Part of: Lakshadweep Gk set 4

The island group of India having coral origin

Category: Lakshadweep Gk

Hint: Consider the geological formation of the island groups.

Correct Answer: A) Lakshadweep

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The island group of India having a coral origin is Lakshadweep. To understand this, it is essential to delve into the geological formation of islands and the specific characteristics of coral islands.

Coral islands are formed by the accumulation of coral reefs over time. Corals are marine invertebrates that secrete calcium carbonate to form hard skeletons. Over thousands of years, these skeletons accumulate and form large structures known as coral reefs. When these reefs grow above sea level, they can form islands. The process of coral island formation is a slow and continuous one, driven by the growth of coral colonies and the accumulation of sediment.

Lakshadweep is a group of islands located in the Laccadive Sea off the southwestern coast of India. It is part of the larger Lakshadweep Atoll, which is a ring-shaped coral reef formation. The islands in Lakshadweep are primarily composed of coral reefs and are surrounded by the sea. The formation of these islands is a result of the growth of coral reefs over time, which have eventually risen above sea level to form landmasses.

In contrast, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are not primarily of coral origin. These islands are part of a larger island chain that is formed by tectonic activity and volcanic processes. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal and are part of the Andaman Sea. They are not formed by coral reefs but are instead the result of geological processes such as tectonic plate movements and volcanic eruptions.

It is important to distinguish between different types of island formations to correctly identify the origin of the islands. Coral islands are characterized by their unique geological features, such as the presence of coral reefs and the accumulation of calcium carbonate. Understanding these features helps in identifying the correct answer to questions about the origin of islands.

Therefore, Lakshadweep is the correct answer as it is the only island group among the options that is formed by coral reefs. The other island groups, such as Andaman and Nicobar, are not primarily of coral origin and are formed by different geological processes.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Lakshadweep is a group of islands formed by coral reefs, making it the only coral island group among the options provided. The islands are part of a larger atoll structure and are characterized by their coral reef formation.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. The Andaman Islands are not primarily of coral origin. They are part of a larger island chain formed by tectonic activity and volcanic processes, not coral reef formation.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The Nicobar Islands, like the Andaman Islands, are not primarily of coral origin. They are also formed by tectonic activity and are part of the same island chain as the Andaman Islands.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Since Lakshadweep is indeed a coral island group, this option is not applicable. It is important to recognize the specific geological features of each island group to identify the correct answer.

Mnemonic: Lakshadweep: L for Limestone (coral)

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