Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 155

..... is known as middle or lessor Himalayas.

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the hierarchical structure of the Himalayan ranges.

Correct Answer: B) Himachal

Exam Relevance: NEET, JEE, UPSC, SSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Himalayas, the world's highest mountain range, are divided into three main parallel ranges: the Himadri (Great Himalayas), the Himachal (Middle Himalayas), and the Shiwalik (Outer Himalayas). Each of these ranges has distinct characteristics and elevations, and they form a hierarchical structure from the highest to the lowest.

The Himadri, also known as the Great Himalayas, is the highest and most continuous range. It includes some of the world's highest peaks, such as Mount Everest, K2, and Kanchenjunga. The Himadri is characterized by its rugged terrain, high altitude, and significant snow cover. It is the most prominent and well-known range of the Himalayas.

The Himachal, or Middle Himalayas, lies between the Himadri and the Shiwalik ranges. It is also referred to as the Lesser Himalayas. This range is less elevated than the Himadri but still contains significant peaks and valleys. The Himachal includes the ranges such as the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar, and Mahabharat ranges. It is characterized by its moderate elevation, fertile valleys, and diverse ecosystems.

The Shiwalik, or Outer Himalayas, is the lowest and most recent range of the Himalayas. It is composed of sedimentary rocks and is characterized by its relatively low elevation and steep slopes. The Shiwalik range is the outermost part of the Himalayan system and forms the transition zone between the Himalayas and the plains of the Indian subcontinent.

Understanding the hierarchical structure of the Himalayan ranges is crucial for comprehending the geographical and geological features of the region. The Himachal, as the middle range, plays a significant role in the overall structure and ecological diversity of the Himalayas. It is important to distinguish between the names and characteristics of these ranges to avoid confusion and to accurately describe the geographical features of the Himalayan region.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. Himadri refers to the Great Himalayas, which are the highest and most continuous range of the Himalayas. It is not the middle range.
  • Option B: This option is correct. Himachal refers to the Middle Himalayas, also known as the Lesser Himalayas, which lie between the Great Himalayas and the Shiwalik range.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Shiwalik refers to the Outer Himalayas, which are the lowest and most recent range of the Himalayas. They are not the middle range.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. One of the given options (Himachal) correctly identifies the middle range of the Himalayas.

Mnemonic: Himadri-Himachal-Shiwalik: High-Middle-Low

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