Class 7 Science Chapter 12 Important Question Answers - Forests - Our Lifeline

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: What is Kerala known as?
Ans: Kerala is known as "God's own country."

Q2: Define the term "endemic species."
Ans: Endemic species are animals or plants found in specific geographic areas.

Q3: Name some endemic species found in Wayanad Wildlife Forest.
Ans: Some endemic species found in Wayanad Wildlife Forest include bonnet macaques, striped-neck mongoose, small Indian civet, striped hyena, jackal, Indian fox, wild bear, giant squirrel, bison, and chital.

Q4: What is the medicinal value of the Neem tree?
Ans: The Neem tree is known for its medicinal value and is said to treat around 40 diseases.

Q5: Name some tree species found in Kerala's forests.
Ans: Trees found in Kerala's forests include bamboo, fig tree, amla tree (Indian gooseberry), Sal tree, sandalwood tree, teak tree, and more.

Q6: What is the term for the branchy part of a tree above the stem?
Ans: The branchy part of a tree above the stem is called the crown.

Q7: What is the significance of humus in the forest floor?
Ans: Humus is a black substance produced from decaying leaves, fruits, and herbs in the forest. It is good for the growth of plants.

Q8: How do forests play a role in the food chain?
Ans: Forests play a role in the food chain by providing food and habitat for producers (plants), primary consumers (herbivores), secondary consumers (carnivores), and tertiary consumers (top predators).

Q9: What is transpiration in plants?
Ans: Transpiration is the process by which plants release excess water into the atmosphere in the form of water vapor.

Q10: What is the main source of oxygen on Earth?
Ans: Trees are the main source of oxygen on Earth.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q11: Describe the biodiversity of Kerala's forests.
Ans: Kerala's forests are rich in biodiversity, including tropical wet evergreen, partly evergreen, deciduous, and dry forests. They are home to various endemic species of animals and plants, such as bonnet macaques, giant squirrels, and Neem trees with medicinal value.

Q12: Explain how forests contribute to the water cycle.
Ans: Forests play a vital role in the water cycle. They absorb water through their roots and release it into the atmosphere through transpiration. This water vapor eventually condenses to form clouds, leading to precipitation (rainfall).

Q13: How do forests help in maintaining temperature and reducing global warming?
Ans: During photosynthesis, trees release oxygen and water vapor into the atmosphere, helping maintain temperature. More trees mean more oxygen and less carbon dioxide, reducing the risk of global warming, which is caused by an increase in carbon dioxide levels.

Q14: What are the advantages of forests, and how do they benefit humans?
Ans: Forests provide shelter and food for animals, tribes, and indigenous communities. They are a source of wood for furniture, paper, and various products. Specific trees like Neem have medicinal uses. Forests also contribute to the production of oxygen.

Q15: Define deforestation and explain its consequences.
Ans: Deforestation is the cutting down of trees to clear land for agriculture, industry, or housing. It leads to habitat loss, increased carbon dioxide levels, global warming, soil erosion, and impacts on biodiversity.