Chapter 16 Natural Resources

Class 10 Science Chapter 16

Natural Resources

Question 1.
Switching off unnecessary lights and fans and repairing leaking taps correctly defines which terms of 5R’s?
(a) Recycle
(b) Reuse
(c) Repurpose
(d) Reduce (2020)
Answer:
(d) Reduce

Question 2.
“We need to manage our resources.” List two reasons to justify this statement. (Delhi 2014)
Answer:
We need to manage our natural resources because (i) the resources of the earth are limited and (ii) the proper management of our resources ensures their equitable distribution.

Question 3.
List two items which can be easily recycled, but we generally throw them in the dust-bins. (AI 2014)
Answer:
Newspapers and tin cans are the two items that can be easily recycled.

Question 4.
How do advantages of exploiting natural resources with short term gains in mind differ from the advantages of managing our resources with a long-term perspective? (Delhi 2017)
Answer:
The advantages of exploiting resources with short term aim is to meet the immediate basic human needs. Short term exploitation of natural resources meets the current demand. It is beneficial for the present generation only whereas management of resources with long term perspective is aimed to fulfil the needs of future generations. Long term use of resources can be achieved through their sustainable use.

Question 5.
Why is an equitable distribution of resources essential in a society? List two forces which are against such distribution. (AI 2017)
Answer:
Equitable distribution of natural resources is necessary so that all and not just a handful of rich and powerful people use them. Two forces against equitable distribution of resources are :

·        Industrialisation

·        Profit makers who want to make profit from these resources.

Question 6.
“Reuse is better than recycling of materials”. Give reason to justify this statement. (Delhi 2016)
Answer:
Reuse is better than recycling because the process of reuse does not require any energy as in the case of recycling. I lie reuse strategy comprises using things again and again. For example, used envelopes can be used again to make notes.

Question 7.
What is sustainable development? State its two main objectives. (Foreign 2016)
Answer:
Sustainable development can be defined as management of available resources and development of new techniques for use ol natural resources to meet the changing basic human needs, at the same time preserving the resources for the need of future generations. The two main objectives of sustainable development are:

·        To reduce the dependence on the conventional sources and adopt non-conventional sources of energy.

·        Evolving new technology and conserving natural resources.

Question 8.
(a) Why do we need to manage our resources carefully?
(b) Why management of natural resources requires a long term perspective? (Delhi 2015)
Answer:
(a) The resources of earth are limited and their demand is increasing day by day with ever growing population. So, we have to avoid their wastage and should properly manage, conserve and replenish our natural resources.
(b) Management of natural resources requires a long term perspective so that they can last for generations to come and may not be merely exploited for short term gains.

Question 9.
What is meant by “sustainable management”?
Why is reuse considered better than recycling? (Delhi 2015)
Answer:
Sustainable management means managing the use of natural resources in a way that they fulfill the needs of present generation and are also conserved for future generations.
Reuse is considered better than recycling because reusing products reduces the amount of waste and saves energy needed to recycle it.

Question 10.
Everyone of us can do something to reduce our personal consumption of various natural resources. List four such activities based on 3R approach. (Delhi 2015)
Answer:
Activities which can reduce consumption of natural resources are as follows:

·        If we take public transport instead of private transport to travel to our destinations then we can help reduce the use of fossil fuels.

·        Reusing the water used for washing vegetables, to water plants in the garden can help in saving water.

·        Repairing and reusing old mobiles, televisions, etc., help reduce consumption of natural resources.

·        Promoting the use of furniture made of metals, fabrics, etc., instead of wood can help to reduce the cutting of trees for making such items.

Question 11.
Why is sustainable management of natural resources necessary? Out of the two-reuse and recycle-which, in your opinion is better to practise? Give reason. (AI 2015)
Answer:
Sustainable management of natural resources is necessary because:
(i) The resources of the earth are limited and because of the rapid increase in human population, the demand for resources is increasing day by day. Proper management can ensure that the natural resources are used judiciously so that they fulfill the needs of present generation and also last for the generations to come.

(ii) It also takes into consideration long-term perspective and prevents exploitation of natural resources for short-term gains.
The process of ‘reuse’ is better than that of ‘recycling’ because some energy is used to recycle old objects but no energy is required during reuse.

Question 12.
What is meant by three types of ‘R’ (3Rs) to save the environment? Explain with examples how would you follow the 3Rs in your school to save the environment. (Foreign 2015)
Answer:
3Rs to save tire environment are reduce, recycle and reuse. For sustainable use of resources, the three Rs can be practised in school in following ways:
Reduce : Switching off unnecessary lights and fans when not in use, avoiding wastage of food, closing of over flowing taps.
Recycle : Students should segregate the wastes generated in classroom and should discard them in separate dustbins for their proper disposal. Reuse : Certain items can be reused like old books should not be thrown instead can be given to junior students for their use.

Question 13.
Write two advantages of sustainable management of natural resources. Out of the two – reuse and recycle – which is better and why? (Foreign 2015)
Answer:
Two advantages of sustainable management of natural resources are :
(i) It avoids wasteful use of natural resources.
(ii) Benefits of the resources are conserved for present as well as future generations.
Of the two, reuse and recycle, reuse is better because reusing an item helps to conserve energy that may be required to recycle it.

Question 14.
Why is sustainable management of natural resources necessary? Out of the two methods – reuse and recycle – which one would you suggest to practise and why? (AI 2014)
Answer:
Refer to answer 11.

Question 15.
State the meaning of “sustainable management”. Reuse is better than recycling. How? (Foreign 2012)
Answer:
Refer to answer 9.

Question 16.
How can we help in reducing the problem of waste disposal? Suggest any three methods. (Delhi 2019)
Answer:
In our daily lives, we generate a lot of useless materials and discard them. The useless left over or discarded materials are termed as wastes. Disposal of waste materials is a global problem of high magnitude. Waste disposal literally means getting rid of wastes. We can help in reducing the problem of waste disposal by adopting following approaches:
(i) Reduce : This means that we can use less of the things or resources. For example, we can reduce the use of electricity by switching off unnecessary lights and fans or the use of water by turning off the tap while brushing or shaving. We can use both sides of paper, for writing, do not waste food or take only that much food which we can finish, etc. Thus, by adopting such methods, we can reduce the problem of waste disposal to a larger extent.

(ii) Recycle : There are certain items such as plastic, clothes, paper, glass, metal, etc., in our houses which are usually thrown in the garbage when not of any use. This should not be practiced and we should try the practice of recycling. We should segregate wastes into biodegradable (domestic sewage, livestock wastes, etc.) and non- biodegradable (plastics, glass, metals, etc.). The biodegradable wastes should be dumped into preplanned site to be converted into manure or landfilling. The non-biodegradable wastes should be sent to respective recycling units where these are remoulded and again put to use.

(iii) Reuse : The reuse strategy comprises using things again and again. For example, instead of throwing away used plastic bottles in which we buy various food items like jam or pickle, tea leaves, sweets, etc., we can use them for storing things in the kitchen. Mobile phones, camera, TV sets should be repaired when required instead of throwing them and getting new ones. Newspapers and magazines can be used to make envelopes and paper bags, etc.

Question 17.
Consider the following criticisms that are generally addressed when a new project is launched:
I. Displacement of peasants and local tribals without compensation.
II. Swallowing up large amount of public money without any benefits.
III. Deforestation and loss of biodiversity. The criticisms about large dams in particular are
(a) I and II
(b) II and III
(c) I and III
(d) I, II and III. (2020)
Answer:
(d) I, II and III.

Question 18.
The Reni village of Garhwal is famous for
(a) monocultures of pine, teak and Eucalyptus
(b) Chipko movement
(c) extensive biodiversity
(d) participation of local people in efficient management of forests. (2020)
Answer:
(b) Chipko movement

Question 19.
The major ill effect of monoculture practice in forests is on the
(a) biodiversity which faces large destruction
(b) local people whose basic needs can no longer be met from such forests
(c) industries
(d) forest department. (2020)
Answer:
(a) biodiversity which faces large destruction

Question 20.
What is meant by wildlife? How is it important for us? (Delhi 2017)
Answer:
Life in any form (plants or animals), which
exists in its natural hahiLaL is called wildlife. Wildlife is very important for us, as it provides ecological stability by maintaining the food chain. Wildlife is important to us in following ways:

·        Wildlife is a renewable source of large variety of commercial products like food, fur, lac, musk, leather, feather, ivory, timber, fibre, fodder, fuel, medicines, etc., which can be used from time to time.

·        Wildlife is considered as gene bank, which can be used for producing high yielding plants and animals through the process of selection and hybridisation.

·        The wildlife can be used commercially to earn money through tourism (jungle safari, etc.) as it provides best means of sports and recreation.

Question 21.
Management of forest and wild life resources is a very challenging task. Why? Give any two reasons. (Delhi 2017)
Answer:
Management of the forest and wildlife resources is considered as a challenging task as there are many stakeholders of forest. These stakeholders are directly or indirectly involved in forest and wildlife resources. These stakeholders are :

·        The people who live in or around forests and are dependent on forest products for various aspects of their lives.

·        The industrialists who use various forest products and the wildlife enthusiasts who want to conserve the forest and wildlife.

·        The Forest Department of the Government which owns the land and controls the resources from forests.

Maintaining the interest of all the stakeholders is a challenging task as:

·        Due to industrialisation and urbanisation forest resources are depleting.

·        There are profit makers who want to make money from this resource.

Question 22.
Why must we conserve our forests? List two factors responsible for causing deforestation. (AI 2017)
Answer:
We must conserve our forests as they are useful resources. Forests are useful to us in many ways:

·        They provide living places (natural habitats), shelter, protection and food to our wildlife.

·        They provide timber for making furniture, houses, boats and other useful things of daily use.

·        They provide raw materials for paper, rayon and many other industries,

·        They are the rich source of many other things like honey, lac, medicines, dyes, katha, sandalwood, spices, etc.

·        They help in maintaining a balance of gases like CO₂ and O₂ in the atmosphere, etc.

Two main reasons for deforestation are as follows:

·        Indiscriminate felling of trees for the purpose of timber, fuel and industrial demand of wood, building dams, etc.

·        Over-grazing by a large livestock population.

Question 23.
State two advantages of conserving (i) forests, and (ii) wildlife. (Al 2017)
Answer:
Two advantages of conserving forests and wildlife are:
(i) Forests
(a) Forests provide us a number of valuable goods i.e., wood, spices, rubber, etc.
(b) Forests help to reduce atmospheric pollution. They absorb CO₂, collect suspended particles and reduce noise.
(ii) Wildlife
(a) Wildlife helps to maintain ecological balance of nature.
(b) Wild animals are a source of valuable products like ivory, honey, musk, etc.

Question 24.
Explain giving example where active involvement of local people lead to efficient management of forest. (Delhi 2016)
Answer:
Active participation of public and their support must be generated in order to conserve our forests and wildlife to achieve the real goal of eco- developmenl. An example of public participation in conservation of forest and wildlife is the case of the Bishnoi Community in Rajasthan. In 1731, Amrita Devi Bishnoi sacrificed her life along with 363 others for the protection of’Kheiri’ trees in Khejarli village near Jodhpur in Rajasthan.

Question 25.
“What was Chipko Andolan”? How did this Andolan ultimately benefit the local people and the environment? (AI 2016)
Answer:
The Chipko Andolan (tree hugging movement) is an example of the contribution of common people towards the conservation of forests. The Chipko Andolan originated from an incidence in a remote village of Garhwal, high up in the Himalayas in the early 1970s. A logging contractor had been allowed to cut down trees in a forest close to a village. The people of the village did not want this forest to be cleared because it would spoil their healthy environment. One day, when the men folk of the village were out for work, the contractor’s workers came in the forest to cut down the trees.

In the absence of men, the women of the village reached the forest quickly and clasped the tree trunks with their arms, preventing the workers from cutting them down. The forest trees were thus saved. The Chipko movement quickly spread across all the communities and helped in the conservation of forests thereby contributing to the service of mankind. Both local people and environment were benefitted due to conservation of food, fodder, fuel, fibre and fertiliser trees.

Question 26.
Forests are “biodiversity hotspots”. Justify this statement. (AI 2016)
Answer:
Forests are reservoirs of diversity. They contain different species of plants, animals and all sorts of living organisms. Forests are also under severe threat due to ‘habitat loss, climate change and extensive species loss. Hence, they are considered as biodiversity hotspots.

Question 27.
List four stakeholders which may be helpful in the conservation of forests. (AI 2016)
Answer:
Major stakeholders of forest resources are:

·        Local people

·        The Forest department of the Government

·        The Industrialists

·        The nature and wildlife enthusiasts

Question 28.
List four causes of damage to forests. (Foreign 2016)
Answer:
Four causes of damage to forests are:

·        Increasing human population necessitates the expansion of human habilitation which requires clearing of forests to make more land available for residential purposes.

·        Rapid industrialisation also mandates setting up of new factories. Land for factory set up is also made available by clearing forests.

·        Ever increasing human population increases the demand of fresh supply of wooden furniture and other items for which trees are cut.

·        Forest fires resulting from mishandling of inflammable objects, left unattended campfire, negligently discarded cigarettes etc., by humans causes damage to forests on a large scale.

Question 29.
How did ‘Chipko Andolan ultimately benefit the local people? Explain briefly. (Foreign 2016)
Answer:
Refer to answer 25.

Question 30.
List four measures that can be taken to conserve forests. (Delhi 2015)
Answer:
Measures to conserve forests are :

·        Afforestation – Plantation of trees to meet basic needs.

·        Instead of cutting trees for fuel wood we should use alternative sources of energy such as biogas.

·        By adopting agro and urban forestry methods.

·        By limiting human interference such as settlement, cropping, recreation, etc.

Question 31.
Why are forests considered “biodiversity hot¬spots”? List two ways in which an individual can contribute effectively to the management of forests and wildlife. (Delhi 2015, Foreign 2012)
Answer:
Refer to answer 26.
Two ways in which individuals can contribute effectively to the management of forests and wildlife are:

·        By protecting the natural habitats of wild animals by identification, breeding, nursing habitats of each species.

·        By planting trees and by maintaining the wildlife protected areas.

Question 32.
What is biodiversity? What will happen if biodiversity of an area is not preserved? Mention one effect of it. (AI 2015)
Answer:
Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of living organisms on earth or in a particular habitat. Biodiversity forms the foundation of the vast array of ecosystem services (pollination, food, timber, spices, etc.) that critically contribute to human well being. Biodiversity boosts ecosystem productivity where each species, no matter how small, has an important role to play. Hence, biodiversity is required for maintaining ecological balance. Loss of biodiversity will disturb ecological balance and create an ecological imbalance. Moreover it will deprive humans of some important ecological services.

Question 33.
What is meant by biodiversity? List two advantages of conserving forests and wildlife. (AI 2015, Delhi 2014)
Answer:
Refer to answers 32 and 23.

Question 34.
List two problems that may arise by planting trees of single variety over vast tracts of forest. (Foreign 2015)
Answer:
Two major problems that may arise by planting trees of single variety over a vast tract of forest are:

·        Loss of biodiversity

·        Varied need of the local people will not be fulfilled.

Question 35.
List two criteria of measuring the biodiversity of an area. (Foreign 2014)
Answer:
The basic criteria of measuring the biodiversity of an area are:

·        The presence of varied number of organisms and the type of ecosystem present in the area.

·        Indicator organisms are also a measure of biodiversity.

Question 36.
Monoculture of a particular type of tree is no substitute for natural forests. List two reasons to justify this statement. (Delhi 2013)
Answer:
Monoculture of few plants is useful for few industries. It is a source of earning for the forest department only but leads to loss of biodiversity and also varied needs of villagers and local people cannot he met. Hence, it cannot he a substitute of natural forest.

Question 37.
(a) Why should National Parks be allowed to remain in their pristine form?
(b) Why is reuse of materials better than recycling? (AI 2019)
Answer:
(a) National parks are the areas maintained by government and reserved for betterment of wildlife. It is a place where cultivation, grazing, forestry, habitat manipulation and other activities are restricted. They are allowed to remain in their pristine form because they contain highest biological diversity, natural habitats for many wild animals, flora and fauna. National parks are essential for stability of ecosystem and having influence on health and social prosperity. If these parks will not remain in their pristine form then the sustainable benefits for the present as well as future strategies will not obtained. We can easily harvest useful genes to develop high yielding plants and animals to remain them in their pristine form because population recovers in natural habitat.

(b) Reuse is better than recycling because the process of reuse does not require any energy as in the case of recycling. The reuse strategy comprises using things again and again. For example, newspapers and magazines can be used to make envelopes.

Question 38.
Which one of the following is responsible for the sustenance of underground water?
(a) Loss of vegetation cover
(b) Diversion for high water demanding crops
(c) Pollution from urban wastes
(d) Afforestation (2020)
Answer:
(d) Afforestation

Question 39.
A diagram of traditional water harvesting system is given below:
The statement which defines the system and its parts is

(a) This is an ideal setting of the Khadin system and A = Catchment area; B = Saline area and C = Shallow dugwell.
(b) This is an ideal setting of the Shallow dugwell system and A = Catchment area; B = Saline area and C = Khadin.
(c) This is an ideal setting of Catchment area and A = Khadin, B = Saline area and C = Shallow dugwell.
(d) This is showing Saline area and A = Catchment area; B = Khadin and C = Shallow dugwell. (2020)
Answer:
(a) This is an ideal setting of the Khadin system and A = Catchment area; B = Saline area and C = Shallow dugwell.

Question 40.
Bandharas and Tals are age old water harvesting concepts/structures found in
(a) Bihar
(b) Maharashtra
(c) Tamil Nadu
(d) Rajasthan. (2020)
Answer:
(b) Maharashtra

Question 41.
Which of the following are water intensive crops?
(a) Wheat and rice
(b) Wheat and sugarcane
(c) Sugarcane and rice
(d) Wheat and gram (2020)
Answer:
(c) Sugarcane and rice

Question 42.
Water is a valuable resource. List two ways that you would suggest every family member to save this resource. (Delhi 2014)
Answer:
Water is a valuable resource and to save this resource two suggestive methods are :

·        Preventing wastage of water, in household by turning off tap when not in use while brushing, shaving, etc., and in public places.

·        Promoting reusing water like water used for washing vegetables can be reused for watering garden plants.

Question 43.
List two measures that you would suggest for the better management of water resources. (Delhi 2014)
Answer:
Refer to answer 42.

Question 44.
What is watershed management system? List two benefits derived by the communities that participate’ in this system. (AI2014)
Answer:
Watershed management emphasises scientific soil and water conservation in order to increase the biomass production. The aim is to develop primary resources of land and water so that they can be used to produce secondary resources of plants and animals without causing the ecological imbalance. Benefits derived from watershed management are:

·        It identifies degraded area of land and emphasises the need of the improvement of quality and quantity of clean water to the local community and thus ensures their participation.

·        Construction of a series of long trenches and mounds to hold rain water and allow it to percolate into the ground, thus increasing the groundwater.

Question 45.
List two advantages of building dams. (Foreign 2014)
Answer:
Two advantages of building dams are :

·        It helps in irrigation.

·        It helps to generate electricity.

Question 46.
List two causes of pollution of river Ganga. (Foreign 2014)
Answer:
The two causes of pollution of river Ganga are:

·        Increasing human activities like bathing, washing clothes, bathing of animals, in river water.

·        Dumping of industrial wastes and ashes of corpses which are cremated in the water of river Ganga.

Question 47.
Explain two main advantages associated with water harvesting at the community level. (AI 2017)
Answer:
Two advantages of water harvesting at community level are:

·        Water can be used for irrigation.

·        Water can be used to recharge wells and to raise the water table.

Question 48.
List four advantages of properly managed watershed management. (Delhi 2016)
Answer:
Four advantages of properly managed watershed management are:

·        It increases the crop production.

·        It increases the income of the watershed community.

·        It reduces the menace of drought and floods.

·        It enhances the life of downstream dams and reservoirs.

Question 49.
What is water harvesting? How can this technique help in the conservation of water? (AI 2016, AI 2014)
Answer:
Water harvesting is the technique used to capture and store rainwater for future use by making special water harvesting structures. Properly stored rainwater can be used for human consumption, irrigation and can be used to raise the water table. Hence, it helps in the conservation of water.

Question 50.
The construction of large dams leads to social and environmental problems. List two problems of each category. (AI 2016)
Answer:
Social and environmental problems that arise due to building of dams are:
(a) Social problems :

·        People residing in the area where dam is being built are rendered homeless.

·        Unequal distribution of water is another social problem.

(b) Environmental problems :

·        Deforestation

·        Loss of biodiversity

Question 51.
List two advantages associated with water harvesting at the community level. (Delhi 2015)
Answer:
Refer to answer 47.

Question 52.
List two main causes of the pollution of water of the river Ganga. State how pollution and contamination of the river water prove harmful for the health of the people of neighbouring areas. (AI 2015)
Answer:
Two main causes of pollution of water of river Ganga are:

·        Human activities like bathing, washing clothes and cleaning of animals in the river water makes the water dirty.

·        Dumping of materials used in religious rituals like objects of worship (idols, sticks, flowers, sweets, plates made of banana leaves, etc.) as well as dumping ashes generated after cremation of dead bodies also pollutes river water.

Such contaminated and polluted river water poses various health hazards to the people living nearby. It contains various pathogenic microbes that cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, jaundice, etc., in the people who consume it. Bathing in such water can cause various skin diseases in humans.

Question 53.
List four advantages of water stored in the ground as “groundwater”. (Foreign 2015)
Answer:
Four advantages of conserving water in the form of groundwater are :

·        It does not evaporate hence can be used for longer time.

·        It provides moisture for vegetation over a large area.

·        It remains protected from contamination and hence is fit for human consumption.

·        Groundwater does not become a breeding site for mosquitoes.

Question 54.
Building of big dams gives rise to some problems. List three main problems that may arise. Suggest a solution to any one of these problems. (Foreign 2015)
Answer:
The three problems which arise due to construction of big dams are :

·        Social problems : Building of dams cause displacement of large number of local people without sufficient compensation and rehabilitation.

·        Economic problems : Large amount of money is used for construction of dams.

·         Environmental problems : Construction of dams leads to enormous deforestation and loss of biodiversity.

A proper compensation must be given to the local people who are rendered homeless due to building of the dam.

Question 55.
List four advantages of conserving water in the form of groundwater. (Foreign 2015)
Answer:
Refer to answer 53.

Question 56.
List four advantages of water stored in the ground. (Foreign 2014, Delhi 2012)
Answer:
Refer to answer 53.

Question 57.
List and explain any two advantages associated with water harvesting at community level. (Delhi 2013)
Answer:
Refer to answer 47.

Question 58.
List three problems which arise due to construction of big dams. Suggest a solution for these problems. (AI 2012)
Answer:
Refer to answer 54.

Question 59.
What is water harvesting? List two main advantages associated with water harvesting at the community level. Write two causes for the failure of sustained availability of ground- water. (Delhi 2019)
Answer:
Refer to answers 49 and 47.
Two causes for the failure of sustained availability of groundwater are:

·        Loss of vegetation cover

·        Pollution from industrial effluents and wastes.

Question 60.
What is dam? Why do we seek to build large dams? While building large dams, which three main problems should particularly be addressed to maintain peace among local people? Mention them. (2018)
Answer:
Dams are large water storing bodies usually built across the river to hold and regulate the flow of water. After independence, emphasis was laid on construction of large dams because large dams served dual purpose-storage of huge amount of water and helped in generation of electricity. From the dams, bigger canals and smaller canals are connected to supply water to the needy areas.
The three problems which arise due to construction of big dams are as follows :

·        Building of dams causes displacement of large number of local people without sufficient compensation and rehabilitation. A proper compensation must be given to the local people who are rendered homeless due to building of the dam.

·        Mismanagement and no equitable distribution of water from canals leads to discontentment of local people who live farther downstream from the dam.

·        Construction of dams leads to enormous deforestation and loss of biodiversity directly or indirectly effecting the local people who depend mainly on the forests and its products for their livelihood.

Question 61.
(a) Water is an elixir of life, a very important natural resource. Your science teacher wants you to prepare a plan for a formative assessment activity. “How to save water, the vital natural resource?” Write any two ways that you will suggest to bring awareness in your neighbourhood on ‘how to save water’.
(b) Name and explain any one way by which the underground water table does not go down further. (Delhi 2017)
Answer:
(a) Water is an important vital natural resource. Freshwater constitutes only a small proportion of total quantity of water present on Earth. However, proper management can lead to conservation of this important renewable resource. It can be preserved by the following ways:

·        Taps must be closed after use.

·        Water used for washing clothes, etc., can be reused to wash car and for other purposes.

·        Water discarded from RO purifier can be used to wash vegetables.

(b) By use of water harvesting technique, underground water can be recharged. It includes digging small pits and lakes, building small
earthen dams, constructing sand and limestone reservoirs and setting up roof top water collecting units. The water from trenches and pits seeps into deeper layer recharging groundwater levels.

Question 62.
The most poisonous product formed by incomplete combustion of fossil fuels is
(a) carbon dioxide
(b) nitrogen dioxide
(c) carbon monoxide
(d) sulphur dioxide. (2020)
Answer:
(c) carbon monoxide

Question 63.
Incomplete combustion of coal and petroleum
(A) Increases air pollution
(B) Increases efficiency of machines
(C) Reduces global warming
(D) Produces poisonous gases.
The correct option is
(a) (A) and (B)
(b) (A) and (D)
(c) (B) and (C)
(d) (C) and (D). (2020)
Answer:
(b) (A) and (D)

Question 64.
“Burning of fossil fuels results in global warming”. Give reasons to justify this statement. (AI 2016)
Answer:
Burning of fossil fuels releases gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and sulphur. Of these gases, carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas, because it traps sun’s heat and keeps earth warm and hospitable. Excess of this gas results in enhanced greenhouse effect causing increase in mean annual temperature of earth (global warming).

Question 65.
List two products of combustion of fossil fuels other than carbon dioxide. What happens when combustion takes place in insufficient air? Name a greenhouse gas. (Foreign 2014)
Answer:
Two products of combustion of fossil fuels other than carbon dioxide are sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
In insufficient air, combustion of fossil fuel produces carbon monoxide.
Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas.

Question 66.
Burning of fossil fuels is a cause of global warming. Justify this statement. (Delhi 2012)
Answer:
Refer to answer 64.

Question 67.
List the products of combustion of fossil fuels. What are their adverse effects on the environment? (AI 2012)
Answer:
The products of combustion of fossil fuels are carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
Following are their adverse effects on the environment:
(i) Sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides combine with rain water and make it acidic. It falls on earth as acid rain and damages trees, plants, buildings and metal structures.
(ii) Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas. Increase in amount of carbon dioxide in atmosphere causes enhanced greenhouse effect that leads to global warming.

1. What changes can you make in your habits to become more environment-friendly?

Solution

In order to become more environment-friendly, the following practices can be incorporated into our day-to-day lives:

• Turning off any electrical appliance (such as TVs, water heaters, lights, fans, and air conditioners) when they are not in use.
• Avoiding the wastage of water by fixing any leaking taps or pipes as soon as possible. Also, the amount of water consumed must be controlled. For example, the tap should not be left running while brushing teeth.
• Disposing of plastic and glass wastes in recycling bins (many plastics take a long time to decompose and can have adverse effects on the environment).
• Using recyclable and eco-friendly products instead of convenient plastic products. For example, using paper or cloth bags instead of polythene bags is an environment-friendly habit.

2. What would be the advantages of exploiting resources with short-term aims?

Solution

The exploitation of resources with short-term goals means to the utilization of resources to meet immediate and current basic needs. This may not necessarily take into consideration the resources that would be available to future generations.
Advantages of exploiting resources with short-term goals:
1. Rapid industrial growth
2. Addressing and fulfilling the immediate requirement of the population
3. Compared to the long-term goals, gains are greater
4. Agricultural development
However, resources must be judiciously used considering their accessibility and availability in the future. Exploiting resources for short-term goals only indicates their gradual depletion for the present and coming generations.

3. How would these advantages differ from the advantages of using a long-term perspective in managing our resources?

Solution

The long-term model of resource consumption enables the conservation of the resources for them to be used by future generations. This will enable the economy to grow over a longer timeframe. It also provides more time for technology to advance and discover new, sustainable energy sources (such as nuclear fusion and fuel cells). All in all, the long-term perspective in managing resources has significantly greater advantages when compared to the short-term perspective.

4. Why do you think that there should be an equitable distribution of resources? What forces would be working against an equitable distribution of our resources?

Solution

Equitable distribution of resources enables every human to receive their share of the resources and makes sure that everyone has the basic requirements for life (such as food, water, shelter, etc.). The forces that work against equitable distribution include:

• The regional distribution of resources (such as soil and minerals).
• Corruption and greed of some humans
• Uneven distribution of resources between the rich and the poor.

 

In-text Questions – 2 Page: 275

1. Why should we conserve forests and wildlife?

Solution

The conservation of forests is very important for the stability of the environment. Forests serve as a home to a huge variety of life forms. Destruction of forests can disturb the food chain and lead to the extinction of many important species. Also, forests protect the soil from erosion and play a vital role in the water cycle. The loss of forests can severely affect the day-to-day lives of humans.

2. Suggest some approaches towards the conservation of forests.

Solution

Some steps that can be taken to conserve forests include:

Planting of trees to combat deforestation.

Placement of security forces in forests to prevent the poaching and smuggling of forest resources.

Incorporating steps to protect the forest dwellers without disturbing their lifestyles.

Avoiding the conversion of forest land into roads, buildings, and dams.

In-text Questions – 3 Page: 278

1. Find out about the traditional systems of water harvesting/ management in your region.

Solution

In populated metropolitan cities, the primary sources of water include groundwater and lakes. Groundwater is harvested with the help of borewells, whereas pipes harvest water directly from the lakes. The harvested water is then stored in water tankers placed at strategic locations throughout the city.

2. Compare the above system with the probable systems in hilly/ mountainous areas or plains or plateau regions.

Solution

In hilly regions, rainwater is often collected and channelled with the help of a stream. The stream is diverted to different areas with the help of canals for the purpose of irrigation. In mountainous regions, water is commonly obtained from the rivers that flow from the glaciers.

In the plains, water is obtained from many natural sources, such as lakes and rivers. Groundwater is also harvested with the help of borewells for irrigation and human consumption.

3. Find out the source of water in your region/locality. Is water from this source available to all people living in that area?

Solution

In metropolitan cities, the primary source of water is groundwater. This water is made available to all people in the city. However, poor infrastructure in some localities makes it difficult for some people to obtain water.

Exercises Questions Page: 280

1. What changes would you suggest in your home in order to be environment-friendly?

Solution

Some important changes that can help make homes more environment-friendly include:

• Segregation of the garbage into biodegradable waste (food waste) and non-biodegradable waste (plastics).
• Use of eco-friendly products such as cloth shopping bags and paper cups instead of plastics.
• Avoiding the wastage of electricity by switching off the electrical appliances that are not in use.
• Avoiding the wastage of water by quickly fixing leaking taps and incorporating practices that reduce water wastage (such as closing the taps while brushing and using water judiciously while bathing).

2. Can you suggest some changes in your school which would make it environment-friendly?

Solution

Some important changes that can help make schools more environment-friendly include:

• Providing a platform for students and teachers to report any leaking taps so that they can be quickly repaired by the school plumber.
• Students and teachers must make sure all the lights and fans are switched off when the classes end for the day.
• Setting up waste segregation bins for biodegradable waste and non-biodegradable waste throughout the school.
• Promoting the use of transport methods such as bicycles and school buses.

3. We saw in this chapter that there are four main stakeholders when it comes to forests and wildlife. Which among these should have the authority to decide the management of forest produce? Why do you think so?

Solution

The government’s forest department should have the authority because they are a branch of the government which is elected by the people. However, these forest authorities must not be corrupt and must not accept bribes from poachers/smugglers. The forest authorities can use the resources of the government to effectively protect and preserve forests.

4. How can you as an individual contribute or make a difference to the management of (a) forests and wildlife, (b) water resources and (c) coal and petroleum?

Solution
(a). An individual can contribute to the management of forest and wildlife resources by:

• Organizing and participating in rallies that protest against deforestation and wildlife poaching.
• Volunteering for many non-government organizations (NGOs) that work towards the protection of forests and wildlife.
• Organizing and participating in group activities that involve the planting of new trees in forest areas.

(b). An individual can contribute towards the management of water resources by:

• Avoiding the wastage of water in their daily lives by using water judiciously.
• Spreading awareness about the importance of water management by participating in rallies/ activities.
• Promoting practices such as rainwater harvesting and discouraging the discharge of wastewater and sewage into lakes and rivers.

(c). An individual can contribute towards the management of non-renewable energy sources such as coal and petrol by:

• Using fuel-efficient transportation methods such as carpooling, use of public transport, and use of bicycles.
• Using energy-efficient light sources such as CFLs and LEDs instead of ordinary bulbs.
• Using solar water heaters instead of electric heaters for heating water.

5. What can you as an individual do to reduce your consumption of the various natural resources?

Solution

Practices that can be followed by individuals in order to reduce their consumption of natural resources include the following:

• Use of fuel-efficient transport options such as carpooling, bicycles, and public transport.
• Judicious use of water and avoidance of its wastage.
• Use of recycled products such as recycled paper and bottles to reduce the demand for natural resources.
• Promoting the use of renewable resources by using solar water heaters instead of electric heaters.

6. List five things you have done over the last week to (a) conserve our natural resources. (b) increase the pressure on our natural resources.

Solution

Practices for the conservation of natural resources include the following:

• Use of bicycles and public transport while travelling to reduce fuel consumption.
• Use of recycled paper and other recycled products.
• Segregation of garbage into biodegradable and non-biodegradable bins.
• Avoiding the wastage of water by using it judiciously and fixing any leaking taps/pipes.

Practices that deplete natural resources include the following:

• Wastage of electrical energy by leaving electrical appliances on after use.
• Wastage of water by ignoring any leaking pipes/taps and leaving the tap on while brushing.
• Excessive use of plastic products such as polythene bags.

7. On the basis of the issues raised in this chapter, what changes would you incorporate in your lifestyle in a move towards the sustainable usage of our resources?

Solution

The following changes can be incorporated into the lifestyles of individuals in order to move towards a sustainable usage of natural resources:

• Segregate the waste generated in homes into biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste.
• Avoid the wastage of electricity by switching off lights, fans, and other electrical appliances when not in use.
• Use water judiciously and avoid its wastage by quickly repairing any leaking taps/pipes.
• Avoid the wastage of water by regulating the quantity of water consumed for bathing, washing clothes, brushing, etc.
• Practising environment-friendly methods such as rainwater harvesting and planting of trees.
• Usage of recycled products such as recycled paper and bottles.
• Usage of eco-friendly products such as cloth shopping bags and paper cups instead of non-biodegradable polythene bags and disposable plastic cups.

NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science Chapter 16 Sustainable Management of Natural Resources

Management of natural resources is the sixteenth chapter in the NCERT Class 10 Science textbook. It is a part of Unit 5 – Natural Resources, which is expected to hold 07 marks weightage. The solutions provided here can prove quite helpful for last-minute revisions since they provide a quick summary of the types of questions that can be asked from this chapter. Our NCERT Solutions provide useful and relevant content to students studying NCERT textbooks.

The topics that are covered in this chapter include:

16.1 Why do we need to manage our resources? (4 Questions)

The topic teaches the importance of managing our resources carefully. It provides necessary information on how the resources should be managed for our future generation and present-day global concerns. It further explores ancient literature and the Vedic period.

16.2 Forests and Wildlife (2 Questions)

Forests are biodiversity hotspots. The topic discusses the importance of forests and wildlife elaborately, how they should be conserved and how we are dependent on various forest resources. It further highlights points related to government initiatives for wildlife and forest conservation.

16.3 Water for all ( 3 Questions)

Water is a basic necessity for all terrestrial forms of life. We studied in Class 9 about the importance of water as a resource, the water cycle and how human intervention results in pollution. However, human intervention also changes the availability of water in various regions. The topics further explain the importance of water harvesting and dams.

16.4 Coal and Petroleum

Coal and Petroleum are important sources of energy for us. The topic discusses how coal and petroleum were formed and how, by making some simple choices, we can make a difference in our energy consumption patterns.

16.5 Natural resource management

Sustainable management of natural resources is a difficult task. In addressing this issue, we need to keep an open mind with regard to the interests of various stakeholders. We need to accept that people will act in their own best interests as the priority.

• Post-Chapter Exercises (7 Questions)

NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science Chapter 16 Sustainable Management of Natural Resources

There exists a need to sustainably manage the natural resources available on Earth (forests & wildlife, coal, petroleum, water, etc.) so that they are available for future generations. One important concept in the management of natural resources is the 3R principle, which stands for “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle”.

The authority which is responsible for the management of forests and the resources contained in them must keep in mind the interests of the various stakeholders. Water is another important natural resource which is vital to the survival of human beings. In order to efficiently conserve this precious resource, its wastage must be prevented at all costs.

Finally, non-renewable energy sources such as coal and petroleum are consumed on a huge scale by humans. These resources will eventually run out. Their combustion also leads to the liberation of many pollutants into the atmosphere. Therefore, their usage must be controlled.

Key Features of NCERT Class 10 Science Chapter 16 – Sustainable Management of Natural Resources

1.                  Content delivered in an easy-to-learn format.

2.                  NCERT Solutions are crafted in-house by highly qualified subject matter experts.

3.                  Updated questions and solutions according to the latest prescribed syllabus.

4.                  All multiple-choice questions have been answered with the reasoning/worksheet.

5.                  Discover other additional resources like previous year’s question papers and sample papers.

Frequently Asked Questions on NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science Chapter 16

Q1

What are the benefits of using the NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science Chapter 16 Sustainable Management of Natural Resources?

The benefits of using the NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science Chapter 16 Sustainable Management of Natural Resources are –
1. Solutions created in an easy-to-learn format.
2. The subject matter experts have crafted the solutions as per the CBSE syllabus.
3. MCQs have been answered with proper reasoning.
4. Previous year question papers and sample papers are also available for the respective subject.

Q2

How many questions are present under each topic of NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science Chapter 16?

The questions present in Chapter 16 under each topic of NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science are as follows:
1. Why do we need to manage our resources? (4 Questions)
2. Forests and Wildlife (2 Questions)
3. Water for all (3 Questions)
4. Coal and Petroleum
5. Natural resource management
6. Post-Chapter Exercises (7 Questions)