Pakistan Studies/Affairs MCQs
Topic Notes: Pakistan Studies/Affairs
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
1
How many peaks above 8,000 meters are located in Pakistan?
Answer:
Five
Pakistan is home to five of the world's fourteen 'eight-thousandth' peaks (mountains above 8,000 meters). These are K2 (8,611m), Nanga Parbat (8,126m), Gasherbrum I (8,080m), Broad Peak (8,051m), and Gasherbrum II (8,035m). All of these, except Nanga Parbat, are located in the Karakoram range.
2
What is the meaning of the name 'Karakoram' in the local Turkic language?
Answer:
Black Gravel
The name 'Karakoram' is derived from the Turkic words 'Kara' (meaning black) and 'Korum' (meaning gravel or talus). This refers to the dark, craggy appearance of the mountains and the vast amounts of black shale and scree found throughout the range.
3
The Baltoro Glacier, one of the largest outside polar regions, is the source of which river?
Answer:
Shigar River
The Baltoro Glacier, located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, is approximately 63 kilometers long. Meltwater from this glacier is the primary source of the Shigar River, which eventually flows into the Indus River near Skardu. It is a major route for climbers heading to K2 and Broad Peak.
4
In which province is the Toba Kakar mountain range primarily situated?
Answer:
Balochistan
The Toba Kakar range is a southern offshoot of the Himalayas located in the Balochistan province. It runs along the border with Afghanistan, north of Quetta. The range is historically significant as it contains the Khojak Pass, which connects Quetta to the Afghan town of Spin Boldak.
5
Which mountain pass connects the Gilgit-Baltistan region with the Xinjiang region of China?
Answer:
Khunjerab Pass
The Khunjerab Pass is a high mountain pass in the Karakoram Mountains, situated at an elevation of 4,693 meters. It is the highest paved international border crossing in the world and the highest point on the Karakoram Highway, serving as the gateway between Pakistan and China.
6
The Margalla Hills, which overlook Islamabad, are considered the foothills of which mountain system?
Answer:
The Himalayas
The Margalla Hills are a mountain range that forms part of the Lesser Himalayas. They are located north of Islamabad and serve as a popular recreational spot. These hills represent the southernmost extension of the Himalayan mountain system before it transitions into the Pothohar Plateau.
7
The 'Hidden Peak' is another name for which Pakistani eight-thousander?
Answer:
Gasherbrum I
Gasherbrum I, also known as K5 or Hidden Peak, is the 11th highest mountain in the world at 8,080 meters. It was named 'Hidden Peak' by early explorers because it is so remote and is often obscured by other massive peaks of the Gasherbrum range when viewed from the Baltoro glacier.
8
Which range is located between the Indus and Jhelum rivers in the Potohar region?
Answer:
Salt Range
The Salt Range is geographically bounded by the Jhelum River to the east and the Indus River to the west. It spans across the districts of Jhelum, Chakwal, Khushab, and Mianwali. It is famous for being the source of the world-renowned Himalayan pink salt.
9
Mount Sikaram, the highest peak of the Safed Koh range, is located on the border of Pakistan and which country?
Answer:
Afghanistan
Mount Sikaram is the highest peak of the Safed Koh (White Mountains) range, reaching an altitude of 4,755 meters. It sits on the international border between Pakistan (Kurram District) and Afghanistan. The range provides a natural wall that influences the local climate and security dynamics.
10
The Broad Peak is also known locally by which name?
Answer:
Falchan Kangri
Broad Peak, the 12th highest mountain in the world at 8,051 meters, is known locally as Falchan Kangri. It is part of the Gasherbrum massif in the Karakoram range. It received the name 'Broad Peak' because its summit is over 1.5 kilometers long, resembling a broad ridge.