Which term describes a state that consists of two or more noncontiguous parts?

• A. Theocracy
• B. Compact state
• C. Fragmented state
• D. Prorupted state

Answer: (C)

Fragmented states are those whose territory isn’t a single connected piece but exists as two or more separate blocks. This happens when parts of the country lie on islands or are separated by other states or international waters, so the landmass isn’t one continuous whole. This term is the best fit because it directly describes a political area made up of noncontiguous parts, like an archipelago or a nation with exclaves.

In contrast, a compact state describes a cohesive, nearly round shape with little in the way of long extensions, and a prorupted state has a protruding arm but remains one continuous piece. A theocracy is about who holds political power, not how the territory is laid out.