Geomorphology: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Geography)
2 previous year UPSC Prelims questions on Geomorphology (Geography). Choose an option to see the answer and explanation.
Explanations state facts as of the year each question was asked; words like “recently” refer to that year.
Showing 1–2 of 2 questions
UPSC 2014Geography · Geomorphology
Q1. Which of the following phenomena might have influenced the evolution of organisms? 1. Continental drift 2. Glacial cycles Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: Continental drift is the gradual movement of Earth’s continents due to tectonic plate activity. It causes geographical isolation, leading to divergent evolution and speciation. Species adapt to new environments, creating distinct biogeographical patterns like the unique primates in Australia and South America. This process has shaped evolutionary changes over time.
Statement 2 is correct: Periodic advances and retreats of ice sheets, impacting climate and sea levels. It creates environmental pressures, pushing species to adapt. Glacial cycles result in population bottlenecks, migration, or extinction and influences evolutionary paths. The Pleistocene glaciations played a crucial role in shaping the distribution and diversity of many species observed today
UPSC 2014Geography · Geomorphology
Q2. In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following? 1. Terrace cultivation 2. Deforestation 3. Tropical climate Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
Soil erosion is the process by which soil is displaced and transported from one location to another by natural forces such as wind or water. It is a natural process that occurs over time, but human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing, and construction can accelerate the process, leading to significant environmental damage.
Statement 1 is incorrect: Terrace cultivation is a *method to * prevent soil erosion, not a factor associated with it. Terraces are leveled platforms built into hillsides to slow down the flow of water and reduce soil loss. So, this option is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct: Deforestation is one of the major reasons for soil erosion. It includes cutting and felling of trees, removal of forest litter. Browsing and trampling by livestock, forest fires, also leads to deforestation, etc. Vegetation plays a critical role in anchoring soil, reducing the impact of rainfall, and protecting against wind erosion. When forests are cleared, the soil becomes exposed and vulnerable to erosion.
Statement 3 is incorrect: While a tropical climate can contribute to soil erosion in some cases (heavy rainfall can increase water erosion) but it isn’t a direct cause in itself. Many tropical areas with dense vegetation have relatively low erosion rates. The lack of vegetation (often due to deforestation) in a tropical climate is the real problem.
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
1
2014
(c) Both 1 and 2
2
2014
(b) 2 only
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on Geomorphology?
This page covers 2 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on Geomorphology (Geography), asked from 2001 to 2025. Each has the correct answer and an explanation.
How should I use previous year UPSC questions for Prelims?
Attempt each question first, then open the answer and read the explanation for every option. Repeat by chapter, and track which statements UPSC reuses across years. Previous year questions show the exam pattern and difficulty level.
Which years are covered for Geomorphology?
Questions on Geomorphology (Geography) are available for 9 years, from 2001 to 2025. Use the Year filter to practise a single paper.
