Q. With reference to the ‘Indian Ocean’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It was called by the Ancient Greeks as Erythraean Sea.
2. It is spread on the either side of equator.
Select the correct answer from the code given below :
a) Only 2
b) Neither 1 nor 2
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Only 1
Correct Answer: c) Both 1 and 2
Question from UPPSC Prelims 2025
Explanation:
Both statements are correct. (1) In ancient Greek geography, the term ‘Erythraean Sea’ was used for the waters encompassing the Red Sea and much of the Indian Ocean region; the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea describes trade routes across the Arabian Sea to Indian ports. (2) The Indian Ocean straddles the Equator—while most of it lies in the Southern Hemisphere, substantial parts (Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal) lie north of the Equator—so it is spread on both sides. Hence, option 3 is correct.
