UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 86
In the South Atlantic and South-Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the reason?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Correct Option: B
Explanation: The intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), which promotes tropical cyclone genesis through convection and low-level convergence, rarely extends over those South Atlantic and southeastern Pacific tropical regions.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - Cool sea temperatures can inhibit storms in parts of these oceans, but the keyed broad explanation emphasises the scarce ITCZ.
B: Correct - The scarcity of an ITCZ convergence zone suppresses tropical cyclogenesis in the cited regions.
C: Incorrect - Coriolis force depends mainly on latitude and is not uniquely absent from those basins.
D: Incorrect - Lack of nearby land does not inhibit tropical-cyclone formation over water.
Review Note: Physical caveat: cool SSTs and vertical wind shear also contribute, particularly over the southeast Pacific; the exam key chooses the lack of ITCZ.