What is a pass?

Correct answer: Route between mountains

The direct answer is A: a route through or between mountains. A pass is a natural lower route, gap or crossing that allows people, animals, roads or armies to move across a mountain region. The reasoning is simple: mountains usually form barriers; a pass is the relatively easier opening through that barrier. Option A gives this exact geographical meaning. Option B, an island in the sea, is land surrounded by water and has nothing to do with a mountain crossing. Option C, a river mouth, is the place where a river enters a sea, lake or another river. Option D, a saline plain, is flat land containing much salt, often in dry areas. Thus only A matches the definition. In exams, connect “pass” with transport across mountains; examples include mountain routes such as Nathu La and Zoji La.