1.
Which state is closer to the Continental, or Great, Divide?
Correct Answer
B. Idaho
Explanation
Idaho is closer to the Continental Divide compared to North Carolina. The Continental Divide is a natural boundary that separates the watersheds that flow into the Pacific Ocean from those that flow into the Atlantic Ocean. Idaho is located in the western part of the United States, closer to the Rocky Mountains, which is where the Continental Divide runs. On the other hand, North Carolina is located in the eastern part of the United States, farther away from the Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide. Therefore, Idaho is the correct answer.
2.
In which state is the capital city not the state’s most populous city?
Correct Answer
C. Maryland
Explanation
Maryland is the correct answer because its capital city, Annapolis, is not the state's most populous city. Baltimore is the most populous city in Maryland.
3.
Which city is located in a humid temperate climate zone?
Correct Answer
B. Huntsville, Alabama
Explanation
Huntsville, Alabama is located in a humid temperate climate zone. This is because it experiences hot and humid summers, with average temperatures ranging from 80°F to 90°F, and mild winters, with average temperatures ranging from 40°F to 50°F. The city also receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, which is characteristic of a humid climate. On the other hand, Rapid City, South Dakota is located in a semi-arid climate zone, with hot summers and cold winters, and lower precipitation levels compared to Huntsville, Alabama.
4.
Mecca and Medina, Islam’s two holiest cities, are closed to non-Muslims. In which country are both of these cities are located?
Correct Answer
B. Saudi Arabia
Explanation
Mecca and Medina, the two holiest cities in Islam, are both located in Saudi Arabia. These cities are considered sacred and are closed to non-Muslims, making Saudi Arabia the correct answer.
5.
Which country consumes less energy?
Correct Answer
A. Paraguay
Explanation
Paraguay consumes less energy compared to Germany. This could be due to several factors such as differences in population size, industrial development, energy efficiency measures, and reliance on renewable energy sources. Paraguay is known for its abundant hydroelectric power generation, which contributes significantly to its energy consumption. On the other hand, Germany, being a highly industrialized nation with a larger population, has a higher energy demand. Additionally, Germany's energy mix includes a significant reliance on fossil fuels, which further contributes to its higher energy consumption compared to Paraguay.
6.
Which term best describes geologic features such as Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, in Australia?
Correct Answer
B. Monolith
Explanation
A monolith is a term that best describes geologic features like Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, in Australia. A monolith refers to a single, large, and solitary rock or geological formation that stands out prominently in the surrounding landscape. Uluru is a massive sandstone monolith that rises abruptly from the flat desert plains, making it a perfect example of this geological feature.
7.
Although he did not succeed in finding the Northwest Passage, which British explorer sailed near a large Arctic island that now bears his name?
Correct Answer
B. William Baffin
Explanation
William Baffin is the correct answer because he sailed near a large Arctic island that now bears his name. Despite not finding the Northwest Passage, Baffin's explorations in the Arctic region were significant and he made important contributions to the mapping and understanding of the area. His name is now associated with Baffin Island, located in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
8.
Thousands of people gather annually in the ancient city of Cusco to celebrate Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, in which South American country?
Correct Answer
A. Peru
Explanation
Inti Raymi, also known as the Festival of the Sun, is celebrated annually in the ancient city of Cusco in Peru. This festival is a significant cultural and religious event for the people of Peru, as it commemorates the Inca sun god, Inti. Thousands of people gather in Cusco to participate in the colorful and vibrant festivities, which include traditional music, dance, and rituals. Therefore, Peru is the correct answer as it is the country where the ancient city of Cusco is located and where the Inti Raymi festival takes place.
9.
The tallest dam in Africa, dubbed the “Three Gorges of Africa,” is located on the Tekezē River. This dam is in which country?
Correct Answer
C. Ethiopia
Explanation
The correct answer is Ethiopia. The question states that the tallest dam in Africa, known as the "Three Gorges of Africa," is located on the Tekezē River. Since the question asks for the country where this dam is located, the answer is Ethiopia.
10.
One can visit the Tiger’s Nest Buddhist monastery in which landlocked Asian country known as “the kingdom in the clouds?
Correct Answer
B. Bhutan
Explanation
The correct answer is Bhutan. Bhutan is known as "the kingdom in the clouds" due to its location in the Eastern Himalayas and its stunning mountainous landscapes. The Tiger's Nest Buddhist monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang, is one of Bhutan's most famous landmarks and a popular tourist attraction. It is perched on a cliffside at an elevation of 3,120 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Bhutan is a landlocked country located in South Asia, bordered by India to the south and China to the north.