UPSC Prelims PYQ › Geography › Geomorphology

Geomorphology — UPSC Prelims Geography previous year questions

184 solved previous year questions on Geomorphology, papers from 1993 to 2022, drawn from UPSC CDS, UPSC CAPF, UPSC CSE Prelims. Each carries the printed answer key and the explanation from the source compilation.

1. #1UPSC CSE Prelims 2011
   What is the difference between asteroids and comets? 1. Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are formed of frozen gases held together by rocky and metallic material. 2. Asteroids are found mostly between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars, while comets are found mostly between Venus and Mercury. 3. Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   • A1 and 2 only
   • B1 and 3 only 8
   • C3 only
   • D1, 2 and 3
   Answer: (B) 1 and 3 only 8
   Explanation

   Option b is the correct sometimes called minor planets, are rocky, left over from the early formation of our about 4.6 billion years are cosmic snowballs of frozen gases, rock, and orbit the I and 3 are are small, rocky objects that orbit the Sun. frozen leftovers from the formation of the solar of dust, rock and ices. They range from a miies to tens of miles wide, but as they orbit closer to they heat up and spew gases and dust into a that can be larger than a planet. This material forms that stretches millions of 2 is asteroid belt is located roughly between the orbits of Jupiter and are not limited to any specific region; they are over the solar system

2. #2UPSC CSE Prelims 1998
   Consider the following statements regarding asteroids: 1. Asteroids are rocky debris of varying sizes orbiting the sun. 2. Most of the asteroids are small but some have diameters as large as 1000 km. 3. The orbit of asteroids lies between the orbits of Jupiter and Saturn. Of these statements
   • A1, 2 and 3 are correct
   • B2 and 3 are correct
   • C1 and 2 are correct
   • D1 and 3 are correct
   Answer: (C) 1 and 2 are correct
   Explanation

   Option c is the correct l is correct: Asteroids are rocky debris of orbiting the sun. They are also known as minor planetoids. They are remnants of the early formation Solar System, when planets were formed from smaller bodies. Some asteroids have been visited such as NASA's Dawn mission, which two largest asteroids, Ceres and 2 is correct: Most of the asteroids are small have diameter as large as 1000 km. The largest the belt is Ceres, which is about 950 km in 3 is incorrect: The orbit of asteroids lies orbits of Mars and Jupiter, not Jupiter and Saturn. belt is a torus--shaped region in the Solar on the Sun and roughly spanning the space orbits of the planets Jupiter and Mars. Important Tips Some asteroids follow the same path around the Sun as planets. These are called co-orbital asteroids. 'Earth has a few co-orbital asteroids, such as Cruithne and 2010 TK7. Some asteroids also cross

3. #3UPSC CSE Prelims 1997
   The group of small pieces of rock revolving round the sun between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter are called
   • AMeteors
   • BComets
   • CMetroid
   • DAsteroids
   Answer: (D) Asteroids
   Explanation

   Option d is the correct are a group of small pieces of rock the sun between the orbits of Mars and are also called minor planets or planetoids, and a region in the Solar System known as the asteroid asteroid belt contains millions of asteroids, ranging from boulders to hundreds of kilometers in diameter. asteroid in the belt is Ceres, which is also a dwarf planet. Asteroids are made up of different materials, such as carbon, silicate, or metal, depending origin and history

4. #4UPSC CDS 2020
   The four planets closest to the Sun are called
   • ATerrestrial planets
   • BGiant planets
   • CDwarf planets
   • DGas planets
   Answer: (A) Terrestrial planets
   Explanation

   a is the correct four planets closest to the Sun are called Terrestrial planets, also known as inner rocky planets, are characterized by their solid, The four terrestrial planets in our solar Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars. These planets primarily of rock and metal and have densities

5. #5UPSC CSE Prelims 2009
   In the structure of the planet Earth, below the mantle, the core is mainly made up of which one of the following?
   • AAluminium
   • BChromium
   • CIron
   • DSilicon
   Answer: (C) Iron
   Explanation

   Option c is the correct core is made almost entirely of metal-specifically, Core of Earth is the very hot, very dense centre of The ball-shaped core lies beneath the cool, and the mostly-solid mantle. The core is found kilometres below Earth's surface, and has a radius 3,485 Earth was formed about 4.5 billion years ago, it was ball of hot rock. Radioactive decay and leftover planetary formation caused the ball to get even after about 500 million years, Earth's to the melting point of iron-about pivotal moment in Earth's history is called the shorthand used for the core's iron-nickel alloys is elements' chemical that dissolve in iron, called siderophiles, are in the core. Because these elements are found rarely on Earth's crust, many siderophiles are "precious metals." Siderophile elements include and cobalt. Another key element in Earth's sulphur-in fact of the sulphur on Earth is the co

6. #6UPSC CSE Prelims 2005
   Where is Mount Saint Helens situated?
   • AChile
   • BJapan
   • CPhilippines
   • DUnited State of America
   Answer: (D) United State of America
   Explanation

   Option d is the correct St. Helens is an active located in the Pacific Northwest region of the It takes its English name from that of the British APHY diplomat Lord St. Helens, a friend of explorer who surveyed the area in the late 18th is part of the Cascade Volcanic Arc, a segment of Ring of Fire. The Cascade Volcanic Arc is a chain that extends from British Columbia to St. Helens is one of the most active volcanoes in Volcanic Arc, and it has erupted over 20 times in 2,000 years

7. #7UPSC CSE Prelims 2001
   Consider the following statements about the sedimentary rocks: 1. Sedimentary rocks are formed at the earth's surface by the hydrological system. 2. The formation of sedimentary rocks involves the weathering of pre-existing rocks. 3. Sedimentary rocks contain fossils. 4. Sedimentary rocks typically occur in layers.Which of these statements are correct?
   • A1 and 2
   • B1 and 4
   • C2, 3 and 4
   • D1, 2, 3 and 4
   Answer: (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
   Explanation

   Option d is the correct l and 2 are correct: Sedimentary rocks when sediments are deposited by the Sediments are weathered and eroded from and then transported by water, wind, or ice. When settle in a body of water, they form layers. these layers are compacted and cemented together sedimentary 3 is correct: Fossils are the preserved plants and animals. Fossils can be found in because sedimentary rocks are formed from were deposited in water. When plants and animals die their remains can be buried in sediment. Over sediment can harden into rock, preserving the fossils plants and 4 is correct: Sedimentary rocks are as being bedded or stratified. This is are made up of layers of sediment. The layers can be thicknesses and colors, and they can be made up types of sediment. Important Tips The hydrological system is the cycle of water on Earth. It includes the evaporation of water from the oce

8. #8UPSC CSE Prelims 2001
   Consider the following statement about earthquake: 1. Intensity of earthquake is measured on Mercalli Scale. 2. Earthquake's magnitude is the measurement of energy released. 3. Magnitude of earthquake depends directly upon Amplitude of an earthquake waves. 4. Every integer on Richter Scale shows 100 times increase in energy released.Which of the statements are true?
   • A1, 2 and 3
   • B2, 3 and 4
   • C1 and 4
   • D1 and 3
   Answer: (A) 1, 2 and 3
   Explanation

   Option a is the correct 1 is correct: The intensity of an earthquake by the Mercalli Scale. It measures the during earthquakes. The intensity scale takes the visible damage caused by the 2 is correct: Earthquake's magnitude is of energy released. The more the Richter scale, the more energy released by 3 is correct: The Richter magnitude of is determined from the logarithm of of waves recorded by seismographs. is a measure of the size or amplitude of waves generated by an 4 is incorrect: Increase in magnitude by on Richter scale represents a tenfold increase in amplitude and 32 times not 100 times) released. Important Tips Difference between Richter Scale and Mercalli scale: Richter Scale is used to measure the scale of absolute 'Magnitude' of an earthquake based on the amount of seismic energy released whereas Mercalli scale measures the 'Intensity' of an earthquake based on based on the

9. #9UPPCS 2017
   Which of the following instruments is used to record seismic waves?
   • ASeismogram
   • BSeismograph
   • CSeismoscope
   • DSeismometer
   Answer: (B) Seismograph
   Explanation

   Option b is the correct Seismograph is an instrument used to detect and waves. Seismic waves are propagating vibrations energy from the source of an earthquake outward in They travel through the interior of the Earth be measured with seismographs. A Seismometer is part of the seismograph. Important Tips A Seismogram is the recording of the ground shaking at the specific location of the instrument. On a seismogram, the horizontal axis measures time in seconds and the vertical axis measures ground displacement in millimeters. A Seismoscope is an instrument that gives a qualitative measure of the oscillatory motion produced by an earthquake or other disturbance of the earth's surface. Unlike the seismograph, it lacks a device to calibrate the time

10. #10UPPCS 2015
    Which one of the following is the highest volcanic mountain in the world?
    • AMount Pinatubo
    • BMount Kilimanjaro
    • CMount Tall
    • DMount Cotopaxi
    Answer: (C) Mount Tall
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct a is incorrect: Mount Pinatubo is a in the Zambales Mountains of Luzon, 100 northwest of Manila. The current height of is 1,486 meters 4,875 feet). This is lower pre-eruption height of 1,745 meters 5,725 feet), as caused the summit of the volcano to b is incorrect: Mount Kilimanjaro is a in the Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania. the highest mountain in Africa at 5,895 meters 19,341 sea level, and the highest free-standing mountain c is correct: Mount Tall, also known as Ojos is the highest volcanic mountain in the a summit elevation of 6,893 meters 22,615 feet). It is on the border of Argentina and Chile in the d is incorrect: Mount Cotopaxi is an in the Andes Mountains, located in about 50 kilometers 31 miles) south of Quito. the second highest summit in Ecuador, reaching a 5,897 meters 19,347 feet). Cotopaxi is among the volcanoes in the world

11. #11UPPCS 2005
    The North-Western Region of the Indian Sub-continent is susceptible to earthquake activity because of
    • AVolcanic activity
    • BPlate tectonic activity
    • CCoral formation activity
    • DAll of the above
    Answer: (B) Plate tectonic activity
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct Northwestern Indian Subcontinent NWIS) referred region including Southeast Afghanistan, Pakistan, India. The North-Western Region of the is susceptible to earthquake activity plate tectonic activity. The main cause of earthquakes Indian plate's gradual shift towards the Eurasian plate

12. #12UPPCS 2004
    Which Vokano is called 'the lighthouse' of Sea?
    • AEtna
    • BPele
    • CStromboli
    • DVesuvius
    Answer: (C) Stromboli
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct Stromboli is a volcano located in the Aeolian Italy. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the it is known for its frequent eruptions, which can be a distance at night. Stromboli has been nicknamed lighthouse of the Mediterranean" because have helped sailors navigate the sea for volcano's eruptions are typically small and produce lava bombs, but it has also erupted more violently in Important Tips Mount Etna is a volcano located in Sicily, Italy. It is one of the most active volcanoes in Europe, but it is not as active as Stromboli. Mount Pele is a volcano located in Hawaii. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, but it is not located in the Mediterranean Sea. Mount Vesuvius is a volcano located in Italy. It is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world, but it is not as active as Stromboli

13. #13State PCS 2001
    Highest peaks of the world are mostly found in which type of Mountains?
    • AOld folded mountains
    • BYoung folded mountains
    • CResidual mountains
    • DBlock mountains
    Answer: (B) Young folded mountains
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct Fold mountains are formed when Earth's collide against each other, and one plate is the other. This process, called subduction, creates fold in the Earth's crust. Rocks near the edge are weaker as compared to that of center. Fold mountains are found near the continents because that's where these plate In these areas, the Earth's crust gets forming rocky outcrops, hills, mountains, entire mountain ranges. The Himalayas, the the Andes are all examples of young folded highest peak in the world, Mount Everest, is located Himalayas, a young folded mountain range. Other in the world, such as K2, Kangchenjunga, and also located in young folded mountain ranges. Important Tips Some other types of mountains: Block Mountains: Block Mountains are formed when extensive areas of land break and shift vertically. The raised blocks are known as horsts, while the lowered ones are c

14. #14State PCS 1995
    Which statement of the following is true for igneous rocks?
    • AThese have little fossils
    • BThey have porous for water
    • CThey are both crystal and non-crystal
    • DThese rocks have no silicas
    Answer: (C) They are both crystal and non-crystal
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct c is correct: Igneous rocks are formed when magma) cools and solidifies. The rate at which cools determines whether the rock will be non-crystalline. If the magma cools slowly, the the magma have time to crystallize, resulting in rock. If the magma cools quickly, the not have time to crystallize, resulting in a Examples of crystalline igneous rocks include and gabbro. Examples of non-crystalline include obsidian and a is incorrect: Fossils are the preserved plants and animals, and they are most commonly sedimentary rocks. Sedimentary rocks are formed are deposited and compacted over bis incorrect: Igneous rocks are not typically is the amount of open space in a rock. Igneous typically very dense and have very little open dis incorrect: Igneous rocks are made up of are minerals that contain silicon and oxygen

15. #15Previous year
    Which of the following landforms is found in Karst region? [Jharkhand PCS (Mains) 2016)
    • APothole
    • BSink hole
    • CBlow hole
    • DPlaya
    Answer: (B) Sink hole
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct Karst region is a landscape which is underlain which has been eroded by dissolution landforms. Karst region is characterized by rocky ground, caves, sink holes, stalactites, rivers, and the presence of surface streams Important Tips Potholes are circular depressions formed because of stream erosion aided by the abrasion of rock fragments. These are common on the surface at lower side of waterfall where water falls from a height. Blowholes are mainly located in regions with crevices in the coastal rocks. Sea water enters these crevices when there are powerful waves in the sea, and it is released in the form of jet sprays through the blowhole. Playa is a dry, vegetation-free, flat area at the lowest part of an undrained desert basin. A dry Playa is a lakebed formed at the bottom of a desert basin, sometimes temporarily covered with water

16. #16UPSC CDS 2022
    Individual lava flows are normally only a few feet thick, but over a long period of time, repeated flows may build up a volcano. Such volcanoes are termed as
    • AShield volcano
    • BComposite volcano
    • CStrato-volcano
    • DCinder-cone volcano
    Answer: (A) Shield volcano
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct volcanoes are formed by the eruption of fluid flows easily and builds up broad, gently Individual lava flows from a shield typically only a few feet thick, but over time, can build up a volcano that is several miles wide of feet high. Important Tips Composite volcanoes are also known as stratovokanoes. They are built up by alternating layers of lava and pyroclastic material fragments of rock, ash, and cinders). Composite volcanoes have a steep-sided cone shape and are often explosive. Mount Fuji in Japan is an example of a composite volcano GE Cinder-cone volcanoes are the simplest type of volcano. They are built up by pyroclastic material that is ejected from a single vent. Cinder-cone volcanoes have a bowl-shaped crater at the summit and rarely rise more than a thousand feet or so above their surroundings. Sunset Crater in Arizona is an example of a volcano. Lav

17. #17UPSC CDS 2022
    Which one of the following sedimentary rocks has not been formed mechanically?
    • ASandstone
    • BConglomerate
    • CLoess
    • DGeyserites
    Answer: (D) Geyserites
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct are sedimentary rocks that are formed in of geysers and hot springs. They are of silica silicon dioxide) deposits that the hot water or steam as it emerges from the are formed through chemical processes mechanical processes

18. #18UPSC CDS 2021
    Which one of the following is a type of igneous rock?
    • AMarble
    • BHalite
    • CGranite
    • DShale
    Answer: (C) Granite
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct type of igneous rock among the given options is is a common type of intrusive igneous rock that primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica is formed from the solidification of magma beneath surface. Important Tips Some examples of Igneous rocks are- Granite, Basalt, Obsidian, Pumice, Rhyolite, Andesite, Diorite, Gabbro, Peridotite, Tuff. Some examples of Metamorphic Rocks are- Marble, Slate, Quartzite, Schist, Gneiss, Anthracite, Hornfels, Serpentinite, Phyllite, Amphibolite Some examples of sedimentary rocks are- Limestone, Sandstone, Shale, Conglomerate, Chalk, Coal, Dolomite, Siltstone, Gypsum, Breccia

19. #19UPSC CDS 2021
    Which one of the following statements about primary waves of earthquakes is not correct?
    • AThey are similar to sound waves
    • BThey can travel only through solid materials
    • CThey travel through gaseous, liquid and solid materials
    • DThey move faster and are the first to arrive at the surface
    Answer: (B) They can travel only through solid materials
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct waves, also known as P-waves, are one of the types of seismic waves generated by can propagate through the Earth's interior, liquid, and solid substances. Important Tips Seismic Waves are of two types- Body waves and Surface Waves Body waves are generated by the energy released at the earthquake's focus and propagate in various directions as they travel through the Earth's interior. It is of two types - P Waves and S-Waves. P Waves are longitudinal in nature whereas S Waves are transverse in nature

20. #20UPSC CDS 2021
    The extent of damage caused by earthquake is not influenced by which one of the following?
    • AStrength of earthquake
    • BPopulation density
    • CType of building
    • DClimate of the area
    Answer: (D) Climate of the area
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct climate, including factors such as temperature, humidity, does not directly influence the extent of by an earthquake. Earthquakes are geological their impact primarily depends on the of the area and the built

21. #21UPSC CDS 2020
    Which one of the following is not a major tectonic plate?
    • ASaudi Arabian plate
    • BAntarctica and the surrounding oceanic plate
    • CIndia-Australia-New Zeal and plate
    • DPacific plate
    Answer: (A) Saudi Arabian plate
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct plates are large, rigid pieces of Earth's interact and move, causing earthquakes, and the formation of mountains. While smaller plates and microplates in the region, the plate is not considered one of the major like the African Plate or Eurasian Plate. Important Tips The major tectonic plates: African Plate Antarctic Plate Eurasian Plate North American Plate South American Plate Indo-Australian Plate Pacific Plate

22. #22UPSC CDS 2018
    Extrusive volcanoes are not found in, which one of the following mountains?
    • AAlaska
    • BRocky
    • CAndes
    • DHimalayas
    Answer: (D) Himalayas
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct Himalayas are not associated,vith volcanic therefore extrusive volcanoes are not found in range. The Himalayas, which are a mountain Asia, were primarily formed by the collision of the Eurasian tectonic plates. The formation of the primarily due to the convergence of these plates, the uplift of the crust and the creation of fold mountains. Important Tips Alaska: Alaska is a region known for its volcanic activity. It is located in the "Ring of Fire;' which is an area in the Pacific Ocean where many volcanic eruptions and earthquakes occur. Alaska has numerous volcanoes, including some active ones such as Mount Redoubt and Mount Augustine. Rocky Mountains: The Rocky Mountains stretch across western North America. While there are some volcanic rocks in the Rocky Mountains, they are primarily formed through uplift and erosion rather than volcanic activity. Andes: The

23. #23UPSC CDS 2017
    Which one of the following statements with regard to volcanoes is not correct?
    • AStratovolcanoes produce lava flows that initially follow valleys but are highly resistant to erosion
    • BThe surrounding areas can remain highlands, lava ridges or mesas
    • CHawaiian shield volcanoes are eroded by streams that form deeply carved valleys with steeply sloping heads
    • DThe system of streams on a dissected volcano cone is not a radial drainage pattern
    Answer: (D) The system of streams on a dissected volcano cone is not a radial drainage pattern
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct on a dissected volcano cone generally follow drainage pattern, flowing outward from the This pattern is shaped by the underlying geology natural flow of water down the slopes

24. #24UPSC CDS 2016
    With reference to earthquakes, which of the following statements are correct? 1. Earthquakes largely occur along the converging plate boundaries. 2. Point of origin of earthquake in lithosphere is known as focus/hypocentre. 3. Intensity of earthquake decreases with distance from the epicentre. 4. Epicentre of earthquake always remains over continents only.Select the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1 and 2
    • B1, 2 and 3
    • C2 and 3
    • D1 and 4
    Answer: (B) 1, 2 and 3
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct 1 is correct- Earthquakes largely occur converging plate boundaries where tectonic make up the Earth's crust, collide, subduct goes beneath another), or slide past each faults. These plate boundaries, such as transform boundaries, and collision zones, by intense geological activity, leading to of accumulated stress and resulting in seismic as 2 is correct- The point of origin of an the lithosphere is called the focus or hypocenter. the location within the Earth where the seismic energy 3 is correct- The intensity of an indeed decrease with distance from the intensity measures the amount of energy released earthquake and its effects on the Earth's surface. As from the epicenter increases, the intensity 4 is incorrect- The epicenter of an earthquake point on the Earth's surface directly above the hypocenter. It can be located anywhere on the including both land and

25. #25UPSC CDS 2014
    Plate tectonics is a scientific theory that describes the large scale motions of Earth's lithosphere. Which one among the following statements regarding plate tectonics is not correct?
    • ATectonic plates are composed of oceanic lithosphere and thicker Continental lithosphere
    • BTectonic plates are able to move because the Earth's lithosphere has a higher strength than the underlying asthenosphere
    • CThe Earth's lithosphere is broken up into tectonic plates
    • DAlong divergent plate boundaries, subduction carries plates into the mantle
    Answer: (D) Along divergent plate boundaries, subduction carries plates into the mantle
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct tectonics is a scientific theory that describes the large scale movements and interactions of Earth's lithosphere is broken up into tectonic plates, and are composed of both oceanic lithosphere and d is incorrect: Along divergent plate move away from each other, creating new crust rises to fill the gap. Subduction, on the other along convergent plate boundaries where one beneath another and is recycled back into the does not occur along divergent plate a is correct: Tectonic plates are composed of lithosphere found beneath the lithosphere found beneath the b is correct: Tectonic plates are able to move Earth's lithosphere, which is composed of the crust part of the mantle, has a higher strength than asthenosphere. The asthenosphere is a weak layer beneath the lithosphere that allows movement of the c is con-ect: The Earth's lithosphere is indeed into tectonic plat

26. #26UPSC CDS 2014
    Which of the following statement( s) relating to Earthquakes correct? 1. The point of origin of Earthquake is called epicenter. 2. The lines joining the places which were affected Earthquake at the same point of time are called homoseismal lines.Select the correct answer using the codes given below
    • AOnly 1
    • BOnly 2
    • CBoth 1 and 2
    • DNeither 1 nor 2
    Answer: (B) Only 2
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct 1 is incorrect: The point of origin of is actually called the hypocenter or focus, the location within the Earth where the seismic energy The epicenter, on the other hand, refers to the the Earth's surface directly above the 2 is correct: Homoseismal lines are the 011 the maps joining places experiencing at the same time. They are also called as lines

27. #27UPSC CAPF 2021
    What is the depression at the top of a volcano following a volcanic eruption called?
    • AChamber
    • BVent
    • CCinder
    • DCrater
    Answer: (D) Crater
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct crater is a depression at the top of a volcano following eruption. It is formed when the magma the volcano collapses. Craters can be very reaching up to several kilometers in diameter. They filled with water, forming crater lakes

28. #28UPSC CAPF 2021
    Caves, arches, stacks and stumps are the landscape features of which one of the following?
    • ARiver
    • BWave
    • CLimestone
    • DWind
    Answer: (B) Wave
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct landscape features mentioned in the question, such arches, stacks, and stumps, are primarily wave action. These formations are commonly coastlines and are a result of erosion caused by pounding of waves against rock formations. What features does coastal erosion cause?

29. #29UPSC CAPF 2021
    Convection currents, which move the tectonic plates, are found in which layer of the Earth?
    • ACrust
    • BMantle
    • COuter core
    • DInner core
    Answer: (B) Mantle
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct currents are found in the mantle, which is of the Earth that lies between the crust and the mantle is made up of hot, molten rock that is The convection currents are caused by the of the mantle. The hot rock rises to the top, then sinks back down. This movement of the mantle drives the tectonic plates

30. #30UPSC CAPF 2018
    Springs are common in which of the following areas? 1. Well jointed rocks 2. Arid areas with underlying rocks 3. Karst topography 4. Tilted strataSelect the correct answer using the codes given below
    • A1 and 3 only
    • B1, 3 and 4
    • C2 and 4 only
    • D3 and 4 only
    Answer: (B) 1, 3 and 4
    Explanation

    Option bis the correct spring is a natural exit point at which groundwater of the aquifer and flows onto the surface. Springs out onto the surface by various natural forces, such and hydrostatic of the areas where springs are common are: Well jointed rocks: These are rocks that have many cracks or joints that provide pathways for groundwater to flow and reach the surface. Examples of well jointed rocks are basalt, granite, and limestone. Karst topography: This is a landscape formed by the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone, dolomite, and gypsum. Karst topography is characterized by sinkholes, caves, underground rivers, and springs. The water dissolves the rock and creates openings that allow water to flow out. Tilted strata: These are layers of sedimentary rocks that have been tilted or folded by tectonic forces. Tilted strata can create aquifers that slope towards the surfac

31. #31UPSC CAPF 2018
    Which one of the following is not an igneous rock?
    • AGranite
    • BGneiss
    • CPumice
    • DBasalt
    Answer: (B) Gneiss
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct is not an igneous rock, but a metamorphic is formed from high temperature and pressure on It forms when pre-existing rocks, such as high temperatures and pressures, causing them and change their mineral composition. Important Tips Granite is a coarse-grained igneous rock with a composition similar to that of continental crust. Pumice is a light, frothy volcanic rock that forms from the rapid cooling of lava with high gas content. Basalt is a dense, fine-grained volcanic rock that forms from the solidification of lava on the Earth's surface

32. #32UPSC CAPF 2017
    Consider the following statements about 'Ring of Fire' 1. It is also known as Circum-Pacific belt of volcanoes 2. It is an active seismic zone 3. It is a zone of divergent place marginSelect the correct answer using the code given below
    • AOnly 1
    • B1 and 2
    • C2 and 3
    • D1, 2 and 3
    Answer: (B) 1 and 2
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct l is correct: It is also known as of volcanoes. This name reflects the fact that the Ring follows the outline of the Pacific Plate and its most of the volcanic activity occurs. Volcanoes by the melting of subducted crust or by the magma from hot spots or mantle 2 is correct: It is an active seismic zone. that it is a region where earthquakes are intense. Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release from the movement or deformation of tectonic faults or fractures. The Ring of Fire contains about Earth's earthquakes, including some of the most devastating ones, such as the 1960 Valdivia 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, and Tohoku earthquake and 3 is incorrect: The Ring of Fire is mostly a zone plate margin, where tectonic plates are each other, creating subduction zones or Convergent plate margins are usually volcanic activity, earthquakes, and subduction z

33. #33UPSC CAPF 2016
    Which of the following statements concerning drcum-padfic belt are correct? 1. It is an active volcanic realm. 2. It is an active seismic realm. 3. It is a divergent plate boundary. 4. It is prone to Tsunami.Select the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1 and 2 only
    • B3 and 4 only
    • C1, 2 and 4 only
    • D1, 2, 3, 4
    Answer: (C) 1, 2 and 4 only
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct 1 is correct- The circum-Pacific belt is an realm because of the subduction of oceanic continental plates. When an oceanic plate a continental plate, the oceanic plate melts and rises to the surface, forming 2 is correct- The circum-Pacific belt is an realm because of the subduction of oceanic continental plates. The subduction of results in 3 is incorrect- The circum-Pacific belt is plate boundary, where two plates are each 4 is correct- The circum-Pacific belt is prone because of the earthquakes and the that are caused by the subduction. large waves that are generated by earthquakes landslides E I

34. #34UPSC CAPF 2015
    Various landforms observed on the surface of the Earth are due to the differences in the type and structure of the crustal material. 2. differences in the land forming processes. 3. differential rates of the processes at different places on the Earth's surface. Select the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1 only
    • B1 and 2 only
    • C2 and 3 only
    • D1, 2 and 3
    Answer: (D) 1, 2 and 3
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct 1 is correct- The Earth's crust is made up types of rocks, each with its own properties. affect how the rocks are weathered and in turn affects the formation of landforms. sandstone is more easily eroded than granite, landforms are typically more rounded and than granite 2 is correct- There are many different can shape the Earth's surface, including deposition, and tectonic movements. The rates of these processes vary from place to place, why we see different landforms in different parts of For example, mountains are formed by while deserts are formed by the deposition and 3 is correct- Even if the type and structure of material and the land forming processes are the two different places, the rates at which these may be different. This is because factors such vegetation, and human activity can affect the weathering, erosion, deposition, and tectonic example, mount

35. #35UPSC CAPF 2015
    Which one among the following is NOT a minor plate?
    • ANazca
    • BArabia
    • CPhilippines
    • DAntarctica
    Answer: (D) Antarctica
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct Antarctic Plate is one of the seven major that make up the Earth's lithosphere. Major are the largest units of the Earth's lithosphere, made up of the uppermost part of the mantle and The minor plates are smalier than the major they are often located near the boundaries of the The minor plates are more active than the and they are more likely to experience volcanic eruptions. Important Tips Major Plates: North American Plate South American Plate Pacific Plate India-Australia-New Zealand Plate Africa with the eastern Atlantic floor plate Eurasia and the adjacent oceanic plate Antarctica and surrounding oceanic plates Minor Plates: Cocos Plate Nazca Plate Arabian Plate Philippine Plate Caroline Plate Fuji Plate

36. #36UPSC CAPF 2015
    Which one among the following plains is associated with Limestone Topography?
    • ABajada plain
    • BAlluvial plain
    • CKarst plain
    • DPene plain IHI umllll
    Answer: (C) Karst plain
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct answer. The Karst plain is the type of plain associated with limestone topography. Limestone, being a soluble rock, is gradually dissolved by water and carbonic acid, leading to the formation of unique landforms such as sinkholes, caves, and underground drainage systems. Important Tips Bajada plain: Formed by the merging of alluvial fans. Alluvial plain: Created by the deposition of sediments carried by rivers. Pene plain: A nearly level plain resulting from the erosion and deposition of rocks. Eurasfan Plate ()nfv on Antarctle: Plate- 0 1000 ml ½ - j 1 "_ unit consists of questions from Movement, Relief, and Salinity of the Ocean

37. #37UPSC CAPF 2015
    Which of the following statements with regard to the continental shelf is NOT correct?
    • AShelves are absent close to plate boundaries
    • BThey are highly sedimented
    • CThey have abrupt falls towards the continental slopes
    • DThey are rich fishing areas
    Answer: (C) They have abrupt falls towards the continental slopes
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct continental shelves are characterized by a gentle than abrupt falls towards the continental continental shelves are often covered with of sediment that have been transported glaciers, and other natural processes. Important Tips Some other major oceanic landforms: Continental slope: It is a steep drop-off that leads from the continental shelf to the deep ocean. It can be up to 4 kilometers deep and is home to a variety of deep-sea creatures, such as whales, sharks, and giant squid. Continental rise: It is a gently sloping area that lies at the base of the continental slope. It is typically 2 kilometers to 4 kilometers deep and is home to a variety of deep-sea sediments. Abyssal plain: It is the flattest and deepest part of the ocean floor. It covers about of the Earth's surface and is typically 4 kilometers to 6 kilometers deep. The abyssal plain is home to a varie

38. #38State PCS 2018
    Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a low-pressure zone, is located
    • Abetween trade winds and westerlies belt
    • Bbetween westerlies and polar winds belt
    • Cnearby the poles
    • Dat the equator
    Answer: (B) between westerlies and polar winds belt
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct l is correct: It is also known as of volcanoes. This name reflects the fact that the Ring follows the outline of the Pacific Plate and its most of the volcanic activity occurs. Volcanoes by the melting of subducted crust or by the magma from hot spots or mantle 2 is correct: It is an active seismic zone. that it is a region where earthquakes are intense. Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release from the movement or deformation of tectonic faults or fractures. The Ring of Fire contains about Earth's earthquakes, including some of the most devastating ones, such as the 1960 Valdivia 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, and Tohoku earthquake and 3 is incorrect: The Ring of Fire is mostly a zone plate margin, where tectonic plates are each other, creating subduction zones or Convergent plate margins are usually volcanic activity, earthquakes, and subduction z

39. #39UPSC CSE Prelims 2021
    The black cotton soil of India has been formed due to the weathering of
    • Abrown forest soil
    • Bfissure volcanic rock
    • Cgranite and schist
    • Dshale and limestone
    Answer: (B) fissure volcanic rock
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct Hydrogen, Nitrogen were primarily responsible origin of life on the Nitrogen, Oxygen, Phosphorus and with Carbon generated the first group that eventually formed the chemical basis of matter within every living Earth creature mainly just four chemical elements: hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen

40. #40UPSC CSE Prelims 1994
    Which one of the following crops enriches the Nitrogen content in soil?
    • APotato
    • BSorghum
    • CSunflower
    • DPea
    Answer: (B) Sorghum
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct is not an igneous rock, but a metamorphic is formed from high temperature and pressure on It forms when pre-existing rocks, such as high temperatures and pressures, causing them and change their mineral composition. Important Tips Granite is a coarse-grained igneous rock with a composition similar to that of continental crust. Pumice is a light, frothy volcanic rock that forms from the rapid cooling of lava with high gas content. Basalt is a dense, fine-grained volcanic rock that forms from the solidification of lava on the Earth's surface

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