Set D - UPSC Prelims 2025 Solutions

QQuestion

Which of the following are the evidences of the phenomenon of continental drift? I. The belt of ancient rocks from Brazil coast matches with those from Western Africa. II. The gold deposits of Ghana are derived from the Brazil plateau when the two continents lay side by side. III. The Gondwana system of sediments from India is known to have its counterparts in six different landmasses of the Southern Hemisphere. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

OOptions

A) I and III only

B) I and II only

C) I, II and III

D) II and III only

✓Correct Answer

C) I, II and III

DDalvoy Solutions

All three statements provide evidence for continental drift:

I. Ancient rock belt from Brazil matches Western Africa: Correct. The geological formations along the Brazilian coast align remarkably with those of Western Africa, suggesting these continents were once joined. Similar rock types, ages, and structures provide strong geological evidence.

II. Ghana's gold deposits derived from Brazil plateau when continents were adjacent: Correct. The gold-bearing formations in Ghana show geological continuity with the Brazilian plateau, indicating they were part of the same geological system before continental separation.

III. Gondwana sediments from India match six Southern Hemisphere landmasses: Correct. The Gondwana rock formations found in India have counterparts in Antarctica, Australia, South America, Africa, and Madagascar, providing compelling evidence that these landmasses were once part of the supercontinent Gondwana.

Solution Diagram for Q<built-in function id>

SUPSC Prelims Strategy and Tips

For continental drift evidence, look for matching geological features, fossil records, and rock formations across currently separated continents. The fit of continental margins and similar geological structures are key evidence.

SUPSC Prelims 2025 Syllabus Analysis

Geography - Plate tectonics and continental drift theory

AUPSC Prelims 2025 Question Analysis

Medium difficulty - requires understanding of geological evidence for continental drift

Question 65

Contents