GSEB Class 8 Social Science Solutions Chapter 7 Environmental Changes

Answer the Following Questions:

 

Question 1. What is climate ?
Answer: The average condition of rainfall, temperature, and moisture in a region for over 35 years is called 'Climate'.
In simple words: Climate is the usual weather, including rain and warmth, that a place experiences for a very long time, typically more than 35 years.

Exam Tip: Remember that 'climate' describes long-term average weather, distinguishing it from 'weather' which refers to short-term conditions. Always specify the long duration (e.g., "over 35 years").

 

Question 2. What do you mean by ‘Greenhouse Effect' ?
Answer: Countries with cold weather get less heat from the sun. This makes it difficult for plants and vegetables to grow. Therefore, special arrangements are made to keep heat by having a glass or cloth roof. This roof allows sunlight to enter and holds the warmth created by carbon dioxide and water vapor. This process is known as the 'Greenhouse Effect', and this type of cultivation is called 'Greenhouse Farming'.
In simple words: The greenhouse effect is when heat gets trapped, often in cold places, to help plants grow. Glass roofs let sunlight in and keep the warmth from gases like carbon dioxide, making the area warm like a greenhouse.

Exam Tip: Explain both the natural phenomenon of heat retention by gases in the atmosphere (Greenhouse Effect) and its application in agriculture (Greenhouse Farming) for a complete answer.

 

Question 3. What is global warming ?
Answer: Global warming means an uneven and continuous increase in the Earth's average temperature due to the greenhouse effect. Certain gases, such as carbon dioxide, trap infrared rays (UV radiation), which causes the planet's temperature to rise. The Earth becomes warmer. This process is called 'Global Warming'.
In simple words: Global warming is the ongoing rise in Earth's temperature because gases in the air trap too much heat, making the planet hotter.

Exam Tip: Define global warming by linking it to the greenhouse effect and the trapping of infrared rays, which leads to a noticeable increase in Earth's average temperature.

 

Question 4. List down the possible adverse effects of global warming. OR Write a short note on: Discuss the adverse effects of climate change.
Answer: Adverse effects of global warming or climate changes include:

• Changes in the growth and development of plants.
• Some bird species, like sparrows and vultures, are disappearing from Earth.
• Nearly 2000 glaciers in the Himalayas have receded or melted.
• The frequency of natural disasters, such as drought, heavy rainfall, and cyclones, has increased over the past 10 years.
• Areas that typically receive heavy rainfall are now getting less, while those with scarce rainfall are also experiencing reduced precipitation.
• The production of pulses has decreased, and groundwater levels have fallen.
• Melting glaciers have caused ocean water levels to rise, leading to significant erosion along coastlines. Additionally, areas near the coasts of Maldives, Bangladesh, and Australia have become submerged.
• Dehydration and malnutrition are occurring in humans due to higher temperatures.
• The seasonal cycle is changing.
• Soil salinity in Gujarat is increasing.
• Agricultural produce has sharply declined.
• The frequency of diseases like cholera, dengue, malaria, swine flu, etc., has increased.
• Flowers are losing their scent, and beehives are rapidly vanishing.
• The 'Greenpeace' institution predicts that approximately 55 lakh people living in Gujarat will need to relocate by 2100 C.E.

In simple words: Global warming causes many bad things, like plants growing differently, some birds disappearing, glaciers melting, more floods and droughts, less food, rising sea levels, more diseases, and changes in seasons.

Exam Tip: When listing effects, try to categorize them (e.g., environmental, social, economic) and provide specific examples for each to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding.

 

Question 5. List down the home appliances of daily use that add to global warming.
Answer: Common home appliances and items used daily that contribute to global warming include televisions, air conditioners, tubelights, bulbs, computers, laptops, refrigerators, geysers, heaters, all types of vehicles such as cars, buses, scooters, and all kinds of phones, electric motors, and pumps.
In simple words: Many things we use every day, like TVs, ACs, computers, refrigerators, cars, and phones, add to global warming because they use energy that often comes from burning fossil fuels.

Exam Tip: Focus on items that consume significant energy or release greenhouse gases either directly or through their manufacturing and electricity generation.

 

Question 6. Which country hosted the last world convention to protect the environment?
Answer: The country that hosted the last major world convention to protect the environment was Denmark. It was held in Copenhagen, in December 2009.
In simple words: Denmark hosted the most recent big global meeting about protecting the environment in Copenhagen in 2009.

Exam Tip: Remember both the country and the city, as specific details are often required for such historical events. Also, note the year of the convention.

 

Fill in the Blanks with Proper Words or Numbers:

 

1. Increase in the proportion of the ................ gas has led to an increase in the global temperature.
Answer: carbon dioxide
In simple words: More carbon dioxide gas in the air makes the Earth's temperature go up.

Exam Tip: Carbon dioxide is a primary greenhouse gas; identifying its role in global temperature rise is crucial.

 

2. CFC gas is released in maximum due to the use of ................ appliances.
Answer: electronic
In simple words: Using many electronic devices causes a lot of CFC gas to be released.

Exam Tip: Link CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) to common electronic appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners, which historically used these gases as coolants.

 

3. There has been an increase of ................ °C in the temperature of the Earth in the last 100 years.
Answer: 0.6
In simple words: Over the last century, the Earth's temperature has risen by 0.6 degrees Celsius.

Exam Tip: Specific numerical facts like temperature increases are important to memorize for questions on climate change.

 

4. It is necessary to make ................ use of resources to check the increase in global temperature.
Answer: judicious
In simple words: We must use resources wisely to stop the Earth's temperature from rising.

Exam Tip: The term "judicious use" implies careful and wise management of resources to minimize environmental impact.

 

Write Short Note On

 

Question 1. What steps should be taken to prevent global warming ? OR Write a short note on: Necessary steps to prevent global warming
Answer: Steps to be taken to prevent global warming:
1. Reduce the use of sources that release carbon dioxide (CO2).
2. Promote afforestation and the conservation of forests.
3. Plant trees and plants around your home to decrease carbon dioxide.
4. Avoid using plastic.
5. Make optimal and careful use of manure, pesticides, household appliances, natural resources, petroleum products, electricity, means of transport, and water.
6. Control population growth.
7. Add probiotics (biotics) to animal feed.
8. Adopt organic farming practices by using green manure or cattle manure.
9. Increase the use of eco-friendly paper, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and non-conventional energy sources.
10. Practice rainwater harvesting.
In simple words: To stop global warming, we should use less carbon-releasing things, plant more trees, avoid plastic, use resources wisely, control population, choose organic farming, use eco-friendly paper and clean energy, and save rainwater.

Exam Tip: When listing steps, aim for a broad range of solutions covering individual actions, agricultural practices, energy choices, and conservation efforts.

 

Question 2. Discuss the adverse effects of climate change.
Answer: Adverse effects of global warming or climate changes include:

• Changes in the growth and development of plants.
• Some bird species, like sparrows and vultures, are disappearing from Earth.
• Nearly 2000 glaciers in the Himalayas have receded or melted.
• The frequency of natural disasters, such as drought, heavy rainfall, and cyclones, has increased over the past 10 years.
• Areas that typically receive heavy rainfall are now getting less, while those with scarce rainfall are also experiencing reduced precipitation.
• The production of pulses has decreased, and groundwater levels have fallen.
• Melting glaciers have caused ocean water levels to rise, leading to significant erosion along coastlines. Additionally, areas near the coasts of Maldives, Bangladesh, and Australia have become submerged.
• Dehydration and malnutrition are occurring in humans due to higher temperatures.
• The seasonal cycle is changing.
• Soil salinity in Gujarat is increasing.
• Agricultural produce has sharply declined.
• The frequency of diseases like cholera, dengue, malaria, swine flu, etc., has increased.
• Flowers are losing their scent, and beehives are rapidly vanishing.
• The 'Greenpeace' institution predicts that approximately 55 lakh people living in Gujarat will need to relocate by 2100 C.E.

In simple words: Climate change brings many problems, such as altered plant growth, disappearance of certain birds, melting glaciers, more frequent natural disasters, less rainfall in some areas, declining pulse production, rising sea levels, dehydration, changing seasons, increased soil salt, reduced farm output, more diseases, and loss of flower fragrance and beehives.

Exam Tip: This question often appears as a long-answer type. Structure your response with bullet points or clear sub-sections to cover a wide range of impacts (ecological, human health, agricultural, geographical).

 

Activities

(1) Organise a 'Tree Plantation Programme' in your school premises as a part of the celebration of 'WORLD OZONE DAY' (16th September).

Exam Tip: Organizing such programs raises awareness about environmental protection and encourages active participation in conservation efforts within the school community.

(2) Visit the 'Gir Foundation' Institute, an environment-oriented institute at Gandhinagar and gather some information about it.

Exam Tip: Field visits to environmental organizations provide practical insights into conservation work and help students understand real-world ecological challenges.

(3) Arrange a group discussion or elocution competition or an essay competition or a debate on 'Remedies to Reduce Environmental Pollution'.

Exam Tip: Engaging in discussions and competitions on environmental topics promotes critical thinking, research skills, and effective communication of solutions.

 

GSEB Class 8 Social Science Environmental Changes Intext Questions and Answers

 

Question 1. Why are the doors and windows made of glass – in countries that have cold climate?
Answer: Due to glass windows, solar heat that enters the house is kept inside. The house also receives natural light throughout the day. Therefore, windows and doors of houses in cold regions are made of glass.
In simple words: Glass windows help keep houses warm in cold countries because they let sunlight in and trap the heat, also providing natural light.

Exam Tip: Explain the dual benefit of glass in cold climates: trapping solar heat (greenhouse effect) and providing natural light, reducing the need for artificial heating and lighting.

 

Question 2. We know that a definite quantity of sugar or salt has to be added in tea or vegetables. What would happen if we add more sugar or salt? In the same way, there is a balance of proportion of gases in the atmosphere. Imagine what would happen to this balance if the proportion of carbon dioxide increases in the atmosphere?
Answer: If the proportion of carbon dioxide increases in the atmosphere, the Earth's average temperature will rise. Carbon dioxide improves the greenhouse effects. If that increases, climatic changes will become more severe.
In simple words: Just like too much sugar or salt ruins food, too much carbon dioxide in the air makes the Earth hotter, intensifying climate change because it traps more heat.

Exam Tip: Use the analogy provided (sugar/salt) to illustrate the concept of balance and how upsetting it with increased carbon dioxide leads to serious climatic consequences.

 

Question 3. What kind of residence should we have to protect ourselves from the effect of increase in temperature?
Answer: To protect ourselves from the effects of increased temperatures, our residences should have:

• Doors, windows, and roofs constructed to allow enough sunlight and fresh air into the house.
• A sloped roof with tiles arranged to prevent the roof from becoming too hot.
• A chimney installed in the kitchen to direct cooking smoke directly outside the house.

In simple words: To stay safe from rising heat, our homes should have good airflow and sunlight, roofs that stay cool, and chimneys in the kitchen to release smoke.

Exam Tip: Focus on architectural and design elements that promote natural ventilation, heat reflection, and efficient removal of indoor pollutants to counter high temperatures.

 

GSEB Class 8 Social Science Environmental Changes Additional Important Questions and Answers

 

Choose the Correct Alternative From Those Given Below Each Question:

 

Question 1. Which of the following countries experiences maximum temperature ?
(a) Iran
(b) Brazil
(c) Philippines
(d) Saudi Arabia
Answer: (d) Saudi Arabia
In simple words: Among the options, Saudi Arabia is the country that experiences the highest temperatures.

Exam Tip: Consider the geographical location and typical climate of each country. Saudi Arabia, being largely a desert region, naturally experiences very high temperatures.

 

Question 2. Which of the following countries experiences maximum cold ?
(a) Norway
(b) Russia
(c) Iran
(d) Brazil
Answer: (a) Norway
In simple words: Norway is the country among these options that gets the coldest.

Exam Tip: Countries located in northern latitudes, like Norway and Russia, are known for their extremely cold climates. Choose the one that typically experiences the most severe cold among the choices.

 

Question 3. Which of the following countries gets maximum rainfall ?
(a) Russia
(b) Brazil
(c) Philippines
(d) Iran
Answer: (c) Philippines
In simple words: The Philippines receives the most rainfall among these countries.

Exam Tip: Island nations in tropical regions, often affected by monsoons and typhoons, tend to experience high annual rainfall. Recall the general climate patterns of each country.

 

Question 4. Which gas is most effective as a greenhouse gas ?
(a) Hydrogen
(b) Oxygen
(c) Nitrogen
(d) Carbon dioxide
Answer: (d) Carbon dioxide
In simple words: Carbon dioxide is the gas that causes the strongest greenhouse effect.

Exam Tip: While other gases contribute to the greenhouse effect, carbon dioxide is often highlighted as the most significant due to its abundance from human activities and its radiative forcing properties.

 

Question 5. Which of the following gases is known as a green house gas ?
(a) Oxygen
(b) Hydrogen
(c) Methane
(d) Nitrogen
Answer: (c) Methane
In simple words: Methane is one of the gases known for causing the greenhouse effect.

Exam Tip: Be familiar with the different types of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

 

Question 6. How many tonnes of methane is produced by paddy cultivation ?
(a) 15 crore
(b) 12 crore
(c) 7 crore
(d) 21 crore
Answer: (a) 15 crore
In simple words: Paddy cultivation, or growing rice, creates about 15 crore tonnes of methane gas.

Exam Tip: Methane is produced in anaerobic conditions, such as those found in flooded rice paddies. Specific figures like these might require memorization.

 

Question 7. How many tonnes of methane gas is produced by decomposition of bio-degradable waste ?
(a) 7 crore
(b) 2 crore
(c) 9 crore
(d) 11 crore
Answer: (a) 7 crore
In simple words: The breakdown of biodegradable waste generates 7 crore tonnes of methane gas.

Exam Tip: Anaerobic decomposition of organic waste in landfills is a significant source of methane. Knowing the approximate quantities can be useful.

 

Question 8. How many tonnes of methane is produced due to exhaling and metabolism of animals ?
(a) 15 crore
(b) 7 crore
(c) 18 crore
(d) 14 crore
Answer: (d) 14 crore
In simple words: Animals release around 14 crore tonnes of methane gas through their breathing and digestion processes.

Exam Tip: Ruminant animals (like cattle) are a notable source of methane through enteric fermentation. Remember the specific figure associated with this source.

 

Question 9. When is 'Ozone Day' celebrated in the world ?
(a) 28th October
(b) 16th September
(c) 1st January
(d) 5th June
Answer: (b) 16th September
In simple words: World Ozone Day is celebrated every year on September 16th.

Exam Tip: Important environmental days are often tested. Remember 'Ozone Day' on September 16th, commemorating the signing of the Montreal Protocol.

 

Question 10. In which city was the global meet to save environment held in 1972?
(a) At Rio de Janeiro in Brazil
(b) In Stockholm, the capital of Sweden
(c) In Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark
(d) In Delhi, the capital of India
Answer: (b) In Stockholm, the capital of Sweden
In simple words: The first big global meeting to protect the environment in 1972 took place in Stockholm, Sweden.

Exam Tip: The 1972 Stockholm Conference was a landmark event for international environmental politics. Knowing its location and year is essential.

 

Question 11. In which city was the conference to save the environment held after 1972 ?
(a) At New York in USA
(b) At London in England
(c) At Kolkata in India
(d) At Rio de Janeiro in Brazil
Answer: (d) At Rio de Janeiro in Brazil
In simple words: After the 1972 conference, another important meeting to save the environment was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Exam Tip: The Rio Earth Summit in 1992 was another pivotal conference for sustainable development. Distinguish it from the Stockholm conference by its date and location.

 

Question 12. In which city was the global meet to protect environment held in December, 2009 ?
(a) At Tokyo in Japan
(b) At Sydney in Australia
(c) In Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark
(d) In Rome, the capital of Italy
Answer: (c) In Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark
In simple words: In December 2009, a global meeting about protecting the environment was held in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Exam Tip: The Copenhagen Summit (COP15) aimed to create a framework for climate change mitigation after the Kyoto Protocol. Note the specific date and location.

 

Question 13. How many metric tonnes of carbon dioxide does an average person in the world produce ?
(a) 4.5
(b) 20.6
(c) 1.2
(d) 8.5
Answer: (a) 4.5
In simple words: On average, each person worldwide produces 4.5 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide.

Exam Tip: Per capita carbon emissions vary greatly by country. For global average questions, remember this specific figure.

 

Question 14. How many metric tonnes of carbon dioxide does an average Indian citizen produce ?
(a) 20.6
(b) 4.5
(c) 3.8
(d) 1.2
Answer: (d) 1.2
In simple words: An average person in India produces 1.2 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide.

Exam Tip: Be aware of the per capita emissions for different regions, noting that developing countries typically have lower figures than developed ones.

 

Question 15. How many metric tonnes of carbon dioxide does an average citizen of USA produce ?
(a) 4.5
(b) 20.6
(c) 1.2
(d) 10.6
Answer: (b) 20.6
In simple words: An average US citizen produces 20.6 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide.

Exam Tip: Compare this figure with other countries to understand the disparities in carbon footprints globally. High consumption and industrialization often lead to higher per capita emissions.

 

Fill in the Blanks with Proper Words or Numbers:

 

1. The sphere which envelops the world from all sides is known as ................
Answer: atmosphere
In simple words: The layer of air surrounding the Earth is called the atmosphere.

Exam Tip: Define the atmosphere as the gaseous layer that surrounds a planet or celestial body, held in place by gravity.

 

2. In countries that have cold climates walls and windows are made of ................
Answer: glass
In simple words: In cold countries, walls and windows are often made of glass.

Exam Tip: Glass helps trap solar heat inside a building, reducing heating costs and making interiors warmer in cold climates.

 

3. Proportion of nitrous oxide has increased from 270 PPM to ................ PPM.
Answer: 319
In simple words: The amount of nitrous oxide has gone up from 270 parts per million to 319 parts per million.

Exam Tip: Nitrous oxide is another potent greenhouse gas; knowing the change in its atmospheric concentration is important for climate studies.

 

4. According to the U.N. Resolution, 16th September – is celebrated as ................ day.
Answer: ozone
In simple words: The UN has decided that September 16th will be celebrated as Ozone Day.

Exam Tip: Connect "16th September" directly with "Ozone Day" and the UN Resolution to recall this specific environmental observance.

 

State Whether the Following Statements Are True or False:

 

1. Our environment is polluted due to smoke from industries, factories, power stations and auto vehicles.
Answer: True
In simple words: Smoke from industries, factories, power stations, and cars makes our environment dirty.

Exam Tip: Identify key sources of air pollution, such as industrial emissions and vehicular exhaust, as they are major contributors to environmental degradation.

 

2. The average condition of temperature, moisture and rain for a period of over 35 years is called 'weather'.
Answer: False
In simple words: The average temperature, moisture, and rain over 35 years is called 'climate', not 'weather'.

Exam Tip: Distinguish clearly between 'weather' (short-term atmospheric conditions) and 'climate' (long-term average weather patterns over many years).

 

3. Problem of climate change has emerged due to reduction in greenhouse gases.
Answer: False
In simple words: Climate change is happening because greenhouse gases are increasing, not decreasing.

Exam Tip: Understand that an *increase* in greenhouse gases, not a reduction, is the primary driver of climate change and global warming.

 

4. The proportion of CO2 which was 275 PPM 100 years ago has increased to 350 PPM at present.
Answer: True
In simple words: The amount of CO2 in the air has indeed risen from 275 PPM a century ago to 350 PPM now.

Exam Tip: These figures highlight the significant increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide due to human activities over the last century, a crucial fact in climate science.

 

5. The proportion of nitrous oxide which was 270 PPM before, is now 470 PPM.
Answer: False
In simple words: The current proportion of nitrous oxide is not 470 PPM; it has increased to 319 PPM from 270 PPM.

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to specific numerical values. While nitrous oxide has increased, the given '470 PPM' might be an incorrect figure, implying 'False'.

 

6. Beehives are disappearing fast due to global warming.
Answer: True
In simple words: Yes, beehives are rapidly vanishing because of the effects of global warming.

Exam Tip: Connect global warming to its impact on biodiversity, including pollinators like bees, which are essential for ecosystem health and agriculture.

 

Answer the Following Questions in One or Two Sentences:

 

Question 1. What is atmosphere ? OR What is meant by atmosphere ?
Answer: The air that surrounds Earth from all sides is called the 'atmosphere'.
In simple words: The atmosphere is the layer of gases that wraps around the Earth.

Exam Tip: A concise and accurate definition is key. Mention that it's a layer of gases and surrounds the Earth.

 

Question 2. How is atmosphere polluted ?
Answer: The atmosphere becomes polluted by smoke from industries, factories, power stations, vehicles, and domestic fuel combustion, among other sources.
In simple words: Smoke from factories, power plants, cars, and home burning pollutes the air.

Exam Tip: List the primary human activities that release pollutants into the air to answer this question effectively.

 

Question 3. What is environmental change ?
Answer: Environmental changes are defined as alterations occurring in temperature, wind direction, rainfall, and other climatic factors due to global warming.
In simple words: Environmental change means shifts in things like temperature, wind, and rain, all caused by global warming.

Exam Tip: Link environmental change directly to specific alterations in climatic elements and attribute these changes to global warming.

 

Question 4. What is weather ?
Answer: Weather is the condition of temperature, humidity, and rainfall in a region at a specific point in time.
In simple words: Weather is how hot or cold, wet or dry it is in a place right now, or over a short period.

Exam Tip: Emphasize the 'short-term' and 'specific point in time' aspects to differentiate weather from climate.

 

Question 5. How did the problem of climatic change emerge ?
Answer: The problem of climatic change emerged because gases like carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), and halocarbons are known as greenhouse gases. These gases retain heat. An increase in their proportion leads to problems of global warming and subsequent climatic changes.
In simple words: Climatic change started because certain gases like carbon dioxide and methane, which trap heat, increased too much in the air, causing the Earth to warm up.

Exam Tip: Explain the chain reaction: increased greenhouse gases lead to more heat retention, which results in global warming, and ultimately, climatic changes.

 

Question 6. What is the proportion of nitrous oxide in the atmosphere ?
Answer: The proportion of nitrous oxide in the atmosphere is 319 PPM (parts per million).
In simple words: There are 319 parts per million of nitrous oxide in the air.

Exam Tip: Remember the specific concentration of nitrous oxide as a key data point related to atmospheric composition and greenhouse gases.

 

Question 7. What increases the proportion of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) in the atmosphere?
Answer: The increased use of foam, plastic, fridges, A.C. circuits, aerosol sprays, and other similar products has raised the level of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) in the atmosphere.
In simple words: More use of foam, plastic, fridges, air conditioners, and spray cans has caused the amount of CFC in the air to go up.

Exam Tip: List common products and applications that historically or currently release CFCs, which are known ozone-depleting substances and potent greenhouse gases.

 

Question 8. Which are non-conventional sources of energy?
Answer: Non-conventional sources of energy include solar energy, wind energy, tidal energy, geothermal energy, and biogas, among others.
In simple words: Non-conventional energy sources are things like power from the sun, wind, ocean tides, Earth's heat, and biogas.

Exam Tip: Non-conventional sources are typically renewable and environmentally friendly. List several diverse examples to show a broad understanding.

 

Question 9. When and where was the first global convention to think of ways to protect environment held?
Answer: The first conferences to consider ways to protect the environment were held initially in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, in 1972, and later in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
In simple words: The first global meetings to plan how to protect the environment happened in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1972, and then later in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Exam Tip: It's important to remember both the 1972 Stockholm Conference and the subsequent Rio Earth Summit as foundational international environmental gatherings.

 

Question 10. What was decided at the world meeting at Copenhagen in December, 2009 ?
Answer: At a meeting in Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, in 2009, it was observed that developed nations had not accepted 'carbon cut' techniques (methods to reduce greenhouse gas emissions). It was resolved at this conference that developed countries like the USA should seriously adopt the 'Carbon Cut' policy, as every US citizen produces 20.6 metric tonnes of greenhouse gases. Developing countries like India were to be allowed to release more carbon for their growth, as every Indian releases 1.2 metric tonnes of greenhouse gases. Developing countries were also to be given financial aid amounting to approximately 100 billion dollars.
In simple words: The 2009 Copenhagen meeting decided that richer countries hadn't done enough to cut carbon, so they needed to take 'carbon cut' policies seriously. Poorer countries, like India, were given permission to release more carbon for their growth and would receive around 100 billion dollars in help.

Exam Tip: Focus on the key outcomes: acknowledgment of developed nations' inaction, commitment to 'carbon cut' policies for developed nations, and differential responsibilities and financial aid for developing countries.

 

Box Questions and Answers

Find out the places that experience extreme rain, heat, cold and extreme climatic conditions with the help of the given table. Also find out the reasons for the same:

Answer: Reasons for the climatic conditions of each country are as follows:
(1) Russia: Russia is located in northern temperate and frigid zones. Therefore, the average maximum temperature remains around 15 °C, and the minimum temperature is about – 20 °C. In the Steppes and interior regions, rainfall is scarce. During winter, most of the country experiences snowfall.
(2) Iran: Iran is situated north of the Tropic of Cancer and in the western part of Asia. Most of the country is a desert, which gives it a continental climate. The average maximum temperature is around 30 °C, and the average minimum temperature is about 10 °C. Due to low humidity, Iran receives approximately 50 cm of rainfall.
(3) Brazil: Brazil lies between the Equator and the Tropic of Cancer. Consequently, the average maximum temperature is – 38 °C, and the minimum is 25 °C. Constant winds blow over this region. The presence of forests contributes to the country receiving approximately 250 cm of rainfall.
(4) Norway: Norway is located between the northern temperate zone and the frigid zone. The average maximum temperature here is 10 °C, and the minimum is -40°C. The region receives about 50 cm of rainfall, primarily due to the warm current of the North Atlantic Ocean. Snowfall occurs during winter.
(5) Philippines: This country comprises many islands and is situated between 10° and 20° latitudes north of the equator. Due to its marine climate, the temperature stays around 30 °C to 35 °C. Humid trade winds blow from the sea over this region, resulting in approximately 300 cm of rainfall.
(6) Saudi Arabia: The country is located between 15° north and 30° north latitudes. The Tropic of Cancer passes through the center of this nation. Most of the country is a desert. Thus, the average maximum temperature is around 45 °C, and the minimum is about 29 °C. By the time moisture-bearing winds reach here, they become nearly dry, causing the region to receive only about 10 cm of rainfall.
In simple words: The table shows different climates by country. Russia and Norway are very cold due to their northern location and snow. Iran and Saudi Arabia are deserts, so they are hot and dry. Brazil has constant winds and forests, getting good rain. The Philippines, being islands near the equator, are hot and humid with high rainfall.

Exam Tip: When analyzing climatic data, consider geographical factors like latitude, proximity to the equator, ocean currents, and prevailing wind patterns to explain temperature and rainfall variations.

 

Answer the Following Questions:

 

Question 1. State the reasons for increase in the amount of methane gas (\( CH_4 \)) in the atmosphere. How much methane is added due to each reason?
Answer: Major reasons for the increase in the amount of methane (\( CH_4 \)) are :

 

Question 2. See the map of India given on page no. 37 of the textbook. Think and write about the weather at different places in India.
Answer: It can be observed from the map that the winter season generally occurs across India. North India experiences very cold conditions, while eastern and western India have mild cold, and South India has the least cold weather. A maximum temperature of 39 °C is recorded at Hyderabad, and a minimum temperature of 17°C is recorded at Dibrugarh. Overall, the sky appears clear, except in some northern mountainous regions and West Bengal and Odisha, where the sky is entirely covered by clouds. Rain is likely to fall in these areas, while there may be rain or snow in the Himalayan region.
In simple words: The map shows India's winter weather. North India is very cold, while other regions are less cold. Hyderabad recorded 39°C, and Dibrugarh 17°C. Most areas have clear skies, but some northern mountains, West Bengal, and Odisha are cloudy with potential rain or snow in the Himalayas.

Exam Tip: When describing weather from a map, always mention key areas, temperature ranges (max/min), and specific conditions like clear skies, clouds, or precipitation.

 

Box Questions and Answers

Find out the places that experience extreme rain, heat, cold and extreme climatic conditions with the help of the given table. Also find out the reasons for the same:

Answer:

Reasons for the climatic conditions of each country are as follows:

(1) Russia: Russia is located in northern temperate and frigid zones. So, the average maximum temperature stays around 15 °C, and the minimum temperature is about – 20 °C. In Steppes and interior regions, rainfall is low. During winter, most of the country gets snowfall.
In simple words: Russia is in cold northern areas. Max temperature is about 15°C, min is -20°C. It gets little rain, but lots of snow in winter.

(2) Iran: Iran is found north of the Tropic of Cancer and in western Asia. Most of the country is a desert, so its climate is continental. Average maximum temperature is about 30 °C, and the average minimum temperature is about 10 °C. Due to insufficient moisture, Iran gets around 50 cm of rain.
In simple words: Iran, a desert country in western Asia, has a continental climate. Temperatures range from 10°C to 30°C, with about 50 cm of rain due to low humidity.

(3) Brazil: It lies between the Equator and the Tropic of Cancer. So, the average maximum temperature is – 38 °C, and the minimum is 25 °C. Constant winds blow over this area. There are forests, so the country gets about 250 cm of rainfall.
In simple words: Brazil, located between the Equator and Tropic of Cancer, has maximum temperatures around -38°C and minimums around 25°C. It has strong winds and dense forests, leading to about 250 cm of rainfall.

(4) Norway: It lies between the northern temperate zone and the frigid zone. The average maximum temperature here is 10 °C, and the minimum is -40°C. This region receives about 50 cm of rainfall, mainly because of the warm current from the North Atlantic Ocean. Snowfall occurs during winter.
In simple words: Norway is in cold northern areas. Temperatures range from 10°C to -40°C. It gets about 50 cm of rain due to a warm ocean current, and snow in winter.

(5) Philippines: There are many islands in this nation, and it is situated between 10° to 20° latitudes north of the equator. Because of its marine climate, the temperature stays around 30 °C to 35 °C. Moist trade winds blow from the sea over this region, so the region gets around 300 cm of rainfall.
In simple words: The Philippines, an island nation near the equator, experiences temperatures between 30°C and 35°C due to its ocean climate. It receives about 300 cm of rain from humid trade winds.

(6) Saudi Arabia: The country is found between 15° north to 30° north latitudes. The Tropic of Cancer goes through the middle of this nation. Most of the country is a desert. So, the average maximum temperature is around 45 °C, and the minimum is about 29 °C. By the time they reach here, the moisture-bearing winds become almost dry; hence, the region gets hardly 10 cm of rain.
In simple words: Saudi Arabia, a desert country crossed by the Tropic of Cancer, has temperatures ranging from 29°C to 45°C. It receives very little rain (10 cm) because winds lose their moisture by the time they reach here.

Exam Tip: When analyzing climatic data for different regions, consider factors like latitude, proximity to water bodies, and prevailing wind patterns to explain temperature and rainfall variations.

 

Answer the Following Questions:

Question 1. State the reasons for increase in the amount of methane gas (CH4) in the atmosphere. How much methane is added due to each reason?
Answer: Major reasons for increase in the amount of methane (CH4) are:

In simple words: Methane increases due to animal breathing and digestion, paddy rice farming, and the breakdown of biodegradable waste. Each reason adds a specific amount of methane to the air.

Exam Tip: When listing causes and quantities for environmental issues like methane increase, remember the specific sources (animals, agriculture, waste) and their respective contributions.