What is the commonly used English name of the chain of limestone shoals that forms a natural bridge between India and Sri Lanka?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Adams Bridge

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question belongs to Indian geography and world famous structures. Between India and Sri Lanka there is a chain of limestone shoals in the shallow sea, popularly known in mythology as Ram Setu. In English language reference, this formation has a specific name used in maps and atlases. Knowing this name helps in both general knowledge and map based questions.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The formation is a chain of limestone shoals between India and Sri Lanka.
  • It is often described as a natural bridge.
  • We must identify its commonly used English name.
  • The options include well known bridges from different parts of the world, plus one connected with the region.


Concept / Approach:
The geological formation connecting Pamban Island in India and Mannar Island in Sri Lanka is called Adam Bridge or Adams Bridge in English. In Indian tradition it is also known as Ram Setu. Other options such as Chenab Bridge, Tower Bridge, and Golden Gate Bridge refer to man made structures in different locations and do not match the description of limestone shoals between India and Sri Lanka.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that the phrase chain of limestone shoals between India and Sri Lanka refers to the structure popularly called Ram Setu. Step 2: Recall that the English name for this formation is Adams Bridge. Step 3: Check each option and identify Adams Bridge as the only one matching that description. Step 4: Note that Chenab Bridge is a railway bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, Tower Bridge is in London, and Golden Gate Bridge is in San Francisco. Step 5: Select Adams Bridge as the correct answer.


Verification / Alternative check:
Verifying this is easy by recalling that geographic atlases and school geography textbooks label the shoal chain as Adams Bridge. The association with Ramayana and Lord Rama is mentioned in cultural discussions, but the English cartographic name is Adams Bridge. This is consistent across multiple sources.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Chenab Bridge: A modern railway arch bridge over the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir, not a natural shoal between India and Sri Lanka.
  • Tower Bridge: A famous bascule and suspension bridge across the Thames in London, unrelated to India and Sri Lanka.
  • Golden Gate Bridge: A suspension bridge in San Francisco, United States, again not the natural shoal chain described in the question.
  • Pamban Bridge: A railway and road bridge connecting mainland India with Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu, nearby but different from the limestone shoal chain itself.


Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates confuse Pamban Bridge with Adams Bridge because both are in the same region. However, Pamban Bridge is an engineered railway and road bridge, while Adams Bridge refers specifically to the natural chain of shoals leading towards Sri Lanka. Knowing this distinction helps avoid errors.


Final Answer:
The chain of limestone shoals forming a natural bridge between India and Sri Lanka is known in English as Adams Bridge, so the correct option is Adams Bridge.

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