Which of the following statements regarding ice-cap climate is/are correct?

1. In the Koeppen climate classifi- cation, the ice-cap climate is signified by the letters EF.

2. It is the Earth's most severe climate, where the mean monthly temperature is never above 0 degrees Celsius.

3. This climate is found in the Pir Panjal and the Great Himalayas.

Select the correct answer using the code given below. 

The correct answer is 1 and 2 only.

Key PointsIce-Cap Climate

• The Köppen climate classification is a widely used vegetation-based, empirical climate classification system. It divides climates into five main groups, with several types and subtypes. Ice-cap climate is denoted by the symbol EF, where E stands for polar climates and F specifically indicates ice-cap climates. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• In an ice-cap climate, the mean monthly temperature does not exceed 0°C. This is the Earth's most severe climate, prevalent in areas such as Antarctica and the interior of Greenland. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• The Pir Panjal and the Great Himalayas do experience severe winters and substantial snowfall. However, these regions do not have an ice-cap climate. They are characterized by a range of climatic conditions, including alpine, subalpine, and temperate climates, depending on the altitude. Therefore, these regions do not fit the criteria of having a mean monthly temperature always below 0°C throughout the year. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.

Additional Information

• The Köppen climate classification system is based on the concept that native vegetation is the best expression of climate. Thus, it uses temperature and precipitation as the main climate indicators.
• Ice-cap climates (EF) are found primarily in Greenland and Antarctica. These regions are characterized by a permanent layer of ice and snow cover.
• Despite the harsh conditions, these ice-covered regions play a critical role in the Earth's climate system. They reflect a significant amount of solar radiation back into space (albedo effect) and are pivotal in regulating the global temperature.
• The Himalayan region, including the Pir Panjal and the Great Himalayas, is crucial for its biodiversity, climate regulation, and as a source for many major rivers in Asia. These mountains act as a natural barrier affecting weather patterns and precipitation distribution in South Asia.