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Extra questions and detailed answers from the CBSE 10th-grade Geography chapter on Resources and Development
Updated:
May 11, 2023
The chapter "Resources and Development" in CBSE Class 10 Geography examines the various types of resources that we have and how we use these to develop our nation.
The chapter begins by differentiating between natural resources and human-made resources, and then proceeds to examine various natural resources such as land, soil, forests, and water. For each resource, the chapter discusses its significance, distribution, utilization and eventual degradation, as well as the various measures that can be taken to conserve them.
Additionally, the chapter delves into the concept of sustainable development, or the responsible use of resources to meet current needs without compromising future generations. The chapter also considers various ways in which communities can respond to resource depletion, including technological innovations, education and awareness building, and policy changes.
Here are some concise revision notes for the "Resources and Development" chapter of CBSE Class 10 Geography:
1. What are natural resources? Give examples.
Answer: Natural resources are naturally occurring substances that can be used for economic or social development. Examples include air, water, soil, minerals, forests, and wildlife.
2. What is deforestation? Why is it a problem?
Answer: Deforestation is the clearing of forests. It is a problem because forests are important habitats for wildlife, they help prevent soil erosion, and they play a vital role in regulating the earth's climate.
3. How is soil conservation important?
Answer: Soil conservation is necessary to maintain soil fertility and productivity. It also helps prevent soil erosion and land degradation, and contributes to sustainable agricultural practices.
4. Explain the importance of water resources.
Answer: Water resources are vital for all forms of life. They support agriculture and industry, provide drinking water, and support aquatic life. Managing water resources is essential to ensure their sustainable use for future generations.
5. What are minerals? Give examples of minerals found in India.
Answer: Minerals are naturally occurring substances that can be mined for economic purposes. Examples of minerals found in India include iron ore, coal, bauxite, manganese, and copper.
6. What is resource conservation?
Answer: Resource conservation refers to the judicious use of natural resources, aimed at ensuring their sustainability for future generations while meeting the present needs.
7. What is sustainable development?
Answer: Sustainable development is the development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
8. How does the government conserve land resources?
Answer: The government conserves land resources by implementing land regulations, setting up protected areas, promoting afforestation and deforestation control, and through education and awareness-raising.
9. Explain the concept of wildlife conservation.
Answer: Wildlife conservation refers to protecting and conserving wild plants and animals, their habitats, and ecosystems. This is important to ensure the continued existence of wildlife and their biodiversity, and to support the balance of nature.
10. How does the sustainable use of resources contribute to economic development?
Answer: Sustainable use of resources leads to optimal utilization of resources, resulting in increased efficiency of production, which leads to higher economic development.
11. What is soil erosion? Explain its effects.
Answer: Soil erosion refers to the removal of soil by wind or water. Its effects include loss of soil fertility, land degradation, and water pollution.
12. What is water pollution? Explain its effects on the ecosystem.
Answer: Water pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies by human or natural sources. Its effects on the ecosystem include the destruction of aquatic life, health hazards to humans, and damage to the ecosystem balance.
13. What are the different types of soil? Explain their characteristics.
Answer: There are six types of soil - alluvial, black, red, laterite, mountain, and desert soil. Alluvial soil is created by the sediments deposited by rivers and has high fertility. Black soil is formed from the volcanic rocks and is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and potash. Red soil is formed from the weathering of ancient rocks and is acidic but fertile. Laterite soil is created from the breakdown of rocks in hot and humid weather and is nutrient-poor. Mountain soil is created by the disintegration of rocks and minerals. Desert soil is sandy and has very low water retention capacity.
14. What are the causes of soil degradation?
Answer: Causes of soil degradation include overgrazing, deforestation, soil erosion, overuse of fertilizers and pesticides, and climate change.
15. What are the different types of forests? Explain their importance.
Answer: The different types of forests are tropical forests, temperate forests, and boreal forests. Forests are important for providing wood, biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and climate regulation.
16. What is the difference between a non-renewable and a renewable resource?
Answer: A non-renewable resource is one that cannot be replenished once it has been used up, such as fossil fuels. A renewable resource is one that can be replenished, such as solar energy.
17. How can water scarcity be mitigated?
Answer: Water scarcity can be mitigated through water harvesting, rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and conservation practices.
18. What is the role of technology in sustainable resource management?
Answer: Technology plays a crucial role in sustainable resource management by promoting conservation practices, innovative new materials and production methods, and an increased reliance on renewable energy.
19. What is the equitable use of resources?
Answer: Equitable use of resources refers to the fair distribution of resources in an area, ensuring that no community or group is at a disadvantage. This includes access to natural resources, education, health care, and job opportunities.
20. How can the community be involved in sustainable development?
Answer: The community can be involved in sustainable development through education and awareness-raising, community-led conservation efforts, and the adoption of sustainable agricultural and resource management practices. Community involvement is essential for the success of sustainable development initiatives.
1. Explain the importance of forests and wildlife in maintaining the ecological balance.
Answer: Forests and wildlife play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance, which is essential for the survival of all living organisms on earth. Forests are critical in regulating not only local but global climate, acting as an important carbon sink. They also help prevent soil erosion and improve water quality of local rivers and estuaries. In addition, forests provide habitat for numerous animal and plant species, many of which have yet to be discovered.
Wildlife plays a crucial role in pollination and seed dispersal, which ensures the survival and diversity of plant species. In addition, predators maintain prey populations and help control disease spread. In the absence of natural predators, some species could become overpopulated and damage the surrounding ecosystem. Moreover, wildlife tourism generates income for many local communities, promoting the protection of wildlife populations.
2. What is sustainable development? Explain its goals and objectives.
Answer: Sustainable development is the development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Its goals are to promote economic, social, and environmental sustainability. The objectives of sustainable development include reducing poverty, promoting education, gender equality, and environmental protection, as well as ensuring equitable and sustainable economic growth.
3. How can soil be conserved? Explain.
Answer: Soil conservation practices include various methods such as contour farming, terrace farming, crop rotation, and use of organic fertilizers. These methods help minimize soil erosion, loss of nutrients, and land degradation. Soil conservation plans must be implemented on a large scale to ensure sustainability of soil resources.
4. What are the different types of water resources? Explain their uses.
Answer: The different types of water resources are surface water, groundwater, and rainwater. Surface water includes streams, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, and is used for irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes. Groundwater is water that is stored in aquifers underground and is used for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes. Rainwater harvesting involves capturing rainwater for direct use or storage for future purposes.
5. What are the different types of minerals found in India? Explain.
Answer: India is rich in a variety of minerals, including metallic minerals such as iron, copper, lead, zinc, and gold, as well as non-metallic minerals such as limestone, dolomite, gypsum, and mica. These minerals are used in a wide range of industries, including construction, agriculture, and manufacturing.
6. What is biodiversity? Explain its importance in sustainable development.
Answer: Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms in an ecosystem, including genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. Biodiversity plays an important role in sustainable development because it provides the basis for natural resources and livelihoods of people. It supports critical ecosystem services including clean air, clean water, and soil health, in addition to wildlife habitats and nutrient cycling. Biodiversity is also essential for ecosystem resilience when disturbances occur, such as natural disasters or the effects of climate change. It helps to ensure the continued provision of ecosystem services and contributes to climate regulation through carbon sequestration and storage.
Biodiversity also has other benefits, such as providing a source of food and medicine. The vast majority of pharmaceuticals are derived from natural sources, and traditional medicines used by many cultures worldwide are based on local plant and animal species. As such, the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity is necessary for the continued well-being of both humans and the environment.
7. How can the government promote sustainable development? Explain.
Answer: The government can promote sustainable development through the implementation of policies and regulations that promote sustainable practices in areas such as energy, agriculture, and infrastructure. This includes encouraging the use of renewable energy sources, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and implementing building codes that prioritize energy efficiency.
8. What is energy conservation? Why is it important?
Answer: Energy conservation refers to the practice of using less energy, or using energy more efficiently, to reduce the overall amount of energy consumed. It is important because it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, saves money on energy bills, and reduces our dependence on fossil fuels.
9. What are the challenges faced by sustainable development in India? Explain.
Answer: Sustainable development faces numerous challenges in India, driven by a range of economic, social, and environmental factors. The country has a large and rapidly growing population, with a corresponding increase in demand for natural resources such as land, water, and energy. The challenge is to balance development activities and resource use with conservation efforts to ensure that resource depletion is avoided while still meeting the needs of the growing population.
In addition, economic inequality and poverty present significant challenges to sustainable development. The benefits of economic growth have not been evenly distributed, with marginalised groups often being left behind and lacking access to education, healthcare, and other essential services. Reducing poverty, promoting education, and providing healthcare and other social services are essential for ensuring that progress in sustainable development is equitable.
Environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water depletion, are also key issues facing sustainable development efforts in India. Further environmental challenges include climate change, pollution and waste management, and loss of biodiversity. These issues are often linked to economic activities like mining, agriculture, and heavy industry. Addressing these environmental challenges requires promoting sustainable practices and policies that balance economic growth with conservation efforts.
One of the most significant environmental challenges for sustainable development in India is climate change. The country is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including sea level rise, loss of biodiversity, increased risks of floods and droughts, and reduced agricultural productivity. The challenge of climate change requires a multi-faceted approach, including the promotion of renewable energy sources, energy efficiency measures, and addressing deforestation and other sources of greenhouse gas emissions.
Overall, sustainable development in India faces a complex set of challenges, requiring a balance of economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity. However, addressing these challenges presents an opportunity to promote innovation and collaboration, and to create a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
10. What are the effects of overuse of resources on the environment? Explain with examples.
Answer: Some of the effects of overuse of resources on the environment are described below:
1. Depletion of Natural Resources: When natural resources such as forests, minerals, and water are overused, they are depleted at a rate faster than they can be replenished. For instance, due to the overuse of groundwater, water tables are falling rapidly in many regions of India. Depletion of forests causes soil erosion, landslides, and loss of biodiversity.
2. Soil Erosion: Soil erosion is a natural process, but human activities such as overgrazing, deforestation, and intensive agriculture have resulted in accelerated soil erosion. Soil erosion occurs when topsoil is washed away by water or blown away by wind, leaving behind infertile soil. This leads to loss of soil fertility, which affects agricultural productivity, and also affects water quality of nearby rivers and estuaries due to siltation.
3. Water Pollution: Overuse of fertilizers, pesticides, and other agrochemicals in agriculture leads to water pollution. When these chemicals are washed away into water bodies, they cause eutrophication - a process wherein the excessive growth of algae in a water body depletes the oxygen levels, leading to the death of aquatic life. Similarly, industrial pollution and inadequate sewage treatment also lead to water pollution, which reduces the availability of fresh and clean drinking water.
4. Air Pollution: Burning of fossil fuels to meet energy demands, as well as emission of pollutants from industrial and transport sectors to the air also leads to air pollution. Excessive air pollution can cause respiratory illnesses, and environmental degradation of surrounding ecosystems.
5. Climate Change: Overuse of resources also contributes to climate change, which has far-reaching impacts on the environment. For example, burning of fossil fuels release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, leading to a rise in global temperatures, melting of glaciers and polar ice-caps, rising sea levels, and more frequent and severe natural disasters like tropical storms and floods.
All of these environmental consequences of overuse of resources have significant implications for sustainable development. Natural resources are finite, and they must be conserved and used sustainably to meet not just the current demand, but also future generations’ needs. Sustainable development requires balancing the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. As such, it is critical to balance the benefits of economic development and resource use with the need for environmental conservation and social equity to achieve sustainability.