Question 1: We’re in the Dolomites. In which country is this mountain range?
A Italy
B France
C Spain
The Dolomites cover more than 6,000 square miles in northeastern Italy. They are part of the Italian Alps. The Apennines run along the peninsula’s length, while the Alps form the northern edge. Notable peaks include the Matterhorn in the west and the pale-hued Dolomites rising in the country’s eastern reaches.
Correct Answer: Italy
Question 2: What optical effect gives the Dolomite peaks their pinkish glow?
A Alpenglow
B Oxidation
C Volcanic reflection
In Italy’s Dolomites, a rare phenomenon called alpenglow—’enrosadira’ in Italian—bathes the ancient coral peaks in a soft pink light at sunrise and sunset. This optical effect occurs when the sun sits just below the horizon. Fittingly, enrosadira means ‘turning pink’ in Ladin, the region’s ancient Latin-based language that is still spoken today.
Correct Answer: Alpenglow
Question 3: Denali, the highest peak in North America, is part of which mountain range?
A Cascade Range
B Alaska Range
C Sierra Nevada
The Alaska Range stretches 600 miles across southcentral Alaska, from Lake Clark to Canada’s Yukon Territory. Home to Denali, North America’s tallest peak, this narrow mountain chain is part of the vast American Cordillera and forms a rugged spine across the Alaskan landscape.
Correct Answer: Alaska Range