Earth in Solar System

Learning Goals:

Celestial Bodies

Stars and Planets

Solar System

Celestial Bodies: The sun, the moon, planets, stars and other bodies in the
universe are called celestial bodies.

Star: Some celestial bodies are very big and hot. They are made up of gases. They
have their own heat and light. A celestial body which emits its own heat and light is
called a star. The sun is an example of star. The light from a star appears to be
flickering. This is called twinkling of star.

The sun is near to us, so it looks very big. All other stars are very far from us, so they
look like tiny dots. You know that things appear smaller when they are away from us.

Stars are only visible during night. During daytime, we are unable to see stars because of
sunlight.

Constellations:

In the night sky, you can see different patterns formed by groups of stars. Such a
pattern of stars is called constellation. Ursa Major or Big Bear is one such
constellation. Ursa Minor or Small Bear is a constellation which looks like Ursa Major
but is smaller in size. Ursa Minor is called Saptrishi in Hindi. There are seven main
stars in this constellation. Both the constellations look like ladle and hence are called
Big Dipper and Small Dipper. You can easily recognize them by taking help from an
elder in your family. You can also locate the Pole Star with the help of these
constellations.

Fig: Ursa Minor

The Pole Star always appears in the north when seen from the northern hemisphere.
Its position remains the same throughout the night and never changes. During
ancient days, sailors and caravans used the Pole Star to find directions during night.

Planet: Some celestial bodies keep on moving around a star. They are called
planets. A planet does not have its own light. The earth is a planet.

Difference Between Star and Planet

Star Planet

Is huge in size. Much smaller in size.

Planet does not have its own

Emits its own light.
light.

Does not revolve around any other celestial

Revolves around a star.
body.

Stars twinkle. Planets do not twinkle.

Satellite: Some celestial bodies keep on moving around a planet. They are called
satellites. The moon is the only satellite of the earth. Now-a-days, there are many
man-made satellites in the sky. These satellites are used for different purposes.

Some Uses of Man-made Satellites:

For sending signals for television and telephone.

For sending pictures of the earth.

For sending data about climate. Scientists use this data to make weather predictions.

The Solar System

The Solar System is formed by the Sun, eight planets, some other celestial bodies,
asteroids and meteorites.

The Sun

The sun is at the centre of the solar system. It is huge in size. It is made of hot
gases. The sun provides the pulling force which binds the members of the solar
family. The sun is very hot but we do not feel its heat because we are very far away
from the sun. In fact, the distance between the sun and the earth is 150 million km.

Light travels at the rate of 300,000 km per second. The sunlight takes about 8
minutes to travel between the sun and the earth.
Planets: There are eight planets in the solar system and they are; MERCURY,
VENUS, EARTH, MARS JPUITER, SATURN, URANUS and NEPTUNE.

The following mnemonics can help you memorizing the name of eight planets:

MY VERY EFFICIENT MOTHER JUST SERVED US NUTS (ref: NCERT Book)

My Very Exciting Magic Carpet Just Sailed Under Nine Palace Elephants

The National Geographic Channel held a contest for mnemonics in 2008. The above
mnemonics was the winner and it was coined by a 10-year old Maryn Smith of the
USA. This mnemonics also includes the dwarf planets Pluto Eric and Ceres. (REF:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planetary_mnemonic accessed on 10th Sep 2015)

Till 2006, Pluto was also considered as a planet. But during a meeting of the
International Astronomical Union, the scientists decided that it should be considered
as DWARF planet. Ceres is another example of dwarf planet.

The Earth

The earth is the third planet from the sun. It is the fifth largest planet in the solar
system. The earth is spherical in shape and is flattened at top and bottom. Such a
shape is called geoid or earth-like shape.

Earth is the only known planet where life exists. Earth has just the right temperature.
It is neither too hot nor too cold. Water and air are present on earth. Water is
essential for living beings. Oxygen is present in air and oxygen is also essential for
living beings. Thus, right conditions are present on the earth to support life.

About two-thirds of the earths surface is covered with water. Due to this, the earth
appears blue when seen from the space. Hence, earth is also called the BLUE
PLANET.

The Moon

The moon is our nearest neighbor in the solar system. It is the only satellite of the
earth. Moon is 384,400 km from the earth. Since it is so near from us, hence it
appears so big; compared to any other celestial body. The diameter of the moon is
just one-fourth the diameter of the earth.

The moon takes about 27 days to make one revolution around the earth. It takes the
same number of days to complete one rotation around its axis. Due to this, only one
face of the moon is visible from the earth. Due to this, we get to see different shapes
of the moon on different days of the month.
Phases of Moon: When the moon appears like a circular disc, it is called the full
moon. The full moon day is called poornima in Hindi. When no moon is visible in the
sky, it is called the new moon. When the moon appears like a sickle, it is called the
crescent moon. Sometimes, the moon appears like a semicircle. The full moon
appears once in a month.

The moon has no water or air. The climate of the moon is very harsh and is not
suitable for life. There are lots of hills and craters on the surface of the moon. When
you will observe the full moon carefully, you can easily see the shadows of hills and
mountains.

Asteroids

There are numerous tiny bodies which move around the sun. These are present
between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars. These are called asteroids. Scientists believe
that asteroids are parts of a planet which may have exploded billions of years ago.

Meteors and Meteorites

Sometimes, a small piece of rock enters the earths atmosphere. While entering the
earths atmosphere it usually burns off. This appears like a shooting star and is
called meteor. When such a piece of rock lands on the earth, it is called a meteorite.
Some meteorites can be so huge that they can cause deep crater on the surface of
the earth. Scientists believe that dinosaurs were killed because of a meteorite.

Galaxy: A system of billions of stars is called galaxy. We are living in the Milky Way
(Akash Ganga) galaxy. On a clear night, you can easily see a faint band of cloud
running across the sky. This is the Milky Way galaxy.

Universe: Universe is composed of billions of galaxies. All of us live in the universe.

Scientists are yet to estimate the size of the universe.

How does a planet differ from a star?

Answer:

Difference Between Star and Planet

Star Planet

Is huge in size. Much smaller in size.

Planet does not have its own

Emits its own light.
light.

Does not revolve around any other celestial

Revolves around a star.
body.
 Stars twinkle. Planets do not twinkle.
What is meant by the Solar System?

Answer:The system formed by the sun, eight planets, satellites, asteroids and
various other celestial bodies is called the Solar System. The sun is at the centre of
the solar system.

Name all the planets according to their distance from the sun.

Answer: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune

Why is the Earth called a unique planet?

Answer: Earth is the only known planet where life exists. Earth has the right
conditions for supporting life. Water and air are available on earth and they are
essential for life. Earth has the right temperature for living beings. Hence, the Earth
is called a unique planet.

Why do we see only one side of the moon always?

Answer: The moon takes same number of days to make a revolution and a rotation.
Due to this, only one face of moon is visible to us.

What is the Universe?

Answer: All existing matter and space (when taken as a whole) is considered as
universe. All the celestial bodies come under the universe.

Tick correct answer:

1. The planet known as the Earths Twin is

a. Jupiter

b. Saturn

c. Venus

Answer: (c) Venus

2. Which is the third nearest planet to the sun?

a. Venus

b. Earth
 c. Mercury

Answer: (b) Earth

3. All the planets move around the sun in a

a. Circular path

b. Rectangular path

c. Elongated path

Answer: (c) Elongated path

4. The Pole Star indicates the direction to the

a. South

b. North

c. East

Answer: (b) North

5. Asteroids are found between the orbits of

a. Saturn and Jupiter

b. Mars and Jupiter

c. The Earth and Mars

Answer: (b) Mars and Jupiter

Fill in the blanks

1. A group of ________ forming various patterns is called a ________.

Answer: stars, constellation

2. A huge system of stars is called________.

Answer: galaxy

3. ________is the closest celestial body to our earth.

Answer: moon
 4. ________is the third nearest planet to the sun.

Answer: earth

5. Planets do not have their own________ and ___________________.

Answer: heat, light

EXTRA QUESTIONS

What is a celestial body?

Answer: The sun, the moon, planets, stars and other bodies in the universe are
called celestial bodies.

What do you understand by star?

Answer: Some celestial bodies are very big and hot. They are made up of gases.
They have their own heat and light. A celestial body which emits its own heat and
light is called a star.

What is a constellation?

Answer: In the night sky, you can see different patterns formed by groups of stars.
Such a pattern of stars is called constellation.

What do you understand by planet?

Answer: Some celestial bodies keep on moving around a star. They are called
planets. A planet does not have its own light.

What is a satellite?

Answer: Some celestial bodies keep on moving around a planet. They are called
satellites.

Write some uses of man-made satellites.

Answer: Some Uses of Man-made Satellites:

For sending signals for television and telephone.

For sending pictures of the earth.

For sending data about climate. Scientists use this data to make weather
predictions.

Write a brief note on the sun.

Answer: The sun is at the centre of the solar system. It is huge in size. It is made of
hot gases. The sun provides the pulling force which binds the members of the solar
family. The sun is very hot but we do not feel its heat because we are very far away
from the sun. In fact, the distance between the sun and the earth is 150 million km.

What are asteroids?

Answer: There are numerous tiny bodies which move around the sun. These are
present between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars. These are called asteroids.

Globe: Latitude Longitude

Learning Goals:

Longitudes and Latitudes

Important parallels of latitudes

Prime Meridian and Time Zones

Time Zone in India

Globe: Globe is a miniature model of the earth. Globe is fixed between two pivots. It
can be rotated around the pivots. Globes come in different shapes and sizes. Globes
can be very big or can be very small in size. Inflatable globes are also available.

Globe is very useful while studying about the earth.

The Poles: The top and bottom of the earth are called the Poles. They are similar to
the top and bottom of the globe. The top is called the North Pole and the bottom is
called the South Pole.

Axis: The way a glove rotates around the pivots, the earth also rotates around an
imaginary line. The imaginary line around which the earth rotates is called the axis of
the earth.

Equator: An imaginary line passes horizontally from the middle of the earths
surface. This line is called the equator. The equator divides the earth into two equal
halves. The northern half is called the Northern Hemisphere. The southern half is
called the Southern Hemisphere.

Parallels of Latitudes: All parallel circles from equator up to the poles are called
parallels of latitude. Latitudes are measured in degrees.

Degree of Latitudes: The equator shows the zero degrees latitude. The distance
from the equator to either of the Poles is one fourth of a circle around the earth.
Hence, this distance is equal to one-fourth of 360 0, i.e. 900. So, the latitude of the
 Poles is 900. The latitude of the North Pole is 900 north and that of the south Pole is
900south.

The value of each latitude is followed by the words north, or south or N or S. All
parallels to the north of the equator are called north latitudes. Similarly, all parallels
to the south of the equator are called south latitudes. For example; the latitude of
Delhi is about 280N.

Important Parallels of Latitudes: Apart from the equator (00) and the Poles (900);
there are four important parallels of latitudes. They are as follows:

a. Tropic of Cancer 23.50 N (230 30N) or 23 degrees 30 minute north

b. Tropic of Capricorn 23.50 S (230 30S) or 23 degrees 30 minute south

c. Arctic Circle 66.50 N (660 30N) or 66 degrees 30 minute north

d. Antarctic Circle 66.50 N (660 30N) or 66 degrees 30 minute south

Fig: Important Parallels

The Tropic of Cancer and the Arctic Circle are present in the Northern Hemisphere.
The Tropic of Capricorn and the Antarctic Circle are present in the Southern
Hemisphere.

Heat Zones of the Earth

Torrid Zone: Between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, the mid-day
sun is exactly overhead at least once in a year on all latitudes. This happens
because the sun rays come straight to these latitudes at least once in a year. So, this
part of the earth receives the maximum heat from the sun. This zone is called the
Torrid Zone.
Temperate Zones: Beyond the tropics, the mid-day sun is never overhead. This
happens because the sun rays come at a slant in these areas. So, this part of the
earth receives mild temperature. These zones are called the Temperate Zones.

Frigid Zone: Areas between the Arctic Circle and the North Pole and those between
the Antarctic Circle and the South Pole receive sun rays at a big slant. Due to this,
the sun is never much above the horizon. So, this part of the earth receives the least
amount of heat and remains very cold. These zones are called Frigid Zones.

Longitudes

The imaginary lines which run from one pole to another are called longitudes. These
are also called meridians of longitude. Unlike latitudes; all meridians of longitude are
of equal length. Hence, it was difficult to decide the zero degree longitude. So, all
countries decided that the line passing through Greenwich should be made the zero
degree longitude. This happened because the British Royal Observatory is located at
Greenwich. The zero degree longitude is also called the Prime Meridian.
Furthermore, the earth has been divided into 180 0longitudes towards the east and
1800 longitudes towards the west. The Prime Meridian and 180 0 longitude together
divide the earth into two equal halves. Both 180 0 east and 1800 west are on the same
line.

Use of Latitudes and Longitudes

Latitudes and longitudes help us in finding the exact location of a place on the earth.
When we say that Delhi is 280N; we are just saying that Delhi is in the Northern
Hemisphere on 280 latitude. But this does not show Delhis position with respect to
the Prime Meridian. So, we also need information about longitude to know the exact
position of Delhi on the earth. Delhi is approximately at 77 0 E longitude. So, to give
exact position of Delhi; we need to say that it is 28 0N and 770E.

To understand this in a better way, let us draw a set of vertical parallel lines. Let us
draw another set of horizontal parallel lines over the earlier set. This will give us a
grid. Let us now mark the equator and prime meridian; as shown in the figure. Now,
you can easily tell the exact locations of points A, B, C and D by mentioning their
longitudes and latitudes.
Longitude and Time

We know that the earth takes about 24 hours to make one rotation on its axis. Thus,
the sunrise and the sunset easily tell us about morning and evening times. When the
sun is directly overhead, it is mid-day and you can match your watch to 12 noon at
this time. The sun casts the smallest shadow when it is directly overhead. But the
relative position of the sun in sky keeps on changing as we move across the globe
either from east to west or vice-versa. So, if it is mid-day in India, it can be another
time in England.

People felt a need for some standard system for keeping time. Time in different
countries is fixed according to its relative position to Greenwich because the Prime
Meridian passes through Greenwich.

We know that the earth rotates from west to east and hence, the suns apparent
position changes from east to west. So, Australia will witness an earlier sunrise
compared to India. Similarly, the sun will rise later in England than in India. Hence,
the time in Australia would always be ahead of time in India. Similarly, the time in
England would always be behind the time in India.

Calculations for Time in different time zones

Total number of degrees = 360

Number of hours in a day = 24
So, number of degrees per hour = 3600/24 = 150
Since there are 60 minutes in an hour
So, 150 = 60 min
Hence, number of minutes per degree = 60/15 = 4 min

This means that when we move 1 degree longitude towards east, the time advances
by 4 minute. On the other hand, the time goes behind by 4 minute when we move 1
degree towards west.
Indian Standard Time

India is a big country and its longitudinal span is quite large. So, there is a difference
of about 1 hour 45 minute in sunrise times between Dibrugarh (Assam) and Dwarka
(Gujarat). But we need a standard time throughout the country for the ease of
maintaining time schedules. The Indian Standard Time (IST) has been fixed on
82.50 E (820 30 min) meridian.

82.5 4 = 330 min = 5 hr 30 min

The above calculation shows that the Indian Standard Time is ahead of the
Greenwich Meantime by 5 hours 30 minutes.

Some countries are so large that only one time zone is not enough for them. For
example; there are 11 time zones in Russia. There are 9 time zones in the USA. The
whole earth has been divided into 24 time zones. Each time zone covers
150 longitudes.

NCERT Exercise Solution

Fill in the blanks

1. The Tropic of Capricorn is located at _________________.

Answer: 23.5o South

2. The Standard Meridian of India is ____________________.

Answer: 82.5o East

3. The 0 Meridian is also known as ____________________.

Answer: Prime Meridian

 4. The distance between the longitudes decreases towards___________.

Answer: the Poles

5. The Arctic Circle is located in the ____________ hemisphere.

Answer: Northern

Answer the following questions:

1. What is the true shape of the earth?

Answer: Geoid shape

2. What is a globe?

Answer: A globe is a miniature model of the earth.

3. What is the latitudinal value of the Tropic of Cancer?

Answer: Latitudinal value of the Tropic of Cancer is 23.5 o N

4. What are the three heat zones of the Earth?

Answer: The three heat zones of the Earth are as follows: Torrid Zone,
Temperate Zone and Frigid Zone

5. What are parallels of latitude and meridians of longitude?

Answer:Parallels of Latitude: The imaginary lines which run parallel to the

equator are called the parallels of latitude.
Meridians of Longitude: The imaginary lines which run from one Pole to
another are called the meridians of longitude.

6. Why does the torrid zone receive maximum amount of heat?

Answer: In every part the torrid zone, the sun is overhead at least once in a
year. Due to this, this zone receives the maximum amount of heat.

7. Why is it 5.30 p.m. in India and 12.00 noon in London?

Answer: The time in India is 5 hours 30 minutes ahead of the time in London.
Hence, when it is 12 noon in London, it is 5:30 pm in India.

Tick the correct answers

1. The value of the prime meridian is

a. 90o

b. 0o

c. 60o

Answer: (b) 0o

2. The frigid zone lies near

a. the Poles

b. the Equator

c. the Tropic of Cancer

Answer: (a) the Poles

3. The total number of longitudes are

a. 360

b. 180

c. 90

Answer: (b) 180

4. The Antarctic circle is located in

a. the Northern hemisphere

b. the Southern hemisphere

c. the Eastern hemisphere

Answer: (b) the Southern hemisphere

5. Grid is a network of

a. parallels of latitudes and meridians of longitudes

b. the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn

c. the North Pole and the South Pole

Answer: (a) parallels of latitudes and meridians of longitudes

EXTRA QUESTIONS

1. What is the axis of the earth?

Answer: The earth rotates around an imaginary line. This is called the axis of
the earth.

2. What is equator?

Answer: The imaginary line which runs horizontally through the middle of the
surface of the earth is called the equator. The latitude of equator is zero
degree.

3. Why does the Prime Meridian pass through Greenwich?

Answer: All the meridians are of equal length. Hence, it was difficult to decide
about the exact location of zero degree meridian. All countries agreed on
Greenwich because the British Royal Observatory is present here. Hence, the
Prime Meridian passes through Greenwich.

4. How do longitudes and latitudes help us in finding the exact location of a

place on the earth?

Answer: Latitudes and longitudes help us in finding the exact location of a

place on the earth. When we say the Delhi is 28 oN; we are just saying that
Delhi is in the Northern Hemisphere on 28o latitude. But this does not show
Delhis position with respect to the Prime Meridian. So, we also need
information about longitude to know the exact position of Delhi on the earth.
Delhi is approximately at 77o E longitude. So, to give exact position of Delhi;
we need to say that it is 28oN and 77oE.

Motions of Earth

Learning Goals:

Rotation and Revolution

Summer Solstice

Winter Solstice

Equinox

Rotation: The earth moves around its axis. This movement is called the rotation of
the earth.
Earth Day: The period of one rotation of the earth is called one earth-day. One
earth-day is of 24 hours.

Axis: The imaginary line around which the earth rotates is called its axis.

Orbit: The imaginary line on which the earth moves around the sun is called its orbit.

Orbital Plane: The plane passing through the earth (along its orbit) is called its
orbital plane.

Tilt of Axis: Earths axis is tilted at an angle of 66.5o on its orbital plane. On the other
hand; the earths axis is tilted at 23.5o on the line which is perpendicular to its orbital
plane.

Revolution: The movement of earth in its orbit around the sun is called revolution.

Year: The time taken by the earth to complete one revolution is called one year. One
year has 365 and days (365 days and 6 hours). For the sake of convenience, we
consider a normal year to have 365 days. The extra six hours are added after every
four years to add an additional day to the year. Thus, every fourth year is a leap year
which has 366 days.

While the rotation is responsible for day and night on earth, its revolution is
responsible for changes in seasons. The revolution and tilt of the earths axis affect
the changes in seasons. You have read in your earlier classes that the portion of the
earth facing the sunlight experiences day. On the contrary, the portion which is away
from the sun experiences night.

What Would Happen if the Earth Did Not Rotate?

If there had been no rotation of the earth; one half of the earth would have been
constantly in daylight and another half would have been constantly in dark. The
portion under sunlight would have been too hot. On the other hand, the portion in
dark would have been freezing cold. Such extremes of temperature could have
made it impossible for life to thrive on our planet.

Circle of Illumination: The imaginary line which divides the parts of the earth with
day and night is called the circle of illumination. The circle of illumination is at right
angle to the orbital plane. Thus, the circle of illumination is at an angle of 23.5 o to the
earths axis.

Because of the angle between the circle of illumination and the axis; both the
hemispheres of the earth do not get the same amount of light on most of the days.
This causes different seasons at different times of the year. Look at the following
figure to understand this.

The orbit of the earth is elliptical in shape. Due to the elliptical shape of its orbit, the
distance between the sun and the earth keeps on changing throughout the year.
Sometimes, the earth is too close to the sun and at other times it is too far from the
sun.

Perihelion: The point at which a planet is nearest to the sun is called perihelion.

Aphelion: The point at which a planet is farthest from the sun is called aphelion.
Equinox:

When the length of day and night is equal in all parts of the earth, such a day is
called equinox. This happens on 21st March and 23rd September.

On 21st March, the South Pole of the earth is towards the sun. As a result; this is
spring season in the northern hemisphere and autumn in the southern hemisphere.

On 23rd September, the North Pole is towards the sun. As a result; this is spring
season in the southern hemisphere and autumn in the northern hemisphere.

Solstice

The summer solstice falls on 21st June, while the winter solstice falls on 22nd
December.

On 21st June; the North Pole tilts towards the sun and the Tropic of Cancer receives
direct sunlight. As a result, it is the longest day and shortest night in the northern
hemisphere. On the contrary, it is the shortest day and longest night in the southern
hemisphere. It is summer season in the northern hemisphere and winter in the
southern hemisphere.

Between 21st March to 23rd September, the North Pole receives sunlight
continuously for about six months. So, it is six months day at the North Pole. On the
other hand, the South Pole experiences six months night during this period.

On 22nd December; the South Pole tilts towards the sun and the Tropic of Capricorn
receives direct sunlight. As a result, it is the longest day and shortest night in the
southern hemisphere. On the contrary, it is the shortest day and longest night in the
northern hemisphere. It is summer season in the southern hemisphere and winter in
the northern hemisphere.

Between 23rd September to 21st March, the South Pole receives sunlight
continuously for about six months. So, it is six months day at the South Pole. On the
other hand, the North Pole experiences six months night during this period.

Motions of Earth

NCERT Exercise Solution

1. What is the angle of inclination of the earths axis with its orbital plane?

Answer: 66.5o

2. Define rotation and revolution.

Answer: Rotation: The movement of earth around its axis is called rotation.
Revolution: The movement of earth on its orbit is called revolution.
 3. What is a leap year?

Answer: The year with 366 days is called a leap year.

Differentiate between the Summer and Winter Solstice.

Answer:

Summer Solstice Winter Solstice

Falls on 21st June. Falls on 22nd December.

Longest day and shortest night in Longest day and shortest night in
northern hemisphere. southern hemisphere.

Summer season in northern

Summer in southern hemisphere.
hemisphere.

Winter in southern hemisphere. Winter in northern hemisphere.

1. What is an equinox?

Answer: The day when day and night are of equal length is called equinox. Equinox
falls on 21st March and 23rd September.

2. Why does the Southern Hemisphere experience Winter and Summer Solstice in
different times than that of the Northern Hemisphere?

Answer: This happens because of the angle between earths axis and its orbit. On
21st June, the sunlight falls directly on the Tropic of Cancer. Hence, it is summer
solstice in the northern hemisphere. One 22nd December, the sunlight falls directly
on the Tropic of Capricorn. Hence, it is summer solstice in southern hemisphere.

3. Why do the poles experience about six months day and six months night?

Answer: Because of the angle between the earths axis and its orbit, either of the
Poles gets sunlight continuously for six months. Due to this, it is six months day and
six months night on the Poles. Between 21st March and 23rd September, it is day
time on the North Pole and night on the South Pole. Similarly, between 23rd
September and 21st March; it is day time on the South Pole and night on the North
Pole.

Tick the correct answers

1. The movement of the earth around the sun is known as

a. Rotation

b. Revolution
 c. Inclination

Answer: (b) Revolution

2. Direct rays of the sun fall on the equator on

a. 21 March

b. 21 June

c. 22 December

Answer: (a) 21 March

3. Christmas is celebrated in summer in

a. Japan

b. India

c. Australia

Answer: (c) Australia

4. Cycle of the seasons is caused due to

a. Rotation

b. Revolution

c. Gravitation

Answer: (b) Revolution

Fill in the blanks

1. A leap year has _______________ number of days.

Answer: 366

2. The daily motion of the earth is _______________.

Answer: Earth Day

3. The earth travels around the sun in ______________ orbit.

Answer: Elliptical

4. The suns rays fall vertically on the Tropic of ___________ on 21st June.

Answer: Cancer
 5. Days are shorter during ___________ season.

Answer: Winter

Maps

Learning Goals:

Maps

Types of map

Scale on maps

Components of Maps

A globe is a very useful thing but it has certain limitations. You can use a globe when
you need to have an overall view of the whole earth. A globe does not show details
of a country or a state. When you need to study details about a small place then you
need to use a map.

MAP
A map is a representation drawing of earths surface or a part of it on a flat surface.
Maps are drawn according to scale. It is difficult to represent a spherical surface on a
flat surface. Specially trained people draw maps and they are called cartographer.

Types of Maps

There can be different types of maps. Some of them are as follows:

Physical Map: A physical map shows physical features of the earth. Mountains,
plains, plateau, desert, rivers, oceans, etc. come under the physical features. A
physical map is also called relief map.

Political Map: A political map shows boundaries of towns, cities, states, countries,
etc.

Thematic Map: Thematic maps show specific information. For example; a road map
shows the road network of an area. Similarly, a rail map shows the rail network of an
area. A thematic map can show various industries, crop production, population
density, etc.

Components of Maps

There are three components of map, viz. distance, direction and symbol.
Distance

Maps are two-dimensional drawings. It reduces the entire world or a part of the world
on a small sheet of paper. While making a map, cartographers pay attention to
properly represent the distance between two places. This helps us in finding the
actual distance between two places.

For this, a suitable scale is used for the map. Let us take the example of distance
between Delhi and Patna; which is about 1000 km. On a map, this may be shown by
a ten centimeter long line. In that case, one centimeter on the map represents 100
km. So, the scale of the map is 1 cm = 100 km.

Small Scale Map: When a large area is shown on a small map, such a map is called
a small scale map. Example; map of a country or state.

Large Scale Map: When a small area such as a village is shown on a map, such a
map is called a large scale map. A map of a neighbourhood is another example of
large scale map. A large scale map gives more details compared to a small scale
map.

Direction

A map also contains information about directions. On most of the maps, you will
usually see an upward arrow and the letter N. This shows the north direction. Once
we know the north, we can easily find the other directions. North, South, East and
West are the four major directions. These are called Cardinal Directions. Some maps
also show the intermediate directions, viz. north-east, south-east, south-west and
north-west.

Compass: Compass is very useful for finding directions at a place. This is a small
circular box with a magnetic needle inside. The needle of the compass always points
in the north-south direction. Compass has been used by travelers and sailors since
ages.

Symbols

Cartographers also need to show various details; like important structures,

landmarks, etc. on a map. These things are shown by some standard symbols on
the map. You can understand that it is not possible to draw pictures of hospital or
temple or railway line or a monument on a map because of the lack of space. Hence
some conventional symbols have been made on the basis of an international
agreement.
While using colours to show different themes and items on a map; certain
conventions are followed. Mountains are usually shown in brown colour, plains in
green, water body in blue and plateau is shown in yellow.

Sketch

A drawing based on memory is called a sketch. A sketch is not made to scale. A

sketch map is useful when you need to show directions to your house to your friend.

Plan

Drawing of a small area on a large scale is called a plan. Architects usually make
plans to show the layout of a house.

Maps
NCERT Exercise Solution
Answer the following questions:

What are the three components of a map?

Answer: The three components of a map are; Distance, Direction and Symbol.

What are the four cardinal directions?

Answer: North, East, South and West are the four cardinal directions.

What do you mean by the term the scale of the map?

Answer: The scale of the map shows the actual distance as represented by one unit
of measurement on the map. For example; if the scale of the map shows 1 cm = 10
km, this means 5 cm on the map is equal to 50 km in the real world.

How are maps more helpful than a globe?

Answer: Maps can show more details compared to a globe. A map can be carried in
the pocket. It can be folded to fit in small space. Thus, a map is more useful than a
globe.

Distinguish between a map and a plan.

Answer: A map is made at a small scale while a plan is made at a large scale. A
map shows a village, city, neighbourhood, state or country. But a plan shows a very
small area; like a house or a hotel.

Which map provides detailed information?

Answer: A large scale map provides detailed information.

How do symbols help in reading maps?

Answer: Symbols are very useful in reading maps. Symbols are especially useful in
a situation when you do not know the local language. In spite of that, you can easily
locate a particular landmark with the help of symbols.

Tick the correct option

1. Maps showing distribution of forests are

a. Physical map

b. Thematic Map

c. Political map

Answer: (b) Thematic Map

2. The blue colour is used for showing

a. Water bodies

b. Mountains

c. Plains

Answer: (a) Water bodies

3. A compass is used

a. To show symbols

b. To find the main direction

c. To measure distance

Answer: (b) To find the main direction

4. A scale is necessary

a. For a map

b. For a sketch

c. For symbols

Answer:(a) For a map

Major Domains of Earth

Learning Goals:

Lithosphere

Continents

Oceans

Hydrosphere

Atmosphere

The surface of the earth is a complex zone. It can be divided into three main
portions, viz. lithosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere.

Lithosphere: The solid portion of the earth is called lithosphere. It is composed of

rocks of the earths crust. There is a thin layer of soil on top. The soil contains
mineral nutrients which sustain various organisms.

Atmosphere: The thick envelope of air surrounding the earth is called atmosphere.
The atmosphere is about 1600 km thick and is composed of various gases.

Hydrosphere: The hydrosphere is composed of water. Water is available in all three

states on the earth. About two-thirds of the earths surface is covered with water.

Lithosphere
The earths surface can be divided into two main parts, viz. the continents and the
ocean basins.

Continents: The huge landmasses on the earth are called continents.

Ocean Basins: The huge water bodies on the earth are called ocean basins.

All the oceans of the world are connected to each other. Due to this, the level of sea
water is same everywhere. Elevation of land is measured from the sea level and the
sea level is taken as zero.

Mount Everest is the highest peak on the earth and it is 8,848 m above sea level.
On the other hand, the Mariana Trench (in the Pacific Ocean) is the deepest place
on the earth and is 11,022 m below the sea level.

Continents
There are seven continents and all of them are separated by large water bodies. The
seven continents of the world are; Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, South
America, Australia and Antarctica. A greater portion of the landmass lies in the
northern hemisphere.

Asia

This is the largest continent. Asia covers about one-third of the total land area of the
earth. This continent lies in the eastern hemisphere. The Tropic of Cancer passes
through Asia. The Ural Mountain separates Asia from Europe in the west. The
combined landmass of Europe and Asia is called Eurasia.

Europe

Europe lies to the west of Asia and is much smaller than Asia. It is bound by water
bodies from three sides. The Arctic Circle passes through Europe.

Africa

Africa is the second largest continent. The major portion of Africa lies in the northern
hemisphere. This is the only continent through which three major longitudes pass.
The equator, the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn pass through this
continent. The equator passes almost through the middle of Africa.

The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert of the world and it is in Africa. Worlds
longest river, the Nile, is in Africa. Africa is bound by water bodies from all sides.

North America

It is the third largest continent. North America and South America are connected to
each other by the Isthmus of Panama.

Isthmus: A narrow strip of land which joins two landmasses is called isthmus.
North America lies in the northern hemisphere and western hemisphere. North
America is surrounded by three Oceans, viz. the Atlantic Ocean, The Pacific Ocean
and the Arctic Ocean.

South America

A major portion of South America is in southern hemisphere. This continent is

surrounded by two oceans, viz. the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Andes; the longest
mountain range in the world is in South America. Worlds largest river; the Amazon is
in this continent.

Australia

This is the smallest continent. It lies entirely in the southern hemisphere. Since
Australia is surrounded on all sides by ocean hence it is called the island continent.

Antarctica

This is a huge continent and is present on the South Polar Region. In fact, the South
Pole lies at the centre of this continent. There is no human settlement in this
continent. However, many countries have made research centres in this continent.
Maitri and Dakshin Gangotri are the research centres set by India.

Major Domains of Earth

Learning Goals:

Oceans

Hydrosphere

Atmosphere

HYDROSPHERE
More than 71% of the earths surface is covered with water. But 97% of the total
water on earth is available as saline water in oceans and seas. Saline water is not fit
for human consumption. Out of the remaining 3% water; most of the water is in the
form of ice in glaciers and icebergs. This leaves less than 1% of total water on earth
available for human consumption. Hence, in spite of living on the Blue Planet we
often face scarcity of water.

Oceans
All oceans are interconnected and water in the oceans is always on move. Waves,
tides and ocean currents are the three main movements of ocean water. There are
five major oceans, viz. Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Arctic and Southern oceans.

Pacific Ocean

This is the largest ocean. It is almost circular in shape. The Pacific Ocean is
surrounded by Asia, Australia, North America and South America. Mariana Trench;
the deepest place on the earth is in this ocean.

Atlantic Ocean

This is the second largest ocean. It is S-shaped. North America and South America
are to the west of this ocean. Europe and Africa are on the east of this ocean. The
coastline of this ocean is highly indented. The irregular and indented coastline
provides ideal place for natural harbours and ports. Hence, this is the busiest ocean
from commercial perspective.

Indian Ocean

Indian Ocean is the only ocean to be named after a country. This ocean is almost
triangular in shape. Asia is towards north, Africa is towards west and Australia is
towards east of this ocean.

Southern Ocean

This ocean encircles Antarctica. It extends northwards up to 60 oS latitude.

Arctic Ocean

This ocean is within the Arctic Circle. It surrounds the North Pole. It is bound by the
northern coasts of North America and Eurasia. The Arctic Ocean is connected to the
Pacific Ocean by a narrow stretch of water called Berring Strait.

Atmosphere

Atmosphere plays an important role in the environment on earth. Atmosphere is

made of air which is composed of many gases, water vapor and dust particles.

Composition of Air: Air is mainly composed of nitrogen and oxygen. 78% of the air
is composed of nitrogen, 21% is composed of oxygen and rest 1% is composed of
carbon dioxide, argon and many other gases.

Role of Nitrogen: Nitrogen is important for plants because plants make many
important molecules from nitrogen. Since we get food from plants, hence nitrogen is
also important for us and for all other animals.
Role of Oxygen: Oxygen is required by living beings for respiration. Moreover,
oxygen is also required for burning various fuels.

Role of Carbon Dioxide: Carbon dioxide is utilized by plants during photosynthesis.

You may recall that photosynthesis is the process by which plants make food.
Carbon dioxide also helps in trapping the heat from the sun and prevents the heat
from escaping the atmosphere of earth. Thus, carbon dioxide helps in maintaining an
ambient temperature on earth.

Layers of Atmosphere: The atmosphere can be divided into many layers.

Troposphere is at the bottom. This is followed by stratosphere, mesosphere,
thermosphere and exosphere.

The density of atmosphere changes with height. Air is at maximum density at the sea
level and becomes rarer as we go higher. We are comfortable while breathing under
normal pressure. When the atmospheric pressure becomes low, it becomes difficult
to breathe. Atmospheric pressure is very low at high mountains. Due to this,
mountaineers need to carry oxygen cylinders so that they can breathe comfortably at
high altitude.

Difference in pressure also plays a role in wind movements. Air moves from high
pressure to low pressure. Moving air is called wind.

Biosphere

The narrow zone of contact between the lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere
is called biosphere. Life exists in this zone. A variety of organisms exist on earth. All
the living beings are linked to each other for their survival. They are also linked to
various non-living things for their survival.

The organisms in the biosphere can be broadly classified into the Plant Kingdom and
Animal Kingdom. The three domains of the earth interact with each other. They also
affect each other in some ways or the other.

We need to take good care of our environment otherwise the existence of life would
be in danger on our planet. For example; if we cut forests on large scale to clear land
for human activities, this will lead to removal of topsoil. Removal of topsoil can be
harmful in the long run because soil is necessary for agriculture and for plant growth.
We create lot of waste which ends up polluting the environment.

Carbon dioxide is necessary for maintaining a certain temperature on earth. But if

level of carbon dioxide increases beyond a limit, it results in increased temperature
throughout the world. This is known as global warming. Burning of fuels; in
automobiles and factories; results in increased levels of carbon dioxide in the
atmosphere. Hence, we should be cautious while using various fuels.
We need to use our resources carefully in order to protect our environment.

NCERT Exercise Solution:

Fill in the blanks:

1. The deepest point on the earth is _____________ in the Pacific Ocean.

Answer: Mariana Trench

2. The _____________ Ocean is named after a country.

Answer: Indian

3. The _____________ is a narrow contact zone of land, water and air that
supports life.

Answer: Biosphere

4. The continents of Europe and Asia together are known as _____________.

Answer: Eurasia

5. The highest mountain peak on the earth is _____________.

Answer: Mount Everest

Tick the correct answers

1. The mountain range that separates Europe from Asia is

a. the Andes

b. the Himalayas

c. the Urals

Answer: (c) the Urals

2. The continent of North America is linked to South America by

a. an Isthmus

b. a Strait

c. a Canal

Answer:(a) an Isthmus

3. The major constituent of atmosphere by per cent is

a. Nitrogen

b. Oxygen

c. Carbon dioxide

Answer: (a) Nitrogen

4. The domain of the earth consisting of solid rocks is

a. the Atmosphere

b. the Hydrosphere

c. the Lithosphere

Answer: (c) the Lithosphere

5. Which is the largest continent?

a. Africa

b. Asia

c. Australia

Answer: (b) Asia

1. What are the four major domains of the earth?

Answer: The four major domains of the earth are; Lithosphere, Hydrosphere,
Atmosphere and Biosphere.

2. Name the major continents of the earth.

Answer: Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Australia and Antarctica

3. Name the two continents that lie entirely in the Southern Hemisphere.

Answer: Australia and Antarctica

4. Name the different layers of atmosphere.

Answer: Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere and

Exosphere

1. Why is the earth called the blue planet?

 Answer: More than 71% of the earths surface is covered with water. Due to
this, the earth appears blue when seen from the space. Hence, the earth is
called the blue planet.

2. Why is the Northern Hemisphere called the Land Hemisphere?

Answer: A major portion of the landmass of the earth is present in the

northern hemisphere. Hence, the Northern Hemisphere is called the Land
Hemisphere.

3. Why is the Biosphere important for living organisms?

Answer: Biosphere is the narrow zone of contact between lithosphere,

hydrosphere and atmosphere. There is constant interaction among the three
domains of earth; in this zone. This interaction makes life possible. Thus,
biosphere is important for living organisms.

EXTRA QUESTIONS

Which is the smallest continent?

Answer: Australia

Which is the largest ocean?

Answer: Pacific Ocean

What is the significance of indented coastline in the Atlantic Ocean?

Answer: The indented coastline in the Atlantic Ocean means the coastline is ideal
for natural harbours and ports. Hence, the Atlantic Ocean is the busiest ocean from
commercial point of view.

What happens when the level of carbon dioxide increases in the atmosphere?

Answer: When the level of carbon dioxide increases in the atmosphere, it results in
increased temperature throughout the world. This is known as global warming.

What is the importance of carbon dioxide for us?

Answer: Importance of carbon dioxide:

a. Plants need carbon dioxide to make food.

b. Carbon dioxide helps in maintaining ambient temperature on earth because

carbon dioxide traps solar radiation.
 Which major latitudes pass through Africa?

Answer: Following major latitudes pass through Africa:

a. Tropic of Cancer

b. Equator

c. Tropic of Capricorn

Which continent is known as the island continent? Why?

Answer: Australia is surrounded by ocean from all sides. Hence, it is known as the
island continent.

Write a brief note on the Indian Ocean.

Answer: Indian Ocean is the only ocean to be named after a country. This ocean is
almost triangular in shape. Asia is towards north, Africa is towards west and Australia
is towards east of this ocean.

Write a brief note on Asia.

Answer: Asia is the largest continent. It covers about one-third of the total land area
of the earth. This continent lies in the eastern hemisphere. The Tropic of Cancer
passes through Asia. The Ural Mountain separates Asia from Europe in the west.
The combined landmass of Europe and Asia is called Eurasia.

Major Landforms of Earth

Learning Goals:

Mountains

Plateau

Plains

Landforms and People

Landform is a natural feature of the earths surface. The surface of the earth varies
from one place to another. The main landforms are; mountains, plateau and plains.

There are two processes which lead to formation of different landforms. These
processes are; internal process and external process.

Internal Process: The earth beneath your feet is continuously moving. The
movement of earths surface results in internal process. The internal process results
in a portion of the earths surface getting elevated or getting sunk.
External Process: Continuous wearing down and rebuilding of the earths surface is
the result of external process.

Erosion: Removal of materials is called erosion. Erosion results in lowering of the

earths surface. Erosion is carried out by various agents; like wind and water.

Deposition: Deposition of materials results in rebuild of the earths surface. It also

results in the surface getting elevated. Wind and water are the main agents of
deposition.

Mountains
A mountain is the natural elevation of the earths surface. A mountain may be narrow
at top and broad at the base. The elevation of mountain is considerably more than
that of surrounding area.

We know that temperature reduces with increase in altitude. Due to this, very high
mountains are usually covered with snow.

Glacier: Permanently frozen rivers of ice are called glaciers. Glaciers are found in
some of the very high mountains.

Population at Mountains: Because of steep slopes, less amount of land is available

for farming on mountains. This is also difficult to build houses on steep slopes.
Hence, less number of people lives on the mountains.

Mountain Range: When mountains are arranged in a line, then it is called a

mountain range. Some of the mountain systems contain ranges spread over
hundreds of kilometers.

Types of Mountains

There are three types of mountains, viz. fold mountains, block mountains and
volcanic mountains.

Fig: Fold Mountain

Fold Mountains: When a tectonic plate gets pressure from two sides, it gets folded.
Some of its portion becomes elevated and forms the mountains. The depressions
form the valleys. The Himalayas, The Andes and the Alps are examples of Fold
Mountain. They are the young mountains of the world and hence they have some of
the highest peaks of the world. The Aravali is also an example of Fold Mountain.
Because of constant erosion, the Aravali has considerably worn down.

Fig: Block Mountain

Block Mountains: When large areas are broken and displaced vertically, Block
Mountains are formed. In this case, the uplifted blocks are called horsts. On the
other hand, the lowered blocks are called graben. Examples of Block Mountains are;
the Rhine Valley and the Vosges mountain in Europe.

Volcanic Mountains: A mountain formed due to volcanic activity is called Volcanic

Mountain. Examples of Volcanic Mountains are; Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Fujiyama.

Importance of Mountains:

Mountains are rich sources of water. Many important rivers originate from glaciers on
mountains. Water from the mountains is used for irrigation and also for power
generation.

River valleys and terraces are ideal for cultivation.

Mountains are rich in flora and fauna. The plant species of a place is called flora. The
animal species of a place is called fauna.

Mountains provide many forest produce; like wood, herbs, medicinal plants, honey,
catechu, etc.

Mountains are ideal tourist spots. Many adventure sports are only possible in the
mountains; like river rafting, paragliding, hang gliding, skiing, etc.

Plateau

A plateau is a flat and elevated land. A plateau is at higher elevation than the
surrounding areas. A plateau may have one or more sides with steep slopes. A
plateau can be young or old. The height of plateau can be from a few hundred
meters to several thousand meters.

Examples: The Deccan Plateau (India) is one of the oldest plateaus in the world.
Other examples of plateau are; the East African Plateau in Kenya, Tanzania and
Uganda and the Western Plateau in Australia. The Tibet plateau is the highest
plateau in the world and its elevation is between 4,000 to 6,000 m above sea level.

Importance of Plateau

Plateaus are rich in mineral deposits. Many mining belts in the world are located in
the plateau areas.

Most of the mining areas in India are in the Chhotanagpur Plateau in Jharkhand,
Orissa and Chhattisgarh.

The African plateau is famous for mines of gold and diamond.

Many waterfalls are present in plateau areas. For example; the Hundru falls in the
Chhotanagpur and Jog falls in Karnataka.

The lava plateaus are rich in black soil. Black soil is fertile and is good for cultivation.

Plateau areas are great tourist attractions because of lot of scenic spots.

Plains

Plains are flat lands and are generally not more than 200 m above mean sea level.
Some plains are extremely level, while others may be slightly rolling and undulating.

Formation of Plains: Plains are usually formed by rivers and their tributaries. When
a river flows down a mountain, it erodes the mountain. The river carries forward the
eroded material. Then the river deposits the load in its valley. The load consists of
stones, sand and silt. Plains are formed from these deposits.

Importance of Plains:

Plains are usually highly fertile and hence most ideal for cultivation.

It is very easy to make transport network in the plains.

Due to above mentioned factors; plains are the best areas for human habitation.

Most of the densely populated areas of the world are in the plains.

The Indo-Gangetic Plains in India is among the most densely populated regions of
the world.

Landforms and the People

Humans have been living in most of the terrains.

Life is difficult in mountain areas because of rugged terrain. Hence, mountain areas
are sparsely populated.
 Life is somewhat easier in the plateaus; compared to in mountains.

Life is the easiest in the plains.

In all types of terrains, natural calamities always pose threat. Earthquakes, storms
and floods can hit any area. Volcanic eruption can be potential risk in areas near
volcanic activity.

But people need to learn to live with natural disasters. Proper precautions can help
save life and property; in case of natural disasters.

NCERT Exercise Solution

How are mountains useful to man?

Answer: Importance of Mountains:

Mountains are rich sources of water. Many important rivers originate from glaciers on
mountains. Water from the mountains is used for irrigation and also for power
generation.

River valleys and terraces are ideal for cultivation.

Mountains are rich in flora and fauna. The plant species of a place is called flora. The
animal species of a place is called fauna.

Mountains provide many forest produce; like wood, herbs, medicinal plants, honey,
catechu, etc.

Mountains are ideal tourist spots. Many adventure sports are only possible in the
mountains; like river rafting, paragliding, hang gliding, skiing, etc.

What is the difference between a mountain and a plateau?

Answer:

Mountain Plateau

Mountain is narrow at top. Plateau is flat at top.

Mountains elevation is in Plateaus elevation is between several

several thousand meters. hundred and several thousand meters.

High mountains are snow- Most of the plateaus are not covered with
capped. snow.

Glaciers are found in

Plateaus do not have glaciers.
mountains.
 1. What are the major landforms?

Answer: The major landforms are; mountains, plateaus and plains.

2. What are the different types of mountains?

Answer: The different types of mountains are; fold mountains, block mountains and
volcanic mountains.

3. How are plains formed?

Answer: Formation of Plains: Plains are usually formed by rivers and their
tributaries. When a river flows down a mountain, it erodes the mountain. The river
carries forward the eroded material. Then the river deposits the load in its valley. The
load consists of stones, sand and silt. Plains are formed from these deposits.

4. Why are the river plains thickly populated?

Answer: Plains are usually highly fertile and hence most ideal for cultivation. It is
very easy to make transport network in the plains. Due to above mentioned factors;
plains are the best areas for human habitation. Hence, plains are thickly populated.

5. Why are mountains thinly populated?

Answer: Life is difficult in mountain areas because of rugged terrain. Hence,

mountain areas are sparsely populated.

Tick the correct answers

1. The mountains differ from the hills in terms of

a. elevation

b. slope

c. aspect

Answer: (a) elevation

2. Glaciers are found in

a. the mountains

b. the plains

c. the plateaus

Answer: (a) the mountains

3. The Deccan Plateau is located in

a. Kenya
 b. Australia

c. India

Answer: (c) India

4. The river Yangtze flows in

a. South America

b. Australia

c. China

Answer: (c) China

5. An important mountain range of Europe is

a. the Andes

b. the Alps

c. the Rockies

Answer: (b) the Alps

Fill in the blanks:

1. A ___________ is an unbroken flat or a low-level land.

Answer: Plain

2. The Himalayas and the Alps are examples of _______________types of mountains.

Answer: fold

3. _____________ areas are rich in mineral deposits.

Answer: Plateau

4. The _________________ is a line of mountains.

Answer: mountain range

5. The ____________areas are most productive for farming.

Answer: plain

EXTRA QUESTIONS
What is a mountain?

Answer: A mountain is the natural elevation of the earths surface. A mountain may
be narrow at top and broad at the base. The elevation of mountain is considerably
more than that of surrounding area.

What is a plateau?

Answer: A plateau is a flat and elevated land. A plateau is at higher elevation than
the surrounding areas. A plateau may have one or more sides with steep slopes.

What is a plain?

Answer: Plains are flat lands and are generally not more than 200 m above mean
sea level. Some plains are extremely level, while others may be slightly rolling and
undulating.

Describe the formation of fold mountains.

Answer: When a tectonic plate gets pressure from two sides, it gets folded. Some of
its portion becomes elevated and forms the mountains. The depressions form the
valleys.

Describe the formation of block mountains.

Answer: When large areas are broken and displaced vertically, Block Mountains are
formed. In this case, the uplifted blocks are called horsts. On the other hand, the
lowered blocks are called graben.

What is the significance of plateaus?

Answer: Importance of Plateau

Plateaus are rich in mineral deposits. Many mining belts in the world are located in
the plateau areas.

Most of the mining areas in India are in the Chhotanagpur Plateau in Jharkhand,
Orissa and Chhattisgarh.

The African plateau is famous for mines of gold and diamond.

Many waterfalls are present in plateau areas. For example; the Hundru falls in the
Chhotanagpur and Jog falls in Karnataka.

The lava plateaus are rich in black soil. Black soil is fertile and is good for cultivation.

Plateau areas are great tourist attractions because of lot of scenic spots.
Discuss the processes which lead to formation of landforms.

Answer: There are two processes which lead to formation of different landforms.
These processes are; internal process and external process.

Internal Process: The earth beneath your feet is continuously moving. The
movement of earths surface results in internal process. The internal process results
in a portion of the earths surface getting elevated or getting sunk.

External Process: Continuous wearing down and rebuilding of the earths surface is
the result of external process.

Our Country India

Learning Goals:

Locational Setting of India

Indias Neighbours

Political and Administrative Divisions

Physical Divisions

India: An Overview
India is a vast country. It is the seventh largest country in the world; in terms of area.
India is the second most populous country in the world. According to the 2011
census, the population of India is more than 1.2 billion.

Area: 3.28 million square km

North-south extent from Kashmir to Kanyakumari: 3,200 km
East-west extent from Arunachal Pradesh to Kuchchh: 2,900 km

Locational Setting of India

India is located in the northern hemisphere. From south to north, the main land of
India extends between 8o4 N and 37o6 N. From west to east, the main land of India
extends between 68o7 E and 97o35 E.

Indian Standard Time: The longitudinal extent of India is 29 which is huge. Hence,
there could be wide differences in local timings. Due to great longitudinal extent, the
sun rises about two hours earlier in Arunachal Pradesh than in Gujarat. To keep
things simple, the local time has been fixed as per the longitude 8230 E. This
longitude is called the Standard Meridian of India.

Indias Neighbours
 Many countries share their borders with India. Afghanistan and Pakistan are towards
west of India. China, Nepal and Bhutan are towards north of India. Bangladesh and
Myanmar are towards east of India. Sri Lanka and Maldives are towards south of
India. Sri Lanka is separated by India by the Pak Straits.

Political and Administrative Divisions

India has been divided into 29 states. Rajasthan is the largest state and Goa is the
smallest state. There are 7 union territories in India. All the states are further divided
into smaller administrative units; called districts. Delhi is the National Capital of India.

Physical Divisions

India is a diverse country; in terms of physical features. It can be divided into

following physical divisions:

The Himalayan Mountains

The Northern Plains

The Great Indian Desert

The Deccan Plateau

Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats

The Himalayan Mountains: The Himalayan Mountains are in the north of the Indian
subcontinent. The Himalayan Mountains are divided into three parallel ranges, viz.
the Great Himalaya or Himadri, the Middle Himalaya or Himachal and the Shivalik.

a. The Great Himalaya: This is the northernmost range. The highest peaks of the
world are located in this range.

b. The Middle Himalaya: This range is towards south of the Great Himalayas. Many
popular hill stations are in this range.

c. The Shivalik: This is the southernmost range. The elevation in this range is low
compared to in the other two ranges.
The Northern Plains: The Northern Plains lie to the south of the Himalayas. These
plains are formed by the rivers; the Indus, the Ganges and the Brahmaputra and
their tributaries. The lands are highly fertile in this region. Hence, this region has very
high population density.

The Great Indian Desert: The Great Indian Desert lies in the western part of India.
This is a dry, hot and sandy stretch of land. There is very little vegetation in this
region. This is also called the Thar Desert.

The Deccan Plateau: The Deccan Plateau lies towards south of the Northern
Plains. This is triangular in shape. There are many hill ranges and valleys in this
region, e.g. Aravali hills, the Vindhyas and the Satpuras. The Deccan Plateau is rich
in minerals.

Narmada and Tapi are important rivers which flow through the Deccan Plateau.
These rivers flow towards west and drain into the Arabian Sea.

Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats: The Western Ghats mark the western
boundary of the Deccan Plateau, while the Eastern Ghats mark the eastern
boundary. The Western Ghats are almost continuous but the Eastern Ghats are
broken and uneven.

The Coastal Plains: The Coastal Plains lie to the west of the Western Ghats and to
the east of the Eastern Ghats. The western coastal plains are very narrow. The
eastern coastal plains are much broader. The rivers Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna
and Kaveri flow in this region. These are east-flowing rivers and drain into the Bay of
Bengal.
These rivers have formed deltas at their mouth. These deltas are highly fertile. Delta
is a landform which is formed at the mouth of a river. The place where a river meets
an ocean is called the mouth of the river.

The Islands: Lakshadweep Islands and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also
part of India. The Lakshadweep Islands are in the Arabian Sea. These are coral
islands. A coral island is formed by corals and other organic materials. The Andaman
and Nicobar Islands are in the Bay of Bengal.

NCERT Exercise Solution

Fill in the blanks:

1. India has an area of about ________________.

Answer: 3.28 million square km

2. The Greater Himalayas are also known as_________________.

Answer: Himadri

3. The largest state in India in terms of area is__________________.

Answer: Rajasthan

4. The river Narmada falls into the __________________ sea.

Answer: Arabian

5. The latitude that runs almost halfway through India is ___________.

Answer: Tropic of Cancer

Name the major physical divisions of India.

Answer: The major physical divisions of India are as follows:

The Himalayan Mountains

The Northern Plains

The Great Indian Desert

The Deccan Plateau

Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats

1. India shares its land boundaries with seven countries. Name them.

Answer: Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar

 2. Which two major rivers fall into the Arabian Sea?

Answer: Narmada and Tapi

3. Name the delta formed by the Ganga and the Brahmaputra.

Answer: The Sunderban

4. How many States and Union Territories are there in India? Which states have a
common capital?

Answer: There are 29 States and 7 Union territories in India. Punjab and Haryana
share Chandigarh as capital. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana share Hyderabad as
capital.

5. Why do a large number of people live in the Northern plains?

Answer: The land in the Northern Plains is highly fertile. This land is ideal for
construction of roads, railways and houses. Hence, a large number of people live in
this area.

6. Why is Lakshadweep known as a coral island?

Answer: Lakshadweep is formed of coral and other organic materials. Hence, it is

known as a coral island.

Tick the correct option

1. The southernmost Himalayas are known as

a. Shiwaliks

b. Himadri

c. Himachal

Answer: (a) Shiwaliks

2. Sahyadris is also known as

a. Aravali

b. Western Ghats

c. Himadri

Answer: (b) Western Ghats

3. The Palk Strait lies between the countries

a. Sri Lanka and Maldives

 b. India and Sri Lanka

c. India and Maldives

Answer: (c) India and Maldives

4. The Indian islands in the Arabian Sea are known as

a. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

b. Lakshadweep Islands

c. Maldives

Answer: (b) Lakshadweep Islands

5. The oldest mountain range in India is the

a. Aravali hills

b. Western ghats

c. Himalayas

Answer: (a) Aravali hills

EXTRA QUESTIONS

1. Discuss the neighbours of India.

Answer: Many countries share their borders with India. Afghanistan and Pakistan are
towards west of India. China, Nepal and Bhutan are towards north of India.
Bangladesh and Myanmar are towards east of India. Sri Lanka and Maldives are
towards south of India. Sri Lanka is separated by India by the Pak Straits.

2. Write a brief note on the Himalayan Mountains.

Answer: The Himalayan Mountains are in the north of the Indian subcontinent. The
Himalayan Mountains are divided into three parallel ranges, viz. the Great Himalaya
or Himadri, the Middle Himalaya or Himachal and the Shivalik.

3. Write a brief note on the Northern Plains.

Answer: The Northern Plains lie to the south of the Himalayas. These plains are
formed by the rivers; the Indus, the Ganges and the Brahmaputra and their
tributaries. The lands are highly fertile in this region. Hence, this region has very high
population density.

India: Climate Vegetation Wildlife

Learning Goals:
 Seasons in India

Types of vegetation in India

Importance of forest

Wildlife in India

Weather: The day to day changes in atmosphere is called weather. Weather

includes changes in temperature, sunshine and rainfall. A day can be comfortably
cold in the morning and may change to unbearably hot afternoon.

Seasons in India
There are four major seasons in India, viz. cold season, hot season, southwest
monsoon and retreating monsoon.

Cold Weather Season or Winter Season

The winter season continues from December to February in India. During this
season, the sun rays do not fall directly on India. As a result, the temperature
remains low in northern India during this period.

Hot Weather Season or Summer Season

The summer season continues from March to May in India. During this season, the
sun rays fall more or less directly on India. Due to this, the temperature remains high
during this period. Hot and dry winds (called loo) blow during the day in northern
India.

Southwest Monsoon Season or Rainy Season

The rainy season falls from June to September. The onset and advancement of
monsoon takes place in this season. The monsoon winds blow from the Arabian Sea
and Bay of Bengal towards the Indian Peninsula. These winds carry moisture with
them. When the moisture laden wind strikes the mountain barriers, it results in
rainfall in India.

The word monsoon has come from the Arabic word mausim which means
season.

Season of Retreating Monsoon or Autumn

This season falls in October and November. During this season, the monsoon winds
move from the mainland to Bay of Bengal and hence it is called the retreating
monsoon. During this season, the southern parts of India receive rainfall. Rainfall
happens especially in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh during this season.
Importance of Monsoon

The monsoon has high importance for India. Agriculture in India is dependent on
monsoon. A good monsoon means good harvest. A bad monsoon results in poor
harvest. Farmers become very happy when there is good monsoon.

Climate

Overall pattern of weather at a place is called climate. For this, weather pattern of at
least 20 years is taken into consideration. The climate of India is called monsoon
climate. This is hot and humid in most parts of the country.

Factors which affect the climate of a place are; location, altitude, distance from the
sea and relief. Since India is a large country, there is wide variation in climate from
one place to another. For example; Rajasthan is generally hot and dry, while Kashmir
is very cold. There is wide variation in temperature in the northern plains. On the
other hand, the climate of Mumbai and Kolkata is moderate throughout the year.
Mawsynram in Meghalaya receives highest rainfall in the world, while Jaisalmer in
Rajasthan receives negligible rainfall.

Natural Vegetation

Plants which grow on their own without human intervention are called natural
vegetation. Natural vegetation depends on various climatic conditions and especially
on rainfall. There are five types of natural vegetation in India.

Tropical evergreen forest, Tropical deciduous forest, Thorny bushes, Mountain

vegetation and Mangrove forests

Tropical Rain Forest

Tropical rainforest is found in those areas which receive heavy rainfall. The tropical
rainforest is so dense that sunlight does not reach the ground. The trees of the
tropical rainforest shed their leaves at different times of the year. Due to this, the
forest always appears green. Hence, such a forest is called evergreen forest.

Important Trees: Mahogany, ebony and rosewood.

Tropical Rainforest in India: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, parts of North-Eastern

states and a narrow strip of the western slope of the Western Ghats.

Tropical Deciduous Forest

These are also called monsoon forests. The trees of deciduous forest shed their
leaves at a particular time of the year. Hence, such a forest is called deciduous
forest.
Important Trees: Sal, teak, peepal, neem and shisham.

Tropical Deciduous Forest in India: Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar,

Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Orissa and parts of Maharashtra.

Thorny Bushes

This type of vegetation is found in dry areas. The leaves are in the form of spines.
This helps the plant to reduce loss of water.

Important Trees: Cactus, khair, babool and keekar

Thorny Bushes in India: Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Eastern slopes of Western

Ghats and Gujarat

Mountain Vegetation

Different types of species are found in the mountains at different altitudes. At the
height between 1500 meter and 2500 meter, most of the trees are conical in shape.
Due to this, they are called coniferous trees.

Important Trees: Chir, pine and deodar.

Mangrove Forest

Mangrove plants can survive in saline water. They are mainly found in the
Sunderbans in West Bengal and in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Sundari is a
well known tree in the mangrove forest of Sunderban.

Importance of Forest

Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Oxygen is utilized by us for
breathing.

Roots of plants bind the soil. Thus, plants prevent soil erosion.

Forests provide us timber for furniture and firewood. They also provide fodder,
medicinal plants and herbs. We also get lac, honey and gum from forests.

Forests are the natural habitat of wildlife.

Loss of Natural Vegetation: Humans have destroyed a large tract of forest. We are
recklessly cutting trees for various purposes. Forests are cleared for making way for
agriculture and for making townships and factories. This is creating environmental
problems for us. Van Mahotsav is being organized to educate people about the
importance of forests.
Wildlife

Animals which live in natural vegetation are called wild animals. Thousands of animal
species live in forests.

Tiger is the national animal of India. It is found in various parts of our country.

The Asiatic lions live in the Gir forest in Gujarat.

Elephants are found in Kerala, Karnataka and Assam. Assam is also the home for
one-horned rhino.

Wild goats, snow leopards, bears, etc. are found in the Himalayan region.

Peacock is out national bird.

Parrots, pigeons, mynah, geese, bulbul and ducks are the other common birds.

Due to large scale cutting of forests, natural habitat of many wild animals has
become less. Many animals are in danger of becoming extinct. Many animals have
already become extinct.

Extinct Species: A species which no longer exists is called and extinct species.

Endangered Species: A species which is in danger of becoming extinct is called

endangered species.

NCERT Exercise Solution

Fill in the blanks:

1. Hot and dry winds known as ________________ blow during the day in the
summers.

Answer: Loo

2. The states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu receive a great amount of rainfall
during the season of________________.

Answer: Autumn

3. _____________ forest in Gujarat is the home of ________________.

Answer: Gir, Asiatic Lions

4. _____________ is a well-known species of mangrove forests.

Answer: Sundari
 5. ____________ are also called monsoon forests.

Answer: Tropical Deciduous Forests

Which winds bring rainfall in India? Why is it so important?

Answer: The monsoon winds bring rainfall in India. Agriculture in India is highly
dependent on monsoon. Hence, this wind is important for India.

Name the different seasons in India.

Answer: Different seasons in India are as follows:

a. Winter Season

b. Summer Season

c. Rainy Season

d. Autumn Season

What is natural vegetation?

Answer: Plants which grow on their own without human intervention are called
natural vegetation.

Name the different types of vegetation found in India.

Answer: Different types of vegetation in India are as follows:

Tropical Evergreen Forest

Tropical Deciduous Forest

Thorny Bushes

Mountain Forest

Mangrove Forest

What is the difference between evergreen forest and deciduous forest?

Answer: The trees of the evergreen forest do not shed leaves at a particular time of
the year, while the trees of the deciduous forest shed their leaves at a particular time
of the year.

Why is tropical rainforest also called evergreen forest?

Answer: The trees of the tropical rainforest shed their leaves at different times of the
year. Due to this, the forest always appears green. Hence, such a forest is called
evergreen forest.

Tick the correct option

1. The worlds highest rainfall occurs in

a. Mumbai

b. Asansol

c. Mawsynram

Answer: (c) Mawsynram

2. Mangrove forests can thrive in

a. Saline water

b. Fresh water

c. Polluted water

Answer: (a) Saline water

3. Mahogany and rosewood trees are found in

a. mangrove forests

b. tropical deciduous forests

c. tropical evergreen forests

Answer: (c) tropical evergreen forests

4. Wild goats and snow leopards are found in

a. Himalayan region

b. Peninsular region

c. Gir forests

Answer: (a) Himalayan region

5. During the south west monsoon period, the moisture laden winds blow from

a. land to sea
 b. sea to land

c. plateau to plains

Answer: (b) sea to land

EXTRA QUESTIONS

1. What is weather?

Answer: The day to day changes in atmosphere is called weather. Weather includes
changes in temperature, sunshine and rainfall.

2. What is climate?

Answer: Overall pattern of weather at a place is called climate. For this, weather
pattern of at least 20 years is taken into consideration.

3. What is the importance of monsoon?

Answer: The monsoon has high importance for India. Agriculture in India is
dependent on monsoon. A good monsoon means good harvest. A bad monsoon
results in poor harvest. Farmers become very happy when there is good monsoon.

4. What is the importance of forests?

Answer: Importance of forests is as follows:

o Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Oxygen is utilized by us for
breathing.

o Roots of plants bind the soil. Thus, plants prevent soil erosion.

o Forests provide us timber for furniture and firewood. They also provide fodder,
medicinal plants and herbs. We also get lac, honey and gum from forests.

o Forests are the natural habitat of wildlife.

5. Tropical rainforest is found in which parts of India?

Answer: Tropical Rainforest in India: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, parts of North-
Eastern states and a narrow strip of the western slope of the Western Ghats.

6. Tropical deciduous forest is found in which parts of India?

Answer: Tropical Deciduous Forest in India: Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar,
Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Orissa and parts of Maharashtra.