Asia — Location, Extent, Political and Physical Features

Geographically, it stretches across the Northern and Eastern Hemispheres, sharing a landmass with Europe, often referred to as Eurasia. Its immense latitudinal and longitudinal extent contributes to a wide range of climates and physical features.

Politically, Asia is a continent of many nations, each with its unique culture and governance. You’d typically learn about some of the most prominent countries, such as China, India, Russia, Japan, and various Middle Eastern nations, understanding their general location within the continent.

Physically, Asia is a land of extremes. It’s home to the world’s highest mountain range, the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, and vast plateaus like the Tibetan Plateau. Extensive plains, such as the Siberian Plain and the Indo-Gangetic Plain, support large populations and agricultural activities. Major river systems like the Yangtze, Yellow, Ganges, and Indus originate in the highlands and flow across these plains, forming vital arteries. Deserts, including the Gobi and Arabian Deserts, cover significant areas, while rainforests thrive in the equatorial regions of Southeast Asia. The continent is also characterized by numerous archipelagos, such as Japan and Indonesia, and vast coastlines along the Pacific, Indian, and Arctic Oceans, each influencing the local climate and economy. In essence, the chapter would highlight how Asia’s immense size and varied topography have shaped its human societies and natural environments.

Exercises

A. Fill in the blanks

1. A mountain range in South-west Asia that separates Asia from Europe : ______________.

Ans : Caucasus mountains

2. I am a plain formed by the rivers Ob, Yenisei, and Lena :__________.

Ans : Great Siberian Plain or Northern Lowlands

3. An area of inland drainage into which the Amu Darya and, Syr Darya drain : ______________.

Ans : Turan Plain

4. I am a small zone from which several mountain ranges appear to radiate out: _________.

Ans : Pamir Knot

5. A plateau that lies between the Alborz and Zagros mountain ranges : ___________.

Ans : Plateau of Iran

B. Match the following

Answer:

C. State whether the following are true or false

1. Together with Europe, Asia is often referred to as Eurasia.
Ans : True.

2. Most of the Asian countries gained independence only after World War I.
Ans : False.
Most of the Asian countries gained independence only after World War II.

3. Three rivers which flow northwards into the Arctic Ocean are the Ganga, the Brahmaputra and the Yamuna.
Ans : False.
Three rivers which flow northwards into the Arctic Ocean are the Ob, the Yenisei and the Lena.

4. The Karakoram Range is a short range, which extends south-eastwards from the Pamir Knot between the Kunlun and the Himalayas.
Ans : True.

5. The Deccan Plateau of India lies between the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats.
Ans : True.

D. Answer the following questions in brief

Question 1.
Name the geographical features that border Asia in the north, south, east, and west.
Answer:
Asia, a colossal continent, is clearly delineated by its surrounding waters and landforms. To its north, the frigid Arctic Ocean serves as a frozen cap. Journeying southward, the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean gently laps at its southern shores, providing a warm embrace. Gaze eastward, and the seemingly endless Pacific Ocean defines its eastern frontier, stretching towards the Americas.

Defining Asia’s western boundary is a more intricate affair, marked by a succession of significant geographical features. Following this mountainous barrier, the inland Caspian Sea acts as a substantial watery marker. These combined elements create a distinctive and well-defined outline for the Asian continent on the global map.

Question 2.
What do you understand about the term ‘archipelago’ ? Give two examples from the Pacific Ocean.
Answer:
Archipelagos are island groups, often sharing geological origins like volcanic activity or tectonic shifts, and sometimes cultural ties. They can also refer to the surrounding waters. The Pacific Ocean features numerous archipelagos, such as Japan and Hawaii. Japan, a vast chain of thousands of islands including Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, was shaped by volcanic and tectonic forces within the Pacific Ring of Fire. The Hawaiian archipelago, conversely, formed from a volcanic hotspot in the central Pacific, comprising eight main islands and many smaller formations.

Question 3.
Name the rivers of the Great Siberian Plain.
Answer:
The West Siberian Plain is a vast, flat, and wetland-rich area in Siberia, Russia. It is crisscrossed by important rivers. The Ob River, one of Asia’s largest, originates in the Altai Mountains and flows north into the Arctic Ocean, significantly expanded by its main tributary, the Irtysh. To its east, the Yenisei River is a central Siberian river also emptying into the Arctic. It serves as a natural boundary between the West Siberian Plain and the Central Siberian Plateau and has a massive basin fed by numerous tributaries.

Question 4.
What kind of plateau is the Plateau of Tibet ?
Answer:Here’s why:

• Tectonic Origin: Its formation is fundamentally linked to the immense tectonic forces of the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. This ongoing collision causes the crust to thicken and uplift, creating the vast elevation of the plateau.
• Intermontane Characteristic:These surrounding mountain belts are also products of the same tectonic collision, effectively “boxing in” the elevated plateau.

Therefore, while it’s certainly a high plateau, its defining characteristic lies in its creation through massive geological forces and its location nestled among towering mountain chains.

Question 5.
In which country of Asia are the Mesopotamian plains situated ?
Answer:
The Mesopotamian plains, often referred to as the “land between two rivers” (the Tigris and Euphrates), are primarily situated in Iraq.

While the historical region of Mesopotamia also extended into parts of modern-day Syria, southeastern Turkey, and southwestern Iran, the vast majority and the heartland of the Mesopotamian plains are found within the borders of present-day Iraq.

E. Answer the following questions in detail

Question 1.
Describe the location of Asia.
Answer:
It is surrounded by the Arctic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans to the north, east, and south respectively. Its western border with Europe is defined by the Ural Mountains, Caspian Sea, Caucasus Mountains, Black Sea, and the Turkish Straits, while the Suez Canal connects it to Africa in the southwest. This vast continent, extending from the Arctic to the equator, has historically been a crucial hub for cultures and trade worldwide.

Question 2.
Describe the Northern Lowlands of Asia.
Answer:
The Northern Lowlands of Asia are a vast, flat expanse covering much of northern Russia (Siberia) and parts of Central Asia, forming the world’s largest continuous plains. Key features include:

Resources: Rich in oil, natural gas, and coal, driving significant economic activity despite challenging environmental conditions.

Topography: Generally low-lying (50-70m elevation), largely flat, with extensive permafrost in the north and marshy/swampy areas.

Rivers: Drained by major rivers like the Ob, Yenisei, and Lena, all flowing north to the Arctic Ocean, often leading to extensive flooding during spring thaws.

Climate: Predominantly subarctic continental with extremely long, cold winters and short, cool summers.

Vegetation: Tundra and forest-tundra.

Countries: Primarily Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.

Question 3.
Explain why the Pami Knot is called so. Write briefly about the mountain ranges that radiate from the Pamir Knot.
Answer:
The Pamir Knot, often called the “Roof of the World,” is a pivotal orographic junction where several major mountain ranges converge and fan out. These include the Himalayas and Karakoram Range to the southeast, the Kunlun Mountains extending eastward, the Tian Shan Mountains to the north, and the Hindu Kush and Sulaiman ranges radiating to the west and southwest, respectively.

Question 4.
Write briefly about the Arabian Plateau and the Deccan Plateau.
Answer:
The Arabian and Deccan Plateaus are two distinct landforms, each shaped by unique geological and climatic factors.

The Arabian Plateau, located in Southwest Asia, is a vast, arid expanse sloping eastward from the Red Sea. Its geology is characterized by ancient igneous rocks in the west and younger sedimentary formations to the east, along with volcanic barrats. The climate is overwhelmingly hot and dry, with some monsoon influence in the south. Its global importance stems from its massive oil and gas reserves.

In contrast, the Deccan Plateau, situated in southern India, is a triangular tableland flanked by the Western and Eastern Ghats. Geologically, it’s dominated by the Deccan Traps, solidified volcanic basalt, which yields fertile black soils. The Deccan is vital for its mineral wealth and agricultural output, supporting crops like cotton and pulses, and is crisscrossed by major rivers.

Question 5.
Describe the river valleys of Asia.
Answer:
Asia’s key river valleys—Indus, Ganges, Yellow, and Yangtze—are the backbone of the continent’s civilization and agriculture. Their defining characteristic is the vast, fertile floodplains created by silt deposited by the rivers. These low-lying, water-rich areas are ideal for farming, especially rice.

The arid Indus Valley depends on its river for irrigation across its wide plain, a historical hub of ancient societies. To its east, the Ganges Valley, with more rainfall, is incredibly fertile, supporting a large population and intensive farming.

China’s Yellow River Valley is known for its fertile, easily eroded loess soil and high sediment content. These generally flat or gently sloped valleys, often flanked by plateaus or mountains that feed the rivers, provide a steady supply of water and rich land. This makes them essential for Asia’s food security and has historically dictated human settlement patterns.

F. Picture study
The mountain peak seen in the picture is the highest peak in the world.

Question 1.
What is the height of this peak ?
Answer:
8850 m

Question 2.
In which mountain range does it lie ?
Answer:
Himalayas

G Map study
On an outline map of Asia, mark and name the following

1. Rivers — Amur, Ob, Chang Jiang
2. Gulfs — Persian Gulf, Gulf of Martaban
3. Straits — Bering Strait, Strait of Malacca
4. Seas — Arabian Sea, Caspian Sea, Sea of Japan
5. Oceans — Arctic, Pacific, Indian
6. Mountain ranges — Himalayas, Urals, Hindukush
7. Write ROOF OF THE WORLD and GREAT SIBERIAN PLAIN in appropriate places on the map.

Answer:

Extra Questions

Question 1.
What do you mean by Eurasia ?
Answer:
Eurasia is the immense landmass comprising Europe and Asia, the globe’s largest continent. It spans from the Atlantic to the Pacific and is frequently viewed as a singular supercontinent because it lacks a definitive natural separation.

Question 2.
What are perennial rivers ?
Answer:
Perennial rivers flow ceaselessly, fed by reliable sources like melting snow, glaciers, or steady rainfall and groundwater, ensuring a year-round water supply.

Question 3.
Name the five physical regions of Asia
Answer:

1. Northern Lowlands: Vast, generally flat plains covering Siberia.
2. Central Mountains and Plateaus: A complex area including the Himalayas, Tibetan Plateau, and other high ranges.
3. Southern Plateaus: Elevated tablelands like the Deccan Plateau and Arabian Plateau.
4. Great River Valleys and Plains: Fertile lowlands formed by major rivers (e.g., Indus, Ganges, Yangtze).
5. Island Chains: Numerous archipelagos off the continental mainland (e.g., Japan, Philippines, Indonesia).

Question 4.
Which mountain range has some of the world’s highest peaks ?
Answer:
The Karakoram Range

Question 5.

 Name the plateaux (plural of plateau) of the Southern Plateaux of Asia.

Answer:Here’s a concise summary of prominent elevated regions in Southern Asia:

Southern Asia features several significant elevated landforms. These include the expansive Deccan Plateau in peninsular India, the Shan Plateau located in Myanmar, and the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, which extends across southwestern China.

Question 6. 

Name the rivers that have built the Great River Valleys of Asia.

Answer:  Asia’s foundational agricultural and civilizational centers were intricately linked to its major rivers. The Ganges, often merging with the Brahmaputra, created the expansive Ganges Plain. In China, the Yellow River (Huang He) was instrumental in forming the fertile North China Plain, while the Yangtze River (Chang Jiang) carved out its crucial southern valley. To the south, the Mekong River was vital to the productive lowlands it flows through in Southeast Asia.

Question 7.
Write a note on the Island Chains of Asia.
Answer:
Asia’s eastern and southeastern edges are fringed by a series of diverse island chains, natural laboratories shaped by the powerful forces of volcanoes and shifting tectonic plates. These archipelagos are not merely geographical features; they are integral to the region’s climate patterns, its intricate ecosystems, and the lives of the millions who call them home.

Then there’s the Philippines, an archipelago celebrated for its breathtaking biodiversity and, at times, challenged by the relentless passage of typhoons. Further south lies Indonesia, a sprawling nation that claims the title of the world’s largest island country, a land incredibly rich in natural resources and vibrant with ongoing volcanic activity.

Common threads weave through these island nations: rugged coastlines carved by the elements, incredibly fertile soils nurtured by volcanic ash, and an abundance of marine life teeming in their surrounding waters. Their strategic locations have historically made them pivotal hubs for trade, fostering a dynamic exchange of goods and ideas. This unique geography has also given rise to distinct ecosystems and cultural tapestries, each island group possessing its own character. However, this very location, perched on the volatile Pacific Ring of Fire, also means a constant vulnerability to nature’s raw power .

Question 8.
Which is the largest and the smallest country in Asia ?
Answer:
When considering the sheer scale of nations across Asia, Russia stands preeminent. Not only does it claim the distinction of being the largest country on the Asian continent, but it also holds the global title for landmass. While a considerable part of Russia extends into Europe, its expansive territories stretching across Asia dwarf all other nations in the region.

 This archipelagic nation, renowned for its breathtaking coral formations and dispersed atolls, occupies a minuscule land area. Its territory is fragmented across numerous diminutive islands scattered throughout the Indian Ocean.

Question 9.
Name the following (in Asia)

1. Most industrialized country –
2. Highest elevation
3. Highest Plateau
4. Lowest point
5. Deepest sea
6. Deepest lake
7. Longest strait
8. Coldest Place
9. Warmest place
10. Number of countries in Asia

Answer:

1. Japan
2. Mount Everest (8,850 m)
3. The Plateau of Tibet (‘THE ROOF OF THE WORLD’)
4. The Dead Sea (400 m below sea level)
5. The South China Sea
6. Lake Baikal
7. The strait of Malacca
8. Verkhoyansk, Russia (-70°C)
9. Dasht-e Lut (Iran)
10. 48

Question 10.
What are the six regional divisions of Asia ?
Answer:
Asia, being the world’s largest continent, is commonly divided into six major regional divisions due to its immense size and diverse geography, cultures, and histories. While there might be slight variations in how some organizations define these regions, the generally accepted six are:

 East Asia:. It is known for its rapidly developing economies, distinct cultural traditions, and significant historical influence.

Southeast Asia: Comprising both mainland and island nations, this region includes countries such as Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam. It’s characterized by its tropical climate, rich biodiversity, and diverse ethnic groups.

South Asia: Also known as the Indian Subcontinent, this region is home to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It’s marked by the towering Himalayas to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south, with a high population density and a rich tapestry of religions and cultures.

 Central Asia: Historically, it was a crucial crossroads for trade routes like the Silk Road, and its landscape features vast steppes, deserts, and mountains.

 West Asia : It is a region of immense historical and religious significance, known for its arid landscapes and vast oil reserves.

 North Asia: This region primarily consists of the Asian part of Russia, often referred to as Siberia. It is characterized by its vast, sparsely populated taiga forests and tundra, and extremely cold climates.

Question 11.
Name some important cities of East Asia.
Answer:
East Asia is a cradle of global influence, with its cities serving as powerful engines of commerce, culture, and innovation. From the futuristic skylines to ancient capitals, these urban centers encapsulate the region’s dynamism.

China boasts an impressive array of metropolises. A unique fusion of East and West defines Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region recognized for its breathtaking harbor, vibrant markets, and a financial sector that rivals any in the world. Further south, Shenzhen has earned its moniker as China’s “Silicon Valley,” a booming hub for technology and manufacturing. Nearby, Guangzhou thrives as a crucial port and manufacturing center, renowned for its trade fairs and exquisite Cantonese cuisine. Inland, Chongqing, one of China’s most populous municipalities, is a significant economic force with a dramatic, mountainous cityscape.

Japan’s urban landscape is equally captivating. Tokyo, the world’s largest metropolitan area, is a vibrant tapestry where traditional temples sit alongside cutting-edge technology, offering an unparalleled culinary and entertainment scene. To the south, Osaka is a major economic and cultural center in the Kansai region, celebrated for its delicious food, lively atmosphere, and historical treasures like Osaka Castle. A step back in time is offered by Kyoto, Japan’s former capital, which has meticulously preserved its historical charm with countless temples, serene gardens, and the enchanting geisha districts. Completing this quartet is Yokohama, a significant port city south of Tokyo, known for its picturesque waterfront and diverse architectural styles.

South Korea’s urban centers are marked by their modernity and cultural impact. Seoul, the dynamic capital, is a global trendsetter, with its gleaming skyscrapers, profound influence on pop culture (K-Pop, K-Drama), ancient palaces, and energetic street life. To the south, Busan, South Korea’s largest port, entices with its beautiful beaches, bustling seafood markets, and lively cultural festivals.

In Taiwan, Taipei reigns as the bustling capital, a city that seamlessly blends modern marvels like Taipei 101 with traditional temples and vibrant night markets that are a feast for the senses.

Finally, in North Korea, Pyongyang stands as the capital, characterized by its grand monuments, meticulously planned urban design, and distinct political ambiance.

Collectively, these cities paint a comprehensive picture of East Asia’s economic power, rich historical legacy, and diverse cultural tapestry, cementing its position as a truly influential global region.

Question 12.
Which are the two main rivers of Central Asia and why are they important ?
Answer:
The two main rivers of Central Asia are the Amu Darya and the Syr Darya.

They are important because:

• Water Supply: Central Asia is largely arid, and these rivers provide over 90% of the region’s river water, crucial for a population that heavily relies on it.
• Agriculture: Their waters are essential for irrigating vast agricultural lands, particularly for crops like cotton, supporting the livelihoods of millions.
• Hydroelectricity: They are vital for generating hydroelectric power, especially in upstream countries like Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.
• Historical and Cultural Significance: These rivers have been the lifeblood of civilizations in the region for millennia, influencing trade routes (like the Silk Road) and the development of major cities.
• Environmental Impact (Aral Sea Crisis): The extensive diversion of their waters for irrigation has led to the drastic shrinkage of the Aral Sea, a major environmental disaster, highlighting their critical role in the region’s ecological balance.

Question 13.
Write a short note on South Asia.
Answer:
South Asia, a region defined by the Indian Plate, includes diverse nations like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It features the Himalayas, the Indo-Gangetic Plain, and the Deccan Plateau. Home to a quarter of the global population, it’s incredibly dense. Culturally, it’s a rich blend of religions such as Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism, influencing its art and daily life. Economically, these are developing nations reliant on agriculture, though IT and services are growing. Challenges like poverty and inequality remain, making regional cooperation vital for progress.

Question 14.
Why is West Asia not densely populated ?
Answer:
The primary reasons West Asia isn’t densely populated are its arid climate and significant desertification, which limit arable land and access to fresh water. While some areas, particularly along coastlines and rivers, support higher populations, the vast majority of the region is inhospitable. Political instability and conflict in certain areas also contribute to population displacement and hinder development that could support higher densities

Question 15.
Why is the Plateau of Tibet called the ‘Roof of the World’?
Answer:
The Tibetan Plateau, often called the “Roof of the World,” earns its name due to its extraordinary elevation. As the planet’s highest and largest plateau, its average height surpasses 4,500 meters (14,800 feet), with numerous peaks soaring even higher, making it appear to crown the Earth.

Question 16.
Which is the highest and the second highest peak in the world and where are they situated ?
Answer:
The Earth’s towering giants capture the imagination, with Mount Everest reigning supreme as the world’s highest peak. This majestic mountain, soaring to an elevation of 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet), straddles the border between Nepal and China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, firmly rooted in the mighty Himalayas.

K2 finds its home in the Karakoram range, situated on the intricate border shared by Pakistan-administered Kashmir (specifically the Gilgit-Baltistan region) and China-administered Trans-Karakoram Tract (which is part of the Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County of Xinjiang).

Question 17.
Name few glaciers found in Himalayas and Karakoram range of mountains.
Answer:
The colossal Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges are home to some of the world’s most spectacular glaciers, acting as vital reservoirs of freshwater for countless communities.

Within the Indian Himalayas, several significant glaciers stand out. Uttarakhand, for instance, hosts the revered Gangotri Glacier, the very source of the Ganges River. Also in Uttarakhand are the Pindari Glacier, nestled in the Kumaon Himalayas, and the vast Milam Glacier, one of the longest in the Kumaon region. Moving eastward into Sikkim, we encounter the Zemu Glacier, situated at the foot of the immense Kangchenjunga.

The rugged Karakoram range further to the northwest holds some of the planet’s most imposing non-polar glaciers. The Siachen Glacier, an enormous ice field of immense strategic and geographic importance, is the largest in the entire Himalayas-Karakoram region and the second-longest outside the polar ice caps. It is also a site of ongoing dispute between India and Pakistan.

In Pakistan’s Karakoram, the Baltoro Glacier is renowned for its “Concordia” junction, a crucial convergence point for routes leading to iconic peaks like K2. The Biafo Glacier is another giant, ranking among the world’s longest non-polar glaciers, also located in Pakistan. It joins with the Hispar Glacier, creating an extensive icy pathway. Completing this impressive glacial landscape in the Pakistani Karakoram is the Batura Glacier.

Question 18.
Name few passes in the Central Fold Mountains and Inter – Montane Plateaux which allow the movements of goods and people across the mountains.
Answer:
The Himalayan passes in both Pakistan and India have profoundly influenced history. Pakistan’s Khyber and Bolan Passes were key arteries connecting Central Asia, Afghanistan, Persia, and the Indian subcontinent, facilitating trade and population movement.

In India, Sikkim’s Nathu La and Jelep La were crucial sections of the ancient Silk Route, fostering trade and cultural exchange with Tibet. Uttarakhand’s Mana Pass served as a traditional pilgrimage route, while Himachal Pradesh’s Shipki La was another vital trade link. In Ladakh, Zoji La connects the Kashmir Valley to Ladakh, and Khardung La, a high-altitude motorable road, holds strategic importance for linking Leh with the Nubra Valley. Together, these passes represent a rich history of commerce, military campaigns, spiritual journeys, and human resilience over centuries.

Question 19.
Why did the Arabian Plateau become important to the rest of the world ?
Answer:
The Arabian Plateau is globally significant for three main reasons:

1. Energy Hub: It possesses vast reserves of oil and natural gas, making it a cornerstone of global energy supply and a major economic player.
2. Strategic Location: Historically a key trade route between Europe, Asia, and Africa, its surrounding waterways remain vital for international shipping and energy transport.
3. Cultural and Geopolitical Influence: As the origin of Islam, with Mecca and Medina located there, the plateau profoundly impacts global culture and geopolitics.

Question 20.
Why are the fertile river valleys and plains of Asia such as the Mesopotamian Plains, the Indo-Gangetic Plains and the Great Plains of China called the cradles of civilization ?
Answer:
Indo-Gangetic Plains, and the Great Plains of China, are known as “cradles of civilization” because their unique geographical features provided ideal conditions for early human societies to flourish and develop complex cultures.

The consistent availability of fresh water for drinking and irrigation, coupled with rich, alluvial soil deposited by rivers, allowed for surplus agricultural production. This surplus supported larger populations, leading to the formation of permanent settlements instead of nomadic lifestyles. The predictable flooding patterns of these rivers, while sometimes destructive, also replenished the soil, ensuring continued fertility.

Essentially, these regions provided the necessary resources and stability for human innovation and the transition from simple agrarian societies to organized, advanced civilizations.

Question 21.
What makes Asia a continent of contrasts ?
Answer:
Asia’s immense size and diverse geography are the primary reasons for its contrasts. It encompasses everything from the world’s highest mountains (Himalayas) to its lowest point on land (Dead Sea), and from vast deserts (Gobi, Arabian) to lush rainforests (Southeast Asia). This geographical variety directly influences its climates, ranging from arctic tundras in Siberia to tropical heat in the equator.

These physical differences underpin the vast cultural, economic, and social disparities. You find ancient traditions coexisting with cutting-edge technology, extreme wealth alongside widespread poverty, and autocratic governments alongside burgeoning democracies. The sheer number of languages, religions, and ethnic groups further amplifies this mosaic, making Asia a true continent of contrasts.

22. Fill in the blanks

1. Asia lies wholly in the __________ hemispheres.

Ans : northern and eastern

2. Together with Europe, Asia is called _________.

Ans : Eurasia.

3. The _________ Ocean lies to the east and _________ Ocean to the south of Asia.

Ans : Pacific ,Indian

4. There is a time difference of about _____ hours between the Anatolian Plateau (Asia Minor) in the west and the Pacific Coast in the east of Asia.

Ans : 11

5. There are ___independent countries in Asia.

Ans : 48

6. ____ is the largest continent in the world.

Ans : Asia

7. Asia occupies _________ of the total land area and __________of the total population of the world.

Ans : one-third ,three-fifth

8. The USSR broke up into several independent republics in 1991, some of which are in ______ and some in Asia now.

Ans : Europe

9. North Asia is divided by a long mountain range known as the ________Mountains.

Ans : Ural

10. Siberia lies in the ________ of the Ural Mountains.

Ans : East

11. The two main rivers of Central Asia are the _________and the _______.

Ans : Amu Darya & SyrDarya.

12. _______Asia is the most densely populated region in the world.

Ans : South

13. ________________are the world’s greatest continuous plains.

Ans : The Northern Lowlands (the Great Siberian Plain)

14. The Himalayas emerge from the _________ in south-east direction.

Ans : Pamir Knot

15. ___________, the world’s highest peak lies on the border between Nepal and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

Ans : Mt Everest,

16. The ___________ Plateau is a dry plateau as it is in the region of low rainfall and no rivers.

Ans :  Arabian 

17. __________is also called the land of five rivers.

Ans : Punjab 

18. The __________is Asia’s longest river.

Ans : Chang Jiang (Yangtze)

19. The Lakshadweep Islands and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are in ________Asia.

Ans : South

20. The __________ is the smallest country in Asia.

Ans : Maldives

21. The zone from where the mountain ranges appear to radiate outwards in different directions in the Central Fold mountains in Asia is called ___________.

Ans : Pamir Knot.