All Exams  >   UPSC  >   Old & New NCERTs for IAS Preparation (Must Read)  >   All Questions

All questions of Fundamentals of Physical Geography for UPSC CSE Exam

The radiations that heat earth’s atmosphere, comes from the
  • a)
    Sun
  • b)
    Earth
  • c)
    Ionosphere
  • d)
    Sun and Earth
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Asha Yadav answered
The primary source of radiation that heats the Earth is the Sun. The Sun emits electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, ultraviolet radiation, and infrared radiation. As this radiation travels through space, it reaches the Earth's atmosphere and is absorbed, reflected, or scattered by various gases, particles, and surfaces.

The Earth's atmosphere also emits radiation, particularly in the form of infrared radiation, which is re-radiated back towards the Earth's surface. This process is known as the greenhouse effect, and it helps to trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, making it possible for life to exist on the planet.

Other sources of radiation that contribute to the heating of the Earth include cosmic rays, which are high-energy particles that come from outer space and can penetrate the Earth's atmosphere, and radioactive decay, which generates heat within the Earth's core. However, these sources are much less significant than the Sun in terms of their contribution to the Earth's overall heat budget.

The uppermost layer of the atmosphere is
  • a)
    mesosphere.
  • b)
    exosphere.
  • c)
    ionosphere.
  • d)
    stratosphere.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The upper most layer of the earth is exosphere. because it is the last layer and in this layer nitrogen present and no living beings can't be live

The envelop of the air is called _________
  • a)
    Atmosphere
  • b)
    Troposphere
  • c)
    Stratosphere
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

ATMOSPHERE is the correct answer.
The envelope of air around the earth is called ATMOSPHERE.
This is called atmosphere. The force of gravity holds this atmosphere near the earth.
I hope you got your answer

The continental drift theory was propounded by
  • a)
    Alfred Wegner.
  • b)
    Aortelius.
  • c)
    Hall and Danna.
  • d)
    Abraham Ortelius.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Anisha Singh answered
Alfred Wegener—a German meteorologist put forth a comprehensive argument in the form of “the continental drift theory” in 1912.

Igneous rocks are
  • a)
    primary rocks.
  • b)
    secondary rocks.
  • c)
    tertiary rocks.
  • d)
    soft rocks.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Amit Sharma answered
The igneous rocks (Ignis – in Latin means ‘Fire’) are formed when magma cools and solidifies. As igneous rocks form out of magma and lava from the interior of the earth, they are known as primary rocks.

Which of the following gases absorbs ultra violet rays?
  • a)
    Carbon Dioxide
  • b)
    Neon
  • c)
    Ozone
  • d)
    Nitrogen
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Vigith Viswam answered
Ozone splits In to oxygen molecule and oxygen free radical. which is readily recombinable. Thus it's make cyclic process in presence of ultraviolet rays.

If an air mass is fully lifted above the land surface, it is called:
  • a)
    Warm front
  • b)
    Cold front
  • c)
    Occluded front
  • d)
    Anticyclones
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Amit Sharma answered
An occluded front is formed during the process of cyclogenesis when a cold front overtakes a warm front. When this occurs, the warm air is separated (occluded) from the cyclone center at the Earth's surface.

Abiotic factors include
  • a)
    producers.
  • b)
    consumers.
  • c)
    decomposers.
  • d)
    sunlight
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Mansi Banerjee answered
All ecosystems consist of abiotic and biotic factors. Abiotic factors include rainfall, temperature, sunlight, atmospheric humidity, soil conditions, inorganic substances. Biotic factors include the producers, consumers and decomposers.

Insolation refers to ________
  • a)
    Wind direction
  • b)
    Solar radiation
  • c)
    Precipitation
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Ræjû Bhæï answered
Solar radiation is radiant energy emitted by the sun from a nuclear fusion reaction that creates electromagnetic energy. The spectrum of solar radiation is close to that of a black body with a temperature of about 5800 K. About half of the radiation is in the visible short-wave part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

A non-metallic mineral in the following minerals is
  • a)
    silver.
  • b)
    copper.
  • c)
    zinc.
  • d)
    coal.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Anmol Banerjee answered
Coal is used as a fossil fuel and is a non-metallic mineral with dull and non-reflective properties and it cannot be moulded in any form.

Higher latitudes are not permanently frozen because of
  • a)
    Presence of warm and cold currents
  • b)
    very less insolation
  • c)
    redistribution of surplus heat energy pole wards from tropics
  • d)
    Local aspects
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Poonam Reddy answered
There is a surplus of net radiation balance between 40 degrees north and south and the regions near the poles have a deficit. The surplus heat energy from the tropics is redistributed pole wards and as a result the tropics do not get progressively heated up due to the accumulation of excess heat or the high latitudes get permanently frozen due to excess deficit.

Increase in the volume of carbon dioxide for the past few decades is mainly due to
  • a)
    deforestation.
  • b)
    climate change.
  • c)
    atmospheric composition.
  • d)
    burning of fossil fuels.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

The answer is D. Because, 1. Forests are the sinks for the carbon dioxide. Forests use CO2 in their growth. So, deforestation due to changes in land increases concentration of CO2. 2. The time taken for atmospheric CO2 to adjust to changes in sources to sinks is 20-50 yrs. It is rising at about 0.5 percent annually. 3. In atmosphere CO2 comprises only 0.04 percent. All the above processes are causing the CO2 conc. to increase in atmosphere in small quantities. However, 4. The emission of CO2 comes mainly from fossil fuels combustion (oil, gas, coal). Which causes more and more pollution and led to global warming. (especially during to industrialization period).

The Thermodynamics of the ocean are:
  • a)
    Currents
  • b)
    Waves 
  • c)
    Tides
  • d)
    Salinity
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohit Datta answered
Thermodynamics of the Ocean: Salinity

Salinity is a critical factor in the thermodynamics of the ocean as it affects the density, temperature, and movement of seawater. Salinity refers to the amount of salt or dissolved minerals in seawater, which is mainly composed of sodium chloride (NaCl) but also contains other elements like magnesium, calcium, and potassium.

How Salinity Affects Density

The density of seawater increases with higher salinity and decreases with lower salinity. This is because saltwater is denser than freshwater due to the added weight of dissolved salts. The density of seawater also increases with decreasing temperature, which is why colder water sinks below warmer water.

How Salinity Affects Temperature

Salinity also affects the temperature of seawater by influencing its heat capacity and thermal conductivity. Saltwater has a higher heat capacity than freshwater, which means it can absorb more heat energy without a significant increase in temperature. This makes it more resistant to temperature changes and helps to regulate the overall temperature of the ocean.

How Salinity Affects Movement

The movement of seawater is also affected by salinity due to its impact on density and temperature. Salinity differences between adjacent bodies of water create density gradients that drive currents and ocean circulation. These density gradients are particularly pronounced in areas where freshwater enters the ocean, such as at river mouths or near melting ice sheets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, salinity is a critical factor in the thermodynamics of the ocean, affecting its density, temperature, and movement. Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for predicting and managing the impacts of climate change on the ocean and its ecosystems.

Which one of the following is not a minor relief feature in the oceans:
  • a)
    Seamount
  • b)
    Atoll
  • c)
    Oceanic Deep
  • d)
    Guyot
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Hridoy Jain answered
Oceanic deeps of submarine trenches:

Deep narrow steep sided depression is found along the abyssal plain.
The depth of these trenches may vary from 6,000 to 11,000 m. Example, Marina trenches is the deepest trench in Pacific Ocean.
Trenches are formed as a result of tectonic forces and normally occur along the marines of Pacific Ocean.
They occur at the base of the continental slopes and along the island area. Normally associated with volcanoes and strong earthquake.
There are 32 trenches in Pacific Ocean, 19 in Atlantic Ocean and just 6 in Indian Ocean.

The heat energy absorbed by a known area in a fixed time is determined with the help of an instrument called
  • a)
    Psychrometer
  • b)
    Pyrheliometer
  • c)
    Thermometric well
  • d)
    Any instrument
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Ræjû Bhæï answered
A pyrheliometer is an instrument for measurement of direct beam solar irradiance. Sunlight enters the instrument through a window and is directed onto a thermopile which converts heat to an electrical signal that can be recorded. The signal voltage is converted via a formula to measure watts per square metre.

A freshwater ecosystem is
  • a)
    oceans.
  • b)
    estuaries.
  • c)
    coral reefs.
  • d)
    marshes.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Aquatic ecosystems can be classed as marine and freshwater ecosystems. Marine ecosystem includes the oceans, coastal estuaries and coral reefs. Freshwater ecosystem includes lakes, ponds, streams, marshes and bogs.

In which one of the following cities, are the days the longest in Summar?
  • a)
    Chandigarh.
  • b)
    Hyderabad.
  • c)
    Thiruvananthapuram.
  • d)
    Nagpur.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Vijay Kumar answered
In summer (March to September), in the northern hemisphere, as we move northwards, the length of the day increases. But in winter (September to March) the length of the night increases as we move northwards. since Chandigarh is northernmost among the options

Growth in human population has increased the rate of
  • a)
    death per year.
  • b)
    conservation of natural resources.
  • c)
    research of new species.
  • d)
    consumption of natural resources.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Prasenjit Rane answered
Since the last few decades, growth in human population has increased the rate of consumption of natural resources. It has accelerated the loss of species and habitation in different parts of the world.

The current of Indian Ocean is
  • a)
    the west wind drift.
  • b)
    Labrador.
  • c)
    California.
  • d)
    Kuroshio.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Kavya Khanna answered
The current of Indian Ocean is the west wind drift.Its a cold current,which bring cold water into warm water areas.

When the water containing air becomes saturated, then
  • a)
    it will be calm.
  • b)
    it will be windy above sea and rainy above land.
  • c)
    it will start to rain.
  • d)
    clouds will be formed.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Kajal Singh answered
The air becomes saturated when the capacity of containing moisture is full. At this point, air becomes incapable of holding any moisture. Condensation occurs and water vapour becomes liquid in the form of clouds.

The minerals that do not contain metal contend are known as
  • a)
    precious minerals.
  • b)
    ferrous minerals.
  • c)
    non-metallic minerals.
  • d)
    non-ferrous minerals.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The minerals that do not contain metal contend are known as non-metallic minerals. Sulphur, phosphates and nitrates are examples of non-metallic minerals.

Which of the following in biology is the energy currency of cells?
  • a)
    PDP
  • b)
    DTP
  • c)
    ATP
  • d)
    ADP
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Soumya Bose answered
The process of releasing energy from food is called respiration. The energy is stored in the form of ATP (Adenosine tri phosphate) in the body cells which is used for various purposes like contraction of muscles, conduction of nerve impulses, synthesis of proteins and many other activities related to the functioning of cells. Therefore, ATP is known as the energy currency of cells.

Wave amplitude is:
  • a)
    The height of the wave
  • b)
    The breadth of the wave
  • c)
    Half of the wave height
  • d)
    It is the time interval between two successive waves
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Bhavana Yadav answered
A. The height of the wave
Wave amplitude refers to the maximum displacement of a particle on a wave from its equilibrium position. It is commonly represented by the height of the wave. It can be measured from either the equilibrium position to the crest (highest point) or from the equilibrium position to the trough (lowest point) of the wave.

B. The breadth of the wave
The breadth of a wave is not related to wave amplitude. The breadth of a wave refers to its width or the distance between two consecutive crests or troughs. It is a measure of the spatial extent of the wave, while amplitude is a measure of the magnitude of the wave.

C. Half of the wave height
Wave amplitude is not half of the wave height. The wave height refers to the vertical distance between the trough and the crest of the wave, while amplitude refers to the maximum displacement from the equilibrium position. The amplitude can be equal to, smaller than, or greater than half of the wave height, depending on the characteristics of the wave.

D. It is the time interval between two successive waves
Wave amplitude is not related to the time interval between two successive waves. The time interval between two successive waves is called the period or wavelength of the wave. Amplitude and wavelength are independent properties of a wave.

In conclusion, the correct answer is option A) The height of the wave. Wave amplitude is the maximum displacement of a particle on a wave from its equilibrium position, commonly represented by the height of the wave. It is not related to the breadth of the wave, half of the wave height, or the time interval between two successive waves.

In which of the following periods earth’s climate was not warm?
  • a)
    Cambrian
  • b)
    Ordovician
  • c)
    Silurian
  • d)
    Hercynian
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Hercynian denoting a prolonged mountain-forming period in western Europe, eastern North America, and the Andes in the Upper Palaeozoic era, especially the Carboniferous and Permian periods.

The diamond mine present in the given map is
  • a)
    Yakutia.
  • b)
    Taymyria.
  • c)
    Evenkia.
  • d)
    Chukotia.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Mira Sharma answered
Russia accounts for approx. 21% of global diamond production, most of which is mined in the largest diamond mine Sakha Respublikata in Yakut (Yakutia) of Siberia.

Earth absorbs more
  • a)
    humidity.
  • b)
    heat.
  • c)
    gases.
  • d)
    water vapour.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The Earth is absorbing more energy ( heat ) from the Sun than it is emitting to space..... I hope you got your answer...

A tectonic plate is a slab of
  • a)
    molten rock.
  • b)
    hot rock.
  • c)
    solid rock.
  • d)
    small rocks.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Suyash Saha answered
A tectonic plate (also called lithospheric plate) is a massive, irregularly-shaped slab of solid rock, generally composed of both continental and oceanic lithosphere.

The GHG that results from the intestinal gases of ruminants (cows) is
  • a)
    Nitrous oxide
  • b)
    Carbon dioxide
  • c)
    Carbon monoxide
  • d)
    Methane
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Upasana Chopra answered
Methane was discovered and isolated by Alessandro Volta between 1776 and 1778 when studying marsh gas from Lake Maggiore. Methane is a relatively potent greenhouse gas. Compared with carbon dioxide, it has a high global warming potential of 72 (calculated over a period of 20 years) or 25 (for a time period of 100 years). Methane also affects the degradation of the ozone layer.

The alto clouds are found at
  • a)
    high levels.
  • b)
    mid levels.
  • c)
    low levels.
  • d)
    low, mid and high levels.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Sarthak Joshi answered
Mid level clouds are called altostratus and altocumulus. The prefix “alto” indicates that they have cloud bases between 2 and 6 km above the ground.

With reference to the Tropical Savannah Region, consider the following statements:
1. It is found to the north and south of tropical rainforest biomes.
2. The largest expanses of savanna are in Africa, where much of the central part of the continent, for example, Kenya and Tanzania, consists of tropical grassland.
3. Savanna grasslands can not be found in Brazil in South America.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
  • a)
    Only one
  • b)
    Only two
  • c)
    All three
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Tropical Savannah Region 
  • It is also known as tropical grasslands - which are found to the north and south of tropical rainforest biomes. Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
  • It is also known as Tropical wet and dry in the Koeppen classification.
    • The largest expanses of savanna are in Africa, where much of the central part of the continent, for example, Kenya and Tanzania, consists of tropical grassland. Hence, Statement 2 is correct.
    • Savanna grasslands can also be found in Brazil in South America. Hence, Statement 3 is not correct.
  • Savanna regions have two distinct seasons - a wet season and a dry season.
    • There is very little rain in the dry season.
    • In the wet season, vegetation grows, including lush green grasses and wooded areas.
    • As you move further away from the equator and its heavy rainfall, the grassland becomes drier and drier - particularly in the dry season.
Savanna vegetation includes scrub, grasses, and occasional trees, which grow near water holes, seasonal rivers or aquifers.

Which one of the following is not related to the formation or modification of the present atmosphere?
  • a)
    Solar winds
  • b)
    Differentiation
  • c)
    Degassing
  • d)
    Photosynthesis
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Understanding Earth's Atmosphere Formation
The Earth's atmosphere has evolved through various processes, but not all processes are directly related to its current formation or modification.
Key Processes Related to Atmosphere Formation
- Solar Winds:
Solar winds can strip away the atmosphere of celestial bodies. In the early Earth, solar winds played a significant role in shaping the atmosphere by removing lighter gases.
- Degassing:
This process involves the release of gases from the Earth’s interior, primarily through volcanic eruptions. It contributed significantly to the formation of the primordial atmosphere, introducing gases like carbon dioxide, water vapor, and nitrogen.
- Photosynthesis:
The emergence of photosynthetic organisms transformed the atmosphere by producing oxygen. This process was crucial for developing the current atmosphere, making it conducive to life.
Why Differentiation is Not Related
- Differentiation:
This geological process refers to the separation of materials within the Earth based on density. While it played a role in forming the Earth's structure (like the core and mantle), it does not directly affect the atmosphere's composition or its evolution.
Conclusion
In summary, while solar winds, degassing, and photosynthesis are integral to the atmosphere's formation and modification, differentiation pertains more to the Earth's internal structure than to atmospheric development. Thus, option 'B' is the correct answer as it is not related to the formation or modification of the present atmosphere.

Consider the following pairs related to geomorphic features formed by running water:
1. Peneplain : A nearly level plain formed by wind erosion.
2. Gorge : A deep valley with steep sides, often formed by a river.
3. Plunge Pool : A deep hole at the base of a waterfall formed by the impact of water.
4. Canyon : A narrow valley with steep, step-like sides, wider at the top than at the bottom.
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
  • a)
    Only one pair
  • b)
    Only two pairs
  • c)
    Only three pairs
  • d)
    All four pairs
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Upasana Chopra answered
Explanation:

1. Peneplain
A peneplain is a nearly level plain that has been worn down by erosion. However, it is not formed by wind erosion but rather by the action of running water over a long period of time.

2. Gorge
A gorge is indeed a deep valley with steep sides, often formed by a river. The flowing water erodes the land, creating a narrow and deep valley over time.

3. Plunge Pool
A plunge pool is a deep hole at the base of a waterfall formed by the impact of water. As the water falls from a height, it erodes the rock below, creating a deep pool at the base of the waterfall.

4. Canyon
A canyon is a narrow valley with steep, step-like sides, wider at the top than at the bottom. Canyons are typically formed by the erosion of rivers cutting through rock over millions of years.
Therefore, out of the given pairs, three of them are correctly matched: Gorge, Plunge Pool, and Canyon. The only incorrect pair is Peneplain, as it is not formed by wind erosion but by the action of running water.

What is the primary feature that distinguishes the shadow zone of S-waves from the shadow zone of P-waves?
  • a)
    The size of the shadow zone
  • b)
    The distance from the epicenter
  • c)
    The duration of wave absence
  • d)
    The frequency of wave occurrence
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Deepika Reddy answered
Primary Feature distinguishing the shadow zone of S-waves from the shadow zone of P-waves:
The primary feature that distinguishes the shadow zone of S-waves from the shadow zone of P-waves is the size of the shadow zone.

Explanation:

Size of the shadow zone:
- The shadow zone of P-waves is larger than the shadow zone of S-waves.
- P-waves can travel through both solid and liquid layers of the Earth, but they undergo refraction and reflection at the boundary between the outer core and mantle, leading to the formation of a larger shadow zone.
- On the other hand, S-waves cannot travel through the liquid outer core of the Earth, resulting in the formation of a smaller shadow zone behind the Earth's core.
- Therefore, the size of the shadow zone is the primary feature that distinguishes the shadow zone of S-waves from the shadow zone of P-waves.
In conclusion, while both P-waves and S-waves create shadow zones due to the Earth's core structure, the size of the shadow zone is what distinguishes the two types of waves.

All processes that move, elevate or build up portions of the earth’s crust come under ____.
  • a)
    diastrophism
  • b)
    Geomorphic agent
  • c)
    Volcanism
  • d)
    Exogenic Processes
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Diastrophism encompasses all processes that move, elevate, or build up parts of the Earth's crust. These processes include: (i) orogenic activities that create mountains through intense folding, affecting narrow, elongated regions of the crust; (ii) epeirogenic activities that cause the uplift or warping of large crustal areas; (iii) earthquakes, which involve relatively minor, localized movements; and (iv) plate tectonics, which involve the horizontal movement of crustal plates.

Which of the following statements regarding the evolution of the Earth's atmosphere and oceans is/are correct?
i. The early atmosphere was primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, which were largely stripped away by solar winds.
ii. Photosynthesis by early life forms significantly decreased the levels of oxygen in the atmosphere.
iii. Continuous volcanic eruptions contributed to the addition of gases and water vapor to the atmosphere.
iv. The Earth's oceans formed within 500 million years of its formation, primarily through the condensation of water vapor.
  • a)
    i and ii
  • b)
    i and iii
  • c)
    ii and iv
  • d)
    i, iii, and iv
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

- Statement i is correct as the initial atmosphere was indeed primarily hydrogen and helium, which were stripped away by solar winds.
- Statement ii is incorrect; photosynthesis actually increased the levels of oxygen in the atmosphere, not decreased it.
- Statement iii is correct; volcanic eruptions contributed significantly to the composition of the atmosphere by releasing water vapor and gases.
- Statement iv is correct; the oceans did form as water vapor condensed and collected in depressions on the Earth's surface within 500 million years.
Thus, the correct answer is Option D: i, iii, and iv.

Polar climates are denoted by
  • a)
    P.
  • b)
    E.
  • c)
    F.
  • d)
    G.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Roshni Patel answered
Polar climates exist poleward beyond 70° latitude. Polar climates consist of two types: (i) Tundra (ET); (ii) Ice Cap (EF).

Chapter doubts & questions for Fundamentals of Physical Geography - Old & New NCERTs for IAS Preparation (Must Read) 2025 is part of UPSC CSE exam preparation. The chapters have been prepared according to the UPSC CSE exam syllabus. The Chapter doubts & questions, notes, tests & MCQs are made for UPSC CSE 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises, MCQs and online tests here.

Chapter doubts & questions of Fundamentals of Physical Geography - Old & New NCERTs for IAS Preparation (Must Read) in English & Hindi are available as part of UPSC CSE exam. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for UPSC CSE Exam by signing up for free.

Top Courses UPSC CSE

Related UPSC CSE Content

Signup to see your scores go up within 7 days!

Study with 1000+ FREE Docs, Videos & Tests
10M+ students study on EduRev