What was the name of the mountain Edward Whymper was determined to climb?
- Matterhorn
- Mont Blanc
- Eiger
- Jungfrau
Correct Answer: Matterhorn
Correct Answer Explanation: The Matterhorn is the central focus of Whymper’s book, “The Ascent of the Matterhorn.”
Why was the Matterhorn considered a particularly difficult climb?
- Its steep, near-vertical cliffs
- Its location in a remote part of the Alps
- Its lack of suitable climbing routes
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s book describes the Matterhorn as a challenging climb due to its steep, almost vertical cliffs, its remote location in the Alps, and its lack of easily accessible climbing routes.
Who was Edward Whymper’s primary guide for the ascent of the Matterhorn?
- Michel Croz
- Jean-Antoine Carrel
- Christian Almer
- Peter Perren
Correct Answer: Michel Croz
Correct Answer Explanation: Michel Croz, a renowned mountain guide, was a key figure in Whymper’s successful ascent of the Matterhorn.
What tragic event occurred during the descent of the Matterhorn?
- Whymper’s team was caught in a blizzard and forced to camp overnight.
- One of the climbers was injured and had to be carried down.
- Four climbers, including Whymper’s guide, fell to their deaths.
- Whymper lost his equipment and had to descend alone.
Correct Answer: Four climbers, including Whymper’s guide, fell to their deaths.
Correct Answer Explanation: The tragic descent of the Matterhorn resulted in the deaths of four climbers, including Michel Croz, Whymper’s guide. This event is a significant part of the book’s narrative.
What was the highest point Whymper reached on the Matterhorn before turning back on an earlier attempt?
- 12,000 feet
- 13,000 feet
- 13,500 feet
- 14,000 feet
Correct Answer: 13,500 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper reached 13,500 feet on the Matterhorn before turning back due to challenging conditions and a lack of suitable gear.
What famous mountain did Whymper successfully climb in 1861, prior to his Matterhorn ascent?
- Mont Blanc
- Mont Pelvoux
- Pointe des Ecrins
- Dent Blanche
Correct Answer: Mont Pelvoux
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s first notable ascent was of Mont Pelvoux in 1861, a feat he achieved with his friend Macdonald and guide Jean Reynaud.
Whymper’s book highlights the importance of what aspect of mountaineering?
- The role of luck and fortune in successful climbs
- The use of innovative climbing technology
- The need for careful planning and preparation
- The competitive spirit among climbers
Correct Answer: The need for careful planning and preparation
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Ascent of the Matterhorn” emphasizes the importance of thorough planning and preparation in mountaineering, showing how Whymper’s detailed planning and selection of experienced guides contributed to his successful ascent.
Which of the following was NOT a challenge Whymper faced during his attempts to climb the Matterhorn?
- Lack of experienced guides
- Unpredictable weather conditions
- Limited climbing equipment
- The mountain’s steep and treacherous slopes
Correct Answer: Lack of experienced guides
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper had access to experienced guides, even though he had to convince them to attempt the climb.
What was the name of the guide who consistently believed in the climbability of the Matterhorn, despite the skepticism of others?
- Michel Croz
- Jean-Antoine Carrel
- Peter Perren
- Christian Almer
Correct Answer: Jean-Antoine Carrel
Correct Answer Explanation: Jean-Antoine Carrel was a guide who believed in the Matterhorn’s climbability and was a significant contributor to Whymper’s success.
Why was the south-west ridge considered a treacherous route on the Matterhorn?
- The outward dip of the rock strata
- The presence of deep crevasses
- The loose debris and overhanging rocks
- Both A and C
Correct Answer: Both A and C
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s book highlights the outward dip of the rock strata on the south-west ridge, creating dangerous overhangs and loose debris, making it a difficult and treacherous route.
Why did Whymper and his team choose to climb the Matterhorn in 1865?
- The summer of 1865 offered the best weather conditions for climbing
- The presence of a renowned guide like Michel Croz
- The previous unsuccessful attempts by other climbers
- A combination of all of the above
Correct Answer: A combination of all of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s decision to climb the Matterhorn in 1865 was influenced by a combination of factors, including favorable weather conditions, the availability of experienced guides like Michel Croz, and the previous failed attempts by other climbers, which fueled his determination.
What is the approximate height of the Matterhorn?
- 10,000 feet
- 12,000 feet
- 14,000 feet
- 16,000 feet
Correct Answer: 14,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The Matterhorn is a nearly 15,000-foot peak.
Whymper’s book provides a glimpse into what aspect of the Alps?
- The history and development of mountaineering
- The changing landscape of the Alps
- The impact of tourism on the region
- Both A and B
Correct Answer: Both A and B
Correct Answer Explanation: The book offers insight into the early days of mountaineering and the evolution of techniques, showcasing the changing landscape of the Alps and the developing understanding of the region.
What was the name of the mountain Whymper climbed with his friend Macdonald and guide Jean Reynaud?
- Mont Pelvoux
- Pointe des Ecrins
- Dent Blanche
- Meije
Correct Answer: Mont Pelvoux
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s first ascent of Mont Pelvoux in 1861 was a significant achievement, showcasing his skill as a climber and his passion for conquering challenging peaks.
What is the approximate height of the Pointe des Ecrins?
- 11,000 feet
- 12,000 feet
- 13,000 feet
- 14,000 feet
Correct Answer: 13,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The Pointe des Ecrins is a high peak in France, standing at about 13,462 feet.
What is the name of the valley south of the Brèche de la Meije?
- Vallon des Etançons
- Vallon de la Meije
- Vallon de la Dent Blanche
- Vallon des Aiguilles
Correct Answer: Vallon des Etançons
Correct Answer Explanation: The Vallon des Etançons is a desolate and difficult valley located south of the Brèche de la Meije.
What mountain is considered one of the most challenging climbs in the Alps?
- Mont Dolent
- Dent Blanche
- Meije
- Aiguille Verte
Correct Answer: Dent Blanche
Correct Answer Explanation: The Dent Blanche is renowned for its challenging climbs, characterized by steep, icy slopes and exposed ridges.
What is the name of the pass that Whymper crossed to reach Prè du Bar?
- Col de Talèfre
- Col du Géant
- Col de Triolet
- Col de Pilatte
Correct Answer: Col de Triolet
Correct Answer Explanation: The Col de Triolet was a difficult pass that Whymper crossed to reach Prè du Bar, showcasing the challenging terrain he encountered.
What is the name of the pass that offered a shortcut across the Dauphiné Alps?
- Col du Géant
- Col de Talèfre
- Col de Triolet
- Brèche de la Meije
Correct Answer: Brèche de la Meije
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper and his companions discovered the Brèche de la Meije, a pass that offered a shortcut across the Dauphiné Alps.
What is the approximate height of the Mont Dolent?
- 10,000 feet
- 12,000 feet
- 14,000 feet
- 16,000 feet
Correct Answer: 12,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Mont Dolent is located at the junction of three ridges and offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. Its summit is about 12,566 feet above sea level.
What is the name of the peak that offers a magnificent view of the western face of Mont Blanc?
- Aiguille de Trélatête
- Aiguille d’Argentière
- Aiguille Verte
- Aiguille du Midi
Correct Answer: Aiguille de Trélatête
Correct Answer Explanation: The Aiguille de Trélatête is a towering peak that provides a breathtaking view of the western face of Mont Blanc.
What is the name of the pass that was the easiest and quickest route from Chamounix to Courmayeur before the discovery of the Col de Talèfre?
- Col du Géant
- Col de Triolet
- Col de Pilatte
- Brèche de la Meije
Correct Answer: Col du Géant
Correct Answer Explanation: The Col du Géant was a pass across the main ridge of Mont Blanc that offered an easy and quick route between Chamounix and Courmayeur.
Why was Whymper’s ascent of the Matterhorn considered a significant achievement?
- It was the first successful ascent of the peak.
- It involved a new and innovative climbing technique.
- It showcased the importance of teamwork in mountaineering.
- All of the above.
Correct Answer: All of the above.
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s first ascent of the Matterhorn was a groundbreaking achievement in mountaineering. It proved that what was once thought impossible could be achieved through careful planning, teamwork, and determination.
What was the approximate weight of Whymper’s tent?
- 5 pounds
- 10 pounds
- 20 pounds
- 30 pounds
Correct Answer: 20 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s tent was a lightweight, portable design, weighing about 23 pounds.
What is the approximate height of the glacier above La Grave?
- 3,000 feet
- 4,000 feet
- 5,000 feet
- 6,000 feet
Correct Answer: 6,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper and his companions crossed a glacier above La Grave that was about 6,500 feet high.
What was the inclination of the snow couloir Whymper and his companions ascended on the Col de Pilatte?
- 25 degrees
- 35 degrees
- 45 degrees
- 54 degrees
Correct Answer: 54 degrees
Correct Answer Explanation: The snow couloir on the Col de Pilatte presented a challenging climb with an inclination of 54 degrees.
What is the approximate height of the Grand Cornier, a peak ascended by Whymper?
- 11,000 feet
- 12,000 feet
- 13,000 feet
- 14,000 feet
Correct Answer: 13,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The Grand Cornier is a high peak that Whymper successfully climbed, reaching a height of about 13,022 feet.
What is the name of the mountain range where the Matterhorn is located?
- The Alps
- The Pyrenees
- The Carpathians
- The Apennines
Correct Answer: The Alps
Correct Answer Explanation: The Matterhorn is a prominent peak in the Alps, a mountain range in Europe.
What was Whymper’s main reason for climbing the Matterhorn?
- To prove his strength and skills as a climber
- To make a name for himself in the world of mountaineering
- To conquer a challenging and previously unconquered peak
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s motivations for climbing the Matterhorn were a combination of personal ambition, a desire for recognition, and a challenge to conquer a formidable peak.
Whymper’s book emphasizes the importance of what quality in mountaineering?
- Perseverance
- Teamwork
- Courage
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Ascent of the Matterhorn” highlights the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and courage in mountaineering. These qualities were crucial to Whymper’s success, especially given the challenges and risks involved in climbing the Matterhorn.
What was the name of the guide who fell to his death during the descent of the Matterhorn?
- Michel Croz
- Jean-Antoine Carrel
- Peter Perren
- Christian Almer
Correct Answer: Michel Croz
Correct Answer Explanation: Michel Croz, Whymper’s primary guide, tragically fell to his death during the descent of the Matterhorn, along with three other climbers. This event is a central part of Whymper’s narrative.
Whymper’s book provides valuable lessons about what aspect of mountaineering?
- The physical and mental challenges of high-altitude climbing
- The importance of understanding the alpine environment
- The inherent risks and dangers associated with mountaineering
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Ascent of the Matterhorn” offers valuable lessons about the physical and mental challenges of high-altitude climbing, the importance of understanding the alpine environment, and the inherent risks and dangers associated with mountaineering.
What is the approximate height of the Dent Blanche?
- 12,000 feet
- 13,000 feet
- 14,000 feet
- 15,000 feet
Correct Answer: 14,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The Dent Blanche is a challenging peak in the Alps, standing at about 14,318 feet.
What is the name of the pass Whymper crossed on his way to the Pointe des Ecrins?
- Col du Géant
- Col de Talèfre
- Col de Triolet
- Col des Ecrins
Correct Answer: Col des Ecrins
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper crossed the Col des Ecrins, a pass at about 11,000 feet, on his way to the Pointe des Ecrins.
What is the approximate height of the Aiguille Verte?
- 11,000 feet
- 12,000 feet
- 13,000 feet
- 14,000 feet
Correct Answer: 13,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The Aiguille Verte is a challenging peak that Whymper and Reilly successfully climbed. It stands at about 13,540 feet.
What was the name of the peak that Whymper ascended with Jean-Antoine Carrel?
- Grand Tournalin
- Dent Blanche
- Grand Cornier
- Aiguille Verte
Correct Answer: Grand Tournalin
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper and Carrel ascended the Grand Tournalin, a peak at about 11,155 feet.
Whymper’s book reflects what aspect of the early days of mountaineering?
- The fascination with conquering unclimbed peaks
- The evolving techniques and equipment used for climbing
- The growing appreciation for the beauty and grandeur of the Alps
- All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Ascent of the Matterhorn” reflects the fascination with conquering unclimbed peaks, the evolving techniques and equipment used for climbing, and the growing appreciation for the beauty and grandeur of the Alps in the early days of mountaineering.
What is the name of the mountain range where the Dent Blanche is located?
- The Alps
- The Pyrenees
- The Carpathians
- The Apennines
Correct Answer: The Alps
Correct Answer Explanation: The Dent Blanche is a challenging peak located in the Alps, a mountain range in Europe.
What is the name of the mountain Whymper successfully climbed with his friend Macdonald and guide Jean Reynaud?
- Mont Blanc
- Mont Pelvoux
- Pointe des Ecrins
- Dent Blanche
Correct Answer: Mont Pelvoux
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s first notable ascent was of Mont Pelvoux in 1861, a feat he achieved with his friend Macdonald and guide Jean Reynaud.
What is the name of the guide who consistently believed in the climbability of the Matterhorn, despite the skepticism of others?
- Michel Croz
- Jean-Antoine Carrel
- Peter Perren
- Christian Almer
Correct Answer: Jean-Antoine Carrel
Correct Answer Explanation: Jean-Antoine Carrel was a guide who believed in the Matterhorn’s climbability and was a significant contributor to Whymper’s success.
What was the name of the peak that Whymper ascended with Jean-Antoine Carrel?
- Grand Tournalin
- Dent Blanche
- Grand Cornier
- Aiguille Verte
Correct Answer: Grand Tournalin
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper and Carrel ascended the Grand Tournalin, a peak at about 11,155 feet.
Whymper’s book provides a glimpse into what aspect of the Alps?
- The history and development of mountaineering
- The changing landscape of the Alps
- The impact of tourism on the region
- Both A and B
Correct Answer: Both A and B
Correct Answer Explanation: The book offers insight into the early days of mountaineering and the evolution of techniques, showcasing the changing landscape of the Alps and the developing understanding of the region.
Why did Whymper and his team choose to climb the Matterhorn in 1865?
- The summer of 1865 offered the best weather conditions for climbing
- The presence of a renowned guide like Michel Croz
- The previous unsuccessful attempts by other climbers
- A combination of all of the above
Correct Answer: A combination of all of the above
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s decision to climb the Matterhorn in 1865 was influenced by a combination of factors, including favorable weather conditions, the availability of experienced guides like Michel Croz, and the previous failed attempts by other climbers, which fueled his determination.
Why was the south-west ridge considered a treacherous route on the Matterhorn?
- The outward dip of the rock strata
- The presence of deep crevasses
- The loose debris and overhanging rocks
- Both A and C
Correct Answer: Both A and C
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s book highlights the outward dip of the rock strata on the south-west ridge, creating dangerous overhangs and loose debris, making it a difficult and treacherous route.
What is the name of the guide who fell to his death during the descent of the Matterhorn?
- Michel Croz
- Jean-Antoine Carrel
- Peter Perren
- Christian Almer
Correct Answer: Michel Croz
Correct Answer Explanation: Michel Croz, Whymper’s primary guide, tragically fell to his death during the descent of the Matterhorn, along with three other climbers. This event is a central part of Whymper’s narrative.
Why was Whymper’s ascent of the Matterhorn considered a significant achievement?
- It was the first successful ascent of the peak.
- It involved a new and innovative climbing technique.
- It showcased the importance of teamwork in mountaineering.
- All of the above.
Correct Answer: All of the above.
Correct Answer Explanation: Whymper’s first ascent of the Matterhorn was a groundbreaking achievement in mountaineering. It proved that what was once thought impossible could be achieved through careful planning, teamwork, and determination.
What was the name of the mountain range where the Matterhorn is located?
- The Alps
- The Pyrenees
- The Carpathians
- The Apennines
Correct Answer: The Alps
Correct Answer Explanation: The Matterhorn is a prominent peak in the Alps, a mountain range in Europe.