To observe the cyclic trend present in the rainfall data, which of the following plot would be useful?
- ADepth-area-duration curve
- BMoving average curveCorrect
- CIntensity-duration curve
- DDouble mass curve
Solution
Concept
Moving Average Method
Formula
No
Step-by-step solution
No step-by-step calculation is required as this is a theoretical/conceptual question.
Explanation
A moving average curve helps smooth out short-term fluctuations and random noise in rainfall data over time. By averaging data over specific time intervals, it makes the underlying long-term patterns, cycles, and overall trends much easier to observe.
Shortcut
Associate "cyclic trend" or "moving through time/cycles" with "Moving Average". Think of cycles moving over time to remember "Moving average curve".
Common mistake
Many students incorrectly choose the Double mass curve (Option D) because it is a widely tested curve used for checking the consistency of rainfall data, rather than identifying cyclic trends, which is done using a Moving average curve.
Correct answer: B) Moving average curve