Test: Antarctica - Class 7 MCQ

Penguins have oily feathers that provide waterproofing, essential for their survival in the cold Antarctic waters. Additionally, their body structure is adapted for swimming rather than flying, making them efficient hunters in the ocean.

The Antarctic Peninsula is known as the warmest area of Antarctica, attracting more visitors and researchers due to its relatively milder climate. It is also home to various species of wildlife, including penguins.

Lake Vostok is the largest subglacial lake in Antarctica, located beneath 4 kilometers of ice. It has been sealed for millions of years, raising scientific interest regarding its unique ecosystem and potential for ancient life forms.

The Ross Ice Shelf is one of the major ice shelves in Antarctica. Ice shelves are floating extensions of glaciers and play a crucial role in stabilizing the Antarctic Ice Sheet by preventing ice flow into the ocean.

Argentina, Australia, and Chile are among the seven countries that claim parts of Antarctica. However, these claims are not recognized internationally due to the Antarctic Treaty, which promotes peaceful use of the continent.

The Dry Valleys in Antarctica are known for their extreme dryness, having experienced no rain for around 2 million years. This unique characteristic makes them an area of interest for researchers studying climate and ecosystems.

The temperature in Antarctica decreases by approximately 1°C for every 100 meters increase in elevation. This is due to the thinning atmosphere at higher altitudes, which cannot retain heat effectively.

Mount Vinson, located in the Sentinel Range, is the highest peak in Antarctica, reaching 4,892 meters. Its remote location and extreme weather conditions make it a challenging climb for mountaineers.

Antarctica is colder than the Arctic primarily due to its higher elevation. The continent's average elevation is around 2,300 meters, whereas the Arctic is mostly ocean. Higher altitudes lead to lower temperatures.

The Transantarctic Mountains geographically separate East Antarctica from West Antarctica. This mountain range is crucial for understanding the geological history and ice dynamics of the continent.

The Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1961, primarily aims to ensure scientific cooperation and peaceful use of Antarctica. It prohibits military activity and supports international collaboration in scientific research.

Antarctica is classified as a cold desert primarily due to its low moisture levels, despite being covered in ice. The region experiences minimal precipitation, making it one of the driest places on Earth.

Katabatic winds, which flow down from the high interior of Antarctica, contribute significantly to the low precipitation levels. These winds are cold and can reach speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, further reducing moisture levels.

The Antarctic Treaty ensures that the continent is used only for peaceful purposes. It prohibits military activity and promotes scientific research, making it a unique area for international collaboration and environmental protection.

The Antarctic Ice Sheet grows significantly during winter, expanding from approximately 3 million square kilometers in summer to about 19 million square kilometers in winter. This growth is largely due to the accumulation of snow and ice.

Cold air holds less water vapor, which significantly contributes to the low precipitation levels in Antarctica. This, combined with the continent's high albedo effect, results in extremely dry conditions.

Antarctica is characterized by a cold and dry climate, making it a cold desert. The combination of low temperatures, minimal moisture, and high winds contributes to its harsh environmental conditions.

Penguins are the primary inhabitants of Antarctica, having evolved in this cold environment over millions of years. They are well-adapted to the harsh conditions and are a symbol of Antarctic wildlife.

Antarctica has an average annual temperature of around -50°C, making it one of the coldest places on Earth. This extreme cold is due to its high elevation, low solar energy absorption, and long periods of darkness during winter.

The Dry Valleys are the largest ice-free areas in Antarctica, characterized by their extremely dry conditions, with some regions having not received rainfall for millions of years. This unique environment is ideal for scientific research.