What is Adam's Bridge?
Adam's Bridge, also known as Ram Setu, is a natural limestone formation connecting Dhanushkodi in India to Talaimannar in Sri Lanka. This submerged structure extends approximately 29 kilometers across the sea.
Adam's Bridge is vividly depicted in the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, where it is described as a bridge constructed by Lord Rama's ape army to reach Sri Lanka. The name "Adam's Bridge" was assigned by a cartographer from the East India Company. Persian navigators referred to it as Sethu Bandhai, and it remained above sea level until a cyclone struck in 1480.
ISRO’s Detailed Mapping:
Scientists from ISRO's National Remote Sensing Centre have conducted an extensive undersea mapping of Adam's Bridge. This study employed NASA's Ice Cloud and Land Elevation Satellite (ICESat)-2, which utilizes laser technology to gather detailed measurements.
Technological Insights:
Data collected from ICESat-2 between October 2018 and October 2023 was analyzed. A high-resolution map with 10-meter precision was produced, revealing intricate details of the submerged ridge.
Geological Structure:
The mapping revealed that the ridge is predominantly submerged, with 99.98% of its volume lying beneath shallow waters. The structure rises about 8 meters above the seabed along its entire length, with only 0.02% exposed.
Formation of Limestone:
Limestone is formed through the accumulation of marine organism fossils over millions of years, solidifying into rock.
Narrow Channels:
The research identified 11 narrow channels within the ridge that facilitate water exchange between the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait. These channels are vital for protecting the structure from harsh wave action.
Wave and Current Dynamics:
The ridge experiences persistent exposure to powerful waves from both the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait. Monsoon currents significantly influence water movement in the area, with the southwest monsoon directing water from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal, while the northeast monsoon reverses this flow.
Preservation of the Structure:
The presence of narrow channels within the ridge is likely crucial for its preservation by diminishing the effects of strong waves.
Scientific and Geological Significance:
This comprehensive study offers the first detailed insights into the submerged sections of Adam's Bridge and confirms its natural geological origins. These findings contribute significantly to both historical and geological research.
Continued Research and Monitoring:
Ongoing studies and advanced mapping technologies are essential for enhancing our understanding and preservation of such significant natural formations.
Q1. What is the significance of Adam's Bridge in Indian history?
Answer: Adam's Bridge, or Ram Setu, holds cultural significance as it is mentioned in the Ramayana. It symbolizes the link between India and Sri Lanka and showcases ancient engineering marvels.
Q2. How was Adam's Bridge formed?
Answer: Adam's Bridge formed through the natural accumulation of marine organism fossils, which over millions of years solidified into limestone, creating the current structure.
Q3. What recent studies have been conducted on Adam's Bridge?
Answer: ISRO conducted in-depth mapping using ICESat-2, revealing detailed geological features and confirming the natural origins of Adam's Bridge.
Q4. Why is Adam's Bridge important for marine ecology?
Answer: The narrow channels within Adam's Bridge facilitate water exchange, which is crucial for maintaining marine biodiversity and protecting the area from wave action.
Q5. What role do monsoon currents play around Adam's Bridge?
Answer: Monsoon currents significantly affect water movement around Adam's Bridge, influencing ecological dynamics and sediment transport in the region.
Question 1: What is another name for Adam's Bridge?
A) Ram Setu
B) Sethu Bandhai
C) Dhanushkodi Bridge
D) Talaimannar Bridge
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: Who conducted the detailed mapping of Adam's Bridge?
A) NASA
B) ISRO
C) Geological Survey of India
D) Indian Navy
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What percentage of Adam's Bridge is submerged?
A) 50%
B) 80%
C) 99.98%
D) 100%
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What is a significant feature of the geological study of Adam's Bridge?
A) Formation of granite
B) Presence of fossilized trees
C) Identification of narrow channels
D) Discovery of oil reserves
Correct Answer: C
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