Daily Current Affairs : 5-December-2023

Indonesia, a country nestled within the Pacific Ring of Fire, recently witnessed the eruption of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra, sending ash plumes soaring to a height of more than 3,000 meters. This event sheds light on the geographical intricacies of the region and the significance of Mount Marapi in Indonesia’s volcanic landscape.

Mount Marapi:
  • Location: Situated in West Sumatra, Mount Marapi is distinct from Mount Merapi in Java, emphasizing the diversity of Indonesia’s volcanic topography.
  • Meaning of Name: The name “Marapi” translates to “Mountain of Fire,” aptly capturing the essence of its volcanic nature.
  • Activity: With a history boasting over 60 eruptions since the late 18th century, Mount Marapi holds the title of being the most active volcano in Sumatra. Its recurrent activity poses both challenges and opportunities for the surrounding communities.
The Pacific Ring of Fire:
  • Definition: The Pacific Ring of Fire, also known as the Circum-Pacific Belt, defines a vast geographical expanse surrounding the Pacific Ocean. Notably, this region is marked by the presence of active volcanoes and frequent seismic activities, such as earthquakes.
  • Length: Stretching across approximately 40,000 kilometers, the Ring of Fire weaves through diverse landscapes and plays a pivotal role in shaping the geological dynamics of the surrounding areas.
  • Tectonic Plates: The Ring of Fire is closely associated with the converging boundaries of multiple tectonic plates, including the Pacific Plate, Juan de Fuca Plate, Cocos Plate, Indian-Australian Plate, Nazca Plate, North American Plate, and Philippine Plate. These interactions between tectonic plates fuel the geological phenomena, making the region prone to volcanic eruptions and seismic events.
Important Points:


Mount Marapi Eruption in West Sumatra: Key Points

  • Location: Mount Marapi is situated in West Sumatra, distinct from Mount Merapi in Java, showcasing the diverse volcanic landscape of Indonesia.
  • Name Significance: The name “Marapi” translates to “Mountain of Fire,” aptly reflecting its volcanic nature.
  • Activity: Mount Marapi, with over 60 eruptions since the late 18th century, holds the title of the most active volcano in Sumatra.
  • Pacific Ring of Fire: This geological region surrounding the Pacific Ocean is characterized by active volcanoes and frequent seismic activities.
  • Length: The Pacific Ring of Fire spans approximately 40,000 kilometers, influencing the geological dynamics of the surrounding areas.
  • Tectonic Plates: The Ring of Fire is associated with several tectonic plates, including the Pacific Plate, Juan de Fuca Plate, Cocos Plate, Indian-Australian Plate, Nazca Plate, North American Plate, and Philippine Plate.
  • Geological Interactions: Interactions between tectonic plates contribute to the high level of geological activity in the Ring of Fire, making it prone to volcanic eruptions and seismic events.
  • Eruption Impact: The recent eruption of Mount Marapi highlights the challenges faced by communities living in volcanic regions and emphasizes the need for robust monitoring systems and disaster preparedness initiatives.
  • Symbolic Significance: Mount Marapi stands as a symbol of Indonesia’s geological vibrancy, blending awe-inspiring natural beauty with inherent risks associated with living near active volcanoes.
Why In News

Recently, Indonesia’s Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province erupted, spewing white-and-grey ash plumes for more than 3,000 meters (about 9,800 feet) into the air, highlighting the region’s susceptibility to volcanic activity and the ongoing challenges faced by local communities in managing such natural events.

MCQs about Mount Marapi Eruption in West Sumatra

  1. Where is Mount Marapi located, and how does it differ from Mount Merapi?
    A. Java, Indonesia
    B. West Sumatra, Indonesia
    C. Bali, Indonesia
    D. Sulawesi, Indonesia
    Correct Answer: B. West Sumatra, Indonesia
    Explanation: Mount Marapi is situated in West Sumatra, distinguishing it from Mount Merapi in Java, emphasizing the diverse volcanic topography of Indonesia.
  2. What is the meaning of the name “Marapi”?
    A. Mountain of Serenity
    B. Volcanic Summit
    C. Mountain of Fire
    D. Heavenly Peak
    Correct Answer: C. Mountain of Fire
    Explanation: The name “Marapi” translates to “Mountain of Fire,” aptly capturing the volcanic nature of Mount Marapi.
  3. Why is Mount Marapi notable in terms of volcanic activity?
    A. It has the tallest peak in Sumatra
    B. It has recorded over 100 eruptions
    C. It is the youngest volcano in Indonesia
    D. It is the most active volcano in Sumatra
    Correct Answer: D. It is the most active volcano in Sumatra
    Explanation: Mount Marapi has a history of over 60 eruptions since the late 18th century, making it the most active volcano in Sumatra.
  4. What is the Pacific Ring of Fire, and what characterizes this geographical region?
    A. A marine conservation area
    B. A trade route in the Pacific Ocean
    C. A region with frequent seismic activities and active volcanoes
    D. An underwater mountain range
    Correct Answer: C. A region with frequent seismic activities and active volcanoes
    Explanation: The Pacific Ring of Fire is a geographical region marked by frequent seismic activities, including earthquakes, and the presence of active volcanoes surrounding the Pacific Ocean.

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