As per the Koppen's climatic classification the symbols 'S' and 'W' are primarily used for showing the subdivision of which major climatic division ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The symbols 'S' and 'W' in the Koppen climate classification system are primarily used to denote subdivisions within the **'B' type climates, which are the dry (arid and semi-arid) climates.**

Here's why Option 2 is correct and the others are incorrect:

*   **Option 2: 'B' type (Correct)** The 'B' climates are defined by having potential evaporation exceeding precipitation. The 'S' and 'W' are used to further classify these dry climates:

*   'S' stands for Steppe (semi-arid) climate.
    *   'W' stands for Desert (arid) climate.

Therefore, 'S' and 'W' are directly and fundamentally linked to the classification of 'B' type climates.

*   **Option 1: 'A' type (Incorrect)** 'A' type climates are tropical climates. These climates are characterized by high temperatures and high precipitation. Subdivisions within 'A' climates are typically based on rainfall patterns (e.g., Af, Am, Aw) and do not utilize 'S' or 'W'.

*   **Option 3: 'C' type (Incorrect)** 'C' type climates are temperate climates. These climates have moderate temperatures and distinct seasons. Subdivisions within 'C' climates are based on temperature and rainfall characteristics (e.g., Cfa, Cfb, Csa, Csb) and do not utilize 'S' or 'W'.

*   **Option 4: 'D' type (Incorrect)** 'D' type climates are continental climates. These climates have large temperature variations between summer and winter. Subdivisions within 'D' climates are based on temperature characteristics (e.g., Dfa, Dfb, Dwa, Dwb) and do not utilize 'S' or 'W'.

In summary, the 'S' and 'W' designations are integral to defining the subtypes of dry climates ('B' type), making Option 2 the correct answer. The other climate types ('A', 'C', and 'D') use different sets of symbols to denote their subdivisions.