The Andaman group of islands and the Nicobar group of islands in the Bay of Bengal are separated by which one of the following latitudes, commonly referred to as a channel?

Introduction / Context:
This question examines Indian geography, focusing on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The water body separating these two groups is an often asked fact, and it is associated with a specific latitude known as a channel.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The islands mentioned are the Andaman group and the Nicobar group in the Bay of Bengal.
• The separation is described by a line of latitude.
• Options include 8°, 10°, 12° and 13° North latitude.

Concept / Approach:
Between the Andaman and Nicobar groups lies a water body known as the Ten Degree Channel. As the name suggests, this channel follows roughly the 10° North latitude, forming an important physical and navigational feature in the region.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the names of key channels around Indian islands. The Palk Strait separates India and Sri Lanka, while the Ten Degree Channel separates the Andaman and Nicobar islands.Step 2: The Ten Degree Channel corresponds to approximately 10° North latitude.Step 3: Among the options, 10° North is provided as option B.Step 4: Therefore, the correct latitude separating these island groups is 10° North.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard school geography textbooks and maps label this channel clearly as the Ten Degree Channel at about 10° North. Remembering this name is an easy way to connect the concept of latitude to the separation of the Andaman and Nicobar groups.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options A, C and D, namely 8°, 12° and 13° North latitude, do not correspond to the traditional naming or location of the channel that separates these islands.
These latitudes may cross other parts of the Indian Ocean but they are not used to label the main channel between the Andaman and Nicobar groups.

Common Pitfalls:
A common issue is mixing up different degrees used in geography, such as the Tropic of Cancer at about 23.5° North or the latitudes marking other features. Remembering the specific term Ten Degree Channel helps lock the answer as 10° North.

Final Answer:
The Andaman and Nicobar groups of islands are separated by the 10° North latitude, known as the Ten Degree Channel.