Read the passage:
'The Harmattan is a dry, dusty northeasterly trade wind that sweeps across West Africa from the Sahara Desert between late November and mid-March. Bringing sudden drops in ambient humidity and substantial diurnal temperature fluctuations, the wind carries plumes of fine mineral dust that reduce horizontal visibility and create a persistent atmospheric haze. While the arid conditions facilitate the sun-drying of harvested crops like cocoa and millet, the low moisture levels cause respiratory ailments, cracked skin, and heightened bushfire risks in the savanna.'
What does the term 'diurnal temperature fluctuations' mean in this context?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. sharp contrasts between daytime warmth and nighttime chill within a single day
- Step 1: 'Diurnal' means daily. Step 2. During Harmattan, days can be warm under direct sun while clear desert night skies radiate heat away, causing chilly nights. Answer: sharp contrasts between daytime warmth and nighttime chill within a single day. Why not the others: It does not mean multi-decade changes, sub-zero freezing, or uniform heat.
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