Q1. With reference to the Earth’s interior, consider the following statements:
- The Mohorovičić discontinuity separates the crust from the mantle.
- The Gutenberg discontinuity separates the mantle from the inner core.
- The Lehmann discontinuity separates the outer core from the inner core.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
Statement 1: Correct — Moho discontinuity marks the boundary between crust and mantle.
Statement 2: Incorrect — Gutenberg discontinuity separates the mantle and outer core, not inner core.
Statement 3: Correct — Lehmann discontinuity separates the outer core and inner core.
Q2. Which of the following processes are involved in the formation of fold mountains?
- Compression of crustal rocks
- Subduction of oceanic plates
- Accumulation of volcanic lava
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
- Fold mountains form mainly due to compressional forces at convergent plate boundaries.
- Subduction leads to compression and folding of sediments.
- Lava accumulation forms volcanic mountains, not fold mountains.
Examples: Himalayas, Alps, Andes.
Q3. With reference to ocean currents, consider the following statements:
- Warm currents generally originate near the equator and move toward higher latitudes.
- Cold currents usually originate in polar regions and move toward lower latitudes.
- Ocean currents have low influence on coastal climates.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
Statement 1: Correct — Example: Gulf Stream, Kuroshio Current.
Statement 2: Correct — Example: California Current, Canary Current.
Statement 3: Incorrect — Ocean currents strongly influence climate.
Example:
- Warm currents → mild winters
- Cold currents → arid coastal climates (Atacama Desert)
Q4. Assertion (A): The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) shifts northward during the Indian summer.
Reason (R): Land heats faster than the surrounding oceans.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
C. A is correct but R is incorrect
D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
- During summer, Asian landmass heats rapidly, creating low pressure.
- ITCZ shifts northward toward the Tropic of Cancer, helping drive the South-West Monsoon.
Q5. With reference to coral reefs, consider the following statements:
- Coral reefs develop best in warm tropical waters between 30°N and 30°S latitudes.
- Coral reefs require clear, shallow and saline water for growth.
- Coral reefs can develop in areas with heavy sedimentation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
Statement 1: Correct — Coral reefs mainly occur in tropical oceans.
Statement 2: Correct — Optimal conditions:
- Temperature: 20–30°C
- Depth: <50 m
- Clear, saline water
Statement 3: Incorrect — Sedimentation blocks sunlight and harms coral polyps.
Examples: Great Barrier Reef, Lakshadweep reefs, Andaman reefs.
