A
1 only
B
2 only
C
Both 1 and 2
D
Neither 1 nor 2
Correct answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation
- A
1 only
1 only. Rivers and lakes hold far less than groundwater.
- B
2 only
2 only. Ice sheets and glaciers exceed groundwater. Liquid surface water does not.
- C
Both 1 and 2
Both. Statement 1 reverses the volumes.
- D
Neither 1 nor 2
Neither. Ice > groundwater is true.
Summary. Official key is (b) 2 only. Most freshwater is locked in ice. Groundwater is next. Rivers and lakes are a thin film by comparison.
Same topic · past papers
UPSC has asked this before
These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.
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