Question 32 from UPSC CSE 2024 - Geograph y

Question

Consider the following statements:
1. The Red Sea receives very little precipitation in any form.
2. No water enters the Red Sea from rivers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. 1 only

Strategy: Focus on keywords: 'very little precipitation' accurately describes the Red Sea climate, helping confirm statement 1.

For statement 2, the phrase 'no water enters from rivers' is absolute; however, minimal fresh water does enter via small rivulets, making this statement too extreme. Reject statement 2 and select option A.

Key Info: The Red Sea is a seawater inlet of the Indian Ocean, located between Africa and Asia. Its climate is characterized by extremely low annual precipitation, generally less than 60 mm per year, making it one of the most arid regions globally. High evaporation rates (over 200 cm per year) and minimal rainfall contribute to elevated salinity levels (about 39 ppt), higher than the average ocean salinity.

Unlike many other large seas, the Red Sea's coastline is almost devoid of significant perennial rivers; most freshwater inflow comes from ephemeral streams (wadis) and minor rivulets, especially after rare rains. The absence of major river inflow causes pronounced salinity gradients and influences local marine biodiversity. Throughout history, the arid climate and limited freshwater entry have shaped the Red Sea's ecological and geographical characteristics.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: 2 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: Both 1 and 2

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: Neither 1 nor 2

Consider the following statements: The Red Sea receives very little precipitation in any form. No water enters the Red Sea from rivers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following statements:

The Red Sea receives very little precipitation in any form.

No water enters the Red Sea from rivers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?