Q. Consider the following countries:
I. Bolivia
II. Brazil
III. Colombia
IV. Ecuador
V. Paraguay
VI. Venezuela
Andes mountains pass through how many of the above countries?
(a) Only two
(b) Only three
(c) Only four
(d) Only five
UPSC Prelims Question Paper 2025 Download Pdf
Answer & Explanation:
✅Correct Answer: (d) Only five
Explanation:
The Andes Mountains are the longest continental mountain range in the world, stretching along the western coast of South America. They traverse multiple countries from north to south. Let’s analyze the countries listed in the question:
Countries through which the Andes Mountains pass:
- Bolivia – ✅
The Andes are a dominant geographical feature of Bolivia, dividing the country into several ecological zones. The Altiplano (high plateau) is surrounded by the Andes ranges. - Brazil – ❌
The Andes do not pass through Brazil. Brazil lies to the east of the Andes range and is mostly composed of the Brazilian Highlands and the Amazon Basin. - Colombia – ✅
The Andes enter Colombia from the south and split into three branches: the Cordillera Occidental, Cordillera Central, and Cordillera Oriental. - Ecuador – ✅
The Andes bisect Ecuador from north to south. Major cities like Quito and Cuenca are located in the Andes region. - Paraguay – ❌
The Andes do not extend into Paraguay. The country is mostly flat with low hills and plains. - Venezuela – ✅
The Andes extend into the western part of Venezuela. The Cordillera de Mérida is the main Andean range here.
Summary:
- ✅ Passes through: Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela
- ❌ Does not pass through: Brazil, Paraguay
Thus, 5 out of the 6 listed countries are partially or wholly traversed by the Andes.
Final Answer: (d) Only five
This question tests geographic awareness of South America and the reach of the Andes Mountain range, which is a prominent geographical feature influencing the climate, population settlement, and biodiversity of the region.