Class 7 Social Science Chapter 2 HOTS Questions - Understanding the Weather

Q1: How do weather predictions help farmers and fishermen prepare for extreme weather conditions?

Ans: 

• Weather predictions are essential for farmers and fishermen to prepare for extreme conditions like storms, heatwaves, and droughts.
• Farmers can modify their planting and harvesting schedules to protect crops from unexpected rain or heat.
• Fishermen can avoid going out to sea during storms or cyclones, ensuring their safety.
• Reliable weather data helps both groups in planning their activities, minimising losses, and enhancing resource management.

Seasons

Q2: Compare the measurement of temperature and precipitation using different weather instruments. How are they similar and different?

Ans:

• Both temperature and precipitation are measured using specialized instruments—thermometers for temperature and rain gauges for precipitation.
• While both instruments collect data to understand weather conditions, they differ in function.
• A thermometer measures how hot or cold the air is, and can record temperatures over time, including maximum and minimum values.
• In contrast, a rain gauge collects rainfall in a container and measures the depth of the water to calculate how much rain has fallen.
• Both instruments help track weather patterns, but they measure different aspects of the weather.

Q3: How would you use weather data from instruments like barometers and anemometers to predict an approaching storm?

Ans:

• To predict an approaching storm, barometers and anemometers are essential tools.
• A rapid drop in atmospheric pressure on the barometer suggests a storm is likely, as low pressure is linked to stormy weather.
• An anemometer measures wind speed; an increase indicates strong winds typical of storms.
• By monitoring these changes, meteorologists can forecast storms and alert the public, enabling them to take necessary precautions.

Q4: If you were tasked with setting up a weather station in a remote area, how would you ensure that it provides accurate and timely weather data?

Ans:

• To establish a reliable weather station in a remote area, instruments should be selected to measure temperature, humidity, wind, precipitation, and atmospheric pressure.”
• The station would be automated, using Automated Weather Stations (AWS) for data collection without human intervention.
• Regular calibration of instruments is crucial for maintaining accuracy.
• Data would be transmitted to meteorological agencies for analysis and forecasting.
• The station should be located in an area that accurately reflects the local climate, away from obstructions that could distort readings.

Q5: Why is it important for meteorologists to track and predict extreme weather events like cyclones or heatwaves?

Ans:

• Meteorologists track and predict extreme weather events to prevent harm to life, property, and the environment.
• Events like cyclones, floods, and heatwaves can cause loss of life, damage infrastructure, and disrupt economies.
• Timely weather forecasts enable governments to evacuate people, warn fishermen, and prepare for disaster response.
• For instance, predicting a heatwave helps individuals take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Cyclone

Q6: How might the lack of weather prediction tools, like barometers or rain gauges, affect daily life in a community?

Ans:

• Without tools like barometers or rain gauges, it becomes much harder to predict the weather, complicating daily planning.
• For instance, without a barometer, people cannot foresee changes in atmospheric pressure that indicate storms or cyclones.
• The lack of rain gauges means inaccurate rainfall measurements, making it difficult for farmers to schedule irrigation.
• This can result in crop damage, unpreparedness for storms, and general disruptions in daily life.

Q7: Design a public awareness campaign to educate people about how to prepare for extreme weather events using weather predictions.

Ans: The campaign aims to educate the public on the significance of understanding weather predictions for safety. 
The key features of the campaign include:

• Clear communication: Use simple language to explain how weather elements like wind, pressure, and temperature impact daily life.
• Real-life examples: Share stories of how weather predictions have saved lives, such as evacuations before cyclones.
• Informative materials: Distribute posters and brochures in local areas, schools, and government offices to help people read weather warnings.
• Social media outreach: Use platforms and radio to share weather alerts and tips for preparing for extreme weather events like storms, heatwaves, and floods.
• Community collaboration: Work with local authorities to provide emergency kits and preparation guidelines, encouraging communities to stay informed and act on weather predictions.