Among the following Indian Ocean currents which is/are seasonal in nature?
(i) North-east monsoon current
(ii) Counter equatorial current
(iii) Southern equatorial current
(iv) South-west monsoon current

Question

Among the following Indian Ocean currents which is/are seasonal in nature? 
(i) North-east monsoon current 
(ii) Counter equatorial current 
(iii) Southern equatorial current 
(iv) South-west monsoon current

Accepted Answer

Option 2 is the correct answer because the North-east monsoon current, Counter equatorial current, and South-west monsoon current are all seasonal in nature, while the Southern equatorial current is relatively consistent throughout the year.

Here's a breakdown:

*   **(i) North-east monsoon current:** This current is driven by the winds of the Northeast Monsoon, which occur during the winter months (roughly November to March). Therefore, it is seasonal.

*   **(ii) Counter equatorial current:** While present year-round to some extent, the Counter Equatorial Current in the Indian Ocean is significantly influenced and strengthened by the seasonal monsoon winds. Its strength and position vary with the monsoon cycle, making it seasonal.

*   **(iii) Southern equatorial current:** This current is primarily driven by the trade winds and is a relatively stable and consistent current throughout the year. Its strength may fluctuate slightly, but it doesn't undergo the dramatic seasonal reversals seen in monsoon-driven currents. Therefore, it is NOT seasonal in the same way as the monsoon currents.

*   **(iv) South-west monsoon current:** This current is directly driven by the winds of the Southwest Monsoon, which occur during the summer months (roughly June to September). It reverses the direction of surface currents in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. Therefore, it is seasonal.

**Why other options are incorrect:**

*   **Option 1: (i), (ii) and (iii):** This is incorrect because while (i) and (ii) are seasonal, (iii) the Southern Equatorial Current, is not primarily seasonal.

*   **Option 3: (ii), (iii) and (iv):** This is incorrect because (iii) the Southern Equatorial Current, is not primarily seasonal, while (i) the North-east monsoon current is seasonal.

*   **Option 4: (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv):** This is incorrect because (iii) the Southern Equatorial Current, is not primarily seasonal.