Test: Antarctica - UPSC MCQ

Antarctica is the continent that is completely covered by permanent ice and snow, earning it the nickname "the white continent." It has no coastal plain and is characterized by high plateaus, mountain ranges, peaks, a rift valley, and volcanoes.

Antarctica is divided into West Antarctica and East Antarctica by two broad inlets, the Weddell Sea and the Ross Sea. West Antarctica faces the Pacific Ocean, while East Antarctica faces the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

The climate of Antarctica is frozen and cold due to its distance from the Equator and the great height of the plateau. In the winter months, the temperature can plummet to minus 90°C at the South Pole, while in the summer months, it hovers around 0°C. Extremely cold and icy winds blow throughout the year.

In winter, during the continuous night in the polar regions, curtains of brilliant colored lights known as Aurora appear. These lights are caused by magnetic storms in the upper atmosphere. They are called Aurora Australis in the south and Aurora Borealis in the north.

Scientific studies have revealed that Antarctica is rich in minerals such as gold, platinum, nickel, and copper. However, international agreements restrict the use of Antarctica for scientific research purposes, preventing extensive mineral exploitation.

In 1912, Captain Robert F. Scott led a British team, and Roald Amundsen led a Norwegian team in a dramatic contest to reach the South Pole. The Norwegian team reached the pole first, beating the British team by 34 days.

The Indian expedition to Antarctica took place in 1982. It consisted of a 21-member team led by Dr. S. Z. Quasim. The team established a scientific station called Dakshin Gangotri and laid plans for a second base called Maitri.

The Antarctic Treaty was signed in 1959 by twelve nations: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, United Kingdom, United States, and the USSR. The treaty aimed to regulate the uses of Antarctica and prevent international disputes.

The Antarctic Treaty stipulates that Antarctica should be used exclusively for peaceful purposes, and military activities such as the establishment of military bases or weapons testing are specifically prohibited. The focus is on scientific research and international cooperation.

The Antarctic Treaty addresses territorial claims by providing that no activities will enhance or diminish previously asserted positions with respect to territorial claims. It also prohibits new or enlarged claims and focuses on maintaining peace and scientific cooperation.