2024 GS Paper I, all questions

UPSC Prelims 2024 · GS Paper I

Question 2: Geography

Consider the following statements :

  1. Statement-IThickness of the troposphere at the equator is much greater as compared to poles.
  2. Statement-IIAt the equator, heat is transported to great heights by strong convectional currents.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?

aBoth Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
bBoth Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
cStatement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
dStatement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).

The troposphere is about 16 to 18 km thick over the equator but only about 8 km over the poles. Strong convectional currents in the hot equatorial belt carry heat and air to great heights, which is why the layer extends so much higher there. Both statements are correct and the second explains the first. Remember: the height of the tropopause follows surface heating.

  • I. The troposphere is far thicker at the equator than at the poles.
  • II. Strong convection carries heat to great heights at the equator, and this explains the greater thickness.

How you could have got this

If you were sure Statement-I is correct, (d) goes. Then judge the second statement; if it is correct too, decide whether it explains the first.

What you needed to know: The troposphere is far thicker at the equator than at the poles.

Which options go is worked out from UPSC’s key and the options, not by a model.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) Right: the equatorial troposphere is thicker, and convection lifting heat to great heights is the reason.
  • (b) Wrong: Statement-II is the cause of Statement-I, so it does explain it.
  • (c) Wrong: Statement-II is also correct.
  • (d) Wrong: Statement-I is correct.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2024, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.