Why is India's east-west extent very important in time study even though it is smaller than north-south extent?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Because local time changes with longitude
East-west extent is important for time because it represents a difference in longitude. Earth rotates 360 degrees in approximately 24 hours, so 15 degrees of longitude correspond to about one hour and 1 degree to about 4 minutes of local-time difference. India’s longitudinal span is roughly 29 degrees, so local solar times between its eastern and western parts can differ by nearly two hours. Indian Standard Time, based on 82°30′ E, provides one uniform official time to avoid administrative confusion. Latitude is important for climate and daylight patterns, but it is not the direct basis of local time. Therefore option A is correct; C and D describe different issues.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Because local time changes with longitude
Why is this the correct answer?
East-west extent is important for time because it represents a difference in longitude. Earth rotates 360 degrees in approximately 24 hours, so 15 degrees of longitude correspond to about one hour and 1 degree to about 4 minutes of local-time difference. India’s longitudinal span is roughly 29 degrees, so local solar times between its eastern and western parts can differ by nearly two hours. Indian Standard Time, based on 82°30′ E, provides one uniform official time to avoid administrative confusion. Latitude is important for climate and daylight patterns, but it is not the direct basis of local time. Therefore option A is correct; C and D describe different issues.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 11 Geography question. Chapter: India - Location. Topic: Standard Meridian of India and time zones.
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