Which one of the following is the oldest mountain?

Appeared in: UPPSC 2017

Explanation

The Aravalli Range is the oldest mountain range among the options provided.
It is a relict fold mountain system that dates back to the Precambrian era, making it one of the most ancient mountain ranges on Earth.
Due to its immense age, the Aravalli range has been heavily eroded over millions of years, reducing its height significantly.

Option B: The Alps are young fold mountains located in Europe.
Option C: The Himalayas are the youngest and highest fold mountains in the world.
Option D: The Rocky Mountains are also relatively young fold mountains.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Geological Ages of Major Mountain Ranges as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
General knowledge and awareness questions are a component of many nursing entrance exams to assess the candidate's overall intellectual ability and worldly knowledge beyond the core nursing curriculum.
This type of question tests long-term memory and basic geographical literacy, which are markers of a well-rounded educational background.
What if? - If the question had asked for the 'youngest' mountain range, the correct answer would be the Himalayas. Understanding relative terms like 'oldest' and 'youngest' is key to answering such questions correctly.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the core task: The question asks you to identify the 'oldest' mountain range from a list of four.
Recognize the question type: This is a factual recall question from the domain of general knowledge (geography).
Access your knowledge base about the geological ages of major mountain systems.
Compare the relative ages: Aravallis (Precambrian), Alps (Cenozoic), Himalayas (Cenozoic), and Rockies (late Mesozoic/early Cenozoic).
Conclude that the Aravallis are the most ancient by a significant margin.
If uncertain, use the process of elimination. The Himalayas are widely taught as being very young and still growing, which could help you eliminate at least one option.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full UPPSC 2017

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