Physiographic Divisions MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This Class IX Geography quiz focuses on the Physical Features of India unit, specifically covering the major physiographic divisions. Test your understanding of the Himalayas, the Northern Plains, the Peninsular Plateau, and the Indian Desert. Attempt these 10 MCQs to evaluate your preparation, check your score instantly, and download the detailed answer key PDF for revision.
Overview of Physiographic Divisions
India is a vast country with varied landforms. The physical features of India can be grouped under major physiographic divisions: The Himalayan Mountains, The Northern Plains, The Peninsular Plateau, The Indian Desert, The Coastal Plains, and The Islands. This quiz specifically focuses on the mountain, plain, plateau, and desert regions.
1. The Himalayan Mountains
The Himalayas are geologically young and structurally fold mountains. They run in a west-east direction from the Indus to the Brahmaputra. They are divided into three parallel ranges in their longitudinal extent:
- Himadri (Great or Inner Himalayas): The northernmost range, containing the highest peaks.
- Himachal (Lesser Himalayas): Lies south of Himadri, known for hill stations.
- Shiwaliks: The outermost range composed of unconsolidated sediments.
2. The Northern Plains
Formed by the interplay of the three major river systems—the Indus, the Ganga, and the Brahmaputra—along with their tributaries. This region consists of alluvial soil, making it agriculturally very productive. It is divided into three sections: the Punjab Plains, the Ganga Plains, and the Brahmaputra Plains.
3. The Peninsular Plateau
A tableland composed of old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. It was formed due to the breaking and drifting of the Gondwana land. It consists of two broad divisions:
- Central Highlands: Lying to the north of the Narmada river, covering a major area of the Malwa plateau.
- Deccan Plateau: A triangular landmass that lies to the south of the river Narmada.
The Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats mark the western and eastern edges of the Deccan Plateau respectively.
4. The Indian Desert
Located towards the western margins of the Aravali Hills. It is an undulating sandy plain covered with sand dunes (Barchans). This region receives very low rainfall (below 150 mm per year) and has an arid climate with low vegetation cover. Luni is the only large river in this region.
Quick Revision Table: Western vs. Eastern Ghats
| Feature | Western Ghats | Eastern Ghats |
|---|---|---|
| Continuity | Continuous, can be crossed through passes only. | Discontinuous and irregular, dissected by rivers. |
| Height | Higher (900-1600 meters). | Lower (Average 600 meters). |
| Highest Peak | Anamudi | Mahendragiri |
Extra Practice Questions
- Which river drains the Chotanagpur plateau? (Ans: Damodar)
- What is the belt of pebbles at the foot of the Shiwaliks called? (Ans: Bhabar)
- Which part of the Himalayas lies between the Kali and Teesta rivers? (Ans: Nepal Himalayas)
- Which is the highest peak of the Satpura range? (Ans: Dhupgarh)
- What are the crescent-shaped dunes found in the Indian Desert called? (Ans: Barchans)
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