‘Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)’ is characterised by a difference in sea surface temperature between which of the following?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is: (c) Tropical Western Indian Ocean and Tropical Eastern Indian Ocean

Explanation:

• The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) refers to the temperature difference between the western Indian Ocean (near Africa) and the eastern Indian Ocean (near Indonesia).
• A Positive IOD occurs when the west is warmer and the east is cooler.
• A Negative IOD occurs when the east is warmer and the west is cooler.

Information Booster:

• IOD strongly influences Indian Monsoon rainfall.
• Discovered by scientists in the late 1990s as an independent climatic phenomenon.
• Positive IOD often enhances monsoon, while negative IOD may weaken it.
• Works alongside ENSO but can counteract El Niño effects.
• Plays a major role in droughts and floods in surrounding regions.