Q1. Doldrums refer to
(a) A belt of calm and light variable winds near the equator
(b) A particular area in the centre of the Pacific Ocean
(c) The region of the upper atmosphere extending upward from the tropopause to about 20 kms. above the earth
(d) None of these
(UPSC Prelims 1980)
Answer: (a) A belt of calm and light variable winds near the equator
Explanation: The doldrums are a low-pressure zone near the equator where winds are weak and variable, often causing calm conditions that affect maritime navigation.