The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, occupying a vast portion of the African continent. Its geographical extent influences the climate, vegetation, and geopolitical boundaries of North Africa.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Sahara Desert covers a massive expanse of North Africa, extending from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Red Sea in the east. It dominates the landscape of the northern portion of the continent.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Sahara touches eleven countries, not three. These countries are Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Sudan, Tunisia, and Western Sahara.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The total area of the Sahara Desert is approximately 9.2 million square kilometers. The total geographical area of India is approximately 3.28 million square kilometers. Since 9.2 million is significantly greater than 6.56 million (double of 3.28 million), the area of the Sahara is indeed more than double the area of India.
Key Takeaway:
The Sahara is the world's largest hot desert, spanning eleven North African nations, with a land area nearly three times that of India.