Class 8 Social-Science Chapter 1 Practice Question Answers - Resources

Q1: Which of the following is a non-renewable resource?
(a) Wind energy
(b) Solar energy
(c) Natural gas
(d) Rainwater harvesting
Ans: (c)
Natural gas is a non-renewable resource because it is finite and cannot be easily replenished on human timescales. Wind energy and solar energy are renewable resources, while rainwater harvesting is a method to conserve water resources.

Q2: Which resource is often referred to as the "black gold"?
(a) Coal
(b) Petroleum
(c) Iron ore
(d) Natural gas
Ans: (b)
Petroleum is often referred to as "black gold" due to its economic significance and dark color. It is a valuable non-renewable resource.

Q3: What is the primary source of renewable energy in India?
(a) Wind energy
(b) Solar energy
(c) Hydroelectric power
(d) Biomass energy
Ans: (b)
Solar energy is the primary source of renewable energy in India due to the country's abundant sunlight. It is harnessed through solar panels to generate electricity.

Q4: Which resource plays a vital role in the formation of soil?
(a) Air
(b) Water
(d) Rocks
(d) Microorganisms
Ans: (a)
Rocks weather over time, breaking down into smaller particles and contributing to the formation of soil. While air, water, and microorganisms are important for soil health, rocks are the primary source material.

Q5: What is the term for the sustainable management and use of Earth's natural resources?
(a) Conservation
(b) Exploitation
(c) Depletion
(d) Pollution
Ans: (a)
Conservation refers to the sustainable management and use of Earth's natural resources to ensure their availability for future generations. It involves responsible practices to prevent overexploitation, depletion, and pollution.

Q6: Explain the concept of 'renewable resources' and provide an example.
Ans: Renewable resources are natural resources that can be replenished or regenerated naturally over time, making them sustainable for the long term. An example of a renewable resource is wind energy. Wind is constantly generated by atmospheric conditions, and it can be harnessed using wind turbines to produce electricity without depleting the resource.

Q7: Describe the impact of deforestation on natural resources and the environment.
Ans: Deforestation has several adverse impacts on natural resources and the environment. It leads to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, disruption of water cycles, and contributes to climate change by releasing carbon dioxide. Additionally, it reduces the availability of wood as a renewable resource and can negatively affect local communities dependent on forests for their livelihoods.

Q8: How can individuals contribute to the conservation of water resources in their daily lives?
Ans: Individuals can contribute to water resource conservation by:

• Reducing water wastage: Using low-flow faucets and fixing leaks.
• Efficient irrigation: Using drip irrigation systems in gardens.
• Rainwater harvesting: Collecting rainwater for household use.
• Conserving water in daily activities: Taking shorter showers and turning off taps when not in use.
• Avoiding pollution: Properly disposing of chemicals and not dumping pollutants into water bodies.

Q9: Explain the term 'mineral resources' and provide an example of a mineral resource.
Ans: Mineral resources are naturally occurring substances found beneath the Earth's surface that have economic value. An example of a mineral resource is iron ore. Iron ore is mined and processed to extract iron, which is used in the production of steel and various other industrial applications.

Q10: Discuss the importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecological balance and its role in providing resources for human well-being.
Ans: Biodiversity is crucial for maintaining ecological balance as it ensures the stability of ecosystems. It helps in pest control, pollination of crops, and nutrient cycling. Biodiversity also provides various resources for human well-being, including food, medicine, timber, and recreational opportunities. Preserving biodiversity is essential to maintain the planet's overall health and to secure these valuable resources for future generations.

Q11: Explain the concept of renewable and non-renewable resources. Give examples of each and discuss why it is important to manage them sustainably.
Ans: Renewable resources are those that can be naturally replenished over time, such as sunlight and wind energy. Non-renewable resources, on the other hand, are finite and cannot be regenerated within a human timescale, like fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas). It's crucial to manage resources sustainably to ensure their availability for future generations. Sustainable management involves using resources in a way that doesn't deplete them entirely and minimizes environmental impacts. For example, in the case of non-renewable resources, we should focus on energy conservation and developing alternative sources to reduce our dependence on them.

Q12: Discuss the significance of water as a resource. Explain how pollution and over-extraction can harm water resources. Suggest measures to conserve and protect this vital resource.
Ans: Water is a vital resource for all life on Earth. Its significance lies in supporting ecosystems, agriculture, industry, and human survival. Pollution, caused by the discharge of chemicals and waste into water bodies, harms water quality and aquatic life. Over-extraction, especially from groundwater sources, can lead to depletion and land subsidence. To conserve water, measures like rainwater harvesting, efficient irrigation techniques, and wastewater treatment are essential. Protecting water bodies from pollution requires strict regulations and public awareness about responsible disposal practices.

Q13: Examine the impact of deforestation on the environment and human communities. Provide examples of regions where deforestation has been a significant issue and suggest strategies for its mitigation.
Ans: Deforestation, the removal of forests for various purposes, has profound environmental and social consequences. It leads to loss of biodiversity, disruption of local climates, soil erosion, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. For example, the Amazon rainforest in South America has witnessed extensive deforestation. Mitigation strategies include afforestation (planting new trees), promoting sustainable logging practices, and enforcing strict anti-deforestation laws. Additionally, raising awareness about the importance of forests and involving local communities in conservation efforts is crucial.

Q14: Explain the concept of sustainable agriculture. Discuss the challenges faced by farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices. Provide examples of sustainable farming techniques and their benefits.
Ans: Sustainable agriculture aims to meet the current food needs while preserving natural resources for future generations. Challenges for farmers include the initial cost of adopting sustainable methods, lack of knowledge, and resistance to change. Sustainable practices include crop rotation, organic farming, and integrated pest management. Crop rotation helps maintain soil fertility, organic farming reduces chemical use, and integrated pest management minimizes pesticide use. These practices improve soil health, reduce environmental impacts, and increase long-term crop yields.

Q15: Elaborate on the concept of mineral resources. Discuss the importance of minerals in industrial development. Highlight the need for responsible mining practices and their impact on the environment.
Ans: Mineral resources are naturally occurring substances with economic value, such as iron, copper, and gold. They are crucial for industrial development, as they are used in manufacturing and construction. Responsible mining practices involve minimizing environmental damage and ensuring the safety of workers. Mining can lead to habitat destruction, water pollution, and soil degradation. Regulations, like proper waste disposal and reclamation of mining sites, are necessary to mitigate these impacts and ensure sustainable use of mineral resources.