UPSC Prelims 2004 Q103: Geography – World Political Geography & Borders
Which one of the following does not border Panama?
- (a) Costa Rica
- (b) Pacific Ocean
- (c) Colombia
- (d) Venezuela
Answer: (d) Venezuela
Explanation
Borders of Panama
| Neighbour | Borders Panama? |
|---|---|
| Costa Rica | Yes (west) |
| Colombia | Yes (east) |
| Pacific Ocean | Yes (south coast) |
| Venezuela | No — it lies beyond Colombia |
Panama is bordered by Costa Rica, Colombia, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, but not by Venezuela.
Answer: (d) Venezuela.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Costa Rica borders Panama in the west.
- (b) Incorrect. The Pacific Ocean forms Panama's south coast.
- (c) Incorrect. Colombia borders Panama in the east.
- (d) CORRECT. Venezuela does not border Panama.
Key point
Panama: Costa Rica, Colombia, Caribbean Sea, Pacific Ocean.
Remember
Venezuela does not border Panama.
Common mistakes
- Assuming Venezuela borders Panama as a South American neighbour.
- Forgetting that Panama is in Central America.
- Mixing Panama's neighbours with Colombia's.
Exam tip
Colombia is the only South American country bordering Panama.
Sources
- Central Intelligence Agency — The World Factbook: Panama (Geography: land boundaries)
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Panama