Science quiz: On vexillography – The Hindu

Q: This ‘infographic’ from an 18th century work explains the famous rule of ________, by which heralds may be designed. Fill in the blank.

A: Tincture

Q: The half or edge of the flag nearest to the flagpole is called the hoist. In vexillography, this is considered to be the leading edge. The fly is edge furthest from the flagpole and experiences the most movement and physical wear. The field is the background colour. What’s the upper-hoist quarter called? It’s the most prestigious position for secondary symbols.

A: Canton

Q: Per the North American Vexillological Association, a flag is said to be effective if it’s simple enough for a child to draw from memory. Conversely, among other things, ____ is discouraged because it’s illegible from a distance and appears reversed on the opposite side. Fill in the blank.

A: Text

Q: The ______ _____ is the ratio of the width to the height. For most national flags it’s 2:1 or 3:2. That of the flags of Switzerland and Vatican City is 1:1. Fill in the blanks.

A: Aspect ratio

Q: In the X tradition, symbols on the flag with a discernible direction almost universally face the hoist (see Q1). This is because facing the fly is historically associated with retreat or cowardice. Name X.

A: Heraldic

Q: Many flags are not isolated designs but belong to certain ‘families’ based on a shared regional history or political ideology. These include the Nordic Cross, characterised by an off-centre cross; pan-African colours, which are derived from the flag of ________; pan-Arab colours, derived from the Arab Revolt; and pan-Slavic colours, derived from the Russian flag. Fill in the blank.

A: Ethiopia