What was the primary goal of the Austrian frigate Novara’s circumnavigation of the globe?
- To map new territories and claim them for the Austrian Empire
- To conduct scientific research and collect specimens for the Imperial Academy of Sciences
- To establish trade routes and expand Austrian commercial interests
- To demonstrate Austrian naval power and military might
Correct Answer: To conduct scientific research and collect specimens for the Imperial Academy of Sciences
Correct Answer Explanation: The Novara’s expedition was primarily driven by scientific curiosity and a desire to contribute to the growing body of knowledge about the natural world. The ship’s crew included scientists, naturalists, and artists who gathered specimens and data on flora, fauna, geology, and other fields. While the expedition did aim to showcase Austria’s global presence, this was secondary to the scientific objectives.
Where did the Austrian frigate Novara embark on its journey around the world?
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Trieste, Austria
- London, England
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
Correct Answer: Trieste, Austria
Correct Answer Explanation: The Novara set sail from Trieste, a major port city in the Austrian Empire, in 1857. This marked the beginning of the ship’s extraordinary voyage around the globe, which would take it to diverse locations across the continents.
What was the name of the deadly vine that the Novara crew encountered in the Brazilian rainforest?
- Cipo Matador
- Boa Constrictor
- Poison Ivy
- Piranha
Correct Answer: Cipo Matador
Correct Answer Explanation: The Cipo Matador, also known as “killer vine,” is a parasitic vine found in the Amazon rainforest. This vine can kill its host tree by strangling it and depriving it of sunlight and nutrients. The Novara crew observed this deadly vine and documented its impact on the rainforest ecosystem, highlighting the complex relationships between plants in the natural world.
Which of the following islands was not visited by the Austrian frigate Novara during its circumnavigation?
- Madeira
- St. Helena
- St. Paul
- Ceylon
Correct Answer: St. Helena
Correct Answer Explanation: The Novara did not visit St. Helena, a volcanic island in the South Atlantic Ocean. While the ship sailed through the Atlantic Ocean, it bypassed St. Helena and continued on its journey to other destinations. St. Helena was known for its strategic location and became a significant British outpost in the 17th century.
What is the name of the largest rainforest in the world, which the Novara crew explored during their journey?
- Congo Basin Rainforest
- Amazon Rainforest
- Daintree Rainforest
- New Guinea Rainforest
Correct Answer: Amazon Rainforest
Correct Answer Explanation: The Amazon Rainforest, located primarily in Brazil, is the largest rainforest in the world. The Novara’s crew spent time exploring this vast and diverse ecosystem, observing its rich flora and fauna, and collecting specimens for scientific study. The rainforest’s biodiversity and ecological significance made it a key stop for the expedition.
What type of deadly insect did the Novara crew encounter in southern Africa?
- Tsetse Fly
- Mosquito
- Scorpion
- Black Widow Spider
Correct Answer: Tsetse Fly
Correct Answer Explanation: The Tsetse Fly is a deadly insect found in southern Africa. Its bite is poisonous to livestock, causing a disease called “nagana,” and can also affect humans. The Novara crew experienced firsthand the dangers of this insect and documented its impact on the region’s livestock and human populations.
What is the name of the sacred mountain in Sri Lanka, revered by Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims?
- Mount Fuji
- Mount Everest
- Adam’s Peak
- Mount Kailash
Correct Answer: Adam’s Peak
Correct Answer Explanation: Adam’s Peak, a prominent mountain in Sri Lanka, is revered by Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims as a sacred pilgrimage site. The mountain’s summit is said to contain a “holy footprint,” which is believed to be the imprint of Adam or Buddha. This shared belief highlights the intersection of faith and tradition in Sri Lanka and underscores the importance of Adam’s Peak as a spiritual center for different religions.
What is the name of the sacred symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism that is used in religious ceremonies and as a musical instrument?
- Mandala
- Lotus Flower
- Chank-shell
- Om
Correct Answer: Chank-shell
Correct Answer Explanation: The Chank-shell, a spiral-shaped shell found in the Indian Ocean, is a sacred symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism. It is believed to represent the sound of the universe and is used in religious ceremonies, such as rituals and prayers. The Chank-shell’s unique shape and sound also make it a popular musical instrument in these religions.
What is the name of the low-caste group in India that was often ostracized and discriminated against?
- Brahmins
- Kshatriyas
- Vaishyas
- Pariahs
Correct Answer: Pariahs
Correct Answer Explanation: The Pariahs, also known as Dalits, are a low-caste group in India that has historically faced significant discrimination and social exclusion. The caste system in India has been a major source of social inequality and conflict for centuries. The Novara crew observed the impact of this system on the lives of the Pariahs and documented the challenges they faced.
What is the name of the hand-operated fan that is used to provide a cool breeze in hot climates?
- Punkah
- Air Conditioner
- Ceiling Fan
- Hand Fan
Correct Answer: Punkah
Correct Answer Explanation: The Punkah, a traditional Indian fan, is a hand-operated device typically hung from the ceiling. This fan is made of a large rectangular frame covered with fabric and is moved by a person pulling a rope. The Punkah provides a refreshing breeze in hot climates and was commonly used in homes and public buildings during the Novara’s time.
What is the name of the method of teaching that was developed by Dr. Bell in Madras?
- Montessori Method
- Socratic Method
- Lancastrian Method
- Waldorf Method
Correct Answer: Lancastrian Method
Correct Answer Explanation: The Lancastrian Method, developed by Dr. Andrew Bell in the late 18th century, is a system of education in which older students teach younger students. This method was highly influential in the 19th century and was used to expand access to education in many countries, including India. The Novara crew observed the impact of this method in Madras and documented its importance for improving literacy and education.
What is the name of the faint band of light that appears in the sky near the ecliptic?
- Aurora Borealis
- Aurora Australis
- Zodiacal Light
- Milky Way
Correct Answer: Zodiacal Light
Correct Answer Explanation: The Zodiacal Light is a faint, pyramid-shaped band of light that appears in the sky near the ecliptic, the plane of the Earth’s orbit around the sun. This light is caused by sunlight reflecting off dust and other particles in the solar system. The Novara crew observed this celestial phenomenon and documented its characteristics and origins.
What was the total distance traveled by the Austrian frigate Novara during its circumnavigation?
- 25,000 miles
- 35,000 miles
- 45,000 miles
- 51,686 miles
Correct Answer: 51,686 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: The Austrian frigate Novara traveled a total of 51,686 miles during its circumnavigation of the globe. This journey took the ship through diverse oceans, seas, and continents, showcasing the vastness of the Earth and the challenges of long-distance sea travel.
How many days did the Novara spend at sea during its circumnavigation?
- 300 days
- 400 days
- 551 days
- 600 days
Correct Answer: 551 days
Correct Answer Explanation: The Novara spent a total of 551 days at sea during its circumnavigation of the globe. This lengthy voyage highlights the commitment and resilience of the crew, who endured the challenges of sea travel, including storms, currents, and isolation. The time spent at sea allowed the crew to observe diverse environments and collect valuable scientific data.
How many men comprised the crew of the Austrian frigate Novara?
- 200 men
- 250 men
- 300 men
- 352 men
Correct Answer: 352 men
Correct Answer Explanation: The Austrian frigate Novara’s crew consisted of 352 men, representing a diverse group of sailors, scientists, artists, and other professionals. This large crew was necessary to manage the ship, conduct scientific research, and navigate the vast distances of the voyage. The crew’s collective effort and expertise were crucial to the success of the expedition.
What was the approximate population of Madeira during the Novara’s visit?
- 50,000
- 100,000
- 150,000
- 200,000
Correct Answer: 100,000
Correct Answer Explanation: Madeira, an island off the coast of Portugal, had a population of approximately 100,000 during the Novara’s visit. This relatively small population reflected the island’s limited resources and agricultural focus. The Novara’s crew observed the impact of European colonialism on Madeira’s economy, society, and environment.
What was the approximate population of Gibraltar during the Novara’s visit?
- 10,000
- 20,000
- 30,000
- 40,000
Correct Answer: 20,000
Correct Answer Explanation: Gibraltar, a strategic peninsula located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, had a population of about 20,000 during the Novara’s visit. The Novara’s crew observed the importance of Gibraltar’s location for trade and defense, as well as its historical significance as a contested territory between European powers.
What was the approximate population of Cape Colony during the Novara’s visit?
- 100,000
- 200,000
- 280,000
- 350,000
Correct Answer: 280,000
Correct Answer Explanation: Cape Colony, a Dutch settlement at the southern tip of Africa, had a population of about 280,000 during the Novara’s visit. This diverse population included European settlers, indigenous African populations, and enslaved people from various parts of the world. The Novara’s crew observed the impact of colonialism on the region, including the development of agriculture, trade, and the exploitation of resources.
What was the approximate population of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) during the Novara’s visit?
- 1,000,000
- 1,500,000
- 1,726,640
- 2,000,000
Correct Answer: 1,726,640
Correct Answer Explanation: Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, had a population of approximately 1,726,640 during the Novara’s visit. This populous island was a major center for the production of spices and other commodities, making it a crucial trade hub in the Indian Ocean. The Novara’s crew explored Ceylon’s diverse cultures, religions, and landscapes, observing the impact of European colonialism and trade on the island.
What was the approximate population of Madras (now Chennai) during the Novara’s visit?
- 500,000
- 600,000
- 700,000
- 800,000
Correct Answer: 700,000
Correct Answer Explanation: Madras, now Chennai, a major port city in southern India, had a population of about 700,000 during the Novara’s visit. The Novara’s crew observed the city’s bustling trade and commercial activities, as well as its rich cultural heritage and diverse populations. Madras served as a key hub for trade and exchange between India and European powers, highlighting the impact of colonialism on the city’s development.
What was the average annual temperature of Madeira?
- 54°F
- 64°F
- 74°F
- 84°F
Correct Answer: 64°F
Correct Answer Explanation: Madeira, an island in the North Atlantic Ocean, has a mild subtropical climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F. This pleasant climate contributed to Madeira’s development as a popular tourist destination and agricultural hub. The Novara’s crew observed Madeira’s unique climate and its impact on the island’s vegetation and culture.
What was the average annual temperature of Rio de Janeiro?
- 64°F
- 74°F
- 84°F
- 94°F
Correct Answer: 74°F
Correct Answer Explanation: Rio de Janeiro, a coastal city in Brazil, has a tropical climate with an average annual temperature of 74°F. The Novara’s crew experienced Rio de Janeiro’s warm and humid climate, as well as its vibrant cultural life and diverse population. The city’s strategic location and climate made it an important port and a center for trade and immigration.
What was the average annual temperature of Madras?
- 74°F
- 84°F
- 94°F
- 104°F
Correct Answer: 94°F
Correct Answer Explanation: Madras, now Chennai, a coastal city in India, has a tropical climate with an average annual temperature of 94°F. The Novara’s crew experienced Madras’s hot and humid climate, as well as its bustling trade and commercial activities. The city’s location and climate made it an important port and a center for trade and exchange between India and European powers.
What is the approximate superficial area of St. Paul Island?
- 1,000,000 Vienna square klafter
- 1,600,000 Vienna square klafter
- 2,000,000 Vienna square klafter
- 2,500,000 Vienna square klafter
Correct Answer: 1,600,000 Vienna square klafter
Correct Answer Explanation: St. Paul Island, a volcanic island in the Indian Ocean, has a superficial area of approximately 1,600,000 Vienna square klafter. The Novara’s crew observed St. Paul Island’s unique volcanic features and its importance for seabirds and other wildlife. The island’s isolation and harsh environment made it a challenging but rewarding destination for the expedition.
What is the approximate length of St. Paul Island?
- 1 nautical mile
- 2 nautical miles
- 3 nautical miles
- 4 nautical miles
Correct Answer: 3 nautical miles
Correct Answer Explanation: St. Paul Island is approximately 3 nautical miles long. This small island is home to a variety of volcanic features, including a crater basin and several peaks. The Novara’s crew observed St. Paul Island’s unique geology and its role as a habitat for seabirds and other wildlife.
What is the approximate height of the highest point of St. Paul Island’s crater-basin?
- 546 feet
- 646 feet
- 746 feet
- 846 feet
Correct Answer: 846 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The highest point of St. Paul Island’s crater-basin is approximately 846 feet. The Novara’s crew observed the island’s volcanic features and its role as a habitat for seabirds and other wildlife. The island’s isolation and harsh environment made it a challenging but rewarding destination for the expedition.
What is the approximate length of Amsterdam Island on its south coast?
- 12,359 feet
- 22,359 feet
- 32,359 feet
- 42,359 feet
Correct Answer: 32,359 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Amsterdam Island, a volcanic island in the Indian Ocean, is approximately 32,359 feet long on its south coast. The Novara’s crew observed Amsterdam Island’s unique volcanic features and its importance for seabirds and other wildlife. The island’s isolation and harsh environment made it a challenging but rewarding destination for the expedition.
What is the approximate height of the highest summit on Amsterdam Island?
- 1891 feet
- 2891 feet
- 3891 feet
- 4891 feet
Correct Answer: 2891 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The highest summit on Amsterdam Island is approximately 2891 feet. The Novara’s crew observed Amsterdam Island’s unique volcanic features and its importance for seabirds and other wildlife. The island’s isolation and harsh environment made it a challenging but rewarding destination for the expedition.
What is the approximate total amount of coffee produced annually in Brazil?
- 3,190,000 quintals
- 4,190,000 quintals
- 5,190,000 quintals
- 6,190,000 quintals
Correct Answer: 5,190,000 quintals
Correct Answer Explanation: Brazil is the world’s largest producer of coffee, with an estimated annual production of approximately 5,190,000 quintals. The Novara’s crew observed the vast coffee plantations in Brazil and the impact of coffee production on the country’s economy and society. Coffee has been a major export commodity for Brazil since the 19th century, contributing significantly to its economic development.
What is the approximate annual production of wine in Cape Colony?
- 14,000 pipes
- 24,000 pipes
- 34,000 pipes
- 44,000 pipes
Correct Answer: 24,000 pipes
Correct Answer Explanation: Cape Colony, a Dutch settlement at the southern tip of Africa, produced approximately 24,000 pipes of wine annually during the Novara’s time. Wine production was a significant economic activity in the region, with vineyards established by early European settlers. The Novara’s crew observed the wine industry’s importance to Cape Colony’s economy and its impact on the region’s landscape and culture.
What is the approximate annual production of cinnamon in Ceylon?
- 500,000 to 600,000 lbs
- 600,000 to 700,000 lbs
- 700,000 to 800,000 lbs
- 800,000 to 900,000 lbs
Correct Answer: 800,000 to 900,000 lbs
Correct Answer Explanation: Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, was a major center for the production of cinnamon, with an estimated annual production of 800,000 to 900,000 lbs during the Novara’s time. Cinnamon was a highly sought-after spice in Europe, and Ceylon’s production made it a crucial trade hub in the Indian Ocean. The Novara’s crew observed the impact of cinnamon production on the island’s economy, society, and environment.
What is the approximate annual production of coffee in Ceylon?
- 1,080,000 cwt
- 1,280,000 cwt
- 1,480,000 cwt
- 1,680,000 cwt
Correct Answer: 1,680,000 cwt
Correct Answer Explanation: Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, produced approximately 1,680,000 cwt of coffee annually during the Novara’s time. Coffee cultivation was a significant economic activity in Ceylon, with plantations established by European settlers. The Novara’s crew observed the impact of coffee production on the island’s economy, society, and environment.
What is the approximate annual value of precious stones found in Ceylon?
- £5,000
- £10,000
- £15,000
- £20,000
Correct Answer: £10,000
Correct Answer Explanation: Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, was known for its production of precious stones, with an estimated annual value of £10,000 during the Novara’s time. Gem mining was a significant economic activity in the island, attracting merchants and traders from around the world. The Novara’s crew observed the impact of gem mining on the island’s economy and society, as well as its influence on the region’s cultural heritage.
What is the approximate total amount of cocoa-nut oil exported annually from Ceylon?
- 500,000 to 1,000,000 gallons
- 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 gallons
- 1,500,000 to 2,000,000 gallons
- 2,000,000 to 2,500,000 gallons
Correct Answer: 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 gallons
Correct Answer Explanation: Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, exported approximately 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 gallons of cocoa-nut oil annually during the Novara’s time. Coconut oil was a valuable commodity used in various industries, including food processing, cosmetics, and soap making. The Novara’s crew observed the impact of coconut oil production on the island’s economy and society, as well as its role in global trade.
What is the approximate total amount of coir, or cocoa-nut fibre, exported annually from Ceylon?
- 10,000 to 20,000 quintals
- 20,000 to 30,000 quintals
- 30,000 to 40,000 quintals
- 40,000 to 50,000 quintals
Correct Answer: 30,000 to 40,000 quintals
Correct Answer Explanation: Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, exported approximately 30,000 to 40,000 quintals of coir, or cocoa-nut fibre, annually during the Novara’s time. Coir is a natural fibre obtained from the husk of the coconut, used in various industries, including rope making, mats, and floor coverings. The Novara’s crew observed the impact of coir production on the island’s economy and society, as well as its role in global trade.
What is the approximate total value of the produce exported annually from Ceylon?
- £1,000,000
- £1,500,000
- £2,000,000
- £2,500,000
Correct Answer: £2,000,000
Correct Answer Explanation: Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, had an estimated annual value of exports of approximately £2,000,000 during the Novara’s time. The island’s diverse agricultural products, including spices, coffee, and tea, made it a significant contributor to global trade. The Novara’s crew observed the impact of trade on the island’s economy, society, and culture, as well as its role in connecting Ceylon to the wider world.