WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun The Stars And The Sky

April 4, 2024 by sravani

Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System: The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Introduction :

The earth, on which we live, is not alone in space. From our childhood we see the sun shines during the day and at night we see the moon, numerous twinkling stars and other luminous bodies scattered in the sky.

They are called heavenly bodies or celestial bodies. A celestial or heavenly body has been evolved by nature and exists in outer space. Let us examine the groupings of different celestial bodies in space.

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They may be grouped as follows :

Galaxies.
Nebulae.

Stars.
Planets.
Satellites.

Asteroids or Planetoids.
Comets and
Meteors.

Space :

Space is an area of unspecified size. It is a continuous unlimited area or expanse which may or may not contain objects etc. Space is not so empty as it was once thought to be.

There are millions of galaxies and other heavenly bodies and each is separated from the others by vast reaches of space.

Sky :

The sky is the region of the atmosphere and outer space seen from the earth.

The Universe:

The word ‘universe’ is derived from the Latin ‘Universum’ which means ‘(things) combined into one, whole’. The universe is the whole of creation.

Philosophically, it may be defined as everything that exists or appears to exist, known and unknown, material and non-material. In a more restricted sense, ‘Universe’ refers to all systems of astronomical bodies-Galaxies, Stars, Planets etc.

in the infinite ocean of space. The limitless space of infinite dimensions with its contents is generally referred to as the Universe. The Universe comprises millions and millions of galaxies or star systems.

Yet we do not know about the dimensions of the Universe or the exact number of galaxies. So, our knowledge about the Universe is far from complete.

Black hole :

Black hole is a region of space from which nothing, not even light, can escape. Its force or gravity is much more powerful than any other normal star in the Universe.

Origin And Expanse Of The Universe :

The most widely accepted theory about the origin of the Universe is the ‘Big Bang’ theory. Many astronomers believe that the Universe began life in a single momentous event.

This was an incredibly hot, dense explosion called the ‘Big Bang’ which took place about 15 billion years ago. During this explosion, all matter, energy, space-and-time itself were created.

In the first few millionths of n second, the particles that makeup atoms, the building blocks of all matter, were formed. It took about 100,000 years for the first atoms, those of the gases hydrogen and helium, to come together.

By the time, the scary heat of the ‘Big Bang’ had cooled, space has expanded and the gases began to spread out. Gradually, however, gravity drew the gases together leaving vast regions of empty space in between. Our own Earth, along with our Solar system, is a product of a stellar explosion almost five billion years ago.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe

How Vast Is The Universe ?/Vastness Of The Universe :

The Universe is unimaginably vast. It is billions upon billions of kilometres wide. Distance in the Universe is so great that we have to use a special measure to record them.

This is the light year, or the distance that light, which moves at a speed of about 300,000 kilometres per second, travels in one year (i.e. about 9,460,528,405,000 kilometres).

The nearest star to earth (after the Sun), Proxima Centauri is 4-2 light years away. The most distant objects we know in the Universe are more than 13 billion light years away from Earth.

The Universe is indeed very vast in size. Our Earth may thus be considered to be a sand particle in the desert of the star-studded Universe.

What is Galaxy?

A galaxy is an archipelago (group of islands) of billion of stars that are held together by the force of gravity. The word ‘galaxy’ itself comes from the Greek word ‘galactic’ which means milk.

This is because galaxies were looked like milky or cloudy areas in the sky before telescopes were powerful. The Universe contains millions of galaxies.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe Galaxy

There Are Three Main Types Of Galaxies, According To Thin Shape

Elliptical, which are oval-shaped,
Spiral, which have arms spiralling outwards from a central bulge, and

Irregular which have no obvious shape. The Milky Way is a spiral galaxy.

The Milky Way is only a part of the galaxy. The sun from which we receive light and energy belongs to a galaxy, also known as the ‘Milky Way’, (in India it is known as ‘Akash Ganga’).

The Milky way is made up of about 100,000 mi sn stars, along with clouds of gas and dust. The Milky way has the shape of a disc. we car. identify the Milky Way on a clear moonless night. It looks like a white belt of shining tiny stars across the sky.

What Is Nebula?

A Nebula is a cloud of dust and gas inside a galaxy from which stars are born. V.ore than one Nebula is called ‘Nebulae’. Nebulae represent the building blocks for stars, galaxies and planets in the Universe.

Nebulae become visible if the gas glows, or if the cloud reflects starlight and obscures the light from more distant objects. Emission nebulae are hot, discrete clouds of primarily ionized hydrogen that glow with their own light.

Reflection nebulae emit a bluish glow by reflecting the scattered light of nearby stars. Absorption nebulae, or dark nebulae, comprise dense clouds of gas and dust. They appear as silhouettes against the light of brighter objects.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe Nebula

The Stars :

A star is a luminous body of hot, glowing gas mostly hydrogen and helium that are born in a Nebula. Stars generate light and release energy from nuclear fusion reactions in their core.

They vary enormously in size, mass and temperature. The colour of a star is determined by its temperature. The hottest star is blue and the coolest is red.

Stars may look like tiny points of light in the night sky but many stars are incredibly big. Betelgeuse, in the constellation of Orion, is 800 times the size of the sun, our local star.

Stars seem to twinkle in the sky because we see them through the layers of the earth’s atmosphere. As light passes through these layers, it is distorted so that the amount we actually see changes constantly.

The stars nearest the horizon appear to twinkle the most because the light is passing through a greater depth of atmosphere. Stars do not twinkle when viewed from space, which is why telescopes in space.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe stars

Constellation :

Constellation is a group of stars that forms an imaginary pattern representing an object, animal or person as seen from the Earth. Cassiopeia, Orion, Ursa Major, Ursa Minor etc. are a few of the well-known constellations.

Cassiopeia :

‘Cassiopeia’ is named after queen Cassiopeia of Greek mythology. It is seen in the northern sky. Cassiopeia forms an ‘M’/’W’-shape by its five bright stars.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe Cassiopela

Orion :

‘It looks like a gallant hunter. It is one of the most beautiful of all constellations. In Bengali, it is known as ‘Kalpurush’. It is seen in the southwestern sky.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe Orion

‘Ursa Sky Major :

Ursa Major is a group of seven bright stars. The meaning of this name is the ‘great bear’. In India, it is known as ‘Saptarshi Mondal’. These stars form a pattern known as the ‘Big-Dipper’ in the U.S.A. and the ‘plough’ in the U.K, These stars are usually seen in the northern sky in most of the northern hemisphere.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe Ursa Sky Major

Planets :

A planet Is a heavenly body that orbits a star while rotating on us axis. He word ‘planet’ comes from the Greek word ‘planets’. it means ‘wanderer and were so named as they seemed to move about or wander in the sky.

Planet dees not tad-late Its own light, but reflects the light from the star. While stars appear to twinkle, planets shine with a steady light because planets lie at comparatively smaller distances while the planets are rotating their own axis, they also revolve the sun (nearly star).

Characteristics :

A planet is much smaller in size than a star,
Planets have no light of their own.
Planets are illuminated by light from the? star and also reflects the light from the star,

Planets may be solid or gaseous,
AH planets do not have satellites,
Planets revolved around the stars.

Difference Between Star And Planets :

Stars	Planets
1. Stars are huge heavenly bodies of hot, glowing gas that are born In nebulae.	1. Planets are smaller heavenly bodies that are cold and solid.
2. Stars have their own light and heat.	2. Planets arc lighted and heated by the sun.
3. Stars are very large.	3. Planets are smaller than stars.
4. Stars are twinkling.	4. Planets do not twinkle because it just reflects the light received from pi a star.
5. Generally, stars are stations!y,	5. Planets are moving around the stars.
6. Stars were originated before the origins of planets.	6. Planets were originated after the origin of the star.
7. A star holds the central position among the other planets.	7. Planets revolve around a def. nte s’.a in a definite path to; hit) and direction.
8. A star has planets revolving around it	8. A planet has satellites revolving around it.

Dwarf Planet:

A dwarf planet is a smaller celestial round object that orbits the sun. Pluto, Ceres, Erls ate examples of dwarf planets

Characteristics :

It moves around the sun.

Its gravitational pull is weak
It has debris within the orbit
It is small

It is not a satellite

Difference Between Planets And Dwarf Planets.

Planets	Dwarf planets
1. A planet is a celestial body which moves around the sun.	1. A dwarf planet is a smaller celestial round object that orbits the sun
2. It has sufficient mass for its self-gravity to overcome rigid body forces.	2. Its gravitational pull Is weak.
3. Its orbit is not round.	3. Its orbit Is nearly round.
4. It has cleared neighbourhoods around its orbit.	4. It has debris within its orbit

Satellites :

The word satellite means ‘attendant’ or ‘follower’. Satellites are small spherical heavenly bodies that rotate on their axis and revolve around the respective planets. All planets do not have satellites.

The earth has only one natural satellite. The name of the earth’s satellite is ‘Mono’ Mercury and Venus have no satellites like planets satellites also have no light and heat of their own. Sunrays are reflected from satellites. So they look bright.

Differences between Planets and Satellites :

Planets	Satellites
1. Planets are much bigger than satellites.	1. Satellites are much smaller than planets.
2. Planets revolve around the stars.	2. Satellites revolved around the planets.
3. Planets are far from the stars.	3. Satellites are closer to the planets than the stars.
4. Life may exist in any planet. Our earth Is the only planet where plants and animals live.	4. There is no trace of life in satellites.

Comets :

A comet is a luminous mass of cosmic dust or nebulous matter having an elongated tail and moving in a highly elliptical orbit around the sun.

Comets are such heavenly bodies which of ten exist in the ‘Kuiper Belt’ at the edge of or beyond the solar system. They are different from stars and other heavenly bodies.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe Comets

Characteristics:

Comets are small bodies with a core of dust and frozen gases.

They have a head called ‘coma’ and a long tail. Many comets do not have tails. A well-developed comet has a tail that always turns away from the sun. The tails are often bright and millions of km long. The tail is made of glowing gas and dust.
Most of the time comets remain outside the solar systems and cannot be seen.

Comets move around the sun in regular orbits and their path is elongated and elliptical.
Comets take from hundreds to thousands of years to complete one revolution around the sun.
The comets eventually die.

Halley’s comet discovered in 168z, by Edmund Halley is a periodical comet. It is seen at intervals of 76 years. It was seen in 1910 and 1986. There are many Non¬periodical comets. They are very rare and not sighted at regular intervals.

Meteors/Meteoroids:

While looking at the night sky sometimes one may notice a bright light moving with a considerable velocity which disappears immediately. Some call it a ‘shooting star’, some say ‘a star is falling.

‘ In fact, these are mostly meteors or meteoroids. Meteoroids are small chunks of stone or some of which are fragments of asteroids or comets. If a meteoroid enters the Earth’s atmosphere, from outer space, it is heated by friction and appears as a glowing streak of light called a ‘meteor’.

They are attracted by the Earth’s gravity and rapidly pass near the earth, they are seen as rapidly moving bright objects in the sky lasting for a few seconds. So, they are also called ‘shocking stars’. ‘Meteor showers’ occur when the earth passes through the trail of dust particles left by a comet. Most meteors burn up in the atmosphere.

The few that are large enough to reach the earth’s surface as a large boulders. These are termed as ‘meteorites’. A large, meteor crater, of diameter of 12000 metres is known to exist in Arizona State of the United States.

Meteors are known to have fallen on other planets and satellites also, resulting in the formation of craters.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe Meteor

Asteroids :

Asteroids are small, mostly rocky, irregular-shaped bodies, orbiting the sun. Asteroids range in size from tiny specks to about 1000 kilometres in diameter.

They are sometimes known as ‘minor planets’ or ‘Planetoids’. These are found between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. Asteroids move around the sun in the same direction as other planets, e.g.-Harmes (32 km of diameter).

There are also some known asteroids Juno (diameter 190 km), Vesta (diameter 390 km) and Pollas (diameter 490 km). The asteroids resemble the planets in all respects except their small and irregular size.

The Solar System

The Solar system consists of the Sun, together with the planets, their moons (natural satellites), comets, asteroids, meteoroids, and a mass of gas and dust that circle around it.

The Latin equivalent of ‘sun’ is ‘sol’; that is why it is called ‘solar system’. If planet Earth is our home, then the solar system is our neighbourhood. The Earth is a member planet of our Solar system and our solar system is a small part of the systems of the stars collectively known as ‘galaxy’.

It is known as a system because all the heavenly bodies of the Solar family are bound by independent relations. The Sun is the nucleus of the Solar system around which other celestial bodies as members of the system revolve along their respective orbits. The Solar system has a diameter of about 11790 million km.

Its planets can be easily grouped into two divisions.

(1) Inner Planets :

These planets (Mercury, Earth, Venus, and Mars) are small in size but have high densities. They are also known as ‘Terrestrial Planets’.

(2) Outer Planets :

These planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune) are big in size but have low densities. They are also known as Major planets or Giant planets. It should be noted that the solar family occupies a very small part of the Universe.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe Solar System

How The Solar System Is Formed :

Scientists believe that about 4.6 billion years ago there was no sun, no moon and no solar system at all. But there was only clouds of dust and gases in space.

These gases, main hydrogen and fly partly helium together with dust particles in space forming a cosmic cloud. When this cloud is disturbed by different cosmic factors then it is squeezed.

Eventually, it collapsed creating a flat spinning disc of gas and dust. The disc gradually formed a Nebula. French Scientist Laplas thought that parts of a huge Nebula separated and cooled to give birth of these planets.

According to Russian scientist Auto Smith gases and dust particles around the Sun combined to form these planets. According to Friedman of Russia and Mublc (USA), about 15 billion years back by the explosion of a giant heavenly body huge stars were formed which in turn exploded to form small stars and these planets.

Recently British scientist Stephen blockings has also supported this theory.

He Members Of Our Own Solar System Or Solar Family :

The Sun is the head of the solar family and our Earth is the member planet of this family. The members of this family are the Sun, eight planets (including our earth), and their satellites, three dwarf planets and thousands of asteroids, meteors and comets.

The sun holds the members of its family of planets and others near it by the pull of its own gravity. All the planets and asteroids (planetoids) move around the Sun in fixed elliptical paths called Orbits.

99.87% by volume of the total matter of the solar family is connected within the sun.

The Sun :

The Sun is a very ordinary star in the Universe but the head of the solar family. It appears bigger and brighter as it is closer to the earth than all the other stars. The Sun is located at the centre of the solar family and about 15 crore km away from our Earth. But actually, Sun is 13 lakh times bigger than the Earth.

It is a gigantic ball of gases composed mainly of hydrogen and helium. The temperature at the core or centre of the Sun is around 1.4 million°C. Its surface temperature is about 6000°C. From its central core to the surface.

There are four distinctive layers, they are—

Core of the Sun.
Photosphere.
Chromosphere and

Corona.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Evolution Of Our Universe Layers Of Sun

1. Core of the Sun :

The hottest central part of the Sun is known as the core which is made of hydrogen and helium in a burning state.

2. Photosphere :

The visible yellow face of the Sun is called the photosphere or the sphere of light. Here the temperature is about 6000°C. Dark patches called ‘Sunspots’ are sometimes seen in the photosphere.

These are the cooler spots where the temperature is about 4500°C. The rays and heat we get from the sun, radiating from it.

3. Chromosphere:

It lies surrounding the photosphere. It is pink in colour. Thousands of big flames are radiating in every second in this part. The flames of the chromosphere are called ‘prominences’.

4 Corona:

Behind the chromosphere lies the corona. A bright gaseous belt above the photosphere is known as a corona. It is the uppermost layer of the sun. A regular observation shows that the Sun rotates on its axis.

The time for one complete rotation of the Sun is equal to about 25 days. The Sun also revolves around the centre of the Milky Way (our own galaxy) once in 200 million years. In India, it is known as ‘Akash Ganga’.

Planets Of Our Solar System :

There are eight big planets in the solar family. According to distance from the Sun, these are-

Mercury.
Venus.

Earth.
Mars.
Jupiter.

Saturn.
Uranus and
Neptune.

There are also three dwarf planets. These are-

Pluto
Ceres and

Eris.

Mercury :

Mercury is the nearest or closest planet to the Sun. God of commerce and also a messenger for other Gods. Mercury was the Roman. Mercury was named after the speedy messenger of the gods because it is seemed to move more quickly than the other known planets.

It is slightly larger than our moon. It has no atmosphere or hydrosphere. It also has no satellite. Mercury’s surface is bare, rocky and covered with craters. So, it looks quite similar to that of our moon. It has great extremes of temperature.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Mercury

Venus:

Venus is a fascinating planet. It is the brightest planet of the Solar system. Often it will be near the moon in the sky, making its identification easy. Venus is named for the Roman goddess of love. It is the only planet in the solar system with a female name. In many ways, Venus is nearly earth’s twin.

Considering the value of Earth as 1, Venus has 0.82 times of mass, 0.95 times the radius and 0.94 times the density of the Earth. Therefore Venus is called ‘Earth’s Sister twin’.

Venus is different from Earth in many respects. Venus rotates from east to west. This means that the Sun would appear to rise in the west and set in the east.

It has a thicker and denser atmosphere than the Earth. Venus is probably the hottest planet of the Solar system. The surface temperature is estimated at about 500°C on the sunlit side.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Venus

One of the reasons for the high temperature is that the planet rotates extremely slowly. A second reason is the effect of the thick atmosphere around the planet. So, there is no trace of life on Venus.

Venus is visible in the eastern part of the sky early in the morning, then it is called ‘Morning Star’ and in the evening when it is visible in the western part of the sky after sunset is called ‘Evening Star’.

The Earth :

The Earth is the third planet from the Sun and it is the fifth largest planet of the Solar system. The Earth has an atmosphere which is rich in nitrogen and oxygen.

There is an abundance of water on the Earth. No other planet has such a large amount of water. The Earth has optimum conditions for the growth and evolution of various forms of life.

The Earth has two motions—rotation and revolution. It causes day and night and changes of seasons.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky The Earth

The Mars :

Mars is fourth in distance from the Sun and seventh in size. In ancient Rome, Mars was initially a god of fertility and agriculture, but later he also became the god of war.

It is called the ‘Red Planet’ as its surface is covered with red sand and boulders. It has dead volcanoes and deep T-shaped valleys where water once flowed freely.

The planet has white, polar caps of dry ice. It has two sateilites-Phobos and Dimos. No evidence of life has been found on this planet.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Mars

The Jupiter :

After the Sun, Jupiter is the most dominant body of the Solar system. It is called “King of the Planets.” Jupiter is the largest planet in the Solar system and is big enough to contain more than a thousand Earths (about 1500).

It is made up of very light matter—a mixture of liquid and gaseous forms of hydrogen and helium. Its mass is equal to the mass of 318 piles of earth. Its equatorial diameter is eleven times that of the Earth.

Like the Earth Jupiter also has its own magnetic field. Along with Saturn, Uranus and Neptune, Jupiter is known .as a ‘Gas giant’, because it is mostly made of gas with no solid surface at all.

The colourful patterns of red, brown, yellow and white on Jupiter’s surface are produced by the chemical sulphur and phosphorus in the swirling atmosphere.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Jupiter

The Great Red Spot’, is its most famous feature. Jupiter has a system of rings consisting of dark grains of dust. It has 63 moons or natural satellites, among them four moons are important. They are Ganymede, Callisto, lo and Europa.

The Saturn :

Saturn is the second largest planet. Saturn is the .most beautiful planet in the Solar system because it is surrounded by a system of many rings. Three well-defined rings have been identified.

These consist of small particles of matter densely packed to appear like a ring of matter revolving around the planet. Besides, these rings Saturn has also 62 satellites.

Of these satellites ‘Titan7 is the largest. Like Jupiter, Saturn is also made up of hydrogen and helium. So, Saturn . is the lightest planet, and if a large ocean were available, Saturn would float on it.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Saturn

The Uranus :

Uranus is the seventh planet from the Sun and the third largest. It was discovered in 1781 by William Herschel. Uranus is enriched by 11 rings. Uranus is tilted 98° from the vertical. So it is unique among the planets in its axis of rotation lies close to the orbital plane.

Uranus is the most featureless planet to have been closely observed. Its atmosphere contains traces of methane giving the planet a blue-green hue. It has 27 Satellites.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Uranus

Neptune :

Neptune is one of the furthest planets from the Sun. It is a gas giant and is thought to consist of a small rocky core surrounded by a mixture of liquid and gases. The atmosphere contains several prominent cloud features. Triton is the largest Neptunian moon and the coldest object (- 235°C) in the Solar system.

There are five rings encircling the planet. Like Uranus, Neptune also looks green because of methane in its atmosphere.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Neptune

Pluto :

Earlier, Pluto was considered as the ninth, smallest, coldest and outermost planet in the

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Pluto

Solar System with one named (Charon) and two unnamed satellites. Since 24th August 2006 in the ‘International Astronomical Union’ (IAU) Conference, Pluto was downgraded as ‘Dwarf Planet’.

Dwarf planets are smaller round objects that orbit the Sun. Because their gravitational pull is weak, they have debris within their orbits. They are not however satellites of other planets. Ceres (found in the asteroid belt) and Eris (located in the Kuiper belt) are also dwarf planets.

Journey To Space :

From many thousands of years ago humans wished to gather knowledge about the wandered sky where the twinkling stars, the Sun, the Moon and the other heavenly bodies are all together.

With the progress of time, the study of space is carried out by astronomers with telescopes.

Telescope :

The telescope is an optical instrument using lenses or mirrors or both to make distant objects appear nearer and larger.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Telescope

Space Suit :

A space suit is a specific dress which is used by someone travelling to space wears a dress filled with and designed to keep out radiation in space.

Rocket:

A rocket is a vehicle used for travelling in space because it is able to overcome gravity and shoot up to space.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Rocket

Spacecraft :

Spacecraft is a vehicle used for travelling in space.

Space Shuttle :

Space Shuttle is a rocket for repeated use, especially between the Earth and a space station. A rocket can take us to space but cannot ensure our safe return to earth. For this, we need a space shuttle.

Space Station :

The space station is an artificial satellite used as a base for operations in Space.

Artificlaf satellites :

Artificial satellites are man-made assemblages of machines and automated devices that revolve around the earth. Many countries have launched their satellites.

They help in the weather forecast, aviation, navigation, communication and other branches of space research. For example, in 2012 NASA of the United States of America sent the rover ‘Curiosity’ to Mars.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Artificial Satelites

Its main objective was to facilitate research regarding the availability or presence of water, soil, weather and life on Mars. The first artificial satellite to the space is Sputnik-1 (meaning Baby Moon in the Russian Language). It was sent by Russian scientists on October 4, 1957.

The first living being to space:

Lika, the Russian dog was the first living being to venture out to space.

The first Man in space :

Yuri Gagarin was the first man to travel to space. On the 12th of April 1961, spacecraft namely Vostok-I of the Soviet Union with him made its first journey to space. He orbited around the earth and his spacecraft returned safely on the earth after making a complete circle.

The first woman in the space :

The first woman in space was Russian Lt. CoL. Valentina Tereskova. She was sent to the space in Vostok VI on June 16, 1963.

India’s Space Research :

It should be noted that India has made a glorious stride over the space research and space journey. India holds the third position in the world in space research activities.

The first space satellite named ‘Aryabhatta’ was launched on 19th April 1975. It was followed by Bhaskar, Rohini-1, Rohini-2, Apple, INSAT, and so on.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Aryabhatta Satellites

Then after a couple of intense movements India’s ‘Lunar Impact’ Probe,’ launched by tricolour. ‘Chandrayan’-l reached on the moon’s surface on 14th November 2008, at 8: 31 pm.

The major activities of ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) are at present connected on the regular study of the unnamed satellite sent to space namely INSAT, GSAT, SARAL etc. as Geo-Stationary Satellites and Earth Observation Satellites for weather forecasting and other necessary data collection.

Recently India has sent one spacecraft as Mars Orbit Mission.

Chandrayan-2 :

July 22, 2019, is a historic day for space science and technology in India. India’s space agency or Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on that day (2:43 pm) launched the Chandrayan-2 spacecraft into an orbit around Earth and a 48-day journey towards the lunar south pole, intending to make India the fourth country to reach the Moon.

Chandrayan-2 is intended to be the first aircraft to land near the Moon’s south pole, a region of special interest to lunar scientists. The spacecraft is expected to reach the Moon’s neighbourhood on August 20, 2019.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Chandrayan-2

Notable Indian Astronauts :

Rakesh Sharma :

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Rakesh Sharma

Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian astronaut visited the space in 1984 along with the Russian astronauts. They spent eight days in space in the Soyuz T-ll space station.

Kalpana Chawla :

Kalpana Chawla was the first Indian woman in space. She went into space as a mission specialist on the space shuttle Columbia in 1997 and spent about 372 hours in space. Her second space mission was on January 16, 2003.

On February 1, 2003, her space shuttle Columbia met with a disaster during re-entry into the atmosphere of the Earth -and Kalpana Chawla, along with all the seven crew members died.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Kalpana Chawla

Sunita Williams :

Sunita Williams is an American astronaut of Indian origin. She holds the record for the longest single space flight by women for about 195 days. She is also accredited with a record 50 hours 40 minutes of most space walk time for a woman.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Sunita William

The Moon :

The Moon is the only natural satellite of the Earth. It is the nearest heavenly body being only 3,84,000 km from the Earth. It is about 50 times. Smaller than the Earth and is the Only heavenly body that astronauts have set foot on.

The Moon is very tiny compared to the sun, but it looks as big as the Sun is 400 times farther from the Earth and the Moon. The Moon is the brightest object in the night sky. The Moon travels round the Earth once in about 27. days 7 hours and 14 seconds. This is called ‘Lunar Month’.

The Moon takes roughly the same time to spin around its axis once. Thus the same sHe (near side) of the Moon always faces the Earth. There is no life, no air, no sound and no water on the moon.

The surface of the moon has many dead volcanoes with large craters, numerous hollows created by meteorites and vast dust-covered rocky plains known as ‘Maria’ or seas.

Since the low-lying parts and the hollows remain in shadow, they look like dark patches. The Moon has no atmosphere because its gravity, only one-sixth that of the Earth, is not strong enough to hold down gases.

However, its gravity is strong enough to pull the Earth’s oceans and causes tides. The temperature on the Moon reaches extremes from 100°C on its nearside (Sunlit side) to – 180°C on its far side (dark side).

Phases Of The Moon :

We often see just a part of the Moon which becomes larger or smaller light by night. As the Moon revolves around the Earth, its shape appears to change.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Phases Of The Moon

This is because different portions of the lighted face of the Moon can be seen from the Earth at different positions. The changes in the Moon’s appearance from ‘New Moon’ to ‘Full Moon’ and again from Full moon to New moon. Every month the Moon goes through all its phases.

Lunar Eclipse :

An eclipse occurs when the Sun, the Earth and the Moon become collinear i.e., they are in a straight line in the plane of the ecliptic. On certain full Moon, days if the bright Moon gradually becomes darkened either partially or totally, it appears as though some dark shadow falls on its face.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Lunar Eclipse

The dark zone of the Earth’s shadow is called Umbra. When the Moon happens to pass through that dark zone, it experiences an eclipse. This is called a ‘Lunar Eclipse’.

Expedition To The Moon :

To the early humans as well as scientists the Moon was one of the most fascinating objects. For centuries many facts are known about the Moon.

Space travel and landing on the Moon was a fantastic dream of man for centuries. His dream came true on July 21, 1969, when an American astronaut, Neil Armstrong, placed his foot on the surface of the Moon.

Armstrong and two other Americans, Edwin Aldrin and Michael Collins travelled to the Moon in a spacecraft named Appolo-11. As the craft came near the Moon, it kept on orbiting the Moon while the astronauts prepare to land.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins And Edwin Aldrin

Michael Collins stayed in the spacecraft while the other two entered the lunar module ‘Eagle’. The Craft that was to land on the Moon. When everything was ready, the Eagle separated from the Principal spacecraft and headed towards the Moon to make a soft landing on the Moon’s surface.

At last the Eagle was landed safely and Neil Armstrong came out- from the Eagle and stepped down slowly on the surface of the Moon. Then Aldrin followed him.

Thus Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the Moon. From the surface of the. Moon, the astronauts looked at the shining Earth in the black lunar sky and took photographs.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 1 The Universe And Our Solar System The Sun, The Stars And The Sky Lunar module 'Eagle'.

After spending about 24 hours on the Moon, they entered into the Eagle and set off to meet the orbiting space-craft Apolfo- 11 which finally brought them back to the Earth on July 24, 1969.

The conquest of the Moon is, indeed, a great achievement and 21st July 1964 is a red letter day in the history of human civilization.

WBBSE Notes for Class 6 Junior School Geography

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth’s Surface : Where You Are ?

April 4, 2024 by sravani

Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth’s Surface: Where You Are? Introduction :

A majority of human beings have their homes located in villages or towns on our Earth. Our Earth being a sphere, a poses a problem of where to begin for the location of points.

A globe is a model of the Earth. The parallels of latitude and meridians of longitude make a system of intersecting lines, the former east-west and the latter north-south, found on the globe or in the maps.

Such a system- has many advantages and makes it easier to locate any place on the Earth or on the map.

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The Globe :

A globe is the representation of the Earth while a map is a two-dimensional representation of the Earth or Globe according to a scale and it is drawn on a flat surface.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth's Surface Where You Are Globe

The globe is a true model of the Earth and shows us what the Earth actually looks like. If we take a close look at the globe we can detect the following features and lines which help us to locate the position of a place on the Earth.

Axis Of The Earth :

The imaginary line joining the northern and southern ends of the globe and passing through the centre of it is called Earth’s axis or ‘Axis of the Earth’. The Earth rotates on this axis.

The Poles :

The endpoints on the Earth (globe) at the top and the bottom are called the ‘Poles’ of the Earth.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth's Surface Where You Are North Pole And South Pole

North Pole :

The northern or top end point of the Earth’s axis is called the ‘North Pole’.

South Pole :

The southern or bottom endpoint of the Earth’s axis is known as the ‘South Pole’.

Parallels Of Latitudes :

On either side of the equator east-west extending imaginary circles, lying parallel to each other are called parallels of Latitude or Lines of Latitude.

Characteristics Of Parallels Of Latitude :

Parallels of latitudes are imaginary full circles on the Earth, all parallel to the equator i.e. they always remain equal and different apart.

All parallels represent true east-west lines.

Parallel of latitude intersects meridians at right angles.
All parallels except the equator are smaller circles.
The Equator is a ‘Great Circle’ and the only parallel drawn from the Earth’s centre.

At Every point on the globe, except the North Pole and the South Pole, an infinite number of parallels may be drawn.
More than one parallel of latitude of the same value does not exist in one hemisphere.
The value of the parallel of latitude is measured from the equator (0°) northwards to the point of the North Pole (90°N) and southwards to the South Pole (90°S).

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth's Surface Where You Are Parallels Of Latitudes

Equatorial Plane :

The plane bounded by the equator of the Earth is known as the ‘Equatorial Plane’.

If the Earth could be sliced into two halves all along the Equator, the Equatorial plane could be seen and the Earth could be divided into two equal halves. The axis of the Earth forms an angle of 90° with this plane.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth's Surface Where You Are Northern And Southern Hemisphere

Orbit Of The Earth :

While the Earth is revolving around the Sun on a fixed imaginary elliptical (oval-shaped) path, it is called the ‘Orbit of the Earth’.

Orbital PIane :

The Plane containing the orbit of the Earth is known as the ‘Orbital Plane’. The axis of the earth is tilted at an angle of 661/2°to to the orbital plane and 23%° to the vertical.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth's Surface Where You Are Orbital Plane

Importance Of Parallels Of Latitudes :

Parallels of latitudes help in location of a place for show how far a place is north and south of the Equator.

These are used to divide the Earth into temperature belts. Thus the latitude of a place gives an idea about climate.

Important Parallels Of Latitudes :

Important parallels of latitude and their distance from the Equator in degrees are given below :

The Equator/Great Circle = 0°
Tropic of Cancer = 231/2°N or’ 23°30’N,
Tropic of Capricorn = 231/2°S or 23°30’S,
Arctic Circle = 661/2°N or 66°30’N,
Antarctic Circle = 66°1/2S or 66°30’S.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth's Surface Where You Are Parallels Of Latitude

The Equator/Great Circle :

North Pole = 90°N,
South Pole = 90°S.

The equator is an image on the globe passing through the midpoints between the North Pole and the South Pole. It is a circle whose centre is the centre of the globe. The Equator divides the globe into two hemispheres.

The hemisphere that lies north of the Equator or that contains the Norm Pole is known as the Northern Hemisphere and the Hemisphere south of the Equator or that contains the South Pole is the Southern Hemisphere.

The word ‘hemisphere’ means half of a sphere or globe. The Equator is also called the ‘Great Circle’ because it is the greatest parallel and other parallels decrease in size gradually.

Another name of the Equator is the ‘Line of Equinox’ because throughout the year the equatorial region has equal lengths of day and night.

Properties Of The Euator/Great Circle :

The Equator or Great circle divides a giobe into two hemispheres.
It is the largest circle on a sphere.

A plane passing through the centre of a sphere only can produce a great circle.
The value of the great circle is 0°.
An arc of a great circle is the shortest surface distance between any two points on a sphere.

Meridians Of Longitude :

Lines of Longitude or Meridian of Longitudes are imaginary lines joining places located at the same angular distance east or west of the Prime Meridian.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth's Surface Where You Are Meridians Of Longitude

Characteristics of Meridians of Longitude :

Meridians of longitudes are half circles.

These are measured from the Prime Meridian.
These lines extend in a north-south direction on the Earth.
All lines of longitudes are of equal in length but not parallel to each other.

The distance between two lines of longitude is maximum at the equator and decreases gradually away from the equator.
The longitude of a meridian has a definite value.
Value of the meridians of longitude increases from the Prime Meridian to the east and west up to 180°.

180°E and 180°W meridian of longitude is one line.
The lines of longitudes are converge at the two poles.
All places on the same meridian have sunrise, noon and sunset at the same time.

Important Meridians :

Prime Meridian :

North-South extended semicircular the particular imaginary line drawn along the Royal Observatory of Greenwich near London is called the ‘Prime Meridian’ whose value is 0°. This is also known as the ‘Greenwich Meridian’.

Eastern Hemisphere, Western Hemisphere :

The Prime Meridian divides the Earth into two equal halves or the eastern and western hemispheres. The eastern half (from the Prime Meridian to ISO E) is known as Eastern Hemisphere and the Western Half 0°. (from the Prime Meridian#* to ISO’W) is the Western Hemisphere.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 3 Location Of A Place On The Earth's Surface Where You Are Eastern And Western Hemispheres

180° Meridian of longitude :

The 180° meridian of longitude is just on the opposite meridian of longitude of 0° (Prime Meridian). The International Date Line (IDL) is drawn almost along this meridian from which each new date starts and each date ends at last.

Difference between Parallels of Latitudes and Meridians of Longitude :

Parallels of Latitudes	Meridians of Longitude
1. The Imaginary horizontal circular lines drawn by joining places have the same longitude arc called Parallels of Latitudes.	1. The Imaginary vertical semicircular lines drawn by Joining places having the same longitude are called Meridians of longitude.
2. These lines encircle the Earth in east-west lines	2. These lines extend In a north-south direction on the Earth.
3. These are measured from the Equator.	3. These are measured from the Prime Meridian.
4. These are nearly equidistant from each other.	4. These are not at equidistance everywhere.
5. Every parallel of latitude are full circle except the two poles.	5. Meridians of longitudes arc half circles.
6. The length of the parallels of longitudes gradually lessens from the equator to the Poles.	6. All meridians of longitudes have the same length.
7. In the same parallel at different places sunrise, noon and sunset occur at different times.	7. All places on a particular meridian sunrise, noon and sunset occur at the same time.
8. The highest value of the parallels of latitude is 90°	8. The highest value of meridians of longitude is 180°.
9. The lowest value is 0°.	9. The lowest value Is 0°.
10. Parallels of latitude help in dividing the Earth’s surface into heat belts or temperature zones.	10. Meridians of longitude help In determining the time zones.

WBBSE Notes for Class 6 Junior School Geography

Chapter 1 The Universe and Solar System

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India – Physical Geography Of India

February 26, 2024 by sravani

Physical Divisions Of India And Their Influence On Human Life

The land of India is characterised by great diversity in its physical features. It is diversified in respect of relief, drainage, climate, soil, natural vegetation etc.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Physical Divisions Of India

Physiography Of India :

Among the physical aspects of the geography of India, physiography or relief refers to the physical features of lofty mountains, vast plateaus, extensive plains, deserts and coastal regions etc.

Physiographic Regions of India :

Physiographically, India can be divided into the following physiographic macro divisions.

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(1) The Northern Mountainous Region,
(2) North Indian Riverine plains or the Indus-Ganga plain and Brahmaputra valley.
(3) The Peninsular Plateau Region,
(4) The Desert Region of the West,
(5) The Coastal Plains, and
(6) Indian Islands.

The Northern Mountainous Region :

Location and Extent :

The northern mountain region is located to the extreme north of India. It is like a wall extending from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh. From west to east, its distance is about 2500 km and its width or north to south distance is about 250 km to 400 km.

Major Mountains :

The Northern mountain region comprises :

The Himalayan mountain range.

The Karakoram range.
The Ladakh range .
The North-Eastern Mountain region or Purvachal.

The Himalayas :

The Himalayan mountain range is the most important mountain range here. It means ‘home of ice’ or ‘abode of snow’. The Himalayas extends from ‘Nanga Parvat’ (8126 m.) in Jammu and Kashmir in the west to ‘Namcha Barwa’ (7755 m.) in Arunachal Pradesh in the east for a distance of about 2500 km and a width of about 250 km to 400 km. The shape of the Himalayas is like an arc.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India The Himalayas

South To North Regional Divisions Of The Himalayas :

The Himalayas consist of four parallel ranges from south to north :

The Siwaliks
The Lesser Himalayas or Middle (Inner) Himalayas

The Hlmadri or the Greater Himalayas and
Trans- Himalayas.

The Siwalik :

The southernmost range of the Himalayas is known as the Siwaliks or the ‘Outer Himalayas’. The average height of the Siwaliks is about 1000 metres-with a width ranging from 15 to 50 km.

The Siwaliks consist of the foothills which run -through as the foothills of the Himalayas. They are composed of highly unconsolidated deposits of the Himalayas. They were called ‘Upagiri’ by the ancients. These ranges are discontinuous and are not found in the Eastern Himalayas.

Doons:

Narrow longitudinal valleys lying in between the Siwaliks or outer Himalayas and the lesser or Inner Himalayas are known as ‘Doons’ or ‘Duns’. These are formed by the deposition of sediments.

The Duns in the Kumaon Himalayas such as Dehradun, Kothri dam, Patali, Kulu, and Kangra in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are well known. These beautiful valleys contain fertile soil and they are agriculturally developed and prosperous.

Terai :

The Terai is a marshy/swampy strip of land (with grasslands and forests) located in between the outer foothills of the Himalayas-the Siwaliks and the northern plain of the Ganga, Brahmaputra and their tributaries.

In northern India, the Terai spreads eastwards from the Yamuna river across Uttarakhand, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar and southern part of Nepal. Corresponding parts of West Bengal, Bangladesh, Bhutan and part of Assam, east to the Brahmaputra river are called ‘Doors’.

The Naga and Patkoi hills at the eastern border of India and Garo, Khasi and Jayantia hiJIs in Meghalaya belong to the Terai region. The lowlands plains of the Terai lie at an altitude ranging between 67 and 300 metres.

The Middle or Inner Himalayas :

The middle (inner) or lesser Himalayas lies in the north of the Siwaliks and south of the great Himalayas and stretch parallel to them. The average height of this range ranges from 3500 to 4500 metres.

Dhauladhar, Pir-Panjal, Nag Tibba and Mussourie ranges are some of the important ranges here. Among the ancients, they were known as ‘Antagiri’ or ‘Himachal’.

The picturesque hill stations of this region-Shimla, Manali, Nainital, Mussoorie, and Darjeeling are located here and attract tourists from all over the world.

Himadrl or the Great Himalayas :

This range is extending from Nanga Parvat in the west to Namcha Barwa in the east. The Himadri Himalayas comprise all major mountain ranges of the Himalayas. It is the highest part of the Himalayas.

Great Himalayas is the loftiest range because it contains most of the ‘eight thousand peaks’ of the world. The average elevation of the Himadri is about 6000 metres and it is permanently covered with snow.

Mt. Everest (8848 m), the highest peak of the world is located here. There are some other peaks, such as Kanchenjungha (8598 m), Dhauligiri (8172 m), Nanga Parvat (8126 m), Annapurna (8076 m), Nandadevi (7817 m).

Kanchenjungha is considered as the third-highest mountain peak of the world.

Trans-Himalayas :

The Trans-Himalayas or the Tethys Himalayas consist of ranges like ‘Karakoram’ farthest in the north. The second highest mountain peak of the world Mt. Godwin Austin (8611 m) or ‘King of Karakoram’ (K2) stands here.

It is considered as the highest mountain peak of India. A number of large glaciers are found along the southern face of the Karakoram. It has an average height of 5000 m to 6000 metres. The Himalayas merge with the Tibetan Plateau.

West to East Regional Divisions of the Himalayas :

From the west to the east the Himalayan range can be divided into three sections :

The Western Himalayas

The Central Himalayas and
The Eastern Himalayas.

1. The Western Himalayas include the Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Uttarakhand. It is called the ‘Trans-Himalayas or Tethys Himalayas’. They are made up of the Ladakh Range, Zanskar range and the Pir-Panjal Range.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Westerly Himalayas

2. The Central Himalayas lies in Nepal.

3. The Eastern Himalayas extends from the Singalila in the west to the Namcha Barwa in the east.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Central and Eastern Himalayas

It can be divided into three sub-divisions—

Sikkim- Darjeeling Himalayas,

Bhutan Himalayas and
Arunachal or Assam Himalayas.

Mountain passes :

There are a few mountains passes in the Northern mountain region. Important passes in India and their location are as follows :

Banihal pass (Jawahar Tunnel) and Zojila located in Jammu and Kashmir; Shipkila and Bara Lachala in Himachal Pradesh; Nathula and Jelepla in Sikkim and Bomdila in Arunachal Pradesh.

Glaciers:

A glacier is a large mass of moving ice or ‘a river of ice. There are many glaciers in the Northern mountain region of India. Important glaciers are as follows

Glaciers in the Karakoram Ranges :

Siachen, the longest glacier in India,

Baltaro glacier,
Biafo glacier etc.

Glaciers in the Himalayan Ranges :

Gangotri glacier (39 km) Uttarakhand,
Yamunotri glacier (30 km) located in Uttarakhand,
Zemu glacier (26 km) located in Sikkim,

Milam glacier (15 km) located in the northeast of Nandadevi (Uttarakhand).

The Influence Of The Himalayas On The Human Life In India :

The influences of the Himalayas on human life in India are as follows :

1. Physical or Natural Barrier’:

The Himalayas act as a great physical or natural barrier against cold winds from Central Asia into the subcontinent of India and prevent it from turning into an icy cold desert. It also saves the people from severe cold.

2. Protect from foreign invaders :

The Himalayas form a natural boundary on the north and thus protect the country from foreign invaders.

3. Source of rainfall :

The Himalayas interpret the southwest monsoon winds and cause heavy rainfall on the Indian plains.

4. Source of navigable rivers :

The Himalayan rivers are at certain points highly navigable and it influences the economic life of Indian people.

5. Sources of fertile soil :

The numerous rivers of the Himalayan ranges are the sources of fertile soil.

6. Formation of the Great Northern Plains :

The eroded materials of the Himalayan ranges, after being transported by numerous rivers and ultimately deposited and formed the fertile great northern plain which is agriculturally developed.

7. Source of forest resources :

The Himalayan forest presents plenty of forest resources.

8. Sources of a variety of fruits :

A wide variety of fruits like apples, oranges, pears, grapes, walnutsÿ cherries, and peaches are grown in different valleys of the Himalayas.

9. Sources of Minerals :

The Himalayan mountains are valuable sources of minerals.

10. Sources of Hydro-electric power :

In the upper course of the rivers, there are many replicas” waterfalls that are utilised for the generation of hydroelectric power.

11. Cattle rearing :

The Alpine grasslands, of the Himalayas, provide excellent pastures for rearing sheep, goats, yaks and other animals.

(12) Establishment of Health-restoring centres :

A number of hill stations like Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Dalhousie, Shimla, Almorah etc. have been developed on the Himalayas. There are numerous other benefits like scenic beauty, tourist-attractive sanatorium, freshwater lakes etc.

The North Indian Riverine Plains :

This plain is also known as the Indus-Ganga Plain and Brahmaputra valley or as the Great plain of Northern India.

Location :

This plain is located on the south of the Himalayas and north of the Peninsular Plateau of India, It is extending from Punjab to Assam valleys. It is about 3200 km long and 150 to 300 km wide.

Divisions :

North Indian riverine plains can be divided into three divisions.

These are—

(1) The Punjab Plain drained by the Indus and its tributaries,
(2) The Ganga Plain drained by the Ganga and
(3) The Brahmaputra valley is drained by the Brahmaputra.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Northern Plain

Characteristics :

Although this plain is level and monotonous in nature, some local differences are observed.

Its average height is about 150 metres.
It covers an area of 7-5 lakh sq. km.
It is an alluvium filled through.

It has been formed by the deposits of sediments brought by the Himalayan rivers (Ganga, Sutlej etc.)
This plain is the most populous part of India because this region is agriculturally and industrially developed.

Major Rivers Of The North Indian River line Plains :

The description of the major rivers, the Ganga, the Brahmaputra and the Indus that form this plain is given below :

The Ganga (2510 km) :

The Ganga (Ganges) is an ideal river as well as the longest (2510 km) and principal river of India.

The Course Of The Ganga :

The river rises from the icy cave of Goumukh of Gangotri glacier on the Kumaon Himalaya from the source to the mouth. The river can be divided into three courses-the upper course or mountain course, the middle course or plain course and the lower course or delete course.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Course Of The River Ganga

The upper Course :

At the source, the Ganga is known as Bhagirathi. It flows towards the southwest through a narrow gorge and joins the Alkananda near Devaprayag. The combined flow of Bhagirathi and Alakananda is known as ‘Ganga’. At Rudraprayag Mandakini rising from ‘Gouri Kund’ joins Ganga. The Ganga flows for about 320 km. in the mountainous region and then comes down to Hardwar. So, the course of Ganga from Goumukh to Hardwar is its upper course or mountainous course.

The middle course :

From Hardwar to Rajmahal hill the river Ganga covers its ‘plain’ or ‘middle’ course. In this course the Yamuna, the largest tributary of the Ganga flows parallel to the river Ganga till its confluence with the Ganga of Allahabad.

The lower course :

From the Rajmahal hill area to the Bay of Bengal the river Ganga covers its lower course. After crossing the Rajmahal hill in Bihar, the Ganga enters in West Bengal.

Near Dhulian in Murshidabad, it is divided into two distributaries-the Padma and the Bhagirathi. The Padma flows towards the southeast and enters into Bangladesh, there it joins the Brahmaputra and Meghna and finally drains into the Bay of Bengal.

The Bhagirathi turns southwards and flows as the ‘Bhagirathi’ at first. Then from Nabadwip in Nadia, it flows up to the mouth of the Bay of Bengal as the name of the ‘Hugh’ river. It merges with the Bay of Bengal forming an estuary and a huge delta.

This delta is famous as ‘the Ganges delta’ or ‘the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna delta. The Ganga basin is the largest part of the northern plains of India.

The soil of this vast plain is the most fertile and it is the major crop-growing area of India. This plan is known as the ‘food bowl of India’.

The Ganges at a Glance

1. Length: 2510 km.

2. Special Features: Largest river of India

3. Major Tributaries : Yamuna, Son, Gomti, Gandak, Kosi etc.

4. Distributaries: Padma and Bhagirathi.

5. Major cities along its course: Hardwar, Kanpur, Allahabad, Benaras, Patna, Kolkata etc

2. The Brahmaputra :

The Brahmaputra is an international river. Since ancient times is it an important river of India Brahmaputra means ‘son of lord Brahma’. The total length of the river is about 2900 km. In India, it is about 885 km. long.

The Course of Brahmaputra :

The Brahmaputra originates in the ‘Chemayundung glacier south-west of ‘Manas Sarovar’ or about 90 km southeast of ‘Rakshas Tal’ in Tibet where it is known as ‘Tsangpo’.

It breaks through the Himalayas in deep gorges near the peak of ‘Namcha Barwa’ in Arunachal Pradesh and bends southward to enter India in the name of ‘Dihang’.

The Dihang, after its union with ‘Dibang’ and ‘Lohit’, gets the name ‘Brahmaputra’ in Assam and flows towards the west (from the east of Sadiya to the west up to Dhubri). The river finally bends southward to meet the ‘Padma’ as the Yamuna river and finally drains into the Bay of Bengal forming a great delta in its mouth.

It is known for its notorious floods and sand deposits. The Brahmaputra flows slowly over the Assam valley due to the gentle slope of the land.

Thus the river flows through pronounced meanders and has many sandbanks and sand bars (Island/char) along its channel. The largest river island in the world lies in this river and is called ‘Majuli’.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Course of the river Brahmaputra

Frequent earthquakes in the Assam valley has caused the Brahmaputra to change its course quite often. The Brahmaputra is known as the ‘Red River of India’ because the water of this river looks reddish in colour especially during floods after mixing with the red soil of Assam.

The important right bank tributaries of the Brahmaputra are Subarnashree, Barali, Manas, Sankosh, North Dhansiri (Dhanashree) and Tista. Itanangar, Nowgaon, Tejpur, Guwahati, Digboi and Dibrugarh are few of the major cities on the bank of river Brahmaputra in India.

Brahmaputra valley is drained by the river Brahmaputra and its tributaries. Most of the these rivers are rainfed as well as snow-fed. During the rainy season due to heavy rainfall the rivers overflow their banks and floods occur several times.

The Brahmaputra at a glance

1. Length: 2900 km.

2. Another name: Tsangpo in Tibet., Yamuna in Bangladesh.

3. Tributaries: Dibang, Lohit, Manas, Dhanashree, Subarnashree, Tista, Torsha etc.

4. Major cities along its course: Itanagar, Dibrugarh, Guwahati etc.

(3) The River Indus :

The river Indus is a very important river in north-western India. It has a length of about 2880 km. but only 709 km is in India. According to one view, the Indus rises from the ‘Sengge Khabab’ glacier or spring at an altitude of 5180 metres of the Kailash range in the southwest Tibetan plateau.

Another view states that it rises from the ‘Manas Sarovar’ lake located on the northern slopes of the Kailash range, in Tibet. Both areas are close together.

Indus at a Glance

1. Length: 2880 Km.

2. Tributaries: Bitasta, Chandrabhaga, Bipasha, Iravati, Shatadru.

3. Flows through Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.

4. Major cities along its course: Led, Srinagar

The course of Indus :

From the source it flows northwest through Tibet and Jammu-Kashmir between the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges covering a distance of about 250 km. Near Nanga Parvat peak it turns around the mountain in deep gorges, to flow southwest wards into Pakistan, and ultimately it drains into the Arabian Sea.

It is Pakistan’s longest river. Among the right bank tributaries of the Indus as its upper course, the Shyok and Shigar are notable. The Zanskar, Dras, and Astor are its left bank tributaries.

The mighty five tributaries of the Indus are the Sutlej (Shatadru), the Beas (Bipasha), the Ravi (Irabati), the Chenab (Chandrabhaga) and the Jhelum (Bitasta). They are collectively known as ‘Panchanad’. The name of Punjab is derived from these five rivers of the Plain.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Course of the River Indus

The Rivers of the Deccan Plateau :

Name of Rivers	Source	Direction of Flow	The mouth of the River
Mahanadl	Sihawa range in Dandakaranya highland.	East	Bay of Bengal
Godavari	Trimbak Highland (hills) of Sahyadrl near Nasik.	East	Bay of Bengal
Krishna’	Mahabaleswar in Western Ghats.	East	Bay of Bengal
Kaveri	Brahmagirl In Karnataka	East	Bay of Bengal
Narmada	Amarkantak peak of the Mahakala range of Madhya Pradesh	West	Gulf of Khambat
Tapi (Tapti)	The Mahadev Mountain range.	West	Gulf of Khambat

The Peninsular Plateau Region :

The Great Peninsular Plateau of India is the oldest structure of India. Geologically, it is a part of the ancient landmass of the world, the ‘Gondwanaland’. The Peninsular plateau lies to the south of the Northern Plains of India.

It is a region more or less triangular in shape. It is bounded by the Aravalli range in the northwest and Rajmahal in the northeast. In the northeast, the plateau extends into the Meghalaya Plateau. This plateau is a tilted plateau in nature.

The plateau slopes from west to east. The region is mainly composed of ancient granite and gneiss rock. The north-western portion of the plateau is composed of ancient granite (basalt rock).

The prolonged denudation has changed the plateau into dissected plateaus and peneplains at some places. Different residual ranges like Mahakal, Western ghats, Eastern ghats etc. are found here.

Based on variation in landform, this plateau may be divided into three regions-

The Central Highland
The Eastern Highland and
The Deccan Plateau.

The Central and Eastern Highlands of India :

The Central Highland:

The Central Highlands covers the highlands of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. It extends from Aravalli in the west and Rajmahal in the east. The southern boundary is limited by the Vindhyas, Satpuras, Mahadev, and Mahakal Raimur range.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Central And Eastern Highland

The Aravallis :

On the Western border of Central Highland stands the Aravalli, the oldest fold mountain of India as well as the world. Guru Shikhar (1722 km) is the highest peak of Aravalli.

The ‘Vindhyas’ is the most important range of this highland has an average elevation of 300 meters and is the source of the river ‘Chambal’. To the west of the Vindhyas is located the ‘Malwa Plateau’.

The northeastern part of the Malwa Plateau is composed of pink granite and is known as the ‘Bundelkhand Plateau’. The eastern part of the Vindhya range is known as the ‘Rewa Plateau’. The Narmada valley in the south, the Chambal valley, and the Son valley in the north form a typical landscape.

The Eastern Highlands :

The Eastern Highlands comprises Chhotonagpur, Chhattisgarh, and Mahanadi Basin. and the plateau of Chhattisgarh and Dandakaranya of Odisha. This highland is dominated by the Chhotonagpur plateau.

‘Pat’ region, the Pareshnath hill (1366 m.) is the highest point in this region. The famous ‘Ranchi Plateau dissected by the river Damodar lies the Hazaribagh Plateau where stands the ‘Pareshnath Hill’.

The Rajmahal hills form the north-eastern boundary of this region. South of the Ranchi Plateau lies the Garhjat hill region.

The Deccan Plateau :

The Deccan Plateau is the largest plateau of India. It extends from the Vindhya range in the north to the Kanyakumari (Cape Camorin) in the south.

It is surrounded by mountain ranges on three sides-VVestern Ghats or Sahyadri on the west, Eastern Ghats or Malayadri on the east, and Satpuras and Vindhyas on the north. Deccan Plateau is a tilted plateau with a general eastward slope.

It covers an area of 70 lakh sq. km. Its average height varies between 500 m to 1000 meters. The plateau is a part of the ancient Gondwanaland of the world. It is composed of ancient igneous rocks like granite, basalt, etc. And metamorphic rocks like gneiss. The Deccan Plateau comprises the following physiographic divisions.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Deccan Plateau

Western Ghats :

Western Ghats extend from Tapi (Tapti) valley up to Kanyakumari for about 1500 km. It has three passes-Thal Ghat, Bhorghat, and Palghat. These range abruptly from the coast.

Short swift streams flow towards the west and do not form deltas. The average height is about 1200 meters. Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri rivers rise from the Western Ghats and flow towards the east.

Maharashtra Plateau :

The north-western part of the Deccan Plateau is known as Maharashtra Plateau. It is formed of lava (basalt) rocks lying in a series of steps. Hence, it is called Lava Plateau. It is also known as the ‘Deccan Trap’ (Swedish ‘trap’ means ‘steps’). Erosion of the basalt rock over a long period of time has produced rich black soil (Regur).

Karnataka Plateau :

Further south of Deccan Trap is the Karnataka Plateau. The 600 meters contour line may be taken as the boundary of the Karnataka Plateau. The plateau meets the Western Ghats in the west and Eastern Ghats in the east.

Physiographically the plateau can be divided into two parts—

(1) Hilly ‘Malnad’ region in the west and
(2) Flat ‘Maidan’ region in the east.

Telangana Plateau :

The Telangana plateau is a rolling surfaced plateau with intervening shallow depression. It is in former Andhra Pradesh (Now it is included in the newest Indian state ‘Telengana’.)

The Desert region in the west :

The south-Western part of the plains of Northern India is known as the Rajasthan plain. It lies in the west of the Aravalli range. It enters into Pakistan. The plan is extensively sandy plain. This arid and barren plain is regarded as a desert.

Different types of sand dunes are found in the western portion of this plain. This desert region is known as the ‘Thar Desert’. The Thar Desert is also known as the ‘Great Indian Desert.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Thar Desert

Characteristic Features of the Great Indian Desert :

The western portion of Rajasthan which is generally regarded as the “Great Indian Desert” or Thar. The important features of this region are as follows :

1. Thar desert is a part of the Rajasthan Plain.

2. To the east it rises to 325 m and the west it falls to 150 m.

3. Barkhans, seif dunes, etc. are found in this region.

4. The main characteristic features of this region are extremes of climate and extensive sandy plains.

5. Mobile sand dunes of this region are known as “Dhrians”.

6. Dry lakes or almost dry lakes are also found in this region. These saline lakes are called locally as “Dhands” viz. Panch Padra, Didwana etc.

7. The region slopes to the west into the Indus valley and to the south in the Rann of Kachchh.

8. The average annual rainfall is only 25 cm. So, the rainfall is very low here.

9. Very little vegetation are grown here. Patches of thorny bush and grass are found in certain areas.

10. In summer the temperature rises up to 50°C and in winter it drops to 5°C.

11. Short inland drainage basins and water lakes are seen here. Luni is an important inland river and Lake “Sambar” is a typical example of salt water lake on the desert.

12. Population here is very sparse due to the lack of cultivable land, transport, and communication in this area.

Causes of origin of Indian desert in the Thar desert :

There is very little summer rain, less than 25 cm annually.
Humidity is very low in summer. Before it even in rains the moisture has evaporated. Besides, Thar lacks water sources.
Thar, situated in Western Rajasthan, is a comparatively low-lying region with the Aravallis lying parallel to it.
The parallel situation of the Aravalli range with the direction of the southwestern Monsoon does not help precipitation. So rainfall received by this region is very scanty.
The vast region of Western Rajasthan is mainly covered by sand deposited by the wind.
The Tropic of Cancer is passing through this region. So the temperature is very high and because of the high temperature, the raindrops are turned into water vapor when it falls on the sandy surface.

The Coastal Plains :

The Deccan plateau Is fringed with coastal plains. These plains are washed by the Arabian sea on the west and the Bay of Bengal on the east. The coastal plain have two physiographic divisions. The Western Coastal Plains on the west and the Eastern Coastal Plains on the east.

1. The Western Coastal Plains :

The Western Coastal plains lying between the Western Ghat, and the Arabian sea are stretching from Kachchh in the north to
Kanyakumari to the south.

2. The Eastern Coastal Plains :

The Eastern Coastal Plains extends from the mouth of Subarnarekha river (Odisha) in the north to Kanyakumari in the south.

Sub-divisions of the Western Coastal Plains :

The sub-divisions of this narrow coastal plain are—

1. The coastal plain of Gujarat (Northern Part). The coastal plain of Gujarat is wide consisting of Kachchh and Kathiawar Peninsulas. The Kachchh region forms marshes and are called ‘Rann’.

The northern section is known as the ‘Great Rann of Kachchh (Kutch)’ and the south-eastern section is the ‘Little Rann of Kachchh (Kutch)’. This large salt marsh is a barren rocky region.

It gets flooded during the rainy season when the sea level rises. It is considered a part of the Thar desert.

2. The Konkan Coastal Plain :

The Konkan Coastal Plain from Daman in the north to Goa in the south is narrow and broken rocky coast.

3. The Karnataka Coastal Plain :

It is stretching from Goa in the north to Mangalore in the south is wider with sand dunes and marshy lands.

4. The Malabar Coastal Plain :

The Malabar Coastal Plain of Kerala is the extreme southern part of the western coastal plain. It is 95 km wide. There are many sand dunes (locally called ‘Theris’) and ‘Kayals’ (backwaters) like ‘Vembanad’ near Kochi (80 km long) and ‘Austamudi’ near Quilon (Kollam).

The Eastern Coastal Plains :

the mouth of the river Subarnarekha in the north to Kanyakumari in the south for nearly 1500 km.

It may be sub-divided into two divisions,

Northern Circars coast and
Coromandel coast

Northern Circars coast :

Northern Circars coast to the north of the river Krishna including Odisha coastal plains in between the Subarnarekba in the north and the river ‘Rushikulya’ in the south and Andhra Coastal Plain from mouth of Rushikulya to the lake Pulicat.

Coromandel coast :

Coromandel coast stretches from the south Krishna delta to Kanyakumari. This coastal plain is also known as the ‘Tamil Nadu Coastal Plain’. There are many sand dunes and lagoons in the Eastern Coastal Plain.

The sand dunes along the coast of Tirunelveli and Mahabalipuram rise from 30 m to 65 m high. A few lagoons, namely ‘Chilka’ in the Odisha coast, ‘Kolleru’ and ‘Pulicat’ in the Andhra Pradesh coast are found.

Indian islands :

Indian islands on the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea present an interesting aspect of Indian physiography.

They are divided into two sub-divisions—

Andaman and Nicobar islands on the Bay of Bengal and Lakshadweep on the Arabian sea.

Islands of Bay of Bengal Inculding Andaman and Nicobar islands :

These are actually the elevated tops of the submerged mountain ranges. These islands of the Andaman group extend between 10°N and 14°N latitudes for a distance of 500 km. These islands are 214 in number.

The Nicobar group consists of 15 islands extending between 6°N to 10°N latitudes. ‘Ten degrees Channel’ separates to the Andaman group islands from the Nicobar group. These islands form a ‘Union Territory’ of India with Port Blair as its capital.

‘Indira Point’ in Nicobar island is the southernmost point of the Indian Union. These islands form the summit of the submerged hills of the sea/ ocean floor. Barren islands and Narcondum islands situated in the north of Port Blair are volcanic islands.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Physical Geography Of India Island on the Bay Of Bengal

Lakshadweep Islands :

These islands are situated in the Arabian sea and lie 320 km off the coast of Kerala between- 8° N and 12° N latitudes. These are coral islands and some of these are ring-shaped and called ‘atolls’. These are 27 in number and 17 of these are uninhabited. It is a union territory with Kavarattl as the capital.

WBBSE Notes for Class 6 Junior School Geography

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India – Agriculture Of India

February 25, 2024 by sravani

Chapter 10 India – Agriculture Of India Introduction :

India is an agricultural country. In India, agriculture plays an important role in dominating the economic, social, and cultural life of the people. Agriculture is the principal occupation of the people of India.

More than 70% of the working population maintains their livelihood by cultivation. Agriculture also provides about 50% of India’s national income. The agricultural sector in India contributes about 16% of G.D.P. (Gross Domestic Products) and 10% of export earnings.

India’s agriculture mainly depends on monsoonal rainfall. This rainfall is uneven and irregular. So, in India agriculture is influenced by the availability of proper irrigational facilities.

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Essential elements for agriculture :

There are certain essential elements for effective agriculture which are as follows :

(1) Relief or slope of the land.
(2) Proper Drainage system.
(3) Fertile Soil.
(4) Proper and timely Irrigation.
(5) Fertilizer.
(6) High-yielding seeds.
(7) Pesticides.
(8) Insecticides.
(9) Cheap Labour.
(10) Storehouse.
(11) Capital.
(12) Transport.
(13) Technology.
(14) Market.
(15) Trade and Commerce.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Agriculture Of India Essential elements For Agriculture

Green Revolution :

The profuse increase in agricultural produce by the use of modern agricultural methods and infrastructure was known as the ‘Green Revolution. In the backdrop of the food crisis that gripped India in the 1960s and 1970s, the government of India initiated the ‘Green Revolution program.

This was an attempt to become self-sufficient in the production of food grain. Instead of the traditional method, farming with chemical fertilizer, high-yielding seeds, pesticides, irrigation, and advanced technologies was introduced.

Impact of Green Revolution :

It helps to an expansion of agricultural land.

Due to this our country became self-sufficient in foodgrain production.
Import of foodgrains has been reduced.
Mechanisation of agriculture has increased.

Many agro-based industries have been set up.
It also increases the standard of living of the people.

Types of Agricultural, crops :

India is a vast country with a variety of relief, climate, and soil conditions. Therefore a large variety of crops are grown all over the country. The great variety of crops that are grown in India may be broadly divided into the following types of crops on the basis of their uses;

(1) Food crops
(2) Fibrous crops
(3) Vegetable crops
(4) Beverage crops
(5) Other crops.

(1) Food Crops :

The crops that are grown with nutrients in the diet and consumed or eaten by humans and animals are known as ‘food crops’. These are paddy (rice), wheat, maize, and millets (jowar, bajra, ragi, etc.)

(2) Fibrous Crops :

Crops from which ‘yarn’ is produced are known as ‘fibrous crops’. Cotton, jute, mesta, hemp etc. are the examples of fibrous crops.

(3) Vegetable Crops :

Variety of vegetables are- Potato, tomato, brinjal, beet etc.

(4) Beverage Crops :

These are used as drinking purposes. Tea, coffee, etc. are examples of beverage crops.

(5) Other Crops :

Among other crops oilseeds, (mustard, rapeseed, sesame seed, castor seed, linseed, groundnut, coconut, etc.), various spices, and fruits, are important. On the basis of seasons, India has the following cropping seasons, namely -‘Kharif’ and ‘Rabi’ crops.

Kharif Crops :

Crops cultivated in the beginning of the rainy season and harvested in the end of autumn (September-October) are known as ‘Kharif Crops’. Important kharif crops are-‘Aman’ paddy, cotton, jute, sugarcane, millets, corn, and groundnut.

Rabi Crops :

Crops cultivated in the beginning of the winter or late autumn and harvested in the spring or beginning of the summer are known as ‘Rabi Crops’. Some important rabi crops are wheat, barley, potato, pulses, linseed, and mustard.

Distinguish Between ‘Kharif Crops’ And ‘Rabi Crops’ :

Kharif crops	Rabl crops
1. Crops sown soon after the onset of the South-West monsoon and harvested in Autumn.	1. Crops sown in India in winter and harvested in spring.
2. These are grown after the rains in June-July.	2. These crops are grown in October-December.
3. Kharif season has monsoon or summer crops.	3. Rabi season has winter crops.
4. Rice (paddy), maize, millets, cotton, jute, and sugarcane are Kharif crops.	4. Wheat, barley, oilseeds, pulses, potato, etc.

Cash Crops :

The crops which are grown, harvested, and sold to earn money, particularly the foreign exchange are known as ‘Cash Crops’. These crops are grown for each rather than for sustenance.

These are used as industrial and trading purposes. Jute, Cotton, etc. are the main cash crops in India. Sugarcane, oilseeds, rubber, etc. are also important cash crops in India.

Special Methods Of Cultivation :

Jhum Cultivation :

The primitive method of ‘slash and burn’ or jhooming (jhum cultivation) is practiced in the states of north-eastern hilly areas by tribal people. By this process, a small place of land is cleared by burning trees and cultivated for 3-4 years after which they shift to another place and cultivate in a similar way.

So, it is a type of ‘shifting cultivation’. As a result, the forest is destroyed and soil erosion takes place rapidly. So, it is indispensable to stop jhoom cultivation to prevent soil erosion.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Agriculture Of India Jhum Cultivation

Terrace Cultivation :

The method of cultivation in hilly areas by making steps on slopes to prevent soil erosion is called ‘Terrace cultivation.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Agriculture Of India Terrace Cultivation

WBBSE Notes for Class 6 Junior School Geography

Chapter 1 The Universe and Solar System

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India – Soils Of India

February 25, 2024 by sravani

Chapter 10 India – Soils Of India Introduction :

Soil is an important natural resource. Mankind has lived and continues to live on the soil. Many human and economic activities depend upon soils. All our food comes directly or indirectly from the soil.

Livestock farming depends upon the raising of grass on different soils. Soils form an important element for all living things. Soils have affected the march of civilizations.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Soils Of India Soils Of India

Soil :

Soil is the topmost layer on the surface of the Earth. The loose inorganic and organic unconsolidated material which forms the uppermost layer of the Earth’s crust and promotes the growth of vegetation cover is called ‘soil’. The soil is consisting of

Inorganic material derived from rocks;
Organic matter derived mainly from plant residues;

Water and air within pores; and
Millions of small living organisms.

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The Formation of Soil :

The change from hard and rugged rocks to soft, fine-grained soil takes a long time. The first step in this direction is the disintegration or weathering of rocks. The disintegration of rock by weathering often produces a layer of loose rock materials.

This covering of loose materials over the primary rock bed is known as ‘regolith’. Soil is derived from regolith in different natural processes.

The main factors in the formation of soils are-

Parent rock materials,
Topography or relief,
Climate,

Organic matter (plants and animals) and
Time.

The texture and structure of soils depend on parent rocks. The climate is considered to be the most important factor in the development of soil. Steep slopes have thin soil layers, whereas the valleys and lowlands possess thick fertile soil.

The soil gets humus from plants. Earthworms and other animals like dogs, squirrels etc. also upturns the soil of the lower layer soils in wet areas require less time to develop than in dry areas.

Soils in different parts of India :

In India, there are different types of soils. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) set up on ‘All India Soil Survey Committee in 1953 which divided Indian soils into 27 types of soils in which 8 types are important. As per the syllabus six of the eight major soil types are discussed below :

Alluvial soil :

Alluvial soil is the principal soil of India. It covers about 46% of the total land of our country.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Soils Of India Alluvial Soils Of India

Location :

The alluvial soils are found in the Vast riverine tract of the Indus, Sutlej, Ganga and Brahmaputra in the Northern Plains, in the deltas of Godavari, Krishna and Kaveri rivers. The states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Odisha and other coastal (eastern) states have alluvial soil.

Characteristics :

Alluvial soils are deposited by rivers.

These soils are limited to river basins and plains.
These are very fertile soils.
These consist of fine-grained clay and sand.

These soils are rich in potash, but poor in phosphorus.
These are generally deep soils.

Influence on Agriculture :

Riverine alluvium is very fertile. These soils favour the cultivation of rice, wheat, jute, cotton, oilseeds, sugarcane, millets, pulses, tobacco and vegetable. Coastal alluvial soil is developed in paddy, coconut, and green chilly cultivation. So, the alluvial soil is regarded as the best soil of India for its high agricultural value.

Black soil :

This is the second most important soil of India. It is popularly known as ‘Regur’ and ‘black cotton soil’ also. It covers about 17% of the total land area of India.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Soils Of India Black Soils of India

Location :

Black soil is found in the ‘Deccan Trap’, especially in Maharashtra, the southern part of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, the Northern part of Karnataka, Telangana and Northern part of Tamil Nadu.

Characteristics :

This soil is produced from lava rock ‘basalt’. The colour of basalt is black. Hence, colour of this rock is black.
It contains calcium, magnesium, carbonates, iron-oxides and humous
Nitrogenous materials are totally absent in this soil.

It has high water retentive capacity.
It is sticky in nature.
It is fine-grained and clay soil. As cotton thrives well in this soil, it is popularly known as ‘Black Cotton Soil’.

Influence on Agriculture :

Regur or Black soils are fertile and are suitable for cotton, wheat, sugarcane and groundnut production.

Red soil:

This soil is formed by the breaking down of metamorphic rocks over the year. It is red in colour of the high of iron that it contains.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Soils Of India Red Soils Of India

Location :

This soil is found in peninsular India, particularly in the states of Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and the Western part of West Bengal.

Characteristics :

This soil is a mixture of sand and clay.
It is red in colour as it contains a great proportion of iron oxides.

It is deficient in nitrogen, phosphoric acid and humus, but it is rich in potash and lime.

Influence on Agriculture :

This soil is relatively less fertile, but cultivation is possible with the help of irrigation and fertilizers. Ragi, rice, wheat, millets, nuts, pulses, sugarcane, oilseeds, cotton and chick peas are cultivated on these soils.

Laterite soil :

It takes place under typical monsoonal conditions. The alteration of wet and dry seasons leads to the leaching away of the siliceous matter of the rocks and the formation of laterite soils takes place.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Soils Of India Laterite Soils Of India

Location :

They are commonly found in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Chhotonagpur plateau, mountains in Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats, and in large areas of plateaus in Meghalaya.

Characteristics :

The laterite soils are hard as a brick (‘later’ means brick). So, it is named by laterite.

Laterite soil is formed in areas of high temperature and heavy rainfall where dry and wet seasons follow each other.
It is red in colour because of the high amount of iron oxide that contains.
These are shallow, acidic and less fertile.

These are less fertile due to the leaching of soil.
These are poor in nitrogen, and potash, but rich in iron.

Influence on Agriculture :

Though this soil is infertile, it is unsuitable for agriculture. Hardy crops like jowar, bajra, ragi, groundnuts etc. are cultivated on this soil.

Desert soil or soil of desert region :

This soil is formed in areas of little rainfall and excessive temperature.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Soils Of India Desert Soils Of India

Location :

These soils are found in Rajasthan deserts, the southern part of Punjab and the Rann of Kachchh.

Characteristics :

These soils contain coarse brown sands.
They are granular and very porous.
It has the little water-retaining capacity and is infertile.

The amount of salt In this soil is high because of excessive evaporation.

Influence on Agriculture :

These soils are not suitable for agriculture. Millet like ragi, bajra and wheat, groundnut can be grown on these soils.

Mountain soil or soil of mountainous region :

This soil is formed in a humid temperate climates.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Soils Of India Mountain soils Of India

Location :

It is found particularly in those areas which have mountains or hill ranges, these soils are found in the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. These are also found in Nilgiri hills and hills in Western Ghats

Characteristics :

These soils are made of rock, boulders and clay.

It contains a large amount of organic matter.
These are generally light black in colour with a large number of rock particles.

Influence on Agriculture :

These soils cannot be termed good from the point of view of agriculture. However, these soils are suitable for cultivating tea, coffee, rice, fruits and different spices.

The Uses of Soils :

Soil is a fundamental natural resource. There are various uses of soils. The important uses of soils are as follows :

Agriculture is not possible without soil as it is the storehouse of plant nutrients.

Soil is a natural habitat for various insects, earthworms and microscopic creatures.
Livestock farming depends upon the raising of grass on different soils.
Soils help to maintain humidity in the environment.

The soil is used as materials for the construction of buildings etc.
The soil is used for clay modelling.
Soils are the origins of plants and forests.

Soils help to establish cottage industries.

Soil Erosion :

Soil erosion may be defined as the detachment and transportation of soil by agents of denudation such as weathering; running water and wind etc. It is the destruction and removal of topsoil.

Soil erosion has become a serious problem in many areas of India as well as the world. Soil erosion results from the following causes :

Causes of Soil Erosion :

(1) Unscientific Agriculture :

Unscientific process of agriculture in which barc-soil wears away easily by rainwash.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Soils Of India Causes Of Soil Erosions

(2) Steep Slopes of land :

Steep slopes affect the rapidity of running water. On steep slopes, intensity of soil erosion increases.

(3) Torrential Rainfall :

Heavy rainfall loosens the soil particles and scoops out the soil forming gullies and ravines.

(4) Strong winds :

Winds and dust storms blow away soil in dry areas. This process is known as deflation.

(5) Over-grazing :

Due to overgrazing, the vegetation becomes too thin to protect the soil. Rain and wind can easily erode the loose soil.

(6) Overcropping:

Crop rotation maintains soil fertility. But over-cropping and shifting cultivation render soil infertile.

(7) Deforestation :

Due to destruction of forest and vegetation cover on the soil, agents of erosion get easy access and widespread erosion takes place.

(8) Mineral extraction :

Soil erosion also takes place during mineral extraction and construction work.

Soil Conservation :

The process of preventing soil erosion and degradation by natural as well as artificial methods is known as ‘soil conservation’. The different methods of soil conservation are as follows :

(1) Afforestation :

The primary way to control soil erosion is to plant many trees and grasses, which give cover to the exposed dry land.

(2) Controlled Grazing :

The number of cattle to be grazed on slopes should be according to the carrying capacity of the pastures.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Soils Of India Soil Conservation

(3) Terraced agriculture :

Slopes must be cut into a series of terraces for cultivation so as to slow down the flow of rainwater.

(4) Contour ploughing :

Contour ploughing, terracing and building is done to check soil wash on slopes. Ploughing is done at right angles to the hill slopes.

(5) Construction of river dams :

River dams are built in the upper course of rivers to control floods and check soil erosion.

(6) Crop rotation :

A crop rotation system be applied and the land should be allowed fallow for some time. Soil fertility can be maintained in this way.

(7) Other methods :

In areas of heavy rain, basin type of cultivation be adopted. Tall trees should be grown as windbreaks and shelter belts in areas of strong winds. Roads, buildings and houses should not be constructed along the slopes.

WBBSE Notes for Class 6 Junior School Geography

Chapter 10 India

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India – Tribes Of India

February 25, 2024 by sravani

Chapter 10 India – Tribes Of India Introduction :

Our motherland India is a homeland of a large number of indigenous or native inhabitants who are not touched by the way of living of the modern world. India has the largest population of such people (about 84-4 million in the world) who are commonly called ‘tribes’.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Tribes Of India

Tribes :

‘Tribes’ are specific social groups who have lived by hunting, animal rearing, and food-gathering since ancient times. They are also known as ‘Adivasis’. Their lives depend entirely on nature.

They are the poorest and perhaps the most backward population of our country. Nowadays their life has changed a lot. The young generation works in the field or factory. Some of them are working in the town after completing their education.

Tribes of India :

Many tribal people live in different parts of India. Some of the major tribal groups in India include Gonds, Bhils, Santhals, Munda; Garos, Khasis, Chenchu, Kinnaur, Todas, Bhutias, and Jarawas (Andamanese). All of these tribal people have their own culture, tradition, language, and lifestyle.

Gonds :

Gonds are the largest tribal groups in India and one of the largest in the world. They are mostly found in the ‘Gond forests’ of Central India, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. They practice sedentary agriculture. They are largely influenced by the Hindus and follow Hindu cultural traditions.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Gonds

Bhils:

Bhils are the second largest tribal group in India. They are popularly known as the bowman of Rajasthan. They are also found in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. Their language is the Indo-Aryan language ‘Bhili’.

Earlier hunting was their chief occupation but cultivation is their main livelihood at present. They are known for their truthfulness and simplicity.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Bhill

Santhals:

Santhals are the third largest tribal group in India. They are mostly found in the states of West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and Assam. They speak the ‘Santhali’ language.

They have an ‘Olchiki’ script. They also speak Hindi, Oriya, and Bengali. The Santhals fulfill their basic needs from the plants and trees in the forest. Their other occupations are hunting, fishing, and cultivation.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Santhal

Munda :

‘Munda’ generally means the ‘headman of the village’. They inhibit the region of Jharkhand but are also found in West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. Their chief occupation is hunting.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Munda

Garos :

They inhibit Garo hills in Meghalaya. They speak the ‘Garo language’.-They are engaged in shifting cultivation, hunting, and fishing.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Garo

Khasi :

They are found in Khasi, Jayantia hills in Meghalaya, and also in the states of Manipur, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Jammu And Kashmir. They speak the ‘Khasi’ language. Music plays an important part in their life.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Khasi

Chenchu :

They inhibit the Nallamalai hills of Andhra Pradesh. They speak chenchu and Telegu languages. Primarily their occupation is hunting and food gathering. They worship a number of deities. Some of them also follow Hindu culture and tradition.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Chenchu

Kinnaur:

They are the tribes of Himachal Pradesh. They speak the Kinnauri language. They are mostly engaged as animal rearers.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Kinnaur

Todes:

Todas are the tribes of the Nilgiri hills of Southern India. They speak Toda and Tamil languages. Their main occupation is animal rearing.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Todas

Bhutia :

Bhutias are of Tibetan origin. They are found in the northern part of Sikkim. They speak Sikkimese, Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Hindi, and English languages. Their main occupation is agriculture. Some of them are herdsmen.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Bhutia

Jarawas :

Jarawas are the native people of South Andaman. They speak the Andamani language. Hunting, fishing, and food-gathering are their main occupation.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India

The language is spoken by people in different states of India :

There is great diversity in the languages of India. This is due to the huge size of the population in India. Different racial groups maintain their own languages in different regions but there,is not much difference in the scripts of many of these languages.

The languages of India have the following common features :

All the Indian languages are phonetic in nature.
All the Indian languages have more or less a common structure.
All the Indian languages have a large common vocabulary.

The languages spoken by the people of India have been divided mainly into the two groups—

Indo-European Family (Arya) and
Dravidian Family (Dravida).

The other two groups are

Austric Family (Nightshade) and Sino-Tibetan Family (Kirata).

The following major languages have been specified in the eighth schedule of the Indian Constitution—

Assamese
Bengali
Gujarati

Hindi
Kannada
Kashmiri

Marathi
Malayalam
Oriya

Punjabi
Sanskrit
Tamil

Telegu
Urdu
Sindhi

Manipuri
Nepali
Boro

Maithili
Dogri
Santhali

Konkani.

State	Main language
1. Andhra Pradesh	Telegu, Urdu
2. Arunachal Pradesh	Mizi, Monpa
3. Assam	Assamese
4. Bihar	Hindi, Bhojpuri
5. Chhattisgarh	Hindi
6. Goa	Konkani, Goanese
7. Gujarat	Gujrati, Sindhi
8. Haryana	Punjabi, Hindi
9. Himachal Pradesh	Hindi
10. Jammu and Kashmir	Kashmiri, Urdu
11. Jharkhand	Hindi
12. Karnataka	Kannada
13. Kerala	Malayalam
14. Madhya Pradesh	Marathi, Hindi
15. Maharashtra	Marathi, Hindi.
16. Manipur	Manipuri
17. Meghalaya	Khasi, Garo
18. Mizoram	Mizo, English
19. Nagaland	Nagamese, English.
20. Odisha	Oriya
21. Punjab	Punjabi
22. Rajasthan	Rajasthani, Hindi
23. Sikkim	Lepcha, Nepali
24. Tamil Nadu	Tamil
25. Telangana	Telegu, Urdu
26. Tripura.	Bengali
27. Uttar Pradesh	Bhojpuri, Hindi, Urdu
28. Uttarakhand	Hindi
29. West Bengal	Bengali, Hindi

Union Territories	Main language
1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands	Hindi, Bengali, Nicobari
2. Chandigarh	Punjabi, Hindi
3. Dadra and Nagar Haveli	Villi, Gujarati
4. Daman and Diu	Marathi, Gujarati
5. Delhi (National Capital Territory)	Hindi
6. Lakshadweep	Malayalam
7. Puducherry	Tamil, French

The Languages Spoken by people in different States and Union Territories of India.

WBBSE Notes For Class 6 Physical Geography Chapter 10 India - Tribes Of India Language Spoken in Different States

WBBSE Notes for Class 6 Junior School Geography

Chapter 1 The Universe and Solar System

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface

November 8, 2023September 7, 2023 by sravani

Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Short Questions With Answers:

Question 1. What is zenith distance of the sun?
Answer: The sun’s zenith distance is its distance from the vertical.

Question 2. What angle does each meridian make on Equator?
Answer: 90°.

Question 3. What is the highest meridian of longitude?
Answer: 180°.

Read and Learn all WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment

Question 4. How could (by which star) we calculate the latitude in southern hemisphere?
Answer: The angle that the Hadley’s octart makes at any place on earth in the southern hemisphere is the latitude of the place.

Question 5. What is the latitude of Arctic circle?
Answer: 66 (½)°N.

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE

Question 6. From which degree Prime Meridian passes?
Answer: 0°.

Question 7. Which longitude is considered to be the International date line?
Answer: 180°.

Question 8. 0° longitude passes through which place?
Answer: Greenwich near London.

Question 9. What is the time difference at 1° interval of longitude?
Answer: 4 minutes.

Question 10. Which parallel is known as great circle?
Answer: Equator.

Question 11. What is the difference in longitude between a place and its antipode?
Answer: 180°.

Question 12. What is the time difference between a place and its antipode?
Answer: 12 hours.

Question 13. Which degree is considered to be the standard meridian in India?
Answer: 82°30°E.

Question 14. How many hours Indian standard time is ahead of Greenwich mean time?
Answer: 5 ½

Question15. Which instrument is used to measure time at Greenwich?
Answer: Chronometer.

Question 16. Name two great circles in the Earth.
Answer:
(1) Equatorial Great Circle,
(2) Great Circle of Prime Meridian and International Dateline.

Question 17. What is the average distance between latitudes?
Answer: 111 km.

Question 18. What is the latitude of Tropic of Capricorn?
Answer: 23 (½)°s.

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE

Question 19. How many parallels of latitudes are there?
Answer: 181.

Question 20. What is the latitude of Kolkata?
Answer: 22°34’N.

Question 21. What is the antipode of kolkata (22°21″N)?
Answer: 22°34’S.

Question 22. Who invented Sextant?
Answer: John Hadley.

wbbse class 9 geography chapter 3 questions and answers True Or False Type

Question 1. Number of Latitude is 180.
Answer: True

Question 2. Number of Longitude is 361.
Answer: False

Question 3. IDL is following 180° meridian of Longitude.
Answer: True

Question 4. Equator is the Great Circle.
Answer: True

Question 5. Standard Meridian of Pakistan is 75°E.
Answer: True

Question 6. Standard Meridian of Bangladesh is 90°E.
Answer: True

Question 7. Prime Meridian is a Full Circle.
Answer: Flase

Question 8. 82°30’ E Longitude is taken as IST.
Answer: True

Question 9. Standard Meridian of Pakistan is 75°E.
Answer: True

Question 10. Standard Meridian of Bangladesh is 90°E.
Answer: True

Question 11. Standard Meridian of India is 82°30°E.
Answer: True

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE

Question 12. Antipodes are two places on the earth’s surface situated just opposite to each other.
Answer: True

Question 13. The highest possible latitude is 360°.
Answer: Flash

Question 14. Longitudes are two places of the earth’s surface located just opposite to each other.
Answer: False

Question 15. Lines of latitudes are purely circular.
Answer: True

west bengal board Class 9 Geography Question 16. The antipode of Kolkata is 22°34°S and 91°30’W.
Answer: True

Question 17. Places lying on the same latitude have the same local time.
Answer: True

Question 18. The biggest possible longitude is 90°.
Answer: False

Question 19. Prime Meridian is the starting line and it is 0°.
Answer: True

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Fill In The Blanks

Question 1. Latitude of the Tropic of Cancer is_______.
Answer: 23 (½)°N.

Question 2. Latitude of the Tropic of Capicorn is __________.
Answer: 23 (½)°S.

Question 3. Modern air routes follow the________.
Answer: Great Circle Route.

Question 4. Number of Latitude is________.
Answer: 181.

Question 5. Number of Longitude is________.
Answer: 360.

Question 6. Value of Prime Meridian is__________.
Answer: 0°.

Question 7. The latitude of Kolkata is ________ North.
Answer: 22°34.

Question 8. The line which lies on the halfway between the north pole and south pole is called____________.
Answer: Equator.

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE

Question 9. The parallels of latitude are___________ circles.
Answer: full.

Question 10. The meridians of longitudes are________.
Answer: semi-circle.

Question 11. The longitude of London is____________.
Answer: 0°.

Question 12. The highest possible latitude is_________.
Answer: 90°.

west bengal board Class 9 Geography Question 13. The International Date Line follows the ___________degree longitude.
Answer: 180°.

Question 14. The line which joins the two poles through the centre of the earth is called_____.
Answer: earth’s axis.

Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface 2 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. What is Prime Meridian?
Answer: The longitude line which passes through Greenwich near London is called prime meridian. Its position is 0°.

Question 2. What are the characteristics of latitude?
Answer:
The characteristics of latitude are:-
(1) All latitudes are whole circles.
(2)They are parallel to each other.
(3) They run in east-west direction.
(4) They gradually become smaller towards the poles from the equator.

Question 3. What is local time?
Answer: Local time is apparent at noon time. It is mainly determined by the position of the overhead Sun.

west bengal board Class 9 Geography Question 4. What is apparent time?
Answer: The time of the day indicated by the apparent movement of the sun ona sundial is called apparent time.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 3 WBBSE

Question 5. What is the time difference between a place and its antipode?
Answer: 12 hrs. is the time difference between a place and its antipode.

Question 6. By which instrument GMT can be measured?
Answer: By chronometers, GMT can be measured which is mainly used by the mariners of ships.

Question 7. What is Earth’s Grid?
Answer: Earth’s Grid is a network of certain imaginary but fixed intersecting lines drawn from the two poles and the equator.

Question 8. What is standard time?
Answer: When the local time of a place is taken as the time for the whole country, it is called the standard time of that country.

Question 9. Why are the lines of longitudes also known as ‘Meridians’?
Answer: The lines of longitude are also known as Meridians of longitude because Meridian is derived from the Greek word ‘Meridianum’ means noon. The sun crosses a meridian at noon so it will be noon at the same time all the places on a particular meridian.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Meridian Of Longitude

Question 10. Which line of longitude is used to fix the world standard time? State its value in degrees.
Answer: The time at Greenwich has been selected for fixing the world standard time. It is longitude.

Question 11. When it is noon in England, it is 5:30 p.m. in India. Explain.
Answer: The local time of India is B24 =330 mins = 5hrs. 30 mins ahead of Green- which time. This means, when it is noon in England (12:00 hrs) it is 5:30 pm. in India.

west bengal board Class 9 Geography Question 12. Where on earth there is no local time?
Answer: At poles there is no local time.

Question 13. Find the antipode of a place having 10°N (Latitude) and 60°E(longitude).
Answer: The antipode of the place is at 10°S and 120°W (180°-60° = 120°).

Class 9 Geography Chapter 3 WBBSE

wbbse class 9 geography chapter 3 Question 14. What is Great Circle?
Answer: Equator is known as the Great Circle for its maximum diameter. The line which lies on halfway between the north pole and the south pole, is called the equator (0° latitude). The Great circle route between two points represents the shortest line between two points.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Great Circle

Question 15. What is Latitude?
Answer: Latitudes are the East-West extending imaginary lines, to the north and south of the equator lying parallel to each other on the earth’s surface.

Question 16. What is Sextant?
Answer: Sextant is an instrument that helps to find out the latitude of a place by following the highest elevation of the sun in the sky. Thus, the latitude of a place is determined by this instrument.

Question 17. Mention two ways how the latitude of a place can be determined.
Answer:

(1) With the help of the ascension of the pole star :
Pole star can be seen from anywhere in the Northern hemisphere but not from Southern hemisphere. Its altitude varies with the change in place. At the equator, it can be seen at the horizon. So, moving 1° from the equator to the North pole the pole star also rises by 1°in the sky. In this way, at the North pole, the pole star is seen right overhead making an angle at 90°.

(2) By observing the ascent of the sun :
As the pole star cannot be seen during the daytime, the ascent of the sun is observed to find out the latitude of the place. In this case, also two poles of the sextant instrument is used to observe the ascent of the sun.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 3 WBBSE

wbbse class 9 geography chapter 3 Question 18. Give five characteristics of werigierade
Answer:
(1) Each longitude or meridian is a half-circle.
(2) The length of each longitude is the same.
(3) The degree of the meridians increase from Prime Meridian (0°) to the East or West up to 180° only.
(4) Meridians are not parallel to each other and all meet at the poles.
(5) The centre of the earth is also the centre of all meridians.

Question 19. Mention three ways how the Longitude of a place can be determined.
Answer:
(1) According to the time difference between two places their longitudes can be determined.
(2) If the longitude at one place is known, the time difference
between the two places will help to determine the longitude of the other place.
(3) The difference between GMT & the local time of any place will help to determine the longitude of the other places.

west bengal board Class 9 Geography Question 20. What are the meridians of Longitude?
Answer:
The semi-circular imaginary lines joining north & south and extending in a north-south direction over the earth’s surface are called meridians of longitude.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Parallels Of Latitude
Question 21. How long is 1° Latitude?
Answer: As the earth is slightly flattened at the poles, the linear distance of one degree of latitude at the pole is slightly longer than that at the equator. However, at the equator, 1° of latitude is equal to 40,000 (km)/360 (degree) approx. 111 km.

Question 22. How long is 1° Longitude?
Answer: The linear distance between two longitudes of 1° difference is not the same everywhere. It is the longest at the equator and it decreases towards the poles. At the equator, 1° equals 111 km, but it is zero at the poles. At 30° north or south it s 96.5km., at 60° north or south is 55.4 km and at 80° north or south it is 19.3 km.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 3 WBBSE

Question 23. What do you mean by A.M. and P.M.?
Answer: A.M. is abbreviated from ‘Ante Meridian’. It indicates the time of a day before (ante) midday (meridian), i.e., the time from midnight (i.e., 12 O’clock midnight or, 00.00 hours) to midday (i.e. up to 12 noon). P.M. is abbreviated from ‘Post Meridian’, and it indicates the time after (post) midday (meridian), i.e., the time from 12 noon to midnight.

Question 24. Why do we not refer to longitude as distance in km east or west of the 0° meridian ?
Answer: As one approaches from the equator to the poles the distance between a meridian of longitude and the 0° meridian goes on decreasing. It is not possible to state so many varying lengths to identify one longitude. So lines of longitude are always identified by their angular distances.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 3 WBBSE

wbbse class 9 geography chapter 3 Question 25. Why do some countries have several time zones?
Answer: Large countries like the U.S.A., Canada, C..S., which have a great east-west stretch adopt several time zones for practical purposes. C.1.S. which extends through 165° to longitude is divided into eleven time zones. When it is 10.00 p.m. on a Monday night in Leningrad, Travelers on the Trans-Siberian Railway adjust their watches a dozen time before they reach their destination.

Question 26. What are the four properties of Great Circle?
Answer:
(1) Great circles divide a globe into hemispheres.
(2) A plane passing through the centre of a sphere only can produce a great circle.
(3) It is the largest possible circle on a sphere.
(4) An arc of a great circle is the shortest surface distance between any two points on a sphere.

Question 27. Distinguish between the noon meridian and the midnight meridian.
Answer: The 0° prime meridian is the noon meridian. Directly opposite of the noon meridian, on the other side of the globe, is the midnight meridian at the |.D.L. The noon meridian separates forenoon and afternoon by a split of second. The midnight meridian separate one calendar day and the next by 24 hours.

Question 28. Is it ever possible for the same day to exist simultaneously on both sides of the International Date Line?
Answer: Yes, theoretically, at the 0 (zero) hour it is possible for the same day to exist on both sides of the 1.D.L.

At the exact instant when the noon meridian of a particular day (12 hours fast) coincides with the 0° prime meridian the midnight hours meridian of the same day (12 hours slow) must also coincide with the 180 meridians. At this instant, the same
calendar day exists on both sides of the meridian. At all other times the calendar day on the west (Asiatic) of the I.D.L. is a day ahead of that on the east (Pacific American) side.

WBBSE Class 9th Geography Chapter 3 Question Answer

Question 29. What is a statute mile?
Answer: A statute mile is a ‘Over-land’ linear measurement of 1760 yds = 5280 ft. = 63.360 ins. = 1609.3 meters. Originally, the miles was the Roman measurement of 1000 paces (Room milia).

Question 30. What is a nautical mile?
Answer: A nautical mile is the ‘Over-water’ length of 1 minute of arc or 1,21,600 of a great circle. On any great circle 1 minute = 1 nautical mile. 1 degree = 60 nautical miles. 1 nautical mile = 6,080 feet = 1,1516 statute mile = 1852 m.

wbbse class 9 geography chapter 3 Question 31. What is a geographical mile?
Answer: A geographical mile is strictly the length of 1 minute is measured along the equator = 6,087.2 ft.; in practice, it is, however, taken as 6,080 ft.

Question 32. Where on earth is there no local time? Why?
Answer: At the poles, all the meridians converge to a point at the pole. That is why we cannot refer the time to any local meridian.

Question 33. What are the periods of the sun’s north declination and south declination?
Answer: From 21st March to 23rd September the sun has a north declination and from 23rd September to 21st March, it has a south declination.

WBBSE Class 9th Geography Chapter 3 Question Answer Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface 2 Marks Questions And Answers (Short Notes)

Question 1. Local Time.
Answer: At any place when the sun is at the zenith (i.e. overhead) it is noon at that time and place. Thus at that place, it is 12 noon and accordingly the time is calculated. This is the local time of that place. The sun’s position changes according to the change in longitude. Thus the local time of all the places on the same longitude of the meridian will be the same.

Question 2. G.MT.
Answer: It is the local time of the Prime Meridian (0°) at the Royal Astronomical Observatory, Greenwich near London. It is the standard time of U.K. Local time in all meridians to the east of Prime Meridians are ahead to G.M.T. and the local time of the meridians to the west of Prime Meridian are behind G.M.T. In order to maintain international uniformity, one uniform time, corresponding to the Prime Meridian, is adopted by all countries. This is called Greenwich Mean Time. (G.M.1.) Indian standard time is 5½hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Question 3. Land of Midnight Sun.
Answer: The Midnight Sun is a phenomenon in which the sun is seen shining above the horizon at midnight in latitudes higher than 66(½)°North or South. Between 21st March to 23rd September for 6 months, there is continuous day at the North Pole. From Hamerfest port in the Northern border of Norway, even late in the night, the sun can be seen far away in the sky above the North Pole. Thus, the region around the Hammerfest port of Norway is called the land of Midnight Sun.

wbbse class 9 geography chapter 3

Question 4. Standard time.
Answer: Standard time is an uniform time selected for all places in a country without any regard to their local times. It is generally taken from the central meridian of that country. The local time of that particular meridian is made the standard time
of the entire country. Standard time is taken in order to avoid a host of inconveniences that may occur if every town or village had its own local time. For example-Indian Standard Time is taken from 82°30’E.

Question 5. International Dateline.
Answer: The International Date Line (IDL) is of great use in traveling around the world, particularly in keeping time of the world in a fixed framework. If there is no IDL and Prime Meridian there would occur an error of a day in other regions to make confusion of time as weil. The fixation of IDL mends this error and confusion. The IDL runs along the 180° meridian. It lies along the Mid-Pacific Ocean which changes where a landmark or a country prevails. On crossing this line, ships and

Question 6. Chronometer.
Answer: A Chronometer is an accurate time-keeper, which shows the Greenwich Mean Time or the local time of a place and helps us to determine the longitude of a place with reference to the difference in the local time of two places.

Question 7. Great Circles.
Answer: A great circle is a section of a sphere and the plane of the section passes through the centre of the sphere. The circle that cuts the Earth into two equal halves is called the Great Circle. The equator is about 40,000 Km long and is the largest
possible circle on the Earth’s surface hence called Great Circle. it divides the Earth into two equal halves, the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere.

The Prime Meridian (0°) and its antimeridian (180°) together form a full circle that divides the Earth also into two halves (The Eastern and the Western Hemisphere). These two longitudes therefore, together form a Great Circle.

wbbse class 9 geography chapter 3 Question 8. Antipodes.
Answer: Antipodes are two places on the Earth’s surface, situated diametrically opposite to each other. If a straight line is drawn through the centre of the Earth, it will reach just the opposite side (the antipodal position).It should be noted that the latitudes of antipodes always interchange their
positions in two hemisphere north and south and the difference of longitude between the two places of antipodes will always be 180° and they will be situated on the two hemisphere, viz. eastern and western.

Example: The latitude and longitude of Kolkata are 22°30°N. and 88°30 E respectively. Therefore, the antipodes of Kolkata lies at 22°34°S and 91°30’W (180° — 88°30° = 91°30°). This point is situated in the Pacific Ocean in the west of Chile (South America).

Question 9. Indian Standard Time.
Answer: Indian Standard Time: In India, the local time of 82°30° East meridian, which passes through the central part of the country (near Allahabad), has been taken as the standard time for the whole country. It is known as Indian Standard Time or I.S.T. It is ahead from Greenwich Mean Time (G.M.T.) by 5 hours and 30

minutes [ 82 1/2° -0°= 82 1/2° x 4÷60=5 hours and 30 minutes.]

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Indian Standard Time

Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface 3 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. Differentiate between local time & standard time.
Answer:

Local Time

Standard Time

(1) It is measured by the sun’s mid-day altitude.

(2) A time zone can have many local times.

(3) It differs from place to place.

(1) It is measured by the central longitude’s local time.

(2) A time zone can have only one standard time.

(3) It is constant in a particular area.

Question 2. What is a great circle route? Why do modern air routes follow the great circle routes?
Answer: Air or sea routes that follow great circle paths are known as great circle routes. The modern air routes follow great circle routes because –
(1) They represent the shortest distance between any two points on the globe along with its circumference.
(2) On speedy long-distance flights, they save flying time.
(3) Great circle polar routes provide the quickest link between Europe and North America.

wbbse class 9 geography chapter 3 Question 3. What are the uses of latitudes & longitudes?
Answer:
(1) Uses of latitudes :-

(1)The tudes determine the location of a place.
(2) The latitudes determine the heat zones.
(3) It also determines the location of the pressure belt.
(4) The latitude can give an idea about the temperature and natural vegetation of a place.

(2) Uses of longitudes:-

(1) The point of intersection of longitude and latitudes determines the location of a place.
(2) The longitudes determine the local time of a place.

Question 4. What is the standard longitude of India and what is the need of it?
Answer: 82°30′ is the standard longitude of India.
If there is no standard time of India different places have their different local times. India covers an area of 30 longitudes so railway system, airports, T.V., News etc. will have different time if a particular longitude is not followed
consistenly by all. So, to avoid these difficulties Indian standard time is used.

Question 5. Why International Date Line is not Straight?
Answer: The International Date line passes through Pacific Ocean. It deviates from 180° longitude in some places in order to keep all the islands under one administration on one side of the Dateline. The Date line goes zigzag in some places to avoid land and to leave island groups wholly. It deviates eastwards in the Bering strait between Alaska and Siberia. The line deviates westwards (7°) of 180° longitude to include the entire Aleutian islands to the east of the line. Further, South the Dateline deviates eastwards (11°) of 180° around Fiji, and Tonga islands.
(iv) In order to exclude Gilibert and phonex the line deviates 35° of 180°.

Question 6. State the differences between parallels of latitude and meridians of longitude.
Answer:

Parallels of Latitude	Meridians of Longitude
(1) These are circular lines.	(1) These are semi-circular lines.
(2) Their size go on decreasing towards the poles.	(2) Theire size remains the same.
(3) The distance between them is uniform.	(3) The distance between them is not uniform. It goes on decreasing towards the poles.
(4) There are 179 lines of latitudes.	(4) There are 360 lines of longitudes.
(5) Sextant is used to measure latitude.	(5) Chronometer is used to measure longitude.
(6) They run in east, west direction.	(6) They run in a north-south direction.
(7) Equator is the most important parallel of latitude.	(7) Prime meridian is the most important meridian of longitude.
(8) They are located to the north and south of the equator.	(8) They are located to the east and west of the prime meridian.

Question 7. What do you understand by antipodes?
Answer: Antipodes are two places on the earth’s surface that are diametrically opposite to one another,in such a manner that a straight line joining them passes through the centre of the earth.
Example :
(1) (for Longitude) the antipode of 40° W is (180°-40°) = 140° E
(2) (for Latitude) = The antipode of 60° N = 60°S.
The antipode of any place on the equator will be on the equator.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Detemination Of Antipodes Of Places At B And C

Question 8. Distinguish between Greenwich Mean Time and Indian Standard Time.
Answer: Greenwich Mean Time is the local time of the Prime Meridian (0°) at the Royal Astronomical Observatory, Greenwich near London. It is also known as universal time. On the other hand, Indian standard time is the standard time of India as a whole. ISI is reckoned from the times of the central meridian of the country and it is 82°30’E. It is ahead of GMT by 5 hours and 30 minutes.

Question 9. Explain the Statements:- For Longitudinal difference of 1° time varies for 4 minutes.
Answer: Earth takes almost 24 hours for a complete rotation. Thus earth completes 360° in 24 hours. So, in one hour the earth moves 15° (360° = 24 hrs. = 15°) and naturally, 1° of longitude will take 4 minutes (60 minutes + 15 = 4 minutes) to rotate. So for a longitude difference of 1° time varies for 4 minutes.
(1) For Longitudinal difference of 1° time varies for 4 seconds. As a difference of 1° longitude has a time difference of 4 minutes or 240 seconds, then for longitudinal difference of 1′ time varies for (240 + 60 seconds) 4 seconds.

Question 10. The variation of time between a place and its antipode is twelve hours — why?
Answer: The difference of the longitudes of a place and its antipode is of 180°. Since 1° longitudinal difference causes 4 minutes time difference. therefore, 180° longitudinal difference causes 180 x 4 mins. or 720 mins. or 12 hrs. time difference. That’s the reason why the variation of time between a place and its antipode is twelve hours.

WBBSE Class 9th Geography Chapter 3 Question Answer

Question 11. Relation between the line of longitude and time.
Answer: There is a definite relation between longitude and time. The earth rotates on its axis and completes one rotation in 24 hours; therefore, 360° meridians of longitude take 24 hours to pass under the sun. Thus, 15 degrees [360° + 24 = 15°] pass under
the sun each hour and 1 degree in 4 minutes [60 minutes = 15° = 4 mins.].

We know that it is noon at a place when the sun is seen just on overhead of the meridian of longitude of that place. Thus, all places on the same meridian have their noon at the same time.
As the earth rotates from West to East, places on the East of the meridian 0° pass under the sun before places which are in the West of this meridian.

Question 12. Why does International Date Line follow 180° Longitude?
Answer: The reason for the choice of the 180th-degree meridian as the International Date Line, is that it passes through the mid-Pacific Ocean where there are a few landmasses and islands. Hence, there is almost no need for changing the time frequently. In this meridian, there are only few places where bendings are made to maintain the time zones.

Question 13. Find the antipode of a place having 10°N (Latitude) and 60°E(Longitude).
Answer: 10°S latitude and 120° W longitude.
Latitudes in Antipodes interchange the hemispheres. Therefore 10°N latitude becomes 10°S. But, the longitudinal difference between antipodes is 180° and in the opposite hemisphere. Therefore 180° — 60° E = 120° W.

Question 14. What is meant by local time and standard time?
Answer:

Local Time :
At any place when the sun is at its zenith (i.e. overhead) it is noon at that time and place. Thus at that place, it is 12 noon, and accordingly the time is calculated. This is local time of that place. The sun’s position changes according to the change in longitude. Thus the local time of all the places on the same longitude of the meridian willbe the same.

Standard time :
Standard time is an uniform time selected for all.places in a country without any regard to their local times. It is generally taken from the central meridian of that country. The local time of that particular meridian is made the standard time of the entire country. Standard time is taken in order to avoid a host of inconveniences that may occur if every town or village has its own local time.

Question 15. How can location of a place on the globe be determined?
Answer: With the help of parallels of latitude and meridians of longitude, the location of a place on the globe is determined. But for the exact location, both the parallels of latitude and meridians of longitude are necessary. Either of them cannot determine the exact location. For example, if we say that a place is situated at 30° North latitude. Now, on this latitude so many places are situated. In the same way if we say that place is on 100°E longitude. Again along this longitude many places are located. But when we say that the place is situated on 30° N latitudes and 100°E longitude, that is the intersecting point of a particular parallel of latitude and meridian of longitude, then the exact position of the place is found out. Thus, to locate the exact position of a place on the globe, the meeting point of a parallel of latitude and the meridian of longitude should be must.

Question 16. What is International Date Line? :
Answer: The 180° meridian of longitude is regarded as the International Dateline. In the past the circumnavigators always felt the loss or gain of time while traveling around the world. Those travelling towards east always felt that they bad reached anead of their schedule, while thone travelling west felt that they reached their destination late.If was by an International agreement in 1884, the 1800 meridian of longitude was Relected as the place where circumnavigators would adjost the time of their watches it one crosses this line (180°) from East to west; one day, i.e 24 hrs will be added and one day or 24 hrs will be deducted while crossing from West to East. This 180° longitude is not drawn as a completely straight line, it turns wherever there is land mass.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface International Date Line

Question 17. Define the following: Great circle, Equator, Meridian, Prime meridian.
Answer: A great circle is any circle on the earth’s surface whose centre is the earth’s centre. The equator is a great circle midway between the north and south poles. Meridian means ‘mid-day’ The lines of longitude are called meridians as mid-
day occurs at the same time at all placer located on the meridian. The (0°) meridian which passes through Greenwich, England, is called the prime meridian.

Question 18. How is the time calculated in hours, minutes, and seconds?
Answer: We specify exact time in the following manner :
(1) It takes 24 hours to make a complete rotation or 360°.
∴In 1 hour the earth rotates 360 ÷ 24 = 15°
(2). 15° longitudinal difference = 1 hour or 60 minutes
∴ 1° longitude difference = 20/15 = 4 minutes
(3) : .. 1° or 60° longitudinal difference
= 4 minutes or 4 x 60 = 240 seconds

∴ 1 longitudinal difference =264/60 on 4 seconds ”

Question 19. What are the Standard Meridians of Pakistan, India and Bangladesh?
Answer: Pakistan = 75°E, India = 82 1/2° E, Bangladesh = 90°E.

Question 20. What are the uses of parallels of latitude?
Answer:

Uses of Parallels :
(1) A place on the earth’s surface cannot be determined only by parallels, it indicates its location either north of the equator or south of it.

(2)The parallel of latitude together with the meridian of longitude yield the exact position of a place.

(3) They enable us to know the distance of a place from the equator and from one latitude to another and they can be used to determine the scale of a map.

(4) They help us to guess what type of climate would prevail in a particular place.

(5)They also give us an idea about the type of natural vegetation in a particular place.

Question 21. What necessitates the International Dateline?
Answer: International Date Line, generally follows 180° east and west
longitude line. It is so located that it is halfway around the world from the Greenwich or Prime Meridian. A peculiar position arises at the meridian 180° east and west. This meridian is reckoned both as 180°E and 180°W. if the time at any place on the Greenwich Meridian is 8 a.m. on Monday, then calculating eastwards the time at 180°E will be 8 p.m. on Monday, and calculating westward the time at 180°W will be 8 p.m on Sunday. This means that a man standing west of 180° meridian records his time as Monday, 8 p.m., while his friend standing east of 180° meridian claims Sunday, 8 p.m. Such confusion of one day must be corrected.

Iit was at the initiative of W.M Davis, the 180° meridian was adopted as the International Dateline in 1884 at as International conference. When a man crosses the International Date Line going east, he has to turn his calendar a full day Peak, and going west over tHe State Line, he moves the calendar one day forward. Thus traveling west from Alaska to Siberia it is 8 p.m. Monday at the International Date Line but it will be 8 p.m. Sunday at the International Date Line when we travel from Siberia to Alaska. In order to avoid dividing nations or islands into two different days the International Date Line is made somewhat irregular.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface International Date Line

Question 22. Differentiate between Longitude & Meridians of Longitude.
Answer:

Longitude	Meridians of Longitude
(1) It is the angular distance on the earth.	(1) It is the linear distance.
(2) This is the point of location.	(2) This is the imaginary lines joining all the points on the longitude.
(3) This is just a point.	(3) This is a semi-circle.
(4) A longitude bisects only one latitude.	(4) There are total 1st latitude bisected by the meridians of longitude.

Question 23. What are latitudes? What are the characteristics of Latitude?
Answer: Latitudes are angular distance lines running in an east-west direction to the north and south of the equator.

Characteristics of latitudes :
(1) All latitudes are whole circles and are parallel to each other
(2) All latitudes are not equal in length and
(3) Latitudes become gradually smaller from the equator to the poles and at the poles, the latitude is only a dot.

Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface 5 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. What is the necessity of determination of the location of a place on the earth’s surface?
Answer:

(1) To know the Concept of Climate :
With the latitudinal location of a place, one can easily derive an idea of the climatic types of the place. For example, if the place is at higher latitude is 60-90°N/S then the place must be in a colder region. Similarly, In the lower latitudes i.e., between 0°-30° N/S the climate is hot summer type.

(2) Concept of time from location :
Time can be early identified by the location of a place. From the longitude, we can find whether the place is in the right or in the left. Eastward location of a place implies its local time advanced and westward location implies its local time behind.

WBBSE Class 9th Geography Chapter 3 Question Answer

(3) For navigation :
For air and water transport it is easier to reach the exact destination by knowing the accurate location of the place.

(4) Throwing missiles etc :
Pointing out and hitting the object in case of war the exact location of the place must be focussed.

(5) Business transaction :
The perfect location of the place helps in business transactions.

(6) Reading Atlas :
If we know the latitude and longitude of a place it becomes easier to find out the location of a place in the Atlas.

(7) To locate the hemisphere :
Location of a place to helps us to generate an idea about the hemisphere. Where the place is located.

(8) Sunset and Sunrise :
Exact location of the place helps us to generate an idea about the timing of sunrise and sunset.

(9) Season length of day and night :
It is easier to develop the idea of season the length of day and night if we know the exact location.

(10) Reading globe :
To study the globe perfect location help us to mark the area.

Question 2. Give an account of some important parallels of latitude.
Answer: Equator, Tropic of Cancer, Tropic of Capricorn, Arctic Circle, Antarctic Circle, Norht Pole and South Pole are the important parallels of latitude. Parallels of latitude are all circles. The Equator forms the great circle and all other circles are small.

(1)Equator (0°) :

Equator is an imaginary great circle, 40,077 km round. Its plane is called Equatorial Plane. Equatorial Plane is at right angles to the earth’s axis of rotation. All points on it are by definition at latitude 0° and equidistant form North Pole as well as from South Pole. Equator divides the earth’s surface into the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere since it is a great circle. Equator is called a great circle because it has the following characteristics :
(1) Its plane passes through the centre of the earth. Circles whose planes do not through the centre of the earth are called small circles.
(2) The Equator is the circumference of the earth. A smail circle is not the circumference of the earth.
(3) The centre of the Equator coincides withthe centre of the Earth.
(4) Equator cuts the earth in halfi.e. in the northern hemisphere and in the southern hemisphere. Every great circle cuts the earth in half and vice-versa. At all places on the Equator, the Sun remains approximately overhead twice a year, once at March Equinox and the other at September Equinox and the Sun of mid-day is never more than 23 4 * from the vertical. It is quite natural that places on or near the Equator are very hot unless they are at high altitudes.

(2)Tropic of Cancer (23 4° N) :

At June solstice occuring on June 21 the subsolar point lies on the tropic of cancer (latitude 234°N). The Tropic of Cancer is the northern extreme parallel of latitude reached by the vertical rays of the Sun.

(3)Tropic of Capricorn (23 4° S):

At December solstice occurring of December 22, the subsolar point lies on the Tropic of Capricorn (latitude 23 4°S.). The Tropic of Capricorn is the southern extreme parallel of latitude reached by the vertical rays of the Sun.

(4)Arctic Circle (664° N) :

At June solstice occurring on June 21 the circle of illumination (or shadow circle) forms tangent to both the Arctic Circles (latitude 66% N) and Antarctic Circle (latitude 66 °S.) having 24 hours sunlight in the entire area inside the Antarctic Circle.

WBBSE Class 9th Geography Chapter 3 Question Answer

(5)North Pole (90°N) :

The North Pole is the smallest parallel of latitude in the northern hemisphere. It is in the form of a point. The shadow circle formed on both the Equinoxes i.e., March and September Equinoxes touch the North Pole.

(6)South Pole (90°S) :

The South Pole is the smallest parallel of latitude in the southern hemisphere. It is in the form of a point. The shadow circle formed on both the Equinoxes i.e., March Equinox and September Equinox touches the South Pole.

Question 3. What are the features of parallels of latitude.
Answer:

Features of Parallels of Latitude :

(1) All places on a parallel of latitude in either hemisphere have similar latitude. Although we say Calcutta is at 22°34 north of Equator, there are, however, infinite number of points that are 22°34″ north of the Equator.
(2) Parallels are always parallel to one another.
(3) Parallels except North Pole and South Pole are circular lines.
(4) All parallels except the equator are small circles. Those small circles are getting smaller as they approach both the poles. In fact, at both the a small circles are reduced into points.
(5) As the latitude increases, the circumference of the parallel Becreascl
(6) There cannot be two or more equal parallels in the northern hemisphere or southern hemisphere.
(7) Parallels of two hemispheres may be equal in degree, minute or second.
(8) The linear distance between two parallels of 1° difference is not identical always.
(9) Different places on a parallel are situated east or west of one another.
(10) All places on a parallel do not find sunrise, noon or sunset at a time.
(11) Parallels represent east-west lines.
(12) Every point on the earth, except the North Pole or South Pole, lies on a parallel.
(13) All parallels except North Pole and South Pole intersect Tiere at right angles.
(14) A large number of parallels may by drawn on the earth’s surface.

Ch 3 Geography Class 9 WBBSE

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Features Of Meridians Of Longitude

Question 4. What do you mean by antisocial? Give its features.
Answer: Definition: Antipodes are two places on the earth’s surface that are diametrically opposite to one another, in such manner that a straight line joining them passes through the centre of the earth.

Features of Antipodes :

(1) The latitudes of antipodes are always equal [in degree (°) minute (‘), second (“)] and opposite [one north; the other south] hemispheres.

(2) The longitudes of antipodes add up to 180°, one being east, the other west generally. The longitude of Calcutta is 88°24’E. So longitude of its antipodes is 91°36′ W. Because 88°24′ west of Calcutta lies prime meridian (0°) and 91°36’ west of Prime Meridian (0°) will be the antipodes of Calcutta. The difference of longitude between an place and its antipodes will always be 180°.

(3) In case of antipodes,midnight at one place will occur simultaneously with midday at the other or vice versa.

(4) Antipodes of any piace on the equator lie on the equator.

(5) The latitudes of a place and of its antipodes (except on the equator) generally interchange their positions in two hemispheres, north and south. For example, the latitude of Calcutta is 22°34’N. So its antipodes will lie on 22°34’S.

Ch 3 Geography Class 9 WBBSE

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Detemination Of Antipodes Of Places At B And C

(6) Antipodes of any place of the Prime Meridian will lie on 180° longitude or vice versa.

(7) Antipodes of a meridian always lie on its antimeridian Obviously the difference of time between a place and its antipodes will always be 12 hours.

Question 5. If the local time at Haldia (80°E) is 11 a.m. what is the time at its antipode?
Answer:
Local time at
Halidia 11 a.m. i.e 11 hours
Plus 12 hours

∴ Local time at the antipode of Haldia 23 hours i.e. 11 p.m. on the same day. 11 p.m. on the same day.

Question 6. Define Meridian of longitude. What are its features?
Answer: Definition of Meridian of Longitude: The semi-circular line drawn on a map to link all points on the earth’s surface with the same angular distance east or west of the Prime Meridian is defined as Meridian of Longitude.

Ch 3 Geography Class 9 WBBSE

Features of Meridians of Longitude :

Meridians of Longitude are halves of great circles, whose ends coincide with the earth’s north and south poles. Although
a meridian and its antimeridian together comprise a complete great circle, a single meridian is only half of a great circle and contains 180° of arc.

Additional features of meridians of longitude are as follows :

(1) All meridians run in a true north-south direction.
(2) An infinite number of meridians may be drawn on a globe. Thus a meridian exists for any point chosen on the globe. For
representation on maps and globes, however, chosen, meridians are spaced at equal distances apart.
(3) All the meridians are equal in length, but not parallel to one another.
(4) The linear distance between two meridians is not uniform
everywhere. It shortens with increasing distance from the equator ranging from 111 kilometers at the equator to nil at the poles per degree.
(5) All places on the same meridian are either at the north or the south of one another
(6) All places on the same meridians have sunrise, noon or sunset at the same time.
(7) All places on the same meridian have the same local time: In the matter of calculation of time, the meridian of longitude plays a significant role.
(8) Each meridian cuts the equator at right angle.

Class 9 Ch 3 Geography WBBSE

Question 7. How you can measure the latitude of Kolkata on Earth?
Answer: The latitude of a place indicates the angular distance north or south of the Equator. The point that stands for Kolkata on the earth’s surface may be either north or south of the Equator. in order to determine the extent of its northward or southward placement that Calcutta point is connected with the (center) of the earth by an imaginary straight line is drawn from the point of intersection between meridian of the longitude of kolkata and the Equator. These two imaginary lines (in fact two radii) form an ole angle at the centre of the earth. Such an angle measured in degrees, minutes and seconds is called Latitude. The measurement of such an angle for Kolkata is 22°34’. As kokata stands north of the Equator, the latitude of kolkata is called 22°34’N

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Latitude Of Kolkata On The Earth

An instrument known as Sextant invented by John Hadley is used to determine the latitude of a place. This instrument measures the angle between the horizon and a celestial body such as at daytime the noonday sur or at night the North Star (Polaris) in Northern hemisphere and the Hadley’s Octant in Southern hemisphere. However, no matter how accurately we pinpoint the latitude of a place like Calcutta, we have given only half the story. For we have only described the location of Calcutta as being 22°34’ north of the Equator. There are, however, an infinite number of points that are 22°34’ north of the Equator.

Class 9 Ch 3 Geography WBBSE

Question 8. Explain the heat zones of the Earth.
Answer: The sun rays fall vertically on the lower latitudes and the Sun never goes overhead beyond23 (½)°N latitude (Tropic of Cancer) and 23 (½)°S (Tropic of Capricorn). So, in between the two Tropics, the temperature remains high throughout the year. This area between the two tropics is known as the Torrid zone of the Earth

The region between the Tropic of Cancer [ 23(½)°N] and the Arctic Circle (66(½)°N] in the Northern Hemisphere and that between the Tropic of Capricorn [ 23(½)°S] and the Antarctic Circle [ 66(½)°S] receive the oblique rays of the Sun. These two regions on either hemisphere have moderate temperatures and are known as the Temperate zones of the Earth.

The region between Arctic Circle (66(½)°N] and the North Pole (90°N) and that between the Antarctic Circle [ 66(½)°S] and the South Pole receive tangential rays of the Sun. These two regions have extremely low temperature and are known asthe Frigid zones of the Earth

The parallels of latitudes; therefore, divide the Earth into different temperature belts or heat zones. Thus we get an idea about the climate of any place lying within these zones.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Tropical, Temperate And Frigid zones

Question 9. Give a comparison between parallels of latitude & meridians of longitude.
Answer:

Comparison between Parallels of Latitude and Meridians of Longitude :

Parallels of Latitude_	_Meridians of Longitude_
1. The imaginary lines drawn by joining places having the same latitude are called Parallels of latitude.	1. The imaginary lines drawn by joining places having the same longitude are called Meridian of Longitude.
2. Latitudes encircle the earth in east-west lines.	2. Longitudes extend in a north-south direction on the earth.
3. Each latitude forms a whole circle and they. But each latitude has different lengths.	3. Each of them form half-circles but all of them have the same length.
4. The latitudes are nearly equidistant from each other. The earth being an oblate spheroid this distance is more near the polar region than at the equator.	4. The longitudes are not at equidistance everywhere, as the intervening distance decreases from the equator to the poles where they merge to a point.
5. Except the two poles all other latitudes are whole circles each forming an angle of360°.	5. Every longitude forms a half-circle, thus each forms an angle of 180°.
6. Because oftheearth’sshapeonlythe equator forms a Great Circle and not the other latitudes. From either side of the equator the length of the latitude gradually diminish towards the poles.	6. Every longitude forms a great circle with the longitude on the opposite side of the earth. But each longitude is independent or has a certain value so no longitude can be said to be a whole circle or a Great Circle. They are half circles.
7. The latitudes are measured from the Equator.	7. The longitudes are measured from the Prime Meridian.
8. Latitudes are measured form 0°( Equator) to 90° N and S (North and South Pole).	8. Longitudes are measured from 0°(Prime Meridian) to 180°E and 180°W longitudes.
9. With latitudes one get an idea about how for a place is located to the north or south of the equator.	9. In this way it can be understood how far a place is located to the east or west of the Prime Meridian.
10. Except the equator all parallels of latitude have their center on the earth’s axis, the equator and the of the earth are the same.	10. The center of all longitudes is the same as the center of the earth.
11. The length of all parallels of latitude gradually lessens from the equator to the poles.	11. All longitudes have the same length.
12. The latitudes are divided into North Latitudes and South Latitudes.	12. Longitudes are divided into East Longitudes and West Longitudes.
13. In the same parallel of latitude sunrise, noon and sunset occurs at the different times at all places.	13. In the same meridian of longitude at all places sunrise, noon and sunset occur at the same time.
14. In the same latitude at different regions the local time is different. Thus in determining the local time latitudes have no role to play.	14. The same meridian has the same local time at all regions along it. Thus longitudes determine the local time of place.
15. The same latitude has very little different places along the latitude.	15. The same longitude has great differences in climate at variable places along the longitude.

Class 9 Ch 3 Geography WBBSE

Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface 5 Marks Questions And Answers [Numricals]

Question 1. Calculate the longitude of the position of a ship whose captain observes that it is 7:30 p.m. in the chronometer when the local time in mid-ocean is 1:00 p.m.
Answer: The difference between the two places is 7.30 p.m. — 1.00 p.m
= 6 hrs. 30 mints. = 390 minutes.
∴ 4 mins. time difference causes the difference of 1° longitude
∴ 390 mins……………………………………………………………..390 ÷ 4
=97°30′ [∴ 1°=60′. ∴ (2/4)°=30°]
We know the time of the place is behind that of Greenwich, the place is 97°30′ West of Greenwich.
∴the longitude of the place = 0° — 97°30′ = 97°30′ W. Answer:

Question 2. An e-mail was sent from Sydney (151°30’E) to Allahabad (82°30’E) on Saturday, the 1st March 2008 at 4 a.m. Find out the time, day, and date of its arrival an Allahabad. op Allahabad

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q2

Answer: The longitudinal difference between Sydney and Allahabad is 151°30” E — 82°30’E = 69°.
We know, 1° longitudinal difference makes a time difference of 4 minutes
∴ 69° ” ” ” ” ” ” 4x 69 = 276 mins
= 4 hrs 36 mins.
As Allahabad is in the West of Sydney, 4 hrs. 36 mins. should be subtracted from the time of Sydney (West-lose-Subtract). Therefore, local time, day, and date of the arrival of e-mail at Allahabad = the Saturday, the ist March 2008 at 4 a.m. — 4 hrs 36 mins = the Friday, the 29th February 2008, 11: 24 p.m

Question 3. The news broadcasted at 8-00 a.m. from Greenwich was heard in a place at 2.30 p.m. What would be the longitude of that place?

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q3

Answer: The difference in time between the two places is 2.30 p.m. — 8.00 a.m.
= 6 hrs. 30 min. = 390 minutes.
∴4 minutes time difference causes the difference of 1° longitude
∴ 390° ” ” ” ” ” ” ” “390 ÷ 4 =97°30′
We know, the time of the place is ahead than that of Greenwich.
∴The place is 97°30° East of Greenwich.
∴The longitude of the place is 0° + 97.30 = 97°30′ E.

Question 4. When the local time at Kolkata (88°30’E /22°30’N) was 10.00 am. on Sunday, 1st January 2006, then what would be the local time, day and date of its antipode?
Answer: Kolkata is 88°30′ E and the longitude of its antipode will be = 180° — 88°30′ = 91°30’W

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q4

∴The longitudinal difference between the two places= 88°30′ + 91°30′ = 180°
We know that, 1° longitudinal difference makes a time difference of 4 minutes
∴180° ” ” ” ” =180×4
= 720mins
= 720+ 60 = 12 hrs.
∴The time of the antipodal place of Kolkata will be behind as it is in the West.
Hence time =10-12
= (10+ 12)-12
=10PM
Day = Saturday, and
Date = 31st Dec. 2005

Question 5. The longitudes of P and Q are 100°E and 80°W respectively. Find out the local time of Q when it is 11 p.m. on Sunday at P.
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q5

The longitudinal difference between P and Qis (100° + 80) = 180°
For1 longitudinal difference, the time difference is 4 minutes.
∴ For 180 longitudinal difference, the time difference is 4×180 minutes = 720 minutes = 12 hours.
Q is situated to the West of P. Therefore, the time of Q will be backward.
∴ When it is 11 P.M. on Sunday at P then the time at Q will be (11 PM Sunday – 12 hours.)=11A.M. Sunday.
The time of Q will be 11 A. Mon the same day i.e., Sunday.

Question 6. A time alarm has been sent from Greenwich to X at 12 noon and the receiving end i.e. X got the alarm at 4.28 p.m. of the local time of X. The alarm took only 2 minutes to reach the destination. Determine the longitude of X.
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q6

An alarm has been sent from Greenwich at 12 noon to X. The alarm took 2 minutes to reach X. The alarm reach X at 4.28 P.M. of its local time. Thus the actual time difference between Greenwich and X is {(4.28 P.M. — 2 m) – 12 noon}
= (4.26 P.M. – 12 noon) = 4 hour 26 minutes time difference,
∴For every 4′ time different the longitudinal difference is 1°
∴For every 1 minutes time difference, the longitudinal difference is (¼)°
∴For every 266 minutes time difference the longitudinal difference
¼ x 266 = 66(½)°= 66°30.
As the time of X is ahead of Greenwich, the location of X will be at (0° + 66°30) = 66°30′ E.

Question 7. What would be the local time at New York (75°W) and Mumbai (73°E) when it is noon at Greenwich?
Answer:

75^° W	0°	73^°E
(New York)	(Greenwich)	(Mumbai)
Time?	12 noon	Time?

The longitudinal difference between Greenwich and New York is (75°- 0°) = 75°
For 1° longitudinal difference, the time difference is 4 minutes.
∴ 75° longitudinal difference, the time difference 4×75 = 300 min. = 5 hours.
As New York is to the West of Greenwich, so the time of New York will be behind that of Greenwich. When it is 12 noon at 0° (Greenwich), the time of New York will be (12 noon – 5 hrs.) = 7.00 A.M. the same day.
The longitudinal difference between Greenwich and Mumbai is (73°-0°)=73°
For 1° longitudinal difference, the time difference is 4 min.
∴73° longitudinal difference, the time difference 4 x 73
= 292 min.
= 4 hrs. 52 min.
As Mumbai is situated to the East of Greenwich, the time of Mumbai will be ahead of Greenwich. When it is 12 noon at 0° (Greenwich), then the time of Mumbai will be (12 noon +4 hours 52 min.) = 4.52 P.M. the same day.

Question 8. When it is 3 p.m. in Kolkata, it is 10.40 a.m. at X. The longitude of Kolkata is 88°30′ E. What is the longitude of X?
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q8

The time difference between Kolkata and X is (3 P.M.—10: 40 A.M) =4 hrs. 20 min. = 260 min.
∴For 4 minutes time difference, the longitudinal difference is 1°
∴ 1 ” ” ” ” (¼)°
∴260 ” ” ” ” =¼ × 260 =65°
As the time of X is behind of Kolkata, so X will be situated to the West of Kolkata.
The longitude of X will be (88° 30′ E – 65°) = 23° 30’E.

Question 9. If the inaugural ceremony of Olympic games at Athens (24°E) commences at 8.30 p.m., when will it be live telecast at Allahabad (82°30’E)?
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q9

Difference in longitude of the two places = 82°30’— 24° = 58°30’
1° longitudinal difference makes a time difference of 4 minutes
∴ 58° ” ” ” ” ” = 58 x 4 minutes = 232 minutes
Again 1′ longitudinal diffenrence makes a time difference of 4 seonds

∴ 30′ ” ” ” ” 30 x 4 seonds
= 120 seconds or 2 minutes
Total time = 232 minutes + minutes = 234 minutes or 3 hours 54 minutes. Since, Allahabad is situated to the East of Athens, so time of Allahabad will be forward.
∴ required time = 8.30 + 3 hrs. 54 mins. = 12.24 hrs. = 00:24 A.M.

Question 10. A special radio news bulletin was broadcast at 12 noon from New York (74°W) and it was heard at 8 O’ clock at night in a place. What would be the longitude of that place ?
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q10

The difference of time between New York and other place is 8 hours or 480 minutes.
∴4 minutes difference occurs in 1° longitude.
∴480 minutes difference will occur in 480 ÷ 4 longitude = 120°
As the time of the place is ahead than that of New York, hence the place is situated East of New York and in Eastern hemisphere.
∴The longitude of the place is 120° — 74° = 46°E.

Question 11. If a cricket match is started at 10.00 a.m. at London (0°) at what Indian Standard Time (I.S.T.) it will be telecast in India ?
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q11

Difference in longitude of the two places = 82 ½°= 165/2°
∴To cross 1° longitude 4 minutes is required
∴ ,, ,, ,, ,, 165/2° ,, ,, ,, ,, 165/2×4=330’minutes=5 hrs. 30 minutes.
India is situated to the east of London, so required Indian standard time will be forward.
∴required time = 10+5 hrs.30 minutes
= 15 hrs.30 minutes.
= 3 hrs. 30 minutes or 3:30 P.M.

Question 12. A hockey match held at Sydney (151°30’ East) Olympic at 6 P.M. was telecast directly when was it visible at Calcutta (88°30’ East) ?
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q12

Longitudinal difference between Sydney and Calcutta is 151°30’ — 88°30’ = 63°
For 1° longitudinal difference, time difference is 4 minutes.
For 63°” ” ” ” ” 4×63 = 252 minutes.
Total time difference between Sydney, and calcutta = 4hrs 12 minutes.
Since, Calcutta is located to the West of Sydney, therefore, its time will be behind by 4hrs. 12 minutes.
The time, when the match will be visible in India = 6 A.M.—4 hrs 12 minutes = 1.48 A.M.

Question 13. Local time of the two places “A” and “B”‘ are 6.a.m.and6 p.m. respectively, when it is 12 noon at Greenwich. Find out the longitude of the above two places “A” and “B” (mention East or West).
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q13

The time difference between Greenwich and place “A” and “B” is (6 a.m. to 12.00 noon and 12.00 to 6 p.m.) or 6 hours or 360 minutes.
4 minutes time difference is for 1° longitude.
360 minutes time difference is for (360 ÷ 4) = 90°
So, the longitudinal difference between Greenwich and the place “A” and”B” is 90°.
We know Greenwich lies on 0° longitude.
As the time of place “A” is behind that of Greenwich therefore it must lie to the West of Greenwich.
So, the longitude of the place “A” is 90° West. Similarly as the time of place ‘B’ is ahead of Greenwich therefore it must lie to the East of Greenwich. So, the longitude of the place “B” is 90° East. Longitude of place “A” and “B” are 90° W and 90° E.

Question 14. 99, A telegram was sent from Washington (77° W) to Allahabad (82°30′ E) on 31st December 1998 at 8.30 P.M. It took 15 minutes to reach Allahabad. Find out the exact time and date of its arrival there.
Answer:

Longitudinal difference between Washington and Allahabad is 77° + 82°30f= 159°30′
For 1° longitudinal difference, time difference is 4 minutes

∴ 159° ……………………………………………… 4×159 minutes
= 636 minutes
= 10 hrs. 36 minutes
Again for 1’ longitudinal Siocneaat time difference is 4 cerns
∴ 30′ …………………………………………………… 4×30 seconds
= 120 seconds
= 2 minutes
∴Total time difference between Washington and Allahabad is 10 hrs. 36 mins. +2 mins. = 10 hrs 38 mins.
∴When it was 20:30 hrs. on 31st December, 1998 at Washington then the local time of Allahabad would be more (as it is located to the East).
i.e., 20:30 + 10 hrs. 38 mins. = 31:08
∴31:08 — 24.00 (31st Dec, 1998)
= 7:08 A.M. ist January, 1999.
As the telegram took 15 minutes to reach Allahabad, so the telegram actually reached Allahabad at 7:08 + 0:15 = 7:23 A.M. on 1st January 1999.

Question 15. A hockey match held at Atlanta (85°W) Olympic at 6 a.m. was telecast directly. When it was visible at Calcutta (88°30’E) ? [M.E.’97]
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q15

The longitudinal difference between Atlanta and Calcutta = 85°+ 88°30′ =173°30)
For 1° longitudinal difference, time difference is 4 minutes.
∴ 173° ” ” ” ” ” “173 x 4 minutes = 692 minutes
Again for 1′ longitudinal difference, time difference is 4 seconds
∴ 30′ ” ” ” ” ” 30 x 4 seconds
= 120 seconds or 2 minutes
Total time 692 minutes + 2 minutes = 694 minutes or 11 hrs 34 minutes.
As Calcutta is situated East of Atlanta (where it is 6 a.m.), the time of Calcutta will be ahead of Atlanta by 11 hrs. 34 minutes.
Therefore, the time of Calcutta
=6a.m.+ 11 hrs. 34 minutes
= 17 hrs. 34 minutes or 5.34 p.m.
Thus, the telecast will be visible at Calcutta at 5.34 p.m.

Question 16. 96, When it is 6.30 a.m. in Madras, the time in New York is 8.13 p.m. in the previous evening. The longitude of Madras is 80°15′ East. What is the longitude of New York ?
Answer: As time of New York is 8.13 p.m. of the previous day, it is clear, it is situated West of Madras.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q16

The difference of time between Madras and New York
= 6 hrs. 30 minutes + 3 hrs. 47 minutes (12 — 8 hrs. 13 m.)
= 10 hrs. 17 minutes = 617 minutes
The difference of 4 minutes occur in 1° of longitude.
Therefore, the difference of 617 minutes will be in (*7/,)° = 154° 15′
The longitude of Madras is 80° 15’E
The longitude of New York = 154°15′ — 80° 15′ = 74° W

Question 17. If it is 122 noon at Greenwich what is the local time at Calcutta (88°30’E)?
Answer:

We already know that the longitude of Greenwich is 0°
∴the difference in longitudes between Calcutta and Greenwich is 88°30′ — 0 = 88°30′
∴the time difference between Calcutta and Greenwich will be—
1° longitude difference causes a time difference of 4 minutes
∴for 88°” ” the difference will be 88 x 4 minutes 352 minutes
Again 1′” ” has a time difference of 4 seconds
∴30. ” ” has a time difference of 30′ x 4 sec. = 120 sec. or 2 miunutes
∴the time difference between Calcutta and Greenwhich is (352 + 2 minutes = 354 minutes ÷ 60 minutes) 5 hours 54 minutes.
Since Calcutta lies to the east of Greenwich the time will be ahead compared to Greenwich time. So when it is 12 noon at Greenwich the local time of Calcutta will be (12 noon ÷ 5 hours 54 minutes) 5-54 PM.

Question 18. When the 1.5.7. is 12 noon what is the G.M,T, ? (Central Meridian of
India 82°30′ E*).
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q18

We already know that the standard meridian of India is 82°30′ E and Greenwich’s is O°.
∴the difference in the standard meridian of India and the longitude of Greenwich is 82°30’— 0 = 82°30′
∴ the time difference between them will be —
1° difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 minutes
∴for 82°” ” ” the time difference is 82° x 4 minutes = 328 minutes or 5 hours 28 minutes
Again 1′ ” ” longitude has a time difference of 4 seconds
∴30′ ” ” ” has atime difference of 30′ x 4 seconds = 120 seconds or, 2 minutes
Therefore their time difference is (5 hours 28 minutes +2 minutes) 5 hours minutes.
Since Greenwich is located to the west of India their time will be behind or less than that of India.
∴when the 1.S.T. is 12 noon the G.M.1T. is (12 noon÷5 hours 30 minutes) 6-30 AM.

Question 19. The longitudes of Calcutta and Seol are 88°30′ E and 127°06′ E respectively. When the local time in Calcutta is 12 noon what is the local time at Seoul.
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q19()

We know, the longitude of Calcutta is 88°30′ E and the longitude of Seoul is 127°06’E∴ their difference in longitude is 127°06′ — 88°30′ = 38°36′
∴their time difference will be—
1° difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 minutes
∴for 38°” ” ” the time difference will be 38 x 4 minutes = 152 minutes or, 2 hours 32 minutes
Again 1′ difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 seconds
∴ for 36′ difference in longitude the time difference will be 36 x 4 = 144 secs.
=2 min. 24sec.
∴the time difference between Seoul and Calcutta is (2 hours 32 minutes + 2 minutes 24 seconds) 2 hours . 34 minutes 24 seconds.
As Seoul lies to the east of Calcutta is 12 noon the local time in Seoul is (12 noon ÷2 hours 34 minutes 24 seconds) 2.34.24 PM.

Question 20. When it is 12 noon by Chronometer what will be the Standard Time of India?
Answer: The Chronometer watch runs according to Greenwich Mean Time so by Chronometer when it is 12 noon, G.M.T. is also 12 noon.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q20

On the other hand, we also know the Standard Meridian of India is 82°30′ E. Therefore the difference in longitude between India and Greenwich is (82°30′ — 0) = 82°30′.
∴ the time difference for 82°30′ is —
1° difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 minutes
∴82° difference in longitude has a time difference of = 82° x 4 minutes = 328 minutes or 5 hours 28 minutes.
Again 1′ difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 secs.
∴30′ difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 sec.
30′ x 4 sec. = 120 seconds or 2 minutes
Therefore for 82°30! of longitudes, the time difference is (5 hours 28 minutes ÷ 2 minutes) 5 hours 30 minutes. or 5:30 P.M

Question 21. When G.M.1. (0°) is 6-00 AM, what is the local time in the capital of Egypt, (Cairo 31°15′ E)?
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q21

Longitudinal difference between Greenwich and Cairo is 31°15’— 0° = 31°15′
∴their time cirference is—
1° of longitude takes 4 minutes to rotate
∴ 31° of longitude takes 31° x 4 minutes = 124 minutes or, 2 hours 4 minutes to rotate
Again to rotate 1′ of longitudes will taken is 4 seconds
∴15′ of longitudes will take 15′ x 4 seconds = 60 seconds. or, 2 hours 4 minutes to rotate.
Therefore the time difference between Greenwich and Cairo is (2 hours 4 minutes +1 minutes) 2 hours 5 minutes.
Since Cairo is located to the east of Greenwich the local time at Cairo will be (600 AM + 2 hours 5 minutes) 8-05 AM.

Question 22. A place located at 108°15’30’ W longitude has a local time of Wednesday 10-00 PM. Then what is the time at Greenwich ?
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q22

Between Greenwich and the place located at 108°15’30” W the difference in longitude is 108°15’30” — 0° = 108° 15’30”.
1° difference in longitude has a 4 minute difference in time
∴108° difference in longitude has a time difference of 108° x 4 minutes = 432 minutes or 7 hours 12 minutes
Again 1′ difference in longitude has a 4 second difference in time
∴15′ difference in longitude has a time difference of 15′ x 4 sec = 60 sec. or 1 minute
Again 1′ or 60″ or difference in longitude has 4 sec difference in time 30×4
∴30″ difference in longitude has \(\left(\frac{30 \times 4}{60}\right)\) = 2 sec difference in time.
Thus the difference in time of Greenwich and the place located on 108°15’30” Wis (7 hours 12 minutes + 1 minute + 2 seconds) = 7 hours 13 minutes 2 seconds.
Since the place at longitude 108°15’30” W is located to the west of Greenwich the time at Greenwich will be far ahead of the other place.
So when it is Wednesday 10-00 PM at a place on the longitude 108°15’30” W at Greenwich it will be (Wednesday 10-00 PM + 7 hour 13 minutes 2 seconds) 5-13-02 AM the next day i.e. Thursday.

Question 23. When at Greenwich it is 4-00 AM at 80° longitudes what will be the local times.
Answer:

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q23

The difference in longitude between Greenwich and 80° longitude is 80° For 80° difference in longitude, the difference in time will be 80° x 4 minutes = 320 minutes or5 hours 20 minutes.
The question does not state in which hemisphere 80° longitude lies, eastern or western.
(1) If the place is located at 80°E, then at Greenwich when it is 4-00 AM, at 80°E it will be more, so (4-00 AM +5 hours 20 minutes / or 9-20 AM.)
(2) If the place is located at 80°W then there the time will be behind Greenwich. At Greenwich when it is 4-00 AM at 80°W it will be (4-00 10-40 PM of the previous day.

Question 24. When in India (Allahabad 82°30’ E) it is 29th June 11.30 PM what will be the time and date in Mexico City (99°05′ W), the capital of Mexico?

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q24

Answer: Longitudinal difference between Allahabad and Mexico city is 82°30′ + 99°05′ = 181°35′. .°. their time difference will be—
1° difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 minutes
181° difference in longitude has a time difference of 181° x 4 minutes = 724 minutes or 12 hours 4 minutes.
Again, 1′ difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 seconds.
∴ 35′ difference in longitude has a time difference of 35′ x 4 seconds = 140 seconds = 2 minutes 20 seconds.
Therefore, the time difference of Allahabad and Mexico city is (12 hours 4 minutes + minutes 20 seconds) 12 hours 6 minutes 20 seconds.
As Mexico city is located to the west of Allahabad .”. their time will lie behind that of Allahabad.
∴When on 29th June the 1.5.7 is 11-30 PM at Mexico city it is (11-30 PM — 12 hours 6 minutes 20 seconds) 11-23-40 AM on 29th June.

Question 25. In 1998 World Football Competition (FIFA Cup) will take place in different towns of France. If the final match (between France—Brazil or Argentina—Germany) takes place in the capital, Paris (2°20’E) at 7-00 PM Friday, when can ve see it live on the Indian Television ?

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q25

Answer: We know the Standard Meridian of India is 82°30’ E.
∴the difference in longitudes is 82°30′ -2°20′ = 80°10′
The time difference for 80°10′ will be—
1° longitude takes to rotate 4 minutes
∴ 80° of longitudes take to rotate 80° x 4 minutes = 320 minutes or 5 hours 20 minutes.
Again 1′ longitude takes to rotate 4 seconds
∴ 10′ of longitudes take 10 x 4 = 40 seconds
So the time difference between India and Paris is (5 hours 20 minutes + 40 seconds) 5 hours 20 minutes 40 seconds.
Paris and India are located in the eastern hemisphere but India lies further east
∴ Their time will be ahead of Paris.
So in 1998 if the finals of the World Football Competition is held in Paris on Friday at 7-00 PM local time, In India it can be seen at 7-00 PM + 5 hours 20 minutes 40 second = next day i.e. Saturday at 00 hours 20 minutes 40 seconds or 00-20-40 AM.

Question 26. To the South-west of Baghdad, (44°30′ E) at 1-00 AM on 11th February 1991, 2 Scud Missiles were launched. They were launched from two unknown moving missile launching stations to the capital of Israel, Jerusalem (35°13′ E) and capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh (46°50′ E) Then what was the local time at Jerusalem and Riyadh.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q26

Answer:

(1) Difference in longitudes between Baghdad and Jerusalem is (44°30′ — 35°13′)9°17′. ∴their time difference is—
1° longitude takes to rotate 4 minutes
∴ 9° longitude takes to rotate 9° x 4 minutes = 36 minutes
Again 1° longitude takes to rotate 4 seconds
∴ 17° longitude takes to rotate 17 x 4 = 68 seconds or 1 min 8 sec.
∴Tthe time difference between Baghdad and Jerusalem is (36 min + 1 min 8 sec) 37 min 8 sec
As Jerusalem is located further west their time will be behind Baghbad, or less.
So when it is 1-00 AM local time at Baghdad when the Scud missiles were launched, at Jerusalem the local time was (1-00 AM — 37 Min 8 secs) 00-22-52 HRS or 12.22.52 A.M.

(2) The difference in longitude between Baghdad and Riyadh is (46°50′ — 44°30′) 2°20′. Therefore their time difference is—
1° difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 minutes
∴ 2° difference in longitudes has a time difference 2° x 4 minutes = 8 minutes
Again 1′ in longitudinal has a time difference of 4 seconds
∴ 20′ in longitudinal has a time difference of 20′ x 4 seconds = 80 seconds or 1 minute 20 seconds
∴ The time difference between Baghdad and Riyadh is (8 min + 1 min 20 sec) 9 min 20 sec.
Since Riyadh is located further east of Baghdad
∴ The time at Riyadh will be ahead of Baghdad
So at 1.00 AM local time when the Scud missiles were launched from Baghdad at Riyadh the local time was (1-00 AM + 9 min 20 sec) 01-09-20 AM.

Question 27. India launched a space vehicle from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, to land at Mars in the year 2008 on 1st March at 10-00 AM 1.S.T. What will be the time and date then at Washington DC (74°04′ W), capital of U.S.A. ?

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q27

Answer: We know the Standard Meridian of India is 82°30′ E.
∴ The difference in longitudes between India and Washington is 74°04′ + 82°30′ = 156°34′. Their time difference will be—
1° difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 minutes
∴ 156° difference in longitude has a time difference of 156° x 4 = 624 min or 10 hours 24 minutes.
Again 1′ difference in longitude has a time difference of 4 seconds
∴ 34′ difference in longitude has a time of 34′ x 4 sec = 136 sec or 2 minutes 16 sec.
∴ 154°34′ difference in longitude has of (10 hrs 24 min + 2 min 16 sec) = 10 hrs 26 min 16 sec.
As Washington is located to the west of India’s central meridian, .’. their time will lie behind the time of India.
Thus in the year 2008 on ist March when a space vehicle is to land in Mars, in Washington D.C. the local time will be— 10-00 AM — 10 hours 26 min 16 seconds = the day before 11-33-44 PM.
As 2008 is a leap year the day before 1st March 2008, will be 29th February 11-33-44 PM 2008.

Class 9 Geography Solution WBBSE

Question 28. When it is 6-30 AM in Chennai (80°15′ E), it is 8-15 PM the day before at New York. What is the longitude of New York.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q28

Answer: If the local time at Chennai is 6-30 AM and at New York it is 8-15 PM, of the previous day.
Their time difference is (previous day 8-15 PM—6-30 AM) 10 hours 15 minutes or 615 minutes.
4 minutes time is taken to rotate 1°
∴ 615 minutes time is taken to rotate \(\frac{615}{4}\) = 615 min ÷ 4′ = 153°45′
Thus the difference in longitude between Chennai and New is 153°45′
∴ The time at New York lies behind Chennai, it lies to the west of Chennai.
∴ The longitude of New York is (153°45′ — 80°15′) = 73°30’ W

Question 29. According to 4-30 PM G.M.T. if it is 12 noon at any place, what is the longitude of the place?

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q28

Answer: The time difference between G.MT. and the time of the other place is 12 noon — 4-30 = PM = 4 hours 30 minutes or 270 minutes.
If 4 minutes is taken to rotate 1° of longitude
∴ 270 minutes is taken to rotate 240 ÷ 4 = 67°30′
So their longitudinal difference is 67°30′
We know longitudinal difference is 0°.
Since the time of the other place is behind of G.M.T. So it lies to the west of Greenwich. So the longitude of the place is 0° — 67°30′ = 67°30′ W.

Class 9 Geography Solution WBBSE

Question 30. When it is 9-00 AM at Greenwich and 5-00 PM at another place, what is the longitude of that place?

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q30

Answer: The time difference between Greenwich and the other place is (9-00 AM —5 PM) 8 hours or 480 minutes.
If 4 minutes is taken to rotate 1° of longitude
480 minutes is taken to rotate 480 ÷ 4 = 120° of longitude
∴The difference in longitudes between Greenwich and the other place 120°.
As the longitude of Greenwich is 0° and the time of the other place lies ahead of G.M.T., ∴ its longitude is 120° E.

Question 31. The time difference between 2 places is 2 hours 15 minutes 40 seconds. The longitude of one place is 20°15’ E, so what is the longitude of the other place?

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q31 Answer: The time difference between the 2 places is 2 hours 15 minutes 40 seconds or 135 minutes 40 seconds
4 minutes is taken to rotate 1° of longitude
∴ 135 minutes is taken to rotate 135 ÷ 4 = 33°45′
Again 4 seconds is taken to rotate 1′ of longitude
∴ 40 seconds taken to rotate 40 = 4 = 10′ of longitude
Thus for 135 minutes 40 seconds the difference in longitudes (33°45′ + 10′) 33°55′
(1) If the time of the place is more than the time of the place whose longitude is known, the former place will lie to the east of the known longitude. .. its longitude will be (33°55′ — 20°15′) or 13°40′ W.
(2) If the time of the place is less than the time of the place whose longitude is known, then the former place will lie to the west of the place, whose longitude is known.So its longitude will be (33°55′ — 20°15′) or 13°40′ W.

Class 9 Geography Solution WBBSE

Question 32. At Karachi (67° E) a Pakistan-Srilanka cricket match started at 10-30 AM, The live telecast was heard in the capital of Srilanka, Colombo at 11-21-44 AM. What is the longitude of Colombo ?

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q32

Answer: The time difference between Karachi and Colombo is (11-21-44 AM — 10-30 AM) 51 minutes 44 seconds
4 minutes is taken for the earth to rotate 1° of longitude
∴ 51 minutes is taken for the earth to rotate 51 ÷ 4 =12°45′
Again 4 seconds is taken by the earth to rotate 1′ of longitude
∴ 44 seconds is taken by the earth to rotate 44 ÷ 4 =11′
So for a time difference of 51 minutes 44 seconds, the difference in longitude is (12°45 + 11′) 12°56′
As the time of Colombo is ahead of Karachi it lies to the east of Karachi.
∴ The longitude Colombo lies on is (67° + 12°56′) 79°56′ E

Question 33. A jumbo 747 airbus of Pan American Airways Corporation, was hijacked over the Atlantic Ocean while flying from New York to London. While being hijacked the pilot saw the local time was 5-30 PM and the G.M.T. was 6-30 PM. At which longitude was the airbus hijacked?

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 3 Determination Of The Location Of A Place On Earth Surface Q33

Answer: The time difference between that place and GMT is (6-30 PM — 5-30 PM) 1 hour or 60 minutes
4 minutes is taken by the earth to rotate 1° of longitude
∴ 60 minutes is taken by the earth to rotate 60 ÷ 4 = 15° longitude
Compared to Greenwich as the time is less in this place, it will lie to the west of Greenwich. At the time of hijack, the airbus was flying above 15° W longitude.

WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And environment Chapter 9 Map And Scale

June 1, 2023May 17, 2023 by sravani

Chapter 9 Map And Scale Multiple Choice Questions With Answers:

Question 1. 1: 4,00,000,000 — example of which scale?
(1) Statement
(2) R.F
(3) Linear scale
(4) None

Answer: (2) R.F

Question 2. In a map —
(1) Use of scale is not essential
(2) Use of scale is insignificant
(3) Use of scale is a must
(4) Use of scale is not necessary

Answer: (c) Use of scale is a must

Read and Learn all WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment

Question 3. For the preparation of map, an arrow sign is used to indicate north line the purpose is —
(1) To determine the height of map
(2) To indicate summit of map
(3) To indicate direction of map or North direction.
(4) None of these

Answer: (3) To indicate direction of map or North direction

Question 4. If there is no scale in map —
(1) It is surely signify a map
(2) It is not a map but a sketch map
(3) It part of whole of the map
(4) It will be nullified

Answer: (2) It is not a map but a sketch map

Question 5. An example of a large-scale map is —
(1) Atlast
(2) Map of a country
(3) Mouza map
(4) Map a landscape

Answer: (3) Mouza map

Question 6. Example of a small-scale map is —
(1) Map of a country or continent
(2) Mouza map
(3) Map of a village
(4) Map of a Landscape

Answer: (1) Map of a country or continent

Question 7. “4 em to 400km”— example of what type of scale?
(1) Linear scale
(2) R.F
(3) Statement scale
(4) None

Answer: (3) Statement scale

Question 8. The conventional representation of Earth’s surface pattern of part of it, drawn on a sheet of paper is called :
(1) A globe
(2) A map
(3) A compass
(4) A painting

Answer: (2) A map

Question 9. The Latin word ‘Mappa’ means :
(1) A paper
(2) A pencil
(3) A sheet of cloth
(4) A book

Answer: (3) A sheet of cloth

Question 10. The signs that show the features on map are called a :
(1) Labels
(2) Conventional signs
(3) Tags
(4) Index

Answer: (2) Conventional signs

Question 11. The ratio of map distance to ground distance is called a:
(1) compass
(2) scale
(3) tape
(4) sketch

Answer: (2) scale

Question 12. The color used to show waterbodies on a map is :
(1) Red
(2) Green
(3) Blue
(4) Yellow

Answer: (3) Blue

Question 13. The rough drawing of any area without a scale is called a:
(1) Sketch
(2) Plan
(3) Language
(4) Symbol

Answer: (1) Sketch

Question 14. The map that shows mountains, hills, plateaus, plains, rivers, seas, etc., is called a:
(1) Political map
(2) Physical map
(3) Cadastral map
(4) Wall map

Answer: (2) Physical map

Question 15. R.F. is the abbreviated form of :
(1) Relative fraction
(2) Representative fraction
(3) Reduced fraction
(4) Recurring fraction

Answer: (4) Representative fraction

Chapter 9 Map And Scale Short Questions With Answers:

Question 1. Give an example of a Statement Scale.
Answer: 1cm to 50 km.

Question 2. Give an example of Representative fraction.
Answer: 1: 1,00,000.

Question 3. From which word ‘map’ has been derived?
Answer: Mappa.

Question 4. What is the unit of measurement in Large Scale?
Answer: Mile or km.

Question 5. What is the unit of measurement in Small Scale?
Answer: Inch or cm.

Question 6. Give an example of Small Scale.
Answer: 1cm =5 km.

Chapter 9 Map And Scale True Or False Type

Question 1. A thematic map helps us to get an idea about a topic or a theme.
Answer: False

Question 2. The topographical map depicts the weather condition of a place.
Answer: False

Question 3. The direction in a map is shown with the help of a north line\(\left(\begin{array}{l}N \\\uparrow\end{array}\right)\).
Answer: True

Chapter 9 Map And Scale Fill In The Blank

Question 1. The maps prepared to show underlying rock features and structure is called __________ maps.
Answer: Geological.

Question 2. Cadastral maps or ______________ maps are used for demarcating the boundaries of landed properties, fields, gardens, etc.
Answer: Mouza.

Question 3. A’ ____________ scale is drawn as a straight line which is divided into certain lengths, each showing certain on the ground.
Answer: Linear, distance.

Question 4. The box at the corner of a map that shows the conventional signs is called the _______.
Answer: Index.

Chapter 9 Map And Scale 2 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. Define map.
Answer: The word ‘map’ has been derived from the Latin word ‘Mappa’ which means a napkin or cloth. This indicates that the earlier maps used to be drawn on cloth or on tree leaves. A map is defined as a representation of the earth’s surface or a part of it, showing natural or man-made features, drawn to scale on a flat surface.

Question 2. What do you mean by Cartography?
Answer: The earth is spherical in shape, making it difficult to represent it on a flat surface. The representation of three-dimensional features like mountains, valleys, rivers, and other geographical phenomena involves special techniques so that they are drawn on a uniform basis. This are and science of mapping is called cartography. The word ‘Cartography’ has been derived from two French words ‘carte’ and ‘graphic’ meaning ‘map’ and ‘drawing’ respectively.

Question 3. What do you mean by scale?
Answer: The scale of a map denotes the proportion that the distance between any two points on a map bears to the distance between any two points on a map bears to the distance between the same two points on the surface of the earth. The scale is also defined as the ratio between the distance of any two points on the map and the actual distance of the same points on the ground. It can be expressed as :

\(\text { Scale }=\frac{\text { Map distance between two points }}{\text { Ground distance between the same points }}\)

Question 4. Define Physical maps. State its classification.
Answer: The maps which describe physical features like relief, rivers, climate, natural vegetation, etc.
Classification :
(1) Astronomical maps.
(2) Relief maps.
(3) Geological maps.

Question 5. Define Graphical Scale.
Answer: When we draw a scale by using one or more straight lines it is called a graphical scale.

Question 6. Why graphical method of representing scale is preferred?
Answer: The graphical method is preferred to represent scale of a map due to the following reasons :
(1) It combines both R.F. and verbal statements.
(2) This is valid if the map is reduced, enlarged or only a small portion of it is used.

Chapter 9 Map And Scale 3 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. What are the major elements of map?
Answer:
Elements of a Map: There are five basic elements of a map

(1) Title: It denotes what the map portrays, e.e., the distribution of natural vegetation.

(2) Scale: It denotes the relationship between map distances and actual ground distances.

(3) Key: It explains the meaning of the symbols that are used in the map.

(4) Direction: It refers to the cardinal directions, i.e., North, South, East, and West. Conventionally, a map is aligned with the North towards the top.

(5) Grid System: It is a network of lines that help in pinpointing the location of a place on a map. Usually, a grid is formed by lines of latitudes and longitudes.

Question 2. Classify maps on the basis of their purpose and content.
Answer: Maps can also be classified on the basis of their purpose and content as:

(1) Physical Maps :
These maps provide details about the natural features of an area or a country.

(2) Political Maps :
These maps portray different countries of the world along with their states, national and international boundaries, political units and administrative divisions, etc.

(3) Thematic Maps :
These maps show a particular feature or theme of the area. All types of cultural maps, most of the atlas maps, industrial maps, agricultural maps, military maps, linguistic maps fall in this category.

Question 3. Explain the importance of scale.
Answer:
(1) The use of scale in the map is very important. It indicates the distance of two points on the map according to the corresponding distance on the ground.
(2) The écale is used to determine the distance of the two points of the ground
on the map.
(3) Scale provides a very useful method of representing large areas within a convenient space. By means of scale, the entire earth’s surface can be mapped within a small space of paper.
(4) By enlarging and reducing the scale, special maps can be devised in accordance to the object and purpose, such as, topographical maps, cadastral maps (map which are used for demarcating the boundaries of landed properties) mouza maps, field map for planning or for a strategy of war.

Question 4. What are the uses of scale for the preparation of Map?
Answer: Uses of Scale for the preparation of Map :
(1) To measure distances between two points on the map.
(2) To measure out a certain length from the scale.
(3) To show the actual shape of a country or a continent.
(4) To enlarge or reduce a map according to scale.

Question 5. State the advantages & disadvantages of using a Linear Scale.
Answer:
Advantages :
(1) Distances can easily be measured with the help of a linear scale.
(2) If the map is photographically enlarged or reduced, the linear scale is also enlarged or reduced in the same ratio and remains true to the map.
Disadvantages :
(1) Like the statement of scale, this scale can only be used by those who are familiar with the unit of measurement used in the scale.
(2) It requires time and proficiency in drawing a graphic scale.

Chapter 9 Map And Scale 5 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. State the uses and importance of maps.
Answer:
Maps are used in many ways :

(1) As a general reference :
When we want to know where a place is we need a map. They give us idea of the direction and distance of a place.

(2) As an effective tool for navigation, control, and route planning :

We rely greatly on maps, whether we move on land, at sea or in the air. We plan our routes and maintain our course with the help of maps. There are hiking and biking maps, maps for moving through caves, highway maps, aeronautical charts, etc. We use these maps to plan our routes and then to navigate when we are in motion.
(3) Maps provide a lot of information to the planners. Planning of roads, residential complexes, factories, parks, location of schools and public facilities, sewer and water networks, etc., can be done on the basis of information provided by a map.

(4) Maps are used as legal documents showing ownership of land and boundaries.

(5) Maps are useful to sailors, pilots, drivers, miners, surveyors, engineers, environmentalists, and many other people.

(6) The strategies of an army even depend on the information provided by a map.

(7) Maps can show continents, countries, states, districts, cities, and even a local area with all the details.

(8) Maps are useful for students and the common people alike. They are easy to handle and can be carried everywhere.

Question 2. Write a note on the Linear graphic method of representing scale.
Answer:

A linear graphic Scale:

This is another method of expressing a scale on a map. A linear scale represents the same relationship by means of straight line which is divided into certain lengths each of which represents a certain distance on the ground.

A linear scale is generally divided into two divisions; viz.,

(1) Primary divsions and
(2) Secondary divisions.
In such a scale there are as many number of primary divisions and secondary divisions as required [or as stated]

Merits :
(1) A linear scale helps to determine easily the idea of a distance between the two places on a map by visual observation or by a simple scale of measurement.
(2) Hence, the distance on the map is easily measurable.
(3) Enlargement or reduction does not change the measurement of the scale of the map as the scale also be reduced or enlarged thereby. This merit is not available in case of R.F. scale.

Demerits :
(1) Drawing of a linear scale requires much time; it may also involve drawing defects.
(2) The respective unit of scale may not be acceptable all over.
(3) Change in the unit of measurement (cm/inch) of the scale may involve loss of accuracy.

Question 3. Write the advantages and disadvantages of the statement of scale method of representing scale.
Answer:

Advantages :

(1) This is a very simple method which is understood even by a common man. For example, if we tell an ordinary man that the scale of a map is 1cm:1km, he would immediately understand that one centimeter on the map corresponds to the kilometer on the ground.
(2) It requires little time to express this scale.
(3) It gives correct idea about distances.

Disadvantages :

(1) It can be understood only by those who are familiar with the unit of measurement used. For example, if we say that the scale of a map is 41cm: 1km, he would be understood by only that person who is familiar with the metric system of measurements.
(2) When a map is reduced or enlarged from the original, the scale does not remain the same. This created problems in measurement.

Question 4. Write the advantages and disadvantages of the representative fraction method of representing scale.
Answer:
Advantages :

Since it is only a fraction and is independent of any particular unit of measurement, it can be used in all countries. Even if a person is not familiar with various units such as inch (British), verst (Russian), and centimeter (French), he can easily use this scale.

Suppose the R.F. of a map is 1,00,000. To a Britisher, it would mean that 1 inch on the map represents 1,00,000 inches on the ground. Similarly, to a Frenchmen, it would mean that 1 cm on the map represents 1,00,000 cm on the ground and to a Russian, 1 verst on the map represents 1,00,000 verbs on the ground.

Thus, this scale can be converted into any unit of measurement and has universal application. It is, therefore, also termed as International Scale or Natural Scale. It has become a very popular method of expressing the scale.

Disadvantages :

(1) It is only a fraction in which no system of units is used. Hence, distances cannot be directly measured from it.
(2) Whenever a map is photographically enlarged or reduced, the R.F. will no longer be true.
(3) This is not easily understood by a common man.

Question 5. Classify maps on the basis of their scales.
Answer: On the basis of scales, maps can be classified as large-scale maps and small-scale maps.

Large-Scale Maps :

(1) Topographical Maps: They are prepared after a careful and accurate survey of the area.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And environment Chapter-9 Map And Scale Maps

They show natural features (such as hills and rivers) and man-made features (such as buildings, and canals). These maps are very useful for planning, defense, tourism, etc.

(2) Cadastral Maps :

The term ‘Cadastral’ has been derived from the French word “Cadestre’ which means register or territorial property. Cadastral maps provide complete details of an area such as the boundaries of properties and individual buildings.

These maps are, therefore, used to register the ownership of landed property by demarcating the boundaries of fields, buildings, etc. They are specially prepared by the government for the administration and realization of taxes, management of estates, and identification of the property in legal documents. Examples of Cadastral maps are — Revenue maps, Settlement maps,
village maps and City plan maps.

Small Scale Maps :

(1) Wall Maps :

These maps are meant to represent large areas that could be viewed at a glance. They may show features like relief, temperature, population, industries, and vegetation. They are used for display purposes in classrooms and museums.

(2) Atlas Maps :

These maps are drawn on a smaller scale and are used to represent a whole country on a single sheet. Since these maps are drawn on a smaller scale, they give a condensed and generalized picture of different areas of the world.

The features generally shown by Atlas maps include relief, drainage, vegetation, soils, crops, minerals, industries, population, cities, etc. Despite lack of details, these maps are best suited for educational purposes.

Question 6. State the methods of representing scale.
Answer: There are three main methods of representing the scale on the map.

(1) A Statement: In this method, scale is stated in words or we make a statement about it.
Example:1cm.to1km
1 inch to 5 miles.

The value on the left-hand side usually represents the map distance. This method is not suitable, as we require to know the units of measurement in different countries. Moreover, when the map is reduced or enlarged from the original, the scale does not remain the same. This creates problems in measurement.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And environment Chapter-9 Map And Scale State The Methods Of Representing Scale.

(2) Linear or Graphic Scale :

In this method, the scale is represented by a straight line divided into equal parts (primary and secondary) to show what these markings represent on the actual ground.

The Primary Divisions are the major divisions on the scale that graduated from left to right. The Secondary Divisions are smaller units graduated from right to left on one primary division. Te total length of this linear scale represents a distance of 25 kilometers.

Each p.imary division denotes a distance of 5 kilometers. Each secondary division denotes a distance of one kilometer on the actual ground.

(3) Representative Fraction :

In this method, the scale is represented as the ratio of the length of a line on the map and the corresponding actual distance on earth’s surface. The numerator is always expressed as unity i.e., one unit map- distance is equivalent to a number of units of ground distance. This fraction is called Representative Fraction.

\(\text {Representative Fraction (R.F. })=\frac{\text { Distance on the map }}{\text { Distance on the ground in the same unit }}\)

The most important point in a Representative Fraction is that the unit of measurement of distances in the numerator and the denominator is the same. For example, if the R.F. of a map is 1/1,00,000 or 1: 1,00,000, it means that one unit on the map represents 100,000 units on the ground.

If the unit of measurement is centimeters, we will say that 1 centimeter on the map represents 1,00,000 centimeters on the ground. If, however, the unit of measurement is an inch, then we will say that 1 inch on the map represents 100,000 inches on the ground.

The main advantage of R.F. is that it is only a fraction and is independent of any particular unit of measurement. It can be converted into any unit of measurement and has universal application. It is, therefore, also known as International Scale or Natural Scale.

Question 7. What are the conventional signs & symbols used in maps and scales?

Answer: Topographical maps use symbols to represent certain relief features and human activities. These are called conventional signs and symbols. They are used on a map because they. give plenty of information in a small space and maps can be drawn easily.

They are simple to read. Many of the signs and symbols are standardized and used throughout the world. The key or legend of a map has the list of signs and symbols as well as their meanings.

Hindi Terms Used in Survey Maps

1. Nadi — rivers;
2. nala — small stream;
3. phar — hill;
4. Parbat — hill or mountain;
5. Piao — a place where drinking water is available generally along roads or at railway stations. This is found mostly in north and northwest India where it be- comes very hot and water is scarce.
6. Police chowki— police outpost;
7. Talab — tank or reservoir or pond;
8. khera — kiln for baking bricks;
9. Tahsil or taluk — part of a district under a tahsildar who collects revenue from the area;
10. Dak bungalow — a government-owned bungalow for travelers to stay for a night or two,

WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 7 Resources Of India

November 8, 2023April 27, 2023 by sravani

Chapter 7 Resources Of India Multiple Choice Questions With Answers :

Question 1. The first nuclear power station of India is
(1) Trombay
(2) Kalpakkam
(3) Tarapur
(4) Jaipur

Answer: (3) Tarapur.

Question 2. An atomic power station of Rajasthan is
(1) Trombay
(2) Tarapur
(3) Rana Pratap Sagar
(4) Bombay Hight

Answer: (3) Rana Pratap Sagar.

Read and Learn all WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment

Question 3. Rangapur is noted for
(1) copper
(2) bauxite
(3) mica
(4) iron ore

Answer: (1) copper.

Question 4. _______ is the largest producer of coal.
(1) Jharkhand
(2) Bihar
(3) Rajasthan
(4) Andra Pradesh

Answer: (1) Jharkhand.

WBBSE Solutions Guide Class 9

Question 5.______ is noted for lignite coal.
(1) Neyveli
(2) Bokaro
(3) Ranihati
(4) Trombay

Answer: (1) Neyveli.

Question 6. _______ is the largest coal mine.
(1) Jharia
(2) Raniganj
(3) Trombay
(4) Kalpakkam

Answer: (1) Sharia.

Question 7. Pollivasal Power Station is in
(1) Kerala
(2) Karnataka
(3) Arunachal Pradesh
(4) Haryana

Answer: (1) Kerala.

Question 8. Shivsamudram is in
(1) Tamil Nadu.
(2) Karnataka
(3) Haryana
(4) Kerela

Answer: (2) Karnataka.

Question 9. Loktak Power Station is in
(1) Manipur
(2) Nagaland
(3) Kerela
(4) Karnataka

Answer: (1) Manipur.

Question 10. Gandhi Sagar is in
(1) Rajasthan
(2) Madhya Pradesh
(3) Haryana
(4) Arunachal Pradesh

Answer: (2) Madhya Pradesh.

Question 11. Kankrapara is a ___________ station.
(1) atomic power
(2) hydel power
(3) thermal power
(4) solar power

Answer: (1) atomic power

Question 12. One of the natural resources is
(1) Money
(2) Factory
(3) Skill
(4) Mineral.

Answer: (4) Mineral

Question 13. The natural resources which are found everywhere is called
(1) Ubiquities
(2) Commonalities
(3) Rarities
(4) Uniquities.

Answer: (1) ubiquities

WBBSE Solutions Guide Class 9

Question 14. Give an example of a tangible resource
(1) Work abilities
(2) Talent
(3) Knowledge
(4) Water.

Answer: (4) Water

Question 15. Social resource is
(1) Water
(2) Land
(3) School
(4) Soil

Answer: (3) School

Question 16. The inexhaustible resource is :
(1) Coal
(2) Mineral
(3) Oil
(4) Wind

Answer: (4) Wind

Question 17. Non-renewable resource is
(1) Natural gas
(2) Wind
(3) Rainfall
(4) Water

Answer: (1) Natural gas

Question 18. A renewable resource is
(1) Sunshine
(2) Iron one
(3) Natural gas
(4) Mineral oil

Answer: (1) Sunshine

Question 19. Technology is a type o’
(1) Cultural resource
(2) Human resource
(3) Organic resource
(4) Inorganic resource

Answer: (1) Cultural resource

Question 20. Resource refers to thing or a substance.
(1) False
(2) True
(3) Partly false
(4) None of these

Answer: (1) False

Question 21. Which of the following is not a natural resource-
(1) Air
(2) Coal
(3) Soil
(4) Agricultural technology.

Answer: (4) Agricultural technology.

Question 22. Which of the following is a biotic resource –
(1) Iron
(2) Soil
(3) Manganese
(4) Natural vegetation.

Answer: (4) Natural vegetation.

WBBSE Solutions Guide Class 9

Question 23. Non-renewable resource is –
(1) Coal
(2) Soil
(3) Water
(4) Natural vegetation.

Answer: (1) Coal

Question 24. Unique resource is –
(1) Uranium
(2) Gold
(3) Coal
(4) Natural gas

Answer: (1) Uranium

Question 25. Fund resource is –
(1) Productive land
(2) Water
(3) Coal
(4) Natural gas

Answer: (3) Coal

Question 26. Flow resource is –
(1) Mineral
(2) River water
(3) Fertility of soil
(4) Mineral oil.

Answer: (2) River water

Question 27. An example of ubiquitous resources is –
(1) Coal
(2) Cryolite
(3) Sunlight
(4) Mica.

Answer: (3) Sunlight

Question 28. Which one of the following is not characteristic of resource?
(1) Utility
(2) Universal demand
(3) Limited supply
(4) Unlimited supply

Answer: (4) Unlimited supply

WBBSE Solutions Guide Class 9

Question 29. Coal, Petroleum are
(1) Commonalities
(2) Rarities
(3) Unique
(4) None

Answer: (2)Rarities weapon

Question 30. Man’s skill is a
(1) Organic resource
(2) Inorganic
(3) Natural
(4) None

Answer: (1) Organic resource

Question 31. Which among the following is not a natural resource?
(1) Coal
(2) Forest
(3) Land
(4) Population

Answer: (4) Population

Question 32. lron-ore is a resource because
(1) It has limited supply
(2) It is found in nature
(3) It is accessible to man
(4) All the above

Answer: (4) All the above

Question 33. Fund resource are those resources
(1) Which are exhausted once they are used.
(2) Which can never be used.
(3) Which have a relatively adequate recycling ratio.
(4) Which can be used again and again.

Answer: (1) Which are exhausted once they are used?

Question 34. Rare resources are those resources
(1) Which are not available to everyone everywhere.
(2) Which are available at some places.
(3) Which are available at one or two places.
(4) Which are generally available to everyone everywhere.

Answer: (2) Which are available at some places?

Question 35. Coal is a
(1) Flow resource
(2) Fund resource
(3) Neutral stuff
(4) None of these

Answer: (2) Fund resource

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 WBBSE

Question 36. Petroleum is an example of
(1) Flow resource
(2) Fund resource
(3) Neutral stuff
(4) Resistance

Answer: (2) Fund resource

Question 37. The concept of resources is
(1) Static
(2) Dynamic
(3) Changeable
(4) None of these

Answer: (2) Dynamic

Question 38. Which of the following is a fund resource?
(1) Coal
(2) River
(3) Wind
(4) Culture

Answer: (1) Coal

Question 39. Which of the following is a cultural resource?
(1) Agriculture
(2) Sunlight
(3) Hail
(4) Rainfall

Answer: (1) Agriculture

Question 40. More than 90% of the total coal reserves and production in India is of :
(1) Tertiary type
(2) Gondwana type
(3) Lignite type
(4) Granite

Answer: (2) Gondwana type

Question 41. The Jog hydel power station is located in :
(1) Tamil Nadu
(2) Karnataka
(3) Kerala
(4) Suran

Answer: (2) Karnataka

Question 42. Kudremukh in Karanataka has the largest deposit of :
(1) Haematite ore
(2) Magnetite ore
(3) Siderite ore
(4) None of these

Answer: (2) Magnetite ore

Question 43. A thing or a substance will be considered a ‘resource’ if it has :
(1) Reserves
(2) Utility
(3) Potentiality
(4) High-cost price

Answer: (2) Utility

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 WBBSE

Question 44. Magnetite is an important ore of
(1) Copper
(2) Iron
(3) Aluminium
(4) Tin

Answer: (2) Iron

Question 45. In coal production India holds
(1) Third
(2) Fifth
(3) First
(4) Seventh position

Answer: (2) Fifth

Question 46. The largest oil mining centre in India is
(1) Lakhimpur
(2) Digboi
(3) Mumbai High
(4) Hugrijan

Answer: (3) Mumbai High

Question 47. One important conventional power source is
(1) Hydro-electricity
(2) Solar energy
(3) Wind energy
(4) Geothermal energy

Answer: (1) Hydro-electricity

Question 48. The power produced by burning coal, petroleum etc., is called
(1) Hydel power
(2) Atomic power
(3) Thermal power
(4) Solar power

Answer: (3) Thermal power

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 WBBSE

Question 49. India ranks _____________ in coal production in the world.
(1) 1st
(2) 2nd
(3) 3rd
(4) 4th

Answer: (3) 3rd

Question 50. India ranks _________ in iron ore
(1) 3rd
(2) 4th
(3) 5th
(4) 6th

Answer: (3) 5th

Question 51. India is the __________ largest exporter of iron ore in the world.
(1) 1st
(2) 2nd
(3) 3rd
(4) 4th

Answer: (3) 3rd

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 WBBSE Resources Of India Short Questions With Answers

Question 1. What is Thermal Power?
Answer: The electricity generated by the heat of coal, natural gas, etc. is known as Thermal power.

Question 2. What is Hydel Power?
Answer: The electricity generated by waterfalls are called Hydel power.

Question 3. In which place of this country is petroleum extracted from beneath the sea floor?
Answer: Mumbai High region in the Arabian Sea (152 km north-west of Mumbai city)

Question 4. Name the windiest site in India.
Answer: Kappata will in Karnataka.

Question 5. Where is the headquarter of ONGC located?
Answer: Dehradun.

Question 6. Why is Trombay famous?
Answer: Trombay is famous for its atomic power plants.

Question 7. Name the first hydel power plant in India.
Answer: Shivsamudram in Karnataka.

Question 8. Name a nuclear power station in India.
Answer: Narora in Uttar Pradesh.

Question 9. Cite a thermal power station in India.
Answer: Talcher in Odissa.

Geography Class 9 West Bengal Board

Question 10. Name the largest oil mining centre in India.
Answer: Bombay High.

Question 11. Which mineral is known as ‘Liquid gold’.
Answer: Petroleum.

Question 12. Name a place in India where Lignite coal is found.
Answer: Neyveli in Tamil Nadu.

Question 13. Why petroleum in known as rock oil?
Answer: Petroleum is called rock oil as it is found in the layers of sedimentary rocks.

Question14. From where does the word petroleum has been derived?
Answer: Petra— Rock
Oleum — Oil.

Question 15. Name the state which is the largest producer of coal.
Answer: Jharkhand.

Question 16. Name the state which is the leading producer of iron ore.
Answer: Karnataka.

Question 17. Which type of iron ore is mostly found in India?
Answer: Hematite ore.

Question 18. Give an example of a natural resource.
Answer: Sunlight.

Question 19. Give an example of a national resource.
Answer: River Ganga.

Question 20. Name two Public sector undertaking engaged in the exploration And production of crude oil.
Answer: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Oil India Limited (OIL).

Question 21. What do you mean by human resources?
Answer: The resources which involve man are called human resources, e.g. population.

Question 22. What type of resource is called solar energy?
Answer: Sun-heat.

Question 23. Give some examples of flow resources.
Answer: Sun, heat, air, water, etc. are examples of flow resources.

Question 24. What do you mean by Personal Resources?
Answer: These include individual material possession like cash, land, buildings, etc. and non-material possessions like moral character, knowledge and skill, sound health, etc.

Question 25. What do you mean by National Resources?
Answer: Resources owned collectively by the nation such as railways, minerals, forests, climate, soil, etc. and good government, and national character.

Question 26. Write about Ubiquitous Resources.
Answer:
Ubiquitous: These resources occur everywhere.
Example: oxygen in air.

Question27. Write about Fund Resources.
Answer:
Fund resources: These are exhaustible resources. For some of the fund resources, the declining trend can be arrested for a short period.

Question28. What is meant by tangible resources?
Answer: Materials which can be felt by touch are known as tangible resources. For example, coal, petroleum, etc.

Question29. What do you mean by intangible resources?
Answer: Resources which does not have a material existence in other words we cannot touch them, are known as intangible resources. For example — knowledge, skill, etc.

Geography Class 9 West Bengal Board Chapter 7 Resources Of India True Or False Type

Question 1. Koyali is the largest oil refinery in India.
Answer: True

Question 2. Jharkhand is the largest producer of coal.
Answer: True

Question 3. Lohardaga is noted for bauxite.
Answer: True

Question 4. Jadugudda is noted for uranium.
Answer: True

Question 5. Talcher is noted for coal.
Answer: True

Question 6. Srisailam is a hydel power station.
Answer: True

Question 7. Loktak is a hydel power station of Manipur.
Answer: True

Question 8. Chukha is a hydel power station of Bhutan.
Answer: True

Question 9. Hydel power is pollution free.
Answer: True

Question 10. Most of the power centres of India belong to thermal power.
Answer: True

Question 11. Bhivpuri Power Station is in Maharastra.
Answer: True

Geography Class 9 West Bengal Board

Question 12. Narora is an Atomic Power Station of U.P.
Answer: True

Question13. Bhatinda Power Station is in Punjab.
Answer: True

Question14. Karnataka is the leading producer of iron ore in India.
Answer: True

Question15. Kalapakkam in Tamil Nadu is a thermal power station.
Answer: False

Question16. The heat energy obtained from the earth is called geothermal energy.
Answer: True

Question17. Burning fossil fuel minimizes environmental pollution.
Answer: False

Chapter 7 Resources Of India Fill In The Blanks

Question 1. Petroleum is referred to as_____ ________.
Answer: Liquid, gold.

Question 2. The atomic power station in Maharashtra is ________.
Answer: Tarapur.

Question 3. The first hydel power plant in India was established in 1902 in Karnataka at _____ on the river Cauvery (Kaveri).
Answer: Shivsundaram.

Question 4. The resources available everywhere on earth are called _________resources.
Answer: Ubiquitous.

Chapter 7 Resources Of India 2 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. Name some important Thermal power stations of India.
Answer: Some important Thermal power stations are –
(1) West Bengal – Durgapur, Bandel, Kolaghat.
(2) Jharkhand – Bokaro
(3) Chattisgarh – Korba

Question 2. Name some important hydel power stations of India.
Answer: Some important Thermal power stations are –
(1) East – Jaldhaka, Panchet, Jaldhaka, Kurseong.
(2) West – Ukai, Kadana, Gandhi Sagar, Bhola.
(3) North – Bhakra, Dehar, Binwa, Jawhar Sagar.
(4) South – Saravati, Lower sileru, Nagarjun Sagar.

Question 3. What are the principal power resources of India?
Answer: Principal power resources of India are –
1. Coal ave
2. Mineral oil or Petroleum.
3. Water Power.
4. Atomic power.

Question 4. Why is Nunmati famous?
Answer: Nunmati is a petroleum centre. So it is famous.

Question 5. What is Sagar Samrat ?
Answer: Sagar Samrat is the name of a vast platform which is used to extract oil from the Mumbai High in the Arabian Sea.

Question 6. Why is the generation of non-conventional energy being emphasized in present India?
Answer:
Due to the following reasons the generation of non-conventional energy is being emphasized in present India:-
(1) Cheaper and renewable,
(2) Scarcity of fossil fuels,
(3) Rural area needs renewable sources of energy,
(4) They can be constructed anywhere because there is no question of carrying raw materials for power production.

Question 7. Mention the names of coal and petroleum mining centres of India.
Answer: The coal mining centre is Jharia and the Petroleum mining centre is Ankleshwar.

Question 8. What is renewable energy? Give example.
Answer:
Renewable energy:- Renewable energy resources are those resources which are not fully exhausted after use. These resources can in used several times after and are not completely finished.
Examples:- Hydroelectricity, Solar energy, Biogas, Wind energy etc.

Question 9. Name the important centres of fuel minerals in West Bengal and Maharashtra.
Answer: In West Bengal:- Asansol, Raniganj.
In Maharashtra:- Ballarpur, Tandur.

Question 10. Name any two oil-producing fields of Gujarat.
Answer: Lunez and Ankleshwar.

Question 11. Name four by-products derived out of coal.
Answer: Coal tar, Charcoal, Coke, Naphthalene.

Question 12. Name three principal mineral oil-producing centres in North-Eastern India.
Answer: Digboi, Naharkatiya and Hugrijan.

Question 13. What is meant by non-conventional energy sources?
Answer: The non-conventional energy sources are the new sources of energy that are used in place of traditional sources of energy like coal.
Examples: Solar energy, Wind energy, Biogas etc.

Question 14. Name three petroleum-producing regions of India.
Answer: Three major petroleum-producing states of India are Assam, Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Question 15. Name three leading iron ore-producing states of India.
Answer: Three states leading in the production of iron ore are
(1) Gova,
(2) Madhya Pradesh,
(3) Orissa.

Question 16. Mention two major characteristics of resources.
Answer:
(1) Utility.
(2) Functionality.

Question 17. What is meant by resource?
Answer:
Resource: Anything that has utility and can satisfy human wants may be termed as a resource.

Prof. Zimmerman, however, has given it a special meaning by adding the functionality clause. So, the non-functioning or dormant gifts of nature are termed as neutral stuff.

Question 18. Classify the resources Pine to supply and durability.
Answer: According to mode of supply and durability, resources can be classified as
(1) Flow or inexhaustible resources,
(2) Fund or exhaustible or Non-renewable resources,
(3) Renewable resources.

Question 19. What do you mean by organic and inorganic resources?
Answer:
(1) Organic Resources are derived from the flora (plants) and fauna (animals); i.e., forest, natural grassland, wildlife, fish and marine life.
(2) Inorganic Resources are inanimate resources, e.g. land, water, minerals, soil, metals, building stones and mineral fuels.

Question 20. What is meant by cultural resources?
Answer:
Cultural resources: The resources which is result from the progress of civilization are considered as cultural resources, e.g. science, seg literature, technical know-how, etc.

Question 21. What is a social resource?
Answer:
Social resource: Social resource is the resource which evolves out of the interaction of social and cultural feelings and by their development. It is a joint product of human endeavour and elements of nature.

Question 22. What is Fund or Exhaustible or Non Renewable Resources?
Answer: Fund or Exhaustible or Non-renewable Resources: Fund resources are those which have only fixed and limited stock. They get exhausted as we use them.
Examples: coal, mineral oil, natural gas, iron ore, etc.

Question 23. What are Renewable Resources?
Answer:
Renewable Resources: The supply of some natural resources is intermittent. These resources are self-renewable, but their supply ceases for some time. Trees of the forest, grasses of the grasslands, and fertility of soil are examples of this resource.

Question 24. ‘Resources and development are interdependent’. Discuss.
Answer: Resources are the bases of both security and opulence; they are the foundations of power and wealth. At every stage of development, resources play a critical role. But for them, human survival and development would be impossible; without land, water, and air, we cannot have agriculture and without minerals, we cannot have industries.

Question 25. What do you understand by flow resources?
Answer:
Flow or Inexhaustible Resources: The supply of some natural resources is permanent. These resources are self-renewable and are known as Flow Resources, these are inexhaustible and ubiquitous. Examples are sunshine, wind, rainfall, river water etc.

Chapter-7 Resources Of India 2 Marks Questions And Answers (Short Notes)

Question 1. Importance of non-conventional energy.
Answer:
1. In contrast to conventional sources of energy, non-conventional sources of energy (solar energy, tidal energy, geothermal energy, wind energy etc.) are not used frequently and in a large scale (commercially). Their uses are comparatively more recent.

2. The sources of non-conventional energy are flow resources. There is no anxiety for their exhaustion.

3. The generation of non-conventional energy does not produce air pollution.

4. Comparatively, non-conventional energy is much cheaper.

Question 2. ONGC.
Answer: The oil and Natural Gas Commission is briefly known as ONGC. It was first established on 14th August 1956 to investigate the presence of mineral oil in different parts of India. Several oil fields in India were recognised through ONGC since its initiation, such as the deltas of the rivers Godavari, Cauveri, Mahanadi and Krishna, continental shelf of the Andaman and Nicobar island, parts of Ganga plain, the continental shelf near the Sundarban etc.

Chapter 7 Resources Of India 3 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. What are the principal power resources of India?
Answer: The principal power resources of India are –
(1) Coal
(2) Natural gas
(3) Hydro-electric power
(4) Mineral oil
(5) Solar energy
(6) Atomic energy
(7) Wind power
(8) Tidal energy.

Question 2. Give a comparative account of hydel power and Thermal power.
Answer:

Thermal Power	Hydel Power
(1) It is generated with coal.	(1) It is generated with the force of running water.
(2) It is an exhaustible source of energy.	(2) It is inexhaustible.
(3) Cost of electricity generated from the thermal power is higher.	(3) Cost of electricity generated from hydel power is cheaper.
(4) Thermal power creates large-scale pollution of air.	(4) Hydel power is environment friendly and does not create any kind of pollution.
(5) In India almost 55% of power generated is of thermal power.	(5) Only 5% of the power generated is from hydel power.
(6) Thermal power plants can be located at any place far away from the market.	(6) Hydel power should be located at places where there is steady de- mand.

Question 3. Why are the rivers of South India more favourable for the generation of hydel power?
Answer:
The rivers of South India are more favourable for the generation of hydel power due to the following reasons :

(1) The rivers of South India flowing over the undulating plateau and rugged topography gain momentum, and they become swift flowing for generating hydel turbines and producing hydroelectric power.

(2) The rivers of South India produce a number of rapids and waterfalls; they are favourable for hydroelectric power generation.

(3) Heavy rainwater of the monsoon season, sometimes, gives impetus for the generation of hydel power in South India.

Question 4. Why are the South Indian rivers conducive for the generation of hydel power?
Answer:
In spite of the scarcity of year-round water supply, the South Indian rivers are more conducive for the generation of hydel power. The reasons are as follows :
1. Floods are less dominant and relatively harmless.
2. Earthquakes, subsidence and snowfall are absent in entire South India.
3. Rivers are of high velocity because of the relief of the plateau.
4. Bedrocks are granitic or gneissic, on which heavy constructions are possible. Resultant, sediment is low also.
5. Sources of alternate energy is absent.
6. Industrially rich South India creates a high demand of electricity.

Question 5. Write the reasons for the development of hydroelectricity production in South India. (S.Question)
Answer:
South India is developed in hydro-electricity because of the following reasons :
(1) The region is producing mountain surfaces along with a number of gorges and canyons which are suitable for constructing dams and barrages.
(2) The region is made up of hard impervious rocks. So, there is less possibility of seepage of water.
(3) The region is not rich in coal and mineral oil
(4) Coal is found nearby. So there is a demand for power.
(5) Soil erosion is not common here as the rivers flow through hard surface.
(6) Climatic condition is suitable for the production of hydel power. The temperature of this region always remains above the freezing point.
(7) Transmission facility is also good. Produced power can easily be transmitted to the neighbouring regions.

Question 6. Describe the distribution of earthquakes. Or, Give an account of the earthquake belts of the world?
Answer: Earthquakes occur in almost every part of the world, but they are frequent in two well-defined belts.

(1) Mid.- World Mountain Belt :
This belt is located along the edges of the Pacific ocean. This belt experiences 68% earthquakes of the world. It includes North and South America, island groups of Eastern Asia and the Philippines.

(2) Mid-World Mountain Belt :
It extends along the fold mountains of Europe and Asia. It runs through the Alps, the Caucasus and the Himalayas. About 21% of earthquakes of the world originate in this belt.

(3) Other areas :
About 11% of earthquakes of the world originate in other areas such as mid – the Atlantic, Rift valley of East Africa, and Central Siberia.

Question 7. Discuss the advantages of using non-conventional energy.
Answer:

The following are the merits or advantages of using non-conventional energy over conventional energy resources :

(1) Conservation of Fund energy resources :
The utilization of non-conventional energy resources paves the way for the conservation of funds: energy resources like coal, petroleum and natural gas.

(2) Reduction in air pollution :
The uses of non-conventional energy resources prevent air pollution. It does not emit gas, bad odour, dust or debris. Thus, air pollution can be averted by the use of these energy resources.

(3) Endless energy flow :
Sun, wind, waves, and tides supply an endless flow of energy. If they can be tapped on a commercial scale, they can supply lot of energy.

(4) No recurring expenditure :
After the installation of this power plant, there is little or no expenditure for the collection of raw materials or for the payment of wages. Hence, the recurring expenditure is small.

Question 8. Classify resources on the basis of supply and durability.
Answer:

According to mode of supply and durability, resources can be classified as follows :

(1) Flow or Inexhaustible Resources :
The supply of some natural resources is permanent. These resources are self-renewable and are known as Flow Resources, these are inexhaustible and ubiquitous. Examples are sunshine, wind, rainfall, river water etc.

(2) Fund or Exhaustible or Non-renewable Resources :
Fund resources are those which have only fixed and limited stock. They are not self-renewable. They get exhausted as we use them, e.g., coal, mineral oil, natural gas, iron ore etc.

Fund resources may be further classified as (1) exhaustible and (2) revolving fund resources. Coal is an exhaustible fund resource; because once it is used, it is used up, it cannot be replaced. On the other hand, iron ore is a revolving fund resource, as it is not lost forever; it can be used again.

Question 9. Compare renewable with non-renewable resources.
Answer:

Renewable Resources :
The supply of some natural resources is intermittent. These resources are also self-renewable, but their supply ceases for some time. The supply revives again after an interval. Trees of the forest, grasses of the grasslands and fertility of soil are examples of this resource.

Non-renewable Resources :
Fund resources are those which have only fixed and limited stock. They are not self-renewable. They get exhausted as we use them.
Examples: coal, mineral oil, natural gas, iron ore etc.

Fund resources may be further classified as
(1) Exhaustible and
(2) Revolving. Coal is an exhaustible fund resource, as once it is used up, it can not be replaced. On the other hand, iron ore is a revolving fund resource, as it is not lost forever and it can be used again.

Question 10. Briefly discuss the uses of petroleum and name its by-products.
Answer:
Uses of petroleum are:-
(1) Source of industrial power.
(2) It is used in transportation (cars, buses, lorries etc.).
(3) It is used in the generation of hydel power.
(4) It is used for domestic fuel (Kerosene oil).
(5) It provides raw materials for the chemical industry, e.g. asphalt, dyes, points, terylene, synthetic, rubber etc.

The by-products of petroleum are – petrol, gasoline, diesel, PVC, Acetic acid, polystyrene, ethyl, alcohol, acetone, glycols, phenols, epoxy resins, styrene, butadiene, rubber, butyl rubber, lubricating oil, kerosene, naphtha, benzene, paraffin, vaseline, tar etc.

Question 11. State the uses of iron ore.
Answer:

Uses of iron ores :
Metallic iron is obtained from iron ores by smelting. The lump of iron obtained in this way is known as pig iron. Pig iron is reprocessed in different ways.

(1) Cas iron is formed by melting the pig iron and pouring it into a mould. It is a fragile form of. iron and can be used for making castings but cannot be shaped by hammering and pressing.

(2) Wrought iron is pure iron mixed with a little slag (iron oxide or silicate). Wrought iron resists rust and is very tough but can be hammered into shape; it is used for pipes, chains, etc.

(3) Stell is the most important product which is made by reheating the pig iron, removing impurities and adding a controlled amount of carbon and ferro-alloys.

(4) Alloy steel includes special types of steel which are made by adding a significant amount of ferroalloys like manganese, nickel, chromium, tungsten, etc.

Question 12. Explain the by-products of petroleum and their chemical uses.
Answer:
By-Products of Petroleum and their industrial uses :
By-products of petroleum have varieties of uses in petrochemical industries. These by-products are obtained by using various methods of oil distillation like fractional distillation, thermal cracking, catalytic cracking and polymerisation. Industrial uses of some of these by-products may be mentioned as follows :

(1) Ethylene :
It is also known as ethene gas which is obtained from petroleum as well a from natural gas. It is used in the synthesis of polyethene and PVC and the consuming industries are plastics and films. Ethylene oxide is used for the manufacturing of polyester fibres and detergents.

(2) Propylene :
It is an important by-product of oil refining and is also known as propane. It is used in the manufacture of many organic chemicals including polypropylene which is used in plastics and glycerine which is a raw material for nitroglycerine, printing inks, etc.

(3) Butadiene :
It is derived from butane gas obtained by refining crude oil. Synthetic rubber is manufactured by polymerisation of butadiene with sodium.

(4) Benzene :
It is obtained both from coal as well as from petroleum. It yields styrene, which is used in plastics and foams and phenol, which is used in nylons.

Question 13. Give the distribution of hydroelectric power in India.
Answer: The First hydel power plant in India was established in 1902 in Karnataka at (1) Shivasamudram on the river Kaveri. The country’s major hydro-electric power stations are located at

(1) Shivasamudram, Sima and Jog (at present Mahatama Gandhi Hydel Power Station) in Karnataka,
(2) Mettur and Papnasam in Tamil Nadu
(3) Idikki, Sabarigiri and Pallivasal in Kerala,
(4) Sileru, Manchkud, Nagarjuna Sagar in Andhra Pradesh,
(5) Vira, Vivpuri, Koyna and Khopali in Maharashtra,
(6) Rihand, Ramganga, Bhola, Sumera-Nangal in Himachal Pradesh,
(7) Hirakud and-Manchkud in Odisha and Tilaiya, Maithan, Panchet and Massanjore hydro-power station of Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal.

Question 14. Name some hydroelectric power projects in India.
Answer:

Major Hydroelectric Power Projects: The main projects are :

(1) The Bhakra-Nangal
(2) The Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) based on the TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) of the USA.
(3) The ‘Hirakud Project.
(4) The Tungabhadra Project
(5) The Rihand Project
(6) The Kosi Project
(7) The Nagarjunasagar Project
(8) The Chambal Valley Project.

Question 15. State few advantages and disadvantages of Nuclear power.
Answer:

Advantages :
(1) Small proportions of radioactive minerals are capable of producing large quantities of power.
(2) Does not produce greenhouse gases that pollute the atmosphere.

Disadvantages :
(1) Problem of radioactive waste disposal.
(2) Extremely expensive project.
(3) In case of explosions, radioactive materials can create far-reaching damages to the life of people.

Question 16. State the uses of solar energy.
Answer:

Uses :
(1) Solar water heating system :
In this system water is heated up, it keeps the house warm in cold countries.

(2) Solar Cooker :
By this system sun’s heat is used for cooking.

(3) Solar Drier :
To remove humidity from any material, it is widely used. It is also used for drying.

(4) Solar Distillation :
Solar distillation is used to distil drinking water.

(5) By using solar heat we can boil water or dry the grains.

(6) By using solar electricity i.e., by solar cell sun rays are converted into electricity.

(7) Solar energy is becoming popular in various parts of the country and can be used for cooking, pumping, heating of water, refrigerator and street lighting.

Geography Class 9 West Bengal Board Chapter7 Resources Of India 5 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. Classify the major types of coal and mention the uses of coal.
Answer: Coal is classified into major 4 types on the basis of concentration of carbon –

(1) Anthracite – (contain more than 85% carbon) –
Used for heating in cold countries.

(2) Bituminous – (Contain 50% – 85% carbon) –
It is the most important type of coal. It is most commonly used in industry for making power, melting metals.

(3) Lignite – (contain 35% to 50% carbon) –
Used for generation of thermal power.

(4) Peat – (contain less than 25% carbon) –
Used for domestic cooking.

Uses of Coal –

(1) 73% of coal produced is used for generating thermal power in India.
(2) In the production of Iron and steel coal is used as raw material.
(3) 3% produced coal is used in the production of cement.
(4). Coal is used as a domestic fuel for cooking.
(5) From coal by-products are obtained which are basically the products of chemical industries.
(6) Coal earlier was used as a transport fuel, especially for the running of railway steam engines but now steam engines have come down significantly.

Question 2. Describe in brief the coal mining regions of India.
Answer: Coal is divided into 2 types on the basis of its age –
(1) Gondwana age Coal (Formed 250 million yrs. ago)
(2) Tertiary age coal (formed 50 million yrs. ago)

(1) Gond wana coal mining regions are -+

(1) Chattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh – Korba, Umaria, Singrauli, Pench, Chirimini, Raigadh etc.
(2) Jnakhand – Jharia, Giridh, North and South Karanpusa, Daltonganj, Ramgarh etc.
(3) Orissa – Talcher, Rampur, Himgiri etc.
(4) Andra Pradesh – East and West Godavari, Kurnool, Warangal, Adilabad, Krishna etc.
(5) Maharastra – Wasdha, Chand, Balkalpur, Nasik
(6) West Bengal – Raniganj, Asansol.

(2) Tertiary coal mining regions are –

(1) Assam – Makum, Duliajaan, Jorhat, Nowgaon, Sikhar etc.
(2) Nagaland – Bojan.
(3) Arunachal Pradesh – Namchik.
(4) Meghalaya – Langrin, Bapunj and Jaintia hills.
(5) Jammu and Kashmir – Udhampur and Kaisi.
(6) Tamil Naidu – Neyveli and Arcot.

Question 3. Classify the major types of iron one and mention their uses.
Answer: lron ore can be classified into 4 major types on the basis of iron content. They are-

(1) Haematite –
It is a superior quality of iron ore consisting of 60% – 70% of iron. It is reddish in colour.

(2) Magnetite –
It is the most superior quality ore consisting of 72% iron but it is less available.

(3) Limonite –
It is an inferior quality ore consisting 50% – 60% iron. It is brown in colour.

(4) Siderite –
It is an inferior quality ore consisting of 30% – 40% iron. It is grey in colour.

Uses of iron ore – The following are the main uses of iron ore.

(1) Iron ore is used to make pig iron and wrought iron.
(2) Iron ore is used for the construction of buildings, bridges, railway lines and other materials for construction.
(3) Pig iron can be moulded.
(4) Iron ore is the most useful metal in the engineering industry.
(5) Iron has also got a number of domestic uses like making utensils, knife and other household items etc. Thus it can be said that “Iron is the backbone of modern civilization”.
(6) Slag obtained from iron ore is used to make furniture and also in the manufacture of cement.

Question 4. Where are thermal power stations located in eastern India? What are the factors for their growth?

Answer: Major thermal power stations of eastern India are. –
(1) West Bengal – Durgapur, Santaldihi, Bandel.
(2) Bihar – Barauni, Chandrapur.
(3) Jharkhand – Bokaro.
(4) Orissa – Talcher.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 Notes WBBSE

The major reasons for the growth of Thermal power stations are –

(1) Easy availability of raw material –
The best quality of coal can easily be achieved from the neighbouring areas (coal mines of Asansol, Raniganj, Bokaro, Giridh,
Talcher etc.). Mineral oil is also get through pipelines.

(2) Transport facility –
The region is well-connected by roadways, railways and National highways.

(3) Demand –
There is a high demand of power in this region as the region is ideal for industrial set – up. The region is densely populated. So there is a high demand of power.

(4) Presence of Industries –
The Hugli Industrial region, Asansol – Raniganj Industrial region, Durgapur industrial region, Jamshedpur, Industrial region etc. need a huge amount of power. So, their necessity brings the opportunity to install more thermal power stations.

(5) Dearth of other power stations –
Here there is no atomic power station. A little hydroelectric power are trapped. Hence for the large demand, thermal power stations. have been grown up by using coal.

Question 5. Why is the Chhotanagpur region called the ‘Store house of minerals’?
Answer: Chhotanagpur plateau accounts for nearly 40% to 80% of minerals produced in the country. The main minerals are coal, iron ore, mica, bauxite, chromite, uranium, fire clay, limestone, feldspar, asbestos etc.

Coal:-
All the famous coal fields of India are found in the Damodar Valley region of this plateau. The fields are located at Jharia, Karanpura (North and South), Bokaro, and Ramgarh. The coal is of high quality.

Iron ore:-
High-grade iron ore is found in this plateau area. The mines are situated at Goa, Noamundi, Rajoriburu, and Budhaburu.

Mica:-
High-grade mica resources are located in Kodarma (Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand). Other mines are found in Giridih, Singur, Jnumri-Talaiya, and Domchanchi.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 Notes WBBSE

Limestone:– In the districts of Singhbhum, Hazaribagh and Ranchi.

Bauxite:- Ranchi and Palamau districts (largest mining region is Lohardaga)

Copper Ore:- Rakha, Mosabani and Sarda in Southern Jharkhand.

Uranium:- Jadugoda (in Singhbhum district).

Dolomite:- Palamau.

Vanadium :- Dublabera (Singhbhum).

Asbestos:- Singhbhum district (near the villages of Nurda, Kalimati, Bichabaru, Jojohatu and Roro Buru).

Fire clay :- Rajahara and Latehar (Palamau district).

Kyanite :- Lapsa Buru (Singhbhum).

Feldspar :- Near Crichaki Bagardih, Bendro and Kubadih (Hazaribagh) and Hundru Hill (Palamau district).

Manganese:- Chaibasa (Singhbhum district).
So, the Chhotanapur region is regarded as the storehouse of minerals.

Question 6. What are the effects of earthquakes?
Answer:
The major effects of the earthquakes can be explained under the following heads –

(1) Destructive effects –

(1) Damage to property and Lives :
Earthquakes mainly cause damage to property and life. In this concern the earthquake of 1976, 27″ July in east china, Jangshan region is of special mention which caused heavy damage, i.e., nearly ig, lakh people died.

(2) Destruction of the communicative system –
The earthquake causes heavy damage to communication and transportation systems by causing damages to railways, rail lines.

(3) Tsunami –
When there is a jerk in the ocean bed very tremendous strong high waves rise above the water’s surface. This water wave is known as Tsunami. It causes damage to the coastal regions.

(4) Break out of Fire –
Due to dislocation of electric wiring and other reasons caused due to earthquakes, fire breaks out which also causes a great loss of life and property.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 Notes WBBSE

(5) Change the course of a river –
An earthquake may change the course of rivers flowing in that area. The destructive earthquake of 1950 in Assam changed
the course of the Brahmaputra river and its tributaries.

(6) Rise and sink of rock bed –
Earthquakes may cause the ground to sink or rise up. This causes cracks in the rock bed and soil structure.

(2) Constructive effects –

(1) Sometimes earthquakes cause the formation of hot springs which are very useful to people.
(2) Earthquakes sometimes cause a lake to turn into a river.
(3) Sometimes earthquakes cause the submergence of the coast and bring fertile shore out of the water to give chance to develop crop production.
(4) Earthquakes sometimes turn deep rivers and bays to shallow which helps in fishing.

Question 7. Describe in brief the meaning and definition of resources.
Answer:
Meaning and Definition of Resources: ‘Resource’ is a word which means valuables. Generally, resources mean wealth, money, gems, jewels or valuable things. But these are not considered as resources in Economic Geography.

The things, which have some utilities or functionalities to perform some duties to satisfy human and wants, i.e., the workability and functionality of things in satisfying human wants, are considered as ‘resources’ in Economic Geography.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 Notes WBBSE

Definition :
The term ‘resource’ in Economic Geography [or in Resource Study] does not necessarily mean a valuable thing or a substance, but it means the functionality of a thing (within human knowledge) which renders service or job in satisfying human needs.

Prof. E. W. Zimmermann, an eminent geographer and scholar in the field of resource studies, defines the term ‘Resources’ by saying: The word ‘resource’ does not refer to a thing or a substance but to a function which a thing or a substance may perform or to an operation in which it may take part, namely the function or operation of attaining a given end such as satisfying a want.

Thus, according to his opinion, all matters of the environment which serve and perform in satisfying human wants, their capabilities and the act of performance, may be considered as resources.

The Encyclopedia of Social Science defines, ‘Resources are those aspects of man’s environment which render possible services to facilitate the satisfaction of human wants and the attainment of social objectives’.

Thus, an inert matter or a substance or anything of the environment is not a resource but the function which it performs to attain a given end, i.e., to satisfy human needs, be considered as a resource.

Question 8. Classify the resources according to supply and durability.
Answer:
According to mode of supply and durability, resources can be classified into three groups :
(1) Flow or inexhaustible resources.
(2) Fund or exhaustible or non-renewable resources and
(3) Renewable resources.

[1] Flow or Inexhaustible Resources :
The supply of some natural resources is permanent. These resources are self-renewable and are known as Flow Resources;
they are inexhaustible and ubiquitous. Examples are sunshine, wind, rainfall, river water, etc.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 Question Answer WBBSE

[2] Fund or Exhaustible or Non-renewable Resources :
Fund resources are those which have only fixed and limited stock. They are not self-renewable. They get exhausted as we use them. Examples: coal, mineral oil, natural gas, iron ore, etc.

Fund resources may be further classified as (1) exhaustible and (2) revolving fund resources. Coal is an exhaustible fund resource, as once it is used, it is used up; it cannot be replaced again. On the other hand, iron ore is a revolving fund
resource, as it is not lost forever; it can be used again.

[3] Renewable Resources :
The supply of some natural resources is intermittent. These resources are also self-renewable, but their supply ceases for some time. The supply revives again after an interval. Trees of the forest, grasses of the grasslands, and fertility of soil are examples of this resource.

Question 9. Classify the resources on the basis of the nature of ownership.
Answer:
According to the nature of ownership, resources can be classified into three types:
(1) Personal or Individual resources.
(2) National resources and
(3) International resources.

(1) Personal or Individual Resources are one’s material things, such as, money, land, factory, property, etc. and personal qualities like skill, knowledge, good health, character etc.

(2) National Resources are the sum total of the personal resources of all citizens plus resources collectively owned by the nation, such as, minerals, natural vegetation, climate, soil, good government, national character, etc.

(3) International Resources are the sum total of all the resources of all nations, such as, minerals, climates, natural vegetation of the world, resources of the seas, etc.

None of these classifications is considered as justified in the light of the functional theory of resources; because in this theory, functionality is the main criterion in recognizing a resource. But it is very difficult to classify resources according to functionality. Hence, material things are classified here according to utility and functionality, based on different opinions.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 Question Answer WBBSE

Question 10. What is the main component of coal? Classify coal based on it. Discuss the main uses of coal. :
Answer: Coal is a black or brown rock. It is hard, but not very heavy. It supplies more than 50 percent of the total energy resources. Coal consists mainly of carbon and is known as carbonaceous rock. It is formed by the compressed vegetative remains of past ages.

It is a fossile fuel. Most coal deposits are of carboniferous age; i.e., about 300 million years old. Recent deposits of Tertiary age are usually composed of lignite or brown coal and They represent an early stage of coal formation and they are still being formed today.

Classification of coal :
Coal can be classified into the following types according to their composition and stage of formation:
1. Peat.
2. Lignite or Brown Coal.
3. Bituminous Coal.
4. Anthracite Coal and
5. Graphite.

Main uses of Coal:
Coal is a versatile mineral. Even today it is the prime source of power. Today coal is not only used as a fuel, but as an essential raw material for various industries. The uses of coal can be outlined in the following ways :

(1) Coal in the production of steam power :
Coal is burnt as a fuel. Its heat energy raises steam and by its power wheel and machineries are run. It provides power to rail engines (locomotives) and steamships. Nowadays, the use of coal has been replaced by mineral oil and electricity.

(2) Coal in the production of electric power :
Coal is burnt to make the thermal generators active to produce thermal electricity. Thermal generators are the largest consumers. They consume about one-third of coal output.

(3) Coal as domestic fuel :
In many parts, coal is still used as very important domestic fuel. Nowadays, coal gas is produced for domestic use and for use in small industries. It has become popular.

(4) Coal as metallurgical coke :
Coke is made from coal. Even today, coking coal is essential for the metallurgical industry, particularly in the smelting of iron
and steel. It consumes about 60 per cent of the world’s coal.

(5) Coal in Chemical Industry :
The use of coal in chemical industry is of great importance. Besides supplying fuel and power, coal provides a wide range of raw materials for chemical industry.

Question 11. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of hydroelectricity.
Answer:
Advantages and disadvantages of hydroelectricity: Electricity generation is becoming more and more important in the world economy because electric power is very convenient for both domestic and industrial importance.

If coal, oil and natural gas reserves were ever exhausted, electricity could still be obtained from nuclear plants. HEP is particularly important in this respect for it is inexhaustible. Since it is generated by running water, it is a flow resource.

It is an invisible fuel which is clean and easily for consumers to use, whereas coal and oil are bulk and dirty. It is highly adaptable and is ideal for use in complex modern industries where extreme precision is required in the control of machines heaters, computers or other equipment.

HEP may have the advantage of reaching areas where the import of coal or oil would be difficult or uneconomic. HEP is indispensable in the rapidly expanding field of telecommunications. Radio, television, radar, telephone and telegraphic links including satellite links all depend on electricity.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 Question Answer WBBSE

The disadvantages are the short-distance transmission of HEP and electricity cannot be stored. It is uneconomic to transport electricity over long distances. Unlike coal, oil or gas electricity supplies cannot be kept in resource, they must be used as they are generated.

This makes the management of electricity supplies very difficult, since if a power station ceases to function. There are no reserves to fall back on and electricity cuts are inevitable hydropower is the power generated by utilising the energy potential of running water.

Generation of hydropower requires a difference in height between the place where water is found and the place where it can be let down. The height may be secured in three ways :

(1) By building oe across the rivers,
(2) By taking advantage of drops or falls or steep gradients in the river bed, and
(3) By diverting the water from one river basin into, another river basin to a place at a lower level. Running water from streams, rivers and painting glaciers has long been utilised by men as a motive power.

Question 12. Briefly discuss two major non-conventional sources of energy.
Answer:

(1) Tidal Energy :
Tidal energy is a flow resource. It is tapped to produce electric power. France is the forerunner in harnessing tidal power to convert electric energy. A tidal power plant is installed (1961) at La Rance Estuary in France. Its generating capacity is about 8 million Kilowatts.

Tapping power from tidal energy is no doubt a tremendous success in the history of energy and power development. Russia has also set up a tidal power plant at Murmansk. The Bay of Fundy and Passamaquoddy Bay in Canada have been selected for the installation of tidal power plants.

In India, tidal power plants can be set up at a number of places, such as the peninsular coast of Kachchh and Kathiawar, near Cape Comorin (Kanyakumari) and Vivekananda Rock in South India.

(2) Solar Energy :
Using a photovoltaic cell, solar energy has been harnessed (captured) to produce electric power. A number of nations have long been on the way to set up solar power plant. France has the largest solar oven and it is installed at Odeillow on the Pyrenees.

Britain, Germany, the U.S.A., Isreal, Australia and India have made some progress in the development of solar energy plant. Britain has installed a large solar power plant on Ford Engineering Farm at Wales in Britain.

Hindustan Spinning and Weaving Mill, Mumbai, in India has been running by the solar power. A large number of pump sets have been working to irrigate arable land in western India. For furnishing light in Sagar Mela in Sagar Island of West Bengal, solar energy has been tapped. UNO and other international organisations have been encouraging the research and promotion of solar energy investigation.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 Question Answer WBBSE

Question 13. Discuss the physical conditions favourable for the generation of hydel power.
Answer:

Physical conditions :

(1) Warm humid climate :
Humid climate and well-distributed rainfall throughout- out the year are important for the nourishment of the rivers. Long drought period is highly unfavourable for hydropower generation. Similarly, power generation is affected if river beds are frozen during winter due to very low-temperature condition.

Climatic conditions control the volume of water. As the rotation of the turbine depends on water flow, the catchment area must receive either heavy rainfall or snowmelt water throughout the year.

(2) Rugged topography :
Mountainuous or undulated topography provides the necessary height difference for hydropower generation. As a result high initial cost of the construction of dams can be avoided. Higher force of water accelerates turbine movement and finally power generation increases.

(3) Narrow gorges and deep valleys with hard rocks are favourable factors, so that the dams can be constructed cheaply and easily.

(4) Perenniality of the rivers :
Maintenance of a steady flow of river throughout- out the year is a very important conditions for hydropower generation. Rivers which originate from the glaciers can maintain this flow because during the summer season of melting of ice.

It the source gives the required volume of water. This is particularly important in the areas where the rainfall is seasonal. In India major North Indian rivers are perennial because they originate from the Himalayan glaciers.

(5) Forest Cover :
The presence of forest cover in the catchment area of a river is indirectly helpful for hydropower generation. Forest cover reduces soil erosion and rivers are not silted up quickly. Siltation in the reservoir often restricts water flow. As a result flow of the rivers are not maintained and if dams and reservoirs are constructed, these are not choked up by the silts.

(6) Geological Structure :
Earthquake-prone areas are not suitable for the development of hydropower generation because earthquakes can change the course of a river. Construction of big dams in these areas way even induce earthquakes.

The rock structure of the hydel power lease should not be porous or permeable so that it can retain or hold the stored water and prevent any large-scale seepage. This is the main arrangement against the development of Tehri Dam project in Uttaranchal.

(7) Large space and sparse population :
These two factors are prerequisites for hydel projects. Construction of dams and machinery installation require large areas. So, the uninhabited region is favourable. Otherwise, rehabilitation of displaced people will pose problems.

(8) Presence of Lakes :
The presence of natural lakes along the course of a river is often a great advantage in HEP development, especially in areas with a seasonal rainfall distribution. They help to store flood waters and regulate river flow naturally and render the construction of dams either unnecessary or atleast easier.

Question 14. Discuss economic importance of coal.
Answer:
(1) Industrial fuel :
Coal is the prime factor for the genesis and sustenance of industrial civilisation in the world. Industrial revolution started with the large-scale use of coal as a source of power for the industry.

As a result, major industrial activities, particularly metal-based industries have been concentrated in the coal-producing areas. Examples can be cited from eastern part of U.S.A., Ruhr valley of Germany and the Durgapur-Asansol region of India.

WBBSE Geography Class 9 Chapter 7 Question Answers

(2) Raw material and fuel for iron and steel industry :
Coke, which is obtained from cooking coal, is an essential raw material for the manufacturing of steel. Besides this, coal is also used as fuel for the smelting of iron ores.

So, availability of cooking coal as well as high-grade non-cooking coal is most important for the development of iron and steel industry. Pittsburg in the U.S.A., which is located in the North Appalachian coalfield and Bokaro in India, which is located at the heart of the coalfield area can be cited as examples.

During the last 30 years, use of coal directly as fuel for iron and steel industry have rapidly declined in the developed countries due to the introduction of electric furnaces.

(3) Transport fuel :
Development of railways started by using coal as fuel for steam engines. Shipping services were also modernised by using coal as fuel at the early stage of modernisation.

So, coal played the most vital role in the initiation and expansion of modern transport system at the early stage of modernisation of economic activities. But these uses have now become obsolete not only in the developed countries but also in many of the developing countries of the world.

(4) Thermal power generation :
This is the most significant use of coal in the world in terms of the volume of consumption. Power generating sector accounts
for 2/3rd of the total consumption of coal in India.

In U.S.A., this figure is around 90% of the total coal consumption. Lignite coal, which is unsuitable for direct use in industry, can conveniently be used for thermal power generation. But coal types with high sulphur and high ash content are unfavourable for power generation.

Development of thermal power plants becomes a key factor for the development of industrial and commercial activities in many areas of the world.

(5) Domestic fuel :
Domestic use of coal, although limited, has great significance in the developing countries. In these countries, coal is used for domestic cooking and heating, and generally medium grades of bituminous coal are used for this purpose. In some places of northern temperate region, anthracite coal is also used for domestic heating during winter season.

Question 15. Mention the different sources of non-conventional energy and state their importance.
Answer:
Major non-conventional sources of energy are :
(1) tidal energy.
(2) solar energy.
(3) wind energy.
(4) geothermal energy.
(5) biogas energy and so on.

Importance of non-conventional energy —

(1) Conservation of fund energy resources :
The utilization of the non-conventional energy resources paves the way for the conservation of fund energy resources like coal, petroleum and natural gas.

(2) Reduction in air pollution :
The use of non-conventional energy resources prevents air pollution. It does not emit gas, bad odour, dust or debris. Thus, air pollution can be averted by the use of these energy resources.

(3) Endless energy flow :
Sun, wind, waves, tides supply endless flow of energy. If they can be tapped on commercial scale, they can supply lot of energy.

(4) No recurring expenditure :
After the installation of this power plant, there is little or’no expenditure for collection of raw materials or for the payment of wages. Hence, the recurring expenditure is small.

Question 16. State the major uses of petroleum.
Answer:

Uses of Oil :
Mineral oil serves as a fuel, a lubricant, an illuminant and a raw material for a wide range of industries. Its by-products are many and used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, textile and many other industries.

It is the feedstock for number of useful petrochemicals. They are of great uses of mankind. A number of useful products and by-products are obtained at time of refining the crude oil.

They are Petrol, Gasoline, Diesel, PVC, Acetic acid, Polystyrene, Ethyl alcohol, Acetone, Glycols, Phenols, Epoxy resins, Styrene butabiene, Rubber, Butyl rubber, Lubricating oil, Kerosene, Naphtha, Benzene, Paraffin, Vaseline, Tar, etc. The major uses of mineral oil in its many different forms may be summed up as follows :

WBBSE Geography Class 9 Chapter 7 Question Answers

(1) Transportation :
Petrol (gasoline) and diesel are used to drive vehicles.

(2) Industrial Power :
Nowadays boilers and furnaces use fuel oils (and natural gas) instead of coal.

(3) Heating and Lighting :
Kerosene is widely used for lighting, heating and cooking. Some of the petroleum-derived gases, especially propane and butane
are gaining popularity as domestic fuel.

(4) Lubricants :
Vehicles and machineries of all types need lubricants and greases which are the processed products of mineral oil.

(5) Other uses :
Asphalt, pitch or tar are used for road surfacing, petroleum wax for making candles and so on.

Question 17. Classify Resource.
Answer: Classification of Resource :

Basis of Classification	Type of Resource	Salient Features	Examples
1. Resource creating	(1) Natural resource	Directly available from the nature	Forest, minerals, water
factors	(2) Human resource	Ability of man to develop resource	Physical power and brainpower
	(3) Cultural	Material and non-material culture	Knowledge, skill,
	resource	used for resource development	initiative
2. Nature of	(1)Flow	Inexhaustible or renewable	Sunlight, running water
availability	(2)Fund	Stored-up supply and exhausted after the use	Coal, petroleum, iron ores
3. Frequency	(1) Ubiquitous	Available everywhere	Sunlight, air
of occurrence	(2) Common	Available in many places	Soil, water
	(3) Rare	Available in a few places	Coal, petroleum
	(4) Unique	Available only in one place	Cryolite in Greenland
4. Existence	(1)Tangible	Material existence of resource (something which can be felt by touch)	Copper, coal
	(2) Intangible	Identified only by its functionality (cannot be felt by touch)	Teachingskillofa teacher
5. Ownership	(1) Individual	Functionality enjoyed on the basis of individual ownership	Agricultural land of a farmer
	(2) National	Ownership belonging to a country	River Ganga
	(3) World	Benefits enjoyed by all the people	Marine resources in the open sea

Question 18. Explain the types of resources.
Answer:

(1) On the basis of resource-creating factors :
Nature, man and culture are three resource-creating factors. Accordingly, resources may be classified as natural resources, human resources and cultural resources.

(1) Natural resource :
Resources which are directly available from nature are called natural resources. These include sunlight, minerals, water, forest, etc.

(2) Human Resources:
The physical power and brain power of man comprise human resources. Development of human resource is considered as a key to eco-
nomic and social development of a country.

(3) Cultural resources:
This resource is developed by the brain power of man. It includes knowledge, skill, literacy, religion, etc.

(2) On the basis of the nature of availability (or renewability) :
On the basis of the nature of availability, resources may be classified as follows :

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-7 Resources Of India Resources Nature Of Availability (3) Flow Resource :

(1) Inexhaustible flow :
If the supply of a resource is continuous and the total availability remains unchanged irrespective of the rate of utilisation, then it is termed as an inexhaustible flow resource; for example, sunlight, salinity of the seawater, tidal waves, etc.

Availability of this type of resource is totally time-independent. For this reason, efforts are being made all over the world to develop the utilisation of inexhaustible flow resources.

(2) Renewable flow :
Supply of this resource is also continuous, but the continuity is maintained due to the natural process of self-renewal; for example, forest, running water of a river, fish, fertility of the soil, etc.

It may increase or decrease with time depending on natural conditions and the rate of exploitation. When the exploitation of a renewable for resource is greater than the renewability itself, then the availability gradually declines.

After a certain period of time it may be totally exhausted. In this case, a flow resource becomes a fund resource and it is known as interrupted flow or ‘choked’ flow resource. Examples may be cited from the completely deforested area of some parts of the lower Himalayan region in the western Himalayas. ‘

WBBSE Geography Class 9 Chapter 7 Question Answers

(4) Fund resource :

(1) Revolving fund :
Fund resources, by definition, is an exhaustible resource. But there are some fund resources which can be recycled up to a certain limit and hence the declining trend can be arrested fora short period. For example, lron is a fund resource. But if the iron scraps are recycled in an iron and steel industry, then it becomes a revolving fund resource.

(2) Non-revolving fund :
Non-revolving fund resource may simply be described as a fund resource, the availability of which will decline with time and the rate of decline will be proportional to the rate of exploitation; for example utilisation of coal and petroleum as fuel.

Question 19. Give an account of the fund and flow resources in India.
Answer:

(1)On the basis of frequency of occurrence :
On the basis of frequency of occurrence, the resources may the classified as follows :

(1) Ubiquitous occurrence :
These are the resources which are available everywhere on the earth; for example, oxygen in the air. These resources do not
influence the locational pattern of any economic activity.

(2) Common occurrence :
These are the resources which are available in many places; for example, agricultural soil, water, etc.

(3) Rare occurrence :
These are the resources which occur in few places of the earth; for example, petroleum, coal, etc. Availability of these resources may significantly influence the locational pattern of economic activities.

(4) Unique occurrence :
It is the resource which occurs only in one place; for example, cryolite in Greenland.

(2) On the basis of existence :
On the basis of existence, may be classified into two types :

(1) Tangible resource :
Something which can be felt by touch is known as tangible. In other words, tangible resource has a material existence. For example, coal is a material. When it is used as a resource, it is called tangible resource.

(2) Intangible resources:
A resource which does not have a material existence is known as an intangible resource. In other words, it cannot be felt by touch. It is identified by its functionality. So, it is an on-material resource. For example, the knowledge and skill of a teacher are considered as non-material or intangible resources.

(3) On the basis of ownership :
On the basis of ownership, three types of resources may be identified:

(1) Individual resource :
When the functionality of a resource is enjoyed by an individual on the basis of ownership, it is known as an individual resource. For example, agricultural land owned by a farmer is an individual resource.

(2) National resource :
When the ownership of a resource belongs to a country and the people enjoy its functionality as the citizens of the country, it is known as national resource. For example, river Ganga is our national resource.

Question 20. Make a comparison between coal, petroleum And hydropower.
Answer:

Attributes	Coal	Petroleum	Hydropower
1. Type of resource	Fund resource which is exhausted with use	Fund resource which is exhausted with use.	Renewable flow resources which does not decline with use.
2. Importance as energy source.	2nd largest source of primary energy and accounted for 25.6% of the world’s total in 2004.	largest source of primary energy and accounted for 37% of the world’s total in 2004.	4th largest source of primary energy and accounted for 6.6% of the world’s total in 2004
3. Exploitation of energy source	It is used after mining.	It is used after mining and reigning.	It is used directly by constructing dams and reservoirs.
4. Storage	Coal can be stored when it is not used.	Petroleum can be stored when it is not used.	Hydropower cannot be stored.
5. Transport	It is buly and can be transported by rail or road transport	It is liquid and can be transported by pipeLInes.	Power source (running water) cannot be transport but electricity is transmitted by transmission cables.
6. Cost	Cost of production is HIGH	Cost of production is high.	Cost of production is low due to very low recurring cost It is described as ‘dean’ source of power.
7. Cleanliness	It is most unclean.	It is deaner than coal.	It is non-polluting source of power.
8. Pollution	It causes high degree of environmental pollution.	Environmental pollution is high, but less than coal	Market should be located near the hydropower generating stations
9. Market	Market may be located far from the mining areas and transport cost becomes high.	Market may be located far from the mining areas but transport cost is less than that of coal.	It is used only domestically.
10. Trade	Export and import trades are found.	Export and import trades are found.	Only in certain cases, surplus power may be sold to the neighbouring countries.
11. Use	Other than energy source, it is also used as source of’ raw materials c; seme Chemical industries.	It is a soiree of fuel and non-fuel products.	It is used only for the generation of electricity.
12.Future prospect	It is declining importance as a source of power, primarily due to the environmental reasons.	It is not expected to last for a long time due to its increasing consumption.	Only 15% of hydropower potential is presently used and it has a great future as a ‘dean’ source of power.

Question 21. State the significance of non-conventional sources of energy.
Answer:
Significance of Non-conventional sources of Energy :
Non-conventional energy sources include those which are not commonly used as energy sources. a With the exception of coal, petroleum, natural gas, hydropower and nuclear power all other sources of energy may be regarded as non-conventional as these are not listed as commercial sources.

But for the practical purpose, major non-conventional sources of energy include in exhaustible energy resources like solar energy, tidal power, geothermal energy and wind energy. Emphasis on the development of these sources of energy is significant due to the following reasons :

(1) These non-conventional energy resources are inexhaustible flow resources. So, availability of these sources is constant irrespective of the utilisation patterns. This is highly significant in view of declining reserves of the fossil fuels.

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE

(2) Non-conventional energy resources are regarded as the energy resources of the future because it is estimated that the supply of conventional sources will fail to keep pace with the increasing demand for energy resources. So, the gap has to be filled up by non-conventional sources.

(3) Environmental pollution is a major threat to the mankind and burning of fossil fuels has been increasing the pollution level. But non-conventional sources are non-polluting and hence the development of these sources is essential to save the environment.

(4) Increase in the use of non-conventional energy will extend the lifespan of conventional fund energy resources.

(5) Non-conventional energy resources are cost-efficient in the long run as the material cost is nil.

Question 22. Explain the major iron ore-producing regions in India.
Answer:
Distribution: The main iron ore deposit areas in India are :

Chhattisgarh: The important areas are Bailadilla, Bastar district; Durg district. These deposits are supplied to the iron and steel factory at Bhilai.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-7 Resources Of India Iron Ore In India.

Jharkhand :
A large deposit of iron ore estimated at 1,500 million tonnes has been recently found at Chiria in Singhbhum district of Jharkhand. Singhbhum and Palamau are the important districts.

Orissa :
The Iron ore deposits in Orissa belong to the haematite variety containing 55 to 68 per centurion content. Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, Cuttack, Koraput have iron ores. The steel plants located at Asansol, Bokaro, Durgapur, Jamshedpur and Rourkela receive their supplies of iron ore from these deposits in Orissa.

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE

Karnataka :
It has large reserves of magnetite and haematite. Bababudan hills in Chikmaglur district, Sandur, Bellary and Hospet districts as well as Shimoga and Chitradurga districts in Karnataka are important areas for iron ores. Kudremukh, which means horse’s mouth, has estimated deposits of 1,000 million tonnes. These deposits provide raw materials for the Bhadravati Ironworks.

Goa :
Goa has vast deposits of iron ore. It supplies iron for domestic use as well as for export. However, the iron ore of Goa is of inferior limonite and siderite variety. In Goa, the richer and larger deposits are confined to north Goa.

Andhra Pradesh :
In Andhra Pradesh, the iron ore-producing areas are scattered through Anantpur, Khammam, Krishna, Kurnool, Cuddapah and Nellore. The iron content in these deposits vary from 55 to 62 per cent.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-7 Resources Of India Manganes Distribution In India.

Tamil Nadu :
Iron ore is found in Salem, North Arcot, Tiruchirapalli, Coimbatore and Madurai.

Maharashtra :
Iron ore deposits are found in the Ratnagiri and Chandrapur districts.

The other areas where minor deposits of iron ore are prevalent include Assam, West Bengal, UP, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir.

Question 23. Explain the major petroleum-producing region in India.
Answer:

Distribution :
The entire oil production of India so far comes from the Assam- Arakan belt, the Gujarat Cambay belt and the Bombay High offshore zone. The first belt runs from extreme northeast of Assam to the eastern border of the Brahmaputra and Surma Valley. The second belt extends from Mahesana (Gujarat) in the north to the continental shelf off the coast of Ratnagiri (Maharashtra) in the south.

In order of importance, the main areas of mineral oil deposits are :

(1) Mumbai High :
In Maharashtra, about 176 km of Mumbai in the Arabian Sea, a huge oil deposit, known as Mumbai High, was struck in 1974. Mumbai High is the most productive oilfield and has a reserve of 5 crore tonnes of oil.

Mumbai High is so called because of the height of the syncline of the rock structure in which the oil has been struck. It is higher than the normal height and oil is taken from the depth of over 1,400 metres with the help of a specially designed platform known as ‘Sagar Samrat’. It is a self-propelled jack-up type of drilling platform.

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE

(2) Oilfields of Eastern Region :
India’s oldest important oil-bearing area in the eastern part of the Himalayas is Assam. Digboi oilfield situated in the Lakhimpur district of upper Assam is the biggest oilfield in India. Moran, Bappapung, Hausanpung and Hugirijang also have oilfields.

(3) Oilfields of Western Region :
In Gujarat, Cambay basin is the site of the main oil-bearing sand. The other oilfields of importance are Kalol, Koyali, Kosamba, Sanand, Kathana, Ankleshwar and Navgaon in Gujarat.

Besides these oilfields, a number of potential oil-bearing fields have been discovered in the states of Tripura, Punjab, Nagaland, Gujarat, West Bengal and Jammu and Kashmir and also in the Cauvery, the Krishna and the Godavari basins in the south.

Question 24. Explain the coal-producing regions in India.
Answer:
Distribution :
Resources-wise coal occupies the place of pride in the list of mineral resources in India. India ranks third in the world after the USA and China in coal production.

In India, coal occurs in rock sequences mainly of two geological ages, namely, Gondwana, little over 200 million years in age and in Tertiary deposits which were found at a much later geological epoch i.e., about 55 million years ago.

India does not have extensive deposits of the highest grade (90% carbon) anthracitve coal. The coal of the Gondwana fields of bituminous quality (50% to 80% of carbon) is mostly available in India.

(1) Gondwana Coal Fields :
It accounts for 98 per cent of the total reserves of coal in India. Gondwana coal is almost free from moisture and contains sulphur and phosphorus in small variable quantities. The important coal-bearing formations are collectively known as Damudas and belong to the lower Gondwana system.

Gondwana coals are largely confined to the river valleys like those of Damodar, Mahanadi and Godavari. The major resources of Gondwana coal are located in coalfields occupying the Indian heartland in the states of West Bengal, Jharkhand, Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. These coalfields account for four-fifths of India’s coal reserves.

(2) Tertiary Coal Fields :
The Tertiary coal fields of India as compared to the Gondwana coal, usually possess a higher moisture content, more sulphur and are associated with marine sediments. They are found in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Nagaland.

Besides, brown coal or lignite occurs in coastal areas of Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and inland basin of Rajasthan. The Neyveli lignite field in Tamil Nadu is the largest lignite deposit in South India.

Question 25. State the types of coal.
Answer:

On the basis of fuel value and other characteristics, coal can primarily be divided into three types :
(1)Lignite
(2)Bituminous and anthracite.

(1) Lignite :
It is a soft and brown-coloured coal with high moisture and high volatile matter. Carbon content varies between 35% to 50%. Spontaneous combustion and breaking up during drying make the transport of this coal difficult. This coal is not suitable as industrial fuel due to the lack of coking constituents, low carbon content and other disadvantageous properties.

Major uses of this coal include generation of electricity and raw material for chemical industry. In 2004, lignite accounted for 16% of the world’s total coal production.

(2) Bituminous :
The colour of this coal varies from dark brown to black and the carbon content varies from 50% to 85%. This coal ranges between high volatile to low volatile groups and low volatile high-grade coal possesses coking constituent which is essential for making steel.

Bituminous coal has the most wide-ranging uses depending on the grades of bituminous coal. High-grade bituminous coal is used as fuel for industries and as raw material for iron and steel industries.

Other grades are used as household coal, gas coal, steam coal and as raw materials for chemical industries. In 2004, bituminous coal accounted for 78% of the world’s total coal production.

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE

(3) Anthracite :
This is the hardest type of coal with 95% carbon content and insignificant volatile matter. It does not possess coking property. It does not ignite easily, but once lighted, it burns for a long time.

This coal does not have much of industrial importance. It is best used for domestic heating in the temperate countries. In 2004, anthracite accounted for only 6% of the world’s total coal production.

Question 26. Write a note on Geothermal energy.
Answer:

Geothermal Energy :
In volcanic regions of the world, the underground rocks get very hot. They represent a very useful source of energy that is beginning to be tapped. It is known as geothermal (earth-heat) energy. The Geological Survey of India has also identified 340 hot springs in the country where geothermal energy can be exploited.

Geothermal energy has been used for centuries all over the world, even to heat public baths and health spas. Sometimes the water trickling down into the hot rocks is heated so much that it turns to steam, which may be forced back to the surface and erupt as a geyser. This steam is harnessed to drive electricity generators in the forms of geothermal power plants, e.g. the hot springs at Manikaram in Himachal Pradesh.

The thermal energy, stored in the crust of the earth up to a depth of 3 km is manifest in the form of hot springs in geothermal gradients, particularly in thick sedimentary basins like the upper Brahmaputra valley in Assam and the Sabarmati valley in Gujarat.

There are three ways in which geothermal energy can be utilized. First, the hot waters and superheated dry steam can be directly conveyed to power plants to operate the generator turbines as is done in coal-based thermal plants Second, the surface water penetrates the fractured rocks in the deep interior of the geothermal area through deep wells in order to heat and vaporize it.

It is then brought back to run the turbines. Third, the heat exchange, containing liquid having a low boiling point, is immersed in the underground well. The liquid vaporizes and returns to the surface and runs the generator.

The Regional Research Laboratory in Jammu in Puga Valleys is using geothermal energy in poultry farming, mushroom growing, heating homes, offices, factories, and even greenhouses. A similar programme is being held in Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh.

Question 27. Write a note on Wind Energy.
Answer:
Wind Energy :

Definition: The energy which produces from wind is called wind energy.

Generation of wind energy :
The USA is the first one for using and generating of wind energy. In 1997, approximately 300-megawatt wind energy produced from here. 75% wind energy of the world is produced from California. India is in the 5th wind energy-producing country. There are 208 wind-energy plants are in India till now.

Lamba of Gujarat is the biggest wind-energy-producing centre in Asia. The process of wind plant at Sundarban is going on. Wind energy is a cheap and clean energy resource. This energy requires only initial cost on the establishment of the wind farm. Our country has a wind power potential of 20,000 MW.

About 85 sites with a potential of 4500 MW have been identified in the country. The major wind power plants are located at Muppandal and Nagercoil in Tamil Nadu. Wind power plant at Lamba in Gujarat in the Gulf of Kutchh is the largest in India and third largest in Asia.

Question 28. Differentiate between conventional and non-conventional sources of energy.
Answer:

Subject	Conventional Energy	Non-conventional Energy

Definition	The energy resources which are widely used in modem ages called conventional energy. Ex- Thermoelectric, Hydro-electric, Nuclear energy.	The energy resources which have Utie uses called non-conventional energy. Ex- Solar energy, wind energy, organic energy etc
Source	Minerals are the main sources of conventional energy Ex-coal, petroleum, etc.	Unlimited and renewable energy of nature are the sources of norKom«national energy. Ex-Sunkght, wind flow; ocean wave etc
Supply	Sources of conventional energy are not renewable. Ex-coal, petroleum.	Sources of nonconventional energy or renewable resources. Ex- Sunlight, wind flow, etc
To be used by	This type of energy has great possibility to be exhausted up for huge uses of it Ex-some important coal mines of the world is empty now.	This type of energy is produced unlimitedly and renewable resource. So it has a minor or no chance to be spent up.
Pollution	Except hydroelectric power conventional resources pottutethe atmosphere. For instance, during the production of thermal energy and atomic energy the air is polluted entensjvety	This type of energy doesn’t pollute the environment
Producing cost	Production cost is very high. So, it is	Production cost is comparatively very low. So,

Extension	This energy is widely used in our modem	The extension of this energy is very little.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution

November 8, 2023March 27, 2023 by sravani

Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Short Questions With Answers :

Question l. What are the two motions of the Earth?
Answer:
The two motions of the Earth are
(1) Rotation,
(2) Revolution.

Question 2. Who made the first direct experiment to prove the Earth’s rotation?
Answer: In 1851 Jean Bernard Leon Foucault, a French physicist, first made a direct experiment of the rotation of the Earth.

Read and Learn all WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment

Question 3. What is the length of the elliptical path of the earth?
Answer: 96 crores km.

Question 4. What is the speed of the earth rotation on the equator?
Answer: 1630 per hour.

Question 5. What is the speed of the earth rotation on Kolkata per hour?
Answer:1536 per hour.

Geography Class 9 West Bengal Board

Question 6. Who did first promulgated the idea of the rotation of the earth?
Answer: Nicolas Copernicus.

Question 7. What do you know about the earth’s axis?
Answer: The axis is the imaginary line passing through the centre of the Earth on which the Earth rotates.

Question 8. In what way does the earth rotate?
Answer: Earth rotates from west to east or in an anticlockwise direction.

Question 9. How much time does the earth take to complete one rotation?
Answer: 23 hours 56 minutes and 4 seconds (24 hours rounded off)

Question 10. What causes day and night on earth?
Answer: Rotation.

Question 11. What is the angle of inclination of the earth in its axis?
Answer: 23 (½)°

Question 12. Is the earth’s axis vertical? If not, what is its position?
Answer: The earth’s axis is not vertical. It makes an angle of 23(½)°with the vertical or 66 (½)° with the plane of the Earth’s orbit.

Question 13. What is the speed of rotation at the equator?
Answer: 1630 km/hr.

Question 14. Name the place (latitude) where days and nights are always equal.
Answer: Equator or 0° latitude.

Question 15. Which day is shortest in the Northern Hemisphere?
Answer: 22nd December.

Question 16. Name the dates at which days & nights are equal in northern hemisphere or southern hemisphere.
Answer: 21st March and 23rd September.

Question 17. Which day is longest in southern hemisphere?
Answer: 22nd December.

Geography Class 9 West Bengal Board

Question 18. Which day is shortest in southern hemisphere?
Answer: 21st June.

Question 19. When is it winter solstice in Northern hemisphere?
Answer: 22nd December

Question 20. What is the speed of revolution of the Earth cause?
Answer: 365 1/4 days (approx).

Question 21. How far away is the Earth from the Sun on Aphelion?
Answer: About 152 r ion kilometers.

Question 22. What is the colourful light seen in the dark nights in South Pole called?
Answer: Aurora Australis.

Question 23. What is the distance of the Earth from the sun at perihelion?
Answer: About 147 million kilometers.

Question 24. What is the exact time taken by the earth to move around the sun once?
Answer: The exact time taken by the earth to move round the sun is 365 days 5 hours 48 minutes 46 secs.

Question 25. What is the distance between the earth and the sun? [M.E.-1995]
Answer: The approximate distance between the earth and the sun is 15 crore km.

Question 26. What is the speed of rotation of Earth at Kolkata?
Answer: 1536 km. is the speed of rotation of Earth at Kolkata.

Question 27. How much is the axis of the globe inclined in relation to the plane of the earth’s orbit?
Answer: 66 (½)° the earth’s axis inclined in relation to the plane of the earth’s orbit.

Question 28. What is axis?
Answer: Axis is an imaginary line at which the earth rotates.

Geography Class 9 West Bengal Board Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution True Or False Type

Question 1. The earth revolves around the sun in 365 days 5 hours 48 minutes 46 seconds.
Answer: True

Question 2. After 21st March the sun apparently moves towards the north.
Answer: True

Question 3. In the month of December, days are longer in the Northern Hemisphere.
Answer: False

Question 4. 0° longitude is called Prime Meridian.
Answer: True

Question 5. The speed of the earth at the equator is 1630 km.
Answer: True

Question 6. The earth moves around the sun in 365 ¼ days.
Answer: True

Question 7. There are six seasons in India.
Answer: True

Geography Class 9 West Bengal Board

Question 8. Days and nights are caused because of the rotation of the earth.
Answer: True

Question 9. Seasons are changed because of the revolution of the earth.
Answer: True

Question 10. 21st June is called Winter Solstice.
Answer: False

Question 11. 22nd December is called Summer Solstice.
Answer: False

Question 12. 4th July is called Aphelion.
Answer: True

WBBSE Class 9 Chapter 2 Geography

Question 13. 3rd January is called Perihelion.
Answer: True

Question 14. Speed of the earth during revolution is 30 km per sec.
Answer: True

Question 15. 21st March is called Autumn Equinox
Answer: False

Question 16.23rd September called Vernal Equinox
Answer: False

Question 17. On 4th July, the distance between the sun and the earth remains minimum.
Answer: False

Question 18. On December 22nd, the sun comes overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn and the day is called winter solstice.
Answer: True

Question 19. The distance between the earth and the sun is minimum on 3rd January.
Answer: True

Question 20. 1900 A.D. was a leap year.
Answer: True

Question 21. The southern hemisphere has longer days in the month of June.
Answer: False

Question 22. On March 21st at the equator, the sun rises due east and sets due west and the midday altitude of the sun in 90°.
Answer: True

Question 23. 2100 A.D. leap year
Answer: True

Question 24 .21st June is known as summer solstice in northern hemisphere and the winter solstice in sountern hemisphere.
Answer: True

Question 25. The date of Vernal Equinox is 23rd September
Answer: False

Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Fill In The Blanks

Question l. The distance of the sun from the earth is_______.
Answer:150 million Km.

Question 2. The earth’s axis makes an angle________ of with the ecliptic orbit.
Answer: 66 (½)°

Question 3. ________discovered that the earth revolves around the sun.
Answer: Aryabhatta

Question 4. Winter Solstice occurs on________.
Answer: 22nd December.

Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution 2 Marks Questions And Answers

Question l. Why do we not feel the Rotation of the Earth?
Answer:
We do not feel that the earth on which we live is constantly rotating. The reasons are

(1) There are no heavenly objects nearer to the earth, either stationary or moving opposite of the earth’s rotation by which we can compare the earth’s rotation.

(2) The rate of rotation is uniform and constant for each place on the earth’s surface.

WBBSE Class 9 Chapter 2 Geography

Question 2. What is Twilight and dawn?
Answer: Twilight The time at which the upper edge of the sun appears to sink below the apparent horizon of a place on the earth’s surface is called Twilight. Dawn. The period of receiving refracted and reflected sunlight before sunrise is called dawn.

Question 3. What are the effects of revolution of the globe?
Answer:
(1) Change of seasons
(2) Changes in the altitude of the midday sun at different times of the year,
(3) Inequality of the day and night.

Question 4. What is Dusk?
Answer: The short period of receiving reflected and refracted orange light after the sunset is called Dusk.

Question 5. Sun rises in the east and sets in the west – why?
Answer: Since in the earth rotates from west to east, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west.

Question 6. What is sidereal day?
Answer: The sidereal day is defined as one 365th of 24 hrs. 3mins 56 secs, shorter than a solar day.

Question 7. What is Coriolis effect?
Answer: Winds do not follow or move in a straight line rather it gets deflected. This deflection of winds caused due to the earth’s rotation is known as Coriolis force or Coriolis effect.

Question 8. What is the speed of the earth’s rotation at Equator and at Poles?
Answer: 1630 km/hr at Equator and 0 km/hr. at poles is the speed of earth’s rotation.

Question 9. Do all the places on the earth spin at the same rate?
Answer: The solid inner core – a mass of iron comparable to the size of the moon – spins faster than the outer portion of the iron core, which is liquid. A study in 1996 showed that over the previous century, the extra speed caused the inner core to gain a quarter-turn on the planet as a whole. So, the inner core makes a complete revolution in respect of the rest of Earth in about 400 years. Immense pressure keeps it solid.

Question 10. What is the circle of illumination or shadow circle?
Answer: While rotating, the surface of the earth facing the sun experiences day& the opposite side facing away from the sun, night. In between these two areas of day and night, where the boundary of light and boundary of darkness meet in a circle it is called the circle of illumination or shadow circle.

Question 11. Why speed of rotation is more at equator than arctic circle?
Answer: Equator forms the largest circle of the earth. North & south of it, the size of the circle of different latitudes become smaller. A point on equator or a point on arctic circle both take 24 hours to complete to a rotation. So the speed of rotation decreases from equator towards the poles.

WBBSE Class 9 Chapter 2 Geography

Question 12. What are the effects of rotation?
Answer:

The effects of rotation are :

(1) Formation of day And night
(2) Sunrise And Sunset
(3) Determination of time
(4) Deflection of planetary winds And ocean currents
(5) Formation of high tides And low tides And
(6) Origin of plants And animals.

Question 13. How fast does the earth spin?
Answer: The speed at which the earth spins varies upon latitudinal location on the planet. If you’re standing at the North pole, the speed is almost zero but at the equator, where the circumference of the earth is the greatest, the speed is about 1,038 miles per hour (1630km/ hr). The mid-latitudes of the U.S. and Europe speed along is 700 to 900 mph (1125 to 1450 km/hr).

Question 14. What is Equinox?
Answer:
Equinox: Meaning equal nights. At the equinoxes, days and nights are of equal length throughout the world.

Question 15. What is Aurora?
Answer: It is a natural light display, in the dark night sky (Latin word ‘aurora’ means ‘sunrise’), especially in high latitude (Arctic and Antarctic regions). It is caused by collision of Solar wind and charged particles in the high-altitude atmosphere (thermosphere). In Northern latitudes, it is known as Aurora Borealis and in Southern latitudes as Aurora Australis.

Question 16. What do you mean by Ellipse?
Answer: An ellipse is a curve on a plane surrounding two focal points such that a straight line drawn from one of the focal points to any point on the curve and then back to the other focal point has the same length for every point on the curve. It is a regular oval shape.

Question 17. What do you mean by Epicycles?
Answer: In the Ptolemaic system of Astronomy, the epicycle (literal meaning circle in Greek) was a geometric model used to explain the variations in speed and direction of the apparent motion of the moon, sun, and planets.

WBBSE Class 9 Chapter 2 Geography

Question 18. Write a note on Geocentric model.
Answer: In Astronomy, the geocentric model or egocentrism or the Ptolemaic system is a description of the cosmos where earth is at the orbital centre of all celestial bodies.

Question 19. Write a note on Heliocentric model.
Answer: Heliocentrism is the astronomical model in which the earth and the planets revolve around a relatively stationary sun at the centre of the Solar System. (Greek heiios is sun).

Question 20. What is Solstice?
Answer: ‘Solstice’ is derived from the Latin Sol (Sun) and sister (to stand still). At solstices, the sun stands still or comes to a stop in the seasonal movements of its path before reversing direction.

Question 21. What is subsolar point?
Answer: It is the point on a planet where the sun is perceived to be directly overhead that is where the sun’s rays are hitting the planet exactly perpendicular to its surface.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Question Answer WBBSE

Question 22. What is Tangential Speed?
Answer: Linear speed and tangential speed gives the same meaning for circular motion. The direction of motion is always tangent to the path of the object. Tangential speed of the object is linearly proportional to the distance from the center. Increase in distance results in increase in the amount of speed.

Question 23. Why rotation is known as diurnal movement of the Earth?
Answer: The rotation is called ‘diurnal motion’ of the earth as it causes formation of day and night. This diurnal movement is also known as ‘the daily movement of the earth’.

Question 24. What is Geodesy? State the exact dimensions of the earth.
Answer: Geodesy is the science which studies, determines, and measures the exact shape and dimensions of the earth
1. Equatorial diameter— 12,757 km.
2. Polar diameter —12,714 km.

Question 25. Why does not the sun rise and set at the same time everywhere in the world?
Answer: The inclination of the earth’s axis, together with its revolution around the sun, is the cause of the varying length of day and night and therefore, of sunrise and sunset times.

Question 26. What is the meaning of the word ‘tropic’?
Answer: The word tropic means ‘turning point. The solstices are the turning points in the apparent movement of the sun. After the solstices, the sun turns back to the equator.

Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution 2 Marks Questions And Answers (Short Notes)

Question 1. Land of Midnight Sun or Midnight Sun.
Answer: On 21st June the position of the earth is such that its north pole leans towards the sun. Hence, the vertical rays of the sun fall directly on the tropic of cancer. The region beyond the Arctic circle towards pole is popularly known as “Land of Midnight Sun”. The sun is visible even in Midnight from May 13 to July 29 in Hammerfest in Norway. Hence, Norway is called “the land of midnight Sun’.

Question 2. Leap year.
Answer: Normally a year is considered to be of 365 days, while the actual period of the Earth’s one revolution around the sun is 365 days and a little less than 6 hrs. (5hrs. 48 mins and 45.51 secs). It means we have to leave off about 6×4 = 24 hrs. or one day. So, we have a year of 366 days after every four years. Such one year is called a Leap year.

Class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Question Answer WBBSE

Question 3. Shadow Circle.
Answer: Due to the earth’s rotation days and nights are caused. At any time one – half of the earth’s surface receives light from the sun and the imaginary line that separates the lit-up half from the darkened half is called the Circle of Illumination or Shadow Circle. Each place of the surface of the earth is swept over twice by the shadow circle one at dawn and again at twilight.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Shadow Circle

Question 4. Ferrel’s law.
Answer: Wind does not blow straight from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure for the following reason :
The earth moves around its own axis from West to East but the rate of movement varies. The places on the equator move faster than the places which lie to the North or South of the equator. As a result, air moving on surface is subject to apparent deflection to the right in the Northern hemisphere and to the left in the Southern hemisphere. This is Ferret’s law. This apparent force called is the Coriolis force. The ocean currents also turn to the right in the Northern hemisphere and to the left in the Southern hemisphere.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Earth's Rotation On A Body Moving On Its Surface

Question 5.Summer Solstice.
Answer: In northern hemisphere, the rays of the sun vertically fall on Tropic of Cancer on June 21 when North pole leans towards the sun and the whole Northern hemisphere is tilted towards the sun at the North Pole, continuous daylight is visible for six months. Thus, in the Northern hemisphere, there is summer. Temperature is higher, days are longer and nights are shorter. This position of the earth is known as ‘Summer Solstice’ in Northern hemisphere.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Summer Solstice

Class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Question Answer WBBSE

Question 6. Autumnal Equinox.
Answer: Equinox means equal night and autumn means when there is autumn season in the Northern hemisphere and spring season in the Southern hemisphere. After June 21 (longest day in Northern hemisphere) the sun appears to be moving southwards and on September 23, while revolving round the sun the earth comes in such a position that the sun appears to be shining vertically on the equator (At this time neither of the poles is inclined towards the sun and both are equidistant from the sun). Thus, days and nights on this date (23 September) are equal in both the hemispheres. Because this time in Northern hemisphere, there is the autumn season, it is known as ‘autumnal equinox’.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Autumnal Equinox

Class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Question Answer WBBSE

Question 7. Winter Solstice.
Answer: On December 22, the sun is vertically overhead at noon on Tropic of Capricorn. At this position the South Pole and the Southern Hemisphere lean towards the sun’s rays. In the Southern hemisphere the days are longer and the nights are shorter. The reverse is the phenomena in the Northern hemisphere on this date. This is known as winter solstice.

WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Rotation -Revolution of Earth Winter Solstice

Question 8. Vernal Equinox.
Answer: The word ‘Equi’ means equal and ‘nox’ means night. While revolving round the sun, the position of the earth becomes such that the sun’s rays fall vertically upon the equator on March 21 and September 23. Thus, on these two days, days and nights are of equal duration. In the Northern hemisphere, the season of spring begins in the month of March, hence it is known as spring or vernal equinox.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Vernal Equinox

Question 9. Perihelion
Answer: The earth revolves around the sun in an elliptical path. But the sun is not in the center of this path. The distance between the sun and the earth varies with time. When the distance between the two is the shortest, it is said that the earth is in Perihelion (Greek word Peri means near and helion means sun). This position takes place on January 3rd when the distance between the two is about 147 million km.

Chapter 2 Geography Class 9 WBBSE

Question 10. Local Time.
Answer: Local Time: At any place when the sun is at the zenith (i.e. overhead) it is noon at that time and place. Thus, at that place, it is 12 noon, and accordingly the time is calculated. This is local time of that place. The sun’s position changes according to the change in longitude. Thus, the local time of all the places on the same longitude of meridian will be the same.

Question 11. Aphelion.
Answer: As the earth moves round the sun in an elliptical path, the distance between the sun and the earth vary with time. The average distance between the earth and the sun is 15 crore km. on about July 4, the distance between the sun and the earth is the farthest and it is about 15 crore 20 lakh km, on this date the earth is known to be in Aphelion.

Question 12. Kepler’s law of Planetary Motion: Johannes Kepler (1571-1630).
Answer: He was a German astronomer who supported the Copernican theory. He discovered that all planets have elliptical orbits. He was deeply religious and believed that the creator made an orderly universe. Armed with a good mathematical mind and great faith in the observational data of the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe, he derived, formulated and verified the three basic laws of planetary motion.

Question 13. Kepler’s Laws of Planetary Motion
Answer:
(1) The earth of each planet around the sun is an ellipse with the sun at one focus.
(2) The “area rule”: a planet covers equal areas of its orbit in equal periods of time.
(3) The period of revolution of a planet is proportional to its distance from the sun, i.e., it travels most rapidly when it is nearest the sun (from A to B) and most slowly when it is farthest from the sun (from C to D).

Question 14. Twilight.
Answer: The period between sunset and complete darkness is called twilight.

Cause :
Particles of dust and water vapor in the atmosphere refract and reflect the sunlight after the sun itself sets below the apparent horizon.

Duration :
Twilight of dusk at a place on the earth’s surface begins after sunset and continues till the center of the sun sinks below the horizon 18°. Twilight at the equator is the shortest as the sun sinks there in a vertical path. Twilight is longest at poles.

Question15. Dawn.
Answer: The period of receiving refracted and reflected sunlight before sunrise called dawn.

Chapter 2 Geography Class 9 WBBSE

Cause:

Dawn occurs due to particles and water vapour in the atmosphere are refract and reflected by the sunlight before the sun itself rises above the apparent horizon of a place on the earth’s surface.

Duration :

When the sun is within 18° of the horizon it is dawn. At the equator, its duration is 1 hour and 12 minutes. This duration goes on increasing towards the poles. At the poles this duration is 50 days long during 6 months alternating period of day and night.

Question16. Buy Ballot’s law.
Answer: C.H.D Buys Ballot was a Dutch climatologist who in 1857 gave as an interesting general rule for the relationship of wind to pressure, the Boys Ballot’s law states that “If a man stands with bis backto the wind in the Northern hemisphere, then high pressure will be to bis right and low pressure will be to bis left. In the Southern Hemisphere, the high pressure will be to bis left and low pressure to bis right”.

Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution 3 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. Why do the scientist make an expedition to Antarctica in the month of December? [M.E. -1992]
Answer:
Following are the causes for scientists to make expeditions in December to Antarctica –
(1) In the month of December the sun’s rays fall vertically on Tropic of Capri-corn. Hence, summer prevails in the southern hemisphere and therefore temperature is high causing in the melting of snow of the Antarctica.
(2) Due-to inclination of the earth’s axis towards the sun the southern hemisphere experiences day of the six-month duration. There is no night on the Antarctica.
Due to these reasons expeditions are made to the Antarctica in the month of December.

Chapter 2 Geography Class 9 WBBSE

Question 2. What are the differences between rotation and revolution?
Answer:

Revolution	Rotation
(1) In revolution, earth moves around the sun in its fixed orbit.	(1) In rotation, earth moves around on its own axis.
(2) The revolution speed is uniform all over the Earth.	(2) The rotational speed is not uniform all over the Earth.
(3) Time taken to complete one revolution is 365V4 days	(3) Time taken to complete one rotation is 24 hrs.
(4) It causes the apparent annual movement of the sun.	(4) It causes apparent daily movement of the sun.
(5) It causes variation in length of days and nights.	(5) It causes formation of days and nights.
(6) Idea of heat zones is formed due to it.	(6) Idea of time is formed due to it.

Question 3. Differentiate between Perihelion and Aphelion.
Answer:

Perihelion	Aphelion
(1) During this position the distance between the sun and the earth is minimum.	(1) During this position the distance between the sun and the earth is maximum.
(2) The distance between the sun and the earth is about 147 million km.	(2) The distance between the sun and the earth is about 152 million km.
(3) This occurs every year on 3rd Jan.	(3) This occurs every year on 4th July.
(4) This time the speed of the earth’s revolution is maximum.	(4) This time the speed of earth’s revolution is minimum.
(5) In this period the sun looks bigger in size.	(5) This period the sun looks smaller in size.
(6.The winter season and summer season is shorter in northern and southern hemisphere.	(6) The summer season and winter season are longer in Northern ane southern hemisphere.

Question 4. The poles experience 6 months day and 6 months of night. Why?
Answer: Due to the inclination of the earth on its axis from 22nd March to 22nd December the sun shines in the northern hemisphere So, the rays fall on the areas of circle and there is 6 months day in the North pole where as 6 months night at South pole.

On the other hand from 24th September to 20th march, the rays of sun fall on the southern hemisphere and the northern hemisphere remains in darkness. So, there is 6 months night at North pole and 6 months day at south pole 21st March and 23rd September is the day of Equinox i.e. equal days and nights.

Chapter 2 Geography Class 9 WBBSE

Question 5. What are the causes for the change of seasons?

Answer: Seasons are the climatic divisions of the year. The main causes for the change of seasons are –

(1) Inclination of the Earth’s Axis.
(2) Elliptical shape of the orbit of sun.
(3) Spherical shape of the Earth.
(4) Revolution of the Earth.
(5) Rotation of the Earth.
(6) Elliptical shape of the Earth’s Orbit.

Question 6. What is ‘Solar day’ and ‘Solar Year’?
Answer:
Solar day-
The time taken by the earth to complete one rotation is called solar day. The time taken is approx. 24 hrs or 23 hrs 56 mins and 4.09 secs.
Solar year –
The time taken by the earth to complete one revolution is called solar year. The time taken is approx. 365 ¼ days or 365 days 5 hrs 48 mins and 46 secs.

Question 7. A new day is added after four calendar years, why?
Answer: Normally a year is considered to be of 365 days, while the actual period of the Earth’s one revolution round the sun is 365 days and a little less than 6 hrs. (5hrs 48 mins and 45.51 secs). It means we have to leave off about 6×4 = 24 hrs. or one day So, we have a year of 366 days after every four years. Such one year is called a Leap year.

Question 8. What is Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis?
Answer: During the 6-month duration of night at the poles, sometimes in the night sky faint but colorful lights like a rainbow is seen. Auroras are glows of light, hundreds of kilometers above the earth’s surface in the atmosphere, are pulled down towards the earth’s magnetic poles. During this pulling collision between the tiny particles occurs resulting in flashes of light. In the south pole it is known as Aurora. Australis and in the north pole it is called Aurora Borealis.

WB class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Questions And Answers

Question 9. What are the effects of inclination of earth’s axis?
Answer: The earth’s axis is inclined at an angle of 66(½)° to the plane of the orbit and 23(½)° to the vertical plane, it causes these effects

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Inclination Of Earth's Axis

(1)Revolution of the earth on its elliptical orbit.
(2)Variation in lengths of days and nights.
(3)Thermal variation.
(4)Change of seasons.
(5)Change of apparent position of the sun.

Question 10. Why are leap years necessary?
Answer: The exact length of a year is 365 days 5 hrs 48 mins and 46 secs. Since the difference between the actual length of the year and 365 days is nearly 6 hrs which is ¼th day, adding an extra day to February every 4 years.
(1)Keeps the calendar accurate.
(2)Enables the seasons to recur at the same date each year.

Question 11. Equator is almost devoid of seasons – why?
Answer: Equator is located at the middle of the Earth. It receives vertical sun light almost every day throughout the year. So, the range of temperature is almost 2°- 3°C. Daily temperature variation between days and nights are also negligible. High temperature with regular rainfall at afternoon known as – “4 O’clock rain’ is the most striking feature of equatorial region. As the day receives light it is heated and that heat is released at night. So, this results in equal temperature and devoid of seasons.

WB class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Questions And Answers

Question 12. What do you understand by apparent daily movement of the sun?
Answer: We see that the sun rises in the East and sets in the West. This is the sun’s apparent daily movement caused by the rotation of the earth from West to East.

WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Apparent daily movement of the sun

Question 13. What are meant by Perihelion and Aphelion?
Answer: The orbit (path of revolution) of the earth is not circular but elliptical and the sun is not in the center of this ellipse. Thus, when the sun is farthest from the earth (15 crore 20 lakh km.) it is known as Aphelion (ap = away and helios = sun). This position comes on July 4. When the sun is nearest to the earth (14 crore 70 lakh km) it is known as Perihelion (peri = close and helios = sun). This occurs on January 3.

WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Rotation -Perihelion and Aphelion

Question 14. What do you understand by the rotation and revolution of the earth?
Answer:

Rotation: The earth rotates on its own axis from West to East. In this way the part of the earth facing the sun experiences day and the opposite part night. This is called the ‘rotation’ of the earth

WB class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Questions And Answers

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Roation

Revolution: Rotating on its axis, the earth revolves around the sun in an elliptical path, in 365 ¼ of days. This is called the revolution of the earth.

WBBSE Solutions for Class 9 Geography and Environment Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Rotation -Revolution of Earth

Question 15. State the differences between summer solstice and winter solstice. (S.Question)
Answer:

Summer Solstice	Winter Solstice
(1) The position of 21^st June is called summer solstice.	(1) The Position of 22nd December is called Winter solstice.
(2) The sun’s rays fall vertically on the Tropic of Cancer at this position.	(2) The sun’s rays fall vertically on the tropic of Capricorn at this position.
(3) The Northern hemisphere leans towards the sun.	(3) The Southern hemisphere leans towards the sun.
(4) These is summer season in Northern Hemisphere and winter season in Southern Hemisphere.	(4) These is the winter season in Northern Hemisphere and summer season in Southern.

Question 16. Why the Australians celebrate the X-mas in the summer?
Answer: Australia is situated in the Southen hemisphere. When we have our winter months, then the people of Southern hemisphere have the summer months. But Xmas is fixed all over the world. So, the people of Australia or Southern hemisphere celebrate X-mas in summer as 25th December is fixed as X-mas day all over the world.

WB class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Questions And Answers

Question 17. How day and night are caused?
Answer: The Days and Nights are caused by the rotation of the earth. The earth rotates from West to East. As the earth is a sphere, only half of it facing the sun receives sunrays. The other half remains dark. As a result, days occur in the lightened-half of the earth and night in the darkened half of it.

Question 18. What are the causes of the change of seasons?
Answer: The change of seasons is caused due to the changes of the earth’s position in course of its revolution around the sun and due to the inclination of its axis. Thus, seasons are caused by
(1)the revolution of the earth round the Sun.
(2) the inclination of the earth’s axis at an angle of 66° to the plane of orbit.
(3) the parallelism of the earth’s axis throughout its all positions at the plane of its orbit. Seasons would not have occurred if the axis of the earth had remained perpendicular to the plane.

Question 19. Why is 23rd September called Autumnal Equinox?
Answer: On 23rd September, the earth comes up at such a position that the sun appears vertically overhead on the equator and neither the North pole nor the South pole is inclined towards the sun. The North and South pole remain equidistant from the sun. Therefore, the days and nights are equal all over the earth. So, the position of the earth on 23rd September is known as Autumnal Equinox.

Question 20. Describe in brief the effects of revolution of the earth.
Answer:
The effects of the revolution of the earth are

(1) Inequality of day and night:

Variation in the length of days and nights occurs (due to the inclination of earth’s axis on its orbit at an angle of 66 (½)° at different times of the year in accordance with the position of the earth vis-a-vis the sun.

(2)Change of seasons:

The seasons (winter, spring, summer and autumn) change from one to another due to the revolution of the earth. They change due to special positions of the earth in relation to the sun and the transition from one to the other follows the movement of the earth round the sun.

Class Ix Geography Book WBBSE

(3) Heat zones and latitudes on the earth:

The latitudes and heat zones are also found as a result of the revolution. At different times of the year, the rays of the sun strike the earth at different points and these points have led the geographers to arrive at the positions of the Equator, Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, Arctic and Antarctic Circles. Determination of these lines automatically leads one to divide the earth into different heat zones on the basis of temperature.

Question 21. There is no season at the equator— Why?
Answer: The equator is Stretching our the middle part of the earth. The sun shines here vertically round the year. So the region gets vertical rays of the sun round the year and the range of temperature between the summer and the winter is very low only 2° — 3°C. The range of temperature between days and night is also very low. High temperature with regular rainfall in the afternoon is the feature of the equatorial region. That is why it is said that there is no season at the equator.

Question 22. Why we don’t feel the rotation of the Earth? Give reasons.
Answer: We do not feel that the earth on which we live is constantly rotating. The reasons are—
(1) There are not heavenly objects nearer to the earth, either stationary or moving opposite of the earth’s rotation by which we can compare the earth’s rotation,
(2) The rate of rotation is uniform and constant for each place on the earth’s surface,
(3) The atmosphere also rotates with the earth uniformly.

Question 23. Why is 21st March important in geography?
Answer: As the Earth further continues to revolve, the Sun appears to move northwards and on 21st March it again appears just vertically overhead on the equator at noon. The north and the south poles remain equidistant from the Sun. The Sun’s rays fall vertically on the equator. All places on the Earth have equal days and nights. It is spring (after the winter) in northern hemisphere and Autumn (after the summer) in southern hemisphere. This position of the Earth on 21st March is known as Vernal Equinox.

Class ix Geography Book WBBSE Chapter 2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution 5 Marks Questions And Answers

Question 1. Explain the causes of change of seasons.

Answer:

Causes:
The change of seasons is caused due to –
(1) Revolution of the Earth around the sun
(2) Elliptical Orbit of the sun
(3) Inclination of the Earth’s axis at an angle of 66(½)° to the plane of its orbit.

(1)Summer Solstice:

In Northern hemisphere, the rays of the sun vertically fall on Tropic of Cancer on June 21 when the North pole leans towards the sun and the whole Northern hemisphere is tilted towards the sun at the North Pole, continuous daylight is visible for six months. Thus, in Northern hemisphere there is summer. Temperature is higher, days are longer and nights are shorter. This position of the earth is known as ‘Summer Solstice’ in Northern hemisphere.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Summer Solstice

(2)Winter Solstice:

On December 22, the sun is vertically overhead at noon on Tropic of Capricorn. At this position, the South Pole and the Southern Hemisphere lean towards the sun’s rays. In the Southern hemisphere, the days are longer and the nights are shorter. The reverse is the phenomena in the Northern hemisphere on this date. This is known as winter solstice.

(3)Equinox:

The word Equinox means Equal night. On 21st March And 23rd September, the length of days and night are equal. There are two Equinox –

(1) Vernal Equinox:

– While revolving round the sun, the position of the earth becomes such that the sun’s rays fall vertically upon the equator on March 21 and September 23. Thus, on these two days, days and nights are of equal duration. in the Northern hemisphere, the season of spring begins in the month of March (i.e, after winter ends) hence it is known as spring or vernal equinox.

Class Ix Geography Book WBBSE

(2) Autumnal Equinox:

Equinox means equal night and autumn means when there is autumn season in the Northern hemisphere and spring season in the Southern hemisphere. After June 21 (longest day in Northern hemisphere) the sun appears to be moving southwards and on September 23, while revolving round the sun the earth comes in such a position that the sun appears to be shining vertically on the equator (At this time neither of the poles is inclined towards the sun and both are equidistant from the sun). Thus, days and nights on this date (23 September) are equal in both the hemispheres. Because this time in Northern hemisphere, there is the autumn season (i.e, after Summer ends), it is known as ‘autumnal equinox’.

Question 2. What is Earth’s rotation? State three proofs in support of Earth’s Rotation.
Answer:

Rotation:
The spinning of the earth on its own inclined axis in its fixed orbit is called Rotation.

Proofs: The three proofs in support of Earth’s Rotation are :-

(1) Foucault’s pendulum Experiment:
Jean Bernard Leon Foucault, the famous French scientist gave an excellent proof of the earth’s rotation. Foucault suspended a cannonball (28kg) from the dome of the pantheon in Paris, using a slender wire about 61m. long. A pin was attached to the bottom of the weight so that it could touch a heap of sand lying below. He then made it swing to and for just above a circle of sand spread over the ground on which it could draw lines while swinging in the north-south direction. As the time passed the pendulum was seen oscillating in a line different from what it was tracing at the outset. This showed that the earth was slowly turning below it. The lines showed that the earth was turning from west to east as it rotates round the axis.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Foucault's Pendulum Experiment

(2) East – wast movement of the sun:
Since the earth rotates from west to east, we seen the sun rising in the east and setting in the west. Not only the sun, but all the heavenly bodies in the sky seem to move from east to west every day.

Class Ix Geography Book WBBSE

(3) Drop of stone from a high tower:
When the air has no movement if a stone is dropped from a very high tower it falls slight to the east than the vertically. It proves that earth has a movement i.e. rotation.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Stone From A High Tower

Question 3. Explain the process of deflection of planetary winds due to earth’s rotation.
Answer: Explanation for deflection of planetary winds: The rotation of the spherical-shaped earth from west to the east once in 24 hours results in the deflection of its planetary winds, i.e. latitudinal winds. All points on the earth’s surface make one resolution in 24 hours. A point on the equator moves eastward at a greater velocity than a point on any higher latitude, say arctic circle or Antarctic circle, because the equator is longer than any of these circles.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Planetary Winds

A mass of air on parallel of the latitude say 66 (½)° N. (i.e., arctic circle) will have an east-ward speed equal to that of the parallel. If this mass of air moves towards the equator it will cross over parallels whose eastward speeds increase with decreasing latitudes. If we want to show the path of the mass of air with the dots, it appears as a curve which bends to the right (from the starting point in the northern hemisphere) of the path from it would have taken, should the earth not rotate. If a similar air mass had moved from a high latitude to a low latitude in the southern hemisphere its path of movement would appear as curve to the left of the path it would have taken, should the earth not rotate.

Because of rotation, the path of any moving objects over the earth tends to veer from a straight line. This tendency of deflection is known as the Coriolis Effect or the Coriolis Force named after the nineteenth-century French mathematician and engineer Gaspard Gustave de Coriolis who first described it in 1835. The concept was developed by W. Ferrell in 1855. The Coriolis Effect or Force is also stated as Ferrell’s Law.

Ferrell’s Law states that winds and ocean currents moving poleward or equatorward over the earth’s surface is deflected, owing to the earth’s rotation, to the right in the northern hemisphere and to the left in the southern hemisphere.

Question 4. Explain the effects of earth’s rotation.
Answer: The major effects of earth’s rotation are –

(1)Formation of Days And Nights:
The earth rotates around its own axis from west to east in 24hrs. So when a particular side comes in front of sun it experiences daytime

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Formation Of Days And Nights .

(2) Apparent daily movement of the sun:
The apparent movement of the sun and the stars round the earth from east to west. Every day is also the result of the rotation of the earth.

(3) Sense of time:
The earth takes a full day i.e. 24 hrs. to complete one rotation. We divide the hours into 60 mins. And a minute into 60 secs. Thus we get the idea of calculating time.

Class 9 Geography Solution WBBSE

(4) Difference of time:
Due to the rotation of the earth, different places on it have different local time.

(5) Deflection of planetary winds:
Due to the rotation of the earth the planetary winds do not move in a straight line but get deflected to the right in the northern hemisphere and to the left in the southern hemisphere. This is known as ‘Ferrell’s Law’.

WBBSE Solutions For Class 9 Geography And Environment Chapter-2 Movement Of The Earth Rotation And Revolution Wind And Ocean Currents Deflect

(6) Distribution of temperature:
As a result of rotation of the earth the distribution of temperature on the earth’s surface is not the same.

(7) Others: Other important effects are
(1) Formation of Tides
(2) Determination of Direction
(3) Shape of the Earth
(4) Determination of longitude
(5) Variation of Daily Temperature etc.

Question 5. Give at least three proofs supporting the annual motion of the Earth.
Answer:

It can be proved by the following examples that earth has annual motion i.e. Revolution –

(1) Observation of stars:

While observing some specific stars in the night sky, it is seen that they rise every day a little to the west of their previous position and after some days they disappear. Instead of these stars, later different stars are seen in the night sky and gradually they also disappear until after an year these stars again rise in their previous position. This proves that while revolving around the sun the earth comes back to its previous position in the orbit after one year.

Class 9 Geography Solution WBBSE

(2) The Apparent change in sun’s position:

There is an apparent annual movement of the sun in the sky because of the Earth’s Revolution. On 21st March and 23rd September the sun rises right in the east and sets in the west. But during the rest of the year it rises and sets a little to the north or to the south. If the earth rotates at the same sunset would be right in the west.

(3) Observation of Other Planets:

With a powerful telescope it can be seen that other planets of the solar system Mercury, Mass, Venus, Jupiter etc. revolve around the sun. Earth being another planet in solar system, it is natural for it too, to revolve around the sun.

Question6. What are the effect of revolution?
Answer:
Some effects of revolution are

(1) Variation in length of days and nights:

Except the equatorial region, the rest of the earth experiences varying length of days and nights at different times of the year i.e. sometimes the days are longer than nights or the days are shorter than nights. This is caused due to the revolution of the earth and the spherical shape of the earth.

(2) Change of seasons:

There are four main seasons in a year namely – spring, summer, autumn and winter. These seasons are changed periodically due to the earth’s revolution.

(3) Idea of leap year:

Earth takes 365 days and a little less than 6 hrs. to complete its one revolution. This 6 hrs. is left in every year and hence we have 6×4 = 24 hrs or 1 day at every 4th year. This 1 day is added in every 4th year. This year is known as Leap year.

(4) Apparent Annual Movement of the sun:

To us on the earth, it appears as if it is the sun that moves between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Tropic of Cancer for six months northward. It is called Uttarayan. Similarly for six months journey of the sun (from June to December) towards south is known as
Dakshinayan.

(5) Idea of latitudes And heat zones:

As a result of the earth’s revolution, the sun’s rays strike on the earth’s surface at different parts on different times of the year. This give us Idea of Equator, Tropic of Cancer, Tropic Capricorn etc. as well as heat zones of the earth.

Class 9 Geography Solution WBBSE

Question 7. What are the causes leading to variation in length of days and nights?
Answer:
Except the Equator days and nights are not equal on all the places of the earth. Surch variation in the length of days and nights is caused by

(1) Spherical shape of the earth,
(2) Rotation and revolution of the earth,
(3) Elliptical shape of the earth’s orbit,
(4) Tilling of the earth’s axis at 66 (½)°to the orbital plane and
(5) parallelism of the earth’s axis. As the earth is tilled on its axis, it means that in one part of the year earth is tilled towards the sun and in another part away from the sun. As a result different places on earth receive different amounts of sunshine at different times of the year. Above reasons are responsible for varying lengths of days and nights which has been discussed below.

(1) 21st June :

On June 21 the northern hemisphere is tipped towards the sun. From March 22 to September 22, days are longer and nights are Shorter in the norther hemisphere having the longest day and shortest night on June 21 every year. The reverse condition in the southern hemisphere having the longest night and shortest day on June 21 every year. This is because the rays of the sun fall vertically at the Tropic of Cancer [23(½)°N ]

(2) 23rd September and 21st March :

On September 23 and March 21 the earth is so located on these two dates that the subsolar points lie on the equator. The shadow circle passes through both the poles and coinsides with meridian. Thus these phenomena cause day and night equal all over the earth on these two dates 23rd September and 21st March.

(3) 22nd December :

On December 22 the subpolar points arrives at the tropic of Capricorn [23(½)°S]. The south pole is inclined towards the sun and the north pole is away from it. The rays of the sun fall vertically on the 23(½)°s latitude. From September 23 to December 21 days are longer and nights are shorter in the Southern hemisphere having the longest day and shortest night on December 22 every year. The reverse conditions prevail in the northern hemisphere. These phenomena cause the longest night and shortest day on December 22.

Question8. Write a note on Uttarayan And Dakshinayan.
Answer:
The sun does not move; the Earth moves. But to us on the Earth, it appears as if it is the sun that moves between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. This means that all latitudes between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn have the sun vertically overhead at least once between June and December and once again between December and June. Therefore, places between the tropics have the sun overhead twice a year. Places beyond the two tropics have the sun directly overhead only once a year.

(1) Northward apparent migration (Uttarayan):

For six months of a year, the sun appears to be moving north. This northward migration begins after December 22 and is completed on June 21, when the sun is directly overhead 23(½)°N latitude (Tropic of Cancer). The last day of northward migration of the sun is 21 June and this day is known as day of Uttarayan and last time limit of northward movement of the sun is 23 (½)°N latitude.

Class 9 Geography Solution WBBSE

(2) Southward apparent migration (Dakshinayan) :

For six months of the year, the sun appears to be moving south. This southward migration begins after June 21 and is completed on December 22, when sun is directly overhead at 23 (½)°of latitude (Tropic of Capricorn), The last day of southward migration of the sun is 22nd December, and this day is known as the day of Dakshinayan and last limite of the southward movement of the sun is Tropic of Capricorn or 23 (½)°s • This Northward and Southward migration of the sun is known as Rabimarg.

Question 9. State the Salient features of Earth’s Rotation.
Answer: Salient features of the Earth’s Rotation are :

(1) Direction of Rotation :

If we look down upon the Earth (Globe) from outside, the Earth is found to rotate from West to East or in an anticlockwise direction. Since the Earth rotates in a West-east direction, we see the sun rising every day in the east and setting in the west.

(2)Axis:

(1) Rotation is the turning around of the Earth on its axis, from west to east.

(2) The axis is the imaginary line passing through the centre of the Earth on which the Earth rotates.

(3) The Earth spins west to east around its axis once in 24 hours.

(4) The North Pole and the South Pole lie at the ends of the axis.

(5) The earth’s axis is not vertical. It makes an angle of 66 (½)° Earth’s orbit.

(6) The Earth’s axis always remains pointed in the same direction (towards the Pole star) as the Earth journeys around the sun.

(7) The tilt of the Earth’s axis is also known as the inclination of the Earth’s axis.

(3) The Speed of Rotation :

Being spherical in shape the surface speed of rotation of the earth is variable. It is highest at the equator, gradually diminishing towards north and south and become zero at the poles. The surface speed at the equator (0°) is 1630 km/hr.

WBBSE Class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Notes

Question10. Give a brief account of different experiments and the Earth’s motion in ancient times.
Answer:

(1)Ancient Times :

Though lacking in the technological advances of today as well as the scientific knowledge which scientists enjoy today, ancient astronomers and mathematicians did not let this deter them from making sense of the beauty of the night sky. Armed with the limited mathematics of the day, namely geometry and trigonometry, as well as the desire to describe the movements of the celestial objects, early astronomers and mathematicians laid the foundations to explain planetary motion.

Eudoxas [409-356 BC] :

Eudoxas is credited with being the first person to create a model of our solar system. His geocentric model placed our earth at the center of the known universe. Other known objects the sun, the moon, five planets, and the stars rotated around the earth on a series of 27 concentric sphere moving at different speeds and inclinations.

Aristarchus [310-230 BC]:

The contributions of Aristarchus are significant. Aristarchus is considered to be the first person in recorded history to suggest the idea of a heliocentric solar system in which the earth was not the center.

Claudius Ptolemy [85-165 AD]:

Ptolemy is most associated with the geocentric model of our solar system. Ptolemy used the idea of epicycles (the orbital paths of the celestial objects) and deferants (the orbital paths of the epicycles) to account for the retrograde motion of the planets.

(2) Middle Ages :

Models of planetary and celestial motion remained relatively unchanged throughout the Middle Ages. Most of the astronomers and mathematicians who made contributions did so in the form of simply altering the Ptolemaic model, rather than transforming it completely.

(3) Renaissance :

Birth of Modern Astronomy: The renaissance period is just one of many steps in the natural progression of humankind. It is in this period where many topics, such as art, politics, religion, etc., received a newfound interest. The change from the geocentric view to the heliocentric view of the solar system did not happen overnight. The most important people involved in this transition were Nicolaus Copernicus, Johannes Kepler, Galileo Galilei, and Sir Isaac Newton.

Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543) :

He was a polish astronomer. With him began the age of modern astronomy. Copernicus became acquainted with the idea of the Greek philosopher Aristarchus that the Earth and the other planets revolved around the sun. He became convinced of the correctness of the theory. He constructed the Solar System with the sun at its center and Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn orbiting it. Copernicus proposed that the Earth rotates, which better explained the daily motions of the heavens.

WBBSE Class 9 Geography Chapter 2 Notes

Tycho Brahe (1546-1601) :

He held the view that the son and moon revolved around the earth while everything else revolved round the sun.

Galileo Galilei (4564-1642) :

His work relating to Jupiter and its satellites helped greatly to form his opinions on planetary motion. While observing Jupiter with newly invented telescope. He noticed four small stars near the giant planet. After months of observations, he determined the “small stars” must be orbiting Jupiter. He thus disapproved the idea everything in the universe revolved around the earth.

(4) Giordano Bruno:

One of Copernicus’s followers, Giordano Bruno was burned at the stake for refusing to denounce the Copernican theory.

(5) Johannes Kepler (1571-1630) :

He was a German astronomer who supported the Copernican theory. He discovered that all planets have elliptical orbits. He was deeply religious and believed that the creator made an orderly uni¬verse. Armed with a good mathematical mind and great faith in the observational data of the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe, he derived, formulated, and verified the three basic laws of planetary motion.

Kepler’s Laws of Planetary Motion :

(1) The path of each planet around the sun is an ellipse with the sun at one focus.

(2) The “area rule”: a planet covers equal areas of its orbit in equal periods of time.

(3) The period of revolution of a planet is proportional to its distance from the sun, i.e., it travels most rapidly when it is nearest the sun and most slowly when it is farthest from the sun.