Land, Soil, Water, Natural Vegetation And Wildlife Resources, Geography, Class 8 -Test - Class 8 MCQ

Answer:
The resource that covers about three-fourths of the total surface of the Earth is water. Here is a detailed explanation:
Water covers about 71% of the Earth's surface:
- The Earth's surface is mostly covered by water bodies such as oceans, seas, lakes, and rivers.
- These water bodies occupy a significant portion of the planet's surface, making water the most abundant resource on Earth.
Importance of water:
- Water is essential for the survival of all living organisms, including humans, animals, and plants.
- It plays a crucial role in various ecological processes such as the water cycle, which helps maintain the balance of moisture in the atmosphere and regulates the climate.
- Water also acts as a habitat for numerous aquatic species and supports biodiversity.
Other resources:
- Land: While land covers a considerable portion of the Earth's surface, it does not make up three-fourths of the total surface area.
- Soil: Soil is a component of land and covers a smaller percentage of the Earth's surface compared to water.
- Air: Although air surrounds the Earth, it does not cover a significant portion of the planet's surface.
In conclusion, water is the resource that covers about three-fourths of the total surface of the Earth. It is crucial for sustaining life and maintaining the ecological balance on our planet.

Low-lying areas are very susceptible to flooding.
Flooding is the most common hazard that low-lying areas face due to their geographical characteristics. Here's a detailed explanation:
1. Vulnerability to heavy rainfall:
- Low-lying areas are often located near bodies of water or in coastal regions, making them prone to heavy rainfall and storms.
- These areas have poor natural drainage systems, which means that excess rainfall can quickly accumulate and cause flooding.
2. Proximity to rivers and lakes:
- Low-lying areas are often situated near rivers, lakes, or other water bodies.
- In the event of heavy rainfall or melting snow, these water bodies can overflow and inundate the surrounding low-lying areas.
3. Coastal vulnerability:
- Coastal low-lying areas are at high risk of flooding due to storm surges and tidal waves.
- During severe weather events such as hurricanes or tsunamis, the combination of strong winds and high tides can lead to devastating coastal flooding.
4. Subsidence and sea-level rise:
- Some low-lying areas may experience subsidence, which is the gradual sinking of the land.
- Additionally, the global rise in sea levels due to climate change poses a significant threat to low-lying coastal areas, increasing their susceptibility to flooding.
5. Impact on infrastructure and ecosystems:
- Flooding can cause significant damage to infrastructure such as roads, buildings, and utilities.
- It can also have detrimental effects on ecosystems, leading to the loss of habitats and disruption of natural processes.
In conclusion, low-lying areas are highly susceptible to flooding due to factors such as heavy rainfall, proximity to water bodies, coastal vulnerability, subsidence, and sea-level rise. These areas require appropriate planning, infrastructure, and disaster management strategies to mitigate the risks associated with flooding.

Best Physical Features for Living:

- Plains and River Valleys:
- Suitable for agriculture and farming
- Provide fertile soil for crop cultivation
- Availability of water for irrigation and drinking purposes
- Flat terrain allows for easy construction of infrastructure and settlements
- Supports diverse flora and fauna

- Mountains:
- Rich in natural resources such as minerals, timber, and freshwater
- Provide scenic beauty and recreational opportunities
- Mountainous regions often have cooler climates, which can be desirable for living
- Valuable for activities like hiking, mountaineering, and skiing
- Can offer protection from extreme weather conditions

- Deserts:
- Challenging environment with extreme temperatures and limited water sources
- Some desert regions can support unique ecosystems with adapted flora and fauna
- Can be suitable for certain types of agriculture, such as growing drought-resistant crops
- Potential for renewable energy generation, such as solar power
- Attract tourists interested in desert landscapes and cultural experiences

- Lakes and Rivers:
- Provide freshwater sources for drinking, irrigation, and transportation
- Support a variety of aquatic life, making them suitable for fishing and water-based activities
- Offer scenic beauty and recreational opportunities like boating, swimming, and camping
- Can serve as transportation routes for trade and commerce
- Can contribute to the overall aesthetic value of the surrounding area

In summary, the physical features best suited for living are plains and river valleys, as they provide fertile land, access to water, and support diverse ecosystems. However, mountains, deserts, and areas with lakes and rivers also have their own advantages and can be attractive for specific purposes or preferences. Ultimately, the suitability of a physical feature for living depends on various factors, including climate, resources, and personal preferences.

Explanation:
The example of community land is the Sunderban forests.
Reasons:
- The Sunderban forests are a large mangrove forest located in Bangladesh and India.
- They are considered community land because they are jointly managed and used by the local communities living in and around the forests.
- The local communities rely on the forests for their livelihoods, including fishing, honey collection, and timber extraction.
- The Sunderban forests are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting their importance as a community land that needs to be protected.
Other options:
- A bungalow is a private residential property and does not qualify as community land.
- The Parliament House is a government-owned property and does not qualify as community land.
Therefore, the correct answer is option A: the Sunderban forests.

The majority of land in India is used for cultivation.
- Cultivation is the primary use of land in India, with agriculture being a major sector of the country's economy.
- India is one of the world's largest producers of crops such as rice, wheat, pulses, and several fruits and vegetables.
- The fertile Gangetic plains in northern India, along with other regions like the coastal areas of Maharashtra and Gujarat, are highly suitable for farming.
- The agricultural practices in India are diverse, with both traditional and modern methods being employed.
- The majority of the Indian population is engaged in agricultural activities, either as farmers or as agricultural laborers.
- The cultivation of crops not only caters to the domestic food requirements but also contributes to exports, earning foreign exchange for the country.
- Apart from food crops, cash crops like cotton, sugarcane, tea, coffee, and spices are also grown in different parts of India.
- The government of India has implemented various policies and schemes to promote agricultural development and improve the productivity of farmers.
- However, despite the dominance of cultivation, there are also significant areas of land in India used for other purposes such as forests, pasture, and industrial activities.

Answer:
Introduction:
In this question, we are asked to identify the country that is mainly covered with forest land. Let's analyze the given options to determine the correct answer.
Analysis:
Out of the given options, Brazil and the USA are known for their extensive forest cover. Let's evaluate each option to find the correct answer.
A: India
India is not mainly covered with forest land. Although India has significant forest cover, it is not the country mainly covered with forests.
B: Brazil
Brazil is known for its vast Amazon rainforest, which covers a significant portion of the country. The Amazon rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest in the world and contributes to Brazil being mainly covered with forest land. Therefore, Brazil is a possible correct answer.
C: USA
The USA has a substantial forest cover, especially in regions like the Pacific Northwest and the Appalachian Mountains. However, it is not mainly covered with forest land compared to Brazil.
D: Both B and C
The answer option "both b and c" includes Brazil and the USA. As discussed above, both countries have significant forest cover. Therefore, this option is the correct answer.
Conclusion:
Based on the analysis, the country mainly covered with forest land is Brazil (option B). The USA also has substantial forest cover but is not mainly covered compared to Brazil. Therefore, option D, which includes both Brazil and the USA, is the correct answer.

Salinity
- The main reason why ocean water is unfit for human consumption is due to its high salinity, which refers to the concentration of dissolved salts in the water.
- The average salinity of seawater is about 3.5%, which means that for every 1 liter of water, there are 35 grams of salt dissolved in it.
- This high salinity makes ocean water taste extremely salty and unpleasant for drinking.
- When humans consume water with high salinity, it can lead to dehydration as the body tries to eliminate the excess salt through urine, resulting in a net loss of water.
- Drinking ocean water can also disrupt the balance of electrolytes in the body, leading to further health issues.
- The kidneys are not capable of efficiently filtering out the excess salt in seawater, making it unsuitable for human consumption.
- Desalination processes, such as reverse osmosis or distillation, are used to remove the salt from seawater and make it drinkable.
- While some marine animals have adapted to survive in high salinity environments, humans require fresh water with lower salt concentrations for proper hydration and bodily functions.

False
Land does not have similar features all over the surface of the earth. Here's why:
1. Geological Diversity:
- The earth's surface is rich in geological diversity, resulting in different types of landforms such as mountains, plains, plateaus, valleys, and deserts.
- These landforms are formed by various geological processes like tectonic activity, erosion, weathering, and deposition, leading to a wide range of features.
2. Climate Variations:
- Climate variations across the globe play a significant role in shaping the land's features.
- Different climates result in the development of diverse ecosystems, soil types, and vegetation patterns, which in turn influence the land's characteristics.
3. Human Influence:
- Human activities such as urbanization, agriculture, deforestation, and mining can significantly alter the land's features.
- Human settlement patterns, infrastructure development, and land use practices vary across different regions, leading to distinct landscapes.
4. Natural Disasters:
- Natural disasters like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and landslides can dramatically reshape the land's features in affected areas.
- These events create unique landforms and can alter the topography of a region.
5. Biodiversity:
- The presence of diverse plant and animal species across the globe contributes to the variation in land characteristics.
- Different ecosystems, habitats, and soil compositions result in distinct land features.
Conclusion:
Considering the geological diversity, climate variations, human influence, natural disasters, and biodiversity, it is evident that land does not have similar features all over the surface of the earth.

Plains and Valleys are Densely Populated due to Soil Fertility
Explanation:
Plains and valleys are often densely populated due to their high soil fertility, which provides several advantages for human habitation and agricultural activities. Here are the reasons why this statement is true:
1. Favorable Soil Conditions: Plains and valleys typically have deep, fertile soils that are rich in nutrients. These soils are formed by the accumulation of sediment and organic matter over long periods, making them highly productive for agriculture.
2. Agricultural Opportunities: The fertile soil in plains and valleys creates favorable conditions for crop cultivation. The availability of nutrient-rich soil allows farmers to grow a wide variety of crops, leading to increased agricultural productivity and economic opportunities.
3. Water Availability: Plains and valleys are often located near rivers, streams, or underground water sources. This proximity to water bodies ensures a reliable water supply for irrigation, enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting larger populations.
4. Transportation and Infrastructure: The flat terrain of plains and valleys facilitates the construction of transportation networks such as roads, railways, and canals. These infrastructural developments not only enable the efficient movement of people and goods but also attract industries and businesses, leading to increased population density.
5. Settlement and Urbanization: The combination of fertile soil, water availability, and transportation networks makes plains and valleys ideal for human settlement. The presence of agriculture and economic opportunities in these areas attracts people, leading to the development of towns and cities with higher population densities.
In conclusion, the high soil fertility of plains and valleys provides favorable conditions for agriculture, which in turn attracts human settlement and leads to dense populations in these areas.

Population and Technology as Factors in Land Use Patterns
Introduction:
Population and technology are two important factors that significantly influence land use patterns. The relationship between these factors and land use is complex and interconnected.
Population:
- Population size and growth rates directly impact the demand for land and resources.
- A large population requires more land for housing, infrastructure, and agriculture.
- Urbanization, driven by population growth, leads to the conversion of agricultural and natural lands into urban areas.
- Population density affects the intensity of land use, with higher density areas requiring more efficient use of land.
Technology:
- Technological advancements influence land use patterns by enabling new forms of economic activity and improving productivity.
- New technologies can facilitate the development of industries, such as manufacturing, energy production, and information technology, which require specific land use.
- Technological innovations in agriculture, such as mechanization and genetically modified crops, can increase productivity and reduce the need for land.
- Transportation technologies, such as highways and railways, shape land use patterns by determining the location of infrastructure and facilitating the movement of goods and people.
Interaction between Population and Technology:
- Population growth often drives the demand for technological advancements to meet the needs of a growing population.
- Technological advancements can lead to increased productivity, allowing a larger population to be sustained on the same amount of land.
- However, technology can also exacerbate the negative impacts of population growth on land use, such as increased pollution and resource depletion.
Conclusion:
Population and technology are intertwined factors that play a crucial role in shaping land use patterns. The size and growth of the population influence the demand for land, while technology enables new economic activities and improves productivity. Understanding these factors and their interactions is essential for effective land use planning and sustainable development.

Explanation:
Soil erosion is the process of the removal of topsoil from the land surface, which can be caused by various factors such as wind, water, and human activities. However, the growing population itself is not a direct cause of soil erosion. Here's why:
1. Definition of soil erosion: Soil erosion is primarily caused by natural forces such as wind and water, as well as human activities like deforestation and improper agricultural practices. It is the result of the loss of the protective layer of topsoil, which is rich in nutrients and essential for plant growth.
2. Population growth and soil erosion: While population growth can indirectly contribute to soil erosion through increased demand for food production and land use, it is not the direct cause. Factors such as improper land management practices, overgrazing, urbanization, and deforestation have a more significant impact on soil erosion.
3. Human activities: As the population increases, there is a higher demand for agricultural land, leading to practices like intensive farming, excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, and improper irrigation techniques. These activities can accelerate soil erosion if not managed properly.
4. Conservation measures: To mitigate soil erosion, various conservation measures can be implemented, such as contour plowing, terracing, crop rotation, agroforestry, and the use of cover crops. These practices aim to reduce the impact of natural forces and human activities on soil erosion.
In conclusion, while the growing population indirectly influences soil erosion through increased demand for resources, it is not the direct cause. Factors such as improper land management practices and human activities have a more significant impact on soil erosion.

Topography and Organic Material Affect Soil Composition
Introduction:
Soil composition refers to the combination of mineral particles, organic matter, water, and air present in the soil. It plays a crucial role in determining the soil's fertility and its ability to support plant growth. Topography and organic material are two important factors that influence soil composition.
Topography:
Topography refers to the physical features of the land, including its slope, elevation, and drainage patterns. It affects soil composition in the following ways:
1. Slope: The slope of the land affects the rate of water runoff and erosion. Steep slopes can lead to faster water runoff, which can result in soil erosion and loss of topsoil. This, in turn, can affect the soil's organic matter content and nutrient availability.
2. Elevation: Elevation influences temperature, precipitation, and exposure to sunlight, all of which affect the decomposition of organic matter and the activity of soil organisms. Higher elevations may have cooler temperatures and slower organic matter decomposition, leading to higher organic matter content in the soil.
3. Drainage: The drainage pattern of the land determines how well water infiltrates and drains from the soil. Poor drainage can lead to waterlogged conditions, which can negatively impact soil structure and nutrient availability.
Organic Material:
Organic material refers to the decaying remains of plants, animals, and microorganisms. It influences soil composition in the following ways:
1. Organic Matter Content: Organic material contributes to the soil's organic matter content. It improves soil structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability. Soils with higher organic matter content are generally more fertile and productive.
2. Nutrient Cycling: Organic material plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling within the soil. It serves as a source of nutrients for plants and provides a habitat for beneficial soil organisms, such as earthworms and bacteria, that help in nutrient transformation and availability.
3. Soil pH: Organic material can influence soil pH. For example, the decomposition of organic matter can release acids or alkaline substances, thereby affecting the soil's pH level.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, both topography and organic material significantly influence soil composition. Topography impacts soil erosion, drainage, and nutrient availability, while organic material contributes to the soil's organic matter content, nutrient cycling, and pH. Understanding these factors is essential for effective soil management and sustainable agriculture.

Explanation:
The statement "Time affects the rate of humus formation during the process of soil formation" is true. Here's why:
1. Definition of humus:
- Humus is the organic component of soil, formed by the decomposition of plant and animal matter.
- It is a dark, nutrient-rich substance that helps improve soil fertility and structure.
2. Process of humus formation:
- Humus formation is a slow process that occurs over time in the soil.
- It involves the decomposition of organic matter by microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi.
- These microorganisms break down the organic matter into simpler compounds, releasing nutrients in the process.
- The decomposition process is influenced by factors such as temperature, moisture, and the availability of oxygen.
3. Time and humus formation:
- Time plays a crucial role in humus formation.
- As organic matter accumulates in the soil over time, the decomposition process continues.
- The longer the organic matter remains in the soil, the more it breaks down, leading to the formation of humus.
- The rate of humus formation is directly proportional to the time it takes for organic matter to decompose.
4. Importance of humus in soil formation:
- Humus is an essential component of soil formation as it contributes to soil fertility.
- It helps retain moisture, improves soil structure, and enhances nutrient availability for plants.
- Soils rich in humus are generally more productive and conducive to plant growth.
In conclusion, time indeed affects the rate of humus formation during the process of soil formation. The longer the time, the more organic matter decomposes, leading to the formation of humus, which is beneficial for soil fertility. Therefore, the statement is true.

Is the statement true?
Yes, the statement is true. The Earth is often referred to as the water planet due to the large amount of water available on its surface.
Explanation:
Here are some key points to support this statement:
1. Water covers about 71% of the Earth's surface: The majority of the Earth's surface is covered by water bodies such as oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, and groundwater.
2. Abundance of oceans: The Earth has five major oceans, namely the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, Southern Ocean, and Arctic Ocean. These oceans hold about 97% of the Earth's water.
3. Importance of water for life: Water is essential for the existence of life on Earth. It plays a vital role in various ecological processes, including the water cycle, which helps maintain the planet's climate and weather patterns.
4. Water as a habitat: Water bodies provide habitats for a wide range of marine and freshwater organisms. They support diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and wetlands, which are home to numerous species.
5. Human dependence on water: Water is crucial for human survival as well. It is used for drinking, agriculture, industry, transportation, and recreation. Many civilizations throughout history have flourished near water sources.
6. Unique features of water: Water has several unique properties, such as its ability to exist in all three states (solid, liquid, and gas) under normal conditions. These properties make Earth suitable for sustaining life.
In conclusion, the Earth is rightly called the water planet due to the abundance of water available on its surface, its importance for supporting life, and its unique properties.

Water scarcity in Africa and West Asia
Water scarcity is a major issue in many parts of the world, and Africa and West Asia are among the regions facing serious challenges in terms of water availability. Here's a detailed explanation:
1. Water scarcity in Africa:
- Africa is the second driest continent in the world, with limited freshwater resources.
- The region experiences erratic rainfall patterns, leading to droughts and water scarcity.
- Many African countries face challenges in accessing safe and clean drinking water.
- Rapid population growth, urbanization, and climate change further exacerbate water scarcity in the region.
- Sub-Saharan Africa is particularly vulnerable, with countries like Somalia, Sudan, and Nigeria facing severe water shortages.
2. Water scarcity in West Asia:
- West Asia, also known as the Middle East, is one of the most water-stressed regions globally.
- The area is characterized by arid and semi-arid climates, with limited freshwater sources.
- High population growth, rapid urbanization, and agricultural demands put immense pressure on water resources.
- Countries like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Yemen face severe water scarcity issues, with a high dependency on desalination and water importation.
3. Factors contributing to water scarcity:
- Climate change: Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns affect water availability.
- Population growth: Increasing population puts strain on existing water resources.
- Unsustainable water management practices: Over-extraction and pollution of water sources worsen scarcity.
- Conflict and political instability: Wars and political conflicts can disrupt water infrastructure and management.
Conclusion:
Africa and West Asia are indeed areas facing serious water scarcity. The combination of climatic, demographic, and socio-economic factors makes these regions highly vulnerable to water shortages. Efforts are needed to improve water management, promote conservation, and invest in sustainable solutions to address this critical issue.

Explanation:
Vegetation, including forests, actually helps to reduce surface run-off rather than promoting it. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Role of vegetation:
- Vegetation, such as forests, plays a crucial role in regulating the water cycle.
- It helps to absorb and hold water, reducing the amount of surface run-off.
- Roots of plants help to stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and allowing water to infiltrate into the ground.
2. Effects of forest cover:
- Forests have a dense canopy that intercepts rainwater, reducing the velocity and impact of raindrops on the ground.
- The leaves and branches of trees act as a barrier, allowing water to drip slowly and be absorbed by the soil.
- Forest litter, such as fallen leaves and organic matter, helps to retain moisture and enhance infiltration.
3. Benefits of vegetation in reducing run-off:
- When surface run-off is reduced, it decreases the risk of floods as water is absorbed by the soil and vegetation.
- Vegetation helps to replenish groundwater reserves by allowing water to percolate into the ground.
- It also helps to maintain stream flows during dry periods by releasing water slowly from the soil.
4. Additional benefits of forests:
- Forests provide habitat for numerous plant and animal species, contributing to biodiversity conservation.
- They act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide, thereby mitigating climate change.
- Forests also offer recreational and economic opportunities, such as timber and non-timber forest products.
Therefore, the statement "Forest and other vegetation promote surface run-off" is false.

Answer:
The statement is True. The convention, CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), is an international agreement between governments. Its purpose is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. CITES lists species that should not be traded to protect them from exploitation and to maintain biodiversity. Here are some detailed points to support this answer:
What is CITES?
- CITES is an international agreement that regulates the trade of endangered species.
- Its full name is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
Listing Species:
- CITES maintains a list of species that are protected and should not be traded internationally.
- The list includes species that are threatened or endangered and need protection to prevent their decline.
Protection Measures:
- The convention imposes restrictions on the international trade of listed species.
- It prohibits or strictly regulates the import, export, and re-export of these species.
Conservation Efforts:
- CITES aims to ensure that international trade in wild animals and plants does not endanger their survival.
- It encourages sustainable use of natural resources and promotes conservation efforts.
Participating Countries:
- CITES is supported by 183 member countries, including the majority of the world's nations.
- Member countries implement the convention's regulations and enforce trade restrictions.
In conclusion, CITES is a convention that lists species which should not be traded internationally. Its purpose is to protect endangered species and maintain biodiversity by regulating the trade of these species.