Physical Geography
3
CHAPTER
1
PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
1. A meteor is:
(1995)
(a) a rapidly moving star.
(b) a piece of matter which has entered the earth’s
atmosphere from outer space.
(c) part of a constellation.
(d) a comet without tail.
2. The Standard time of the following countries is ahead
or behind Greenwich Mean Time depending on
whether they are East or West of the longitude passing
through Greenwich.
(1995)
1. Cuba
2. Greece
3. Iraq
4. Costa Rica
5. Japan
Which one of the following sequential orders gives
the correct arrangement of the countries according to
their standard time from ahead to behind GMT?
(a) 5, 3, 2, 1, 4
(b) 2, 4, 1, 3, 5
(c) 4 , 1, 3, 2, 5
(d) 3, 5, 4, 1, 2
3. Which one of the following is the continent with the
highest mean elevation in the world?
(1995)
(a) Antarctica
(b) North America
(c) Asia
(d) South America
4. The graph given below shows the mean average
monthly temperatures (in °C) and mean monthly
rainfall (in cms) of a place:
(1995)
The graph is indicative of which one of the climatic
zones of the world ?
(a) Wet & dry tropical
(b) Rainy tropical
(c) Semi-arid tropical
(d) Temperate marine
5. Willy-willy is:
(1995)
(a) a type of tree grown in temperate regions.
(b) a wind that blows in a desert.
(c) a tropical cyclone of the North-west Australia.
Islands
6. Comet Shoemaker–Levy 9 hit the planet:
(a) Pluto
(b) Mars
(c) Jupiter
(d) Saturn
(1995)
low:
(1995)
(a) temperature
(b) velocity
(c) pressure
(d) density
8. Which one of the following layers of the atmosphere is
(a) Troposphere
(b) Stratosphere
(c) Mesosphere
(d) Ionosphere
9. Consider the following statements:
(1996)
Assertion (A): Areas near the equator receive rainfall
throughout the year.
Reason (R): High temperatures and high humidity
cause convectional rain in most afternoons near the
equator.
In the context of the above two statements, which one
of the following is correct ?
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation
of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not a correct explanation
of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false but R is true.
10. Diamond Ring is a phenomenon observed:
(1996)
(a) at the start of a total solar eclipse.
(b) at the end of a total solar eclipse.
(c) only along the peripheral regions of the totality trail.
(d) only in the central regions of the totality trail.
11. The tail of a comet is directed away from the sun
because:
(1997)
(a) as the comet rotates around the sun, the lighter mass
of the comet is pushed away due to the centrifugal
force alone.
4
Physical Geography
(b) as the comet rotates, the lighter mass of the comet is
attracted by some star situated in the direction of its tail.
(c) the radiation emitted by the sun exerts a radial pressure
on the comet throwing its tail away from the sun.
(d) the tail of the comet always exists in the same
orientation.
12. Consider the map given below:
(1997)
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
The river shown on the map is:
(a) Irrawaddy
(b) Mekong
(c) Chao Phraya
(d) Salween
The group of small pieces of rock revolving around the
Sun between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter are called:
(1997)
(a) meteors
(b) comets
(c) meteorites
(d) asteroids
If the earth’s direction of rotation is reversed, what
would be the IST when it is noon at the International
Date Line?
(1997)
(a) 06.30 hrs
(b) 05.30 hrs
(c) 18.30 hrs
(d) 17.30 hrs
Which one of the following stars is nearest to Earth?
(1997)
(a) Polaris
(b) Alpha Centauri
(c) Sun
(d) Sirius
Which one of the following conditions is most relevant
for the presence of life on Mars?
(1997)
(a) Atmospheric composition
(b) Thermal conditions
(c) Occurrence of ice caps and frozen water
(d) Occurrence of ozone
Consider the geographical details given in the following
(1997)
51°NL
country in:
(a) North America
(b) South America
(c) Europe
(d) Asia
18. Consider the map given below:
(1997)
19.
20.
21.
22.
Of the four shaded areas in the map, that which is
characterised by hot, dry summers, mild and moist
winters and seasonal reversal of winds is the area
labelled as:
(a) 1
(b) 2
(c) 3
(d) 4
Daily weather map showing isobars is an example of:
(1997)
(a) Choropleth map
(b) Isopleth map
(c) Chorochromatic map
(d) Choroschematic map
Which one of the following is present in the largest
amount in terms of per cent by mass in the earth’s
crust?
(1997)
(a) Silicon
(b) Oxygen
(c) Carbon
(d) Calcium
Consider the following statements regarding asteroids:
(1998)
1. Asteroids are rocky debris of varying sizes orbiting
the Sun.
2. Most of the asteroids are small but some have
diameter as large as 1,000 km.
3. The orbit of asteroids lies between orbits of Jupiter
and Saturn.
Of these statements:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 are correct
(b) 2 and 3 are correct
(c) 1 and 2 are correct
(d) 1 and 3 are correct
Estuaries possess distinct blooms of excessive growth of
A
5°EL
50°NL
6°EL
(1998)
(a) red tides
(c) black tides
(b) sea tides
(d) s
Physical Geography
23. Match river labelled A, B, C and D on the given map
with their names given in the list and select the correct
answer:
(1998)
List
1. St. Lawrence
2. Orinoco
3. Mackenzie
4. Amazon
5. Yukon
Codes:
A B C D
(a) 4
3
2
1
(b) 5
3
1
2
(c) 5
4
1
3
(d) 3
1
4
2
24. The correct sequence of different layers of the
atmosphere from the surface of the Earth upwards is:
(1998)
(a) Troposphere, Stratosphere, Ionosphere, Mesosphere
(b) Stratosphere, Troposphere, Ionosphere, Mesosphere
(c) Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, Ionosphere
(d) Stratosphere, Troposphere, Mesosphere, Ionosphere
25. Consider the following climatic conditions (Northern
Hemisphere):
(1998)
Temperature Rainfall
(° C)
(cm)
Jan.
3.9
4.7
Feb.
4.4
5.7
March
8.3
8.2
April
14.4
9.2
May
20.0
9.2
June
23.3
17.7
July
27.8
14.5
Aug.
27.8
14.0
Sept.
22.3
12.7
Oct.
18.3
7.0
Nov.
12.2
5.0
Dec.
6.7
3.5
These are most likely to be found in the natural regions
of:
5
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
(a) China type
(b) Equatorial type
(c) Hot desert type
(d) Monsoon type
Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer
using the codes given below the lists:
(1998)
List–I
List–II
(Special characteristic)
(Name of planet)
A. Smallest planet of the solar system 1. Mecury
B. Largest planet of the solar system 2. Venus
C. Planet second from Sun in the
3. Jupiter
solar system
D. Planet nearest to Sun
4. Pluto
5. Saturn
Codes:
A B C D
(a) 2
3
5
1
(b) 3
5
1
2
(c) 4
1
2
3
(d) 4
3
2
1
When it is noon at IST meridian, people at another
place on the Earth are taking their 6 o’clock morning
tea. The longitude of the place is:
(1998)
(a) 17° 30' E
(b) 7° 30' W
(c) 172° 30' E
(d) 90° W
If it is 10.00 a.m. IST, then what would be the local
time at Shillong on 92° E longitude ?
(1999)
(a) 9.38 a.m.
(b) 10.38 a.m.
(c) 10.22 a.m.
(d) 9.22 a.m.
Which one of the following scholars suggests the
earth’s origin from gases and dust particles? (1999)
(a) James Jeans
(b) H. Alfven
(c) F. Hoyle
(d) O. Schmidt
Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer
using the codes given below the lists:
(1999)
List-I
List-II
(Volcanic Mountain)
(Country)
A. Mt. Rainier
1. Italy
B. Etna
2. Mexico
C. Paricutin
3. Philippines
D. Taal
4. U.S.A.
6
Physical Geography
Codes:
A B C
(a) 4
2
1
(b) 4
1
2
(c) 2
1
4
(d) 4
3
2
31. In the given map,
currents is shown?
D
3
3
3
1
which one of the following ocean
(1999)
(a) Benguela & Falkland
(b) Canary & Humboldt
(c) Agulhas & Guinea
(d) Benguela & Guinea
32. Which one of the following positions shown in the
diagram will the height of the ocean tide be maximum?
(1999)
(a) M1
(a) A
(b) B
(c) C
(d) D
34. A ship sailing from the eastern extremity of the Aleutian
Islands to Dutch crosses 180° meridian at 23.30 hrs on
January 1, 1999. What time and date will be recorded
by the captain of the ship in his diary after one-hour
journey from the point of crossing of the meridian?
(1999)
(a) January 1, 0030 hrs
(b) January 2, 0030 hrs
(c) January 3, 0030 hrs
(d) January 4, 0030 hrs
35. Consider the following temperature and rainfall data:
(1999)
Month
Temperature
Rainfall
(°C)
(cm)
January
6.7
14.0
February
6.7
13.2
March
7.2
11.4
April
8.9
9.4
May
11.l
8.1
June
13.9
8.1
July
15.0
9.6
August
15.0
12.2
September
13.9
10.4
October
11.1
14.4
November
8.9
14.0
December
7.8
16.8
The climate to which this data pertains is:
(b) M2
(c) M3
(d) M4
33. Which one of the areas marked as A , B, C and D in
torrential short-duration rainfall accompanied by
thunderstorms?
(1999)
(b) China type
(c) West European type
(d) Mediterranean type
36. The physical regions marked as 1, 2, 3 and 4 on the
given map are respectively:
(1999)
Physical Geography
(a) Andes, Brazilian Shield, Guyana Highlands and
Amazon Basin
(b) Andes, Guyana Highlands, Brazilian Shield and
Amazon Basin
(c) Amazon Basin, Guyana Highlands, Brazilian Shield
and Andes
(d) Guyana Highlands, Brazilian Shield, Andes and
Amazon Basin
37. Match the drainage basins labelled as A, B, C and
D with the names listed below and select the correct
answer using the codes given below the names of the
drainage basins.
(2000)
Names of drainage basins
1. Ganga-Brahmaputra 2. Indus
3. Parana
4. Zambezi
Codes:
A B C D
(a) 3
1
2
4
(b) 1
3
4
2
(c) 1
3
2
4
(d) 3
1
4
2
38. Match List–I with List–II and select the correct answer
using the codes given below the lists.
(2000)
List–I
List–II
(Oceanic Trench)
(Location)
A. Aleutian
1. Indian Ocean
7
C. Sun
D. S. Sandwich
4. South Atlantic Ocean
Codes:
A B C D
(a) 2
4
1
3
(b) 2
3
1
4
(c) 1
3
2
4
(d) 1
4
2
3
39. Consider the following statements about the ‘Roaring
Forties’.
(2000)
1. They blow uninterrupted in the Northern and
Southern hemispheres.
2. They blow with great strength and constancy.
3. Their direction is generally from north-west to east
in the Southern hemisphere.
4. Overcast skies, rain and raw weather are generally
associated with them.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 1, 2 and 4
Directions (Q. Nos. 40–41) : In the questions given below are
two statements labelled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). In
the context of the two statements, which one of the following
is correct?
Codes:
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation
of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explanation
of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
40. Assertion (A): Anti-cyclonic conditions are formed in
winter season when atmospheric pressure is high and
air temperatures are low.
Reason (R): Winter rainfall in Northern causes
development of anticyclonic conditions low
temperatures.
(2001)
41. Assertion (A): During the neap tides, the high spring
tide is lower and the low tide is higher than usual.
Reason (R): The neap tide, unlike the spring tide,
occurs on the new moon instead of on full moon.
(2001)
42. Identify the correct order of the process of soil erosion
from the following.
(2001)
(a) Splash erosion, sheet erosion, rill erosion, gully
erosion
(b) Sheet erosion, splash erosion, gully erosion, rill
erosion
8
(c) Rill erosion, gully erosion, sheet erosion, splash
erosion
(d) Gully erosion, rill erosion, sheet erosion, splash
erosion
43. Match List–I with List–II and select the correct answer
using the codes given below the lists.
(2001)
List– I
List–II
(Local Wind)
(Region)
A. Fohn
1. Argentina
B. Sarmun
2. Kurdistan
C. Santa Ana
3. California
D. Zonda
4. Alps
Codes:
A B C D
(a) 2
4
1
3
(b) 4
2
3
1
(c) 2
4
3
1
(d) 4
2
1
3
44. The temperature and rainfall of a meteorological
station are given below.
(2001)
Months
Temperature
Rainfall
(0°C)
(cm)
Jan.
9.4
12.2
Feb.
10.6
9.1
March
11.7
7.9
April
12.2
2.5
May
13.3
1.8
June
13.9
0.3
July
13.9
__
Aug.
14.4
__
Sept.
15.6
0.8
Oct.
15.0
2.5
Nov.
13.3
6.1
Dec.
10.6
11.7
Average Temperature 12.8°C, Average Rainfall 54.9
cm per annum. Identify the region having the above
climatic patterns from amongst the following:
(a) Mediterranean region
(b) Monsoon region
(c) Steppe region
(d) NW European region
45. Quartzite is metamorphosed from:
(2001)
(a) limestone
(b) obsidian
(c) sandstone
(d) shale
46. Volcanic eruptions do not occur in the:
(2001)
(a) Baltic sea
(b) Black sea
(c) Caribbean sea
(d) Caspian sea
47. A class of animals known as Marsupials is a
characteristic feature of:
(2001)
(a) Africa
(b) Australia
(c) South America
(d) South-east Asia
Physical Geography
48. Consider the following statements made about
sedimentary rocks:
(2001)
1. Sedimentary rocks are formed at 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 the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 1 and 4
(c) 2, 3 and 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
49. If the stars are seen to rise perpendicular to the horizon
by an observer, he is located on the:
(2001)
(a) Equator
(b) Tropic of Cancer
(c) South Pole
(d) North Pole
50. Which one of the following weather conditions is
indicated by a sudden fall in barometer reading?
(2001)
(a) Stormy
(b) Calm weather
(c) Cold and dry weather
(d) Hot and sunny weather
51. Cloudy nights are warmer compared to clear cloudless
nights because clouds:
(2001)
(a) prevent cold waves from the sky from descending on
Earth.
(c) produce heat and radiate it towards Earth.
(d) absorb heat from the atmosphere and send it towards
Earth.
the Earth was spherical?
(2001)
(a) Aristotle
(b) Copernicus
(c) Ptolemy
(d) Strabo
53. Which one of the following statements is correct with
reference to our solar system?
(2002)
(a) Earth is the densest of all the planets in our solar
system.
(b) The predominant element in the composition of Earth
is silicon.
(c) The Sun contains 75% of the mass of the solar system.
(d) The diameter of the Sun is 190 times that of the Earth.
54. Open stunted forests with bushes and small trees
having long roots and sharp thorns or spines are
commonly found in:
(2002)
(a) Eastern Orissa
(b) North-Eastern Tamil Nadu
(c) Shiwaliks and Terai region
(d) Western Andhra Pradesh
Physical Geography
55. Consider the following climatic and geographical
phenomena:
(2002)
1. Condensation
2. High temperature and humidity
3. Orography
4. Vertical wind
Thunder cloud development is due to which of these
phenomena?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) All of these
56. For short-term climatic predictions, which one of
the following events, detected in the last decade, is
associated with occasional weak monsoon rains in the
India sub-continent?
(2002)
(b) Movement of Jet Streams
(c) El Nino and Southern Oscillations
(d) Greenhouse effect on global level
Directions (Q. Nos. 57-59): In the questions given below are
two statements labelled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). In
the context of the two statements, which one of the following
is correct?
Codes:
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation
of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not a correct explanation
of A
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
57. Assertion (A): 60°–65° latitudes in both hemispheres
have a low pressure belt instead of high pressure.
Reason (R): The low pressure areas are over oceans
rather than on land.
(2002)
from the Earth in the eastward direction.
Reason (R): The Earth rotates from west to east and so
the satellite attains the escape velocity.
(2002)
59. Assertion (A): The surface winds spiral inward upon
the centre of the cyclone.
Reason (R): Air descends in the centre of the cyclone.
(2002)
60. Consider the following ecosystems:
(2002)
1. Taiga
2. Tropical evergreen
3. Tropical deciduous
4. Tundra
The correct sequence in decreasing order of the Albedo
values of these ecosystems is:
(a) 1 - 4 - 3 - 2
(b) 4 - 1 - 3 -2
(c) 4 - 1 - 2 - 3
(d) 1 - 4 - 2 -3
9
61. Consider the following statements.
(2002)
1. In equatorial regions, the year is divided into four
main seasons.
2. In Mediterranean region, summer receives more
rain.
3. In China type climate, rainfall occurs throughout
the year.
4. Tropical highlands exhibit vertical zonation of
different climates.
Which of these statements are correct?
(a) 3 and 4
(b) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(d) All of these
62. Consider the following statements:
(2002)
1. Ocean currents are the slow surface movement of
water in the same.
2. Ocean currents assist in maintaining the earth’s
heat balance.
3. Ocean currents are set in motion primarily by
prevailing winds.
the ocean.
Which of these statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) All of these
63. Sun’s halo is produced by the refraction of light in:
(2002)
(a) water vapour in Stratus clouds
(b) ice crystals in Cirro-Cumulus clouds
(c) ice crystals in Cirrus clouds
(d) dust particles in Stratus clouds
64. The world’s highest ground-based telescopic
observatory is located in:
(2002)
(a) Columbia
(b) India
(c) Nepal
(d) Switzerland
Directions (Q. Nos. 65 – 68): In the questions given below are
two statements labelled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). In
the context of the two statements, which one of the following
is correct?
Codes:
(a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct
explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are individually true, but R is not the
correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but, R is false.
(d) A if false but, R is true.
65. Assertion (A): The amount of moisture in the
atmosphere is related to latitude.
Reason (R): The capacity to hold moisture in the form
of water vapour is related to temperature.
(2003)
66. Assertion (A): Unlike temperate forests, the tropical
rain forests, if cleared, can yield productive farmland
10
67.
68.
69.
70.
Physical Geography
that can support intensive agriculture for several years
even without chemical fertilisers.
Reason (R): The primary productivity of the tropical
rain forest is very high when compared to that of
temperate forests.
(2003)
Assertion (A): Areas lying within 5 to 8 degrees
altitude on either side of the equator receive rainfall
throughout the year.
Reason (R) High temperatures and high humidity
cause conventional rainfall mostly in the afternoons
near the equator.
(2003)
Assertion (A): Coal-based thermal power stations
contribute to acid-rain.
Reason (R): Oxides of carbon are emitted when coal
burns.
(2003)
Among the following which planet takes maximum
time for one revolution around the Sun?
(2003)
(a) Earth
(b) Jupiter
(c) Mars
(d) Venus
The waterfall ‘Victoria’ is associated with the river:
(2003)
(a) Amazon
(b) Missouri
71. Consider the following statements:
(2004)
1. The Islamic Calendar is 12 days shorter than the
Gregorian Calendar.
2. The Islamic Calendar began in AD 632.
3. The Gregorian Calendar is a solar calendar.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 2
(b) Only 3
(c) 1 and 2
(d) None of the above
72. Match List–I with List–II and select the correct answer
using the codes given below.
(2004)
List–I
List–II
(Sea)
(Country)
A. Black Sea
1. Bulgaria
B. Red Sea
2. China
C. Yellow Sea
3. Eritrea
D. Caspian Sea
4. Kazakhstan
Codes:
A B C D
(a) 1
4
2
3
(b) 2
3
1
4
(c) 1
3
2
4
(d) 2
4
1
3
73. Which one of the following statements is NOT correct?
(2004)
(a) Gulf with narrow fronts and wider rears experience
high tides.
(b) Tidal currents take place when a gulf is connected
with the open sea by a narrow channel.
(c) Tidal bore occurs when a tide enters the narrow and
shallow estuary of a river.
(d) The tidal nature of the mouth of the river Hooghly is
of crucial importance to Kolkata as port.
74. Consider the following statements:
(2005)
1. Total land area of Earth is approximately, 1,475 lakh
sq km.
2. Ratio of land area to water area of Earth is
approximately 1 : 4.
3. Maximum percentage of Earth’s water is in the
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and 3
(c) Only 1
(d) Only 3
75. Where is the volcanic mountain, Mount St. Helens
located?
(2005)
(a) Chile
(b) Japan
(c) Philippines
(d) United States of America
76. In which one of the following countries did hundreds
mudslides triggered by Tropical Storm Jeanne?
(2005)
(a) Columbia
(b) Haiti
(c) Sudan
(d) Ghana
77. Consider the following statements:
(2005)
and half degrees to the geographic axis of Earth.
2. Earth’s magnetic pole in the Northern hemisphere
is located on a peninsula in Northern Canada.
3. Earth’s magnetic equator passes through Thumba
in South India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2 and 3
(c) Only 2
(d) Only 3
78. In which one of the following oceans is the Diamantina
Trench situated?
(2006)
(c) Indian Ocean
(d) Arctic Ocean
Directions (Q. No. 79): The following item consists of two
statements, one labelled as the 'Assertion (A)' and the other
as 'Reason (R)'. You are to examine these two statements
carefully and select the answers to these items using the code
given below.
Codes:
(a) Both 'A' and 'R' are individually true and 'R' is the
correct explanation of 'A'.
(b) Both 'A' and 'R' are individually true, but 'R' is not the
correct explanation of 'A'.
Physical Geography
(c) 'A' is true, but 'R' is false.
(d) 'A' is false, but 'R' is true.
79. Assertion (A): To orbit around the Sun, the planet
Mars takes lesser time than the time taken by the
Earth.
Reason (R): The diameter of the planet Mars is less
than that of Earth.
(2006)
80. Consider the following statements:
(2007)
1. The annual range of temperature is greater in the
81.
82.
83.
84.
85.
2. The annual range of temperature is greater in the
Northern hemisphere than that in the Southern
hemisphere.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Consider the following statements.
(2007)
1. Either of the two belts over the oceans at about 30°
to 35° N and S latitudes is known as Horse Latitude.
2. Horse Latitudes are low pressure belts.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
What is the average distance (approximate) between
the Sun and the Earth?
(2007)
5
5
(a) 70 × 10 km
(b) 100 × 10 km
(c) 110 × 106 km
(d) 150 × 106 km
Match List–I with List–II and select the correct answer
by using the codes given below the lists.
(2007)
List–I
List–II
(City)
(River)
A. Bangkok
1. Irrawaddy
B. Phnom-Penh
2. Mekong
C. Hanoi
3. Menam (Chao Phraya)
D. Yangon
4. Red River
Codes:
A B C D
(a) 3
2
4
1
(b) 4
1
3
2
(c) 3
1
4
2
(d) 4
2
3
1
The largest coral reef in the world is found near the
coast of which one of the following countries? (2007)
(a) Australia
(b) Cuba
(c) Ghana
(d) Philippines
Consider the following statements.
(2007)
1. The albedo of an object determines its visual
2. The albedo of Mercury is much greater than the
albedo of Earth.
11
86.
87.
88.
89.
90.
91.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Consider the following statements.
(2007)
1. In the world, tropical deserts occur along the
Western margins of continents within the trade
wind belt.
2. In India, the East Himalayan region gets high
rainfall from North-East winds.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 or 2
Match List–I with List–II and select the correct answer
using the codes given below the lists.
(2009)
List–I
List–II
(Geographic Feature)
(Country)
A. Great Victoria Desert
1. Australia
B. Grand Canyon
2. Canada
C. Lake Winnipeg
3. New Zealand
D. Southern Alps
4. USA
Codes:
A B C D
(a) 1
2
4
3
(b) 1
4
2
3
(c) 3
2
4
1
(d) 3
4
2
1
In the structure of planet Earth, below the mantle, the
core is mainly made up of which one of the following?
(2009)
(a) Aluminium
(b) Chromium
(c) Iron
(d) Silicon
Which one of the following planets has the largest
number of natural satellites or Moons?
(2009)
(a) Jupiter
(b) Mars
(c) Saturn
(d) Venus
Consider the following countries:
(2009)
1. Australia
2. Namibia
3. Brazil
4. Chile
Through which of the above does the Tropic of
Capricorn pass?
(a) Only 1
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) All of these
A geographic region has the following distinct
characteristics:
(2009)
1. Warm and dry climate.
2. Mild and wet winter.
3. Evergreen oak trees.
The above features are the distinct characteristics of
which one of the following regions ?
(a) Mediterranean
(b) Eastern China
12
Physical Geography
(c) Central Asia
(d) Atlantic coast of North America
(a) Presence of prominent tropospheric turbulence and
(b) Presence of prominent polar front and stratospheric
Southern hemisphere?
(a) Temperature
(2009)
(c) Absence of polar front and stratospheric clouds and
(c) Rotation of the Earth
(d) Pressure
93. A geographic area with an altitude of 400 m has
following characteristics
(2010)
Month
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
31
31
31
31
30
30
29
28
29
29
30
31
21
21
21
21
21
21
20
20
20
20
20
20
51
85
188 158 139 121 134 168 185 221 198
86
Average
maximum
temp. °C
(d) Increased temperature at polar region due to global
warming.
Australia. How is La Nina different from EI Nino?
(2011)
1. La Nina is characterised by unusually cold ocean
temperature in equatorial Indian Ocean whereas
EI Nino is characterised by unusually warm ocean
Average
minimum
temp.
Rainfall
(mm)
If this geographic area were to have a natural forest,
which one of the following would it most likely be ?
(a) Moist temperate coniferous forest
(b) Montane subtropical forest
(c) Temperate forest
(d) Tropical rainforest
94. Consider the following statements:
(2010)
1. On the planet Earth, the fresh water available for
water found.
2. Of the total fresh water found on the planet Earth,
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
95. A new type of El Nino called El Nino Modoki appeared
in the news. In this context, consider the following
statements:
(2010)
ocean.
2. Normal El Nino results in diminished hurricanes
in the Atlantic Ocean but El Nino Modoki results
in a greater number of hurricanes with greater
frequency.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
96. The formation of ozone hole in the Antarctic region
has been a cause of concern. What could be the reason
for the formation of this hole?
(2010)
2. EI Nino has adverse effect on South-West monsoon
of India, but La Nina has no effect on monsoon
climate.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
98. A layer in the Earth’s atmosphere called Ionosphere
facilitates radio communication. Why?
(2011)
waves to Earth.
2. Radio waves have a very long wave length.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
99. What could be the main reason/reasons for the
formation of African and Eurasian desert belt? (2011)
1. It is located in the sub-tropical high pressure cells.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
100. If a tropical rainforest is removed, it does not regenerate
quickly as compared to a tropical deciduous forest.
This is because:
(2011)
(b) propagules of the trees in a rainforest have a poor
viability.
(c) the rainforest species are slow-growing.
(d) exotic species invade the fertile soil of rainforest
101. Westerlies in Southern hemisphere are stronger and
persistent than in Northern hemisphere. Why? (2011)
1. Southern hemisphere has less landmass as
compared to Northern hemisphere.
2. Coriolis force is higher in Southern hemisphere as
compared to Northern hemisphere.
Physical Geography
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
102. 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?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 1 and 3
(c) Only 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
103. What is the role of Ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the
1. It inactivates /kills the harmful microorganisms in
water.
2. It removes all the undesirable odours from the
water.
3. It quickens the sedimentation of solid, particles,
removes turbidity and improves the clarity of
water.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct ?
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) All of the above
104. Electrically charged particles from space travelling at
speeds of several hundred km/sec can severely harm
living beings if they reach the surface of the Earth.
What prevents them from reaching the surface of the
Earth?
(2012)
poles.
outer space.
(c) Moisture in the upper layers of atmosphere prevents
them from reaching the surface of the Earth.
(d) None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above is
correct.
105. The increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air
is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere,
because it absorbs.
(2012)
(a) the water vapour of the air and retains its heat.
(b) the ultraviolet part of the solar radiation.
(c) all the solar radiations.
(d) the infrared part of the solar radiation.
106. Which of the following is /are cited by the scientists
as evidence/ evidences for the continued expansion of
universe?
(2012)
13
1. Detection of microwaves in space.
2. Observation of redshift phenomenon in space.
3. Movement of asteroids in space.
4. Occurrence of supernova explosions in space.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) Only 2
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) None of the above can be cited as evidence
107. Which one of the following sets of elements was
primarily responsible for the origin of life on the
Earth?
(2012)
(a) Hydrogen, oxygen, sodium
(b) Carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen
(c) Oxygen, calcium, phosphorus
(d) Carbon, hydrogen, potassium
108. Consider the following factors:
(2012)
1. Rotation of the Earth
2. Air pressure and wind
3. Density of ocean water
4. Revolution of the Earth
currents?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
109. What is the difference between the antelopes, Oryx
and Chiru?
(2012)
(a) Oryx is adapted to live in hot and arid areas whereas
Chiru is adapted to live in steppes and semi-desert
areas of cold high mountains.
(b) Oryx is poached for its antlers whereas Chiru is
poached for its musk.
(c) Oryx exists in Western India only whereas Chiru
exists in North-East India only.
(d) None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above is
correct.
110. Which one of the following is the characteristic climate
of the Tropical Savannah region?
(2012)
(a) Rainfall throughout the year
(b) Rainfall in winter only
(c) An extremely short dry season
111. Normally, the temperature decreases with the increase
in height from the Earth’s surface because:
(2012)
1. the atmosphere can be heated upwards only from
the Earth’s surface.
2. there is more moisture in the upper atmosphere.
3. the air is less dense in the upper atmosphere.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
14
112. Many transplanted seedlings do not grow because:
(2013)
(a) the new soil does not contain favourable minerals.
(b) most of the root hairs grip the new soil too hard.
(c) most of the root hairs are lost during transplantation.
(d) leaves get damaged during transplantation.
113. Which of the following is/are unique characteristic/
characteristics of equatorial forests?
(2013)
1. Presence of tall, closely set trees with crowns
forming a continuous canopy.
2. Co-existence of a large number of species.
3. Presence of numerous varieties of epiphytes.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) All of these
114. ‘Climate is extreme, rainfall is scanty and the people
used to be nomadic herders.’ The above satement best
describes which of the following regions?
(2013)
(a) African Savannah
(b) Central Asian Steppe
(c) North American Prairie
(d) Siberian Tundra
115. Variations in the length of day time and night time
from season to season are due to:
(2013)
(a) the Earth’s rotation on its axis.
(b) the Earth’s revolution round the Sun in an elliptical
manner.
(c) latitudinal position of the place.
(d) revolution of the Earth on a tilted axis.
116. The annual range of temperature in the interior of the
continents is high as compared to coastal areas. What
is/are the reason/reasons?
(2013)
1. Thermal difference between land and water.
2. Variation in altitude between continents and oceans.
3. Presence of strong winds in the interior.
4. Heavy rains in the interior as compared to coasts.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below
(a) Only 1
(b) 1 and 2
(c) 2 and 3
(d) All of these
117. Consider the following:
(2013)
1. Electromagnetic radiation
2. Geothermal energy
3. Gravitational force
4. Plate movements
5. Rotation of the Earth
6. Revolution of the Earth
Which of the above are responsible for bringing
dynamic changes on the surface of the Earth?
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(b) 1, 3, 5 and 6
(c) 2, 4, 5 and 6
(d) All of these
118. On planet Earth, most of the fresh water exists as ice
caps and glaciers. Out of the remaining fresh water,
the largest proportion:
(2013)
Physical Geography
(a) is found in atmosphere as moisture and clouds
(b) is found in fresh water lakes and rivers
(c) exists as groundwater
(d) exists as soil moisture
119. Contour bunding is a method of soil conservation used
in:
(2013)
(a) desert margins, liable to strong wind action
(c) scrublands, liable to spread to weed growth
(d) None of the above
120. If a wetland of international importance is brought
under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply
(2013)
(a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are
occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a
result of human interference
(b) The country in which the wetland is located should
enact a law to prohibit any human activity within 5 km
from the edge of the wetland
(c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural
practices and traditions of certain communities living
in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity
therein should not be destroyed
(d) It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site’
121. Which of the following add/adds carbon dioxide to the
carbon cycle on the planet Earth?
(2013)
1. Volcanic action
2. Respiration
3. Photosynthesis
4. Decay of organic matter
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 3
(b) Only 2
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(d) All of the above
122. Which of the following phenomena might have
1. Continental drift
2. Glacial cycles
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
123. The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical
characteristic of:
(2014)
(a) Equatorial climate
(b) Mediterranean climate
(c) Monsoon climate
(d) All of these
124. In the Sou
in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What
is the reason?
(a) Sea surface temperatures are low
(c) Coriolis force is too weak
(d) Absence of land in those regions
125. Tides occur in the oceans and seas due to which among
the following?
1. Gravitational force of the Sun
2. Gravitational force of the Moon
3. Centrifugal force of the Earth
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Physical Geography
126. Consider the following statements:
15
(2018)
hundred thousand years.
2. When the Earth was created more than 4000
carbon dioxide.
127.
128.
129.
130.
the early atmosphere of the Earth.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
With reference to agricultural soils, consider the
following statements:
(2018)
1. A high content of organic matter in soil drastically
reduces its waterholding capacity.
2. Soil does not play any role in the sulphur cycle.
3. Irrigation over a period of time can contribute to
the salinisation of some agricultural lands.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Consider the following statements:
(2018)
1. Most of the world’s coral reefs are in tropical waters.
2. More than one-third of the world’s coral reefs are
located in the territories of Australia, Indonesia
and Philippines.
3. Coral reefs host far more number of animal phyla
than those hosted by tropical rainforests.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
On 21st June, the Sun
(2019)
(a) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle
(b) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle
(c) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator
(d) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn
In the context of which of the following do some
scientists suggest the use of cirrus cloud thinning
technique and the injection of sulphate aerosol into
stratosphere?
(2019)
(b) Reducing the frequency and intensity of tropical
cyclones
(c) Reducing the adverse effects of solar wind on the
Earth
(d) Reducing the global warming
131. In the context of which one of the following are the terms
(a) Extraction of rare earth elements
(b) Natural gas extraction technologies
(c) Hydrogen fuel-based automobiles
(d) Waste-to-energy technologies
132. For the measurement/estimation of which of the
following are satellite images/remote sensing data
used?
(2019)
2.
location
Greenhouse gas emissions from rice paddies of a
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
133. Why are dewdrops not formed on a cloudy night?
(2019)
(a) Clouds absorb the radiation released from the Earth's
surface.
(c) The Earth's surface would have low temperature on
cloudy nights.
134. With reference to Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT),
which of the following statements is/are correct? (2020)
1. OMT is measured up to a depth of 26°C isotherm
which is 129 meters in the south-western Indian
Ocean during January - March.
2. OMT collected during January - March can be
used in assessing whether the amount of rainfall in
monsoon will be less or more than a certain longterm mean.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
135. Consider the following statements:
(2020)
1. Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only.
2. Only some cyclones develop an eye.
3. The temperature inside the eye of a cyclone is nearly
10°C lesser than that of the surroundings.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1 and 3 only
136. With reference to India, Kuchaman, Sargol and Khatu
are the names of
(2021)
(a) glaciers
(b) mangrove areas
(c) Ramsar sites
(d) Saline lakes
137. Consider the following statements:
(2021)
1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for
seabed exploration and mining in international
waters.
2. India has received licences for seabed mineral
exploration in international waters.
international waters.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
16
Physical Geography
138. Consider the following statements:
(2021)
1. In the tropical zone, the western sections of the
oceans are warmer than the eastern sections owing
143. W
issue which Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in
the news?
2. In the temperate zone, westerlies make the eastern
sections of oceans warmer than the. Western
sections.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
139. “Leaf litter decomposes faster than in any other biome
and as a result the soil surface is often almost bare.
Apart from trees, the vegetation is largely composed of
plant forms that reach up into the canopy vicariously,
by climbing the trees or growing as epiphytes, rooted
on the upper branches of trees.” This is the most likely
description of
(2021)
(a) coniferous forest
(b) dry deciduous forest
(c) mangrove forest
(d) tropical rain forest
140. Which one of the following lakes of West Africa has
become dry and turned into a desert?
made by a country around South China Sea.
(b) China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over
these islands in East China Sea
(c) A permanent American military base has been set
up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence
capabilities.
(d) Through International Courts of Justice declared them
as no man’s land, some South-East Asian countries
claim them.
144. Consider the following pairs
141. In the northern hemisphere, the longest day of the
year normally occurs in the:
(a) First half of the month of June
(b) Second half of the month of June
(c) First half of the month of July
(d) Second half of the month of July
142. Consider the following statements:
cool the surface of the Earth.
2. Low clouds have a high absorption of infrared
radiation emanating from the Earth’s surface and
thus cause warming effect.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Country
Important reason for being in the
news recently
1. Chad
Setting up of permanent military
base by China
2. Guinea
Suspension of Constitution and
Government by military
3. Lebanon
Severe and prolonged economic
depression
Suspension of Parliament by
President
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) Only three pairs
(d) All four Pairs
145. Consider the following pairs:
4. Tunisia
Region often mentioned in
the news
Country
1. Anatolia
– Turkey
2. Amhara
– Ethiopia
3. Cabo Delgado
– Spain
4. Catalonia
– Italy
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
(a) Only one pair
(b) Only two pairs
(c) Only three pairs
(d) All four pairs
ANSWERS WITH EXPLANATIONS
1. (b) A Meteor is a piece of matter which has entered the
earth’s atmosphere from outside space. It burns up
upon entering earth’s atmosphere, creating a streak of
light in the sky.
2. (a) The standard time of the countries depend on whether
they are east or west of the longitude passing through
Greenwich Mean Time. The countries from east to
west are Japan, Iraq, Greece, Cuba and Costa Rica.
at 0 degree longitude.
3. (a) Antarctica has the highest average elevation among
all the continents. Antarctica is the Southernmost
Continent, which is a virtually uninhabited, icecovered landmass.
4. (a) According to the graph the average temperature is
15–25°C and the mean rainfall is 15–25 cm. Hence,
the graph shown indicates wet and dry tropical
climatic zone. Tropical wet and dry climate is mainly
found within the tropics. The tropics are two lines of