1.
What nation lies due south of the Russian island of Sakhalin, separated from it only by the Soya Strait?
Explanation
Japan lies due south of the Russian island of Sakhalin, separated from it only by the Soya Strait. This strait is a narrow body of water that separates the two land masses, making Japan the nation that lies to the south of Sakhalin.
2.
What U.S. state capital is named for la Petite Roche, an outcropping on the south bank of the Mississippi River’s second-longest tributary?
Explanation
Little Rock is the correct answer. The U.S. state capital is named after la Petite Roche, which is an outcropping on the south bank of the Mississippi River's second-longest tributary. The capital city is located in Arkansas.
3.
The vast majority of New Zealanders live on which of the country’s two islands?
Explanation
The correct answer is North Island. The vast majority of New Zealanders live on the North Island, as it is the more populous and developed of the country's two main islands. The North Island is home to major cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Hamilton, as well as numerous towns and rural areas where the majority of the population resides. The South Island, while still inhabited, has a smaller population in comparison.
4.
Rome’s charming Trastevere neighborhood is so named because it lies on the west bank of what river?
Explanation
Trastevere is a neighborhood in Rome that is known for its charm. It is called Trastevere because it is located on the west bank of the Tiber River. The Tiber River is the main river that runs through Rome, and Trastevere's location on its west bank gives it its name.
5.
Amazonas and Pará are by far the two largest of what country’s 26 states?
Explanation
The correct answer is Brazil because Amazonas and Pará are the two largest states in Brazil out of its total 26 states.
6.
The Emir Sheikh of Dubai is also currently the prime minister of what country?
Explanation
The Emir Sheikh of Dubai holds the position of Prime Minister in the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E). Therefore, the correct answer is United Arab Emirates (U.A.E) or simply UAE.
7.
Directly west of Ghana, formerly the Gold Coast, is another “Coast,” best known in colonial times for exporting what?
Explanation
During colonial times, the "Coast" directly west of Ghana, which was formerly known as the Gold Coast, was best known for exporting ivory. Ivory, which is derived from the tusks of elephants, was highly valued and sought after for its use in creating intricate carvings, jewelry, and other luxury items. The region's proximity to elephant populations made it a prime location for ivory trade, and it became a significant economic activity during colonial times.
8.
The two largest U.S. national forests are the Tongass and Chugach, both found in what state?
Explanation
The correct answer is Alaska, AK. This is because the Tongass and Chugach, which are the two largest U.S. national forests, are both located in the state of Alaska.
9.
What are the two national languages—one African and one European—of Kenya?
Explanation
The two national languages of Kenya are Swahili and English.
10.
What geographic feature runs 810 miles north from the Salton Sea to Daly City, south of San Francisco?
Explanation
The correct answer is the San Andreas Fault or the San Andreas Fault Line. This geographic feature runs 810 miles north from the Salton Sea to Daly City, south of San Francisco. The San Andreas Fault is a major transform fault that marks the boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate. It is known for its seismic activity and is responsible for numerous earthquakes in California.
11.
The city of Nagpur has been called both the geographic center and the “Tiger Capital” of what nation?
Explanation
Nagpur is referred to as the geographic center of India because it is located at the exact center of the country. Additionally, it is known as the "Tiger Capital" of India because it is surrounded by several tiger reserves and national parks, making it a prominent hub for tiger conservation and wildlife tourism.
12.
The Gaspé Peninsula north of New Brunswick is part of what Canadian province?
Explanation
The Gaspé Peninsula is a region located in the easternmost part of the province of Quebec, Canada. It is surrounded by the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Bay of Chaleur. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, including cliffs, forests, and sandy beaches. It is also home to several charming coastal towns and villages. Therefore, the correct answer is Quebec.
13.
What mountain range is traditionally used as the border between Europe and Asia?
Explanation
The Caucasus mountain range is traditionally used as the border between Europe and Asia. This is because it forms a natural barrier between the two continents, with its high peaks and rugged terrain. The region is culturally diverse, with a mix of European and Asian influences, further supporting the idea of it being a border region. Additionally, the Caucasus is geographically located between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, which are often considered as the dividing line between Europe and Asia.
14.
“Hymn of the Isthmus” is the national anthem of what Central American country?
Explanation
The national anthem of Panama is called "Hymn of the Isthmus". This suggests that the correct answer to the question is Panama.
15.
The Balearic, Aeolian, and the Cyclades are all island groups in what sea?
Explanation
The Balearic, Aeolian, and the Cyclades are all island groups located in the Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean Sea is a large body of water surrounded by Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and diverse marine life. The Balearic Islands include popular tourist destinations such as Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca. The Aeolian Islands are a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Sicily, Italy, and the Cyclades are a group of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea.