1.
What nation’s Punta Pariñas is the westernmost point in South America?
Explanation
Punta Pariñas is the westernmost point in South America, and it is located in Peru. This means that Peru is the nation whose Punta Pariñas holds this distinction.
2.
At what Georgia tourist attraction can you see three 60-foot granite men riding Blackjack, Traveller, and Little Sorrel?
Explanation
Stone Mountain is a popular tourist attraction in Georgia where visitors can see three 60-foot granite men riding Blackjack, Traveller, and Little Sorrel. The answer options provided are different variations of the name of this attraction, including "Stone Mountain," "Stone," "Stone Mt," and "Stone Mt."
3.
What not-very-wet (in fact, extremely dry) expanse do the Chinese sometimes call Hanhai, the “endless sea”?
Explanation
The correct answer is Gobi Desert. The Gobi Desert is a vast expanse of dry land in China that is often referred to as the "endless sea" by the Chinese. It is known for its extreme dryness and lack of water, making it not very wet.
4.
What country is currently divided into thirteen regions, including Epirus, Attica, and Thessaly?
Explanation
Greece is currently divided into thirteen regions, including Epirus, Attica, and Thessaly.
5.
At over 1,080 miles, the Mackenzie River is what country’s longest?
Explanation
The Mackenzie River, which spans over 1,080 miles, is located in Canada. This river is the longest in the country, making Canada the correct answer to the question.
6.
What Portuguese archipelago is home to Europe’s only tea plantations?
Explanation
The correct answer is Azores. The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago, is home to Europe's only tea plantations. This archipelago, located in the North Atlantic Ocean, has a unique climate and terrain that allows for the cultivation of tea. The tea plantations in the Azores produce high-quality tea, which is a popular local product and a significant part of the region's cultural heritage.
7.
Benin City is located not in the African nation of Benin, but in what neighbor of Benin’s, the seventh-most populous in the world?
Explanation
Benin City is not located in the African nation of Benin, but in Nigeria, which is a neighboring country to Benin. Nigeria is the seventh-most populous country in the world.
8.
What U.S. state features a crescent moon shape and a palmetto tree on its state flag?
Explanation
The correct answer is South Carolina. The state flag of South Carolina features a crescent moon shape and a palmetto tree. The crescent moon represents the silver emblem worn on the caps of South Carolina troops during the Revolutionary War, while the palmetto tree symbolizes the defense of Fort Moultrie during the Revolutionary War. SC and S.C. are the abbreviations for South Carolina.
9.
What country’s smallest state is Goa, with famous beaches visited by more than two million tourists every year?
Explanation
Goa is a state in India known for its famous beaches that attract over two million tourists annually. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is India.
10.
What “Greenest City in America” is located near the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers?
Explanation
The correct answer is Portland, Oregon. Portland is often referred to as the "Greenest City in America" due to its commitment to sustainability and environmental initiatives. It is located near the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, making it a prime location for outdoor activities and access to nature.
11.
Yemen and Oman lie along the southeastern edge of what huge peninsula?
Explanation
Yemen and Oman are located in the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. The Arabian Peninsula is a large landmass in the Middle East, bordered by the Red Sea to the west and the Arabian Sea to the south. It is known for its arid desert landscapes and is home to several countries including Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.
12.
The famous off-road Dakar Rally is so named because it originally ended in the capital of what African nation?
Explanation
The Dakar Rally is named after the capital city of Senegal, which was the original end point of the race. Senegal is a country located in West Africa known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse landscapes. The rally was first held in 1978 and has since become one of the most challenging and prestigious off-road races in the world. Participants traverse various terrains, including deserts, mountains, and forests, making it a true test of skill and endurance.
13.
What country would you visit to sample Oaxacan cuisine in its natural habitat?
Explanation
To sample Oaxacan cuisine in its natural habitat, one would visit Mexico. Oaxacan cuisine refers to the traditional dishes and flavors found in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. Oaxaca is known for its rich culinary heritage, including dishes like mole, tlayudas, and chapulines (grasshoppers). By visiting Mexico, specifically the state of Oaxaca, one can experience the authentic flavors and ingredients that make Oaxacan cuisine unique and delicious.
14.
What European capital is located on the island of Zealand, on the strait between the North Sea and Baltic Sea?
Explanation
Copenhagen is the correct answer because it is the capital of Denmark and is located on the island of Zealand, which is situated between the North Sea and Baltic Sea.
15.
The largest city in Australia’s Northern Territory and the peak once believed to be the highest point of Tierra del Fuego are both named for what scientist?
Explanation
Both the largest city in Australia's Northern Territory and the peak once believed to be the highest point of Tierra del Fuego are named after the renowned scientist Charles Darwin. Charles Darwin was a British naturalist and geologist who is best known for his contributions to the theory of evolution. His work on the Galapagos Islands and his book "On the Origin of Species" revolutionized the field of biology. Due to his significant contributions to the scientific community, it is not surprising that these landmarks were named in his honor.