UPSC Static Quiz – Geography : 4 March 2026

UPSC Static Quiz – Geography : 4 March 2026 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 regarding the characteristics of different biomes: The Taiga biome is characterized by a greater annual temperature range than the Tundra biome. Epiphytes are a prominent feature of the Tropical Rainforest biome due to competition for sunlight. Mediterranean biomes are located on the eastern margins of continents in subtropical latitudes. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. The Taiga (Boreal Forest) biome, being a large continental landmass away from maritime influence, experiences extreme temperature variations between its long, severe winters and short summers. The Tundra, while extremely cold, has a smaller annual temperature range because its summers remain cool, preventing the extreme heat seen in continental interiors. Its proximity to the Arctic Ocean also has a slight moderating effect compared to the vast interiors of Siberia or Canada. Statement 2 is correct. In Tropical Rainforests, the dense, multi-layered canopy blocks a significant amount of sunlight from reaching the forest floor. Epiphytes (like orchids and ferns) are plants that grow on other plants without being parasitic. They have adapted to this low-light environment by growing high up on the trunks and branches of trees to access sunlight, making them a characteristic feature of this biome’s vertical stratification. Statement 3 is incorrect. Mediterranean biomes are characteristically found on the western margins of continents in subtropical latitudes (roughly 30°-45° N/S). This location is crucial as it is influenced by the seasonal shift of pressure belts, leading to dry summers under the influence of subtropical highs and wet winters from the westerlies. Eastern margins at these latitudes experience different climates, such as the Humid Subtropical (China-type) climate. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct. The Taiga (Boreal Forest) biome, being a large continental landmass away from maritime influence, experiences extreme temperature variations between its long, severe winters and short summers. The Tundra, while extremely cold, has a smaller annual temperature range because its summers remain cool, preventing the extreme heat seen in continental interiors. Its proximity to the Arctic Ocean also has a slight moderating effect compared to the vast interiors of Siberia or Canada. Statement 2 is correct. In Tropical Rainforests, the dense, multi-layered canopy blocks a significant amount of sunlight from reaching the forest floor. Epiphytes (like orchids and ferns) are plants that grow on other plants without being parasitic. They have adapted to this low-light environment by growing high up on the trunks and branches of trees to access sunlight, making them a characteristic feature of this biome’s vertical stratification. Statement 3 is incorrect. Mediterranean biomes are characteristically found on the western margins of continents in subtropical latitudes (roughly 30°-45° N/S). This location is crucial as it is influenced by the seasonal shift of pressure belts, leading to dry summers under the influence of subtropical highs and wet winters from the westerlies. Eastern margins at these latitudes experience different climates, such as the Humid Subtropical (China-type) climate.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the characteristics of different biomes:

• The Taiga biome is characterized by a greater annual temperature range than the Tundra biome.

• Epiphytes are a prominent feature of the Tropical Rainforest biome due to competition for sunlight.

• Mediterranean biomes are located on the eastern margins of continents in subtropical latitudes.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct. The Taiga (Boreal Forest) biome, being a large continental landmass away from maritime influence, experiences extreme temperature variations between its long, severe winters and short summers. The Tundra, while extremely cold, has a smaller annual temperature range because its summers remain cool, preventing the extreme heat seen in continental interiors. Its proximity to the Arctic Ocean also has a slight moderating effect compared to the vast interiors of Siberia or Canada.

• Statement 2 is correct. In Tropical Rainforests, the dense, multi-layered canopy blocks a significant amount of sunlight from reaching the forest floor. Epiphytes (like orchids and ferns) are plants that grow on other plants without being parasitic. They have adapted to this low-light environment by growing high up on the trunks and branches of trees to access sunlight, making them a characteristic feature of this biome’s vertical stratification.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. Mediterranean biomes are characteristically found on the western margins of continents in subtropical latitudes (roughly 30°-45° N/S). This location is crucial as it is influenced by the seasonal shift of pressure belts, leading to dry summers under the influence of subtropical highs and wet winters from the westerlies. Eastern margins at these latitudes experience different climates, such as the Humid Subtropical (China-type) climate.

Solution: B

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question With reference to the Peninsular river systems, consider the following statements: The Godavari basin is the largest among the Peninsular rivers. The Kaveri river basin receives rainfall from both the Southwest and Northeast Monsoons. Most of the major west-flowing Peninsular rivers form estuaries at their mouths. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: D Statement 1 is correct. The Godavari River has the largest river basin among the Peninsular rivers, covering an area of about 3.13 lakh sq. km. Due to its large size and extent, it is often referred to as the ‘Dakshina Ganga’ (Ganga of the South). Its basin covers large parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. Statement 2 is correct. The Kaveri river has a unique flow regime. Its upper catchment area, primarily in Karnataka and Kerala, receives heavy rainfall from the Southwest Monsoon during the summer months (June to September). Its lower catchment area, in Tamil Nadu, receives significant rainfall from the Northeast Monsoon during the winter months (October to December). This balanced rainfall pattern ensures that the Kaveri is a more perennial river compared to other Peninsular rivers, with less fluctuation in water flow throughout the year. Statement 3 is correct. The major west-flowing rivers of Peninsular India, such as the Narmada and Tapi, as well as numerous smaller rivers originating in the Western Ghats (e.g., Sharavathi, Periyar), flow down a steep gradient over a short distance. This high velocity prevents them from depositing sediment and forming deltas. Instead, they form deep, funnel-shaped estuaries where they meet the Arabian Sea. This is a defining characteristic that distinguishes them from the major east-flowing rivers. Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is correct. The Godavari River has the largest river basin among the Peninsular rivers, covering an area of about 3.13 lakh sq. km. Due to its large size and extent, it is often referred to as the ‘Dakshina Ganga’ (Ganga of the South). Its basin covers large parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. Statement 2 is correct. The Kaveri river has a unique flow regime. Its upper catchment area, primarily in Karnataka and Kerala, receives heavy rainfall from the Southwest Monsoon during the summer months (June to September). Its lower catchment area, in Tamil Nadu, receives significant rainfall from the Northeast Monsoon during the winter months (October to December). This balanced rainfall pattern ensures that the Kaveri is a more perennial river compared to other Peninsular rivers, with less fluctuation in water flow throughout the year. Statement 3 is correct. The major west-flowing rivers of Peninsular India, such as the Narmada and Tapi, as well as numerous smaller rivers originating in the Western Ghats (e.g., Sharavathi, Periyar), flow down a steep gradient over a short distance. This high velocity prevents them from depositing sediment and forming deltas. Instead, they form deep, funnel-shaped estuaries where they meet the Arabian Sea. This is a defining characteristic that distinguishes them from the major east-flowing rivers.

#### 2. Question

With reference to the Peninsular river systems, consider the following statements:

• The Godavari basin is the largest among the Peninsular rivers.

• The Kaveri river basin receives rainfall from both the Southwest and Northeast Monsoons.

• Most of the major west-flowing Peninsular rivers form estuaries at their mouths.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 1 and 2 only

• (c) 2 and 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is correct. The Godavari River has the largest river basin among the Peninsular rivers, covering an area of about 3.13 lakh sq. km. Due to its large size and extent, it is often referred to as the ‘Dakshina Ganga’ (Ganga of the South). Its basin covers large parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.

• Statement 2 is correct. The Kaveri river has a unique flow regime. Its upper catchment area, primarily in Karnataka and Kerala, receives heavy rainfall from the Southwest Monsoon during the summer months (June to September). Its lower catchment area, in Tamil Nadu, receives significant rainfall from the Northeast Monsoon during the winter months (October to December). This balanced rainfall pattern ensures that the Kaveri is a more perennial river compared to other Peninsular rivers, with less fluctuation in water flow throughout the year.

• Statement 3 is correct. The major west-flowing rivers of Peninsular India, such as the Narmada and Tapi, as well as numerous smaller rivers originating in the Western Ghats (e.g., Sharavathi, Periyar), flow down a steep gradient over a short distance. This high velocity prevents them from depositing sediment and forming deltas. Instead, they form deep, funnel-shaped estuaries where they meet the Arabian Sea. This is a defining characteristic that distinguishes them from the major east-flowing rivers.

Solution: D

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following pairs: River Tributary 1. Yamuna Ken 2. Brahmaputra Manas 3. Godavari Penganga 4. Krishna Musi How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one pair (b) Only two pairs (c) Only three pairs (d) All four pairs Correct Solution: D Pair 1 is correctly matched. The Ken river is a major right-bank tributary of the Yamuna. It originates in the Kaimur Hills in Madhya Pradesh and flows through the Bundelkhand region before joining the Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh. The Chambal, Betwa, and Sindh are other important right-bank tributaries of the Yamuna. Pair 2 is correctly matched. The Manas river is a major right-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra. It is a transboundary river flowing through Bhutan and Assam. The Manas National Park is located on its banks. Other key tributaries of the Brahmaputra include the Subansiri, Teesta, and Lohit. Pair 3 is correctly matched. The Penganga is a major left-bank tributary of the Godavari river system (it joins the Wardha, which in turn joins the Pranhita, a major tributary of the Godavari). The Pranhita, Indravati, and Sabari are other important left-bank tributaries, while the Manjra is a major right-bank tributary. Pair 4 is correctly matched. The Musi river is a major right-bank tributary of the Krishna. The city of Hyderabad is located on the banks of the Musi river. Other important tributaries of the Krishna include the Tungabhadra, Bhima, and Koyna. Incorrect Solution: D Pair 1 is correctly matched. The Ken river is a major right-bank tributary of the Yamuna. It originates in the Kaimur Hills in Madhya Pradesh and flows through the Bundelkhand region before joining the Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh. The Chambal, Betwa, and Sindh are other important right-bank tributaries of the Yamuna. Pair 2 is correctly matched. The Manas river is a major right-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra. It is a transboundary river flowing through Bhutan and Assam. The Manas National Park is located on its banks. Other key tributaries of the Brahmaputra include the Subansiri, Teesta, and Lohit. Pair 3 is correctly matched. The Penganga is a major left-bank tributary of the Godavari river system (it joins the Wardha, which in turn joins the Pranhita, a major tributary of the Godavari). The Pranhita, Indravati, and Sabari are other important left-bank tributaries, while the Manjra is a major right-bank tributary. Pair 4 is correctly matched. The Musi river is a major right-bank tributary of the Krishna. The city of Hyderabad is located on the banks of the Musi river. Other important tributaries of the Krishna include the Tungabhadra, Bhima, and Koyna.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following pairs:

River | Tributary

1.Yamuna | Ken
2.Brahmaputra | Manas
3.Godavari | Penganga
4.Krishna | Musi

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

• (a) Only one pair

• (b) Only two pairs

• (c) Only three pairs

• (d) All four pairs

Solution: D

• Pair 1 is correctly matched. The Ken river is a major right-bank tributary of the Yamuna. It originates in the Kaimur Hills in Madhya Pradesh and flows through the Bundelkhand region before joining the Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh. The Chambal, Betwa, and Sindh are other important right-bank tributaries of the Yamuna.

• Pair 2 is correctly matched. The Manas river is a major right-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra. It is a transboundary river flowing through Bhutan and Assam. The Manas National Park is located on its banks. Other key tributaries of the Brahmaputra include the Subansiri, Teesta, and Lohit.

• Pair 3 is correctly matched. The Penganga is a major left-bank tributary of the Godavari river system (it joins the Wardha, which in turn joins the Pranhita, a major tributary of the Godavari). The Pranhita, Indravati, and Sabari are other important left-bank tributaries, while the Manjra is a major right-bank tributary.

• Pair 4 is correctly matched. The Musi river is a major right-bank tributary of the Krishna. The city of Hyderabad is located on the banks of the Musi river. Other important tributaries of the Krishna include the Tungabhadra, Bhima, and Koyna.

Solution: D

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements regarding the interior of the Earth: Statement I: The Gutenberg Discontinuity acts as a barrier to S-waves (secondary waves), creating a vast shadow zone on the Earth’s surface opposite the earthquake epicenter. Statement II: The Outer Core is composed of liquid iron and nickel, and shear waves (S-waves) cannot propagate through a liquid medium. Statement III: The P-wave shadow zone is larger than the S-wave shadow zone because P-waves are completely absorbed by the Inner Core. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I (b) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and Statement III explains Statement II (c) Only Statement I is correct and Statement II is incorrect (d) Neither Statement I nor Statement III is correct Correct Solution: A Statement I is Correct: The Gutenberg Discontinuity (Core-Mantle boundary at ~2900 km) stops S-waves. This creates a shadow zone starting from 103° angular distance from the epicenter and covering the entire opposite hemisphere. Statement II is Correct: S-waves are shear waves that require a medium with shear strength (rigidity) to propagate. Liquids lack shear strength (modulus of rigidity is zero). Since the Outer Core is liquid iron/nickel, it blocks S-waves. This physical property (Statement II) is the direct cause of the barrier effect described in Statement I. Statement III is Incorrect: The S-wave shadow zone is actually larger than the P-wave shadow zone. The P-wave shadow zone exists only between 103° and 142° because P-waves can travel through the liquid core but are refracted (bent). They are not absorbed; they reappear beyond 142°. S-waves never reappear beyond 103°. Incorrect Solution: A Statement I is Correct: The Gutenberg Discontinuity (Core-Mantle boundary at ~2900 km) stops S-waves. This creates a shadow zone starting from 103° angular distance from the epicenter and covering the entire opposite hemisphere. Statement II is Correct: S-waves are shear waves that require a medium with shear strength (rigidity) to propagate. Liquids lack shear strength (modulus of rigidity is zero). Since the Outer Core is liquid iron/nickel, it blocks S-waves. This physical property (Statement II) is the direct cause of the barrier effect described in Statement I. Statement III is Incorrect: The S-wave shadow zone is actually larger than the P-wave shadow zone. The P-wave shadow zone exists only between 103° and 142° because P-waves can travel through the liquid core but are refracted (bent). They are not absorbed; they reappear beyond 142°. S-waves never reappear beyond 103°.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the interior of the Earth:

Statement I: The Gutenberg Discontinuity acts as a barrier to S-waves (secondary waves), creating a vast shadow zone on the Earth’s surface opposite the earthquake epicenter.

Statement II: The Outer Core is composed of liquid iron and nickel, and shear waves (S-waves) cannot propagate through a liquid medium.

Statement III: The P-wave shadow zone is larger than the S-wave shadow zone because P-waves are completely absorbed by the Inner Core.

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

• (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I

• (b) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and Statement III explains Statement II

• (c) Only Statement I is correct and Statement II is incorrect

• (d) Neither Statement I nor Statement III is correct

Solution: A

• Statement I is Correct: The Gutenberg Discontinuity (Core-Mantle boundary at ~2900 km) stops S-waves. This creates a shadow zone starting from 103° angular distance from the epicenter and covering the entire opposite hemisphere.

• Statement II is Correct: S-waves are shear waves that require a medium with shear strength (rigidity) to propagate. Liquids lack shear strength (modulus of rigidity is zero). Since the Outer Core is liquid iron/nickel, it blocks S-waves. This physical property (Statement II) is the direct cause of the barrier effect described in Statement I.

Statement III is Incorrect: The S-wave shadow zone is actually larger than the P-wave shadow zone. The P-wave shadow zone exists only between 103° and 142° because P-waves can travel through the liquid core but are refracted (bent). They are not absorbed; they reappear beyond 142°. S-waves never reappear beyond 103°.

Solution: A

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Which of the following creates a ‘Rift Valley’? (a) Compression of the crust causing the middle block to rise. (b) Tension in the crust causing the middle block to subside between two parallel faults. (c) Volcanic eruption collapsing the magma chamber. (d) Glacial erosion deepening a U-shaped valley. Correct Solution: B Rift Valley (Graben): This is a tectonic landform created by Tensional Forces (pulling apart). When two parallel faults occur, the crustal block between them may slide downwards (subside) relative to the side blocks (Horsts). Examples: The Great East African Rift Valley, the Rhine Valley. Incorrect Solution: B Rift Valley (Graben): This is a tectonic landform created by Tensional Forces (pulling apart). When two parallel faults occur, the crustal block between them may slide downwards (subside) relative to the side blocks (Horsts). Examples: The Great East African Rift Valley, the Rhine Valley.

#### 5. Question

Which of the following creates a ‘Rift Valley’?

• (a) Compression of the crust causing the middle block to rise.

• (b) Tension in the crust causing the middle block to subside between two parallel faults.

• (c) Volcanic eruption collapsing the magma chamber.

• (d) Glacial erosion deepening a U-shaped valley.

Solution: B

• Rift Valley (Graben): This is a tectonic landform created by Tensional Forces (pulling apart). When two parallel faults occur, the crustal block between them may slide downwards (subside) relative to the side blocks (Horsts).

• Examples: The Great East African Rift Valley, the Rhine Valley.

Solution: B

• Examples: The Great East African Rift Valley, the Rhine Valley.

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