Which of the following countries is on the periphery of the Pacific Ring of Fire?

• A. Japan
• B. Philippines
• C. North Korea
• D. Both A and B

Answer: (D)

The Pacific Ring of Fire is a horseshoe-shaped area in the Pacific Ocean basin known for its high levels of tectonic activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Both Japan and the Philippines lie along this zone, making them countries directly within the Ring of Fire.

Japan is situated on the convergence of several tectonic plates, which frequently results in seismic activity, including powerful earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Similarly, the Philippines is also located near the boundary of the Pacific Plate, making it prone to similar tectonic events.

While North Korea is located in East Asia, it does not lie on the Pacific Ring of Fire and is, therefore, not associated with the same level of seismic activity as Japan and the Philippines. Therefore, the inclusion of both Japan and the Philippines as countries on the periphery of this seismic zone is accurate, affirming that the correct answer encompasses both A and B.