All questions of Environment and Sustainable Development for Commerce Exam

Abiotic Elements

Abiotic elements are non-living components of an ecosystem that play a significant role in sustaining life. They are essential for the survival of organisms and are categorized into four main components - water, air, land, and minerals.

Water
Water is the most crucial abiotic element as it is essential for all living organisms. It is used for various purposes such as drinking, reproduction, metabolic processes, and transportation. It also regulates the temperature of the environment, and without it, life cannot survive.

Air
Air is another critical abiotic element that is necessary for life. It is composed of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other gases that are essential for respiration. It also regulates the temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure of the environment.

Land
Land is a significant abiotic element that provides the foundation for ecosystems. It is home to various organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. It also provides essential resources such as food, shelter, and minerals.

Minerals
Minerals are inorganic substances that are present in the soil and water. They are essential for the growth and development of organisms. They play a significant role in the formation of bones, teeth, and other tissues.

Plants
Plants are not considered abiotic elements as they are living organisms. They are, however, an essential component of ecosystems as they provide food, oxygen, and shelter for other organisms.

Conclusion
In conclusion, abiotic elements are non-living components of an ecosystem that are essential for the survival of living organisms. They include water, air, land, and minerals, but plants are not considered abiotic elements as they are living organisms.

The correct answer is option B, which is Environment.

Explanation:

The term "environment" refers to the entire natural world and all its living and non-living components. It encompasses everything from the air we breathe to the water we drink, the soil that supports plant life, and the animals that share our planet. In other words, environment is the total planetary inheritance and the totality of all resources.

Components of environment:

1. Natural resources: Natural resources refer to the materials and substances that occur naturally in the environment and are used by humans for their benefit. Examples of natural resources include water, air, soil, minerals, and forests.

2. Biodiversity: Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms that inhabit the earth. It includes everything from microorganisms to plants and animals.

3. Climate: Climate refers to the long-term weather patterns of a particular region. It is influenced by factors such as temperature, precipitation, and wind.

4. Pollution: Pollution refers to the release of harmful substances into the environment. Examples of pollutants include chemicals, pesticides, and waste products.

Importance of environment:

1. Resource availability: The environment provides us with the resources we need to survive, such as water, air, and food.

2. Biodiversity: Biodiversity is important because it provides us with medicines, food, and other products that are essential for our well-being.

3. Climate regulation: The environment helps regulate the earth's climate, which is essential for maintaining the balance of ecosystems.

4. Aesthetic value: The environment has aesthetic value, which means that it is beautiful and provides us with a sense of wonder and awe.

Conclusion:

The environment is a complex and interconnected system that provides us with the resources we need to survive. It is important that we take care of the environment so that it can continue to provide for us in the future.

Absorptive capacity refers to the ability of the environment to absorb degradation without negative impacts on its functioning and services. This concept is often used in the context of sustainable development, where it is important to ensure that human activities do not exceed the natural limits of the environment.

Factors affecting absorptive capacity
There are several factors that affect the absorptive capacity of the environment, including:
- The type and intensity of the degradation
- The sensitivity of the affected ecosystem
- The resilience of the ecosystem to recover from the degradation
- The presence of other stressors or impacts that may interact with the degradation
- The capacity of the ecosystem to adapt to changing conditions

Examples of absorptive capacity
Some examples of absorptive capacity include:
- The ability of a forest to absorb carbon dioxide emissions from human activities without negative impacts on its biodiversity and ecosystem services
- The capacity of a river to assimilate pollutants from industrial activities without harming the health of aquatic organisms or human populations that rely on the water
- The ability of a city to manage its waste without causing negative impacts on the environment or public health

Importance of absorptive capacity
Ensuring that human activities do not exceed the absorptive capacity of the environment is crucial for sustainable development. If the environment becomes overburdened with degradation, it can lead to negative impacts on human health, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem collapse. Therefore, it is important to monitor and manage human impacts on the environment to ensure that they remain within the natural limits of absorptive capacity.

A. Renewable

Understanding Non-Renewable Resources
Non-renewable resources are natural resources that cannot be replenished or regenerated within a human time scale once they are depleted. This category primarily includes fossil fuels and certain minerals.
Examples of Non-Renewable Resources:
- Fossil Fuels: Coal, oil, and natural gas. These resources take millions of years to form, and once extracted, they are gone forever.
- Minerals: Precious metals like gold, silver, and iron ore. Mining these resources can lead to their complete exhaustion.
Characteristics of Non-Renewable Resources:
- Finite Supply: The total amount available is limited; once extracted, they cannot be replaced.
- Environmental Impact: Extraction and use often lead to environmental degradation, including habitat destruction and pollution.
- Economic Factors: As resources become scarce, the cost of extraction and production tends to increase, impacting economies reliant on these resources.
Comparison with Renewable Resources:
- Renewable Resources: These can regenerate naturally over time, such as solar energy, wind, and biomass. They can be used sustainably without the risk of depletion.
- Sustainability: Whereas non-renewable resources are inherently unsustainable in the long run, renewable resources can be harnessed without negative impacts on future generations.
In conclusion, non-renewable resources are critical for immediate energy and material needs but pose significant challenges for sustainability due to their limited availability and environmental impact. Understanding this distinction is essential for managing natural resources responsibly.

Ozone Depleting Chemicals:
There are several ozone-depleting chemicals that have been identified and regulated under international agreements such as the Montreal Protocol. Among them are carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethane (methyl chloroform), and bromine compounds known as halons.
The Ozone Depleting Chemicals:
- Carbon tetrachloride
- Trichloroethane (methyl chloroform)
- Bromine compounds known as halons
Explanation:
1. Carbon tetrachloride: This chemical has been widely used in the past as a solvent, fire extinguisher, and refrigerant. It is a potent ozone-depleting substance and has been phased out in many countries due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer.
2. Trichloroethane (methyl chloroform): This chemical is another ozone-depleting substance that has been used as a solvent, especially in industrial processes. Like carbon tetrachloride, it has been phased out under the Montreal Protocol.
3. Bromine compounds known as halons: Halons are a group of chemicals containing bromine that have been used in fire suppression systems, particularly in aviation and military applications. They are highly effective in extinguishing fires but have a significant ozone-depleting potential.
Conclusion:
In summary, carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethane (methyl chloroform), and bromine compounds known as halons are all ozone-depleting chemicals that have been regulated under international agreements like the Montreal Protocol. These chemicals have been phased out or restricted to protect the ozone layer and prevent further depletion.

Cotton cultivation requires high moisture retention. Black soils are very fine grained and dark, contain a high proportion of calcium and magnesium carbonates and highly argillaceous. When wet, they are very tenacious of moisture and exceedingly sticky. ... It is most suitable for the growth of cotton. that's it

To find the per capita forestland in the country, we need to divide the total forestland by the population of the country. The given options are:
A: 0.80 hectare
B: 0.82 hectare
C: 0.08 hectare
D: 8.0 hectare
To determine the correct answer, we can use the following steps:
1. Calculate the total forestland: Since the question does not provide this information, we cannot calculate it. Therefore, we cannot determine the correct answer based on this information.
2. Calculate the population of the country: Again, the question does not provide this information, so we cannot calculate it. Without knowing the population, we cannot determine the correct answer.
3. Compare the given options: Since we cannot calculate the per capita forestland without knowing the total forestland and population, we cannot determine the correct answer based on the given options.
Therefore, based on the information provided in the question, we cannot determine the per capita forestland in the country.

Understanding Deforestation and Land Degradation
Deforestation and land degradation represent significant challenges in the realm of environmental resource overuse. Here’s a detailed explanation:
What is Deforestation?
- Deforestation is the large-scale removal of trees from forested areas, leading to a decrease in forest cover.
- It often occurs to make way for agricultural activities, urban development, or logging.
Impacts of Deforestation:
- Loss of Biodiversity: The removal of trees destroys habitats for countless species, leading to extinction and loss of biodiversity.
- Climate Change: Trees absorb carbon dioxide; their removal increases greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
- Soil Erosion: Without trees, soil becomes vulnerable to erosion, leading to land degradation and loss of arable land.
What is Land Degradation?
- Land degradation refers to the decline in land quality and productivity due to various factors, including deforestation, overgrazing, and unsustainable agricultural practices.
- It results in reduced fertility and increased desertification.
Interconnection Between Deforestation and Land Degradation:
- Cycle of Degradation: Deforestation exacerbates land degradation as cleared areas often become barren and unproductive.
- Water Cycle Disruption: Trees play a crucial role in maintaining the water cycle; their removal disrupts rainfall patterns and can lead to droughts.
Conclusion:
The overuse of environmental resources, particularly through deforestation and land degradation, has far-reaching consequences, impacting ecosystems, climate, and the livelihoods of communities. Recognizing the importance of sustainable practices is vital for preserving our planet’s resources.

Estimates of soil erosion show that soil is being eroded at a rate of ____ excess of the recharge capacity
To determine the correct option, let's analyze each given option and compare it with the concept of soil erosion and recharge capacity:
A: 5.3
- This option suggests that soil erosion is occurring at a rate of 5.3 times higher than the recharge capacity.
B: 3.5
- This option suggests that soil erosion is occurring at a rate of 3.5 times higher than the recharge capacity.
C: 4.3
- This option suggests that soil erosion is occurring at a rate of 4.3 times higher than the recharge capacity.
D: 2.5
- This option suggests that soil erosion is occurring at a rate of 2.5 times higher than the recharge capacity.
Based on the concept of soil erosion and recharge capacity, the correct answer is option A: 5.3. This means that soil erosion is happening at a rate 5.3 times greater than the recharge capacity.
It is important to note that soil erosion at a rate exceeding the recharge capacity can lead to detrimental effects on soil fertility, water quality, and ecosystem health. Soil conservation practices, such as contour plowing, terracing, and cover cropping, are essential to minimize soil erosion and maintain sustainable agriculture practices.

Factors Contributing to Global Warming

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities. It is primarily caused by the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which trap heat and lead to the greenhouse effect. While there are various factors that contribute to global warming, one of the major contributors is the burning of coal and petroleum products.

Burning of Coal and Petroleum Products
- The burning of coal and petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, and natural gas releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. CO2 is a greenhouse gas that traps heat and contributes to global warming.
- The burning of coal for electricity generation and industrial processes is a significant source of CO2 emissions. Coal-fired power plants are known to be one of the largest contributors to global warming.
- Similarly, the combustion of petroleum products in vehicles, airplanes, and other transportation systems releases substantial amounts of CO2. The increasing demand for fossil fuels and the reliance on them for energy generation have led to a significant increase in CO2 emissions.

Key Points:
- Burning coal and petroleum products releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere.
- CO2 is a greenhouse gas that traps heat and contributes to global warming.
- Coal-fired power plants and transportation systems are major sources of CO2 emissions.

It is worth noting that other factors also contribute to global warming, such as deforestation, methane emissions from agriculture and landfills, and industrial processes. However, in the given options, the burning of coal and petroleum products (option C) is the most significant factor contributing to global warming. This is due to the large quantities of CO2 released into the atmosphere through the combustion of these fossil fuels. Reducing the use of coal and petroleum products and transitioning to cleaner and renewable energy sources is crucial in mitigating the impacts of global warming and climate change.

UV Radiation and its Effects:

UV radiation, or ultraviolet radiation, is a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. It is divided into three categories: UVA, UVB, and UVC. While UVC is absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and does not reach the surface, UVA and UVB radiation can have various effects on living organisms.

I. Skin cancer in humans:
UV radiation is a well-known risk factor for the development of skin cancer in humans. Prolonged exposure to UVA and UVB rays can cause damage to the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can eventually result in skin cancer. UVB rays are particularly associated with the development of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

II. Lower production of phytoplankton:
Phytoplankton are microscopic marine plants that play a crucial role in the Earth's ecosystem. They are the primary producers of oxygen, contribute to the carbon cycle, and form the basis of the marine food web. UV radiation can inhibit the growth and productivity of phytoplankton. It damages their DNA, disrupts photosynthesis, and affects their overall fitness, leading to a decrease in their abundance and productivity.

III. Influence the growth of terrestrial plants:
UV radiation also affects the growth and development of terrestrial plants. While plants need sunlight to undergo photosynthesis and grow, excessive UV radiation can be harmful. It can cause damage to plant tissues, reduce chlorophyll content, disrupt photosynthetic processes, and affect plant metabolism. These effects can result in stunted growth, decreased biomass, and reduced crop yields.

IV. Decrease in cattle production:
UV radiation can have adverse effects on cattle production as well. Cattle exposed to high levels of UV radiation can develop sunburns, skin lesions, and eye problems. These conditions can cause discomfort, reduce feed intake, and hinder overall growth and productivity. Additionally, UV radiation can also damage grass and forage crops, which are essential food sources for cattle, further impacting their production.

Conclusion:
In summary, UV radiation is responsible for various harmful effects on living organisms. It can lead to skin cancer in humans, lower production of phytoplankton, influence the growth of terrestrial plants, and decrease cattle production. Understanding these impacts is important for implementing appropriate measures to protect and mitigate the harmful effects of UV radiation on both human and environmental health.

What does CPCB stand for?
The acronym CPCB stands for Central Pollution Control Board.
Explanation:
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is a statutory organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change in India. It was established in 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act. The main objective of the CPCB is to promote cleanliness of streams and wells, prevention and control of water pollution, and improvement of air quality.
The correct answer is option C: Central Pollution Control Board.

Ozone depletion refers to the phenomenon of reductions in the amount of ozone in the:
There are four layers of the Earth's atmosphere: troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and exosphere. Ozone depletion specifically occurs in the stratosphere. Here is a detailed explanation:
Troposphere:
- The troposphere is the lowest layer of the Earth's atmosphere.
- It is where weather events occur and where most of the Earth's air mass is concentrated.
- Ozone is present in this layer, but its concentration is relatively low compared to the stratosphere.
Exosphere:
- The exosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere.
- It is the layer where atoms and molecules escape into space.
- Ozone concentration is extremely low in this layer.
Mesosphere:
- The mesosphere is the third layer of the Earth's atmosphere, located above the stratosphere.
- It is the layer where meteors burn up upon entry.
- Ozone concentration is very low in this layer.
Stratosphere:
- The stratosphere is the second layer of the Earth's atmosphere, located above the troposphere.
- It contains a high concentration of ozone molecules, which form the ozone layer.
- Ozone in the stratosphere absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting life on Earth.
- Ozone depletion occurs when certain human-made chemicals, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), reach the stratosphere and break down ozone molecules.
- These chemicals release chlorine and bromine atoms, which then catalytically destroy ozone molecules.
Therefore, the correct answer is D: Stratosphere.

The correct answer is C: Chlorofluorocarbons.
Explanation:
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are a group of chemical compounds that contain carbon, chlorine, and fluorine atoms. They were commonly used in various industrial and consumer applications such as refrigeration, air conditioning, aerosol propellants, and foam-blowing agents. However, their usage has significantly declined due to their harmful effects on the environment.
Here is a detailed explanation of the options:
A: Hydro fluorocarbons
- Hydro fluorocarbons (HFCs) are a different type of chemical compound that replaced CFCs in many applications due to their lower ozone depletion potential.
- HFCs do not contain chlorine atoms, which are responsible for the ozone layer depletion.
B: Ultra fluorocarbons
- There is no such term as "Ultra fluorocarbons" in the context of chemical compounds.
- It is not a recognized term in the field of environmental science.
C: Chlorofluorocarbons
- Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are a group of chemical compounds containing carbon, chlorine, and fluorine atoms.
- CFCs were widely used in the past but have been phased out due to their contribution to ozone depletion.
D: Photo fluorocarbons
- There is no such term as "Photo fluorocarbons" in the context of chemical compounds.
- It is not a recognized term in the field of environmental science.
In conclusion, CFCs stand for Chlorofluorocarbons, which are chemical compounds containing carbon, chlorine, and fluorine atoms. They have been phased out due to their harmful effects on the ozone layer.

Global warming is a:

• Gradual increase in the average temperature of the earth's lower atmosphere

Explanation:
Global warming refers to the long-term increase in the average temperature of the Earth's lower atmosphere, also known as the troposphere. Here are some key points to support this answer:
1. Greenhouse Effect: Global warming is primarily caused by the greenhouse effect. Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, leading to a gradual increase in temperatures.
2. Temperature Records: Over the past century, there has been a significant rise in global temperatures. Various scientific studies, including those conducted by NASA and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), have documented this increase.
3. Climate Change: Global warming is a key driver of climate change. As average temperatures rise, it affects weather patterns, sea levels, and ecosystems. Increased temperatures can lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves, droughts, storms, and other extreme weather events.
4. Scientific Consensus: The overwhelming majority of climate scientists agree that global warming is occurring and is primarily caused by human activities. This consensus is based on extensive research, data analysis, and peer-reviewed studies.
It is important to address and mitigate global warming to prevent further damage to the environment, ecosystems, and human well-being. Transitioning to renewable energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainable practices are crucial steps in combating global warming.

The Problem of Ozone Depletion: Causes and Solutions
Causes of Ozone Depletion:
- Ozone depletion occurs primarily in the stratosphere, where high levels of certain compounds contribute to the problem.
- The depletion of ozone is mainly caused by the release of human-made chemicals, known as ozone-depleting substances (ODS), into the atmosphere.
Specific Compounds Responsible for Ozone Depletion:
The correct answer choice is D: Chlorine and Bromine. These compounds are primarily responsible for the depletion of ozone in the stratosphere. Here's why:
1. Chlorine:
- Chlorine is released into the atmosphere through the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), such as CFC-11 and CFC-12, which were commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and aerosol propellants.
- Once released, CFCs can remain in the atmosphere for several decades.
- In the stratosphere, CFCs are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, releasing chlorine atoms.
2. Bromine:
- Bromine is released into the atmosphere through the use of halons, such as halon-1211 and halon-1301, which were commonly used in fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems.
- Similar to CFCs, halons can also remain in the atmosphere for an extended period.
- In the stratosphere, halons are broken down by UV radiation, releasing bromine atoms.
Impact of Chlorine and Bromine on Ozone:
- Both chlorine and bromine atoms are highly reactive and can catalytically destroy ozone molecules.
- When released into the stratosphere, these atoms can continuously break down ozone molecules, leading to a reduction in the ozone layer's thickness.
- The loss of ozone in the stratosphere allows more harmful ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation from the sun to reach the Earth's surface, posing serious health and environmental risks.
Solutions to Ozone Depletion:
- The international community recognized the seriousness of the ozone depletion problem and took action to address it.
- The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, is an international treaty that aimed to phase out the production and use of ODSs.
- As a result of the protocol, the production and consumption of most ODSs, including CFCs and halons, have been significantly reduced.
- The ozone layer has shown signs of recovery, and it is expected to fully recover by the middle of the 21st century if the protocol's provisions are upheld.
In conclusion, the problem of ozone depletion in the stratosphere is primarily caused by high levels of chlorine and bromine compounds. These compounds, released from human activities, can catalytically destroy ozone molecules, leading to the thinning of the ozone layer. However, international efforts, such as the Montreal Protocol, have been successful in reducing the production and use of ozone-depleting substances, offering hope for the recovery of the ozone layer.

Identified Categories of Industries by CPCB

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which is responsible for regulating pollution in India, has identified 17 categories of industries that are significant polluters. These categories are:

1. Pulp and Paper
2. Tanneries
3. Distilleries
4. Sugar
5. Textiles
6. Cement
7. Chemicals
8. Petrochemicals
9. Fertilizers
10. Pharmaceuticals
11. Pesticides
12. Iron and Steel
13. Non-ferrous metals
14. Food processing
15. Oil refineries
16. Thermal power plants
17. Electronic waste processing

These industries have been identified based on various factors, such as the amount of waste they generate, the type of waste they generate, and the potential impact of their operations on the environment.

The CPCB has implemented various measures to control pollution from these industries, such as setting up effluent treatment plants, mandating the use of cleaner technologies, and enforcing strict emission standards.

Conclusion

It is important to regulate and control pollution from industries to protect the environment and public health. By identifying the most significant polluting industries and implementing measures to control their pollution, the CPCB is taking steps towards a cleaner and healthier India.

's population.

India supports approximately 17.7% of the world's population.

Iron-Ore Reserves in India
India is one of the leading producers of iron ore in the world and has significant iron ore reserves.

Percentage of World's Total Iron-Ore Reserves
- India alone accounts for nearly 20 per cent of the world's total iron-ore reserves.
- This puts India in a prominent position globally in terms of iron ore resources.

Significance of India's Iron-Ore Reserves
- The abundance of iron ore reserves in India plays a crucial role in the country's industrial development.
- It helps in meeting the domestic demand for iron and steel production.
- The availability of iron ore reserves also contributes to India's export potential in the global market.

Impact on Economy
- The presence of substantial iron ore reserves boosts the economy by supporting the iron and steel industry.
- It creates employment opportunities and drives economic growth in the region where mining activities are prevalent.
- The export of iron ore further adds to the country's foreign exchange earnings.
In conclusion, India's significant iron ore reserves, accounting for nearly 20 per cent of the world's total reserves, underline the country's importance in the global iron and steel industry.