UPSC Static Quiz – Geography : 22 August 2025

UPSC Static Quiz – Geography : 22 August 2025 We will post 5 questions daily on static topics mentioned in the UPSC civil services preliminary examination syllabus. Each week will focus on a specific topic from the syllabus, such as History of India and Indian National Movement, Indian and World Geography, and more.We are excited to bring you our daily UPSC Static Quiz, designed to help you prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination. Each day, we will post 5 questions on static topics mentioned in the UPSC syllabus. This week, we are focusing on Indian and World Geography.

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• Question 1 of 5 1. Question Consider the following statements about the characteristics of the Tundra climate: It is characterized by at least one month with an average temperature above 10∘ The subsoil is permanently frozen, a condition known as permafrost. The dominant vegetation consists of tall, coniferous trees like pine and fir. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect: The Tundra climate is defined by having at least one month with an average temperature above 0∘C but no month with an average temperature exceeding 10∘C. This allows for a brief summer thaw but is too cold to support forests. If a month averaged above 10∘C, it would likely be classified as a subarctic (taiga) climate or other type. Statement 2 is correct: A defining feature of the Tundra climate is permafrost, which is a layer of soil that remains frozen throughout the year (though the very top active layer may thaw during the short summer). Permafrost restricts drainage and root penetration. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Tundra is a treeless biome. The harsh conditions (low temperatures, short growing season, permafrost, strong winds) prevent the growth of trees. The dominant vegetation consists of low-growing plants such as mosses, lichens, sedges, grasses, and dwarf shrubs. Tall coniferous trees like pine and fir are characteristic of the Taiga (Boreal Forest) biome, which is located south of the Arctic tundra. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect: The Tundra climate is defined by having at least one month with an average temperature above 0∘C but no month with an average temperature exceeding 10∘C. This allows for a brief summer thaw but is too cold to support forests. If a month averaged above 10∘C, it would likely be classified as a subarctic (taiga) climate or other type. Statement 2 is correct: A defining feature of the Tundra climate is permafrost, which is a layer of soil that remains frozen throughout the year (though the very top active layer may thaw during the short summer). Permafrost restricts drainage and root penetration. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Tundra is a treeless biome. The harsh conditions (low temperatures, short growing season, permafrost, strong winds) prevent the growth of trees. The dominant vegetation consists of low-growing plants such as mosses, lichens, sedges, grasses, and dwarf shrubs. Tall coniferous trees like pine and fir are characteristic of the Taiga (Boreal Forest) biome, which is located south of the Arctic tundra.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements about the characteristics of the Tundra climate:

• It is characterized by at least one month with an average temperature above 10∘

• The subsoil is permanently frozen, a condition known as permafrost.

• The dominant vegetation consists of tall, coniferous trees like pine and fir.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Statement 1 is incorrect: The Tundra climate is defined by having at least one month with an average temperature above 0∘C but no month with an average temperature exceeding 10∘C. This allows for a brief summer thaw but is too cold to support forests. If a month averaged above 10∘C, it would likely be classified as a subarctic (taiga) climate or other type.

• Statement 2 is correct: A defining feature of the Tundra climate is permafrost, which is a layer of soil that remains frozen throughout the year (though the very top active layer may thaw during the short summer). Permafrost restricts drainage and root penetration.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: The Tundra is a treeless biome. The harsh conditions (low temperatures, short growing season, permafrost, strong winds) prevent the growth of trees. The dominant vegetation consists of low-growing plants such as mosses, lichens, sedges, grasses, and dwarf shrubs.

• Tall coniferous trees like pine and fir are characteristic of the Taiga (Boreal Forest) biome, which is located south of the Arctic tundra.

Solution: A

• Tall coniferous trees like pine and fir are characteristic of the Taiga (Boreal Forest) biome, which is located south of the Arctic tundra.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question With reference to seismic waves, consider the following statements: P-waves (Primary waves) can travel through solids, liquids, and gases, and are faster than S-waves. S-waves (Secondary waves) can only travel through solids and cause particles to oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Surface waves are generated when P-waves and S-waves reach the Earth’s core. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Seismic waves are vibrations that travel through Earth carrying the energy released during an earthquake. Statement 1 is correct: P-waves (Primary or Compressional waves) are longitudinal waves, meaning particles vibrate parallel to the direction of wave propagation. They can travel through solids, liquids, and gases. They are the fastest type of seismic wave and are the first to be recorded by seismographs. Statement 2 is correct: S-waves (Secondary or Shear waves) are transverse waves, meaning particles vibrate perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction of wave propagation. They can only travel through solids because liquids and gases cannot support shear stress. S-waves are slower than P-waves. Statement 3 is incorrect: Surface waves (like Love waves and Rayleigh waves) are generated when P-waves and S-waves (body waves) reach the Earth’s surface, not the core. They travel along the surface of the Earth and are responsible for most of the damage caused by earthquakes due to their larger amplitude and longer duration. Incorrect Solution: B Seismic waves are vibrations that travel through Earth carrying the energy released during an earthquake. Statement 1 is correct: P-waves (Primary or Compressional waves) are longitudinal waves, meaning particles vibrate parallel to the direction of wave propagation. They can travel through solids, liquids, and gases. They are the fastest type of seismic wave and are the first to be recorded by seismographs. Statement 2 is correct: S-waves (Secondary or Shear waves) are transverse waves, meaning particles vibrate perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction of wave propagation. They can only travel through solids because liquids and gases cannot support shear stress. S-waves are slower than P-waves. Statement 3 is incorrect: Surface waves (like Love waves and Rayleigh waves) are generated when P-waves and S-waves (body waves) reach the Earth’s surface, not the core. They travel along the surface of the Earth and are responsible for most of the damage caused by earthquakes due to their larger amplitude and longer duration.

#### 2. Question

With reference to seismic waves, consider the following statements:

• P-waves (Primary waves) can travel through solids, liquids, and gases, and are faster than S-waves.

• S-waves (Secondary waves) can only travel through solids and cause particles to oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.

• Surface waves are generated when P-waves and S-waves reach the Earth’s core.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

Seismic waves are vibrations that travel through Earth carrying the energy released during an earthquake.

• Statement 1 is correct: P-waves (Primary or Compressional waves) are longitudinal waves, meaning particles vibrate parallel to the direction of wave propagation. They can travel through solids, liquids, and gases. They are the fastest type of seismic wave and are the first to be recorded by seismographs.

• Statement 2 is correct: S-waves (Secondary or Shear waves) are transverse waves, meaning particles vibrate perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction of wave propagation. They can only travel through solids because liquids and gases cannot support shear stress. S-waves are slower than P-waves.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: Surface waves (like Love waves and Rayleigh waves) are generated when P-waves and S-waves (body waves) reach the Earth’s surface, not the core. They travel along the surface of the Earth and are responsible for most of the damage caused by earthquakes due to their larger amplitude and longer duration.

Solution: B

Seismic waves are vibrations that travel through Earth carrying the energy released during an earthquake.

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Dead Sea: It is a freshwater lake located between Israel and Jordan, known for its abundant aquatic life. Its surface and shores are at the lowest land elevation on Earth. The high salinity of the Dead Sea allows people to float effortlessly due to increased buoyancy. How many of the above statements are incorrect? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A The Dead Sea is a unique salt lake. Statement 1 is incorrect: The Dead Sea is a hypersaline lake, not a freshwater lake. Its salinity is extremely high (around 34.2% in 2011, which is about 9.6 times saltier than the ocean). This extreme salinity makes it a harsh environment where macroscopic aquatic organisms like fish and large plants cannot survive, hence its name. However, microscopic organisms like certain bacteria and archaea can thrive. It is located between Israel and Jordan (and the Palestinian West Bank). Statement 2 is correct: The surface and shores of the Dead Sea are at the lowest land elevation on Earth, approximately 430.5 meters (1,412 feet) below sea level. Statement 3 is correct: The extremely high salinity of the Dead Sea water makes it much denser than freshwater or normal seawater. This increased density provides greater buoyancy, allowing people to float effortlessly on its surface. Incorrect Solution: A The Dead Sea is a unique salt lake. Statement 1 is incorrect: The Dead Sea is a hypersaline lake, not a freshwater lake. Its salinity is extremely high (around 34.2% in 2011, which is about 9.6 times saltier than the ocean). This extreme salinity makes it a harsh environment where macroscopic aquatic organisms like fish and large plants cannot survive, hence its name. However, microscopic organisms like certain bacteria and archaea can thrive. It is located between Israel and Jordan (and the Palestinian West Bank). Statement 2 is correct: The surface and shores of the Dead Sea are at the lowest land elevation on Earth, approximately 430.5 meters (1,412 feet) below sea level. Statement 3 is correct: The extremely high salinity of the Dead Sea water makes it much denser than freshwater or normal seawater. This increased density provides greater buoyancy, allowing people to float effortlessly on its surface.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Dead Sea:

• It is a freshwater lake located between Israel and Jordan, known for its abundant aquatic life.

• Its surface and shores are at the lowest land elevation on Earth.

• The high salinity of the Dead Sea allows people to float effortlessly due to increased buoyancy.

How many of the above statements are incorrect?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

The Dead Sea is a unique salt lake.

• Statement 1 is incorrect: The Dead Sea is a hypersaline lake, not a freshwater lake. Its salinity is extremely high (around 34.2% in 2011, which is about 9.6 times saltier than the ocean). This extreme salinity makes it a harsh environment where macroscopic aquatic organisms like fish and large plants cannot survive, hence its name. However, microscopic organisms like certain bacteria and archaea can thrive. It is located between Israel and Jordan (and the Palestinian West Bank).

• Statement 2 is correct: The surface and shores of the Dead Sea are at the lowest land elevation on Earth, approximately 430.5 meters (1,412 feet) below sea level.

• Statement 3 is correct: The extremely high salinity of the Dead Sea water makes it much denser than freshwater or normal seawater. This increased density provides greater buoyancy, allowing people to float effortlessly on its surface.

Solution: A

The Dead Sea is a unique salt lake.

• Statement 2 is correct: The surface and shores of the Dead Sea are at the lowest land elevation on Earth, approximately 430.5 meters (1,412 feet) below sea level.

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question With reference to the phenomenon of coral bleaching, consider the following statements: It occurs when coral polyps expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues. Elevated sea surface temperatures are a primary stressor leading to widespread coral bleaching events. Coral bleaching always results in the immediate death of the coral colony. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Coral bleaching is a significant threat to coral reef ecosystems worldwide. Statement 1 is correct: Coral polyps have a symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae that live within their tissues. These algae provide the coral with up to 90% of its energy through photosynthesis and contribute to their vibrant colors. When corals become stressed, they expel these zooxanthellae, causing the coral to turn white or pale, hence “bleaching.” Statement 2 is correct: One of the most significant stressors leading to mass coral bleaching events is elevated sea surface temperatures, often associated with climate change and events like El Niño. Other stressors include ocean acidification, pollution, and increased sedimentation. Statement 3 is incorrect: While bleached corals are stressed and at higher risk of mortality, bleaching does not always result in immediate death. If the stressful conditions subside in a relatively short period, corals can sometimes recover their zooxanthellae and survive. However, prolonged or severe bleaching often leads to coral death and subsequent reef degradation. Incorrect Solution: B Coral bleaching is a significant threat to coral reef ecosystems worldwide. Statement 1 is correct: Coral polyps have a symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae that live within their tissues. These algae provide the coral with up to 90% of its energy through photosynthesis and contribute to their vibrant colors. When corals become stressed, they expel these zooxanthellae, causing the coral to turn white or pale, hence “bleaching.” Statement 2 is correct: One of the most significant stressors leading to mass coral bleaching events is elevated sea surface temperatures, often associated with climate change and events like El Niño. Other stressors include ocean acidification, pollution, and increased sedimentation. Statement 3 is incorrect: While bleached corals are stressed and at higher risk of mortality, bleaching does not always result in immediate death. If the stressful conditions subside in a relatively short period, corals can sometimes recover their zooxanthellae and survive. However, prolonged or severe bleaching often leads to coral death and subsequent reef degradation.

#### 4. Question

With reference to the phenomenon of coral bleaching, consider the following statements:

• It occurs when coral polyps expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues.

• Elevated sea surface temperatures are a primary stressor leading to widespread coral bleaching events.

• Coral bleaching always results in the immediate death of the coral colony.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

Coral bleaching is a significant threat to coral reef ecosystems worldwide.

• Statement 1 is correct: Coral polyps have a symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae that live within their tissues. These algae provide the coral with up to 90% of its energy through photosynthesis and contribute to their vibrant colors. When corals become stressed, they expel these zooxanthellae, causing the coral to turn white or pale, hence “bleaching.”

• Statement 2 is correct: One of the most significant stressors leading to mass coral bleaching events is elevated sea surface temperatures, often associated with climate change and events like El Niño. Other stressors include ocean acidification, pollution, and increased sedimentation.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: While bleached corals are stressed and at higher risk of mortality, bleaching does not always result in immediate death. If the stressful conditions subside in a relatively short period, corals can sometimes recover their zooxanthellae and survive. However, prolonged or severe bleaching often leads to coral death and subsequent reef degradation.

Solution: B

Coral bleaching is a significant threat to coral reef ecosystems worldwide.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Consider the following statements. Assertion (A): The thickness of the troposphere is greater at the equator than at the poles. Reason (R): Strong convectional currents at the equator transport heat to greater heights, causing the air to expand vertically. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (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 is false but R is true. Correct Solution: A Assertion (A) is true: The troposphere, the lowest layer of Earth’s atmosphere, is indeed thicker at the equator (around 16-18 km) and thinner at the poles (around 6-8 km). Reason (R) is true: The intense solar heating at the equator leads to strong convectional activity. Warm air rises vigorously, and this upward transport of heat and air causes the troposphere to expand vertically to greater heights in equatorial regions. R is the correct explanation of A: The greater heating and consequent strong convection at the equator are the primary reasons for the increased vertical extent (thickness) of the troposphere in these regions compared to the poles, where colder, denser air subsides and convection is minimal. Incorrect Solution: A Assertion (A) is true: The troposphere, the lowest layer of Earth’s atmosphere, is indeed thicker at the equator (around 16-18 km) and thinner at the poles (around 6-8 km). Reason (R) is true: The intense solar heating at the equator leads to strong convectional activity. Warm air rises vigorously, and this upward transport of heat and air causes the troposphere to expand vertically to greater heights in equatorial regions. R is the correct explanation of A: The greater heating and consequent strong convection at the equator are the primary reasons for the increased vertical extent (thickness) of the troposphere in these regions compared to the poles, where colder, denser air subsides and convection is minimal.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following statements.

Assertion (A): The thickness of the troposphere is greater at the equator than at the poles.

Reason (R): Strong convectional currents at the equator transport heat to greater heights, causing the air to expand vertically.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

• (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 is false but R is true.

Solution: A

• Assertion (A) is true: The troposphere, the lowest layer of Earth’s atmosphere, is indeed thicker at the equator (around 16-18 km) and thinner at the poles (around 6-8 km).

• Reason (R) is true: The intense solar heating at the equator leads to strong convectional activity. Warm air rises vigorously, and this upward transport of heat and air causes the troposphere to expand vertically to greater heights in equatorial regions.

• R is the correct explanation of A: The greater heating and consequent strong convection at the equator are the primary reasons for the increased vertical extent (thickness) of the troposphere in these regions compared to the poles, where colder, denser air subsides and convection is minimal.

Solution: A

• Assertion (A) is true: The troposphere, the lowest layer of Earth’s atmosphere, is indeed thicker at the equator (around 16-18 km) and thinner at the poles (around 6-8 km).

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