UPSC Prelims 2005 · General Studies
Question 8: Geography
Which one of the following is the correct sequence of the given Continents in the decreasing order of their percentage of Earth’s land?
AnswerThe answer is (b).
By share of Earth's land, Africa has about 20%, North America about 16%, South America about 12% and Europe about 7%. The order is therefore Africa, North America, South America, Europe. Asia is the largest at about 30% but is not in the list. Remember the area order of the continents: Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe, Australia.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Puts North America above Africa; Africa is larger.
- (b) Correct: Africa, North America, South America, Europe.
- (c) Puts North America above Africa and Europe above South America; both wrong.
- (d) Puts Europe above South America; South America is larger.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2005, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.