UPSC 2007 Geography Questions with Answers

Explanation

The average distance from the Earth to the Sun is approximately 150 million kilometers or 150° 106 km. This distance can vary slightly due to the elliptical shape of Earth’s orbit, but the average distance remains close to 150 million kilometers. 1 AU is approximately 149.6 million kilometers, which is roughly 150° 106 km.

Explanation

The annual range of temperature is the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures recorded in a particular place or region over the course of a year.

Statement 1 is incorrect: The annual range of temperature (the difference between the highest and lowest average monthly temperatures) is generally smaller in the Pacific Ocean compared to the Atlantic Ocean. This is primarily due to the Pacific’s larger size and greater thermal inertia. The vastness of the Pacific allows for more heat absorption and distribution, moderating temperature extremes. Atlantic’s relatively smaller size and its greater contact with Arctic waters leads to more pronounced seasonal temperature variations. Also the Atlantic Ocean is narrower and more enclosed, allowing for greater temperature variability.

Statement 2 is correct: The Northern Hemisphere has a greater annual range of temperature than the Southern Hemisphere. This is primarily due to the larger landmasses in the Northern Hemisphere, which heat up and cool down more quickly compared to the predominantly oceanic Southern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, the presence of vast oceans helps stabilize temperatures.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The Horse Latitudes are sub-tropical regions located at approximately 30° to 35° North and South latitudes. These are high-pressure zones characterized by calm winds and minimal precipitation. The name "Horse Latitudes" is believed to have originated from the historical practice of sailors throwing horses overboard to conserve water when ships were stranded in these calm regions.

Statement 2 is incorrect: The Horse Latitudes are high-pres-sure belts, not low-pressure belts. These regions are associated with the subtropical high-pressure zones, where air from the equator descends, creating stable and dry conditions. The high-pressure conditions result from the descending air of the Hadley cells, which suppresses cloud formation and leads to arid climates. Many of the world’s major deserts, such as the Sahara and the Australian Outback, are situated under the Horse latitudes. Low-pressure belts, on the other hand, are found near the equator (Intertropical Convergence Zone) and at higher latitudes (subpolar lows).

Explanation

Population density is defined as the number of persons per square kilometer. It is calculated by dividing the total population of a state by its total area. The Census of India is conducted every ten years, providing comprehensive data on population distribution and density. The following table presents the population density (persons per square kilometer) of Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim as per the Census data of 2001 and 2011:

Option (c) is correct:

State 2011 Census Density 2001 Census Density Himachal Pradesh 123 109 Meghalaya 132 103 Arunachal Pradesh 17 13 Sikkim 86 76 As per the Census of India 2001, Arunachal Pradesh has the lowest population density among the states of India, primarily due to its large geographical area and relatively low population, coupled with its hilly terrain and low urbanization.

Explanation

In 2007, Foodgrains output touched 230.67 million tonnes (MT) mark, comprising record output of wheat (78.4 MT), rice (96.43 MT) and pulses (15.11 MT). Coarse cereals production was an all-time-high of 40.73 MT, along with oilseeds at 28.82 MT. Thus the sequence in option (d) is correct.

Explanation

Assertion (A) is false: It is incorrect to assert that there are no tea plantations in any African country. Several African countries, such as Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, and Rwanda, are major tea producers. Kenya is the third-largest tea producer globally after China and India. Malawi was the first African country to grow tea (in the 19th century) and remains a key exporter. Reason (R) is true: Tea plants do need fertile soil with high humus. Tea plants thrive in fertile, well-drained soils with high humus content, which improves water retention and nutrient availability.

Explanation

Dalbergia species is a genus of trees and shrubs known for their high-quality timber, especially varieties used in furniture and musical instruments. Dalbergia includes species such as Dalbergia sissoo (Indian Rosewood) and Dalbergia latifolia (East Indian Rosewood), which are primarily used for rosewood timber. These trees are valued for their durability, aesthetic grain patterns, and strength, making them popular for crafting luxury furniture and decorative items. Dalbergia species are not associated with crops like cashew, coffee, or tea.

Explanation

"Top Slip" serves as the primary tourist hub within the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. This national park, located in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, lies within the southern expanse of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, nestled amidst the Annamalai mountain range. The name "Top Slip" has its roots in a historical logging practice during British rule. Timber extracted from the forest was transported downhill to the plains using a canal system. This method of timber transport, known locally as "slipping," was carried out at this particular location, giving rise to its distinctive name. Today, Top Slip is renowned for its sightings of elephants, gaur (Indian bison), and a variety of bird species. Options (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect:

Simlipal National Park (Odisha): A tiger reserve and biosphere reserve, home to Bengal tigers, elephants, and orchids, located in the Eastern Ghats. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala): Famous for Periyar Lake and the Periyar Tiger Reserve, known for its elephant population and boat safaris. Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary (Telangana): A wetland sanctuary along the Manjira River, known for migratory birds, marsh crocodiles, and freshwater turtles.

Explanation

Reserves of diamond-bearing Kimberlite rocks have been discovered in Raipur district, Chhattisgarh in the recent past. Kimberlite is an igneous rock that often contains diamonds, and its presence indicates the possibility of diamond deposits. These discoveries are part of the Mainpur Kimberlite Field, which has been extensively explored by the Geological Survey of India (GSI).

Explanation

The Servarayan Hills, also known as the anglicised ‘Shevaroy Hills’, are a prominent mountain range in Tamil Nadu. Located near the city of Salem, these hills form a significant part of the southern section of the Eastern Ghats. The name ‘Servarayan’ is derived from a local deity worshipped in the region, reflecting the cultural significance of these mountains. Spanning 400 sq. km, they feature lush forests, coffee plantations, and diverse flora and fauna. The hills are home to Yercaud, a popular hill station, and the Shevaroy Temple, situated at the highest peak (1,620 m). The region is known for its panoramic views, trekking trails, and unique biodiversity, including endemic species like Neelakurinji and shield-tail snakes. The hills also host bauxite deposits and fruit orchards.