1.
Until 1935, current-day Iran was known as:
Correct Answer
B. Persia
Explanation
Until 1935, the country now known as Iran was commonly referred to as Persia. This name was used for centuries and had historical and cultural significance. The term "Persia" originated from the ancient Persian Empire and was widely recognized internationally. However, in 1935, the government of Iran requested that the international community use the name "Iran" to refer to the country, as it was the native name used by Iranians themselves. This change was made to emphasize the country's national identity and to move away from the colonial associations of the name "Persia."
2.
Which body of water does Iran NOT border?:
Correct Answer
B. Sea of Marmara
Explanation
Iran does not border the Sea of Marmara. The Sea of Marmara is located in the northwestern part of Turkey, between the Aegean Sea and the Black Sea. Iran is located in southwestern Asia and is bordered by several bodies of water, including the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea.
3.
With how many countries does Iran share a border?
Correct Answer
C. 7
Explanation
Count 'em: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Pakistan, Turkey and Turkmenistan.
4.
Iran's second-largest urban area, in terms of population, is:
Correct Answer
A. Mashhad
Explanation
Mashhad is the correct answer because it is Iran's second-largest urban area in terms of population. It is a major city located in the northeast of Iran and is known for its religious significance as it is home to the holy shrine of Imam Reza. Mashhad has a population of over 3 million people, making it the second most populous city in Iran after Tehran.
5.
Iran's national symbol is:
Correct Answer
C. A lion
Explanation
Iran's national symbol is a lion. The lion has been a prominent symbol in Iranian culture and history for centuries. It represents strength, courage, and nobility, which are qualities often associated with the Iranian people. The lion has also been depicted in various forms of Iranian art and architecture, further solidifying its significance as a national symbol.
6.
Iran's flag is:
Correct Answer
A. Green, white and red
Explanation
The correct answer is green, white, and red. This is because the flag of Iran consists of three horizontal stripes of green, white, and red. The green stripe represents Islam, the white stripe represents peace, and the red stripe represents courage and martyrdom.
7.
In terms of religious affiliation, Iranians are overwhelmingly:
Correct Answer
C. Shia Muslim
Explanation
The correct answer is Shia Muslim. This is because Iran is predominantly a Shia Muslim country, with approximately 90-95% of the population being Shia Muslims. Shia Islam is the largest branch of Islam in Iran and holds significant influence in the country's religious, cultural, and political spheres. The Shia branch of Islam originated in the 7th century and differs from Sunni Islam in terms of beliefs and practices.
8.
Iran's population is roughly:
Correct Answer
C. 80 million
Explanation
Iran's population is roughly 80 million. This can be inferred from the given options where each option represents a different population size. The correct answer, 80 million, is the option that aligns with the question prompt.
9.
Tehran shares roughly the same latitude with which of these cities?
Correct Answer
D. Oklahoma City
Explanation
Tehran shares roughly the same latitude with Oklahoma City. Latitude is a measure of distance north or south of the equator, and cities that are close in latitude generally have similar climates. Since Tehran and Oklahoma City are at similar latitudes, they are likely to have comparable weather patterns and seasonal variations.
10.
The percentage of Iranians age 15 and over who can read and write is estimated at:
Correct Answer
D. 85%
Explanation
The answer is 85% because it is estimated that the majority of Iranians age 15 and over can read and write. This indicates a high literacy rate among the population, suggesting that education is widely accessible and valued in Iran.