Q. The Amazon rainforest is experiencing a severe drought with rivers drying, affecting animals and people in the region. Which of the following are the primary/direct reasons behind the drought in the Amazon?
1.El Nino Effect
2.High Atlantic Ocean Temperatures
3.North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO)
4.La Niña Effect
5.Volcanic Eruptions.
Select the correct code given below:
Explanation – The NAO is a climate pattern that affects the Atlantic Ocean, but its impact on the Amazon is indirect. The NAO affects the position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which is a band of low pressure that influences the movement of moisture in the atmosphere. When the ITCZ moves away from the Amazon, it can result in less rainfall and increased risk of drought.
Volcanic eruptions can release large amounts of ash and sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. This can block out the sun and reduce rainfall. However, volcanic eruptions are not a major cause of the Amazon drought.
La Niña is a cooling phase of ENSO that can lead to increased rainfall in the Amazon whereas the opposite happens in El Nino.
High Atlantic Ocean Temperatures: The northern tropical Atlantic Ocean has unusually warm waters. When this warm water heats the air, it moves to the Amazon. This heated air stops clouds from forming and reduces rain.
Source: ForumIAS
