Worksheet Solutions: Transport and Communication | Geography Class 12 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

Fill in the Blanks

Q1: The process of moving people and goods from one location to another is called ___________.
Ans: Transportation
The process of moving people and goods from one location to another through various means such as vehicles, railways, and ships.

Q2: Land transportation includes ___________ and ___________.
Ans: Roads, railways
Involves the use of roads and railways for moving goods and people over short and long distances on the land.

Q3: ___________ are used to transport materials like petroleum, natural gas, and ores in a liquefied form.
Ans: Pipelines
Specialized channels used for transporting liquefied materials like petroleum, natural gas, and ores efficiently and without interruptions.

Q4: The first public railway line was opened in ___________ between Stockton and Darlington.
Ans: 1825
The inaugural public railway line was opened in 1825 between Stockton and Darlington, marking a significant advancement in transportation history.

Q5: Roads are a more cost-effective option for ___________ distances.
Ans: Short
Roads are a cost-effective option for transporting goods and people over short distances due to their accessibility and convenience.

Q6: Sea routes can be classified into ___________ and ___________.
Ans: Sea routes, inland waterways
Sea routes include both sea routes across oceans and inland waterways, providing vital channels for maritime trade and transportation.

Q7: The Suez Canal links the ___________ Sea and the ___________ Sea.
Ans: Mediterranean Sea, Indian Ocean
The Suez Canal connects the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean, serving as a crucial gateway for maritime traffic between Europe and Asia.

Q8: Air transportation is the ___________ mode of transport but is also the most ___________.
Ans: Quickest, expensive
Air transportation is the quickest mode of transport, allowing rapid movement of goods and people across long distances, although it is also the most expensive means of transportation.

Q9: ___________ have simplified cargo handling at major ports around the world.
Ans: Cargo containers
Cargo containers have revolutionized logistics by simplifying cargo handling at major ports worldwide, enhancing efficiency and security in transportation.

Q10: Cyberspace refers to the virtual world of ___________ networks.
Ans: Computer
Cyberspace refers to the virtual world of computer networks, enabling electronic communication, commerce, and information exchange across the globe.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: Railways in Europe have a dense network, especially in Belgium.
Reason: Belgium's railway density is one kilometer per every 6.5 square kilometers of area.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
The assertion is correct as Europe indeed has a dense railway network, with Belgium having a high density of one kilometer of railway per every 6.5 square kilometers of area. The reason explains why the assertion is true, providing the correct context for Belgium's dense railway network.

Q2: Assertion: Air transportation is the quickest mode of transport.
Reason: Building airports is cheap and accessible in all regions.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (b)
The assertion is true; air transportation is indeed the quickest mode of transport. However, the reason is incorrect. Building airports is not always cheap and accessible in all regions. Airports require significant investment and infrastructure, making them expensive to build. Therefore, while the assertion is true, the reason does not correctly explain why air transportation is the quickest mode.

Q3: Assertion: The Suez Canal connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean.
Reason: It shortens the distance between New York and San Francisco by 13,000 km.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (d)
Both the assertion and reason are incorrect. The Suez Canal connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, not the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, the statement about shortening the distance between New York and San Francisco by 13,000 km is inaccurate, as these cities are on different coasts and are not connected by the Suez Canal.

Q4: Assertion: Pipelines handle about 17% of all freight per tonne-km in the US.
Reason: Pipelines are only used for transporting liquids.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
The assertion is correct; pipelines handle about 17% of all freight per tonne-km in the US. The reason is also accurate; pipelines are primarily used for transporting liquids, including oil and natural gas. This reason correctly explains why pipelines handle a specific type of freight, supporting the assertion.

Q5: Assertion: The Internet has facilitated communication, commerce, learning, and governance.
Reason: The Internet is limited to developed countries only.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (c)
The assertion is true; the Internet has indeed facilitated communication, commerce, learning, and governance globally. However, the reason is false. The Internet is not limited to developed countries; it has become widespread and accessible in many developing nations as well, enabling connectivity and information exchange across the world. Therefore, the assertion stands true, but the reason is incorrect.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Name one mode of transportation for perishable goods.
Ans: Refrigerated trucks.

Q2: What are the main means of transportation on a global scale?
Ans: Ships and airplanes.

Q3: Which country has the longest National Highway?
Ans: Australia.

Q4: What role do border roads play in transportation?
Ans: Border roads facilitate transportation and trade between countries.

Q5: Name two important shipping canals.
Ans: Panama Canal and Suez Canal.

Q6: Which continent has limited air services due to a sparser population?
Ans: Antarctica.

Q7: What is the main purpose of pipelines?
Ans: The main purpose of pipelines is to transport liquids and gases over long distances.

Q8: What are the factors determining the effectiveness of inland waterways?
Ans: Factors such as navigability, depth, width, and connectivity to other transportation modes.

Q9: Which country has the most dense rail network in South America?
Ans: Argentina.

Q10: What is the purpose of coastal shipping?
Ans: Coastal shipping is used to transport goods and passengers along the coastlines of countries.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the significance of railways in the transportation industry.
Ans: Railways serve as a means of transportation for both passengers and heavy goods across long distances. They are efficient for transporting large quantities of bulky materials and are extensively used in various regions worldwide.

Q2: Discuss the importance of sea routes in global trade.
Ans: Sea routes provide an uninterrupted and easily navigable mode of transport across oceans, connecting countries and facilitating international trade. They are essential for transporting goods and passengers efficiently and are supported by advanced navigation aids and specialized ships.

Q3: Describe the role of highways in transportation networks.
Ans: Highways are wide roads designed for unimpeded vehicular movement. They include separate traffic lanes, bridges, and flyovers, ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow. Highways connect distant places and are crucial for the movement of goods and people, especially in industrialized regions.

Q4: Explain the significance of inland waterways in transportation.
Ans: Inland waterways, including rivers, canals, lakes, and coastal areas, play a vital role in transportation. They have historically been essential routes for trade and transportation, connecting various regions. Despite competition from railways, efforts have been made to improve their navigability through dredging and other modifications.

Q5: Discuss the advantages of air transportation.
Ans: Air transportation is the quickest mode of transport, allowing fast movement of people and goods across long distances. It provides access to remote areas and offers efficient transportation options for urgent and high-value items. However, it is also the most expensive mode of transportation.

Q6: Explain the role of pipelines in transporting liquids and gases.
Ans: Pipelines are used to transport liquids and gases like water, natural gas, and petroleum without interruptions in flow. They form dense networks in countries like the United States, connecting producing areas to consuming areas, and play a significant role in transporting petroleum and other commodities.

Q7: Describe the impact of the Internet on communication and commerce.
Ans: The Internet has revolutionized communication, commerce, learning, and governance. It allows rapid and secure transmission of large volumes of data, enabling global connectivity. Its usage continues to grow, providing opportunities for online businesses, education, and information exchange.

Q8: Explain the concept of cyberspace and its significance.
Ans: Cyberspace refers to the virtual world of computer networks where users can access and exchange information electronically. It has facilitated communication, commerce, learning, and governance, connecting people across different places and times. Cyberspace has become an essential part of modern society, enabling various online activities and interactions.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Discuss the evolution of land transportation methods.
Ans: The evolution of land transportation methods can be traced back to ancient times when humans utilized their own physical abilities to travel on foot. As civilizations developed, various forms of animal-powered transportation, such as horse-drawn carts and chariots, emerged. However, the invention of the wheel revolutionized land transportation, allowing for the development of more efficient and faster methods.

• In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Industrial Revolution brought about significant advancements in land transportation. Steam-powered locomotives were introduced, leading to the establishment of railway networks that facilitated the transportation of goods and people over long distances. The invention of the automobile in the late 19th century further transformed land transportation, providing individuals with personal mobility and the ability to travel at their own convenience.
• In the 20th century, the development of highways and road networks expanded the reach of automobiles and facilitated the growth of suburban areas. Additionally, the advent of airplanes enabled rapid long-distance travel, connecting different regions and countries.
• Today, land transportation methods continue to evolve with the advancements in technology. Electric vehicles are gaining popularity as a more sustainable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars. Additionally, the emergence of autonomous vehicles and the potential implementation of hyperloop systems promise to revolutionize land transportation further.

Q2: Examine the importance of sea routes in global trade and their impact on economic development.
Ans: Sea routes play a crucial role in global trade, facilitating the movement of goods and resources between countries and continents. The vast majority of international trade is conducted through maritime transportation due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to carry large quantities of goods.

• Sea routes provide access to global markets, allowing countries to import and export goods on a massive scale. They enable the transportation of commodities such as raw materials, manufactured goods, and agricultural products, supporting economic development and industrialization. The availability of sea routes often determines a country's competitiveness in the global market.
• Furthermore, sea routes contribute to the growth of port cities and coastal regions, creating job opportunities and generating economic activity. Ports serve as important hubs for logistics and maritime industries, attracting investments and fostering trade relationships. Additionally, the development of supporting infrastructure, such as container terminals and shipyards, further enhances the efficiency of sea routes and boosts economic development.
• The impact of sea routes on economic development extends beyond trade. They facilitate cultural exchange, tourism, and the spread of ideas, contributing to globalization and the interconnectedness of nations. Moreover, the availability of secure and efficient sea routes is vital for ensuring energy security, as a significant portion of the world's oil and gas supplies are transported by sea.

Q3: Compare and contrast the significance of railways in different regions of the world.
Ans: The significance of railways varies across different regions of the world, influenced by factors such as historical development, geographical characteristics, and economic priorities. Here are some key comparisons and contrasts:

• Europe: Railways have played a crucial role in Europe's transportation infrastructure for centuries. The extensive railway networks connect various countries, enabling efficient and high-speed passenger travel as well as freight transportation. Railways in Europe are often integrated with other modes of transportation, such as buses and metros, providing seamless connectivity within and between cities.
• North America: Railways have historically played a significant role in North America, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The construction of transcontinental railroads facilitated westward expansion and the development of the United States. However, in recent decades, the dominance of automobiles and airplanes has diminished the importance of railways for passenger travel, although freight transportation by rail remains significant.
• Asia: Railways have a diverse significance across different regions of Asia. In countries like China and India, large railway networks support both passenger and freight transportation, serving as crucial modes of travel for millions of people. High-speed rail systems have been rapidly expanding in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, revolutionizing land transportation. In contrast, some less-developed regions in Asia may have limited railway infrastructure and rely more on other modes of transportation.
• Africa: Railways in Africa face various challenges due to limited funding, maintenance issues, and political instability. However, there are ongoing efforts to improve and expand railway networks to enhance regional connectivity and boost economic development. In countries like South Africa and Morocco, railways play a more significant role in transportation, supporting both passenger and freight services.

Q4: Explore the impact of the Internet and satellite communication on global connectivity and communication.
Ans: The Internet and satellite communication have revolutionized global connectivity and communication, transforming the way individuals, businesses, and governments interact. Here are some key impacts:

• Global Connectivity: The Internet has connected people from different corners of the world, overcoming physical barriers and enabling instant communication. It has facilitated the exchange of information, ideas, and knowledge on a global scale. Satellite communication has played a crucial role in extending Internet connectivity to remote and underserved areas, bridging the digital divide.
• Business and Trade: The Internet has facilitated e-commerce, enabling businesses to reach customers worldwide and conduct transactions online. It has opened up new markets and opportunities for businesses of all sizes, fostering global trade. Satellite communication ensures reliable and secure connectivity for international businesses, supporting activities such as supply chain management, remote collaboration, and real-time data transfer.
• Communication and Social Interaction: The Internet and satellite communication have transformed communication patterns. People can communicate instantly through various platforms, such as email, instant messaging, voice calls, and video conferencing. Social media platforms have emerged as powerful tools for connecting individuals, sharing experiences, and disseminating information globally.
• Education and Research: The Internet has revolutionized education and research by providing access to vast amounts of information and online learning resources. It enables remote learning, virtual classrooms, and collaboration among researchers across the globe. Satellite communication ensures connectivity in remote areas, allowing students and researchers to access educational materials and participate in global academic networks.
• Emergency and Disaster Management: Satellite communication plays a crucial role in emergency and disaster management. It enables rapid communication and coordination during crises, facilitating rescue operations, and providing real-time information to affected areas. The Internet allows for the dissemination of emergency alerts and the coordination of relief efforts on a global scale.

Overall, the Internet and satellite communication have significantly enhanced global connectivity, enabling seamless communication, fostering economic growth, and promoting collaboration and innovation on a global scale.