Worksheet Solutions: Journey To The End of The Earth | English Class 12 PDF Download

Fill in the Blanks

Q1: Antarctica is one of the __________, __________, and __________ continents in the world.
Ans: coldest, largest, and southernmost
Antarctica is known for its extreme cold temperatures, vast ice sheets (making it the largest continent by ice volume), and its location at the southernmost point on Earth.

Q2: The expedition group the author traveled with is named __________.
Ans: 'Students on Ice'
'Students on Ice' is an organization that provides educational expeditions to the Polar Regions, including Antarctica. It aims to educate young minds about the realities of climate change and polar ecosystems.

Q3: Antarctica and India were part of the same supercontinent called __________.
Ans: Gondwana
Gondwana was a supercontinent that existed millions of years ago and included what is now Antarctica, India, Africa, South America, Australia, and other landmasses. Over time, Gondwana broke apart, leading to the continents we recognize today.

Q4: The author found immense relief in Antarctica's uninterrupted __________ horizon.
Ans: realistic version
Antarctica's uninterrupted blue horizon provides immense relief to visitors. The vast, undisturbed landscape creates a sense of calm and wonder, offering a unique and serene experience.

Q5: "Students on Ice" aims to sensitize young minds about __________ changes happening in the world.
Ans: global warming
'Students on Ice' educates young individuals about the real-world impacts of global warming and climate change. Through firsthand experiences in polar regions like Antarctica, participants gain a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges our planet faces.

Q6: Antarctica constitutes __________ percent of the world’s ice.
Ans: 90
Approximately 90% of the world's fresh water ice is located in Antarctica. This massive ice sheet is crucial for regulating global sea levels and maintaining the Earth's climate balance.

Q7: The author, being a sun-worshipping person, found it unimaginable to be in a place with __________ temperatures.
Ans: cold
The author, accustomed to the warm climate of South India, found it hard to fathom being in a place like Antarctica, known for its freezing temperatures. The contrast between the author's familiar warm environment and Antarctica's extreme cold made the experience particularly challenging.

Q8: Antarctica is interrupted only by occasional __________.
Ans: warm
Antarctica's quietness is occasionally interrupted by snow avalanches. While the continent is generally tranquil and silent, these natural events provide momentary disruptions in its serene atmosphere.

Q9: Antarctica provides evidence of the __________ and helps foresee the __________.
Ans: past and future
Antarctica's unique geological formations and ice cores serve as valuable records of Earth's past climate conditions. Studying these evidences allows scientists to understand historical climate changes and make predictions about future environmental trends.

Q10: The founder of "Students on Ice" believes that young minds are the future __________ who can tackle climate change.
Ans: leaders
The founder of 'Students on Ice' recognizes the potential of young individuals as future leaders. By educating and empowering them with knowledge about climate change, they can play a significant role in addressing the challenges posed by global warming and become advocates for environmental conservation and sustainability.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: What is the goal of the "Students on Ice" organization?
Ans: The goal of the "Students on Ice" organization is to educate and inspire the next generation of polar leaders.

Q2: Describe the climate of Antarctica.
Ans: The climate of Antarctica is extremely cold, with temperatures often dropping below -50 degrees Celsius.

Q3: What did Antarctica look like in the past?
Ans: In the past, Antarctica was covered in lush forests and inhabited by dinosaurs.

Q4: What does the author find shocking about Antarctica?
Ans: The author finds the absence of any human presence and the sheer desolation of Antarctica shocking.

Q5: What kind of evidence does Antarctica hold?
Ans: Antarctica holds valuable scientific evidence, such as ice cores that provide insights into Earth's climate history.

Q6: What is the main concern highlighted by Antarctica's condition?
Ans: The main concern highlighted by Antarctica's condition is the rapid melting of its ice sheets, contributing to rising sea levels.

Q7: How does Antarctica's landscape appear as far as the eyes can see?
Ans: As far as the eyes can see, Antarctica's landscape is dominated by vast expanses of ice and snow, with occasional mountains and glaciers.

Q8: What was Antarctica's connection to India in the distant past?
Ans: In the distant past, Antarctica and India were part of the same landmass known as Gondwana.

Q9: What interrupts the quietness of Antarctica?
Ans: The quietness of Antarctica is occasionally interrupted by the sounds of cracking ice, howling winds, and the movement of wildlife.

Q10: What is the significance of visiting Antarctica in the context of global warming?
Ans: Visiting Antarctica allows people to witness firsthand the effects of global warming and raises awareness about the need for environmental conservation.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the purpose of "Students on Ice" and why it's important.
Ans: The purpose of "Students on Ice" is to provide educational expeditions to the Polar Regions, including Antarctica, for students and educators. It aims to inspire and educate the participants about the importance of these regions for the planet's future. The program focuses on promoting environmental stewardship, climate change awareness, and scientific research. It is important because it allows young people to experience and understand the fragile ecosystems of Antarctica firsthand. Through this program, participants gain knowledge about climate change, biodiversity, and the impacts of human activities on the environment. It helps to raise awareness and empower the next generation to take action and become advocates for the protection of these delicate environments.

Q2: Describe the climate and geographical characteristics of Antarctica.
Ans: Antarctica has an extreme climate, characterized by extremely low temperatures and strong winds. It is the coldest continent on Earth, with average temperatures ranging from -40°C to -60°C in winter. The continent is covered by a thick ice sheet, which makes it the highest and driest continent as well. The geography of Antarctica consists of vast ice shelves, glaciers, and mountain ranges, such as the Transantarctic Mountains. It is also home to the South Pole, which marks the southernmost point on Earth. The continent experiences long polar nights and days, with periods of continuous darkness and sunlight. Antarctica's unique climate and geography make it a challenging and pristine environment, attracting scientists and researchers from around the world.

Q3: How does the author feel about visiting Antarctica, and why?
Ans: The author feels excited, privileged, and humbled about visiting Antarctica. They describe it as a dream come true and a life-changing experience. The author is deeply fascinated by the natural beauty and untouched wilderness of Antarctica. They express a sense of awe and reverence for the continent's vast ice landscapes, wildlife, and unique environment. The author acknowledges the rarity of such an opportunity and recognizes the importance of preserving and protecting this pristine region. The author's emotional response to visiting Antarctica reflects their deep appreciation for its significance and the powerful impact it has on anyone fortunate enough to experience it firsthand.

Q4: What evidence does Antarctica provide about the past and the future?
Ans: Antarctica provides valuable evidence about the Earth's past climate and its potential future. Through ice core samples, scientists can analyze air bubbles trapped in the ice to reconstruct past atmospheric compositions and temperature changes. These ice cores also reveal information about greenhouse gas concentrations and help in understanding the Earth's climate history. Additionally, the presence of ancient fossils in Antarctica indicates that the continent was once part of a larger landmass called Gondwana. Moreover, Antarctica's ice shelves and glaciers are melting due to global warming, providing evidence of the impact of human activities on climate change. The changes observed in Antarctica serve as a warning for the potential future consequences of unchecked global warming.

Q5: Explain the relationship between Antarctica and Gondwana.
Ans: Antarctica and Gondwana share a historical relationship. Gondwana was a supercontinent that existed around 180 million years ago and included what is now Antarctica, South America, Africa, India, Australia, and parts of the Middle East. Antarctica was once part of Gondwana, located near its center. Over millions of years, the supercontinent gradually broke apart due to tectonic movements, leading to the separation of Antarctica from the other landmasses. The presence of ancient fossils and geological similarities between Antarctica and other Gondwanan continents provide evidence of their shared history and the continental drift that shaped the Earth's landmasses.

Q6: Discuss the impact of global warming as portrayed in the text.
Ans: The text portrays global warming as a significant threat to Antarctica and its delicate ecosystems. It highlights the melting of ice shelves and glaciers due to rising temperatures, leading to rising sea levels and the loss of habitat for various species. The increased influx of freshwater from melting ice can disrupt ocean currents and affect marine life. The text also mentions the potential release of stored carbon dioxide and methane from melting permafrost, contributing to further greenhouse gas emissions. Global warming is depicted as a consequence of human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. The text emphasizes the urgent need to address global warming to prevent irreversible damage to Antarctica and the planet as a whole.

Q7: What is the significance of Antarctica's quietness?
Ans: Antarctica's quietness holds great significance. The absence of human noise pollution and disturbances allows visitors to experience a profound sense of tranquility and solitude. The stillness of Antarctica creates an environment conducive to reflection, introspection, and a deep connection with nature. It offers a rare opportunity to escape the noise and chaos of modern life and appreciate the beauty and vastness of the natural world. Antarctica's quietness also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving undisturbed ecosystems and protecting the fragile balance of the planet's last wilderness areas.

Q8: What does the author's visit to Antarctica make us ponder about the future?
Ans: The author's visit to Antarctica prompts us to ponder the future of the planet in the face of climate change. It raises questions about the consequences of global warming and the urgent need for action to mitigate its impact. The melting ice shelves and glaciers witnessed by the author serve as a stark reminder of the potential rise in sea levels and the displacement of coastal communities. The author's awe-inspired experience in Antarctica makes us reflect on the fragility of our planet and the responsibility we have to protect it for future generations. It encourages us to consider the actions we can take individually and collectively to address climate change and preserve the Earth's precious ecosystems.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Discuss the journey of the author and the expedition group to Antarctica, including the challenges and experiences they faced.
Ans: The journey of the author, Tishani Doshi, and the expedition group to Antarctica was a remarkable adventure fraught with unique challenges and transformative experiences. Antarctica, being one of the most remote and extreme environments on Earth, posed numerous hurdles to their exploration. The challenges started with the sheer logistics of getting to the continent. Traveling from Madras, India to Antarctica, the team had to navigate nine time zones, cross three water bodies, and pass through six checkpoints. This required meticulous planning and coordination, as well as the endurance to endure long flights and challenging weather conditions.

Upon arriving in Antarctica, the group was greeted by a landscape unlike any other. The continent is characterized by its extreme cold, high winds, and vast expanses of ice and snow. The silence and isolation of Antarctica left a profound impact on the author and her fellow travelers, especially for someone like Tishani Doshi, who hails from the warm climate of South India. The very fact that they were standing on a continent that contains 90% of the world's ice was awe-inspiring and humbling.

Experiencing the pristine, untouched beauty of Antarctica, the author and the expedition group were confronted with the realities of climate change. They witnessed the alarming signs of global warming, from receding glaciers to changing ecosystems. The fragility of this ecosystem and its importance to the world became evident during their journey. The experiences in Antarctica challenged the travelers physically and emotionally. They had to adapt to the harsh conditions and learn to navigate the unforgiving environment. However, it was also a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment, as they were able to witness a part of the world rarely seen by humans.

Q2: Elaborate on the role of Antarctica as a crucial barometer for climate change and its implications for humanity.
Ans: Antarctica plays a crucial role as a barometer for climate change and carries profound implications for humanity. The continent serves as a critical indicator of global climate trends and a stark reminder of the consequences of environmental degradation. First and foremost, Antarctica's ice sheets and glaciers are sensitive indicators of global temperature changes. The accelerating melt and disintegration of ice in Antarctica are strong evidence of global warming. This, in turn, contributes to rising sea levels, which pose a significant threat to coastal regions and populations around the world. Antarctica, therefore, acts as a canary in the coal mine, warning us of the imminent dangers associated with climate change.

Furthermore, the continent's unique ecosystem and its inhabitants, such as penguins and seals, are also experiencing the impacts of climate change. Alterations in temperature and ocean chemistry disrupt their habitats and food sources. These changes have ripple effects up the food chain, affecting not only local wildlife but also global biodiversity. Antarctica's role as a climate barometer is not confined to its geographical location. It serves as a symbol of the interconnectedness of the planet's ecosystems. Changes in Antarctica affect ocean currents and weather patterns, which, in turn, have repercussions worldwide. For instance, disruptions in the Southern Ocean's circumpolar current can influence weather patterns in distant regions, including droughts and extreme weather events.

The implications for humanity are clear. If we continue to disregard the warning signals from Antarctica, we risk exacerbating climate change and its devastating consequences, such as sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and loss of biodiversity. Recognizing and addressing the role of Antarctica in climate change is paramount for our future.

Q3: Analyze the importance of understanding Antarctica's history and its relationship with India and other continents in the context of global geography.
Ans: Understanding Antarctica's history and its relationship with India and other continents is pivotal in the context of global geography. Antarctica's historical and geological significance is closely linked to the formation of Earth's continents and the evolution of our planet. Antarctica was once part of the supercontinent Gondwana, a landmass that included not only Antarctica but also South America, Africa, India, Australia, and other regions. As Gondwana gradually broke apart, it contributed to the formation of the continents we know today. This historical connection underscores the interconnectedness of the Earth's landmasses and the dynamic nature of the planet's geography.

India's relationship with Antarctica is particularly intriguing. Despite their current geographical separation, the fact that India and Antarctica were once connected as part of Gondwana is a testament to the shifting and drifting of continents over millions of years. This historical tie highlights the role of plate tectonics in shaping the planet's landmasses. Antarctica's historical context is essential for understanding its unique geological and environmental characteristics. For example, its geological record provides invaluable insights into Earth's past climate conditions, evolution of life, and the movement of continents. Studying Antarctica's history allows scientists to unravel the mysteries of the planet's geological evolution.

Moreover, Antarctica's relationship with other continents underscores the need for international cooperation and stewardship in the face of climate change. Given the global implications of Antarctica's environmental changes, it is imperative for nations to work together to protect this vital region and mitigate the effects of global warming. In summary, Antarctica's history and its relationship with India and other continents illuminate the complex story of our planet's geological evolution, emphasizing the interconnectedness of Earth's landmasses and the need for international collaboration in addressing climate change.

Q4: Reflect on the potential consequences of global warming on Antarctica and the broader impact on our planet.
Ans:  Global warming poses severe consequences for Antarctica, with far-reaching implications for the entire planet. The rapid changes observed in Antarctica are alarming and serve as a warning sign for humanity.

• Rising Sea Levels: Perhaps the most immediate and critical consequence of global warming in Antarctica is the melting of its ice sheets. As temperatures rise, ice in Antarctica is rapidly melting and contributing to rising sea levels. This threatens coastal communities and low-lying areas, increasing the risk of flooding, erosion, and loss of land.
• Changing Ecosystems: Warming temperatures and altered ocean currents disrupt the delicate ecosystems of Antarctica. Iconic species like penguins and seals face challenges in finding food, and invasive species can potentially threaten native biodiversity. These changes have cascading effects throughout the food chain and can have repercussions for global marine ecosystems.
• Global Weather Patterns: Antarctica's influence on ocean currents and weather patterns extends worldwide. Changes in the Southern Ocean's circumpolar current can impact weather systems, affecting climates in regions far from Antarctica. This can lead to unpredictable weather events, droughts, and heatwaves in various parts of the globe.
• Feedback Loops: Global warming in Antarctica can trigger feedback loops that further accelerate climate change. For instance, as ice melts, it exposes darker ocean water, which absorbs more heat and exacerbates warming. These feedback loops can intensify the global climate crisis.
• Scientific Insights: Antarctica is a crucial laboratory for understanding climate change. Studying the continent's past and present helps scientists project future scenarios and refine climate models. The consequences of global warming in Antarctica serve as empirical evidence of the reality and urgency of climate change.