Class 9 Geography Chapter 1 HOTS Questions - Contemporary India - I

Q171. What are the characteristics of coastal plains of India?
Ans: Characteristics of Coastal Plains of India:

• The coastal plains are narrow strips of land along the Arabian Sea to the west and the Bay of Bengal to the east.
• They are divided into two main regions: the western coast and the eastern coast.
• The western coast is situated between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, consisting of three sections:
  • The northern part is known as the Konkan.
  • The central section is called the Kannad Plain.
  • The southern part is referred to as the Malabar Coast.
• The eastern coast is wider and flatter, with the northern part called the Northern Circar and the southern part known as the Coromandel Coast.
• Major rivers such as the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri create extensive deltas along the eastern coast.
• Lake Chilika, located on the eastern coast, is the largest saltwater lake in India.

Q172. Give main characteristics of the division of Great Peninsular Plateau.
Ans: The Great Peninsular Plateau is the oldest landmass of the Indian subcontinent. It is divided into two parts:
1. The Central Highlands
2. The Deccan Plateau

1. The Central Highlands
(i) These highlands are made up of hard igneous and metamorphic rocks.
(ii) The old Aravalli range borders it in the north-west.
(iii) The Central Highlands further consist of the Malwa Plateau in the west and Chotanagpur region in the east.
(iv) The eastward extension of the Malwa Plateau is known as Bundelkhand and Baghelkand in southern U.P. and northern M.P.
(v) The Malwa Plateau is drained by the southern tributaries of the Yamuna and the Ganga. Damodar river drains the Chotanagpur plateau. 

2. The Deccan Plateau
(i) The Deccan Plateau extends from river Narmada to the Southern tip of the Peninsular India.
(ii) It is one of the oldest earth blocks and is made up of hard igneous and metamorphic socks.
(iii) The Satpura range -northern Mahadev Hills, Maikal range etc. form its northern edge eastern.
(iv) The Western Ghats form its Western edge which is much steeper and higher than the eastern one. The plateau slopes gently towards the east.
(v) The Eastern edge is marked by Eastern Ghats which are broken into small hills by rivers. 

Q173. What is the significance of Himalayas?
Ans: The Himalayas are a significant mountain range located in northern India, serving various crucial roles:

• Geographical Barrier: They separate the Indian subcontinent from the rest of Asia.
• Water Source: The vast snowfields and glaciers are the origins of many perennial rivers, providing essential water for irrigation, navigation, and hydropower generation.
• Climate Protection: The Himalayas act as a climatic barrier, shielding the northern plains from harsh cold winds and influencing rainfall patterns.
• Wildlife Habitat: The forests in the region support diverse wildlife and house numerous wildlife sanctuaries.
• Tourism: The Himalayas are home to popular hill stations such as Shimla, Mussoorie, Nainital, and Darjeeling, attracting many tourists.

Q174. Describe the 'Peninsular Plateau' of India.
Ans: The Peninsular Plateau is a vast tableland in India, primarily made up of old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. It was created by the breaking and drifting of the Gondwana land, making it one of the oldest landmasses. Key features include:

• Broad and shallow valleys.
• Rounded hills.

The plateau is divided into two main regions:

• Central Highlands: Located north of the Narmada River, it includes the Malwa Plateau.
• Deccan Plateau: Situated to the south of the Narmada River.

Notable extensions of the plateau are:

• Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand in the east.
• The Chotanagpur Plateau, drained by the Damodar River.

The plateau features the Deccan Trap, known for its black soil of volcanic origin, and the Aravalis, which are highly eroded hills extending from Gujarat to Delhi.

Q175. Describe how the Himalayas were formed.
Ans: The formation of the Himalayas can be summarised as follows:

• The oldest landmass, known as the Peninsular part, was once part of the Gondwana land, which included regions like India, Australia, and South Africa.
• Convectional currents caused the Earth's crust to split into several pieces, leading to the northward drift of the Indo-Australian plate.
• This northward movement resulted in a collision with the larger Eurasian plate.
• The collision caused the sedimentary rocks in the Tethys Sea to fold, forming the mountain ranges of western Asia and the Himalayas.
• The Himalayas are characterised by their youthful topography, featuring high peaks, deep valleys, and fast-flowing rivers.

Q176. Contrast the relief of the Himalayan region with that of the Peninsular plateau.
Ans: Contrast the relief of the Himalayan region with that of the Peninsular plateau.

• Formation: The Himalayan mountains were created through the folding process, while the Peninsular plateau resulted from the drifting of Gondwana land.
• Rock Composition: The Himalayas primarily consist of sedimentary rocks, whereas the plateau is made up of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
• Location: The Himalayas are situated in north India, while the Peninsular plateau is found in south India.
• Water Sources: The Himalayas host glaciers that feed rivers, supporting agriculture in the northern plains. In contrast, the plateaus are rich in minerals, aiding industrialisation.
• Height: The average height of the Himalayas is about 4,000 metres, compared to the plateau's average height of 900 metres.

Q177. How do different physiographic regions of India complement each other?
Ans: Different physiographic regions of India complement each other in various ways:

• Natural Resources: Each region enhances the country's wealth in natural resources.
• Water and Forests: The northern mountains are vital sources of water and forest resources.
• Agriculture: The northern plains serve as the granaries, supporting early civilisations.
• Minerals: The plateau is rich in minerals, crucial for the country's industrial growth.
• Fishing and Ports: Coastal regions and islands offer opportunities for fishing and port activities.

Overall, the diverse physical features of India present significant potential for future development.

178) State the differences between the island groups of India.
Ans:
Andaman and Nicobar Islands:

• The statement that these islands are located in the Bay of Bengal is correct.
• It is accurate to say they were formed by volcanic eruptions.
• The assertion that they are bigger in size and more numerous and scattered is also correct.
• These islands do lie close to the equator and experience an equatorial climate, characterized by thick forest cover and great diversity of flora and fauna.
• Port Blair is indeed the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Lakshadweep Islands:

• The statement that these islands are found in the Arabian Sea is correct.
• They are formed by coral polyps, which is accurate.
• Kavaratti being the administrative headquarters of Lakshadweep is also true.
• The description of these islands as smaller in size and having a ring or horseshoe shape, referred to as atolls, is correct.
• It is true that these islands have great diversity in flora and fauna, and Pitti Island, which is uninhabited, has a bird sanctuary.

Q179. Prepare a short note on the 'Indian Desert'.
Ans: The Indian Desert, also known as the Thar Desert, is located on the western edge of the Aravalis. Here are some key features:

• It is characterised by numerous sand dunes.
• The region receives very little rainfall, typically less than 25 cm annually.
• It has an arid climate with sparse vegetation.
• Streams are present only during the rainy season, with the Luni being the largest river.
• Barchans (crescent-shaped dunes) dominate the landscape.

Q180. Write a few lines on Deccan Trap of the Peninsular Plateau. What do you know about the distinct features of the peninsular plateau called the Deccan Trap?
Ans: The Deccan Trap is a significant area of the Peninsular Plateau known for its black soil. Here are its distinct features:

• The black soil region is formed from volcanic activities, resulting in igneous rocks.
• Over time, these rocks have eroded, contributing to the formation of the black soil.
• The Aravalis are located on the western and northwestern edges of the plateau.
• These hills are highly eroded and appear as broken hills.

Q181. Differentiate between Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats.
Ans: Western Ghats:

• Located parallel to the western coast of India.
• Continuous range, crossed only through passes.
• Average height ranges from 900 to 1600 metres.
• Highest peak is Anai Mudi at 2,695 metres.
• Marks the western edge of the Deccan Plateau.

Eastern Ghats:

• Stretches from the Mahanadi Valley to the Nilgiris in the south.
• Discontinuous and irregular, intersected by rivers flowing into the Bay of Bengal.
• Average height is about 600 metres.
• Highest peak is Mahendragiri at 1,501 metres.
• Includes notable hills like the Shevroy and Javadi Hills.

Q182. Classify the Northern Plains on the basis of the variations in the relief features.
Ans: (i) Bhabar: The rivers after descending from the mountains deposit pebbles in a narrow belt lying parallel to the slopes of the Shiwaliks. This is known as bhabar.
(ii) Terai: To the south of Bhabar belt, the rivers and stream re-emerge and create a wet, swampy and marshy region known as the Terai. This was a thickly forested area but was later on cleared for cultivation.
(iii) Bhangar: The largest part of the northern plain is formed of older alluvium. They lie above the flood plains of the rivers and present a terrace-like feature. The soil in this region contains kankar modules in them. This part is known as bhangar.
(iv) Khadar: The newer younger deposits of the floodplains are called khadar. They are renewed almost every year and are therefore fertile. They are ideal for cultivation. 

Q183. Give five features of the Deccan Trap. 
Ans: Features of the Deccan Trap:

• The Deccan Plateau is a triangular landmass located south of the Narmada River.
• Its broad base is flanked by the Satpura Range to the north, with the Mahadev, Kaimur Hills, and Maikal Range extending to the east.
• The plateau is higher in the west and gently slopes towards the east.
• In the northeast, it extends into the Meghalaya and Karbi-Anglong Plateau, separated from the Chotanagpur Plateau by a fault.
• Three notable hill ranges, the Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills, run from west to east.

Q184. How does India have great physical variations?
Ans: The land of India exhibits significant physical variations, which can be summarised as follows:

• The Peninsular Plateau is one of the oldest landmasses on Earth, known for its stability.
• The Himalayas and the Northern Plains are more recent landforms, with the Himalayas being geologically unstable.
• The Himalayas feature a youthful topography, characterised by high peaks, deep valleys, and fast-flowing rivers.
• The Northern Plains are primarily composed of alluvial deposits, making them fertile.
• The Peninsular Plateau consists of igneous and metamorphic rocks, contributing to the geological diversity of India.

These variations arise from various tectonic movements within the Earth, resulting in a rich and diverse landscape.

Q185. The mountain ranges in the eastern part of India that form its boundary with Myanmar are collectively known as:
(a) Himachal Pradesh 
(b) Uttarakhand 
(c) Purvanchal 
(d) Himalayas

Ans: (c) Purvanchal
The mountain ranges in eastern India that form its boundary with Myanmar are known as the Purvanchal. This region includes:

• Patkai Hills
• Naga Hills
• Manipur Hills
• Mizo Hills

These hills are primarily made up of strong sandstones and are covered with dense forests. They run as parallel ranges and valleys through the northeastern states of India.

Q186. The highest peak in the Eastern Ghats is: 
(a) Anaimudi 
(b) Khasi 
(c) Mahendragiri 
(d) Dodabetta

Ans: (a) Anaimudi

• The highest peak in the Eastern Ghats is Mahendragiri, standing at 1,501 metres.
• Other notable peaks in the region include:
  • Dodabetta - 2,637 metres
  • Anaimudi - 2,695 metres (highest in the Western Ghats)
  • Khasi - part of the Meghalaya region

Q187. The newer younger deposits of flood plains are called: 
(a) Bhabar 
(b) Bhangar 
(c) Khadar 
(d) Terai

Ans: (c) Khadar

The newer deposits found in floodplains are known as Khadar. Here are some key points about Khadar:

• Khadar consists of young alluvial deposits that are replenished almost every year.
• This type of soil is highly fertile, making it ideal for intensive agriculture.
• Khadar is typically found in the lower courses of rivers, where sedimentation occurs.

Q188. Lakshadweep Islands are formed by: 
(a) Coral polyps 
(b) Volcanic eruption 
(c) Metamorphic rocks 
(d) Earthquake

Ans: (a) Coral polyps

• The Lakshadweep Islands are formed by coral polyps.
• Coral polyps are tiny, living organisms that create coral reefs.
• These islands are primarily made up of small coral islands.
• They were previously known as Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindive.
• In 1973, they were renamed Lakshadweep.

Q189. The north-east extension of the Deccan plateau is locally known as: 
(a) Karbi-Anglong plateau 
(b) Kaimur plateau 
(c) Chota Nagpur plateau 
(d) Malwa plateau

Ans: (a) Karbi-Anglong Plateau
The northeastern extension of the Deccan Plateau is known as the Karbi-Anglong Plateau.

Q190. The eastward extension of the Central Highlands are known as: 
(a) Chota Nagpur plateau 
(b) Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand 
(c) Maikal range and Mahadev hills 
(d) Aravali range 

Ans: (b) Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand

The eastward extension of the Central Highlands is known as:

• Bundelkhand - A region that includes parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
• Baghelkhand - Another area that extends eastward from the Central Highlands.

These regions are characterised by their unique geographical features and play a significant role in the landscape of India.

Q191. What is the significance of the Himalayas to India?
Ans: The Himalayas hold great significance for India due to several reasons:

• Geographical Barrier: They form a natural barrier on India's northern border, separating it from Central Asia.
• Water Sources:The snow and glaciers in the Himalayas are the origins of many perennial rivers, which are crucial for:
  • Forming the northern plains
  • Providing water for irrigation
  • Facilitating navigation
  • Generating hydel power
• Climate Regulation: The mountains protect the northern plains from cold winds in winter and redirect the rain-bearing monsoon winds, ensuring adequate rainfall.
• Biodiversity: The foothills are rich in forests, providing habitats for various wildlife, including animals, birds, and insects.
• Tourism: The region is home to popular hill stations such as Shimla, Mussoorie, Nainital, and Darjeeling.
• National Security: The Himalayas offer a natural defence against potential invasions from the north.

Q192. How Northern Plains of India are formed?
Ans: The Northern Plains of India were formed through the following processes:

• The interaction of three major river systems: the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra, along with their tributaries.
• Over millions of years, the deposition of alluvium in a vast basin at the foothills of the Himalayas created this fertile plain.
• This region, covering about 7 lakh sq. km, is approximately 2400 km long and 240 to 320 km wide, making it densely populated.
• The rich soil, sufficient water supply, and favourable climate contribute to its high agricultural productivity.

Q193. Why is the black soil area in the peninsular part called Deccan Trap?
Ans: The black soil area known as Deccan Trap in the peninsular plateau has several key characteristics:

• Volcanic Origin: This region is formed from volcanic activity, resulting in igneous rocks.
• Denudation: Over time, these rocks have eroded, leading to the creation of black soil.
• Lava Plateau: Continuous lava flows have formed an extensive plateau, referred to as the Deccan Trap.

Q194. How were Andaman and Nicobar Islands formed?
Ans: Andaman and Nicobar Islands were formed through geological processes. Here are the key points regarding their formation:

• They are considered an elevated part of submarine mountains in the Bay of Bengal.
• These islands sit on a submerged hill range, likely created by volcanic eruptions.
• Some volcanic mountains in the region are still active.
• The islands are notable for their diverse flora and fauna.

Q195. Which are the coral islands of India?
Ans: Coral Islands of India:

• Lakshadweep is the primary group of coral islands in India, formed by coral deposits.
• These islands are created from the skeletons of tiny organisms known as coral polyps, which thrive in shallow, warm waters.
• Many of the islands take on a ring or horse-shoe shape, referred to as atolls.
• They are located in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea.

Q196. What is the contribution of India's unique physical features to India's natural resources?
Ans: India's unique physical features contribute significantly to its natural resources:

• Mountains serve as major sources of water and forest wealth.
• The Northern Plains are the country's granaries, providing food for the entire nation.
• Rivers in these plains supported early civilisations, including the Indus Valley Civilisation.
• The plateau region is rich in minerals, essential for the country's industrialisation.
• Coastal areas and islands offer opportunities for fishing and port activities.

Overall, the diverse physical features of India hold great potential for future development.