The height of the snowline is more in the west than in the east in the Greater Himalayas because of:

The correct answer is 'Humidity differences'

Key Points

• Humidity Differences:
  • The snowline is the lowest elevation area where snow remains year-round.
  • In the Greater Himalayas, the height of the snowline is higher in the west than in the east primarily due to differences in humidity.
  • The eastern Himalayas receive more humidity from the Bay of Bengal, leading to higher precipitation and more snowfall at lower elevations.
  • In contrast, the western Himalayas receive less moisture, primarily from the Mediterranean and Western Disturbances, resulting in less snowfall and a higher snowline.

Additional Information

• Steepness of the Relief:
  • While the steepness of the terrain can affect local climatic conditions, it is not the primary factor influencing the height of the snowline across the Greater Himalayas.
• Difference in Normal Lapse Rate:
  • The normal lapse rate, or the rate at which temperature decreases with elevation, is fairly consistent throughout the Himalayas and does not account for the regional differences in snowline height.
• Height Differences:
  • While the height of peaks can vary, the overall elevation differences are not the primary reason for the higher snowline in the west compared to the east.

Important Points

• The climatic influence of the monsoon, which brings substantial moisture to the eastern Himalayas, is a significant factor in determining the height of the snowline.
• The western Himalayas, being more arid, have less snowfall, resulting in snowlines at higher elevations. The precipitation pattern is crucial in explaining the regional differences in snowline heights.