Practice Test: World Geography - 2 - UPSC MCQ

Vindhya range- These ranges do not form single mountain range in the geological sense. Different sources vary on the average elevation of the vindhyas depending on their definition of the range. 

Satpura range- It is located in the central india l. This range starts from gujarat state running east through the border of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh to the east till chattisgarh. 

• The black sea is a marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean is located between Eastern Europe and Western Asia
• Neighboring Countries
• it bordered by six countries

1. Romania and Bulgaria- West
2. Ukraine, Russia, and Georgia - North, and East
3. Turkey to the- South.

• Maginot Line is a Defensive line in France.
• It was constructed in 1930.
• The Maginot Line was an extremely well-developed chain of fortifications for defence against the German attack during the first world war.

So, correct Answer is France and Germany.

The correct option is A.
Baghelkhand is a region and also a mountain range in central India that covers the northeastern regions of Madhya Pradesh and a small area of southeastern Uttar Pradesh. It includes the Madhya Pradesh districts of Rewa, Satna, Shahdol, Sidhi, and Singrauli and Chitrakoot of Uttar Pradesh.

Deltaic Jungle Swampland Shared by Bangladesh and India
The deltaic jungle swampland that Bangladesh shares with India is:
The Sundarbans
- The Sundarbans is a vast deltaic jungle swampland located in the southern part of Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal.
- It is the largest mangrove forest in the world and is known for its rich biodiversity.
- The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to various species of plants, animals, and birds.
- The region is characterized by its dense forest cover, numerous rivers and waterways, and a unique ecosystem.
- It is also the habitat of the Bengal tiger, which is one of the most iconic animals of the Sundarbans.
- The Sundarbans serves as a natural barrier against cyclones and provides protection to the coastal areas of both Bangladesh and India.
- The region is popular for eco-tourism and attracts a large number of visitors every year.
- The Sundarbans is a significant natural resource for both Bangladesh and India and plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.

Answer:
South Indian City Airlinked to the Maldives:
- The South Indian city airlinked to the Maldives is Trivandrum.
Explanation:
- Trivandrum, also known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital city of the state of Kerala in South India.
- Trivandrum International Airport, located in Thiruvananthapuram, is the airport that connects the city to various international destinations, including the Maldives.
- The airport has regular flights to and from Male, the capital city of the Maldives, which is approximately 600 kilometers away from Trivandrum.
- The airlink between Trivandrum and the Maldives provides convenient travel options for tourists and business travelers between the two destinations.
- Trivandrum International Airport is well-connected with major domestic and international airlines, making it a popular gateway for travelers visiting the Maldives from South India.
Conclusion:
Trivandrum is the South Indian city that is airlinked to the Maldives through regular flights from Trivandrum International Airport to Male.

Ruby Mines in South Asian Countries
There are several countries in South Asia that are famous for their ruby mines. Let's explore each of them:
1. Myanmar:
- Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is renowned for its high-quality rubies.
- The Mogok region in Myanmar is especially famous for its rubies, also known as "Burmese rubies."
- Myanmar's rubies are known for their vibrant red color and exceptional clarity, making them highly sought after in the gemstone market.
2. Sri Lanka:
- Sri Lanka, also known as Ceylon, is another South Asian country famous for its ruby mines.
- The city of Ratnapura, located in the southern part of Sri Lanka, is particularly known for its ruby deposits.
- Sri Lankan rubies are valued for their rich red hue and are often referred to as "Ceylon rubies."
3. Pakistan:
- Pakistan is also known to have ruby mines, although they are not as famous as those in Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
- The Hunza Valley in Pakistan is known to produce rubies of varying qualities.
4. Bhutan:
- While Bhutan is a country in South Asia, it is not particularly renowned for its ruby mines.
- Bhutan's primary source of revenue from mining comes from minerals like coal, limestone, and dolomite.
Conclusion:
Among the South Asian countries mentioned, Myanmar and Sri Lanka are the most famous for their ruby mines. While Pakistan has some ruby deposits, Bhutan is not known for its ruby mining industry.

The Karakoram Highway joins Pakistan and China via India.
The Karakoram Highway is a 1,300-kilometer-long highway that connects Pakistan and China. It is known as the highest paved international road in the world, reaching an elevation of 4,693 meters at the Khunjerab Pass.
Key Points:
- The Karakoram Highway starts from Abbottabad in Pakistan and travels through the Pakistani-administered territory of Gilgit-Baltistan.
- It then crosses into the Chinese-administered territory of Xinjiang through the Khunjerab Pass.
- The highway passes through some of the most breathtaking landscapes, including the Karakoram mountain range, the Indus River, and the Himalayas.
- It is an important trade route between Pakistan and China, facilitating economic and cultural exchange between the two countries.
- The highway was constructed as a joint project between Pakistan and China and was completed in 1979.
- It is a major tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- The Karakoram Highway also serves as a strategic route for military purposes, allowing for easier access between Pakistan and China.
In conclusion, the Karakoram Highway joins Pakistan and China via India, making it an important transportation link between the two countries.

Special Feature of Piduratalagala:
1. Highest Peak in Sri Lanka:
- Piduratalagala is known for being the highest peak in Sri Lanka.
- With an elevation of 2,524 meters (8,281 feet), it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- The peak stands tall amidst the lush greenery of the Central Highlands.
2. Natural Beauty:
- Piduratalagala is surrounded by a beautiful natural environment, including forests, tea plantations, and waterfalls.
- The area is rich in biodiversity and offers a serene and picturesque setting for nature lovers and hikers.
- The cool climate and fresh mountain air add to the charm of the place.
3. Hiking and Trekking:
- Piduratalagala offers excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking enthusiasts.
- There are various trails and routes that lead to the summit, allowing visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna along the way.
- The journey to the top can be challenging but rewarding, providing an adventurous experience.
4. Communication Tower:
- At the summit of Piduratalagala, there is a prominent communication tower.
- This tower plays a crucial role in transmitting television and radio signals across the region.
- The tower adds a unique feature to the landscape and is a significant landmark in the area.
5. Historical Significance:
- Piduratalagala has historical significance as well.
- It was used as a strategic location during World War II by the British, who established a radar station on the peak.
- The remnants of this radar station can still be seen, adding an intriguing aspect to the site.
In conclusion, Piduratalagala's special feature is being the highest peak in Sri Lanka, offering breathtaking views, natural beauty, hiking opportunities, a communication tower, and historical significance. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and a closer connection with nature.

To determine the southernmost group of islands in the Maldives, we need to examine the options provided and identify the correct answer. Let's explore each option:
A. Mulaku: Mulaku is not the southernmost group of islands in the Maldives.
B. Nilandu: Nilandu is not the southernmost group of islands in the Maldives.
C. Huvadu: Huvadu is not the southernmost group of islands in the Maldives.
D. Addu Atoll/Sennu: Addu Atoll, also known as Sennu, is indeed the southernmost group of islands in the Maldives. It is located in the southernmost part of the country and consists of several inhabited islands, including Hithadhoo, Gan, and Feydhoo.
Therefore, the correct answer is D. Addu Atoll/Sennu.
In conclusion, the southernmost group of islands in the Maldives is Addu Atoll/Sennu.

Explanation:
The Ganga River is known as the Padma River in Bangladesh. Here is a detailed explanation of why it is called the Padma River in Bangladesh:
Geographical Context:
- The Ganga River is one of the major rivers in South Asia, flowing through India and Bangladesh.
- In Bangladesh, the river is known as the Padma River, which is a major tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
- The Padma River is formed by the confluence of the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers in Bangladesh.
Historical Significance:
- The name "Padma" has historical significance in the region. It is derived from the ancient Sanskrit name for the river, which means "lotus" in English.
- The lotus flower holds cultural and religious significance in the Indian subcontinent, and the name Padma reflects this symbolism.
Political and Cultural Importance:
- Bangladesh, formerly known as East Pakistan, gained independence from Pakistan in 1971.
- The renaming of the Ganga River as the Padma River in Bangladesh was part of a broader effort to assert a distinct national and cultural identity separate from India and Pakistan.
Conclusion:
- In summary, the Ganga River is called the Padma River in Bangladesh due to its geographical, historical, political, and cultural significance in the region.
- The name change reflects the unique identity and heritage of Bangladesh.

The Grand Canyon is located in the United States (US).

Here is a detailed solution:
The Grand Canyon is a famous natural wonder located in the United States. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. Here are some key points about the Grand Canyon:
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Location: The Grand Canyon is situated in the southwestern part of the United States, primarily in the state of Arizona. It covers a vast area and is part of the Grand Canyon National Park.

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Geological Formation: The Grand Canyon is a steep-sided gorge carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. The layers of colorful sedimentary rocks expose the Earth's geological history, making it a significant geological site.

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Size: The Grand Canyon is approximately 277 miles (446 kilometers) long, up to 18 miles (29 kilometers) wide, and reaches a depth of over a mile (6,093 feet or 1,857 meters). Its immense size and breathtaking vistas attract millions of visitors each year.

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Tourism: The Grand Canyon offers various recreational opportunities, including hiking, rafting, and scenic drives. Visitors can explore the North Rim and South Rim areas, which provide different viewpoints and experiences of the canyon's beauty.

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Importance: The Grand Canyon is not only a natural wonder but also holds cultural and historical significance. It is home to several Native American tribes, and archaeological sites within the park provide insights into their ancient civilizations.

In conclusion, the Grand Canyon is located in the United States, specifically in Arizona. Its majestic beauty and geological significance make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and travelers from around the world.

Answer:
The Ganga River, also known as the Ganges, joins the river Meghna in Bangladesh and flows out to the sea as the Meghna River. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Ganga River:
- The Ganga River is one of the major rivers in the Indian subcontinent, flowing through India and Bangladesh.
- It is considered sacred by Hindus and holds great religious and cultural significance.
- The river originates in the Himalayas and flows through several Indian states before entering Bangladesh.
2. River Meghna:
- The river Meghna is a major river in Bangladesh and is formed by the confluence of several rivers, including the Ganga.
- The Ganga joins the Padma River near the city of Goalundo in Bangladesh, and together they form the Meghna River.
- The Meghna River is the largest distributary of the Ganga and is an important waterway in Bangladesh.
3. Flow to the Sea:
- After joining the Meghna River, the combined flow of the Ganga and Padma continues to flow southwards.
- The Meghna River then merges with the Brahmaputra River and the Surma River to form the Meghna Estuary.
- Finally, the Meghna Estuary flows into the Bay of Bengal, where it meets the open sea.
Therefore, the correct answer is A: Meghna

Sagarmata, also known as Everest
- Sagarmata is the local name for Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world.
- It is located in the Mahalangur Himal subrange of the Himalayas in Nepal.
- The name "Sagarmata" translates to "Goddess of the Sky" in Nepali.
- The mountain was officially named Mount Everest by the British Survey of India in 1865, in honor of Sir George Everest, the British Surveyor General of India from 1830 to 1843.
- However, the local Nepali people still refer to the mountain as Sagarmata.
- Mount Everest stands at an elevation of 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet) above sea level.
- It has become a popular destination for mountaineers from around the world, with thousands of climbers attempting to reach its summit each year.
- The first successful ascent of Mount Everest was made by Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa of Nepal, on May 29, 1953.
- Since then, many climbers have followed in their footsteps, making the journey to the top of Sagarmata a symbol of human achievement and endurance.

The boundary between Nepal and Indian states:
- Nepal shares its boundary with several Indian states. The correct option is D, which includes Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Sikkim.
- Here is a detailed explanation of the boundary between Nepal and these Indian states:
1. Uttar Pradesh:
- Nepal shares its western border with Uttar Pradesh.
- The districts of Bahraich, Shravasti, Balrampur, Sidharthnagar, Maharajganj, and Lakhimpur Kheri in Uttar Pradesh are adjacent to Nepal.
2. Bihar:
- Nepal shares its eastern border with Bihar.
- The districts of West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, and Kishanganj in Bihar are adjacent to Nepal.
3. West Bengal:
- Nepal shares a small portion of its southeastern border with West Bengal.
- The district of Darjeeling in West Bengal is adjacent to Nepal.
4. Sikkim:
- Nepal shares its northeastern border with Sikkim.
- The district of Ilam in Nepal is adjacent to Sikkim.
- It is important to note that Nepal does not share its border with Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, or any other Indian states mentioned in the options A, B, and C.
- The boundary between Nepal and these Indian states has historical, cultural, and economic significance, fostering close relations between the two nations.

The Coco Channel separates the southernmost Myanmar territory and India.
Explanation:
- The Coco Channel is a narrow water body that separates the southernmost territory of Myanmar, also known as the Tenasserim Region, from the Indian mainland.
- It is located between the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India and the Tanintharyi Region of Myanmar.
- The channel is approximately 48 kilometers wide at its narrowest point.
- It serves as an important shipping route, connecting the Bay of Bengal to the Andaman Sea.
- The Coco Channel is known for its strong tidal currents and is a challenging area for navigation.
- It is named after Captain James George Scott, who conducted surveys of the region in the 19th century.
- The Coco Channel is significant for trade and transportation between Myanmar and India, as well as for its ecological importance, supporting diverse marine life and coral reefs.

In which Pakistan city is the sports goods industry a major one?
The sports goods industry is a major one in Sialkot, Pakistan.
Explanation:
Sialkot, a city in Pakistan, is known for its thriving sports goods industry. Here are some key points to consider:
- Sialkot is located in the northeastern part of Pakistan, near the border with India.
- The city has a long history of producing high-quality sports goods, including footballs, cricket equipment, hockey sticks, and more.
- The sports goods industry in Sialkot has been a major contributor to the local economy, providing employment opportunities to thousands of people.
- The city is home to numerous sports goods manufacturing units, which range from small-scale workshops to large factories.
- Sialkot's sports goods are highly regarded globally for their quality and durability, leading to a significant demand in international markets.
- The industry has benefited from the city's skilled workforce, favorable geographic location, and infrastructure support.
- Sialkot has also attracted investments from international sports brands, further boosting its position as a major hub for sports goods production.
- The local government and industry associations have played a crucial role in promoting and supporting the growth of the sports goods industry in Sialkot.
Overall, Sialkot, Pakistan, is recognized as a major center for the sports goods industry, contributing significantly to both the local economy and the global market.

Answer:
The Indian state that is almost completely sandwiched by Bhutan and Nepal is Sikkim. Here is a detailed explanation:
Geographical Location:
- Bhutan is located to the east of India, sharing its borders with the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal.
- Nepal is located to the north of India, sharing its borders with the Indian states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal.
Position of Sikkim:
- Sikkim is a state in northeastern India, bordered by Bhutan to its east and Nepal to its west.
- The entire eastern border of Sikkim is shared with Bhutan, while the entire western border is shared with Nepal.
Importance of Sikkim:
- Sikkim serves as a vital corridor between the two Himalayan countries, Bhutan and Nepal.
- It plays a significant role in trade, cultural exchange, and tourism between the two neighboring nations.
Therefore, the correct answer is option A: Sikkim.

• The Guinness Book of World Records has named Majuli as the world's largest river island.
• The beautiful river island is located on the River Brahmaputra in Assam.
• It is formed by the Brahmaputra River in the South, and Kherkutia Xuti, an anabranch of Brahmaputra, joined by the Subansiri River in the north.

Location of the Shan, Kachin, Chin, and Karen states
The Shan, Kachin, Chin, and Karen states can be found in Myanmar. These states are located in different regions of the country. Here is a breakdown of their locations:
1. Shan State:
- Shan State is situated in the eastern part of Myanmar.
- It shares borders with China to the north, Laos to the east, and Thailand to the southeast.
- The state is the largest in Myanmar and is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse ethnic groups.
2. Kachin State:
- Kachin State is located in the northern part of Myanmar.
- It is bordered by China to the north and east, Shan State to the south, and Sagaing Region to the west.
- The state is known for its rugged mountains, rich natural resources, and diverse ethnic communities.
3. Chin State:
- Chin State is situated in the western part of Myanmar, near the border with India and Bangladesh.
- It shares borders with Sagaing Region to the east and Rakhine State to the south.
- The state is known for its picturesque landscapes, traditional Chin villages, and unique culture.
4. Karen State:
- Karen State is located in the southeastern part of Myanmar.
- It shares borders with Thailand to the east and southeast, Mon State to the west, and Kayin State (another name for Karen State) to the north.
- The state is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including waterfalls, caves, and rivers, as well as its rich cultural heritage.
Overall, these states in Myanmar are known for their diverse ethnic groups, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural traditions.

Answer:

Laos shares its common eastern border with Vietnam.

Explanation:

• Laos: Laos is a landlocked country located in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by several countries including Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, China, and Myanmar.


• Common Eastern Border: The common eastern border of Laos is shared with Vietnam.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D: Vietnam.

Answer:

The Amur River separates China and Russia.

Here is a detailed explanation:

• The Amur River: The Amur River is one of the longest rivers in Asia, flowing through northeastern China and southeastern Russia.


• China: The Amur River forms the border between northeastern China and southeastern Russia. It runs along the northeastern edge of China, separating it from Russia.


• Russia: The Amur River flows through southeastern Russia, serving as a natural boundary between China and Russia. It eventually empties into the Sea of Japan.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

A: China and Russia

The Brahmaputra in Tibet is called Tsang-po.
Explanation:
- The Brahmaputra River is one of the major rivers in Asia, flowing through multiple countries.
- In Tibet, the Brahmaputra River is known as Tsang-po.
- Tsang-po is the Tibetan name for the river, which translates to "purifier" or "cleaner" in English.
- The river originates from the Angsi Glacier in the Himalayas and flows through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh before merging with the Ganges and Meghna rivers and finally emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
- The Brahmaputra River is an important water source for the region, supporting diverse ecosystems and providing water for irrigation, transportation, and hydropower generation.
- It is known for its vast floodplains, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna.
- The river serves as a vital lifeline for millions of people living along its course, supporting agriculture, fishing, and other livelihoods.
- The Brahmaputra River is known for its powerful currents, unpredictable behavior, and frequent flooding, making it both a blessing and a challenge for the communities that depend on it.
- Overall, the Brahmaputra River, known as Tsang-po in Tibet, plays a significant role in the social, cultural, and economic aspects of the regions it traverses.

Answer:
Town that gives Israel access to the Red Sea:
- The town that gives Israel access to the Red Sea is Eilat.
- Eilat is located at the southernmost tip of Israel, on the Gulf of Aqaba.
- It is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life.
- Eilat is strategically important to Israel as it provides the country with a gateway to the Red Sea.
- The Red Sea is an important trade route and access to it allows Israel to connect with markets in Africa and Asia.
- Eilat's location also makes it an important port city for Israel, enabling the country to engage in maritime trade and commerce.
- The town has a well-developed port infrastructure, including a large port area and various cargo terminals.
- Eilat's proximity to the Red Sea also offers opportunities for activities such as diving, snorkeling, and other water sports.
- Overall, Eilat plays a significant role in Israel's economy and international connectivity through its access to the Red Sea.

A is the correct option.The Makassar Strait separates Borneo from the island of Celebes (Sulawesi) to the east and southeast, and a series of shallow seas and straits lie between Borneo and the island of Sumatra to the west.It separates Kalimantan and Sulawesi.