Plate Tectonics & Distribution of Oceans and Continents – NDA Geography PYQs

Question 1 [NDA 2013-II]
The rigid lithosphere slabs are known as Plates. What would be the result if the oceanic plate collides with the continental plate?

1. Oceanic plate is forced below the continental plate.
2. Continental plate is forced below the oceanic plate.
3. Continental and oceanic plates never collide.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 only
When an oceanic plate collides with a continental plate, the oceanic plate sinks (subducts) beneath the continental plate — because oceanic crust (SIMA) is denser than continental crust (SIAL). The continental plate rides over the top. Statements 2 and 3 are both false.

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Question 2 [NDA 2018-I]
Which of the following statements about Ring of Fire is/are correct?

1. It is a zone of convergence plate boundaries.
2. It is an active seismic and volcanic zone.
3. It is associated with deep trench.

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
All three statements are correct. The Ring of Fire surrounds the Pacific Ocean and is characterised by convergent plate boundaries where the Pacific Plate is subducted, creating intense seismic and volcanic activity and deep ocean trenches.

Question 3 [NDA 2019-II]
Which one of the following is a major plate?
(a) Pacific plate
(b) Cocos plate
(c) Arabian plate
(d) Philippine plate

Answer: (a) Pacific Plate
The Pacific Plate is one of the seven major tectonic plates and is in fact the largest plate in the world. Cocos, Arabian, and Philippine plates are all minor plates — smaller in size and area than the seven major plates.

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Question 4 [NDA 2021-I]
Which one of the following is NOT a minor plate?
(a) Cocos Plate
(b) Nazca Plate
(c) Caroline Plate
(d) Antarctic Plate

Answer: (d) Antarctic Plate
The Antarctic Plate is one of the seven major tectonic plates — it covers the entire Antarctic region and surrounding ocean. Cocos, Nazca, and Caroline are all minor plates — smaller regional plates in the Pacific and Southeast Asian areas.