JAMB UTME - Geography - 2024

An example of an organically formed sedimentary rock is

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An example of an organically formed sedimentary rock is coal.

Coal is formed from the remains of dead plants that accumulated in ancient swamps and wetlands. Over millions of years, these plant materials were buried under layers of sediment. As more layers built up on top, the increased pressure and heat transformed the plant remains into coal. The process involved is known as biochemical sedimentation, where organic materials are compacted and altered to form rock.

This is in contrast to the other options:

• Granite is an igneous rock, not sedimentary, formed from cooled magma or lava.
• Rock salt is a chemical sedimentary rock formed when water evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals.
• Sandstone is a clastic sedimentary rock formed from compacted sand particles.

To summarize, coal is the organically formed sedimentary rock among these options because it originates from ancient plant material that has undergone compaction and chemical transformation over time.

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To determine which option is not a proof of the Earth's spherical shape, let's examine each one:

Twilight and Dawn: Twilight and dawn occur when the Earth rotates, and the sun is below the horizon. The gradual increase or decrease in light during these times is due to the atmosphere bending or scattering sunlight. While this phenomenon is observed worldwide, it by itself doesn't directly indicate a spherical Earth. Instead, it emphasizes the Earth's rotation, which is consistent with a spherical shape.

Lunar Eclipse: During a lunar eclipse, when the Earth is directly between the sun and the moon, the Earth casts a shadow on the moon. This shadow is observed as a circular shape, which provides direct evidence that the Earth is spherical.

Aerial Photograph: Aerial photographs, when taken from a sufficient altitude, can show the curvature of the Earth. Photographs taken from high altitudes give visual evidence of the Earth's curved surface, supporting the spherical shape.

Sunrise and Sunset: The occurrence of sunrise and sunset happens due to the Earth's rotation on its axis. As the Earth rotates, different parts of the world experience sunlight and darkness. This rotation is consistent with the global experience of a spherical planet.

Conclusion: While all the listed phenomena have some connection to the Earth's rotation and shape, **twilight and dawn** do not directly serve as a proof of the Earth's spherical shape. They are more indicative of the rotational aspect and atmospheric effects rather than the shape itself.

Which of the following is a fossil fuel?

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The term fossil fuel refers to energy sources that come from the remains of ancient plants and animals, buried and subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. These fuels are primarily composed of carbon and include materials like coal, oil, and natural gas.

Among the options given:

• Gneiss is a type of metamorphic rock formed from other rocks like granite or sedimentary rock through heat and pressure. It is not a fossil fuel.
• Granite is an igneous rock that forms from the cooling and solidification of magma beneath the Earth’s surface. It is not a fossil fuel.
• Lignite is a type of coal, which is a fossil fuel. It is often referred to as brown coal and is used primarily as a fuel for steam-electric power generation.
• Mica is a group of minerals that can split into thin, tough sheets. It is not a fossil fuel.

Therefore, the correct answer is Lignite because it belongs to the category of fossil fuels. Lignite is formed from the remains of plants that lived millions of years ago, which makes it a source of stored energy that can be burned for heat and power.

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Life expectancy refers to the average age at which people die. It is a statistical measure that estimates the average number of years a person is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Life expectancy can vary significantly based on various factors such as geography, lifestyle, healthcare quality, and socioeconomic status. It serves as an important indicator of a population's overall health and quality of life.

Which of the following least influences population density in Nigeria?

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Population density refers to the number of people living per unit of area, typically measured in people per square kilometer. In Nigeria, several factors influence population density, including natural, economic, and social factors.

Thick forest vegetation can influence population density by limiting the availability of land for habitation and agricultural activities. Areas with dense forests are usually less populated because they are harder to clear for settlements and farming. Additionally, thick forests may not have sufficient infrastructure, making them less attractive for people to live in.

Similarly, tsetse fly infestation can significantly influence population density. The tsetse fly transmits sleeping sickness, which can be a health hazard for humans and animals. Areas infested with tsetse flies might have lower population densities because people avoid settling in regions where their health and that of their livestock are at risk.

Fertile agricultural land attracts people because it supports farming activities, which is a primary livelihood for many people in Nigeria. As a result, such areas often have higher population densities due to the economic opportunities they provide.

The factor that least influences population density among the given options is mining. While mining can attract workers to specific areas, its influence is usually limited to certain regions where mineral resources are available. Since mining is typically localized and not widespread, its impact on overall population density is generally lower compared to factors like agriculture or disease. Additionally, mining areas might not have sustainable living conditions to attract large populations permanently.

In summary, while all these factors can influence population density, mining has the least impact compared to the other options because it affects fewer regions and often does not provide long-term settlement opportunities.

When the sun is directly overhead at the tropic of Capricorn (23 %, °) on 22nd December, the Northern Hemisphere experiences it's

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On 22nd December, the sun is directly overhead the Tropic of Capricorn in the Southern Hemisphere. This marks a significant event in both hemispheres.

In the Northern Hemisphere, this date corresponds to the **winter solstice**. Here's why:

The Earth is tilted on its axis by about 23.5 degrees. This tilt is responsible for the changing seasons. Throughout the year, different parts of the Earth receive varying amounts of sunlight depending on the planet's position in its orbit around the Sun.

During the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the Sun. As a result, it experiences the shortest day and the longest night of the year. The **winter solstice** marks the official start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

Thus, when the sun is directly overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn on 22nd December, the Northern Hemisphere experiences its **winter solstice**.

All the following are problems of mining in Africa except

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Mining in Africa faces several challenges, but understanding these issues helps in realizing the unique dynamics of the industry on the continent.

Inadequate Unskilled Labour: This is generally not a problem in Africa. The continent has a large population that provides sufficient unskilled labor for mining activities. Thus, an abundance of unskilled labor makes this factor not a significant issue for mining operations.

Use of Obsolete Technology: Many mining operations in Africa struggle with outdated or insufficient technology. This affects the efficiency and safety of mining activities, making it a significant challenge for the industry.

Shortage of Power: Power shortages are common in many African countries and can severely impact mining operations, which require consistent and significant energy for their activities. This is a critical challenge in mining across the continent.

Inadequate Foreign Capital: Many African nations experience difficulty in attracting sufficient foreign capital to invest in modernizing and expanding their mining sectors. This capital is crucial for technology upgrades and infrastructural development in the industry.

In summary, inadequate unskilled labour is not typically a problem for mining in Africa, whereas the other issues listed are significant challenges impacting the industry.

The world's busiest shipping routes are on the

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The world's busiest shipping routes are found on the Atlantic Ocean. This ocean plays a crucial role in global trade and transportation due to several factors:

• Location: The Atlantic Ocean is strategically located between the continents of North America, Europe, and Africa. This positioning makes it an important corridor for trade between the densely populated and economically developed regions, including the United States, Canada, Western Europe, and parts of Africa.
• Economic Activity: Countries bordering the Atlantic Ocean, such as the United States, European countries, and Brazil, are some of the world's largest economies. As such, there is a high volume of goods being exchanged across the Atlantic Ocean, contributing to its status as a busy shipping route.
• Major Ports: The Atlantic Ocean hosts several significant ports like Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hamburg, New York, and Shanghai, to name a few. These ports serve as major hubs for commerce, where goods are received, processed, and shipped globally, adding to the traffic on this ocean.
• Historical Significance: Historically, the Atlantic Ocean has been a primary route for exploration and trade since the Age of Discovery. This long-standing use has established robust shipping routes that continue to be essential for international trade.

While other oceans like the Pacific and Indian Oceans are also important for global trade, the Atlantic Ocean remains particularly significant due to its connectivity and the economic powerhouses it links. The Antarctic Circle is not a major route due to its harsh environmental conditions and minimal human inhabitation, which reduces commercial sea traffic in that region.

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Quartzite, schist, and marble are all examples of metamorphic rocks.

Here's why:

• Metamorphic Rocks: These are rocks that have undergone a transformation due to intense heat and pressure. This process, called metamorphism, alters their original form or mineral composition without melting them.
• Quartzite: This forms from sandstone, a sedimentary rock, that has been exposed to heat and pressure, resulting in a very hard, durable rock.
• Schist: This rock is typically formed from shale, another sedimentary rock, or sometimes from basalt, an igneous rock. It has a shiny appearance due to the presence of mica minerals.
• Marble: This is formed from limestone, a sedimentary rock that undergoes recrystallization under high heat and pressure, resulting in a rock that is often used in sculpture and architecture.

Sedimentary Rocks are formed from the accumulation of sediments, while Igneous Rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. Volcanic rocks are a subset of igneous rocks that specifically form from lava at the earth's surface. Thus, quartzite, schist, and marble do not fall under these categories.

Which activity requires the following? I. Large area of land usually in thousands of hectares II. Availability of water either in the form of rain or irrigation III. High capital outlay

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The activity that requires a large area of land usually in thousands of hectares, availability of water either in the form of rain or irrigation, and a high capital outlay is plantation agriculture. Let me explain why:

Large Area of Land: Plantation agriculture involves the cultivation of crops on a very large scale, often requiring thousands of hectares. This is necessary to achieve economies of scale and produce significant quantities of a specific crop such as tea, coffee, sugarcane, rubber, or oil palm.

Availability of Water: Crops grown on plantations need adequate water supply to thrive. This can be provided by regular rainfall or through irrigation systems. Thus, plantations are often located in regions with favorable climatic conditions or equipped with efficient water management systems.

High Capital Outlay: Establishing a plantation requires a significant initial investment. This includes procuring land and machinery, setting up irrigation systems, and maintaining infrastructure. Furthermore, plantations often rely on the employment of many workers and the use of advanced agricultural techniques, which also contribute to the high cost.

In contrast, the other activities mentioned do not primarily rely on these three factors to the same extent. For example, lumbering involves harvesting trees, which may also require substantial land area, but does not necessarily need irrigation. Tourism industry might require watering systems for landscaping, but its focus is more on site attractions. Finally, while mining requires high capital outlay and can cover large areas of land, it does not depend on the availability of irrigation systems like plantation agriculture does.

The Gezira scheme and the Manaquil Extension are famous for the cultivation of

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The **Gezira Scheme** and the **Manaquil Extension** are famous for the cultivation of **cotton**. These agricultural projects are located in **Sudan** and are among the largest irrigation projects in the world dedicated to agriculture.

The Gezira Scheme utilizes the waters of the **Blue Nile** to irrigate the land, making it suitable for growing cash crops. The scheme's infrastructure, including an extensive network of canals and ditches, supports the broad-scale cultivation of cotton. Similarly, the Manaquil Extension enhanced the irrigation reach, further bolstering cotton agriculture.

**Cotton** is highly suitable for growth in the hot climate of Sudan, especially under irrigation, as it requires a long growing season with plenty of sunshine and water. This makes it an ideal crop for the region, contributing significantly to Sudan's economy through both local use and export. Additionally, cotton plays a crucial role in the livelihood of many farmers in the region, being a major source of income.

Cultivating cotton in **Gezira** and **Manaquil** not only supports the textile industry but also generates employment for thousands of people engaged in farming, processing, and trade.

On June 21st, when the sun is overhead at the Tropic of Cancer,places in the Northern Hemisphere experience

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On June 21st, when the sun is overhead at the Tropic of Cancer, places in the Northern Hemisphere experience a phenomenon often referred to as the **Summer Solstice**. This day marks the point when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted closest to the Sun. As a result, it receives the most direct sunlight compared to any other day of the year.

During this time, the day is significantly longer than the night. This is because the Sun travels a longer path through the sky, remaining visible for a larger portion of the 24-hour day. Therefore, areas in the Northern Hemisphere experience a **longer day and shorter night**.

This occurrence is most noticeable the further north you go, with some regions near the Arctic Circle experiencing the phenomenon known as the "Midnight Sun," where the sun is visible at midnight.

On June 21st, when the sun is overhead at the Tropic of Cancer,places in the Northern Hemisphere experience

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On June 21st, the sun is overhead at the Tropic of Cancer, marking the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. This is the point in the year when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted closest to the sun. As a result, places in the Northern Hemisphere experience their longest day and shortest night. This means that there is more daylight compared to nighttime.

To summarize, on this date, locations in the Northern Hemisphere will experience a longer day and a shorter night. This is due to the tilt of the Earth's axis, which maximizes sunlight exposure to these regions.

Which of the following best explains why wind action is more predominant in Arid regions than in Humid regions?

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Wind action is more predominant in arid regions due to the combination of loose surface materials and the absence of vegetation cover. In these regions, there is little moisture to bind soil particles together, making them easily detachable and transportable by wind. Without vegetation to stabilize the soil and buffer wind, these loose particles are swept away, leading to significant wind erosion.

Other reasons, such as insufficient drainage or strong winds, also play a role; however, the **primary** factors are the loose surface materials and lack of vegetation, allowing wind to act with greater intensity. In contrast, humid regions have ample vegetation and soil moisture, which significantly reduce the wind's ability to erode and transport surface material.

A large expanse of low, level land, formed due to an uplift of part of the sea floor bordering a continent is called

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A **coastal plain** is a **large expanse of low, level land** that is formed due to an **uplift of part of the sea floor bordering a continent**. Essentially, it is an area where the land is relatively flat and is located near the coast.

This type of landform often occurs due to geological activities over time where the sea floor is pushed upwards, resulting in a broad, flat land surface extending inland from the coast. Coastal plains are typically characterized by their flat terrain and proximity to the ocean, making them influenced by marine conditions.

In summary, **a coastal plain is the result of the elevation of a portion of the sea floor adjacent to the continent**. It is characterized by its flatness and location near the sea, distinguishing it from other types of plains such as deltaic, outwash, or flood plains which have different formation processes and characteristics.

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The nearest planet to the Sun is Mercury.

Here's a simple explanation: The Solar System consists of eight major planets, which include Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, arranged in that order from closest to the Sun to farthest. Pluto, once considered the ninth planet, has been reclassified as a "dwarf planet" and is well beyond Neptune.

Mercury, being the closest planet to the Sun, has a very short orbit compared to other planets. It completes one orbit around the Sun in just about 88 Earth days. Because of its proximity to the Sun, Mercury experiences significant temperature variations, extremely hot during the day and very cold at night.

All the following are members of the ECOWAS except

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional political and economic union of countries located in West Africa. Its objective is to promote economic integration across the region. The official member states of ECOWAS include countries in West Africa.

Among the options provided:

• Cote d'Ivoire is a member of ECOWAS. It is located in West Africa and actively participates in the community’s activities.
• Burkina Faso is also a member of ECOWAS. Like Cote d'Ivoire, it is found in West Africa and is part of the union.
• Senegal is another member state of ECOWAS, contributing to the regional integration efforts.

Cameroun, however, is not a member of ECOWAS. While it is geographically close to West Africa, it is primarily considered part of Central Africa, and it is a member of the Central African community organization instead.

Which of the following lines of latitudes divides the earth into two hemispheres

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The line of latitude that divides the Earth into two hemispheres is the Equator. The Equator is an imaginary line that is drawn around the middle of the Earth. It is equidistant from the North and South Poles, and it is located at 0 degrees latitude.

Because it sits exactly halfway between the poles, the Equator splits the Earth into two equal parts: the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. The land and water areas located to the north of the Equator make up the Northern Hemisphere, while those located to the south comprise the Southern Hemisphere.

The importance of the Equator is not just in the division of hemispheres; it also plays a crucial role in climate. Regions located near the Equator typically experience a tropical climate with minimal temperature variations year-round.

In contrast, lines like the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn are found north and south of the Equator, respectively, and they define the limits of the tropical zone. The Antarctic Circle is situated further south and marks a different climatic boundary.

Temperatures of adjacent coastlands are reduced when on - shore winds blow over cold currents because the

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The temperatures of adjacent coastlands are reduced when on-shore winds blow over cold currents primarily because the cold currents influence the temperature of the prevailing winds.

Here's how it works in simple terms:

When winds blow over the ocean surface, they pick up characteristics of the water beneath them. If these winds travel over a cold ocean current, the air they carry becomes cooler. As this cooler air moves onto the coastlands, it brings down the temperature of those areas. This is why coastlands experience reduced temperatures when on-shore winds carry the chill from cold ocean currents.

So, the key factor here is the cooling effect of the cold water, which cools the air above it, consequently lowering the temperature of the coastal regions the wind blows onto.

Which of the following geographical regions of Nigeria covers one-fifth of the country and has a generally flat surface dotted with granitic hills? The

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The geographical region of Nigeria described in the question is the North-Central Highlands. This area covers about one-fifth of the country and is characterized by a generally flat surface with granitic hills, known as inselbergs, scattered throughout the landscape. These hills are composed of hard rock formations that have resisted erosion, thereby standing out from the flatter surroundings.

This region is situated in the north-central part of Nigeria and is significant for its geological features and agricultural potential. The flat terrain provides an expansive area suitable for farming, while the inselbergs add to the region's natural beauty and sometimes serve as landmarks. The North-Central Highlands are an important and distinct geographical region within Nigeria due to these unique characteristics.

All the major industrial zones of Nigeria owe their origin mainly to

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The major industrial zones of Nigeria owe their origin mainly to the presence of cash crops. This is because, historically, Nigeria's economy largely depended on agriculture, and the availability of these cash crops provided a foundation for establishing industries. For example, regions where cash crops such as cocoa, palm oil, rubber, and groundnuts were abundantly grown became focal points for industries.


These crops were in high demand both locally and internationally, encouraging the establishment of processing industries to add value before export. This led to the development of infrastructure and contributed to the economic growth of these regions.


Thus, the presence of cash crops has played a significant role in shaping the industrial landscape of Nigeria by attracting investments, creating jobs, and fostering economic development in the respective regions.

Which of the following regions in Nigeria has an average height of over 100 metres above sea level?

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The Biu Plateau has an average height of over 100 meters above sea level. The Biu Plateau is a region of high ground in northeastern Nigeria

The angular distance of a point on the Earth's surface measured in degrees from the centre of the Earth east or west of the Greenwich Meridian is known as

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The angular distance of a point on the Earth's surface measured in degrees from the centre of the Earth east or west of the Greenwich Meridian is known as longitude.

Let's break this down to make it simple:

Longitude lines are imaginary lines that run from the North Pole to the South Pole. The most important line is the Greenwich Meridian, also called the Prime Meridian, which is the reference point for measuring longitude. It is designated as zero degrees (0°) longitude. When you measure how far east or west a point is from the Prime Meridian, you are measuring the longitude.

This is different from latitude, which measures the distance north or south of the Equator. Longitude lines meet at the poles, whereas latitude lines are parallel to each other.

Overall, longitude helps us determine the precise location of a place on Earth by specifying how far east or west it is from the Prime Meridian.

A settlement developed at the meeting point of roads is known as a

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A settlement developed at the meeting point of roads is known as a nodal town.

Let's break this down in a simple way:

• A nodal town is a type of settlement that forms at a junction or intersection where different roads, railways, or other routes meet. It acts like a central point or a node, where transportation and communication lines converge.
• These towns are important because they serve as transportation hubs, making it easy for people and goods to travel in various directions.
• The meeting of different routes encourages trade, commerce, and interactions between different regions, leading to the town’s growth and development.

In contrast, a port town develops around a harbor, a confluence town forms where rivers meet, and a gap town evolves in mountain pass regions. Thus, a town at the meeting point of roads is distinctly identified as a nodal town.

All the following are causes of mechanical weathering except

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Mechanical weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without changing their chemical composition. There are several causes of mechanical weathering, but not all processes that affect rocks are related to mechanical weathering.

The options listed include:

Temperature changes: This is a cause of mechanical weathering. When rocks are exposed to fluctuating temperatures, they expand when it's hot and contract when it's cold. Over time, these repeated expansions and contractions can cause the rocks to crack and break apart.

Frost action: Also known as freeze-thaw weathering, this is another form of mechanical weathering. Water can seep into cracks in the rocks, and as temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands. This expansion exerts pressure on the rock, gradually breaking it apart.

Alternate wetting and drying: This causes mechanical weathering by changing the volume of clay minerals found in some rocks. When these rocks get wet, the clay swells, and when dry, it contracts. This constant expansion and contraction lead to mechanical breakdown.

Rain action: This is not primarily a cause of mechanical weathering. While rain can contribute to weathering processes, such as chemical weathering where it reacts with minerals in rocks to form new compounds, its primary role in mechanical weathering is minimal compared to other factors.

Therefore, among the options provided, rain action is the one that is not a direct cause of mechanical weathering.

Cement factory is usually located near

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The location of a cement factory is primarily influenced by its proximity to the source of raw materials. Cement production involves the use of abundant natural resources such as limestone, clay, and rock, which are crucial ingredients in the manufacturing process. These raw materials are usually heavy and bulky, making transportation costly. Therefore, by situating the cement factory near these resources, transportation costs can be minimized, leading to more efficient and cost-effective production. This proximity also ensures a steady and reliable supply of raw materials, which is essential for uninterrupted production.

A geyser is best described as/an

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A geyser is best described as a fountain of superheated steam. This natural phenomenon occurs when water that is trapped beneath the Earth's surface is heated by geothermal activity, such as volcanic activity, deep underground. As the water is heated, it turns into steam and builds up pressure. This pressure eventually forces the steam and hot water to be expelled violently from the ground in a dramatic outburst, creating a fountain-like effect.

Let's break this down a bit more:

• A geyser consists of a network of underground channels filled with water. The heat from molten rock (magma) heats the water in these channels.
• As the water heats, it expands and turns into steam. However, due to the depths, the water above creates pressure that allows the water below to reach temperatures above the normal boiling point.
• When this pressure is released, often when bubbles of steam rise to a narrow section of the channel nearest the surface, the superheated water violently boils, pushes through the surface, and escapes as steam and hot water – hence, a fountain of superheated steam.

This distinct eruption is what characterizes a geyser and differentiates it from other geothermal features like hot springs or thermal pools, which do not erupt but simply release heat gradually into the water.

The innermost section of the Earth is the

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The innermost section of the Earth is the core. The Earth is composed of several layers, starting from the surface and moving inward. These layers, from the outside to the inside, are the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core.

1. Crust: This is the outermost layer of the Earth. It is very thin compared to the other layers and is where we live. The crust is made up of solid rocks and minerals.

2. Mantle: Located beneath the crust, the mantle is composed of semi-solid rock that flows slowly. It is the largest layer of the Earth by volume.

3. Core: The core itself is divided into two parts: the outer core and the inner core. The outer core is made of molten, liquid metal, while the inner core is made of solid metal, primarily iron and nickel. The core is the hottest section of the Earth, with extremely high temperatures and pressures. It is situated at the center of the Earth and provides heat that helps power the movement of tectonic plates and causes volcanic activity.

Therefore, when we refer to the innermost section of the Earth, we are specifically talking about the core, and more accurately, the inner core.

The most common mode of transportation in Africa is

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The **most common mode of transportation in Africa** is **road transportation**. This includes vehicles like cars, buses, and motorcycles that travel on roads and highways. Road transportation is widespread because it is **versatile** and can reach many rural and urban areas that are not accessible by other means of transportation. Roads are often less expensive to build and maintain compared to infrastructure needed for other modes such as railways or airports.

Despite the challenges such as limited road networks and varying road conditions in some regions, **road transportation remains the backbone** of both passenger and freight transport due to its **flexibility** and **accessibility**. In many African countries, it is the most relied upon form of transport connecting people to markets, healthcare facilities, schools, and places of employment.

The major source of power for most terrestrial ecosystems is

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The major source of power for most terrestrial ecosystems is solar energy.

Let me explain why:

Solar energy is the energy that comes from the sun. It is critical for life on Earth as it powers the process of photosynthesis, which is used by plants, algae, and some bacteria to convert light energy into chemical energy. During photosynthesis, these organisms take in carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil, and with the help of sunlight, they produce glucose and oxygen. This process provides the necessary energy and organic material to support life.

Here is why it is important:

• Primary Producers: Solar energy fuels the primary producers (mainly plants) that form the base of the food chain. They use sunlight to create food that herbivores eat, and these herbivores are then consumed by carnivores. Without the energy provided by the sun, this foundational level of the food web would not exist, and all life forms that depend on plants, either directly or indirectly, would not survive.
• Energy Transfer: The energy captured by plants is transferred through various trophic levels as different organisms consume one another. Each level receives energy that originated from the sun, making solar energy the primary driving force of energy flow in ecosystems.
• Climate Regulation: Sunlight helps regulate Earth's climate and atmospheric conditions, influencing temperature and weather patterns. These conditions are necessary for the survival of various ecosystems and their inhabitants.

In comparison, other energy sources like geothermal energy, nuclear power, and hydroelectric power play relatively minor roles in terrestrial ecosystems. These energies are not as directly involved in powering the basic life-sustaining processes as solar energy is. Therefore, it is clear that solar energy is the predominant power source for life on land.

The tourist centre of Ogbunike cave is located near

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The Ogbunike Cave is a popular tourist destination located **near Onitsha in Anambra State**. This cave is part of a large system of limestone caves and is known for its historical and cultural significance to the people of the region. It's situated in the southeastern part of Nigeria and is associated with numerous legends and stories that reflect its importance to local traditions. Therefore, the correct location for Ogbunike Cave is **near Onitsha in Anambra State**.

Which of the following best accounts for the decline in the importance of rail transport in Africa?

Answer Details

The decline in the importance of rail transport in Africa can be best explained by the high competition from road transport. Here's why:

Accessibility and Flexibility: Road transport is generally more accessible and flexible compared to railways. Roads are available in most areas of Africa, including rural regions, allowing goods and passengers to reach their destinations directly without requiring transfer between modes of transport.

Cost-Effectiveness: In many cases, road transport can be more cost-effective because it eliminates the need for transferring goods at several points. The initial investment in road infrastructure and vehicles can also be less than maintaining or upgrading railway networks.

Adaptability to Infrastructure Limitations: Many railways in Africa suffer from outdated infrastructure, which can hinder their efficiency and reliability. On the other hand, road transport can easily adapt to newer roads and infrastructures as they are developed.

Length of Transport Routes: Although Africa is a vast continent, many trade routes within countries or regions are more economically feasible with road transport, especially for short to medium distances.

Overall, while other factors such as the low volume of goods and potential retrenchment threats exist, the dominance and rapid improvement in the road transport sector particularly highlight why rail transport has seen a decline in relevance. The flexibility and economic viability of road transport often make it a more attractive choice for businesses and individuals alike.

A great advantage of Basin irrigation is that

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A great advantage of Basin irrigation is that water is not wasted, as the basin helps to trap and conserve water.

Which of the following is not a sea route?

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The route that is not a sea route is the one involving London, Moscow, and Baghdad.

Here's the explanation:

• The other listed routes such as New York-London-Rotterdam, London-Capetown-Melbourne, and Sydney-Suez-London primarily involve locations that are major port cities or are connected by significant sea passages, allowing ships to travel via water routes.
• On the other hand, Moscow is a landlocked city in Russia, and although it has some rivers, it does not have direct access to the sea. Moreover, the path from London to Moscow to Baghdad mostly travels overland, across Europe and parts of Asia, which are areas not typically traversed by ships in any well-known sea route.

This is why the route from London, Moscow, and Baghdad is not a sea route.

The solar system comprises the sun and

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The solar system is a vast and fascinating system that centers around the Sun, a star that provides light and heat to all the celestial bodies that revolve around it. Understanding what other components make up the solar system is essential for grasping how our cosmic neighborhood operates.

There are eight major planets that orbit around the Sun. These planets, in their order from the closest to the farthest from the Sun, are Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Each of these planets varies in size, composition, and distance from the Sun, but they all follow elliptical orbits.

In addition to the eight recognized planets, there are also dwarf planets, such as Pluto. Pluto was previously considered the ninth planet until it was reclassified as a dwarf planet by the International Astronomical Union in 2006 due to updated criteria that define what constitutes a planet.

Besides planets and dwarf planets, the solar system also contains a variety of other celestial bodies. These include moons, which are natural satellites that orbit planets; asteroids, which are small rocky bodies primarily located in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter; and comets, which are icy bodies that have eccentric orbits bringing them close to the Sun occasionally.

In summary, the solar system comprises the Sun and eight planets, alongside other celestial bodies such as dwarf planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. Understanding the composition of the solar system helps us appreciate the complexity and grandeur of our cosmic environment.

Which of the following settlement type is the largest?

Answer Details

In the context of settlement types and their sizes, the largest is a megalopolis.

Let me explain this in simple terms:

• **City:** A city is a large and permanent settlement with a significant population and infrastructure. It is larger than a town but smaller than the other types of settlements listed here.
• Agglomeration: This term generally refers to an area where multiple cities or towns are grouped together, sharing infrastructure and services but still remaining as distinct entities. It is more about the process of these settlements growing together.
• Conurbation: A conurbation is a region that consists of a number of cities or towns which have merged together over time through population growth and expansion. They are physically connected but maintain individual identities.


• Megalopolis: A megalopolis is a massive urban region made up of multiple large cities and their surrounding areas, which have expanded to merge into one continuous urban area. It's much larger than a conurbation. One classic example is the Northeastern megalopolis in the USA, which includes cities like Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C.

In summary, of all the settlement types listed, a megalopolis is the largest as it comprises multiple, even significant urban areas that have expanded to form a vast, continuous area.

Answer Details

The term over-population is best defined as the situation where the population exceeds available resources. This means that the number of people in an area is greater than the resources available to sustain them, such as food, water, shelter, and health care. It can lead to various problems including poverty, environmental degradation, and a strain on infrastructure. Over-population occurs when the existing resources cannot meet the needs of the people, resulting in hardship and reduced quality of life.

In contrast, having a birth rate equal to the death rate implies a stable population over time, not necessarily over-population. Increasing birth rate and decreasing infant mortality can contribute to population growth, but they do not solely define over-population. Finally, high population density refers to a large number of people living in a small area, which could lead to over-population if resources are insufficient, but high density alone does not equate to over-population.

Which of the following environmental hazards is due primarily to human activities?

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The environmental hazard that is due primarily to human activities is ozone depletion.

The ozone layer is a protective shield in the Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation. The thinning of the ozone layer is mainly caused by the release of man-made chemicals. The most significant contributors to this environmental hazard are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances (ODS) which have been used in refrigeration, air conditioning, foam production, and aerosol propellants. When these chemicals reach the stratosphere, they break down ozone molecules, leading to what is known as the "ozone hole."

In contrast, the other environmental hazards listed—hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions—are natural phenomena. While human activities can influence the severity or impact of these events, such as through climate change exacerbating the intensity of hurricanes or human settlement in earthquake-prone areas, they are not primarily caused by human actions.

The outer layer of the earth is called the

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The outer layer of the Earth is called the crust. Let's understand this in simple terms:

The Earth is made up of several layers. Imagine the Earth like an onion with different layers, with each layer varying in composition and physical properties. The outermost of these layers is the crust.

The crust is similar to a thin shell around the Earth. It is very thin compared to the other layers and can be thought of as the Earth's skin. It is made up of solid rocks and minerals and is where we live and see landscapes, mountains, and oceans.

Below the crust is the mantle, which is much thicker and composed primarily of semi-solid rock. Therefore, when talking about the outermost layer, we refer specifically to the Earth's crust.

A major problem in agricultural development in Nigeria is

Answer Details

One of the major problems in agricultural development in Nigeria is the insufficient storage facilities.

The agricultural sector in Nigeria often faces difficulties after crops are harvested. Poor storage facilities mean that a substantial portion of the agricultural produce is lost due to spoilage, pests, or damage. This is a significant challenge because:

• **Loss of Produce:** Without adequate storage, farmers cannot preserve excess produce for future use, which leads to food waste and instability in food supply.
• **Reduced Income:** When farmers are unable to store their produce, they may have to sell it quickly and often at lower prices, immediately after harvest. This reduces their potential earnings.
• **Market Imbalance:** Lack of storage facilities can lead to an overflow of produce in the market right after harvest and a shortage during off-season periods, causing fluctuating prices.
• **Quality Degradation:** Poor storage facilities can lead to the degradation of the quality of produce, which in turn affects marketability and consumer trust.

Improving storage facilities would provide farmers with the ability to manage their production better, ensuring a more consistent supply of agricultural products and contributing significantly to the development of agriculture in Nigeria.