Consider the following statements : 1. The Red Sea receives very little precipitation in any form. 2. No water enters the Red Sea from rivers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

1. A. 1 only
2. B. 2 only
3. C. Both 1 and 2
4. D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct. The Red Sea is located in an arid to semi-arid region, resulting in very low annual precipitation and high evaporation rates, which contribute to its exceptionally high salinity. Statement 2 is incorrect. While there are no major perennial rivers flowing into the Red Sea, small seasonal streams or wadis can contribute some freshwater, especially during infrequent rainfall events. The absolute claim ‘No water enters… from rivers’ is generally inaccurate for large water bodies, even if the contribution is negligible. Therefore, only statement 1 is correct. This question tests geographical knowledge of specific water bodies.