1.
What is the name of the de facto independent country in eastern Moldova?
Correct Answer
B. Transnistria
Explanation
Transnistria is the correct answer because it is a de facto independent country located in eastern Moldova. It declared independence in 1990 and has its own government, military, and currency. However, it is not internationally recognized as an independent country and is considered to be part of Moldova by the United Nations and most countries.
2.
How many tons of ore must be mined to produce one carat of rough diamond?
Correct Answer
C. 250
Explanation
To produce one carat of rough diamond, 250 tons of ore must be mined. This is because diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle and are brought to the surface through volcanic activity. The ore that contains diamonds is known as kimberlite, and it is typically found in large, low-grade deposits. Therefore, a significant amount of ore needs to be processed to extract a small amount of diamond.
3.
The city of Irbid is located in the north of which Arab country?
Correct Answer
A. Jordan
Explanation
The city of Irbid is located in the north of Jordan. This can be inferred from the fact that Irbid is a major city in Jordan and is known for its location in the northern part of the country.
4.
Which country has the world's two largest dams?
Correct Answer
B. Russia
Explanation
Russia is the correct answer because it is home to the world's two largest dams. The first one is the Bratsk Dam, located on the Angara River in Siberia, which is the largest dam in Russia and the second largest in the world. The second one is the Krasnoyarsk Dam, also located on the Angara River, which is the second largest dam in Russia and the third largest in the world. These dams are vital for hydroelectric power generation and play a significant role in Russia's energy infrastructure.
5.
Until the late 1920's, where were babies in Finland delivered?
Correct Answer
B. Saunas
Explanation
In Finland, until the late 1920s, babies were delivered in saunas. Saunas have been an integral part of Finnish culture for centuries, and they were commonly used for various purposes, including giving birth. Saunas were considered clean and hygienic, making them suitable for childbirth. Additionally, the heat and steam in saunas were believed to have therapeutic benefits for both the mother and the newborn. However, with advancements in medical technology and the establishment of hospitals, the practice of delivering babies in saunas gradually declined, and hospitals became the preferred location for childbirth.
6.
In Turkey, what is the color of mourning?
Correct Answer
D. Violet
Explanation
In Turkey, the color of mourning is violet. This is because violet is traditionally associated with mourning and sorrow in Turkish culture. It is often used in funeral ceremonies and worn by people grieving the loss of a loved one. The choice of violet as the color of mourning in Turkey may be influenced by cultural and historical factors specific to the country.
7.
Which is the only continent that isn't wider in the north?
Correct Answer
C. Antarctica
Explanation
Antarctica is the only continent that isn't wider in the north. This is because Antarctica is located at the South Pole and extends further towards the South rather than the North. It is surrounded by the Southern Ocean and has a distinct shape that is narrower in the north and wider in the south. The other continents, such as Australia, North America, and Africa, are all wider towards their northern regions.
8.
Israel is 1/4 the size of which U.S. state?
Correct Answer
D. Maine
Explanation
Israel is approximately 1/4 the size of Maine. This means that the land area of Israel is one-fourth the size of Maine's land area.
9.
What kind of public contests were held in ancient Japan?
Correct Answer
A. Breaking Wind
Explanation
In ancient Japan, breaking wind contests were held as a form of entertainment. This unusual contest involved participants competing to produce the loudest or longest-lasting fart. It was considered a humorous and light-hearted activity, often performed during festivals or social gatherings. Such contests were a reflection of the unique cultural practices and sense of humor prevalent in ancient Japan.
10.
In what country are almost half of the world's pigs kept?
Correct Answer
A. China
Explanation
China is the correct answer because it is the country where almost half of the world's pigs are kept. China has a large agricultural industry, and pork is a staple in Chinese cuisine. The country has a high demand for pork, leading to a significant number of pigs being raised and kept in China. Additionally, China has a long history of pig farming and is known for its large-scale pig production. Therefore, it is not surprising that almost half of the world's pigs are kept in China.
11.
How many stars are there on the Australian flag?
Correct Answer
D. Six
Explanation
The Australian flag has six stars. The Commonwealth Star, which represents the federation of states and territories, is located below the Union Jack. The five stars on the right side of the flag form the constellation known as the Southern Cross, which is a prominent feature of the southern hemisphere's night sky. These stars represent Australia's geographic position in the southern hemisphere.
12.
What is the largest lake in New Zealand?
Correct Answer
C. Lake Taupo
Explanation
Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand. It is located in the central North Island and covers an area of 616 square kilometers. The lake was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago and is now a popular tourist destination. Its size and scenic beauty make it a significant landmark in New Zealand's landscape.
13.
What is the tallest volcano in New Zealand?
Correct Answer
A. Mt. Ruapehu
Explanation
Mt. Ruapehu is the tallest volcano in New Zealand. This can be inferred from the given options, where Mt. Ruapehu is the only volcano mentioned without any height comparison. Therefore, it can be concluded that Mt. Ruapehu is the tallest volcano among the given options.
14.
What is the name of the township that resides near geysers and is a tourist destination in New Zealand?
Correct Answer
C. Rotorua
Explanation
Rotorua is the correct answer because it is a township in New Zealand that is known for its geysers and is a popular tourist destination. It is located near the geothermal activity of the Taupo Volcanic Zone, which includes geysers, hot springs, and mud pools. Rotorua is famous for its unique geothermal attractions and Maori culture, making it a must-visit place for tourists in New Zealand.
15.
Which country voted to become independent on May 21, 2006?
Correct Answer
D. Montenegro
Explanation
Montenegro voted to become independent on May 21, 2006. This decision came after a referendum where the majority of Montenegrin citizens voted in favor of independence from the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. As a result, Montenegro became a separate sovereign state, ending its union with Serbia.
16.
Where did the earliest known manufactured glass come from?
Correct Answer
B. Egypt
Explanation
The earliest known manufactured glass came from Egypt. Egypt has a long history of glass production, dating back to around 1500 BCE. Archaeological evidence, such as glass beads and vessels, has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, indicating the early use of glass in their culture. The Egyptians were skilled in the art of glassmaking, using a technique known as core-forming to create intricate glass objects. Therefore, Egypt is the most likely origin of the earliest known manufactured glass.
17.
In what country in Eastern Africa is the Shat River located?
Correct Answer
A. Djibouti
Explanation
The Shat River is located in Djibouti, a country in Eastern Africa. This river flows through the country and is an important water source for the local communities. Djibouti is known for its arid climate, and the presence of the Shat River provides vital water resources for agriculture and human consumption in the region.
18.
What term refers to a large, flat hill with steep sides surrounded by plains?
Correct Answer
B. Mesa
Explanation
A mesa refers to a large, flat hill with steep sides surrounded by plains. It is a geological formation characterized by a flat top and steep sides, often found in arid or desert regions. Mesas are formed through the process of erosion, where softer rocks are worn away, leaving behind a resistant layer of rock on top. This creates a distinct and elevated landform that stands out in the surrounding landscape.
19.
What term describes a large landmass that juts out from a continent?
Correct Answer
A. Subcontinent
Explanation
A subcontinent is a term used to describe a large landmass that extends out from a continent. It is typically smaller than a continent, but larger than a single country. This landmass is distinct from the main continent and is often separated by geographical features such as mountains or oceans. Examples of subcontinents include the Indian subcontinent and the Arabian subcontinent.