NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Geography Chapter 2 Land, Soil, Water, Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Resources

NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Geography Chapter 2 focuses on Land, Soil, Water, Natural Vegetation, and Wildlife Resources:- Geography Class 8 Chapter 2 examines how these resources are distributed and their impact on different regions. It explains how variations in land quality, soil, water availability, natural vegetation, and wildlife contribute to the diverse living conditions and lifestyles around the world. Understanding these factors helps in grasping the importance of resource management and how they shape human activities and the environment. Check out the Class 8 Geography Chapter 2 NCERT Solutions below.
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NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Geography Chapter 2 focuses on Land, Soil, Water, Natural Vegetation, and Wildlife Resources
Check out the Class 8 Geography Chapter 2 Question Answer below:-
(i) Which are the two main climatic factors responsible for soil formation?
Answer: The two primary climatic factors responsible for soil formation are temperature and rainfall.
Temperature: Temperature plays a crucial role in soil formation by influencing the rate at which rocks and minerals weather. Higher temperatures generally accelerate the weathering process, breaking down rocks into smaller particles more quickly. This process contributes to the development of soil by creating the mineral components that make up soil. Additionally, temperature affects biological activity in the soil, such as the decomposition of organic matter, which is essential for the formation of humus.
Rainfall: Rainfall impacts soil formation in several ways. It contributes to the weathering of rocks by providing the moisture needed for chemical reactions that break down minerals. Rainfall also affects the accumulation and movement of organic matter and nutrients in the soil. In regions with high rainfall, the leaching process can wash away certain nutrients from the soil, while in drier areas, there may be less leaching and slower soil formation. Rainfall also influences the development of different soil types and their fertility, as it affects the presence and activity of microorganisms and plant life.
Read More: NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Geography Chapter 1 Resources
(ii) Write any two reasons for land degradation today.
Answer: Two significant reasons for land degradation today are the overuse of chemical fertilizers and deforestation.
Overuse of Chemical Fertilizers: Excessive use of chemical fertilizers leads to soil degradation by disrupting the natural nutrient balance. Over time, this can result in soil acidity, reduced fertility, and contamination of water sources, which affects both the soil's health and agricultural productivity.
Deforestation: The large-scale removal of forests for agriculture, urban development, and logging reduces vegetation cover. This disruption can lead to soil erosion, loss of soil fertility, and decreased biodiversity. The removal of trees and plants also impairs the soil’s ability to retain water, further exacerbating erosion and degradation.
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(iii) Why is land considered an important resource?
Answer: Land is considered an important resource because it serves multiple vital functions:
Agriculture: Land is essential for growing crops and raising livestock, which are fundamental for food production and agriculture. It provides the foundation for cultivating various crops and ensuring food security.
Forestry: Land supports forests and woodlands, which are crucial for timber production, biodiversity, and maintaining ecological balance. Forests also play a role in regulating the climate and preserving water cycles.
Mining: Land contains valuable mineral resources, including coal, oil, metals, and other materials, which are essential for industrial processes and energy production.
Infrastructure Development: Land is needed for constructing housing, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure that supports human habitation and economic activities. It provides the space required for urban development and transportation networks.
Industrial Activities: Land is used for setting up industries and factories, which are vital for economic growth and providing employment opportunities.
(iv) Name any two steps that the government has taken to conserve plants and animals.
Answer: Two significant steps taken by the government to conserve plants and animals are:
Establishment of Protected Areas: The government has created national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves to safeguard natural vegetation and wildlife. These protected areas provide a safe habitat for endangered species, help maintain biodiversity, and prevent habitat destruction.
Awareness and Conservation Programs: Initiatives such as social forestry and tree plantation drives, like ‘Vanamahotsava,’ are organized to promote forest conservation and reforestation. These programs aim to raise public awareness about the importance of forests and encourage the planting of trees to restore and expand forest cover.
(v) Suggest three ways to conserve water.
Answer: Three main ways to conserve water are:
a. Increasing Forest Cover: Enhancing vegetation through afforestation and reforestation helps slow surface runoff, allowing more water to percolate into the ground and recharge groundwater supplies.
b. Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater through rainwater harvesting systems helps replenish underground water sources, reducing dependence on conventional water supplies and alleviating pressure on existing water resources.
c. Improving Irrigation Efficiency: Reducing water loss in irrigation by adopting efficient methods such as drip or sprinkler systems, and shifting to less water-intensive agricultural practices, can significantly conserve water and ensure its more effective use in farming.
2. Tick the correct answer.
(i) Which one of the following is NOT a factor of soil formation?
(a) Time
(b) Soil texture
(c) Organic matter
Answer: b. Soil Texture
(ii) Which one of the following methods is most appropriate to check soil erosion on steep slopes?
(a) Shelterbelts
(b) Mulching
(c) Terrace cultivation
Answer: c) Terrace cultivation
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(iii) Which one of the following is NOT in favour of the conservation of nature?
(a) switch off the bulb when not in use
(b) close the tap immediately after using
(c) dispose poly packs after shopping
Answer: c) Dispose poly packs after shopping
3. Match the following.
Column A |
Column B |
Land use |
prevent soil erosion |
Humus |
narrow zone of contact between the lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere |
Rock Dams |
productive use of land |
Biosphere |
organic matter deposited on top soil |
contour ploughing |
Answer:
Column A |
Column B |
Land use |
productive use of land |
Humus |
organic matter deposited on top soil |
Rock Dams |
prevent soil erosion |
Biosphere |
narrow zone of contact between the lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere |
4: State whether the given statement is true or false. If true, give the reasons.
(i). Ganga–Brahmaputra plain of India is an overpopulated region.
True: River valleys and plains provide fertile land ideal for agriculture, which supports a high population density in these areas.
(ii) Water availability per person in India is declining.
True: The decline in water availability per person is attributed to factors such as rising population, increased urbanization, higher standards of living, and growing demands for food and cash crops. These factors contribute to freshwater shortages, which are often due to the depletion of water sources or water pollution.
(iii) Rows of trees planted in the coastal areas to check the wind movement are called intercropping.
False: Rows of trees planted to control wind movement and protect soil cover are known as shelterbelts.
(iv). Human interference and changes in climate can maintain the ecosystem.
False: Climate change and human activities can lead to the loss of natural habitats, thereby disrupting and destroying ecosystems.
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Geography Chapter 2 Class 8 Summary
This chapter explores the critical natural resources that shape our environment and support life. It covers the following key aspects:
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Land: Land is a fundamental resource used for various purposes, including agriculture, forestry, mining, and urban development. The distribution of land affects human activities and living conditions, and its management is crucial for sustainable development.
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Soil: Soil formation is influenced by climatic factors such as temperature and rainfall. Soil supports plant growth and agriculture and is vital for food production. The chapter discusses different soil types and their characteristics, as well as the impact of soil degradation and the need for soil conservation.
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Water: Water is an essential resource for all forms of life. The chapter explains the distribution of freshwater resources, including rivers, lakes, and groundwater, and highlights the importance of water conservation. Issues such as water scarcity, pollution, and management practices are also addressed.
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Natural Vegetation: Natural vegetation includes forests, grasslands, and other plant communities. The chapter examines the types of vegetation found in different regions and their role in maintaining ecological balance. It also discusses the impact of deforestation and the importance of conservation efforts.
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Wildlife Resources: Wildlife includes various animal species that depend on their natural habitats. The chapter covers the importance of wildlife conservation, the threats faced by different species, and the measures taken to protect endangered animals and their habitats.
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Class 8 Geography Chapter 2 Resources FAQs
1. What is the significance of land in our environment?
Answer: Land is crucial because it provides space for agriculture, settlements, industries, and infrastructure. It supports various activities, including farming, forestry, and mining, and its management affects human development and ecological balance.
2. How does soil formation occur?
Answer: Soil formation occurs through the weathering of rocks and minerals, influenced by climatic factors such as temperature and rainfall. Biological processes, such as the decomposition of organic matter, also contribute to soil development.
3. Why is water considered a vital resource?
Answer: Water is essential for all life forms, including human, plant, and animal life. It supports agriculture, industry, and domestic needs, and plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance and health.
4. What are the different types of soil, and how do they affect agriculture?
Answer: Different soil types include sandy, clayey, loamy, and silty soils. Each type has distinct properties that affect water retention, drainage, and nutrient availability, influencing agricultural practices and crop yields.
5. What is the role of natural vegetation in the environment?
Answer: Natural vegetation, such as forests and grasslands, plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. It supports wildlife, prevents soil erosion, regulates climate, and contributes to the water cycle.