Physical geography is a crucial topic in geography that deals with the natural features and processes of the Earth. It helps us understand how landforms are created, how weather patterns work, how oceans influence climate, and how soil and vegetation support life.
This Physical GeographyGK post contains general knowledge questions and answers covering topics such as the Earth and the universe, geomorphology, climatology, oceanography, hydrology, and soil and natural vegetation. Physical geography questions are frequently asked in competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, Railways, State PSCs, Assam Police, and other government exams. This post will help students and aspirants enhance their general knowledge, and this article will little assist candidates in strengthening their preparation and improving their scores.
Physical Geography General Knowledge
I. Earth & Universe – GK Questions & Answers
1. What is the Universe?
The Universe is the vast expanse that includes all matter, energy, galaxies, stars, planets, and space.
2. What is a galaxy?
A galaxy is a massive system of stars, dust, gas, and dark matter held together by gravity.
3. Which galaxy does Earth belong to?
Earth belongs to the Milky Way galaxy.
4. What is the Milky Way?
The Milky Way is a spiral-shaped galaxy containing billions of stars, including the Sun.
5. What is a solar system?
A solar system consists of a star and all the celestial bodies that revolve around it.
6. How many planets are there in the solar system?
There are eight planets in the solar system.
7. Which is the center of the solar system?
The Sun is the center of the solar system.
8. Which planet is closest to the Sun?
Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun.
9. Which planet is farthest from the Sun?
Neptune is the farthest planet from the Sun.
10. Which is the largest planet in the solar system?
Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system.
11. What type of star is the Sun?
The Sun is a medium-sized main sequence star.
12. What is the primary source of the Sun’s energy?
Nuclear fusion is the primary source of the Sun’s energy.
13. Which gases mainly compose the Sun?
Hydrogen and helium mainly compose the Sun.
14. What is the surface of the Sun called?
The surface of the Sun is called the photosphere.
15. What are sunspots?
Sunspots are dark patches on the Sun caused by magnetic activity.
16. What is the Sun’s approximate age?
The Sun is approximately 4.6 billion years old.
17. Why is the Sun important for life on Earth?
The Sun provides heat and light necessary for life on Earth.
18. How long does sunlight take to reach Earth?
Sunlight takes about 8 minutes to reach Earth.
19. What is solar wind?
Solar wind is a stream of charged particles released from the Sun.
20. What causes solar eclipses?
Solar eclipses occur when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth.
21. What is Earth’s position in the solar system?
Earth is the third planet from the Sun.
22. Why is Earth called the Blue Planet?
Earth is called the Blue Planet because of the abundance of water on its surface.
23. What is the shape of the Earth?
The Earth is an oblate spheroid in shape.
24. What is the equatorial diameter of the Earth?
The equatorial diameter of the Earth is about 12,756 kilometers.
25. What is the polar diameter of the Earth?
The polar diameter of the Earth is about 12,714 kilometers.
26. What is Earth’s axis?
Earth’s axis is an imaginary line around which the Earth rotates.
27. What is the tilt of Earth’s axis?
The Earth’s axis is tilted at about 23.5 degrees.
28. Why is Earth suitable for life?
Earth has water, atmosphere, and a suitable temperature range for life.
29. What is Earth’s atmosphere mainly composed of?
Earth’s atmosphere is mainly composed of nitrogen and oxygen.
30. What protects Earth from harmful solar radiation?
The ozone layer protects Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
31. What is the Moon?
The Moon is Earth’s natural satellite.
32. How does the Moon shine?
The Moon shines by reflecting sunlight.
33. What causes phases of the Moon?
Phases of the Moon are caused by its position relative to Earth and the Sun.
34. How long does the Moon take to revolve around Earth?
The Moon takes about 27.3 days to revolve around Earth.
35. What is a lunar eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon.
36. Why does the Moon have no atmosphere?
The Moon has weak gravity, which cannot hold gases.
37. What is a satellite?
A satellite is a celestial body that revolves around a planet.
38. What is an artificial satellite?
An artificial satellite is a human-made object placed in orbit around Earth.
39. What is the first artificial satellite?
Sputnik 1 was the first artificial satellite.
40. Why are satellites important?
Satellites are important for communication, weather forecasting, and navigation.
41. What is Earth’s rotation?
Earth’s rotation is its spinning on its own axis.
42. How long does Earth take to rotate once?
Earth takes about 24 hours to complete one rotation.
43. What causes day and night?
Day and night are caused by Earth’s rotation.
44. What is Earth’s revolution?
Earth’s revolution is its movement around the Sun.
45. How long does Earth take to revolve around the Sun?
Earth takes about 365¼ days to revolve around the Sun.
46. What causes seasons on Earth?
Seasons are caused by Earth’s axial tilt and revolution.
47. What is a leap year?
A leap year is a year with 366 days.
48. Why does a leap year occur?
A leap year occurs to adjust the extra quarter day in Earth’s revolution.
49. What is an equinox?
An equinox is the time when day and night are equal.
50. What is a solstice?
A solstice is the time when day or night is longest.
51. What are latitudes?
Latitudes are imaginary horizontal lines on Earth.
52. What is the Equator?
The Equator is the 0° latitude dividing Earth into two hemispheres.
53. What are longitudes?
Longitudes are imaginary vertical lines running from pole to pole.
54. What is the Prime Meridian?
The Prime Meridian is the 0° longitude passing through Greenwich.
55. What is GMT?
GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time.
56. What causes time difference on Earth?
Time difference is caused by Earth’s rotation.
57. How many time zones are there on Earth?
There are 24 time zones on Earth.
58. What is IST?
IST stands for Indian Standard Time.
59. Which longitude determines IST?
82.5° East longitude determines IST.
60. Why are latitudes important?
Latitudes help determine climate zones.
61. What is a star?
A star is a self-luminous celestial body.
62. What is a meteor?
A meteor is a small rocky body that burns in Earth’s atmosphere.
63. What is a meteorite?
A meteorite is a meteor that reaches Earth’s surface.
64. What is a comet?
A comet is an icy body that revolves around the Sun.
65. What is an asteroid?
An asteroid is a rocky object mainly found between Mars and Jupiter.
66. What is the asteroid belt?
The asteroid belt lies between Mars and Jupiter.
67. Which planet is known as the Red Planet?
Mars is known as the Red Planet.
68. Which planet has rings?
Saturn is famous for its rings.
69. Which planet is called Earth’s twin?
Venus is called Earth’s twin.
70. Which planet rotates from east to west?
Venus rotates from east to west.
71. What is gravity?
Gravity is the force that attracts objects toward Earth.
72. Who discovered gravity?
Sir Isaac Newton discovered gravity.
73. What keeps planets in their orbits?
Gravity keeps planets in their orbits.
74. What is space?
Space is the vast region beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
75. What is a light year?
A light year is the distance light travels in one year.
76. What is the nearest star to Earth?
The Sun is the nearest star to Earth.
77. What is Polaris?
Polaris is the North Star.
78. Why is Polaris important?
Polaris helps determine the north direction.
79. What is the Earth’s magnetic field?
Earth’s magnetic field protects it from solar winds.
80. What causes auroras?
Auroras are caused by solar particles interacting with Earth’s atmosphere.
81. What is Earth’s escape velocity?
Earth’s escape velocity is about 11.2 km per second.
82. What is geocentric theory?
It is the theory that Earth is the center of the universe.
83. Who proposed the heliocentric theory?
Nicolaus Copernicus proposed the heliocentric theory.
84. What is the heliocentric theory?
It states that the Sun is the center of the solar system.
85. What is an orbit?
An orbit is the path of a celestial body around another body.
86. What is Earth’s crust?
The crust is the outermost layer of Earth.
87. What is Earth’s mantle?
The mantle is the layer beneath the crust.
88. What is Earth’s core?
The core is the innermost layer of Earth.
89. Why is Earth not a perfect sphere?
Earth bulges at the equator due to rotation.
90. What is cosmic radiation?
Cosmic radiation consists of high-energy particles from space.
91. What makes Earth unique in the solar system?
Earth is unique because it supports life.
92. What is the age of the Universe?
The Universe is about 13.8 billion years old.
93. What is dark matter?
Dark matter is invisible matter that affects gravity.
94. What is dark energy?
Dark energy causes the expansion of the universe.
95. What is Earth’s hemispheric division?
Earth is divided into Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
96. What is Earth’s orbital plane called?
It is called the ecliptic plane.
97. What determines Earth’s climate pattern?
Latitude, tilt, and solar energy determine climate.
98. Why is Earth warmer at the equator?
The equator receives direct sunlight.
99. What is Earth’s natural shield?
The atmosphere is Earth’s natural shield.
100. Why is Earth & Universe GK important for exams?
It forms the foundation of Physical Geography questions.
II. Geomorphology (Landforms) – GK Questions & Answers
1. What is geomorphology?
Geomorphology is the branch of geography that studies landforms and the processes that shape the Earth’s surface.
2. What are landforms?
Landforms are natural physical features on the Earth’s surface.
3. Which forces shape landforms?
Landforms are shaped by endogenic and exogenic forces.
4. What are endogenic forces?
Endogenic forces are internal forces originating within the Earth.
5. What are exogenic forces?
Exogenic forces are external forces acting on the Earth’s surface.
6. What is weathering?
Weathering is the breakdown of rocks in situ.
7. What is erosion?
Erosion is the removal and transportation of weathered material.
8. What is deposition?
Deposition is the laying down of eroded material.
9. Which are the three major landforms?
Mountains, plateaus, and plains are the three major landforms.
10. What is a mountain?
A mountain is a high natural elevation with steep slopes.
11. How are fold mountains formed?
Fold mountains are formed by the folding of rock layers due to tectonic forces.
12. Which is the youngest fold mountain range?
The Himalayas are the youngest fold mountain range.
13. What are block mountains?
Block mountains are formed due to faulting of the Earth’s crust.
14. Give an example of block mountains.
The Vosges and the Black Forest are examples of block mountains.
15. What are volcanic mountains?
Volcanic mountains are formed by volcanic eruptions.
16. Name a volcanic mountain in Africa.
Mount Kilimanjaro is a volcanic mountain in Africa.
17. What are residual mountains?
Residual mountains are formed by erosion over long periods.
18. Which mountains are called old fold mountains?
The Aravalli Range is called an old fold mountain.
19. Why are mountains important?
Mountains influence climate, rivers, and human activities.
20. What is a mountain pass?
A mountain pass is a low gap in a mountain range.
21. What is a plateau?
A plateau is an elevated flat land with steep sides.
22. Which plateau is called the “Roof of the World”?
The Tibetan Plateau is called the “Roof of the World”.
23. How are plateaus formed?
Plateaus are formed by volcanic activity, erosion, or tectonic uplift.
24. What are volcanic plateaus?
Volcanic plateaus are formed by successive lava flows.
25. Name a volcanic plateau in India.
The Deccan Plateau is a volcanic plateau.
26. What are dissected plateaus?
Dissected plateaus are eroded plateaus cut by rivers.
27. Why are plateaus rich in minerals?
Plateaus contain mineral deposits due to their geological structure.
28. Which plateau is rich in gold deposits?
The Brazilian Plateau is rich in gold deposits.
29. What is the Chota Nagpur Plateau famous for?
The Chota Nagpur Plateau is famous for mineral resources.
30. Why are plateaus less populated?
Plateaus have poor soil and rough terrain.
31. What is a plain?
A plain is a flat or gently sloping lowland area.
32. How are plains formed?
Plains are formed by deposition of sediments by rivers.
33. What are alluvial plains?
Alluvial plains are formed by river deposits.
34. Name the largest alluvial plain in the world.
The Indo-Gangetic Plain is the largest alluvial plain.
35. Why are plains densely populated?
Plains have fertile soil and flat land suitable for agriculture.
36. What is a floodplain?
A floodplain is a flat area beside a river.
37. What are coastal plains?
Coastal plains are low-lying areas along the coast.
38. Which plains lie along India’s east coast?
The Eastern Coastal Plains lie along India’s east coast.
39. What are deltaic plains?
Deltaic plains are formed at river mouths.
40. Which river forms the Sundarbans delta?
The Ganga and Brahmaputra form the Sundarbans delta.
41. What is a volcano?
A volcano is an opening through which magma reaches the surface.
42. What is magma?
Magma is molten rock beneath the Earth’s surface.
43. What is lava?
Lava is magma that reaches the Earth’s surface.
44. What are active volcanoes?
Active volcanoes are those that erupt frequently.
45. Name an active volcano.
Mount Etna is an active volcano.
46. What is an earthquake?
An earthquake is the sudden shaking of the Earth.
47. What causes earthquakes?
Earthquakes are caused by movement of tectonic plates.
48. What is the Richter scale?
The Richter scale measures earthquake magnitude.
49. Which areas are earthquake-prone?
Plate boundaries are earthquake-prone areas.
50. What is a fault?
A fault is a crack in the Earth’s crust.
51. What is mechanical weathering?
Mechanical weathering breaks rocks without chemical change.
52. What is chemical weathering?
Chemical weathering alters the chemical composition of rocks.
53. What is biological weathering?
Biological weathering is caused by plants and animals.
54. What is river erosion?
River erosion is erosion by flowing water.
55. What landforms are created by rivers?
Valleys, waterfalls, and meanders are created by rivers.
56. What is a V-shaped valley?
It is a valley formed by river erosion.
57. What is a waterfall?
A waterfall is a sudden drop in a river’s course.
58. What is a meander?
A meander is a curve in a river.
59. What is an ox-bow lake?
An ox-bow lake is a cut-off river meander.
60. What is a gorge?
A gorge is a deep narrow valley.
61. What is a glacier?
A glacier is a mass of moving ice.
62. What landforms are created by glaciers?
Cirques and moraines are glacial landforms.
63. What is a cirque?
A cirque is a bowl-shaped glacial depression.
64. What is a moraine?
A moraine is debris deposited by a glacier.
65. What is wind erosion?
Wind erosion is erosion by wind action.
66. What are sand dunes?
Sand dunes are hills of sand formed by wind.
67. What is a mushroom rock?
A mushroom rock is eroded by wind.
68. What is a beach?
A beach is formed by marine deposition.
69. What is a cliff?
A cliff is a steep coastal rock face.
70. What is a sea cave?
A sea cave is formed by wave erosion.
71. What is a sea arch?
A sea arch is formed by wave erosion.
72. What is a stack?
A stack is an isolated rock pillar.
73. What is a lagoon?
A lagoon is a shallow coastal water body.
74. What are coral reefs?
Coral reefs are marine landforms made of corals.
75. What is a karst region?
A karst region is formed in limestone areas.
76. What is a sinkhole?
A sinkhole is a depression in karst regions.
77. What is a stalactite?
A stalactite hangs from cave ceilings.
78. What is a stalagmite?
A stalagmite rises from cave floors.
79. What is a cave?
A cave is a natural underground hollow.
80. Which rock is important for karst landforms?
Limestone is important for karst landforms.
81. Why is geomorphology important?
Geomorphology helps understand landform evolution.
82. Which landforms support agriculture most?
Plains support agriculture the most.
83. Which landforms affect climate strongly?
Mountains affect climate strongly.
84. Which landforms support mining?
Plateaus support mining activities.
85. What role do rivers play in geomorphology?
Rivers shape landforms through erosion and deposition.
86. How do glaciers modify landscapes?
Glaciers carve valleys and deposit debris.
87. What causes coastal erosion?
Coastal erosion is caused by sea waves.
88. What is denudation?
Denudation is the overall lowering of land.
89. What are depositional landforms?
Depositional landforms are formed by deposition.
90. Which landform is best for human settlement?
Plains are best for human settlement.
91. Which force creates volcanoes?
Endogenic forces create volcanoes.
92. Which landforms are oldest?
Residual mountains are oldest landforms.
93. Which agent forms deltas?
Rivers form deltas.
94. Which landform is called tableland?
A plateau is called tableland.
95. Which landforms are fragile?
Coastal landforms are fragile.
96. Which process breaks rocks?
Weathering breaks rocks.
97. Which process moves sediments?
Erosion moves sediments.
98. Which process lays sediments?
Deposition lays sediments.
99. Why is geomorphology asked in exams?
It explains Earth surface processes.
100. Why is geomorphology important for geography?
It forms the foundation of physical geography.
III. Climatology GK – 100 Important Questions & Answers
1. What is climatology?
Climatology is the branch of geography that studies climate and long-term weather patterns.
2. What is climate?
Climate refers to the average weather conditions of a place over a long period of time.
3. What is weather?
Weather is the day-to-day condition of the atmosphere at a particular place and time.
4. Which gas is most abundant in the atmosphere?
Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the Earth’s atmosphere.
5. Which gas is essential for respiration?
Oxygen is essential for respiration in living organisms.
6. Which gas is mainly responsible for the greenhouse effect?
Carbon dioxide is one of the main gases responsible for the greenhouse effect.
7. Which layer of the atmosphere contains weather phenomena?
The troposphere contains all weather-related phenomena.
8. What is the average thickness of the troposphere?
The troposphere extends up to about 8–18 km above the Earth’s surface.
9. Which atmospheric layer contains the ozone layer?
The ozone layer is found in the stratosphere.
10. Which layer protects life from harmful ultraviolet rays?
The stratosphere protects life by absorbing ultraviolet radiation.
11. What is insolation?
Insolation is the incoming solar radiation received by the Earth.
12. Which latitude receives maximum insolation?
The equator receives maximum insolation throughout the year.
13. What is albedo?
Albedo is the reflectivity of the Earth’s surface.
14. Which surface has the highest albedo?
Snow-covered surfaces have the highest albedo.
15. What causes variation in temperature on Earth?
Latitude, altitude, distance from the sea, and ocean currents cause temperature variation.
16. What is the normal lapse rate?
The normal lapse rate is the decrease of temperature with height at 6.5°C per 1000 meters.
17. What is temperature inversion?
Temperature inversion is a condition in which temperature increases with altitude.
18. Where is temperature inversion common?
Temperature inversion commonly occurs in valleys during winter nights.
19. Which instrument measures temperature?
Temperature is measured using a thermometer.
20. What is isotherm?
An isotherm is a line joining places with equal temperature.
21. What is atmospheric pressure?
Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of air on the Earth’s surface.
22. Which instrument measures air pressure?
Air pressure is measured by a barometer.
23. What is a barograph?
A barograph records changes in atmospheric pressure continuously.
24. What causes winds to blow?
Winds blow due to differences in atmospheric pressure.
25. From where does wind blow?
Wind blows from high-pressure areas to low-pressure areas.
26. What are permanent winds?
Permanent winds blow throughout the year in a fixed direction.
27. Name an example of permanent winds.
Trade winds are an example of permanent winds.
28. What are periodic winds?
Periodic winds change their direction seasonally.
29. Which winds are best example of periodic winds?
Monsoon winds are the best example of periodic winds.
30. What are local winds?
Local winds blow over small areas for a short duration.
31. What is a cyclone?
A cyclone is a low-pressure system with rotating winds.
32. In which direction do cyclones rotate in the Northern Hemisphere?
Cyclones rotate anticlockwise in the Northern Hemisphere.
33. What is an anticyclone?
An anticyclone is a high-pressure system with outward-moving winds.
34. Which hemisphere experiences clockwise cyclones?
The Southern Hemisphere experiences clockwise cyclones.
35. What is a tropical cyclone?
A tropical cyclone is an intense low-pressure system formed over warm oceans.
36. What is the minimum sea surface temperature for cyclone formation?
A temperature of at least 26.5°C is required.
37. What are cyclones called in the Atlantic Ocean?
They are called hurricanes.
38. What are cyclones called in the Pacific Ocean?
They are called typhoons.
39. What is the eye of a cyclone?
The eye is the calm center of a cyclone.
40. Which scale measures cyclone intensity?
The Saffir–Simpson scale measures cyclone intensity.
41. What is humidity?
Humidity is the amount of water vapor present in the air.
42. What is absolute humidity?
Absolute humidity is the actual amount of water vapor per unit volume of air.
43. What is relative humidity?
Relative humidity is the percentage of moisture present compared to maximum capacity.
44. Which instrument measures humidity?
Humidity is measured by a hygrometer.
45. What is condensation?
Condensation is the process by which water vapor changes into liquid.
46. What are clouds?
Clouds are visible masses of condensed water droplets or ice crystals.
47. Which clouds cause rainfall?
Cumulonimbus clouds cause heavy rainfall.
48. Which clouds are called fair-weather clouds?
Cumulus clouds are called fair-weather clouds.
49. What is precipitation?
Precipitation is the falling of moisture from the atmosphere to the Earth.
50. What are the main forms of precipitation?
Rain, snow, sleet, and hail are main forms of precipitation.
51. What is convectional rainfall?
Convectional rainfall occurs due to rising warm air.
52. Where is convectional rainfall common?
It is common in equatorial regions.
53. What is orographic rainfall?
Orographic rainfall occurs when moist air rises over mountains.
54. Which side of a mountain receives more rainfall?
The windward side receives more rainfall.
55. What is rain shadow area?
It is the dry area on the leeward side of a mountain.
56. What is cyclonic rainfall?
Cyclonic rainfall occurs due to convergence of air in low-pressure systems.
57. Which rainfall is common in temperate regions?
Cyclonic rainfall is common in temperate regions.
58. What is monsoon rainfall?
Monsoon rainfall is seasonal rainfall caused by periodic winds.
59. Which country is most affected by monsoon rainfall?
India is most affected by monsoon rainfall.
60. Which instrument measures rainfall?
Rainfall is measured using a rain gauge.
61. What is Köppen climate classification?
It is a system of climate classification based on temperature and rainfall.
62. Who proposed the Köppen classification?
Wladimir Köppen proposed the classification.
63. What is El Niño?
El Niño is a warm ocean current in the Pacific Ocean affecting global climate.
64. What is La Niña?
La Niña is the cooling of Pacific Ocean waters.
65. What is global warming?
Global warming is the gradual increase in Earth’s average temperature.
66. What causes global warming?
Increase in greenhouse gases causes global warming.
67. What is climate change?
Climate change refers to long-term changes in climate patterns.
68. Which gas is not a greenhouse gas?
Nitrogen is not a greenhouse gas.
69. What is the greenhouse effect?
It is the trapping of heat by gases in the atmosphere.
70. Which international agreement addresses climate change?
The Paris Agreement addresses climate change.
71. What is a heat wave?
A heat wave is a prolonged period of extremely high temperature.
72. What is a cold wave?
A cold wave is a sudden fall in temperature.
73. What is a drought?
A drought is a prolonged period of deficient rainfall.
74. What is a flood?
A flood is the overflow of water submerging land.
75. What is fog?
Fog is a cloud formed at ground level.
76. What is smog?
Smog is a mixture of smoke and fog.
77. What causes thunderstorms?
Rapid upward movement of warm moist air causes thunderstorms.
78. What is hailstorm?
A hailstorm involves precipitation of ice pellets.
79. What is jet stream?
Jet streams are fast-flowing air currents in the upper atmosphere.
80. Where are jet streams found?
Jet streams are found in the upper troposphere.
81. Why is climatology important for agriculture?
Climatology helps in crop planning and irrigation.
82. Why is climate study important for humans?
Climate affects health, economy, and lifestyle.
83. What is monsoon break?
Monsoon break is a temporary dry spell during monsoon season.
84. Which month receives highest rainfall in India?
July generally receives the highest rainfall.
85. What is western disturbance?
It is an extra-tropical storm affecting North India.
86. Which season brings western disturbances?
Winter season brings western disturbances.
87. What causes desert climate?
Low rainfall and high evaporation cause desert climate.
88. What is maritime climate?
Maritime climate is influenced by seas and oceans.
89. What is continental climate?
Continental climate experiences extreme temperatures.
90. What is tundra climate?
Tundra climate is extremely cold with very little vegetation.
91. Which climate has rainfall throughout the year?
Equatorial climate has rainfall throughout the year.
92. Which wind causes rainfall in India?
Southwest monsoon winds cause rainfall in India.
93. What is dew point?
Dew point is the temperature at which condensation begins.
94. What is frost?
Frost is ice formed when temperature falls below freezing.
95. What is cloudburst?
Cloudburst is extremely heavy rainfall in a short time.
96. What is microclimate?
Microclimate is climate of a small area.
97. What is macroclimate?
Macroclimate is climate of a large region.
98. Which factor affects climate the most?
Latitude is the most important factor.
99. Which latitude is called the heat zone?
The tropics are called the heat zone.
100. Why is climatology important for disaster management?
Climatology helps in predicting and reducing natural disasters.
IV. Oceanography GK – Important Questions & Answers
1. What is oceanography?
Oceanography is the branch of geography that studies oceans and seas.
2. How much of the Earth’s surface is covered by oceans?
About 71 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by oceans.
3. How many major oceans are there on Earth?
There are five major oceans on Earth.
4. Name the five major oceans.
The Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern, and Arctic Oceans are the five major oceans.
5. Which is the largest ocean?
The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean in the world.
6. Which is the smallest ocean?
The Arctic Ocean is the smallest ocean in the world.
7. Which ocean lies between Africa, Asia, and Australia?
The Indian Ocean lies between Africa, Asia, and Australia.
8. Which ocean is the deepest?
The Pacific Ocean is the deepest ocean.
9. What is the deepest point in the ocean?
The Mariana Trench is the deepest point in the ocean.
10. Where is the Mariana Trench located?
The Mariana Trench is located in the Pacific Ocean.
11. What is the continental shelf?
The continental shelf is the shallow submerged extension of a continent.
12. Why is the continental shelf important?
It is important for fishing and mineral resources.
13. What is the continental slope?
The continental slope is the steep descent from the shelf to deep ocean floor.
14. What is the continental rise?
The continental rise is the gentle slope formed by sediments.
15. What is the abyssal plain?
An abyssal plain is a flat deep ocean floor.
16. What are mid-oceanic ridges?
Mid-oceanic ridges are underwater mountain ranges.
17. Which is the longest mid-oceanic ridge?
The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is the longest.
18. What are ocean trenches?
Ocean trenches are deep narrow depressions in the ocean floor.
19. What is a seamount?
A seamount is a submerged volcanic mountain.
20. What is a guyot?
A guyot is a flat-topped seamount.
21. What is salinity?
Salinity is the amount of dissolved salts in seawater.
22. What is the average salinity of oceans?
The average salinity is about 35 parts per thousand.
23. Which sea has the highest salinity?
The Dead Sea has the highest salinity.
24. Why is ocean water salty?
Because rivers bring dissolved minerals to the oceans.
25. What factors affect salinity?
Evaporation, precipitation, and freshwater inflow affect salinity.
26. What is ocean temperature affected by?
Latitude and ocean currents affect temperature.
27. What is thermocline?
Thermocline is a layer with rapid temperature change.
28. What is halocline?
Halocline is a layer with rapid salinity change.
29. What is pycnocline?
Pycnocline is a layer with rapid density change.
30. Why is ocean water denser at greater depths?
Due to lower temperature and higher pressure.
31. What are ocean waves?
Ocean waves are the rise and fall of water caused by wind.
32. What are tides?
Tides are the periodic rise and fall of sea level.
33. What causes tides?
The gravitational pull of the Moon and the Sun causes tides.
34. What are spring tides?
Spring tides occur when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are aligned.
35. What are neap tides?
Neap tides occur when the Sun and Moon are at right angles.
36. What are ocean currents?
Ocean currents are continuous movements of ocean water.
37. What are warm currents?
Warm currents carry warm water from low to high latitudes.
38. Name an example of a warm current.
The Gulf Stream is a warm ocean current.
39. What are cold currents?
Cold currents carry cold water from high to low latitudes.
40. Name an example of a cold current.
The Labrador Current is a cold ocean current.
41. How do ocean currents affect climate?
They regulate temperature and rainfall patterns.
42. Which current warms Western Europe?
The North Atlantic Drift warms Western Europe.
43. Which current causes fog in Newfoundland?
The Labrador Current causes fog.
44. What is upwelling?
Upwelling is the rising of cold nutrient-rich water.
45. Why is upwelling important?
It supports rich fishing grounds.
46. Where does upwelling occur?
It occurs along western coasts of continents.
47. What is El Niño related to?
El Niño is related to ocean currents.
48. Which ocean is affected by El Niño?
The Pacific Ocean is affected by El Niño.
49. What is La Niña?
La Niña is the cooling of surface waters.
50. What effect does El Niño have on India?
It often causes weak monsoon rainfall.
51. What is a sea?
A sea is a partially enclosed body of ocean water.
52. What is a gulf?
A gulf is a deep inlet of the sea.
53. What is a strait?
A strait is a narrow water passage connecting seas.
54. Name the largest sea in the world.
The Mediterranean Sea is the largest sea.
55. Which is the Red Sea famous for?
The Red Sea is famous for high salinity.
56. Which strait connects the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean?
The Bab-el-Mandeb Strait connects them.
57. Which strait separates Asia and Europe?
The Bosphorus Strait separates Asia and Europe.
58. Which gulf is rich in petroleum?
The Persian Gulf is rich in petroleum.
59. Which sea lies between Europe and Africa?
The Mediterranean Sea lies between Europe and Africa.
60. Which strait connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans?
The Strait of Magellan connects them.
61. What is plankton?
Plankton are microscopic marine organisms.
62. What are phytoplankton?
Phytoplankton are plant-like plankton.
63. What are zooplankton?
Zooplankton are animal-like plankton.
64. Why are oceans important for oxygen?
They produce a large amount of oxygen.
65. What are coral reefs?
Coral reefs are limestone structures formed by corals.
66. Which is the largest coral reef system?
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest.
67. What are mangroves?
Mangroves are coastal forests.
68. Why are mangroves important?
They protect coasts from erosion.
69. What are marine resources?
Marine resources include fish, minerals, and energy.
70. Which mineral is obtained from sea water?
Common salt is obtained from sea water.
71. What is marine pollution?
Marine pollution is contamination of oceans.
72. What causes marine pollution?
Industrial waste and oil spills cause pollution.
73. What is an oil spill?
An oil spill is leakage of oil into the ocean.
74. What is ocean acidification?
Ocean acidification is decrease in ocean pH.
75. What causes ocean acidification?
Excess carbon dioxide absorption causes it.
76. What is overfishing?
Overfishing is excessive catching of fish.
77. Why is overfishing harmful?
It reduces marine biodiversity.
78. What is Exclusive Economic Zone?
It is a 200 nautical mile sea zone of a country.
79. What is maritime trade?
Maritime trade is trade through sea routes.
80. Which ocean route is most important for trade?
The Atlantic Ocean route is most important.
81. What is the Blue Economy?
The Blue Economy focuses on sustainable ocean use.
82. Which ocean surrounds Antarctica?
The Southern Ocean surrounds Antarctica.
83. Which sea has no coastline?
The Sargasso Sea has no coastline.
84. Which ocean current affects Japan?
The Kuroshio Current affects Japan.
85. Which cold current flows along western South America?
The Peru Current flows along western South America.
86. Which ocean has the highest average temperature?
The Indian Ocean has the highest average temperature.
87. What is a tsunami?
A tsunami is a giant ocean wave caused by earthquakes.
88. What causes tsunami?
Undersea earthquakes cause tsunamis.
89. Which ocean is most prone to tsunamis?
The Pacific Ocean is most prone.
90. What is continental drift related to?
It is related to ocean floor spreading.
91. Why are oceans important for climate regulation?
They absorb heat and carbon dioxide.
92. What is sea level rise?
Sea level rise is increase in ocean levels.
93. What causes sea level rise?
Melting glaciers and thermal expansion cause it.
94. What is coastal erosion?
Coastal erosion is wearing away of coastlines.
95. What is submarine cable?
It is an underwater communication cable.
96. Why are ports important?
Ports support trade and transport.
97. What is ballast water?
Ballast water stabilizes ships.
98. Why is ballast water harmful?
It spreads invasive species.
99. What is marine sanctuary?
It is a protected ocean area.
100. Why is oceanography important?
Oceanography helps in climate study and resource management.
V. Hydrology GK – 100 Important Questions & Answers
1. What is hydrology?
Hydrology is the branch of geography that studies the distribution and movement of water on Earth.
2. What does hydrology mainly deal with?
Hydrology mainly deals with surface water, groundwater, and the water cycle.
3. Why is hydrology important?
Hydrology is important for water management, agriculture, and human survival.
4. What percentage of the Earth’s surface is covered by water?
About 71 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water.
5. How much freshwater is available on Earth?
Only about 2.5 percent of Earth’s water is freshwater.
6. Where is most freshwater stored?
Most freshwater is stored in glaciers and ice caps.
7. What is surface water?
Surface water includes rivers, lakes, and streams.
8. What is groundwater?
Groundwater is water stored beneath the Earth’s surface in aquifers.
9. What is hydrosphere?
The hydrosphere includes all water bodies on Earth.
10. What is potable water?
Potable water is water safe for drinking.
11. What is the water cycle?
The water cycle is the continuous movement of water between land, air, and oceans.
12. What is evaporation?
Evaporation is the process of water changing into water vapor.
13. What is condensation?
Condensation is the process of water vapor changing into liquid water.
14. What is precipitation?
Precipitation is the falling of water in the form of rain, snow, or hail.
15. What is transpiration?
Transpiration is the release of water vapor from plants.
16. What is infiltration?
Infiltration is the process by which water enters the soil.
17. What is percolation?
Percolation is the downward movement of water through soil layers.
18. What is runoff?
Runoff is excess water flowing over land into rivers.
19. Which process returns water to oceans?
Runoff returns water to oceans.
20. Why is the water cycle important?
The water cycle maintains water balance on Earth.
21. What is a river?
A river is a natural flowing stream of water.
22. What is the source of a river?
The source is the starting point of a river.
23. What is the mouth of a river?
The mouth is the place where a river ends.
24. What is a tributary?
A tributary is a smaller river joining a main river.
25. What is a drainage basin?
A drainage basin is the area drained by a river system.
26. What is a watershed?
A watershed is a boundary separating drainage basins.
27. What is river meandering?
Meandering is the winding course of a river.
28. What is an oxbow lake?
An oxbow lake is a cut-off meander loop.
29. What is a delta?
A delta is a triangular landform formed at river mouth.
30. Which river has the largest delta?
The Ganga–Brahmaputra river has the largest delta.
31. What is a lake?
A lake is a large inland body of water.
32. What is a freshwater lake?
A freshwater lake contains low salt content.
33. What is a saline lake?
A saline lake contains high salt content.
34. Name a famous freshwater lake in India.
Wular Lake is a famous freshwater lake in India.
35. Name a saline lake in India.
Sambhar Lake is a saline lake in India.
36. What is a wetland?
A wetland is land saturated with water.
37. Why are wetlands important?
Wetlands control floods and support biodiversity.
38. What is a reservoir?
A reservoir is an artificial lake for storing water.
39. Why are dams built?
Dams are built for irrigation and electricity.
40. What is hydropower?
Hydropower is electricity generated from flowing water.
41. What is groundwater recharge?
Groundwater recharge is refilling of aquifers.
42. What is an aquifer?
An aquifer is an underground water-bearing layer.
43. What is the water table?
The water table is the upper level of groundwater.
44. What causes water table depletion?
Over-extraction of groundwater causes depletion.
45. What is artesian well?
An artesian well flows naturally due to pressure.
46. What is spring water?
Spring water emerges naturally from the ground.
47. What is groundwater pollution?
Groundwater pollution is contamination of underground water.
48. What causes groundwater pollution?
Industrial waste and fertilizers cause pollution.
49. What is rainwater harvesting?
Rainwater harvesting is collection of rainwater.
50. Why is rainwater harvesting important?
It helps conserve groundwater.
51. What is a glacier?
A glacier is a slow-moving mass of ice.
52. Where are glaciers found?
Glaciers are found in polar and mountainous regions.
53. What is glacial meltwater?
Glacial meltwater is water from melting glaciers.
54. Why are glaciers important?
Glaciers are major freshwater sources.
55. What is glacier retreat?
Glacier retreat is shrinking of glaciers.
56. What causes glacier melting?
Global warming causes glacier melting.
57. Which rivers originate from glaciers?
The Ganga and Indus originate from glaciers.
58. What is snowmelt runoff?
It is water flow from melting snow.
59. Why is snow important for rivers?
Snow maintains river flow in summer.
60. What is an ice cap?
An ice cap is a large ice-covered area.
61. What is a flood?
A flood is overflow of water over land.
62. What causes floods?
Heavy rainfall and dam failure cause floods.
63. What is flash flood?
A flash flood occurs suddenly.
64. What is drought?
A drought is prolonged water shortage.
65. What causes droughts?
Low rainfall causes droughts.
66. What is water scarcity?
Water scarcity is lack of sufficient water.
67. What is water conservation?
Water conservation means careful use of water.
68. What is watershed management?
It is management of water resources.
69. What is river interlinking?
River interlinking connects rivers artificially.
70. Why is river pollution dangerous?
It harms aquatic life and humans.
71. What is irrigation?
Irrigation is artificial supply of water to crops.
72. Which irrigation method saves water?
Drip irrigation saves water.
73. What is canal irrigation?
Canal irrigation uses canals from rivers.
74. What is sprinkler irrigation?
Sprinkler irrigation sprays water on crops.
75. Why is hydrology important for agriculture?
It ensures water availability for crops.
76. What is drinking water crisis?
It is shortage of safe drinking water.
77. What is desalination?
Desalination removes salt from seawater.
78. Which country uses desalination most?
Saudi Arabia uses desalination widely.
79. What is sustainable water use?
It is use without harming future needs.
80. What is blue water?
Blue water refers to surface and groundwater.
81. What is green water?
Green water is moisture stored in soil.
82. What is grey water?
Grey water is wastewater from households.
83. What is water footprint?
Water footprint measures water usage.
84. What is virtual water?
Virtual water is hidden water in products.
85. What is hydrograph?
A hydrograph shows river discharge.
86. What is discharge of a river?
Discharge is volume of water flowing.
87. What is river rejuvenation?
It is restoration of polluted rivers.
88. What is groundwater overexploitation?
It is excessive extraction of groundwater.
89. What is integrated water management?
It is combined management of water resources.
90. Why is hydrology important for humans?
It ensures water security.
91. What is climate change impact on hydrology?
It alters rainfall and river flow.
92. What causes sea level rise?
Melting ice and warming oceans cause it.
93. What is water logging?
Water logging is excess water in soil.
94. What is floodplain?
A floodplain is flat land near rivers.
95. What is river basin planning?
It is planning water use basin-wise.
96. What is groundwater recharge structure?
It helps refill aquifers.
97. What is check dam?
A check dam slows water flow.
98. What is sustainable hydrology?
It balances water use and conservation.
99. What is water security?
Water security ensures reliable water access.
100. Why is hydrology crucial today?
Hydrology is crucial due to rising water demand.
VI. Soil & Natural Vegetation –GK
1. What is soil?
Soil is the uppermost layer of the Earth’s surface that supports plant life.
2. How is soil formed?
Soil is formed by the weathering of rocks over a long period of time.
3. What is soil profile?
A soil profile is the vertical section of soil showing different layers.
4. How many main horizons are found in soil?
There are mainly three soil horizons: A, B, and C.
5. What is topsoil?
Topsoil is the uppermost fertile layer of soil.
6. Why is topsoil important?
Topsoil is important because it contains nutrients and organic matter.
7. What is subsoil?
Subsoil is the layer beneath topsoil containing minerals.
8. What is parent rock?
Parent rock is the original rock from which soil is formed.
9. What is humus?
Humus is decomposed organic matter in soil.
10. Why is humus important?
Humus increases soil fertility and water retention.
11. What is weathering?
Weathering is the breaking down of rocks into smaller particles.
12. What are the main factors of soil formation?
Climate, relief, parent material, vegetation, and time are main factors.
13. How does climate affect soil formation?
Climate influences temperature and rainfall, affecting soil development.
14. How does vegetation affect soil?
Vegetation adds organic matter and protects soil from erosion.
15. How does relief affect soil formation?
Steep slopes have thin soils, while plains have thick soils.
16. What role does time play in soil formation?
More time leads to well-developed soil profiles.
17. What is leaching?
Leaching is the removal of soluble nutrients by water.
18. What is laterization?
Laterization is the process forming laterite soil in hot regions.
19. What is soil erosion?
Soil erosion is the removal of topsoil by wind or water.
20. Why is soil erosion harmful?
It reduces soil fertility and agricultural productivity.
21. What is alluvial soil?
Alluvial soil is deposited by rivers.
22. Which soil is most fertile in India?
Alluvial soil is the most fertile in India.
23. What is black soil also called?
Black soil is also called regur soil.
24. Which crop is best suited for black soil?
Cotton grows best in black soil.
25. What is red soil?
Red soil is rich in iron oxide.
26. Why is red soil red in color?
Due to the presence of iron.
27. What is laterite soil?
Laterite soil forms in high rainfall areas.
28. Which soil is found in deserts?
Arid or desert soil is found in deserts.
29. What is mountain soil?
Mountain soil is found in hilly regions.
30. Which soil supports tea cultivation?
Laterite and mountain soils support tea cultivation.
31. What is soil conservation?
Soil conservation is the protection of soil from erosion.
32. What is contour ploughing?
Contour ploughing follows natural contours to prevent erosion.
33. What is terrace farming?
Terrace farming involves step-like fields on slopes.
34. What is strip cropping?
Strip cropping alternates crops to reduce erosion.
35. Why is afforestation important for soil?
Afforestation prevents soil erosion.
36. What is crop rotation?
Crop rotation is growing different crops in sequence.
37. Why is crop rotation useful?
It maintains soil fertility.
38. What is green manure?
Green manure crops enrich soil nutrients.
39. What is organic farming?
Organic farming avoids chemical fertilizers.
40. What is sustainable soil use?
It ensures long-term soil productivity.
41. What is natural vegetation?
Natural vegetation grows without human interference.
42. What is flora?
Flora refers to plant life of a region.
43. What is fauna?
Fauna refers to animal life of a region.
44. What is biodiversity?
Biodiversity is the variety of life forms.
45. Why is natural vegetation important?
It maintains ecological balance.
46. What factors influence natural vegetation?
Climate, soil, and relief influence vegetation.
47. What is a biome?
A biome is a large ecological region.
48. What is deforestation?
Deforestation is the removal of forests.
49. Why is deforestation harmful?
It causes climate change and soil erosion.
50. What is afforestation?
Afforestation is planting of trees.
51. What are tropical evergreen forests?
They grow in areas with heavy rainfall.
52. Where are tropical evergreen forests found in India?
They are found in Western Ghats and Northeast India.
53. What are tropical deciduous forests?
They shed leaves in dry season.
54. Which trees grow in deciduous forests?
Teak and sal trees grow there.
55. What are thorn forests?
Thorn forests grow in dry regions.
56. Which tree is common in thorn forests?
Acacia is common.
57. What are mangrove forests?
Mangroves grow in coastal tidal areas.
58. Which mangrove forest is largest in India?
Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest.
59. What are montane forests?
Montane forests grow in mountainous regions.
60. Which trees grow in montane forests?
Pine and deodar grow there.
61. What are grasslands?
Grasslands are areas dominated by grasses.
62. Where are tropical grasslands found?
They are found in Africa and South America.
63. What are savannas?
Savannas are tropical grasslands with scattered trees.
64. What are temperate grasslands called in Asia?
They are called steppes.
65. What are prairies?
Prairies are temperate grasslands of North America.
66. What is tundra vegetation?
Tundra vegetation grows in very cold regions.
67. Which plants grow in tundra?
Mosses and lichens grow there.
68. What is desert vegetation?
Vegetation adapted to dry conditions.
69. What are xerophytes?
Xerophytes are plants adapted to deserts.
70. Why do cactus plants store water?
They store water to survive drought.
71. What is forest conservation?
Forest conservation is protection of forests.
72. What is social forestry?
Social forestry involves community participation.
73. What is wildlife sanctuary?
A protected area for animals.
74. What is national park?
A protected area for wildlife and vegetation.
75. What is biosphere reserve?
A large protected ecological area.
76. Why are forests called green lungs?
They supply oxygen.
77. What is climate change impact on vegetation?
It alters vegetation patterns.
78. What is soil salinization?
Increase of salt in soil.
79. What causes soil salinization?
Over-irrigation causes it.
80. What is land degradation?
Decline in land productivity.
81. What is agroforestry?
Agroforestry combines agriculture and trees.
82. What is shifting cultivation?
Temporary farming with forest clearing.
83. Where is shifting cultivation practiced in India?
It is practiced in Northeast India.
84. What is forest cover?
Area under forests.
85. What is ecosystem?
Interaction between living and non-living things.
86. What is ecological balance?
Balanced relationship in nature.
87. What is sustainable development?
Development without harming future needs.
88. Why is soil called a natural resource?
Because it supports life.
89. Why is vegetation important for rainfall?
It helps in moisture circulation.
90. What is desertification?
Conversion of fertile land into desert.
91. What is green revolution impact on soil?
It increased chemical use.
92. What is organic matter depletion?
Loss of humus in soil.
93. What is reforestation?
Replanting trees.
94. What is carbon sink?
Forests absorb carbon dioxide.
95. What is soil testing?
Testing soil nutrients.
96. What is land use planning?
Planned use of land resources.
97. What is vegetation map?
Map showing plant types.
98. What is eco-restoration?
Restoring damaged ecosystems.
99. Why is soil called living system?
Because it contains organisms.
100. Why is soil and vegetation study important?
It helps in food security and environmental protection.
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