All questions of Resources for UPSC CSE Exam

Bauxite, an aluminium ore, is the world’s main source of aluminium. It consists mostly of the minerals gibbsite.

The rocks of the Dharwar system are mainly sedimentary in origin and occur in narrow elongated synclines resting on the gneisses found in Bellary district, Mysore and the Aravallis of Rajputana. These rocks are enriched in manganese and iron ore which represents a significant resource of these metals.

Chhattisgarh is the second most coal-producing state. It has 15% coal quantity of the country while it produces 16% coal in the country. The main coalfield of North Chhattisgarh includes Chirmiri, Kursia Bishrampur, Ghilmili, Sonhat, Lakhanpur Sendouorgarh and Ramkola.

• Turamdih Uranium deposit is located about 24 km west of Jaduguda.

Anthracite has a higher percentage of Carbon. It has a carbon content of over 87% on a dry ash-free basis.

Gold is found in the Hutti, Kolar and Ramgiri regions of India.

Khetri, located in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, is famous for its copper mines. The region has a rich history of copper mining and has been a major source of copper production in India. Here is a detailed explanation of why Khetri is renowned for its copper:

Historical Significance:
- Khetri's association with copper mining dates back to ancient times. The region has been inhabited since the Indus Valley Civilization, and copper artifacts from that era have been discovered here.
- During the Mauryan period, Khetri was an important center for copper production. The excavation of ancient copper mines and smelting sites in the region suggests that copper mining was prevalent during that time.
- The Rajputs, who ruled the region during the medieval period, also recognized the significance of Khetri's copper mines and utilized them for their military and economic endeavors.

Abundance of Copper Deposits:
- Khetri is located in the Aravalli Range, which is known for its mineral-rich deposits. The region has abundant reserves of copper ore, making it an ideal location for mining activities.
- The copper deposits in Khetri are primarily found in the form of copper pyrite (chalcopyrite) and copper glance (chalcocite). These minerals contain a high concentration of copper, making them valuable for extraction.

Modern Copper Mining:
- With the advent of modern mining techniques, Khetri's copper mines witnessed significant development. The Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), a public sector undertaking, has been instrumental in the extraction and processing of copper in Khetri.
- The Khetri Copper Complex, operated by HCL, consists of mines, concentrators, smelters, and refineries. It is one of the largest copper complexes in India and plays a crucial role in meeting the country's copper requirements.

Economic Importance:
- The copper mining industry in Khetri has contributed significantly to the economic development of the region and the state of Rajasthan.
- It has generated employment opportunities for the local population, both directly and indirectly. Many people are engaged in mining, transportation, and ancillary services related to the copper industry.
- The revenue generated from copper mining has contributed to the overall growth and infrastructure development of the region.

In conclusion, Khetri in Rajasthan is famous for its copper mines. The region's historical significance, abundance of copper deposits, modern mining techniques, and economic importance have collectively made Khetri a renowned hub for copper production in India.

Explanation:

Jaduguda is a small town located in the Singhbhum district of Jharkhand state in India. It is famous for its uranium mines which produce uranium ore, a key component in the production of nuclear energy.

Background:

India is one of the largest consumers of energy in the world, and with a rapidly growing population, the demand for energy is expected to increase significantly in the future. In order to meet this demand, India has been investing heavily in the development of nuclear energy as a clean and sustainable source of power.

Jaduguda is one of the most important uranium mining sites in India, and it is operated by the state-owned Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL). The site was discovered in the late 1950s, and mining operations began in the 1960s. Since then, the site has been a major source of uranium for India's nuclear power plants.

Impact:

The uranium extracted from Jaduguda is used to fuel India's nuclear reactors, which generate electricity for millions of people. Nuclear power is considered to be a clean and efficient source of energy, and it is an important component of India's energy mix. The uranium mining operations in Jaduguda also provide employment and economic opportunities for the local community.

Environmental concerns:

Mining operations can have significant environmental impacts, and there have been concerns about the potential health and environmental risks associated with uranium mining in Jaduguda. The mining and processing of uranium ore can release radioactive materials into the environment, and there have been reports of contamination of groundwater and soil in the area. The UCIL has taken steps to address these concerns, such as implementing safety measures and monitoring the environmental impact of mining operations.

Conclusion:

Jaduguda's uranium mines are an important source of energy for India, and they provide employment and economic opportunities for the local community. However, there are also concerns about the potential environmental and health risks associated with uranium mining operations, and it is important to ensure that appropriate safety measures are in place to protect the environment and the local community.

Coking coal is a vital input in Steelmaking

Coking coal, also known as metallurgical coal, is a crucial raw material in the steelmaking process. It plays a significant role in the production of high-quality steel. Let's delve into the details to understand why coking coal is essential in steelmaking.

1. Steelmaking Process:
- Steelmaking is the process of producing steel from iron ore and other materials.
- It involves the removal of impurities from iron ore to obtain pure iron.
- The pure iron is then mixed with various elements, such as carbon and alloying agents, to create different grades of steel.
- The mixture of iron ore and carbon is heated in a blast furnace to produce molten iron, which is further refined to remove impurities.
- Coking coal is used in the blast furnace as a fuel and a reducing agent to convert iron ore into molten iron.

2. Role of Coking Coal:
- Coking coal is primarily used to produce coke, a high-carbon fuel derived from coal.
- Coke acts as both a fuel and a reducing agent in the blast furnace.
- As a fuel, coke provides the necessary heat energy to sustain the high temperatures required for the steelmaking process.
- As a reducing agent, coke reacts with iron ore, reducing the oxygen content and transforming it into molten iron.
- The carbon content in coking coal is essential for these reactions to occur effectively.
- The coke produced from coking coal also helps in the removal of impurities, such as sulfur, during the steelmaking process.

3. Quality Requirements:
- The quality of coking coal is crucial for efficient steelmaking.
- It should have a high carbon content, low ash content, and low sulfur content.
- The carbon content provides the necessary heat energy and acts as a reducing agent.
- The low ash content ensures minimal impurities during the steelmaking process.
- The low sulfur content prevents the formation of sulfur compounds that can weaken the steel's mechanical properties.

Conclusion:
Coking coal is an indispensable input in the steelmaking industry. It serves as a fuel, a reducing agent, and helps remove impurities during the production of steel. The quality of coking coal directly impacts the efficiency and quality of the steelmaking process. Therefore, it is vital to have a consistent supply of high-quality coking coal for the steel industry to meet its demands and produce high-quality steel products.

Balaghat is known for its Manganese production. About 80% of Manganese production of the country comes from Balaghat. Majhgaon is known for its diamond mines, which is situated in the Panna district of Madhya Pradesh.

Mining is the removal of valuable raw material from the Earth, this term includes removal of soil. India adds very little value to the minerals, it exports most of the mined minerals. Indian Mining Industry has been a major mineral producer in Asia and globally as well.

The copper Industry is located at Khetri. Khetri Nagar is a town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan in India.

Geothermal energy is basically Renewable

Explanation:
Geothermal energy refers to the heat that is generated and stored in the Earth's core. It is a form of renewable energy because it is continuously being produced and replenished within the Earth. Here is a detailed explanation of why geothermal energy is considered renewable:

1. Natural Heat Source:
Geothermal energy is derived from the heat generated by the natural radioactive decay of elements such as uranium, thorium, and potassium present in the Earth's core. This heat source is essentially inexhaustible as it is continuously produced through natural processes.

2. Endless Reservoir:
The Earth's core acts as an endless reservoir of heat, providing a constant and abundant supply of geothermal energy. Unlike finite resources such as fossil fuels, which can be depleted over time, geothermal energy does not run out as long as the Earth's core continues to generate heat.

3. Sustainable Extraction:
Geothermal energy is harnessed by tapping into natural geothermal reservoirs, such as hot springs, geysers, and underground heated water or steam. These reservoirs are replenished by the Earth's internal heat, ensuring a sustainable source of energy extraction.

4. Long Lifespan:
Geothermal power plants have a long lifespan, typically ranging from 30 to 50 years. This longevity is attributed to the continuous and reliable nature of the geothermal energy resource. With proper management and maintenance, geothermal power plants can operate for several decades, providing a consistent supply of renewable energy.

5. Low Environmental Impact:
Compared to traditional fossil fuels, geothermal energy has a significantly lower environmental impact. It does not produce greenhouse gas emissions or air pollutants during operation, making it a clean and sustainable energy option. Additionally, geothermal power plants have a smaller land footprint compared to other renewable energy sources like solar or wind.

Conclusion:
Considering its natural and continuous heat source, its endless reservoir, sustainable extraction methods, long lifespan, and low environmental impact, geothermal energy is undoubtedly classified as a renewable energy source. Harnessing and utilizing geothermal energy can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy mix.

The Digboi refinery was set up in 1901 by Assam Oil Company Ltd.It is situated in upper Assam district of Tinsukia. Digboi oilfield has the oldest running oil well in the world.

Visakhapatnam does not have a goldfield.

Chromite is an important ore of chromium and is used in various industries, including steel production and chemical manufacturing. In India, Odisha (formerly known as Orissa) is the state with a significant concentration of chromite deposits.

Odisha is renowned for its rich reserves of chromite, accounting for a substantial portion of India's total chromite production. The state's geological conditions and mineral deposits make it a dominant player in the production of chromite.

Here’s a brief overview of why Odisha holds a monopoly:

- **Chromite Deposits:** Odisha possesses the largest deposits of chromite in India, particularly in the Sukinda Valley, which is one of the largest chromite reserves in the world.
- **Production Capacity:** The state's infrastructure and mining capabilities are well-developed to exploit these resources effectively, leading to high production levels.
- **Historical Development:** Odisha has been the focus of chromite mining for several decades, leading to the establishment of several large-scale mining and production facilities in the region.

Thus, Odisha’s dominance in chromite production makes it the state with a near-monopoly in the production of this vital mineral.

The correct answer is indeed:

**b) Odisha**

Understanding the Importance of Manufacturing Industries
Manufacturing industries play a crucial role in the economic development of a country. However, the statement "The economic strength of a country is measured in terms of the raw material it possesses" is misleading. Here's why:
Focus on Manufacturing Value
- The strength of an economy is not solely determined by the availability of raw materials.
- It is the ability to transform these raw materials into finished products that adds value and drives economic growth.
Job Creation Across Sectors
- Manufacturing industries generate employment opportunities, not just in manufacturing but also in the secondary and tertiary sectors.
- This creates a ripple effect, boosting economic activities and livelihoods across various sectors.
Encouragement of Trade and Commerce
- Manufacturing industries stimulate trade and commerce by producing goods that can be sold domestically and internationally.
- This contributes to a more robust economy, as trade leads to the exchange of ideas, technology, and innovation.
Foreign Exchange from Exports
- Exporting manufactured goods is vital for generating foreign exchange.
- This influx of foreign currency strengthens the national economy and improves the balance of payments.
Conclusion
In summary, while raw materials are important, the true economic strength of a country lies in its manufacturing capabilities. The ability to innovate, produce, and trade these goods is what propels economic growth and stability. Therefore, option 'C' is not true regarding the importance of manufacturing industries.

Sequence of Coal Mines in India from East to West:
First, let's identify the locations of the coal mines mentioned in the question:
1. Bokaro - located in Jharkhand, towards the eastern part of India.
2. Adilabad - located in Telangana, more towards the central part of India.
3. Raniganj - located in West Bengal, towards the eastern part of India.
4. Bishrampur - located in Chhattisgarh, towards the central-western part of India.

Correct Sequence:
The correct sequence of the coal mines from east to west is as follows:

3-1-4-2
- Raniganj (West Bengal) - towards the eastern part of India.
- Bokaro (Jharkhand) - slightly west of Raniganj.
- Bishrampur (Chhattisgarh) - further west from Bokaro.
- Adilabad (Telangana) - towards the western part of India.
Therefore, option B is the correct sequence of the coal mines from east to west.

Kerala:
- Kerala is located in the southern part of India, close to the equator.
- It receives abundant sunlight throughout the year, making it suitable for solar energy generation.
- The state government has taken initiatives to promote solar energy, such as the establishment of solar parks and the implementation of solar rooftop programs.
- However, the potential for solar energy generation in Kerala is relatively lower compared to other states due to its geographical location and the presence of dense vegetation.

Tamil Nadu:
- Tamil Nadu is also located in the southern part of India and experiences ample sunlight throughout the year.
- The state has a high potential for solar energy generation due to its favorable geographical location and vast open spaces available for solar installations.
- Tamil Nadu has been a frontrunner in India's solar energy sector and has implemented various policies and schemes to promote solar energy, such as the Tamil Nadu Solar Energy Policy and the Tamil Nadu Solar Energy Corporation Limited.
- The state has witnessed significant growth in solar capacity installations and has several solar parks and projects.

Rajasthan:
- Rajasthan is located in the western part of India and is known for its vast desert landscapes.
- It receives intense sunlight for most of the year, making it one of the prime locations for solar energy generation in India.
- The state has a large potential for solar energy due to its geographical location, availability of vast open spaces, and high solar irradiance.
- Rajasthan has implemented various policies and initiatives to encourage solar energy generation, such as the Rajasthan Solar Energy Policy and the development of solar parks.
- The state has attracted significant investments in the solar sector and has several large-scale solar projects.

Odisha:
- Odisha is located in the eastern part of India and experiences a tropical climate.
- The state receives a moderate amount of sunlight throughout the year, making it suitable for solar energy generation.
- Odisha has been actively promoting solar energy through various schemes and policies, such as the Odisha Solar Policy and the development of solar parks.
- However, the solar potential of Odisha is lower compared to Rajasthan due to its geographical location and lower solar irradiance.

Conclusion:
Among the given options, Rajasthan has the highest potential for solar energy generation due to its favorable geographical location, intense sunlight, and availability of vast open spaces. The state's desert landscapes and high solar irradiance make it an ideal location for large-scale solar projects.

Iron Ore Mining at Bailadila

Bailadila is a range of hills located in the Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh in India. The hills are known for their rich deposits of iron ore. The National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) operates mines in the Bailadila range.

Which Iron Ore is Mined at Bailadila?

The iron ore mined at the Bailadila mines is haematite. Haematite is a mineral form of iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3). It is a reddish-brown mineral commonly found in rocks and soils. Haematite is the most important ore of iron and is widely used in the production of iron and steel.

Haematite vs. Other Iron Ores

Iron ores are classified based on their composition and properties. The four main types of iron ore are haematite, magnetite, limonite, and siderite. Here is a brief comparison of haematite with the other three types:

- Magnetite: Magnetite is a mineral form of iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4). It is a black, opaque mineral that is attracted to a magnet. Magnetite is the most magnetic of all minerals and is used in the production of high-grade steel.
- Limonite: Limonite is a mineral form of iron(III) oxide-hydroxide (FeO(OH)·nH2O). It is a yellow-brown mineral that is often found in soils and swamps. Limonite is not a true mineral but a mixture of various hydrous iron oxides. It is not used in the production of iron and steel.
- Siderite: Siderite is a mineral form of iron(II) carbonate (FeCO3). It is a brown mineral that is often found in sedimentary rocks. Siderite is not used in the production of iron and steel.

Conclusion

To sum up, haematite is the iron ore mined at the Bailadila mines. Haematite is a mineral form of iron(III) oxide and is the most important ore of iron. It is widely used in the production of iron and steel.

As of 31 March 2019, India had estimated crude oil reserves of 618.95 million tonnes (MT), increasing by 4.1% from the previous year. The largest reserves are found in the Western Offshore (Mumbai High, Krishna-Godavari Basin) (40%), and Assam (27%).

Digboi is a town and a town area committee in Tinsukia district in the north-eastern part of the state of Assam, India. Crude oil was discovered here in the late 19th century.

Black revolution is related to the—

- Fuel Production

The correct answer is option 'C' - Crude oil production. The term "Black revolution" refers to the significant increase in crude oil production. This revolution has played a crucial role in the economic development of many countries by providing a steady source of energy for various sectors such as transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture.

- Significance

Crude oil is a crucial resource that fuels various industries and sectors of the economy. It is used for producing gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other petroleum products. The increase in crude oil production has led to the growth of industries, job creation, and overall economic development in many countries.

- Impact

The black revolution has not only boosted economic growth but has also led to geopolitical implications due to the strategic importance of oil-producing regions. Countries that are major producers of crude oil have gained significant influence in global politics and trade.

- Challenges

Despite its benefits, the black revolution has also brought challenges such as environmental degradation, pollution, and over-reliance on fossil fuels. The need for sustainable energy sources and environmental conservation has become more pronounced in the wake of the black revolution.

In conclusion, the black revolution, related to crude oil production, has had a profound impact on the global economy, energy security, and environmental sustainability. It is essential for countries to balance the benefits of crude oil production with the challenges it presents to ensure a sustainable future.

Understanding Fossil Sources of Energy
Fossil sources of energy refer to energy derived from the remains of ancient plants and animals that have undergone natural processes over millions of years. Among the options provided, petroleum is the only fossil fuel.

Why Petroleum is a Fossil Source
- Origin: Petroleum is formed from the decomposed remains of marine organisms. Over millions of years, heat and pressure transform these organic materials into hydrocarbons, which constitute crude oil.
- Combustion: When burned, petroleum releases energy, making it a significant source of fuel for transportation, heating, and electricity generation.
- Non-renewable: Fossil fuels like petroleum are considered non-renewable resources since their formation takes millions of years, and their reserves are limited.

Comparison with Other Options
- Wood: Although wood can be considered a source of energy, it is classified as biomass energy. It is renewable as trees can be replanted and regrown.
- Solar Radiation: Solar energy is a renewable energy source harnessed from the sun. It does not involve the combustion of fossilized organic matter.
- Tidal Waves: Tidal energy comes from the gravitational pull of the moon and sun on Earth’s oceans. It is also a renewable source, not derived from fossilized remains.

Conclusion
In summary, petroleum is the correct answer as it is a fossil source of energy, while wood, solar radiation, and tidal waves represent renewable energy sources. Understanding these distinctions is essential for evaluating energy sources in terms of sustainability and environmental impact.