Question

Gondwana existed roughly around

• A. 110 million years ago
• B. 450 million years ago
• C. 250 million years ago
• D. 650 million years ago

Hint:

Gondwana existed around 250 million years ago as a supercontinent comprising today's southern hemisphere landmasses. Its breakup shaped the current configuration of continents and influenced climate patterns.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

This question refers to the geological concept of Gondwana, discussed in the travelogue "Journey to the End of the Earth" by Tishani Doshi, included in the Vistas textbook for Class 12 English.

About Gondwana:

Definition:
Gondwana (or Gondwanaland) was an ancient supercontinent that existed millions of years ago before the Earth's landmasses separated into the continents we know today.

Time Period:
Gondwana existed approximately 250 million years ago during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras.

Composition:
It comprised what are now:
South America
Africa
India
Australia
Antarctica
The Arabian Peninsula

Formation and Breakup:
Gondwana formed around 550–600 million years ago during the assembly of the supercontinent Pangaea.
Around 250 million years ago, Gondwana was part of the larger supercontinent Pangaea.
The breakup of Gondwana began around 180 million years ago during the Jurassic period.
India separated from Antarctica and Australia around 120–100 million years ago and began drifting northward.

Significance in "Journey to the End of the Earth":
The author refers to Gondwana while describing Antarctica's geological history.
She explains that when Gondwana existed, Antarctica was part of a green and lush landmass teeming with life—very different from the frozen continent it is today.
This reference helps readers understand the dramatic climatic changes the Earth has undergone and highlights the importance of studying Antarctica to learn about Earth's past and future.

Why 250 Million Years Ago is Correct:
Although Gondwana existed for hundreds of millions of years, the question asks for the time when it existed "roughly around."
Approximately 250 million years ago represents the period when Gondwana was fully formed as a major landmass before its breakup began.
This is also the time period commonly referenced in textbooks and in the lesson.

Analysis of Other Options:

(A) 110 million years ago:
This is too recent; by this time, Gondwana had already begun breaking apart, and India was separating from Antarctica.

(B) 450 million years ago:
This is too early; while parts of Gondwana were forming, the supercontinent was not fully assembled in its later configuration.

(D) 650 million years ago:
This period predates the recognized formation of Gondwana as a unified supercontinent.

Final Answer: 250 million years ago