Environmental Science

http://ptuas.loremate.com/evs/node/3 March 7, 2012

Q. 1. Describe fertilizers and pesticide problems? Ans. Problems due to use of fertilizers and pesticides. 1. If they are not applied with caution, artificial fertilizers cause contamination and fail to give their full potential. 2. Exercise levels of nitrates (NO3) in groundwater and surface water are increasingly a problem in Europe, USA and other parts of the world. 3. Phosphates have been accumulating in soils, river and lake sediments for decades, as a consequence of the use of phosphatic fertilizers, disposal of sewage and leaching of poorly sealed landfill sites. This poses a serious threat for domestic water supply and for the ecology of rivers, lakes and other water bodies. Increased levels of phosphates in water bodies (particularly lakes) are responsible for entrophication. 4. Pesticites are harmful chemicals employed to kill pests but their use cause following problems (a) toxicity and slow breakdown. (b) pesticide resistance and pest resurgence. (c) tendency to be concentrated by foodweb. (d) misuse or unsafe methods of application. (e) creation of new pests due to the killing of beneficial predators that previously kept a number of pests under control. 5. The effects of pesticides on human health can be (a) Short-term, including acute poisoning and illness caused by relatively high doses and accidental exposures; and (b) long-term : including, cancer, birth defects, immunlogical problems, Parkinsons disease and other chronic degenerative diseases. The long term health effects are caused by very low doses of variety of different chemicals and are difficult to tie to a specific source. Q 2 Discuss effects of dams on forests and tribal people? Ans. 1. The effects of dams on forests and tribal people. The most significant environment effect of dams results from the displacement of human pollutions. Because people normally settle along rivers, where water for drinking, power, irrigation and transport are readily available, reservoir flooding can displace huge populations. A series of dams on Indias Narmada river will inundate the homes of 1.5 million people along with 6,00,000 acres of farm land. In such cases, people will need to find new places to live and clear new land to grow food.

2. Dams and reservoirs change sediment deposit in rivers. 3. Riparian or stream side habitats suffer both above and below dams. 4. They can be habitat loss, erosion and declining water quality. Q. 3. Differentiate soil erosion and so desertification. Ans. Soil Erosion: Loss of top layer of the soil by natural and man-made processes is called soil erosion. Soil loss is maximum in regions with high population density. Continuous cultivation of same crop also adds to soil loss. The present rate of soil erosion is over 2500 millions tonnes per year. India is faced with severe silting problems in Bhakra and other multipurpose dams. River Ganga carries about 1.5 billion tonnes of soil to ocean every year. Kinds of Soil Erosion : Based on the rate at which soil loss takes place, there are two main types of soil erosion 1. Normal or Geological Erosion : It occurs under natural conditions without any interference of man. It is a very slow process and there is equilibrium between loss and build up. 2. Accelerated Soil Erosion : The loss of soil is very rapid and never keeps pace with the soil formation. It is generally caused by an interference of an agency like man and other animals. 3. Desertification : The process of formation of deserts either due to natural process linked to climatic change or due to excessive use of land. Q. 4. Discuss benefits of Dam? Ans. Benefits of Dams: More than 45000 dams all over the world are estimated to support about 30-40% of land worldwide and supply 19% of total worlds electric power. Thus, they play major role in development of communities and economies. 1. Dams provide water for intensive planned irrigation. 2. Dams are source of hydroelectric energy to meet urban and industrial consumption. 3. Dams check floods. Q. 5. Discuss the use of bio energy as a non-conventional source of energy. Ans. Biomass energy is obtained from those materials whose origin can be traced to photosynthesis i.e. trapping of solar energy, dried residues, fresh water and marine algae, agricultural and forest residue. Fuel wood provide energy for domestic use. Biogas obtained from biomass is used for domestic and commercial purposes. Biogas produces a fewer pollutants. Q. 6. What are ill effects of deforestation? Ans. Deforestation : The unplanned cutting off the forests is called deforestation. The main causes of deforestation are explosion of human and livestock population of increased demand for timber, fuel wood, expansion of croplands, construction of roads and dams. Deforestation causes deterioration of the quality of life in a society, because of the following factors 1. It results in reduced shade and there is quick run off which causes erosion and floods. 2. it causes decreased rain fall which ultimately leads to drought. 3. It also reduces the water retention power of soil which leads to drought.

4. Deforestation causes increased convection which again leads to drought. 5. Floods and drought caused by deforestation disturbs plant and animal life. Q. 7. What are causes of formation of waste land? Ans. Waste land. The various purposes for which land can be used, include agriculture and horticulture for food production, energy production, human dwelling and industrial/commercial purpose. But its overuse makes it unfit for human use termed waste land. Causes for formation of wasteland Wastelands include degraded forests, overgrazed pastures, drought struck pastures, eroded valleys, hilly slopes, waterlogged marshy lands, barren land etc. The main causes of wasteland formation are as 1. Indiscriminate and over utilization of forest produce. 2. Overgrazing of grasslands. 3. Salination. 4. Water logging 5. Desertfication. 6. Side-effects of development projects. 7. Misuse and unscientific land management. Q. 8. What are impacts of human activities on watershed ? Ans. Impacts of human activities on watershed : Watershed is defined as the land area from which water drains under gravity to a common drainage channel. Thus watershed is a delineated area with a well defined topographic boundary and one water outlet. Watershed comprises complex interactions of soil, landform vegetation, land use activities and water. People and animals are an integral part of a watershed having mutual impacts on each other. 1. Human activities like uncontrolled, unplanned and unscientific land use are degrading the watershed. 2. There is increased concentration of soluble salts in the soil due to intesive agricultural practices. 3. Overgrazing, deforestation, mining, contruction activities, industrialization, shifting cultivation, natural and artificial fires also result in forming water shed. 4. Soil erosion and ignorance of local people have been responsible for degradation of various waterlands. Q. 9. Define deforestation and to causes? Ans. Deforestation. Destruction of forests is termed deforestation. The present forest cover of India and compare it with that of the past, we will realise that it has shrunk and at present it is about 20% of the total land area. Inspite of the fact that we are very poor as regards this precious resource for economic development and environmental stability, yet unfortunately the rate of deforestation at 2.3%

(1,500,000 ha/year) is much high, compared to reforestation at 0.22% (138000 ha/yr) Causes of deforestation in India 1. Increased demand of timber, fodder and fuel wood. 2. Expansion of cropland and enhanced grazing by livestock. 3. Construction of roads through forests. 4. Development of industries. 5. Extensive work for mining, quarrying, irrigation and agriculture. 6. Falling of trees to meet the demand of fuelwood, paper and wooden crates. 7. Poor forest management. Q. 10. Narrate the advantages and disadvantages of hydropower? Ans. Hydroelectric power. In this technique, potential energy of stored river water in high dams is converted into kinetic energy to run the turbines at the bottom that generate electric power. Between 1950 and 1970, hydropower generation in the world increased seven times. The important hydel power projects of India are Bhakra Nangal, Hirakud dam, Damodar Valley, Them Dam, etc. In India, hydel power plays a great role in electricity generation and has the potential to generate 10,000 MW of electricity. Advantages of hydroelectric power (i) It is a pollution free and renewable source of energy. (ii) Its operational cost is low. (iii) It helps in checking floods and the stored water can be used for irrigation, fisheries, drinking water and for recreational (eg, boating, water sports) purposes. Disadvantages of hydroelectric power (i) There is problem of planning and construction of dams at suitable sites. (ii) Construction of dams may change the topography of an area and may harm local flora and fauna. (iii) Dams can block routes of fish migration required for their survival and reproduction. (iv) There is problem of silting of water reservoirs of dams due to soil erosion of catchment areas, particularly, by their deforestation. Q. 11. Why is water a unique resource? Ans. Water plays a vital role in supporting system as follows: 1. It has an influence in regulating climate. 2. Ocean acts as heat bank for coastal regions releasing and absorbing heat. 3. Water falls, tides and river currents are used to move machine and generate hydroelectric power.

4. Water is essential for agriculture and industry. 5. It provides surface for navigation. 6. Water provides hydrogen required in living system. Thus water is a unique resource. Q. 12. What are fossil fuels and why they are non-renewable? Ans. Fossil Fuels. They are non-renewable conventional energy resources found inside earths crust where they have been formed through heat and compression on forests and other organic matter buried underneath due to earthquakes, landslides, lava, etc. Since they were formed in particular periods, their presence underneath can be known from specific palynofossils/ microfossils. Fossil fuels can be solid (coal, lignite), liquid (petroleum) or gaseous (natural gas) They meet 70% of total energy needs of the world and 87.4% of all commercial energy. Per capita index of energy consumption is MTOE (metric tonnes of oil equivalent). It is maximum for Canada (9.15 MTOE), high for U.S.A. (7.3 MTOE), mediocre for Briti& and France (3.8 MTOE) and low for India (0.5 MTOE). In India 58% of commercial energy is got from coal and .38% from petroleum along with natural gas. Coal is used for cooking, heating, in industry and thermal power plants. Petroleum is used fo transport, agriculture and some industries. LPG is liquefied petroleum gas. Natural gas is employed both in cooking and in industry. Fossil fuel resources are, however, limited. Coal resources and natural gas may last for over 100 years. Good coal reserves occur in U.S.A., China, Russia and India (Bihar, Bengal, Orissa and M.P.). In future, it may be liquefied. A lot of natural gas goes waste (some 24% in India). Known reserves of petroleum are expected to last upto 2030 A.D. In India, petroleum reserves are low, being mainly present in Assam, Gujarat, Bombay High and Narmada Basin. They do not meet even 50% of total petroleum requirement. Despite limited reserves, demand for fossil fuels is rising, annually by 6% on global basis and 15% in India. Therefore, conservation of fossil fuels, prevention of their wastage and alternate sources of energy are urgently required. Gasification of coal, compressed natural gas (CNG), gasohol (petrol + alcohol) are being tried. Q. 13. Define desertification and underline the causes. Ans. Desertification. It is a process whereby the productive potential of arid or semiarid lands fall. Causes of Desertification 1. Deforestation. The process of deforestation initiates a desert producing cycle that continues of its own. Since there is no vegetation to hold back the surface run off, water drains off quickly. It can not be soaked into the soil to nourish the plants or to replenish the groundwater. This increases soil erosion, loss of water. 2. Overgrazing. Due to overgrazing of grass lands and forests by cattle, the land is denuded. Its vegetation cover is removed. When the earth is denuded, the microclimate near the ground becomes unsuitable to seed germination. The top fertile layer is lost and plant growth is hampered in such soil. The dry barren land reflects more of the suns heat, changing wind patterns, driving away moisture laden clouds leading to further desertification. 3. Drought Conditions. Desertification usually begins in areas made susceptible by drought or overuse by human population. Deserts are found to occur in the arid and semiarid areas of all the continents.

4. Mining and Quarrying. These activities are also responsible for loss of vegetal cover and denudation of extensive land areas leading to desrtification. Q. 14. Give two examples of successful Indian attempts in water conservation. Ans. The need of the hour is to make people aware of the dangers of water scarcity and to launch a save water campaign. Following measures may be taken for the better mane ement of worlds water resources sustainably 1. Building several small reservoirs instead of few large projects, developing small catchment dams and protecting waterlands. 2. Ganga Action Plan. 3. Rain water harvesting. Q. 15. Differentiate between renewable and non-renewable natural resources? Ans. Renewable resources are those which are being continuously consumed by man but renewed by nature e.g. water, wood, natural pastures, soil and living organisms etc. The resources reappear by the quick replacement, recycling and reproduction in a particular time. Non-renewable resources. They are not reneiable after use and are not replenished by nature e.g. fossil fuel, metallic ores viz. copper. iron etc. Fossil fuels include coal, petroleum etc. Q. 16. Differentiate between water logging and salinity. Ans. Water logging. When excessive irrigation is done with brakish water, it raises the water table gradually leading to water logging and salinity problems. Salinity. It refers to the increased concentration of soluble salts in the soil due to wrong agriculture practices. The carbonates, chlorides and sulphates of sodium and traces of calcium and magnesium form a layer on the surface of soil and poses a threat to the survival of plants. Q. 17. Explain solar air conditioning ? Ans. Solar Air-Conditioning. It includes solar-powered refrigeration systems of Rankine cycle systems1 absorption refrigerator systems and solar-regenerated desiccant cooling systems. Out of these, open-cycle absorption desiccant cooling systems seemed to offer the best prospects. In a typical desiccant cooling cycle, ambient air is adiabatically cooled, dehumidified, cooled both sensibly and evaporatively, and then ducted to the living area. In the regenerative stage, air is evaporatively cooled, heated as it cools the supply air stream, heated again by solar collectors, and humidifed. Simulation and analysis of desiccant cooling systems suggest that solar-regenerated systems can be cost-competitive with conventional vapour-compression or absorption systems. Desiccant cooling seems best suited for regions with about equal heating and cooling loads and high humidity. Short Answer Type Questions Q. 1. Discuss role played by non-conventional energy resources towards the protection of environment ? Ans. A source of energy is one that can provide adequate amount of energy in a usable form over a long period of time fossil fuels are the common sources of energy but they are nonrenewable. Thus there is need for non-conventionl sources of energy and that can by used again and again in a endless manner. Energy Resources. Daily per capita requirement of energy was 2000-4000 kcal in hunting and

Energy Resources. Daily per capita requirement of energy was 2000-4000 kcal in hunting and food gatherer stage. Fire was then used for cooking and keeping warm. In agriculture stage, animal power was added. In developing countries per capita energy consumption is 10,000 kcal (6000 kcal in 1970). In industrial stage of 19th century, r capita consumption of energy rose to 70,000 kcal in advanced countries. Present day per capita energy consumption of U.S.A. is 250,000 kcal. Industrialised countries with 30% of world population are consuming 80% of energy. 1. Animal Power. It is a renewable conventionl energy resource got from draught animals. Draught animals are used in transport, drawing water and agriculture, e.g., bullocks, buffaloes, camels, horses. 2. Firewoo4fFuelwood. It is a renewable conventional resource used for cooking and heating in villages, remote areas, urban poor, wayside dhabas, crematoria, etc. More than two billion persons employ wood as fuel, consuming 1-8 billionm3 of it. 3. Organic Wastes. They constitute a newable resource. Availability in India is over 3000 million tonnes. Out of this 1650 million tonnes is animal dung, night soil and wastes from food processing industry. Dried dung cakes are used for heating and cooking. The amount is over 200 million tonnes. It is a wasteful use of a resource. 4. Biogas. Organic wastes can be more profitably used in generation of biogas. India can produce 48 billion m3 of biogas and 400 million tonnes of manure per year through biogas technique. 5. Energy plantation. It is growing of firewood trees on non-forest and nonagricultural lands. 6. Energy Corpping. It is growing crop which yield fuel. Alcohol can be obtained from Potato, Sugarcane, Maize and Tapioca. Latex having long chain liquid hydrocarbons is present in plants called petroplants, e.g. Jatropha, Euphorbia lathyrus, Brickellia. 7. Tidal Energy. Tidal waves of the sea can be used to generate electricity. It is an alternative source of energy to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels. 8. Wind Power. It has been used for centuries to run the wind mills for grinding grains in certain areas. It is being now developed on scientific lines. The limitation is that the wind does not always blow with required intensity all the year round and in all areas. Hence, it can be used in certain regions and on certain days only. 9. Geothermal Energy. Steam and hot water coming out of the earth in some places can be used for heating buildings and water and for generating electricity. However, the geothermal resources are limited. 10 Solar energy. It is used for cooking air conditioning. Q. 2. Critically examine the use of alternative energy sources. Ans. Refer to Q. No. 1 (SAQ). Q. 3. Discuss the causes for desertification and its measures ? Ans. Desertification : In drier parts of the world, deserts are increasing rapidly from a combination of natural processes and human activities, a process known as desertification or land degradation. An annual rainfall of less than 25 cms will produce a desert anywhere in the world. In the semi-arid areas along the desert margins, where the annual rainfall is around 40 cms, the ecosystem is the desert margins, where the annual rainfall is around 40 cms, the ecosystem is inherently fragile with seasonal rains supporting the temporary growth of plants. Recent changes in the climate of these regions have meant that the rains are now unreliable and the lands that were once semi-arid are now becoming deserts. The process of desertification is precipitated by prolonged droughts, causing the top layers of the soil to dry out and blow away. The aeroded soils

become unstable and compacted and do not readily allow for seeding. This means that desertified areas do not regenerate by themselves but remain bare and continue to erode. Desertification of grazing lands or croplands is accompanied, therefore, by a sharp drop in the productivity of the land. Factors affecting desrtification and effects 1. Natural desertification is greatly accelerated by human activities that leave soils vulnerable to erosion by wind and water. The drier grasslands with too little rain to support cultivated crops have traditionally been used for grazing livestock. When semi-arid land is overgrazed (by keeping too many animals on too little land), plants that could survive moderate grazing are uprooted and destroyed altogether. Since plant roots no longer bind the soil together, the expossed soil dries out and is blown away as dust. The destruction and removal of the topsoil means that soil productivity drops drastically. The obvious solution to desertification caused by overgrazing is to limit grazing to what the land can sustain. 2. Over-cultivation, deforestation, salting of the soil through irrigation and the ploughing of the marginal land. 3. These destructive practices are intensfied in developing countries, rapid population growth, high population density, poverty and poor land management. The consequences of desertification in some countries mean intensified drought and famine and lowered standards of living. 4. In marginal areas throughout the world, traditional farming practices can lead to desertification. Ploughing turns the top layer of the soil upside down, burying and killing weeds but exposing bare soil to erosion. In arid areas, the exposed soil dries out rapidly and is easily lost through wind erosion. Measures to restore land 1. Mulching of soil to hold moisture and protection of seedling. 2. Reforestation is another way. Q. 4. Why is dependence of man on nature greater than that of any other organism? Ans. Mans dependence on the environment is greater than that of other organisms because he 1. has developed curiosity for more comforts and security. 2. consumes large amount of material and energy. 3. has developed a new kind of socio-economic environment which consists of things developed by man through his tools and techniques. Q. 5. Explain soil as a resource. Ans. Soil as resource. Land forms about 1/5th of earth is a major constituent of lithosphere and is the source of many materials, which are used by man. All the terrestrial plants obtain their water and mineral nutrients from the soil. Yield of all biotic products in terrestrial ecosystem depends upon soil. Numerous microbes (bacteria and fungi) and many animals which are involved in the decomposition process live in soil. All of them form humus by accumulation of partially synthesised organic materials. Soil is the most important component of land. It is the fertile surface layer of the earth capable of supporting plant growth. It is a mixture of mineral matter, air, water, organic matter (humus) and organisms. Soil provides water and minerals to plants and serves as a habitat for bacteria, fungi and many kinds of animals. Human activities

have aggravated soil erosion, salinisation water logging, acidification, alkalination, leaching, impoverishment and silting. These phenomena are a serious threat to land as a resource. Productive land is reducing due to coming up of dams, roads, railways, urban settlements, factories, canals, mines, playgrounds and other things. Man should seriously take effective steps for the conservation of soil. Nature also restores soil fertility in various ways. Q. 6. Enumerate the importance of soil. Ans. Importance of top soil Soil plays a multiple role in the life of organisms 1. It provides water and mineral nutrients to the terrestrial plants. 2. It is the medium in which plant and animal materials are decomposed. The inorganic components, namely CO2 and H20, formed as the end products of decomposition are released into the environment for reuse by plants. 3. It provides habitat for microbes. Q. 7. Discuss the agents of soil erosion. Ans. Agents of soil erosion 1. Water erosion. This type of soil erosion is caused by water. The rain drops fall on the superficial layers and erosion takes place due to the flow of water. 2. Wind erosion. In deserts soil erosion takes place continuously due to wind and cyclones. 3. Land slides or Slip erosion. Due to heavy rains, edges of hills are washed away and due to gravity they fall. 4. Stream bank erosion. Due to floods the banks of rivers are eroded. Q. 8. Give a brief account of principles of soil erosion. Ans. Principles of soil erosion. 1. Normal or geological erosion. This is a slow process. It is a common natural phenomenon. A balance is maintained between formation and erosion. 2. Accelerated soil erosion. In this type of erosion, a balance is not maintained between erosion and formation. The speed of erosion is so fast due to man or any other reason that it is impossible to have a similar formation speed. Due to this type of soil erosion, man has to face many problems. Q. 9. Write the names of biological methods of soil conservation. Ans. Biological methods of soil conservation. 1. Contour agriculture 2. Mulching 3. Crop rotation 4. Dry farming. Q. 10. How will you restore soil fertility?

Ans. 1. Application of biofertilizers is useful in enhancing the soil fertility. 2. Various organic farming measures, which provide increase input to soil have long term beneficial effects on soil fertility. Q. 11. What are the major sources of water on earth? Ans. Sources of water. The sources of water on earth are oceans, rivers, lakes, soil moisture and ground water. Oceans contain 97% 1.4 billion cubic kilometre (km3) of remaining water. Ice in the polar ice caps and permanent glaciers had about 3% of remaining water. Rest of the water is in the form of water vapours, lakes, rivers and ground water. Q. 12. Write a note on fresh water available. Ans. Fresh water. Out of the 3%, 77.2% is stored in glaciers and icecaps and 22.4% is ground water and soil moisture. The remaining 0.36% is present in lakes, rivers, streams, swamps etc. This fresh water is available for drinking and irrigation purposes. In the atmosphere there is 0.00 J of water. Though ocean water is also very important for mankind. Mans direct relation is more with fresh water. Rainfall is due to evaporation of ocean water and as a result of this fresh water is available. 90% of the total evaporated oceanic water reaches back into the ocean through rivers. Q. 13. What are methods of conserving water resources? Ans. Conservation of water resources. For conservation and management of fresh water, following methods can be employed 1. Reducing agricultural water wastage by increasing efficiency of irrigation system. 2. Afforestation and protection of watersheds to improve economy. 3. Formation of artificial clouds, so that a change can be brought in the atmosphere. 4. Changes in the vegetation of a particular area, so that even in the dry season maximum amount of water can be stored. In addition to this, dams should be constructed to stop the drainage of rain water. 5. Control the distribution of water by constructing big dams. 6. Desalinization of sea water and saline ground water. 7. Proper utilization of underground water. 8. Attempt to extract minerals from water. 9. Melt the glaciers and snow for using as a fresh water resource. 10. Regular dredging and desiltation of water bodies. Q. 14. What do you understand by Forest, Forestry, Jungles and Silviculture? Ans. (i) Forest. It is an ecosystem comprising living and non-living components.

Forest is land outside the fences and boundaries of village covered with a closed canopy of trees and shrubs. Forest is any area set aside for timber, climatic or protective purposes. (ii) Forestry. The branch of knowledge concerned with scientific, rearing and tending of forest trees in order to derive the maximum benefit is known as forestry. (iii) Jungle. It is an unmanaged area of land lying outside human settlements. It is covered over by trees and shrubs. (iv) Silviculture. It is the programme for establishment, development, care and reproduction of pure crops of valuable timber trees. Q. 15. Comment Forest as a resource. Ans. Forest as a resource. Forests provide medicinal plants, food, fodder, fuel, fibres, tools, shelter to majority of biota, timber, non-wood products apart from protection of environment are all provided by the forests. Forests also serve as home to diverse plants and animals besides serving as a sink to polluting gases and maintaining the balance of atmospheric carbon dioxide and oxygen. Q. 16. Write a brief note on Indian Forests. Ans. Indian Forests. In India the forests cover an area of about 8 lakh square km. There are about 15000 species of flowering plants and almost 3000 species of nonflowering plants are present. From the forests, timber, fuel wood, bamboo, medicines, fibres, gum, resins, rubber, aromatic oil, colours, oil, seeds and number of other small products are obtained, without which our daily life cannot be imagined. Indias main forest areas are : Himalayan area, valley area, Ganges Sindhu plains, Rajasthan, Sundarban and eastern and western ghats, south India, Andaman Nicobar and Lakshdeep and eastern India. Q. 17. What is the importance of forest resources? Ans. A. Productive functions 1. Forests provide wood. Indian forests yield valuable timber wood like teak, sal, deodar, shisham etc. 2. Forests provide paper. The conifers and bamboos are used as raw material to prepare paper. 3. Medicinal plants of forests provide medicine of great importance. 4. Forests provide number of products like resins, gums, rubber, food and insecticides. 5. Forest provide shelter to variety of animals. 6. Forests also provide the cork e.g. oak (Quercus) B. Protective functions Role of forests in the protection of lands. Forests play a vital role in the life and economy of all tribes living in the forests.

1. Forests prevent erosion of soil by wind and water. 2. Large trees provide shade which prevents the soil from becoming dry and friable during the summer. 3. They check the velocity of rain drops or wind striking the ground and reduce dislodging of the soil particles. 4. The root system of plants firmly binds the soil. C. Role of forests in retaining sub-soil water. Forests improve the quality of soil by increasing its porosity. The forest soil absorbs water during rains like a giant sponge and does not allow it to evaporate or run off quickly. It ensures perennial supply of subsoil water in springs and wells. Thus the hill slopes with vast forest cover in the catchment areas conserve water and gradually release it into streams, rivers and subsoil springs. Q. 18. Name the forest products of economic importance. Ans. Forest products of economic importance. Name of products (a) Gum (d) Oil (b) Tannin (e) Beverage (c) Resin (f) Rubber

(g) Medicines (h) Paper Q. 19. How does deforestation cause deterioration of the quality of life in a society? Ans. Deforestation. The unplanned cutting off the forests is called deforestation. The main causes of deforestation are explosion of human and livestock population of increased demands for timber, fuel wood, expansion of croplands, construction of roads and dams. Deforestation causes deterioration of the quality of life in a society, cause of the following factors 1. It results in reduced shade and there is quick run off which causes erosion and floods. 2. It causes decreased rain fall which ultimately leads to drought. 3. It also reduces the water retention power of soil which leads to drought. 4. Deforestation causes increased convection which again leads to drought. 5. Floods and drought caused by deforestation disturbs plant and animal life. Q. 20. Write a note on any three schemes of afforestation launched by Union and State governments. Ans. The Union and State governments have launched several schemes of afforestation and forest conservation. 1. The Social Forestry Programme is one such scheme. In this scheme, the common lands and public places are utilised to produce fire wood, fodder and small timber in order to meet the demand of rural population and thus decrease the pressure on the forests. 2. Agroforestry is another programme of forest conservation according to which the old practice of growing trees, cultivation of agriculture and animal husbandry are simultaneously carried out in the same area.

3. Urban Forestry programme is yet another scheme according to which the shade trees, flowering trees and fruit trees -are planted along the roads, around and within the parks, inside the compounds and vacant lands in urban areas. It adds to the aesthetic beauty of the place and tones down the harshness of the urban environment besides giving protection against scorching heat to the travellers. Q. 21. Write a short note on Chipko movement. Ans. Chipko Movement. The Chipko movement was born in March 1973, in the remote hill town of Gopeshwar in Chamoli district of then Uttar Pradesh. Chipko movement reached its climax in 1974 when the women of village Reni led by Gaura Devi barred the path to the forest which went through the village. The genesis of the Chipko movement has both an ecological and an economic background. Two leaders-Chandi Prasad Bhatt from Gopeshwar and Sunder La! Bahuguna from Tehri region have contributed immensely in making it a big success and also spreading it amongst people. It is confined to. tree protection and plantation only, but also concerns itself with the safety and preservation of environment as a whole including the habitat and the wildlife. Q. 22. Write a note on Appiko movement. Ans. Appiko movement. It is a successful conservation movement on South India and originated in Uttara Kannada. About fifty years ago as much as 82 per cent of district was covered with forests rich in teak trees. There was excessive use of the teak trees and in 1983-84 forest cover dropped to 20 per cent. As a result not only soil in the area degraded but also water resources and water cycle was affected. Then the local people especially youths were motivated into direct action. They requested the people to stop clearing the forests, and the appeal was ignored by those persons involved in utilization. Then the activists took oath to protect the trees the same way as the Chipko movement activists did. This movement was led by Pandurang Hegde. Appiko movement has created a mass awakening about conservation of forests in South India. Q. 23. Write a note on forest conservation, Ans. Forest conservation. Before mans evolution 70% of the land was covered by forests, which is now only 16%. The forests were depleted due to river valley projects, commercial use, agriculture development etc. To stop the destruction of forests, forest management, social forestry and public efforts are also necessary. Forest management should be such that along with protection of forests, the production should also increase. Q. 24. What is wetland ? What are its types ? Ans. Wetlands. Wetlands are low lying areas usually covered by shallow water and have characteristic soils and water-tolerant vegetation. Wetlands may be either fresh-water or salt water (coastal). Freshwater wetlands include marshes (where grasslike plants dominate), swamps (where trees or shrubs dominate), and periodically flooded riverine forests found in lowlands along streams. Wetlands occupy almost 6% of the worlds land surface and provide crucial environmental services. Wetlands are often drained, dredged or filled up for housing and industrial purposes. They are increasingly threatened by agriculture, pollution and engineering constructions (such as dams).

Q. 25. Why are wetlands considered ecologically important? Ans. Importance of wetlands. 1. They serve as ground water recharging areas. 2. To help clean and purify water run off. 3. They are highly productive area. 4. In salt water wetland as the mangroves hold sediment and accumulate soil along shore line. 5. An mangroves expand into ocean other plants colonize the soil left behind. Q. 26. What are the various ways of conserving non-renewable natural resources ? Ans. The conservation of non-renewable natural resources. The availability of minerals for human use along the time scale is called life time of earth minerals. The project life span of various minerals can be extended by recycling, substitution and synthesis. The conservation of fuel is possible only by their judicious use and by finding out the new resources of energy such as (a) hydro-power (b) wind power and (c) nuclear power. Sun energy is also a useful form of energy. Indian scientists have been able to invent the sun basket, solar cooker in which the suns rays are utilised directly to cook meals. It will save fossil fuel. Q. 27. Discuss the role of water as essential component of life supporting system. Ans. Water is the major constituent of hydrosphere and covers four-fifths of earths surface. Water form about 60-95% of living material i.e. protoplasm is an essential substance for carrying out various vital processes of life. It plays a role in vital supporting system as follows 1. It has an influence in regulating climate. 2. Ocean acts as heat bank for coastal regions releasing and absorbing heat. 3. In stream use water falls, tides and river currents are used to move machine and generate hydroelectric power. 4. Irrigation water is essential for agriculture. 5 It provides surface for navigation. 6. Water provides hydrogen required in living system. 7. Domestic use. The domestic use includes drinking, bathing, washing, cleaning, air-conditioning, cooking, washing dishes, flishing toilets, watering lawns and gardens. Per person use of water increases with his economic status. In India it ranges from 10 to 200 litres per person per day. More domestic water is wasted than used. Over and above about 20% loss of water is on account of leaking water pipes and casual public attitude towards it. 8. Industrial Use. Most of wter use for industries is for cooling. For example electric power generating plants use ater to cool steam for recovering the water back. It is also used to dissipate and transport the waste products. Both community, and industrial use contaminate water, and treatment is required before returning it to the river. Q. 28. What is water cycle ?, How do humans interfere in water cycle?

Ans. Water Cycle. It is a highly complex natural system. t is never ending circulation of water. It is a combination of evaporation, precipitation, interception, transpiration, infiltration seepage, storage and run off. It is powered by solar energy and force of gravity. It shows the dynamic nature of water movement in the total hydrosphiere. It illustrates how water can occur in form of three natural states i.e. liquid, solid and gas. Human interference in water cycle Water cycle is dynamic. It is highly complex natural system. But in the present time, it is becoming more complex due to interference by man knowingly or unknowingly. Human interference can be discussed as follows 1. Man has been trying to make artificial rain making to ensure better water resources in time and space 2 Construction of dams 3. Canal network created by man for irrigation. 4. Artificial recharge of ground water reserve. Q. 29. List the important marine resources. Ans. List of marine resources: 1. Through the global hydrological cycle ocean maintain a regular flow of fresh water to be used by man, various animals and plants. 2. Ocean is a reservoir of many substances of biological cycles and many other materials. 3. Marine vegetation acts as producers. 4. Kelps and a few marine animals are used as food. 5. Iodine and industrial gums are produced from sea weeds. 6. Agar is produced from green algae. 7. Algin is derived from Sargassum and Turbilaria. 8. Pearls obtained from pearl oyster are used as valuable jewellery. 9. Shells of molluscs are used to obtain quick lime. 10. Sodium chloride, magnesium and bromide are extracted from sea water. 11. Petroim and natural gas are obtained from continental shelves. 12. Oceans are also sources of deuterium, uranium, gold, manganese, iron, lead and sulphur. Q. 30. Give brief account of global distribution of water. Ans. Global distribution of water. It is believed that life originated (present plants and animals) in sea-water in the form of a unicellular cyanobacteria (blue-green algae.) Over a long period of time, these single called organisms formed multicellular organisms which resulted in the evolution of present day plants and animals. The total quantity of water on our planet is fixed and its distribution is highly uneven. Almost 95%

of the total water present on this earth is chemically bound into rocks and does not cycle. Of the remainder, about 97.3% is in the ocean, about 2.1% exists as ice in the polar caps and permanent glaciers and the rest is fresh water present in the form of atmospheric water vapour, ground water, and inland surface water. Thus, less than one per cent of the total fresh water participates in the hydrological cycle Water occurs in springs, ponds, rivers and seas. Water exists as snow in Antarctica. Water vapours exist in the atmosphere. Long Answer Type Questions Q. 1. (a) Derive an equation to find out the number of years (T) required to deplete a quantities of reserve (R) when the present rate of consumption of P0 and exponential growth rate of consumption is r. (b) Consider the fossil fuel scenario by 2020 in the present rate of population growth. (May, 2007) Ans. The equation to find out the number of years required to deplete a reserve, is as follows

where T is time in years R is quantity of reserve P0 is the rate of consumption r is the exponential growth rate of consumption As the quality of modern life goes to a betterment the T decreases rapidly. T is going down at a frightening rate because available supplies can only go down as consumption goes up. Even if available resources could be kept constant by recycle or other means, the situation deteriorate as long as population and especially per capita consumption increases at a rapid rate. (b) Refer to Q. No. 12 VSAQ. Q. 2. Write an essay on the impact of dams on people ? What are the benefits and negative impacts on people? Ans. Most dams are built to control flood hazards, to store water for irrigation or other uses or to produce hydroelectricity. In India, where nearly 75 percent of the population depends on agriculture, the execution of River Valley Projects and dam building are some important steps of growth strategy of the country. Benefits of Dams 1. Dams are needed for power, they can have a positive effect in offsetting environmental costs associated with other power sources. Hydropower is cleaner and safer than nuclear power. Water turbines are also cleaner than coal-fired generators. Furthermore, both nuclear and coal power require extensive mining with great damage to .environment. 2. The dams have tremendous potential for economic upliftment and growth. 3. They can help in checking floods and famines, generate electricity and reduce water and power shortage.

4. Provide irrigation water to lower areas 5. Provide drinking water in remote areas and promote navigation, fishery etc. Negative Impact of Dams 1. Displacement due to Dams. The big dams are being constructed everywhere in tribal or hilly areas. The people of these regions are being uprooted to provide power to big cities, industries and irrigation water to comparatively more prosperous area. This is unethical. Big river valley projects like Hirakund dam (Orissa) Bhakra Nngal dam (Punjab), Tehri dam (Uttaranchal), Sardar Sarovar Project (Gujarat) and Damodar Valley project (West Bengal) etc., have caused large scale displacement of local people. In the last 50 years more than 20 million people have been displaced by dams. 2. Loss of forests, flora and fauna 3. Changes in fisheries and the spawning grounds 4. Siltation and sedimentation of reservoirs 5. Loss of non-forest land 6. Stagnation and water logging near reservoir 7. Breeding of vectors and spread of vector-borne diseases 8. Reservoir induced seismicity (RIS) causing earthquakes 9. Growth of aquatic weeds. 10. Changes in the micro climate 11. Reduced water flow and slit deposition in river 12. Flash floods 13. Salt water intrusion at river mouth 14. Loss of land fertility along the river since the sediments carrying nutrients get deposited in the reservoir. Q. 3. Write short note on renewable and non-renewable energy resources. Ans. Natural Resources/Earth Resources. They are those living and nonliving components of atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere which can be drawn upon for supporting life or have potential of being used by humans for their requirements. Resources may vary from society to society. Resources may be inorganic (e.g. minerals, water), organic (organisms or their products) or mixed (e.g., soil). They can be national (minerals, land), multinational (certain rivers, migratory animals), or international (e.g., sunlight, air). Inexhaustible Resource. It is a natural resource which is found in such abundance that it is unlikely to diminish or get exausted, e.g., air, clay, sand. The quality of resource may deteriorate due to pollution. Exhaustible Resource. It is a natural resource which is likely to diminsh and then get exhausted due to continuous use or exploitation e.g. , minerals, fossil fuel, forests, pastures, aquatic organisms. Exhaustible resources are of two types, renewable and non-renewable. Renewable Resources is a natural resource which gets replenished recylced or reproduced and should not be

used beyond its renewability e.g., forest, underground water, wildlife, aquatic organisms. Nonrenewable Resource is a natural resource which is likely to get exhausted with use because of its lack of recycling (e.g., fossil fuel) or very long recycling time (e.g., minearls). Conservation of non-renewable resources Conservation of minearis The following methods have been suggested for the conservation of minearis. (i) There is a need for the development of techniques for the extraction of minearis from the sea. (ii) Use of atomic energy for extraction of metals from mineral ores. (iii) Scraps and waste products of minerals should be recycled for use. Conservation of fossil fuels Existing fuel will finish altogether one day or another. Therefore, there is need for alternative sources of energy. The alternative energy resources are (i) Hydroelectric power (ii) Wind energy (iii) Atomic energy (iv) Solar energy. Need to conserve the non-renewable resources. If worlds population remains at its present level and if the current rate of consumption of the various minerals does not increase, the following changes are possible: 1. The world reserve of crude oil, natural gas, uranium-235, tungsten, copper, lead, zinc, tin, gold, silver and platinum wifi be exhausted until about 2590- 2800 A.D. 2. The world reserves of coal, iron and chromium are likely to be available until about 2500-2800 A.D. 3. Aluminium, cobalt, manganese and molybdenum are likely to last until about 2106-2200 A.D. 4. The worlds known oil and natural gas reserves are likely to be depleted by the end of this, century while that of coal is likely to last much longer but certainly not indefintely. Q. 4. What is soil ? Give an account of soil erosion. Discuss methods for conservation of soil. Ans. Soil. The top layer of the land constitutes soil. It is the region which supports vegetation by providing enormous water and mineral nutrients. However of the total land area of 13,393 million hectares, only 11% is available for agriculture, the rest covered by human dwellings, roads, canals, railways, meadows, pastures and forests. Soil erosion. Damage or removal of top soil renders the soil infertile. Erosion may occur in many ways 1. Top soil is carried away by wind sweeping across ploughed soil left unused in dry season.

2. Loss of forests by felling or fire starts erosion. Soil is carried away by rivers and streams and deposited in the oceans. No doubt, the forests are renewable, it takes many decades to have full grown forests again. Erosion continues till then. 3. Unprotected fields are erode4 by wind and water. 4. Burrowing animals contribute to soil erosion. They make the soil loose and liable to be carried away by water. 5. Ocean waves and glaciers also cause soil erosion. 6. Human activities, such as felling of trees, overgrazing, overcropping and faulty tilling accelerate soil erosion. Methods of soil conservation. The various means of soil conservation are: (a) Bio-technology. Under this different types of agricultural methods are used. For example, contour agriculture, mulching, crop rotation, dry farming and other agricultural practices. (b) Engineering methods. Making basins for collection of water on land suitable for agricultural purposes. Soil conservation can be done even by making contours, on the surface. (c) Other Methods. The plantation, making drainage lines, planting trees at certain al3gles in the desert area (which will decrease the speed of strong winds). Decreasing soil pollution is also a method which helps in soil conservation. Q. 5. What steps would you propose for sustained development without depletion of available resources and ecodegradation ? Ans. Mans increasing economic activities have atremendous impact on the physical and biological resources of the world. For sustained development with depletion of available resources and ecodegradation following steps should be taken: 1. Use of alternative for fossils fuels as source of energy such as solar energy, wind mills, tidal energy etc. 2. Stop over-exploitation of natural resources to save for future. 3. Conservation of forests is essential. 4. Conservatic of wild life and to maintain gene pool. 5. Planned industries to avoid pollution of urban areas. 6. To check pollution of land, water and air. 7. Maintain environment balance. 8. Changes in: landscape have gradually attend the regional and global climate, thus to avoid changes in landscape. 9. To control increase in human population. 10. Overgrazing results into degradation of grasslands. it may lead to formation of deserts. 11. Misuse of land by digging of sediments for brick making and shifting cultivation should be stopped.

Q. 6. Discuss the policies for conservation of environment. Ans. Policies for Conservation. Man has caused great harm to environment in the last two centuries. So efforts are on to conserve environment at global level. In 1972, a conference on conservation of environment was held at Stockholm between 5th and June. From this day, June 5 is celebrated as World Environment Day all over the world. Main suggestions for conservation of environment are as following: 1. Every man has a right to live in clean and self sustaining environment. Alongwith this, conservation of environment is his primary duty. 2. Environment affects quality of life and economic development in an area. So people of the area should conserve environment. 3. Use of resources should be rationalised as it affects environment and causes water and air pollution. 4. Natural habitat of wild animals should be protected. 5. We should use renewable resources instead of non-renewable so that development is sustainable. 6. Non-renewable resources should be used judiciously so that these can be used for a long period of time. Alternative resources should also be developed. 7. Natural ecosystems should be protected. 8. Oceans should not be made dumping grounds. We should not throw garbage and industrial effluents in water bodies. 9. National institutes should be established to conserve environment and utilize natural resources. 10. Science and technology should be used to conserve environment. 11. Every country should take care that industries and other work in his territory do not affect environment of a neighbouring country. 12. Every citizen should be educated and guided to conserve environment. After the Stockholm conference, many efforts were made to conserve environment. In 1976, 42nd amendment was made in the Constitution of India. In this amendment, attention was focussed on forests, wild life and other related environmental issues. Directive Principles and Basic Duties were formulated. Department of Environment was established in 1980. It was converted into Ministry of Environment and Forests in 1985. Various government policies were changed keeping in view the environment conservation such as 1. Agricultural Policy. Since Independence, the govt. of India laid emphasis on increase of foodgrains by increasing per hectare yield. It was possible with use of chemical fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides etc. After 42nd amendment, the government stressed to increase yield and stabilize production of food grains by using green manure, biofertilizers, integrated post management etc. 2. Urbanisation Policy. Satellite towns were established around all major cities to ease out traffic and provide better facilities. Under this policy Noida and Gurgaon were established near Delhi. Similarly, Mohali and Panchkula were established near Chandigarh. Sewage system was provided in all major cities. In some cities, such as Delhi, solid waste is being used to prepare manure and gas.

3. Industrial Policy. Industries pollute air, water, soil etc. New Industrial policy was formulated in which industrial focal points and Industrial centres were established away from existing industrial complexes so that pollution in these complexes can be controlled. New guidelines were issued regarding smoke emissions, height of chimneys and discharge of industrial effluents. 4. Energy Policy. Use of energy resources is increasing day by day. Burning of fossil fuels causes air pollution. Under this policy, compressed natural gas (C.N.G.) was made a compulsory fuel in autorickshaws, taxis, buses and other public vehicles in Delhi and other cities. Similarly, emphasis is being laid on use of solar, tidal, hydro power, biogas etc. so that use of traditional sources of energy can be reduced. Q. 7. Discuss the economic importance of forests. Ans. Economic importance of forests. Forest is considered an industry which plays a significant role in strengthening the economy of a nation. The followings are the important uses of forests 1. Conserve fertility of the soil. The forests check -the soil erosion and conserve the fertile soil. They also improve the soil by increasing porosity. 2. Climate of a nation. The climate is considerably affected by forests which protect life from hot winds and dust storms. Forests also cause rains. 3. Forests provide wood. Indian forests yield valuable timbers wood like teak, sal, deodar, Shisham etc. 4. Forests provide paper. The conifers and bamboos are used as material to prepare paper. 5. Medicinal plants of forests provide medicine of great importance. 6. Forests provide number of products like resins, gums, rubber, food and insecticides. 7. Forest provide shelter to variety of animals. 8. Forests also provide the cork e.g. oak (Quercus). 9. Rayon and artificial silk are obtained from cotton linters. 10. Plastics are also prepared from cellulose nitrate. 11. Natural rubber is also obtained from the forests e.g. Hevea. 12. The other useful products which are obtained from the forests e.g. shellac, natural dyes, lac, honey, wax. 13. Forests provide fuel wood. 14. Forests provide essential oils which are obtained from rosha grass, Khas and sandal wood. They are used in the manufacture of soaps, cosmetic, pharmaceuticals, confectionary, pipe, tobacco and incence. 15. Soap substitute such as ritha and shikakai are important commercial products. 16. Forests have a great aesthetic value. Q. 8. What steps would you suggest for conservation of forests ? Ans. Conservation of forests. The increasing demand of timber in the world needs and intensive utilisation and management of forests. A planned and well managed forests will yield trees for

regular cuffing. The following methods may be applied in forest management. 1. Improvement cutting. Weed trees, damaged trees, crowded trees, crooked trees and diseased trees are removed in improvement cuffing. As timber trees mature they are removed by selective cutting.. Extraction of timber should not interfere with watershed protection. 2. Block cutting. In block cutting, stands of timber are left around the block for natural residing and protection of the exposed land. When small trees are established another block can be cut. 3. Pest control. Parasitic fungi such as rusts, smuts, mildews, viruses and insects affect the forests trees. Sprays containing DDT and other powerful pesticides are effective against these pests. Biological control is also a method to control pests by using natural enemies of forest insects. 4. Grazing and rearing animals in forests. Grazing of cattle, horses, sheep or hogs in wood lots will completely destroy trees with the passage of time. Thus grazing and rearing animals in forests should be checked. 5. The effect of weather on forests. Wind, ice and snow are beyond our power to control. But damage done to forests by natural forces should receive attention. 6. Reforestation. The establishment of a forest on previously cleared land is called reforestation. The regrowth of a forest in an open area is a slow, lengthy and costly process, but it is a vital part of conservation programme. 7. Control of forest fires. Forest fires destroy the standing timber and consume the seeds and young trees of the future forest. In protected forests the fire towers are placed at strategic points. Trained rangers survey the forests from the forest and report any evidence of fire to headquarters. Fire lines, which resemble roads, penetrate the forest at regular intervals. They serve as avenues for reaching a fire and provide gaps at which a fire can be stopped. 8. The use of forest wood should be discouraged to reduce pressure on more valuable natural forests. 9. The various afforestation programmes launched by union and state govern ments should be practised. They are social forestry programme, Agroforestry programme and Urban forestry programme. Q. 9. Describe sources of water supply. Ans. Sources of water. Rain. It is the prime source of water. When it seeps into the ground, it forms ground water. Part of it evaporates back into the atmosphere and some runs off to form streams and rivers which ultimately flow into the sea. Some part of it is taken by the plants and is transpired by the leaves. It is the purest form of water. Chemically, it is soft water containing only traces of dissolved solids. Normally,

the rain water does not carry disease causing bacteria. But as it falls through the atmosphere, it tends to get impure. It picks up impurities, such as dust, soot, bacteria and gases like carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen and ammonia. Surface Water. It originates from rain water. Rivers, streams, tanks, ponds, lakes etc. are different sources of surface water. In general, surface water supplies possess a high probability of organic, bacterial and viral contamination. Brackish Water. The content of dissolved salts in brackish water is higher than the fresh water and ranges between 0.5 to 35%. These waters of intermediate salinity range are distinct from fresh or marine waters. In estuary which represents that tail end of a river, mixing of fresh water with sea water results in brackish water. The salinity in an estuary increases from upper middle to lower reaches and at the mouth of the estuary the salinity is nearly equal to that of the sea. Marine Water. The sea water is highly salty. The average salinity of sea water remains almost constant at 35 parts of salts per 1000 parts of water by weight and written as 35%. Some salt lakes may also have salinity between 25% to 35%. Salts present in the sea water includes chlorides of sodium, potassium, magnesium; sulphates of magnesium, calcium and strontium. Also present in sea water are calcium carbonate and sodium fluoride. The biotic activity in such habitats is greatly restricted. The absence of many fresh water animals and plants from the marine environment is largely due to their inability to tolerate the high salinity of the sea water. Insects are mostly absent from marine environment. Ground Water. Ground water represents a major subterranean reservoir of fresh water. In general, it is not tapped by plants as it is too deep and does not suffer from loss due to evaporation. It slowly flows through the underground porous substratum from one place to another under the influence of gravity. Its flow may vary from a few millimeters to as much as a metre or so per day. At some places ground water reappears at the surface in the form of a spring. Wells are the major forms of ground water. They may be shallow or deep. The zone of subsurface formation that provides water to wells is called an aquifer. Some aquifers exhibit an unusually high hydrostatic pressure to force water upto the soil surface when a well is dug. Such a well from which water is pushed automatically to the soil surface is called an artesian well. In areas deviod of lakes and rivers ground water is the most important source of water. The total exploitable potential of ground water amounts to 42.3 x 1010 cubic metres in India. A quarter of it is already being used in the country for irrigation, industries and domestic uses. In many places ground water withdrawals have already exceeded the recharge rates causing serious problems.