1.
South Asia can be described as a large, distinct landmass that is joined to a continent. The word that best describes this is:
Correct Answer
C. Subcontinent
Explanation
South Asia is a region that is geographically distinct and separate from the rest of the continent. It is not an island because it is connected to the continent. It is also not a country because it consists of multiple countries. While it could be considered a peninsula, the term that best describes South Asia is "subcontinent" as it refers to a large and distinct landmass that is part of a larger continent.
2.
In what part of South Asia are monsoon rains heaviest?
Correct Answer
B. Eastern South Asia
Explanation
The correct answer is eastern South Asia. This region, which includes countries like India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, experiences the heaviest monsoon rains due to the influence of the Bay of Bengal. The warm and moist air from the ocean brings heavy rainfall to this area during the monsoon season, resulting in significant flooding and agricultural benefits.
3.
What impact do the summer monsoons of South Asia have on the people living there?
Correct Answer
C. Causes people to grow crops
Explanation
The summer monsoons of South Asia have a positive impact on the people living there as they cause people to grow crops. The monsoons bring heavy rainfall, which provides essential water for agriculture. This water is crucial for the growth of crops, ensuring food security for the population. The monsoons also replenish water sources like rivers and lakes, which support irrigation systems. Therefore, the summer monsoons play a vital role in sustaining agriculture and livelihoods in South Asia.
4.
The Ganges River flows ______________ from the Himalayas.
Correct Answer
C. East
Explanation
The Ganges River flows east from the Himalayas.
5.
Â
Monsoons are caused by:
Correct Answer
B. Wind patterns and varied land and ocean temperatures
Explanation
Monsoons are caused by wind patterns and varied land and ocean temperatures. Wind patterns play a crucial role in the formation of monsoons as they help in transporting moisture from oceans to land. The temperature difference between land and ocean also contributes to the formation of monsoons. During summer, land heats up faster than the ocean, creating low-pressure areas over land. This causes moist air from the ocean to flow towards the land, resulting in heavy rainfall. Conversely, during winter, the temperature difference reverses, leading to dry conditions.
6.
What two countries in South Asia primarily practice Islam?
Correct Answer
C. Pakistan and Bangladesh
Explanation
Pakistan and Bangladesh are the two countries in South Asia that primarily practice Islam. Pakistan is an Islamic republic with Islam as its state religion, and the majority of its population follows Islam. Bangladesh, on the other hand, is the fourth-largest Muslim-majority country in the world, with Islam being the state religion and the majority of its population practicing Islam.
7.
The concepts of karma and samsara are teachings within each of the following religions EXCEPT:
Correct Answer
C. Confucianism
Explanation
Confucianism does not believe in the concepts of karma and samsara. Karma is the belief that one's actions in this life will affect their future lives, while samsara is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism all incorporate these concepts into their teachings. However, Confucianism focuses more on ethics, social harmony, and the cultivation of virtue in this life rather than the belief in future lives and the consequences of past actions.
8.
Hindu’s revere which of the following rivers as sacred?
Correct Answer
D. Ganges River
Explanation
Hindus revere the Ganges River as sacred. The Ganges is considered a goddess in Hinduism and is worshipped as the embodiment of purity and divinity. It is believed that bathing in the Ganges can cleanse one's sins and bring spiritual purification. The river is also associated with several Hindu myths and legends, making it a significant religious symbol for Hindus.
9.
The word “karma” literally means:
Correct Answer
A. Action
Explanation
The word "karma" is derived from Sanskrit and it literally means "action". In Hinduism and Buddhism, karma refers to the consequences of one's actions, both in this life and in future lives. It is believed that every action has a consequence, and these consequences can be positive or negative depending on the nature of the action. Therefore, the correct answer is "action".
10.
Originally the sacred text Sanskrit could only be read by:
Correct Answer
B. The priestly caste (Brahmins)
Explanation
In ancient India, Sanskrit was considered a sacred language and was primarily used by the Brahmins, who were the highest caste and held the role of priests and scholars. They were responsible for studying and interpreting the religious texts written in Sanskrit, performing rituals, and preserving the knowledge of the scriptures. The other castes, such as the Kshatriyas (warrior caste), Shudras (servant caste), and Vaishyas (merchant caste), did not have the same level of access or education in Sanskrit as the Brahmins. Therefore, the correct answer is the priestly caste (Brahmins).
11.
What two reasons best explain why the British were interested in the colonizing of India?
Correct Answer
C. Raw materials and consumers
Explanation
The British were interested in colonizing India primarily for two reasons: raw materials and consumers. India had abundant resources such as cotton, jute, indigo, and tea, which were highly sought after by the British for their industries. Additionally, India's large population provided a vast consumer market for British goods, allowing them to expand their trade and increase their profits. The colonization of India allowed the British to exploit its resources and establish a lucrative trade relationship, benefiting their economy.
12.
British colonization of India introduced all of these concepts EXCEPT:
Correct Answer
D. An oligarchy
Explanation
The British colonization of India introduced the English language, railroads, and educational systems to the country. However, it did not introduce an oligarchy. An oligarchy refers to a system of government where a small group of people hold power, which was not a concept introduced by the British colonization of India.
13.
Gandhi stressed Indian independence through:
Correct Answer
B. Non-violence
Explanation
Gandhi believed in achieving Indian independence through non-violence. He advocated for peaceful protests, civil disobedience, and passive resistance as means to challenge British rule. Gandhi believed that violence only perpetuates more violence and that non-violence is a more effective and morally justifiable approach to achieving freedom and justice. Through his philosophy of non-violence, Gandhi inspired millions of people and played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence.
14.
When did India gain independence from Britain?
Correct Answer
D. 1947
Explanation
India gained independence from Britain in 1947. This was the year when the British colonial rule ended in India and the country became a sovereign nation. The Indian independence movement, led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, played a significant role in achieving independence. The year 1947 is widely recognized as a landmark in Indian history, marking the beginning of a new era of self-governance and freedom for the Indian people.
15.
The Partition of India lead to:
Correct Answer
A. The creation of India and Pakistan
Explanation
The Partition of India refers to the division of British India into two separate countries, India and Pakistan, in 1947. This division was based on religious lines, with India becoming a predominantly Hindu nation and Pakistan becoming a predominantly Muslim nation. The partition resulted in widespread violence and displacement, as millions of people migrated across the newly drawn borders. The creation of India and Pakistan marked a significant turning point in the history of the Indian subcontinent, leading to the establishment of two separate nations.
16.
In which South Asian country are
the most cities connected by highways?
In which South Asian country are the most cities connected by highways?
Correct Answer
D. India
Explanation
India has the highest number of cities connected by highways among the given South Asian countries. This is because India has a vast road network, including the National Highway System, which connects major cities and towns across the country. The extensive highway network in India allows for efficient transportation and connectivity between various cities, contributing to its status as the South Asian country with the most cities connected by highways.
17.
In the 1990s India’s government opened it’s economy to direct foreign investments, causing most industries and companies to operate through private ownership. The following statements concerning this change are true EXCEPT:
Correct Answer
D. Caused a growth in population
18.
Indian and Bangladeshi industries are known to manufacture:
Correct Answer
C. Iron
Explanation
Indian and Bangladeshi industries are known to manufacture iron. Iron is a widely used metal in various industries for its strength and durability. Both countries have a significant presence in the iron manufacturing sector, with numerous steel plants and foundries. The production of iron is crucial for infrastructure development, construction, and manufacturing of various products. Therefore, it is not surprising that iron is a prominent product of Indian and Bangladeshi industries.
19.
What is the dominant economic activity in South Asia?
Correct Answer
B. Agriculture
Explanation
The dominant economic activity in South Asia is agriculture. This region is known for its fertile land and favorable climate for agricultural production. Agriculture plays a significant role in the economy of South Asian countries, providing employment to a large portion of the population and contributing to their GDP. The agricultural sector in South Asia includes the cultivation of crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane, and cotton, as well as livestock farming. This sector not only meets the food requirements of the population but also contributes to exports, earning foreign exchange for the region.
20.
Why is it important for countries of South Asia to raise other crops in addition to cash crops?
Correct Answer
D. To supply food to the region
Explanation
It is important for countries of South Asia to raise other crops in addition to cash crops in order to supply food to the region. While cash crops may provide economic benefits through sales and exports, they may not necessarily meet the food needs of the local population. By diversifying their agricultural production to include food crops, these countries can ensure a stable and sufficient food supply for their own people, reducing dependence on imports and promoting food security within the region.
21.
Where do most people in Bangladesh reside?
Correct Answer
C. Cities
Explanation
Most people in Bangladesh reside in cities because cities are the most populous and developed areas in the country. They offer better job opportunities, education, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure compared to rural areas, suburban areas, and small communities. Cities also attract people due to the availability of various amenities, entertainment options, and a higher standard of living. The concentration of people in cities is a result of urbanization and the migration of individuals from rural areas in search of better opportunities and a higher quality of life.
22.
The average population density in India is:
Correct Answer
A. Very high
Explanation
The correct answer is "very high" because India has a large population and a relatively small land area, resulting in a high population density. With over 1.3 billion people, India is the second-most populous country in the world. The population is concentrated in urban areas, leading to crowded cities and high population density.
23.
What was the main effect of European colonization on South Asia?
Correct Answer
D. Division and religious conflict
Explanation
The main effect of European colonization on South Asia was the division and religious conflict. European powers, such as Britain, exploited existing divisions within South Asian societies, leading to the partition of India and the creation of separate nations based on religious lines, namely India and Pakistan. This division resulted in widespread violence and conflict between Hindus and Muslims, leading to the displacement and loss of lives for millions of people.
24.
What event in 1998 made the conflict between India and Pakistan more serious?
Correct Answer
D. India and Pakistan both conducted underground nuclear tests
Explanation
In 1998, both India and Pakistan conducted underground nuclear tests. This event escalated the conflict between the two countries as it demonstrated their nuclear capabilities and increased the threat of a nuclear war. The tests led to international condemnation and heightened tensions in the region.
25.
Based on the Indian caste system, the caste that you were in was determined by:
Correct Answer
A. Birth
Explanation
In the Indian caste system, the caste one belongs to is primarily determined by birth. This means that individuals inherit their caste status from their parents and are placed in a specific caste at the time of their birth. The caste system is hierarchical and rigid, with limited social mobility between castes. Therefore, one's caste is not determined by factors such as family, religious affiliation, or money, but solely by the circumstances of their birth.