Class 7 Science Chapter 12 Question Answers - Forest: Our Lifeline

Short Types Questions

A forest is a large area of land that is covered with different varieties of trees and plants. It has a unique ecosystem that supports a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Q.2. What are the uses of forests?

Forests serve several purposes such as providing timber, firewood, medicinal plants, and fruits. They also play a crucial role in maintaining the water cycle, regulating the Earth's temperature, and preventing soil erosion.

Q.3. How are plants and animals interdependent in the forest ecosystem?

Plants provide food and shelter to animals, while animals help in pollination and seed dispersal. This interdependence ensures the survival of both plants and animals in the forest ecosystem.

Q.4. What is the role of trees in the forest ecosystem?

Trees are the most essential component of the forest ecosystem as they provide oxygen, absorb carbon dioxide, regulate the water cycle, and prevent soil erosion. They also provide habitat and food to various animals and plants.

Q.5. Why is the conservation of forests important?

Forest conservation is crucial for maintaining ecological balance, preventing climate change, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring the well-being of human societies. It also helps in preserving the cultural and spiritual values associated with forests.

Long Types Questions

A forest is a large area covered with trees, shrubs, and vegetation. It is an important natural resource that helps to maintain ecological balance. The profile of a forest is determined by its location, climate, and soil type. Forests are classified into different types such as tropical, temperate, and boreal forests.

Importance of forests in maintaining ecological balance:

Forests are essential in regulating the water cycle by absorbing rainwater and releasing it gradually into rivers and streams.

Forests absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen which is essential for all living beings.

The soil of a forest is rich in nutrients which support the growth of various plants and trees.

Forests provide habitats for a large number of animal and bird species.

Q.2. Describe the various uses of forests.

Forests have a wide range of uses which are as follows:

They are a source of timber which is used for making furniture, paper, and construction material.

Forests provide a habitat for a variety of medicinal plants which are used to make medicines.

Forests are a source of food for several tribal communities who depend on forest produce for their livelihood.

Forests are important for ecotourism which generates revenue for the government and provides employment opportunities.

Forests are also used for recreational activities such as camping, hiking, and bird watching.

Q.3. Explain the interdependence of plants and animals in a forest ecosystem.

Plants and animals in a forest ecosystem are interdependent on each other for survival. The relationship between plants and animals is known as a food chain. The food chain starts with plants and ends with animals. The plants provide food and shelter to animals, whereas animals help in pollination and seed dispersal.
For example, bees feed on nectar from flowers and in the process, they help in pollination which leads to the formation of fruits and seeds. Similarly, monkeys feed on fruits and in the process, they disperse the seeds which grow into new plants. Thus, the interdependence of plants and animals helps to maintain the ecological balance in a forest ecosystem.

Q.4. Discuss the role of trees in maintaining the ecological balance of a forest.

Trees play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of a forest. They provide several benefits which are as follows:

Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen which is essential for all living beings.

Trees help in regulating the water cycle by absorbing rainwater and releasing it gradually into rivers and streams.

Trees provide a habitat for a large number of animal and bird species.

The roots of trees hold the soil together and prevent soil erosion.

Trees provide shade which helps in reducing temperature and maintaining humidity.

Q.5. Explain the importance of conserving forests and suggest some measures for the conservation of forests in India.

Conservation of forests is important for maintaining ecological balance and sustainable development. Forests are being depleted at an alarming rate due to deforestation, urbanization, and industrialization. The following measures can be taken for the conservation of forests in India:
Forests should be protected from illegal logging and encroachment.

Afforestation programs should be promoted to increase the forest cover in the country.

Tribal communities who depend on forest produce for their livelihood should be provided with alternative sources of income.

Ecotourism should be promoted as a means of generating revenue and providing employment opportunities.

Strict laws should be enforced to prevent forest fires and poaching.