From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rapa Nui Island, Moai statues
Why in the News?
The Volcanic Island of Rapa Nui (also known as Easter Island) has always been mysterious due to its harsh geography and iconic Moai statues.
About Rapa Nui Island
| Details | |
| Location | • Situated in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, Rapa Nui is part of Polynesia and a territory of Chile. • One of the most remote islands, about 3,500 km from Chile. |
| Size | • Covers an area of 160 sq. km. |
| Geographical details | • The island has a volcanic origin, featuring lava-covered terrain and rocky soil.
• Notable volcanoes include Terevaka, Poike, and Rano Kau. • Tropical climate with average temperatures ranging between 18°C and 28°C. • Rainfall occurs mostly in the winter months. |
| Moai Statues | • Famous for over 900 moai statues, some as tall as 40 ft and weighing 75 tonnes. • These statues were built between the 13th and 16th centuries to honor revered ancestors. • Carved from volcanic rock and transported across great distances. |
| Discovery | • Discovered by European sailors on Easter Sunday, 1722, which gave it the name Easter Island. • The island had been settled centuries earlier by Polynesian explorers who navigated thousands of kilometers of ocean. |
| Significance of New Findings | • Recent studies, including the use of AI analysis of satellite images, have debunked earlier theories of ecological collapse. • Genetic studies show Native American ancestry before European contact, indicating earlier interactions with South America. |
PYQ:[2018] Consider the following statements: 1. The Barren Island volcano is an active volcano located in the Indian territory. 2. Barren Island lies about 140 km east of Great Nicobar. 3. The last time the Barren Island volcano erupted was in 1991 and it has remained inactive since then. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 3 only (d) 1 and 3 |
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