UPSC Prelims 2014 Q3: Geography – Oceanography
Which one of the following pairs of islands is separated from each other by the 'Ten Degree
Channel'?
- (a) Andaman and Nicobar
- (b) Nicobar and Sumatra
- (c) Maldives and Lakshadweep
- (d) Sumatra and Java
Answer: (a) Andaman and Nicobar
Explanation
Ten Degree Channel
The Ten Degree Channel separates the Andaman group from the Nicobar group.
It lies along 10 degrees North latitude, between Little Andaman and Car Nicobar.
| Channel | Separates |
|---|---|
| Ten Degree Channel | Andaman and Nicobar |
| Duncan Passage | South Andaman and Little Andaman |
| Great Channel (Six Degree Channel) | Great Nicobar and Sumatra |
| Nine Degree Channel | Minicoy and the main Lakshadweep islands |
| Eight Degree Channel | Minicoy and the Maldives |
The other options:
| Option | Actual divider |
|---|---|
| (b) Nicobar and Sumatra | Great Channel |
| (c) Maldives and Lakshadweep | Eight Degree Channel |
| (d) Sumatra and Java | Sunda Strait |
Answer: (a) Andaman and Nicobar.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. The Ten Degree Channel separates the Andaman and Nicobar groups.
- (b) Incorrect. Nicobar and Sumatra are separated by the Great Channel.
- (c) Incorrect. Maldives and Lakshadweep are separated by the Eight Degree Channel.
- (d) Incorrect. Sumatra and Java are separated by the Sunda Strait.
Key point
Ten Degree Channel: Andaman and Nicobar. Nine Degree: Minicoy and Lakshadweep. Eight Degree: Minicoy and Maldives. Great Channel: Great Nicobar and Sumatra.
Remember
Ten Degree Channel = Andaman | Nicobar.
Common mistakes
- Mixing up the Eight, Nine and Ten Degree Channels.
- Forgetting that the channels are named after their latitude.
- Confusing the Sunda Strait with the Strait of Malacca.
Exam tip
South to north by latitude: Six, Eight, Nine, Ten. Ten is the Andaman-Nicobar gap.
Sources
- NCERT Class XI — India: Physical Environment, Ch 2 (Structure and Physiography: The Islands)
- Survey of India — Andaman and Nicobar Islands map