Topic: changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
Q1. Explain the concept of humid heat and its distinction from dry heat. Discuss why it poses a greater risk to human survival in tropical climates. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question
Emerging climate studies highlight humid heat as a critical but under-recognised threat in India, especially in tropical and coastal regions.Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining the concept of humid heat and clearly distinguishing it from dry heat, followed by analysing why humid heat poses greater risks to human survival in tropical climates.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly introduce heat stress as a function of both temperature and humidity, highlighting the growing importance of humid heat.Body
- Concept of humid heat: Explain interaction of temperature and humidity using wet-bulb temperature as an indicator of physiological heat stress
- Distinction from dry heat: Highlight difference in evaporative cooling efficiency and human thermal comfort between humid and dry conditions
- Greater risk in tropical climates: Analyse role of high humidity, warm nights and monsoon-linked moisture in intensifying heat stress and reducing recovery capacity
Conclusion
Conclude by integrating humidity-based indicators into heat action and climate adaptation strategies.
