National Geographic Bee Practice Test

The Dominican Republic controls the larger area of the island of Hispaniola, which is shared with Haiti. Hispaniola is divided into two countries: the Dominican Republic occupies the eastern two-thirds of the island, while Haiti covers the western third. The total area of Hispaniola is about 76,192 square kilometers, and the Dominican Republic accounts for approximately 48,442 square kilometers of that, which is why it is the correct answer.

It's important to understand the geographical layout of the island. The Dominican Republic, known for its varied topography, includes mountains, beaches, and agricultural land. This country's larger land area also contributes to its population density and diverse ecosystems, distinguishing it significantly from Haiti, which has its own set of geographic and social challenges.

The other options mentioned, Puerto Rico and Cuba, are separate islands in the Caribbean and do not share the island of Hispaniola. Puerto Rico is located to the east of Hispaniola and is a U.S. territory, while Cuba is further west and is the largest island in the Caribbean. Understanding the layout and political divisions on the Caribbean islands can provide clarity on such geographic questions.