1. Rajasthan
2. Chhattisgarh
3. Mizoram
4. Meghalaya
Correct Answer: 4. Meghalaya
Which States Does the Tropic of Cancer Cross?
The Tropic of Cancer, that imaginary line at 23.5° North, slices through eight Indian states, but Meghalaya isn’t one of them. It passes through Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Tripura. This line marks the northernmost point where the sun is directly overhead, shaping climate and geography in these states.
For students, knowing Meghalaya is not on the Tropic of Cancer is a key geography fact. It’s about understanding India’s latitudinal layout and avoiding common mix-ups. This is a must for map-based questions or projects on India’s physical geography.
Why Not Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is the correct answer for not being on the Tropic of Cancer because it lies too far north, near the 25th parallel. Rajasthan (arid northwest), Chhattisgarh (central plains), and Mizoram (northeast hills) are all crossed by the Tropic, but Meghalaya’s position in the Northeast puts it outside the line’s path. The Tropic runs through Tripura and Mizoram but skips Meghalaya.
For students, this distinction is crucial for geography exams. Mixing up Northeast states like Meghalaya and Mizoram is easy, but knowing the Tropic’s path helps you nail map questions. Mentioning Meghalaya’s exclusion adds precision to your answers.
Quick Facts
- Line: Tropic of Cancer (23.5° North)
- States Crossed: 8 (Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Tripura)
- Non-Crossed: Meghalaya
- Significance: Marks sun’s northernmost overhead point
- Impact: Affects climate and agriculture
What’s the Tropic of Cancer’s Role?
The Tropic of Cancer shapes the climate of the states it crosses, bringing hotter, tropical weather. In Rajasthan, it contributes to the arid Thar Desert; in Chhattisgarh, it supports rice farming; in Mizoram, it influences hilly agriculture. The line’s position affects seasons, crop cycles, and even cultural practices like festivals tied to the sun’s movement.
For students, this role is a great point for geography or environmental science. It shows how latitude impacts life, perfect for essays or projects. Mentioning the Tropic’s effect on states like Rajasthan or Mizoram can make your answers stand out.
How Does It Affect India’s Geography?
The Tropic of Cancer splits India into tropical and subtropical zones, shaping everything from rainfall to vegetation. States like Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh get intense summer heat, while Mizoram’s hills see heavy monsoons. Meghalaya, outside the Tropic, has a cooler, wetter climate, known for being one of the world’s rainiest places.
For students, this geographical impact is key for map-based or climate studies. Understanding why Meghalaya misses the Tropic helps you grasp India’s diverse environments. It’s a solid fact for quizzes or discussions about physical geography.
Why Is This Knowledge Useful?
Knowing which states the Tropic of Cancer crosses (and doesn’t) is a geography essential. It helps you read maps, understand climate patterns, and ace questions about India’s layout. Meghalaya’s exclusion is a common trick question, so getting it right shows you’ve got the details down.
For students, this fact connects to bigger themes like climate change or agriculture. You can use it in projects to explore how latitude shapes India’s environment, making your work more insightful and exam-ready.
How Can Students Apply This?
Mastering the Tropic of Cancer’s path is a must for geography students. Knowing Meghalaya isn’t on it helps you avoid traps in exams and adds precision to map exercises. You can also use it to discuss climate or cultural differences in projects, showing how geography shapes India’s diversity.
For students, this knowledge is both practical and engaging. It’s a way to shine in quizzes and bring real-world context to essays, connecting a simple line on a map to India’s vibrant landscapes and lifestyles.
Summary
The Tropic of Cancer passes through eight Indian states, including Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Mizoram, but not Meghalaya, which lies too far north. This line shapes climate and geography, making it a key fact for understanding India’s environment.
Knowing Meghalaya isn’t crossed by the Tropic of Cancer is a crucial geography fact for students. Its climate and geographical implications offer rich material for exams and projects, bringing India’s diverse landscapes into focus.
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