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QUESTION 16
GS1
15 marks

What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico?

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11 min
250 words
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What the examiner wants

Explain what a twister (tornado) is and why most of them occur in the region around the Gulf of Mexico.

ExplainMake clear how and why it happens: causes, process, and an example for each point.

Demand-wise check

  1. 1Definition: a violently rotating column of air reaching from a thunderstorm cloud to the ground≈65 words
  2. 2Why the US Great Plains near the Gulf: warm moist air from the Gulf meets cold dry air from Canada and dry air from the Rockies; no east–west mountain barrier; strong wind shear ('Tornado Alley')≈65 words
  3. 3Comparison with India (Kalbaishakhi/nor'westers and rare tornadoes in Bangladesh and eastern India)≈65 words

Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.

Answer plan

DefinitionFormation (supercell, wind shear)Geography of Gulf regionComparisonConclusion

Where marks usually go

  • Confusing a tornado with a tropical cyclone
  • Not explaining why the Gulf geography matters

Draw this

  • Map of North America with air-mass arrows meeting over Tornado Alley

Value addition

  • DataThe United States records over 1,000 tornadoes a year, more than any other country.NOAA Storm Prediction Center
  • India linkBangladesh and eastern India see occasional tornadoes during the pre-monsoon nor'wester season.India Meteorological Department

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