Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 385

Which is the world's third highest peak?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the heights of the world's highest mountains.

Correct Answer: B) Kanchenjunga

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, CLAT, MAT

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The world's highest peaks are ranked based on their elevation above sea level. The three highest peaks are Mount Everest, K2, and Kanchenjunga. Mount Everest, located in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas, is the highest peak in the world, standing at an elevation of 8,848 meters (29,029 feet). K2, also known as Mount Godwin-Austen or Chhogori, is the second highest peak, located on the border of Pakistan and China, and it reaches an elevation of 8,611 meters (28,251 feet).

Kanchenjunga, the correct answer to this question, is the world's third highest peak. It is located on the border of Nepal and India, and it stands at an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). The name "Kanchenjunga" is derived from the Tibetan language, where "Kanchen" means "five treasures" and "Dzonga" means "snow." This name refers to the five peaks of Kanchenjunga, which are all over 8,450 meters (27,720 feet) in height.

Understanding the ranking of the world's highest peaks is important for various competitive examinations and general knowledge quizzes. It is essential to remember the order of these peaks to avoid common misconceptions. For instance, some might mistakenly believe that K2 is the third highest peak, but it is actually the second highest. Similarly, it is crucial to know that Kanchenjunga is the third highest peak, not just a high peak but specifically the third in the global ranking.

Mountains like Kanchenjunga are not only significant for their height but also for their cultural and geographical importance. They are often considered sacred in the regions where they are located and are popular destinations for mountaineers and adventurers. Understanding the geographical context and the cultural significance of these peaks can provide a deeper appreciation of the world's natural wonders.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: K2 is the world's second highest peak, not the third. This option is incorrect because it does not match the question's requirement for the third highest peak.
  • Option B: Kanchenjunga is the world's third highest peak, making this the correct answer. It is located on the border of Nepal and India and stands at an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet).
  • Option C: This option is incorrect because it suggests that either K2 or Kanchenjunga could be the third highest peak, which is not true. K2 is the second highest peak, and Kanchenjunga is the third.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect because it suggests that neither K2 nor Kanchenjunga is the third highest peak, which is false. Kanchenjunga is indeed the third highest peak.

Mnemonic: K2 is second, Kanchenjunga is third.

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