Which specific water body, known as a degree channel, separates the Andaman Islands from the Nicobar Islands?

Introduction / Context:

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands form a long chain of islands in the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea. Between the northern Andaman group and the southern Nicobar group there is a specific stretch of water that has an important navigational name. Exam questions often focus on this name because it is a notable example of a degree channel and helps in understanding regional maritime geography.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks for the named water body that separates the Andaman Islands from the Nicobar Islands.
• The options include Ten Degree Channel, Eleventh Degree Channel, Andaman Sea, and Bay of Bengal.
• Degree channels are usually named after the latitude they are close to.
• The separation between the Andaman and Nicobar groups lies near 10 degrees north latitude.

Concept / Approach:

The key concept is that the Andaman and Nicobar groups are divided by the Ten Degree Channel, a narrow section of the sea near 10 degrees north latitude. This channel lies between Little Andaman (in the Andaman group) and Car Nicobar (in the Nicobar group). The Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal are larger surrounding water bodies, not the specific separating channel. The Eleventh Degree Channel is associated with other island groups and not with the division between Andaman and Nicobar. Therefore, the correct answer is Ten Degree Channel.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Maps of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in atlases usually label the Ten Degree Channel clearly between Little Andaman and Car Nicobar. In written descriptions, the union territory is often stated to consist of two island groups separated by the Ten Degree Channel. The Eleventh Degree Channel, on the other hand, is not associated with this particular separation, and Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal appear as broader labels on the map, not as dividing channels.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:

Learners sometimes confuse different degree channels or choose Andaman Sea or Bay of Bengal simply because those names are familiar. Another mistake is misremembering the latitude involved and picking Eleventh Degree Channel. To avoid such errors, fix the simple fact in memory: Andaman and Nicobar Islands are separated by the Ten Degree Channel near 10 degrees north latitude.

Final Answer:

The Andaman Islands and Nicobar Islands are separated by the Ten Degree Channel.