesterly Winds (Westerlies).

Correct Answer: True

Statement 46Olive and laurel trees are typical of the Mediterranean natural vegetation.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 47The Mediterranean monk seal is a critically endangered species.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 48The Cool Temperate Continental climate is also known as the Steppe type.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 49The Steppe climate is characterized by mild winters and heavy rainfall.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 50The main vegetation in the Steppes consists of tall evergreen trees.

Correct Answer: False
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Fill in the Blanks - Complete the sentences by filling in the missing words. Click "Show Answer" to check your response.

Question 1Asia's vast latitudinal extent stretches from approximately 10°S to ______.

Correct Answer: 77°N

Question 2Places in Central Asia located far from the sea experience a ______ climate with very cold winters and hot summers.

Correct Answer: dry continental

Question 3Omsk in central Russia has an annual precipitation of barely ______ cm.

Correct Answer: 40

Question 4Coastal places that lie on the same latitude as dry continental regions often have moist, ______ climates.

Correct Answer: equable

Question 5The Himalayas lie directly in the path of the ______ winds, causing rainfall in India.

Correct Answer: Monsoon

Question 6Tibet remains dry because it lies on the ______ side of the Himalayas.

Correct Answer: leeward

Question 7The Himalayas protect India from the cold winds blowing southwards from the ______.

Correct Answer: Arctic

Question 8The cold ______ Current makes the winters of Kamchatka and north Japan very cold.

Correct Answer: Oyashio

Question 9The warm ______ Current has a moderating effect on south Japan during winter.

Correct Answer: Kuroshio

Question 10During summer, a belt of intense ______ pressure develops over the interior parts of Asia.

Correct Answer: low

Question 11Winds that blow from the sea to the land are moisture-laden and bring ______.

Correct Answer: rain

Question 12The Southwest Monsoon winds bring rain to most parts of South and Southeast Asia from July to ______.

Correct Answer: October

Question 13Because the monsoon is vital for the people, South and Southeast Asia is also known as ______ Asia.

Correct Answer: Monsoon

Question 14Upon approaching the Indian landmass, the Monsoon Winds first encounter the ______ Ghats.

Correct Answer: Western

Question 15Rainfall caused by mountains obstructing moist winds is called ______ rainfall.

Correct Answer: orographic

Question 16The side of the mountain that faces the wind is known as the ______ side.

Correct Answer: windward

Question 17The leeward side of a mountain is also called the ______ region.

Correct Answer: rain shadow

Question 18The Thar Desert exists partly because the ______ Range runs parallel to the Southwest Monsoon winds.

Correct Answer: Aravalli

Question 19In October, the conditions are reversed, and high pressure prevails over ______ Asia.

Correct Answer: Central

Question 20The winds blowing from land to sea in winter are known as the ______ Monsoons.

Correct Answer: Northeast

Question 21The Northeast Monsoons are also known as the ______ Monsoons.

Correct Answer: Retreating

Question 22The Retreating Monsoons bring rain to coastal ______ in India.

Correct Answer: Tamil Nadu

Question 23The Punjab Plains receive winter rain from cyclonic depressions originating over the ______ Sea.

Correct Answer: Mediterranean

Question 24Indonesia and Malaysia experience the ______ type of climate.

Correct Answer: Equatorial

Question 25In the Equatorial climate, the temperature remains high throughout the year with an average of around ______°C.

Correct Answer: 30

Question 26In the Equatorial region, rapid evaporation leads to the formation of towering ______ clouds.

Correct Answer: cumulonimbus

Question 27Rainfall in the Equatorial regions typically occurs daily around ______ pm.

Correct Answer: 4

Question 28The heavy downpour accompanied by thunder in Equatorial regions is called ______ rainfall.

Correct Answer: convectional

Question 29Equatorial forests are also known as tropical ______ rainforests.

Correct Answer: evergreen

Question 30Trees in the Equatorial forest do not shed all their ______ at the same time.

Correct Answer: leaves

Question 31Valuable trees like mahogany, ebony, and ______ are found in Equatorial forests.

Correct Answer: rosewood

Question 32Creepers, climbers, and ______ often entwine trees in dense Equatorial forests.

Correct Answer: lianas

Question 33The proboscis monkey is ______ to the island of Borneo.

Correct Answer: endemic

Question 34The flying fox bat found in Malaysia is one of the ______ bats in the world.

Correct Answer: largest

Question 35The ______ bear, found in Equatorial Asia, has a patch of lighter hair on its chest.

Correct Answer: sun

Question 36The Tropical Monsoon climate is also referred to as the ______ Subtropical climate.

Correct Answer: Humid

Question 37During the hot, dry summer in North India, hot winds called the ______ blow.

Correct Answer: Loo

Question 38Tropical Monsoon regions have tropical broadleaf ______ forests.

Correct Answer: deciduous

Question 39Deciduous trees shed their leaves to prevent loss of moisture through ______.

Correct Answer: transpiration

Question 40Teak, sal, and ______ are common trees in the Tropical Monsoon forests.

Correct Answer: sandalwood

Question 41In dry areas of the Tropical Monsoon region, plants may have long roots and ______ stems.

Correct Answer: waxy

Question 42The ______ lion is found in the Gir Forest of India.

Correct Answer: Asiatic

Question 43The one-horned ______ is a famous animal found in Kaziranga National Park.

Correct Answer: rhinoceros

Question 44The Malabar ______ thrush is a bird known for its unique call.

Correct Answer: whistling

Question 45The Warm Temperate Eastern Margin climate is also known as the ______ type.

Correct Answer: China

Question 46The China Type climate is characterized by warm, moist summers and ______, dry winters.

Correct Answer: cool

Question 47Destructive tropical cyclones called ______ often affect the China Type climatic region.

Correct Answer: typhoons

Question 48______ oil is a waterproofing agent obtained from trees in South China.

Correct Answer: Tung

Question 49Camphor oil is extracted from the ______ and leaves of the camphor tree.

Correct Answer: bark

Question 50The giant ______ is a well-known animal found in the China Type climatic region.

Correct Answer: panda
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Short Answer Questions - Practice concise answers to these questions. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the response.
Question 1

What is the approximate latitudinal extent of Asia?

Answer:
10°S to 77°N
Question 2

Which city in central Russia has a dry continental climate with very low rainfall?

Answer:
Omsk
Question 3

What is the annual precipitation of Omsk?

Answer:
40 cm
Question 4

Which island lies on the same latitude as Omsk but has a moist climate?

Answer:
Sakhalin
Question 5

Which mountain range blocks cold Arctic winds from reaching India?

Answer:
Himalayas
Question 6

Which Chinese city near the Equator sometimes receives snowfall?

Answer:
Guangzhou
Question 7

Which cold ocean current affects Kamchatka and north Japan?

Answer:
Oyashio Current
Question 8

Which warm ocean current moderates the winter in south Japan?

Answer:
Kuroshio Current
Question 9

What pressure system develops over interior Asia in summer?

Answer:
Low pressure
Question 10

Which winds bring rain to South and Southeast Asia from July to October?

Answer:
Southwest Monsoon
Question 11

What is rainfall caused by mountain obstructions called?

Answer:
Orographic rainfall
Question 12

Which side of a mountain receives heavy rain?

Answer:
Windward side
Question 13

What is the dry side of a mountain called?

Answer:
Leeward side
Question 14

Which desert was created because the Aravalli Range runs parallel to monsoon winds?

Answer:
Thar Desert
Question 15

What are the winds that blow from land to sea in winter called?

Answer:
Northeast Monsoons
Question 16

Which Indian state receives rain from Retreating Monsoons?

Answer:
Tamil Nadu
Question 17

What brings winter rain to the Punjab Plains?

Answer:
Cyclonic depressions
Question 18

Which climate type is found in Indonesia and Malaysia?

Answer:
Equatorial
Question 19

What is the average temperature in the Equatorial region?

Answer:
30°C
Question 20

At what time does convectional rainfall typically occur in equatorial regions?

Answer:
4 pm
Question 21

Which clouds cause convectional rainfall?

Answer:
Cumulonimbus
Question 22

Name a valuable hardwood tree found in equatorial forests.

Answer:
Mahogany
Question 23

Which monkey with a long nose is endemic to Borneo?

Answer:
Proboscis monkey
Question 24

Which bear has a patch of lighter hair on its chest?

Answer:
Sun bear
Question 25

Which huge bat is found in Malaysia?

Answer:
Flying fox bat
Question 26

What is another name for the Tropical Monsoon climate?

Answer:
Humid Subtropical
Question 27

What are the hot, dry winds blowing from the Thar Desert called?

Answer:
Loo
Question 28

What type of forest is found in Tropical Monsoon regions?

Answer:
Deciduous
Question 29

Why do deciduous trees shed leaves in summer?

Answer:
To conserve water
Question 30

Name a common tree in Indian deciduous forests.

Answer:
Teak
Question 31

Where is the Asiatic lion found?

Answer:
Gir Forest
Question 32

Which endangered rhino is found in Kaziranga National Park?

Answer:
One-horned rhinoceros
Question 33

Which bird in the tropical monsoon region is known for its whistling call?

Answer:
Malabar whistling thrush
Question 34

What is the Warm Temperate Eastern Margin climate also called?

Answer:
China Type
Question 35

What are tropical cyclones in the China Sea called?

Answer:
Typhoons
Question 36

Which waterproofing oil is produced in South China?

Answer:
Tung oil
Question 37

Which aromatic oil is extracted from evergreen trees in China/Japan?

Answer:
Camphor oil
Question 38

Which famous black and white bear is found in the China Type region?

Answer:
Giant panda
Question 39

What is the Cool Temperate Eastern Margin climate also called?

Answer:
Manchurian Type
Question 40

What is the average winter temperature in the Manchurian region?

Answer:
Minus 4°C
Question 41

Which pheasant is found in the Manchurian climatic region?

Answer:
Brown-eared pheasant
Question 42

Name a cold desert in Asia.

Answer:
Gobi Desert
Question 43

What causes the sharp drop in night temperature in hot deserts?

Answer:
Terrestrial radiation
Question 44

What term describes desert vegetation?

Answer:
Xerophytic
Question 45

How many humps does a Bactrian camel have?

Answer:
Two
Question 46

Which gazelle is found in the steppes of Asia?

Answer:
Przewalski's gazelle
Question 47

Which antelope is also known as the Indian gazelle?

Answer:
Chinkara
Question 48

Which countries experience the Mediterranean climate in Asia?

Answer:
Syria, Israel, Turkey
Question 49

In which season does the Mediterranean region receive rain?

Answer:
Winter
Question 50

Which winds bring rain to the Mediterranean region?

Answer:
Westerlies
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Long Answer Questions - Practice detailed answers to these comprehensive questions. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the response.
Question 1

Explain how the vast latitudinal extent of Asia influences its climate.

Answer:
Asia's vast latitudinal extent, stretching from approximately 10 degrees South to 77 degrees North, ensures that the continent covers all the heat zones of the Earth. This results in extreme climatic diversity. Places located near the Equator experience hot and wet conditions throughout the year. In contrast, places located near the Arctic Circle remain frozen for most of the year. This extensive range contributes significantly to Asia being a land of contrasts and extremes.
Question 2

Describe the impact of distance from the sea on the climate of Central Asia, using Omsk as an example.

Answer:
The distance from the sea plays a crucial role in the climate of Central Asia. Since the continent stretches nearly half the globe from east to west, places in the interior can be located almost 3,000 km away from the sea. These areas experience a dry continental climate characterized by very cold winters, hot summers, and very low rainfall. For example, Omsk in central Russia has an extreme temperature range of 85 degrees Celsius, ranging from 40 degrees Celsius in the summer to minus 45 degrees Celsius in the winter, with an annual precipitation of barely 40 cm.
Question 3

How do the Himalayas influence the climate of India and Tibet?

Answer:
The Himalayas influence the climate by acting as a barrier to winds. Stretching from west to east, they lie directly in the path of the moisture-laden Monsoon Winds blowing northwards. India, situated on the windward side, receives heavy rainfall as the winds are forced to rise and condense. Conversely, Tibet, located on the leeward side or the rain shadow region, remains dry. Additionally, the Himalayas protect India from the bitterly cold Arctic winds that blow southwards during winter.
Question 4

Explain the role of ocean currents in altering the climate of northeast Asia.

Answer:
Ocean currents significantly influence the climate of coastal regions in northeast Asia. The cold Oyashio Current flows past Kamchatka and northern Japan, making the winters in these areas very cold. On the other hand, the warm Kuroshio Current flows past southern Japan, which has a moderating effect and keeps the temperatures relatively warmer during the winter months.
Question 5

Describe the mechanism of the Southwest Monsoon in Asia.

Answer:
During summer, the Sun shines directly over the Tropic of Cancer, causing the interior parts of Asia to become extremely hot. This creates a belt of intense low pressure over the land. Meanwhile, the surrounding seas are cooler and have high pressure. Moisture-laden winds are sucked from the high-pressure seas into the low-pressure landmass. As these winds blow from the southwest, they are called the Southwest Monsoon winds. They bring heavy, life-giving rain to most parts of South and Southeast Asia from July to October.
Question 6

What is orographic rainfall and how does it occur?

Answer:
Orographic rainfall, also known as relief rainfall, occurs when the path of moist winds is obstructed by a mountain range. As the winds strike the mountain, they are forced to rise. As they rise, the air cools down and the moisture condenses to form clouds. When the saturation point is reached, heavy rainfall occurs on the windward side of the mountain. By the time the winds cross to the other side, they have lost most of their moisture and become warm as they descend, resulting in little to no rain on the leeward side.
Question 7

Explain the formation of the Thar Desert in relation to the Aravalli Range.

Answer:
One of the main reasons for the creation of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan is the orientation of the Aravalli Range. The range runs parallel to the direction of the Southwest Monsoon Winds. Because of this parallel alignment, the mountains are unable to block the moisture-laden winds. Consequently, the winds pass through without being forced to rise and condense, resulting in very little to no rainfall in the region.
Question 8

Describe the conditions and effects of the Northeast Monsoon (Retreating Monsoon).

Answer:
In October, the Sun shines over the Tropic of Capricorn, causing winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Central Asia becomes very cold, developing high pressure. Cold, dry winds blow outwards from this high-pressure land mass towards the surrounding seas. As these winds cross the Bay of Bengal, they gather moisture. When they strike the land again, they bring rain to coastal regions such as Tamil Nadu in India, as well as parts of Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. These winds are known as the Northeast or Retreating Monsoons.
Question 9

Describe the climatic conditions of the Equatorial or Rainforest region in Asia.

Answer:
The Equatorial region, covering Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore, experiences a hot and wet climate. Temperatures remain high throughout the year, averaging around 30 degrees Celsius, with hardly any seasonal changes. Rapid evaporation during the day leads to the formation of towering cumulonimbus clouds. This results in convectional rainfall, often accompanied by thunder and lightning, occurring almost daily around 4 pm.
Question 10

Write a detailed note on the natural vegetation found in the Equatorial region of Asia.

Answer:
The hot and wet equatorial climate supports dense tropical evergreen rainforests. The vegetation consists mostly of broadleaf hardwood trees that appear green year-round because they do not shed their leaves all at the same time. The forests are structured in layers and are very dense, with trees often entwined with creepers, climbers, and lianas. Common tree species found here include mahogany, ebony, rosewood, cinchona, rubber, and palms.
Question 11

What is convectional rainfall and why is it also called '4 o'clock rain'?

Answer:
Convectional rainfall occurs in equatorial regions where the land becomes intensely heated during the day. The air in contact with the hot surface heats up, becomes lighter, and rises. As it rises, the water vapour in the air cools and condenses to form clouds. This leads to a heavy downpour often accompanied by thunder and lightning. Since this phenomenon typically occurs around 4 o'clock in the afternoon, it is commonly referred to as 4 o'clock rain.
Question 12

List some unique wildlife species found in the Equatorial region of Asia.

Answer:
The Equatorial region is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Animals include various species of monkeys, such as the proboscis monkey endemic to Borneo, and the orangutan. Other significant animals are the sun bear, clouded leopard, Sumatran tiger, pygmy elephant, and Sumatran rhino. The region also hosts large bats like the flying fox, and colorful birds including violet-necked lories, eagles, and pigeons. Reptiles like crocodiles, lizards, and snakes are also common.
Question 13

Describe the Tropical Monsoon climate and the areas it covers.

Answer:
The Tropical Monsoon climate, also known as the Humid Subtropical type, covers areas including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, southern China, and northern Malaysia. The climate is characterized by distinct seasons. Generally, there is a hot, dry summer followed by a rainy monsoon season, a retreating monsoon season, and a cool, dry winter season. Summer temperatures can exceed 45 degrees Celsius in parts of India, while winters can drop below 1 degree Celsius in the north.
Question 14

Describe the natural vegetation of the Tropical Monsoon region.

Answer:
The Tropical Monsoon region supports tropical broadleaf deciduous forests. These trees shed their leaves during the hot, dry summer months to conserve moisture, giving the forests a bare appearance during that time. Common tree species include teak, sal, rosewood, sandalwood, and banyan. In drier areas where rainfall is scarce, the vegetation consists of cacti, shrubs, and thorn bushes, which often have long roots, spiny leaves, and waxy stems to adapt to the dry conditions.
Question 15

What wildlife is found in the Tropical Monsoon forests of Asia?

Answer:
The Tropical Monsoon forests are inhabited by a variety of animals including elephants, leopards, tigers, rhinoceroses, and snakes. The Asiatic lion is found in the Gir forests, and the one-horned rhinoceros is found in protected parks like Kaziranga. The region is also rich in birdlife, featuring peacocks, the great Indian bustard, common kingfishers, koels, and the Malabar whistling thrush. Migratory birds like the Siberian crane and greater flamingo visit the wetlands during winter.
Question 16

Explain the characteristics of the Warm Temperate Eastern Margin (China Type) climate.

Answer:
The China Type climate is experienced in central and northern China, southern Japan, and parts of Korea. It features warm, moist summers and cool, dry winters. The climate is moderated by the influence of the ocean. Rainfall occurs primarily in summer due to moisture-laden winds from the sea and the influence of monsoons. Winters can see snowfall, and the region is prone to destructive tropical cyclones called typhoons originating from the Pacific Ocean.
Question 17

What are the key features of the vegetation in the China Type climatic region?

Answer:
The vegetation in the China Type climatic region includes both evergreen and broadleaf deciduous trees. Important species found here are oak, camellia, camphor, bamboo, and mulberry. In southern China, subtropical forests grow containing laurel, beech, and tung trees. The camphor tree is notable for the aromatic oil extracted from its bark and leaves, while tung oil, used for waterproofing and paints, is obtained from the seeds of the tung tree.
Question 18

Describe the Cool Temperate Eastern Margin (Manchurian) climate.

Answer:
The Manchurian climate is found in eastern Russia, northeastern China, eastern Korea, and north-central Japan. It is characterized by warm, wet summers and cold, dry winters. Heavy rainfall occurs consistently during the summer months. Winters are long and harsh, with cold freezing winds blowing from the Arctic and Central Asia. Temperatures can drop as low as minus 33 degrees Celsius, with an average winter temperature of about minus 4 degrees Celsius.
Question 19

What wildlife is typical of the Manchurian climatic region?

Answer:
The Manchurian region supports wildlife adapted to its cool climate. Animals found here include the Asiatic wild ass, the snow leopard, the Mongolian gazelle, and the brown-eared pheasant. Historically, the region was home to the Przewalski's gazelle and the Bactrian camel, though some species have been displaced by human activities like herding.
Question 20

Compare the climate of hot deserts and cold deserts in Asia.

Answer:
Hot deserts, like those in Arabia and the Thar in India, have severely hot summers with temperatures rising to 50 degrees Celsius and cool winters with temperatures around 1 degree Celsius. They have a high diurnal temperature range. Cold deserts, like the Gobi Desert in Central Asia, are located far from the sea in temperate regions. They experience even greater temperature extremes, with temperatures falling well below freezing point in winter, often accompanied by snowfall.
Question 21

How has vegetation adapted to the Desert type climate in Asia?

Answer:
Due to extreme aridity, vegetation in desert regions is scarce. In hot deserts, date palms, euphorbia, and acacia trees grow near water sources like oases. In other areas, drought-resistant vegetation such as shrubs, coarse grasses, weeds, bulbs, cacti, and thorny bushes are found. These plants typically have adaptations like long roots to reach deep groundwater, spiny leaves to reduce transpiration, and waxy stems to store water.
Question 22

Differentiate between the Indian camel and the Bactrian camel.

Answer:
The primary difference between the Indian camel and the Bactrian camel lies in their physical structure. The Indian camel, typically found in hot deserts like the Thar, has a single hump. The Bactrian camel, which is native to the cold deserts and steppes of Central Asia, possesses two humps. The Bactrian camel is also adapted to survive in much colder climates compared to its Indian counterpart.
Question 23

Describe the Mediterranean climate found in Asia.

Answer:
The Mediterranean climate in Asia is experienced in countries along the Mediterranean coast, such as Syria, Israel, Lebanon, and Turkey. This climate is characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The rainfall during the winter season is caused by temperate cyclones brought in from the Mediterranean Sea by the Southwesterly Winds (Westerlies).
Question 24

What kind of vegetation is found in the Mediterranean climatic zone?

Answer:
The natural vegetation of the Mediterranean region consists of trees that are adapted to survive dry summer conditions. Common trees include olive, laurel, walnut, chestnut, oak, and fig. These trees typically possess long roots to reach water deep underground and thick barks to reduce moisture loss, allowing them to withstand the drought-like conditions that prevail during the summer months.
Question 25

Discuss the wildlife of the Mediterranean region in Asia and the threats it faces.

Answer:
Wildlife in the Mediterranean region is relatively scarce because much of the land has been cleared for agriculture and human settlement. However, animals found here include the white-headed duck, red-breasted goose, saker falcon, loggerhead sea turtle, wild goat, and Dalmatian pelican. Some species, such as the Mediterranean monk seal and the northern bald ibis, are critically endangered due to habitat loss and other human pressures.
Question 26

Describe the Cool Temperate Continental (Steppe) climate.

Answer:
The Steppe climate prevails in the interior of the continent, far from the moderating influence of the sea, covering areas like southwestern Siberia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia. It is characterized by extreme temperatures. Summers are hot and dry with temperatures reaching up to 24 degrees Celsius, while winters are severely cold and dry, with temperatures dropping to minus 19 degrees Celsius. Precipitation is scanty, occurring as rainfall in summer and snowfall in winter.
Question 27

What is the nature of vegetation in the Steppe region?

Answer:
Due to the extreme temperature variations and scanty rainfall, the Steppe region does not support the growth of large trees. Instead, the vegetation is dominated by extensive grasslands. The main form of vegetation consists of short and wiry grasses that can survive the semi-arid conditions. This landscape is typical of the vast open plains of Central Asia.
Question 28

Describe the Cold Temperate Continental (Taiga) climate.

Answer:
The Taiga climate is found in a broad belt stretching across Siberia and the Northern Lowlands, situated south of the tundra and north of the steppes. It features short, cool summers and long, bitterly cold winters. Winter temperatures can plummet to minus 30 degrees Celsius. The annual temperature range is very high. Precipitation occurs infrequently as rain in summer and as snow in winter. Rivers in this region remain frozen for more than three months of the year.
Question 29

Explain the economic importance of the vegetation found in the Taiga region.

Answer:
The Taiga region is covered by vast coniferous forests, which include trees such as spruce, larch, cedar, pine, and fir. These forests are of great economic importance because they are a major source of softwood. This softwood is extensively used in industries for making timber, wood pulp for paper, and rayon. The vastness of these forests makes them a critical resource for forestry.
Question 30

What animals are found in the Taiga and how are they adapted to the climate?

Answer:
The wildlife in the Taiga includes the Siberian leopard, Amur leopard, East Siberian brown bear, mink, Eurasian lynx, sable, and fox. Many of these animals are adapted to the severe cold by having thick fur coats. This thick fur provides insulation against the freezing winter temperatures. The region is also home to fur-bearing animals which have been historically hunted for their pelts.
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Quick Review Flashcards - Click to flip and test your knowledge!
Question
What is Asia's vast latitudinal extent?
Answer
It stretches from around 10°S to 77°N.
Question
How does Asia's vast latitudinal extent affect its climate?
Answer
It covers all heat zones of the Earth, from hot and wet equatorial regions to frozen Arctic regions.
Question
Why do places in Central Asia experience a dry continental climate?
Answer
They are located almost 3,000 km away from the sea.
Question
Omsk in Central Russia has an extreme temperature range of 85°C and an annual precipitation of _____.
Answer
barely 40 cm
Question
What moderates the climate of Sakhalin, an island on the same latitude as Omsk?
Answer
Its proximity to the sea, resulting in a relatively moderate temperature range and higher rainfall.
Question
How do the Himalayas influence the climate of the Indian subcontinent?
Answer
They lie in the path of the Monsoon Winds, forcing them to rise and causing heavy rainfall on the windward side.
Question
Why does Tibet, located on the leeward side of the Himalayas, remain dry?
Answer
It is in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, as the Monsoon Winds have already lost their moisture on the windward side.
Question
What prevents cold Arctic winds from reaching India in the winter?
Answer
The Himalayas act as a barrier, sheltering India from these cold winds.
Question
Why do winters become bitterly cold in Central Asia?
Answer
Cold winds blow southwards from the Arctic.
Question
Which cold ocean current makes the winters of Kamchatka and north Japan very cold?
Answer
The Oyashio Current.
Question
Which warm ocean current has a moderating effect on south Japan during winter?
Answer
The Kuroshio Current.
Question
During the Asian summer, intense heat over the interior parts of Asia creates a belt of what type of atmospheric pressure?
Answer
A belt of intense low pressure.
Question
The moist winds that blow from the high-pressure areas over the sea into the low-pressure areas over the Asian landmass in summer are called _____.
Answer
Southwest Monsoon winds
Question
What term is used for the life-giving rain brought by the summer monsoons to South and Southeast Asia?
Answer
Monsoon Asia.
Question
What geographical features do the moisture-laden Monsoon Winds first encounter upon approaching the Indian landmass?
Answer
The Western Ghats.
Question
Define: Orographic rainfall.
Answer
Rainfall caused when the path of moist winds is obstructed by mountains, forcing the winds to rise, cool, condense, and precipitate.
Question
The side of a mountain that faces the oncoming wind and receives heavy rainfall is known as the _____.
Answer
windward side
Question
The side of a mountain that is sheltered from the wind and remains dry is known as the _____ or rain shadow region.
Answer
leeward side
Question
What is the primary reason for the creation of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan?
Answer
The Aravalli Range runs parallel to the direction of the Southwest Monsoon winds and is therefore unable to block them and cause rain.
Question
In October in Asia, Central Asia becomes very cold and high pressure prevails, causing cold, dry winds to blow out towards the surrounding seas. What are these winds known as?
Answer
The Northeast Monsoons or the Retreating Monsoons.
Question
Which part of India receives rain during October and November from the Northeast Monsoons?
Answer
The coastal regions of Tamil Nadu.
Question
What type of climate is experienced in Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore?
Answer
The Equatorial or Rainforest Type.
Question
What is the average temperature throughout the year in the Equatorial climate region?
Answer
Around 30°C.
Question
What type of rainfall occurs almost daily around 4 p.m. in the Equatorial climate region?
Answer
Convectional rainfall.
Question
The hot and wet climate of the equatorial region supports the growth of what type of forests?
Answer
Tropical evergreen rainforests.
Question
Name three types of trees that flourish in the equatorial climate.
Answer
Mahogany, ebony, rosewood, cinchona, rubber, and palms. (Any three)
Question
The proboscis monkey, orangutan, and Sumatran tiger are found in which two islands of the Equatorial region?
Answer
Borneo and Sumatra.
Question
Which climatic zone covers Northern Malaysia, Sri Lanka, south China, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan?
Answer
Tropical Monsoon (Humid Subtropical) Type.
Question
What are the hot, dry winds that blow out from the Thar Desert during the summer in North India and Pakistan called?
Answer
The Loo.
Question
What type of forests are found in countries near the Tropic of Cancer like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh?
Answer
Tropical broadleaf deciduous forests.
Question
Name two types of trees found in the tropical deciduous forests of Asia.
Answer
Teak, sal, rosewood, sandalwood, and banyan. (Any two)
Question
Migratory birds like the Siberian crane and the greater flamingo visit the wetlands of which region during the winter months?
Answer
South Asia.
Question
The Gir Forest National Park in India is the home of which famous animal?
Answer
The Asiatic lion.
Question
The Warm Temperate Eastern Margin climate, also known as the _____ Type, is experienced in central and northern China and southern Japan.
Answer
China
Question
The climate of the China Type region is greatly moderated by the influence of what?
Answer
The ocean's influence.
Question
The China Type climate region is prone to highly destructive tropical cyclones called _____ that originate over the Pacific Ocean.
Answer
typhoons
Question
Name two important tree species found in the Warm Temperate Eastern Margin (China) region.
Answer
Laurel, beech, and tung. (Any two)
Question
Oak, camellia, camphor, bamboo, and mulberry are found in the forests of which climatic region?
Answer
Warm Temperate Eastern Margin (China) Type.
Question
Which climatic type, also known as the Manchurian Type, is experienced in Eastern Korea, eastern Russia, and northeastern China?
Answer
Cool Temperate Eastern Margin Type.
Question
What causes the long, cold winters in the Manchurian Type climatic region?
Answer
Cold, freezing winds that blow from the Arctic and Central Asia.
Question
What type of forests, combining two kinds of trees, grow in the Cool Temperate Eastern Margin region?
Answer
Both coniferous and temperate deciduous forests.
Question
The Asiatic wild ass, snow leopard, and Mongolian gazelle are wildlife found in which climatic region?
Answer
Cool Temperate Eastern Margin (Manchurian) Type.
Question
The Desert Type climate is found in the tropical regions of southwestern Asia and the temperate interior regions like the _____.
Answer
Gobi Desert
Question
What causes the sharp drop in night temperature in deserts after sunset?
Answer
Rapid terrestrial radiation from the cloudless, clear skies.
Question
What distinguishes the climate of cold deserts from hot deserts?
Answer
Cold deserts have an even greater temperature range, and snowfall is common in winter.
Question
Name two types of trees that grow in hot deserts where a little water is available, like near an oasis.
Answer
Date palm, euphorbia, and acacia. (Any two)
Question
What animal, unlike an Indian camel, has two humps and is found in cold deserts?
Answer
A Bactrian camel.
Question
Which climatic type is experienced in places that lie along the Mediterranean coast, such as Syria, Israel, and Lebanon?
Answer
Mediterranean Type.
Question
What is the defining characteristic of the Mediterranean climate's rainfall pattern?
Answer
It has warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Question
Name two tree species adapted to the drought-like summer conditions of the Mediterranean region.
Answer
Olive, laurel, walnut, chestnut, oak, and fig. (Any two)
Question
The critically endangered Mediterranean monk seal and northern bald ibis are found in which climatic region?
Answer
The Mediterranean Type region.
Question
The Cool Temperate Continental climate, also known as the _____ Type, is characterized by extreme temperatures.
Answer
Steppe
Question
What is the main form of vegetation in the steppes of Asia due to extreme temperatures and scanty rainfall?
Answer
Short and wiry grasses.
Question
The Cold Temperate Continental climate, also known as the _____ Type, is found in a broad belt stretching across Siberia.
Answer
Taiga
Question
What are the winters like in the Taiga climatic region?
Answer
They are long and bitterly cold, with temperatures falling as low as minus 30°C.
Question
What type of forests, a major source of softwood, cover large parts of the Taiga region?
Answer
Coniferous forests.
Question
Name two types of coniferous trees found in the Taiga forests.
Answer
Spruce, larch, cedar, and pine. (Any two)
Question
The Siberian leopard and Amur leopard are wildlife spotted in which climatic region of Asia?
Answer
Cold Temperate Continental (Taiga) Type.
Question
The Arctic or Tundra Type climate is found in regions that border which ocean?
Answer
The Arctic Ocean.
Question
What is the term for the permanently frozen subsoil found in the Tundra region?
Answer
Permafrost.