JAMB UTME - Geography - 2024

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When a ship appears over the distant horizon, the mast is seen before the hull. This phenomenon can be explained by considering the shape of the Earth and how light travels.

The Earth is a large sphere, and because of its curvature, objects that are farther away become obscured by the Earth's surface as they move over the horizon. The upper parts of an object, such as the mast of a ship, are further away from the Earth's surface compared to the lower parts, like the hull. As a result, the top parts become visible first as an object like a ship comes over the horizon.

Therefore, due to the curvature of the Earth, the mast, being higher and more elevated, comes into view before the hull as the ship approaches from a distance.

Which activity requires the following? I. Large area of land usually in thousands of hectares II. Availability of water either in the form of rain or irrigation III. High capital outlay

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The activity that requires a large area of land usually in thousands of hectares, availability of water either in the form of rain or irrigation, and a high capital outlay is plantation agriculture. Let me explain why:

Large Area of Land: Plantation agriculture involves the cultivation of crops on a very large scale, often requiring thousands of hectares. This is necessary to achieve economies of scale and produce significant quantities of a specific crop such as tea, coffee, sugarcane, rubber, or oil palm.

Availability of Water: Crops grown on plantations need adequate water supply to thrive. This can be provided by regular rainfall or through irrigation systems. Thus, plantations are often located in regions with favorable climatic conditions or equipped with efficient water management systems.

High Capital Outlay: Establishing a plantation requires a significant initial investment. This includes procuring land and machinery, setting up irrigation systems, and maintaining infrastructure. Furthermore, plantations often rely on the employment of many workers and the use of advanced agricultural techniques, which also contribute to the high cost.

In contrast, the other activities mentioned do not primarily rely on these three factors to the same extent. For example, lumbering involves harvesting trees, which may also require substantial land area, but does not necessarily need irrigation. Tourism industry might require watering systems for landscaping, but its focus is more on site attractions. Finally, while mining requires high capital outlay and can cover large areas of land, it does not depend on the availability of irrigation systems like plantation agriculture does.

Which of the following least influences population density in Nigeria?

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Population density refers to the number of people living per unit of area, typically measured in people per square kilometer. In Nigeria, several factors influence population density, including natural, economic, and social factors.

Thick forest vegetation can influence population density by limiting the availability of land for habitation and agricultural activities. Areas with dense forests are usually less populated because they are harder to clear for settlements and farming. Additionally, thick forests may not have sufficient infrastructure, making them less attractive for people to live in.

Similarly, tsetse fly infestation can significantly influence population density. The tsetse fly transmits sleeping sickness, which can be a health hazard for humans and animals. Areas infested with tsetse flies might have lower population densities because people avoid settling in regions where their health and that of their livestock are at risk.

Fertile agricultural land attracts people because it supports farming activities, which is a primary livelihood for many people in Nigeria. As a result, such areas often have higher population densities due to the economic opportunities they provide.

The factor that least influences population density among the given options is mining. While mining can attract workers to specific areas, its influence is usually limited to certain regions where mineral resources are available. Since mining is typically localized and not widespread, its impact on overall population density is generally lower compared to factors like agriculture or disease. Additionally, mining areas might not have sustainable living conditions to attract large populations permanently.

In summary, while all these factors can influence population density, mining has the least impact compared to the other options because it affects fewer regions and often does not provide long-term settlement opportunities.

Which of the following lines of latitudes divides the earth into two hemispheres

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The line of latitude that divides the Earth into two hemispheres is the Equator. The Equator is an imaginary line that is drawn around the middle of the Earth. It is equidistant from the North and South Poles, and it is located at 0 degrees latitude.

Because it sits exactly halfway between the poles, the Equator splits the Earth into two equal parts: the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. The land and water areas located to the north of the Equator make up the Northern Hemisphere, while those located to the south comprise the Southern Hemisphere.

The importance of the Equator is not just in the division of hemispheres; it also plays a crucial role in climate. Regions located near the Equator typically experience a tropical climate with minimal temperature variations year-round.

In contrast, lines like the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn are found north and south of the Equator, respectively, and they define the limits of the tropical zone. The Antarctic Circle is situated further south and marks a different climatic boundary.

A geyser is best described as/an

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A geyser is best described as a fountain of superheated steam. This natural phenomenon occurs when water that is trapped beneath the Earth's surface is heated by geothermal activity, such as volcanic activity, deep underground. As the water is heated, it turns into steam and builds up pressure. This pressure eventually forces the steam and hot water to be expelled violently from the ground in a dramatic outburst, creating a fountain-like effect.

Let's break this down a bit more:

• A geyser consists of a network of underground channels filled with water. The heat from molten rock (magma) heats the water in these channels.
• As the water heats, it expands and turns into steam. However, due to the depths, the water above creates pressure that allows the water below to reach temperatures above the normal boiling point.
• When this pressure is released, often when bubbles of steam rise to a narrow section of the channel nearest the surface, the superheated water violently boils, pushes through the surface, and escapes as steam and hot water – hence, a fountain of superheated steam.

This distinct eruption is what characterizes a geyser and differentiates it from other geothermal features like hot springs or thermal pools, which do not erupt but simply release heat gradually into the water.

In which part of the atmosphere does rain clouds develop?

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Rain clouds most commonly develop in the troposphere. The troposphere is the lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere and extends from the Earth's surface up to about 8 to 15 kilometers (5 to 9 miles) above sea level, depending on your location.

This layer is where we experience weather, including rain, thunderstorms, and clouds. The reason for this is that the troposphere contains most of the atmosphere's water vapor, which is essential for cloud formation and precipitation.

In this layer, the air becomes cooler as you go higher, which allows the moist air to rise, cool, and condense to form clouds. When these clouds get heavy enough with condensed water droplets, they release the water in the form of rain.

The layers above the troposphere, such as the stratosphere, do not usually have the right conditions for rain cloud formation because they lack sufficient moisture and their temperatures are not typically conducive to the processes needed for cloud formation.

The climatic belts recognized by the Greek were

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The ancient Greeks were pioneers in observing and classifying the Earth's climate zones. They recognized three primary climatic belts based on their understanding of the Earth's environment. These belts were:

• Torrid Zone: This zone is the hottest part of the Earth, located near the equator. The Greeks believed it to be extremely warm because it lies where the sunlight strikes the Earth most directly. Today, we know this region as the tropical zone.
• Temperate Zone: This area lies between the torrid and frigid zones. It experiences more moderate temperatures. The Greeks saw this as a **habitable** zone, with a climate suitable for a majority of human living. It corresponds to the mid-latitudes in modern geography.
• Frigid Zone: This is the coldest area, positioned around the poles. The Greeks considered it extremely cold and largely uninhabitable due to its distance from the equator and the angle at which sunlight reaches these regions. Today, this relates to the polar regions.

Thus, the Greeks recognized these **three climatic belts**: Torrid, Temperate, and Frigid. This classification was an early attempt to systematically understand the Earth's climatic patterns using observable natural phenomena, such as sunlight and temperature differences.

The development of hydro-electric power in Nigeria is least affected by the

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The development of hydro-electric power in Nigeria is least affected by the availability of suitable sites for dams. While suitable sites are necessary for building dams, other factors such as a regular supply of water and high mountains are more critical for hydro-electric power development.

Which of the following best explains why wind action is more predominant in Arid regions than in Humid regions?

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Wind action is more predominant in arid regions due to the combination of loose surface materials and the absence of vegetation cover. In these regions, there is little moisture to bind soil particles together, making them easily detachable and transportable by wind. Without vegetation to stabilize the soil and buffer wind, these loose particles are swept away, leading to significant wind erosion.

Other reasons, such as insufficient drainage or strong winds, also play a role; however, the **primary** factors are the loose surface materials and lack of vegetation, allowing wind to act with greater intensity. In contrast, humid regions have ample vegetation and soil moisture, which significantly reduce the wind's ability to erode and transport surface material.

Which of the following geographical regions of Nigeria covers one-fifth of the country and has a generally flat surface dotted with granitic hills? The

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The geographical region of Nigeria described in the question is the North-Central Highlands. This area covers about one-fifth of the country and is characterized by a generally flat surface with granitic hills, known as inselbergs, scattered throughout the landscape. These hills are composed of hard rock formations that have resisted erosion, thereby standing out from the flatter surroundings.

This region is situated in the north-central part of Nigeria and is significant for its geological features and agricultural potential. The flat terrain provides an expansive area suitable for farming, while the inselbergs add to the region's natural beauty and sometimes serve as landmarks. The North-Central Highlands are an important and distinct geographical region within Nigeria due to these unique characteristics.

Mountains formed as a result of compressional forces in the earth's crust are

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The mountains formed as a result of compressional forces in the Earth's crust are known as fold mountains. Fold mountains are created when two tectonic plates collide, and the compressional forces involved cause the layers of the Earth's crust to crumple and fold.

Imagine it like pushing two pieces of paper together from opposite ends; they begin to crumple and form folds. Similarly, when large sections of the Earth's crust are subjected to immense pressures from the sides, they buckle and bend into wave-like structures called folds. These folds then rise over time to form fold mountains.

Some of the most well-known mountain ranges in the world, like the Himalayas, the Alps, and the Rockies, are examples of fold mountains.

In summary, fold mountains are formed by the compression and folding of the Earth's crust, making them a direct result of tectonic forces that push the land upwards to form mountains.

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To determine which option is not a proof of the Earth's spherical shape, let's examine each one:

Twilight and Dawn: Twilight and dawn occur when the Earth rotates, and the sun is below the horizon. The gradual increase or decrease in light during these times is due to the atmosphere bending or scattering sunlight. While this phenomenon is observed worldwide, it by itself doesn't directly indicate a spherical Earth. Instead, it emphasizes the Earth's rotation, which is consistent with a spherical shape.

Lunar Eclipse: During a lunar eclipse, when the Earth is directly between the sun and the moon, the Earth casts a shadow on the moon. This shadow is observed as a circular shape, which provides direct evidence that the Earth is spherical.

Aerial Photograph: Aerial photographs, when taken from a sufficient altitude, can show the curvature of the Earth. Photographs taken from high altitudes give visual evidence of the Earth's curved surface, supporting the spherical shape.

Sunrise and Sunset: The occurrence of sunrise and sunset happens due to the Earth's rotation on its axis. As the Earth rotates, different parts of the world experience sunlight and darkness. This rotation is consistent with the global experience of a spherical planet.

Conclusion: While all the listed phenomena have some connection to the Earth's rotation and shape, **twilight and dawn** do not directly serve as a proof of the Earth's spherical shape. They are more indicative of the rotational aspect and atmospheric effects rather than the shape itself.

All the major industrial zones of Nigeria owe their origin mainly to

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The major industrial zones of Nigeria owe their origin mainly to the presence of cash crops. This is because, historically, Nigeria's economy largely depended on agriculture, and the availability of these cash crops provided a foundation for establishing industries. For example, regions where cash crops such as cocoa, palm oil, rubber, and groundnuts were abundantly grown became focal points for industries.


These crops were in high demand both locally and internationally, encouraging the establishment of processing industries to add value before export. This led to the development of infrastructure and contributed to the economic growth of these regions.


Thus, the presence of cash crops has played a significant role in shaping the industrial landscape of Nigeria by attracting investments, creating jobs, and fostering economic development in the respective regions.

The tourist centre of Ogbunike cave is located near

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The Ogbunike Cave is a popular tourist destination located **near Onitsha in Anambra State**. This cave is part of a large system of limestone caves and is known for its historical and cultural significance to the people of the region. It's situated in the southeastern part of Nigeria and is associated with numerous legends and stories that reflect its importance to local traditions. Therefore, the correct location for Ogbunike Cave is **near Onitsha in Anambra State**.

A major problem in agricultural development in Nigeria is

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One of the major problems in agricultural development in Nigeria is the insufficient storage facilities.

The agricultural sector in Nigeria often faces difficulties after crops are harvested. Poor storage facilities mean that a substantial portion of the agricultural produce is lost due to spoilage, pests, or damage. This is a significant challenge because:

• **Loss of Produce:** Without adequate storage, farmers cannot preserve excess produce for future use, which leads to food waste and instability in food supply.
• **Reduced Income:** When farmers are unable to store their produce, they may have to sell it quickly and often at lower prices, immediately after harvest. This reduces their potential earnings.
• **Market Imbalance:** Lack of storage facilities can lead to an overflow of produce in the market right after harvest and a shortage during off-season periods, causing fluctuating prices.
• **Quality Degradation:** Poor storage facilities can lead to the degradation of the quality of produce, which in turn affects marketability and consumer trust.

Improving storage facilities would provide farmers with the ability to manage their production better, ensuring a more consistent supply of agricultural products and contributing significantly to the development of agriculture in Nigeria.

The equatorial diameter of the earth is approximately

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The equatorial diameter of the earth is approximately 6,760 km. This is the distance from the equator to the equator, passing through the center of the earth.

Cement factory is usually located near

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The location of a cement factory is primarily influenced by its proximity to the source of raw materials. Cement production involves the use of abundant natural resources such as limestone, clay, and rock, which are crucial ingredients in the manufacturing process. These raw materials are usually heavy and bulky, making transportation costly. Therefore, by situating the cement factory near these resources, transportation costs can be minimized, leading to more efficient and cost-effective production. This proximity also ensures a steady and reliable supply of raw materials, which is essential for uninterrupted production.

All the following are causes of mechanical weathering except

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Mechanical weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. There are several causes of mechanical weathering, but not all processes that affect rocks are related to mechanical weathering.

The options listed include:

Temperature changes: This is a cause of mechanical weathering. When rocks are exposed to fluctuating temperatures, they expand when it's hot and contract when it's cold. Over time, these repeated expansions and contractions can cause the rocks to crack and break apart.

Frost action: Also known as freeze-thaw weathering, this is another form of mechanical weathering. Water can seep into cracks in the rocks, and as temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands. This expansion exerts pressure on the rock, gradually breaking it apart.

Alternate wetting and drying: This causes mechanical weathering by changing the volume of clay minerals found in some rocks. When these rocks get wet, the clay swells, and when dry, it contracts. This constant expansion and contraction lead to mechanical breakdown.

Rain action: This is not primarily a cause of mechanical weathering. While rain can contribute to weathering processes, such as chemical weathering where it reacts with minerals in rocks to form new compounds, its primary role in mechanical weathering is minimal compared to other factors.

Therefore, among the options provided, rain action is the one that is not a direct cause of mechanical weathering.

The part of the earth's crust that is covered by oceans and seas is called

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The part of the earth's crust that is covered by oceans and seas is called the hydrosphere.

Let's break it down logically:

• The hydrosphere specifically refers to all of the water found on, under, and over the surface of the Earth, including oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, and even water in the atmosphere.
• It covers about 71% of the Earth's surface, making it a significant and distinctive part of the planet.
• The stratosphere and the ionosphere are layers of the Earth's atmosphere, not related to water or Earth's crust coverage.
• The biosphere refers to all regions of the Earth occupied by living organisms. While it includes oceans and seas, it is not specific to just water coverage.

Therefore, the term that correctly describes the part of the Earth's crust covered by water bodies like oceans and seas is the hydrosphere.

The location of iron and steel industry at Ajakuta in Nigeria is best explained by the presence of (1) iron ore at Itakpe (11) limestone at Ewekoro (III) river port at Lokoja (IV) coal at Orukpa and Okaba

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The location of the iron and steel industry at Ajaokuta in Nigeria can be best explained by considering certain factors critical to the iron and steel production process. These factors include **availability of raw materials**, **efficient transportation networks**, and **proximity to fuel sources**.

Firstly, the presence of **iron ore at Itakpe** is crucial because iron ore is the primary raw material needed for steel production. The proximity of Itakpe's iron ore deposits to Ajaokuta reduces transportation costs and ensures a steady supply of the primary raw material, enhancing the industry's efficiency. Therefore, **availability of iron ore is a significant consideration**.

Secondly, **limestone at Ewekoro** is essential because limestone is a critical component used in removing impurities during the steelmaking process, particularly in the blast furnace. Limestone acts as a flux which combines with impurities and forms slag that can be easily removed. **Proximity to limestone sources ensures access to necessary materials for processing**, which is a factor in choosing the location of the industry.

The presence of a **river port at Lokoja** facilitates the transportation of raw materials and finished products, as waterways provide a cost-effective and efficient means of transportation. This is important for both importing required materials and exporting the finished steel products.

Additionally, **coal at Orukpa and Okaba** is important as coal is often used to generate the high temperatures needed in steel production, either directly or through the production of coke, a coal derivative used in blast furnaces.

In conclusion, the location of the iron and steel industry at Ajaokuta is best explained by the presence of:

• Iron ore at Itakpe, for the primary raw material.
• Limestone at Ewekoro, for aiding the processing in steelmaking.

Therefore, the most relevant factors are the **availability of iron ore and limestone**, making the best answer "I and II only".

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Quartzite, schist, and marble are all examples of metamorphic rocks.

Here's why:

• Metamorphic Rocks: These are rocks that have undergone a transformation due to intense heat and pressure. This process, called metamorphism, alters their original form or mineral composition without melting them.
• Quartzite: This forms from sandstone, a sedimentary rock, that has been exposed to heat and pressure, resulting in a very hard, durable rock.
• Schist: This rock is typically formed from shale, another sedimentary rock, or sometimes from basalt, an igneous rock. It has a shiny appearance due to the presence of mica minerals.
• Marble: This is formed from limestone, a sedimentary rock that undergoes recrystallization under high heat and pressure, resulting in a rock that is often used in sculpture and architecture.

Sedimentary Rocks are formed from the accumulation of sediments, while Igneous Rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. Volcanic rocks are a subset of igneous rocks that specifically form from lava at the earth's surface. Thus, quartzite, schist, and marble do not fall under these categories.

Africa's largest timber producer is

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In terms of the largest timber producers in Africa, it is important to understand which nation has significant timber resources and an established forestry industry. Zaire, known today as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is recognized as the largest timber producer in Africa.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has extensive forest coverage, including parts of the Congo Basin, which is the second-largest rainforest in the world after the Amazon. This vast expanse of forestland provides an abundance of timber resources. The country's forestry industry has developed around this natural resource, contributing significantly to its economy.

Other countries like Ghana and Nigeria also have substantial forests and timber industries, but they do not match the scale of Zaire. Malawi, on the other hand, is less known for timber production compared to these countries.

In summary, considering its massive forest expanse and established timber industry, Zaire (the Democratic Republic of Congo) stands out as Africa's largest timber producer.

Which of the following is not true of pie chart?

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Pie charts are not suitable for representing data with wide extremes, as they are better suited for showing proportions and percentages.

Which of the following is not a type of mountain?

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There is no such thing as a "mountain of accumulation". The other options - conical mountain, block mountain, and fold mountain - are all types of mountains.

The innermost section of the Earth is the

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The innermost section of the Earth is the core. The Earth is composed of several layers, starting from the surface and moving inward. These layers, from the outside to the inside, are the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core.

1. Crust: This is the outermost layer of the Earth. It is very thin compared to the other layers and is where we live. The crust is made up of solid rocks and minerals.

2. Mantle: Located beneath the crust, the mantle is composed of semi-solid rock that flows slowly. It is the largest layer of the Earth by volume.

3. Core: The core itself is divided into two parts: the outer core and the inner core. The outer core is made of molten, liquid metal, while the inner core is made of solid metal, primarily iron and nickel. The core is the hottest section of the Earth, with extremely high temperatures and pressures. It is situated at the center of the Earth and provides heat that helps power the movement of tectonic plates and causes volcanic activity.

Therefore, when we refer to the innermost section of the Earth, we are specifically talking about the core, and more accurately, the inner core.

The ocean that connects Europe and America is the

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The ocean that connects Europe and America is the Atlantic Ocean.

Here's a simple explanation: The Atlantic Ocean is a massive body of water that lies between the continents of Europe and Africa to the east and the Americas to the west. This ocean is one of the world's five major oceans and is the second largest after the Pacific Ocean. Historically, the Atlantic Ocean has been significantly important as a route for ships traveling between Europe and the Americas, playing a crucial role in exploration, commerce, and cultural exchanges.

The Gezira scheme and the Manaquil Extension are famous for the cultivation of

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The **Gezira Scheme** and the **Manaquil Extension** are famous for the cultivation of **cotton**. These agricultural projects are located in **Sudan** and are among the largest irrigation projects in the world dedicated to agriculture.

The Gezira Scheme utilizes the waters of the **Blue Nile** to irrigate the land, making it suitable for growing cash crops. The scheme's infrastructure, including an extensive network of canals and ditches, supports the broad-scale cultivation of cotton. Similarly, the Manaquil Extension enhanced the irrigation reach, further bolstering cotton agriculture.

**Cotton** is highly suitable for growth in the hot climate of Sudan, especially under irrigation, as it requires a long growing season with plenty of sunshine and water. This makes it an ideal crop for the region, contributing significantly to Sudan's economy through both local use and export. Additionally, cotton plays a crucial role in the livelihood of many farmers in the region, being a major source of income.

Cultivating cotton in **Gezira** and **Manaquil** not only supports the textile industry but also generates employment for thousands of people engaged in farming, processing, and trade.

'It is a port that specializes in receiving and redistributing goods to the neighboring countries'. Which of the following ports is described in the preceding statement?

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The port described in the statement is an entrepôt. An entrepôt is a type of port or a trading post where goods are imported, stored, and then re-exported. It acts as a key transfer point in international trade, allowing products to be redistributed to neighboring countries. This concept operates on the idea that items arrive in bulk and then are sent out again, perhaps even modified or repackaged, often without the goods being subject to customs duties. In essence, an entrepôt streamlines the movement of goods, facilitating international commerce and boosting trade networks.

When the sun is directly overhead at the tropic of Capricorn (23 %, °) on 22nd December, the Northern Hemisphere experiences it's

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On 22nd December, the sun is directly overhead the Tropic of Capricorn in the Southern Hemisphere. This marks a significant event in both hemispheres.

In the Northern Hemisphere, this date corresponds to the **winter solstice**. Here's why:

The Earth is tilted on its axis by about 23.5 degrees. This tilt is responsible for the changing seasons. Throughout the year, different parts of the Earth receive varying amounts of sunlight depending on the planet's position in its orbit around the Sun.

During the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the Sun. As a result, it experiences the shortest day and the longest night of the year. The **winter solstice** marks the official start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

Thus, when the sun is directly overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn on 22nd December, the Northern Hemisphere experiences its **winter solstice**.

A large expanse of low, level land, formed due to an uplift of part of the sea floor bordering a continent is called

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A **coastal plain** is a **large expanse of low, level land** that is formed due to an **uplift of part of the sea floor bordering a continent**. Essentially, it is an area where the land is relatively flat and is located near the coast.

This type of landform often occurs due to geological activities over time where the sea floor is pushed upwards, resulting in a broad, flat land surface extending inland from the coast. Coastal plains are typically characterized by their flat terrain and proximity to the ocean, making them influenced by marine conditions.

In summary, **a coastal plain is the result of the elevation of a portion of the sea floor adjacent to the continent**. It is characterized by its flatness and location near the sea, distinguishing it from other types of plains such as deltaic, outwash, or flood plains which have different formation processes and characteristics.

Which of the following climatic types is found on the western margins of continents between altitude 300 and 400 North and South of the Equator?

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The climatic type found on the western margins of continents between latitudes 30° and 40° North and South of the Equator is the Mediterranean climate.

The Mediterranean climate is characterized by its unique seasonal weather pattern:

• Hot, dry summers: During the summer months, these regions usually experience clear skies, ample sunshine, and little to no rainfall. The temperatures are generally high due to the influence of the subtropical high-pressure systems.
• Mild, wet winters: In the winter months, these areas receive moderate rainfall, often brought by westerly winds and cyclonic storms, while temperatures remain relatively mild and comfortable.

This type of climate is well-known for supporting specific kinds of ecosystems and is suitable for growing certain crops, such as olives, grapes, and wheat. Typical regions with a Mediterranean climate include the coastal areas of the Mediterranean Sea, parts of California in the United States, central Chile, the southern tip of South Africa, and southwestern Australia.

The world's busiest shipping routes are on the

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The world's busiest shipping routes are found on the Atlantic Ocean. This ocean plays a crucial role in global trade and transportation due to several factors:

• Location: The Atlantic Ocean is strategically located between the continents of North America, Europe, and Africa. This positioning makes it an important corridor for trade between the densely populated and economically developed regions, including the United States, Canada, Western Europe, and parts of Africa.
• Economic Activity: Countries bordering the Atlantic Ocean, such as the United States, European countries, and Brazil, are some of the world's largest economies. As such, there is a high volume of goods being exchanged across the Atlantic Ocean, contributing to its status as a busy shipping route.
• Major Ports: The Atlantic Ocean hosts several significant ports like Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hamburg, New York, and Shanghai, to name a few. These ports serve as major hubs for commerce, where goods are received, processed, and shipped globally, adding to the traffic on this ocean.
• Historical Significance: Historically, the Atlantic Ocean has been a primary route for exploration and trade since the Age of Discovery. This long-standing use has established robust shipping routes that continue to be essential for international trade.

While other oceans like the Pacific and Indian Oceans are also important for global trade, the Atlantic Ocean remains particularly significant due to its connectivity and the economic powerhouses it links. The Antarctic Circle is not a major route due to its harsh environmental conditions and minimal human inhabitation, which reduces commercial sea traffic in that region.

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The nearest planet to the Sun is Mercury.

Here's a simple explanation: The Solar System consists of eight major planets, which include Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, arranged in that order from closest to the Sun to farthest. Pluto, once considered the ninth planet, has been reclassified as a "dwarf planet" and is well beyond Neptune.

Mercury, being the closest planet to the Sun, has a very short orbit compared to other planets. It completes one orbit around the Sun in just about 88 Earth days. Because of its proximity to the Sun, Mercury experiences significant temperature variations, extremely hot during the day and very cold at night.

They are formed in layers and derived from old rocks and the remains of dead organic materials. This description refers

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The description in question refers to sedimentary rocks. These types of rocks are primarily formed through the accumulation of material, which can be particles derived from other rocks or the remains of dead plants and animals. Here is a simple breakdown:

• Formation Process: Over time, these particles and organic materials settle in layers, usually at the bottom of lakes, rivers, and oceans. They undergo a process called compression and cementation. This means the weight of the layers pressing down causes them to stick together and form solid rock.
• Composition: Sedimentary rocks are made up of materials like sand, silt, clay, and gravel. Additionally, they often contain fossils, which are the preserved remains or traces of ancient life.
• Characteristics: One can easily identify sedimentary rocks by their layered appearance. These layers or strata are often visible in cliffs and road cuts as different colors or textures.
• Examples: Common sedimentary rocks include limestone, sandstone, and shale.

Sedimentary rocks play a crucial role in our understanding of Earth's history. The layers can tell scientists a lot about the Earth's past environments, climate, and even the organisms that lived long ago.

The most common mode of transportation in Africa is

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The **most common mode of transportation in Africa** is **road transportation**. This includes vehicles like cars, buses, and motorcycles that travel on roads and highways. Road transportation is widespread because it is **versatile** and can reach many rural and urban areas that are not accessible by other means of transportation. Roads are often less expensive to build and maintain compared to infrastructure needed for other modes such as railways or airports.

Despite the challenges such as limited road networks and varying road conditions in some regions, **road transportation remains the backbone** of both passenger and freight transport due to its **flexibility** and **accessibility**. In many African countries, it is the most relied upon form of transport connecting people to markets, healthcare facilities, schools, and places of employment.

The process of head ward erosion will lead to the formation of

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Let's understand the term **headward erosion**. **Headward erosion** refers to the process where a river or stream erodes its source region, causing the stream's origin to move backward away from the direction of water flow. This process can have several impacts and can lead to the formation of certain landforms.

Among the options provided, **headward erosion** is most commonly associated with the formation of **river capture**. When **headward erosion** continues over time, it can cause one river to extend its course and intersect with a neighboring river, capturing its flow. This event is known as **river capture** or **stream piracy**. Essentially, the rapid erosion at the river's source enables it to cut through the drainage divide and capture the headwaters of another river.

Let's briefly see why the other options are less relevant to **headward erosion**:

• **Potholes** are typically formed on the riverbed as a result of mechanical weathering and the swirling movement of water and debris, rather than headward erosion.
• **Oxbow lakes** form when a meander from a river is cut off, creating a free-standing body of water, which is more a result of lateral erosion rather than headward erosion.
• **Alluvial cones** or **alluvial fans** form where a river or stream spreads out sediment as it exits a mountainous area onto a flatter plain. This is not directly caused by **headward erosion**, but rather sediment deposition.

Therefore, the process of **headward erosion** most directly leads to the formation of **river capture**.

The major source of power for most terrestrial ecosystems is

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The major source of power for most terrestrial ecosystems is solar energy.

Let me explain why:

Solar energy is the energy that comes from the sun. It is critical for life on Earth as it powers the process of photosynthesis, which is used by plants, algae, and some bacteria to convert light energy into chemical energy. During photosynthesis, these organisms take in carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil, and with the help of sunlight, they produce glucose and oxygen. This process provides the necessary energy and organic material to support life.

Here is why it is important:

• Primary Producers: Solar energy fuels the primary producers (mainly plants) that form the base of the food chain. They use sunlight to create food that herbivores eat, and these herbivores are then consumed by carnivores. Without the energy provided by the sun, this foundational level of the food web would not exist, and all life forms that depend on plants, either directly or indirectly, would not survive.
• Energy Transfer: The energy captured by plants is transferred through various trophic levels as different organisms consume one another. Each level receives energy that originated from the sun, making solar energy the primary driving force of energy flow in ecosystems.
• Climate Regulation: Sunlight helps regulate Earth's climate and atmospheric conditions, influencing temperature and weather patterns. These conditions are necessary for the survival of various ecosystems and their inhabitants.

In comparison, other energy sources like geothermal energy, nuclear power, and hydroelectric power play relatively minor roles in terrestrial ecosystems. These energies are not as directly involved in powering the basic life-sustaining processes as solar energy is. Therefore, it is clear that solar energy is the predominant power source for life on land.

Which of the following is not a sea route?

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The route that is not a sea route is the one involving London, Moscow, and Baghdad.

Here's the explanation:

• The other listed routes such as New York-London-Rotterdam, London-Capetown-Melbourne, and Sydney-Suez-London primarily involve locations that are major port cities or are connected by significant sea passages, allowing ships to travel via water routes.
• On the other hand, Moscow is a landlocked city in Russia, and although it has some rivers, it does not have direct access to the sea. Moreover, the path from London to Moscow to Baghdad mostly travels overland, across Europe and parts of Asia, which are areas not typically traversed by ships in any well-known sea route.

This is why the route from London, Moscow, and Baghdad is not a sea route.

The angular distance of a point on the Earth's surface measured in degrees from the centre of the Earth east or west of the Greenwich Meridian is known as

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The angular distance of a point on the Earth's surface measured in degrees from the centre of the Earth east or west of the Greenwich Meridian is known as longitude.

Let's break this down to make it simple:

Longitude lines are imaginary lines that run from the North Pole to the South Pole. The most important line is the Greenwich Meridian, also called the Prime Meridian, which is the reference point for measuring longitude. It is designated as zero degrees (0°) longitude. When you measure how far east or west a point is from the Prime Meridian, you are measuring the longitude.

This is different from latitude, which measures the distance north or south of the Equator. Longitude lines meet at the poles, whereas latitude lines are parallel to each other.

Overall, longitude helps us determine the precise location of a place on Earth by specifying how far east or west it is from the Prime Meridian.

Which of the following best accounts for the decline in the importance of rail transport in Africa?

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The decline in the importance of rail transport in Africa can be best explained by the high competition from road transport. Here's why:

Accessibility and Flexibility: Road transport is generally more accessible and flexible compared to railways. Roads are available in most areas of Africa, including rural regions, allowing goods and passengers to reach their destinations directly without requiring transfer between modes of transport.

Cost-Effectiveness: In many cases, road transport can be more cost-effective because it eliminates the need for transferring goods at several points. The initial investment in road infrastructure and vehicles can also be less than maintaining or upgrading railway networks.

Adaptability to Infrastructure Limitations: Many railways in Africa suffer from outdated infrastructure, which can hinder their efficiency and reliability. On the other hand, road transport can easily adapt to newer roads and infrastructures as they are developed.

Length of Transport Routes: Although Africa is a vast continent, many trade routes within countries or regions are more economically feasible with road transport, especially for short to medium distances.

Overall, while other factors such as the low volume of goods and potential retrenchment threats exist, the dominance and rapid improvement in the road transport sector particularly highlight why rail transport has seen a decline in relevance. The flexibility and economic viability of road transport often make it a more attractive choice for businesses and individuals alike.