WB 9TH SST 

WBBSE 9th Class Social Science Solutions Geography & Environment Chapter 7 Resources of India

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WBBSE 9th Class Social Science Solutions Geography & Environment Chapter 7 Resources of India

West Bengal Board 9th Class Social Science Solutions Geography & Environment Chapter 7 Resources of India

WBBSE 9th Class Geography & Environment Solutions

Salient points – At a Glance

  1. According to Zimmerman (1957), a famous resource specialist, “Resource does not mean any object or matter, it is actually its function and process which makes that object or matter beneficial to man by fulfilling his demand.” In other words, the utility or function of any object or matter which is capable of meeting any demand is a resource. Thus ‘Resource is a medium through which a demand is fulfilled, be it an individual or a social demand.
  2. Resources which are available in nature in limited quantities and diminish in continual process of utilisation and cannot be replaced after being utilised are called non-renewable or fund or exhaustible resources.
  3. Resources which are easily available in nature and can be used without being depleted, are called renewable or inexhaustible resources. For examplesunlight, wind, sea-waves etc.
  4. The resources that are rare and are available only in one place of the Earth are called uniquities or unique resources.
  5. There are three resource creating factors-nature, man and culture.
  6. Materials which are available in nature and are of no use are called neutral stuff.
  7. The phenomena which cause harm to man by hampering the growth of resources are called resistance barriers. Example-illiteracy; bigotry; natural hazards like flood, storms, etc.
  8. The process by which waste materials are converted into new resources is called recycling. For example, broken or damaged iron, aluminium objects are transformed into new materials by melting in factories.
  9. Iron ore is a non-renewable or exhaustable resource.
  10. Superior quality of iron ore is magnetite (72% iron) and inferior quality of iron ore is siderite (48% iron).
  11. The main basis of all industries are iron and steel industry.
  12. Most of the deposited iron in India are of hematite type.
  13. According to recent statistical data of Indian Bureau of Mines, Odisha is the largest iron ore producing state in India.
  14. Coal is also known as black diamond as it has multiple uses and importances.
  15. Anthracite is the best quality coal that contain 85%-95% of carbon.
  16. Raniganj in West Bengal is the oldest coalfield of India and Neyveli in Tamil Nadu is the largest lignite coalfield of India.
  17. Coal and petroleum are found in the sedimentary rock strata.

TOPIC – A

Concept of Resource

Long Answer Type Questions

1. What do you understand by resource?
Ans. Concept of resource: Resource is a word that is frequently used to express something.
Previous concept: In the early period, only natural products like iron ore, coal, petroleum were considered as resource.
Zimmerman’s concept: According to Zimmerman (1957), a famous resource specialist, “Resource does not mean any object or matter, it is actually its function and process which makes that object or matter beneficial to man by fulfilling his demand.” In other words, the utility or function of any object or matter which is capable of meeting any demand is a resource. Thus ‘Resource is medium through which a demand is fulfilled, be it an individual or a social demand.
Present concept: Nowadays, resource is defined as something from which a benefit is produced and that has some utility. A tangible or intangible thing or substance that fulfills the personal and social needs of human beings by its function is called resource.
Example-1 Presence of coal is not considered as resource, but the utility and functionality of coal in relation to human demand is considered as resource. 2 Unused land is not a resource. The land will be considered as resource when different types of crops (rice, wheat, etc.) are cultivated. 3 Coal, iron ore, land are tangible substances because these have physical existence but, substances like knowledge, education, intellect, social harmony, etc. are intangible because these do not have any physical existence. Therefore, these are nonmaterial resources which have function and utility.
Earth Summit concept: Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992 defined resource as anything which may have some functions that not only satisfies human needs at a given end but also ensures the conservation of biosphere.
Example-Coal is used for its heat and light after being taken out of the mines and then it is called a resource. At the same time, it has to be seen that the fume emanating from using coal does not pollute the environment.
2. Give an account of different types of resources in India. Or, ‘India is a resource-rich country. Explain.
Ans. Different types of resources in India: There are a variety of resources in India. They are as follows-
  1. Land resources: (1) The total area of India is about 32 lakhs 87 thousand sq. kms. (2) India has the largest agricultural land among the Asian countries and the largest irrigated area in the world.
  2. Water resources: (1) India is a land of rivers. Rivers like the Ganga, Indus, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri etc. with their large water content flow through India. (2) These rivers play an important role in areas of hydroelectric power production, water transport, supply of drinking water and irrigation water, deposition of fertile silt etc. (3) In spite of the fact that groundwater reserves are limited in amount, they are being utilised for drinking as well as irrigation purposes.
  3. Forest resources: (1) Forests cover about 21.05 percent of the total geographical area of India (India State Forest Report, 2011), (2) Valuable timber and other by- lucts re obtained from these forests.
  4. Animal resources: (1) India is rich in biodiversity, especially in fauna (animal life). In terms of domestic animals and cattle, like goats, sheep, cows, buffaloes, yaks, etc. India ranks first in the world. (2) Huge quantities of milk and milk products, meat, hides and skins, eggs etc. are produced from these goats, sheep, pigs, poultry (ducks and hens) etc.
  5. Fish resources: In India fish is caught both from inland fresh-water rivers, lakes and ponds as well as from saline waters of the oceans (from the continental shelves of the oceans). India ranks sixth in fish production the world and second in the production of inland fisheries.
  6. Agricultural resources: (1) Since India is an agricultural country, large quantities of paddy, wheat, sugarcane, cotton, jute, oilseeds etc. are cultivated in the fertile plains and river valleys. (2) Besides, large quantities of tea, coffee, rubber, coconut, different types of spices, fruits and vegetables are also produced here.
  7. Mineral resource: (1) India is rich in resources such as coal, iron ore, bauxite, manganese, limestone etc. mica, (2) However, petroleum is scare in India.
  8. Industrial resources: India is quite developed in industries like cotton-textile, iron and steel, sugar, engineering, tea, jute, information technology, jewellery etc.
  9. Human resources: (1) India has the second largest population in the world after China. Hence, India has strong labour force. (2) The world’s largest productive population (young population) is in India.
From the above discussion it can be concluded that India is a resource-rich country.
3. What is the need for conserving resources? Give an account of the measures taken to conserve resources.
Ans. Need for conserving resources:
  1. The ecological balance is maintained by conserving resources.
  2. Natural growth is preserved in the case of biological or biotic resources.
  3. Resources are retained to be used for the next generation (as a result of sustainable development of resources).
  4. Economic growth is accelerated.
  5. In some cases, resource conservation may also come into our aid during disaster management.
Measures taken to conserve resources:
  1. To increase the longevity of conventional resources like coal, mineral oil by using renewable and non-conventional resources like solar power, wind energy etc.,
  2. to curb wastage of resources by application of proper technology,
  3. to increase awareness and change man’s perception, for example, use of steel instead of wood in furniture-making (forests can be preserved in this way),
  4. to enhance the functional capacity of resources, for example, development of a multi-purpose river valley project can be encouraged by building more dams across rivers,
  5. re-using and recycling resource. For example, used and damaged aluminium utensils can be melted to manufacture new utensils,
  6. to collect resources by using scientific methods,
  7. to conserve resources by implementing government policies,
  8. to protect resources from being damaged by natural disasters,
  9. to control population growth worldwide, so that demand for resources is reduced.

Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

1. Describe the functional theory of resources.
Ans. Resources are very important to mankind. Resource does not refer to a thing or substance, resource is the utility and functionality of a thing or a substance that satisfies human needs. Ability to satisfy the personal and social needs of human beings is known as utility and i.e. resource. For example, existance of coal beneath the Earth’s surface is not considered as a resource, ability of energy generation is the functionality of coal through which man statisfies their own needs. Therefore, functionality of coal is a resource. Similarly, land is not considered as a resource, but the fertility and function of the land is a resource.
Intangible things or substances are also considered as resources. For this, knowledge, intellect, education, social harmony, etc. are also considered as resources, because these have functionality which fulfil the human needs. Thus, functionality is the main criteria or characteristic of a resource.
2. What are controlling factors of the resources?
Ans. The controlling factors of resources are-
  1. Culture: Cultural development bring changes to the functionality of the resources. In this way, neutral-stuff is turned into resource.
  2. Place and time: The utility of an object changes with the changing place and course of time. For example, in the early period radioactive material was considered as a barrier in the course of development but at present this is used to generate power in developed countries.
  3. Technology: Technology or mechanical efficiency has increased the functionality of a resource. Demand, population etc. are also important to control the functionality of a resource.
3. What are the factors responsible for creating resources?
Ans. There are 3 main factors responsible for creating resources-E.g., 1. Nature, 2. Man, 3. Culture.
  1. Nature: Nature acts as a resource creating factor in two ways- (1) by providing all the materials and (2) by providing the environment to create resource.
  2. Man: Resource is created for the man and by the man. Man plays dual role in course of resource creation and consumption. Man is the most important resource creating factor.
  3. Culture: Culture plays an important role as a resource creating factor. Culture is the combined product of man and nature.
They play important roles in creating resources either individually or in a combined manner. For example-in early times, coal was found lying idle in nature as a natural stuff. Later, man with his ingenuity and cultural advance learnt to encavate coal from beneath the earth’s surface and started to put it into use for his own benefit. Thus, in this care, nature, man and culture have all played their roles in a combined way.
4. What is meant by natural or physical, human and cultural barrier obstacle?
Or, What are the natural, human and cultural resistance? 
Ans. The phenomena which cause harm to man by hampering the growth of resources, are called barrier or resistance. They are-
  1. Natural barrier/Natural resistance: When a natural or physical phenomenon acts as a barrier in the creation of resource, it is called natural barrier or natural resistance. For example, severe storm, thunderstorm, cyclone, flood etc.
  2. Human barrier/Human resistance: When human activities interfere with the creation of resources it is called human barrier or human resistance. E.g., war, scarce population, over population.
  3. Cultural barrier/Cultural resistance: When any cultural factor acts as a barrier for creating resources, it is called a cultural barrier or cultural resistance. E.g., religious fanaticism, superstition, etc.”
5. How does man hinder the creation and development of resources?
Ans. Demand is the sole factor for creation of resource for man. Man himself creates resources to be used for his own benefits. Again, man himself acts as a hindering factor for creating and developing resources to satisfy his needs. Some human activities that impede the creation of resources are as follows-
  1. Over-exploitation of resources: Overexploitation and over-usage of resources have led to permanent depletion of resources.
  2. Deforestation: There is a constant and indiscriminate destruction of forests (deforestation) which results from man’s greed and self-centredness.
  3. Unscientific way of farming: Soil is polluted and the fertility is also decreased as a result of unscientific farming.
  4. Social problems: Huge quantities of resources are being destroyed in many parts of the world as a result of warfare, revolts, riots etc.
Thus, man not only creates resources out is also responsible for destroying them.
6. ‘Man is sometimes responsible for sible for destroying resources.’ Explain.
Ans. Man not only creates resource, but also destroys it. For example- (1) Forests are lost due to indiscriminate felling of trees, thereby causing irreversible damage to the ecosystem. (2) Fertility of the land is diminished as a result of unscientific agricultural practices. (3) Quantities of fish are reduced as result of excessive and unscientific methods of fishing. (4) Resources are destroyed as a result of warfare, riots. (5) Pollution of water, land and wind is caused as a result of excessive use of fossil fuels.
7. Why is the use of conventional sources of energy reducing day by day in modern times? 
Ans. The reasons for the decreasing- use of conventional sources of energy are-
  1. Depletion: Various sources of conventional energy like coal, mineral oil etc, have already diminished due to overexploitation.
  2. Pollution: Except hydroelectric power, all other conventional sources of energy lead to pollution.
  3. Expensive: Conventional sources of energy are more expensive.
8. ‘Man is both the creator and destroyer of resource. Explain.
Ans. Man creates resource. All the resources (except natural resource) used by man is created by him. He uses and benefits from these resources which he creates using his intellect, knowledge, technical skill etc.
On the other hand, man is a destroyer of resource. Some resources are depleted after over-exploitation and excessive use by man. Resources are lost as a result of man’s ignorance and never-ending greed. Riots and warfare also damage resources. Prof Zimmerman has called it a ‘dual role of man’.
9. Why population is called a resource?
Ans. Population is considered to be resource if it possess relevant philosophy, wisdom and super functionality. According to Prof. Zimmerman, ‘Man’s own wisdom is his, main resource, this acts as an opener of world’s resources.
Supply of labour is supported by the size of population. It is man’s demand that creates resources. Higher quality resources are created by people with more advanced knowledge and technical skill. A well-educated and technically skilled population is a valuable resource for any country. In India, most of the people cannot be considered as a resource as they do not have the necessary skill. Smaller countries like Canada, Australia and such others also can not develop the full potential of the resources due to scarce population.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. What are neutral stuff?
Ans. Materials which are available in nature and are of no use are called neutral stuff. For example, a piece of rocky barren land.
2. What are the two main features of a resource?
Ans. The two main features of resources are-
  1. Utility: To fill in the gap of demand for resource.
  2. Functionality: It meets the paucity of supply of resources of mankind by providing its utility.
    For example, thermal power is derived from burning of fossil fuel and this is its utility. When this thermal power becomes beneficial to mankind by way of many facilitating activities, this is its functionality.
3. What are natural resources?
Ans. The resources which are easily available from nature are called natural resources. For example, sunlight, wind, fertile soil along river banks, etc.
4. What are non-renewable or exhaustible resources?
Ans. Resources which are available in nature in limited quantities and diminish in continual process of utilisation and cannot be replaced or replenished after being utilised are called non-renewable or exhaustible resources. For example, coal, mineral oil, etc.
5. What are renewable or inexhaustible resources?
Ans. Resources which are easily available in nature and can be used over and over again without getting depleted, are called renewable or inexhaustible resources. For example, sunlight, wind, sea-waves, etc.
6. What is regional resource?
Ans. The resource which is available in and restricted to any particular region is called regional resource. For example, coal, iron ore, gold, etc.
7. What is biotic resource?
Ans. The resource which is obtained from the biological (flora and fauna) world is called biotic resource. For example, wood, milk, meat, etc.
8. What is intangible resource?
Ans. The resource which cannot be touched is called intangible resource. This type of resource can be obtained from the cultural environment of mankind. For example, education, skill, etc.
9. What is potential resource?
Ans. The resource which is available in nature and also has utility and functionality, but cannot be exploited and used due to inaccessibility of the places where it is found is, called potential resource. For example, the vast iron covered land in Antarctica.
10. What is a unique resource?
Ans. The resource i.e. rare and is available only in one place of the Earth is known as uniquity or unique resource. For example, natural cryolite of Greenland.
11. What is conservation of resource?
Ans. The term conservation means to preserve a certain thing for a specific purpose. When a resource is utilised in a limited way scientifically, reducing its over-exploitation and wastage and thereby preserving that particular resource, is called conservation of resource. The concept of reducing (the exploitation and use), re-using and recycling is applied here.
12. What are mineral resources?
Ans. The resources which are derived from digging or drilling of the Earth’s surface are called mineral resources. For example, coal, mineral oil or petroleum etc. These have specific physical and chemical compositions. resources
13. What are the aims of conserving resources?
Ans. The aims of conserving resources are- (1) To preserve the quality of environmental resources, (2) to conserve the resource for the next generation (sustainable development), (3) to increase the utility and function of resource, (4) to prevent wastage of resources.
14. What are cultural resources?
Ans. Cultural resources are those resources which are developed by the brain power of man such as knowledge, skill, literacy, etc. Man is the creator of cultural resources.
15. What are the obstacles of resources?
Ans. Factors which act as barriers in creating resources or destroy resources are considered to be obstacles of resources. For example, storms, war, etc.
16. What are national resources?
Ans. Those resources which are under the control of any state or country are called national resources.
17. What are social resources?
Ans. Resources which are under the control of the society and fulfils the demands of the society, are called social resources. For example, school, college, hospital, etc.
18. What are international resources?
Ans. Resources which do not belong to any individual or any country, but are meant for mankind as a whole are called international resources. For example, oceans, Antarctica, ozone layer, etc.
19. What are resource creating factors?
Ans. The resource creating factors are of three types-nature, human and culture. They play important roles in creating resources either individually or in a combined manner,
20. What is recycle of resource?
Ans. The process by which waste materials are converted into new resources is called recycling. For example, broken or damaged iron, aluminium objects are transformed into new materials by melting in factories.

Multiple Choice Type Questions [MCQ type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. A renewable resource is-
A. wind
B. petroleum
C. iron
D. coal
Ans. A
2. A non-renewable resource is-
A. sunlight
B. gold
C. wind
D. geothermal power
Ans. B
3. A valuable cultural resource is-
A. education
B. population
C. water
D. land
Ans. A
4. An example of an international resource is-
A. school
B. water
C. land
D. ozone layer
Ans. D
5. Forest is a(n)—
A. cultural resource
B. natural resource
C. human resource
D. abiotic resource
Ans. B
6. Education is a(n)-
A. intangible resource
B. tangible resource
C. human resource
D. biotic/biological resource
Ans. A
7. Seafish is a-
A. permanent source
B. renewable resource
C. cultural resource
D. human resource
Ans. B
8. A social resource is-
A. wind
B. knowledge
C. health
D. educational institution
Ans. D
9. A resource which is found universally is-
A. wind
B. mineral resource
C. culture
D. school
Ans. A
10. A tangible resource is-
A. tree
B. education
C. sunlight
D. wind
Ans. A
11. According to resource creating factors, an example of human resource is-
A. forest
B. knowledge
C. labour force
D. soil
Ans. C
12. Which resource have important effect on Indian economy?
A. Water resource
B. Wind energy
C. Solar energy
D. Iron ore
Ans. D

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. A substance or matter which has functionality and …….. is called a resource.
Ans. utility
2. After discovering a new resource the utility of an older resource is ……….
Ans. reduced
3. A resource may be both ……… or intangible. 
Ans. tangible
4. Innovative thinking of a man is a type of ……… resource. 
Ans. human
5. Three main resources creating component are nature, man and ………
Ans. culture
6. ……. percent of land is covered by forest in India.
Ans. 21.05

If the statement is true, write ‘T’ and if false, write ‘F against the following

1. The work done by any subtance tangible or intangible is called resource.
Ans. T
2. Only tangible matter is called resource.
Ans. F
3. Natural cryolite of Greenland is the only valuable resource found there.
Ans. T
4. Ocean is an example of social resource.
Ans. F
5. Any matter is a resource. Its capability of filling up a gap is not considered as a resource.
Ans. F
6. Reserved resources are inexhaustible.
Ans. F
7. Recycling of resources is a way of conserving resources. 
Ans. T
8. The idea of resource is static.
Ans. F
9. Tin is a scarce resource.
Ans. T
10. Ozone layer is not international resource.
Ans. F

Answer in one or two words

1. Which type of resource is found in only one place in the world?
Ans. Uniquity or unique resource.
2. What are those matter which do not have any utility or function known as?
Ans. Neutral stuff.
3. What is capability of fulfilling the gap of resource called?
Ans. Utility.
4. What are the resources which are derived from nature called?
Ans. Natural resources.
5. What are the resources derived from the biological world called?
Ans. Biotic or biological resources.
6. What are the resources which cannot be touched are known as?
Ans. Intangible resources.
7. What type of resource involves man’s knowledge, intellect and technical skill?
Ans. Cultural resource.
8. What type of resources are under the control of a country?
Ans. National resources.
9. How many type of barriers are there for creating resources?
Ans. Three.
10. Under what type of resources can resources of Antarctica be categorised?
Ans. International resource.
11. What is India’s rank in world in terms of total population?
Ans. Second.
12. Which type of resource conservation is denoted by use of LED lamp in spite of normal bulb or lamp?
Ans. Resource conservation through technological advancement.

TOPIC – B

Mineral Resources of India-Iron Ore

Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

1. Why is iron considered to be an aid in modern civilisation and industrialisation?
Ans. Iron is the carrier of modern civilisation. It is because of its multifarious use and importance, that the modern age is known as the iron age. Iron aids in modern civilisation and industrialisation in the following ways- (1) Iron is used to manufacture pig iron or iron lumps. (2) A host of industries is dependent on iron such as industries related to manufacturing of tools and machineries, light and heavy engineering industry, automobile industry, etc. Manufacturing of alloys, building construction materials, agricultural implements and a number of household products are also made from iron. 3 Iron is also widely used for making paints and other chemical products.
2. Why iron is called a fund resource?
Ans. Fund resources are exhaustible in nature and amount of fund resources are specific and limited. Iron is called a fund resource because reserve of iron is limited and even iron is not available in every places of the world. Reserve of iron is gradually decreasing due to excessive use. Though small amount of iron can be restored through the process of recycling but in future, these will be exhausted.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. Classifiy iron ore.
Ans. Iron ore can be classified into four groups on the basis of amount of iron contain and quality of iron, these are-Magnetite (Fe3O4), Haematite (Fe2O3), Limeonite (2Fe2O3, 3H2O) and Siderite (FeCO3).
2. To which countries does India export iron ore?
Ans. India exports iron ore to Japan, the United States of America, China, Iran, Pakistan etc. India ranks fifth among the world’s iron ore exporting countries.
3. Mention one iron ore producing and one coal-producing centre in India.
Ans. One iron ore producing centre is Gorumahisani of Mayurbhanj in Odisha and one coal producing centre is Jharia in Jharkhand.
4. What is ore? Give an example.
Ans. Ore is natural rock or sediment that contains one or more valuable minerals. Those minerals contain large amount of metallic elements from which metal can be extracted easily. ‘Ore’ means a metalbearing mineral or rock. For exampleMagnetite in a ore of iron.
5. What is pig iron?
Ans. Pig iron is an intermediate product of iron industry. It is also known as crude iron which is obtained by smelting iron ore in a blast furnace at high temperature (900°C – 1300°C). Pig iron is pure in nature. Amount of carbon is very high in pig iron.
6. What is scrap iron?
Ans. Waste iron, used article made of iron is known as scrap iron. Scrap iron does not contain any impurities or slags. Sponge irón is manufactured by smelting scrap iron.

Multiple Choice Type Questions [MCQ type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. Which of the following centre is famous for extraction of iron ore?
A. Bonai
B. Jharia
C. Jamshedpur
D. Kolaghat
Ans. A
2. The biggest coal mining centre is-
A. Raniganj
B. Jharia
C. Singareni
D. Badampahar
Ans. B
3. The best quality iron ore is-
A. magnetite
B. haematite
C. limonite
D. siderite
Ans. A
4. Iron ore is found in Badampahar which is located in the state of-
A. Goa
B. Karnataka
C. Odisha
D. Jharkhand
Ans. C
5. Iron ore is found in Karnataka which are-
A. Sirigaon
B. Badampahar
C. Budaburu
D. Bababudan
Ans. D
6. Rank of Odisha in India in mining of iron ore is-
A. first
B. second
C. third
D. fourth
Ans. A

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. Most of the iron ore of India is of ……… variety.
Ans. haematite
2. ……… is an example of an alloy.
Ans. Steel
3. Mineral reserve of India is……….
Ans. Chotanagpur plateau
4. Superior most quality of iron ore is ………..
Ans. Magnetite

If the statement is true, write ‘T’ and if false, write ‘F against the following

1. Magnetite is an example of a superior quality coal.
Ans. F
2. Superior quality of iron one is haematite.
Ans. F
3. Steel is an alloy.
Ans. T
4. India export iron ore in China.
Ans. T

Answer in one or two words

1. What is India’s rank in the world in terms of iron ore export?
Ans. Fifth.
2. How many types of iron are found on the basis of the purity of ore?
Ans. Four types.
3. Name a place in Odisha where iron is found.
Ans. Gorumahisani.

TOPIC – C

Mineral Resources of India : Coal

Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

1. What is coke?
Ans. When the grade of bituminous coal is improved through various processes in a coke furnace, it is called coke.
The impurities present in coal such as, inorganic matter, soil, rocky matter, water, etc. are removed through processing in a coke oven or furnace and the quality of coal is thus improved.
Coke is used in the following ways- Used for the purpose of producing thermal power. It is widely used for extraction of metal from the original ore.
2. Why is coal known as stratified organic rock?
Ans. When plant remains are buried underground over millions of years, intense heat and pressure exerted on them bring about a change. The carbon accumulated in the trunks of these trees and plants undergoes chemical reaction which turn them into coal. The coal is accumulated in between the layers or strata of sedimentary rocks and this is actually a hydrocarbon compound. Since coal is formed as a result of accumulation of plant remains and as a stratified sedimentary formation it is called a stratified organic rock.
3. What are the differences between coal from Gondwana Age and coal from Tertiary Age?
Ans.  The differences between coal from Gondwana Age and coal from Tertiary Age are as follows-
Point of difference Coal from Gondwana Age Coal from Tertiary Age
1. Age It was created approximately 30 crore years ago. It was created approximately 6-8 crore years ago.
2. Amount of carbon and heat (generated) Content of carbon in this type of coal is more, like bituminous and anthracite coal. Thus the amount of heat generated is also more. Carbon content in this type of coal is less, like peat and lignite. Thus this type of coal generates relatively less heat.
3. Location (in India) This types of coal is found more around the river valleys and plateaus of middle and eastern India. Found more in the Himalayan mountain region.
4. Why coal is known as ‘black diamond’?
Ans.  Coal is known as ‘black diamond’ because of the following reasons-
  1. Composition: Coal and diamond are both made up of carbon.
  2. Value: Diamond is a valuable gem. At the same time, because of its multiple use and importance, coal is also highly valuable in modern times.
  3. Utility: Diamond is a valuable gem, thus it is used in jewellery making industry. Coal is also used in various industries (like iron and steel, cement etc.) as a raw material. Thus, coal is known as ‘black diamond’ due to its multiple uses.
5. Give a brief account of uses of coal.
Ans.  Uses of coal in India are as follows-
  1. For production of thermal power: About 74 per cent of coal is used as a raw material for the production of thermal power in India.
  2. In the iron and steel industry: 5 percent of coal is used to smelt iron ore in the iron and steel industry.
  3. In the cement plant: About 4 percent of India’s coal is used as fuel in the cement industry. Ash produced by burning coal is also used to manufacture cement.
  4. For domestic purposes: About 14 percent of India’s coal is used as a fuel for domestic purposes (cooking etc.)
  5. In other areas/spheres: (1) Small amount of coal is used in steam engines. (2) Byproducts like ammonia, creosote etc. are used for making fertilisers. (3) Bitumen used for constructing roads and tar is used for constructing houses.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. Where is coal found in Jharkhand?
Ans. Coal is found in Jharia, Bokaro, Karanpur, Giridih, Ramgarh, Daltonganj areas of the Damodar valley in Jharkhand. Jharkhand ranks first in the production of coal in India.
2. Give the names of three coal mines in India.
Ans. The three coal mines of India are-
  1. The coal belt of Damodar Valley: This is the richest coal belt in India. Raniganj, Jharia etc. are important coal mines here.
  2. The coal belt or Mahanadi Valley: Talcher, Rampur in Odisha and Korba in Chattisgarh.
  3. The coal belt of Son Valley: Umarie in Madhya Pradesh and Jhilimili in Chattisgarh.
3. Name the oldest coal mine in India.
Ans. The oldest coal mine in India is Raniganj. For the first time coal was hauled in 1774.

Multiple Choice Type Questions [MCQ type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. A low grade coal is-
A. siderite
B. limonite
C. lignite
D. bituminous
Ans. C
2. A coalfield located in the Mahanadi valley is-
A. Talcher
B. Bokaro
C. Raniganj
D. Thane
Ans. A
3. A by-product of coal is-
A. paraffin
B. coal tar
C. diesel
D. plastic
Ans. B
4. Best quality of coal in India is found in-
A. Mahanadi Valley
B. Godavari Valley
C. Damodar Valley
D. Son Valley
Ans. C
5. The most important mineral resource of India is-
A. iron ore
B. mica
C. coal
D. petroleum
Ans. C
6. Coal mostly used in-
A. running of trains
B. iron and steel industry
C. production of thermal power
D. melting of metals
Ans. C
7. The first coal mine discovered in India is-
A. Kerala
B. Barakar
C. Talcher
D. Raniganj
Ans. D
8. The state which was the pioneer in extracting/producing coal is-
A. Bihar
B. Jharkhand
C. Chhattisgarh
D. Odisha
Ans. B
9. Coal that found in India are mostly of-
A. Tertiary Age
B. Carboniferous Age
C. Gondwana Age
D. Jurassic Age
Ans. C
10. Coke is produced from-
A. bituminous coal
B. lignite coal
C. anthracite coal
D. peat coal
Ans. A
11. The best coal mine centre in West Bengal is-
A. Jamuria
B. Raniganj
C. Andal
D. Jayanti
Ans. B
12. Korba coalfield is located in-
A. Madhya Pradesh
B. Chattisgarh
C. Jharkhand
D. Odisha
Ans. B
13. Best quality of coal is-
A. bituminous
B. lignite
C. peat
D. anthracite
Ans. D
14. Headquarter of Coal India Limited is situated in-
A. Mumbai
B. Kolkata
C. Delhi
D. Chennai
Ans. B

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. Coal is called ………..
Ans. black diamond
2. The main lignite mine in South India is ……….
Ans. Neyveli
3. The primary stage of coal is …………
Ans. peat
4. Lignite coal is also known as …….. coal.
Ans. brown
5. Saccharine is a …….. of coal.
Ans. by-product
6. ……… is the metamorphic form of coal.
Ans. Graphite
7. About ………. percent of the coal in India belongs to the Gondwana Age.
Ans. 99
8. The oldest coal mine in India is ……….
Ans. Raniganj
9. India’s ……… per cent coal belongs to the Tertiary Age. 
Ans. 1
10. …….. is the largest coal mine of India.
Ans. Jharia
11. ……… is the main component of coal.
Ans. Carbon
12. Coal is divided into ……… types based on the carbon content.
Ans. four
13. There is ………… percent of carbon in bituminous coal. 
Ans. 50-85

If the statement is true, write ‘T’ and if false, write ‘P’ against the following

1. Anthracite is the best quality of coal.
Ans. T
2. Baba Budan Hills of Karnataka is noted for coal mines.
Ans. F
3. Coal is an example of fossil fuel.
Ans. T
4. Coal reserves of India are mainly of lignite type.
Ans. F
5. Anthracite is a superior quality of coal.
Ans. T
6. Huge quantities of coal are found in Gorumahisani in Odisha.
Ans. F
7. India not only exports coal but also imports.
Ans. T
8. Huge quantities of coal are reserved in Damodar Valley.
Ans. T

Answer in one or two words

1. Give an example of fossil fuel.
Ans. Coal.
2. Which type of coal can be regarded as the best quality?
Ans. Anthracite.
3. What type of coal is usually used for industrial purpose?
Ans. Bituminous.
4. What are the two by-products of coal?
Ans. Bitumeh, coal tar.
5. What is the lead of pencil made of?
Ans. Graphite.
6. Which geological age does the coal found in India belong to?
Ans. Gondwana Age.
7. Which category does most of the Gondwana coal in India belongs to?
Ans. Bituminous coal.
8. What is the rank of West Bengal in the production of coal in India?
Ans. Seventh.
9. Name a coalfield in India.
Ans. Jharia in Jharkhand.

TOPIC – D

Mineral Resources of India-Petroleum

Long Answer Type Questions

1. How is mineral oil formed? Classify mineral oil. 
Ans. Formation of mineral oil: The term ‘petroleum’ has been derived from the Latin word ‘petra’ meaning rock and ‘oleum’ meaning oil. Thus, the oil that is found in rocks is called petroleum or rock oil or mineral oil. According to scientists, mineral oil is formed in two waysorganic way and inorganic way.
  1. Organic way: Scientists say that the dead remains of plants and animals which were embedded within the layers of sedimentay rocks over long periods (5-6 million years) in the Tertiary age, have been exposed to pressure and heat and as a result of change in its chemical composition, mineral oil is formed.
  2. Inorganic way: According to a Russian scientist, Shakhnin, mineral oil is formed as a result of chemical reaction of water with the carbide present in the sedimentary rocks.
Usually, the mineral oil deposits are found accumulated in the anticlinal parts of fold mountains and they are known as ‘pool’s. The bottom-most part of such an anticline contains heavy water overlaid by light mineral oil and natural gas is found on the topmost part. Deep wells are dug and unrefined mineral oil is brought out to the surface to be refined thereafter.
Classification of mineral oil: On the basis of difference in chemical composition, mineral, oil can be classified into three types-
  1. Paraffin-based crude oil: This oil contains high amounts of light hydrocarbon (E.g.methane). Petrol, wax (paraffin) and highgrade lubricating oil are derived from this, which is used extensively.
  2. Asphalt-based crude oil: It is sticky in nature and black in colour. It contains heavy hydrocarbon. Its use is comparatively less. Large quantities of asphalt or bitumen is obtained from it besides some oil derived for running cars.
  3. Mixed-based crude oil: This type is of medium quality. Both heavy and light types of oil are mixed and this type of oil is used both as a fuel and as lubricant. The chemical composition of this type of oil varies both in terms of quantities and locations.

Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions Marks

1. What do you know about ONGC?
Ans. The full form of ONGC is Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited. It was established in the year 1956 and is a government organisation. Its headquarter is located in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi (earlier in Dehradun, Uttarakhand).
The importance of ONGC are as follows- (1) This organisation carries out surveys to locate mineral oil and natural gas in different parts of India. (2) Most of the mineral oil of India is hauled up by this organisation. (3) It also operates in various countries outside India.
2. What do you understand by fossil fuel?
Ans. When sediments are laid down layer by layer on the sea-bed or bottom of a lake or a wetland, remains of plants and animals get trapped in between them. Gradually, as a result of pressure exerted by the overlying horizontal layers of sediments, as well as the heat generated from beneath the earth’s interior, these remains turn into fossils. Over long periods of time, these fossils lead to the formation of coal. Mineral oil and natural gas are produced from there oceanic micro-organisms, bacteria, plants cells etc. All these are the main sources of fuel and since they are derived from fossils they are called fossil fuels.
3. Write the names of the oil refinaries in India.
Ans. There are 23 oil refinaries in India which are undertaken government and private sector. These are- (1) Assam: Digboi, Guwahati, Bongaigaon, Numaligarh, Noonmati; (2) Gujarat: Koyali, Jamnagar-I, Vadinar, Essar; (3) Tamil Nadu: Manali, Nagapattinam; (4) Maharashtra: Trombay I and II; (5) West Bengal: Haldia; (6) Andhra Pradesh: Tatipaka, Visakhapatnam; (7) Bihar: Barauni; (8) Uttar Pradesh: Mathura; (9) Haryana: Panipat; (10) Kerala: Kochi;  (11) Karnataka: Mangalore; (12) Punjab: Bhathinda. (13) Madhya Pradesh: Bina.
4. ‘Mineral oil is found only in sedimentary rocks.’ Explain.
Ans. According to geologists, the remains of oceanic organisms are prone to much heat and pressure by the laying down of sediments (horizontally) on the ocean bed. They are ultimately converted to a liquid form. Water, oil and gas are trapped in between the layers of sedimentary rocks. The anticlives of the folded sedimentary rocks contain oil and gas. Sandstone and limestone, (being a more porous rock) are usually the storing places of oil. This is the reason why mineral oil is found only in sedimentary rocks.
5. Why petroleum is called ‘liquid gold’?
Ans. Gold is an expensive and widely used metal. In the same way, petroleum is also an important fossil fuel used for running cars, buses, trucks, railway engines, ships, steamers etc. In the modern times our transport system is dependent on petroleum. It is because of these values petroleum has been compared to gold and is called ‘liquid gold’.
6. Give a brief account of uses on mineral ount of uses oil in India.
Ans. Mineral oil is used for many purposes in India, like-
  1. In the transport industry: The byproducts of mineral oil like petrol and diesel are used to run buses, trucks, railway engines, automobile, cars, ships, aeroplanes, motorcycles, etc.
  2. For producing mineral power: Byproducts like furnace oil, high speed diesel oil etc. are used for producing thermal power.
  3. For defence: Enormous amount of diesel and petrol are used for running different types of military vehicles. Thus, it is of utmost importance in this field.
  4. In agriculture: Various by-products of mineral oil are used for irrigation, making fertilisers, pesticides, medicines and also for running tractors, harvesters etc.
  5. As raw materials for industries: Numerous industries in India have developed based on the by-products of mineral oil. For example, plastic, detergent, paint, synthetic fibre, synthetic rubber, aromatic articles and other chemical industries.
  6. Other utilities: Gas produced from mineral oil is used for cooking, as lubricants for machines, for constructing roads using asphalt, for lighting kerosene lamps, etc.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. What is ‘Sagar Samrat’ and ‘Sagar Vikash’?
Ans. The two floating vessels or ships on with platforms, which are used for drilling oil from the sea-bed in the Mumbai-Dariya region are called ‘Sagar Samrat’ and ‘Sagar Vikash’. These two vessels are responsible for drilling and exploiting the largest quantity of mineral oil in India.
2. What are the by-products of petroleum?
Ans. By-products of petrolum are- (1) asphalt or peat, (2) naphtha, (3) carbon black, (4) vaseline. All these are used as raw materials in a host of industries.

Multiple Choice Type Questions [MCQ type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. An important oil-producing centre in Assam is-
A. Noonamati
B. Naharkatiya
C. Trombay
D. Lunej
Ans. B
2. The largest oil refinery in India is-
A. Koyali
B. Digboi
C. Haldia
D. Thane
Ans. A
3. An example of fossil fuel is-
A. coal
B. iron
C. copper
D. thorium
Ans. A
4. ONGC was established in-
A. 1953
B. 1956
C. 1965
D. 1976
Ans. B
5. The oldest oil producing centre in India is located in-
A. Digboi
B. Bombay High
C. Ankleshwar
D. Trombay
Ans. A
6. The largest petroleum producing region in India is-
A. coastal region of Gujarat
B. deep sea off the western coast
C. deep sea off the Eastern coast
D. Brahmaputra valley region
Ans. B
7. Largest petrochemical industry of India is-
A. Jamnagar
B. Bhabnagar
C. Sural
D. Miral
Ans. A
8. Headquarters of ONGC is situated in-
A. Kolkata
B. Chennai
C. Vasant Kunj
D. Chandigarh
Ans. C

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. The word ‘Petroleum’ has been derived from Latin word ‘petra’ meaning ………
Ans. rock
2. ……… is called liquid gold.
Ans. Petroleum
3. A notable oil refinery of eastern India is ………
Ans. Haldia
4. The oil that extracted from oilfield is called ……… oil.
Ans. crude
5. Petroleum is found in ………. rock.
Ans. sedimentary
6. ………. oilfield is situated in Arabian sea which is 100 km away from north-west of Mumbai.
Ans. Mukta
7. Headquarter of ONGC is situated in ……….
Ans. Vasant Kunj, Delhi
8. Headquarter of OIL is located in …………
Ans. Noida
9. Sagar Samrat is an oil extraction ……….. in Mumbai High.
Ans. rig

Answer in one or two words

1. Which element is most abundant in mineral oil?
Ans. Hydrocarbon.
2. What is the other name for petroleum?
Ans. Liquid gold
3. Which region in India produces maximum amount of mineral oil?
Ans. Western India.
4. Where is the potential mineral oil reserve in West Bengal found?
Ans. Sundarban area.
5. What is ‘Sagar Samrat’?
Ans. Floating ship used for drawing up mineral oil.
6. Which is the deepest oil field in India?
Ans. Digboi.
7. Into how many types can mineral oil be classified on the basis of variation in chemical composition?
Ans. Three types.
8. What is the name of the oil accumulated sedimentary rock?
Ans. Rock oil or Petroleum.
9. Write the name of the oldest oilfield of India.
Ans. Digboi in Assam (first petroleum was extracted in 1889).
10. Write the full name of OIL.
Ans. Oil India Limited.

TOPIC – E

Energy Resources of India – Conventional Energy 

Long Answer Type Questions

1. What are the sources of conventional energy? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of conventional energy. 
Ans. Sources of conventional energy: The sources of power which have been in use over long periods of time and are still used abundantly are called conventional sources of energy. For example, coal, mineral oil etc.
Advantages and disadvantages of using conventional sources of power:
  1. Advantages: Advantages of using conventional sources of energy are as follows- (1) Easy to access: Since they have been in use for ages the technology used for its development and use are known and easily accessible. (2) Easy to transport: Even if any country does not possess a particular source of energy, it can import that energy from another country where it is available.
  2. Disadvantages: Disadvantages of using conventional sources of energy are as follows- (1) Harmful to environment: Environmental pollution is caused by the use of most of the conventional sources of power. (2) Exhaustible in nature: Since most of these conventional sources are limited or exhaustible or non-renewable in nature, they are depleted after being used over long periods of time. (3) Capital intensive: Huge capital and latest technology are I needed to procure, use and develop such sources. (4) Create differences: Use of conventional sources of power create differences between developed and developing countries.
2. What are the advantages of generating hydroelectricity in South India compared to North India? What is the economic importance of hydroelectricity? 
Ans. Advantages of generating hydroelectricity in South India as compared to North India: There are differences in the geographical factors of South and North India in terms of generation of it hydroelectricity. They are-
  1. Abundant flow of water: Rivers of South India receive abundant supply of rainwater which allow smooth flow of river water as compared to snow fed Himalayan rivers of North India.
  2. Natural swift flowing rivers: The terrain being rugged in nature, rivers of South India are swift-flowing in comparison to North Indian rivers which mostly flow over plain areas.
  3. Swift long courses: North Indian rivers flow over mountainous regions and plain regions. Length of North Indian rivers are long but these rivers flow over a short distance in the mountainous regions. Since only upper course of a river is favourable for generating hydroelectricity, North Indian rivers are not so favourable for generating hydroelectricity. But all the rivers of South India flow over a long distance in the plateau region. Thus, these swift flowing rivers are more favourable for generating hydroelectricity. Hence many hydel power stations have been set up in South India in comparison to North India.
  4. Nature of rocks: The underground physical structure of peninsular India comprises of impermeable rocks. Large reservoirs can be constructed to store water, to be used throughout the year for generating hydroelectricity.
  5. Lack of other resources: Lack of resources like coal and mineral oil in South India has compelled South India to use hydroelectric power more, as compared to North India where coal and mineral oil are concentrated, especially in east and northeastern parts.
It is due to the above facts that South India generates more hydroelectricity than North India.
Economic importance of hydroelectricity: Economic importance of hydroelectricity are as follows- (1) Hydroelectricity is a flow resource, and hence is it is renewable and inexhaustible. Hence, non-renewable and exhaustible resources like mineral oil can be conserved by using hydroelectricity. (2) Environmental pollution is not caused by hydroelectricity. (3) Hydroelectric power is com-paratively cheaper. (4) A number of economic purposes like those of irrigation, flood control, fisheries or pisciculture, and others are served through generation of hydroelectric power.
3. Mention the advantages of hydroelectric power as compared to other sources of power. What are the disadvantages of producing hydroelectricity?
Ans. Advantages of hydroelectric power as compared to other sources of power: Advantages of hydroelectric power as compared to other sources of power are as follows-
  1. Unlimited resource: Hydroelectric power is inexhaustible or renewable in nature and is known as flow energy. On the other hand, coal, mineral oil, natural gas, Uranium and Thorium, etc. are exhaustible or fund energy resources and are prone to depletion due to continuous exploitation.
  2. Cost of production is less: Although at the initial stage, the cost incurred for setting up hyde! power plant is more, the recurring expenditure is less and is thus economical in the long run unlike other sources of power.
  3. Environment-friendly: Since no smoke or dust generates during generation, of hydroelectric power. Hence, it is clean energy and environment friendly.
  4. Heat generated is more: Hydroelectricity generates more heat as compared to coal and mineral oil resources and as such hydel plants are constructed near to those industries which require more energy and heat. For example, aluminium smelting industry.
  5. Easily tranportable: Hydroelectricity can be easily transported through transmission lines from one place to another. Whereas, in case of coal and mineral oils vehicles are used or pipelines are constructed which are expensive as well.
  6. Requires less labour: As compared to coal and mineral oil where large number of labours are required at every stage of production, hydroelectricity requires minimum labour force.
  7. Various economic benefit: Multiple benefits are derived from hydel projects, for example, irrigation, flood control, fisheries or pisciculture, transport etc.
Disadvantages of producing hydroelectric power: Disadvantages of producing hydro electricity are as follow
  1. Establishment of hydel project near the source: Hydel Project has to be established at or very near the source of swift flowing rivers, whereas, raw materials for other sources of power can be transported.
  2. Cannot be stored: There is no scope to store hydroelectricity.
  3. Huge capital investment and lack of developed technology: Developing and underdeveloped countries cannot meet the huge capital and technological demands.
  4. Loss of biodiversity: Since dams have to be constructed across rivers and reservoirs for storing water have to be constructed, large tracts of land are lost, thereby resulting in destruction of forest vegetative cover and biodiversity (flora and fauna).
  5. Problem of rehabilation: Since many people lose their land and property it becomes very difficult to provide for their shelter/homes as well means of livelihood.
4. What are the merits and demerits of using nuclear power?
Ans. Merits of using nuclear power: Nuclear energy is produced by fusion or fission of the nucleus of an atom. Merits of using nuclear power are as follows-
  1. More production of energy: A large amount of energy can be produced by using uranium, thorium etc. For example, about 12,000 MW of electricity can be obtained from a pound of Uranium only.
  2. Establishing nuclear power plant: A nuclear power plant can be established at any place requiring small quantity of raw material such as uramium, electricity capital.
  3. Low cost of production: Nuclear energy can be produced by using less capital. Thus, electricity can be produced at a low cost.
  4. Does not cause environmental pollution directly: Although, the nuclear wastes are toxic, the environment is not directly polluted.
Demerits of using nuclear power: The demerits of using nuclear power are as follows-
  1. Problem of radiation: The effect of radiation as a result of using nuclear power is. harmful as it causes cancer and other diseases and affects life adversely.
  2. Problem in production: The raw materials of nuclear power have not been utilised on an economical basis. The cost of production is high since Deuterium oxide has to be bought from Uranium-rich countries.
  3. Lack of advanced technology: Production of nuclear power requires advanced technologies which are not readily available in many countries.
  4. Harmful mankind: In many cases, nuclear power is used to harm human lives.
  5. Too expensive: A nuclear power plant’s longevity is about 30-40 years. After that a new power plant has to be constructed which involves huge costs at any point of time.

Short Explanatory Answer Type Questions

1. What do you know about NTPC?
Ans. NTPC or National Thermal Power Corporation was established in 1975. The main objective of this organisation is to investigate and create more thermal power belts in accordance with the ever increasing demand of electricity in India. At present there are altogether 16 thermal power based and 7 giant gas-based power centres in India established by NTPC. Farakka in West Bengal is such an example.
2. What is the importance of multipurpose river valley projects?
Ans. When dam is constructed across a flowing river the water thus stored is used for many purposes and for the economic benefit of the inhabitants of the region, it is called a multipurpose river valley project.
Importance: Importance of multipurpose river valley projects are- (1) To ensure irrigation during dry seasons, (2) to control flood by controlling the flow of water in river, (3) to generate hydroelectric power, (4) to supply drinking water, (5) to construct bridges, roads and railways, (6) for pisciculture or raising fish in the reservoir constructed behind the dam, (7) for promotion of tourism in and around the dam, (8) to use the river as a waterway (water transport) etc.
3. ‘Hydroelectricity is an environmentfriendly energy.’ Explain.
Ans. Water of swift-flowing rivers are used for producing hydroelectricity. No fossil fuel is used for the production of hydroelectricity and hence it is pollution free. During the production of hydroelectricity no poisonous gas or smoke is emanated. Hence, hydroelectricity is considered to be an environment free energy.
4. India lags behind in the production of nuclear power in comparison to other countries of the world. Explain.
Ans. About 15 percent of all electricity produced in the world is derived from nuclear power. According to scientists, one pound of uranium or plutonium can produce about 12,000 M.W. of electricity. Thorium, hydrogen, lithium etc. are also capable of producing nuclear energy.
In India, of all the electricity produced, only 3 per cent comprises nuclear power. The total potential of producing nuclear energy from the existing nuclear power stations in India amounts to 4780 MW/hours. The reasons for the low production of nuclear power in India are-
  1. Lack of raw materials: Reserves of uranium and thorium are meagre in India. Lack of raw materials is thus a hindrance to produce nuclear energy.
  2. Too expensive: Huge amount of money needed to build up the infrastructure of a nuclear power plant which is a problem for India.
  3. Social problems: A lot of social stigma exists for the setting up of nuclear power plants.
5. Why hydroelectric power is called ‘white coal’? 
Ans. Coal is the major resource for producing exhaustible electricity. However, it is an resource and also causes pollution. That is why hydroelectric power is produced by rotating a turbine on a swift-flowing river. It is an inexhaustible resource and can be used over and over. Hydroelectric power is eco-friendly and thus it more important nowadays. Taking into consideration the importance of hydroelectric power and comparing it with coal, hydroelectric power is called ‘White coal’.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. What are the sources of conventional energy?
Ans. The sources of conventional energy arecoal, mineral oil or petroleum, swift-flowing rivers, radioactive minerals like Uranium, Thorium, etc. These sources of energy are being utilised over long periods of time.
2. What are the main conventional energy resources of India?
Ans. All important conventional energy resources of India are- (1) Power or energy derived from coal and mineral oil. (2) Hydroelectricity produced from swiftflowing mountanous rivers. (3) Nuclear power derived from radio-active minerals like Uranium, Thorium, etc.
3. Mention the names of two thermal-power centres in West Bengal.
Ans. Two thermal power centres in West Bengal are- (1) Kolaghat and (2) Bandel. Kolaghat is the most important thermal power project in West Bengal.
4. What are the raw materials used for producing nuclear energy?
Ans. Uranium, thorium, plutonium, heavy water, hydrogen etc. are the raw materials used for producing nuclear energy.

Multiple Choice Type Questions [MCQ type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. An important thermal power station in east India is-
A. Maithon
B. Hirakud
C. Farakka
D. Nellore
Ans. C
2. An important thermal power station in south India is-
A. Mettur
B. Periyar
C. Neyveli
D. Santaldih
Ans. C
3. A nuclear power station in Rajasthan is-
A. Trombay
B. Tarapur
C. Kota
D. Rudrasagar
Ans. C
4. The first nuclear power station of India is-
A. Trombay
B. Kalpakkam
C. Tarapur
D. Sholapur
Ans. C
5. The richest zone of monazite in India is-
A. Malabar Coast
B. Konkan Coast
C. Coromandel Coast
D. Northern Circars Coast
Ans. A
6. The Shivasamudram Hydroelectric power station has developed on-
A. Mahanadi
B. Godavari
C. Narmada
D. Cauvery
Ans. D
7. A nuclear power producing centre in Maharashtra is-
A. Tarapur
B. Kaiga
C. Kokrajhar
D. Narora
Ans. A
8. The largest nuclear power station in India is-
A. Narora
B. Kalpakkam
C. Tarapur
D. Rawatbhata
Ans. C
9. The largest coal-based thermal power centre of West Bengal is situated in-
A. Santaldih
B. Farakka
C. Bakreshwar
D. Kolaghat
Ans. B
10. Thermal power station of Jharkhand is in-
A. Farakka
B. Panipat
C. Chandrapura
D. Kolaghat
Ans. C

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. Bandel in West Bengal is a …….. producing centre.
Ans. thermal power
2. Uranium is a raw material of ………. energy.
Ans. nuclear
3. Hydroelectric power is also known as …….. coal.
Ans. white
4. ……… is a hydroelectric power centre in West Bengal.
Ans. Jaldhaka

If the statement is true, write ‘T’ and if false, write ‘F against the following

1. South India produces more hydroelectricity than North India.
Ans. T
2. Lesser amount of raw material is needed to produce nuclear power.
Ans. T
3. Jaldhaka is a thermal power plant in West Bengal.
Ans. F
4. Atomic Energy Commission India was established under the supervision of Indian nuclear physicist Homi Jehangir Bhabha in Mumbai in 1948.
Ans. T

Answer in one or two words

1. Which conventional energy is known as white coal?
Ans. Hydroelectric power.
2. Which process is more commonly used to produce nuclear power?
Ans. Nuclear fission.
3. Name a nuclear power station in south India.
Ans. Kalpakkam.
4. Name a nuclear power station which is under construction in Maharashtra
Ans. Jaitapur.
5. What is the percentage of nuclear power in terms of total world production of electricity?
Ans. 15 percent.
6. How much electricity is produced form one pound of uranium?
Ans. About 12,000 MW.
7. When was the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) formed?
Ans. 1975.

TOPIC – F

Mineral Resources of India-Non-Conventional Energy

Long Answer Type Questions

1. What are the Sources of nonconventional energy? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of nonconventional energy source. 
Ans. Sources of non-conventional energy: Those sources of power which are used sparsely at present but have huge potential to be used in the future are called non-conventional sources of power. For example, solar power, wind power.
Advantages and disadvantages of using non-conventional sources of power:
  1. Advantages: (1) Eco-friendly: Its use does not lead to environmental pollution. (2) Less expensive: Too much capital is not required since they are used in small amounts. (3) Inexhaustible in nature: Since they are not limited, inexhaustible or renewable in nature, there is no fear of them being depleted. (4) Huge availability: Such sources of energy are easily available in most parts of any country.
  2. Disadvantages: (1) Since they are nonconventional and sparsely used, technology is not easily available. They are not available in the same, amount at all places in all the countries of the world. For example, tidal power cannot be tapped except in coastal areas, again, solar power is not available in frigid and cold zones. Wind power is also not suitable to be tapped in all places. Such sources of non-conventional power can not be transported from one country to another.
2. Discuss the uses of solar power. What are the merits and demerits of solar power? 
Ans. Solar Power: Light and heat that is generated from the sun continuously is called Solar power. Nowadays, this solar energy is tapped to produce electricity by using silicon solar cells or photovoltaic cells. From the resource point of view, solar energy is a flow resource, renewable and universally available (ubiquitous in nature).
Merits and demerits of using solar power:
Merits: (1) Renewable: Solar power is an unlimited resource and it is renewable. (2) Sufficient Supply: Sufficient solar power can be tapped even on cloudy days. (3) Eco-friendly: It is an environment-friendly energy. (4) Easy to acess plants: A number of small, medium and large solar power plant can be established.
Demerits: (1)Variation based on location: Since sunlight is not evenly distributed throughout the world, solar power cannot be produced everywhere. (2) High production cost: Since the cost of production is relatively high, developing nations cannot use solar power on a large scale. (3) Lack of technology: The technology used is not available easily everywhere.
3. What are the major uses of solar energy? What is the utility of solar heating system? 
Ans. Major uses of solar energy: Major uses of solar energy are as follows-
  1. Roads, several houses, health centres, industries, educational institutions are all lighted up by using solar power.
  2. Solar power is used for heating purposes in household of cold countries and for heating water as well.
  3. It is also used as a fuel for cooking purpose.
  4. Salt is obtained by processing sea water with the help of solar power which has been in practice since a long time.
  5. It is used to ripen crops.
  6. Electricity is produced directly from sunlight by using photovoltaic cells. The use of solar power is ever-increasing since it is used for producing electricity, lighting the roads, signals for railway lines, running small water pumps and a host of other domestic purposes.
Utility of solar heating system: Through the solar heating system, sunlight is used for a variety of processes, like-
  1. Solar dryer: The air is dehumified by blowing hot air and thereby conserving the crops.
  2. Solar lumber kiln: Wood is dried by this method.
  3. Solar desalination: Fresh drinking water is obtained from the saline sea water through the process of alternate evaporation and condensation process.
  4. Solar distillation: Water is purified by solar heating by using alternate evaporation and condensation techniques.
  5. Solar cooker: This is the easiest, simplest and most useful gadget used by us by harnessing solar energy. This gadget uses the reflection method for heating.
4. What is wind energy or wind power? What are the merits and demerits of wind power?
Ans. Wind energy: The energy which is produced by harnessing wind speed by wind mills is called wind energy. This is a nonconventional and renewable (Flow) resource. Wind speed is at maximum within 100 meters from the earth’s surface.
Merits of using wind power:
  1. Environment-friendly: Environmental pollution is not caused by producing or using wind energy.
  2. Unlimited: Being a flow resource its availability is unlimited in nature and is renewable.
  3. Simple echnology required: Wind energy can be generated by using simple technology.
  4. Low cost: A wind power plant (wind mills) can be constructed at a low cost and repairing the machineries are also relatively cheap.
  5. Used for various purposes: Wind power can be used for hauling water, grinding wheat etc.
Demerits of using wind power:
  1. Sound pollution: High waves of sound are generated when wind mills operate causing sound pollution.
  2. Dependant on wind: Problem is caused as a result of varying wind speed and change in direction of wind.
  3. Less amount of energy produced: Electricity produced by wind power is relatively less in amount.
  4. Region-based: Wind power can only be harnessed in coastal areas, open deserts and in mountainous areas.
  5. Awareness: It is not yet universally used due to lack of awareness.
5. What is geothermal energy? What are the merits and demrits of geothermal ts and demrits of ge energy?
Ans. Geothermal energy: The energy which is derived from the interior of the earth is called geothermal energy. Heat has been accumulating in the earth’s interior over long period of time. It has been observed through investigation that with every 1 km of depth below the earth’s surface, temperature rises at the rate of 25°C. not cause Geothermal does energy environmental pollution. India generates only a small amount of such energy.
Merits of using geothermal energy:
  1. Unlimited resource: Since its availability is unlimited in nature, its continuous use does not cause depletion of these resources.
  2. Environment-friendly: Toxic gases do not emanate as a result of using wind-power and so it does not cause environmental pollution.
  3. Continuous use: This type of energy can be used throughout the year continuously during day and night time.
  4. Easy production: Geothermal energy can be produced easily.
Demerits of using geothermal energy:
  1. Expensive: The initial cost of establishing a wind power plant is quite high.
  2. Low production It can meet local demand only as its production is low.
  3. Lack of technology: The technology is available only in developed countries of the world.
  4. Region based: This type of energy is not well-distributed and occurs in pockets in certain regions and hence cannot be used universally.
6. Why are non-conventional forms of energy given importance in India?
Ans. Reasons for giving importance to use of non-conventional sources of energy in India: The sources of energy which are less used presently but have the potentials of being extensively in the future are called non-conventional sources of power. For example – 1 Solar power, 2 Wind power, 3 Tidal energy, 4 Power from sea waves 5 Geothermal energy 6 Bio-energy. Reasons for giving importance to use such sources of power in India are as follows-
  1. Ever-increasing demand for energy: In a fast, developing country like India demand for energy is increasing rapidly. However India possesses limited reserves of mineral oil and natural gas. Huge costs are incurred to import power from foreign countries. This is the reason why utmost importance is now being given to tap non-conventional sources of power.
  2. Limited reserves of coal: Besides being limited in nature, coal is available only in certain pockets of India.
  3. Limited production of hydro-electric power: Although India has huge potential for developing hydroelectricity (being a country with many swept-flowing, perennial and snow fed river, they have not been exploited properly. That is why stress is laid on developing non-conventional sources of powers.
  4. Abundance of non-conventional sources of power: Since they are renewable in nature and unlimited in supply, sources like solar power, windpower, tidal energy and such others have huge potential to be developed and used.
  5. Other sources of power are expensive: Production and use of coal and petroleum are expensive and so a shift towards using non-conventional sources of power is endorsed.
  6. Production using small amount of capital: Since non-conventional sources of power can be used in small amounts, much less capital is required to tap and use them.
  7. Environment-friendly: Use of nonconventional sources of power do not lead to environmental pollution unlike the conventional sources.
Due to this, importance is being given to the development of non-conventional sources of power in India despite its present weak economic condition.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. What are the sources of non-conventional energy?
Ans. The sources of non-conventional energy are sunlight, wind, tides, sea-waves, biomass geothermal energy etc. These are unlimited resources.
2. What is green fuel?
Ans. Any fuel which is environment-friendly is called green fuel. Nowadays, sulphur-free diesel and lead-free petrol are made in order to prevent pollution. These are Green fuels.

Multiple Choice Type Questions [MCQ type]

Write the correct answer from the given alternatives

1. A source of non-conventional energy is
A. swift-flowing river
B. solar power
C. coal
D. petroleum
Ans. B
2. A geothermal centre in India has come up in-
A. Vizhinjam
B. Manikaran
C. Jalkheri
D. Chikmagalur
Ans. B
3. One of the following states of India that has centre for wind-power production is-
A. Tamil Nadu
B. Bihar
C. Uttar Pradesh
D. Andhra Pradesh
Ans. A
4. The topmost state in producing solar energy is-
A. West Bengal
B. Kerala
C. Rajasthan
D. Gujarat
Ans. D

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Fill in the blanks with suitable words

1. The source of all energy in the world is the ……….
Ans. sun
2. A famous wind-power centre called …….. has come of in Gujarat.
Ans. Lambda
3. Solar power is an important source of ……… power.
Ans. inexhaustible
4. ………. geothermal power station is located in Himachal Pradesh.
Ans. Manikaran
5. Wind power is at its maximum within …….. metres of the earth’s surface.
Ans. 100
6. Source of ………. energies are non-transportable.
Ans. non-conventional
7. Temperature increases at a rate of ……… per one kilometre depth beneath the surface.
Ans. 25°C
8. Solar energy is converted to thermal energy through ……. cell.
Ans. photovoltaic
9. …….. energy is used to pasteurize the milk.
Ans. Geothermal

If the statement is true, write ‘T’ and if false, write ‘F against the following

1. Solar power is an example of an inexhaustible resource.
Ans. T
2. The biggest solar power plant has come up in Lambda of Gujarat.
Ans. F
3. By using alternate energy pollution can be checked.
Ans. T
4. The famous wind-energy producing centre is Mandvi in Gujarat.
Ans. T
5. Manikaran of Himachal Pradesh is a geothermal power station.
Ans. T
6. Non-conventional energy is too expensive.
Ans. F

Answer in one or two words

1. Which type of energy can prevent pollution?
Ans. Alternative energy.
2. What type of energy can be generated from Durgaduani region of Sundarbans?
Ans. Tidal energy.
3. Where does India stand in the production of wind energy?
Ans. Fifth in the world.
4. Give an example of a renewable resource
Ans. Sunlight / Solar power.
5. What type of fuel does not pollute nature?
Ans. Green fuel
6. Which type of energy production is being stressed upon nowadays in India?
Ans. Alternative energy.
7. Which type of energy can be generated by using wind speed?
Ans. Wind energy.
8. Which cell helps to convert the solar energy to thermal energy?
Ans. Silicon solar cell or Photovoltaic cell.

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