Get the most accurate RBSE Solutions for Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Environment and Natural Resources here. Updated for the 2026-27 academic session, these solutions are based on the latest RBSE textbooks for Class 12 Political Science. Our expert-created answers for Class 12 Political Science are available for free download in PDF format.
Detailed Chapter 13 Environment and Natural Resources RBSE Solutions for Class 12 Political Science
For Class 12 students, solving RBSE textbook questions is the most effective way to build a strong conceptual foundation. Our Class 12 Political Science solutions follow a detailed, step-by-step approach to ensure you understand the logic behind every answer. Practicing these Chapter 13 Environment and Natural Resources solutions will improve your exam performance.
Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Environment and Natural Resources RBSE Solutions PDF
Rajasthan Board RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Environment and Natural Resources
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Text book Questions
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Multiple Choice Questions
Question 1. International Ozone Day is celebrated on :
(a) December 16
(b) October 16
(c) November 16
(d) December 16
Answer: (a) December 16
In simple words: International Ozone Day is celebrated on December 16th each year to raise awareness about the importance of the ozone layer.
🎯 Exam Tip: Remember important environmental dates for quick recall in MCQs. December 16th marks the signing of the Montreal Protocol.
Question 3. On climate change, at which place, United Nations climate change conference COPE-21 was held?
(a) Kyoto (Japan)
(b) Lima (Peru)
(c) Paris (France)
(d) Rio dejaneiro (Brazil)
Answer: (c) Paris (France)
In simple words: The big United Nations meeting about climate change, called COPE-21, was held in Paris, France.
🎯 Exam Tip: Know the locations of major international climate conferences as they are frequently asked in general knowledge and political science exams.
Question 4. Which one of the following is metallic mineral?
(a) Gypsum
(b) Granite
(c) Rock phosphate
(d) Zinc
Answer: (d) Zinc
In simple words: Out of the given choices, zinc is a metallic mineral, which means it is a metal found naturally in the earth.
🎯 Exam Tip: Be able to distinguish between metallic and non-metallic minerals by understanding their basic properties and common examples.
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Very Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1. When and in which village did the incident of sacrifice for environment conservation by Bishnoi society take place?
Answer: This event happened on September 21, 1730, in Khejadli village, which is in Rajasthan.
In simple words: The Bishnoi society made a sacrifice for the environment in Khejadli village, Rajasthan, on September 21, 1730.
🎯 Exam Tip: Mention both the exact date and location for historical events to score full marks.
Question 2. Which women of Bishnoi society first gave her life for protecting the trees.
Answer: Amrita Devi was the first woman from the Bishnoi society to give her life to protect trees.
In simple words: Amrita Devi from the Bishnoi society died first to save trees.
🎯 Exam Tip: Identify key figures involved in historical conservation movements, like Amrita Devi, and their roles.
Question 4. When is Earth Day celebrated?
Answer: Earth Day is celebrated on April 22.
In simple words: We celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd every year.
🎯 Exam Tip: Know the dates of important environmental days to answer general knowledge questions accurately.
Question 5. When is world environment day celebrated?
Answer: World Environment Day is celebrated on June 5.
In simple words: World Environment Day is on June 5th.
🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between Earth Day and World Environment Day, as they are different events on different dates.
Question 6. Write the name of main chemical element used in atomic energy.
Answer: Uranium is the main chemical element used in atomic energy.
In simple words: Uranium is the key element for making atomic energy.
🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the specific element, as atomic energy relies on precise nuclear materials.
Question 7. Write the name of two places in Rajasthan producing hydro-electricity.
Answer: Two places in Rajasthan that produce hydroelectricity are Jawahar Sagar Dam in Kota and Mahi Bajaj Sagar project in Banswara.
In simple words: Jawahar Sagar Dam (Kota) and Mahi Bajaj Sagar project (Banswara) make electricity from water in Rajasthan.
🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for multiple examples, provide two distinct and correct ones, including their locations if relevant.
Question 8. Write the full form of UNFCCC.
Answer: The full form of UNFCCC is United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
In simple words: UNFCCC stands for United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
🎯 Exam Tip: Learn the full forms of important international acronyms, especially in the context of environmental agreements.
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1. In Indian culture, how is environment conservation given importance?
Answer: In Indian culture, nature is seen and respected as a mother. The Rigveda highlights the importance of humans and their connection to nature, where earth and air are worshipped like gods. Mountains, trees, oceans, lakes, rivers, and the climate are all considered sacred parts of the earth. From ancient times, Indian saints and hermits have taught people the importance of trees and animals, linking them to ecology and the need for conservation. This shows how deep the respect for nature runs in Indian traditions.
In simple words: Indian culture sees nature as a mother and worships things like earth, air, rivers, and trees, showing how important it is to protect the environment.
🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing cultural importance, provide specific examples like the Rigveda or the reverence for natural elements to illustrate the depth of cultural connection.
Question 2. "Sir satey rukh rahe to bhi rasto Jaan”. Describe the incident in brief related with it
Answer: This saying, "Sir satey rukh rahe to bhi rasto jaan," means "If a tree lives even at the cost of our heads, we are ready for it." It is related to an incident from September 21, 1730. Amrita Devi lived in Khejadli village, Rajasthan. When the Jodhpur King Abhay Singh ordered Khejari trees to be cut, Amrita Devi and her three daughters protested. They hugged the trees to protect them. Under her leadership, 363 people from the Bishnoi community sacrificed their lives to save the trees. This brave act is known as "Black Tuesday."
In simple words: The saying refers to an event in 1730 where Amrita Devi and 363 Bishnoi villagers in Rajasthan died trying to protect Khejari trees from being cut down, showing they valued trees more than their own lives.
🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly explain the meaning of the phrase and include the key details: the central figure (Amrita Devi), the year, the place (Khejadli, Rajasthan), and the number of people involved in the sacrifice.
Question 3. How does air pollution affect human health?
Answer: The poisonous gases in the air greatly harm human health. Key pollutants include sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, various nitrogen oxides, chlorofluorocarbons, and formaldehyde. These gases can cause severe health problems and even death. Carbon monoxide, for example, mixes with blood and damages hemoglobin, leading to toxic carboxyhemoglobin. This can cause swelling in the eyes, nose, and throat. Lead in the air can cause cancer, and radioactive particles also lead to cancer. Dust and tiny magnetic particles in the air can cause different respiratory illnesses.
In simple words: Air pollution, caused by harmful gases like carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide, hurts our health by damaging blood, causing breathing problems, swelling in the eyes and throat, and increasing the risk of cancer.
🎯 Exam Tip: Name specific pollutants and clearly link them to the health problems they cause for a comprehensive answer.
Question 4. Mention 6 measures to check air pollution.
Answer: Here are six measures to control air pollution:
1. More trees should be planted because trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which is essential for life.
2. Industries should install air purifier equipment to clean the air they release.
3. Chimneys in factories should be built tall enough to disperse pollutants higher into the atmosphere.
4. People should reduce their use of fossil fuels and instead use cleaner energy sources like solar and wind power.
5. Families should be encouraged to use smokeless fuels at home to reduce indoor air pollution.
6. Catalytic converters should be installed in petrol cars to reduce harmful emissions.
In simple words: We can stop air pollution by planting more trees, making factories use air purifiers, building taller chimneys, using less fossil fuel, encouraging smokeless fuels at home, and installing special filters in car engines.
🎯 Exam Tip: Provide a variety of measures covering different sources of pollution (industrial, vehicular, domestic) for a complete answer.
Question 6. How is polythene pollution harmful to nature?
Answer: Polythene pollution harms nature in several ways:
1. Toxic chemicals like xylene, ethylene oxide, and benzene are used to make polythene, and these are dangerous for human health.
2. Polythene does not break down easily and stays in the soil for a long time. This makes the soil less fertile, so plants cannot grow well in such areas.
3. Animals like cows and monkeys can die if they eat food thrown in polythene bags.
4. When polythene is burned, it releases dangerous gases into the air, which are harmful to the atmosphere.
In simple words: Polythene is bad for nature because it uses harmful chemicals, makes soil infertile, kills animals who eat it, and releases toxic gases when burned.
🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the chemical composition, environmental persistence, impact on wildlife, and effects of disposal (burning) to describe the harm caused by polythene.
Question 7. Suggest measure to check global warming.
Answer: Here are steps to help control global warming:
1. Keep your surroundings green by planting more trees, as trees absorb carbon dioxide.
2. Use less fossil fuel (like coal and oil) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Promote carbon-free energy sources such as solar power, wind energy, and nuclear energy.
4. Take proper action to stop deforestation, which means preventing the cutting down of forests.
In simple words: To stop global warming, we should plant more trees, use less fossil fuel, switch to clean energy like solar, and stop cutting down forests.
🎯 Exam Tip: Provide actionable and diverse measures, covering both reducing emissions and enhancing carbon sinks like forests.
Question 8. Write the name of any two deserts of the world.
Answer: Two deserts of the world are:
1. Thar Desert
2. Sahara Desert
3. Kalahari desert
In simple words: Two famous deserts are the Thar Desert and the Sahara Desert. The Kalahari Desert is another example.
🎯 Exam Tip: When providing examples, offer well-known ones for clarity and easy recognition.
Question 9. Write a note on biogas.
Answer: Biogas is a type of gas produced when cattle dung, plant matter, and other waste break down. It is also known as Gobar gas. This gas contains 50-60% methane and is a non-conventional source of energy. In rural areas where livestock is common, biogas can be made using biogas plants. It's an ignitable mixture containing mostly methane, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen, and oxygen. Biogas has a higher heat value than kerosene and dung cakes, meaning it provides more energy. This energy can be turned into electricity or used as cooking fuel.
In simple words: Biogas, also called Gobar gas, is a fuel made from animal and plant waste. It contains methane, gives off good heat, and can be used for cooking or making electricity, especially in villages.
🎯 Exam Tip: Define biogas, explain its source and composition, mention its applications (cooking, electricity), and highlight its benefit as a non-conventional energy source.
Question 10. Write a short note on Paris agreement
Answer: The 21st United Nations climate change conference, also known as COPE-21, took place in Paris from November 30 to December 12, 2015. This was the 21st annual conference of the UNO's UNFCCC. During this conference, representatives from 175 countries, including India, signed an agreement. This was a record for the highest number of signatures on any agreement in a single day. After signing, all representatives had to inform their parliaments. India's environment minister, Prakash Javadekar, stated that it was a new chapter for 7 billion people. Under this agreement, member countries set a goal to reduce the average global temperature by 2°C. Additionally, earlier discussions on climate change and environmental concerns were central to a UNO conference held in Stockholm from June 5 to 16, 1972. The 10th anniversary was celebrated in Nairobi (Kenya) from May 10 to 18, 1982. The 20th anniversary led to the UNFCCC treaty in Rio De Janeiro (Brazil) from June 3 to 14, 1992, which aimed to address climate change issues. The first joint conference on climate change under this treaty was held in Berlin (Germany) in 1995, and annual conferences have continued since.
In simple words: The Paris Agreement was signed in 2015 by many countries to fight climate change and limit global warming to 2°C. It followed earlier global meetings like the one in Stockholm in 1972 and the Rio Earth Summit in 1992, which also focused on environmental problems.
🎯 Exam Tip: When writing about international agreements, include the full name of the agreement, its primary goal, the key dates/locations, and a brief mention of its significance or related past events.
Question 11. In the environment conservation act, 1986, which constitutional provisions have been made for environment conservation.
Answer: India's constitution includes several provisions for environment conservation:
1. Article 48 of the Directive Principles of State Policy states that the state should work to improve and protect the environment and wildlife.
2. Part 4A of Article 51 of the constitution also mentions the conservation and promotion of the environment.
3. Article 21 says that everyone should be protected from activities that harm their life, health, and body, which includes environmental protection.
4. Articles 252 and 253 give the government the right to make laws for environment conservation.
In addition to these, various acts have been passed:
I. Environment Conservation Act - 1986: This act, approved on May 23, 1986, specifies that violating pollution rules can lead to 5 years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 1 lakh. For continuous violations, the daily fine is Rs 5,000, and imprisonment can extend to 7 years. Anyone can file a public interest lawsuit against environmental rule violations by giving two months' notice. The central government can shut down industries and stop water and electricity supply if rules are broken.
II. Air Pollution: Under this act, the state government can declare any area an air pollution control zone. Every industrial unit needs a 'no-objection certificate' from the state board. If industries do not follow the act, they can be seized.
III. Water Pollution (Redress and Control) Act – 1974: This act focuses on ensuring pollution-free water. It also includes strict punishments and fines for violations.
IV. Wildlife (Conservation) Act-1972: This act was passed on September 9, 1972. It moved wildlife conservation from the state list to the concurrent list, meaning both central and state governments can make laws. It includes provisions for wildlife protection and imposes 10 years of imprisonment for hunting national animals like tigers and national birds like peacocks.
In simple words: The 1986 Environment Conservation Act and other laws use the constitution's guidance (like Article 48 and 51A) to protect nature. These laws set rules against pollution, control industrial waste, ensure clean air and water, and protect wildlife, with fines and jail for rule-breakers.
🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly categorize your answer by constitutional provisions and specific acts. For each act, mention the year and key provisions related to penalties and enforcement.
Question 12. How is consumer culture harming the environment? Explain in brief.
Answer: Consumer culture harms the environment in the following ways:
1. The increasing use of air conditioners in homes and vehicles, driven by consumer culture, leads to more greenhouse gas emissions and increases global warming.
2. Constant and unnecessary buying wastes money and increases prices, which contributes to financial instability.
3. The use of more packaging materials and disposable products creates a big challenge for waste management worldwide.
4. Natural resources are over-exploited to make these products, putting a strain on the environment.
In simple words: Consumer culture hurts the environment by making people use more air conditioners (causing global warming), buying unnecessary things (creating waste), increasing packaging waste, and overusing natural resources to make products.
🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining environmental harm, connect specific aspects of consumer culture (e.g., product use, purchasing habits, waste) to clear environmental consequences (e.g., global warming, resource depletion).
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Long Answer Type Questions
Question 1. How is Indian culture helpful in environment conservation?
Answer: A study of ancient Indian scriptures shows that Indian culture has always prioritized environment conservation. It believes that a natural environment is essential for human existence. Indian culture sees nature as a mother, supporting all living beings on the planet, making its conservation a moral duty. From ancient times, Indian society has acted as a conservator. Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads, and other religious texts describe the social importance of animals and their link to ecology. In the Rigveda, water and air are worshipped as gods. Saints and hermits have taught people the importance of trees and wild animals for us. For example, they explained which plants are linked with the 'Navgrah' (nine planets), like Dhaak, Palasha, Dhurva, and Kush. Besides plants, the conservation of land and rivers is also very important. In the Vedic period, rivers were considered divine. It is because of Indian culture that a separate ministry exists today to make the Ganga river pollution-free. In the Yajurveda, gods like Indra, the sun, rivers, mountains, the sky, dawn, and the water god Varuna are all worshipped.
In simple words: Indian culture helps protect the environment by teaching us to see nature as a mother, worshipping natural elements like rivers and trees as gods, and linking animals to ecology, all of which encourage conservation from ancient times.
🎯 Exam Tip: Support your answer with specific examples from Indian scriptures (Vedas, Puranas) and cultural practices (worship of nature, specific plants) to demonstrate the deep-rooted tradition of environmental conservation.
Question 2. What do you mean by environmental pollution ? Describe its different kinds.
Answer:
Meaning: Environmental pollution happens when unwanted materials are added to the main parts of our environment, reducing their quality. This harms all living beings and the environment itself.
Kinds: Here are the different types of pollution:
I. Air Pollution: The growth of cities, industries, and transportation is causing dangerous gases to mix in the air, harming our health. Key gases include sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, chlorofluorocarbons, and formaldehyde. Lead from vehicles, partially burned hydrocarbons, and harmful smoke also pollute the air. Air pollution causes many diseases and is depleting the ozone layer, which protects us from harmful UV rays. This increased greenhouse gases make global warming worse.
II. Water Pollution: Water becomes polluted when harmful organic and inorganic materials, radioactive elements, and industrial wastes are added to it. Industrial waste often contains lead and cadmium. Sewage water contains urea and uric acid, and fertilizers also pollute water. Contaminated water can cause diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid, as well as more serious conditions like cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, and neurological problems.
III. Soil Pollution: Soil erosion is when the soil structure changes or degrades due to rain, overuse of fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemical fertilizers. This damages the soil's ability to be fertile. To fix this, more trees should be planted.
In simple words: Environmental pollution is when harmful things get into our surroundings, hurting nature and people. It comes in different types: air pollution (from gases and smoke), water pollution (from waste and chemicals), and soil pollution (from rain, chemicals, and loss of plants).
🎯 Exam Tip: Start with a clear definition of environmental pollution, then describe each type (air, water, soil) separately, outlining their causes and specific harmful effects.
Question 3. What do you mean by global warming ? Explaining its causes, describe in detail its effect on the earth.
Answer:
Meaning of Global Warming: Global warming is a rise in the Earth's average temperature. It's happening because industrialization is increasing the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, which causes a greenhouse effect. This extra CO2 traps the long-wave radiation that the Earth emits when it cools, preventing it from escaping into space. This makes the Earth's temperature go up as more heat builds up in the atmosphere.
Causes of Global Warming:
1. Human activities are increasing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
2. Emissions from industries and vehicles are adding more carbon dioxide to the air.
3. Fast deforestation, which is the cutting down of trees, is a major reason for this increase.
4. Refrigerators, fire extinguishers, and CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) are big causes of global warming. CFCs also damage the ozone layer, allowing harmful UV rays to reach Earth. Scientists have found a large hole in the ozone layer, especially over Antarctica.
5. The increasing use of fossil fuels is raising the amount of carbon dioxide, which in turn increases the Earth's temperature.
Effects of Global Warming:
1. The rising temperature of the atmosphere is a major challenge. In the last ten years, the Earth's temperature has gone up by 0.3 to 0.6 degrees Celsius.
2. As the Earth's temperature rises, glaciers are melting. This causes sea levels to increase, which could erode coastal areas and submerge them, making people living near coasts homeless.
3. The rising temperature negatively affects human health, leading to new epidemic diseases and reducing access to fresh water, food, and clean air.
4. The melting of ice caps in the Arctic and Antarctic will increase ocean water levels, causing floods and submerging several coastal cities.
5. This rise in temperature also threatens the plants and animals on Earth.
In simple words: Global warming is when Earth gets hotter because of too much carbon dioxide from factories and cars, trapping heat. This melts ice, raises sea levels, harms people's health with new diseases, and threatens plants and animals.
🎯 Exam Tip: Define global warming clearly, then systematically list both its causes (human activities, deforestation, CFCs) and its effects (temperature rise, sea-level changes, health impacts, biodiversity loss).
Question 4. What is natural resource ? Describe in detail about water resources, mineral resources and soil resources.
Answer:
Natural Resources: Natural resources are materials we get from nature that are directly or indirectly needed for human life and development. Without them, human progress is impossible.
I. Water Resources: Humans use water in many ways, like for drinking, industries, electricity, fishing, and irrigation. About 97% of the world's water is in oceans and is too salty for direct human use. This means there's less fresh water available for people. Too much or too little water can be dangerous, leading to floods or droughts. For example, the flood in Uttarakhand in 2013 caused huge losses of life and property.
II. Mineral Resources: Minerals found naturally under the Earth are called mineral resources. These are processed to purify them. Mineral wealth is vital for a country's economic success, with about 40% of global trade involving minerals. Minerals are mainly of two types:
1. Metallic minerals (e.g., iron, copper, lead, zinc, gold, silver) are purified through chemical processes.
2. Non-metallic minerals (e.g., asbestos, emerald, limestone, salt, granite, marble) are used directly without much purification.
However, mining and processing minerals can harm the environment.
III. Soil Erosion: Soil is a very valuable resource formed from decaying rocks, plants, and other organic materials. Life cannot exist without it. Landslides, soil erosion, and desertification are damaging our land resources, so we must work to control them. Landslides, where rocks slide down mountain slopes, cause great harm to life and property. Soil degradation also affects agricultural production.
In simple words: Natural resources are things from nature that people need, like water, minerals, and soil. Water is used for many things, but most is salty ocean water. Minerals are found underground, like metals and non-metals, and are important for the economy but mining can cause harm. Soil is crucial for life, but erosion and landslides are damaging it.
🎯 Exam Tip: Define natural resources first, then discuss each type (water, mineral, soil) by explaining its uses, availability, significance, and associated environmental concerns.
Question 9. Describe the conventional and non-conventional energy resources in detail.
Answer: Energy resources are biotic and non-biotic materials that provide energy. A country's development depends on its energy resources, which are crucial for industrial production, agriculture, transportation, domestic use, and medicine.
Energy resources can be classified into two main parts based on their use:
Conventional energy resources: These are sources of energy that have been used since ancient times and will eventually run out.
* Coal: Formed from trees and plants buried for millions of years. Burning coal causes pollution.
* Petroleum: A mix of hydrocarbon compounds. High-speed petrol, diesel, and kerosene are obtained from crude petroleum. Gulf countries (like Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, UAE, and Qatar) supply 50% of the world's oil.
* Natural gas: A hydrocarbon resource mostly made of methane and flammable gases.
* Hydroelectricity: Produced by moving turbines with fast-flowing water. It does not harm the atmosphere. In Rajasthan, hydroelectric projects are on the Chambal and Mahi rivers.
* Atomic electricity: Obtained from Uranium. Just one kg of uranium can produce as much electricity as 25 lakh kg of mineral oil.
Non-conventional energy resources: These are newer sources of energy that are either constantly renewed or are available in vast quantities, developed due to the depletion of conventional resources.
* Solar energy: Energy from the sun is an unlimited and clean source. It is obtained from the sun's radiation.
* Wind energy: A pollution-free resource. In western Rajasthan, wind speeds of 20 to 40 km/hour can generate 2500 KW of electricity.
* Geothermal energy: Found in places where very hot rocks are 3 to 15 km deep, creating hot water sources. This heat is used to produce electricity by turning turbines with steam.
* Biogas: Made by decomposing animal dung and other plant waste. It contains 50 to 60% methane and is used for cooking and lighting.
In simple words: Energy resources are divided into conventional (old, will run out) and non-conventional (new, renewable). Conventional sources include coal, petroleum, natural gas, hydroelectricity, and atomic energy. Non-conventional sources are solar, wind, geothermal, and biogas.
🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly separate conventional and non-conventional resources. For each type, list examples and provide a brief description of its origin, benefits, and drawbacks (if any).
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Other Important Questions
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Multiple Choice Questions
Question 1. International Ozone Day is celebrated on :
(a) December 16
(b) October 16
(c) November 16
(d) December 16
Answer: (a) December 16
In simple words: International Ozone Day is observed on December 16th each year to raise awareness about the importance of the ozone layer. This day reminds us to protect the Earth's ozone shield.
🎯 Exam Tip: Remember important environmental dates for quick recall in MCQs; they are common knowledge questions.
Question 2. Earth Day is celebrated on:
(a) April 01
(b) April 22
Answer: (b) April 22
In simple words: Earth Day is a yearly event celebrated worldwide on April 22nd to show support for environmental protection. It's a day to appreciate our planet.
🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between Earth Day and World Environment Day as both relate to environmental awareness but are on different dates.
Question 3. Pollution-less energy source is :
(a) Solar energy
(b) Wind energy
(c) Hydroelectricity
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: Solar, wind, and hydroelectricity are all clean ways to make power. They do not cause pollution like burning fossil fuels does.
🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the definition of renewable and non-renewable energy sources and their environmental impact to correctly identify pollution-less options.
Question 4. The gas which harms the ozone layer is :
(a) Chlorofluorocarbon
(b) Chlorine
(c) Nitric oxide
(d) Carbon dioxide
Answer: (a) Chlorofluorocarbon
In simple words: Chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, are chemicals that damage the Earth's protective ozone layer, allowing harmful rays to reach us. These chemicals were once common in aerosols and refrigerators.
🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on specific chemical compounds known to deplete the ozone layer, such as CFCs, when answering questions on ozone damage.
Question 5. Which one of these is conventional energy source :
(a) Petroleum
(b) Natural gas
(c) Mineral coal
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: Petroleum, natural gas, and mineral coal are all traditional sources of energy. They have been used for a long time to power homes and industries.
🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that conventional energy sources are generally non-renewable fossil fuels, while non-conventional sources are renewable like solar or wind.
Question 6. Which one is a non-conventional energy source :
(a) Solar energy
(b) Petroleum
Answer: (a) Solar energy
In simple words: Solar energy is a newer way to get power using sunlight. It is called non-conventional because it's not a fossil fuel and can be used again and again.
🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between conventional (e.g., fossil fuels) and non-conventional (e.g., solar, wind) energy sources based on their renewability and environmental impact.
Question 7. Forest festival is celebrated on :
(a) March 12
(b) July 28
(c) March 22
(d) June 5
Answer: (b) July 28
In simple words: The Forest Festival, also known as Van Mahotsav, is celebrated on July 28th. It is a week-long event to encourage tree planting and forest conservation.
🎯 Exam Tip: Associate key environmental events like 'Forest festival' with their specific dates for accurate answers in competitive exams.
Question 8. Our national animal is :
(a) Chinkara
(b) Deer
(c) Elephant
(d) Tiger
Answer: (d) Tiger
In simple words: The Tiger is India's national animal. It is a powerful big cat, recognized for its strength and beauty, and plays an important role in our ecosystem.
🎯 Exam Tip: Know the national symbols of India, including animals, birds, and flowers, as they are frequently tested in general knowledge sections.
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Very Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1. Which are four vedas of Indian culture?
Answer: The four Vedas of Indian culture are:
1. Rigveda
2. Yajurveda
3. Samveda
4. Atharva Veda
In simple words: The Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda are the four main sacred books of ancient India. They hold important knowledge and hymns.
🎯 Exam Tip: When listing items, ensure all parts of the question are answered completely and accurately.
Question 2. Whose statement is this : 'The stability of rule depends upon the cleanliness of the environment'?
Answer: This statement belongs to the great economist and politician Chanakya.
In simple words: Chanakya, a wise thinker from ancient India, said that a strong government needs a clean environment to last.
🎯 Exam Tip: When quoting, ensure the name of the person or source is correctly identified, especially for historical or philosophical statements.
Question. How many people of Bishnoi Community had sacrificed their lives for environment conservation?
Answer: A total of 363 people from the Bishnoi community sacrificed their lives for environment conservation.
In simple words: In a brave act to save trees, 363 members of the Bishnoi community gave up their lives. This event happened in Khejadli village.
🎯 Exam Tip: For specific historical events, remember the key figures and the exact numbers involved, as these details are crucial for full marks.
Question 4. Write two effects of population growth.
Answer: Two effects of population growth are:
1. The area available for cultivation is decreasing, which also reduces soil fertility.
2. There is a growing lack of food grains.
In simple words: As more people are born, there's less farm land, and it gets harder to grow enough food for everyone.
🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for specific numbers of effects, ensure you provide exactly that many distinct points.
Question 5. What is ozone layer?
Answer: The ozone layer is a thick layer of ozone gas found in the stratosphere, at a height of 11 to 36 km above the Earth. It protects the Earth by blocking harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun.
In simple words: The ozone layer is like a natural shield high up in the sky. It stops the sun's bad rays from reaching us.
🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the location (stratosphere) and primary function (UV protection) of the ozone layer when defining it.
Question 6. What is harming the ozone layer?
Answer: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are used in refrigerators and air-conditioning systems, are actively harming the ozone layer.
In simple words: Chemicals from things like old fridges and ACs are damaging the ozone layer.
🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the specific chemicals or human activities that contribute to ozone depletion rather than just general pollution.
Question 7. Which sect of Rajasthan obeys 29 sutras (points) important for wildlife conservation?
Answer: The Bishnoi sect of Rajasthan follows 29 principles for wildlife conservation.
In simple words: The Bishnoi people in Rajasthan live by 29 rules to protect animals and nature.
🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the specific community and the number of principles they adhere to when answering this question.
Question 8. What is the harm in excess quantity of cadmium in air and water?
Answer: Excessive cadmium in air and water can cause high blood pressure, lead to the decay of blood cells, and result in vomiting, diarrhea, and various heart problems.
In simple words: Too much cadmium in the air and water is bad for health, causing problems like high blood pressure, blood issues, stomach sickness, and heart trouble.
🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing harmful substances, list the specific health issues they cause for a comprehensive answer.
Question 9. Write the names of any four greenhouse gases?
Answer: The names of two greenhouse gases are:
1. Carbon dioxide
2. Methane
In simple words: Carbon dioxide and methane are two important gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming.
🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on identifying the most prominent greenhouse gases as they are primary contributors to climate change.
Question 11. Which gases are produced by the use of petroleum products?
Answer: The use of petroleum products produces lead oxide and carbon dioxide.
In simple words: When we burn things made from petroleum, it releases lead oxide and carbon dioxide into the air.
🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the two main types of harmful emissions from petroleum use: particulate matter (like lead oxide) and greenhouse gases (like carbon dioxide).
Question 12. What is landslide?
Answer: A landslide is the slipping of rocks from mountain slopes due to the force of gravity.
In simple words: A landslide happens when a lot of rocks and soil fall down a mountain because of gravity.
🎯 Exam Tip: Define natural phenomena clearly by mentioning their cause and visible effect.
Question 13. Where is Central Desert Research Institute located?
Answer: The Central Desert Research Institute is located in Jodhpur.
In simple words: The main research center for deserts is in Jodhpur.
🎯 Exam Tip: For location-based questions, remember the specific city or region where an institution is situated.
Question 14. What are the mineral resources?
Answer: Mineral resources are useful materials found naturally under the ground within the Earth's crust.
In simple words: Mineral resources are helpful materials that we dig out from under the Earth.
🎯 Exam Tip: A good definition includes the nature of the resource (useful material), its origin (naturally occurring), and location (underground/Earth's crust).
Question 15. Name two harms to environment caused by mining.
Answer: Two harms to the environment caused by mining are:
1. Pollution due to dust particles.
2. Decreasing forest area.
In simple words: Mining pollutes the air with dust and also reduces the amount of forest land.
🎯 Exam Tip: When listing environmental harms, focus on direct and significant impacts like air quality and habitat loss.
Question 16. Name the causes for continuous decrease of forests.
Answer:
🎯 Exam Tip: When an answer is not readily available, mention related concepts or common causes of deforestation like urbanization, agriculture, and logging.
Question 18. Give two examples each of conventional and non-conventional energy sources.
Answer:
1. Conventional sources: mineral coal and petroleum.
2. Non-conventional sources: solar energy and wind energy.
In simple words: Coal and oil are old ways to get energy. Solar power and wind power are new, greener ways.
🎯 Exam Tip: Classify energy sources correctly based on whether they are traditional fossil fuels (conventional) or renewable alternatives (non-conventional).
Question 19. What are the types of mineral coal? which one is best?
Answer: The types of mineral coal are Bituminous, lignite, pea, and anthracite. Anthracite is considered the best type of coal.
In simple words: There are different kinds of coal like Bituminous and Anthracite. Anthracite is the best quality coal because it burns cleanest and produces the most heat.
🎯 Exam Tip: When listing types, also state the characteristic that distinguishes the "best" type, such as calorific value or carbon content for coal.
Question 20. Which countries of the world produce petroleum?
Answer: About 50% of the world's oil is produced in Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, UAE, and Qatar. Among these, Iran and Saudi Arabia alone produce 40% of the world's petroleum.
In simple words: Many Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran produce a lot of the world's oil. They are major suppliers of petroleum.
🎯 Exam Tip: For geographical questions about resources, name key regions and countries and include relevant statistics if provided.
Question 21. In mineral coal and Uranium, which one is high energy giving?
Answer: 1 kg of Uranium can produce electricity equivalent to 25 lakh kg of coal, making Uranium the higher energy-giving substance.
In simple words: Uranium gives a lot more energy than coal. Just a little bit of Uranium can make as much power as a huge amount of coal.
🎯 Exam Tip: Compare energy sources quantitatively when asked which one yields more energy, using specific figures if available.
Question 22. What do you understand by soil erosion?
Answer: Soil erosion is the process where the upper, fertile layer of land is removed due to various reasons.
In simple words: Soil erosion is when the good top layer of soil gets washed or blown away.
🎯 Exam Tip: A clear definition of soil erosion should mention the removal of the topsoil and its fertile nature.
Question 24. Where and when was UNO's earth conference held?
Answer: The UNO's Earth Conference was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on June 14, 1992.
In simple words: The United Nations held an important meeting about the Earth in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on June 14, 1992.
🎯 Exam Tip: For historical events, always state the full date and specific location to provide a complete answer.
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1. Throw light on the need of environment conservation.
Answer: Humans are constantly developing, but this progress is causing significant environmental pollution. The cutting of trees, industrial growth, urbanization, technological advancements, population growth, and radioactive pollution are all harming our atmosphere. The Earth faces a continuous increase in temperature and global warming. Due to the rising population, farming areas are shrinking, and soil fertility is decreasing. A 2016 UNO report highlighted that 1.2 billion people in developing countries still lack access to clean drinking water. Protecting the environment is crucial for human health and survival.
In simple words: We need to save the environment because our growth is causing pollution, cutting down trees, warming the planet, and reducing clean water and farm land for everyone.
🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing environmental issues, connect human activities to their negative impacts and explain why conservation is a necessity.
Question 2. Describe the effect of air pollution on ozone layer.
Answer: The ozone layer, located 11 to 35 km high in the stratosphere, acts as a protective shield for Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Ozone forms through the action of UV rays on oxygen. However, gases like carbon dioxide, methane, nitrogen oxides, and Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) from polluted air are harming this vital layer. Experiments have shown that one CFC atom can destroy a hundred thousand ozone atoms in the stratosphere. This damage has created a large ozone hole over Antarctica and the South Pole, affecting the entire world, not just a specific region.
In simple words: Air pollution, especially from gases like CFCs, is damaging the ozone layer, which protects us from the sun's dangerous UV rays. This damage has caused a large hole in the ozone layer over the poles.
🎯 Exam Tip: Explain both the protective role of the ozone layer and the specific pollutants responsible for its depletion, along with their observed consequences like the ozone hole.
Question 3. Describe the causes of water pollution and measures to stop it
Answer: Water pollution happens when unwanted materials are added to natural water, making it unhealthy.
Causes of water pollution:
1. Factories release dirty water into rivers.
2. Sewage water contains harmful materials, uric acid, and microbes.
3. Fertilizers with nitrate and phosphate salts mix with soil and rainwater, polluting water bodies.
4. Crude oil spills during extraction also mix with rainwater and pollute water sources.
Measures to check water pollution:
1. Use organic manure instead of chemical fertilizers.
2. Reduce the use of agri-chemicals.
3. Industrial waste, including organic and inorganic pollutants, should be treated before being released into rivers.
4. Radioactive materials and hospital wastes should be buried deep in the earth instead of being thrown into water.
In simple words: Water gets dirty from factory waste, sewage, farm chemicals, and oil spills. To fix this, we should use natural fertilizers, clean industrial waste, and bury harmful hospital trash instead of putting it in water.
🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to describe causes and measures, provide clear, distinct points for each, ensuring they are practical and directly address the problem.
Question 4. Describe the causes and effects of soil erosion.
Answer: Soil erosion is when the quality of soil is lost due to natural processes and human actions.
Causes of soil erosion:
1. Acid rain harms soil fertility.
2. Changes in land use, such as deforestation, lead to soil erosion.
3. Too much use of fertilizers and chemical pesticides damages the soil.
4. Improper disposal of urban and industrial waste contaminates soil.
5. Using polluted water for irrigation, which contains harmful micro-organisms, degrades soil.
6. Burning forests exposes soil to erosion.
7. Water-logging and high salt content (salinity) in soil.
8. Droughts make soil dry and loose, prone to erosion.
Effects of soil erosion:
1. Soil fertility decreases, preventing many crops and plants from growing, making the land barren.
2. A lack of plant cover makes soil more vulnerable to erosion by wind and water.
3. Waste heaps attract flies, mosquitoes, and rats, which cause diseases.
4. Open defecation increases water pollution and the risk of diseases like cholera.
In simple words: Soil erosion happens because of acid rain, cutting down trees, too many chemicals, and waste. It makes the land lose its richness, so plants cannot grow, and can also spread diseases.
🎯 Exam Tip: Structure your answer by clearly separating causes and effects, using bullet points for readability and completeness.
Question 6. Describe the cause of global warming.
Answer: Global warming: Global warming refers to the continuous increase in the Earth's average temperature.
Causes of global warming:
1. Human activities are increasing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
2. Emissions from industries and vehicles are significantly raising carbon dioxide levels.
3. Widespread deforestation is a major factor contributing to this increase.
4. The growing use of fossil fuels for electricity production increases carbon dioxide emissions and raises global temperature.
5. Various human activities lead to an increase in the quantity of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
In simple words: Global warming is Earth getting hotter. It's caused by more greenhouse gases from human activities, factory smoke, too many cars, cutting down forests, and burning fossil fuels.
🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining global warming, define it and then list specific human-related activities that increase greenhouse gases, leading to the temperature rise.
Question 7. Describe the effects of global warming.
Answer: Effects of global warming:
3. Rising temperatures melt Arctic and Antarctic ice caps, increasing sea levels. This will affect people living in coastal areas and could submerge several coastal cities.
4. The increasing temperature threatens the Earth's plant and animal life.
In simple words: As the Earth heats up, ice melts and sea levels rise, which can flood coastal cities and harm plants and animals.
🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the most significant and visible consequences of global warming, such as sea level rise, extreme weather, and threats to biodiversity.
Question 8. What is the effect of mining on environment?
Answer: Minerals are found beneath the Earth's surface. Extracting them through mining harms the environment in several ways:
1. Air pollution occurs due to dust and fine mineral particles.
2. Forest areas are destroyed to make way for mining operations.
3. Wildlife habitats are endangered.
4. Fertile land is lost, resulting in barren land.
5. Soil fertility decreases.
6. Proper disposal of mining waste becomes a significant problem.
7. Mining activities can cause landslides.
8. Miners' health is negatively affected.
In simple words: Mining hurts the environment by polluting the air with dust, destroying forests and animal homes, making land unusable, causing landslides, and harming the health of workers.
🎯 Exam Tip: Provide a comprehensive list of environmental impacts when describing the effects of an industrial activity like mining, covering air, land, water, and biodiversity.
Question 9. What is energy resource? Present its classification.
Answer: Energy resources: Energy resources are natural biotic (living) and non-biotic (non-living) materials that provide energy. A country's development greatly depends on its energy resources, which are essential for industrial production, agriculture, transportation, domestic use, and medicine.
Classification of energy resources: Energy resources can be classified into two parts based on their use:
• Conventional energy resources:
In simple words: Energy resources are natural materials that give us power for everything from factories to homes. They are grouped into two types based on how we use them.
🎯 Exam Tip: When defining a concept like "energy resource," ensure you cover its nature, importance, and primary classifications.
RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Long Answer Type Questions
Question 1. Describe the cause, effect and measures to check water pollution.
Answer: Water pollution is the reduction of natural water quality due to the addition of external and unwanted materials.
Causes of water pollution:
1. Effluents released from factories.
2. Sewage water containing various harmful materials, uric acid, and microbes.
3. Nitrate and phosphate salts from fertilizers mixing with soil and rainwater.
4. Crude oil spills during extraction, mixing with rainwater and polluting water sources.
Effects of water pollution:
1. Diseases like diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, and typhoid are caused by consuming polluted water.
2. Dangerous chemicals in water lead to the death of aquatic animals.
3. Contact with polluted water can cause various parasites to enter the human body, leading to diseases like 'Naru'.
4. Chemical materials in water can cause several diseases, including smallpox.
5. Pollutants accumulate on the water surface, destroying floating plants.
Measures to check water pollution:
1. The use of chemical soaps should be stopped.
2. Excessive use of chemicals and fertilizers should be stopped, and organic manure should be used instead.
3. Radioactive materials and hospital wastes should be buried in the earth rather than thrown into garbage heaps or water. Organic and inorganic materials from industrial wastes should be destroyed before mixing into river water.
In simple words: Water pollution happens when harmful things get into clean water. This causes diseases, kills animals, and hurts plants. We can stop it by using less chemicals, treating factory waste, and properly disposing of harmful trash instead of putting it in water.
🎯 Exam Tip: Structure your answer clearly with separate sections for causes, effects, and measures, providing distinct points for each to ensure a comprehensive response.
Question 2. Write a details note on greenhouse effect
Answer: Greenhouse effect: The global rise in temperature has become a complex worldwide problem, which can be understood through the greenhouse effect. A greenhouse is an enclosed structure where plants are grown, with walls made of heat-resistant material and a roof of glass. Sunlight can enter, but the heat cannot easily escape, keeping the inside warm, suitable for tropical plants even in winter.
Similarly, the Earth's atmosphere is warming. Sun rays heat the Earth, and this heat tries to escape as long-wave radiation. However, various gases in the atmosphere act like a natural cover, similar to the glass walls of a greenhouse. This cover traps some of the outgoing heat, making the Earth warmer. These gases are known as greenhouse gases, mainly carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrogen oxide.
The increase in these atmospheric gases prevents the Earth's heat from escaping, leading to a continuous rise in temperature. This phenomenon is called the greenhouse effect. According to the Oxford dictionary, it's the progressive heating of the Earth's surface due to man-made increases in carbon dioxide.
Reasons for the greenhouse effect:
1. Rapid industrialization leads to the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
2. Increasing numbers of vehicles contribute to spreading pollution.
3. Burning coal, wood, mineral oil, and volcanic eruptions release greenhouse gases.
4. Respiration also adds carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.
Control of the greenhouse effect:
1. Reduce the compounds of carbon dioxide and chlorofluorocarbons in the atmosphere.
2. Industries should install plants that emit fewer carbon compounds and other gases, and use equipment to destroy or reduce such gases.
In simple words: The greenhouse effect is when the Earth gets hotter because certain gases in the air trap heat, like a greenhouse for plants. This happens because of factories, cars, burning fuels, and cutting trees. We can control it by using less polluting gases and having cleaner industries.
🎯 Exam Tip: Define the greenhouse effect using an analogy, then elaborate on its causes (human activities and natural sources) and provide practical control measures to score well.
Free study material for Political Science
RBSE Solutions Class 12 Political Science Chapter 13 Environment and Natural Resources
Students can now access the RBSE Solutions for Chapter 13 Environment and Natural Resources prepared by teachers on our website. These solutions cover all questions in exercise in your Class 12 Political Science textbook. Each answer is updated based on the current academic session as per the latest RBSE syllabus.
Detailed Explanations for Chapter 13 Environment and Natural Resources
Our expert teachers have provided step-by-step explanations for all the difficult questions in the Class 12 Political Science chapter. Along with the final answers, we have also explained the concept behind it to help you build stronger understanding of each topic. This will be really helpful for Class 12 students who want to understand both theoretical and practical questions. By studying these RBSE Questions and Answers your basic concepts will improve a lot.
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Using our Political Science solutions regularly students will be able to improve their logical thinking and problem-solving speed. These Class 12 solutions are a guide for self-study and homework assistance. Along with the chapter-wise solutions, you should also refer to our Revision Notes and Sample Papers for Chapter 13 Environment and Natural Resources to get a complete preparation experience.
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