Consider the following statements: Statement I: Thickness of the troposphere at the equator is much greater as compared to poles

Consider the following statements:

Statement I: Thickness of the troposphere at the equator is much greater as compared to poles.
Statement II: At the equator, heat is transported to great heights by strong convectional currents.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
(b) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, but Statement II does not explain Statement I
(c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect
(d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is correct

Correct Answer: (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I

Explanation:
Statement I is correct because the troposphere is indeed thicker at the equator due to higher temperatures causing more expansion.
Statement II is correct because at the equator, intense solar heating leads to strong convectional currents which transport heat to greater heights.
Possible Sources: Atmospheric science and meteorology textbooks.