What disease plagued many of the North Pole explorers and often led to death?
- Influenza
- Typhoid fever
- Scurvy
- Malaria
Correct Answer: Scurvy
Correct Answer Explanation: Scurvy is a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining healthy tissues. The explorers’ diet, which consisted mostly of meat and lacked fresh fruits and vegetables, made them susceptible to scurvy. This disease weakened their bodies, leading to fatigue, bleeding gums, and eventually death.
Which explorer led the “Advance” expedition in 1853, battling treacherous ice and surviving the harsh Arctic conditions?
- Charles Francis Hall
- Dr. Elisha Kent Kane
- Dr. Isaac Israel Hayes
- Sir John Franklin
Correct Answer: Dr. Elisha Kent Kane
Correct Answer Explanation: Dr. Elisha Kent Kane, a physician and explorer, led the “Advance” expedition in 1853. They faced incredible challenges, including being trapped in the ice for months and battling extreme cold and limited food supplies. Kane’s leadership and determination helped them survive and conduct valuable scientific research during their expedition.
What term describes the narrow channel of water that appears between ice floes?
- Hummock
- Pack
- Lead
- Berg
Correct Answer: Lead
Correct Answer Explanation: A “lead” refers to a narrow channel of open water that forms between ice floes. These leads were crucial for explorers to navigate the Arctic, allowing them to travel by boat and access open water for hunting and supplies.
What was the name of the escape party led by Dr. Hayes when the “Advance” became trapped in the ice?
- The “Faith” Party
- The “Polaris” Party
- The “Forlorn Hope” Party
- The “Rescue” Party
Correct Answer: The “Forlorn Hope” Party
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Forlorn Hope” party was a small group of men who, under the leadership of Dr. Hayes, decided to risk a perilous journey across the ice in an attempt to escape the “Advance,” which was trapped in the frozen Arctic. Their daring escape was a testament to their courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
What was the name of the ship commanded by Charles Francis Hall during his Arctic expedition in 1871?
- “Advance”
- “Forlorn Hope”
- “United States”
- “Polaris”
Correct Answer: “Polaris”
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Polaris” was the ship commanded by Charles Francis Hall during his expedition to the Arctic in 1871. The expedition was plagued by difficulties, including the death of Hall, but it made significant contributions to the understanding of the Arctic environment and the native Inuit culture.
What is the name of the traditional snow hut built by the Inuit people of the Arctic?
- Igloo
- Tropic
- Sledge
- Hummock
Correct Answer: Igloo
Correct Answer Explanation: An igloo is a dome-shaped shelter constructed from blocks of snow, traditionally used by the Inuit people of the Arctic for winter housing. The design of the igloo is ingenious, trapping heat and providing a surprisingly comfortable shelter in the harsh Arctic climate.
What is the name of the concentrated food made from dried meat and fat, commonly used by explorers on Arctic expeditions?
- Pemmican
- Scurvy
- Igloo
- Tropic
Correct Answer: Pemmican
Correct Answer Explanation: Pemmican is a high-calorie food made from dried meat and fat, often combined with berries or other ingredients. It was a staple food for explorers in the Arctic, providing them with essential nutrients and calories for survival in the harsh environment.
Which expedition reached the furthest point from the North Pole, achieving a remarkable distance of 800 miles?
- “Advance”
- “Forlorn Hope”
- “United States”
- “Polaris”
Correct Answer: “Polaris”
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Polaris” expedition, led by Charles Francis Hall, reached the furthest point from the North Pole, achieving a distance of 800 miles. However, the expedition was marked by tragedy, including Hall’s death, and ultimately failed to reach the North Pole. The “Polaris” expedition faced numerous obstacles, including challenging ice conditions, limited resources, and the harsh Arctic environment.
What is the term for a sheet of floating ice, a common feature of the Arctic landscape?
- Hummock
- Pack
- Lead
- Floe
Correct Answer: Floe
Correct Answer Explanation: A floe is a large sheet of floating ice, often found in the Arctic Ocean. Floes can range in size from small to massive, and they are constantly moving and shifting due to wind and currents, presenting a significant challenge to explorers.
What kind of Arctic creature does the story mention that is a large marine mammal with tusks, hunted by the Inuit people?
- Polar Bear
- Musk-ox
- Walrus
- Seal
Correct Answer: Walrus
Correct Answer Explanation: The walrus, a large marine mammal with prominent tusks, is a common feature of the Arctic environment. The Inuit people have long hunted walruses for their meat, blubber, and tusks, which are used for tools and ornaments.
What was the name of the explorer who led the “United States” expedition in 1860, continuing the search for the North Pole?
- Charles Francis Hall
- Dr. Elisha Kent Kane
- Dr. Isaac Israel Hayes
- Sir John Franklin
Correct Answer: Dr. Isaac Israel Hayes
Correct Answer Explanation: Dr. Isaac Israel Hayes, a physician and explorer who had participated in the “Advance” expedition, led the “United States” expedition in 1860. He was a skilled navigator and resourceful leader, and his expedition made significant contributions to the mapping and understanding of the Arctic.
What is the name of the spectacular light display in the night sky caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth’s atmosphere?
- Midnight sun
- Aurora Borealis
- Phosphorescence
- Scurvy
Correct Answer: Aurora Borealis
Correct Answer Explanation: The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a breathtaking celestial phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. The interaction creates dazzling displays of colored lights in the sky, a mesmerizing sight that has fascinated people for centuries.
How many dogs were originally part of the “Polaris” expedition?
- 10
- 20
- 36
- 50
Correct Answer: 36
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Polaris” expedition initially had 36 dogs, essential for pulling sledges and transporting supplies across the vast and icy landscapes of the Arctic. However, the number of dogs decreased throughout the expedition due to various challenges, including harsh weather, lack of food, and the dangers of the Arctic.
What is the name of the Arctic mammal, known for its thick hair and curved horns, which is well-adapted to the harsh Arctic environment?
- Polar Bear
- Walrus
- Seal
- Musk-ox
Correct Answer: Musk-ox
Correct Answer Explanation: The musk-ox, a large, shaggy mammal with curved horns, is a fascinating creature adapted to survive in the Arctic’s harsh conditions. Their thick coats provide insulation against the frigid temperatures, and their powerful horns are used for defense against predators.
What is the term for a mound of ice formed by the compression of snow and ice?
- Lead
- Hummock
- Floe
- Berg
Correct Answer: Hummock
Correct Answer Explanation: A hummock is a mound of ice formed by the compression of snow and ice, often found in the Arctic. These hummocks can be a hazard to explorers, as they can be unstable and difficult to traverse.
What is the name of the specialized vehicle designed for transportation over snow and ice, often used by explorers in the Arctic?
- Igloo
- Tropic
- Sledge
- Boom
Correct Answer: Sledge
Correct Answer Explanation: A sledge is a specialized vehicle designed for transportation over snow and ice, often used by explorers in the Arctic. Sledges are typically pulled by dogs or humans and can be used to haul supplies, equipment, and even people across the vast and challenging Arctic landscapes.
What is the name of the firearm commonly used by explorers in the Arctic?
- Igloo
- Boom
- Tropic
- Pemmican
Correct Answer: Boom
Correct Answer Explanation: The term “boom” was often used by explorers in the Arctic to refer to a firearm, specifically a rifle. They were essential tools for hunting, protection from predators like polar bears, and even for signaling in case of emergency.
What was the name of the explorer who died during the “Polaris” expedition in 1872?
- Dr. Elisha Kent Kane
- Dr. Isaac Israel Hayes
- Charles Francis Hall
- Sir John Franklin
Correct Answer: Charles Francis Hall
Correct Answer Explanation: Charles Francis Hall, a renowned Arctic explorer, died during the “Polaris” expedition in 1872. His death was a major loss for the expedition, which was already facing numerous challenges. His dedication to Arctic exploration inspired generations of explorers.
What is the estimated speed of the glaciers in the Arctic?
- 10 feet per year
- 100 feet per year
- 1000 feet per year
- 10,000 feet per year
Correct Answer: 100 feet per year
Correct Answer Explanation: Glaciers, massive rivers of ice, flow slowly from higher ground towards the sea. Their speed varies, but the average speed in the Arctic is estimated to be around 100 feet per year. This slow, but relentless movement, is a significant force shaping the Arctic landscape.
What is the approximate weight of the “oogjook” (seal) captured by the floe party from the “Polaris” expedition?
- 100 pounds
- 300 pounds
- 700 pounds
- 1000 pounds
Correct Answer: 700 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: The floe party from the “Polaris” expedition, stranded on a drifting ice floe after the ship’s separation, relied on hunting for survival. One of their major catches was a large seal, known as an “oogjook,” weighing approximately 700 pounds, which provided them with much-needed food and sustenance.
How long did the floe party drift on the ice before they were rescued?
- 2 months
- 6 months
- 10 months
- 16 months
Correct Answer: 19 months
Correct Answer Explanation: The floe party, led by Captain Buddington, drifted on the ice for 19 months after the “Polaris” expedition separated from the main floe. During this harrowing ordeal, they faced extreme cold, limited supplies, and the threat of starvation. Their survival was a testament to their resilience, ingenuity, and perseverance.
How many miles did Dr. Hayes and his team travel during their sledge journey across Smith Sound?
- 300 miles
- 600 miles
- 1300 miles
- 2000 miles
Correct Answer: 1300 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: Dr. Hayes and his team embarked on a grueling sledge journey across Smith Sound, a challenging stretch of water separating Ellesmere Island from Greenland. Their journey spanned an impressive 1300 miles, showcasing their resilience and determination in the face of the harsh Arctic environment.
What is the approximate estimated length of the Greenland ice sheet?
- 300 miles
- 600 miles
- 1200 miles
- 2000 miles
Correct Answer: 1200 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: The Greenland ice sheet, one of the largest ice sheets on Earth, covers a vast expanse of land. Its length is estimated to be around 1200 miles, making it a significant feature of the Arctic landscape.
What was the name of the tent made of skins, often used by explorers for shelter in the Arctic?
- Igloo
- Tropic
- Sledge
- Hummock
Correct Answer: Tropic
Correct Answer Explanation: The explorers often used tents made of animal skins, called “tropics,” as shelter in the Arctic. These tents provided protection from the harsh weather and allowed explorers to rest and cook in relatively safe and comfortable conditions.
What is the estimated altitude of Dr. Hayes and his team during their glacier expedition?
- 1000 feet
- 3000 feet
- 5000 feet
- 8000 feet
Correct Answer: 5000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Dr. Hayes and his team ventured onto a glacier, a massive river of ice, during their exploration. They reached an altitude of around 5000 feet, encountering challenging terrain and treacherous conditions. Their glacier expedition added valuable insights into the dynamics of the Arctic environment.
How many miles did Dr. Kane and his party travel in 14 hours while escaping from the “Advance” brig?
- 5 miles
- 10 miles
- 20 miles
- 50 miles
Correct Answer: 20 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: Dr. Kane and his party made a desperate escape from the “Advance” brig after it became trapped in the ice. They covered 20 miles in 14 hours, demonstrating their resilience and determination in the face of extreme cold and treacherous conditions.
What is the approximate speed of Dr. Hayes’s dog team during one of his expeditions?
- 3 miles per hour
- 6 miles per hour
- 12 miles per hour
- 20 miles per hour
Correct Answer: 12 miles per hour
Correct Answer Explanation: Dog teams played a crucial role in Arctic exploration, providing transportation across vast and icy landscapes. Dr. Hayes’s dog team, known for its speed and endurance, could travel at approximately 12 miles per hour, enabling them to cover significant distances in relatively short time periods.
What is the approximate weight of the musk-ox killed by Captain Hall during his sledge journey?
- 100 pounds
- 300 pounds
- 500 pounds
- 800 pounds
Correct Answer: 300 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: During one of his expeditions, Captain Hall encountered a musk-ox, a large and powerful Arctic mammal. He successfully hunted the animal, which weighed an estimated 300 pounds. Musk-oxen were a valuable source of food and supplies for explorers in the Arctic.
What was the name of the explorer who led the floe party after the “Polaris” separated from the main ice floe?
- Charles Francis Hall
- Dr. Elisha Kent Kane
- Dr. Isaac Israel Hayes
- Captain Buddington
Correct Answer: Captain Buddington
Correct Answer Explanation: Captain Buddington, a seasoned Arctic explorer and member of the “Polaris” expedition, assumed leadership of the floe party after the ship separated from the main ice floe. His leadership, along with the resilience of the party, enabled them to survive a harrowing 19 months on the drifting ice floe.
What was the estimated total weight of provisions carried by the “Polaris” expedition?
- 500 pounds
- 1000 pounds
- 1500 pounds
- 2000 pounds
Correct Answer: 1500 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Polaris” expedition, aiming for a long and challenging journey in the Arctic, carried a significant amount of supplies to sustain themselves. The total weight of provisions carried aboard the ship was approximately 1500 pounds, including food, fuel, and essential equipment for survival.
What is the name of the series of sounds used by the Inuit people to lure seals closer for hunting?
- Ankootings
- Sledding
- Talk
- Boom
Correct Answer: Talk
Correct Answer Explanation: The Inuit people, skilled hunters, developed a unique technique called “talk” to lure seals closer. It involves producing a series of sounds that mimic the sounds of seals communicating with each other, effectively attracting them closer to the hunters.
What is the name of the mystical songs and gestures used by Inuit shamans or Angekoks to communicate with spirits and influence events?
- Sledding
- Ankootings
- Talk
- Boom
Correct Answer: Ankootings
Correct Answer Explanation: The Inuit people have a rich spiritual tradition, and their shamans, or Angekoks, play a significant role in their culture. Angekoks use “ankootings,” which are mystical songs and gestures, to communicate with spirits, seek guidance, and influence events.
How many years of experience did Captain Buddington have in the Arctic before leading the “Polaris” expedition?
- 5 years
- 11 years
- 15 years
- 20 years
Correct Answer: 11 years
Correct Answer Explanation: Captain Buddington, a seasoned Arctic explorer, had extensive experience in the region before leading the “Polaris” expedition. His 11 years of experience navigating the treacherous Arctic waters and understanding the challenges of the environment were invaluable to the success of the expedition.
How old was Charles Francis Hall when he began his first Arctic expedition?
- 20 years old
- 30 years old
- 40 years old
- 50 years old
Correct Answer: 40 years old
Correct Answer Explanation: Charles Francis Hall, a renowned Arctic explorer, embarked on his first Arctic expedition at the age of 40. His passion for the Arctic and his dedication to solving the mystery of the lost Franklin expedition fueled his explorations.
What is the phenomenon observed by Dr. Kane, where objects emit a faint, bluish light in the dark?
- Midnight sun
- Aurora Borealis
- Phosphorescence
- Scurvy
Correct Answer: Phosphorescence
Correct Answer Explanation: Dr. Kane, during his Arctic exploration, observed an intriguing phenomenon known as phosphorescence. Objects, such as ice and snow, would emit a faint, bluish light in the dark, a mesmerizing and mysterious sight in the Arctic night.
What is the term for a collection of ice floes, often found in the Arctic?
- Hummock
- Pack
- Lead
- Berg
Correct Answer: Pack
Correct Answer Explanation: A “pack” refers to a collection of ice floes, often found in the Arctic, forming a dense and challenging landscape for explorers. These ice packs can be vast and unpredictable, posing hazards to navigation and travel.
What is the name of the large iceberg, a common sight in the Arctic?
- Hummock
- Pack
- Lead
- Berg
Correct Answer: Berg
Correct Answer Explanation: A “berg” is the term used to describe a large iceberg, a massive block of ice that breaks off from glaciers and floats in the Arctic Ocean. These icebergs can be enormous, posing significant threats to navigation and highlighting the dynamic nature of the Arctic environment.