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All questions of Land, Soil, Water, Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Resources for Class 8 Exam

Some important examples of the classification of land based on the relief are given below, select the one that does not belong to this category.
  • a)
    Plateau
  • b)
    Rivers
  • c)
    Mountains
  • d)
    Plains
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Ananya Das answered
The classification of land based on relief typically includes geographical features such as plateaus, mountains, and plains. However, rivers are not considered a landform or feature of relief themselves. Rivers are water bodies that flow through various types of landforms, including plateaus, mountains, and plains. Therefore, rivers do not belong to the category of land classification based on relief.

On the basis of the development of that area, land can be classified as _________ and __________.
Fertile and Barren Land
Rural and Urban Land
Private and Government owned land
Plateau and Plains
  • a)
    Fertile and Barren Land
  • b)
    Rural and Urban Land
  • c)
    Private and Government owned land
  • d)
    Plateau and Plains
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Kavya Saxena answered
A rural area is an open swath of land that has few homes or other buildings, and not very many people. A rural areas population density is very low. Many people live in a city, or urban area.Hamlets, villages, towns, and other small settlements are in or surrounded by rural areas.

A few physical factors that determine the use of land are given below. Pick out the one that is not a physical factor
  • a)
    Availability of capital
  • b)
    Minerals and Availability of Water
  • c)
    Topography and Soil
  • d)
    Climate
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Deepa Iyer answered
The use of land is determined by physical factors such as topography, soil,climate, minerals and availability of water. Human factors such as population density, available of capital and technology are also important determinants of land use pattern.

The uneven distribution of population in the world is due to the varied characteristics of
  • a)
    land and climate
  • b)
    climate
  • c)
    vegetation
  • d)
    settlements
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohit Sharma answered
The uneven distribution of the population in different parts of the world is mainly due to varied characteristics of land and climate. Because in every region the climate, topography and other factors are different.

How much per cent of the earth’s area is occupied by land?
  • a)
    45
  • b)
    30
  • c)
    66
  • d)
    70
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Sharma answered
Land is among the essential natural resources. It covers only about thirty per cent of the total area of the earth's surface, and all parts of this small percentage are not habitable.

The major factors of soil formation are the nature of parent rock and __________
  • a)
    Deforestation
  • b)
    Soil Erosion
  • c)
    Overgrazing
  • d)
    Climatic factors
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Divyansh Gupta answered
Factors that affect soil formation. Soils form from the interplay of five main factors namely Parent material, Time, Climate, Relief and Organisms. Parent material: Soils will carry the characteristics of its parent materialsuch as color, texture, structure, mineral composition and so on.

Soil conservation is the process where_____________.
  • a)
    Sterile soil is converted to fertile soil
  • b)
    Soil is aerated
  • c)
    Soil erosion is allowed
  • d)
    Soil is protected against loss
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
Soil conservation is a method of protecting soil from getting eroded either by wind or water.
Few soil conservation methods include:
i) Graduated terrace steps which are commonly used for farming on hilly or mountainous terrain. Terraced fields decrease both erosion and surface runoff.
ii) Windbreaks: Row of trees or a fence, wall, or screen that provides shelter or soil protection from the wind.
iii) Conservation tillage is a method of preparing soil from getting eroded. This technique involves leaving the previous year’s crop residues until the next crop is planted.

Which one of the following statements is TRUE with respect to lands
  • a)
    People and their demands are growing because the availability of land is not limited.
  • b)
    Community lands are owned by the community for common uses like collection of fodder, fruits or medicinal herbs
  • c)
    Proper planning of land use with reference to the nature of land and the needs of the community would provide minimum returns.
  • d)
    Community land belongs to an individual and hence he/she is free to cultivate in that land.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Maya Choudhary answered
Community Lands - Ownership and Uses

The correct answer is option 'B' i.e. community lands are owned by the community for common uses like collection of fodder, fruits or medicinal herbs. Let us discuss this statement in detail.

Ownership of Community Lands
Community lands are the lands which are owned by the community as a whole, rather than by an individual or a particular family. These lands are usually held in common and are managed by the community collectively. The ownership of community lands is often based on traditional customs and practices, and the community members have a sense of shared responsibility towards them.

Uses of Community Lands
Community lands are primarily used for common purposes like grazing of livestock, collection of fodder, fruits or medicinal herbs, and for cultural or religious activities. They may also serve as a source of water or timber for the community. In some cases, community lands may be leased out to individuals or groups for specific purposes, subject to the approval of the community.

Importance of Community Lands
Community lands play a crucial role in the lives of rural communities, especially in developing countries. They provide a source of livelihood for the community, especially for the poor and marginalized sections. Community lands also help in the conservation of natural resources, as the community members have a vested interest in protecting these lands from degradation or overuse.

Conclusion
In conclusion, community lands are owned by the community and are primarily used for common purposes like grazing, collection of fodder, fruits or medicinal herbs, and for cultural or religious activities. These lands are of great importance to rural communities, providing a source of livelihood and contributing to the conservation of natural resources.

Which of the following steps is a significant threat to the environment?
  • a)
    Planting trees
  • b)
    Desertification
  • c)
    Promoting tourism
  • d)
    Promoting renewable resources
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
Desertification affects the topsoil, land cover, surface runoff, human, animal, and plant population. There will be water scarcity which leads to dried crops. Due to the less amount of crops and plants, it has a significant effect on the environment.

What percentage of the earth's surface is covered by land?
  • a)
    50%
  • b)
    30%
  • c)
    70%
  • d)
    40%
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

C K Academy answered
Land covers only about 30% of the earth's surface, with the rest being water. Despite this small percentage, not all land is habitable due to varied characteristics such as topography and climate.

The example of a common property resource is
  • a)
    community land
  • b)
    individual building
  • c)
    both (a) and (b)
  • d)
    None of these
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Sharma answered
The use of the term "common property resource" to designate a type of good has been criticised because standard property protocols do not necessarily govern common-pool resources. Examples of common-pool resources include irrigation systems, fishing grounds, pastures, forests, water, or the atmosphere.

As the exposed rock break off and start decaying due to temperature change, this process is called
  • a)
    Deforestation
  • b)
    Landslide
  • c)
    Soil erosion
  • d)
    Weathering
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Sharma answered
Weathering describes the breaking down or dissolving of rocks and minerals on the surface of the Earth. Water, ice, acids, salts, plants, animals, and temperature changes are all agents of weathering. Once a rock has been broken down, a process called erosion transports the bits of rock and mineral away.

Which of the following factors may contribute to water shortages in Australia and other countries located in drought-prone climatic zones?
  • a)
    Over-exploitation of water sources
  • b)
    Seasonal or annual variation in precipitation
  • c)
    Contamination of water sources
  • d)
    All of the above
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Shivani Chavan answered
Factors Contributing to Water Shortages
Water shortages in Australia and other drought-prone regions can be attributed to several interrelated factors. Each of these plays a critical role in exacerbating the scarcity of this vital resource.
Over-exploitation of Water Sources
- Excessive withdrawal of water from rivers, lakes, and aquifers for agricultural, industrial, and domestic use leads to depletion.
- Unsustainable practices can result in long-term damage to ecosystems and reduced water availability.
Seasonal or Annual Variation in Precipitation
- Drought-prone climatic zones often experience significant fluctuations in rainfall patterns.
- Some years may bring little to no rain, leading to severe water shortages, while others may have abundant rainfall that is not efficiently captured or stored.
Contamination of Water Sources
- Industrial runoff, agricultural pesticides, and improper waste disposal can lead to the pollution of rivers and groundwater.
- Contaminated water sources become unfit for consumption, further reducing the availability of safe drinking water.
Conclusion
- All of these factors—over-exploitation, variability in precipitation, and contamination—interact and compound the challenges of water scarcity.
- Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach, including sustainable water management practices, pollution control, and effective conservation strategies.
Understanding these interconnected factors is essential for developing effective solutions to combat water shortages in vulnerable regions.

Soil conservation means_________.
  • a)
    Prevention of the spread of desert
  • b)
    To check soil erosion by wind and rains
  • c)
    prevent check soil erosion by afforestation
  • d)
    All of these
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohit Sharma answered
Soil conservation protects soil from erosion and other deterioration types to maintain soil fertility and productivity. It generally includes watershed management and water use.

Which one of the following is the main cause of land degradation in Punjab?
  • a)
    Intensive cultivation
  • b)
    Deforestation
  • c)
    Over irrigation
  • d)
    Overgrazing
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohit Sharma answered
Over irrigation is the main cause of land degradation in Punjab due to waterlogging leading to an increase in salinity and alkalinity in the soil. Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh are the states facing the issue of land degradation.

Which one of the following is not a biosphere reserve?
  • a)
    Dachigam
  • b)
    Kanchenjunga
  • c)
    Nanda Devi
  • d)
    Sundarban
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohit Sharma answered
A biosphere reserve is an ecosystem with plants and animals of unusual scientific and natural interest. It is a label given by UNESCO. India has 18 biosphere reserves From the given options, Kaziranga national park located in Assam is not a biosphere reserve.

Large scale destruction of forests cover and arable land has occurred due to the following:
  • a)
    Growing population
  • b)
    Ever growing demand of the population
  • c)
    Both (a) and (b)
  • d)
    None of these
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
Growing population and their ever-growing demand have led to large-scale forest cover and arable land destruction. Afforestation, land reclamation, regulated use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers, and checks on overgrazing are standard methods to conserve land resources.

Which one of the following types of erosion is responsible for the formation of Chambal Ravines?
  • a)
    Splash
  • b)
    Sheet
  • c)
    Rill
  • d)
    Gully
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Chambal Ravines are the result of gully erosion.

Gully erosion is a type of erosion that occurs when water runoff concentrates and flows in narrow channels, creating deep and steep-sided channels known as gullies. It typically occurs in areas with steep slopes, sparse vegetation, and high-intensity rainfall.

Explanation:
1. Definition of gully erosion
Gully erosion is the process by which water accumulates and concentrates in narrow channels, eroding the soil and creating deep and steep-sided channels called gullies. It is a more severe form of erosion compared to rill erosion and occurs when the flow of water becomes more concentrated and powerful.

2. Characteristics of gully erosion
- Gully erosion typically occurs in areas with steep slopes, where water runoff gains enough velocity to erode the soil.
- It is often initiated by rill erosion, which is the formation of small channels on the surface of the soil.
- Over time, these rills deepen and widen, transforming into gullies.
- Gullies can vary in size, ranging from a few centimeters to several meters in depth and width.
- They have steep sides and can extend for long distances, causing significant land degradation.

3. Formation of Chambal Ravines
Chambal Ravines are a famous example of gully erosion. Located in the Chambal River basin in central India, these ravines are a result of centuries of gully erosion caused by the intense monsoon rains in the region.
- The region has steep slopes and loose soil, making it highly susceptible to erosion.
- The high-intensity rainfall during the monsoon season causes water runoff to concentrate and flow in narrow channels, eroding the soil and deepening the gullies.
- Over time, these gullies have formed extensive networks of deep and narrow ravines, creating a unique and striking landscape.

In conclusion, Chambal Ravines are formed by gully erosion, which occurs when water runoff concentrates and flows in narrow channels, eroding the soil and creating deep and steep-sided channels called gullies. This type of erosion is common in areas with steep slopes, sparse vegetation, and high-intensity rainfall, such as the Chambal River basin in central India.

The phenomenon of the erosion of the highlands is called_______________.
  • a)
    Degradation
  • b)
    Aggradation
  • c)
    Gradation
  • d)
    Landslide
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Sharma answered
In highlands, the erosion is mainly natural or due to human-induced process that negatively affects the land. This comes under land degradation. The human-induced process includes deforestation, clearing fertile land for settlements, slashing, burning the trees for agriculture, surface mining, and many others. Natural process which leads to land degradation is recurrent droughts and climate change.

The quality of land differs from place to place.
  • a)
    True
  • b)
    False
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
Quality of land differs from place to place. Land quality varies from one place. It depends on factors like the soil, climate, rainfall, and nature of the coast-line determine whether land produces much or little for example, Kerala is situated along the coastal lines.

Planting of trees on a large scale to check soil erosion is known as__________.
  • a)
    Afforestation
  • b)
    Reforestation
  • c)
    Green belt
  • d)
    Shelterbelt
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohit Sharma answered
Reforestation is the natural or intentional restocking of existing forests and woodlands that have been depleted, usually through deforestation. Reforestation activities promote the gradual depletion of CO2 from the atmosphere through absorption during photosynthesis.

Which of the following is the most important natural resource?
  • a)
    Land
  • b)
    Water
  • c)
    Air
  • d)
    All of these
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
All are important natural resources because
1. Air is very important without air we cannot survive
2. Water is also very important without water no plants are grown and also our body may not get minerals
3. Land is also important because we cultivate and live on land if land does not exist we might not be here now.

What is a major threat to the environment due to the expansion of agriculture and construction activities?
  • a)
    Increased urbanization
  • b)
    Land degradation
  • c)
    Improved infrastructure
  • d)
    Enhanced economic growth
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Manisha Basu answered
Land Degradation:
Land degradation is a major threat to the environment due to the expansion of agriculture and construction activities. This process involves the deterioration of land quality, making it less productive for agriculture and other uses. Here are some key reasons why land degradation occurs:

1. Soil Erosion:
- Agriculture and construction activities often involve clearing land, which can lead to increased soil erosion.
- Soil erosion reduces the fertility of the land, making it less suitable for agricultural purposes.

2. Deforestation:
- Clearing forests for agriculture or construction purposes can contribute to land degradation.
- Trees play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion and maintaining soil quality.

3. Overgrazing:
- Overgrazing by livestock can lead to the degradation of grasslands and other ecosystems.
- This can result in soil compaction, loss of vegetation cover, and decreased productivity of the land.

4. Pollution:
- Agriculture and construction activities can lead to the contamination of soil and water resources with chemicals and waste products.
- This pollution can degrade the quality of the land and harm plant and animal species.

5. Desertification:
- Unsustainable agricultural practices, such as improper irrigation and intensive farming, can contribute to desertification.
- Desertification results in the loss of fertile land and the spread of arid conditions.
In conclusion, land degradation is a significant environmental threat caused by the expansion of agriculture and construction activities. It is essential to implement sustainable land management practices to protect the environment and ensure the long-term productivity of the land.

Which of the following determines the use of land?
  • a)
    Soil and topography
  • b)
    Climate and vegetation
  • c)
    Availability of water
  • d)
    All of these
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Sharma answered
The use of land is determined by physical factors such as topography, soil, climate, minerals, and availability of water. Human factors such as population and technology are also important determinants of land use patterns.

________determines thickness of soil profile.
  • a)
    Climate
  • b)
    Time
  • c)
    Relief
  • d)
    Wind
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Vivek Rana answered
Time determines the thickness of Soil pro le, climate determines the rate of weathering and formation of Humus; relief affects the soil accumulation.

What are common property resources?
  • a)
    Land owned by the government
  • b)
    Land used for commercial purposes
  • c)
    Land owned by the community for common uses
  • d)
    Private lands used for agriculture
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajveer Joshi answered
Understanding Common Property Resources
Common property resources are essential assets owned collectively by a community, allowing members to utilize them for various purposes without individual ownership. These resources are vital for the sustenance and well-being of communities, especially in rural areas.
Characteristics of Common Property Resources:
- Collective Ownership: These resources are not owned by any single individual but by a community or group. This allows for shared access and management.
- Shared Usage: Members of the community have the right to use these resources. Examples include pasture lands, forests, water bodies, and fishing grounds.
- Sustainable Management: The community often develops norms and rules to manage these resources sustainably, ensuring they are not over-exploited.
Examples of Common Property Resources:
- Pasture Land: Areas where community members graze their livestock.
- Forests: Woodlands that provide timber, fuel, and other forest products for community use.
- Water Bodies: Rivers, lakes, and ponds that are used for fishing, irrigation, and drinking water.
- Fishing Grounds: Coastal or riverine areas where community members fish for their sustenance.
Importance of Common Property Resources:
- Economic Support: They provide essential resources for livelihoods, especially for marginalized communities.
- Social Cohesion: The management of these resources fosters cooperation and strengthens community bonds.
- Environmental Sustainability: Proper management helps in conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.
In summary, option 'C' is correct because common property resources are lands or resources owned by the community for common uses, distinguishing them from government-owned lands or private properties used for commercial agriculture.

What does the term Land degradation refer to?
  • a)
    Decline in the use of fertilizers
  • b)
    The decline in the productivity of cultivated land or forest land
  • c)
    Presence of rocks and minerals in the soil
  • d)
    The slope of the land
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Land degradation refers to the decline in the productivity of cultivated land or forest land, leading to a reduction in its ability to support the growth of vegetation. It is a complex process that involves the loss of soil fertility, erosion, deforestation, desertification, and other factors that reduce the quality of land.

Causes of Land Degradation:
• Unsustainable agricultural practices
• Overgrazing
• Deforestation
• Urbanization
• Mining
• Climate change

Effects of Land Degradation:
• Reduced soil fertility
• Soil erosion
• Desertification
• Loss of biodiversity
• Reduced agricultural productivity
• Water scarcity

Prevention and Control Measures:
• Sustainable agricultural practices
• Afforestation and reforestation
• Conservation of soil and water resources
• Integrated land use planning
• Use of organic fertilizers and biopesticides
• Land restoration and rehabilitation

Conclusion:
Land degradation is a serious threat to the environment and human well-being. It is important to take measures to prevent and control it in order to ensure sustainable development. This can be achieved through a combination of policy interventions, community participation, and technological innovations.

How much per cent of the earth’s area is occupied by Ocean?
  • a)
    71%
  • b)
    52%
  • c)
    41%
  • d)
    65%
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Abhay Kulkarni answered
Percentage of Earth's Area Occupied by Oceans
The correct answer is option 'A' which is 71%. Let's break down the explanation:
- Earth's Total Area: The Earth's total surface area is approximately 510 million square kilometers.
- Oceans Covering: Oceans cover about 71% of the Earth's surface. This means that out of the total 510 million square kilometers, around 361.5 million square kilometers are covered by oceans.
- Explanation: The Earth's oceans, including the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern, and Arctic Oceans, play a crucial role in regulating the planet's climate, supporting marine life, and influencing weather patterns. They are vast bodies of water that connect continents and are home to a diverse range of species.
- Significance: The oceans have a major impact on global temperatures, acting as heat sinks and helping to distribute heat around the planet. They also play a vital role in the water cycle, providing moisture for precipitation and regulating the Earth's climate.
- Conclusion: With oceans covering such a significant portion of the Earth's surface, it is essential to understand and protect these valuable ecosystems for the well-being of our planet and all its inhabitants.

Terracing is an effective method of soil conservation in_____________.
  • a)
    Hilly areas
  • b)
    Desert areas
  • c)
    Plain areas
  • d)
    None of these
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Terracing is an effective method of soil conservation in hilly areas.

Terracing involves creating a series of steps or flat platforms on sloping land to reduce erosion and improve water management. It is widely used in hilly areas where the terrain is steep and prone to soil erosion.

Importance of terracing in hilly areas:

1. Preventing soil erosion: In hilly areas, gravity causes rainwater to flow downhill, leading to soil erosion. Terracing helps to slow down the flow of water, reducing its erosive power and preventing soil from being washed away. The flat platforms created by terracing act as barriers, allowing water to infiltrate the soil and minimising surface runoff.

2. Conserving water: Terracing helps in water conservation by capturing and storing rainfall. The flat platforms act as mini reservoirs, allowing water to accumulate and percolate into the soil. This enhances the availability of water for plants, especially during dry periods, and reduces the need for irrigation.

3. Improving soil fertility: Terracing helps to prevent nutrient loss from the soil. When water flows downhill, it carries away valuable topsoil and nutrients. By slowing down the flow of water, terracing allows sediments and nutrients to settle on the flat platforms, enriching the soil. This improves soil fertility and promotes healthy plant growth.

4. Increasing agricultural productivity: Terracing creates level areas for cultivation on steep slopes. This increases the amount of arable land available for farming and enables farmers to grow crops that require flat or gently sloping terrain. Terraces also provide a stable surface for farming activities and prevent soil erosion, leading to higher crop yields.

5. Preventing landslides: Hilly areas are prone to landslides, especially during heavy rainfall. Terracing helps to stabilize the soil and prevent landslides by reducing the pressure exerted by water on the slopes. The flat platforms created by terracing act as retaining walls, holding the soil in place and preventing mass movements.

In conclusion, terracing is an effective method of soil conservation in hilly areas. It helps to prevent soil erosion, conserve water, improve soil fertility, increase agricultural productivity, and prevent landslides. By implementing terracing techniques, farmers and landowners can protect their land and enhance its productivity in hilly terrains.

Mulching is associated with use of________________.
  • a)
    material to maintain soil moisture
  • b)
    soil to build barrier.
  • c)
    trenches to collect water.
  • d)
    pilled up rocks to slow down the flow of water.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
A mulch is a layer of material applied to the surface of an area of soil. It’s used for the following purposes: 1. to conserve moisture. 2. to improve the fertility of earthsoil. 3. to reduce weed growth.

Private land properties are owned by
  • a)
    Cooperative societies
  • b)
    Individuals
  • c)
    Communities
  • d)
    Schools
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
Private properties are lands and buildings owned by individuals and corporations. The owner of private property has the right to use, occupation, sell, or lease his/her property.

What is the 'water cycle' referred to ?
  • a)
    The process of water moving from oceans to land and back
  • b)
    The cycle of water turning into ice and then melting
  • c)
    The movement of water only in the oceans
  • d)
    The process of water disappearing from the earth
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev Class 8 answered
The correct answer is A: The process of water moving from oceans to land and back. 
- Water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.
- It involves the processes of evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff, allowing water to circulate between the atmosphere, land, and oceans.
- Water evaporates from the oceans, forms clouds in the atmosphere, falls back to the Earth as precipitation (rain or snow), and flows back into the oceans through rivers and streams.
- This cycle is crucial for maintaining the Earth's water balance and supporting life on our planet.

Why is it necessary to increase the area under forests?
  • a)
    To maintain ecological balance
  • b)
    Forest absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
  • c)
    Forest help in raising the level of precipitation
  • d)
    All of these
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Sharma answered
It is essential to raise the area under forest because forests are essential for maintaining the ecological balance. Forest also provides several goods that are required for industry and medicines etc. Forest also helps in soil conservation and rainfall.

What is the process of land reclamation?
  • a)
    Converting desert land into urban areas
  • b)
    Restoring degraded land to a useful state
  • c)
    Expanding agricultural land into forests
  • d)
    Draining wetlands for industrial use
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Manasa Joshi answered
Understanding Land Reclamation
Land reclamation is a significant environmental and engineering process aimed at restoring degraded land to a useful state. This process can involve various techniques depending on the specific type of land being reclaimed.
What is Land Reclamation?
- Land reclamation refers to the process of improving land that has been damaged or degraded, making it suitable for agricultural, industrial, or recreational use.
- It often focuses on areas that have suffered from erosion, pollution, or other forms of degradation.
Why is Option 'B' Correct?
- Restoring Degraded Land: This option specifically addresses the intent of reclamation, which is to take land that has lost its natural productivity and restore it to a state where it can again serve a beneficial purpose.
- Environmental Impact: Reclamation efforts often include planting vegetation, improving soil quality, and enhancing biodiversity, contributing positively to the ecosystem.
- Practical Applications: Examples include rehabilitating mines, cleaning up contaminated sites, and converting former industrial areas into parks or agricultural land.
Other Options Explained
- Option 'A': Converting desert land into urban areas does not typically fall under reclamation; it involves different developmental strategies.
- Option 'C': Expanding agricultural land into forests conflicts with environmental conservation principles.
- Option 'D': Draining wetlands for industrial use is often detrimental to ecosystems and is not considered reclamation.
In conclusion, option 'B' encapsulates the essence of land reclamation by emphasizing the restoration of degraded land to a functional state, making it the correct answer.

The type of soil is determined by
  • a)
    landforms
  • b)
    soil erosion
  • c)
    water sources
  • d)
    Globalisation
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Roshni Chauhan answered
The type of soil is determined by landforms. The geological processes that shape the landforms also play a significant role in determining the characteristics of the soil found in a particular area. Here is a detailed explanation of how landforms influence soil formation:

1. Parent Material:
- The parent material refers to the rock or sediment from which the soil is derived.
- Landforms such as mountains, hills, valleys, and plains have different types of parent material due to various geological processes like weathering, erosion, and deposition.
- For example, mountains often have rocky and coarse parent material, while valleys may have a mix of sedimentary deposits from nearby rivers.

2. Elevation and Slope:
- The elevation and slope of a landform affect the distribution of temperature, precipitation, and drainage patterns.
- Higher elevations tend to have cooler temperatures and receive more precipitation, leading to the formation of different soil types.
- Steep slopes can result in erosion, leading to thinner soils, while flat or gently sloping landforms may accumulate more sediment and develop deeper soils.

3. Drainage:
- The topography of a landform determines how water moves through the soil.
- Areas with good drainage allow excess water to flow away, preventing waterlogging and the accumulation of salts.
- In contrast, poorly drained areas can lead to waterlogging and the development of water-saturated soils.

4. Climate:
- Landforms can influence local climate conditions, including temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns.
- Climate plays a crucial role in soil formation as it affects the rates of weathering, erosion, and organic matter decomposition.
- For example, areas with high rainfall tend to have leached soils with lower nutrient content, while arid regions may have soils with high salt content.

5. Time:
- The age of a landform also influences the development of soil.
- Older landforms have undergone more weathering and erosion processes, resulting in more mature and developed soils.
- Younger landforms, on the other hand, may have relatively new or less developed soils.

In conclusion, landforms have a significant impact on the type of soil found in a particular area. Factors such as parent material, elevation, slope, drainage, climate, and time all contribute to the formation and characteristics of the soil. By understanding the relationship between landforms and soil, scientists can study and classify different soil types based on their geological origins.

Mass movement of rocks down the hills could be a sign of
  • a)
    Landslides
  • b)
    Floods
  • c)
    Deforestation
  • d)
    Weathering
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
Mass movement, also called Mass Wasting, bulk movements of soil and rock debris down slopes in response to the pull of gravity, or the rapid or gradual sinking of the Earth’s ground surface in a predominantly vertical direction. Formerly, the term mass wasting referred to a variety of processes by which large masses of crustal materials are moved by gravity from one place to another. More recently, the term mass movement has been substituted to include mass wasting processes and the sinking of confined areas of the Earth’s ground surface. Mass movements on slopes and sinking mass movements are often aided by water, and the significance of both types is the part each plays in the alteration of landforms.

Soil can be conserved in a best on the hills by which of the cultivation methods?
  • a)
    Strip cropping
  • b)
    Crop rotation
  • c)
    Contour ploughing
  • d)
    Terracing
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Sharma answered
Ploughing along the contour lines can decelerate the flow of water down the slopes. This is called contour ploughing. This is the best method to reduce soil erosion in hilly areas.

Complete the blank:
With respect to the classification of the land based on soil fertility is called _____.
  • a)
    Fertile Land
  • b)
    Rural Land
  • c)
    Private Land
  • d)
    Urban Land
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Yashvi Iyer answered
Understanding Land Classification
Land classification is a crucial aspect of agriculture and land management that helps in identifying the suitability of land for various uses based on its characteristics, particularly soil fertility.
What is Fertile Land?
- Definition: Fertile land refers to soil that is rich in nutrients and has the ability to support robust plant growth. It is characterized by a good balance of minerals, organic matter, and moisture.
- Importance: Fertile land is essential for agriculture as it directly impacts crop yield. Farmers seek fertile land to maximize their production and ensure food security.
Why is Fertile Land Classified Separately?
- Soil Quality: Fertile land has a higher concentration of elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are vital for plant health. This high-quality soil is often dark and rich in organic material.
- Agricultural Practices: Knowledge of fertile versus non-fertile land helps in making informed decisions about planting, irrigation, and fertilization. It guides farmers in selecting appropriate crops and optimizing their farming practices.
Comparison with Other Land Types
- Rural Land: While it can include fertile areas, rural land encompasses all non-urban areas, which may not necessarily be fertile.
- Private Land: This refers to land owned by individuals or entities, regardless of its fertility level.
- Urban Land: Designed for housing and infrastructure, urban land typically has little agricultural value and is not classified based on soil fertility.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'A' because fertile land is specifically defined by its soil fertility, making it a distinct category in land classification. Understanding this helps in effective land management and agricultural productivity.

In which of the following continents is Tanzania situated?
  • a)
    Europe
  • b)
    Asia
  • c)
    Africa
  • d)
    South America
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Sharma answered
Map showing where is Tanzania located in the World. The given Tanzania location map shows that Tanzania is located in the central-east part of Africa continent.

What is one method to conserve land resources?
  • a)
    Intensive farming
  • b)
    Industrial expansion
  • c)
    Afforestation
  • d)
    Increased urbanization
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev Class 8 answered
Afforestation, the process of planting trees, is a common method used to conserve land resources by preventing soil erosion, enhancing soil fertility, and maintaining ecological balance.

Which of the following method is used in the Western and Central Himalayas for soil conservation?
  • a)
    Terrace farming
  • b)
    Strip cropping
  • c)
    Shelterbelts
  • d)
    None of these
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Shah answered
Steps can be cut out on the slopes making terraces. Terrace cultivation restricts erosion. Western and central Himalayas have well-developed terrace farming.

Which is not an example of groundwater?
  • a)
    Water flowing in rivers
  • b)
    Water through wells
  • c)
    Water through hand pumps
  • d)
    Water through submersible pumps
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Shubham Sharma answered
Groundwater is water that exists underground in saturated zones beneath the land surface. The upper body of the saturated zone is called the water table. It fills the pores and fractures in underground materials such as sand, gravel, and other rock, much like water fills a sponge.

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