Study Guides/Geography/Tropic of Cancer & ITCZ
Study Guide · Geography

Tropic of Cancer in India and the ITCZ

Let's look at two major geographical concepts that determine the climate of India: The Tropic of Cancer line that cuts across the map, and the ITCZ pressure belt.

Question (Click to Flip)

The Tropic of Cancer passes through how many states in India?

Answer

The Tropic of Cancer passes through 8 states in India: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram.

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Key Facts

Tropic of Cancer: 23.5° North latitude.

Passes through 8 States: Gujarat, Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, WB, Tripura, Mizoram.

ITCZ Full Form: Inter Tropical Convergence Zone.

ITCZ Function: A low-pressure belt near the equator that pulls in monsoon winds.

1. Tropic of Cancer in India

The Tropic of Cancer (23.5° N latitude) is an imaginary line that passes almost exactly through the middle of India, dividing the country into two climatic zones: the tropical south and the subtropical north.

On the India map, it passes through 8 States (from West to East):

  1. Gujarat
  2. Rajasthan (a very small southern part)
  3. Madhya Pradesh
  4. Chhattisgarh
  5. Jharkhand
  6. West Bengal
  7. Tripura
  8. Mizoram

2. What is the ITCZ?

In the Class 9 Climate chapter, you learn about the ITCZ.

  • Full Form: It stands for Inter Tropical Convergence Zone.
  • Definition: It is a broad trough of low pressure situated near the equator.
  • Mechanism: This is the exact zone where the Northeast and Southeast trade winds meet (converge). Because it is a low-pressure area, the hot air rises, creating massive rain clouds.
  • Impact on India: During the Indian summer, the ITCZ shifts northwards over the Ganga plains. This shift attracts the moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean, causing the famous Indian Monsoon rains.

Questions and Answers

The Tropic of Cancer passes through how many states in India?+

The Tropic of Cancer passes through 8 states in India: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram.

What is the full form of ITCZ?+

The full form of ITCZ is Inter Tropical Convergence Zone.

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