Geography: CBSE Sample Question Paper with Solutions - 4 | 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.  How many outer planets are there?
(a) Three
(b) Four
(c) Two
(d)  Five

Correct Answer is option b.

Q.2. Pangaea began to split around:
(a) 400 million years ago
(b) 300 million years ago
(c)  100 million years ago
(d)  200 million years ago

Correct Answer is option d.

Q.3.  Which one of the following is not a sedimentary rock :
(a)  Marble
(b)  Tillite
(c)  Borax
(d) Breccia

Correct Answer is option a.

Q.4. A deep, long and wide trough or basin with very steep concave high walls at its head as well as in sides is known as:
(a) Glacial valley
(c) Lateral Moraine
(b)  Esker
(d) Cirque

Correct Answer is option d.

Q.5. Air pressure is measured with the help of a:
(a)  thermometer
(b) pressure force
(c)  liquid barometer
(d)  mercury barometer

Correct Answer is option d.

Q.6.  Arrange the following hills from North to South direction:
(i) Zaskar Range
(ii) Karakoram Range
(iii) Ladakh Range
(iv) Shiwalik Range
Options:
(a) iii, iv, i, ii
(b)  ii, i, iv, iii
(c)  iii, ii, iv, i
(d) iv, iii, ii, i

Correct Answer is option a.

Q.7.  Precipitation varies greatly from 50-250 cm in the:
(a) Polar climate
(b)  Tundra type of climate
(c)  Ice type climate
(d)  Marine west coast climate

Correct Answer is option d.

Q.8.  The________ geography was introduced by Alexander Von Humboldt.
(a) economic
(b)  systematic
(c)  regional
(d)  physical

Correct Answer is option b.

Q.9.  The ______ is the outermost solid part of the earth.
(a) magma
(b)  lava
(c)  crust
(d)  mantle

Correct Answer is option c.

Q.10.  _____contains calcium, aluminium, magnesium, iron and silica.
(a)  Graphite
(b)  Pyroxene
(c)  Coal
(d) Sodium

Correct Answer is option b.

Q.11.  Caves having openings at both the ends are called:
(a)  cave holes
(b) stalactites
(c) tunnels
(d) sinkholes

Correct Answer is option c.

Q.12. Oxygen gas is in negligible quantity at the height of atmosphere :
(a)  120 km
(b) 100 km
(c)  150 km 
(d)  90 km

Correct Answer is option a.

Q.13.  The direction of wind around a low pressure in northern hemisphere is :
(a)  Parallel to isobars
(b) Anti-clock wise
(c)  Perpendicular to isobars
(d)  Clockwise

Correct Answer is option b.

Q.14. Arrange the formation of sleet in correct order:
(i)  Liquid rain forms in a warmer layer of air.
(ii)  The drops form into pellets.
(iii)  Rain falls down through a cooler layer just above the ground, the raindrops freeze.
(iv)  The drops freeze on contact and form a glaze on objects.
Options:
(a)  iv, ii, i, iii
(b)  ii, iv, i, iii
(c) i, iii, ii, iv
(d) iii, ii, i, iv

Correct Answer is option c.

Q.15. Read the case study given below and answer any three of the questions that follow.
In mountainous areas, the decrease  in  temperature  with  increasing  altitude  leads  to a  corresponding  change  in  natural  vegetation.  Mountain  forests  can  be  classified  into  two  types,  the  northern  mountain  forests  and  the southern mountain forests. The Himalayan ranges show a succession of vegetation from the tropical to the tundra, which change in with the altitude. Deciduous forests are found in the foot hills of the Himalayas. It is succeeded by the wet temperate type of forests between an altitude of 1,000-2,000 m. In the higher hill ranges of  north  eastern  India,  hilly  areas  of  West  Bengal  and  Uttaranchal,  evergreen  broad  leaf  trees  such  as  oak  and  chestnut are predominant. Between 1,500-1,750 m, pine forests are also well developed in this zone, with Chir Pine as a very useful commercial tree. Deodar, a highly valued endemic species grows mainly in the western part of the Himalayan range. Deodar is a durable wood mainly used in construction activity. Similarly, the chinar and the walnut, which sustain the famous Kashmir handicrafts, belong to this zone. Blue pine and spruce appear at altitudes  of  2,225-3,048  m.  At  many  places  in  this  zone,  temperate  grasslands  are  also  found.  But  in  the  higher  reaches there is a transition to Alpine forests and pastures. Silver firs, junipers, pines, birchand rhododendrons, etc. occur between 3,000-4,000 m. However, these pastures are used extensively for transhumance by tribes like the Gujjars, the Bakarwals, the Bhotiyas and the Gaddis. The southern slopes of the Himalayas carry a thicker vegetation cover because of relatively higher precipitation than the drier north-facing slopes. At higher altitudes, mosses and lichens form part of the tundra vegetation. The southern mountain forests include the forests found in three distinct areas of Peninsular India viz; the Western Ghats, the Vindhyas and the Nilgiris. As they are closer to the tropics, and only 1,500 m above the sea level, vegetation is temperate in the higher regions, and subtropical on the lower regions of the Western Ghats, especially in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The temperate forests are  called  Sholas  in  the  Nilgiris,  Anaimalai  and  Palani  hills.  Some  of  the  other  trees  of  this  forest  of  economic.  Significance includes magnolia, laurel, cinchona and wattle. Such forests are also found in the Satpura and the Maikal ranges.

(i)  Mosses and lichens are part of the:
(a)  Temperate vegetation
(b)  Tropical vegetation
(c)  Tundra vegetation
(d)  Taiga vegetation

Correct Answer is option b.

(ii)  Which of the following forests are found in the foothills of the Himalayas?
(a)  Deciduous forests
(b)  Evergreen forests
(c)  Temperate forests
(d)  Alpine forests

Correct Answer is option a.

(iii)  Deodar, a highly valued endemic species grows mainly in which part of the Himalayan range?
(a)  Northern
(b)  Western
(c)  Southern
(d)  Eastern

Correct Answer is option b.

Q.16. Read the case study given below and answer any three of the questions that follow.
We know that all maps are reductions. The first decision that a map-maker has to take is about the scale of the map.  The  choice  of  scale  is  of  utmost  importance.  The  scale  of  a  map  sets  limits  of  information  contents  and  the  degree  of  reality  with  which  it  can  be  delineated  on  the  map.  We  also  know  that  maps  are  a  simplified  representation  of  the  three-dimensional  surface  of  the  earth  on  a  plane  sheet  of  paper.  The  transformation  of  all-side-curved-geoidal surface into a plane surface is another important aspect of the cartographic process. We should know that such a radical transformation introduces some unavoidable changes in directions, distances, areas and shapes from the way they appear on a geoid. A system of transformation of the spherical surface to the plane surface is called a map projection. Hence, the choice, utilisation and construction of projections is of prime importance in map-making.
(i)  The choice, utilisation and construction of projections is of prime importance in _________.
(a)  None of the above
(b) map minding
(c)  map decision
(d) map-making

Correct Answer is option d.

(ii)  All maps are_________.
(a)  reductions
(b) detailed
(c)  miniatures
(d)  never ending

Correct Answer is option a.

(iii)  The ________of a map sets limits of information contents and the degree of reality with which it can be delineated on the map.
(a)  Distance
(b)  Purpose
(c)  Scale
(d) Projection

Correct Answer is option c.

Q.17.  Describe the three steps involved in catastrophe management and mitigation.

Disaster mitigation and management involve three stages:

• Pre-disaster stage: The pre-disaster stage involves all the measures taken before a disaster occurs to prevent or reduce its impact. This includes planning, organizing, and training programs for disaster preparedness, risk assessment, hazard mapping, and developing early warning systems. It also involves developing emergency response plans, establishing evacuation procedures, and stockpiling emergency supplies.
• During-disaster stage: The during-disaster stage involves the immediate response to a disaster. This includes search and rescue operations, providing medical assistance, food, shelter, and other basic needs to the affected population, setting up temporary relief camps, and restoring essential services such as electricity, water, and communication.
• Post-disaster stage: The post-disaster stage involves the recovery and rehabilitation process after the immediate response phase. This includes assessing the damage caused by the disaster, providing long-term shelter, rebuilding infrastructure, restoring essential services, and providing psycho-social support to the affected population. The post-disaster stage also involves developing strategies to reduce the risk of future disasters by improving land-use planning, building codes, and early warning systems.

Overall, disaster mitigation and management involve a comprehensive approach to reducing the impact of disasters by addressing all stages of the disaster cycle. By doing so, it is possible to minimize the loss of life and property, reduce economic losses, and promote sustainable development in disaster-prone areas.

Q.18.  What are your know about of the relief characteristics of the ocean floor?

The Earth's oceans are located in the depressions of the planet's outer layer and they merge naturally into each other. Geographers have divided the oceanic part of the Earth into four oceans: the Pacific, the Atlantic, the Indian, and the Arctic Ocean. The ocean floor, which lies mostly between 3 and 6 km below sea level, is comprised of rugged terrain, including the world's largest mountain ranges, deepest trenches, and largest plains. These features, formed by tectonic, volcanic, and depositional processes, are similar to those found on the continents. Additionally, the oceans are home to a variety of seas, bays, gulfs, and other inlets, which are all connected to the four main oceans.

Q.19. Explain why the atmosphere is heated up by terrestrial radiation rather than directly by sunrays.

The atmosphere is heated indirectly by terrestrial radiation and not directly by sunrays due to the properties of the Earth's atmosphere. When sunlight enters the Earth's atmosphere, some of it is absorbed by the Earth's surface and some is reflected back into space. The energy absorbed by the Earth's surface is then re-radiated back into the atmosphere in the form of long-wave radiation or infrared radiation.
The Earth's atmosphere is transparent to incoming solar radiation, allowing it to pass through to the surface. However, it is opaque to outgoing long-wave radiation, trapping it in the atmosphere. This is known as the greenhouse effect, and it is the reason why the Earth's atmosphere is heated up by terrestrial radiation and not directly by sunrays.
In summary, the Earth's atmosphere is heated indirectly by terrestrial radiation because the atmosphere is opaque to outgoing long-wave radiation and traps it in the atmosphere, causing it to warm up. This is in contrast to incoming solar radiation, which is allowed to pass through the atmosphere and heat up the Earth's surface directly.

Q.20. What causes the earth to tremble?

A fault is a break in the rocks of the Earth's crust where two blocks of rock move in opposite directions. The movement is often blocked by friction caused by the weight of overlying rocks. However, at some point, the blocks overcome the friction and slide past each other abruptly, releasing energy. This energy travels in all directions, causing the Earth to shake.

Q.21. Describe the characteristics of India's monsoonal rains.

Monsoonal rainfall in India is characterized by the following features:
Seasonal: Monsoonal rainfall occurs during a specific period of the year, usually between June and September, which is commonly known as the monsoon season.
Uneven distribution: The rainfall is unevenly distributed both spatially and temporally. Some regions receive heavy rainfall while others may receive comparatively lower amounts.
Southwest and Northeast monsoons: India experiences two monsoons - the Southwest monsoon, which is the main monsoon season, and the Northeast monsoon, which occurs during the winter months and brings rainfall to the southern peninsular region.
Importance: Monsoonal rainfall is critical for agriculture in India, as the majority of crops depend on the rains for growth.
Impact on economy: The variability of monsoonal rainfall can have a significant impact on the Indian economy, especially on the agricultural and power sectors.
Dependence on oceanic and atmospheric factors: The monsoonal rainfall in India is dependent on various oceanic and atmospheric factors, including sea surface temperatures, pressure gradients, and wind patterns.
High variability: The monsoonal rainfall in India exhibits high year-to-year variability, which can lead to droughts or floods in different regions of the country.

Q.22.  What are landslides? How many regions in India are prone to landslides?

Landslides are the movement of rock, earth, or debris down a slope or incline. Landslides can occur due to a variety of factors, including heavy rainfall, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and human activities such as deforestation or excavation.
India is a country that is prone to landslides, particularly in areas with steep slopes and heavy rainfall. The Indian government has identified and divided the country into four landslide-prone zones based on their vulnerability to landslides. These zones are:
Zone I - areas with very low to low landslide susceptibility, such as the Indo-Gangetic plains and parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
Zone II - areas with moderate to high landslide susceptibility, such as the Himalayan foothills, parts of the northeast, and the Western Ghats.
Zone III - areas with high to very high landslide susceptibility, such as the hilly regions of the northeast, Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh.
Zone IV - areas with extremely high landslide susceptibility, such as the Himalayan range, the northeastern states, and the Western Ghats.
These landslide-prone zones are identified and monitored by the Indian government in order to mitigate the risks associated with landslides and to implement appropriate measures to prevent and manage landslides in these areas.

Q.23.  What causes the decline of the wildlife in India?

The decline of wildlife in India can be attributed to a number of factors, including:
Habitat destruction and fragmentation: The destruction and fragmentation of natural habitats due to human activities such as deforestation, mining, urbanization, and agricultural expansion have resulted in the loss of habitat for many wildlife species.
Poaching and illegal wildlife trade: Poaching and the illegal trade of wildlife and wildlife products continue to be major threats to many endangered species in India. The trade of ivory, tiger parts, and other wildlife products is a lucrative business that has fueled the decline of many species.
Human-wildlife conflict: As human populations continue to expand, conflicts between people and wildlife are becoming more common. This is particularly true in areas where people and wildlife compete for resources, such as water and food.
Climate change: Climate change is also emerging as a major threat to wildlife in India. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events are affecting the distribution and behavior of many species.
Pollution: Pollution, particularly water pollution and air pollution, is also a major threat to many wildlife species in India. Polluted water sources can affect aquatic species, while air pollution can affect the respiratory systems of animals.
To address the decline of wildlife in India, efforts are being made to protect and restore natural habitats, enforce wildlife protection laws, and increase public awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation.

Q.24.  Briefly describe the bio-geochemical cycle.

A biogeochemical cycle refers to the movement of chemical elements and compounds through the biotic and abiotic components of the Earth's ecosystems. This cycle includes both the living and non-living components of the Earth, such as the atmosphere, water, soil, and living organisms. There are several key elements that are essential to the biogeochemical cycle, including carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, and water. Each of these elements has a unique cycle that involves both biological and geological processes.
The cycle begins with the uptake of nutrients by plants, which then become part of the food chain as they are consumed by other organisms. When these organisms die or excrete waste, their nutrients are returned to the soil, where they can be used again by plants. The cycling of these elements also involves the physical and chemical processes that occur in the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, and geological formations. For example, carbon is cycled through the atmosphere and oceans through the process of photosynthesis and respiration, while nitrogen is cycled through the atmosphere, soil, and living organisms through the process of nitrogen fixation.
Human activities can also impact the biogeochemical cycle, such as through the release of greenhouse gases and the use of fertilizers that can alter the natural balance of nutrient cycles. Understanding and managing these cycles is essential for maintaining the health and sustainability of the Earth's ecosystems.

Q.25.  How is Bhabar different from Tarai?

Bhabar and Tarai are two distinct geographical regions found in northern India, Nepal, and Bhutan, which are characterized by different geological features and vegetation. Bhabar refers to the region located at the foot of the Himalayan Mountains, which is characterized by porous and rocky soil. The area is drained by numerous small streams that originate from the Himalayan glaciers, and the vegetation in the region is predominantly scrub forests and grasslands. The Bhabar region acts as a natural barrier that separates the Himalayan Mountains from the Indo-Gangetic Plains.
Tarai, on the other hand, is a low-lying region located south of the Bhabar, which is characterized by alluvial soil deposited by the numerous rivers that flow down from the Himalayas. The region is marked by dense tropical forests and grasslands, and is often referred to as the "breadbasket" of Nepal and northern India due to its fertile soil and abundant agricultural production.
The main difference between Bhabar and Tarai is the type of soil and vegetation found in each region. Bhabar has rocky and porous soil and is dominated by scrub forests and grasslands, while Tarai has fertile alluvial soil and is dominated by tropical forests and grasslands.

Q.26.  Describe the characteristics of saline soils.

Saline soils are soils that have a high concentration of soluble salts, which can negatively impact plant growth and development. Here are some of the features of saline soils:
High salt concentration: Saline soils have a high concentration of soluble salts, particularly sodium chloride, which can be toxic to plants.
Low water-holding capacity: The high salt concentration in saline soils makes it difficult for plants to absorb water, as the salt ions attract and hold onto water molecules. This results in low water-holding capacity of the soil, which can lead to drought stress for plants.
High pH: Saline soils often have a high pH, which can also be detrimental to plant growth, as it can interfere with nutrient uptake.
Poor soil structure: The high salt concentration in saline soils can also cause soil particles to clump together, resulting in poor soil structure and reduced soil porosity.
Limited plant diversity: Due to the high salt concentration in saline soils, only certain plant species are able to tolerate and grow in these soils. This can limit the diversity of plant species in saline soil ecosystems.
White crust on the soil surface: As water evaporates from the soil surface, the salt concentration increases, leading to the formation of a white crust of salt on the soil surface.
To manage saline soils, strategies such as leaching with freshwater, adding organic matter, and using salt-tolerant plant species can be employed. Additionally, managing irrigation practices to prevent the buildup of salts in the soil can also help to reduce the negative impacts of saline soils.

Q.27. On an outline political map of India mark the following using appropriate symbols:
A. State leading in coffee production
B. Baroni oil refinery
C. Ratnagiri iron-ore mine
D. An important node of north-south corridor in Telangana state
E. An international airport in Gujarat state

Q.28. On the given map of world five features are shown as A, B, C, D and E. Identify the features with the help of the information given below and write their correct names on the lines marked on the map:
A. An area of mixed farming
B. A lake in the Great Lakes region
C. A major seaport in Africa
D. A major airport in Europe
E. An area where Mediterranean agriculture is practiced