West Virginia Geography Basics Quiz
Location, borders, capital, regions (10 questions).
West Virginia Geography Basics Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Test your knowledge of the Mountain State with this West Virginia Geography Basics Quiz! From its distinct Appalachian landscape to its unique border history and prominent capital city, West Virginia offers a rich tapestry of geographical features. This quiz covers key aspects like its location in the Mid-Atlantic, its five bordering states, the vital Kanawha River, and the dominant Appalachian mountain range, providing a concise overview for students and enthusiasts alike.
Key Geographical Features
Situated in the Appalachian and Mid-Atlantic regions, known for its mountainous terrain.
Shares borders with five states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and Kentucky.
Charleston is the capital, located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha Rivers.
Almost entirely within the Appalachian Mountains, featuring plateaus, ridges, and valleys.
Key Takeaways
- West Virginia is known as the “Mountain State” due to its extensive Appalachian terrain.
- It is the only state entirely within the Appalachian Mountain range’s physiographic provinces.
- Charleston serves as the state capital, an important economic and cultural hub.
- The state shares land borders with five neighboring states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and Kentucky.
- Major rivers like the Ohio and Kanawha play crucial roles in its geography and history.
- Its formation was a direct result of the Civil War, separating from Virginia in 1863.
Frequently Asked Questions
What region of the US is West Virginia in?
West Virginia is primarily located in the Appalachian and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, often considered part of the Upland South.
Which states border West Virginia?
West Virginia shares borders with five states: Pennsylvania to the northeast, Maryland to the east, Virginia to the southeast, Kentucky to the southwest, and Ohio to the northwest.
What is the capital of West Virginia and where is it located?
The capital city of West Virginia is Charleston, situated in the southwestern part of the state at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha Rivers.
What mountain range defines West Virginia’s geography?
The geography of West Virginia is overwhelmingly defined by the Appalachian Mountains, making it the only state entirely within this mountain system.
Why is West Virginia called the “Mountain State”?
West Virginia earns its nickname, “The Mountain State,” due to its rugged and mountainous terrain, with nearly all of its land area being covered by the Appalachian Mountains.

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