Geography: CBSE Sample Question Paper with Solutions - 1 | Sample Papers for Class 11 Humanities - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

General Instructions:
(i) All questions are compulsory.
(ii) Question number 1 to 14 are Multiple choice questions carrying 1 mark each.
(iii) Question number 15 to 16 are Multiple source based questions carrying 3 marks each.
(iv) Question number 17 to 21 are Short-answer questions carrying 3 marks each. Answer to each of these questions should not exceed 80 – 100 words.
(v) Question number 22 to 26 are Long-answer questions carrying 5 marks each. Answer to each of these questions should not exceed 150 words.
(vi) Question number 27 and 28 are related to identification and locating and labelling of geographical features on maps, carrying 5 marks each.
(vii) Outline maps of the World and India provided to you must be attached within your answer-book
(viii) Use of templates and stencils for drawing outline maps is allowed.

Q.1. The expansion of the universe means increase in space between the:
(a) galaxies
(b) bodies
(c) gases
(d) universe

Correct Answer is Option a.

Q.2.  Which one of the following describes the lithosphere :
(a) crust and core
(b) mantle and core
(c) crust and upper mantle
(d) upper and lower mantle

Correct Answer is Option c.

Q.3. The plain formed as a result of stream erosion is called :
(a) paired terraces
(b) peneplain
(c) canyon
(d) meanders

Correct Answer is Option b.

Q.4. Which one of the following gases constitutes the major portion of the atmosphere:
(a) Nitrogen
(b) Carbon dioxide
(c) Argon
(d) Oxygen

Correct Answer is Option a.

Q.5. Tornadoes generally occur in:
(a) middle latitudes
(b) upper latitudes
(c) down latitudes
(d) intermediate latitudes

Correct Answer is Option d.

Q.6.  Arrange the cloud formation process in correct order:
(i) Water travels into the sky within air as water vapour.
(ii) During day time water from different sources like pond, lake, river, sea, well, etc. get evaporated.
(iii)  At a particular height the air cools.
(iv) The water vapour condenses to form minute droplets.
Options:
(a) i, ii, iii, iv
(b) ii, i, iii, iv
(c) iv, ii, i, iii
(d)  iv, i, ii, iii

Correct Answer is Option b.

Q.7. The english capital letters such as A, B, C, D and E present the:
(a) Perennial climate groups
(b) Mackinder climate groups
(c) Koeppen climate groups
(d) Ratzel climate groups

Correct Answer is Option c.

Q.8. Geography should be studied as an:
(a) interlocked subject
(b) intermingled subject
(c) independent subject
(d) integrated subject

Correct Answer is Option c.

Q.9. The earth’s radius is :
(a) 7,370 km
(b) 9,370 km
(c) 8,370 km
(d) 6,370 km

Correct Answer is Option d.

Q.10.  Which one of the following is not a minor plate :
(a) Philippines
(b) Nazca
(c) Antarctica 
(d) Arabia

Correct Answer is Option a.

Q.11.  A deep valley characterised by steep step-like side slopes is known as:
(a) Gorge
(b) Blind valley
(c) U-shaped valley
(d) Canyon

Correct Answer is Option d.

Q.12.  In which one of the following cities, are the days the longest:
(a) Nagpur
(b) Hyderabad
(c) Thiruvananthapuram
(d) Chandigarh

Correct Answer is Option c.

Q.13.  Arrange the course of River Ganga in the correct order:
(i) Rises at the terminus of the Gangotri Glacier
(ii) Forms clear water of Bhagirathi River
(iii) Flows down the Himalayas
(iv) Joins the Alaknanda River
Options:
(a)   i, ii, iii, iv
(b)  iii, ii, i, iv
(c)  ii, iii, i, iv
(d)   iv, iii, ii, i

Correct Answer is Option a.

Q.14. Which one of the following is the highest cloud in the sky:
(a) Cumulus
(b) Nimbus
(c) Stratus
(d) Cirrus

Correct Answer is Option d.

Q.15. Read the case study given below and answer any three of the questions that follow.
The oceans are confined to the great depressions of the earth’s outer layer. The oceans, unlike the continents, merge so naturally into one another that it is hard to demarcate them. The geographers have divided the oceanic part of the earth into five oceans, namely the Pacific, the Atlantic, the Indian Southern Ocean and the Arctic. The various seas, bays, gulfs and other inlets are parts of these four large oceans. A major portion of the ocean floor is found between 3-6 km below the sea level. The ‘land’ under the waters of the oceans, that is, the ocean floor exhibits complex and varied features as those observed over the land. The floors of the oceans are rugged with the world’s largest mountain ranges, deepest trenches and the largest plains. These features are formed, like those of the continents, by the factors of tectonic, volcanic and depositional processes.
(i) Oceans are hard to _______.
(a) adjust
(b) accommodate
(c) find
(d) demarcate

Correct Answer is Option d.

(ii) Where is the major portion of the ocean floor found?
(a) 3-6 km below the sea level
(b) 6-8 km below the sea level
(c) 8-10km below the sea level
(d) 2-4 km below the sea level

Correct Answer is Option a.

(iii) The oceans are confined to which of the Earth’s layer?
(a) None of the above
(b) Core layer
(c) Outer layer
(d) Inner layer

Correct Answer is Option c.

Q.16. Read the case study given below and answer any three of the questions that follow.
While the world is divided into 24 time zones, there has to be a place where there is a difference in days, somewhere the day truly “starts” on the planet. The 180° line of longitude is approximately where the International Date Line passes. The time at this longitude is exactly 12 hours from the 0° longitude, irrespective of one travel westward or eastward from the Prime Meridian. We know that time increases east of the Prime Meridian and decreases to its west. Hence, for a person moving east of the Prime Meridian, the time would be 12 hours less than the time at 0° longitude. For another person moving westward, the time would be 12 hours more than the Prime Meridian. For example, a person moving eastward on Tuesday will count the day as Wednesday once the International Date Line is crossed. Similarly, another person starting his journey on the same day, but moving westward will count the day as Monday after crossing the line.
(i) What is the time at 180° line of longitude?
(a) 18 hours from the 0° longitude
(b) 14 hours from the 0° longitude
(c) 16 hours from the 0° longitude
(d) 12 hours from the 0° longitude

Correct Answer is Option d.

(ii) The time increases ____________ of the Prime Meridian.
(a) north
(b) south
(c) west
(d) east

Correct Answer is Option d.

(iii) The world is divided into how many time zones?
(a) 22
(b) 24
(c) 23
(d) 21

Correct Answer is Option b.

Q.17.  Distinguish between natural and man-made disasters.

Natural disasters are catastrophic events that are caused by natural phenomena, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions, floods, landslides, wildfires, and droughts. These events occur naturally and are beyond human control. Natural disasters can have significant impacts on human life, property, and the environment.
On the other hand, man-made disasters are caused by human actions, such as accidents, industrial disasters, explosions, transportation accidents, and terrorist attacks. These disasters are preventable and can be avoided with appropriate measures and regulations. Man-made disasters can have severe consequences for human life, property, and the environment.
While natural disasters are often unpredictable and occur suddenly, man-made disasters are generally the result of negligence, human error, or intentional actions. In some cases, man-made disasters can also exacerbate the impacts of natural disasters, such as when poor urban planning and development practices lead to greater damage and loss of life during floods or landslides.
Both natural and man-made disasters require effective disaster management strategies to minimize their impacts and prevent future occurrences. It is essential to have emergency response plans, evacuation plans, and risk reduction strategies in place to mitigate the impacts of disasters and protect human life and property.

Q.18. "Water is a cyclical resource," Explain.

The statement "water is a cyclic resource" means that water can be used repeatedly and it also undergoes a natural cycle. This cycle involves the movement of water from the ocean to land and back to the ocean through a process known as the hydrological cycle. The hydrological cycle has been operating for billions of years and is essential for the survival of life on Earth. It describes the continuous movement of water on, in, and above the Earth's surface, and includes processes such as evaporation, precipitation, and runoff. Because of this cycle, water can be considered a renewable resource that can be used and reused for various purposes.

Q.19.  Describe the geographic changes in temperature, wind, and rainfall using examples.

India experiences significant seasonal and regional variations in temperature and precipitation. The Western Rajasthan can experience temperatures as high as 55°C in the summer, while Leh in Jammu and Kashmir can record temperatures as low as minus 45°C in the winter. Temperature variations are also noticeable from place to place within the same day, with Churu in Rajasthan recording temperatures of 50°C or more, while Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh records only 19°C. Similarly, Drass in Jammu and Kashmir can experience temperatures as low as minus 45°C on a December night, while Thiruvananthapuram or Chennai records temperatures of 20°C or 22°C.
Precipitation patterns also vary significantly across the country. While snowfall occurs in the Himalayas, the rest of the country generally experiences rainfall. Regions like Cherrapunji and Mawsynram in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya receive over 1,080 cm of rainfall in a year, while Jaisalmer in Rajasthan gets less than 9 cm during the same period. Coastal areas like the Ganga delta and the coastal plains of Odisha are frequently hit by strong rain-bearing storms in July and August, while the Coromandel Coast in the South experiences dry weather during these months. Most parts of the country receive rainfall during June-September, but in the coastal areas of Tamil Nadu, it rains at the beginning of the winter season.
These variations in temperature and precipitation are influenced by a range of factors, including latitude, altitude, ocean currents, and topography. Understanding these patterns is crucial for managing natural resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Q.20.  List the different theories relating to how the Earth was formed.

There are several hypotheses associated with the formation of the Earth, including:
Nebular Hypothesis: This is the most widely accepted theory of the Earth's formation. It proposes that the Solar System formed from a rotating cloud of gas and dust called a nebula. As the cloud collapsed under its own gravity, it flattened into a disk. The Sun formed at the center of the disk, while the planets formed from the material in the disk.
Giant Impact Hypothesis: This theory proposes that the Earth formed from the debris of a collision between a Mars-sized object and the early Earth. The collision would have melted the Earth's surface, and the resulting debris would have coalesced to form the Moon.
Fission Hypothesis: This theory suggests that the Earth was once a part of the Sun and was ejected during the Sun's formation. The ejected material formed a disk around the Sun, which eventually coalesced into the Earth.
Capture Hypothesis: This theory proposes that the Earth was originally a free-floating planet that was captured by the Sun's gravitational field.
Gas Cloud Collapse Hypothesis: This theory suggests that the Earth and other planets formed from a collapsing cloud of gas and dust without the need for a pre-existing star.
While the nebular hypothesis is the most widely accepted theory, all of these hypotheses continue to be studied and debated by scientists.

Q.21.  Do you have any knowledge of the gases, water vapour, and dust particles that are prevalent in the atmosphere?

The Earth's atmosphere is composed of various gases, including nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. The concentration of these gases varies at different altitudes. For example, the concentration of nitrogen and oxygen decreases with altitude, while the concentration of carbon dioxide has been increasing in recent decades due to human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels.
Water vapor is also present in the atmosphere and plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's temperature. It acts as a greenhouse gas, absorbing and re-radiating heat, which helps to maintain a relatively stable temperature. Water vapor also plays a role in the formation of clouds, which can impact weather patterns.
Dust particles are also present in the atmosphere, and their concentration varies depending on factors such as location, weather patterns, and human activities. Dust particles can impact air quality, and they can also serve as nuclei for the formation of clouds.
Overall, the composition of the Earth's atmosphere is complex and dynamic, with various gases, water vapor, and dust particles interacting to influence weather patterns, air quality, and climate.

Q.22.  How many subdivisions exist inside the Himalayas. Describe each in depth.

The Himalayas, which are the highest mountain range in the world, can be divided into three main divisions based on their geographical location and physical characteristics. These divisions are as follows:
The Eastern Himalayas: The Eastern Himalayas are located in northeastern India, Bhutan, and northern Myanmar. The region is characterized by rugged mountain terrain, deep river valleys, and dense forests. The highest peak in this division is Kangchenjunga, which stands at 8,586 meters. The region is also known for its rich biodiversity and is home to many endemic species of plants and animals.
The Central Himalayas: The Central Himalayas are located in Nepal and extend into the northern regions of India. This region is dominated by the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest, which stands at 8,848 meters. The region is characterized by high altitude deserts, deep river valleys, and steep mountain slopes. The climate in this region varies depending on the altitude, with colder temperatures at higher elevations.
The Western Himalayas: The Western Himalayas are located in northern Pakistan, western India, and southeastern Afghanistan. This region is characterized by high mountain ranges, deep valleys, and vast plateaus. The region is also home to many glaciers and is a major source of freshwater for the region. The highest peak in this division is Nanga Parbat, which stands at 8,126 meters.
Each division of the Himalayas has its own unique geography, climate, and cultural characteristics. The region is also of great ecological and economic importance, as it is home to many endemic species and serves as a major source of freshwater and other natural resources for the surrounding region.
However, the region is also vulnerable to environmental degradation due to factors such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change, which can have significant impacts on the region's ecology, economy, and people.

Q.23.  Describe the characteristics of alluvial soil.

Alluvial soil is one of the most fertile types of soil found in India and is formed by the deposition of silt, clay, and sand carried by rivers and streams. Here are some of the key features of alluvial soil:
Composition: Alluvial soil is composed of fine-grained sedimentary material, such as sand, silt, and clay, which is deposited by the rivers and streams. The soil is generally rich in minerals and nutrients, making it highly fertile.
Texture: The texture of alluvial soil varies from fine to coarse, depending on the size of the sedimentary particles. The soil is generally well-drained and has good water-holding capacity, which makes it ideal for agricultural cultivation.
Color: Alluvial soil is generally gray or brown in color, and the color may vary depending on the type of sedimentary material present in the soil.
Depth: Alluvial soil is generally deep and can range from a few feet to several meters deep. The depth of the soil depends on the extent of the river and stream deposition over time.
Location: Alluvial soil is found in the river valleys and deltas, and it covers a significant portion of the northern plains of India, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Indus river systems.
Fertility: Alluvial soil is highly fertile due to its composition and texture. The soil is rich in minerals and nutrients, making it ideal for agricultural cultivation. It is suitable for growing a variety of crops, including rice, wheat, sugarcane, cotton, and oilseeds.
Productivity: Alluvial soil is highly productive and supports a significant portion of India's agricultural output. The productivity of the soil depends on various factors, such as the type of crops grown, climate, and irrigation.
Overall, alluvial soil is a highly valuable natural resource in India due to its fertility and productivity. It is essential for the country's agricultural sector and is a major contributor to the economy.

Q.24. How do catastrophes impede the growth of the economy?

Disasters can have a significant impact on economic development by undoing the gains that have been made. For instance, Hurricane Isaac in 1982 destroyed 22% of Tonga's housing stock, while the Mozambique flood in 2000 led to a cost of over $165 million to repair and reconstruct damages to infrastructure such as water, sanitation, energy, telecommunication, roads, and railways. Even annual disasters such as Vietnam flooding can result in the destruction of 300,000 tons of food. Catastrophic disasters can destroy a nation's assets, disrupt production, trade, investment, and other economic activities. Larger countries with more widely dispersed economic assets are generally better able to mitigate losses and reduce downstream impacts.

Q. 25.  List any five factors, based on location and relief, that affect India's climate.

India is a vast country with diverse geography and topography, which results in a wide range of climatic conditions. Here are five factors that determine the climate of India based on location and relief:
Latitude: Latitude is an important factor that affects the climate of India. Since India is located between the tropics, the climate is generally warm and humid, with high temperatures throughout the year. However, the northern regions of India experience cold winters due to their distance from the equator.
Altitude: Altitude is another important factor that affects the climate of India. As one moves from the plains to the mountains, the temperature drops significantly, resulting in colder climates. The Himalayan region, for instance, experiences sub-zero temperatures in winters, while the southern coastal regions are relatively warmer due to their lower altitude.
Relief features: The relief features of India, such as mountains, plateaus, and valleys, also play an important role in determining the climate. For instance, the Western Ghats act as a barrier to the southwest monsoon winds, resulting in heavy rainfall along the western coast. Similarly, the Himalayas block the cold winds from Central Asia, resulting in a milder climate in the northern plains.
Ocean currents: The ocean currents also influence the climate of India. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean result in high levels of humidity and rainfall along the southern and eastern coasts. The cold currents from the Arctic, on the other hand, result in colder temperatures in the northern regions of India.
Monsoons: The monsoons are a major factor that determines the climate of India. The country experiences two major monsoons - the southwest monsoon and the northeast monsoon. The southwest monsoon, which occurs from June to September, brings heavy rainfall to most parts of India, while the northeast monsoon, which occurs from October to December, brings rainfall to the eastern coast.
Overall, the climate of India is a complex result of various factors, including location, altitude, relief, ocean currents, and monsoons. The diversity of the climate in India is one of its unique features and has a significant impact on the ecology, economy, and culture of the country.

Q.26.  Describe the structure and functioning of an ecosystem?

An ecosystem is a complex system that includes living organisms, their physical environment, and the interactions between them. It can be described as a community of organisms and their physical surroundings, with all the living and nonliving components functioning together as a unit.
The structure of an ecosystem is made up of several components, including:
Abiotic factors: These are nonliving components of the ecosystem, such as temperature, water, sunlight, soil, and air.
Producers: These are autotrophic organisms that convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. Examples of producers include plants, algae, and some bacteria.
Consumers: These are heterotrophic organisms that obtain energy by feeding on other organisms. There are different types of consumers, including herbivores (which feed on plants), carnivores (which feed on other animals), and omnivores (which feed on both plants and animals).
Decomposers: These are organisms that break down dead organic matter into simpler substances, releasing nutrients back into the ecosystem. Examples of decomposers include fungi and bacteria.
The working of an ecosystem is based on the flow of energy and nutrients. Producers convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, and this energy is passed on to consumers when they eat the producers. When consumers die, decomposers break down their bodies, releasing nutrients back into the ecosystem, which are then taken up by the producers to continue the cycle.
In addition to this basic cycle, there are many complex interactions and feedback loops that occur within an ecosystem. For example, predators may help control the populations of their prey, while the presence of certain species may be necessary to maintain the health of the ecosystem as a whole.
Overall, the functioning of an ecosystem is a delicate balance that depends on the interactions between all the living and nonliving components. Any disturbance to this balance, such as the introduction of a new species or changes in the environment, can have far-reaching effects on the ecosystem as a whole.

Q.27. Locate and label the following on the political outline map of India :
A. State with lowest level of urbanisation
B. A major seaport in Karnataka state
C. City where software technology park has been established in Telangana
D. Raniganj coal mine
E. Largest tea producing state

Q.28. In the given outline map of the world, there are five items marked as A, B, C, D and E. Identify the features with the help of information given below and write their correct names on the map.
A. Largest country in North America
B. A terminal station of Australian Trans-Continental Railway
C. An area where nomadic herding is practiced
D. A major seaport of Europe
E. A major inland waterway