UPSC 2009 Geography Questions with Answers

Explanation

As of 2009, Jupiter had the highest number of known moons (63 at that time). Jupiter’s large number of moons is attributed to its massive size and strong gravitational pull, which allows it to capture a variety of objects into its orbit. However in future years Saturn has since been found to have more moons than Jupiter.

Explanation

Below the mantle, the core is divided into two main parts: the outer core and the inner core. Outer Core: This layer is in a liquid state and is primarily composed of iron mixed with nickel and small amounts of other elements. The movement of this liquid iron alloy is responsible for generating Earth’s magnetic field. Inner Core: At the center of the Earth lies the inner core, a solid sphere predominantly made up of iron. Its high density and the immense pressure it is subjected to keep it in a solid state despite the high temperatures.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) accounts for the deaths of infants within the first year of life, not just within a month after birth. The mortality during the neonatal period (first 28 days) is a subset of infant mortality.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Infant Mortality Rate is defined as the number of infant deaths (under 1 year of age) per 1,000 live births in a given year, not per 100 live births.

Explanation

Population density is measured as the number of people living per square kilometer. Below is a table summarizing key demographic data from the three censuses:

Census Year Population Density (persons/sq km) Annual Exponential Growth Rate (%) 1951 117 1.25 2001 324 1.93 2011 382 ~1.64

Statement 1 is incorrect: In 1951, the density was about 117 persons/sq km. By 2001, it had risen to 324 persons/sq km. Although this is a substantial increase, calculating the multiplication factor shows: = × Factor 2.77 This means the density increased by roughly 2.77 times--which is less than three times. For additional context, the 2011 census reported a further increase to 382 persons/sq km, confirming a continuing but moderate increase.

Statement 2 is incorrect: The annual growth rate (exponential) of India’s population has not doubled during this period. The growth rate was highest during the 1971 Census but gradually declined thereafter, indicating no doubling of the growth rate between 1951 and 2001. The annual exponential growth rate is the average rate at which the population increases each year. The annual growth rate in 1951 was about 1.25%, and by 2001 it had risen to 1.93%. While this represents an increase, it is not a doubling of the rate. In fact, when we compare 1.25% and 1.93%, the rate has increased by a factor of about: × 1.93 1.54 1.25 In other words, it has increased by roughly 54%, not 100% (which would be doubling). Moreover, the trend into the 2011 census shows the growth rate has moderated to approximately 1.64% per annum (derived from a decadal growth of 17.7%), reinforcing that there has been no doubling.

Explanation

According to World Bank data, among the given South Asian countries, India has the highest population density. In 2008, its density was approximately 406. In comparison, Sri Lanka has population density roughly around 329, Pakistan about 246, and Nepal is around 208 persons per square kilometer.

Explanation

Amarkantak, a significant geographical landmark in India, serves as the source for two major rivers that exhibit contrasting hydrological patterns. The Narmada River originates from the Amarkantak Plateau in Madhya Pradesh. It flows westward for 1,312 km, forming a natural divide between North and South India before emptying into the Arabian Sea via the Gulf of Khambhat. Its basin is elongated, with hilly upper reaches and fertile lower plains ideal for cultivation. The Son River is a major southern tributary of the Ganga, also originates near Amarkantak in Chhattisgarh. It initially flows north-northwest through Madhya Pradesh before turning eastward, cutting through the Kaimur Range and running parallel to the Kaimur Hills. It then flows through Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar, eventually joining the Ganga near Patna. Fig: Map showing routes of Narmada and Son after originating near Amarkantak

Option (b), (c) and (d) are incorrect:

Badrinath (Uttarakhand) is associated with the origin of the Alaknanda River, which later joins the Ganga system, but it does not give rise to two rivers flowing in opposite directions. Mahabaleshwar (Maharashtra) is the origin of the Krishna River, which flows towards the Bay of Bengal, but no significant river flows northward from here. Nasik (Maharashtra) is located on the banks of the Godavari River, which flows eastward, but there is no major northward-flowing river originating from here.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: India possesses significant reserves of thorium, particularly in the southern parts of the country. Major Thorium Deposit states are: Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Kerala, Gujarat, West Bengal and Jharkhand.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Kerala’s monazite sands, particularly along the coastal regions of Kollam and Palakkad, are among the richest for thorium in the world. These sands contain approximately 1.9 million tonnes of monazite, with high concentrations of thorium (up to 10%) and rare earth elements (55-60%).

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: While Kerala is renowned for its numerous west-flowing rivers that drain directly into the Arabian Sea, it is important to note that the state also possesses a few significant east-flowing rivers. The Kabini, Bhavani, and Pambar rivers, for instance, contribute to the eastward flow of water, ultimately merging with the larger Kaveri River system. These rivers flow eastward into neighboring states and ultimately merge with the Kaveri River. Kabini flows into Karnataka, while Bhavani and Pambar enter Tamil Nadu. They play a significant role in inter-state water systems and biodiversity.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Madhya Pradesh, a state characterized by diverse geographical features, is home to a network of rivers flowing westward. The Narmada, Tapi, and Mahi rivers are prominent examples of this westward drainage pattern, ultimately finding their way to the Arabian Sea.

Explanation

Biodiversity hotspots are regions with exceptional levels of plant and animal endemism that are under significant threat. Options 1 and 2 are correct: Among the given regions, the Eastern Himalayas, encompassing parts of Nepal, Bhutan, In-dia, and China, and the Eastern Mediterranean Region qualify as biodiversity hotspots. These regions harbour a remarkable diversity of life, including numerous species found nowhere else on Earth. However, threats like deforestation, habitat loss, and climate change pose significant risks to this precious ecosystem. The Eastern Himalayas region supports iconic species like the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, red panda, and greater one-horned rhinoceros. The Eastern Himalayas’ rich biodiversity arises from its unique geography at the intersection of three biogeographical realms: Indo-Malayan, Palaearctic, and Sino-Japanese. The Eastern Mediterranean is part of the larger Mediterranean Basin biodiversity hotspot, one of the richest and most threatened regions globally. The region also supports diverse wildlife, including migratory birds, reptiles like geckos and chameleons, amphibians such as cave salamanders, and unique mammals like macaques. Marine biodiversity includes endemic freshwater fish and Mediterranean Sea species. Fig: Map showing Biodiversity Hotspots Option 3 is incorrect: Northwestern Australia, encompassing the Kimberley and Pilbara regions, is known for its rugged landscapes, pristine coastlines, and rich Aboriginal heritage. This remote area features dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and unique wildlife. It also hosts significant mining and resource projects. South-Western Australia is a biodiversity hotspot whereas North-Western Australia is not.

Explanation

Sambhar Lake, situated in Rajasthan, India, holds the distinction of being the nation’s largest inland saline wetland. This expansive lake, located southwest of Jaipur, plays a crucial role in the region’s ecology. Historically renowned for salt production, Sambhar Lake provides a vital habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna, particularly migratory birds such as flamingos and pelicans. However, the lake faces environmental challenges including pollution, water scarcity, and human encroachment. Despite these challenges, Sambhar Lake remains an ecologically significant and culturally important landmark in Rajasthan.