Chapter 5 Weathering Salient Points – At A Glance

1. The word weathering has been derived from the word weather.
2. The term weathering was first used by geologist G. K. Gilbert.
3. Weathering is a static process, i.e. disintegrated or decomposed rocks do not get removed from their original place.
4. Erosion is a process whereby weathered materials are transported and deposited elsewhere by various exogenetic forces.
5. Denudation is the process in which the lower layers of the rocks are exposed through the removal of the upper layers by weathering and erosion.

Read and Learn Also WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography And Environment

6. Without the effect of external or internal forces, the weathered debris of rocks moves downward along the slope due to the gravitational force and is transported and deposited elsewhere. This process is known as mass wasting.
7. Mechanical weathering occurs in hot desert areas, polar regions, and high mountain regions.
8. Exfoliation occurs in homogeneous rocks like granite.
9. Block disintegration is seen more in basalt.
10. Granular disintegration is prevalent more in heterogeneous rocks, i.e. rocks formed of various minerals.

11. Formation of ice crystals, is observed more along the foothills of the mountains in cold temperate climatic regions.
12. Chemical weathering is more active in equatorial and humid-tropical climatic regions.
13. Water and atmospheric oxygen react with the iron-containing rocks and lead to the formation of rust on them. This process is known as oxidation.
14. The process of solution is more active in rocks like chalk, limestone, dolomite, etc.
15. Biological weathering is caused by various plants and animals.

16. The fragmented rock waste creating a loose covering on the Earth’s surface due to weathering, is called regolith.
17. The process of soil formation from rock debris is called pedogenesis.
18. Smallest particles in the process of soil formation are called the ped.
19. Minerals in the upper layers of the soil mixes with rainwater and move downwards. This is called leaching and the process is called eluviation. The process of accumulation of these particles in the lower layers is called illuviation.
20. Humus is a deep black-colored complex matter, formed due to the decomposition of organic matter. Over a long period of time, soil develops as a result of the mixing of rock wastes, humus, and water.

21. Terrace farming, contour farming, and strip cropping prevent soil erosion on the slopes of the mountains.
22. The process of preventing soil erosion by covering it with a layer of roots of crops, twigs, tendrils, and specks of dust is called mulching.
23. Due to changes in temperature and humidity, increase or decrease of pressure on rocks, etc., surface rocks get disintegrated by mechanical action. This process is called mechanical weathering.
24. Physical change or change of shape in the. rocks are seen in mechanical weathering but there is no change in the chemical composition or character of the rock-forming minerals.
25. The process of granular disintegration causes noises like gunshots.

26. Carbonic acid (H₂CO₃) plays an important role in the carbonation process,
27. The various methods of soil conservation maintain the quality of soil and prevent soil erosion.
28. Various natural causes of soil erosion are rainfall, winds, sea waves, glacier, etc. and human activities responsible for soil erosion are deforestation, unplanned urbanization, the extension of the transportation network, unscientific settlement, etc.
29. The processes of soil erosion due to stream action are sheet erosion, rill erosion, gully erosion, and ravine erosion.

Chapter 5 Weathering Topic A Weathering And Related Processes Of Weathering Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Briefly explains the concepts of erosion and denudation.
Answer:

Erosion: The concept of erosion is discussed below-

1. Definition: When the weathered rocks are transported from their place of origin to some other place by physical agents like rivers, glaciers, winds, etc., the process is called erosion.

2. Process: The main processes of erosion include attrition, friction, plucking, removal of weathered debris, etc.

3. Agent: Agents like flowing water, winds, moving glaciers, etc., transport the weathered material from one place to another.

4. Characteristics:

1. Rocks are removed,
2. underlying layers of rocks are exposed after the upper layers are removed, and
3. erosion is dependent on weathering, it is a fast process.

Example: High-velocity winds in desert areas remove large quantities of sand and small rock fragments (by the process of erosion) to far away places.

Denudation: The concept of denudation is discussed below-

1. Definition: When the lower or underlying layers of the rocks are exposed after the upper layers are removed by weathering and erosion, the process is known as denudation. The term ‘denude’ means ‘to lay bare’.

2. Process: Main processes of denudation are weathering mass wasting and erosion.

3. Characteristics:

1. Weathering and erosion are dependent on mass wasting.
2. This is a slow process.
3. New rocks are exposed to the earth’s surface.
4. Elevation of the land is gradually decreased by the denudation processes and the uneven surface is gradually smoothened and flattened.
5. Nature of rocks, the elevation of land, climate, etc., affect denudation.

4. Regional differences: The rate of denudation is lower in hot dry desert areas than in the high mountainous regions. In humid regions, the rate of denudation is again higher.

5. Importance: Soil is formed as a result of this process and it also plays an important role in the evolution of landforms.

Question 2 Briefly describe the concepts of weathering and mass wasting.
Answer:

Weathering: The concept of weathering Mass Wasting: The process of mass wasting is as follows-

1. Definition: The climatic agents (e.g., temperature, rainfall, etc.) disintegrate and decompose the rocks in their own places (‘in situ’) and this process is called weathering.

2. Nomenclature: As this is an alteration of the physical or chemical characteristics of rocks by various factors of weather/climate, the term weathering is pertinent.

3. Factors: The factors responsible for weathering are temperature and rainfall, plant, man, and other animals, nature of landforms, nature of rocks (lithological characteristics), time, etc.

4. Types: Weathering can mainly be of 3 types-

1. Mechanical (rocks are disintegrated or broken into fragments
2. chemical (rocks . undergo alteration in chemical composition),
3. biological (rocks are altered by the action of plants and animals).

5. Process: Exfoliation, granular disintegration, hydration, oxidation, hydrolysis, etc., are the various processes of weathering.

6. Characteristics:

1. Rocks are disintegrated and decomposed.
2. This is a static process.
3 The weathered materials are not removed or transported. The intensity of weathering depends on the structure and nature of the rocks, climatic factors, etc.

7. Effect: Landforms like rounded or dome-shaped hills, inselbergs, tors, caves, etc., are formed. Weathering also plays a significant role in soil formation.

Mass wasting: The process of mass wasting is discussed below-

1. Definition: When weathered materials like pebbles, boulders, etc., slide down the slopes of mountains due to gravitational pull, the process is known as mass wasting.

2. Nomenclature: As the weathered rock debris is dumped at the lower slopes of the mountains after being carried there, following the natural slope or gradient (by gravitational pull), the term ‘mass’ is thus relevant.

3. Factors: Slope of the land, altitude, shape, size and amount of the weathered materials, presence of vegetation, precipitation, the force of gravity, etc., determine the process of mass wasting.

4. Types: Mass wasting can be of 4 types-

1. Slow flow
2. Rapid flow
3. Landslide
4 . Subsidence.

5.  Process: Mudflow, soil flow, solifluction, slump, rock slide, etc., are the various processes of mass wasting.

6. Characteristics:

1. This process is rampant in sloping lands.
2. The debris is removed as a result of gravitational force. It can occur as a slow or rapid process.
3. Physical agents of weathering and erosion (rivers, glaciers, etc.) do not have any role to play in the process of mass wasting.

7. Effect:

1. Landslides occur in mountainous areas as a result of mass wasting.
2. These cause loss of life and property.
3. Steep slopes, erosion on slopes, talus cones, etc., are formed due to mass wasting.

Chapter 5 Weathering Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What are the controlling factors of weathering?
Answer:

The controlling factors of weathering are as follows-

1. Structure of rocks: The process of weathering is accelerated in soft and jointed (with cracks and fissures) rocks.

2. Relief or topography: Weathering process is more active on steep slopes of hills and plateaus.

3. Climate: The different factors of climate (moisture in the air or humidity, rainfall, temperature) influence weathering to a great extent.

4. Biotic factors: Roots of plants and trees, flowers, fruits, man, and other animals (namely, burrowing animals), are important controlling factors of the weathering process.

Question 2 Write the differences between weathering and mass wasting.
Answer:

The differences between weathering and mass wasting are as follows-

points of difference	Weathering	Mass wasting
1. Concept	When climatic elements are responsible for the disintegration and decomposition of rocks in their own place, it is called weathering.	When the weathered debris of rocks is carried down slopes due to gravity and is transported and deposited elsewhere, it is known as mass wasting.
2. Characteristics	This is a static process, i.e., the weathered materials are deposited ‘in situ’ or in the same place.	This is a dynamic process, where the weathered materials are transported and deposited elsewhere.
4. Controlling factors	Various climatic elements like air temperature, humidity, rainfall, etc., control the process of weathering.	Mass wasting is mainly controlled by gravitational force.
5. Area of occurrence	Weathering is more or less common all over the world.	Mass wasting only occurs in mountainous areas or on sloping land.

 

Question 3 Write the differences between weathering and erosion.
Answer:

The differences between weathering and erosion are as follows-

points of difference	weathering	Erosion
1. Concept	It is the disintegration and decomposition of rocks ‘in situ’ i.e. in the same place, carried out by climatic factors (temperature, precipitation, etc.).	Erosion is the process of carrying away of rock debris by rivers, winds, etc., (operating on the earth’s surface) from one place to another.
2. Interdependency	It does not depend on erosion.	It depends on weathering.
3. Rate / Pace	It is a very slow process.	It is a relatively faster process.
4. State of weathered materials	Weathered materials lie near or on their parent rocks.	Weathered materials are transported far away from their parent rocks.
5. Elements	Temperature, rainfall, and humidity take an active role in this process.	Rivers, winds, glaciers, sea waves, etc. take a main role in this process.
6. Subsequent process	Erosion occurs rapidly in weathered rocks.	Weathering occurs again on the underlying rocks after the removal of disintegrated materials through erosion.

 

Question 4 Write the differences between weathering and denudation.
Answer:

The differences between weathering and denudation are as follows-

 

Points of difference	weathering	Denudation
1. Concept	Weathering is the disintegration and decomposition of rocks due to climatic factors (temperature, precipitation, etc.).	Denudation is the process in which the lower layers of the rocks are exposed when the upper layers are removed by weathering and erosion.
2. Interdependency	It does not depend on denudation.	It depends on weathering.
3. Evolution of landforms	It is not directly related to the evolution of landforms.	It has a vital role in the evolution of landforms, which is a long-term process.

 

Question 5 Write the differences between erosion and mass wasting.
Answer:

The differences between erosion and mass wasting are as follows-

Points of difference	Erosion	Mass wasting
1. Concept	It is the process of carrying away of weathered rocks by natural agents from one place to another.	Mass wasting is the movement of rock debris downhill slopes due to gravity.
2. Process	Abrasion, attrition, solution, etc. are the various processes of erosion.	The various processes of mass wasting a/e mudflow, soil flow, slump, etc.
3. Predominance	It is predominant everywhere.	It is predominant in high-relief or sloping areas.
4. Effect of slope	The effect of the slope is less profound in the erosion process.	The effect of the slope is more profound in the mass wasting process because it occurs along a sloping land.
5. Effect of gravitational force	There is no direct relation between erosion and gravitational force.	Mass wasting occurs under the effect of gravity.

 

Question 6 ‘Weathering and climate are interrelated.’ Explain.
Answer:

Weathering And Climate Are Interrelated:-

The interrelation between weathering and climate can be discussed if we study the following climatic regions

1. Equatorial climatic region: Temperature and rainfall are intense throughout the year in this region. Along with chemical weathering, mechanical weathering is also rampant here due to excessive heat.

2. Hot and dry desert climatic region: Due to long periods of intense heat and almost negligible rainfall, mechanical weathering is predominant here. For example, exfoliation, granular disintegration, etc. are the prevalent processes.

3. Cold mountainous climatic region /Arctic region: Due to excessive cold, the formation of ice crystals along the cracks of rocks causes mechanical weathering.

4. Tropical monsoon climatic region: Due to the hot and wet climate of tropical monsoon climatic regions, both mechanical and chemical weathering are active here as a result of both heat and rain.

5. Wet-temperate climatic region: In wet-temperate climatic regions, both mechanical and chemical weathering is active, mainly due to the excessive availability of moisture.

Chapter 5 Weathering Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is weathering?
Answer:

Weathering:-

When rocks are broken down in their own places (‘in situ’) either mechanically or chemically due to the action of various elements of weather (namely temperature, rainfall, etc.) the process is known as weathering.

Question 2 What is erosion?
Answer:

Erosion:-

When fragmented rocks are transported from their original place of weathering to some other place by various agents like rivers, glaciers, winds, etc., the process is called erosion.

Question 3 What is denudation?
Answer:

Denudation:-

When the underlying rock layer of the earth’s surface is exposed as a result of the upper layer of rock being weathered and transported to some other place (erosion) by various agents, the process is called denudation (‘denude’ means to ‘lay bare’).

Question 4 What is mass wasting?
Answer:

Mass Wasting:-

When fragmented rocks, pebbles, mud, etc., slide down the slope or gradient of a mountain or a highland (as a result of gravitational force), as a mass of weathered matter, the process is called mass wasting.

Question 5 How can mass wasting be classified?
Answer:

Classification Of Mass Wasting:-

The two main types of mass wasting are- slow movement and rapid movement.

Question 6 Why is weathering also known as the process of disintegration?
Answer:

Weathering Is Also Known As The Process Of Disintegration:-

The rocks on the Earth’s surface are either disintegrated or decomposed as a result of the process of weathering and that is why it is also called a process of disintegration.

Chapter 5 Weathering Multiple Choice Type Questions

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. Transportation of disintegrated rocks is known as—
1. Mechanical Weathering
2. Chemical Weathering
3. Denudation
4. Erosion

Answer: 4. Erosion

2. Movement of weathered rock materials in hilly areas is known as—
1. Mechanical Weathering
2. Chemical Weathering
3. Mass Movement
4. Denudation

Answer: 3. Mass Movement

3. The process in which the rocks of the surface of the Earth gets disintegrated is—
1. Erosion
2. Denudation
3. Disintegration
4. Mass Movement

Answer: 3. Disintegration

4. Weathering, decomposition, and removal of rocks are the combined process of—
1. Disintegration
2. Erosion
3. Denudation
4. Mass Wasting

Answer: 3. Denudation

5. What is the order of relief developed by weathering? –
1. First order
2. Second order
3. Third order
4. Fourth order

Answer: 3. Third order

6. Due to weathering, rocks get—
1. Deformed
2. Loosened
3. Eroded
4. Removed

Answer: 2. Loosened

7. Another name for weathering is—
1. Erosion
2. Denudation
3. Disintegration
4. None Of These

Answer: 3. Disintegration

Chapter 5 Weathering Fill In The Blanks With Suitable Words

1. When the underlying rock layer is exposed to the surface, the process is called denudation

2. Biological weathering is caused by plants.

3. Weathering occurs before the erosion of the rock bed.

4. Weathering and erosion together are called denudation

5. Gravitational force is the cause of mass wasting.

6. Weathering is a Static process.

Chapter 5 Weathering If The statement Is TRUE, Write TRUE And If FALSE, Write ‘FALSE’ Against The Following

1. Disintegration of rocks by weathering is called erosion. False

2. Denudation is a result of weathering and erosion. True

3. Rock bed is rendered bare due to the process of denudation. True

4. The other name weathering is rock disintegration. False

5. Climate has a great influence on the process of erosion. True

6. Climate plays an important role in accelerating the process of weathering. True

7. Weathering is a dynamic process. False

Chapter 5 Weathering Match The Left Column With The Right Column

1.

Left column	Right column
1. Disintegration of rocks	A. Erosion
2. Decomposition of rocks	B. Mechanical weathering
3. Exposure to rocks	C. Chemical weathering
4. Transportation of rocks	D. Denudation

 

Answer: 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

2.

Left column	Right column
1. Disintegration and decomposition of rocks	A. Mass writing
2. Process occurring along slopes	B. Denudation
3. Removal of rocks	C. Weathering
4. Exposition  of rocks	D. Erosion

 

Answer: 1-B,2-A,3-D,4-C

Chapter 5 Weathering Answer In One Or Two Words

Question 1 Where does mass wasting occur?
Answer: Mountainous area.

Question 2 List two climatic factors responsible for weathering.
Answer: Temperature and rainfall.

Question 3 Who was the first to use the term ‘weathering’?
Answer: G. K. Gilbert.

Question 4 What are weathering and erosion together called?
Answer: Denudation.

Question 5 What is the combined process of disintegration, decomposition and removal called?
Answer: Denudation.

Question 6 What is erosion?
Answer: The removal of weathered and decomposed rock wastes by natural agents is called erosion.

Chapter 5 Weathering Topic B Processes of Weathering Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is meant by mechanical weathering? Describe the main processes involved.
Answer:

Mechanical Weathering:

The process of fragmentation or disintegration of rocks in their own places (‘in situ’) by various agents of climate like temperature, rainfall, snowfall, etc., is called mechanical or physical weathering. The rocks are broken down into smaller fragments, but the chemical compositions are unaltered.

Different processes of mechanical weathering: The various processes of mechanical weathering are-

1. Block disintegration: When the rocks are broken into blocks or boulders, as a result of temperature difference, the process is called block disintegration.

1. Process: When there is differential heating of the outer and inner parts of rocks (the outer parts are more heated than the inner parts), there is a difference in the expansion of the components of those rocks. It is then that the vertical and horizontal cracks are formed within these rocks and they break apart along these cracks into several blocks.

2. Characteristics:

1. Mostly seen in basaltic rocks,
2. Several cracks are formed within the rocks both horizontally and vertically
3. The rocks get broken into square or rectangular shapes,
4. The rocks disintegrate as big chunks or blocks.

3. Occurrence: This process mostly occurs in high-temperature regions.

2. Exfoliation: When the layers of rocks peel off like an onion, this process is called exfoliation.

1. Process: Due to differential heating and cooling of the outer and inner parts of the rocks, the upper layers come off like onion peels and are prone to further weathering.

2. Characteristics:

1. Mostly seen in granitic rocks,
2. Tops of highlands be- come rounded in shape as a result of this type of weathering,
3. This weathering occurs in homogeneous rocks.

3. Occurrence: Exfoliation is most common in hot desert regions like the Sahara and Thar deserts.

3. Granular disintegration: When the rocks expand and contract alternately as a result of differences (hot and cold) in temperature, they break into smaller fragments. This process is called granular disintegration.

1. Process: Rocks composed of different types of minerals absorb and release heat at varying rates and thereby do not have a uniform rate of expansion and contraction. This results in the granular disintegration of these rocks.

2. Characteristics:

1. This type of weathering is more common in rocks that are heterogeneous in nature.
2. When the rocks burst, sounds similar to gunshots are heard.
3. Formation of sand is an ultimate result of the such weathering process.

3. Occurrence: This type of weathering is more commonly seen in hot desert regions.

4. Work of ice: In cold climatic regions, rocks are broken apart by ice crystals.

1. Process: In the cold Arctic region and other cold mountainous areas, the cracks in the rocks are filled up with ice-melt water in the daytime. This water freezes again at night due to condensation (low temperature) and exerts pressure on either side of the cracks, ultimately breaking them apart.

2. Characteristics:

1. Weathering occurs as a result of the formation of ice crystals.
2. Talus cones are formed on the lower slopes of mountains.

3. Occurrence: This type of weathering occurs mostly in cold climatic regions.

5. Other processes: Other processes of mechanical weathering include the formation of salt crystals, dirt cracking, boulder clearing, hitting by raindrops, etc.

Question 2 What is meant by chemical weathering? Explain the main processes involved in it.
Answer:

Chemical weathering:

The chemical composition of rocks is altered when they react with oxygen, carbon dioxide, water vapor, etc., in their own places. This process is called chemical weathering.

Different processes of chemical weathering: Different processes of chemical weathering are as follows-

1. Oxidation: When the nature of minerals within a rock alters under the influence of atmospheric oxygen and water, the process is called oxidation.

1. Process: In iron-bearing rocks, new minerals are formed and chemical decomposition takes place as a result of the chemical reactions in the presence of oxygen and water.

2. Reaction:

3. Characteristics:

1. This type of weathering takes place due to the action of water.
2. Iron-bearing rocks are subject to rusting as an effect of this.
3. Presence of oxygen is required in this type of weathering.

2. Carbonation: When the nature of rocks is altered as a result of the chemical reaction of water mixed with carbon dioxide, this process is called carbonation.

1. Process: When rainfall mixes with carbon dioxide (C0₂) in the atmosphere, carbonic acid is formed (C0₂ + H2₀—>H₂C0₃). This dissolves limestone (calcium carbonate) by altering it into calcium bicarbonate (due to a chemical reaction).

2 Reaction:

3. Characteristics:

1. This type of weathering occurs mostly due to the action of rainwater.
2. It is more active in limestone rocks.

3. Hydration: When water reacts with the minerals present in the rocks and alters their chemical composition, this process is called hydration.

1. Process: Some minerals present in the rocks have more capacity to absorb water and they expand while undergoing chemical reactions.

2. Reaction:

3 Characteristics:

1. The minerals in the rocks expand.
2. As a result of the absorption of water, the rocks become softer/weaker.
3. This usually occurs in homogeneous rocks.

4. Hydrolysis: When the minerals present in the rocks react with ionized water, and chemical decomposition takes place, the process is known as hydrolysis.

1. Process: When water reacts with the minerals in a rock, new minerals are formed, and the rock is decomposed.

2. Reaction:

3 Characteristics:

1. It occurs in the presence of ionized or charged water.
2. New minerals are formed by this process.
3. Specific temperature is needed for reactions to occur.

Besides, due to the process of solution, gypsum, rock salt, etc., are dissolved in water and the rocks get decomposed.

Question 3 Classify weathering. Explain the role played by man, plants, and other animals in biological weathering.
Answer:

Classification of weathering: 

Role of man, plants, and other animals in biological weathering: Man, plants, and animals aid biological weathering both directly and indirectly. The roles played by them are as follows-

1. Role of man: Construction of buildings, roads, etc., lead to the disintegration of rocks. Cultivation of land also leads to mechanical weathering. Mineral exploitation/mining, digging up of ponds and tanks, industrial establishments, etc., directly or indirectly cause weathering.

2. Role of plants: When the roots of plants and trees penetrate into cracks and joints of rocks and soil, the pressure exerted upon them cause the rocks to break apart. Parts of plants (leaves, flowers, fruits, branches, etc.) shed from trees decay and decompose, which aids in the chemical weathering of rocks.

3. Role of other animals: Burrowing animals like rabbits, rats, etc., dig holes in the ground for their survival and at the same time, fragment the rocks. Remains of dead animals react chemically and decompose the rocks.

Question 4 What is biological weathering? State the various processes of biological weathering.
Answer:

Biological Weathering:-

When rocks are disintegrated and decomposed by plants and animals, either directly or indirectly, the process is known as biological weathering. Such type of weathering occurs in almost all climatic regions.

Various processes of biological weathering: The factors of biological weathering (man, animals, and plants) are actually responsible for the two main processes of biological weathering.

1. Bio-mechanical weathering:
1. By animals: Burrowing animals like rats, earthworms, prairie dogs, mice, etc., dig holes in the ground to live and thereby aid in bio-mechanical Termites also help in weathering by bringing the lower layers of the soil to the upper part.

Moreover, the Co2 released by the animals living under- ground brings about changes in the chemical composition of rocks and soil and aids in their weathering. The man also has a vital role in inducing weathering. For example, carrying out mining activities, construction of roads, cultivation of lands, and other unplanned activities.

2. By plants: When the roots of trees and plants penetrate beneath the soil into the underlying rocks, they break the rocks into fragments. Roots can reach up to about 175 feet below the ground and thus aid in mechanical weathering. This is more prominent in areas with dense vegetation. Respiration by the roots of plants, humus, soil moisture carbon dioxide, mild temperature, etc., aids in bio-mechanical weathering of the soil.

2. Bio-chemical weathering: Lichens growing on rocks rot and form humus, which, in turn, is converted to humic acid after mixing with water. This aids in the rapid chemical weathering of rocks. The organisms living in limestone rocks release CO2 with their exhalation, which combines with water to form carbonic acid.

This dissolves the limestone rocks. The acid formed by the rotting of parts of plants like leaves, flowers, fruits, branches, etc., accelerates chemical weathering. During respiration, the tree roots release CO2 which, after combining with water present in the soil, changes into carbonic acid. This eventually dissolves and disintegrates the rocks.

Question 5 Write the differences between mechanical and chemical weathering.
Answer:

Differences between mechanical and chemical weathering: The differences between mechanical and chemical weathering are as follows-

Points of difference	Mechanical weathering	Chemical weathering
1. Place of occurrence	Rocks get disintegrated in their own places in this type of weathering.	Rocks get decomposed in their own places in this type of weathering.
2. Alteration of minerals	It does not lead to the formation of new minerals.	It leads to the formation of new minerals.
3. Main factors	Temperature, precipitation, etc. are the main factors causing mechanical weathering.	Oj, CO? water, minerals, etc. are the main elements causing chemical weathering.
4. Process	Block disintegration, exfoliation, granular disintegration, etc. are the processes involved in mechanical weathering.	Oxidation, carbonation, hydration, hydrolysis, etc. are the processes involved In chemical weathering.
5. Climate	This process is more predominant in the desert and cold mountainous regions.	This process is more predominant in hot and humid climatic regions.
6. Landforms	Tors, inselbergs. etc., are formed due to mechanical weathering.	Caves, holes, pillars, etc. are formed due to chemical weathering.
7. Identification of rocks	This type of weathering can be identified by the disintegrated rocks.	This type of weathering is Identified by the chemical analysis of rocks.
8. Nature of change In the rocks	Physical changes occur in the rocks in this type of weathering.	Chemical changes occur in the rocks in this type of weathering.
9. Colour	The color of rocks remains unchanged after the effect of mechanical weathering.	The color of rocks may change after the effect of chemical weathering.
10. Sound	Fragmentation of rocks causes sounds.	Chemical changes and reactions in rocks occur silently.

 

Question 6 Write the differences between mechanical weathering and biological weathering.
Answer:

Differences between mechanical weathering and biological weathering:

The differences between mechanical weathering and biological weathering are as follows-

Point of difference	Mechanical weathering	Biological weathering
1. Concept	The disintegration of rocks by various climatic factors is called mechanical weathering.	The disintegration of rocks by various plants and animals (man, bacteria, virus) is called biological weathering.
2. Processes involved	Rocks disintegrate only by mechanical action.	Rocks disintegrated by both mechanical as well as chemical action.
3. Areas of occurrence	This type of weathering is commonly seen in hot desert areas, cold mountainous areas, and cold polar regions.	It is commonly seen in areas where lifeforms are abundant.
4. Identification	The parent rocks in this case can be identified by analyzing the weathered rocks.	It is not easy to identify the original rocks by identifying the weathered rocks.
5. Rate of weathering	This is a slower process than biological weathering.	All animals including man accelerate the weathering process.

 

Question 7 Write a comparison between chemical weathering and biological weathering.
Answer:

Comparison between chemical weathering and biological weathering:

The differences between chemical and biological weathering are as follows-

Point of difference	Chemical weathering	Biological weathering
1. Concept	The process of decomposition and disintegration of rocks by the action of acids, C02,02, and water is called chemical weathering.	The process of disintegration of rocks by plants and animals is called biological weathering.
2. Characteristics of rocks	Characteristics of rocks change as a result of changes in their chemical composition in this process.	The physical and chemical characteristics of rocks change in this process.
3. Areas of occurrence	This type of weathering is common in equatorial, tropical, and humid climatic regions.	This type of weathering is common in regions characterized by abundant lifeforms.
4. Identification	If the chemical analysis is not done, the main rocks can not be identified.	It is not easy to identify the main rocks by observing weathered rocks.
5. Rate of weathering	This is a silent weathering process and thus it is not easily perceptible.	It is carried out at a slow rate by life forms, including man.

 

Chapter 5 Weathering Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Why is mechanical weathering pre-dominant in desert areas?
Answer:

Mechanical Weathering Is Pre-Dominant In Desert Areas:-

The factors responsible for the predominance of mechanical weathering in desert areas are as follows-

1. Range or difference of temperature is high: The daily or diurnal range of temperature (difference of temperature between day and night) is high in desert areas. Rocks expand due to heating during the daytime while they contract due to cooling at night. This results in the fragmentation and mechanical disintegration of rocks.

2. Scarcity of rainfall: Chemical weathering rarely takes place due to the scarcity of rainfall in desert areas. Vegetation is also scarce due to lack of water thus, biological weathering is absent. So, only mechanical weathering plays an active part.

3. Excessive denudation: In Desert areas, being more prone to denudation, the upper layers of the rocks are removed by wind action and the rocks underneath are relieved from pressure. The underlying rocks expand consequently and crack form. Subsequently, the rocks disintegrate along these cracks.

Question 2 Rainfall has an impact on mechanical weathering.’ Explain.
Answer:

Rainfall Has An Impact On Mechanical Weathering:-

Rainfall influences mechanical weathering due to the following reasons-

1. Formation of ice: Rainfall is responsible for the formation of ice crystals within the cracks of rocks in colder climatic regions. These crystals subsequently disintegrate the rocks.

2. Raindrops hitting rocks: Raindrops hitting the rock surface over long periods ultimately leads to the fragmentation of the rocks.

3. Expansion of rocks: Rainwater seeping through the rock pores and layers expands the volume of the mineral constituents within them, which, in turn, leads to the breaking apart of the rocks (by mechanical weathering).

Question 3 ‘Exfoliation is predominant in granite. Give reasons.
Answer:

Exfoliation Is Predominant In Granite:-

When the upper layers of the rocks come off from the underlying layers due to differential heating in homogeneous granitic areas, the process is known as exfoliation. Since the upper layers of the rock are more heated than the underlying layers, a thermal gradient is created. The heat-affected upper layers of the rocks expand and come off like the layers of an onion. Exfoliation is thus a common occurrence in granite.

Question 4 The hills formed of granite have rounded or dome-shaped tops. Explain.
Answer:

The Hills Formed Of Granite Have Rounded Or Dome-Shaped Tops:-

The regions having granite rocks that have a high temperature or a dry, and desert type of climate, are found to have hills with rounded tops.

This is because the rocks expand due to heat during the day while they contract at night when the temperature drops. This alternate heating and cooling process affects the upper layers of the rocks. Due to the alternate tension and compression, the upper layers come off from the underlying rock layers like the layers of an onion. This process is called exfoliation. The hills here are thus rendered round in shape.

Question 5 ‘Hot and humid climatic regions are more prone to chemical weathering.’ Why?
Answer:

Hot And Humid Climatic Regions Are More Prone To Chemical Weathering:-

Chemical weathering is predominant in the hot and humid climate of the equatorial and tropical regions, because of the following specific reasons-

1. All the processes of chemical weathering- carbonation, oxidation, hydration, and hydrolysis require high temperatures and rainfall. Both of which are abundant in hot and humid climatic regions. In addition to this, there is also adequate water vapor in the atmosphere of these regions. All of these activities help in the process of chemical weathering.

2. When rainwater falls on the earth’s surface, it mixes with the CO2 present in the atmosphere and forms a mild carbonic acid. When this acid water comes in contact with limestone (calcium carbonate), it changes into calcium bicarbonate, and thus chemical weathering is initiated in the karst topography regions of the equator and tropics.

3. In humid areas, the leaves, flowers, fruits, etc., shed from trees, which, on decaying, form humus and subsequently humic acid. This acid facilitates the chemical decomposition of the rocks.

Question 6 Why is chemical weathering prominent in regions having limestone rocks?
Answer:

Chemical Weathering Prominent In Regions Having Limestone Rocks Because:-

Carbonation is a process that occurs when calcium carbonate (present in limestone) reacts with CO₂ in the atmosphere. When rain falls, the CO, in the atmosphere reacts with it and turns it into mild carbonic acid. This carbonic acid reacts with calcium carbonate (limestone) to form calcium bicarbonate and ultimately dissolves the limestone.

In limestone regions, limestone is dissolved by the process of carbonation and creates a host of landform features like stalactites, stalagmites, pillars, etc.

 

Question 7 Write the differences between exfoliation and frost action.
Answer:

The differences between exfoliation and frost action are as follows-

Point of Difference	Exfoliation	Frost action
1. Concept	The rock layers peel off and come out like onion peels as a result of the high temperature, in this process.	In cold climatic regions, ice crystals formed within the rock layers aid in disintegrating the rocks.
2. Process	Due to differences in temperature, there is expansion and contraction of the rocks/resulting in their weathering.	The ice crystals formed within the cracks of the rocks exert pressure and thereby break the rocks.
3. Occurrence	It usually occurs in deserts or arid and dry climatic regions.	It usually occurs in cold mountainous regions or polar regions.

 

Question 8 Write the differences between exfoliation and granular disintegration.
Answer:

The differences between exfoliation and granular disintegration are as follows-

Point of difference	Exfoliation	Granular disintegration
1. Nature of rocks	This occurs in homogeneous rocks.	This occurs in heterogeneous rocks.
2. Type of weathering	In this type of weathering, the rock layers come off like onion peels.	Rocks are disintegrated into smaller and minute particles or grains.
3. Shape of relief features	The Landforms formed as a result of this type of weathering are rounded or dome-shaped.	The tops of the hills and mountains become conical as a result of this type of weathering.
4. Sound	The process of exfoliation does not cause any sound.	Gunshot-like noises can be heard in this type of weathering.

 

Question 9 Write the differences between oxidation and carbonation.
Answer:

The differences between oxidation and carbonation are as follows-

Point of difference	Oxidation	Carbonation
1. Concept	Water and oxygen react with the iron content of the rocks and they thus get decomposed. 4FeO + 3H20 + 02 – (Ferrous    (Water) (Oxygen) oxide)  2Fe203-3H20 (Hydrated ferric oxide)	Water and C02 react with -the carbonates present in the rocks, and they thus get decomposed. CaC03 + H20 + C02- (Calcium    (Water) (Carbon carbonate)    dioxide) Ca(HC03)2 (Calcium bicarbonate)
2. Landform	does not lead to the formation of landforms.	It leads to the formation of different features of karst topography (dolines, caves, etc.).
3. Influence	It leads to the formation of rust in iron-containing rocks.	Carbonates are formed in this process.

 

Question 10 Write the differences between hydration and hydrolysis.
Answer:

The differences between hydration and hydrolysis are as follows-

Point of difference	Hydration	Hydrolysis
1. Concept	Hydration is the process of decomposition of rocks when water reacts with the minerals present in them. 4FeO + 3H20— (Ferrous (Water)    . oxide)    ‘ 1    2Fe203-3H20 (Hydrated ferric oxide)	Hydrolysis is the process of minerals    in the rocks reaching ionized water molecules and eventually decomposing the ro KAISI308 + (H+OH-)- (Orthoclase    (Ionised feldspar)    water) ‘ HAISi308 + K( (Alumino    (Po1 silicic acid)    hyc
2. Volume	It increases the volume of minerals present in the rocks.	It does not increase the volume of the rocks.
3. New minerals	New minerals are not formed.	New minerals are formed.

 

Chapter 5 Weathering Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What are the various types of weathering?

Answer:

Various Types Of Weathering:-

Weathering can be of three types-

1. Mechanical,
2 Chemicals,
3. Biological weathering.

Question 2 What is mechanical weathering?
Answer:

Mechanical Weathering:-

When different elements of weather (like temperature, rainfall, etc.) break down the rocks in their own places, this process of rock fragmentation is known as mechanical weathering.

Question 3 Where is mechanical weathering more prevalent on the earth’s surface?
Answer:

Mechanical Weathering More Prevalent On The Earth’s Surface In Mostly Below Areas:-

Mechanical weathering takes place mostly in high mountainous areas and in hot and dry desert regions. For example, the rocks get fragmented as a result of exfoliation, block disintegration, and granular disintegrate- in hot and dry desert regions.

Question 4 Which type of landforms result from mechanical weathering?
Answer:

Types Of Landforms Result From Mechanical Weathering:-

1. A soft layer of soil called regolith is formed due to mechanical weathering.
2. Due to exfoliation, rounded hills (especially in granite-gneiss rocks) are formed. For example, the Ranchi dome near Ranchi lake in Jharkhand.
3. In cold climatic regions, angular rock fragments are formed as a result of weathering by ice and these accumulate in a cone-shaped manner in the foothill zones and are called talus or scree.

Question 5 Where does mechanical weathering occur due to frost or ice?
Answer:

Mechanical Weathering Occurs Due To Frost Or Ice:-

In the high mountainous areas and Arctic regions, frost or ice plays a major role in mechanical weathering. The ice in the cracks of the rocks exerts pressure on either side and eventually breaks the rocks

Question 6. What is block disintegration?
Answer:

Block Disintegration:-

Block disintegration is a type of mechanical weathering. When the cracks in the rocks expand and contract due to differential heating (i.e., hot during the daytime and cool at night), they get weakened and eventually break apart in the form of blocks. This is called block disintegration.

Question 7 Why is granular disintegration more prevalent in hot desert areas?
Answer:

Granular Disintegration More Prevalent In Hot Desert Areas:-

Granular disintegration is a type of mechanical weathering found in hot and arid desert regions. Due to differential heating, the various minerals present in the rocks expand and contract alternately and these rates of expansion and contraction differ in the case of different minerals. As a result, the rocks get broken down into small fragments.

Question 8 What is exfoliation?
Answer:

Exfoliation:-

When the intensity of temperature is high, there is a difference in temperature in the outer and inner layers of the rocks. As a result, the outer layers of the rocks come off from the underlying layers (like onion peels). This is called exfoliation. The surface of the rock assumes a rounded shape as a result of this. Exfoliation is a common occurrence in the granite-gneiss rocks of the Chota Nagpur Plateau (near Ranchi) in India.

Question 9 Why people residing in desert areas can hear sounds similar to gunshots?
Answer:

People Residing In Desert Areas Can Hear Sounds Similar To Gunshots:-

The temperature is very high in desert areas and the rocks are heated over a long period of time during the day. However, since different minerals in the rocks have different capacities of absorbing and releasing heat, this unequal expansion and compression within the rocks exert great pressure on them, and subsequently, they burst, making a loud noise, that is similar to the sound of gunshots.

Question 10 What is chemical weathering?
Answer:

Chemical Weathering:-

When rocks are subject to decomposition due to a reaction with oxygen, carbon dioxide, water vapor, etc., present in the atmosphere or water, the process is known as chemical weathering.

Question 11 In which climatic region is chemical weathering prevalent?
Answer:

Due to high temperatures and heavy rainfall, the equatorial regions are more prone to chemical weathering (as a result of hydrolysis, hydration, etc.).

Question 12 Why is chemical weathering more common in equatorial regions?
Answer:

Chemical Weathering More Common In Equatorial Regions:-

The equatorial regions experience chemical weathering because- equatorial regions have high temperatures and receive rainfall throughout the year, the leaves of the forests in this region fall on the ground and form humic acid, which facilitates the chemical decomposition of the rocks.

Question 13 What is oxidation?
Answer:

Oxidation:-

Chemical reaction occurs in the rocks as a result of water (in the presence of oxygen) reacting especially with iron present in the rocks. It forms oxides and hydroxides and eventually weakens and dissolves the rocks. Brownish/yellowish stains are seen on the rocks as a result of rust formation.

Reaction:

Question 14 What is carbonation?
Answer:

Carbonation:

When water mixes with carbon dioxide, carbonic acid forms and it chemically reacts with calcium carbonate present in the rocks and then dissolves the rocks. This process is known as carbonation. This is how limestones are dissolved and karst landforms are formed. For example, Borra caves near Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.

Example:
Question 15 What is hydration?
Answer:

Hydration:-

When the minerals present in the rocks mix with water and alter their chemical process composition. This is called hydration. This is an important process of chemical weathering. Hydration actually causes granular disintegration and makes the rocks further susceptible to chemical weathering, especially by oxidation and carbonation. For example, the process of hydration changes feldspar into kaolinite clay and the process is known as kaolinization.

Question 16 What is hydrolysis?
Answer:

Hydrolysis:-

The chemical combination of minerals with ionized water to form new minerals, decomposing the rock is called hydrolysis. For example, clay and silicon are by-products of such a chemical reaction of granite.

Question 17 Why is carbonation more predominant in limestone regions?
Answer:

Carbonation More Predominant In Limestone Regions:-

The process of carbonation is predominant in limestone regions because when carbon dioxide mixes with water it forms carbonic acid, and when this reacts with limestone (calcium carbonate), it forms calcium bicarbonate and dissolves the limestone.

Question 18 What is biological weathering?
Answer:

Biological Weathering:-

Rocks are sometimes broken down by plants and animals. Again, humic acid from decaying plants and animals results in the breaking down of rocks. When the rocks are subject to change as a result of the decaying of plants and animals, the process is known as biological weathering.

Question 19 What are the different types of biological weathering?
Answer:

Different Types Of Biological Weathering:-

Biological weathering is of two types- bio-mechanical weathering, and bio-chemical weathering.

Question 20 What is the role of plants in biological weathering?
Answer:

Role Of Plants In Biological Weathering:-

When the roots of plants grow and exert pressure on the cracks in the rocks, the rocks disintegrate. The rotten plant remains (namely, leaves, stems/trunks, etc.) result in the formation of humic acid, which eventually dissolves the rocks.

Question 21 What is the role of human beings in biological weathering?
Answer:

Role Of Human Beings In Biological Weathering:-

Rocks are broken down into fragments as a result of agricultural practices, mining activities, etc. 2 Rocks are disintegrated and dissolved as a result of the construction of houses, roads, excavation of canals, etc.

Question 22 What is colloid plucking?
Answer:

Colloid Plucking:-

The wet soil particles or colloids that form on the rocks, dry up eventually and exert pressure on the minerals present in the rocks. This results in weathering of rocks and this process are called colloid plucking.

Question 23 Why does rust form on rocks?
Answer:

Rust Form On Rocks Because:-

The iron-bearing minerals present in certain rocks are prone to the formation of rust. The process of oxidation converts the ferrous oxide present in the rocks into ferric acid, which results in the formation of light brown and yellow colored rust.

Question 24 What is desert varnish?
Answer:

Desert Varnish

In desert areas, the orangish-yellow-colored coating that forms on the rock layers is called desert varnish. It is composed of clay, iron, and manganese oxide. They are found mostly in basalt and quartzite rocks.

Question 25 What is slaking?
Answer:

Slaking:-

Slaking is the process of alternate wetting and drying of rocks. In coastal regions rocks gradually get wet and dry twice a day due to tide action. Consequent expansion and contraction of rock shells result in the disintegration of rocks. Slaking is common in clayey alluvial soil.

Question 26 What is chelation?
Answer:

Chelation:-

Chelation is the process where organic acid reacts with an insoluble mineral and transforms it into a soluble mineral. Podsol soil is formed by the chelation process in the coniferous forest regions.

Question 27 What is sheeting?
Answer:

Sheeting:-

Sheeting is a process in which cracks and fractures develop parallel to the ground surface in massive rocks such as granites, quartzites, etc. The main cause of sheeting is the removal of superincumbent load that results in a reduction of pressure off the rock layers.

Question 28 What is spalling?
Answer:

Spalling:-

Spalling is a common mechanism of rock weathering. In this process cracks and fractures develop and lozenge or irregular platy rock fragments form. The main causes of spalling are the unloading of superincumbent load, freezing and thawing, and thermal expansion.

Chapter 5 Weathering Multiple Choice Type Questions

1. The main process of mechanical weathering in a warm desert is—
1. Saline Crystal Formation
2. Frost Action
3. Granular Disintegration
4. Block disintegration

Answer: 3. Granular Disintegration

2. Which component plays an important role in the oxidation process of the weathering of rocks?
1. H2
2. 02
3. N2
4. C02

Answer: 2. 02

3. The main component of chemical weathering is—
1. Water
2. Sunlight
3. Air Stream
4. Flora

Answer: 1. Water

4. Chemical formula of humic acid is—
1. c187c186c89c9c1
2. C10H20°10
3. C12H10O10
4. C5h607

Answer: 1. c187c186c89c9c1

5. Limestone-clad areas are prone to—
1. Carbonation
1. Hydration
3. Hydrolysis
3. Oxidation

Answer:  1. Hydration

6. Snowfall-prone areas experience—
1. Mechanical Weathering
2. Chemical Weathering
3. Biological Weathering
4. Mechanical And Chemical Weathering

Answer: 1. Mechanical Weathering

7. Which of the following is visible in homogeneous rocks?
1. Block Disintegration
2. Exfoliation
3. Granular Disintegration
4. Biological Weathering

Answer: 2. Exfoliation

8. Rusting of rocks due to chemical weathering is known as—
1. Oxidation
2. Carbonation
3. Solution
4. Hydrolysis

Answer: 1. Oxidation

9. Areas that are prone to chemical weathering are—
1. Tundra Areas
2. Cool Temperate Areas
3. Equatorial Areas
4. Semi-Arid Areas

Answer: 3. Equatorial Areas

10. Exfoliation occurs in—
1. Basalt
2. Granite
3. Sandstone
4. All Types Of rocks

Answer: 2. Granite

11. The process of mechanical weathering which is most effective in high altitude areas or cold areas is—
1. Colloid Plucking
2. Bolder Cleaving
3. Frost Action
4. Sheeting

Answer: 3. Frost Action

12. The kind of weathering that takes place in heterogeneous rocks is—
1. Disintegration
2. Boulder Cleaving
3. Exfoliation
4. Granular Disintegration

Answer: 4. Granular Disintegration

13. When water freezes into ice, its volume—
1. Decreases By 8%
2. Increases By 9%
3. Increases By 10%
4. Decreases By 11%

Answer: 2. Increases By 9%

14. Heavy rainfall-prone tropical areas witness—
1. Mechanical Weathering
2. Chemical Weathering
3. Biological Weathering
4. None of the above

Answer: 2. Chemical Weathering

15. Result of mechanical weathering in rocks is—
1. Physical Change
2. Chemical Change
3. Both Physical And Chemical Change
4. No Changes Occur

Answer: 1. Physical Change

16. The process in which calcium carbonate transforms into calcium bicarbonate is—
1. Oxidation
2. Carbonation
3. Hydrolysis
4. Solution

Answer: 2. Carbonation

17. Both mechanical and chemical weathering occur more in—
1. Cool Temperate Areas
2. Warm Temperate Areas
3. Equatorial Regions
4. Desert Regions

Answer: 2. Warm Temperate Areas

18. A major factor of mechanical weathering is—
1. Gravitational Force
2. Oxygen
3. Hardness Of Rocks
4. Heat

Answer: 4. Heat

19. Cold regions experience—
1. Mechanical weathering
2. Chemical weathering
3. Biological weathering
4. Bio-Mechanical weathering

Answer: 1. Mechanical weathering

20. The kind of weathering which changes the shape of a rock is known as—
1. Biological Weathering
2. Mechanical Weathering
3. Bio-Mechanical Weathering
4. Chemical Weathering

Answer: 2. Mechanical Weathering

21. Gunshot-like noises occur in—
1. Exfoliation Process
2. Frost Weathering
3. Granular Disintegration
4. Block Disintegration

Answer: 3. Granular Disintegration

22. The process of weathering in granite is—
1. Exfoliation
2. Dirt Cracking
3. Boulder Cleaving
4. Oxidation

Answer: 1. Exfoliation

23. One of the main causes of exfoliation is—
1. Humidity
2. Solar Energy
3. Decrease In Pressure
4. Rainfall

Answer: 2. Solar Energy

24. Exfoliation is common in—
1. Desert Region
2. Polar Region
3. Humid Region
4. Coastal Region

Answer: 1. Desert Region

25. The weathering process that forms a rounded hill is—
1. Frost Action
3. Granular Disintegration
3. Exfoliation
3. Boulder Cleaving

Answer: 3. Exfoliation

26. Due to excessive temperature variation, the bedded rock peels off like an onion, which is called—
1. Block Disintegration
2. Granular Disintegration
3. Exfoliation
4. Shattering

Answer: 3. Exfoliation

27. When carbon dioxide dissolves in water is formed.
1. Carbonic Acid
2. Calcium Bicarbonate
3. Organic Acid
4. None Of These

Answer: 1. Carbonic Acid

28. Exfoliation is a type of—
1. Mechanical Weathering
2. Chemical Weathering
3. Biological Weathering
4. None Of These

Answer: 1. Mechanical Weathering

29. Block disintegration is common in—
1. Granite
2. Gabbro
3. Basalt
4. Sandstone

Answer: 3. Basalt

30. The process of formation of humus through the decomposition of dead plants or animals is known as—
1. Eluviation
2. Podsolization
3. Humification
4. Illuviation

Answer: 3. Humification

Chapter 5 Weathering Fill In The Suitable Words

1. Rock disintegration takes place in Mechanical type of weathering.

2. Oxidation is a type of Chemical weathering.

3. Decomposition occurs in Chemical weathering.

4. Exfoliation is commonly found in desert areas.

5. Limestone gets dissolved as a result of carbonation

6. Rocks containing iron forms rust as a result of oxidation

7. In areas of snowfall, mechanical weathering largely occurs.

8. In tropical regions, chemical weathering is largely seen.

9. Carbon dioxide mixed with water forms carbonic acid.

10. The constituents of rocks are not altered in case of mechanical weathering.

11. In cold climatic regions, the first action is the process of mechanical weathering.

12. In heterogeneous rocks, granular disintegration takes place.

13. Rocks change only in shape in case of mechanical weathering.

14. Weathering does not occur in permafrost areas.

15. In limestone regions, the process of solution creates permafrost topography.

16. Mechanical weathering due to salt crystals occurs largely in sandstone

17. Humans cause biotic weathering through agriculture.

18. Granular disintegration occurs in Heterogeneous rocks.

19. When water changes into ice, Increases its volume

20. Weathering is a slow process.

21. Due to the process of hydration hematite transforms into Limonite

22. Granular disintegration is an example of mechanical weathering.

23. The chemical weathering that occurs due to the reaction of carbon dioxide is called Carbonation

Chapter 5 Weathering If The Statement Is True, Write TRUE And If False, Write ‘FALSE’ Against The Following Write The Correct Answer From The Given Alternatives

1. Mechanical weathering is dominant in a tropical climate. False

2. Carbonic acid helps in oxidation. False

3. Chelation is a type of biochemical weathering. True

4. Solution is a process of mechanical weathering. False

5. Rocks become smooth and circular as a result of exfoliation. False

6. Rusting of rocks occurs due to the process of carbonation. False

7. The characteristics of rock remain unchanged in chemical weathering. False

8. Atmosphere is the main component of weathering. False

9. Rainfall during monsoon helps in mechanical weathering. True

10. Granular disintegration occurs silently. False

11. Chemical weathering is dominant in desert climates. False

12. Mechanical weathering changes the mineral composition of the original rocks. False

13. Burrowing animals like rats, rabbits, earthworms, etc. cause mechanical weathering. False

Chapter 5 Weathering Match the left column with the right column

1. 

Left column	Right column
1. Exfoliation	A. Cold mountain region
2. Frost  action	B. Tropical region
3. Hydrolysis	C. Limestone region
4. carbonation	D. Hot desert area

 

Answer: 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

2.

Left column	Right column
1. Mineral of the tropical region	A. Oxidation
2. Rusting of rocks	B. Bauxite
3. Plants and minerals	C. Mass wasting
4. Gravitational force	D. Biological weathering

 

Answer: 1-B,2-A,3-D,4-C

Chapter 5 Weathering Answer In One Or Two Words

Question 1 Where does granular disintegration take place?
Answer: Desert area.

Question 2 Which gaseous component is needed in oxidation?
Answer: Oxygen.

Question 3 What is the process of combination of rock minerals with water called?
Answer: Hydration.

Question 4 Which type of weathering results in rusting of rocks?
Answer: Oxidation.

Question 5 Name a burrowing animal.
Answer: Rat.

Question 6 Exfoliation occurs in which rock?
Answer: Granite.

Question 7 Which type of weathering occurs due to the construction of houses and roads?
Answer: Mechanical weathering.

Question 8 Ice disintegration occurs in which climatic region?
Answer: Tundra.

Question 9 Which type of weathering causes changes in the structural composition of rocks?
Answer: Chemical weathering.

Question 10 Which type of weathering is hydrolysis?
Answer: Chemical weathering.

Question 11 Name the cone-shaped depositional feature formed as a result of mechanical weathe¬ring on hill slopes.
Answer: Screen or Talus.

Question 12 Which acid is formed due to the decomposition of organic matter?
Answer: Humic acid.

Question 13 Give an example of an easily soluble rock.
Answer: Limestone.

Question 14 In which climatic regions is mechanical weathering predominant?
Answer: Arid and semi-arid regions.

Question 15 Which type of weathering is prevalent in homogeneous rocks?
Answer: Exfoliation.

Question 16 Which type of weathering occurs in limestone areas?
Answer: Carbonation.

Question 17 Which type of weathering is prevalent in rainy tropical regions?
Answer: Chemical weathering.

Question 13 What type of chemical weathering occurs due to the reaction of iron with oxygen?
Answer: Oxidation.

Question 19 What is the process known whereby small-grained rocks are further fragmented in the coastal areas?
Answer: Slaking.

Question 20 Which process causes the disintegration of rocks as a result of a decrease in the pressure of the superincumbent rock layers (due to mechanical weathering)?
Answer: Spalling.

Question 21 What is formed as a result of the decomposition of branches, leaves, flowers, and fruits of trees after they fall to the ground?
Answer: Humus.

Question 22 The process whereby rocks are broken apart is an example of which type of weathering?
Answer: Mechanical weathering.

Question 23 What happens when rocks get heated during the daytime?
Answer: They increase in volume.

Question 24 Which type of weathering causes rocks to get fragmented in a square shape?
Answer: Block disintegration.

Question 25. Which type of weathering causes rock layers to come off like the peels of an onion?
Answer: Exfoliation.

Question 26 Which type of weathering is predominant in the Thar Desert?
Answer: Granular disintegration.

Question 27 In which type of weathering does gunshot-like noises occur?
Answer: Granular disintegration.

Question 23 In which type of weathering do both physical and chemical changes occur in rocks?
Answer: Chemical weathering.

Question 29 Which type of weathering helps to form laterite soil in the tropical climate?
Answer: Oxidation.

Question 30 In which rock is exfoliation maximum?
Answer: On the granites in the warm desert climate.

Question 31 Which regions are prone to mechanical weathering?
Answer: Hot deserts, tundra region, polar region, and high mountainous region.

Chapter 5 Weathering TOPIC C Effect of Weathering and Soil Erosion Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1 State the effects of weathering. Explain how soil is formed as a result of weathering.
Answer:

Effects of weathering:

The effects of weathering are-

1. Formation of landforms: Landforms like tors and rounded hills in the humid tropical regions, inselbergs in the hot dry desert regions, caves, stalactites, and stalagmites in limestone areas, etc., are all formed as a result of weathering.

2. Formation of minerals: New minerals are formed as a result of chemical reactions. For example, bauxite is formed in humid tropical countries.

3. Facilitates agriculture: Due to the disintegration of rocks by weathering, the porosity of soil increases, which facilitates air and water circulation and hence aids in agricultural practices.

4. Formation of regolith: Due to the disintegration and decomposition of rocks, regolith is formed, which plays a major role in soil formation later on.

Soil Formation: The soil-forming process, as a result of weathering, may be explained by the following stages-

1. First stage: Various processes of mechanical, chemical, and biological weathering, break down rocks into smaller fragments and decompose them further. This loose layer of fragmented rocks on the top is called regolith, which is the first step of soil formation.

2. Second stage: Rainwater and air seep through the various layers of the rocks through this regolith layer which facilitates chemical weathering of the fragmented rocks. Biological weathering is also initiated by the microorganisms and the dead remains of plants and animals present in the top layer. As a result a black-colored substance called humus forms through the process of humification.

3. Third stage: Humus and other weathered particles oxidize in the presence of oxygen and form new minerals. This process is called mineralization. During the process of soil formation iron, aluminum, and other minerals are transported from the top layer to the lower layers of the soil. This process is called eluviation. These minerals get accumulated in the lower layers and this process is called illuviation.

Thus, with the passage of time, the components in the soil-forming process change their physical and chemical characteristics to form a soft layer called soil on the surface of the Earth, with organic matter and minerals as their constituents.

Question 2 Briefly explain the concept of soil erosion.
Answer:

Concept of soil erosion:

The concept of soil erosion is-

Definition: The process in which soil particles are removed from the top layer by natural or man-made factors, is called soil erosion.

Factors: The following equation explains the process-

e = g(cl, v, t, s, h)

where, e = soil erosion, g = effectiveness, cl= climate, v = vegetative cover, t = landform or relief, s = type of soil, h = role of man or human interference.

Causes of soil erosion: They may be classified as-natural and man-made causes.

Natural causes:

1. Rainfall: In regions with high rainfall, the raindrops loosen the soil particles from the rock layer and wash them away.

Wind: Winds blow with high velocity in open desert areas and coastal tracts (receiving no obstacles) and lead to soil erosion.

Flowing water: Currents of river water and sea waves over the adjacent land areas cause soil erosion.

2. Man-made causes:

Deforestation: In deforested areas, the bare land is more prone to soil erosion. The roots of the trees bind the soil together. When the trees are cut down, the region becomes prone to soil erosion and is thus rendered infertile.

Overgrazing: Excessive grazing by cattle, goats, and sheep in grassland areas results in the baring of the ground, leading to soil erosion.

Unscientific methods of cultivation: In areas where shifting or ‘jhum’ cultivation is practiced, the forest is cleared by burning it down (which is unscientific), and this leads to soil erosion.

Process of soil erosion: Soil erosion is mainly caused by flowing water and wind.

By work of flowing water:

1. Sheet erosion: When rainfall or flowing water removes the soil layer by layer, it is known as sheet erosion.

2. Rill erosion: When rainwater or a river (in its youth stage), flows along the slopes of a mountain as narrow channels or rills, soil erosion occurs.

2. Gully erosion: These rills become wider and deeper due to more soil erosion, and this is known as gully erosion.

4. Ravine erosion: When the gullies become further deepened and widened, the topography is converted to a ‘badland’, where cultivation is not possible and the area becomes inaccessible too.

2. By work of wind: In desert areas, winds carry sand from one area to other distant areas, leading to erosion of the top layer.

Effects of soil erosion:

1. Effects on the physical environment:

1. As a result of soil erosion, the groundwater level decreases,
2. hydrological cycle is affected,
3. food chain is disturbed as habitats of the decomposers (like bacteria, fungi, etc.) present in the soil are destroyed,
4. the navigability of rivers and other waterbodies decrease (due to aggradation by soil deposits or siltation), and the areas become more prone to floods.

2. Effects on the human environment:

1. Fertility of soil decreases, crop productivity gets reduced,
2. decrease in the navigability of rivers hampers trade and water transport,
3. ecosystem of wetlands is damaged as they get filled up with soil deposits.

Areas prone to soil erosion: Continuous flat areas, plateaus devoid of vegetation, desert areas, coastal areas, riverine tracts, etc., are more prone to soil erosion.

Question 3 Briefly discuss the methods of soil conservation. Or, Discuss the preventive measures for soil erosion.
Answer:

Different methods of soil conservation:

The various measures adopted for preventing soil erosion and increasing the fertility of the soil are known as soil conservation measures.

1. Agricultural methods

1. Afforestation: If trees are planted along the slopes of mountains, on infertile and barren lands, soil erosion can be prevented. This is because the roots of the trees bind the soil together.

2. Restriction on overgrazing: If overgrazing can be controlled in grassland areas, soil erosion can be prevented.

3. Ban on shifting or ‘jhum’ cultivation: When the forests are burnt down for clear land, the trees are destroyed and soil erosion also increases. This can only be prevented by banning such a practice.

4. Step/Terrace farming: The slopes of the mountains are carved into steps or terraces to retain rainwater on each step (to be used by the cultivated crops). Soil erosion can be prevented by practicing such type of farming.

5. Creation of forest line/boundary: If forest boundaries are created (by planting trees) on all sides of agricultural fields, coastal regions (especially in the direction of the winds), etc., then soil erosion can be reduced.

6. Crop rotation: If any land is cultivated throughout the year with different types of crops (not allowing it to lay bare), then the land is not exposed to soil erosion.

7. Contour farming: Bunds are constructed along the contour of the land (horizontally along the slopes of mountains), to prevent water from washing down and hence it prevents soil erosion.

8. Strip cropping: When crops are cultivated in long strips prepared along the slopes, they prevent soil from being carried away by flowing water along the slopes.

9. Land cover: If the unused parts of the crops like stems, hay, etc., are spread over any bare land, soil erosion can be prevented, especially in muddy areas.

2. Infrastructural methods:
1. Construction of artificial walls: If walls are constructed on seashores and along river banks, soil erosion by flowing water can be prevented.

2. Digging of canals: If canals are dug to facilitate drainage and several waterbodies are constructed especially in desert areas, soil erosion can be prevented.

3 Other methods: More advanced research on preventing soil erosion and increasing soil fertility, spreading awareness among the people, can help in soil conservation.

Chapter 5 Weathering Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is the role of man in soil erosion?
Answer:

Role Of Man In Soil Erosion:-

The activities carried out by human beings that lead to soil erosion, are as follows-

1. Deforestation: Due to the cutting down of trees, the soil is exposed to weathering. Thus rainwater washes away the fertile topsoil.

2. Unscientific methods of cultivation: Shifting cultivation, intensive cultivation, etc., reduce soil fertility and increase soil erosion.

3. Increased grazing: Excessive grazing practiced on the thin soil along the mountain slopes, leads to exposure of the soil to weathering and erosion.

Question 2 How does terrace farming help in conserving soil?
Answer:

Terrace Farming Help In Conserving Soil As Follows:-

The rate of flow of water along the slopes of hills and mountains can be controlled. In such areas, farming is done on steps cut along the slopes at different heights. Each step or terrace is bordered by slightly elevated mud bunds which prevent the washing away of water down the slope and thus store water on these terraces. Thus, runoff is reduced and infiltration of water underground is increased. These terraces are of three types-

1. Bench-like steps: The lower part of these steps are flat and on the outer sides, low bunds are constructed.
2. Successive steps: A series of steps or terraces at different altitudes (like a staircase), prevents water from washing down and thus conserves soil.
3. Plain or flat steps: The lower part of these steps are flat and different crops are cultivated here. Thus, water seeps underground and soil erosion is prevented because run-off is controlled.

Question 3 How does weathering help in increasing soil fertility?
Answer:

Weathering Helps In Increasing The Soil Fertility:-

The role of weathering in increasing soil fertility is discussed as follows-

1. A soft layer called regolith is formed on the upper surface of the Earth as a result of weathering. The minerals present in this regolith seep underground (in solution with water) and supply essential nutrients to the plants.

2. The roots of trees cause the rocks to break apart (biotic or biological weathering). Besides, burrowing animals like rabbits, rats, etc., loosen up the soil by digging into it and thereby allowing air circulation in the soil, which is beneficial to the plants.

3. Humus is formed as a result of the decaying of leaves, flowers, etc., that are shed from the trees. When humus mixes with the oxygen present in the atmosphere, it enriches the various minerals found in the soil, which, in turn, increases the fertility of the soil.

Question 4 What are the landforms developed due to weathering?

Answer:

Landforms Developed Due To Weathering Process:-

Weathering is a process in which surface rocks are disintegrated or decomposed and remain in their original place or ‘in situ’. Weathered materials are transported through the process of erosion.

So, the process of weathering and erosion together develop various types of landforms, namely- Round shaped topography develops over granite by the process of exfoliation; flattened topography develops on basalt by the process of block disintegration; residual hills like inselbergs form in the hot deserts

Sometimes, these are transformed in mesas, and buttes due to excessive weathering and erosion; in humid tropical climates, tors develop; in limestone regions, caves, stalactites, stalagmites, etc. form due to carbonation and solution processes.

Sometimes, rivers that flow over a karst region may disappear and enters underground through shallow holes or sink holes which develop blind or dry valleys on the surface. Felsenmeer forms through the deposition of talus or scree along the foothills.

Question 5 Write the differences between regolith and humus.
Answer:

The differences between regolith and humus are as follows-

Point of difference	Regolith	Humus
1. Concept	The layer formed of disintegrated and decomposed rock particles lying on the top layer of the Earth’s surface is called regolith.	Humus is a black or deep brown colored material that is formed by the decomposition of various organic materials.
2. Nature	Regolith is formed by the disintegration of rocks, so, these are solid materials.	Humus is a semi-solid matter that is formed through the decomposition of organic matter.
3. Origin	Regolith is formed from fragmented rocks.	Humus is formed through the decomposition of plant, animal, and organic matter.

 

Question 6 What are the differences between eluviation and illuviation?
Answer:

The differences between eluviation and illuviation are as follows-

points of difference	eluviation	illuviation
1. Work process	It is a process of transportation.	It is a process of deposition
2. Place	This process occurs on the upper layer of the soil i.e, surface	This process occurs beneath the soil surface
3. Presence of minerals	Minerals are removed from the upper layer of soil.	Minerals are deposited below the soil surface.
4. Dependency	The process of eluviation depends on the amount of rainfall received.	The process of illuviation depends on the nature of the eluviation process.
5. Colour of the soil layer	The upper layer of soil is light in color due to the removal of minerals.	Sub-surface soil is deep in color due to the deposition of minerals.

 

Chapter 5 Weathering Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is soil erosion?
Answer:

Soil Erosion:-

When soil particles from the top layer are separated and transported elsewhere due to natural or man-made factors, it is called soil erosion. For example, soil erosion occurs as a result of surface run-off due to heavy rainfall (the topsoil is washed off and transported elsewhere).

Question 2 Where is terrace farming practiced?
Answer:

Terrace Farming:-

Terrace farming (or step farming) is usually practiced along the slopes of mountains. For example, it is common in the hill slopes of Darjeeling.

Question 3 What is talus?
Answer:

Talus:-

The action of ice and snow in the cold mountainous regions, widens the cracks in the rocks and eventually breaks the rocks into angular fragments. These fragments are deposited at the foothill zones in a cone-like formation known as a talus or scree. These features are commonly seen in the Ladakh region. They are also known as Blackspade or Felsenmeer.

Question 4 What is humification?
Answer:

Humification:-

The process by which the organic matter present in the soil is decomposed by micro-organisms and turned into a black-colored semi-solid substance, is called humification.

Question 5 What is eluviation and illuviation?
Answer:

Eluviation And Illuviation:-

The process by which the dissolved minerals in the upper layers of the soil are transferred to the lower layers is called eluviation. The process in which the minerals present in the soil are deposited in the lower layers of the soil/rocks is known as illuviation.

Question 6 What is terra rosa?
Answer:

Terra Rosa:-

In the karst region, the dissolved limestone gets removed and accumulated in the upper layers of the soil as a result of the process of carbonation. This red-colored layer of soil deposited on the earth’s surface is called terra rosa (‘terra’ meaning soil and ‘rosa’ meaning red).

Question 7 What is regolith?
Answer:

Regolith:-

The layer formed of disintegrated and decomposed rock particles lying on the upper layers of the earth’s surface is called regolith. The soil-forming process starts from the formation of regolith (a slow process).

Question 8 What is solum?
Answer:

Solum:-

The humus-rich layer formed in the process of soil formation lying on the parent rock is called solum. The term ‘soil’ is derived from the Latin word ‘solum’.

Question 9 What are tors?
Answer:

Tors:-

Due to differential weathering, the hard inner layers of the rocks are exposed to the surface when the surrounding soft regolith gets removed. Sometimes the rocks that have broken apart along the points or cracks may tumble down the slope of hills. The remaining upright hard rocks situated on the slopes or in the foothills of gently sloping hills are called tors.

Question 10 What is humus?
Answer:

Humus:-

Dead plants, animal remains, fallen leaves, flowers, fruits, etc. get deposited on the regolith layer as raw organic matter. The organic matter is decomposed by micro-organisms and turned into deep brown or black-colored complex matter.

This complex matter is known as humus. The soil that is rich in humus is fertile in nature. The water-holding capacity of humus-rich soil is greater. The dead remains of plants and animals decompose in rainwater to form humic acid (C187H186 Og NGS,) which accelerates the process of chemical weathering in rocks containing magnesium, feldspar, and sulfur.

Chapter 5 Weathering Multiple Choice Type Questions

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. The first stage of soil formation is—
1. Solum
2. Regolith
3. Batholith
4. Monolith

Answer: 2. Regolith

2. Conical rocks formed due to frost action—
1. Talus or Scree
2. Erg
3. Pediment
4. Bajada

Answer:  1. Talus or Scree

3. Terrace farming is prevalent in—
1. Hilly Areas
2. Deserts
3. Plain Areas
4. Coastal Areas

Answer: 1. Hilly Areas

4. Soil erosion in desert areas takes place—
1. Due To River Action
2. Due To Glacial Action
3. Due To Wind Action
4. Due To Human Beings

Answer:  3. Due To Wind Action

5. Layer of soil formed due to weathering in limestone regions is called—
1. Terra Rosa
2. Talus
3. Blocksped
4. Pediment

Answer: 1. Terra Rosa

6. The process of humus formation is called—
1. Regolith
2. Humification
3. Mineralisation
4. Alluviation

Answer:  2. Humification

7. Which process of weathering leads to the formation of karst landforms?
1. Oxidation
2. Carbonation
3. Hydrolysis
4. Block Disintegration

Answer:  2. Carbonation

8. One of the man-made reasons for soil erosion is—
1. Water Flow
2. Farming
3. Extension Of Root
4. Digging Holes In Soil

Answer: 2. Farming

9. The process of weathering that forms inselbergs is known as—
1. Exfoliation
2. Carbonation
3. Hydrolysis
4. Oxidation

Answer: 1. Exfoliation 

10. The layer of disintegrated rock particles that are formed due to weathering is known as—
1. Hardpan
2. Batholith
3. Regolith
4 Lopolith

Answer:  3. Regolith

11. Covering the land with straw, roots of the crops, etc. is a process of soil conservation, which is called—
1. Mulching
2. Terracing
3. Strip Cropping
4. Contour cropping

Answer:  1. Mulching

12. The process that results in the removal of minerals from the upper layer of soil, is—
1. Humification
2. Mineralisation
3. Calcification
4. Eluviation

Answer:  4. Eluviation

13. Forms due to weathering.
1. Mountain
2. Plateau
3. Soil
4. Desert

Answer:  3. Soil

14. Maximum eluviation occurs in—
1. Desert areas
2. Cold areas
3. Rainy areas
4. Temperate areas

Answer:  3. Rainy areas

Chapter 5 Weathering Fill In The Suitable Words

1. The layer of loose and unconsolidated materials lying over the bedrock is called Regolith

2. The most important effect of weathering is the formation of soil

3. Step cultivation should be practiced on hill slopes in order to prevent soil erosion.

4. Deposition of groundwater helps in the weathering of rock beds.

5. The erosion of soil by raindrops is a Natural cause

Chapter 5 Weathering If The Statement Is True, Write TRUE And If False, Write ‘FALSE’ Against The Following

Write The Correct Answer From The Given Alternatives

1. Weathering helps in the storage of groundwater in the rock beds. True 

2. The disintegrated layer of the rocks as a result of weathering is called regolith. True 

3. Rock particles formed by the disintegration due to ice crystals are called boulders. False

4. Regolith is formed in the last stage of soil formation. False

5. An important influence of weathering is the formation of soil. True 

6. Afforestation controls soil erosion. True 

7. Weathering helps in increasing soil fertility. True 

8. Soil erosion increases due to excessive grazing. True

Chapter 5 Match The Left Column With The Right Column

Left column	Right column
1. Primary stage for the formation of soil	A.Eluviation
2. Minerals removal process	B.illuviation
3. Mineral dispositional process	C. Mulching
4. Soil conversation process	D.Regolith

 

Answer: 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

 

Chapter 5 Weathering Answer In One Or Two Words

Question 1 What is the loose and thin layer of finely fragmented rocks due to weathering known as?
Answer: Regolith.

Question 2 In the process of soil formation, when the minerals present in the regolith are removed from the upper to lower layers, what is this process known as?
Answer: Eluviation.

Question 3 What is the process called by which the humus is formed?
Answer: Humification.

Question 4 When weathering occurs as a natural process, what is it called?
Answer: Geomorphic weathering.

Question 5 What is the process called by which the depth of gullies increases due to erosion?
Answer: Gully erosion.

Question 6 How can the soil on the slopes of mountains be conserved?
Answer: By terrace farming.

Question 7 What is the process of conserving soil by covering it with a layer of organic material called?
Answer: Mulching.

WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography And Environment

• Chapter 1 Earth As A Planet
• Chapter 2 Movements Of The Earth
• Chapter 3 Determination Of Location Of A Place On The Earth’s Surface
• Chapter 4 Geomorphic Processes And Landforms Of The Earth
• Chapter 5 Weathering
• Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters
• Chapter 7 Resources Of India
• Chapter 8 West Bengal

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Salient Points – At A Glance

1. The extreme events that disrupt our normal activities and our daily lives and originate due to natural causes or human activities or combined activities of both, are called hazards.
2. The temporary or permanent events caused by natural or human activities endangering human life causing great damage to life and property, which degrade the quality of the environment and last for a long time, are called disasters.
3. French word ‘des’ means ‘bad’ and ‘aster’ means ‘star’ and the aggregation of these two words is a disaster (bad star).
4. Many lives and a huge amount of property were damaged by flash floods on 16 July 2013 in Uttarakhand. It was a disaster.
5. Huge amount of property was damaged and millions of people were killed due to the Tsunami on 26 December 2004 in the surrounding countries of the Bay of Bengal in south-east Asia.

Read and Learn Also WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography And Environment

6. In 2001, millions of people died due to the earthquake in Bhuj City in Gujarat.
7. In 1902, Saint Pierre city was completely destroyed due to the volcanic eruption of Mt. Pelee volcano in the West Indies.
8. The landslide-prone zones of West Bengal are Darjeeling and Kalimpong. But, the hilly areas of the Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri districts also face landslides.
9. The most cyclone-prone areas of West Bengal are North and South 24 Parganas and Purba and Paschim Medinipur districts.
10. Drought-prone areas of West Bengal are the western plateau and its adjacent regions (Purulia, Bankura, Birbhum, Paschim Bardhaman, Paschim Medinipur and Jhargram districts).

11. The most flood-prone areas of West Bengal are the Sundarban region, the coastal region of Purba Medinipur, the northern Terai region and the Rarh plain due to the release of excessive water from barrages and reservoirs.
12. Cyclones are known by different names in different countries, such as-
1. Cyclone in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea,
2. Typhoon in China Sea, Taifu in Japan, Hurricane in West Indies and Caribbean Sea, Willy-Willy in Australia,
3. Tornado in Mexico and southeast America, Baguio in the Philippines, etc.
13. Richter Scale is a measuring scale of earthquake intensity.
14. In 1935, CF Richter invented the measuring scale of earthquake intensity.
15. It is not possible to stop a disaster most of the time. But some measures can be taken to tackle the effects of a disaster to reduce the loss of life and damage to property. Such measures are called disaster management.

16. Three steps of disaster management are pre-disaster management, during-disaster management and post-disaster management.
17. The possibility of loss or damage due to any hazard or disaster is called risk.
18. While the disaster or hazard intensified, people could not resist and surrender to it. This is called vulnerability.
19. All the essential materials that are sent to the disaster-affected people are called relief.
20. Disaster mitigation means the measures that are taken before a disaster to eliminate or reduce the intensity of the damage.

21. Rehabilitation is a process, which brings back the disaster-affected people into normal life after the disaster.
22. The three disaster prevention processes are together known as PMR, where
P = Preparedness or preparation,
M = Mitigation or reduction and
R = Recovery or reclamation.
23. The helper’s group for the quick response or relief and rescue work management is called QRT (Quick Response Team)
24. DART (Deep Ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunami) is a special system for Tsunami alertness.
25. The act that has been enacted in 2005 to deal with the management of disasters is called Disaster Management Act, 2005.
26. Full form of UNDMT is United Nations Disaster Management Team.
27. National Flood Commission was formed in 1980.

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters TOPIC A Different Types of Hazards and Disasters Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is meant by hazard and disaster?
Answer:

Hazard And Disaster:-

A dangerous condition or event that threatens or has the potential to cause injury to life or damage to property or the environment is known as a hazard. Hazards can be classified into two broad categories-natural and man-made.

A disaster is an event or series of events that result in casualties and damage or loss of property, environment and livelihood on such a scale that is beyond the normal capacity of the affected community to sustain. A landslide that occurs on a hill slope can be termed a hazard. But when this same landslide causes casualties and damage to life and property on the slope, it becomes a disaster.

Question 2 What are the characteristics of hazard?
Answer:

The characteristics of hazard are as follows-

1. Most of the hazards are difficult to predict and occur all of a sudden.
2. Hazards may be nature-induced, human-induced or even a combination of both.
3. The expansion of hazard is generally over smaller areas and its magnitude is comparatively low.
4. Hazards have the potential for causing injury to life or damage to property or the environment.
5. Hazards with higher potential leads to disasters.

Question 3 Discuss the main characteristics of a disaster.
Answer:

The main characteristics of a disaster are as follows-

1. Distressed normal life: Normal public lives and activities are hampered and disrupted because of a disaster.

2. Casualties: A large number of human and animal life are devastated by a disaster. Damages and loss of property also take place.

3. Magnitude: The magnitude of a disaster is not always the same. They vary from intense to moderate.

4. Speed of occurrence: Disasters can be slow and predictable, or they may even be sudden and temporary.

5. Affects the environment: The negative environmental effects of disasters are by and large severe and persist for a long.

6. Disfunctioning of essential services: The functioning of essential services such as transport and communication gets disrupted.

7. Combined effect of several factors: A disaster is a combination of hazard, vulnerability and insufficient capacity or measures to reduce the potential chances of risk.

Question 4 Explain and classify hazards.
Answer:

Hazards:-

A dangerous condition or event that threatens or has the potential for causing injury to life or damage to property or the environment is known as a hazard. Hazards can be classified into the following types-

The following broad categories of hazards are discussed below-

1. Natural hazard: Natural hazards characterise those elements of the physical environment that are detrimental to human beings and are caused by forces extraneous to them. More precisely, the term ‘natural hazard’ refers to all atmospheric, hydrological and geological phenomena that, because of their location, intensity and frequency have the potential to affect adversely humans. beings, their constructions or their activities.

2. Semi-natural hazard: Hazards that are caused by the combination of natural and man-induced processes are known as semi-natural hazards. For instance, a landslide is a semi-natural hazard as it can be caused by natural processes (such as heavy or prolonged rainfall, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and slope undercutting by rivers) and can also be caused by human activities (such as slope excavation and loading, land use changes, irrigation, blasting vibrations, water leakage from utilities and such. others).

3. Man-made hazard: Man-made hazards are caused by the elements like unscientific human activity, negligence or error, superstition or the failure of a man-made system. Man-made hazards can be controlled by increasing awareness among communities. According to the location, hazards can be classified into the following-

1. Atmospheric hazard: These hazards have their root in the atmosphere. For example, cloudbursts, cyclones and others.

2. Hydrological hazard: These hazards have their root in the water bodies. For example, floods, tsunamis and others.

3. Geological hazard: These hazards have their root in the interior of the Earth. Landslides, earthquakes and others are examples of geological hazards.

Question 5 What is meant by natural hazard? Give example.
Answer:

Natural Hazard:-

A hazard that is typically caused by nature and there is no human intervention is called a natural hazard.

Characteristics:

1. The main characteristics of a natural hazard are
2. It is only caused by nature. This type of hazard is entirely unmodified by human activities.

Effects: Natural hazards temporarily disrupt normal human life. It may also damage the property, environment and human life.

Examples: earthquakes, volcanism, cyclone, landslide, etc.

Question 6 What is meant by semi-natural hazard? Give example.
Answer:

Semi-Natural Hazard:-

A hazard caused by the combined effects of natural and man-induced processes is known as a semi-natural hazard.

Characteristics:

1. The main characteristics of semi-natural hazards are- Semi-natural hazards are caused by combined effects of nature and man.
2. These hazards occur due to improper uses of man’s knowledge and technology.

Effect: Sometimes this type of hazard causes disaster for its severity.

Example: Flood that occurs due to sudden release of water from reservoirs within a short period of time. Every flood is a natural hazard but the level of damage caused by the hazard is further increased by the intervention of man. Both the role of man and nature are important for occurrence of this type of hazard.

Question 7 What is meant by a man-induced hazard? Give example.
Answer:

Man-Induced Hazard:-

A hazard caused by the influence of ignorance, unconsciousness, superstitions, unscientific thinking, violence, etc. is known as a man-induced hazard.

Characteristics:

1. The main characteristics of man-induced hazards are- There is no role of natural force for these hazards.
2. Small self-interests and unconscious activities of humans are the main causes of these hazards.

Effect: This kind of hazard lags behind the social system and temporarily disrupts livelihood.

Example: Earthquakes that occur due to experimental explosions of atomic bombs, communal riots, etc.

Question 8 Discuss the causes of man-induced hazards.
Answer:

Causes Of Man-Induced Hazards:-

The hazards that are caused by elements like human intent, negligence, unscientific activities, superstition or failure of a man-made system are known as man-induced hazards. The notable causes of man-induced hazards are as follows-

1. Unscientific activities: Faulty and unscientific activities often lead to man-induced hazards. For instance, unplanned construction of houses on the hill slopes, faulty farming on the hill slopes or even carving roads across the slopes of hills intensifies the probability of landslides.

2. Illiteracy: Illiteracy leads to a lack of knowledge, intolerance and even negligence. All these lead to common man-induced hazards like arson, civil disorder and even terrorist activities.

3. Ungoverned population growth: Ungoverned population growth can lead to competition for scarce resources and susceptibility to diseases, that in turn, may cause civil strife and even loss of human life. 4. Riot: Ethnic conflict or communal riot causes hazards due to superstition, bigotry etc. It damages human life and property which disrupts social and economic life.

Question 9 Explain the various types of natural disasters.
Answer:

Various Types Of Natural Disasters:-

A natural event or a series of natural events that results in casualties and damages, is known as a natural disaster. They can be classified as follows-

1. Geophysical disaster: Disasters that are caused due to tectonic disturbances are called geophysical disasters. Earthquakes and volcanisms are examples of geophysical disasters.

2. Landform-process-related disaster: Landform processes like riverbank erosion, landslides in mountainous areas, coastal erosion due to sea waves, etc., may give rise to disasters if they occur on a macro-scale.

3. Meteorological/Climatic disaster: Disas- terms that are caused by extreme weather events are known as meteorological disasters. Storms, tropical cyclones, heat or cold waves, floods and droughts are examples of meteorological disasters.

4. Extraterrestrial disaster: Disasters that are caused by asteroids, meteoroids, comets and other extra-terrestrial elements striking the Earth are called extra-terrestrial disasters.

Example: Meteorite strikes.

5. Soil disaster: Various causes like soil erosion, an increase in salinity of soil and loss of fertility are the reasons for soil disaster. Excessive salinity of the soil hampers productivity that results in scarcity of food.

Example: This type of disaster frequently occurs in Rajasthan.

Economic disaster: An economic disaster is the widespread disruption or collapse of a national or regional economy, possibly causing financial loss, hoarding, famine, inflation, etc.

Question 10 Explain the various types of man- swKv induced or man-made disasters.
Answer:

Various Types Of Man- SwKv Induced Or Man-Made Disasters:-

An event or series of events that results in casualties and damages by man-induced causes is known as a man-induced disaster.

They can be classified as follows—

1. Technology-related disaster: A techno¬logy-related disaster is the failure of modern systems, like, unchecked exhaust fumes from vehicles, untreated wastes from industries, and leakage of radioactive minerals from nuclear. power plants, etc., which harms people and also pollutes the environment.

2. Economic disaster: An economic disaster is the widespread disruption or collapse of a national or regional economy, possibly causing financial loss, hoarding, famine, inflation, etc.

3. Biological disaster: Disasters caused due to the exposure of human beings to toxins, and viruses leading to epidemics, are known as biological disasters. Extinction of any species is also possible.

4. Disasters due to other complex emergencies: These involve a breakdown of administration, riots, religious conflicts, war, etc.

Question 11 What are the differences between hazard and disaster?
Answer:

The differences between natural hazards and disasters are as follows—

 

Point of difference	Hazard	Disaster
1. Concept	A dangerous condition or event that threatens or has the potential for causing injury to life or damage to property or the environment is known as a hazard.	A disaster is an event or series of events that results in casualties and damage or loss of property, infrastructure, environment, essential services or means of livelihood on such a scale that is beyond the normal capacity of the affected community to sustain.
2. Extent	The extent of the impact is limited to a smaller region.	The extent of impact runs to a comparatively larger area.
3. Nature	Hazards lead to disaster.	Disasters are impacts of hazards.
4. Casualty	Hazards have the potential for causing injury to life, but may not always be fatal.	Disasters result in casualties.
5. Economic damages	— Accounts for damage or loss of property that is lesser in comparison to disasters.	Accounts for damage or loss of property that is at a scale which is beyond the normal capacity of the area to sustain.
6. Sub-types	Hazards can be classified into three broad categories—natural, semi-natural and man-made.	Disasters can be classified into two broad categories—natural disasters and man-made disasters.
7. Control	Hazards are manageable and precautions can be taken to a certain level.	Disasters are unmanageable and precautions cannot be taken most of the time.

 

Question 12 What are the differences between natural hazards and man-made hazards?
Answer:

The differences between natural and man-made hazards are as follows—

 

Point of difference	Natural hazard	Man-made hazard
1. Concept	Natural hazards characterise those elements of the physical environment that are detrimental to human beings and are caused by forces extraneous to us.	Man-made hazards are caused by an element of human intent, negligence or error or involving a failure of a manmade system.
2. Extent	It has a widespread impact.	The extent of the impact is lesser, the nuclear explosion being an exception.
3. Control	Natural hazards cannot be resisted or controlled but precautions can be taken.	Man-made hazards can be controlled by increasing awareness among communities.

 

Question 13 What is meant by flash flood? What are the main causes of the occurrence of flash floods?
Answer:

Flash Flood:-

A flash flood can develop within a few hours of heavy rainfall. Flash floods can be highly dangerous and have the potential to instantly turn a gasping rivulet into a thundering channel of water that sweeps away everything in its path. Most of the casualties from flooding occur due to flash floods. The intensity of flash floods cannot be classified.

The causes of flash floods can be classified into two categories. They are—

1. Natural causes of flash floods: The natural causes of flash floods are—

1. Rapid rain: A flash flood may occur when it rains rapidly on saturated soil or dry soil with poor absorption ability. The run-off collects in gullies and streams and as they join to form larger volumes, it often exceeds the carrying capacity of the stream. This may lead to the occurrence of flash floods.

2. Volcanic eruption: A flash flood may also occur in areas on or near volcanoes, when glaciers may have been melted by the intense heat after eruptions.

3. Thunderstorms: Multiple or slow-moving thunderstorms occurring over the same area can also produce a flash flood.

4. Cloud burst: Cloud burst results in excessive rainfall in a short period of time that can produce flash floods.

2. Man-induced causes of flash floods: Dam failure is extremely destructive and can create a flash flood. In such an event, the energy of the water stored behind even a small dam is capable of causing loss and damage to life and property in the downstream areas of the dam.

Question 14 What are the natural causes of floods?
Answer:

The natural causes of flood are as follows—

1. Excessive rainfall: Excessive rainfall occurring over a prolonged period of time causes a flood. Due to this excessive rainfall, the discharge of a river exceeds the capacity of its channel to carry it. Thus the river overflows its banks causing a flood. Therefore, excessive rainfall is positively related to flood.

2. The shape of a river course: The probability of flood increases if the course of a river is meandering rather than straight since the flow of the river is hindered by obstacles along its course and hence overflowing occurs.

3. Snowmelt: During the warm summers, the glacial snow in the mountains melts down. This results in the flow of a large amount of water downslope within a short period of time. As the ground is almost frozen, water cannot penetrate or be absorbed. The water, therefore, flows off the surface and runs into lakes, streams and rivers. This causes excess water to spill over the respective banks and results in snow-melt floods.

4. Shape of the drainage basin: The possibility of flash flood increases in a drainage basin that is circular in shape rather than the elongated one. This is because, in the latter case, rivers have the capacity to carry water over long distances.

5. Slope of the river course or the relief of the land: The areas with steep slopes are less susceptible to flood as rainwater flows down the slopes. But the plain lands where the rainwater cannot flow down the slopes are more susceptible to flood and waterlogging.

6. Shallow riverbed: Water holding capacity and transportation power of the river decrease due to the sediment action on the riverbed over a long time which makes the riverbed shallow. As a result, normal rainfall causes floods in the river.

7. Cyclonic storm and intensity of tide: Spate and flood may occur in coastal regions due to cyclonic storms. Similarly, at the time of a new moon and full moon the excess water that enters the river from the sea, causes a flood.

Question 15 Briefly describe the causes of man-made floods.
Answer:

The main causes of man-made floods are—

1. Deforestation: Vegetation cover prevents soil erosion and also controls the amount of precipitation.

Deforestation increases soil erosion and the sedimentation of the eroded materials on the riverbed over a long period of time makes the riverbed shallow. As a result, the possibility of the occurrence of flooding increases.

2. Modification of the catchment area: The land-use pattern of the catchment area changes with the increasing number of settlements, urbanisation, industrialisation and the change in agricultural patterns. All these may subsequently lead to flooding.

3. Change in the course of the river: Artificial modification in the course of a river such as the construction of dams, development of irrigation systems and such others to satisfy human needs may also lead to flooding in the long run.

Question 16 Explain the negative impacts of floods.
Answer:

The various negative impacts of the flood are as follows—

1. Impacts on physical nature: The impacts of the flood on physical nature are—
1. Floods can cause water pollution,
2. it disrupts the environmental balance,
3. It can cause soil pollution.

2. Impacts on the ecosystem: The impacts of the flood on the ecosystem are—
1. Flood destroys the standing crops and other small vegetation covers,
2. It disrupts the food chain,
3. It causes inadequacy of food for herbivores,
4. a large number of animals and birds may die due to floods.

4. Impacts on the human: The impacts of the flood on the human being—
1. It hampers agricultural activities,
2. It causes loss of life and damage to property,
3. flood results in water-borne diseases (such as Cholera and Typhoid),
4. It disrupts public life by destroying settlements, communication and transport systems.

Question 17 Differentiate between flood caused by snow melt water and flood caused by rain
Answer:

The differences between floods caused by snow melt water and flood caused by rain are as follows—

Point of difference	The flood caused by snow melt water	The flood caused by rain
1. Extent	The flood caused by the melting of snow extends over a larger area.	The flood caused by heavy rainfall extends over a lesser stretch of area.
2. Region	It occurs mostly in the downstream areas of the hill slopes.	It occurs in the plains, mostly near the river banks.
3. Season	It mostly occurs in summer.	It mostly occurs during the monsoon season.

 

Question 18 Discuss the causes of droughts.
Answer:

Causes Of Droughts:-

The causes of droughts can be classified into two categories.

They are—

1. Natural causes of drought:

The important natural causes of drought are—

1. Rise in temperature: A rise in land and sea surface temperature increases evaporation leading to droughts.

2. Change in atmospheric circulation: Atmospheric circulation patterns influence the moisture content of the atmosphere. Reduction in atmospheric moisture due to the change of these circulation patterns reduces the average precipitation, which causes droughts.

3. Lack of soil moisture: Soil moisture content can also, influence the occurrence of drought. If the soil is dry, then there is little or no water available to evaporate. Consequently, the incoming sunlight can only continue to warm the surface, thereby making conditions hotter and drier, thus beginning the chain of events leading towards drought.

2. Man-induced causes of drought:

The main-induced causes of drought are—

1. Reckless deforestation: Reckless deforestation that leads to a decrease in atmospheric as well as soil moisture, increases the probability of drought.

2. Unplanned urbanisation: Unplanned urbanisation that restricts the replenish¬ment of groundwater level and subsequently puts pressure on water resources, may cause drought conditions.

Question 19 Classify and discuss the various types of drought on the basis of water availability.
Answer:

Various Types Of Drought On The Basis Of Water Availability:-

On the basis of water availability, droughts can be classified into three categories—

1. Meteorological drought: A drought is categorised as a meteorological drought when actual rainfall over an area is significantly less than the normal amount of rainfall. Meteorological droughts need to be defined specifically in particular regions as the atmospheric conditions that result in deficiencies of precipitation vary highly from region to region. Meteorological drought can also be defined as the actual precipitation departures from average amounts on monthly, seasonal or annual time scales.

Drought can be classified into the following sub-types—

1. Mild drought: When rainfall is 11% to 25% less than normal rainfall.
2. Moderate drought: When rainfall is 26% to 50% less than normal rainfall.
3. Severe drought: When rainfall is less than 50% of the normal rainfall.

2. Hydrological drought: A hydrological drought occurs when there is a marked depletion of surface water causing very low stream flow and drying of lakes, reservoirs and rivers. Therefore, hydrological drought is related to periods of precipitation deficits in the surface or subsurface water supply.

It can again be classified into two types—

1. Surface water drought: This is caused when ponds, lakes and rivers dry up due to inadequate rainfall.

2. Groundwater drought: When the level of groundwater decreases due to a deficit of rainfall, groundwater drought occurs.

3. Agricultural drought: An agricultural drought occurs when inadequate soil moisture produces acute crop stress and affects productivity in the long run. Inadequate topsoil moisture during the planting stage may obstruct germination, leading to low plant populations per hectare and a reduction of final yield. However, if topsoil moisture is sufficient for early growth, insufficiencies in subsoil moisture at this early stage may not impact final yield if subsoil moisture is replenished as the growing season progresses or if precipitation meets plant water needs.

Question 20 Classify drought on the basis of the time period.
Answer:

Classification Of Droughts On The Basis Of The Time Period:-

Droughts differ in the time and period of their occurrence. Thornthwaite delineated drought as follows—

1. Permanent drought: It occurs mostly in arid desert regions. Crop production is not possible without irrigation, due to inadequate rainfall. In these areas, the xerophyte type of vegetation is generally observed. For example, cacti, thorny shrubs, etc.

2. Seasonal drought: It occurs in areas with clearly defined wet and dry climates. Seasonal drought occurs due to large-scale seasonal circulation. This occurs mainly in monsoon areas.

3. Contingent drought: This results due to irregular and variable rainfall, especially in humid and sub-humid regions. The occurrence of such droughts may coincide with growth periods of the crops when the water needs are critical and the greatest, resulting in the severity of the effects i.e., yield reduction.

Question 21 Briefly discuss the impacts of drought.
Answer:

Droughts create immense environmental and socio-economic impacts. The impacts are as follows-

1. Impact on the environment:

1. The ecological balance is disturbed due to enhanced soil erosion (due to loss of soil moisture).
2. The fertility of soil decreases.
3.  Loss or destruction of vegetation cover may lead to desertification of the region.
4. Spread of diseases in wild animals and migration of wildlife may be observed because of reduced food and water supplies.

 

2. Impact on the ecosystem:

1. It causes damage to plants and animals.
2. plants struggle to survive due to the hampering of the process of photosynthesis.
3. Food scarcity is noticed for the herbivorous animals that lead to the death of a vast number

4. Impact on the population:

1. Lack of precipitation may subsequently lead to lesser replenishment of groundwater and as a result, the groundwater level falls. This makes irrigation more difficult and many farmers become jobless.
2. Excessive drought conditions may lead to famine and starvation becomes a common picture.
3. Many people die due to a lack of nutrition and tremendous heat.
4. Droughts lead to international and intra-national migration.

Question 22 Briefly explain the causes of drought in India.
Answer:

The main causes of drought in India are—

1. Natural causes:

1. India is a monsoon-dominated country. So, if the southwest monsoon wind arrives late than its normal arrival time, then it creates a drought condition.
2. Break in monsoon or a persisting long dry period within the monsoon season causes drought.
3. If the monsoon winds retreat before the normal time, drought conditions prevail.
4. Each state of India does not receive an equal amount of precipitation during monsoons. This areal difference in precipitation may cause drought.
5. In El Nino years, the normal patterns of precipitation and atmospheric circulation get disrupted. This is also an important reason for drought in India.,

2. Man-induced causes:

1. The amount of water vapour in the atmosphere decreases due to excessive deforestation, causing a lack of sufficient precipitation and eventually drought.
2. Some other man-induced causes of drought in India are urbanisation, industrialisation, pollution, etc.

Question 23 Differentiate between meteorological drought and agricultural drought.
Answer:

The differences between meteorological and agricultural drought are as follows—

Point of difference	Meteorological drought	Agricultural drought
1. Concept	Meteorological drought occurs when actual rainfall over an area is significantly less than the climatological mean.	Agricultural drought occurs when inadequate soil moisture produces acute crop stress and affects productivity.
2. Dependency	It is not dependent on agricultural drought.	It is dependent on meteorological drought.
3. Impact	It has a widespread impact.	The extent of the impact is lesser than meteorological drought.

 

Question 24 Write three differences between meteorological and hydrological drought.
Answer:

The difference between meteorological and hydrological drought is as follows-

Point of difference	Meteorological drought	Hydrological drought
1. Concept	Meteorological drought occurs when actual rainfall is less than normal rainfall and causes dry weather conditions.	Hydrological drought occurs when inadequate soil moisture produces acute crop stress and affects productivity.
2. Dependency	It is dependent on the atmospheric temperature and the amount of rainfall.	It is dependent on the amount of groundwater.
3. Cause	This kind of drought occurs due to inadequate rainfall.	This kind of drought occurs due to the water shortage in the river basin.

 

Question 25 What are the impacts of earthquakes?
Answer:

The impacts of earthquakes can be devastating. Some of the most commonly observed impacts of earthquakes are as follows—

1. People may be killed or injured.

2. Built landscapes such as houses may be ‘ destroyed.

3. Transport and communication links may be interrupted and shops and businesses may be destroyed. This can subsequently lead to difficulty in trade.

4. Water pipes may burst and water supplies may be contaminated.

5. Fires can spread due to gas pipe explosions that can even lead to forest fires in certain areas.

6. Landslides may occur.

7. Tsunamis may cause flooding in coastal areas.

8. Can lead to social unrest and heedless looting may take place.

Question 26 Explain why the Himalayan regions are prone to earthquakes.
Answer:

The Himalayan Regions Are Prone To Earthquakes:-

The Himalayan mountain range was formed due to the collision of Indian and Eurasian plates – a process that began at least 50 million years ago. Where the two plates converge, the Indian plate plunges below the Eurasian. The two plates continue to rub against each other due to the northward movement of the Indian plate-this continuously generates immense geological stress. This builds up pressure, leads to seismic vulnerability and is later released as earthquakes.

The east-west lying fault line that separates these two plates is known as the Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT). Since there is no historical evidence of earthquakes iri several portions of the Himalayan arc, it is predicted that there is potential energy available to generate large earthquakes.

Question 27 Briefly discuss the natural causes of the Earthquake.
Answer:

The natural causes of the earthquake are as follows—

1. Plate tectonics: Due to prevailing high temperature and pressure, convection currents evolve in the viscous mantle below the earth’s crust. These convection currents cause the plates (parts of the earth’s crust) to move in different directions and at different speeds from those of the adjacent ones which at times cause earthquakes.

2. Isostatic causes: Isostasy is the state of gravitational equilibrium between the Earth’s lithosphere and asthenosphere and in this process of trying to attain a hydrodynamic equilibrium, earthquakes may take place.

3. Formation of fold mountains: Formation of new fold mountains may also result in the occurrence of earthquakes.

4. Volcanism: Volcanic activity may also cause earthquakes.

5. Landslides and avalanches: During landslides and avalanches a huge mass of snow, ice and rocks slide down along the steep slopes of mountains/that may cause earthquakes.

6. Meteorite: Meteorite impacts could cause larger earthquakes than has ever been observed. A Meteor crater in Arizona in the United States is an example.

7. Collapse of subterranean cavities: The removal of minerals and other materials from the Earth may cause instability, leading to the sudden collapse of subterranean cavities, which may cause local tremors. In karst areas, due to the action of underground water, the sudden collapse of the ground surface also causes an earthquake.

Question 28 Briefly explain the anthropogenic causes of earthquakes.
Answer:

Anthropogenic Causes Of Earthquakes:-

Unplanned anthropogenic activities may lead to earthquakes.

For example—

1. Faulty construction of dams: It is well-accepted that large dams can cause earthquakes. Dams cause earthquakes due to the extra pressure of water created in the minor cracks and fissures in the ground under and near a reservoir.

2. Nuclear testing: Nuclear testing may also trigger earthquakes. As an example, in 1999, an earthquake occurred due to the explosion of nuclear testing at Pokhran in Rajasthan.

3. Dynamite blasting for road construction: Blasting of rocks by dynamite for the construction of roads may trigger earthquakes.

4. Collapsed roof of the mines: Earthquakes can occur locally due to the collapsing of the roof of the mines if the pit mines are not perfectly filled with sand. This kind of earthquake often occurs at Ranigange.

Question 29 ‘Mountainous regions are prone to landslides.’ Why?
Answer:

Mountainous Regions Are Prone To Landslides:-

Landslides are mainly associated with mountainous regions. This is because of the following reasons—

1. Geological causes: Weak or sensitive materials of the hill-slopes and the abundance of weathered materials make the mountainous regions prone to landslides.

2. Climatic causes: Mountainous regions are inclined to freeze-thaw cycles and wetter conditions promote organic activity and associated weathering. Soil slopes and rocks are weakened through saturation by heavy rain or snow melt. Moreover, winter snowstorms may produce avalanche-like conditions. All these together cause a landslide-prone condition.

3. Human causes: Landslides are frequently caused by the undercutting of slopes during road construction or when fill materials are dumped onto already less stable slopes. Defectively constructed mine tailing piles, dams and waste landfills may result in landslides. Construction of houses on hill- slopes and reckless deforestation are the most commonly observed causes of landslides in the hills.

Question 30 Briefly discuss the natural causes of landslides.
Answer:

The natural causes of landslides are as follows—

1. Intense and prolonged rainfall: Prolonged and intense rainfall is the immediate and direct cause of landslides where water acts as a lubricant. With prolonged and intense rainfall large amounts of rainwater seep into the soil that results in an increase in water pressure in the pores of the soil. Thus the friction and internal cohesion of slope materials reduce, which subsequently destabilises the slopes and causes landslides.

2. Earthquake: Earthquakes can trigger landslides in the hill slopes if the magnitude reaches 6 and above.

3. Slope gradient: Slopes with steeper gradients are more prone to landslides as gravity has more influence on these slopes, increasing their sliding force.

4. Loose materials: Unstable materials like large boulders increase the vulnerability of the slope which leads to landslides.

5. Topography: Any cracked or faulted topography is weaker than any other type of topography, which causes landslides.

6. Nature of soil: The predominance of pebbles and sand makes the soil loose, which causes landslides.

Question 31 Briefly discuss man-induced causes of landslides.
Answer:

The man-induced causes of landslides are as follows—

1. Deforestation: Large-scale deforestation can make a place vulnerable to landslides. The roots of the trees hold the soil in place. But excessive deforestation in hilly regions makes the soil loose. As a result, the regions become landslide prone.

2. Urbanization: Unscientific construction of roads and houses on steep slopes disturbs soil stability, which may lead to landslides.

3. Shifting cultivation: Shifting cultivation is an unsustainable practice that depletes the soil nutrients and reduces the forest cover, causing landslides.

4. Overgrazing: Overgrazing may result in land degradation that may subsequently lead to landslides.
For example, Darjeeling district is one of the most landslide-prone districts of West Bengal. The Paglajhora region is highly prone to landslides due to both natural factors and increasing human activities for the last five decades.

Question 32 Briefly discuss the impacts of a cyclone.
Answer:

The impacts of a cyclone are—

1. Impact on the physical environment:

1. Disturbs the balance of the ecosystem: Vast number of animals and birds die due to the occurrence of a cyclone that subsequently leads to the imbalance of the local ecosystem.

2. Occurrence of the flood: Heavy rainfall may accompany a cyclone, which may lead to a devastating flood.

3. Coastal erosion: The strong waves formed by a cyclone near the coast may result in coastal erosion.

2. Impact on human beings:

1. Loss of life: Huge loss of human and animal life occurs due to cyclones. Vast areas of vegetation cover are also destroyed due to cyclones.

2. Loss of property: Cyclones disrupt communication and transport systems. They ravage and inundate the agricultural fields and subsequently may cause food scarcity. They also hamper public life by destroying houses.

3. Spread of epidemics: The water gets polluted due to cyclones, resulting in water-borne diseases. Epidemics like Cholera may spread from this polluted water.

Question 33 Write about some terrible cyclones and their affected areas.
Answer:

Some terrible cyclones and their affected areas are-

Cyclone	Time of occurrence	Affected areas	Speed of cyclone
1. Hudhud	7 October to 14 October 2014	Formed in the Bay of Bengal and caused damage in Andaman and Nicobar island, Andhra Pradesh Visakhapatnam, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and also in Madhya Pradesh,	Maximum speed was about 260km/hour.
2. Nargis	27 April to 3 May 2008	It mainly damaged Myanmar but surrounding areas of Bangladesh and north-east India were also affected.	Maximum speed was about 165-215 km/hour.
3. Katrina	23 August to 31 August 2005	Georgia, New Orleans, Louisiana, etc.	Maximum speed was about 200 km/hour
4. Aila	25 May to 27 May 2009	West Bengal and Odisha in India and Bangladesh.	Maximum speed was about 110-120 km/hour.

Question 34 What are the causes for the origination of a tsunami?
Answer:

The major causes of tsunamis are—

1. Submarine earthquake: Most severe earthquakes occur in convergent boundaries where an ocean plate slides under a continental plate. All earthquakes do not generate tsunamis. To generate a- tsunami, the fault where the earthquake occurs must be underneath or near the ocean. It must also cause vertical movement of the sea floor over a large area. Earthquakes originating at shallow depths of the seabed (focus) are responsible for the most destructive tsunamis.

2. Landslides: Landslides resulting in rockfalls, submarine landslides or slumps can generate tsunamis. For example, the movement of a significant amount of earth for the construction of an airport triggered an underwater landslide in 1980 in southern France. This resulted in a devastating tsunami hitting the harbour of Thebes.

3. Eruption of the volcano: Volcanic eruptions can generate waves as a result of sudden displacement of water giving rise to tsunamis. For example, one of the most devastating tsunamis was ever recorded on August 26, 1883, after the explosion and collapse of the Krakatoa in Indonesia.

4. Extraterrestrial collision: Although tsunamis caused by extra-terrestrial collisions such as meteors and asteroids- induced tsunamis have not been recorded in recent history and the possibilities are rare, tsunamis may be generated by such extra-terrestrial collisions.

Question 35 Briefly discuss the effects of tsunamis.
Answer:

The major effects of tsunamis are—

1. Physical changes: Tsunami may result in various physical changes. For example, the islands of Andaman and Nicobar experienced widespread devastation because of a tsunami in 2004. Some smaller islands in the Nicobars have entirely vanished and some others have changed shape, such as Trinket which has been split into two parts after the tsunami.

2. Change in soil characteristics: Tsunami may result in a change in the characteristics of soil, especially soil salinity. The coastal regions are bounded by vast expanses of salty, marine waters and thus the salinity of the soil may increase at certain times. This may negatively affect soil fertility and productivity.

3. Damages the marine ecosystem: Tsunamis cause great damage and even devastation to the marine ecosystem.

4. Shortening the length of the day: The massive earthquake that struck Sumatra in 2004 has shortened the length of the earth’s day. The intense tremor of 9.1 magnitudes has accelerated the spin of the earth, shortening the length of the 24 hours day by 6.8 microseconds.

5. Casualties: Tsunamis are generally very devastating and cause huge loss of life for humans and animals. The tsunami waves in the morning hours of December 26, 2004, around the Bay of Bengal caused an official death toll of 812 and the unofficial death toll is estimated to be about 7,000.

6. Damage to property: Tsunamis generally cause great damage to property, especially in coastal regions. Huge losses of houses, roads, agricultural fields, and factories are caused by tsunamis.

Question 36 Write a short note on the blizzard.
Answer:

A blizzard is a severe storm condition characterised by low temperatures, strong winds and heavy snow. Blizzards can restrict visibility to near zero. Blizzards have a negative impact on the local economy.

Characteristics: The main characteristics of blizzard are—

1. Strength of wind: Winds that are at least 56 kilometres per hour or greater than the normal snowstorm are identified as blizzards.

2. Visibility: The visibility is reduced to almost 400 metres or even to zero at times.

3. Duration: Most blizzards last for a duration almost 3 hours.

Location: The occurrence of blizzards is most prominent in the countries of Antarctica, northern parts of North America, Canada, north of Europe and Asia as well as in New South Wales in Australia. Apart from these, the snowcapped high mountainous regions also experience blizzards.

Question 37 Discuss with examples how a blizzard can cause hazards or disaster. Or, Briefly discuss the effects of blizzard.
Answer:

During blizzards, winds combined with fleeting snow produce extreme conditions and disrupt normal living conditions.

The hazards caused by blizzards are as follows—

1. Physical illness: The extreme cold winds during blizzards are a cause of great discomfort to the local people which may subsequently lead to physical illness and may even cause hypothermia. Such as, in 1972, four thousand people died due to the effect of a blizzard in Iran.

2. Disrupts transport system: The thick layers of snow that accumulate during blizzards may disrupt the local transport system. Blizzards paralyse the transport system and leave the roads in unsafe conditions. For example, from March 11 to 14, 1888, a blizzard dumped an average of 1 metre of snow over southeast New York and the southern part of New England. It killed over 400 people, of which New York City alone recorded 200 deaths.

3. Flood: The sudden rise in temperature that may follow a blizzard can prove to be damaging as the rapid snow-melt water may trigger serious floods and other fatal accidents.

4. Disrupts public life: Blizzards generally disrupt public life by interrupting transport, electricity and water supplies and also normal day-to-day life by interrupting health and educational facilities.

Question 38 Discuss briefly the causes of volcanism.
Answer:

The major causes of volcanism are as follows—

1. Plate tectonics: The earth’s crust is divided into a number of tectonic plates moving in different directions and at different speeds. At the convergent plate boundaries, the plates move towards each other, at the divergent plate boundaries the plates move away from each other and at the transform plate boundary, the plates slide past each other horizontally. These boundaries are geologically active and the movement of the plate gives rise to the occurrence of volcanoes.

2. The buoyancy of the magma: As a rock inside the earth melts, its volume increases,
producing magma that is less dense than the surrounding rock. This lighter magma rises up because of its buoyancy. Since the density of the magma between the zone of its generation and the surface is less than that of the surrounding and overlying rocks, the magma will reach the surface and erupt.

3. The pressure from the dissolved gases in the magma: Magma contains dissolved volatiles like water, sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide. The amount of dissolved gases in the magma at atmospheric pressure is zero but rises with increasing pressure. When magma moves toward the surface, the solubility of the water in the magma decreases, and excess water separates from the magma as bubbles. The closer it gets to the surface, the more water comes from the magma, increasing the gas and magma ratio in the magma tube. When the volume of bubbles reaches about 75%, the magma turns into partially molten and solid fragments and it erupts explosively.

4. Injection of new magma into an already filled magma chamber: As an additional amount of magma enters a chamber that is already at its full capacity, the new magma causes some of the existing magma to move to the surface and erupt.

5. Release of energy: A volcanic event occurs when there is a sudden or continued release of energy caused by magma movement near the surface. The energy can be in the form of earthquakes, gas emission at the surface, release of heat through geothermal activity, explosive release of gases and the non-explosive extrusion or intrusion of magma.

Question 39 Briefly discuss the impacts of vulcanicity.
Answer:

The impacts of vulcanicity have been shown broadly—

1. Impact on nature:
Vulcanicity impacts nature in various ways—

1. Development of landforms: Different types of landforms like caldera, cinder cones, laccolith, dykes, sills, etc., are formed due to vulcanicity.

2. Earthquakes: When explosions take place during volcanic eruptions on a massive scale, earthquakes may be felt in adjoining areas.

3. Change in the ecosystem: The ecological balance of the affected area is disturbed as many species of plants and animals become endangered.

4. Change in temperature: The temperature of the surrounding areas of a volcanic eruption increases.

5. Change in soil character: Soil characteristics get changed as lava spreads across the land.

6. Change in the local environment: Local environment is considerably changed. For example, there is a possibility of acid rain as a reaction to toxic gases released during vulcanicity.

2. Impact on human life: Vulcanicity also affects human life—

1. Loss of life: A massive loss of life occurs as a result of vulcanicity. For example, about 3600 people died in the coastal areas of Java when the Krakatoa volcano erupted in 1883.

2. Loss of property: Huge loss of properties like buildings, transport networks, and industries occurs and the economic life of the whole region is affected.

3. Loss of agricultural land: Large tracts of land are rendered infertile as a result of being covered by hot molten lava gushing out of the volcanoes. For example, the famous Barren Island of Andaman and Nicobar.

Question 40 Briefly discuss the causes of a forest fire.
Answer:

The main causes of forest fires are-

1. Natural causes:

The natural causes of forest fires are—

1. If lightning strikes, dry leaves of trees or tree trunks may get ignited.
2. In the dry season, a boulder coming down a mountain slope may give rise to a spark that leads to a fire.
3. A vol¬canic eruption may also cause a forest fire.

2. Man-made causes:

The man-made causes of forest fires are—

1. When a forest is burnt for clearing land for agricultural activities like in shifting cultivation, the fire may spread, causing a forest fire.
2. The fire used for cooking in tents by mountaineers may also cause forest fires.
3. If a lit cigarette is discarded by someone unmindfully on the forest floor, the dry leaves on the forest floor may cause a fire to break out.

Question 41 What are the effects of a forest fire?
Answer:
The effects of forest fires can be categorised into two sub-types. They are as follows—

1. Primary effects:

Primary effects of forest fires are—

1. Casualties and injury to people and animals who are caught in the flames.
2. Damages to property and possessions.
3. Burning of vegetation and crops.
4. Release of large amounts of smoke.

2. Secondary effects:

The secondary effects of forest fires are—

1. Health troubles for people as a result of the smoke and ash.
2. Loss of jobs for agricultural workers whose animals and crops get destroyed.
3. Diminution in the tourist industry, leading to loss of jobs and restriction to recreational areas.
4. Soil erosion and landslides because there is less vegetation to bind the soil together.
5. Loss of habitats for animals may lead to the extinction of some species.

Question 42 What remedial measures can be taken to prevent the occurrence of forest fires?
Answer:

The different measures that can be taken to prevent forest fires are—

1. Do not throw any inflammable object or lighted objects on the forest floor,
2. Remove dry leaves and parts of plants and trees to safe corners as much as possible,
3. Keep pets and other valuables at a safe distance
4. Dig a circular canal and make arrangements for adequate water around the zone of forest fire,
5. Act as per emergency instructions broadcast by radio or other devices during a forest fire,
6. Arrange awareness programmes for forest dwellers and people residing in forests regarding measures to save their lives.

Question 43 What are the favourable conditions that cause avalanches?
Answer:

The favourable conditions that cause avalanches are-

1. Slope of the land: It has been observed that avalanches are a common occurrence on slopes ranging from 35°-45° and concave slopes are more favourable than convex slopes of the mountain.

2. Excessive snowfall: Avalanches are influenced by the amount of snow or ice on the mountain tops. Excessive snowfall increases the possibility of avalanches.

3. Smoothness of slope: In comparison to forested or vegetated slopes, bare and smooth slopes act as a trigger for avalanches.

4. Size of ice crystals: Since bigger ice crystals are weak and break easily, they are more prone to initiate an avalanche compared to compacted or packed ice.

5. Sun rays: Since the sun’s rays warm up the ice, they lead to avalanches.

6. Wind flow: Winds blowing from varying directions loosen up the ice and initiate an avalanche.

7. Human interference: Human activities such as cutting down of trees, construction of roads, explosion by dynamite, ice sports etc., increase the possibility of avalanches.

8. Melting of the snow: Sun rays warm up the snow on the hill slope and thus the snow gradually melts. As a result, avalanches occur and melted snow moves down the slope.

9. Earthquake: Earthquake causes crack in the snow which results in avalanches.

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is meant by a hazard?
Answer:

Hazard:-

A dangerous condition or event that threatens or has the potential to cause injury to life or damage to property or the environment is known as a hazard.

Question 2 What is meant by a disaster?
Answer:

Disaster:-

A disaster is an event or series of events that results in casualties and damage or loss of property, infrastructure, environment, essential services or means of livelihood on such a scale that is beyond the normal capacity of the affected Community to sustain.

Question 3 What are natural hazards?
Answer:

Natural Hazards:-

Hazards that are typically caused by nature and without any human intervention are known as natural hazards. Examples- Earthquakes, floods, etc.

Question 4 What is meant by a semi-natural hazard?
Answer:

Semi-Natural Hazard:-

Hazards that are caused by the combination of natural and man-induced processes are known as semi-natural hazards. For instance, a landslide is a semi-natural hazard as it can be caused by natural processes (such as heavy or prolonged rainfall, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc.) and can also be caused by man-made activities (such as slope excavation and loading, land use changes, irrigation, and such others).

Question 5 What is meant by a flood?
Answer:

Flood:-

A flood may be defined as a situation caused due to the overflow of rivers and other waterbodies due to an excess supply of water.

Question 6 What is meant by a flash flood?
Answer:

Flash Flood:-

A flash flood can develop within a few hours of heavy rainfall. Flash floods can be highly dangerous and have the potential to instantly turn a gasping rivulet into a thundering channel of water that sweeps away everything in its path. Most of the casualties from flooding occur as a result of flash floods. The intensity of flash floods cannot be classified. Desert regions are vulnerable to flash floods.

Question 7 How can dam failure cause floods?
Answer:

Dam Failure Causes Floods:-

Dams are the water storage or diversion barriers that seize water upstream in reservoirs. Dam failure involves. the over¬topping, breach or collapse of a dam. It is an extremely destructive occurrence and in such an event, the energy of the water stored behind even a small dam is capable of causing loss and damage to life and property. For example,-in 1977, Tamil Nadu experienced a dam failure from the Kodaganar Dam that led to over-topping by flood waters.

Question 8 What is meant by drought?
Answer:

Drought:-

Drought may be defined as a situation caused due to lack of rainfall or scarcity of rainfall for a long period. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), an area is considered to be affected by drought, if it receives less than 75% rainfall than its normal value.

Question 9 What is meant by meteorological drought?
Answer:

Meteorological Drought:-

A drought is categorised as a meteorological drought when actual rainfall over an area is significantly less than the climatological mean. Definitions of meteorological droughts must be region-specific as the atmospheric conditions that result in deficiencies of precipitation are highly variable from region to region.

Question 10 What is meant by hydrological drought?
Answer:

Hydrological Drought:-

A drought is categorised as a hydrological drought when there is a marked depletion of surface water causing very low stream flow and drying of lakes, reservoirs and rivers. Therefore, hydrological drought is related to the effects of periods of precipitation deficits on surface or subsurface water supply.

Question 11 What is meant by agricultural drought?
Answer:

Agricultural Drought:-

The situation when soil moisture is insufficient and results in a lack of crop growth and production, is known as agricultural drought. Agricultural drought has a huge impact on the economy of the country.

Question 12 What is a cyclone?
Answer:

Cyclone:-

A cyclone is a giant whirlwind or a very strong wind system moving rapidly in a cylindrical or funnel shape about a centre of low atmospheric pressure over tropical or subtropical waters. It advances at a speed of about 30 to 50 kilometres per hour and often brings heavy rain.

Question 13 Name the districts of West Bengal that are prone to drought.
Answer:

Districts Of West Bengal That Are Prone To Drought:-

The western uplands of West Bengal consisting of the districts of Bankura, Birbhum, the western part of Paschim Medinipur, jhargram and Purulia are the most drought-prone districts of the state.

Question 14 What is meant by a landslide?
Answer:

Landslide:-

A landslide is the movement of rocks or debris down a slope. Landslides occur when gravitational and other types of shear stress within a slope exceeds the shear strength of the materials that form the slope. Landslides are also known as landslips, slope failure, etc.

Question 15 What is meant by a snowstorm?
Answer:

Snowstorm:-

A snowstorm is a severe weather condition where precipitation falls in the form of snow and creates a hazardous condition. It is characterised by low temperatures, strong winds and enormous quantities of either falling or blowing snow.

Question 16 Where do snowstorms mostly occur?
Answer:

Occur Of  Snowstorms:-

People experience snowstorms in middle-latitude to high-latitude areas during winter. The occurrence of snowstorms is most prominent in Antarctica, northern parts of North America, Canada, north of Europe and Asia as well as in New Sout Wales in Australia. The snowcapped high mountainous regions also experience snowstorms.

Question 17 Name the most commonly faced hazards and disasters in West Bengal.
Answer:

Most Commonly Faced Hazards And Disasters In West Bengal Are:-

The most commonly faced hazards and disasters in West Bengal are drought, flood, landslides and tropical cyclones.

Question 18 What is meant by the forest fire?
Answer:

Forest Fire:-

A forest fire, also known as a wildland fire or wildfire, is an uncontrolled fire often occurring in forest areas. The blazes are fueled by lightning, volcanic eruptions, pyroclastic flow from active volcanoes, heat waves, droughts, and cyclical climate changes. as El Nino as well as human carelessness. It is observed that more than four out of every five forest fires are human-induced. Forest fires often begin unnoticed, but they spread quickly at a speed that extends up to 23 kilometres an hour igniting bushes, trees, homes and agricultural resources.

Question 19 Name the districts of West Bengal that are prone to cyclones.
Answer:

Districts Of West Bengal That Are Prone To Cyclones Are:-

The coastal area in West Bengal mostly faces the wrath of tropical cyclones. The districts of Purba Medinipur, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly and Kolkata are more susceptible to the hazard caused due to tropical cyclones.

Question 20 Name the districts of West Bengal that are prone to flood.
Answer:

Districts Of West Bengal That Are Prone To Flood Are Given Below:-

West Bengal is one of the most flood-prone states of India. The flood-prone areas of West Bengal include low-lying areas, coastal regions and regions along rivers downstream from dams.

The flood-prone districts of West Benga I can be classified into two groups—

1. Districts of North Bengal: Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Malda, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur.

2. Districts of South Bengal: Nadia, Howrah, Murshidabad, North and South 24 Parganas, Hooghly, Purba and Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum, Purba and Paschim Medinipur.

Question 21 Classify drought on the basis of medium.
Answer:

On the basis of medium drought can be classified into two types—

1. Soil drought: It is the condition when soil moisture depletes and falls short of meeting the potential evapotranspiration of the crop.

2. Atmospheric drought: This occurs due to low humidity, and dry and hot winds that cause the desiccation of plants.

Question 22 What is meant by an earthquake?
Answer:

Earthquake:-

Seismic waves are produced when some form of energy stored in the earth’s crust is abruptly released. This happens usually when masses of rock layers push one another abruptly. Therefore, earthquakes or any sudden shaking of the ground are caused by seismic waves originating within the earth’s crust.

Question 23 What is meant by a tsunami?
Answer:

Tsunami:-

A catastrophic ocean wave, generally caused by an earthquake on the seabed by an underwater or coastal landslide or by the eruption of a volcano is known as a tsunami. It is derived from a Japanese word meaning harbour waves. It is also commonly referred to as a seismic sea wave or tidal wave.

Question 24 What is meant by volcanism?
Answer:

Volcanism:-

Volcanism is the process that refers to hot molten magma escaping from the earth’s core, cooling down and forming hard rocks. Volcanism can be of three types depending on the place where it occurs.

They are as follows—

1. Extrusive volcanism: Molten lava that escapes the earth and reaches the surface is known as extrusive volcanism.

2. Intrusive volcanism: Molten magma that cools and hardens beneath the surface of the earth is known as intrusive volcanism.

3. Plutonic volcanism: Molten magma that cools and hardens deep beneath the surface of the earth, far below the crust is known as plutonic volcanism.

Question 25 What is an avalanche?
Answer:

Avalanche:-

When accumulated snow and ice slide down along the steep slopes (35°-45°) of mountains, encompassing a wide area, it is called an avalanche. At the higher altitude of the mountain slopes, the upper part of the accumulated ice breaks apart from the underlying layer of ice. It hurls down along the steep slopes as a vast expanse of white sheets mainly due to the earth’s gravity. This phenomenon mostly occurs during the winter months and is a common feature in the mountainous areas of the Himalayas and the Alps.

Question 26 What is meant by a disaster-prone area?
Answer:

Disaster-Prone Area:-

An area that has already faced one or more types of hazards is demarcated as a disaster-prone area. This is because the area is prone to several kinds of hazards. For example, Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts and the coastal area of Purba Medinipur district of West Bengal are landslides and cyclone-prone areas respectively.

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Multiple Choice Type Questions [MCQ type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. The following is a man-made hazard—
1. Drought
2. Earthquake
3. Volcano
4. Riot

Answer: 4. Riot

2. The following is a semi-natural hazard—
1. Volcano
2. Tsunami
3. Snowstorm
4. Landslide

Answer: 4. Landslide

3. The following is a natural disaster—
1. Drought
2. Global Warming
3. Nuclear Disaster
4. Riot

Answer: 1. Drought

4. The following is not a cause of landslide—
1. Deforestation
2. Multi-Purpose River Valley Project
3. Urbanisation
4. Tsunami

Answer: 4. Tsunami

5. Give an example of a disaster caused by human activity—
1. Earthquake
2. Volcano
3. Nuclear Bomb Explosion
4. Drought

Answer: 3. Nuclear Bomb Explosion

6. The following is known as the ‘land of earthquakes’—
1. Japan
2. Iraq
3. Myanmar
4. India

Answer: 1. Japan

7. Volcanic eruptions occur due to—
1. Deforestation
2. Unplanned Development Of Settlements
3. Rise In Heat And Pressure Within The Earth
4. Construction Of Roads

Answer: 3. Rise In Heat And Pressure Within The Earth

8. The following disaster occurs in the coastal regions—
1. Drought
2. Volcano
3. Landslide
4. Tsunami

Answer: 4. Tsunami

9. The percentage of land in India that is prone to flood is—
1. 10%
2. 11%
3. 12%
4. 13%

Answer: 3. 12%

10. Landslides occur more often in—
1. Hills
2. Deserts
3. Forests
4. Plains

Answer: 1. Hills

11. Snowstorms are mostly observed in the—
1. Equatorial region
2. Tropical Region
3. Sub-Tropical Region
4. Polar region

Answer: 4. Polar region

12. A terrible blizzard hit the eastern side of the USA and Canada in—
1. 1777
2. 1888
3. 1920
4. 1992

Answer: 2. 1888

13. Avalanches occur in—
1. Mountains
2. Deserts
3. Plateaus
4. Coastal regions

Answer: 1. Mountains

14. The following is an example of a climatic hazard—
1. An Arabic Term
2. A Japanse Term
3. A Frech Term
4. A Russian Term

Answer: 2. A Japanse Term

15. In Japan and China, whirlwinds are known as—
1. Volcano
2. Flood
3. Forest Fire
4. Tsunami 

Answer: 2. Flood 

16. An example of an atmospheric disaster is—
1. Tornado
2. Typhoon
3. Hurricane
4. Willy- Willy

Answer: 1. Tornado

17. An example of an atmospheric disaster is-
1. Drought
2. Tsunami
3. Soil erosion
4. Desertification

Answer: 1. Drought

18 Cyclone of the South China Sea is known as—
1. Taifu
2. Typhoon
3. Hurricane
4. Willy-willy

Answer: 2. Typhoon

19 Tsunami is a type of—
1. Organic Disaster
2. Geological Disaster
3. Hydrological Disaster
4. Meteorological Disaster

Answer: 3. Hydrological Disaster

20. Affected area of cyclone Willy-willy is located in—
1. Germany
2. Japan
3. Australia
4. China

Answer: 3. Australia

21. An example of man-induced hazard is—
1. Communal Riot
2. Forest Fire
3. Landslide
4. Volcanism

Answer: 1. Communal Riot

22. Which of these is not a geological disaster?
1. Landslide
2. Cyclone
3. Earthquake
4. Volcanic eruption

Answer: 2. Cyclone

23. Cyclone of the Indian subcontinent is called—
1. Cyclone
2. Typhoon
3. Hurricane
4. Willy-willy

Answer: 1. Cyclone

24. Huge rainfall in high mountainous regions in a short period is called—
1. Out Burst Of Monsoon
2. Cloud Burst
3. Dust Storm
4. Heavy Rain

Answer: 2. Cloud Burst

25. Which is not a natural disaster?
1. Cyclone
2. Tsunami
3. Earthquake
4. Soil Erosion

Answer: 4. Soil Erosion

26. Many people die in a short time, because of—
1. Forest Fire
2. Drought
3. Hailstorm
4. Earthquake

Answer: 4. Earthquake

27. Direct natural cause of flood is—
1. Heavy Rainfall
2. Hailstorm
3. Deforestation
4. Unscientific agriculture

Answer: 1. Heavy Rainfall

28. In which country was Fani named?
1. Bangladesh
2. India
2. Nepal
2. Pakistan

Answer: 1. Bangladesh

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Fill In The Blanks With Suitable Words

1. A region is considered to be drought-prone if it receives an average annual rainfall less than 75 % of its normal value.

2. The centre of a cyclone is known as its eye

3. Richter scale is used to measure the magnitude of earthquakes

4. The average speed at which grass fires spread can be up to 22km/hour

5. Forest fire is a semi-natural hazard.

6. One of the deadliest snowstorms in history occurred in Iran in the year 1972

7. Low pressure prevails at the centre of a whirlwind.

8. Darjeeling is an example of a landslide-prone district in West Bengal.

9. The possibility of flash floods is higher in a circular river basin.

10. Avalanches are more likely to occur on convex slopes.

11. Cyclone AHA hit West Bengal in the year 2009

12. Phailin is a cyclone

13. Blizzard is a type of snowstorm

14. The Kedarnath temple was affected severely due to a flash flood in 2013.

15. One of the most accepted weather conditions for hurricanes to develop is that the temperature of the ocean waters must be above 26° C

16. Agricultural droughts can develop quickly during a dry spell if absolutely no rain is observed and the soil does not have enough water to sustain crops.

17. The disaster is a cause hazard.

18. Famine is an acute shortage of food that causes people to die of starvation.

19. About 12 % of the total land mass in India is prone to flood.

20. Most tsunamis occur on the Pacific coast.

21. Air pollution occurs due to volcanic eruptions.

22. Cooch Behar is a flood-prone district in West Bengal.

23. Extreme disaster like famine occurs as a result of drought

24. Extreme Growth of the population is a type of man-induced disaster.

25. Disaster is an extreme condition or hazard

26. Cyclone is known as Hurricane in the Caribbean Sea.

27. The most earthquake-prone region of India is Aila 

28. In the year 2009, the severe cyclone that affected West Bengal is known as 26° C

29. Phailin storm developed in the Bay of Bengal

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters If The Statement Is True, Write True And If False, Write False Against The Following

1. Plutonic earthquakes are deep-focus earthquakes, the depth of disturbances being between 250 km and 700 km approximately. True 

2. The downward flow of magma is known as a ‘plume’. false 

3. Not all hazards can be termed as disasters. True 

4. When a river flows in a straight direction, the possibility of flood decreases. True 

5. Whirlwinds are common in the hills. false 

6. Most avalanches occur on slopes with an angle of inclination between 35° and 45° approximately. false 

7. Tornado is a severe cyclone. True 

8. Avalanches most commonly occur on the leeward slopes of mountains. True 

9. Earthquakes are one of the main causes of tsunamis. True 

10. Snowstorms are one of the major natural disasters faced by the people of Sunderbans. false 

11. Remote sensing and GIS help in disaster management. false 

12. Fujiyama is a volcano in India. false 

13. Snowstorms reduce visibility sharply. false 

14. When floods occur, old alluvium accumulates on a floodplain. false 

15. Droughts are generally categorised into 5 classes. false 

16. Narcondam and Barren are two volcanoes in India. True 

17. Snowfall is a man-made disaster. false 

18. Ecosystems are affected enormously due to landslides. True 

19. Damages caused by disasters are much greater than those caused by hazards. True 

20. Tornado is a man-made hazard. false 

21. Acid rain does not cause any damage to the aquatic ecosystem. false 

22. Reckless deforestation can cause landslides in hilly regions. True 

23. Seismograph is used to measure the intensity of tsunamis. false 

24. Avalanches are more likely to occur on concave slopes. false 

25. For hurricanes to develop, the temperature of the ocean waters must be above 26° C. True 

26. Blizzards are common in Antarctica. True 

27. According to Irrigation Commission, drought is a situation occurred in a region where the annual rainfall is less than 75% of the normal rainfall. True 

28. Seismograph is used to know the movement of earthquakes. True 

29. If, the intensity of the hazard increases, there is a possibility of disaster. True 

30. Both P and S waves are known as surface waves. false 

31. Soil moisture increases due to excessive withdrawal of groundwater.

32. Drought is a slow-onset disaster. True 

33. Blizzard is also known as an avalanche. false 

34. Many people died at Bhuj in Gujarat due to a severe earthquake. True 

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Match The Left Column With The Right Column

1.

Left Column	Right Column
1. Landslide	A.Plains
2. River bank erosion	B. Forest regions
3.  Forest fire	C. Polar regions
4. Snowstorm	D.  Mountains

Answer: 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

2.

Left Column	Right Column
1. Natural hazard	A. War
2. Semi-natural hazard	B. Volcano
3. Man-made hazard	C. Landslide

 Answer: 1-B,2-C,3-A

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Answer In One Word

Question 1 Which type of hazard is easiest to manage?
Answer: Man-made hazards.

Question 2 Which force is one of the factors behind the occurrence of avalanches?
Answer: Gravitational force.

Question 3 Which type of hazard is a Tornado?
Answer: Natural hazard.

Question 4 Name a man-made cause for landslides in the mountains.
Answer: Reckless deforestation.

Question 5 What type of disaster may occur if absolutely no rain falls for a long stretch of time?
Answer: Drought.

Question 8 Sn which type of climate is snowfall a common affair?
Answer: Extremely cold climate.

Question 7. Which instrument is used to measure the intensity of earthquakes?
Answer: Seismograph.

Question 8 Which type of hazard is a volcano?
Answer: Natural hazard.

Question 9 Name a semi-natural hazard.
Answer: Landslide.

Question 10 Name a man-made disaster.
Answer: War.

Question 11 Name a flood-prone district in West Bengal.
Answer: Cooch Behar.

Question 12 Give a non-tectonic cause of earthquakes.
Answer: Nuclear testing.

Question 13 Cite a recent example of a very severe cyclonic storm that occurred in India.
Answer: Aman.

Question 14 Name the wind that influences the occurrence of both droughts and floods in India.
Answer: Monsoon wind.

Question 15 Into how many divisions can hazards be classified?
Answer: Three.

Question 18. In which year was Uttarakhand affected severely due to a flash flood?
Answer: 2013.

Question 17 Which disaster destroyed the city of St. Pierre in 1902?
Answer: Volcanic eruption.

Question 18 Which type of natural hazard occurs when trees rub against each other?
Answer: Forest fire.

Question 19 What percentage of the total land area in India is prone to flood?
Answer: 12

Question 20. Name a disaster that may result in landslides.
Answer: Earthquake.

Question 21 Which kind of disaster can be prevented by adopting proper patterns and methods of land use on the hill slopes?
Answer: Landslides.

Question 22 Which area of India is mostly affected by tsunamis?
Answer: Coastal regions.

Question 23 Which mountain range in India is most prone to earthquakes?
Answer: The Himalayas.

Question 24 What are the adverse effects resulting from natural processes of the Earth called?
Answer: Natural hazards.

Question 25 Which type of disaster may result due to faulty and unscientific methods of farming in the hills?
Answer: Landslides.

Question 26 Cite an example of a geological disaster.
Answer: Earthquake.

Question 27 Cite an example of a hazard associated with landscape change.
Answer: River bank erosion.

Question 28 Which type of disaster are whirlwinds and snowstorms?
Answer: Atmospheric disaster.

Question 29 What type of disaster may result due to human intent, negligence or a failure of a man-made system?
Answer: Man-made disaster.

Question 30 Which type of disaster may occur due to sudden heavy rainfall in the hills?
Answer: Flash flood.

Question 31 Name a natural cause of earthquakes.
Answer: Movement of the earth’s plate.

Question 32 Name a man-made cause of earthquakes.
Answer: Nuclear tests.

Question 33 What is the rapid flow of snow down a sloping surface known as?
Answer: Avalanche.

Question 34 Which region in West Bengal is most prone to landslides?
Answer: The hilly regions in Darjeeling.

Question 35 What is planning to cope with disasters known as?
Answer: Disaster management.

Question 36 Which type of rain causes damage to the aquatic ecosystem?
Answer: Acid rain.

Question 37 Which type of hazard may lead to a disaster in the forest regions?
Answer: Forest fires.

Question 38 What kind of disaster results from excessive rainfall?
Answer: Flood.

Question 39 Into how many divisions can seismic waves be classified?
Answer: Three.

Question 40 What type of disaster devastated the city of Bhuj in Gujarat in 2001?
Answer: Earthquake.

Question 41 Name one of the most prominent causes of tsunamis.
Answer: Earthquake.

Question 43 In which type of drainage basin is the probability of flash floods highest?
Answer: Circular drainage basin.

Question 42 What type of disaster is the Phailin?
Answer: Very severe tropical cyclone.

Question 44 Which type of disaster is most prominent in the coastal regions of South Bengal?
Answer: Cyclone.

Question 45 On which slopes are avalanches more likely to occur?
Answer: Convex slopes.

Question 46 Which type of disaster is most prominent in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal?
Answer: Landslide.

Question 47 Which type of disaster is most prominent in the Puruiia district of West Bengal?
Answer: Drought.

Question 48 Cite an example of a type of severe cyclone.
Answer: Tornado.

Question 49 What are deep-focus earthquakes known as?
Answer: Plutonic earthquakes.

Question 50 Name two important volcanoes in India.
Answer: Narcondam and Barren.

Question 51 What is the helpless condition caused due to the occurrence of hazards and disasters known as?
Answer: Vulnerability.

Question 52 Which type of hazard is global warming?
Answer: Man-induced hazard.

Question 53 Which kind of disaster is more common in the fluvial plain region?
Answer: Flood.

Question 54 On which coast of India does cyclone Fani hit first?
Answer: Coast of Odisha.

Question 55 Which sea was the source of cyclone Fani?
Answer: Bay of Bengal.

Question 56 What type of cyclone is Fani?
Answer: Tropical cyclone.

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Disaster Management Topic B Disaster Management Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions Marks

Question 1 Discuss the importance of disaster management.
Answer:

Importance Of Disaster Management:-

The main purpose of disaster management is to reduce losses in all spheres such as, social, economic, environmental etc.

1. Prevention of economic loss:

1. Prevention of agricultural loss: The fertility of the land diminishes and the salinity of soil may also increase as a result of floods, droughts, earthquakes etc. Proper infrastructure can be developed for the cultivation of crops if a forecast of any disaster is made.

2. Prevention of industrial loss: Various industrial products and infrastructure are damaged which can be restored by undertaking proper disaster management programmes.

3. Prevention of economic loss: The economy of any region is hampered as a result of loss in agricultural and industrial, sectors due to natural calamities. Appropriate disaster management measures can be taken to reduce such economic losses.

4. Prevention of disruption of transport system: When the transport system is disrupted due to calamities like, landslides, earthquakes etc., alternative modes of transport can be arranged to alleviate the problem.

2. Prevention of social damage:

1. Rehabilitation of affected people: A damaged area can be restored to its original normal state by acting on an emergency basis and on a war footing.

For example—
Rapid action taken for rescuing people and rehabilitating them would be of immense help.

2. Supply of necessary items: Supply of necessary items like food, water, shelter, etc., is possible through aid by state and central governments.

1. Prevention of loss of property: If a warning is issued prior to the disaster, much of the damage caused to life and property can be minimised.

2. Reconstruction: Disaster management also helps to rebuild properties (like houses, buildings, etc., quickly that are damaged.

3. Prevention of environmental damage:

1. Maintenance of ecological balance: By adopting appropriate measures of disaster management, the damage incurred to the environment can be reversed.

2. Pollution control: Disaster management helps to control pollution.

For example—
Afforestation along the bank of a river helps to prevent the erosion of soil and the subsequent sedimentation of river beds. As a result, floods are prevented and eventually soil pollution is controlled. Besides that, planting trees help to control air pollution.

Question 2 Adoption of disaster management techniques can be used to reduce the after-effects of a disaster
Answer:

The occurrence of most natural disasters cannot be stopped but measures can be taken to reduce the after-effects. The organization and management of resources and responsibilities for dealing with all humanitarian aspects of emergencies, in particular, preparedness, response and recovery in order to lessen the impact of disasters is termed disaster management.

The procedures to be followed are as follows—

1. Preventive measures:
Even before the actual disaster occurs there are some prior measures that can be taken to reduce the intensity of the disaster. Such as-

1. Conducting awareness programmes,
2. Compiling suitable laws,
3. Conducting proper regional surveys and preparing maps,
4. Forecast of the disaster can be transmitted through radio and television channels to the common people.

2. Remedial measures:
These measures are taken once the disaster has hit a region. There are two stages of remedial measures—

1. The first stage involves the rescue and recovery of the affected people and providing them with relief facilities like food, medicine, clothing, temporary houses and others.
2. The second stage involves working towards recovery in order to lessen the impact of disasters and revert to normal conditions. The measures taken under this stage are re-establishing the communication systems, rebuilding the roads, houses, and schools and working towards the supply of electricity, and safe drinking water.

Question 3 What are the pre-disaster measures that should be taken?
Answer:

Pre-disaster measures that should be taken care of—

1. Data collection: Data related to causative factors of disasters should be collected.

For example—
In the case of floods and droughts, rainfall data for the past few years should be taken.

2. Data analysis and mapping: The collected data is then analysed to determine the intensity and extent of the disaster and mapping are done on the basis of analysed data.

3. Research: After mapping, thorough research is undertaken in order to assess past conditions and future predicaments.

4. Forecast: If a proper forecast is done through data analysis using modern technology, the amount of loss or damage caused by any disaster can be minimised.

5. Training: Training can be imparted to all including common people, army personnel etc., by the authorities at the centre, state and district levels so that the loss and damage incurred in a disaster are minimal.

6. Duty distribution: After proper training, duties and responsibilities are determined for all the people. It helps to prevent disaster and also helps to deal with it.

7. Increase public awareness: Steps should be taken to increase public awareness and precautionary measures should be taken.

Question 4 what measures are undertaken after a disaster?
Answer:

Measures that are disasters are-

1. Rescue operations: These are undertaken on an emergency basis by both the local people and army personnel in order to save a maximum number of people and animals.

2. Relief operations: Relief materials are distributed to the people of the affected area by central and state government ‘agencies and the extent of loss and damage is estimated. Preventive measures are taken to control the further deterioration of the situation. Medicines, food and safe drinking water are also provided to the affected people.

3. Temporary shelter arrangements: If the intensity of the disaster gradually increases, necessary steps should be taken to shift the disaster stricken people quickly from the disaster-affected areas to safe and secure places. Besides, security arrangements also have to be made for the prevention of theft, looting, etc. in disaster-affected areas.

Question 5 Briefly discuss the post-disaster measures
Answer:

Some important post-disaster measures are—

1. Rehabilitation: Normal life can be restored by providing aid and making arrangements for the reconstruction of damaged houses, roads, transport and other civic amenities and services including agricultural and industrial establishments. Temporary shelters have to be made on an urgent basis.

2. Reconstruction: A host of measures can be taken, like planning different projects and creating jobs in different sectors, to normalise the economic condition of the affected people.
For example—
In drought-prone areas, watershed projects, irrigation projects etc., can aid in reducing the chances as well as the impact (where a disaster has already taken place) of such disasters.

Although natural calamities like earthquakes, volcanicity, etc., cannot be prevented and are beyond human control. Proper pre-disaster planning by conducting surveys and analysing previously recorded data can reduce the impact of such a calamity. By providing precautionary measures and spreading general awareness in the concerned areas, the disastrous effects can be minimised.

Question 6 Discuss the disaster-prone
Answer:

Disaster-Prone:-

The disaster-prone regions in West Bengal are as follows—

1. The Darjeeling-Himalayan region: This region frequently experiences landslides and floods.

2. The Sunderban region: This region frequently experiences tropical cyclones and floods.

3. The plateau region: The areas under Purulia, Paschim Medinipur, Bankura, Purba and Paschim Bardhaman and
the western part of Birbhum fall under the plateau region. This region frequently experiences the wrath of droughts.

4. The plain region: The plain region consists of the areas that are situated on the bank of the river Ganga or near the Ganga plain in West Bengal. This region experiences heavy monsoons and thus is prone to flood.

Question 7 What measures should be taken to control floods?
Answer:

The measures that should be taken to control flood are—

1. Less human interference in the land: If climatic conditions change naturally, rainfall intensity decreases and as a result, there would be lesser floods. 0 Watershed management and proper drainage system, afforestation, changing the slope by constructing terraces, control of overgrazing, contour-farming etc., can check the occurrence of floods.

2. Barrage construction and dredging:
1. Construct barrages and reservoirs to store excess water from rivers,
2. Construct dykes or dams across rivers at specific locations in order to prevent flooding of low-lying areas, 3. regular dredging of the river bed is needed to lower the level of silt for smooth flow of river water.

3. Proper planning:
1. Implementation of strict laws to bar the construction of houses etc., in flood-prone areas along rivers,
2. Dredging and reclaiming dead and decaying rivers,
3. Increasing public awareness through propaganda and advertisements— by these methods, losses incurred due to floods can be reduced.

Question 8 what measures should be taken during floods to control them?
Answer:

Measures to be taken during floods are—
1. Stay back at home, or at a higher ground when the level of floodwater rises.
2. Keep the following items handy-polythene packets, cord, torch, matchbox, candles, important documents, dry clothes, dry food, radio, mosquito net, pure drinking water etc.
3. Switch off all electrical switches and appliances, close taps and lock gas cylinders.
4. Wait for relief to arrive from government agencies, NGOs etc., and abide by the advice given by them instead of panicking.

Question 9 What measures should be taken to prevent drought?
Answer:

Measures that should be taken to prevent droughts are—

1. Conservation of water: Conservation and appropriate use of water are necessary to prevent drought.

2. Recharge of groundwater: To keep the water supply intact throughout the year, groundwater reservoirs should be recharged properly. Seepage from the ponds and reservoirs can help to recharge the groundwater storage.

3. Dry farming: To stop the excessive use of water in agriculture and to prevent droughts, dry farming should be practised. The use of draught-resistant seeds should be encouraged.

4. Rainwater harvesting: The collection and storage of- rainwater from a roof-like surface and using it properly for irrigation and other domestic purposes is known as rainwater harvesting. It helps to recharge groundwater reservoirs that prevent drought.

5. Stop the wastage of water: Wastage of water in various ways must be checked. It helps to conserve water and also prevent drought.

6. Other measures:

Some other measures that should be taken to prevent drought are—

1. Construction of artificial reservoirs,
2. Increase the efficiency of irrigation, which reduces water wastage,
3. arrange proper distribution of relief to drought-hit victims, etc.

Question 11 What measures should be taken before and during an earthquake?
Answer:

Measures that should be taken before and during an earthquake to control and manage such disaster are as follows—

1. Measures to be taken before an earthquake:

1. Earthquake-resistant houses should be constructed for the people living in an earthquake-prone areas.
2. The basic amenities needed for survival, like drinking water, food, torch, candles, etc., should be stored in adequate amounts.
3. People should also know how to contact the nearest fire station, health-centre etc., in case of exigencies.

2. Measures to be taken during an earthquake:

1. One should leave the house and move to any vacant, open place.

2. One can take shelter beneath any sturdy furniture, like a table, bed, etc.

3. Electricity, gas and water connections should be promptly disconnected when an earthquake strikes.

4. Any kind of inflammable objects like matchboxes, candles, and gas ovens should not be used.

5. One should not try to jump from windows or doors from great heights.

6. People must keep a safe distance from the electrically conductive wire and equipment. It is not advisable to take shelter beneath any multi-storeyed building or tree and should immediately move to any open or vacant place announcements made outside the house.

Question 12 What are the measures that need to be taken to minimise the effects of landslides?
Answer:

Measures that need to be taken to minimise the effects of landslides are—

1. Proper planning should be done after surveying landslide-prone areas.
2. Geological survey is needed and the data should be used while constructing houses, roads, bridges, etc. (in accordance with the local geological structure, rock types, soil, underground water table conditions, etc.)
3. Safe and secured shelters should be constructed near landslide-prone areas beforehand.
4. Felling of trees should be prevented and measures like afforestation should be adopted.
5. The weak and unstable slopes of the mountains should be guarded by putting boulders or concrete in a planned way.
6. Awareness must be created among the local residents regarding the dangerous impacts of landslides.

Question 13 Discuss the measures to be taken for dealing with a cyclonic storm.
Answer:

Measures to be taken for dealing with a cyclonic storm is—

1. Houses should not be constructed on reclaimed land since they have weak foundations. Moreover, storerooms should be made for stocking essential items that would be used during a storm.
2. Important and valuable documents and items should be transferred to a safe place as soon as the announcement of an upcoming storm is made.
3. Foodstuffs like dry food and essential medicines (especially for children and the aged, and for treatment of the injured) should be well-stocked.
4. There should be alternative means of transport and one should be in continuous touch with various governmental and non¬governmental agencies.

Question 14 Discuss the measures to be taken during and after the cyclonic storm.
Answer:

Measures to be taken during a cyclonic storm: Measures to be taken during a cyclonic storm is—

1. A calm mind should be maintained during such a calamity, instead of being panicky and paying attention to rumours.

2. One can take shelter under heavy furniture like a bed or table during a storm.

3. All electrical switches should be turned off.

4. It is not advisable to take shelter near doors and windows or underneath trees.

Measures to be taken after a cyclonic storm: Measures to be taken after a cyclonic storm are—

1. Proper arrangements should be made after assessing the damage caused by such storms.

2. Relief should be arranged properly by contacting local voluntary organisations.

3. First aid should be provided to the injured and doctors should be pooled in for the proper functioning of the healthcare system.

4. Rapid action should be taken by the government to reconstruct shelters and other infrastructural facilities by making a reconnaissance survey of the area and proper estimation.

Question 15 What are the measures to be taken in case of a tsunami forecast?
Answer:

Measures to be taken in case of a tsunami forecast are—

1. Prior warning to the coastal people should be sent by the tsunami warning centre since they receive signals of earthquakes on the seabed (which act as a trigger to cause tsunamis after a. certain gap of time) via satellites.
2. People should be evacuated and removed from the coastal areas to safer and higher grounds.
3. Fishermen should be restricted from going out to the sea for fishing.
4. Tourism activities should be stopped in the coastal areas.
5. The areas on the mouth of rivers, (where they meet the sea) should be avoided by people.

Question 16 Discuss the role of a student in taking measures for disaster management.
Answer:

The students have a major role to play to manage disasters. Usually, there are 3 steps of disaster management—

1. pre-disaster stage,
2. during the disaster stage,
3. post-disaster stage.

1. Pre-disaster stage:

1. Evaluation of risk: The students must have an idea of the area in which they reside and how much it is prone to a disaster. They should be aware of their neighbours and all the members of their family.

2. Spread of awareness: Any place or area can experience a disaster, hence mock drills must be done to make people aware of what measures can be taken to combat it.

For example—

If, any area is prone to flood, how should people reach higher grounds to save themselves, what types of food and medicines they should carry with them, etc., must be rehearsed?

3. Arranging the essential documents: Disasters like floods/cyclones, and earthquakes are sudden events. So, students should keep their essential documents like voter cards, adhaar cards, pan cards, results and certificates, bank documents, etc. close by at the time of quick escape.

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Disaster Management Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is vulnerability?
Answer:

Vulnerability:-

Vulnerability can be defined as the impaired capability of, any individual or group to conceive of, cope with, resist and recover from the impact of a natural, semi-natural or man-induced hazard. Vulnerability develops when an individual or a small group is isolated, insecure and defenceless, before or after they face any hazard, shock or stress. In this context, more preparedness to face a disaster means lesser vulnerability.

Question 2 Name the districts of West Bengal that are prone to flood.
Answer:

The flood-prone districts of West Bengal can be classified into two groups—

1. Districts of North Bengal: Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Malda, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur.

2. Districts of South Bengal: Nadia, Howrah, Murshidabad, North and South 24 Parganas, Hooghly, Bardhaman, Birbhum, Paschim Medinipur and Purba Medinipur.

Question 3 What are the three phases in a disaster management cycle?
Answer:

The three phases in a disaster management cycle are—

1. pre-disaster phase,
2. during the disaster phase,
3. post-disaster phase.

4. What is meant by disaster management?
Answer:

Disaster Management:-

Disaster is any kind of temporary or permanent damage entailing a loss of human life and disruption of normal activities (due to natural or man-made causes) and cannot be dealt with without external aid. Disaster management is the means to control and restore such a disruptive situation (through various measures).

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Multiple Choice Type Questions [Mcq Type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. A drought-prone district in West Bengal is—
1. Howrah
2. Darjeeling
3. Bankura
4. Jalpaiguri

Answer: 3. Bankura

2. The following is one of the measures to control flood—
1. Practice Of Dry Farming
2. Construction Of Deep Wells
3. Initiation Of Water Conservation Projects
4. Controlling The Grazing Of Cattle

Answer: 3. Initiation Of Water Conservation Projects

3. The International Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDR) is observed on—
1. 13 October
2. 10 November
3. 5 September
4. 5 January

Answer: 1. 13 October

4. The following is a landslide-prone district in West Bengal—
1. Midnapore
2. Birbhum
3. Malda
4. Darjeeling

Answer: 4. Darjeeling

5. Cyclone Hudhud occurred in—
1. 2013
2. 2014
3. 2015
4. 2016

Answer: 2. 2014

6. The most affected district in West Bengal by cyclone Aila is—
1. Howrah
2. Hooghly
3. Nadia
4. South 24 Parganas

Answer: 4. South 24 Parganas

7. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was formed in—
1. 2002
2. 2003
3. 2004
4. 2005

Answer: 4. 2005

8. Disaster that frequently occurs in Sundarban, is—
1. Earthquake
2. Cyclone
3. Landslide
4. Forest fire

Answer: 2. Cyclone

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. Purulia is an example of a drought-prone district in West Bengal.

2. Irrigation facility is necessary for drought-prone areas.

3. Students play an important role in disaster management.

4. The influence of cyclones can be felt more in the coastal region of southern West Bengal.

5. The Ring dam is constructed for the prevention of flood

6. Distribution of proper medicine and food to disaster victims is a part of relief management.

7. One should go out of the house during an earthquake.

8. Dry farming is a measure that may prevent drought

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters If The Statement Is ‘True, Write True And False False Write ‘False Against The Following

1. Nadia is the most drought-prone district in West Bengal. false

2. Uttarakhand is an earthquake-prone region in India. True 

3. Western part of West Bengal is a region prone to man-induced floods. True 

4. Awareness of the people is important for the prevention of disaster. True 

5. Cloud burst affected region of West Bengal is Purulia. false

6. East coast of India is a Tsunami affected region. True 

7. During an earthquake, one should leave the house and move to any vacant place.

8. Houses of Darjeeling and Kalimpong are built of wood due to the effect of the cyclone. false

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Match The Left Column With The Right Column

Left Column	Right Column
1. Drought	A.Ministry of home affairs
2. Flood	B. Ministry of Agriculture
3. Chemical accidents	C.Department of health and family welfare
4. Epidemic	D. Ministry of water resources

Answer: 1-B,2-D,3-A,4-C

Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters Answer In One Or Two Words

Question 1 Into how many sub-types can disaster management be mainly classified?
Answer: Two.

Question 2 To control which type of disaster does the Ministry of Water Resources play a significant role?
Answer: Flood.

Question 3 Which ministry is responsible for dealing with the Integrated Drought Management Programme in India?
Answer: Ministry of Agriculture.

Question 4 What are the main reasons for the construction of wooden houses in mountainous regions?
Answer: Landslides and earthquakes.

Question 5 Name a ‘Tsunami warning method’.
Answer: (Deep-ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunamis).

Question 6 Name a recent cyclone in India.
Answer: Aman (2020)

WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography And Environment

• Chapter 1 Earth As A Planet
• Chapter 2 Movements Of The Earth
• Chapter 3 Determination Of Location Of A Place On The Earth’s Surface
• Chapter 4 Geomorphic Processes And Landforms Of The Earth
• Chapter 5 Weathering
• Chapter 6 Hazards And Disasters
• Chapter 7 Resources Of India
• Chapter 8 West Bengal

Chapter 8 West Bengal Salient Points – At A Glance

1. West Bengal is the only state of India that extends from the Bay of Bengal to the Himalayas.
2. At present, there are 28 states and 8 union territories in India.
3. West Bengal ranks fourth in total population and second in population density among the 28 states of India.
4. West Bengal shares common boundaries with three independent countries namely, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, and five Indian states namely, Assam, Sikkim, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha. Though the state of Tripura does not share a common boundary with West Bengal, yet it is regarded as a neighboring state of West Bengal.
5. Presently, there are 23 districts in West Bengal which are grouped into 5 administrative divisions—

1. Jalpaiguri division,
2. Malda division,
3. Bardhaman division,
4. Medinipur division,
5. Presidency division.

Read and Learn Also WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography And Environment

6. The most newly formed districts of West Bengal are Purba Bardhaman and Paschim Bardhaman which were formed on 7 April 2017 after the bifurcation of the former Bardhaman district.
7. West Bengal is mainly divided into three physiographic divisions—
1. Northern hilly region,
2. Western plateau region and
3. Plain region.
8. Northern hilly region of West Bengal is the extended part of the eastern Himalayas. This mountainous region covers the major part of Darjeeling district except for the Siliguri subdivision, Kalimpong district, and the northern part of Alipurduar district.
9. Singalila range extends along the boundary of Darjeeling and Nepal. Sandakphu, one of the peaks of the Singalila range (3665 m) is the highest peak in West Bengal.
10. The plain land at the foothills of the northern hilly region is known as Terai. The slope of the land is from north to south. The land at the east of Terai is known as Dooars or Duars.

11. Geologically western plateau region is a part of the Chotanagpur Plateau.
12. Gorgaburu of Ayodhya hill is the highest peak (677 m) of the western plateau region.
13. Old alluvium region of North Bengal is called Barind or Barendrabhumi. Red soil can be seen in this region.
14. Scattered marshy land of the northern plain is locally known as Tal.
15. The flat land between the western plateau region and the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river is known as the Rarh region.

16. Sagar Island is the largest island and Purbasha or New Moore island (currently submerged) is the newly formed island of the Sundarban region.
17. The main river of West Bengal is Ganga and its tributary Bhagirathi-Hooghly.
18. Teesta is the main river of the northern hilly region which originated from the Jemu glacier of the Himalayas.
19. Teesta is also known as the ‘River of threat’ as it causes floods during monsoons in the northern hilly region.
20. Many rivers flow along the slope of the western plateau. Damodar is the main river among them.

21. Damodar originates from the Khamarpat. Hill of Jharkhand. It is also known as the ‘Sorrow of Bengal’ as it causes massive floods during the rainy season.
22. The combined flow of the Dwarakeswar and Shilabati rivers is known as the Rupnarayan river.
23. In the coastal region of West Bengal, the rivers become wider at their mouths and form funnel-shaped creeks.
24. Most of the rivers in a northern hilly region, are snow-fed and thus, carry water throughout the year.
25. Most of the rivers of the western plateau region are rain-fed.

26. Rivers of the Sundarban region are tide fed.
27. Influence of monsoon winds is maximum on the climate of West Bengal.
28. The four seasons summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter occur sequentially in West Bengal.
29. The southwest monsoon wind blows from June to September and from the end of September to the beginning of October, retreating monsoon wind or northeast monsoon wind blows over West Bengal.
30. In the summer season, a hot and dry wind known as ‘loo’ blows at noon over the. western plateau region, of West Bengal.

31. Hottest and coldest places in West Bengal are Asansol and Sandakphu respectively.
32. Buxaduar of the Alipurduar district is the wettest or the most humid (average annual rainfall 535 cm) place in West Bengal, whereas Mayureswar of the Birbhum district is the driest place.
33. During summers in West Bengal (April- May), sometimes in the evening thunderstorms and heavy rainfall or hailstorm occur, which are called Nor’wester [locally known as ‘Kalbaisakhi’]. On the other hand, in autumn (October-November) a local cyclone called ‘Aswiner Jhar’ causes rainfall in the coastal regions of West Bengal.
34. Most of the region in West Bengal is covered by alluvial soil. It is fertile soil with a high water-holding capacity. Alluvial soil is found on both banks of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river.
35. Sandy saline soil is found in the coastal regions of Purba Medinipur and South 24 Parganas.

36. Red, hard lateritic soil is found in the districts of Purulia, Birbhum, Bankura, and Paschim Medinipur. All these districts fall under the plateau region of West Bengal. Laterite soil is rich in iron and aluminum oxide.
37. Duricrust forms the top hard layer of laterite soil.
38. Brown podsol soil is found in the northern hilly region of West Bengal. This soil is favorable for the cultivation of tea, cinchona’, oranges, pineapple, etc. Coniferous trees also grow in this type of soil.
39. Terai soil, which is found at the foothills of the northern hilly region in West Bengal, is full of pebbles and has high nitrogen content.
40. A characteristic type of landform has developed by soil erosion caused due to rainfall and streamflow near, Shantiniketan in the Birbhum district. This type of topography is called khoai or badland topography.

41. Only 13% of the total land in West Bengal is under forest cover, out of which 60% of the forest is restricted to the northern hilly region.
42. Most of the area in West Bengal is covered by deciduous forests. However, the terai-duars region and the high-altitude areas of the northern hilly region are covered by dense evergreen forest and coniferous forest respectively.
43. The deciduous forest cover of the western plateau region of West Bengal has considerably reduced due to deforestation.
44. Mangrove or tidal forest is found on the southern coast of North and South 24 Parganas. This mangrove forest is known as Sundarbans for the predominance of
Sundari trees.
45. Sundarbans. mangrove forest was enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

46. Two-thirds of the whole population of West Bengal is directly or indirectly dependent on agricultural work.
47. The main agricultural food crop of West Bengal is rice and different types of cash crops grown here are tea, jute, etc.
48. The variety of paddy that is mainly cultivated in West Bengal is Aman.
49. Purba Bardhaman district is called the ‘Rice bowl of West Bengal’.
50. Rice Research Institute of West Bengal is located at Chinsurah in the Hooghly district.

51. Jute is known as golden fiber and tea is known as a golden drink.
52. An institute on jute research is located at Barrackpore in North 24 Parganas.
53. A tea auction center is located in Siliguri.
54. Tea Board India is located in Kolkata.
55. The main source of power for electricity generation in West Bengal is thermal power (heat produced by the burning of coal).

56. The largest thermal power station in West Bengal is Mejia (estimated total capacity is 2340 MW). Another important power station is Farakka (estimated total capacity is 2100 MW).
57. Durgapur and Kulti-Burnpur are the main centers of the iron and steel industry in West Bengal. Durgapur is called ‘Ruhr of India’.
58. The first jute mill in India was set up in 1854 at Rishra. Most of the jute mills in India are found in the Hooghly industrial belt,
59. The first cotton textile factory in West Bengal as well as in India was established in 1818 at Ghusuri in the Hooghly district.
60. Cotton textile industry is also called the footloose industry.

61. Edward Food Research and Analysis Centre Limited has been established at Barasat in North 24 Parganas to assess the quality of products in the food processing industry.
62. Software Technology Park has been established in Salt Lake to promote software technology. The Intelligent Complex has also been formed for the same purpose and it covers an area of over 3 lakh square feet.
63. The state government of West Bengal has launched a campaign named ‘Beautiful Bengal’ to promote tourism in West Bengal in India and also across the world.
64. The second largest city of West Bengal is Asansol. It is the district headquarters of Paschim Bardhaman and is also called ‘the City of Black Diamond’.
65. Recently, the construction of the third largest port of West Bengal has been initiated near Sagar island in South 24 Parganas.
66. Some noteworthy historical places of West.’Bengal is Hazarduari, Plassey, Gour, etc.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Topic A Location And Administrative Division Of West Bengal Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Describe the restructuring of West Bengal after the independence of India.
Answer:

Restructuring of West Bengal after independence:

There was no state known by the name of West Bengal before India’s independence on August 15, 1947. At that time, the undivided Bengal was known as ‘Bangladesh’.

The different stages of evolution of the administrative regions of West Bengal from previous Bangladesh are mentioned below—

1. In 1947 when India was divided, Bengal was divided too. One-third of the land area of Bengal formed West Bengal, while the rest went on to form East Pakistan. The Boundary Commission was formed in 1947 under the leadership of the English lawyer Radcliff Brown. He marked the boundary between West Bengal and Bangladesh.

2. Religion was the major basis of the partition of Bengal. The majority of non-Muslims formed West Bengal and Bangladesh was formed where the Muslim community was the majority. At that point of time in 1947, the total area comprising West Bengal was 78,000 sq. km.

3. The Islampur sector of Bihar was annexed to the district of West Dinajpur of West Bengal in 1947.

4. The French colonies of Chandannagar and Gaurhati were included in West Bengal.

5. The Mahananda Corridor was formed after including the Bengali-speaking region of the eastern Purnea district of Bihar (in accordance with the law of reconstruction of states).

6. A self-governed region of Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Board (‘Parshad’) was formed including the hilly region of the Darjeeling district of West Bengal in 1988.

7. In 1986, the 24 Parganas district of West Bengal was divided into two districts-^ North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas.

8. In 1992, the district of West Dinajpur was divided into Uttar Dinajpur and Dakshin Dinajpur. The corridor named ‘Teen Bigha’ was leased to Bangladesh, which included the district of Cooch Behar, the bordering regions of Makaliganj and Kuchilbari.

9. In 2002, the district of Medinipur was divided into two districts  Paschim Medinipur and Purba Medinipur.

10. The latest change in the administrative boundary of West Bengal was the formation of the Alipurduar district (from the Jalpaiguri district) on 25 June 2014.

11. Kalimpong district was formed from Darjeeling district on 14 February 2017.

12. Jhargram district was formed from Paschim Medinipur district on 4 April 2017 and Purba and Paschim Bardhaman districts were formed on 7 April 2017 by splitting the Bardhaman district.

Question 2 Write about the neighboring countries and states of West Bengal.
Answer:

Neighbouring states of West Bengal:

1. Bihar: Bihar is located to the west of West Bengal. Its area is 94163 sq. km. The capital of Bihar is Patna. Besides Ganga (which is the main river of Bihar), other rivers which flow through this state are Kosi, Gandak, Son, etc.

2. Jharkhand: It is located on the western side of West Bengal covering an area of 79714 sq. km. Its capital is Ranchi. The main river of this state is Mayurakshi. Jharkhand is also called the ‘Mineral State of India’.

3. Assam: It is located to the east of West Bengal and its total area is 78438 sq. km. The capital of Assam is Dispur. The main river here is the Brahmaputra. The famous Majuli island, which is the largest riverine island in the world has formed over this river.

4. Odisha: It is located on the southwestern side of West Bengal with an area of 155707 sq. km. Its capital is Bhubaneshwar. The main river of this state is Mahanadi. Puri is a famous religious as well as tourist center of Odisha.

5. Sikkim: it is located in the northern part of West Bengal covering an area of 7096 sq. km. Its capital is Gangtok. The highest peak of Sikkim is the Kangchenjunga and the longest river is Teesta.

Question 3 Write a note on the administrative divisions of west Bengal.
Answer:

Administrative divisions of west Bengal:

west Bengal is divided into 23 districts. The districts are divided into sub-divisions and blocks. Apart from this, the districts are also divided into five administrative divisions namely Presidency, Burdwan, Jalpaiguri, Medinipur, and Malda.

The districts of West Bengal and their headquarters are (listed in the following table—

 

Administrative Division	Name of the District	Area (sq. km|	Population 1 (2011)	Density (per sq. km)	Headquarters	Founding Year
1. Jalpaiguri division	Jalpaiguri	2844	3872846	622	Jalpaiguri	1947
	Alipurduar	3383	1700000	400	Alipurduar	2014
	Darjeeling	3149	1846823	586	Darjeeling	1947
	Cooch Behar	3387	2819086	832	Cooch Behar	1950
	Kalimpong	1054	251642	239	Kalimpong	7017
2. Malda division	Murshidabad	5324	7103807	1334	Berhampore	1947
	Uttar Dinajpur	3140	3007134	958	Raigan,	1992
	Dakshm Dinajpur Malda	2219	3988845	755	Balurgnat English Bazar	1992
3. Burdwan division	Birbhum	4S45	3502404	771	Source	1947
	Hooghly Purba Bardhaman	3149	5519145	1753	Chinsurah	1947
		5433	4835532	890	Bardhaman	2017
	Paschlm Bardhaman	1603	2882031	1798	Asansol	2017
4. Medinipur division	Bankura	6882	3596674	522	Bankura	1947
	Purba Medinipur	4736	5095875	1076	Tamluk	2002
	Paschim Medinipur	9345	5913457	633	Medinipur	2002
	Puruiia	6259	2930115	468	Puruiia	1956
	Jhargram	3038	1136548	370	Jhargram	2017
5. Presidency division	North    24 Parganas	4094	0.10009781	2444	Bara sat	1986
	South 24 Parganas	9660	8161961	844	Alipore	1986
	Howrah	1467	4850029	3306	Howrah	1947
	Nadia	3927	5167600	1315	Krishnanagar	1947
	Kolkata	185	4496694	24306	Kolkata	1947

 

Question 4 Discuss the importance of West Bengal as a state.
Answer:

Importance of West Bengal as a state: West Bengal has immense importance as a state because of the following reasons

1. Area: West Bengal comprises about 2.7% of the total area of India.

2. International border: West Bengal has an international border with Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. Pertaining to the length of the international border, West Bengal ranks second in India.

3. Population: In terms of population, West Bengal ranks fourth in the country and comprises about 7.5% of the total population of India.

4. Population density: West Bengal has the second highest population density (1029 persons per sq. km) just after Bihar.

5. Agricultural production: Among all the states of India, West Bengal occupies the top position in the production of rice, jute, and fish. In the case of potato and tea production, West Bengal ranks second whereas, for coal mining, it occupies the seventh position.

6. Industry: West Bengal has a significant position in case of iron and steel industry, engineering industry, and tea industry.

7. Commercial position: Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is the second largest city in India (in terms of population). Apart from this, it is also the largest commercial center in eastern India. Kolkata has the largest commercial port and an international airport.

8. Diverse physical features: West Bengal is the only state in India where both the Himalayan mountain range and the Bay of Bengal are found. Apart from these, flood plains, plateaus, rivers & islands are also found here.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Write a note on the location of West Bengal.
Answer:

Location Of West Bengal:-

West Bengal is a state located in the eastern region of India. In terms of area, West Bengal holds the 14th position among the 28 states in India. The latitudinal extent of the state is 21°38’N from the south to 27°10’N to the north whereas the longitudinal extent is 85°50’E from the west to 89°50’E to the east. The Tropic of Cancer passes across the districts of Nadia, Purba Bardhaman, Bankura, and Purulia.

From north to south, West Bengal extends about 650 km, and from west to east, it extends about 325 km. West Bengal is surrounded by land on three sides and by sea on one side. West Bengal shares its boundary with Sikkim and Bhutan in the north. It is bounded by Bangladesh in the east, Assam in the northeast, the Bay of Bengal in the south, Odisha in the southwest, Nepal in the northwest, and Jharkhand and Bihar in the west.

Question 2 What Is the significance of the geographical location of West Bengal?
Answer:

West Bengal is located on the eastern side of India. The Himalayas are located to the north and the Bay of Bengal to the south of West Bengal.

The geographical location of West Bengal is significant in many ways—

1. The cold winds from the northern part are not able to reach West Bengal because of the location of the Himalayas which acts as a barrier in the north. It also protects us from foreign invasion.

2. The Bay of Bengal, located to the south of West Bengal protects the state from foreign invasion and also helps in international trade. The Kolkata and Haldia ports play a vital role in carrying out trade via sea.

3. The seasonal variation and rich biodiversity of West Bengal are a result of its geographical location.

Question 3 What do you mean by the municipality and municipal corporation?
Answer:

Like the other states of India, all autonomous institutions of West Bengal are divided into two categories—

1) Rural and
2)Urban.

Panchayat is a rural autonomous institution. Municipalities have been established in small and medium towns whereas the large cities are under municipal corporations. At present, the number of municipalities and municipal corporations in West Bengal is 130 and 6 respectively.

The six municipal corporations are—

Kolkata,
Howrah,
Asansol,
Durgapur,
Siliguri, and
Chandannagar.

Question 4 Give an idea about the Zilla Parishad KsiW. Jn West Bengal.
Answer:

Idea About The Zilla Parishad KsiW. Jn West Bengal

The panchayat system in West Bengal is a three-tier system in which the topmost tier is Zilla Parishad at the district level (according to the West Bengal Panchayat Act). The state government has formed a Zilla Parishad for each district according to its name except for the Darjeeling district.

A Zilla Parishad is formed by the following members—

1. President of Panchayat Samiti of respective districts,
2. members elected by the voters of each block, and not exceeding three,
3. members of Lok Sabha and legislative assembly from the respective districts, except elected ministers from the district,
4. Rajya Sabha members who are also the voters in their respective districts but not ministers.

Question 5 Briefly write about the Panchayat samiti in West Bengal.
Answer:

Panchayat Samiti In West Bengal:-

According to the West Bengal Panchayat Act, 1973, Panchayat Samiti is the second tier of the Panchayat system. There is a Panchayat Samiti in every block. Each block is developed by the aggregation of some villages. According to Panchayat Act, the overall responsibility of block development is entrusted to the Panchayat Samiti. The state government names the Panchayat Samiti according to the name of the block.

Panchayat Samiti is were formed by the following members—

1. By virtue of their positions, heads of the panchayat within a block become members of the Panchayat Samiti,
2. Not more than 3 members of every gram panchayat area within a block are elected by the electoral committee.

Question 6 Give an idea of Gram Panchayat in West Bengal.
Answer:

Gram Panchayat In West Bengal:-

The lowest level of the three-tier Panchayat System is Gram Panchayat. According to the Panchayat Act, of 1973, a village, constitutes a single mouse or multiple mouzas along with their adjacent areas The state government will form a Gram Panchayat as per the name of the village. Voters of every village elect the members of the Gram Panchayat. The number of elected members in a Gram Panchayat may be a minimum of five and a maximum of twenty-five. The head of a Gram Panchayat is the head of the Panchayat.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What were the earlier administrative divisions of West Bengal?
Answer:

The three earlier administrative divisions of West Bengal were—

1. Presidency division,
2. Bardhaman division,
3. Jalpaiguri division.

Question 2 Write about the subdivision and block administration of West Bengal.
Answer:

Subdivision And Block Administration Of West Bengal:-

West Bengal is divided into 23 districts for conducting administrative activities properly. Each district is divided into a number of sub-divisions. A Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) is in charge of each subs division. Further, each sub-division is divided into a number of blocks. The head of the block administration is called Block Development Officer (BDO). BDO works under the supervision of SDO.

Question 3 What are the administrative divisions of West Bengal?
Answer:

West Bengal is divided into five administrative divisions namely—

1. Jalpaiguri division,
2. Malda division,
3. Burdwan division,
4. Medinipur division and
5. Presidency division.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Multiple Choice Type Questions [Mcq Type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. The number of districts in West Bengal is-
1. 17
2. 18
3. 19
4. 23

Answer: 4. 23

2. The state which shares the longest border with West Bengal is—
1. Bihar
2. Jharkhand
3. Odisha
4. Assam

Answer: 2. Jharkhand

3. The latitude that extends over Krishnanagar of Nadia district is—
1. 0°
2. 23/2° N
3. 231/2° S
4. 30° N

Answer: 2. 23/2° N

4. A state which lies to the north of West Bengal is—
1. Sikkim
2. Tripura
3. Bihar
4. Odisha

Answer: 1. Sikkim

5. The state of West Bengal was formed in—
1. 1951
2. 1947
3. 1949
4. 1956

Answer: 2. 1947

6. The number of bordering states of West Bengal is—
1. 2
2. 3
3. 4
4. 5

Answer: 2. 3

7. Chandannagar was included in West Bengal in the year—
1. 1956
2. 1968
3. 1952
4. 1954

Answer: 4. 1954

8. Cooch Behar became a part of West Bengal in —
1. 1950
1. 1952
3. 1954
1. 1947

Answer: 1. 1950

9. The state which lies to the south-west of West Bengal is—
1. Bihar
2. Arunachal Pradesh
3. Odisha
4. Jharkhand

Answer: 3. Odisha

10. The latitude which forms the northern limit of West Bengal is—
1. 28°02’N
2. 21°30’N
3. 27°10’N
4. 20°30’N

Answer: 3. 27°10’N

11. The latitude which forms the southern limit of West Bengal is—
1. 21°38’N
2. 21°22’N
3. 27°10’N
4. 27°05’N

Answer: 1. 21°38’N

12. The number of districts in the Presidency division of West Bengal is—
1. 7
2. 9
3. 8
4. 5

Answer: 4. 5

13. The east-west stretch of West Bengal is—
1. 650 km
2. 325 km
3. 395 km
4. 610 km

Answer: 2. 325 km

14. The youngest island of West Bengal is—
1. Lothian Island
2. Dalhousie Island
3. Purbasha Island
4. Sagar Island

Answer: 3. Purbasha Island

15. The principal river of Sikkim is—
1. Kali Gandak
2. Manas
3. Teesta
4. Torsa

Answer: 3. Teesta

16. The longest river in Bhutan is—
1. Kaligandak
2. Kosi
3. Manas
4. Dibond

Answer: 3. Manas

Chapter 8 West Bengal fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. West Bengal was founded on 15 August 1947

2. Siliguri is known as the of India.North-east gateway

3. Darjeeling district is the ‘Crown of West Bengal’.

4. Burdwan division of West Bengal has 4 districts.

5. From north to south West Bengal extend for about 650 km.

Chapter 8 West Bengal If the statement is true, write True if false, write false against the following

1. Bangladesh lies to the west of West Bengal. False 

2. The highest peak in the Darjeeling district is Gorgaburu. False 

3. Haryana is a neighboring state of West Bengal. False 

4. The Jalpaiguri division of West Bengal has five districts. True

5. In the northern part, Bihar is one of the most important neighboring states of West Bengal. False 

6. West Bengal has 19 districts at present.  False 

7. The second largest neighboring country of West Bengal is Bangladesh. False 

8. Ayodhya hill is located in Purulia. True 

9. Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is an important tourist place. True

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Match The Left Column With The Right Column

 

Left column	Right column
1. The newest district of west Bengal	A. Tropic of cancer (231/2N)
2. major latitude that passes through west Bengal	B. Jharkhand
3. Neighbouring state of west Bengal	C. Kolkata
4. Capital of West Bengal	D. Paschim bardhaman

 Answer: 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Answer in one or two words

Question 1 What is the total area of West Bengal?
Answer: 88752 sq. km.

Question 2 Which are the newly formed districts of West Bengal?
Answer: Purba Bardhaman and Paschim Bardhaman (7 April 2017).

Question 3 Which district in West Bengal occupies the largest area?
Answer: South 24 Parganas.

Question 4 How many districts do West Bengal have?
Answer: 23 districts.

Question 5 What is the percentage of West Bengal’s area with respect to that of India?
Answer: 2.69%.

Question 6 In which year was Alipurduar formed?
Answer: 2014.

Question 7 What is the capital of Jharkhand?
Answer: Ranchi.

Question 8 What is the capital of Assam?
Answer: Dispur.

Question 9 In which year was Medinipur classified into two administrative divisions?
Answer: January 1, 2002.

Question 10 Krishnanagar lies in which district?
Answer: Nadia.

Question 11 Which district in West Bengal is called the ‘Queen of hill stations’?
Answer: Darjeeling.

Question 12 What is the name of the newest district in West Bengal?
Answer: West Bardhaman (2017).

Question 13 Which administrative division of West Bengal does the Kolkata district belong to?
Answer: Presidency division.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Topic B Physiography Long Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1 Discuss the physiographic divisions of West Bengal. Or, Give an account of the physiography of West Bengal.
Answer:

Physiographic divisions of West Bengal:

The physiography of West Bengal is very diverse. Based on the physiography, West Bengal can be divided into The following groups and subgroups—

Northern hilly region:

Location: The entire districts of Darjeeling (except, the Siliguri subdivision) and Jalpaiguri along with the northern part of the Alipurduar district fall under the Northern hilly region.

Characteristics: The main characteristics of the Northern hilly region are—

1. This region is a part of the Eastern Himalayas.
2. The average height of this region is approximately 2600m-2700 m.
3. The northern hilly region has several canyons and high peaks and so is inaccessible in general. The slope of this region is from north to south.

Physiography: Teesta river flows from north to south over the region and divides this region into two parts.

These are as follows—

1. The western part of Teesta: The western part of the Teesta river has two important Himalayan mountain ranges—

1. Singalila mountain range and
2. Darjeeling-Kurseong mountain range. Three main peaks of the Singalila mountain range are located in the Darjeeling district.

These are—

Sandakphu (3630 m, the highest peak of West Bengal), Phalut (3596 m), and Sabargram (3543 m). In the Darjeeling-Kurseong mountain range, one of the most prominent peaks is Tiger Hill (2573 m). Another notable peak of this range is Senchal (2615 m).

2. The eastern part of Teesta: The average elevation of the mountain range in the eastern part of Teesta river is comparatively less. The highest peak in this region is Rishila (3121 m). Apart from this, other peaks in this region are Renigango (1885 m), Sanchuli (1726 m), etc. The Buxa-Jayanti Hills and Durpin Dara Ridge are also located in the eastern part of the Teesta river.

Western plateau region:

Location: The entire districts of Purulia, Paschim Medinipur, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, and the undulating Western part of the Birbhum district constitute the western plateau region.

Characteristics:

The main characteristics of this region are—

1. The average elevation of the western part of this plateau region is higher (600 m) than that of the eastern part (100 m).
2. The land here is rocky and full of pebbles.
3. The region is mainly composed of granite and gneiss rocks. However, some parts of the plateau region are also made of rocks like sandstone, shale, etc.

Hills:

This area has many low hills, such as Ajodhya Hills, Baghmundi Hills, Panchet Hills of Purulia district; Biharinath Hills, Susunia Hills of Bankura district; Mama-Bhagne Hills of Birbhum district. The highest peak of this plateau region is Gorgaburu (677 m) in the Ajodhya Hills.

Plain Region:

Location: Except for the northern hilly region and the western plateau region, the remaining area of West Bengal falls under the plain region.

Characteristics:

The main characteristics of this region are—

1. The elevation of this region is not very high.
2. This region has formed by the deposition of silt carried by rivers.

Division:

The plain region can be further divided into the following way—

1. Plain of North Bengal: This plain region extends from the foothills of the Darjeeling Himalayas in the north to the left bank of the Ganga river in the south. The slope of this region is from north to south. In the north, the foothills of the Himalayan range are called the Terai, and the remaining region is called Ganga-Brahmaputra Doab. This region is known by different names in different areas.

For example, The low-lying regions of Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and Uttar Dinajpur are known as ‘Tal’, and the eastern parts of the Malda and Dakshin Dinajpur districts, composed of old alluvial soil and laterite soil are called ‘Barendrabhumi’ and the western part of the Malda district composed of new alluvial soil, which is extremely fertile is known as ‘Diara;

2. Rarh plain: The intermediate region between the plateau region in the west and Bhagirathi-Hooghly in the east is called the Rarh plain. The eastern parts of Bankura and Paschim Bardhaman; northern and eastern parts of Birbhum; the entire district of Purba Bardhaman, Purba Medinipur, Howrah, Hooghly, and western part of Murshidabad fall under the Rarh plains. The western part of this plain region is slightly undulating and red soil is found in that region. The slope of this area is from west to east.

3. Deltaic plain: The entire districts of Nadia, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, and the eastern part of Murshidabad district fall under the deltaic plain region. This is a low-lying plain and is a part of the Gangetic deltaic plain. The northern part of this plain is an inactive, delta, the middle part is a mature delta whereas the southern part, i.e., the Sundarbans is an active delta.

4. Sandy coastal plain: The sandy coastal plain is located along the coast of the Bay of Bengal in Purba Medinipur. The slope of this region is from north to south. Many sand dunes are found in this coastal plain.

Question 2 Describe the physiography of the plateau region of West Bengal.
Answer:

The physiography of the plateau region of West Bengal:

The physiography of the plateau region of West Bengal is described below-

1. The entire Purulia district, adjacent districts of Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, and the western part of Birbhum constitute the undulating western plateau region.

2. From the geological point of view, this area is an extended part of the Chotanagpur plateau region. This is one of the most ancient regions of West Bengal and is made up of mainly old igneous and metamorphic rocks.

3. The western part of this plateau region is higher than the eastern part (75 m). The highest peak in this region is Gorgaburu (677 m). The slope of the land here is from west to east.

4. This plateau region is scattered with isolated hills which are made of hard rocks. For example, Ajodhya Hills and Baghmundi Hills are located in the western part of the Purulia district.

5. Gorgaburu of the Ajodhya Hills in Purulia is the highest peak of this whole plateau region. Panchet Hills (490 m) is located in the northern part and Bhandari Hills (433 m) is located in the southern part of the Purulia district.

6. The eastern part of the western plateau gradually slopes down over the districts of Paschim Medinipur, Bankura, Jhargram, Paschim Bardhaman, and the western region of Birbhum. Small hills like Belpahari in Paschim Medinipur and Susunia Hills (440 m) are located in the Western plateau region.

Question 3 Give an account of the physiography of the various plains of West Bengal.
Answer:

The physiography of the various plains of West Bengal:

The whole of West Bengal is plain land except the mountainous region in the north and the plateau region in the west.

This vast plain region can be broadly divided into four categories—

1. Plains of North Bengal,
2. Rarh plains,
3. Deltaic plains and
4. Sandy coastal plains.

Plains of North Bengal: The plain region lying between the river Ganga in the south and the Darjeeling Himalayas in the north is known as the plains of North Bengal.

This region can be further classified into—

1. Terai or Dooars plains:

1. This region comprises the southern part of the Alipurduar district, a major part of the southern region of the Jalpaiguri district, and the Siliguri subdivision of the Darjeeling district.

2. The Himalayas in the north meets the plain here with a gentle slope and creates almost a sloping plain-like landform.

3. Scattered mounds of pebbles and rocks and some wetlands are found in this region.

4. This land slopes from north to south.

5. This region receives heavy rainfall and hence remains wet for the most part of the year.

2. Ganga-Brahmaputra Doab Plain:

The plain land lying between the rivers Ganga and Brahmaputra is further classified into the following categories—

1. Tal: The area between the rivers Kalindi and Mahananda in the Malda district and the low-lying area in the districts of Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and Uttar Dinajpur is collectively known as ‘Tal’. Numerous wetlands and marshes are seen here.

2. Barind or Barendrabhumi: The area encompassing the eastern parts of Dakshin Dinajpur and Malda districts which are undulating and made up of old alluvial soil and laterite soil is known as ‘Barind’ or ‘Barendrabhumi’.

3. Diara: This area which is composed of new alluvial soil and Dies to the south of Kalindi river, flowing along the south¬ western part of Malda district is called ‘Diara’.

Each plan:

1. The vast expanse of plainland lying between Bhagirathi-Hooghly in the east and the plateau region to the west is known as the Rarh plain.
2. Certain regions of the districts of Purba Medinipur, Bankura, Purba Bardhaman, Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum, and Murshidabad fall under the Rarh plain region.
3. The Rarh plains have been formed as a result of the deposition of silt by the rivers Damodar, Ajay, and Mayurakshi.
4. The average elevation of this region is higher in the west (75 m) and lower in the east (10 m) and thus it has a general slope from west to east.
5. The western part of this region is slightly undulating and is composed of old alluvial soil.

Deltaic plain:

The deltaic plain has the Rarh region to its east and the districts to the south of Ganga, i.e., the eastern part of Murshidabad, Kolkata, Nadia, North 24 Parganas, and some parts of Purba and Paschim Medinipur constitute this deltaic plain region. On the basis of structural variations, this plain region is further.

Divided into the following categories—

1. Inactive delta: The northern part of the deltaic plain encompassing the districts of Nadia and Murshidabad is known as the inactive delta. This is because the rivers here do not deposit silt anymore and so the ‘ process of delta formation has almost ceased to exist. In this region oxbow lakes, creeks and wetlands are found.

2. Mature delta: This region stretches from the southern part of the inactive delta to the northern part of the Sundarban region. It comprises Kolkata, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, and some parts of Purba and Paschim Medinipur. The rivers flowing over this region still deposit some amount of silt during floods. Thus, the formation of delta continues to some extent.

3. Active delta: The southern part of South and North 24 Parganas fall under the active delta region. This deltaic region is called active since. the rivers of the Sundarbans are still carrying out depositional work, i.e., siltation, and thereby help in the process of delta-formation.’

Sandy coastal plain:

1. The sandy coastal plain is located along the Bay of Bengal coast in Purba Medinipur.
2. The slope of this region is from north to south.
3. There are many sand dunes in this region which are known as Kanthi-Digha sand dunes.
4. The average height of these sand dunes is 10-15m.
5. There are marshy lands behind these sand dunes. The Digha dune lies near the Bay of Bengal.
6. Digha, a popular sea beach destination is located in the Digha sand dune region.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Why is the Terai region of west Bengal also known as the ‘Dooars’ or ‘Duars’?
Answer:

Terai Region Of West Bengal Also Known As The ‘Dooars’ Or ‘Duars’:-

The word ‘Terai’ means low marshy ground. The sloping foothills in the southern part of the Himalayan range in North Bengal have an abundance of pebbles, wetlands, and dense forests. Thus, this region has a wet and
damp environment and is called the ‘Terai’ region. On the other hand, the Terai region also serves as the gateway to Bhutan, i.e., the door to Bhutan is the Terai. region. For this reason, the Terai region is also called the ‘Dooars’ or ‘Duars’.

There are 23 districts in West Bengal that are grouped into 5 administrative divisions—The word ‘Tal’ means lowland or lake. The intermediate region between Mahananda and Kalindi rivers in Malda, the whole of Cooch Behar, some areas to the south of Jalpaiguri, and some areas to the north of Uttar Dinajpur are low-lying plains, which are termed as ‘Tal’. In these low-lying plains, the rivers such as Mahananda, Kalindi, Jaldhaka, Torsa, etc. flow very slowly, often changing their courses and the riverbeds of these rivers are quite shallow. Thus, these rivers overflow their banks during the heavy showers in the monsoon season. For this reason, the plains of North Bengal are extremely flood-prone.

There are 23 districts in West Bengal which are grouped into 5 administrative divisions—The western plateau region of West Bengal is rich in mineral resources. Fluge amounts of coal, fire clay; moderate quantities of china clay, dolomite, limestone, quartz, apatite, manganese graphite, etc., and a small amount of iron ore are found in this region. This plateau is ancient and is an extension of the Chota Nagpur Plateau. Thus, the western plateau region of West Bengal has an abundance of different types of general resources.

Question 4 ‘The Gangetic delta region has a high density of population/ Explain.
Answer:

The Gangetic delta region is one of the world’s most densely populated regions.

The causes of the such high density of population are discussed below—

1. Plain relief: The plain relief is ideal for agriculture as well as transport and communication.

2. Moderate climate: The moderate climate and adequate rainfall are the causes of the high density of the population in this region.

3. Fertile alluvial soil: The soil of the deltaic region is made up of alluvial soil (silt) which is very fertile and suitable for agriculture.

4. Development of transport: The area is covered by an extensive network of railways, and roadways.

5. Job opportunities: This region is well-developed in both agriculture and industry and so job opportunities are plenty here.

Question 5 Differentiate between the physiography of the northern hilly region and the western plateau region.
Answer:

Physiography Of The Northern Hilly Region And The Western Plateau Region:-

The northern hilly region of West Bengal includes the districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Alipurduar. On the other hand, the entire districts of Purulia, Jhargram, Paschim Medinipur, Paschim Bardhaman, Bankura, and the western part of Birbhum fall under the western plateau region.

The differences between the physiography of the northern hilly region and the western plateau region of West Bengal are as follows—

 

point  of difference	Physiography of northern hilly region	Physiography of the western plateau region
1. Age	This landform is comparatively new.	This landform is comparatively ancient.
2. Origin	The Indian subcontinent plate converges with the Siberian plate due to tectonic movement. The northern hilly region has formed at this convergent boundary.	Ancient highlands have been eroded gradually for a Dong period of time by exogenic forces which have resulted in the formation of this plateau region of low elevation.
3. Characteristic features	High peaks, canyons, and steep slopes are the main characteristic features of this region.	Undulating highlands, erosional plateaus, and isolated hills of low elevation are the characteristic features of this region.
3. Slope	It slopes from north to south.	It slopes from west to east and southeast.

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What are the main physiographic divisions of West Bengal?
Answer:

The main physiographic divisions of West Bengal are—

1. Northern hilly region,
2. western plateau region and
3. plain region.

Question 2 What is Mahananda Corridor?
Answer:

Mahananda Corridor:-

The southern part of Jalpaiguri district, the southern part of Cooch Behar district, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur districts, and Malda district together form the plain region. North Bengal. The narrow river valley of the Mahananda river which flows from north to south connects the plains of Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar in the north with the plains of Malda in the south. This narrow valley is called the Mahananda corridor.

Question 3 What is Tal?
Answer:

Tal:-

In the southern part of Cooch Behar and Jalpaiguri districts and the western part of Malda district there are scattered marshes and lowlands which are flood-prone regions. These are locally called ‘Tals’ as the word ‘Taly means lowland or lake.

Question 4 What is Bhabar?
Answer:

Bhabar:-

The sand, silt, and pebbles brought down by the rivers from the Himalayan mountains get deposited in the foothills, giving it a gentle slope. Such a feature is known as the Terai in North Bengal. The rocky land of the Terai region which is covered by forests is known as Bhabar.

Question 5 What is Barendrabhumi?
Answer:

Barendrabhumi:-

In the eastern part of Malda and South Dinajpur, the gently undulating highland formed of laterite soil and old alluvial soil is known as ‘Barendrabhumi’.

Question 6 What is Diara?
Answer:

Diara:-

The region in the southern part of Malda district, along the banks of the river Ganga which is made up of new alluvial soil and is very fertile, is called Diara.

Question 7 What is Bagri?
Answer:

Bagri:-

The region of the Gangetic delta plain which includes the eastern part of Murshidabad and the entire Nadia and North 24 Parganas districts, where the Bhagirathi river and its distributaries do not deposit any silt, i.e., the formation of the delta has almost stopped is known as Bagri. This region is also an inactive delta region.

Question 8 Where is the Rarh plain located?
Answer:

Location Of Rarh plain:-

The intermediate area between the plateau region in the west and Bhagirathi-Hooghly in the east is called the Rarh plain. This region includes the eastern part of Bankura, the western part of Murshidabad, the eastern part of Paschim Bardhaman, the northern and eastern part of Birbhum, and the entire districts of Purba Bardhaman, Purba Medinipur, Howrah, and Hooghly.

Question 9 Where is the active delta of West Bengal found?
Answer:

Active Delta Of West Bengal:-

The active delta of West Bengal is usually found in the southern and eastern parts of South 24 Parganas (i.e., the Sundarbans) and the southern part of North 24 Parganas. In this region, the process of delta formation is still going on.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Multiple Choice Type Questions [Mcq Type]

Write the correct answer for the given alternatives

1. Sandakphu, the highest peak of West Bengal, is located at an altitude of—
1. 3543 m
2. 3596 m
3. 3665 m
4. 3700 m

Answer: 3. 3665 m

2. One of the important peaks of the Singalila range is—
1. Phalut
2. Tiger Hill
3. Chitrakoot
4. Anaimudi

Answer: 1. Phalut

3. famous hill in the plateau region of West Bengal is—
1. Raj Mahal
2. Dowhill
3. Baghmundi
4. Chitrakoot

Answer: 1. Raj Mahal

4. Mama Bhagne hill is in the—
1. Bankura district
2. Birbhum district
3. Jalpaiguri district
4. Darjeeling district

Answer: 2. Birbhum district

5. The newly formed plain land in the southern part of the Mahananda river in Malda district is called—
1. Diara
2. Barendrabhumi
3. Tal
4. Dooars

Answer: 1. Diara

6. Which of the following is found in the plateau region of Purulia?
1. Ajodhya Hill
2. Susunia Hill
3. Mama Bhagne Hill
4. Mt. Maniratna

Answer: 1. Ajodhya Hill

7. Biharinath hill is in—
1. Bankura district
2. Birbhum district
3. Malda district
4. Hooghly district

Answer: 1. Bankura district

8. Sand dunes are found in—
1. Purulia
2. Bankura
3. Birbhum
4. Purba Medinipur

Answer: 4. Purba Medinipur

9. The highest hill in the western plateau region in West Bengal is— –
1. Susunia
2. Biharinath
3. Ajodhya
4. Baghmundi

Answer: 3. Ajodhya

10. The old alluvial highland region of the northern plain in West Bengal is called—
1. Terai
2. Diara
3. Tal
4. Barendrabhumi

Answer: 4. Barendrabhumi

Chapter 8 West Bengal Fill In The Blanks With Suitable Words

 

1. The Singalila mountain divides Nepal from Darjeeling.

2. The highest peak of Ajodhya hill is Gorgaburu

3. The word’Terai’means marshy land

4. The word ‘Rarh’ means dry rocky Hand in Santhali.

5. The mountain range lies in the Himalayas north of West Bengal.

6. Barendrabhumi is an old plain.

7. The highest peak of the western plateau region in West Bengal is Gorgaburu.

8. Southern part of the Bhagirathi river is known as Hooghly

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal If the statement is true, write True if false, write false against the following

1. A mountain pass known as Buxa is situated in the northern mountainous region of the Alipurduar district. True 

2. Susunia is the highest bill in the plateau region of West Bengal. false 

3. The ancient region of South Dinajpur and Malda districts, composed of alluvial soil is called ‘Barendrabhumi’. True 

4. The northern part of the Ganga delta is called the active delta. false 

5. The plateau region of West Bengal is [trade of granite and gneiss rocks. True 

6.’Terai’ means dry rocky land.  false 

7. Purulia district of West Bengal falls under the plateau region. True 

8. The highest peak of Mama-Bhagne Hills is Gorgaburu. false 

9. Ajodhya Hills is located in the Purulia district. True 

10. Mama-Baghne Hills are located in the Bankura district. false 

11. Purbasha is the largest island of West Bengal. false 

12. Sabargram is the highest peak of the Durpin Dara range. false 

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Match the left column with the right column

 

1.

Left Column	Right Column
1. Singalila	A. Gorgaburu
2. Ajodhya Hills	B.  Rishi
3. Darjeeling Himalayas	C. Sandakhphu
4. Darjeeling Kurseong Range	D. Tiger Hill

Answer: 1-C,2-A,3-B,4-D

2.

Left Column	Right Column
1. Ajodhya Hills	A. Bankura
2. Susumu Hills	B. Jhargram
3. Belpahari	C. Birbhum
4. Mama Bhagne Hills	D. Purulia

Answer: 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Answer in one or two words

Question 1 Which is the highest peak of West Bengali
Answer: Sandakhphu (3665 m).

Question 2 What is the meaning of ‘Dooars’?
Answer: Door.

Question 3 On which side of the Teesta river does the Terai plain lie?
Answer: Western side.

Question 4 In which part of West Bengal is the Himalayas located?
Answer: Northern side.

Question 5 What is the meaning of ‘Tal’?
Answer: Lake.

Question 6 In which district are the Panchet hills Located?
Answer: Purulia.

Question 7 In which district are the Susunia hills located?
Answer: Bankura.

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Topic C River And Water Resources Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Describe the rivers of West Bengal.
Answer:

Rivers of West Bengal:

The rivers are divided on the basis of source, the direction of flow, the amount of water carried, type of delta, etc.

The divisions are as follows—

1. Rivers of North Bengal,
2. Ganga and its tributaries running through the central part,
3. Rivers of the western plateau and Rarh region,
4. Southern Sunderban region and its rivers,
5. Rivers of the sandy areas of the Kanthi region.

1. Rivers of North Bengal: The rivers of North Bengal are snowed. They originate from the Himalayan region and flow from north to south according to the slope. The rivers are Teesta, Jaldhaka, Mahananda, Sankosh, Raidak, Torsa, etc.

1. Teesta: It originates from the Jemu glacier in the Sikkim Himalayas. Teesta is the main river of North Bengal, flows through the districts of Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri, and drains into the Jamuna in Bangladesh.

2. Jaldhaka: It rises from the hilly regions of the Sikkim-Bhutan border and flows through the districts of Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar before draining into the Jamuna in Bangladesh.

3. Mahananda: This river rises in the Darjeeling Himalayas, flows south, and drains into the Ganga. Balaton river is its tributary.

2. Ganga and its tributaries running through the central part: The main river of West Bengal is the Ganga. It emerges from the Gangotri glacier near Gomukh in Uttarakhand and traverses a great distance before entering West Bengal through Dhulian in Murshidabad. Here, the river gets divided into two parts, one is the Hooghly river in West Bengal and the other enters as Padma in Bangladesh. The Hooghly river flows south and drains into the Bay of Bengal. The distributaries of Ganga and Padma are Ichamati, Churni, Jalangi, etc.

3. Rivers of the western plateau and Rarh region: These rivers are rain-fed. The slope of the land is from west to east and southeast and the rivers originating from the Chota Nagpur Plateau flow accordingly.

The rivers of this region are—
Damodar,
Dwarkeswar,
Shilabati,
Kangsabati,
Ajoy,
Miayurakshi,
Dwarka, etc.

1. Damodar: The river rises from the Khamarpat Hills in the Palamau district of Jharkhand and drains in the Bhagirathi-Hooghly. One of its distributaries, Mundeswari drains into the Rupnarayan river.

2. Rupnarayan: It is the combined flow of rivers Dwarakeswarand Shilabati, both rise from the western plateau region and flow southwest. Rupnarayan drains into the Hooghly river.

3. Other rivers: Other important rivers of this region include the Kangsabati, Ajay, Mayurakshi, Dwarka, etc

4. Rivers of Sundarbans: Numerous rivers of this region are tide-fed and flow towards the west. Saptamukhi, Matla, Raimangal, Bidyadhari, etc., are the rivers of Sundarbans.

5. Rivers of Kanthi region: The rivers of this region are tide-fed. Rasulpur and Champa are the rivers of the sandy area of Kanthi.

Question 2 Describe in brief the rivers of North Bengal.
Answer:

Rivers of North Bengal:

Most rivers of North Bengal are fed by rainwater and glaciers. These rivers originate from different regions of the Himalayan range and according to the slope of the land, flow from north to south.

A brief description of the rivers of North Bengal is given below—

1. Teesta: It is the most important river in North Bengal. Teesta originates from the Jemu glacier, flows through the districts of Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri and finally drains into the Jamuna river of Bangladesh.

2. Jaldhaka: This river originates from the mountainous terrains of the Sikkim-Bhutan border, flows through the districts of Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar and finally meets the Jamuna river in Bangladesh.

3. Mahananda: This river originates near the Mahaldiram Hills of the Himalayan range and flows southwards. It finally flows into the Ganga and its main tributary is the Balasun river.

4. Others: Some of the other notable rivers of North Bengal are Sankosh, Raidak, and Torsa.

Question 3 Describe the rivers of the plateau iSM region of West Bengal.
Answer:

Rivers of the plateau region of West Bengal

The characteristic features of the rivers in the plateau region of West Bengal are-

1. The rivers of the western plateau Most of the region are the tributaries of the Bhagirathi- Hooghly.
2. The rivers originated from the Chota Nagpur Plateau region.
3. Most of the rivers flow towards the east and southeast according to the slope of the land.
4. These are rain-fed rivers and thus their water content reduces in seasons other than monsoons.

The major rivers of this region are—

1. Damodar: It originates from the Khamarpat Hills of Palamau district in Jharkhand and joins river Hooghly downstream. One of its distributaries, Mundeswari, drains into the Rupnarayan. Damodar was a flood-prone river before the conceptualization of the Damodar Valley Project, and was thus known as the ‘Sorrow of Bengal’.

2. Kasai or Kangsabati: It originates from the Ajodhya Hills of the Purulia district and flows to the southeast to meet the river Keleghai. The combined flow of these two rivers is river Haldi, which meets river Hooghly. Kumari river is a tributary of this river.

3. Dwarakeswer and Shilai, or Shilabati: The combined flow of these two rivers near Ghatal in Paschim Medinipur is known as Rupnarayan. (It then meets river Hooghly near Geonkhali in Purba Medinipur.

4. Mayurakshi: It originates from the Chota Nagpur Plateau and flows through the state of Jharkhand. Later it enters the Birbhum district of West Bengal and joins river Bhagirathi at the end. The right bank tributaries of river Mayurakshi include Bakreswar and Kopai, and the left bank tributaries are Brahmani and Dwarka.

5. Ajoy: It originates from the Chota Nagpur Plateau and flows through the southern boundary of Birbhum district and then meets river Bhagirathi near Katwa in Purba Bardhaman district.

6. Others: Another important river of this region is Subarnarekha. It originates from the Chota Nagpur Plateau in Jharkhand and flows through the southern part of the Jhargram district of West Bengal and Odisha and then drains into the Bay of Bengal.

Question 4 Give a brief description of the rivers flowing through the Rarh Plain and the Ganga Delta region. Write the characteristics of the rivers of the Sundarban region.
Answer:

Rivers of the Rarh Plain: Most rivers of the Rarh Plain originate from the Chota Nagpur Plateau and flows across the western plateau region. These rivers either flow from west to east or from west to southeast.

Some important rivers of the Rarh Plain are briefly described below—

1. Damodar: This river originates from the Khamarpat Hills of the Palamu district in Jharkhand. It flows through the western plateau and the Rarh Plain and drains into the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river. Mundeswari, a distributary of Damodar flows into the Rupnarayan river.

2. Rupnarayan: The rivers Dwarekeswar and Shilai (or Shilabati) meet near Ghatal to form the Rupnarayan river. This river finally drains into the Hooghly river near Geonkhali.

3. Others: Some other notable rivers of this region are—

Kangsabati,
Ajoy,
Bakreswar,
Mayurakshi, and
Dwarka.

Rivers of the Ganga Delta region:

The Bhagirathi-Hooghly river is the most important river in this region. It flows through the western margin of the deltaic region in a north-south direction. Some rivers of this region which flow to the east of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly are Bhairab, Jalangi, Mathabhanga, Ichamati, and Churni. These rivers flow from north to south as per the slope of the land. The rivers, Bhairab, Jalangi, and Mathabhanga are the distributaries of the river Padma. Among these, Mathabhanga and J’alangi have drained into the Bhagirathi river. The southern part of the Mathabhanga river is called Churni. Ichamati is the distributary of Mathabhanga which finally drains into the Bay of Bengal. The slope of the Ganga Delta region is low and so the rivers here take a meandering course and form many estuaries, creeks, and water bodies.

Some other rivers of the Sundarban region which are fed by tidal water are—

Raimangal,
Malta,
Gosaba, and
Bidyadhari, etc.

Characteristics of the rivers of the Sundarban region: Most rivers of the Sundarban region are fed by tidal water, such as-

Saptamukhi,
Malta,
Raimangal,
Bidyadhari, etc.

The characteristics of these rivers are—

1. The rivers are perennial as they are tide-fed.
2. The rivers have saline water.
3. The length of these rivers is short i.e., they have a short course.
4. These rivers have formed estuaries.
5. The mouth of these rivers are quite wide.
6. These rivers finally drain into the Bay of Bengal.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Why West Bengal is known as a riverine or riparian state?
Answer:

West Bengal Is Known As A Riverine Or Riparian State:-

West Bengal is a riverine or riparian state with many rivers, tributaries, distributaries, etc. They all have formed a drainage network. The sources of these rivers are the Himalayan Range and the western plateau or Chota Nagpur Plateau. These rivers drain into the Bay of Bengal. In addition to this, there are several tide-fed rivers in the Sunderban region. On one hand, all these rivers flowing across the state have made the plains of the state fertile one by their silt deposition, on the other hand, the water from these rivers is used for household, agricultural, industrial, and various other purposes. Hence, it will not be wrong to call West Bengal a gift of the Ganga, Bhagirathi, and their tributaries and distributaries. Thus, it is called a riverine or a riparian state.

Question 2 What are the characteristics of a river of North Bengal?
Answer:

Characteristics Of A River Of North Bengal:-

Teesta,
Torsa,
Dhaka,
Mahananda,
Sankosh,
Raidak, etc are notable rivers of North Bengal.

Characteristics of these rivers are as follows—

1. Snowfed rivers: Most of the rivers are snow-fed but some rivers have originated from springs.
2. Follow the slope of land: Rivers flow towards the south and southeast according to the slope of the land.
3. Entry into Bangladesh: Most of the rivers of this region ultimately enter Bangladesh and join the river Jamuna (Brahmaputra). Though some of the rivers also meet the river
Padma.
4. Perenniality: Being snowed, the rivers carry water throughout the year and are thus perennial rivers.
5. Presence of strong currents: The rivers flow rapidly in mountainous regions and have strong currents. So they form narrow V-shaped alleys known as gorges in their course and these strong water currents are tapped for hydroelectric power generation.
6. Proneness to flood: The rivers are prone to flooding as they enter the plains from the mountainous regions.

Question 3 State the characteristics of rivers of the plateau area of West Bengal.
Answer:

The characteristics of the river of the plateau area of West Bengal are:

1. The rivers are the tributaries of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river.
2. The rivers originate from the Chota Nagpur Plateau region.
3. The rivers are rainfed and so they remain dry except during the rainy season.
4. The rivers flow from west to east or southeast.

Question 4 Give an account of the rivers of the Rarh Plain and the Gangetic Delta.
Answer:

Rivers of the Rarh Plain: Most of the rivers in this region have their sources in the Chota Nagpur Plateau and they either flow to the east or southeast from the west, following the slope of the land. For example, the Damodar river originates from the Khamarpat Hills of the Palamau district of Jharkhand and meets the Bhagirathi-Hooghly to its east. A branch of river Damodar, known as Mundeswari meets the Rupnarayan river. The combined flow of the Dwarakeswar and Shilabati rivers, after flowing towards the southeast, is known as Rupnarayan which meets the Hooghly river. Other notable rivers of this region include Kangsabati, Ajoy, Bakreswar, Mayurakshi, Dwaraka, etc.

Rivers of Gangetic Delta: The major river of this delta region is the Bhagirathi-Hooghly and its important tributaries are Ichamati, Churni, Jalangi, etc. These rivers flow from north to south over the deltaic plains. Besides, many rivers of the Sunderbans are fed by tidal waters, such as Raimangal, Malta, Gosaba, Bidyadhari, etc.

Question 5 Why are most of the rivers of the plateau region in West Bengal east flowing?
Answer:

Notable rivers of the western plateau of West Bengal are Ajoy, Mayurakshi, Damodar, Rupnarayan, Brahmani, Kopai, Dwarakeswar, Shilabati, etc. Most of the rivers have originated from the Chota Nagpur Plateau in the west and then they flow from west to east in the western plateau region according to the slope of the land.

Most of the rivers meet the river Bhagirathi- Hooghly at different places. The general slope of the western plateau is from west to east. Hence, most of the rivers flow in this direction. These rivers are mainly rainfed in nature. Thus, in the rainy season, most of the rivers cause floods in the adjacent areas due to excessive rainfall.

Question 6 ‘The rivers of the western plateau region of West Bengal dry up during the dry season.’Why?
Answer:

The famous rivers of the western plateau region are the Damodar, Ajoy, Mayurakshi, Kangsabati, etc. The rivers dry up in the dry season because—

1. Rainfed river: Most of the rovers of the plateau area are fed rainwater, so it has water only during the rainy season.

2. High temperature: The temperature of the summer season is about 40°C and hence the rate of evaporation is also very high during this time which leads to the drying up of water bodies.

3. Impact of dams: Various dams and reservoirs have been built in this area, which store the water and also regulates the water flow in rivers. Thus, in the lower courses of the river, the amount of water gets reduced as a result of this.

Question 7 Why was river Damodar called the ‘Sorrow of Bengal’?
Answer:

Damodar Called The ‘Sorrow Of Bengal’:-

Damodar is the main river of the western plateau and the Rarh region. The Damodar river rises in the Khamarpat Hills of the Palamau district of Jharkhand. It flows for a distance of 541km through the states of Jharkhand and West Bengal. The river has several tributaries, such as Barakar, Konar, etc in its upper course, i.e., in the Chota Nagpur Plateau region. Excessive rainfall in the upper course of the river during monsoon raises the water level in its lower course in West Bengal and floods the adjacent areas.

This used to be a yearly phenomenon in the lower course of the river affecting the districts of Bardhaman, Bankura, Howrah, Hooghly, etc. A huge loss of life and property was the outcome of these floods, especially for the people residing along the banks of the river. This is why river Damodar was called the ‘Sorrow of Bengal’. However, the Damodar Valley Multipurpose Project has hugely helped to regulate the floods.

Question 8 Why Kangsabati is called the ‘Sorrow of Medinipur’?
Answer:

Kangsabati Is Called The ‘Sorrow Of Medinipur’:-

River Kangsabati has its source in the Ajodhya Hills of Purulia and flows through the Bankura, Paschim Medinipur, and Purba Medinipur districts. It meets river Haldi and drains into the Bay of Bengal. Due to a steep gradient in the upper course, the river water does not remain stagnated and flows according to the slope. But the gradient is very low in the lower course i.e., in the Purba Medinipur district, and thus flooding occurs as a result of heavy rainfall in the upper course. Since these floods result in massive destruction of life and property here, Kangsabati is called the ‘Sorrow of Medinipur’.

Question 9 why are ‘khanris’ creeks found in the Sunderban region of West Bengal?
Answer:

The mouth of wide rivers is usually known as ‘khanris’ or creeks. The numerous small channel-like waterbodies in the interior of the Sunderbans are known as ‘khanris’. The sea water enters through these channels into the interiors of Sunderbans as an action of regular tides. The same water again recedes during ebb. This regular advancement and recession of water have led to the formation of permanent channel—like waterbodies of short length called ‘khanris’. The ones that have a longer length are called rivers. E. g., Saptamukhi, Jhilli, etc. The regular tidal action through the mouths of these khanris has led to the widening of the mouths and the gradual narrowing down of these channels towards the interior of the land.

Question 10 Discuss the utilization of waterbodies, rivers, canals, wells, etc.
Answer:

Waterbodies are very important to mankind. The various utilization of waterbodies rivers, canals, wells, etc. are as follows-

1. Agricultural purpose: The state of West Bengal is agriculture oriented. Irrigational practices depend mainly on rivers, canals, etc.

2. Transportation purpose: The river Bhagirathi-Hooghly is an important component of West Bengal’s transportation system.

3. Drinking water and other household purpose: The purified water is utilized for drinking purposes. Other household chores such as cleaning, washing, and cooking also involve the use of water.

4. Industrial purpose: Water from rivers, canals, etc., contribute mostly to the development of the industrial sector and the process of manufacturing in factories. For example, many industries have developed on the banks of the river Hooghly.

5. Plantation: Water is used in social afforestation and agricultural afforestation. Huge amounts of water are used for planting trees in the western plateau region.

6. Generation of electricity: The production of hydroelectric power is done from river dams.
For example, from the waters of Mython, Panchet, and Tilaiya dams on the river Damodar, hydroelectricity is produced.

 

Question 11 Delineate the multivarious uses of groundwater in West Bengal.
Answer:
The multivarious uses of groundwater in West Bengal are as follows—

1. Agriculture: Groundwater is used in areas where there are no rivers or other water bodies for irrigation.
2. Drinking water: Groundwater is mainly used for drinking purposes.

3. Domestic purpose: Domestic or household works like cooking, washing clothes, cleaning rooms, etc., are done using groundwater.

Question 12 Discuss the disadvantages of excessive utilization of surface water in West Bengal.
Answer:

The disadvantages of excessive utilization of surface water in West Bengal are as follows—

1. Dwindling the number of waterbodies and water scarcity: Excessive use of surface water for several household chores leads to a decrease in the amount of water in the waterbodies and drying up of the existing ones in the dry seasons.

2. Water resources being affected: Excessive use of surface water affects aquatic resources and also disturbs the aquatic ecosystem.

3. Livelihoods affected: People dependent on fisheries and related livelihoods are often affected if the waterbodies dry up or if the aquatic resources are hampered due to excessive use of surface water.

4. Rise in water pollution: Excessive people being dependent on dwindling waterbodies results in aggravated water pollution.

5. Depletion in the groundwater reserve: Excessive use of surface water hampers the recharge of groundwater through seepage. Thus, the level of groundwater decreases and gets polluted as well.

Question 13 What are the disadvantages of excessive use of groundwater?
Answer:

The disadvantages of excessive use of groundwater are as follows—

1. Arsenic contamination: The excessive use of groundwater results in the deposition of fluoride in groundwater and it causes diseases like black foot and cancer. In West Bengal, Nadia, Murshidabad, Uttar, Dakshin Dinajpur, Bardhaman, and Howrah, Hooghly districts are affected by arsenic pollution.

2. Increase of salinity: There is a presence of different types of salt from the rock layers mixed with groundwater. The excessive use of groundwater increases the salinity of the soil. The districts of Nadia and Bardhaman face this problem and there is a scarcity of drinking water over here as a result.

3. Subsidence of land: Excessive withdrawal of underground water leads to the subsidence of land. Kolkata and its adjacent areas are vulnerable to land subsidence in the future due to the excessive withdrawal of groundwater.

4. Depletion in the groundwater level: Unregulated withdrawal 0f groundwater has led to a fall in the groundwater level in most regions of West Bengal.

Question 14 Why is the groundwater level of the western plateau region not high?
Answer:

The groundwater level of Purulia, Bankura ‘ Paschim Medinipur, Birbhum, Jhargraim Paschim Bardhaman i.e.,

The western plateau region is not high because—

1. The rainfall is very low in the plateau area, so the level of groundwater remains low.

2. The slope of the area is from west to east, so it does not allow the water to stand and infiltrate below.

3. The land is made of hard rocks which prevent water infiltration into the lower layers.

Question 15 Why man is responsible for the reduction of the amount of groundwater?
Answer:

The storage of water in permeable rock beds is called groundwater. This groundwater level is decreasing day by day as a result of its withdrawal and exploitation by man for various purposes.

Some of them are—

1. Increased demand for drinking water: Since the population is increasing at a fast pace, the groundwater level is gradually lowering as a result of its uncontrolled withdrawal from wells, tube wells, etc.

2. Urbanisation: Increasing urbanization has led to increased concretization (of roads, pavements, buildings, etc.) and a decrease in open spaces. Hence the rainwater is not able to infiltrate or seep through the rock layers. As a result of this, the groundwater level is depleting day by day.

3. Agriculture: Since cultivation is done throughout the year, even during the dry season (with the help of irrigation—mostly relying on groundwater), the groundwater resources get depleted.

Question 16 Write the differences between rivers of hilly regions and rivers of plateau regions.
Answer:

The differences between rivers of hilly regions and rivers of plateau regions are as follows—

 

Question 17 What are the differences between the rivers of North Bengal and the rivers of South Bengal?
Answer: The differences between the rivers of North Bengal and the rivers of South Bengal are as follows—

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 what is groundwater?
Answer:

Groundwater:-

Groundwater refers to water present underground. When rainwater seeps through the soil layers and gets accumulated under the ground in the permeable rock layers, it is called groundwater.

Question 2 What are the sources of irrigation in West Bengal?
Answer:

Sources Of Irrigation In West Bengal:-

Irrigation in West Bengal is carried out through wells, tube wells, and canals.

Question 3 Why does the river water of Teesta often pose a threat?
Answer:

River Water Of Teesta Often Pose A Threat:-

Teesta is the main river of North Bengal. It is extremely swift-flowing in this mountainous area, but when it enters the plains, the river velocity decreases. This river gets flooded when it is in a spate during the monsoons. The river overflows its banks and floods its adjacent plain lands to a great extent thereby causing much loss to the life and property of the people. This is the reason why the Teesta often poses a threat.

Question 4 Why is the river Bhagirathi-Hooghly called the ‘Lifeline of West Bengal’?
Answer:

River Bhagirathi-Hooghly Called The ‘Lifeline Of West Bengal’:-

The Bhagirathi-Hooghly river is the most significant river in West Bengal. Many tributaries join this river on both banks. This has resulted in the formation of a great plain and delta in the southern part of West Bengal. The plain formed is ideal. cultivation of crops. River Hooghly has an important role to play in supplying water to the industries located on either bank, supplying drinking and domestic water to the towns and cities, supplying water for irrigation to the agricultural fields, and even acting as waterways (river transport). This is the reason why it is called the ‘Lifeline of West Bengal’.

Question 5 Mention two harmful effects of over-exploitation of groundwater.
Answer: Over-exploitation of groundwater has many harmful effects.

Two of its effects are as follows—
1. continuous lowering of groundwater level (both pre-monsoon and post-monsoon),
2. arsenic contamination in groundwater.

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Multiple Choice Type Questions [Mcq Type]

Write The Correct Answer From The Given Alternatives

1. An important river that flows through the Rarh region is—
1. Malta
2. Teesta
3. Damodar
4. Churni

Answer: 3. Damodar

2. A snow-fed river of West Bengal is
1. Ganges
2. Saptamukhi
3. Ajay
4. Kangsabati

Answer: 1. Ganges

3. The source of river Barakar is—
1. Ganga
2. Mahanadi
3. Damodar
4. Teesta

Answer: 3. Damodar

4. The most important river of North Bengal is—
1. Teesta
2. Torsa
3. Balasan
4. Jaldhaka

Answer: 1. Teesta

5. A tributary of the Jaldhaka river is—
1. Rili
2. Sevak
3. Diana
4. Balasan

Answer: 3. Diana

6. An example of a tidal river is—
1. Torsa
2. Ajoy
3. Gosaba
4. Teesta

Answer: 3. Gosaba

7. An example of a perennial river is—
1. Rupnarayan
2. Ichhamati
3. Teesta
4. Subarnarekha

Answer: 3. Teesta

8. This river flows through the West Bengal- Assam boundary—
1. Raidak
2. Sankosh
3. Kalyani
4. Teesta

Answer: 2. Sankosh

9. A river of the Sundarban region is—
1. Teesta
2. Malta
3. Damodar
4. Ajoy

Answer: 2. Malta

10. Left bank tributary of the Bhagirathi river is—
1. Ajoy
2. Mayurakshi
3. Jalangi
4. Damodar

Answer: 3. Jalangi

11. Which river has divided the Darjeeling mountainous region into two types?
1. Torsa
2. Teesta
3. Mahananda
4. Jaldhaka

Answer: 2. Teesta

12. Longest irrigation canal in West Bengal is—
1. Damodar Canal
2. Hijli Canal
3. Medinipur Canal
4. Eden Canal

Answer: 3. Medinipur Canal

Chapter 8 West Bengal Fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. Rasulpur river flows through the KanthiDigha coastal area.

2. A distributary of the Ganga river which enters Bangladesh is Padma

3. Hot springs are found in Bakreshwar in birbhum district of West Bengal.

4. Rivers of North Bengal are snow-fed

5. The northern rivers, being swift flowing, Hydroelectric power generation.

6. Damodar river is called the ‘sorrow of West Bengal’.

7. Teesta river causes destructive

8. Damodar river drains into the Hooghly

9. The rivers of the plateau region are rainfed

10. A right bank tributary of the Teesta river is ranged

13. The Teesta river originates from the jump glacier of Sikkim.

14. A hot spring is located in the Bakreshwar district.

15. Among the rivers of the western plateau region SubarnarekhaS river joins the Bay of Bengal.

16. Damodar river originates from the Khamarpat hills of the Chota Nagpur Plateau.

17. Mayurakshi river originates from the strikeout hills of the Chotanagpur plateau.

Chapter 8 West Bengal If The Statement Is True Write’true And If False Write False Against The Following

1. Teesta is a rainfed river of West Bengal. False 

2. The origin of the Damodar river is the Jemu glacier in the Eastern Himalayas. False 

3. The rivers of the Sundarbans are swift-flowing. False 

4. The local name of Kangsabati is ‘Kansai’. True 

5. Rivulets known as ‘khanris’ are noticed along with the rivers of the Sundarban region. True 

6. Hooghly is a tributary of Kangsabati. False 

7. West Bengal is called the ‘Land of Rivers’. False 

8. Brahmani river is called the ‘Sorrow of Medinipur’. True 

9. Water that is released from the Damodar Canal causes floods in the Rarh region. False

10. Haldi river flows through the Paschim Medinipur district. True 

11. An irrigation canal of West Bengal is Kangsabati Dam. True 

12. The origin of the Jaldhaka river is Big Lake. True

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Match the left column with the right column

1.

Left column	Right column
1. River of the north	A. Malta
2. River of the plateau region	B.Teesta
3. River of the plain	C. Ajoy
4. River of sundarbans	D. Ichamati

Answer: 1-B,2-C,3-D,4-A

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Answer In One Or Two Words

Question 1 Name two snow-fed rivers of West Bengal.
Answer: Teesta, Mahananda.

Question 2 Which is the longest river in North Bengal?
Answer: Mahananda.

Question 3 What is the combined flow of the Dwarkeshwar and Shilai rivers called?
Answer: Rupnarayan.

Question 4 What is the combined flow of the Kangsabati and Keleghai called?
Answer: Haldi.

Question 5 The Sevoke bridge spans across which river?
Answer: River Teesta.

Question 6 Name a river that flows over the western plateau area.
Answer: Damodar.

Question 7 Name a tributary of the Teesta river.
Answer: Rangpo.

Question 8 Name two rivers of the Sundarbans.
Answer: Malta and Bidyadhari.

Question 9 Name two tributaries of the Damodar river.
Answer: Konar and Barakar.

Question 10 Name two tributaries of the Bhagirathi.
Answer: Mayurakshi and Ajoy.

Question 11 Name a distributary of Damodar.
Answer: Mundeswari.

Question 12 Which river bisects the mountainous area of north Bengal?
Answer: Teesta.

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Topic D Climate Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Write a note on the characteristics of the climate of West Bengal. In which region of West Bengal are winter clothes required even in summer?
Answer:

Characteristics of the climate of West Bengal: The main characteristics of the climate of West Bengal are—

1. Change of seasons: The main characteristic of the climate of West Bengal is the season change. Summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter are the four main seasons of West Bengal, that change in a cyclical way. Apart from that, before the arrival of winter, the dewy season is observed is known as late autumn, while spring marks the beginning of summer

2. Extensive impact of tropical monsoon wind: In summer the hot southwestern monsoon winds and in winter the dry north-eastern monsoon winds blow over the state. These two winds bring hot-humid summers and cold-dry winters in West Bengal, respectively.

3. Opposite direction of winds: In West Bengal, the direction of the wind in summer is opposite to the direction of the wind in winter.

4. Wet summer and dry winter: Generally rainfall occurs in summer, so the summer is basically wet and humid. On the other hand, winter is dry in West Bengal. But a little amount of rainfall occurs due to western disturbances.

5. Northern region is rainfall prone: As a result of the southwest monsoon winds, stations in West Bengal receive heavy rainfall in its Northern Himalayan region. The hilly regions of West Bengal receive an average rainfall of 400 cm annually

6. Entire West Bengal except the mountainous region has a moderate type of climate: As the northern part of West Bengal is a mountainous area, summers are pleasant here but winters are bitterly cold. In the rest of West Bengal, the annual range of temperature is not very high. A pleasant climate prevails in the plains and coastal regions. The western plateau area (especially Purulia) experiences high summer temperatures. In the Darjeeling district of the northern mountainous region, summer temperature (16°C) being low, winter clothes are required in the summer as well. The temperature rapidly decreases here at night. Darjeeling in the northern region of West Bengal requires winter clothes even in summer.

Question 2 Give an account of the climatic characteristics of different seasons in West Bengal.
Answer:

The climate of West Bengal in different seasons: Indian Meteorological Department has classified the climate of West Bengal into four types. They are summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. The late autumn season just before the onset of winter and the spring season just before the onset of summer is also noticeable.

1. Summer:

1. Duration: This season lasts from March to May. As the Sun moves towards the Tropic of Cancer from the Equator, the temperature in West Bengal gradually increases.

2. Characteristics:

1. About 30°C is the standard normal temperature of West Bengal during summer. But in the western plateau region, the temperature reaches up to 45°C. Purulia district Xperience the maximum temperature and a dry hot wind called ‘loo’ is rampant during this season here,
2. Since the mountainous areas have high altitudes, temperatures are low here and the coastal regions experience moderate or maritime climates. The temperature in the mountainous area of Darjeeling is 12°C-18°C.
3. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning called ‘Kalbaishakhi’ are a common feature that usually occurs during afternoons in the summer season. Rainfall is often accompanied by hailstorms.

 

2. Monsoon:

1. Duration: This season lasts from June to September. The rainy season usually convenes in early June. It establishes itself in West Bengal with heavy rainfall, starting from the second week of June with the entry of moisture-laden southwest monsoon wind.

1. Characteristics:

1. Under the influence of the moisture-laden monsoon winds, the highest amount of rainfall is experienced in the mountainous region of the north (an average of about 400 cm),

2. The rainfall amount gradually decreases towards the south. In the plains of North Bengal it is 200-250cm and in the delta region it is 150-200cm. But the coastal regions receive a comparatively higher amount of rainfall,

3. The average rainfall amount in the rainy season is 175 cm in West Bengal,

4. The Highest amount of rainfall is recorded in the Buxaduar region (535cm) and the least amount in the PuruSia district (75 cm). Compared to the summer season, the temperature is quite low during this time.

3. Autumn:

1. Duration: This season lasts from October to November. Autumn arrives when the Sun moves from the Equator to the Tropic of Capricorn, i.e., at the end of September and the beginning of October.

1. Characteristics:

1. The south-west monsoon winds retreat from West Bengal which results in decreasing amount of rainfall,
2. The average temperature in this season is about 30°C.
3. During the retreating monsoon season, thunderstorms having their origin in the Bay of Bengal are common. These thunderstorms are known as ‘Ashwiner Jhar’.

4. Winter:

1. Duration: Winter in West Bengal lasts from December to February. The sun is directly overhead the Tropic of Capricorn during this time.

Characteristics:

1. Cold and dry north-east monsoon winds begin to blow during this period,
2. The temperature of West Bengal is much lower during this time (it is 4°C-7°C in the mountainous region, 16°C and 10°C in the southern and western parts of the state respectively),
3. Generally winter is dry in West Bengal and the weather is stable,
4. Occasionally a little rainfall occurs under the influence of low depressions in northwest India. These are known as ‘western disturbances’.

Question 3 Explain the influence of monsoon winds on the climate of West Bengal.
Answer:

Influence of monsoon Winds on the climate of West Bengal:

Two different types of winds blow over West Bengal—

1. Humid south-west monsoon wind that blows during summer, and
2. Dry northeast monsoon wind that blows during winter. These two winds are mainly responsible for regulating the climate of West Bengal.

1. Change of season:

The climate of West Bengal can be divided into 4 seasons according to the onset and retreat of these two wind systems.

These are—

1. Pre-monsoon or summer season,
2. Monsoon or rainy season when the south-west monsoon winds are active,
3. Retreat of the south-west monsoon winds or autumn season, and
4. Onset of northeast monsoon winds or winter season.

2. Determine climatic characteristics: Not only the demarcation of seasons but also the climatic characteristics of West Bengal are influenced by the nature of monsoon winds.

3. Low temperature during winter: The northeast monsoon winds blow from the north towards the south during winter (from December to February). Since these winds are cold, the temperature drops in West Bengal and it is known as the winter season. Rainfall does not occur in this season as these winds are dry.

4. High temperature during summer: The northeast monsoon winds start retreating from West Bengal at the end of February and the southwest monsoon winds arrive during the interim period (from March to May). As a result, the temperature rises, and this period is known as summer.

5. Excessive rainfall during the rainy season: The southwest monsoon wind blows over West Bengal from June to September. Since this wind is moisture-laden, the sky is overcast and rainfall occurs. This season is called the rainy season or monsoon season.

6. Clear sky during autumn: From October to November, the southwest monsoon winds retreat. As a result, the sky becomes clear and the temperature gradually decreases.

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1 Discuss the impact of a season change on human life.
Answer:

The impact of season change is observed not only on the human body and mind but also on the. livelihood and economy of the region.

1. Impact on body and mind: The change of season affects the human body and mind heavily. For example, extremely hot weather brings tiredness and excessive cold temperature causes lethargy.

2. Change in cultivation: Different crops are cultivated in different seasons. For example, vegetables grow well in winter. Winter is also ideal for cultivating ‘Rabi’ crops and the rainy season is for ‘Kharif’ crops.

3. Change in diet: The diet of human beings changes according to the season because people consume seasonal fruits and vegetables available in the market.

4. Change in biological processes: The duration of days and nights vary according to different seasons. Thus, the biological clock of the human body changes accordingly.

5. Impact on festivals and tourism: Durga puja, the main festival of West Bengal, is celebrated in autumn. Picnics, circuses, fairs, etc. are held in winter. All these seasonal activities create employment, that affects human life.
Season change also impacts tourism. For example, hilly regions attract more tourists during winter.

6. Increase of diseases: Several diseases are caused due to season change. For example, colds and coughs during the rainy season chicken pox in spring, etc., are seasonal diseases.

Question 2 What is ‘EI Nino’? What influences does ‘EI Nino’ have on the arrival of monsoon winds in west Bengal?
Answer:

Concept of ‘EI Nino’:

EI Nino’ is a local term meaning ‘Jesus Christ’. The warm current moving towards the south on certain years, in the Pacific Ocean, along eastern Peru, the western part of Ecuador, etc., is called El Nino. Effect of El Nino on the monsoon winds in,

West Bengal: In the years which are affected by El Nino, the southwest monsoon winds become less active, although its direct influence is not fully established. However, a link always exists between the occurrence of the El Nino phenomena and the prevalence of drought, conditions in India. Since the southwest monsoon winds blow over West Bengal, along with the entire Indian subcontinent in general, El Nino influences the climate of West Bengal too. It is commonly seen that El Nino years coincide with drought conditions in West Bengal.

Question 3 Discuss the main climatic factors of West Bengal.
Answer:

The main climatic factors of West Bengal are—

1. Tropic of Cancer: Since the Tropic of Cancer (2334° N) passes through West Bengal, the state (except the mountainous region of Darjeeling) is warm in nature.

2. Monsoon winds: The moisture-laden southwest monsoon winds blow over West Bengal during the rainy season causing widespread rainfall. Again, the dry north-east monsoon winds blow over the state causing no rainfall. These winds are cold since they arrive from mountainous areas. Thus, West Bengal experiences cold weather devoid of rainfall during the winter months.

3. Altitude of the land: There is an inverse relationship between altitude and temperature. With every 1000 meters of ascent, the temperature drops at the rate of 6.4°C, and hence the temperature decreases with an increase in altitude. Since the Himalayan mountain regions are greater in altitude as compared to the plains, they have much lower temperatures.

4. Location of the Bay of Bengal: Since the Bay of Bengal lies to the south of West Bengal, it has a moderate climate with no extreme temperature.

5. Location of the Himalayan mountains: The Himalayas are aligned from west to east across the northern part of the state. On one hand, it is responsible for causing rainfall (relief or orographic rainfall), while on the other, it acts as a barrier and prevents the cold winds (north-east monsoon winds) from blowing over the state during the winter months of hilly region and the climate of the plateau.

Question 4 Write the differences between the climate of the hilly region and the climate of the coastal region.
Answer:

The differences between the climate of the hilly region and that of the plateau region are as follows –

Point of difference	The climate of the hilly region	The climate of Platean region
1. Temperature	The average summer temperature is 16*C and the average winter temperature is 4 degrees C-5’C.	The average summer temperature is 40’C and the average winter temperature is 100 ‘C-12’C
2. Rainfall	The annual amount of rainfall in this region is more than 400 cm.	The annual amount of rainfall in this region is between lOOcm-lSO cm.
3. Relative humidity	The relative humidity of this region is high throughout the year.	The relative humidity of this region is low throughout the year, except rainy season.
4. Nature of climate	Wet and cold temperate climate prevails in this region.	A dry and extreme type of climate prevails in this region.

 

Question 5 Write the difference between the climate of the hilly region and the climate of the coastal region.
Answer:

The differences between the climate of the hilly region and the climate of the coastal region are as follows—

Point of difference	The climate of the hilly region	The climate of the coastal region
1. Temperature	The average summer temperature is 16 C    and the average winter temperature is 4’C-S’C.	The climate in coastal region’s Average summer temperature is 30C and the average winter temperature is 25C.
2. Rainfall	Annual rainfall is 400 cm in this region.	Annual rainfall is 200 cm in this region
3. Cyclone	In this climate, cyclones generally do not occur.	In this climate, cyclones occur during autumn.
4. Snowfall.	Occasionally snowfall and hailstorms occur in the winter and summer seasons respectively.	Occasionally hailstorm summer season but snowfall never occurs.
5. Fog.	Foggy weather prevails most of the time of the year.	foggy weather prevails only in winter seasons

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 How many seasons are observed in West Bengal?
Answer:

Seasons Observed In West Bengal:-

There are 4 seasons in West Bengal. They are summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter.

Question 2 What do you mean by western disturbance?
Answer:

Western Disturbance:-

During winter, cyclonic storms originating in the Mediterranean region, cause low pressure and sudden winter rain in northwest India. Such a weather phenomenon is called a western disturbance.

Question 3 What is ‘Ashwiner Jhar’?
Answer:

Ashwiner Jhar:-

Generally, West Bengal does not experience rainfall during autumn. But sometimes the cyclones formed in the Bay of Bengal during autumn cause thunderstorms. This is known as ‘Ashwiner Jhar’.

Question 4 What is’Kalbaisakhi’?
Answer:

Kalbaisakhi:-

During the early summer months, West Bengal and its adjoining areas are affected by thunderstorms and even hail storms, especially in the late afternoons. These storm winds blow from the northwest direction and thus are known as ‘Norwester’ or ‘Kalbaisakhi’.

Question 5 Where does snowfall occur in West Bengal?
Answer: The northern part of West Bengal, i.e., the Himalayan mountainous region experiences snowfall due to higher altitude, as the temperature decreases to below freezing point.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Multiple Choice Type Questions [Mcq Type]z

 

Write the correct answer the given alternatives

1. The region receiving the heaviest rainfall in West Bengal is—
1. Coastal Area Of Digha
2. Northern Mountainous Region
3. Western Plateau Region
4. Sundarbans Region

Answer: 2. Northern Mountainous Region

2. The coldest district of West Bengal is—
1. Cooch Behar
2. Darjeeling
3. Purulia
4. Nadia

Answer: 2. Darjeeling

3. The factor which has an impact on the human body and mind is—
1. Ebb And Tide
2. Change Of Seasons
3. Daily Apparent Speed Of The Earth’s Rotation With Respect To The Sun
4. Change In Duration Of Day And Night

Answer: 2. Change Of Seasons

4. Rainfall in West Bengal is caused by the—
1. South-West monsoon winds
2. South-East monsoon winds
3. North-West monsoon winds
4. North-East monsoon winds

Answer: 1. South-West monsoon winds

5. Another name for Kalbaisakhi is—
1. Norwester
2. Tornado
3. Mango Shower
4. burst of monsoon

Answer: 1. Norwester

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Fill In The Blanks With Suitable Words

1. The ‘Ashwiner Jhar’ storm occurs in West Bengal during autumn

2. The driest district of West Bengal is Purulia.

3. The duration of summer winds blowing from the Bay of Bengal cause rainfall all over West Bengal.

4. Monsoon seasons are mainly observed in West Bengal.

6. The wettest district of West Bengal is four

7. Climate of West Bengal’s season can be seen from December in Tropical monsoon nature.

8. Winter seasons can be seen from December to February in West Bengal.

Chapter 8 West Bengal If The Statement Is True, Write True And If False Write False Against The Following

1. Rainfall in West Bengal occurs due’ to south-west monsoon winds. True 

2. Rainy season prevails in West Bengal from June to September. True 

3. The driest district of West Bengal is Bankura. False

4. West Bengal experiences a cold temperate type of climate. False

5. The storms that occur during autumn in West Bengal are called the ‘Aswiner Jhar’ storms. False

6. Being at a higher altitude Darjeeling has a moderate type of climate. True 

7. Trade wind controls the climate of West Bengal. False

8. Most of the rainfall in West Bengal occurs due to the effect of southwest monsoon winds. False

9. The number of rainfall increases from the Darjeeling mountain region to the river Ganges. True 

10. In the Month of July, the wind blows mainly from the south-eastern direction in West Bengal. False

11. Meaning of monsoon is stormy wind. True

12. Meaning of monsoon in a stormy wind. False

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Match The Left Column With The Right Column

Left column	Right column
1. Extremely hot	A. Darjeeling
2. Extremely cold	B.Purulia
3. Extremely dry	C. Buxaduar
4. Extremely humid	D. Asansol

Answer: 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Answer in one Or Two words

Question 1 Which area in West Bengal receives the maximum rainfall?
Answer: Buxaduar in Alipurduar.

Question 2 Which is the hottest district in West Bengal?
Answer: Bankura.

Question 3 Which wind influences West Bengal’s climate the most?
Answer: Monsoon wind,

Question 4 Which is the most famous animal of falda para National Park?
Answer: One-horned rhinoceros.

Question 5 In West Bengal, when do western disturbances occur?
Answer: Winter.

Question 6 Which two districts in West Bengal have laterite soil?
Answer: Purulia and Jhargram.

Question 7 Name two trees of the Western Plateau region.
Answer: Arjun and should.

Question 8 Name two -trees belonging to the plain region.
Answer: Mango and Jamun.

Question 9 Which district of West Bengal experiences cyclones frequency?
Answer: Purba Medinipur.

Question 10 What are the seasons of West Bengal?
Answer: Summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter.

 

Chapter 8 Topic E Soil And Natural Vegetation Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Write the classification of soil in West Bengal and describe them in brief.
Answer:

Classification of soil in West Bengal:

According to soil scientists soil is formed by the combined effect of climate, biosphere, relief, parental rock, and time. For the variation of these soil-forming elements, the soil of West Bengal can be classified into different types.

They are—

1. Soil of hilly region:

1. Location: This type of soil is mostly found in the districts of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, parts of Cooch Behar, etc.

2. Characteristics:

1. This is a type of podsol soil,
2. This soil is mostly brown in color,
3. The fertility of this soil is medium.
4. Crops produced: Tea, orange, cinchona, etc. are cultivated in this soil.

2. Soil of terai region:

1. Location: This type of soil is found at the foothills of the Himalayas.

2. Characteristics:

1. This type of soil is full of pebbles,
2. This soil is grey in color,
3. The soil fertility is medium.

3. Crops produced: Paddy, wheat, tea, and potato are cultivated in this soil.

 

3. Soil of plateau region:

1. Location: This soil is mostly found in Purulia, Bankura, Birbhum, Paschim Bardhaman, Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, and Dakshin Dinajpur.

3. Characteristics:

1. In this region, mostly two types of soil are found laterite soil at the west and red soil at the east,
2. Laterite soil is red in color and hard as a brick. This soil is infertile and the water holding capacity is very low.
3. Red soil is also red in color. The texture of this soil is fine and the iron content is very high. The water holding capacity of this soil is low and that is why for cultivation irrigation is very important.

3. Crops produced: Paddy (in a small amount), corn, potato, tobacco, etc. are the main crops produced.

4. Soil of the plain region:

1. Location: This type of soil is mostly found in Uttar Dinajpur, Murshidabad, Nadia, Purba Bardhaman, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, etc.

2. Characteristics:

1. This type of soil is mostly acidic in nature,
2. This soil is mainly formed by the deposition of rivers. So, the amount of silt, sand, and clay is high ‘in this soil,
3. This is fertile soil, mostly known as sedimentary soil or alluvial soil,
4. The old sedimentary soil is red in color and less fertile. On the other hand, new sedimentary soil is brown in color and more fertile.

3. Crops produced: Paddy, wheat, jute, sugarcane, etc. are the main crops.

5. Soil of coastal region:

1. Location: This type of soil is mainly found in the Sundarbans and Kanthi coastal regions in West Bengal.

2. Characteristics:

1. This soil is saline in nature,
2. The texture of this soil is very fine,
3. Water holding capacity of this soil is low.
4. This soil is black in color and infertile in nature.

3. Crops produced: In this soil, the amount of salt is very high. That is why, with the help of rainwater harvesting the salinity of the soil is controlled which helps to cultivate crops like paddy (in a small amount), vegetables, coconut, betel nut, watermelon, etc.

Question Describe the natural vegetation of west Bengal.

Answer:

Natural Vegetation of West Bengal:

West Bengal is a monsoon-dominated state. So, the natural vegetation is directly influenced by the monsoon climate.

1. Vegetation of northern hilly region:

Location: Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, Kalimpong districts.

3. Evergreen trees: These trees are grown up to an altitude of 1000 m from the foothills. The main trees in this category are sal, Segun, Shishu, Marjan, bamboo, etc.

2. Temperate deciduous and coniferous trees: Temperate forest is found mainly between 1000m to 3000m altitude. Between this region, deciduous trees are grown in the lower altitudes, and coniferous trees are grown in the upper altitudes. The important trees of this region are oak, maple, pine, spruce, deodar, birch, etc.

3. Alpine trees: These trees are grown between 3000 m and 4000 m of altitude. The mostly found trees are silver pine, rhododendron, etc.

2. Vegetation of northern terai and doors region:

3. Location: Terai and doors regions of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar districts.

3. Characteristics:

1. Due to the high amount of rainfall, the trees are evergreen in nature,
2. The forest is concentrated at the foothills of the mountains.

3. Main trees: Sal, Segun, Khair, cane, bamboo, etc.

3. Vegetation of the western plateau region:

3. Location: Purulia, Bankura, Paschim Medinipur, Paschim Bardhaman, Jhargram, the western part of Birbhum district, etc.

3. Characteristics:

1. Trees of this region lose their leaves in the dry season,
2. This forest is called a deciduous forest,
3. This forest is not dense.

3. Main trees: Arjun, shimul, sal, Palash, mahua, etc.

4. Vegetation of plain region:

3. Location: Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, North and South 24 Parganas Purba and Paschim Medinipur, Purba Bardhaman, Howrah and Birbhum districts.

3. Characteristics:

1. The forest in this region is dispersed in nature,
2. Trees are mainly deciduous in nature,
3. Trees are medium in size and they are mainly hardwood trees
4. This forest has been mostly cleared because of population and agriculture.

3. Main trees: Banyan, mango, tamarind, bel, Jamun, asthma, jackfruit, etc.

5. Vegetation of the delta region:

1. Location: North and South 24 Parganas, the coastal areas of the Bay of Bengal

2. Characteristics:

1. These trees are mainly grown in saline soil.
2. They have breathing roots and stilt roots.
3. Viviparous germination is found in these trees.
4. These trees are commonly known as mangrove trees.

3.Main trees: Sundari, garart, geoa, (netal, hogla, keora, etc.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Explanatory Type Questions

Question 1 Differentiate between the natural vegetation of the northern hilly region and the natural vegetation of the coastal region of West Bengal.
Answer:

Differences between the natural vegetation of the northern hilly region and the coastal region of West Bengal are as follows—

 

Point of difference	The natural vegetation of the northern hilly region	The natural vegetation of the coastal region
1. Location	This type of vegetation can be seen in the Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Alipurduar districts in the northern part of West Bengal.	This type of vegetation can be seen in the deltaic part of North and South 24 Parganas and coastal areas of Paschim Medimpur district in the southern pan of West Bengal.
2. Nature of Vegetation	Evergreen trees like Shishu. Marjan, sal, teak, bamboo, etc grow in the Himalayan foothills upto 1000 m altitude, mu forest of evergreen and deciduous trees like oak, maple, laurel, etc, grow between 1000 m-2500 m altitude, and coniferous trees like pine, fir. deodar, etc cover the mountain slope between 2500 m-<1000 m altitude, and alpine meadows lie above 4000m altitude of this hilly region.	Mangrove vegetation like Sundari, Garan, gewa, hental, etc grow in the active deltaic region of West Bengal This is the largest mangrove forest in India, popularly known as Sundarbans. Trees like eucalyptus and Casuarina (locally called Jha). etc are seen in the sandy region of Purba Mcdmipur.
3. Characteristics	These trees are tall, use of the leaves decreases gradually with height.	These trees are short, they have breathing roots to absorb oxygen from the atmosphere and stilted roots to support the main trunk Site of the leaves is small in most of the trees.

 

Question 2 What are the differences between the natural vegetation of the hilly region and the hilly vegetation plateau region of West Bengal?
Answer:

Differences between the natural vegetation of the hilly region and the natural plateau region are as follows—

 

Point of difference	The natural vegetation of the hilly region	The natural vegetation of the plateau region
1. Nature	In the hilly region, natural vegetation changes with the change of elevation. Alpine meadows lie above 4000 m altitude, coniferous forests lie between 2500m-4000m altitude, mixed forests of evergreen and deciduous trees grow between 1000m-2500m altitude and hardwood broadleaved evergreen trees lie at the foothills of Himalayas upto 1000 m altitude.	Homogeneity of climate can be seen in the plateau region, which is favorable for the growth of deciduous trees such as mahua, sal, tendu, Irish, Palash, shim, etc. The trees grow in a scattered manner and have a mix of broad and small leaves.
2. Diversity of leaves	The amount of temperature and rainfall decreases gradually from the foothills to higher altitudes. As a result, the trees of the foothills have broad leaves and their size decreases with height.	In this region, trees have both broad and small leaves and they lose their leaves seasonally.
3. Amount and Density	This type of natural vegetation covers 60% of the total vegetation of West Bengal. The density of this forest is high.	In the plateau region, the amount and density of the forest are very low.

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What type of soil is found in the plains of West Bengal?
Answer: In the plain region of West Bengal, river-borne fertile silt and silty loam soil are found.

Question 2 Where is saline soil found in West Bengal?
Answer: Saline soil is found in the active delta (Sundarban) region of the southern part of West Bengal.

Question 3 State the characteristics of mangrove forests.
Answer: some of the characteristics of mangrove forests are as follows—

1. The trees have stilt roots to hold them firmly on the soil even during tidal surges.
2. Since the trees are often immersed in tidal waters, they have aerial roots or pneumatophores, which help in the process of respiration.
3. The trees carry out viviparous germination.
4. These trees are evergreen in nature.

Question 4 What is gully or khoai erosion?
Answer: Red soil-rich region in and around Shantiniketan in the Birbhum district is prone to continuous rill, gully, sheet, and ravine erosions. Therefore, the elevation of the land is decreasing day by day, which further leads to the formation of various landforms.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Multiple Choice Type Questions [Mcq Type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. Dry deciduous forest is seen in the—
1. mountainous regions
2. plateau regions
3. plain regions
4. delta region

Answer: 2. plateau regions

2. Plants with round leaves are found in—
1. Purulia
2. Jalpaiguri
3. Malda
4. Sundarbans

Answer: 4. Sundarbans

3. Soil type of the mountainous region is suitable for growing—
1. Plum
2. Jackfruit
3. Custard Apple
4. Orange

Answer: 4. Orange

4. Khadar is the name for
1. New Alluvial Soil
2. Laterite Soil
3. Podsolsoil
4. Old Alluvial Soil

Answer: 1. New Alluvial Soil

5. Podsol is found in West Bengal in —
1. Mountainous Region
2. Plateau Region
3. Plain Region
4. Coastal Region

Answer: 1. Mountainous Region

6. Soil of the western plateau region is—
1. Terai Soil
2. Laterite Soil
3. Red Soil
4. Alluvial Soil

Answer: 2. Laterite Soil

7. Colour of the soil of the mountainous region in West Bengal is—
1. Red
2. Brown
3. Black
4. White

Answer: 2. Brown

8. A hard crust that forms at the topmost layer of laterite soil is called —
1. Later
2. Hotspot
3. Duricrust
4. Pancake

Answer: 3. Duricrust

9. The color of laterite soil is red due to—
1. Lack Of Rainfall
2. Gradual Deposition Of Organic Material
3. Deposition Of Iron Compound
4. Excessive Use Of Manure

Answer: 3. Deposition Of Iron Compound

10. Type of natural vegetation in Sundarbans is—
1. Coniferous
2. Deciduous
3. Cactus
4. Mangrove

Answer: 4. Mangrove

11. Gorumara is a—
1. Hill Station
2. Sea Beach
3. Educational Centre
4. Sanctuary

Answer: 4. Sanctuary

Chapter 8 West Bengal Fill In The Blanks

1. Extensive occurrence of sudden trees has led to the etymology of ‘Sundari’.

2. Stilt roots and pneumatophores are found in mangrove forests.

3. Rhododendron is an alpine tree.

4. Saline soil is found in the coastal region of West Bengal.

5. Laterite soil is red in color.

6. Soil is very fertile in the plain region.

Chapter 8 West Bengal If The Statement Is True to Write True And If False Write False Against The Following

1. Laterite soil is found in the Rarh region. True 

2. Pneumatophores are found in Sundari trees. True 

3. Coastal soil is favorable for coconut cultivation. True 

4. The saline soil of Sundarbans is alkaline in nature. True 

5. Khoai erosion is seen in the Rarh region. False

6. Podsol soil is found in the Bankura and Purulia districts of West Bengal. True 

7. Goran tree is found in the western plateau region of West Bengal. False

8. Natural vegetation of Sundarbans is called mangrove forest. True

9. Laterite soil is ideal for cultivation. False

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Match the left column with the right column

1.

 

Left Column	Right Column
1.  Podsol soil	A. Gangetlc plain
2.  Laterite soil	B. Northern hilly region
3. Saline soil	C.  Coastal plain
4. Alluvial soil	D. Western plateau region

Answer: 1-B,2-D,3-C,4-A

2.

Left Column	Right Column
1.  Pine	A. Dry deciduous forest
2.  Golpata	B.  Evergreen forest
3.  Shishu	C.  Mangrove forest
4.  Palash	D.  Coniferous forest

Answer: 1-B,2-D,3-C,4-A

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Answer In Or Two Words

Question 1 Which region of West Bengal accounts for the maximum forest cover?
Answer: Northern hilly region.

Question 2 Which district accounts for the maximum forest cover in West Bengal?
Answer: Darjeeling.

Question 3 What is the color of mountainous soil?
Answer: Brown.

Question 4 Where did the name ‘Sundarbans’ originate from?
Answer: Sundari trees.

Question 5  What is the type of soil in the plain region?
Answer: Fertile alluvial soil.

Question 6 Where is the saline soil found in West Bengal?
Answer: Southern coastal area of the active delta.

Question 7 Which place in West Bengal has been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Answer: Sundarbans.

Question 8 Name one sanctuary of West Bengal.
Answer: Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.

Question 9 Name two districts of West Bengal where laterite soil is found.
Answer: Purulia and Jhargram.

Question 10 Name a tree found in the plains of West Bengal.
Answer: Mango tree.

Question 11 Name one sanctuary of West Bengal.
Answer: Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.

Question 12 Which animal is the forest in Jaldapara famous for?
Answer: One-horned rhino.

Chapter 8 west Bengal Topic F Agriculture

Question 1 What are the characteristics of agriculture in West Bengal?
Answer: Characteristics of agriculture in West Bengal: Climate of West Bengal is tropical monsoon type. The impact of monsoon is great on the agricultural practices of West Bengal.

Characteristics of agriculture in West Bengal are—

1. Monsoon-dependent agriculture: Agricultural practices of West Bengal are largely dependent on the southwest monsoon wind. The Kharif crops are cultivated based on the arrival of monsoon rain. Thus crop cultivation is hampered because of the uncertainty of the monsoon rain.

2. Intensive agriculture: The population density of West Bengal is very high. Therefore, the demand for food is also very high. That is why intensive agriculture is practiced in West Bengal.

3. Labour-intensive agriculture: The agricultural practices of West Bengal are labor-intensive since the use of machines is minimal. The farmers cultivate their fields with outdated implements like plows and bullocks.

4. Livelihood-based agriculture: The agricultural practices of West Bengal are for the livelihood of the people. The cultivated crops are consumed by the farmers themselves since the surplus is very less.

5. Crop rotation system: The crop rotation system is followed to retain the fertility of the soil. A single piece of land is thus cultivated more than once to produce various crops.

6. Importance of paddy cultivation: Since rice is the staple food of the people of West Bengal, paddy is cultivated in abundance. Moreover, the fertile silty soil of the delta regions as well as the warm and humid climate is conducive for paddy cultivation.

7. Development of irrigation and cultivation of rabi crops: In winter, rabi crops are cultivated with the help of irrigation. The productivity of rabi crops is increased with the help of irrigation by wells, tube-wells, and canals. The capacity of irrigation has been increased which facilitates productivity.

8. Production of fishing and poultry farming besides crop cultivation: Since the main food of West Bengal comprises fish, egg, meat, etc., poultry farming is gaining importance along with pisciculture besides the cultivation of crops.

9. Agricultural development programs: The development of agriculture has increased with the help of five-year plans and a 3-tier Panchayat Management System.

10. Forecast of Green Revolution: After Greem Revolution, many modern measures have been taken in the agricultural practice of West Bengal. It helps to increase the production of crops in West Bengal.

Question 2 Give an account of the main agricultural crops of West Bengal.
Answer: Main agricultural crops of West Bengal: The fertile silty soil is found almost everywhere in West Bengal except the hilly and plateau regions. This soil has a great influence on agricultural productivity in West Bengal. The main agricultural crops of West Bengal are

Paddy: West Bengal holds the first position in terms of the production of paddy in India. About 91% of food grains in West Bengal are comprised of paddy.

Areas of cultivation: Purba Bardhaman, Murshidabad, Birbhum, Bankura, Nadia, North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, South 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, Cooch Behar, Uttar Dinajpur, etc. are the main paddy producing districts of West Bengal.

Types of paddy: Based on the seasonal characteristics, three types of paddy are cultivated in West Bengal.

These are—
1. Aman,
2. Aus and
3. Boro.

1. Aman: This type of paddy is sown in July and harvested in November. Aman is cultivated in Birbhum and Bardhaman (previous) districts.

2. Aus: This variety of paddy is sown in April-May and harvested in August.

3. Boro: This type of paddy is sown in November-December and harvested in March-April.

2. Jute: West Bengal is one of the most ” important centers of jute production in India. Jute is the most important cash crop of West Bengal. So, jute cultivation influences the economy of West Bengal on a large scale.
Areas of cultivation: Howrah, Hooghly, Uttar, Dakshin Dinajpur, Murshidabad, and Malda are the major jute-producing areas of West Bengal.

3. Tea: West Bengal holds the second position in terms of the production of tea, and is quite consistent in its productivity. Tea cultivation is largely practiced in the hilly slopes of the northern regions.

Areas of cultivation: Best quality tea is produced in Darjeeling in West Bengal. Important tea-producing centers of Darjeeling are Happy Valley, Kurseong, Makaibari, Bijanbari, etc. Tea is also produced in the foothills of the Himalayas of the Dooars region. Important tea-producing centers of Dooars are Mai, Binaguri, Madarihat, Chelsea, Naxalbari, Kumargram, Nagarkata, etc.

Different types of crops that are cultivated in West Bengal can be classified as follows—

Type of Crops	Examples
1. Food grains	Paddy, wheat, corn, lentils, etc.
2. Plantation crops	Tea, cinchona, indigo, etc.
3. Fibre crops	Jute, shon, mesta, etc.
4. Fruits	Mango, jackfruit, papaya, banana, litchi, pineapple, guava, etc.
5. Vegetables	Potato, onions, stripped gourd, cauliflower, cabbage, brinjal, ridge gourd, etc.
6. Other crops	Coconut, pan/betel leaf, cashew nuts, sugarcane, tobacco, oil seeds, etc.

 

Question 3 Give an account of rice-producing of paddy-producing regions of West Bengal. What are the conducive factors for the cultivation of paddy or rice?
Answer: Rice-producing regions of West Bengal: The staple diet of most of the people of West Bengal is rice. Intensive cultivation is practiced in West Bengal. The same piece of land is utilized for growing different types of paddy like ‘Aus’, ‘Aman’, and ‘Boro’, based on seasonal characteristics. Moreover, high- a yielding variety of seeds like, ‘Jaya’, ‘Ratna’, ‘Padma’, etc. are cultivated to reap maximum productivity from the land.
Almost in every district of West Bengal paddy is cultivated. On the basis of the amount of production, the rice-producing regions can be divided into two types.

These are—

1. Primary rice-producing regions: Purba and Paschim Bardhaman, Nadia, Birbhum, Hooghly, Howrah, North 24 Parganas, Malda, Murshidabad, Purba, and Paschim Medinipur, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur, etc. are the main rice producing areas.

 

2. Secondary rice-producing regions: Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, Purulia, South 24 Parganas, Jhargram, etc. are the secondary rice-producing areas.

Conducive factors for the cultivation of paddy are—

1. Natural/Physical factors:

1. Rainfall: High amount of rainfall is needed during paddy cultivation. Annual rainfall of 150-200 cm is suitable.
However, if annual rainfall is below 100 cm, irrigation is necessary. Thus, paddy cultivation in West Bengal mainly depends on rainfall.

2. Temperature: About 10°C-20°C temperature is needed from the time of planting to the time of sapling. 35°C – 37°C temperature is needed at the time of harvesting.

3. Soil: Fertile silty or alluvial soil is needed for paddy cultivation. Besides, loamy, clayey and sandy soils, laterite soil of the ‘Terai’ and hilly soil are also suitable for paddy cultivation.

4. Land: Though all types of land are suitable, plains which are flat are ideal for paddy cultivation. This is the reason why riverine flood plains are ideal for paddy cultivation.

2. Man-made factors:

1. Labour: Being a labor-intensive cultivation, the densely populated regions produce more paddy.

2. Transport: Since rapid and developed modes of transport are needed, areas having such facilities are ideal for paddy cultivation.

3. Demand: Demand is high, particularly in the densely populated region and paddy cultivation has gained much importance here.

Question 4 What are Jute producing districts 3.a1. ;0f west Bengal? Write about the factors that influence jute production.
Answer: Jute-producing districts of West Bengal: Jute is one of the main cash crops of West Bengal. It is a fiber crop and West Bengal is the largest producer of this crop.

Jute-producing districts of West Bengal are—

1. Primary jute-producing districts: Nadia, Murshidabad, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, etc. are the main jute-producing districts of West Bengal.

2. Secondary jute-producing districts: Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Malda, Uttar, and Dakshin Dinajpur, Purba Medinipur, Purba Bardhaman, etc. are the secondary jute-producing districts of West Bengal.

Factors influencing jute production: Factors that influence jute production in West Bengal are—

1. Physical factors:
1. Temperature: About 22°C-35°C temperature is needed for jute cultivation.

2. Humidity: Humidity for jute cultivation must be within 57%-97%.

3. Rainfall: About 100 cm-200 cm of rainfall is needed for jute cultivation. Less than 100 cm of rainfall may disrupt production.

3. Land: Flat and fertile land with proper irrigation facilities is needed for jute cultivation. Because waterlogged land is harmful to jute plants.

2. Man-made factors:

1. Labour: Sufficient number of labor is required for jute cultivation.

2. Fertilizers: Fertilizers that are made of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus are good for jute production. Proper use of fertilizer and pesticides are also required.

3. Transport: Jute is a cash crop and proper transport facilities are needed for commercial benefits.

4. Other: Market demand for jute products is also an important factor. Jute products are biodegradable and eco-friendly. Nowadays demand for jute is huge.

 

Question 5 Mention the tea-producing regions of West Bengal. Describe the conducive factors for tea cultivation.
Answer: Tea-producing regions of West Bengal: Tea is a mild beverage and is a commercial/cash crop. Tea plantations are mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions. West Bengal ranks second in the production of tea in India.

Tea-producing regions of West Bengal can be classified into— 1. primary and 2. secondary regions.

1. Primary tea-producing regions:
Best-quality flavored tea is produced in the Darjeeling district. Along the hilly slopes ranging between 900 m to 2000 m altitude, terraces have been made for tea plantations. The most important tea producers here are Happy Valley, Sukhiapokhri, Kurseong, Makaibari, Bijanbari, etc.

2. Secondary tea-producing regions: Some other tea plantations are seen in Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and the foothills of the Himalayas in the district of Alipurduar. Tea is also produced in the foothills of the Himalayas of the Dooars region. Important tea-producing centers of Dooars are Mai, Binaguri, Madarihat, Chelsea, Naxalbari, Kumargram, Nagarkata, etc.

Conducive factors for tea cultivation: Conducive factors for the cultivation of tea can be grouped into—

1. Physical environment: The important factors are—

1. Relief: Relief is an important factor in the cultivation of tea. Sloping land where water does not stand is required for tea cultivation and that is why hilly slopes are ideal locations. Since hilly soil areas are prone to erosion, terraces have been prepared along the contours for tea plantations.

2. Climate: Hot and wet climates having a high amount of rainfall are necessary since they influence the flavor, color, and taste of tea. Rainfall ranging between 150 cm and 200 cm, an average annual temperature of 20°C-30°C, and a summer temperature of 27°C, is ideal for southwest monsoon. This wind is uncertain thus causing flood or drought. Therefore, irrigation is important to reduce the uncertainty of agriculture in West Bengal. for tea cultivation. Snowfall is harmful to tea plantations.

3. Soil: Fertile, acidic, iron and manganese-bearing soils are ideal for tea cultivation. However, sufficient amounts of nitrogen, zinc, and potassium are also needed.

2. Man-made factors: Some of the important man-made factors are—

1. Capital: Capital is needed for the maintenance of tea gardens, labor wages, implements fertilizers, pesticides, etc.

2. Labour: Skilled workers are required to pick tea leaves. A large number of laborers are required for the tea
processing work.

3. Transport: Developed transport system is essential for exporting after processing it (since tea plantations are
located in hilly areas).

4. Others: Besides the above factors, advanced technology, demand for tea, administrative facilities, market, etc.,

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Classify the agricultural crops that are Produced in west Bengal.
Answer: Agricultural crops that are produced in West Bengal can be classified on a different basis.

They are—

1. On the basis of the season: On the basis of season, the crops of West Bengal can be classified into three types—

1. Kharif crops: Crops like a man (a type of Paddy), jute, sugarcane, etc. that are sown in the rainy season and harvested in winter are called Kharif crops.

2. Rabi crops: Crops like wheat, barley, jowar, gram, potato, etc. that are sown in winter and harvested at the beginning of summer are called rabi crops.

3. Zaid crops: Crops like maize, groundnut, vegetables, and fruits that are sown in spring i.e. month of February-March, and harvested at the beginning of monsoon i.e., the month of June are called Zaid crops.

2. On the basis of use: On the basis of use, the crops of West Bengal can be classified into two types—

1. Food crops: Amongst the agricultural crops rice, wheat, barley, maize, etc. are called food crops, because these crops are cultivated mainly to use as food.

3. Commercial crops: Agricultural crops like tea, jute, etc. are cultivated mainly to sell in the market for profit. These crops are called commercial crops.

They are three types—

1. Plantation crops: Crops that are cultivated in a large garden or estate with the help of modern technology, mainly for export are called plantation crops. Examples—are tea, coffee, rubber, etc.

2. Fibre crops: Crops that are cultivated for the production of fiber or thread are called fiber crops. Examples—are cotton, jute, mesta, etc.

3. Horticulture: Horticulture is the cultivation of fruits, flowers, and vegetables with the help of modern technology.

Question 2 What is the importance of irrigation in West Bengal?
Answer: Irrigation is one of the key components for agricultural development in West Bengal, because—

1. To reduce the uncertainty of monsoon: In West, Bengal rainfall is dependent mainly on the southwest monsoon. This wind is uncertain thus causing flood or drought. Therefore, irrigation is important to reduce the uncertainty of agriculture in West Bengal.

2. For cultivation of rabi crops: Winter is almost dry in West Bengal. At this time irrigation is needed for the cultivation of rabi crops.

3. For cultivation of a high-yielding variety of crops: To fulfill the need for food for the growing population of West Bengal, cultivation of a high-yielding variety of crops is necessary. For this adequate amount of water is required throughout the year. That is why irrigation is important in West Bengal to maintain the water supply.

4. To reduce spatial variation of water holding capacity of soil: Different types of soil are found in different districts of West Bengal. Each of the soil has a different texture, which affects its water-holding capacity. Coarse-textured soil has a poor water-retaining capacity, that needs proper irrigation for cultivation.

5. For water supply in dry region: The Western Plateau region of West Bengal receives less amount of rainfall. That is why irrigation is important in this region of West Bengal for cultivation throughout the year.

Question 3 ‘The plain region of West Bengal is ideal for paddy and jute cultivation/— Explain.
Answer: In the plain region of West Bengal comprising Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia, Purba, Bardhaman, Hooghly, North and South 24 Parganas districts, production of jute and paddy are quite high.

Because—

1. Extensive plain land: Plain and flat land is needed for the cultivation of paddy and jute. Thus, plain areas are better for cultivation than the hilly and plateau regions.

2. Fertile soil: The fertile silty soil is ideal for the cultivation of paddy and jute and this type of soil is found in the plain region (including the Gangetic plain) of West Bengal.

3. Availability of labor: The availability of cheap labor is important for the cultivation of paddy and jute. Since the plains are densely populated, labor is abundant and readily available.

Question 4 ‘Agriculture in the Terai region is not developed’—Explain why.
Answer: The Terai region comprises the subdivisions of Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar. The area is made up of Unconsolidated sediments. The average altitude of the area ranges from 75 m to 150 m above sea level. Teesta, Torsa, Jaldhaka, Raidak, Sankosh, Mahananda, etc., deposit cobbles, pebbles, and other finer sediments here. So, the region is not suitable for agriculture. On the other hand, the humid conditions are not favorable for cultivation here. However, tobacco and small quantities of paddy, and various types of fruits are cultivated here.

Question 5 ‘Agriculture is well-developed in the Gangetic delta/—Why?
Answer: The Gangetic delta region is famous for agriculture. Most of the people here depend on agriculture for their livelihood. The reasons for the development of agriculture here are-

1. Extensive plain area: The delta region is flat and plain and so it is favorable for agricultural practice as well as irrigation facilities.

2. Fertile silty soil: The area is made up of silty sedimentary soil which is fertile and therefore favorable for agriculture.

3. Appropriate temperature and rainfall: The temperature and rainfall of the tropical area are appropriate. Paddy, jute, and vegetables are cultivated here.

4. High density of population: High density of population provides abundant labor required for agricultural practice. The demand for food is also high in this region. That is the reason why agricultural productivity is high here.

Question 6 What is the importance of agriculture in the economy of West Bengal?’
Answer: The importance of agriculture in the economy of West Bengal is unlimited.
These are as follows—

1. Source of employment: About 70% population of West Bengal is engaged in agriculture. Around 53%-55% of the laborers are engaged in agriculture either directly or indirectly. Agriculture thus provides ample job opportunities to the people of the state.

2. Development of agriculture-oriented industry: Tea, jute, and food processing industries are agro-based industries. These industries are dependent on agriculture for development.

3. Foreign exchange: The two major agricultural crops of West Bengal are—tea and jute. The export of these two crops helps in earning foreign exchange.

4. Prosperity of the fertilizer industry: Various fertilizers are used for the production of crops and this has led to the prosperity of this industry.

Question 7 What are the problems that West Bengal is facing in agriculture?
Answer:
Although agriculture in West Bengal has great importance, it is facing several problems—

1. Lack of irrigation: Much of the land could not be brought under irrigation yet and so agricultural productivity in certain areas of West Bengal is hampered.

2. Dependency on monsoon winds: Agriculture of West Bengal is mainly dependent on monsoon winds. Any fluctuation in the wind pattern causes the loss of crops.

3. Limited use of high-quality seeds, fertilizers & pesticides: High-quality seed fertilizers, and pesticides are not used everywhere and hence agricultural productivity is low in West Bengal.

4. Use of primitive methods: Old and primitive agricultural methods like plows, sickles, and animals are still used. Modern implements are not used.

5. Low capital: The capital investment for agriculture is very low.

6. Low market price: The market price of produced crops is very low. Many farmers commit suicide out of frustration.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 West Bengal is famous for the cultivation of which crops?
Answer: West Bengal is famous for the cultivation of crops such as paddy, jute, tea, etc.

Question 2 Which districts of West Bengal are well-known for paddy cultivation?
Answer: Purba Bardhaman, Paschim Bardhaman Nadia, Murshidabad, Hooghly, North and South 24 Parganas, Purba and Paschim
Medinipur districts of West Bengal are well-known for paddy cultivation.

Question 3 Which is the best place for tea cultivation in West Bengal?
Answer: In the northern parts of Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts and some places of North Dinajpur, tea is well-cultivated.

Question 4 How many types of paddy are cultivated in West Bengal on the basis of seasons?
Answer: Three types of paddy are cultivated in West Bengal based on the seasons in which they are cultivated —
1. Aman (July- November)
2. Aus (April-August)
3. Boro (November – March)

Question 5 What are the two main characteristic features of agriculture in West Bengal?
Answer:
The two main characteristics of agriculture in West Bengal are—

1. Agriculture is dependent on monsoon winds.
2. Agriculture is labor-intensive.

Question 6 On the basis of seasons, how many types can the crops of West Bengal be divided?
Answer:
On the basis of seasons, the crops of West Bengal can be classified into two types—
1. Kharif crops—paddy, jute, etc.
2. Rabi crops—wheat, potatoes, etc.
3. Zaid crops—maize, groundnut, vegetables, etc.

Question 7 Name the high-yielding variety of jute seeds.
Answer: The high-yielding variety of jute seeds are— Chaitali, Basudev, Sobujsona D-154, JRC- 1108, etc.

Question 8 Mention some tea-producing areas of Darjeeling.
Answer: Happy Valley, Sukhiapokhri, Kurseong, Makaibari, Bijanbari, etc., are some of the notable tea-producing areas of Darjeeling.

Question 9 Name some of the tea-producing areas of the Dooars and Terai region.
Answer: Mai, Jayanti, Chalsa, Nagarkata, Madarihat, Kumargram, etc., are some of the tea-producing areas of the Dooars and Terai region.

Question 10 Write about the uses of jute.
Answer: Jute is the main fiber crop of West Bengal. Its main uses are—
1. Ropes, hawser, etc are made of Jute.
2. Jute is used for the manufacturing of clothes and garments.
3. Jute is used for making a large variety of products such as Hessians, sacks, bags, gunny bags, etc.
4. Dolls, fancy things for house decoration, etc. are made of Jute.
5. Door mats, carpets, and papers are also made of jute.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Multiple Choice Type Questions [Mcq Type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. Among the following, the type of so suitable for agriculture is—
1. Laterite
2. Silt
3. Coastal
4. Mountainous

Answer: 2. Silt

2. Main agricultural product of Darjeeling is—
1. Jute
2. Tea
3. Coffee
4. Paddy

Answer: 2. Tea

3. Which one of the following is not a high-yielding variety of paddy seed?
1. Chaitali
2. Jaya
3. Ratna
4. Padma

Answer: 1. Chaitali1

4. Coffee is a —
1. Plantation crop
2. Fiber crop
3. Food crop
4. None of these

Answer: 1. plantation crop

5. In jute production, West Bengal ranks—
1. 1st
2. 2nd
3. 3rd
4. 4th

Answer: 1. 1st

6. Jute cultivated in West Bengal is a type of-
1. Tossa Jute
2. Golden Jute
3. White Jute
4 Yellow Jute

Answer: 1. Tossa Jute

7. Which one of the following is not a high-yielding jute seed?
1. Chaitali
2. Basudev
3. Jaya
4. Sabujsona

Answer: 3. Jaya

Chapter 8 West Bengal Fill In The Blanks With Suitable Words

1. Purba district is known as the ‘Rice bowl’ of West Bengal.

2. Jute Bardhaman is called golden fiber.

3. Sabujsona is a high-yielding jute seed.

If The Statement Is True, Write True And If False, Write False Against The Following

1. The main commercial crop of West Bengal is potatoes. False 

2. Tea is a cash crop. True

3. Crops that are cultivated for earning money, are called cash crops. True

4. lute is the main agricultural crop of the Rarh region. True

5. Oolong tea is very famous in China. True

6. Purba Bardhaman district is called the ‘Rice bowl of West Bengal’. True

7. Kharif crops are sown in the winter season. False

Chapter 8 West Bengal Match The Left Column With The Right Column

1.

Answer: 1-D,2-C,3-B,4-A

Chapter 8 West Bengal Answer In One Or Two Words

Question Which position does West Bengal hold in India in terms of paddy cultivation?
Answer: First.

Question 2 Name two commercial crops grown in West Bengal.
Answer: Tea and jute.

Question 3 Name a jute research institute in West Bengal.
Answer: Nilgunj near Barrackpore.

Question 4 Which two types of plantation crops are grown in West Bengal?
Answer: Tea and cinchona.

Question 5 Name two food crops grown in West Bengal.
Answer: Paddy and wheat.

Question 6 Name two fiber crops grown in West Bengal.
Answer: Jute and shon.

Question 7 Name an aromatic variety of rice which grows in West Bengal.
Answer: Gobindobhog.

Question 8 What are the main crops of West Bengal?
Answer: Rice, Jute, Tea, etc.

Question 9 Name the associate port of Kolkata.
Answer: Haldia.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Topic G Industry Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What are the reasons for the development of industries in West Bengal?
Answer: Reasons for the development of industries in West Bengal: Among all human activities, industrial development is the most prominent one. Industries help to process different types of raw materials into various useful commodities that are beneficial for mankind.

The factors causing industrial development may be grouped onto two types—
1. Geographical factors and
2. Economic factors.

1. Geographical factors: The geographical factors behind the improvement of industries in West Bengal are as follows—

1. Importance of raw materials: Raw material is the most important factor for industrial development. Certain characteristics of raw materials are important—

1. Nature of utility of raw materials,
2. Erishability of raw materials,
3. Use of alternative raw materials.

2. Availability of power/energy: Energy is required to run the equipment for processing the raw materials. Thermal power and hydroelectricity are the two most widely used powers.

3. Congenial climate: Certain industries need specific climatic conditions. For example—a dry climate for the leather industry, a sunny climate for the film industry,

4. Supply of water: A large amount of water is required for any industry. Teesta, Torsa, Jaldhaka, Raidak, Damodar, Mahananda, and Bhagirathi- Hooghly are the major rivers of West Bengal. Thus an adequate supply of water is also a favorable factor for the development of industries.

5. Presence of Kolkata and Haldia ports: The presence of parts like Kolkata and Haldia helps in international trade through waterways. Import of machinery and other necessary equipment and export of finished products of different industries via these ports create a favorable environment for the establishment of industries in West Bengal.

2. Economic factors: Most important economic factors for the development of industries in West Bengal are as follows—

1. Advanced transport system: Since the raw materials have to be brought to the industrial sites and the finished products are to be taken to the domestic markets as well as for export, the transport system plays a vital role. Developed transport networks and accessibility are therefore important factors for industrial development.

2. Availability of labor: Labour is essential for industrial development. The abundance of skilled labor is important for industrial development. Since West ‘ Bengal is densely populated, labor is readily available.

3. Huge capital: Capital is needed for acquiring land for industries, bringing equipment, wages for laborers, and procuring raw materials. Various governmental and non-governmental institutions have invested huge capital in industrial development in West Bengal.

4. Falta and Kulpi in south 24 parganas,
1. Leather complex at Bantala in Kolkata,
2. Monikanchan SEZ (Saltlake) in Kolkata,
4. Saltlake electronic city in Kolkata.

5. Demand and market: If there is no demand for a particular commodity, production of that commodity is not required. This is the reason why demand and accessible markets are important factors for the development of industries. Products that are produced on an industrial farm in West Bengal have a huge market in India.

3. Political stability: Industrialists can invest in establishing industries if there is political stability instead of frequent change of power in any country or state.

Question 2 Give an account of the main industries of West Bengal.
Answer: Main industries of West Bengal: Although West Bengal is mainly an agricultural state, industries have also flourished here. The main industries of West Bengal are- iron and steel, jute and tea, food processing, cotton textile, tourism, information technology (IT), etc.

1. Iron and steel industry: The first iron and steel industry was established in Kulti (Paschim Bardhaman) in 1870. Another one was established in Burnpur in 1918. The Durgapur industrial belt has developed due to the abundant availability of iron ore, coal, water, electricity, labor, etc., in this region.

2. Jute industry: West Bengal is the leading producer of jute in India. The first jute industry was established in 1855 in Rishra (Hooghly district). At present, there are about 59 jute mills located on either side of river Hooghly.

3. Cotton textile industry: The cultivation of cotton does not take place in West Bengal, but based on the imported cotton, the cotton textile industry has developed here. The first cotton-textile industry was established in Ghusuri (Howrah district). Other centers are in Serampore, Shyamnagar, Sodepur, etc.

4. Tea industry: This is an important industry in West Bengal. The first tea industry was established in 1834. Tea estates were established in Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, etc., There are about 343 tea estates in West Bengal.

 

5. Food processing industry: The food processing industry has developed in West Bengal due to its great demand. Kolkata, Shankarpur, Dumdum, Barasat, and Malda are the main food processing centers in West Bengal.

6. Tourism industry: The tourism industry has developed around various centers like religious places, hilly areas, sea beaches, educational centers, big cities, historical places, etc. Important tourist places of West Bengal are=Koikata (Victoria Memorial, Alipore Zoo, etc.), Sundarbans, Digha, Darjeeling, etc.

7. Information technology industry: This industry has developed in West Bengal and holds an important position in the state. The Electronics Complex (Software Park) of -Salt Lake near Kolkata is famous and further development of this industry is taking place here.

Question 4 Discuss the factors leading to the development of the iron and steel industry in West Bengal.
Answer: Factors leading to the development of the iron and steel industry in West Bengal: The main factors that have led to the development of the iron and steel Industry in West Bengal may be grouped into two types—1. Geographical factors, 2. Economical factors.

1. Geographical factors: Main geographical factors that help to develop iron and steel industries in West Bengal are as follows—

1. Accessibility of raw materials: Ramiganj, Andal, etc. of Paschim Bardhaman are important coal mines of West Bengal. Jharia, India’s largest coal mine is located near West Bengal. Thus coal is easily available in this region. In addition to this iron ore and limestone are also available in this region which helps to develop the iron and steel industry in West Bengal.

2. Favourable climate: The climate of West Bengal is ideal for growing jute. It helps to develop the jute industry in this state.

3. Availability of power sources: Easy availability of power in West Bengal has contributed much to the growth of the jute industry here.

2. Economic causes:
The main economic causes are as follows—

1. Developed communication system: West Bengal is well-connected to the rest of India through roads, railways, and waterways. This plays an important role in the development of the jute industry.

2. Availability of labor: The availability of cheap labor from West Bengal and its neighboring states like Bihar, Jharkhand
, and Odisha has helped in the development of the jute industry.

3. Port facility: The port at Kolkata in West Bengal facilitates the export of jute products and the import of necessary equipment, which further helps in the development of the jute industry.

Question 5 Discuss the problems and prospects of the iron and steel industry of West Bengal.
Answer: Problems of the iron and steel industry:
The main problems of the iron and steel industry of West Bengal are—

1. Unavailability of raw materials when required: Since only coal is available in West Bengal, other raw materials of the iron and steel industry have to be brought from Jharkhand and Odisha. Thus raw materials are not always available as needed. It results in low productivity.

2. Lack of modern technology: Lack of modern technology and equipment are the main problem for the development of iron and steel industries in West Bengal.

3. Unavailability of adequate skilled labor: Although there is an abundance of laborers in West Bengal the number of adequate skilled laborers is very less. It is one of the major constraints for the development of the iron and steel industry.

Question 6 Give an account of the cottage industry of West Bengal.
Answer: Cottage industries in West Bengal: The industry which is involved in the production of goods made by the members of the household with little capital investment and ordinary equipment is known as the cottage industry. Lakhs of people in West Bengal are engaged in cottage industries and the role of those industries has a major contribution, especially in the rural economy.

The various industries here include—

1. Cotton textile industry (‘Tant’): A majority of the people engaged in the cottage- industries are working in the ‘Tant’ industry. In West Bengal, about 6,66,514 people are engaged in this industry either on a full-time or a part-time basis. These textiles are usually woven by hand-driven machines or gadgets. Shantipur and Phulia of Nadia district and Dhanekhali of Hooghly district, Bankura, and Bishnupur are famous for this type of industry. engaged in this industry either on a full-time or a part-time basis. These textiles are usually woven by hand-driven machines or gadgets. Shantipur and Phulia of Nadia district and Dhanekhali of Hooghly district, Bankura, and Bishnupur are famous for this
type of industry.

Clay industry: Kumartuli of Kolkata is famous for making clay idols, Krishnanagar for clay dolls, and Bankura and Bishnupur for terracotta products. Moreover, almost everywhere in the state of West Bengal, clay utensils, pots, etc., are made (especially in the villages) and many people are engaged in it.

3. ‘Bidi’ industry: ‘Bidi’ is made by, filling tobacco into dried ‘kendu’ leaves which are collected from the forests. A large number of people of West Bengal depend on ‘bidi’ making for their livelihood. Aurangabad, Raghunathganj of Murshidabad district, North and South 24 Parganas and Purulia district abound in such a ‘bidi’ making industry.

4. Mat industry: The sticks used for making mats are actually a type of aquatic plant. This industry is famous in Purba and Paschim Medinipur districts.

5. Jute products: Many articles like threads, ropes, carpets, mattresses, bags, and other decorative items for households are produced from jute in the villages of West Bengal. Kaliganj of Nadia district is well known for the weaving of jute fibers and dyeing them.

6. Wooden furniture: Many carpenters in West Bengal are engaged in making beds, wardrobes, chairs, tables, benches, doors, windows, etc.

7. Articles made from iron: Articles like sickles, hammers, axe, spades, plows and other household items are made from iron.

8. Others: Besides these, many industries like molasses-making, silk industry, bamboo products, making of musical instruments, toys as well as articles made of brass and bronze, machines used in rice mills, etc., are scattered all over West Bengal.

Question 7 Discuss the importance of small-scale industries in West Bengal.
Answer: Importance of small-scale industries: Small-scale industries are a grade higher than cottage industries. The total financial investment ranges from Rs.75 lakhs to 1.5 crores involving the construction of small factories, machines, etc. Small-scale industries are very significant in West Bengal.

The importance of small-scale industries is as follows—

1. Financial investment: Investments in small-scale industries are of medium range. However, the overall financial investment is quite large indicating the importance of such industries.

2. Employment: Many people are employed in small-scale industries which has led to the economic development of West Bengal. About 20 lakh people are engaged in the leather industry alone.

3. Huge exports: A large market has developed for the products of small-scale industries both in India and abroad. Thus, a huge amount of foreign exchange is earned from this industry. Items like leather goods, silk, cotton textile, gold jewelry, ceramic products, etc., are especially exported.

4. Development of domestic trade and commerce: As a result of the flourishing small-scale industries, domestic or internal trade and commerce have increased. It is helpful for the economic development of the country.

5. Increase in infrastructure: Roads, electricity, water supply, and other infrastructural facilities have developed around any area where small-scale industries are developing.

Question 8 Discuss the development of the food processing industry in West Bengal.
Answer: Development of the food processing industry in West Bengal: The food processing industry is one of the oldest industries in the history of mankind. At present, various food processing industries have developed in Kolkata, Barasat, Malda, Shankarpuir, Paschim Bardhaman, Dumdum, etc.

The causes of the development of the food processing industry in West Bengal are—

1. Supply of high-quality raw materials: Varieties of agricultural crops(grains, vegetables), animals, and seafood are the raw materials of the food processing industry. The adequate supply of these raw materials has helped in the development
of the industry.

2. Development of technology: Food products are perishable. To maintain the quality of the products, high technology is required, which is available in West Bengal.

3. Development of transport system: The process of gathering fish, meat, and fruit which rot fast have to be produced in the processing house with the help of a good transport system which is available in West Bengal.

4. Food habits: The demand for processed food is high in West Bengal. This makes it a flourishing center for the food processing industry.

5. Government policy: Government policies are quite favorable towards food processing industries in West Bengal.

Question 9 What is the tourism industry? What are the causes of the development of the tourism industry in West Bengal?
Answer: Tourism industry: When people travel from one place to another for entertainment, leisure, business, and educational purposes and attain satisfaction, it is called tourism. When the development of infrastructural facilities like roads, hotels, resorts, etc., are made for such purposes, it is then considered an industry.

Causes of development of tourism industry in West Bengal: Main causes of the development of the tourism industry in West Bengal are—

1. Diversity in the physical environment: The lofty and majestic Himalayan mountains in the north, the beautiful Bay of Bengal to the south, the physical features of the western plateau, Terai, Dooars of the northern part, and Sundarbans of the southern part provide an exquisite variety of natural or scenic beauty in West Bengal which has led to the development of tourism industry here.

2. Historical and cultural centers: Historical, cultural, and religious centers like Haldia; Murshidabad, Kolkata, Santiniketan, Bandel, Imambara, etc. attract tourists from different parts of the world.

3. Transport facility: All the major tourist centers are connected with a good network of roads, railways, airways, waterways, air-conditioned buses, helicopters, steamers, etc. These have benefited tourists to travel from one place to another.

4. Development of hotels and resorts: New hotels and resorts have come up in historical places. Eco-resorts and tree houses are attracting tourists in the Terai and Oooars in the northern and Sundarbans in the southern part of the state.

5. Tourist guides: The tourist guides make people aware of the tourist places, such as the importance of these places and the conservation of heritage sites, etc. They aid in the development of the tourism industry.

6. Local festivals: Sharadiya Festival of Kolkata, Poushmela of Santiniketan, Jagadhatri Puja of Chandannagar, Kolkata’s New Year celebration, etc., have led to the development of the tourism industry.

Question 10 What is the Information Technology industry? What are the causes of the development of the IT industry in West Bengal?
Answer: The information Technology industry: Collection of data, their analysis, research, change, and modification by using computers and telecommunication is called the Information Technology (IT) industry.

The main parts of the IT industry are—

1. Production of software,
2. Telephone,
3. Data collection and its preservation or storage,
4. Exchange of data and information.

Causes of development of the IT industry:
The main causes of the development of the IT industry in West Bengal are—

1. Abundance of human resource: Human resource is the main resource of this industry. Knowledge of software, hardware, etc., imparted to students from the school level has contributed to the development of this industry.

2. Availability of vocational training: In West Bengal, vocational training related to Information Technology is imparted in quite a number of reputed institutions. Many skilled workers are the products of these institutions.

3. Outsourcing: Most of the IT work comes from foreign countries. Thus, work from foreign countries can be done sitting at home in West Bengal itself. The profit earned by foreign countries is very large since the work is done at a much cheaper rate.

4. Sufficient investment: Big companies like IBM, TCS, Infosys, Wipro, and Siemens invest much capital in this industry. Besides them, other organizations have also come forward to invest nowadays.

5. Infrastructural development: Infrastructure and other amenities of Rajarhat, Salt Lake, Siliguri, Kalyani, etc., have been developed to a great extent by the Government of West Bengal. They include the development of roads, electricity, drinking water, transport, communication, etc. Thus, this industry has great potential in the coming days.

Chapter 8 west Bengal Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Why is Howrah called the ‘Glasgow of India’?
Answer: The headquarters of the Howrah district is Howrah. Howrah, the second largest city of West Bengal is located opposite Kolkata on the western bank of the Hooghly river. Howrah is an important town in the Hooghly industrial region. The jute industry, engineering industry, cotton, textile, and other industries are developed here. A large number of engineering industries are situated here like the Glasgow city of England, so the city is called the ‘Glasgow of India’

Question 2 Why is Durgapur called the ‘Steel city?
Answer:  Durgapur is one of the modern industrial cities in West Bengal. Here the engineering industries are highly developed. The Durgapur Steel Plant (DSP), Alloy Steel Plant (ASP), and Central Mechanical Research Institute are located here. In the steel factory of Durgapur, ‘stainless steel’ is made by mixing chromium and nickel. With the help of the joint venture of Canada and Japan, alloy steel is manufactured here. The variety of steel projects has made Durgapur a ‘Steel City’.

Question 3 Durgapur is called the ‘Ruhr of India’.
Answer: Ruhr is a small tributary river of the river Rhine of Germany. Industries have developed in this area based on coal found in abundance here.
The whole region is called the Ruhr Industrial Region. In West Bengal, coal is found in the Damodar river valley of Paschim Bardhaman district. The iron and steel industry, cement industry, engineering industry, etc. have developed here based on the available storage of coal. That is why Durgapr is called the Ruhr of India

Question 4 Write a short note on IISCO.
Answer: The first iron and steel industry in India was established in Kulti in 1870 and another one was established in Burnpur in 1918. The Indian Iron and Steel Company (IISCO) is the collaboration of these two plants. During the fifth five-year plan another iron and steel plant was established at Durgapur in Paschim Bardhaman district with the help of IISCO. Later it was amalgamated with a government organization named SAIL.

Causes of development: The main causes of the development of IISC are as follows—

1. Availability of coal from Raniganj and Jharia coal mines;

2. Accessibility of iron ore from Noamudi, Gua in Jharkhand and Gorumahisani, Badampahar in Odisha;

3. Available other raw materials such as limestone (Birmitrapur), manganese (Gangpur), and dolomite;

4. Abundance of water from Damodar and Barakar rivers;

5. Availability of power resources from Durgapur and Mejia thermal power plants developed here. A large number of engineering industries are situated here like the Glasgow city of England, so the city is called the ‘Glasgow of India’.

Question 5 Discuss the problems and prospects of the tourism industry in West Bengal.
Answer:
Problems of the tourism industry in West Bengal: The main problems of the tourism industry in West Bengal are—

1. Lack of modern technology: The modern technology that is used by developed countries for the food processing industry is not available in West Bengal.

2. Lack of crop preservation: In West Bengal, the lack of proper crop preservation techniques decreases industrial demand.

3. Prospects of the food processing industry: The food processing industry is gaining importance. Adequate help from the Government, food park, cold storage, plans by the center, awareness regarding preservation, and control of pollution will help the growth of the food processing industry.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is information technology?
Answer: Information technology refers to the storage, receiving, sending, coding, decoding, and editing of data with the help of computers and telecommunication.

Question 2 What are the different parts of the information technology industry?
Answer: Collection of data, analysis of collected data, research, transformation, and deletion of data through the computer and telecommunication systems are used for business purposes.
The main sections of IT industries are software production, telephone service, center for data collection and maintenance, data exchange centers, etc.

Question 3 State the major companies associated with the food processing industry of West Bengal.
Answer: The major food processing companies are— Mother Dairy, Haldiram’s, Anmol Biscuit Limited, Raja Biscuit, K C Das and Sons, etc.

Question 4 Where and when was the first jute mill established in West Bengal?
Answer: The first jute mill was established in Rishra of the Hooghly district of West Bengal in 1855.

Question 5 When and where was the first cotton mill established in Kolkata?
Answer: The first cotton mill was established in 1818 in Ghusuri of Howrah.

Question 6 What is outsourcing?
Answer: The process of carrying out work in a comparatively cheaper way and increasing the standard and skill of a company, by an overseas organization is called outsourcing. Since the service cost is less in India, much of the work from America and Europe are sent here (in the form of data) which is processed and sent back. Kolkata is a leading provider of outsourcing.

Question 7 What is the food processing industry?
Answer: The industry that deals with the packaging and processing of food is called the food processing industry. In this industry, food that is perishable and cannot be consumed directly is processed through different scientific processes, like preservation, refrigeration, canning, irradiation, drying, salting, smoking, and fermentation. Examples—are fruit juice, jam, jelly, pickle, and chips-producing industries.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Multiple Choice Type Questions [Mcq Type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. Most developed industry of Salt Lake is that of—
1. Iron And Steel
2. Information Technology
3. Jute
4. Cotton And Textile

Answer: 2. Information Technology

2. The dairy industry in West Bengal has developed in—
1. Raichak
2. Haldia
3. Kakdwip
4. Dankuni

Answer: 4. Dankuni

3. Iron and steel industry has developed in—
1. Kharagpur
2. Kakdwip
3. Durgapur
4. Islampur

Answer: 3. Durgapur

4. Food Processing Research Centre is located at=
1. Barasat
2. Naihati
3. Panagarh
4. Asansol

Answer: 1. Barasat

5. The process of collection of data, hardware, and software-related activities from the—
1. Tourism Industry
2. Tant Industry
3. Information Technology Industry
4. Food Processing Industry

Answer: 3. Information Technology Industry

6.’Steel city’ of West Bengal is—
1. Durgapur
2. Gangpur
3. Bolpur
4. Santipur

Answer: 1. Durgapur

7. What Coal of the Damodar valley region is at which age?
1. Gondawana
2. Tertiary
3. Paleozoic
4. Quaternary

Answer: 1. Gondawana

8. Geothermal power station of West Bengal is located at—
1. Palta
2. Sagar island
3. Frazerganj
4. Bakreshwar

Answer: 4. Bakreshwar

9. Famous small-scale industry of Cooch Behar is—
1. Wooden doll
2. Dokra
3. Terracotta
4. Shitalpati

Answer: 4. Shitalpati

10. The word ‘Outsourcing’ is related to—
1. Food Processing Industry
2. Cotton Textile Industry
3. Information Technology Industry
4. Tourism Industry

Answer: 4. Tourism Industry

11. Heart of the information technology industry of West Bengal is at—
1. Asansol
2. Durgapur
3. Salt Lake
4. Kalyani

Answer: 3. Salt Lake

12. The main raw material for the bidi industry is—
1. Kendu leaves
2. Sal leaves
3. Palash leaves
4. Khair leaves

Answer: 1. Kendu leaves

13. Cake or Biscuit producing industry is called—
1. Dairy
2. Flour
3. Bakery
4. None of them

Answer: 3. Bakery

Chapter 8 West Bengal Fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. Durapur is called the ‘Ruhr of India’.

2. The first iron and steel industry was established at Kulti in West Bengal in 1870.

3. The product quality of food processing industries in West Bengal at Barasat

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal If The Statement Is True, Write True, And If False Write False Against The Following

 

1. Rajarhat-Newtown is an information technology hub in Kolkata. True 

2. Haldia is an important industrial zone of West Bengal. True 

3. Siliguri is called the ‘Iron and Steel City. False 

4. Howrah is known as the ‘Sheffield of India’. True 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Match the Left column with the Right column

1.

Left Column	Right Column
1. Iron and Steel	A. Budge Budge
2. Tea	B. Durgapur
3. Jute	C.  Rajarhat
4. Information and – Technology	D. Alipurduar

Answer:1-B,2-D,3-A,4-C

2.

Left Column	Right Column
1. Cotton-textile industrial center	A. Sea beach of Digha
2. Jute industrial centre	B. Shankarpur
3. Tourism center	C. Ghusuri in Howrah district
4.  Food-processing center	D. Rishra in Hooghly district

Answer:1-C,2-D,3-A,4-B

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Answer in One Or Two Words

Question 1 Which city is called the ‘Ruhr of India’?
Answer: Durgapur.

Question 2 Name two areas of the fish processing industry.
Answer: Shankarpur and Jaunput.

Question 3 Name two areas of the milk processing industry.
Answer: Dankuni and Asansol.

Question 4 Name two centers of mineral water
Answer: processing in West Bengal Kalyani and Berhampore.

Question 5 Name two food parks of West Bengal.
Answer: Shankarpur and Kakdwip.

Question 6 Which city is called the ‘Glasgow of India’?
Answer: Howrah.

Question 7 What is the full form of SEZ?
Answer: Special Economic Zone.

Question 8 What is the main industry of Hooghly industrial belt?
Answer: Jute industry (in dissenting opinion engineering industry).

Question 9 What is the full name of SAIL?
Answer: Steel Authority of India limited.

Question 10 Which is the largest cottage industry in West Bengal?
Answer: Handloom industry.

Question 11 Which industry is called the ‘Sunset industry’ in India?
Answer: Jute industry (In dissenting opinion petrochemical industry).

Question 12 Where has the rope-making industry developed in Wet Bengal?
Answer: Uluberia in Howrah district.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Topic H City, Port And Tourist Place Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is the state?main cities and towns of West Bengal? Give an account of Kolkata as the
Answer: The main cities and towns of West Bengal:
The census of India has designated those places as cities that have the following criteria—a population of more than 5000, a population density of more than 400 persons per sq km, and at least 75% of the people engaged in non-agricultural activities.

The major cities of West Bengal include Kolkata, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, Durgapur, Krishnanagar, Bolpur, Raniganj, English Bazar, Medinipur, Bankura, Malda, Bardhaman, Asansol, Haldia, Berhampore, Purulia, Shantipur, Chakdah, Ranaghat, Nabadweep, Balurghat, Chandannagar, Barrackpore, Howrah, Alipore, Barasat, Kalyani, Bongaon, Basirhat, etc.

Kolkata as the capital of West Bengal: Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal. Thus it is of much importance in this state.

1. Location: The capital of West Bengal, Kolkata is situated on the left bank of river Hooghly about 130 km inland from the mouth of river Ganga. This is one of the most significant cities in India.

2. Year of establishment: Job Charnock, the governor of the East India Company established the city of Calcutta on August 24, 1690. The three villages of Sutanuti, Govindapur, and Kalikata were united to form this city. Calcutta was the capital of India under British rule till 1911. In 2001, the government of West Bengal decided to change the name of Calcutta to Kolkata officially. Information technology center Science City Jariavpur University Marble Palace

3. Importance of the city of Kolkata:
Kolkata is a very important city. Some of the important features of Kolkata are as follows—

1. Commercial capital: Having an area of about 185 sq. km, Kolkata is India’s main commercial center and the capital of West Bengal.

2. City of Palaces: Kolkata boasts of having quite a number of beautiful palaces and heritage buildings (like the Marble Palace of Raja Rajendra Mullick in north Kolkata, Rabindranath Tagore’s house in Jorasanko, Palace of Sovabazar, etc.). This is why Kolkata is known as the ‘City of Palaces’.

3. Population: Kolkata is one of the most important cities in India the city’s, population is about 4496694 (2011) and the population density is about 24306 persons per sq. km (2011).

4. Centre of education, culture, trade, and commerce: Kolkata is the main center of education, culture, trade, and commerce of east and north-east India.

5. Industrial center: Many industries have developed with Kolkata as its center, like, the jute industry, engineering industry, textile industry, paper industry, etc.

6. Centre of communication: Kolkata is the headquarter of the eastern and south-eastern railways. Dumdum, the only international airport in east India, is in Kolkata. National Highways like NH 2, NH 34, NH 35, and NH 6 alt pass through Kolkata.

7. Others:
Other significant features of Kolkata are—
(i) The only underground metro railway in eastern India is located here,
(ii) Kolkata is the main port of West Bengal,
(iii) The popular tourist spots of Kolkata are—Museum, Alipore Zoo, Victoria Memorial Hall, Birla Planetarium, Science City, etc.
(iv) As per the book entitled ‘City of Joy’ by the famous author Dominique Lapierre, the people of Kolkata are ever-happy in spite of all the sufferings endured by them. That is why it is called the ‘City of Joy’.

Question 2 Mention the major ports of West Bengal. State the importance of Kolkata port.
Answer: Major ports of West Bengal: The term ‘port’ has been derived from the Latin word ‘parte’ meaning ‘entrance door. In other words, a port means a place where entry is made between land and sea and also from sea to land through which transport or flow of goods and passengers is made. The major ports of West Bengal are Kolkata (located on the left bank of river Hooghly) and Haldia. They are riverine ports.

Importance of Kolkata port: Kolkata is a riverine port. About 130 km inland from the Bay of Bengal, it is located on the left bank of the river Hooghly. The hinterland of Kolkata port covers an area of about 13 lakh sq km. Kolkata port plays a vital role in the economic development of West Bengal.

1. Control over trade: Kolkata port has a very significant role in the economy of West Bengal) and even north-east India as well as Nepal and Bhutan. The exports and imports of this vast region are all handled by this port.

2. Earning foreign exchange: Since international trade is carried out through this port, the city earns foreign exchange.

3. Aid to industries: Products of West Bengal) like jute products, coal, tea (from Assam, Darjeeling), iron-ore (from Bihar and Odisha), mica, etc., are all exported from this port.

4. Aid to agriculture: Fertilisers, pesticides, equipment, etc., required for agricultural practices are imported through this port.

5. Employment opportunities: Lakhs of people are either directly or indirectly influenced by this port for getting employment opportunities in the agricultural, industrial, trade, and commerce sectors, etc. Besides, a large number of people also get employment as laborers within the port area itself.

6. Development of transport: Taking advantage of the Kolkata port, a good network of roads, railways, and water transport has developed not only in West Bengal but also throughout northeast India.

7. Import of food crops: Since West Bengal is not totally self-dependent on food crops produced in the state, a lot has to be imported through the Kolkata port. These are the reasons why the port of Kolkata is such a significant port among all other ports of West Bengal.

Question 3 Discuss the reasons for the rise and fall of Kolkata port.
Answer: Reasons for the rise or development of Kolkata port: The conducive factors leading to the development of Kolkata port are—

1. British interest: The port of Kolkata was established in the nineteenth century during the British period. They established it on the banks of river Hooghly in order to facilitate the transport of industrial raw materials, defense equipment, etc to India.

2. Navigability of Bhagirathi-Hooghly river: Since the depth of the river is more and the navigability of this river is quite high, ships could ply smoothly through this river to the sea.

3. Resource-rich hinterland: The Kolkata port has a huge hinterland encompassing almost the whole of eastern India. This region has rich natural resources like tea, jute, rice, etc., (agricultural) as well as coal, iron ore, mica, etc., (minerals), along with forest-based resources. Besides, the established industries of tea, jute, engineering, cement, paper, etc., have made this region densely populated.

4. Availability of labor: Kolkata is a densely populated metropolis, and laborers, required for port activities are easily available.

5. Developed transport system: Kolkata is linked to all parts of eastern India through a well-developed transport network like the south-eastern railway, national highways (like NH 6 and NH 34), etc.

6. Conducive physical environment: The areas in and around Kolkata have the advantage of having flat places and delta, congenial moderate climate, etc., which are all conducive to the development of a port.

7. Location of the center of trade: Kolkata being the main industrial and trade center of eastern India, has naturally developed as a port.

Reasons for the downfall of Kolkata port: This port is gradually losing its significance due to the following factors—

1. Decrease in navigability of Kolkata port: Due to continuous siltation on the river bed over a long period of time, the river bed has risen and therefore navigability has decreased. As a result, ships cannot ply much inland from the sea through this river.

2. Meandering nature of river: Numerous meanders of the river from its mouth to the Kolkata port, hinder the smooth plying of big ships inland.

3. Presence of huge sandbars in the river: The river has about 14-15 big sandbars stretching from the mouth of the river to Kolkata port. This is why large ships cannot enter Kolkata port easily.

4. Lack of space and infrastructure in the port: Due to lack of space, many ships cannot be anchored at the same time. Lack of jetties also hampers the loading and unloading of larger quantities of materials from ships. This industry helps in the economic development of West Bengal. The tourist sites of West Bengal are

Question 4 Discuss the various tourism sites of West Bengal.
Answer: Tourism sites of West Bengal: Traveling from one place to another either for business, leisure or for entertainment purposes is called tourism. Tourist guides, agencies, etc., are part of the tourism industry.

This industry helps in the economic development of West Bengal. The tourist sites of West Bengal are—

 

Nature of tourist center	Centre	District	Places of attraction
1. Town or city	1. Kolkata	Kolkata	Victoria Memorial, Alipore Zoo, Museum, etc.
	2. Jhargram	Paschim Medinipur	Salbani, Jhargram Rajbari, etc.
	3. Chandannagar	Hooghly	Laldighi, Aliadurg, French museum, house of Rashbehari Bose. etc.
	4 Krishnanagar	Nadia	Rajbari. Roman Catholic church, etc.
2. Mountains and hills	1. Darjeeling	Darjeeling	Rock garden. Tea gardens, Kangchenjunga, Tiger hill, etc.
	2. Ayodhya Hills	Purulia	Tribal house. Sitakunda. etc.
	3. Susunia Hill	Bankura	Vishalakshi temple, Gandheswari river, etc.
3. Sea beaches	1. Digha	Purba Medinipur	Sea beach, Amarabati park. Snake Park. etc.
	2. Shankarpur	Purba Medinipur	Sea beach, fishing port, etc.
	3. Bakkhali	South 24 Parganas	Henry island, the temple of Banadevi. etc.
4. Forests	1. Sundarbans	North and South 24 Parganas	Sagar Island. Sajnekhali, Lothian island. Mangrove forests (famous for Royal Bengal Tigers, mangrove trees, and other animal and plant species), etc.
	2. Jaldapara	Alipurduar	Jaldapara National Park (famous for one-horned rhinoceros, bison, elephant, etc.)
5. Historical places	1. Bishnupur	Bankura	Rashmancha,    Madanmohan temple, Chinnamasta temple. Lalbandh, Jamunabandh, etc.
	2. Plassey	Murshidabad	Mango orchard, Vijay Minar, House of Nawab, Hazarduarl, etc.
6. Religious places	1. Belur Math	Howrah	Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Museum, etc.
	2. Ghutiari Sharif	South 24 Parganas	Gazi Baba’s bazar, Mecca pukur, etc.
	3. Tarapith	Birbhum	Tarapith temple, crematorium on banks of Dwarka river, etc.
7. Cultural places	1. Santiniketan	Birbhum	Visva-Bharati University. Tagore’s Ashram,    Ballavpur    Wildlife Sanctuary, Khoai, etc.
	2. Jorasanko Thakurbari	Kolkata	Thakurbari Museum (famous for antiques used by the Tagore family and Basanta Utsab.

 

Chapter 8 west Bengal Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

Question 1 Discuss the causes of the development of the Haldia port.
Answer: The causes of the development of the Haldia Port are as follows—
1. As support to help the Kolkata port: The importance of Kolkata port has decreased since the navigability of the river
Hooghly has decreased due to siltation. As a result, big ships are not able to enter the port. This is the reason why the port of Haldia has been established at the junction of the Hooghly and Haldi rivers.

2. Easy availability of land: Easy availability of land has facilitated the infrastructural development of the Haldia port.

3. Fulfilling the demand for trade and commerce: The import and export of raw materials and products through Haldia port fulfill the demand for trade and commerce and this helps in the development of this port.

Question 2 Why is Siliguri called ‘North-east India’? Gateway of Northeast India?
Answer: Siliguri is the headquarters of the Darjeeling district. NH 31 and NH 34 pass through this town. These national highways are connected with Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and
Tripura. The eastern railway, north-eastern railway, and Bagdogra airport are located here, which connect Kolkata, Patna, and Guwahati. This is why Siliguri is known Gateway of Northeast India.

Question 3 What are the bases of origin of cities in West Bengal?
Answer: West Bengal has the second highest population density (1028 persons per sq. km) in India, after Bihar. The bases of the origin of cities in
West Bengal is as follows—

1. Educational and cultural center: Proper educational and recreational facilities enhance the growth of a city. People are also attracted to the cultural center of a region, which helps to develop a city. Example—Shantiniketan.

2. Tourist center: A famous tourist spot always attracts people from different places. It helps to grow restaurants, lodges and other business opportunities that lead to the origin of a city. Example— Darjeeling.

3. Commercial center: A commercial center always tends to grow business and supports employment, which helps to develop a city. Example—Haldia.

4. Industrial center: An industrial center always tends to increase productivity which increases employment facilities and leads to population growth. As a result, a city develops. Example—Asansol.

5. Mining center: Cities may also develop around mines, because of employment opportunities and other socio-economic facilities. Example—Raniganj city around a coal mine.

Question 4 Write about a tourist spot in West Bengal.
Answer: A brief description of a tourist spot in West Bengal is given below—

1. Location: An important tourist spot in West Bengal is Darjeeling. It is a famous hill station located in the eastern Himalayas.

2. Communication: Darjeeling hill station can be reached from Siliguri through the roadways or by the toy train.

3. Climate: Due to the high altitude, the weather of this place is very pleasant in summer, and snowfall may occur in winter. Spring and summer are the ideal time to visit Darjeeling.

4. Places of attraction:
1. Tiger hill is famous for the stunning view of sunrise and Kanchanjunga peak.
2. Mall is the heart of Darjeeling.
3. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is an important place for mountaineers.
4 Adjacent areas of Darjeeling like, Mirik, Kurseong, etc. are also famous places to visit. On the way up the hill from the plain, the beauty of the forest is mesmerizing.

Question 5 The importance of the Kolkata port is declining gradually. why?
Answer: Kolkata was considered one of the best ports in India. However, its importance is declining due to the following reasons—

1. Decrease in navigability of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river: The regular deposition of sediment (silt and sand) has
decreased the navigability of the BhagirathiHooghly river. Thus, the entry of big ships is becoming difficult in Kolkata port.

2. Meandering nature of Hooghly river: Numerous big and small meanders exist on the Hooghly river (from its mouth to Kolkata port). This causes difficulties for the ships to enter.

3. Other causes: Since other ports like Paradip, Visakhapatnam, Haldia, etc., have been established, the hinterland of Kolkata port has decreased. Moreover, excessive taxes, labor dissatisfaction, etc., are also diminishing the importance of the Kolkata port.

Question 6 ‘The underdeveloped Sundarbans region/called aExplain.backward or underdeveloped region.’Explain.
Answer: The Sundarbans are called a backward or underdeveloped region because of the following reasons—

1. Agricultural problem: The area is comprised of saline soil. Besides, outdated and traditional methods of cultivation are
prevalent here which are not favorable for agricultural development.

2. Lack of mineral resources: Mineral resources have not been found in this region. Thus industries based on these minerals have not developed here.

3. Underdeveloped transport: The area is riverine in nature and so roadway and railway facilities are not developed here properly. Boats and steamers are the main modes of transport in this region.

4. Lack of electricity: Many small islands here are devoid of electricity. Thus, even small industries have not developed here.

5. Natural hazards: Oceanic cyclones, tsunamis, floods, breaking of dams, etc., are the main problems of this region. They cause much loss of life and property in this region.

Question 7 ‘The Sundarban area has a low population/ Why?
Answer:
The Sundarban area has a low population because—

1. The agricultural land available is very small.

2. The soil is saline and so agricultural production is low.

3. Irrigation facility is poor in this region.

4. Transport and communication are outdated and underdeveloped.

5. There is no industry in this area.

6. Frequent occurrence of natural hazards like cyclones, and floods.

7. Presence of insects, snakes, and wild animals tigers are the main causes wild of the low population in this system is

Question 8 Kolkata and Howarah are called ‘Twin Cities’ Explain.
Answer: The two main and significant cities of West Bengal are Kolkata and Howrah. These cities are located on either bank of the river Hooghly. Kolkata is located on the eastern bank and is the capital of West Bengal, while Howrah which is the main industrial city of West Bengal lies on the western bank of the Hooghly river. These two cities are connected by two bridges that have been built over the river Hooghly— the Hpwrah Bridge or Rabindra Setu and Second Hooghly Bridge or Vidyasagar Setu. Kolkata is the center of trade and commerce, politics, and culture. On the other hand, Howrah is known as the ‘Glasgow of India’ and stands out as an important industrial center. These two cities are dependent on each other and this is the reason why they are called ‘Twin Cities’.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1 What is a city?
Answer:

City:-

A city is a place where the minimum population is at least 5000 and the population density is more than 400 per sq km and at least 75% of the total population is engaged in non-agricultural activities. For example, Asansol.

Question 2 What is megalopolis?
Answer:

Megalopolis:-

The Greek word ‘Megas’ means big. Megalopolis means a big city. It has a population of more than 10 lakhs. For example, Koikata.

Question 3 Mention some of the tourist places in Kolkata.
Answer:

Tourist Places In Kolkata:-

The tourist places of Koikata are—Indian Museum, Victoria Memorial Hall, Birla Planetarium, Science City, etc.

Question 4 Who established the city of Kolkata and when?
Answer:

City Of Kolkata:-

Kolkata was founded by Job Charnock in 1690. The city was founded by combining the 3 villages of Kolkata, Sutanuti, and Gobindapur.

Chapter 8 West Bengal Multiple Choice Type Questions [Mcq Type]

Write The Correct Answer From The Given Alternatives

1. The most urbanized district of West Bengal is—
1. Howrah
2. Bankura
3. Kolkata
4. Paschim Bardhaman]

Answer: 3. Kolkata

2.’Adra’ in Purulia district is a—
1. Fishing Centre
2. District Headquarters
3. Healthy Place
4. Railway Junction

Answer: 4. Railway Junction

3. District town of Purba Medinipur is—
1. Digha
2. Kanthi
3. Tamluk
4. Ghatal

Answer: 3. Tamluk

4. Fishing port has developed in —
1. Sankarpur
2. Krishnanagar
3. Durgapur
4. Islampur

Answer: 1. Sankarpur

5. Santiniketan is situated in—
1. Purba Bardhaman
2. Nadia
3. Howrah
4. Birbhum

Answer: 4. Birbhum

6. An example of a Land port is—
1. Haldia
2. Kolkata
3. Berhampur
4. Petrapole

Answer: 4. Petrapole

7. Plassey is situated in—
1. Murshidabad
2. Bankura
3. Howrah
4. Hooghly

Answer: 1. Murshidabad

8. Dolls and statues made of burnt clay is world famous from the region of—
1. Ghatal
2. Chandipur
3. Shantipur
4. Bishnupur

Answer: 4. Bishnupur

9. Tarapith is a—
1. Historical Place
2. Seaside Resort
3. Religions Place
4. Commercial Centre

Answer: 3. Religions Place

10. An example of a metropolitan city is—
1. Berhampore
2. Balurghat
3. Darjeeling
4. Kolkata

Answer: 4. Kolkata

11. Chhau dance is famous in—
1. Purulia
2. Bankura
3. Howrah
4. Birbhum

Answer: 1. Purulia

12. The Royal Bengal Tiger is seen in —
1. Bishnupur
2. Sundarbans
3. Bakkhali
4. Jaldapara

Answer: 2. Sundarbans

13. Shantiniketan is a tourist spot.
1. Natural
2. Religious
3. Cultural
4. Historical

Answer: 3. Cultural

14. The famous tourist spot to visit in summer is—
1. Bakresbwar
2. Bishnupur
3. Kalimpong
4. Ayoddha hills

Answer: 3. Kalimpong

15. One of the seven wonders of India is—
1. Victoria Memorial
2. Biswabharati
3. Tagore house at Jorasanko
4. Sagar island

Answer: 1. Victoria Memorial

Chapter 8 West Bengal Fill The Blanks With Suitable Words

1. Apart from Kolkata, Haldia is an important part of West Bengal.

2. Kolkata is called the ‘City of Palaces’.

3. As per the census report, 2011, the population of West Bengal is 91,276,115

4. As per the census report, 2011, the population density of West Bengal is 1028 person/sq km

5. Hazarduari is situated in the Murshidabad district

6. The biggest city of the Ganga delta region is Kolkata

7. A tourist spot in West Bengal is a tiger

8. According to population density West Bengal ranks second position in India.

9. Imambara is located in the Hooghly district.

10. English Bazar is the headquarters of Malda district.

11. Siliguri is the Gateway of north-east

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal If The Statement Is True, Write True, And If False Write False Against The Following

1. The highest railway station in India is Ghoom. True 

2. Pedong is a small town near Kalimpong. True 

3. A historical tourist spot in West Bengal is Hazarduari. True 

4. Darjeeling is a hill station. True 

5. The headquarters of Murshidabad district is Chin sura. False

6. Kolkata and Howrah are called Twin Cities. True 

7. Sajnekhali is a spectacular spot in the Sundarbans. True 

8. Berhampore is called the ‘City of Palaces’. False

9. Hoogly port is a contemporary or supportive port of Kolkata port. False

10. Bird sanctuary is located in the Jalpaiguri district. False

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Matches The Left Column With The Right Column

1.

Left Column	Right Column
1. Glasgow of India	A. Durgapur
2. Ruhr of India	B. Siliguri
3. Capital of west bengal	C. Howrah
4. Gateway to northeast India	D. Kolkata

Answer: 1-C,2-A,3-D,4-B

2.

Left Column	Right Column
1. Jaldapara	A. Botanical garden
2. Shibpur	B. Hazarduri
3. Murshidabad	C. Victoria memorial
4. Kolkata	D. One-horned rhinoceros

Answer: 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

Chapter 8 West Bengal Answer In One Or Two Words

Question 1 Balurghat is the headquarters of which district?
Answer: Dakshin Dinajpur.

Question 2 Which city is called the ‘City of Joy’?
Answer: Kolkata.

Question 3 What is the capital of West Bengal?
Answer: Kolkata.

Question 4 In which district is Bolpur located?
Answer: Birbhum.

Question 5 Which is the ‘commercial hub’ of north Bengal?
Answer: Siliguri.

Question 6 Name the associate port of Kolkata.
Answer: Haldia.

Question 7 How many ‘million cities’ are there in West Bengal?
Answer: Two.

Question 8 In which district is the Iscon temple located?
Answer: Nadia.

Question 9 What is the main attraction of Jaldapara National Park?
Answer: One-horned rhinoceros.

Question 10 Which city is called ‘the black diamond city’ of West Bengal?
Answer: Asansol.

 

Chapter 8 West Bengal Map Pointing

Question 1 Locate the following with appropriate symbols and names on an outline map of West Bengal.
Answer:

1. Northern hilly region of West Bengal
2. Haldia port
3. River Damodar
4. A main rice-producing region
5. An iron and steel industrial region
6. A jute industrial region
7. Krishnanagar
8. Coastal soil region
9. A newly formed district
10. A food processing industrial center

Question 2 Locate the following with appropriate symbols and names on an outline map of west bengal
Answer:

1. River Bhagirathi
2. Kolkata
. A place receiving high rainfall
4. Mangrove forest
5. The main tea-producing region
6. A thermal power plant
7. Santiniketan
8. Balurghat
9. Rarh plains
10. River Ajoy

Question 3 Locate the following with appropriate symbols and Bengal.
Answer:

1. Ajodhya hills
2. RiverTeesta
3. Digha
4. Bakreswars. The soil of the plateau region
6. Siliguri
7. Kolkata port
8. An iron and steel industrial center
9. Sandakphu
10. A jute-producing region

 

Question 4 Locate the following with appropriate symbols and names on an outline map of West Bengal
Answer:

1. The coldest district of west bengal
2. Bakkhail
3. River Ganga
4. plateau region of west bengal
5. Soil of the terai region
6. A historical region place
7. jaldapara national park
8. Tropic of cancer
9. Haldia indusrtrial region
10. An active delta region

Question 5 Locate the following with appropriate symbols and names on an outline map of West Bengal
Answer:

1. A hill station
2. Plains of North Bengal
3. River Mahananda
4. An information technology industrial center
5. City of Palaces
6. Alipurduar
7. Berhampore
8. A food processing research center
9. Susunia Hills
10. A land port