Q. The Gobi Desert is spread across which of the following countries ?
1. Mongolia
2. China
3. Russia
4. Kazakhstan
Select the correct answer from the code given below :
a) Only 1 and 2
b) Only 1, 2 and 4
c) Only 1, 2 and 3
d) Only 1
Correct Answer: a) Only 1 and 2
Question from UPPSC Prelims 2025
Explanation:
The Gobi Desert spans southern Mongolia and northern China, chiefly across the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and parts of Gansu. It does not extend into Russia or Kazakhstan—mountain ranges and intervening basins (Altai, Sayan, Tian Shan) lie between the Gobi and those countries.
– Statements 1 and 2 are correct (Mongolia and China).
– Statement 3 (Russia) is incorrect: the Gobi does not reach Russian territory.
– Statement 4 (Kazakhstan) is incorrect: Kazakhstan’s deserts (e.g., Kyzylkum, Betpak-Dala) are distinct and west of the Gobi.
Therefore, only 1 and 2 are correct.