Class 9

Detailed explanations in West Bengal Board Class 9 History Book Solutions Chapter 6 The Second World War and Its Aftermath offer valuable context and analysis.

WBBSE Class 9 History Chapter 6 Question Answer – The Second World War and Its Aftermath

Very Short Answer (VSA) Type Questions : (1 mark for each question)

Question 1.
Which treaty is known as a ‘dictated peace’?
Answer:
The Treaty of Versailles is known as a ‘dictated peace’.

Question 2.
What is the name of the republic that was established after 1918 in Germany?
Answer:
The name of the Republic that was established after 1918 in Germany was known as the Weimer Republic.

Question 3.
On which date did the Second World War begin?
Answer:
The Second World War began on 1st September, 1939.

Question 4.
Who was the Prime Minister of England when the Second World War started?
Answer:
Nevielle Chamberlain was the Prime Minister of England when the Second World War started.

Question 5.
Who was the Prime Minister of France when the Second World War broke out?
Answer:
Daladier was the Prime Minister of France when the Second World War broke out.

Question 6.
Who was the founder of the Nazi Party?
Answer:
The founder of the Nazi Party was Hitler.

Question 7.
When did Germany withdraw from the League of Nations?
Answer:
Germany withdrew from the League of Nations in 1933.

Question 8.
Which country was first attacked by Hitler during the Second World War?
Answer:
Poland was first attacked by Hitler during the Second World War.

Question 9.
Which port of Poland was demanded by Hitler?
Answer:
Danzig, a port of Poland was demanded by Hitler.

Question 10.
Who was Hindenburg?
Answer:
Hindenburg was the President of German Republic.

Question 11.
Which country other than Germany and Italy was part of the Axis group of nations?
Answer:
Japan was part of the Axis group of nations other than Germany and Italy.

Question 12.
Which British Prime Minister appeased Germany?
Answer:
The British Prime Minister who appeased Germany was Neville Chamberlain.

Question 13.
When did Japan attack Manchuria?
Answer:
Japan attacked Manchuria in 1931.

Question 14.
Which British warships were drowned by German U-boats?
Answer:
The British warships HMS Courageous and the HMS Royal Oak were drowned by German U-boats.

Question 15.
Who was Mac Arthur?
Answer:
Mac Arthur was the American military General.

Question 16.
Which American naval base in the Pacific Ocean was attacked by Japan?
Answer:
The American naval base at Pearl Harbour was attacked by Japan.

Question 17.
In which year was Pearl Harbour attacked by Japan?
Answer:
Pearl Harbour was attacked by Japan in 1941.

Question 18.
In which year did Hitler attack Russia?
Answer:
Hitler attacked Russia in 1941.

Question 19.
In which year did Japan surrender to the Allies during the Second World War?
Answer:
Japan surrendered to the Allies during the Second World War in 1945.

Question 20.
When did the Second World War come to an end?
Answer:
The Second World War came to an end in 1945.

Question 21.
Where is Pearl Harbour located?
Answer:
Pearl Harbour is located on the island of O’ahu in Hawaii.

Question 22.
Who were the US Presidents during World War II?
Answer:
Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Harry S Truman-both served as United States Presidents during World War II.

Question 23.
Name the World War II General who went on to become President of the United States of America.
Answer:
The World War II General Eishenhower went on to become the President of United States of America.

Question 24.
In which year was the Tehran Conference held?
Answer:
The Tehran Conference was held in 1944.

Question 25.
In which year was the San Francisco Conference held?
Answer:
The San Francisco Conference was held in 1945.

Question 26.
Who is the author of the poem ‘The White Man’s Burden’?
Answer:
The author of the poem ‘The White Man’s Burden’ is Rudyard Kipling.

Question 27.
What is the concept of ‘The White Man’s Burden’?
Answer:
‘The White Man’s Burden’ is the idea that white people are superior to the non-white races and so, colonial rulers have a duty to take care of and ‘civilise’ the native inhabitants of their colonies.

Question 28.
When and between whom was the RussoGerman Non-Aggression Pact signed?
Answer:
The Russo-German Non-Aggression Pact was signed on 23 August, 1939 between Russian foreign minister Molotov and German foreign minister Ribbentrop.

Question 29.
After which incident did USA join the Second World War?
Answer:
When Japan attacked the US naval base at Pearl Harbour, USA joined the World War II.

Question 30.
What was the direct cause of Second World War?
Answer:
The direct cause of Second World War was Hitler’s attack on Poland.

Question 31.
Which day is known as the ‘D-Day’ (Deliverance Day)?
Answer:
6th June, 1944 is known as the ‘D-Day’.

Question 32.
Who followed the policy of appeasement?
Answer:
The Prime Minister of Britain, Neville Chamberlain and Edouard Daladier, the Premier of France followed this policy.

Question 33.
Name the countries which took part in the Second World War.
Answer:
The countries which took part in the Second World War were Germany, Italy, Japan, Britain, France, Soviet Union, USA, Poland, Yugoslavia, Romania, Greece, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Holland, Belgium, Finland, Bulgaria, Albania, Norway, Denmark etc.

Question 34.
When did the Second World War come to an end?
Answer:
The Second World War came to an end on 2 September, 1945.

Question 35.
For how many years did the Second World War continue?
Answer:
The Second World War started on 1 September, 1939 and ended on 2 September, 1945-so the war continued for 6 years.

Question 36.
What was the aim of the Versailles Treaty?
Answer:
The Treaty of Versailles aimed to weaken Germany both economically and militarily.

Question 37.
In which year was the Battle of Britain fought?
Answer:
The Battle of Britain was fought in 1940.

Question 38.
What was the main reason of the defeat of Germany in the Second World War?
Answer:
The main reason of the defeat of Germany in the Second World War was the conspiracy of the German generals and the discontent of the soldiers.

Question 39.
Name the Czar of Russia who established his capital at Leningrad.
Answer:
The Czar of Russia who established his capital at Leningrad was Peter the Great.

Question 40.
Who followed ‘One by one policy’?
Answer:
Hitler, the German dictator, followed ‘One by one’ policy.

Question 41.
Why was Hitler in favour of union between Germany and Austria?
Answer:
Hitler was in favour of union between Germany and Austria as a sizeable number of Germans lived in Austria.

Question 42.
Under whose leadership did the Russian army defeat the Germans?
Answer:
Under the leadership of Marshall Zhukov the Russian army defeated the GermAnswer:

Question 43.
How did the USA become the arsenal of democracy?
Answer:
USA became the arsenal of democracy when the American Senate enacted the Lend-Lease Act in March 1941 and allowed the US government to offer warships, war planes and other weapons to the Allied powers to fight against Fascism.

Question 44.
Which Act made USA the ‘Arsenal of Democracy’?
Answer:
The Lend-Lease Act enacted by the American Senate in 1941 made USA the ‘Arsenal of Democracy’.

Question 45.
Which day is regarded as ‘a date which will live in infamy’ in the USA?
Answer:
The day which is regarded as ‘a date which will live in infamy’ in the history of USA is 7 December, 1941 as Japan bombed the US naval base at Pearl Harbour on this day.

Question 46.
When was ‘Victory-in-Europe Day’ observed?
Answer:
Germany surrendered to the Allied Powers formally on May 7, 1945 and the whole of Europe observed May 8, 1945 as ‘the Victory-in-Europe Day’.

Question 47.
What was the Grand Alliance?
Answer:
USA, Great Britain and Soviet Russia formed an alliance against the Axis powers which is known as the Grand Alliance.

Question 48.
What was the ‘Lend-Lease Act’?
Answer:
The American Senate enacted the lendLease Act in March 1941 and allowed the US
government to offer warships, war-planes and other weapons to the Allied powers to fight against fascism.

Question 49.
Under whose leadership did the German soldiers start ‘Operation Barbarossa’?
Answer:
The German soldiers started ‘Operation Barbarossa’ under the leadership of Hitler.

Question 50.
When and by whom was the Anglo-Russian Alliance signed?
Answer:
Churchill, the British Prime Minister, concluded the Anglo-Russian Alliance of 1941.

Question 51.
Which incident made Far East the centre of war during World War II?
Answer:
The Japanese attack on the US naval base at Pearl Harbour made the Far East the centre of war during the World War II.

Question 52.
After which invasion did the ‘Beginning of the end’ of Germany start under the leadership of Hitler?
Answer:
After the invasion of Russia, the ‘Beginning of the end’ of Germany started under the leadership of Hitler.

Question 53.
Name the two atom bombs dropped by USA on Japan.
Answer:
USA dropped the atom bombs named ‘Little boy’ on Hiroshima and ‘Fat man’ on Nagasaki in Japan.

Question 54.
Why did Hitler attack Poland?
Answer:
After the Munich Pact, Hitler demanded the use of the port of Danzig and also the Polish corridor to reach the port. When Poland refused this demand, Hitler attacked Poland.

Question 55.
What was the aim of Hitler’s foreign policy?
Answer:
Hitler’s foreign policy aimed at German expansion in East Europe in order to carve out some ‘Living Space’ (Lebensraum) for surplus German population.

Question 56.
Who first popularised the term ‘Cold War’?
Answer:
The term ‘Cold War’ was first popularised by Walter Lipmann.

Question 57.
Name the two parties in the Cold War.
Answer:
The two parties in the Cold War were

• United States of America and
• Soviet Russia.

Question 58
Which two superpowers were the main rivals in the Cold War?
Answer:
The two superpowers who were the main rivals in the Cold War were-

• United States of America and
• Soviet Russia.

Question 59.
What does NATO stand for?
Answer:
NATO stands for North Atlantic Treaty Organisation.

Question 60.
What does SEATO stand for?
Answer:
SEATO stands for South East Asia Treaty Organisation.

Question 61.
In which year was Truman Doctrine proclaimed?
Answer:
Truman Doctrine was proclaimed in 1947.

Question 62.
In which year was Marshall Plan proclaimed?
Answer:
Marshall Plan was proclaimed in 1947.

Question 63.
What is meant by Third World countries?
Answer:
A group of developing countries in Asia, Africa and South America which achieved independence after the Second World War were known as the Third World countries.

Question 64.
When was the UNO established?
Answer:
UNO was established on 24 October 1945.

Question 65.
What is Non-Alignment policy?
Answer:
Non-Alignment policy which aims at ensuring international peace, means keeping away from the two military blocks led by USA and USSR and solving all international conflicts and disputes peacefully through cooperation.

Question 66.
To which country did admiral Karl Donitz belong during the Second World War?
Answer:
Karl Donitz was the admiral of Germany during the Second World War.

Question 67.
Who wrote the poem ‘The White Man’s Burden’?
Answer:
Rudyard Kipling wrote the poem ‘The White Man’s Burden’.

Question 68.
In which essay did Rabindranath criticise radical nationalism?
Answer:
Rabindranath in his essay The Crisis in Civilisation’ criticised radical nationalism.

Question 69.
What is V-2? Which country used the V-2 during the second World War?
Answer:
v-2 was the rocket used during the Second World War.
v-2, the long range rocket was used by Germany during the Second World War.

Question 70.
Which country used V-2 rocket and against whom?
Answer:
During the Second World War Germany used V-2 rocket against England.

Question 71.
Who coined the term ‘Third World’?
Answer:
Alfred Sauvy coined the term ‘Third World’.

Question 72.
What was the name of the atomic bomb dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima?
Answer:
The name of the atomic bomb dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima is ‘Little Boy’.

Question 73.
Which day is celebrated as the Hiroshima and Nagasaki Day?
Answer:
August 9 is celebrated as the Hiroshima and Nagasaki Day.

Question 74.
Name the international organisation established after the Second World War.
Answer:
The international organisation established after the Second World War was the United Nations Organisation (UNO).

Short Answer (SA) Type Questions : (2 marks for each question)

Question 1.
Name the Allied and Axis powers in the Second World War.
Answer:
I In the Second World War, the Allied powers were England, France, USSR, USA and China. The Axis powers were Italy, Germany and Japan.

Question 2.
Through which military campaign did Mussolini try to fulfil his imperial ambition?
Answer:
The fascist government under Mussolini became hungry for colonies and Mussolini tried to fulfil his imperial ambitions through his military campaign in the East African country of Ethiopia (Abyssinia). In 1935 he attacked Ethiopia to exploit its minerals and raw materials for industrial development and Ethiopia was formally annexed in 1936.

Question 3.
Write a note on bombing by USA at Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Answer:
USA prepared a plan to drop newly discovered atomic bomb on Japan on August 6, 1945. The atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, the industrial town in Japan, which destroyed half the city and caused 80,000 deaths. This was the first use of atom bomb during the World War II.

On August 9, a second atomic bomb was dropped in Nagasaki in Kyum, destroying the whole municipal area and killing 40,000 people. The whole world was alarmed at the extensive destructive capacity of these new weapons.

Question 4.
Why did Hitler sign the Munich Pact?
Answer:
England and France followed the policy of appeasement towards Hitler and signed the Munich Pact in 1938. Hitler agreed to sign the Munich Pact because-

• Germany was authorised to occupy four border provinces of Czechoslovakia within ten days.
• The Czechoslovakian government was forced to release all the political prisoners of Sudetenland. This territory was also given to Germany.

Question 5.
Which incident forced the USA to join the Second World War?
Answer:
The sudden Japanese air attack with 360 aircraft struck at the American fleet at Pearl Harbour in the Hawain Islands on 7 December, 1941 and wiped out all the American planes on the ground there. This incident at Pearl Harbour forced USA to join the Second World War.

Question 6.
Write a note on the Battle of Leningrad.
Answer:
At the initial stage of the Second World War, the German army achieved great success. They besieged Leningrad. The Soviet army followed the ‘Scorched-Earth’ policy and guerilla model of warfare. As a result the Nazi forces began to retreat. In the beginning of 1942 Leningrad was vacated by the Russian Red Army.

Question 7.
Which book is known as the ‘Bible of the Nazi Party’? Who was its author?
Answer:
l’Mein Kampf’ is known as the Bible of the Nazi Party.
Its author was Hitler.

Question 8.
Why did Germany withdraw from the League of Nations?
Answer:
In 1933 Germany withdrew from the League of Nations. According to the terms of the Treaty of Versailles Germany was disarmed. Germany’s demands for military parity with other European powers was refused by the western powers, so Germany withdrew herself from the League of Nations.

Question 9.
What was Vichy government?
Answer:
A puppet French government led by Petain was established under the control of Germany in France. As Vichy was the capital of this new French government it was also called the Vichy Government.

Question 10.
When was the Yalta Conference held? Name the countries which took part in the Yalta Conference.
Answer:
The Yalta Conference was held in 1945. The countries which took part in the Yalta Conference were USA, Britain and Russia.

Question 11.
Name three prominent leaders who attended the Yalta Conference. Name any two military alliances which came into being as a consequence of Cold War.
Answer:
Three prominent leaders who attended the Yalta Conference were-

• Roosevelt, the President of America
• Churchill, the British Prime Minister and
• Stalin, the President of USSR.

Two military alliances which came into being as a consequence of Cold War were-

• NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) and
• Warsaw Pact.

Question 12.
What is Operation Barbarossa?
Answer:
On June 22, 1941 Nazi Germany and her allies began a massive invasion of the Soviet Union under Operation Barbarossa. Hitler changed the original name Operation Fritz to Operation Barbarossa to refer to Frederick Barbarossa, the Holy Roman Emperor, who had set out to conquer the Holy land in 1190.

Question 13.
What is Seigfreid Line?
Answer:
Seigfreid Line was a line of defensive forts and tank defences built along the German western frontier opposite the French Maginot Line in the 1930s and greatly expanded in 1941.

Question 14.
Name the principal dictators of Europe who rose to power after the first World War.
Answer:
The principal dictators of Europe who rose to power after the First World War were Mussolini of Italy, Hitler of Germany and general Franco of Spain.

Question 15.
What were the main aims of Hitler’s foreign policy?
Answer:
The main aims of Hitler’s foreign policy were:

• To revise the humiliating treaty of Versailles.
• To unify Germany and to unite all German speaking people into one Reich.
• Eastward expansion of Germany to achieve ‘Lebensraum’ (Living space).
• To make Germany a strong and powerful nation and to destroy communism.

Question 16.
What is the significance of Italy’s attack on Abyssinia?
Answer:
The significance of Italy’s attack on Abyssinia was:

• It exposed the weakness of the League of Nations.
• The prestige of the League of Nations was damaged.
• Italy’s attack on Abyssinia encouraged Hitler in his aggressive policy.
• Italy and Germany came closer together.

Question 17.
What steps were taken by the League of Nations when Italy attacked Abyssinia?
Answer:
When Italy attacked Abyssinia, the League of Nations declared Italy as an aggressor country. Moreover, the League of Nations directed the member countries of the League to stop all sorts of commercial relationship with Italy.

Question 18.
Why did Hitler and Mussolini come closer to each other and become allies?
Answer:
The reasons why Hitler and Mussolini came closer to each other and became allies were:

• Both were against the Treaty of Versailles signed in 1919.
• France was the enemy of both Italy and Germany.
• Both the countries were supporters of aggressive nationalism.

Question 19.
Give some examples of Anglo-French policy of appeasement.
Answer:
Some examples of Anglo-French policy of appeasement were:

• Italy’s attack on Abyssinia.
• Franco’s military regime was supported by Hitler and Mussolini during the Spanish Civil War.
• Occupation of Austria by Germany, England and France remained inactive during the aggressive policy of Italy and Germany.

Question 20.
How can you explain the Second World War as a struggle between Fascism and Nazism versus Democratic ideals?
Answer:
The Second World War was in fact, the struggle of two contradictory principles, i.e, Fascism and Nazism versus democratic principles. England, France and America were the supporters of the principles of democracy, while the principles of autocracy were fully supported by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy. Thus war was inevitable between the supporters of these two contradictory principles.

Question 21.
What is UNRRA?
Answer:
As a result of the Second World War there was total destruction, devastation and despair in the whole of Europe. In order to regenerate the economy of the devastated countries United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration (UNRRA) was set up in 1943 in Washington, USA.

It was an international body to provide relief to countries liberated from the German occupation. This economic recovery programme provided substantial economic help to the war ravaged countries like Poland, Italy, Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, Greece, Austria etc.

Question 22.
What was ‘Fulton Speech’?
Answer:
On 5 March, 1946 the former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill delivered a speech at Westminster College, Fulton in the state of Missouri, USA. He warned that a large part of Europe from Stettin to Triest had passed under the ‘iron curtain’ of the Soviet Union. He warned that America should become alert otherwise the Soviet Union would one day conquer the entire continent of Europe.

Question 23.
What is Marshall Plan?
Answer:
The American Foreign Secretary, George Marshall, in a lecture at Harvard University spoke of a plan of economic resurgence of the war ravaged countries like France, Britain, Belgium, Italy, West Germany etc. Marshall observed, “It is logical that the United States should do whatever it is able to do to assist in the return of normal economic health in the world, without which there can be no political stability and no assured peace.” This plan of Marshall which wanted to save Europe from poverty, hunger and lawlessness is known as Marshall plan, a programme to finance recovery of European economy.

Question 24.
What is internationalism?
Answer:
Internationalism is a movement which advocates economic and political cooperation among nations for the benefit of all. It is the belief that countries can achieve more advantages by working together and trying to understand each other than by arguing and fighting wars with each other.

Question 25.
What is nationalism?
Answer:
Nationalism is basically a collective state of mind or consciousness in which people believe their primary duty is loyalty to the nation state. It implies national superiority and glorifies various national virtues. It is a political or social philosophy in which the welfare of the nation state as an entity is considered paramount.

Question 26.
What do you mean by ultranationalism?
Answer:
Nationalism is an ideology that emphasises devotion and loyalty to a nation or nation state. Ultranationalism is an extreme form of nationalism. It is simply extreme devotion to one’s own nation and of the paramount importance of advancing it regardless of the effect on any other nation.

Question 27.
What was decided in the Potsdam Conference?
Answer:
The decisions arrived at the Potsdam Conference were

• Germany will be de-Nazified. The Nazi Party would be banned and its leaders would be tried as war criminals.
• Germany will be demilitarized
• Germany’s large industrial factories would be dissolved.

Question 28.
What are the features of ultranationalism?
Answer:
The features of ultranationalism are as follows:

• It is an extreme form of nationalism.
• It believes in the superiority of one’s own nation.
• It glorifies national identity.
• It includes elements of racism and fanaticism which can lead to conflict.
• It may involve contempt for other nations.
• It supports authoritarian political arrangements.

Question 29.
Name the leaders who joined the Potsdam Conference.
Answer:
The leaders who joined the Potsdam Conference were Joseph Stalin of Russia, Harry S Truman of USA and Clement Attlee of Britain.

Question 30.
How was Germany divided after the Second World War?
Answer:
After the Potsdam Conference, Germany was divided into four occupied zone: France in the south-west, the United States is the south, Great Britain in the north-west and Soviet Union in the east. Berlin, the capital of Germany was also divided into four occupied zones.

Question 31.
Mention some military equipments used during the Second World War.
Answer:
Some military equipments used during the Second World War were machine gun, long range rocket, handgun, marine, mortar, grenade launcher, submarine, modern tank, mine etc.

Question 32.
What do you understand by the term ‘Third World’?
Answer:
While the post 1945 world saw a ‘bi-polar’ world (divides into USA and Soviet spheres of influence), it also witnessed the emergence of the ‘Third World’. A group of countries in Asia, Africa and Latin (South) America which achieved independence after the Second World War and did not formally belong to either of the two rival blocs and later launched the Non-Alignment Movement in international relations is known as the Third World.

Analytical Answer (AA) Type Questions (4 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What was the immediate cause of the Second World War?
Answer:
In the Second World War (1939-1945) Germany, Italy and Japan were on one side and Britain, France, USSR, USA and China were on the other. The immediate cause of the Second World War is to be found in a series of acts of aggression by the German leader Hitler. Germany annexed Austria and then demanded Sudetenland from Czechoslovakia. By the Munich Pact of 1939 the Allies admitted the German claim. Soon after, Germany swallowed up the remaining portion of Czechoslovakia and demanded Danzig from Poland.

Britain, France and Poland formed an alliance against German aggression. Great Britain and France were engaged in negotiations with Russia. In the meantime Germany and Russia concluded a Non-Aggression Pact for 10 years (1939). Hitler thus emboldened invaded Poland without any formal declaration of war. Great Britain and France declared war against Germany in September 1939 and the Second World War started.

Question 2.
How far was Hitler responsible for the outbreak of the Second World War?
Answer:
The main causes of the Second World War according to many historians was the aggressive policy of the German dictator Adolf Hitler. He treated the Treaty of Versailles (1919) as a scrap of paper. After making Germany economically and politically strong he began to disobey the conditions of the Versailles Treaty. He began to reorganise the German army with a motive of aggressively violating the Versailles Treaty.

He followed an aggressive policy towards the neighbouring countries, violating treaties and promises. He annexed Austria violating the Treaty of Versailles. He violated the Munich Pact and annexed Czechoslovakia. In order to wreck the Balance of Power, he concluded the Rome-Berlin Axis. Finally in 1939 he invaded Poland disregarding the warning given by England and France. Thus the aggressive policy of Hitler made the Second World War inevitable.

Question 3.
How was the Rome-Berlin-Tokyo Axis formed?
Answer:
Adolf Hitler, the Nazi dictator of Germany, repudiated the Locarno Pact in 1936. He militarized the left bank of the river Rhine. In the same year Germany and Japan concluded the Anti-Commintern Pact which was aimed against Russia. Hitler also established friendly contact with Mussolini, the Fascist dictator of Italy and formed the Rome-Berlin Axis. Italy occupied Abyssinia in 1936 in defiance of the League of Nations and found it necessary to secure friends in Europe. In 1937 Italy left the League of Nations and joined the AntiCommintern Pact. Thus the Rome-Berlin Axis was converted into Rome-Berlin-Tokyo Axis.

Question 4.
When and between whom was the Munich pact signed? What is the importance of the Munich Pact (1938)?
Answer:
The Munich Pact was signed in 1938 between Chamberlain (The British Prime Minister), Daladier (Prime Minister of France), Hitler (the Nazi dictator of Germany) and Mussolini (the Fascist dictator of Italy).
England and France followed a policy of appeasement towards Hitler and signed the Munich Pact in 1938 in which the unjust demands of Hitler were accepted.

• Germany was authorised to occupy four border provinces of Czechoslovakia within ten days.
• The government of Czechoslovakia was forced to release all the political prisoners of Sudetenland.

Sudetenland was also given to Germany. This emboldened Hitler and encouraged him to make more and more territorial demands. At last when Hitler invaded Poland, Britain and France could not tolerate it and declared war against Germany. Thus the Second World War started.
The progression of events shown above suggests that Nazi Germany confidently pursued and applied foreign policies of imperialism and militarism.

Question 5.
What is meant by the policy of appeasement? Who followed the policy of appeasement and why?
Answer:
The policy of appeasement means giving a person or party whatever they want. By 1939 aggressive militarism of italy and Germany in Europe and Japan in East Asia created alarm. But throughout the spell of aggression the great powers like England and France remained inactive and timid. Their policy of doing nothing or little when facing militarism is known as the policy of appeasement.

The Prime Minister of Britain, Neville Chamberlain and Edward Daladier, the Premier of France, followed the policy of appeasement. Neville Chamberlain believed that some of the territorial clauses of the Treaty of Versailles (1919) were unnecessarily harsh to Germany and an appeasement policy towards Hitler would prevent another war. He believed that if Germany became strong and if she was satisfied by the amendment of the Treaty of Versailles, she would stand as a bulwark against communist influence of Russia.

Question 6.
What is ‘Cash and Carry’ policy?
Answer:
USA followed a policy of neutrality towards the international politics after the First Worid War. She did not join the Second World War and kept herself aloof from the war but was sympathetic towards the Allied powers, In 1939 the American legislature allowed USA to help the western democratic states and sell arms and ammunitions to them. This policy was known as ‘Cash and Carry’ policy.

It was a policy to preserve neutrality while aiding the Allies. It allowed sale of arms, ammunition and war materials to belligerents (countries engaged in war) as long as the recipients arranged for transportation using their own ships and paid immediately in cash, assuming all risk in transportation.

Question 7.
What was the ‘D-Day’?
Answer:
‘D-Day’ was the Deliverance Day, (June 6, 1944). On that day vast Anglo-American force landed at the Normandy coast of northern France by crossing the English Channel. The operation was gigantic. The Military General of USA Eishenhower took the leadership. One thousand Anglo-American air crafts conducted a massive dropping of Allied air-troopers behind the German lines by parachute.

Nearly 11 thousand war planes were ready for their defence. Four thousand Allied naval ships and thousands of land forces joined. Caught between Allied army in the front and at the back, the Germans became bewildered. The superior Allied forces captured Toulon, Marseilles, Nice, Lyons and the German air fields in France. They liberated Paris from foreign occupation on April 25, 1944. The Allied army then proceeded towards Germany.

Question 8.
When was the Potsdam Conference held? Name the countries which took part in the Potsdam Conference. What was decided in the Potsdam Conference?
Answer:
The Potsdam Conference was held in 1945.
The countries which took part in the Potsdam Conference were Russia, America and Britain.
At the Potsdam Conference it was decided:

• Germany was to be divided into four zones namely American, Soviet, French and British.
• Like Germany its capital Berlin was also to be divided into four zones.
• Berlin would be placed under a council named ‘Allied Kommandatura’.
• Though Germany was divided into four zones she was to be treated as a single economic unit.
• Allied Control Council would be formed to supervise the working of Germany as a single economic unit.
• Germany would undergo ‘Five Ds’ (demilitarization, deindustrialisation, decentralisation, democratization and denazification).

Question 9.
What were the main theatres of the Second World War?
Answer:
The Second World War began in 1939 and ended in 1945 after lasting for six years. Around 60 countries were involved in this violent war.

The war was fought on the Mediterranean, the Atlantic and the Pacific, and in four major land campaigns – in the Soviet Union, North Africa and the Meditereanean, western Europe, and the Far East. The main theatres of the war were:

• The Russian Theatre or Eastern Theatre
• The Mediterranean Theatre
• The African Theatre
• The Pacific Theatre
• The Asian Theatre
• Arctic and Atlantic Theatre.

Question 10.
What is Truman Doctrine?
Answer:
On March 11, 1947 President Truman of USA, in a lecture in the American Congress, gave a call to frustrate the onslaught of communism on the free world. He declared:

• USA seeks to protect the independence and territorial integrity of free democratic nations from communist aggression.
• Whenever free lawful government was threatened by an armed minority and the lawful government tried to resist the aggression, USA would render help to the lawful government.
• USA would help Greece and Turkey with 400 million dollars with the aim of freeing these countries from Soviet influence. This declaration of Truman is known as Truman Doctrine.

Question 11.
What was Cold War?
Answer:
Tension of war without an actual shooting of war has been termed as the Cold War. Cold War is a state of tension between countries in which each side adopts policies designed to strengthen itself and weaken the other by falling short of actual war.

It is a kind of verbal war and even more terrible than the ‘Warm War’. It is an atmosphere of artificial tension and distrust either due to virtual utterances or war like preparation which may at any moment degenerate into a ‘Warm War’ or a shooting war.

Question 12.
What was ‘NATO’ and ‘Warsaw Pact’?
Answer:
After the Second World War USA and Soviet Russia who had helped each other in the Second World War became rivals and a competition arose between them to assume leadership of the world. In 1949 USA formed a military alliance called NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) with 16 nations as its members.

It was strong enough to repulse any invasion of West Europe by the Red Army. The Soviet Union, on the other hand, apprehended an invasion of East Europe and Russia by NATO army. She entered into the Warsaw Pact with East European countries in 1955.

Question 13.
Write a note on the evolution of internationalism after the Second World War.
Answer:
The destructive effect of the Second World War (1939-45) opened the eyes of different countries of the world. They realised that peace and cooperation could not be established without mutual cooperation and trust. They also realised that war was not the ultimate means to solve problems. The international peace organisation. The League of Nations which was established after the First World War collapsed before selfish motives of different nations.

International cooperation failed in the field of politics and the Second World War broke out in 1939. After the Second World war, different nations again realised the importance and necessity of mutual cooperation. They decided to solve their problems through peaceful meetings, so that the damage of war might be removed for ever and peace might be established among different nations of the world. The United Nations Organisation (UNO) was established in 1945 the sole aim of which was to maintain international peace and security, to develop friendly relations and international cooperation.

Question 5.
State the differences between ultranationalism and internationalism.
Answer:
Differences between ultranationalism and internationalism
Ultranationalism

• Ultranationalism leads to war among different nations.
• Ultranationalism involves contempt for other nations.
• Ultranationalism is the most destructive force in the world which might create international anarchy.

Internationalism

• Internationalism advocates world peace and is against wars among different nations.
• Internationalism advocates cooperation among different nations for the benefit of all.
• Internationalism replaces international anarchy by international order.

Question 6.
Was the Second World War truly a global war?
Answer:
In the Second World War (1939-1945) the Allied powers were England, France, USSR, USA and China. Three Axis powers were Italy, Germany and Japan. World War II was truly a global war. This extensive war was fought on all major seas and in Africa, Asia and Europe. It involved almost 60 nations, seven of them on the side of the Axis.

The war in the Mediterranean took military conflict beyond these seas in Europe. The war against Japan was fought over two-thirds of the world’s surface with USA and her allies taking part in air, land and sea battles. It turned World War II into a global conflict. To plan global strategy, top Allied leaders held a series of conferences such as the ones in Tehran, Yalta and Potsdam.

Question 7.
What are the major differences between democracy and Fascism?
Answer:
The major differences between democracy and Fascism are:
1. Democracy allows and encourages different political parties and political views to function in the political system to turn the wheels of the political machinery. On the other hand, Fascism does not tolerate any political party or political views other than the view sponsored by the Fascist dictator.

2. Democracy develops balanced, healthy and creative nationalism. This appears to be a source of strength and progress in the life of a nation. But Fascism generates hatred and preaches aggressive nationalism. Such perverted nationalism is the cause of conflict among different nations.

Question 8.
Discuss the nature of the Second World War.
Answer:
Within twenty years of the First World War (1914-18) the Second World War broke out on 13 September, 1939. The nature of the Second World War is discussed below.

• The Second World War was more destructive and extensive than the First World War.
• This was for the first time that the war was extended in three fronts-land, air and water. It was fought on all major seas in Asia, Africa and Europe. Sixty nations were involved in the war, seven of them on the side of the Axis.
• Deadly weapons and the dreadful atom bombs were used in the war. Airplanes played a major role. Fleets of aeroplanes attacked troops and naval units, destroyed rail roads and prepared the way for invasion.
• The war was fought not only by armed forces at the battle field but also by civilians in the factories and at home. School children also took part in the war, collecting rubber, newspapers and scrap metal, assisting in War Bond drives and helping air raid wardens.

Explanatory Answer (EA) Type Questions (8 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What were the causes of the Second World War?
Answer:
1. The causes of the Second World War which broke out on 13 September 1939 may be discussed as follows:
Unjust terms of the Treaty of Versailles: The Treaty of Versailles (1919) imposed unjust and humiliating terms on defeated Germany and therefore the Germans continued to nourish their grievances against the Treaty of Versailles.

2. Hitler’s ambition to become master of Europe: Hitler became the dictator of Germany in 1934 and began to violate the humiliating terms of the Treaty of Versailles.

3. Weakness of the League of Nations: The League of Nations which had been formed to prevent future war became weak and aggressive nations like Germany, Italy and Japan defied the League openly.

4. Lack of cooperation between England and France: There was very little cooperation between England and France, the two important powerful member countries of the League of Nations. France wanted to take action against Germany for denying the terms of the Treaty of Versailles, but England did not give full support to this and Hitler took full advantage of this.

5. Italy’s ambition to become a world power: Italy, which became one of the most powerful nations of Europe, captured Abyssinia in 1936. Italy’s ambition to become a world power with the help of the Nazi leader of Germany was also a cause of anxiety for England, France and Russia and they apprehended danger from Italy.

6. Japanese Imperialism: After the First World War Japan became a warlike nation and conquered Manchuria and half of China in 1939. The war between China and Japan later merged into the Second World War.

7. Immediate cause: The immediate cause of the Second World War is to be found in a series of acts of aggression by Hitler. Germany annexed Austria and then demanded Sudetenland from Czechoslovakia. Soon after Germany swallowed up the remaining portion of Czechoslovakia and demanded Danzig from Poland.

Britain, France and Poland formed an alliance to resist German aggression upon Poland. Meanwhile, Great Britain and France were engaged in negotiations with Russia. But the world was surprised by the news that Germany and Russia had concluded Non-Aggression Pact for 10 years (1939) and this emboldened Hitler to invade Poland without any formal declaration of war. So Great Britain and France declared war against Germany in September 1939 and the World War II began.

Question 2.
The fundamental cause of World War II must be sought in the Treaty of Versailles Discuss.
Answer:
1. The Treaty of Versailles has been called ‘a dictated treaty’ which was imposed upon vanquished Germany by the victorious Allied Powers. The delegates of Germany were not invited to the Paris Peace Conference (1919) and the treaty was a revengeful treaty.

2. The treaty did not adhere to the principle of self-determination. The right of self determination was not applied for Sudetenland which was transferred to Czechoslovakia. It led to a loss of balance of power in Europe.

3. While England and France increased their colonies, German colonies were confiscated in the name of good government.

4. The provinces of Alsace and Lorraine were taken away from Germany and were given back to France. The Saar Valley on the western frontier of Germany was handed over to France for fifteen years after which fate of the region was to be settled by a plebiscite. The port of Danzig was also snatched away from the possession of Germany.

5. Germany was saddled with a huge reparation amount by the Treaty which was impossible for her to pay.

6. The German bared of staff or general of the army was dissolved. Germany had to surrender her fleet to the Allies. According to Wilson’s Fourteen Points, it was decided that all the states would reduce their war armaments. But this clause was only applied to Germany. Humiliated Germany was looking forward to another war as an opportunity to avenge her defeat. So it is said that the fundamental cause of World War II must be sought in the Treaty of Versailles.

Question 3.
How did the failure of the League of Nations constitute a cause of the Second World War?
Answer:
The terrible effects of the First World War (1914-18) had stunning effects on the minds of the people and made them cry for peace. President Wilson of America took the initiative and made a plan for the League of Nations which was established in 1920, the primary object of which was to prevent armed conflict.

Many international problems arose after the First World War. At first the problems were comparatively easy and the League of Nations was able to solve some of them by peaceful methods. But the League’s inability to control the Great Powers become quite evident in the thirties which constituted a cause of the Second World War.

In 1931 when Japan swallowed Manchuria the League did not adopt any penal measure against Japan, the grievances of China remained unredressed. Encouraged by the failure of the League the autocrats of different countries also started aggression totally ignoring the League of Nations.

In 1935 Italy under the dictatorship of Mussolini invaded and occupied Ethiopia (Abyssinia) in Africa. Ethiopia complained to the League and a decision was made by the League Council for enforcement of economic sanctions against Italy. But Italy did not obey League’s order and resigned from the League of Nations.

During Spanish Civil War the League was unable to adopt effective measures to restore peace in Spain and to prevent external intervention. Franco became victorious and this added to German confidence. For this reason the Spanish Civil War is regarded as the stage rehearsal for the Second World War. The failure of the League made Hitler and Mussolini bolder.

Immediately after assumption of dictatorial power Hitler withdrew Germany from the Disarmament Conference in 1933 and from the League of Nations. Within a few years Hitler swallowed Austria and Czechoslovakia (1938-39) and invaded Poland in 1939.

The invasion of Poland by Germany was the signal for the outbreak of the Second World War. In no case could the League of Nations prevent or restrict Hitler’s aggressions. Thus the failure of the League of Nations in different international disputes constitute a cause of the Second World War.

Question 4.
Describe the course of the Second World War.
Answer:
The shameful Treaty of Versailles (1919) was imposed on Germany after the First World War (1914-18) by the Allied powers. Hitler rejected the Treaty of Versailles and invaded Poland in 1939 which led to the outbreak of the Second World War. Germany occupied half of Poland.

After conquering Denmark and Norway, Germany turned westward and attacked Holland, and Belgium. Germany occupied France in 1940. Then Germany invaded Russia and at the Battle of Stalingrad Germany was defeated. Fascist Italy invaded North Africa after joining World War II as an ally of Germany.

Italy was defeated by Anglo-American forces. Anglo-American forces landed at Normandy in France and attacked Germany. At last Germany was defeated after a strong resistance. Germany was attacked by the Russians in the East Frontier and Anglo-French-American army in the west frontier and Germany surrendered. The eastern bank of river Elb was occupied by Russia and the western bank of Elb was occupied by Anglo-American forces.

In the Far East Japan invaded Manchuria in 1931 and China in 1936. She attacked and destroyed American naval base at Pearl Harbour in 1941 and joined the Second World War. After the defeat of Germany and Italy the Allies attacked Japan in full force. After atom bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan surrendered to the Allies. With the fall of Japan the Second World War came to an end.

Question 5.
Give an account of the struggle between Soviet Russia and Germany.
Answer:
The Russo-German Non-Aggression Pact was signed in 1939 for 10 years between Russia and Germany. Hitler violated this pact and attacked Russia in 1941. He did this because he feared that Russia was fast building her defence and increasing her armaments. He suspected that Russia might attack Germany. Without warning, Hitler sent three large armies across Russia’s western frontier.
Vast areas of Russia were under Nazi control. But the Germans were still not complete victors. The Russians adopted guerilla tactics and ‘scorched earth’ policy to harass the GermAnswer: The Germans could not capture key cities of Leningrad, Moscow, Stalingrad and Sebastopol. The German soldiers were halted due to severe winter. Hitler ordered a limited withdrawal in 1942.

Hitler in the meantime was planning a new offensive which was to concentrate on Caucasus oil field. Despite the resistance of the Russians, the German army occupied the Don. His objective was to capture Caucasus and Stalingrad. Exhausted by immense distance and extreme winter Germany failed to capture Stalingrad. In 1942 Hitler decided to break of the offensive.

Question 6.
Write a note on Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour.
Answer:
I On December 7, 1941 the Japanese launched a surprise attack on the US Naval Base at Pearl Harbour. The Japanese destroyed many US ships and killed many soldiers. It was this attack that forced US to enter World War II. Pearl Harbour is located in Hawaii on the island of O’ahu. Hawaii is located in the Pacific Ocean between California and Japan. During the time of World War II, Hawaii was not a state, but a US territory.

World war II had been raging in Europe and Asia for 2 years but the US had not entered the war. Japan was trying to take over much of Asia and was worried about the US Navy in Hawaii. Japan decided to strike the Pearl Harbour to cripple the US navy and to prevent the US from attacking them.

The attack on Pearl Harbour came as a complete surprise. Hundreds of Japanese fighter planes and bombers flew to Pearl Harbour and attacked the US warships. The bombers dropped bombs and torpedoes on the US warships while the fighter planes attacked the US fighter planes on the ground.

A number of US ships were destroyed. The next day, December 8, 1941 the US declared war on Japan. Three days later Japanese allies, Germany and Italy, declared war on the US. The US was now a major part of World War II.

Attack on Pearl Harbour: Part of the Pacific Theatre of World War II
Date	7 December 1941
Place	Pearl Harbour, Hawaii Territory, United States
Result	– Japanese major tactical victory – US declaration of war on Japan – Italy and Germany declared war on United States – United States entry into the Second World War

Question 7.
Discuss the role of USA in the Second World War.
Answer:
I USA followed a policy of neutrality towards international politics after the First World War. She did not join the Second World War and kept herself aloof from the war. But when Japan attacked the US naval base at Pearl Harbour on 7 December, 1941, USA joined the war.

1. Deviation from the path of neutrality: During World War II, the USA was sympathetic towards the Allied powers. In 1939 the American legislature allowed USA to help the western democratic states and sell arms and ammunitions to them. This policy was known as ‘Cash and Carry Policy’.

It was a policy to preserve neutrality while aiding the Allies. It allowed sale of arms, ammunitions and war materials to belligerents (countries engaged in war) as long as the recipients arranged for transportation using their own ships and paid immediately in cash, assuming all risk in transportation.

2. System of conscription: In the USA a system of conscription was introduced. According to this, all youths in the age group between 21 and 31 were obliged to join the army.

3. Lend-lease Act: The American Senate enacted the Lend-Lease Act in March 1941 and allowed the US government to offer warships, war planes and other weapons to the Allied Powers to fight against fascism. USA become the arsenal of democracy.

4. Incident of Pearl Harbour: Japan attacked the American fleet at Pearl Harbour in the Hawaiian islands on 7 December, 1941 with 360 aircraft and wiped out all the American planes on the ground there. This incident forced USA to join the Second World War.

Question 8.
What were the causes of defeat of Axis Powers in the Second World War?
Answer:
In the Second World War (1939-45) the Axis powers (Germany, Italy and Japan) were defeated by the Allied powers (England, France, Russia, USA and China). The causes of the defeat of Axis Powers are as follows:

1. The Axis Powers were not equipped for a major world war and could not withstand the combined attack of three advanced nations like Britain, USA and Soviet Union.

2. Germany produced all sorts of wonderful gadgets during World War II-except the one that mattered: the atomic bomb. Germany’s nuclear project was disjointed and poorly supported.

3. Hitler relied on the strength of the German air force which was outnumbered due to the entry of USA and Soviet Union.

4. The German attackers believed that Soviet Communism was a corrupt and primitive system that would collapse. But the air and tank armies were recorganised and technology available was hastily modernised to match the German.

5. Spain was a member of the Axis Power during the war, but it never committed troops to the effort. Led by Fascist dictator Francisco Franco, the country steadfastly refused to enter into the thrall.

6. The Allied Powers who wanted to establish democracy had world sympathy behind them which the Axis Powers failed to get.

7. The people of the territories conquered by the German armies were harshly treated and the Nazis faced opposition from the conquered territories.

8. Intrigue among the German Generals also contributed to the defeat of Germany.

9. When USA joined the war, the power of the Allies exceeded all that Germany, Japan and her allies could summon together and led to the defeat of Germany.

10. Hitler’s high ambition and dominating nature was also responsible for his failure. He was suspicious and even distrusted his lieutenants like Goering and Himmler which brought about his downfall.

Question 9.
What was the impact of the Second World War on contemporary history?
Answer:
The Second World War (1939-45) was a momentous event which changed the whole world. The impact of the war on contemporary history were as follow:

1. After the Second World War two great powers called ‘Superpowers’ emerged- the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republic.

2. The powers like Britain and France which were important before the war were pushed to the background.

3. In the struggle between the two ideologies-democracy and communism, the latter emerged with more strength.

4. During 1946-47 the government of Poland, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Albania, Bulgaria, Hungary, Rumania were converted into communist dictatorships.

5. Democracy remained in western Europe.

6. The post-war world saw a growing tension among the Allies between East and West, and more specifically between Russia and the United States. The result was the Cold War.

7. To counteract communism the western responses were the Truman Doctrine, Marshall plan and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisations. The Warsaw Pact was the Soviet response.

8. After the Second World War, a third force i.e., the Non-aligned nations emerged which refused to join either of the two power blocks.

9. The Second World War quickened the national feeling among the people of the colonies all over the world. Many of the colonised countries of which India was one, won their independence through antiimperialist movement. Between 1945 and 1960 no less than 40 countries revolted against colonialism and won their independence.

10. International organisations like the U.N.O was established in 1945 for the maintenance of peace and security throughout the world.

Question 10.
Write a note on the qualitative and quantitative changes brought about by the destructiveness of the Second World War.
Answer:
The Second World War which broke out in 1939 continued for a long period of six years and came to an end in 1945. The war is known as the most destructive of all wars fought ever before. There was world wide destruction of life and wealth. The vast destruction of material wealth and loss of human life during the course of war could not be exactly estimated.

1. In the war at least 57 million people lost their lives. About 7.5 million Russians, 3.5 million Germans, 2.2 million Chinese, 1.2 million Japanese lost their lives. Many people died in Korea, Italy, Canada, Greece, Belgium, Rumania, Bulgaria, Hungary. USA dropped atom bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. About 70 thousand people in Hiroshima and 40 thousand people in Nagasaki died. At least 6 million Jews were killed by the Nazi government.

2. It is estimated that near about one lac crore rupees must have been spent over the war by the nations which participated in it. Great Britain alone had to suffer the economic loss of about 2000 crore rupees. The national property of various countries of the world was destroyed in the war. The European economy collapsed with 70% of the industrial infrastructure destroyed.

3. Destruction of property was the highest in Russia. Due to German attack vast areas of Russia including Leningrad and Stalingrad were completely destroyed. Not only was there loss of lives, many cities and industrial areas of Russia were totally destroyed. But Japan suffered most.

In Hiroshima and Nagasaki houses and roads were completely destroyed. At least 30% people of 60 big cities became homeless in Japan. In Britain and France thousands of houses and roads were completely destroyed.

Question 11.
What role did technology play in the Second World War?
Answer:
Technology played an important role in World War II. Major advances in weaponry by both the Allied and the Axis powers impacted the way the war was fought and eventually the outcome in the war.

1. Tanks: It was during World War II that tanks become a major military force. Some of the most famous tanks from World War II include Germany’s Tiger Tank, the Soviet Union’s T-34 tank, and the United States’ Sherman Tank.

2. Aircraft: The air force became one of the most important part of the military during World War II. There were small, fast fighter planes designed for air-to-air combat, large bombers that could drop huge bombs on enemy targets, military helicopter and jet powered fighter planes.

3. Radar: Radar, a new technology, developed right before the war. It used radio waves to detect enemy aircraft which helped the British to fight off the Germans in the Battle of Britain.

4. Aircraft Carrier: One of the biggest changes in naval technology in World War II was the use of the aircraft carriers which were able to launch air attacks from anywhere in the ocean.

5. Bombs: World War II saw the invention of many new types of bombs. The Germans invented the long range flying bomb called the V-I as well as a rocket bomb called the V-2. Others specialized bombs included bouncing bomb, bunker busters and cluster bombs.

6. The Atom bomb: Perhaps the largest leap in technology during World War II was the atom bomb which caused a massive explosion by using nuclear reaction. It was used by the United States to bomb the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

7. Secret Codes: In order to keep communications secret, both sides developed their own secret codes. The Germans used a machine called the Enigma Machine to code and decode their messages.

8. Propaganda: New technology like motion pictures, the radio and the microphone were all used by governments to broadcast their message to the people.

Question 13.
What role did technology play in the Second World War?
Answer:
Technology played an important role in World War II. Major advances in weaponry by both the Allied and the Axis powers impacted the way the war was fought and eventually the outcome in the war.

1. Tanks: It was during World War II that tanks become a major military force. Some of the most famous tanks from World War II include Germany’s Tiger Tank, the Soviet Union’s T-34 tank, and the United States’ Sherman Tank.

2. Aircraft: The air force became one of the most important part of the military during World War II. There were small, fast fighter planes designed for air-to-air combat, large bombers that could drop huge bombs on enemy targets, military helicopter and jet powered fighter planes.

3. Radar: Radar, a new technology, developed right before the war. It used radio waves to detect enemy aircraft which helped the British to fight off the Germans in the Battle of Britain.

4. Aircraft Carrier: One of the biggest changes in naval technology in World War II was the use of the aircraft carriers which were able to launch air attacks from anywhere in the ocean.

5. Bombs: World War II saw the invention of many new types of bombs. The Germans invented the long range flying bomb called the V-I as well as a rocket bomb called the V-2. Others specialized bombs included bouncing bomb, bunker busters and cluster bombs.

6. The Atom bomb: Perhaps the largest leap in technology during World War II was the atom bomb which caused a massive explosion by using nuclear reaction. It was used by the United States to bomb the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

7. Secret Codes: In order to keep communications secret, both sides developed their own secret codes. The Germans used a machine called the Enigma Machine to code and decode their messages.

8. Propaganda: New technology like motion pictures, the radio and the microphone were all used by governments to broadcast their message to the people.

Question 14.
Make a comparative study related to the expansion and Impact of the two World Wars.
Answer:
Comparative study related to the expansion and impact of the two World Wars.

Subject of comparison	First World War 1914-1918	Second World War 1932-1945
Expansion	The war touched all the parts of Europe. Fighting initially developed on three major European fronts: Eastern, Western and Serbian. As the war progressed, two new fronts emerged: Turkish and Italian. It also touched the Far-Eastern and Central Asian countries.	Around 60 countries were involved in war which extended in three fronts – land, air and water. The war was fought on the Mediterranean, the Atlantic and the Pacific and in four major land campaigns in the Soviet Union, North Africa and the Mediterranean, Western Europe and the Far East.
Methods of warfare	Fought from lines of trenches and supported by machine guns, artillery and rifles, use of tanks, airplanes and poisonous gas.	In the war tanks, fast fighter planes, large bombers, military helicopters, jet-powered fighter planes, bouncing bombs, bunker blaster, cluster bombs, submarines and nuclear bombs were used.
Casualties	Death of about 10 million military and seven million civilians, 22 millions wounded and about 8 millions imprisoned or missing. Many people took shelter in refugee camps.	About 60 million people died and millions of people in different countries became homeless. As a result of the war 13-20 million people died due to famine and different kinds of diseases.

Question 15.
Prepare a comparison chart of the First and Second Word Wars.
Answer:
Comparison Chart of the First and Second World Wars

 

Detailed explanations in West Bengal Board Class 9 History Book Solutions Chapter 1 Some Aspects of the French Revolution offer valuable context and analysis.

WBBSE Class 9 History Chapter 1 Question Answer – Some Aspects of the French Revolution

Very Short Answer (VSA) Type Questions : (1 mark for each question)

Question 1.
Who was the King of France when the French Revolution broke out?
Answer:
Louis XVI was the King of France when the French Revolution broke out.

Question 2.
What was the period of rule of Louis XVI?
Answer:
The period of rule of Louis XVI was 17741793.

Question 3.
Name the ruling dynasty in France when the French Revolution broke out.
Answer:
The ruling dynasty in France when the French Revolution broke out was the Bourbon dynasty.

Question 4.
What was the States-General?
Answer:
The States-General was the Assembly of France which consisted of the representatives of the three estates of the French society that passed legislations.

Question 5.
When was the States-General summoned by King Louis XVI?
Answer:
The States-General was summoned by King Louis XVI on 5 May, 1789.

Question 6.
What was ‘Vingtiemes’?
Answer:
‘Vingtiemes’ was the income tax paid by the peasants of France during the old regime.

Question 7.
What is ‘Tithe’?
Answer:
‘Tithe’ was a tax on religion imposed on the members of the Third Estate by the Church.

Question 8.
What is ‘Contract of Poissey’?
Answer:
The church of France controlled 1 / 5 of the landed property of France and paid a voluntary tax to the government by a contract known as the ‘Contract of Poissey’.

Question 9.
Which king of France summoned the States-General?
Answer:
Louis XVI, the king of France, summoned the States-General.

Question 10.
What was the States-General?
Answer:
The States-General was the representative assembly in France.

Question 11.
After how many years the States-General was called by Louis XVI?
Answer:
After 175 years the States-General was called by Louis XVI.

Question 12.
What do you mean by clergy?
Answer:
Clergy means group of persons invested with special responsibilites in the church.

Question 13.
What is absolute monarch?
Answer:
The monarch who rules with absolute power is an absolute monarch.

Question 14.
What is constitutional monarch?
Answer:
A monarch whose power is limited by the laws provided in the constitution is a constitutional monarch.

Question 15.
What is the meaning of Divine Right of Kingship?
Answer:
Divine Right of Kingship means the king regards himself as a representative of God on earth.

Question 16.
Who were the Royalists?
Answer:
The supporters of the king were called Royalists.

Question 17.
Who was Marie Antoinette?
Answer:
Marie Aritoinette was the Queen of Louis XVI.

Question 18.
In which two wars France was involved in the 18 th century?
Answer:
France was involved in two wars in the 18th century-the Seven Years War (1756-63) and the American War of Independence (1775-83).

Question 19.
Where was the palace of King Louis XVI?
Answer:
The palace of King Louis XVI was at Versailles.

Question 20.
In which war France was defeated?
Answer:
France was defeated in the war of Austrian succession.

Question 21.
In which year Louis XVI ascended the throne of France?
Answer:
Louis XVI ascended the throne of France in 1774.

Question 22.
Where was the session of the StatesGeneral summoned?
Answer:
The Session of the States-General was summoned in Versailles.

Question 23.
Why was Turgot appointed by Louis XVi?
Answer:
Turgot was appointed as the Finance Minister to improve the economic condition of France.

Question 24.
What did Necker propose as a finance minister?
Answer:
Necker, as the finance minister, proposed equal taxation on all classes to fill the treasery.

Question 25.
Who said, “the state, it is myself”?
Answer:
Louis XIV, the French king, said “the state, it is myself”.

Question 25.
“France was a museum of economic errors” – Who said this ?
Answer:
Adam Smith said, “France was a museum of economic errors”.

Question 27.
What was Gabella?
Answer:
‘Gabella’ was salt tax collected from the peasants of France.

Question 28.
What was ‘Aides’?
Answer:
‘Aides’ was taxes on wine, tobacco, etc realised from the peasants of France.

Question 29.
What do you mean by ‘Corvee’?
Answer:
In ‘ancien regime’ in France the peasants had to work for the reconstruction of roads without any payment which was known as ‘Corvee’.

Question 30.
Who was the author of the book ‘The French Revolution’?
Answer:
Thomas Carlyle was the author of the book ‘The french Revolution’.

Question 31.
Which estate in France was exempted from paying taxes in the 18th century France?
Answer:
The nobles and the clergy were exempted from paying taxes in the 18 th century France.

Question 32.
Which estate paid the most taxes?
Answer:
The Third Estate paid the most taxes.

Question 33.
What was ‘capitation’?
Answer:
‘Capitation’ was a direct tax in France before the Revolution of 1789 to be paid by the unprivileged class of the society.

Question 34.
What was Lettre de cachet?
Answer:
‘Lettre de cachet’ was the order of the king in ‘ancien regime’ in France by which the king could sentence a subject withoutstrial and without an opportunity of defence to imprisonment.

Question 35.
Name two philosophers of the French Revolution.
Answer:
Two philosophers of the French Revolution were Rousseau and Montesquieu.

Question 36.
Who were the physiocrats?
Answer:
The physiocrats were economists who demanded free trade, free enterprise and privatisation of industry and trade.

Question 37.
Who was the leader of the physiocrats of France?
Answer:
Francois Quesnay was the leader of the physiocrats of France.

Question 38.
What were the three ideals of the French Revolution?
Answer:
The three ideals of the French Revolution were Liberty, Equality and Fraternity.

Question 39.
Who remarked, “Man is born free, but everywhere is bound by chains”?
Answer:
Jean Jacques Rousseau remarked “Man is born free, but everywhere is bound by chains.”

Question 40.
Who was Quesnay?
Answer:
Quesnay was the spokesman of the doctrine of Laissez-faire and the removal of state control on the industry.

Question 41.
Who was the author of the book “The Spirit of Laws”?
Answer:
The author of the book “The Spirit of Laws” was Montesquieu.

Question 42.
Who preached the doctrine of Separation of Powers?
Answer:
Montesquieu preached the doctrine of Separation of Powers.

Question 43.
What are the three organs of government?
Answer:
The three organs of government are legislative, executive and judiciary.

Question 44.
What does Laissez-faire mean?
Answer:
Laissez-faire means that government does not interfere with trade and economy and decisions are left for private individual to take.

Question 45.
What do you mean by separation of powers?
Answer:
Separation of powers means the three branches of government, i.e., the executive, the legislative and the judiciary-are kept separate so that power is not concentrated in one branch.

Question 46.
Name two encyclopaedists of France.
Answer:
Two encyclopaedists of France were Denis Diderot and D’ Alembert.

Question 47.
Who spoke in favour of free trade (laissezfaire)?
Answer:
Economist Adam Smith in his book ‘The Wealth of Nations’ spoke in favour of free trade (laissez-faire).

Question 48.
Who was the author of the book ‘The Wealth of Nations’?
Answer:
Adam Smith was the author of the book ‘The Wealth of Nations’.

Question 49.
What do you mean by Lettre de Cachet?
Answer:
Prior to the French Revolution any person could be arrested and confined without trial by virtue of a royal warrant of arrest called Lettre de Cachet.

Question 50.
Who were the Intendants?
Answer:
The government officers of France who served as agents of the king in provinces were known as intendants.

Question 51.
What was the Contract of Poissey?
Answer:
The church of France paid a voluntary tax to the government by the Contract of Poissey.

Question 52.
When did food riots by the sans-culottes start in France?
Answer:
Food riots by the sans-culottes started in France in 1787.

Question 53.
Who belonged to the First Estate in the French society?
Answer:
The clergy belonged to the First Estate in the French Society.

Question 54.
Who belonged to the privileged class in the French society?
Answer:
In the French society the clergy and the nobility belonged to the privileged class.

Question 55.
What was The Council of Notables?
Answer:
The Council of Notables was a body, the members of which were nominated by the king himself and convened by the king on extraordinary occasions to consult on matters of government.

Question 56.
Into how many classes clergymen were divided in France?
Answer:
Clergymen were divided into two classes in France-
1. the upper clergy
2. the lower clergy.

Question 57.
What was Bastille?
Answer:
Bastille was the fortress-prison in the city of Paris, the capital of France.

Question 58.
When was the Bastille attacked?
Or
What was the date of the fall of Bastille?
Answer:
The Bastille was attacked on 14 July, 1789.

Question 59.
Why was the Bastille hated by the people of France?
Answer:
The Bastille was hated by the people of France because it stood for the despotic power of the monarch and also symbolised oppression of the people by the autocratic French kings.

Question 60.
What was ‘Paris Commune’?
Answer:
After the fall of the Bastille, Paris went out of royal control. Paris Commune consisting of elected representatives began to conduct the administration of the city of Paris.

Question 61.
What were the ‘assignats’?
Answer:
The Constituent Assembly confiscated all properties of the church and keeping those as security, issued a kind of paper note called ‘assignats’.

Question 62.
Who was the founder of Patriotic Party?
Answer:
The founder of Patriotic Party was Abbe Sieyes.

Question 63.
What do you mean by the Civil List introduced by the Constituent Assembly?
Answer:
The Civil List was introduced by the Constituent Assembly to determine the royal expenditure which could not exceed the amount allotted in the list.

Question 64.
Name two leaders of the Jacobin Party.
Answer:
Two leaders of the Jacobin Party were Robespierre and Danton.

Question 65.
What was the law enforced by the Revolutionary Tribunal?
Answer:
The law enforced by the Revolutionary Tribunal was the ‘Law of Suspects’.

Question 66.
Name the countries which formed the first coalition against France.
Answer:
The countries which formed the first coalition against France were Austria, Prussia, Britain and Holland.

Question 67.
Which countries made the Declaration of Pilnitz and when?
Answer:
Austria and Russia made the Declaration of Pilnitz in 1791.

Question 68.
What was the new system of administration introduced by the National Convention?
Answer:
The new system of administration introduced by the National Convention was the Directory.

Question 69.
When did Napoleon become the First Consul?
Answer:
Napoleon became the First Consul in 1799.

Question 70.
After which incident Louis XVI agreed to call the meeting of States-General?
Answer:
After the aristocratic revolt in 1788 Louis XVI agreed to call the meeting of the StatesGeneral.

Question 71.
Which day is celebrated as the National Day in France at present?
Answer:
14 July is celebrated as the National Day in France at present.

Question 72.
Name two political parties of France during the French Revoution.
Answer:
Two political parties in France during the French Revolution were the Girondist and the Jacobin.

Question 73.
What was the ‘Great Fear’?
Answer:
The ‘Great Fear’ was actually the rumour that criminals, brigands, etc. were being sent against the peasantry to avenge the defeat of the nobility in the States-General.

Question 74.
What was the period of the Reign of Terror in France?
Answer:
The period of the Reign of Terror in France was from 2 June, 1793 to 27 July, 1794.

Question 75.
Name two leaders of the Reign of Terror in France.
Answer:
Two leaders during the Reign of Terror in France was Danton and Robespierre.

Question 76.
Who was Robespierre?
Answer:
Robespierre was a leader of the Reign of Terror in France.

Question 77.
To which political party did Robespierre belong?
Answer:
Robespierre belonged to the Jacobin party in France.

Question 78.
In which year was king Louis XVI guillotined?
Answer:
King Louis XVI was guillotined on January 21, 1793.

Question 79.
Which incident marked the end of the Reign of Terror in France?
Answer:
The death of Robespierre, the leader of the Reign of Terror, marked the end of the Reign of Terror in France.

Question 80.
Which ruler of India was a member of the Jacobin Club?
Answer:
Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, was a member of the Jacobin Club.

Question 81.
What was the Revolutionary Tribunal?
Answer:
The Revolutionary Tribunal was set up in France which was responsible for the trial of traitors and counter revolutionaries.

Question 82.
What was the Committee of Public Safety?
Answer:
During the Reign of Terror in France the Commitee of Public Safety was set up which had the highest power to adopt any measure in the interest of the nation.

Question 83.
Who was the leader of the ‘Red Terror’ in France?
Answer:
The leader of the ‘Red Terror’ in France was Robespierre.

Question 84.
What was the ‘Law of Suspect’?
Answer:
During the Reign of Terror in France the ‘Law of Suspect’ was applied very widely and all persons suspected of antirevolutionary ideas or acts were hauled up before the Revolutionary Tribunal which could sentence anyone to death on mere suspicion.

Question 85.
Who was Olympe de Gouges?
Answer:
Olympe de Gouges was one of the most politically active women of the revolutionary period in France.

Question 86.
Who was the Duke of Brunswick?
Answer:
The Duke of Brunswick was the general appointed by Austro-Prussian government.

Short Answer (SA) Type Questions : (2 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What was the nature of monarchy in France before the outbreak of the French Revolution?
Answer:
Despotic monarchy prevailed in France before the outbreak of the French Revolution in 1789. The French monarch believed in the divine right of kingship and regarded himself to be the representative of God on earth. He did not consider himself responsible to anybody for his actions and ruled wilfully. His word was the law of the country.

Question 2.
Who was Turgot?
Answer:
Turgot was appointed by Louis XVI to the post of Finance Minister to improve the economic condition of France. He wanted to minimise the state expenses and chalked out a detailed programme to improve the economic condition of France. He also intended to impose taxes on the priests and the nobles who were exempted from all sorts of taxes. He was opposed by the queen and the nobles and was removed from his office.

Question 3.
Who was Necker?
Answer:
Necker was the second finance minister appointed by Louis XVI to improve the economic condition of France. At that time due to the participation of France in the American War of Independence the treasury of France became empty. Necker proposed equal taxation on all classes to fill the treasury. Queen Antoinette criticised him as a miser and the king removed him from his office due to the excessive influence of the queen.

Question 4.
Who was Calonne?
Answer:
Calonne was appointed by Louis XVI to the office of Finance Minister after Necker was removed. Calonne did not wish to displease the king’s family. So he took huge loans to compensate the deficit of the royal treasury. Soon he realised that the government could not work on the basis of his policy and so he called a meeting of the Assembly of Notables and the king accepted his proposal.

Question 5.
Who was Brienne?
Answer:
Louis XVI, the king of France, appointed Brienne as his Finance Minister. He did not succeed in solving the economic problems in France. He proposed some new taxes which were opposed by the Parliament of Paris.

Question 6.
Why was the treasury of France empty when Louis XVI ascended the throne of France?
Answer:
Long years of war had drained the financial resources of France. Along with this was the constant cost of maintaining an extravagant court at Versailles. So, the treasury of France was almost empty when Louis XVI ascended the throne of France.

Question 7.
How did the American War of Independence affect France’s debt situation?
Answer:
The French government supported the thirteen colonies of America in their war of independence against Great Britain. This added more than one billion livres (unit of currency in France) to the national debt that increased to more than two billion livres with interest.

Question 8.
What is ‘Assembly of Notables’?
Answer:
The Assembly of Notables was the assembly of the nobles, priests and the magistrates who were appointed by the king himself. The Assembly lacked the representation of the general public because all the members were appointed by the king.

Question 9.
What was the ‘States-General’?
Answer:
The ‘States-General’ was a political and legislative body to which the three estates of French society sent their representatives.
In France during the Old Regime, the king did not have the power to impose taxes. Rather, he had to call a meeting of the States-General to pass the proposals for new taxes.

Question 10.
Who was Rousseau?
Answer:
Rousseau was a French philosopher who through his works prepared the intellectual ground for the outbreak of the French Revolution. He was the author of the book ‘Social Contract’ where he proposed a form of government based on social contract between people and their representatives. He emphasised that a king, instead of regarding himself as an absolute monarch, should consider himself a servant of humanity and should serve them heart and soul.

Question 11.
Who was Montesquieu?
Answer:
Montesquieu was a great French philosopher. He was the author of the famous book ‘The Spirit of the Laws’. In this book he proposed a division of power between the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. In his book ‘The Persian Letters’ he criticised the aristocracy, the monarchy and the French social system.

Question 12.
Who were the physiocrats?
Answer:
The physiocrats were the economic thinkers of France who strongly criticised the mercantile doctrine and advocated free trade, privatisation of industry and trade.

Question 13.
Who was John Locke?
Answer:
John Locke was a popular and progressive English philosopher. His writings fuelled the thought of revolution against the existing monarchical system among the French people. He refuted the doctrine of the divine and absolute right of the monarch in his book ‘Two Treatises of Government’.

Question 14.
What were the three estates in the French society?
Answer:
Prior to the French Revolution, the people of France were divided into three estates

• There were the clergy holding the first estate.
• The second estate comprised the French aristocracy and landlord.
• The rest of the Frenchmen were grouped in the third estate.

Question 15.
What was the third estate in the French society?
Answer:
The third estate in France was divided into several sub-groups. The upper bourgeoise comprised of financiers, businessman, etc. The lower bourgeoise comprised of lawyers, teachers, salaried classes and shopkeepers. In the third estate there were also the peasants, sans-culottes, mill hands and daily wage earners.

Question 16.
What is divine right of kings?
Answer:
The divine right of kings was a political and religious doctrine. It meant that a king was given the right to rule by God alone. His authority could not be questioned by anybody because he ruled in the name of God. It gave a king full power over his subjects.

Question 17.
Why were the Intendants compared to ‘ravenous wolves’?
Answer:
Intendants were the government officers of France. They were known for their selfish and corrupt nature. These officials badly tortured the people for collecting taxes, the larger part of which was misappropriated by them. This is why they were compared to ‘ravenous wolves.

Question 18.
What was the social composition of the sans-culottes?
Answer:
The sans-culottes were the economically disadvantaged groups, who mostly inhabited the urban areas of France. The urban proletariates, the wage earners, mill hands, the roofless down outs of the society, the daily workers formed that section.

Question 19.
Which class in the French society was known as “bourgeoisie’?
Answer:
In France, by the eighteenth century, a new social class known as ‘bourgeoisie’ or the middle class emerged. The doctors, writers, professors, big businessmen, lawyers, peasants, shopkeepers, workers formed this class. They challenged the supremacy and special privilege of the aristocrats.

Question 20.
What was the ‘Aristocratic Revolt’?
Answer:
The French Revolution began with the revolt of the aristocracy. The tax burden on the peasantry was already very high, the only method of increasing government income was to take away from the aristocracy the privilege of not paying any tax. This was opposed by the aristocrats and the ‘Aristocratic Revolt’ broke out.

Question 21.
What was the significance of the fall of the Bastille?
Answer:

1. The fall of the Bastille (14 July, 1789) proved that the king had no longer any control over Paris, the capital.
2. The attack and destruction of the Bastille was a moral victory for the people of France over the autocratic monarchy.
3. It was a victory of liberal values over the absolute monarchy.
4. It created an atmosphere of horror and terror among the absolute monarchs of Europe.

Question 22.
Differentiate between Active and Passive Citizens of France.
Answer:
The Constituent Assembly divided the citizens of France into two categories-active and passive.
Men who were above 25 years of age and who paid taxes equal to at least 3 days of a labourer’s wage were given the status of active citizens and they had the right to vote.
The remaining men and women of France who could not fulfil the above criteria and did not have the right to cast their vote were called passive citizens.

Question 23.
Which estate of the French society gained from the constitution of 1791? Which estates were dissatisfied and why?
Answer:
Members of third estate of French society gained from the Constitution of 1791.
Members of the First and Second Estate were dissatisfied because their privileges were abolished and instead they had to pay taxes in proportion to their means.

Question 24.
What do you mean by ‘Cahiers’?
Answer:
All the delegates who came from different parts of France to attend the session of the States-General in the grand hail of the Royal Palace of Versailles on 5 May 1789 brought with them complaints, memorandums and demands of their respective areas. These were known as ‘Cahiers’.

Question 25.
What were the different political parties in the National Convention?
Answer:
The four different political parties in the National Convention were:

1. the Constitutionalists
2. the Girondins
3. the Jacobins
4. the Moderates.

Question 26.
Which incident is known as the ‘Second French Revolution’?
Answer:
On the morning of 10 August, 1792, the members of the Jacobin Club stormed the Palace of Tuileries, massacred the king’s guards and held the king hostage for several hours. Later, they voted to imprison the king’s family. Dethronement of the king virtually made France a ‘Republic’. Historians have called this incident of 10 August, 1792 the ‘Second French Revolution’.

Question 27.
Who were the members of the Jacobin Club?
Answer:
The members of the Jacobin Club were from poor classes. They included small shopkeepers, artisans like shoemakers, watchmakers, pastry cooks and daily wage earners.

Question 28.
Why were the Jacobins so named?
Answer:
The members of the old Breton Club used to hold their meetings in the church named ‘Jacob’. That is why the members of this club came to be known as the Jacobins.

Question 29.
Who were the Girondins?
Answer:
The Girondins, one of the four political parties in the National Convention, played a prominent role in the French Revolution. The significant leaders of the party were Brissot, Condorcet, Petion and Madam Roland and their chief aim was to establish a republican form of government in France. Though they were staunch revolutionaries, they did not support violence, lawlessness and anarchy.

Question 30.
Describe the incident of the storming of the Palace of Tuileries.
Answer:
On the morning of 10 August, 1792, the members of the Jacobin Club stormed the Palace of Tuileries, massacred the king’s guards and held the king hostage for several hours. Later, they voted to imprison the king’s family.

Question 31.
Why was the Reign of Terror introduced?
Answer:
On 21 January, 1793 when King Louis XVI of France was executed, there were outbursts of rebellion from the king’s supporters. Besides, monarchical countries such as Britain, Holland, Prussia and Austria formed a coalition and declared war against the republican government of France. The National Convention tried to protect the country from internal threats and external aggression by setting up an emergency government and following a strategy of terror where all opposition was ruthlessly suppressed. This period from June 2, 1793 – July 27, 1794 is called the Reign of Terror.

Question 32.
What were the three instruments through which the Reign of Terror was made effective?
Answer:
The three instruments through which the Reign of Terror was made effective were:

• the Committee of Public Safety
• the revolutionary Tribunal
• the Law of Suspects.

Question 33.
What was the Committee of Public Safety?
Answer:
The Committee of Public Safety was one of the instruments of the Reign of Terror. The Committee was given the responsibility of appointing important ministers and high ranking officers of the armed forces. Two further committees – the Committee of General Security and the Revolutionary Tribunal were formed within this committee for its better functioning.

Question 34.
What is ‘Thermidorian Reaction’?
Answer:
The reaction which took place in France after the death of Robespierre, the leader of the Reign of Terror, is known as ‘Thermidorian Reaction’. By this time the terrorists were put to death and the Reign of Terror and Paris Commune were dissolved. All the subordinate machinery of the Reign of Terror was abolished. The prisoners whose guilt was in doubt were released and the National Guards was reorganised. All this stemmed from the reaction of the middle class.

Question 35.
What was Tipu Sultan’s relation with the Jacobin club?
Answer:
The Jacobin club, the largest and most powerful political club of the French Revolution, had an Indian ruler, Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, among its associates. He was the founder-member of the Jacobin club in india. He actively supported the proposal of the French soldiers at Seringapatam to set up a Jacobin club in 1797 and when it was established, he ordered a salute of 2300 cannons and 500 rockets to celebrate the occasion.

Question 36.
What was the Brunswick Manifesto?
Answer:
King Louis XVI tried to restore monarchy in France with foreign help. When the Parisian mob attacked the Tuileries Palace and humiliated the king, the king tried to flee to Austria along with his wife. In August 1792, the Duke of Brunswick, the general appointed by the Austro-Prussian government, issued a manifesto and warned France that any injury or insult to any member of the royal family would be severely dealt with. This is known as the Brunswick Manifesto.

Question 37.
What was Directory? Why was it dismissed?
Answer:
After the fall of the Jacobins, a new Constitution was formed which denied the right to vote to citizens without property. It provided two Legislative Councils which appointed a Directory with five members.
However, the Directors often clashed with the Legistative Councils and were finally dismissed. Political instability resulted which led to the rise of a military dictator, Napoleon Bonaparte.

Question 38.
What laws were made to improve the status of women in French society?
Answer:
The revolutionary government in France introduced some laws to improve the lives of women in France.

1. Schooling was made compulsory for all girls.
2. Women could be trained for jobs, could run small business or become artists.
3. Fathers could no longer force their daughters to marry against their will.
4. Divorce was made legal and could be applied for by both men and women.

Question 39.
Who was the king and queen of France when the French Revolution broke out?
Answer:
When the French Revolution broke out the king of France was Louis XVI and the queen was Marie Antoinette.

Question 40.
What is guillotine ?
Answer:
Guillotine is a device for beheading a person, widely used during the French revolution. It was invented by Dr. Joseph Ignace Guillotin. With the help of this machine many people were beheaded during the Reign of Terror.

Question 41.
How were the passive citizens deprived of their voting rights?
Answer:
The Constituent Assembly divided the citizens into two categories-Active and Passive. The Active citizens who held property above a certain prescribed limit got the right to elect their representative but the passive citizens were deprived of their voting rights.

Question 42.
Mention two liberal measures undertaken during the Reign of Terror.
Answer:
Two liberal measures undertaken during the Reign of Terror were: 1. Tax rate was enhanced for the moneyed class but reduced in case of middle class 2. Minimum wages of labourers were fixed in order that they might not be exploited.

Question 43.
How did feudalism come to an end in France?
Answer:
Due to rural unrest, on August 4, 1789 the nobility and the clergy voluntarily renounced the privileges enjoyed by them for a long time. With this feudalism came to an end in France. The National Constituent Assembly announced “the National Assembly abolishes the feudal system entirely”.

Question 44.
How did the Constitution of 1791 collapse?
Answer:
The Jacobins successfully organised a revolt against the king and queen of France who took shelter in the nearby Assembly for fear of their life. The Jacobins forced the Assembly to suspend the monarchy. The king was imprisoned and the constitution of 1791 collapsed.

Question 45.
Mention the importance of the Reign of Terror.
Answer:
1. The Reign of Terror was necessary in order to suppress rebellion of the royalists.
2. During the Reign of Terror the French government was successful in conducting the foreign affairs.

Analytical Answer (AA) Type Questions (4 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What do you mean by ‘ancien regime’?
Answer:
The term ‘ancien regime’ (old system) is used to describe the conservative society and institutions of France before the outbreak of the French Revolution of 1789. Before the revolution, France was ruled by autocrats of the Bourbon dynasty. They believed in autocratic rule, centralised administration, inherited privilege of the nobility, exploitation of commoners and the support of corrupt churches, etc. The rights of the king were absolute. He was not accountable to the nobility, the church or any institution of the state. All these were the features of the ‘ancien regime’. The ‘ancien regime’ was thus based on a medieval social structure. The French Revolution marked the end of the ‘ancien regime.

Question 2.
How far were the Bourbon monarchs responsible for the outbreak of the French Revolution?
Answer:
l France was ruled by the Bourbon dynasty at the time of the French Revolution. The Bourbon monarchs believed in absolute monarchy. There was, however, the StatesGeneral which was a representative assembly but its session was never summoned after 1614. Louis XIV carried the autocracy of the French monarchy to the highest pitch by declaring that ‘the state, it is myself’. The next king, Louis XV, enforced arbitrary legislations and involved France in foreign wars on his own whims. The next king, Louis XVI, was fickleminded and failed to introduce necessary reforms. He failed to control corruption or to remove the privileges of the aristocracy. Thus the Bourbon monarchs were responsible for the outbreak of the French Revolution.

Question 3.
What was the role of Voltaire in the outbreak of the French Revolution?
Answer:
Voltaire was one of the most important French philosophers who played a very significant role in the outbreak of the French Revolution. He wrote satirical articles against the evils and defects of the French government. He was twice imprisoned for his satirical writings. He rejected the supremacy of the church outright and held the clergy responsible for spreading blind faith among the people. He protested against the corrupt and luxurious life of the clergy and denounced the church as an ‘infamous thing’. He was against the religious dogmas of the priests. He vehemently criticised all kinds of oppression, exploitation, blind beliefs and evil practices. He was an advocate of individual freedom.

Question 4.
Who was Diderot?
Answer:
Diderot was an important philosopher of France who contributed greatly to the outbreak of the French Revolution. He violently opposed all ancient institutions. In 1751 he edited an Encyclopaedia which had twelve volumes. Between 1751 and 1772 seventeen editions of this were published. This encyclopaedia gave birth to rationalism in France. He attacked the king’s autocracy, the privileges of the nobility and the church, the defective tax system, slave system and the blind faith of the French people. He was imprisoned by the French government because of his fearless thoughts and writings.

Question 5.
How did the economic thinkers criticize the economic policy of the French government?
Answer:
The economic thinkers of France criticized the economic policy of the French government. They came out with new economic ideas. Economic thinkers like the physiocrats, strongly criticized the mercantile doctrine and advocated free trade, free enterprise, privatiza- tion of trade and industry. Quesnay, the most outstanding of the physiocrats and his professor Adam Smith were the spokesmen of the doctrine of free trade and the removal of state control so far prevalent in the field of trade and commerce (Laissez-faire). They came forward with rational exposition of economic laws.

Question 6.
What was the doctrine of ‘Separation of Powers’ preached by Montesquieu?
Answer:
Montesquieu preached the doctrine of Separation of Powers instead of concentrating the powers in the hands of monarch. According to him a king will be tyrannical if he concentrates in his hands, the three organs of government – the executive, the judiciary and the legislature. He suggested that the three organs of government must be independent of each other.

Question 7.
Who were the ‘sans-culottes’?
Answer:
The ‘sans-culottes’ belonged to the third estate of French society. They included smail shopkeepers, artisans such as pastry cooks, shoemakers, printers, watchmakers as well as daily wage-earners and servants. They used to wear long-striped trousers. This was to differentiate them from the fashionable groups in the French society, especially nobles who wore knee breeches. They wore, in addition, the red cap that symbolised liberty. Food riots were started by them. On 10 August 1792 they attacked and entered the Royal Palace at Tuileries.

Question 8.
What was the position of the bourgeoisie in French society?
Answer:
French society was divided into two classes-
1. the privileged.
2. the unprivileged.

The ‘bourgeoisie’ belonged to the unprivileged class. The bourgeoisie or the middle class was rich and consisted of physicians, lawyers, philosophers and professors. Heavy taxes were levied on them by the government but they did not enjoy any privileges such as those enjoyed by the aristocracy. They were not appointed to any high posts in spite of their capability and so they were discontented. They were determined to go to any extent to bring liberty and equality in society and the way they chose was to bring down the aristocratic privileges. The French Revolution was really led by the bourgeoisie for it was they who organised the people and inspired them to revolt.

Question 9.
What was the ‘Tennis Court Oath’?
Answer:
The States-General, an assembly that drafted and passed legislation in France, was summoned by Louis XVI on 12 June, 1789 . The conflict started with the voting system of the States-General. The nobles and the priests wanted voting by order while the members of the third estate demanded that votes should be counted individually and the States-General should be recognised as the National Assembly of France. On 20 June, 1789 the king closed the meeting room of the Third Estate and posted armed soldiers at the entrance. When the representatives of the third estate reached the meeting hall, they were stunned to see the doors shut. So they assembled at the nearby tennis court and took an oath not to move from there until they had prepared a new constitution for the country. At last, the king agreed to the proposals of one vote per head.

Question 10.
What rumour spread in Paris on the morning of 14 July, 1789 ? What was the reaction of the people?
Answer:
On the morning of 14 July, 1789, the people of the city of Paris were in a state of alarm. The king ordered his troops to move into the city. Rumours spread among the people that he would soon order his army to open fire upon the citizens.

As a result about 7000 men and women gathered in front of the town hall and decided to form peoples’ militia. A group of several hundred people marched towards the eastern part of the city of Paris and stormed the fortress-prison, the Bastille in the hope of finding hoarded ammunition. The angry mob stormed the Bastille.

Question 11.
Give an account of King Louis XVI’s attempt to escape from France.
Answer:
Mirabeau, the ablest leader in the National Assembly, had a good relationship with king Louis XVI. Mirabeau died in 1791 and the king became very perturbed.

In the meantime, other European monarchs were preparing to attack France. Louis XVI, with a view to reestablish autocracy in France, tried to escape to Austria along with his family on the night of 21 June, 1791. King Leopold of Austria was the brother of the queen of France. Unfortunately their attempt failed. They were captured in the village Varnnes, and brought back to Paris under great insult.

Question 12.
How did the French Constituent Assembly limit the powers of the king?
Answer:
The Constituent Assembly declared France to be a constitutional monarchy.

1. The king lost his divine right of kingship. He was treated as ‘first servant of the state’ and became a salaried head of the state.
2. He became the head of the administrative or executive department according to the doctrine of separation of powers.
3. He did not have any power to wage war or to make treaties with any country.
4. He lost control over the provincial governments as well.
5. He lost his earlier right of exercising control over the legislative body and the judiciary.

Question 13.
What was said in the ‘Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen’?
Answer:
On 26 August, 1789 the French Constituent Assembly drew up a ‘Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen’. It said-

1. All men are born free, remain free and have equal rights.
2. All citizens are equal in the eyes of law.
3. The source of all sovereignty resides in the nation.
4. Liberty consists in the freedom to do everything which does not harm others.
5. Right to property is a sacred law. Property of any person cannot be usurped without payment of proper compensation.
6. Rights consist in expressing free opinion, freedom of the individual and freedom of religious belief.
7. No individual shall exploit others.
8. No one can be arrested or imprisoned by the police unless proved guilty in the eyes of law.
9. In short the declaration emphasized the three basic principles of the French RevolutionLiberty, Equality and Fraternity.

Question 14.
When and how was the feudal system abolished in France?
Answer:
On 4 August, 1789 the French Constituent Assembly issued a declaration which abolished feudalism from France. The declaration was as follows:

1. Henceforth feudalism with all its privileges would be abolished.
2. The feudal class would lose all its inherited social and political privileges.
3. The church taxes like tithes and others of ecclesiastical privileges were to be renounced.
4. Serf system, all forms of feudal taxes, forced labour or corvee and manorial system were to be abolished.
5. But feudalism could not be abolished totally. The nobles and the clergy retained some of their privileges.

Question 15.
Describe the revolt of the peasants in rural France after the fall of the Bastille.
Answer:
After the storming of the Bastille on 14 July, 1789, the peasants of France who had been suffering under feudal tyranny rose in revolt. They burnt the houses of the landlords as well as the churches. They destroyed the manor houses and burnt the documents containing records of manorial dues. Manor officials were also murdered. Manorial lands were forcibly occupied and rich peasants were driven out. There were rumours that the landlords of the manors had hired people to destroy the ripened crops. This caused panic among the peasants who attacked the castles of noblemen. They looted hoarded grains from the market. As a result, a large number of nobles fled their homes and migrated to neighbouring countries.

Question 16.
What is ‘September Massacre’?
Answer:
The leaders of the Jacobins including Marat and Danton began the hunt for the enemies of the French Revolution. They began to kill the royalists who were in jails. Each and every house was searched. Any person suspected to be a supporter of the king was at once put to death. This massacre continued from 2 September to 6 September, 1792. About 1600 people were murdered during this period. This act of murder by the Jacobins was extremely hateful and unjust.

Question 17.
Write a short note on the leaders of the French Revolution.
Answer:
The leaders of the French Revolution mostly came from the middle classes in France. The first man who distinguished himself in the States Assembly was Comte de Mirabeau who, however, belonged to the nobility. He persuaded king Louis XVI to set up a constitutional monarchy in France. The section of the radical democrats in the Assembly were led by Marat and Danton. They crushed all opposition by taking the Revolution through a

Reign of Terror. Another distinguished leader of the early nineties was Robespierre. He played the most important part in bringing Louis XVI to trial, declaring that the king ‘must die so that the country may live’.

Question 18.
What do you mean by “The Revolutionary Tribunal’ introduced during the Reign of Terror?
Answer:
One of the instruments of the Reign of Terror was the Revolutionary Tribunal. The judges of this Tribunal were appointed by the Committee of Public Safety. The function of the Revolutionary Tribunal was to punish persons held under the Law of Suspects. Nobody could appeal against the decision of this court. Justice was almost always denied as the judges were directed to give their decisions hastily without going deep into the case. Thousands of men and women were guillotined according to the judgements of the Revolutionary Tribunal during the Reign of Terror.

Question 19.
What was the ‘Law of Suspects’?
Answer:
The ‘Law of Suspects’ was one of the instruments through which the Committee of Public Safety executed the Reign of Terror. This law empowered the police to arrest any individual on mere suspicion of antirevolutionary activities. The suspected persons were then sent for trial. Not one of the persons sent for trial by the Revolutionary Tribunal was declared innocent-each and every one of them was sent to the guillotine.

Explanatory Answer (EA) Type Questions (8 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What were the political causes of the French Revolution?
Answer:
The most important event in the European history during the 18th century was the outbreak of the French Revolution in 1789. Many and various causes-political, economic, social and philosophical led to the outbreak of the revolution.
Political causes of the French Revolution
The king of France regarded himself to be representative of God on earth and believed in the theory of ‘Divine Right’. He did not consider himself responsible to anybody for his actions. This will was law.

The administrative system of France before the revolution was completely rotten and inefficient. Louis XVI as the king of France acted in an arbitrary manner. He spent a huge amount of money on maintaining his court at Versailles and for his luxuries.

The nobility of France became very powerful. They shamelessly accumulated power in their own hands. In fact, the French king became a puppet in the hands of the nobility.

The king had the fullest control over the subjects. He could imprison or punish any person with the help of ‘lettres de cachet’. By this any individual could be imprisoned for an indefinite period. The ‘lettres’ were misused by the faithful officials of the king Thousands of persons were imprisoned in the Bastille which became a symbol of autocratic rule.

The administrative system was hopelessly unsatisfactory. The legal system was full of confusion. There was no uniform law for the whole of the country. For all these reasons the Frenchmen naturally became restive to put an end to the autocratic rule in France.

Question 2.
“France was a museum of economic errors.” Discuss.
Or,
What were the economic causes of the outbreak of the French Revolution?
Answer:
The economic structure of France was one of the causes of the French Revolution. Louis XVI, the ruler of France, had drained the resources of the nation in successive wars. Due to rise of population in France there was more demand for food grains. So the price of food soared and the poor could not afford to buy food. As a result, the gap between the rich and the poor widened.

There was a discriminatary tax system in France. The privileged class or the wealthier section of the society paid no tax to the government. On the other hand, the unprivileged class had to bear the burden of taxation. Only 4 % of the total revenue collected by the government was paid by the privileged class and 96 % was paid by the unprivileged class. The Third Estate had to pay different kinds of taxes like taille (land tax), capitation (production tax), vingtiemes (income tax), gabella (salt tax), tithe (Religious tax), corvee (labour tax) aides (tax on wine, tobacco, etc.) and so on.

Moreover, the method of realising the revenue was also faulty. The revenue was collected by the contractors who used to realise more than what was due from the farmers but they deposited in royal treasury only a part of it and thus appropriated a good amount for their own use. Thus whereas the peasants were exploited, the royal treasury was also being looted by the revenue officers. Due to the faulty economic structure of France, Adam Smith has remarked, “France was a museum of economic errors.”

Question 3.
Describe the discriminatory tax system in France before the outbreak of the French Revolution.
Answer:
Before the outbreak of the French Revolution, French society was divided into two classes-the privileged and the non- privileged. The privileged class or the wealthier section of the society paid no tax to the government. On the other hand, the unprivileged class had to bear the entire burden of taxation. Only 4 % of the total revenue collected by the government was paid by the privileged class and 96 % was paid by the unprivileged class.
Taille or direct land tax and tithes or religious tax were realised from the peasants.

Vingtiemes or income tax, Gabella or salt tax, capitation or production tax, were also realised from them. They had also to pay Aides or taxes on wine, tobacco etc. The peasants had to work for the reconstruction of roads without any payment. This was known as corvee. Again they had to pay toll tax for using the same roads. Thus the French peasantry, which then constituted about 80 % of the total population, had to deposit the lion’s share of their income to the king’s treasury as direct or indirect tax. After paying 80 % of their income in taxation, the peasants hardly had any money to meet the basic necessities of life.

Question 4.
Describe the social structure of France prior to the outbreak of the French Revolution.
Answer:
Prior to the outbreak of the French Revolution the society in France was based on a medieval structure. Society was divided into three estates:

First estate: The clergy belonged to the first estate. They enjoyed certain privileges by birth. They were exempted from paying taxes to the state. They owned 10 \%-15 \% of all the land in France. The corrupt lifestyle of the clergy was reflected in its attempts to impose mortuary fees, marriage fees and succession fees.

Second estate: The second estate in France was composed of the French aristocracy and the landed class. They were also exempted from paying taxes. They enjoyed a large part of landed resources in the countryside.

Third estate : About 90 % of the population of the third estate were peasants. They had to work in the fields of their landlords as well as in their houses. They had to pay direct taxes like taille and also a number of indirect taxes like capitation, vingtiemes and so on. They also had to pay taxes on articles of everyday use. The third estate was the most exploited social class in 18th century France.

Question 5.
What were the two main classes into which the French society was divided? Describe them.
Answer:
The French society was divided into two main classes: 1. the privileged and 2. the unprivileged.
The privileged class: The privileged class comprised the nobles, feudal lords and the higher clergy. They enjoyed all rights and privileges. All important posts were reserved for them. Apart from high posts in the administration, the sons of the nobles were appointed on lucrative posts in the church.

They used to collect various taxes from the commoners while they themselves were free from all sorts of taxation. They led a life of pleasure, luxury and immorality.
The unprivileged class: The unprivileged class consisted of the peasants, tenants, labourers, artisans, small traders and shopkeepers. They were not given any privileges like the nobles. They had to pay taxes and were not appointed to any lucrative post. The revenue collectors tortured them severely. In case of non-payment of dues the revenue staff used to torture them. They were greatly discontented with the prevailing system of government and the social system.

Question 6.
What was the role of French philosophers in the outbreak of the French Revolution?
Answer:
The revolutionary ideas in France were preached and propagated by famous thinkers and philosophers like Rousseau, Montesquieu, Voltaire, Denis Diderot. The Encyclopaedists and the physiocrats also played important roles.
Voltaire: Voltaire wrote satirical articles against the evils and defects of the French government. He rejected the supremacy of the church outright and held the clergy responsible for spreading blind faith among the people. He was an advocate of individual freedom.

Montesquieu: Montesquieu preached the Doctrine of Separation of Powers instead of concentrating the powers in the hands of monarch. He suggested that the three organs of government, i.e. the legislature, the judiciary and the executive, must be independent of each other.

Rousseau: Rousseau was the author of the book ‘Social Contract’ where he proposed a form of a government based on social contract between the people and their representatives. He emphasised that a king should consider himself a servant of humanity and should serve them heart and soul.

Denis Diderot: Denis Diderot violently opposed all ancient institutions. He attacked king’s autocracy, the privileges of the nobility and the church and the defective tax system.

Physiocrats: The economic thinkers of France criticised the economic policy of the French government. Economic thinkers like the physiocrats strongly criticised the mercantile doctrine and advocated free trade, privatisation of trade and industry. Quesnay and Adam Smith were the spokesmen of the doctrine of free trade and the removal of state control so far prevalent in the field of trade and commerce (Laissez-faire).

Question 7.
Did women in France play any role in the Revolution in 1789 ?
Answer:
From the very beginning, the women of France were active participants in the events related to the French Revolution of 1789.

Most women did not have access to education or job training. Only daughters of

nobles or the wealthier members of the Third Estate could study at a convent. On 5 October, 1789 , the poorest women of France, angered by price rise and the indifferent attitude of the king to their misery, led a long march of 12 miles on the highway from Paris to Versailles shouting ‘Bread! Bread! Bread!’

In order to voice their concerns and issues, women started their own political clubs and newspapers. About 60 women’s clubs came up in different cities of France. The ‘Society of Revolutionary and Republican Women’ was the most famous of these. Olympe de Gouges was one of the most politically active women of the revolutionary period in France.

The constitution of 1791 reduced the rights of women. So they demanded the right to vote, the right to contest elections and to hold political office. During the Reign of Terror the French government issued laws banning the political participation and activities of women and ordered the closure of women’s clubs. The fight for voting rights and equal wages continued. Finally in 1946 women won the right to vote.

Question 8.
What were the causes of agrarian revolt (or, spread of rural unrest) in France in 1789 ? What is its importance?
Answer:
Various causes were responsible for the outbreak of agrarian revolt in France in 1789.
1. The immediate cause of the revolt of the peasantry was the ‘Great Fear’. The ‘Great Fear’ was the rumour that spread in villages that criminals and brigands had been sent against the peasantry by the nobility. It was actually the plan made by the nobility to avenge their defeat in the States-General.
2. Another cause of the revolt of the peasants was the rise in prices of bread. In fact, a time came when higher prices could not procure bread.
3. The fall of Bastille and other violent incidents in different parts of France provoked the peasants to break out in rebellion.
4. The peasants who had been suffering for long under feudal tyranny were disillusioned at the StatesGeneral meeting as they realised that it could not bring any change in their material life.

The importance of the agrarian revolt in France are as follows –

1. It opened the eyes of the elected representatives of the people in the States-General.
2. The violent incidents and the attacks upon the property of feudal lords by the rebel peasants convinced the elected representatives that for the security of their own property, some concessions had to be granted.
3. On August 14, 1789 the nobility and the clergy voluntarily renounced the privileges they had been enjoying for a long time. As a result, feudalism came to an end in France.

Question 9.
What was the role of the Jacobins? What were the causes of the downfall of the Jacobins?
Answer:
After the downfall of the Girondists, the Jacobins captured power. The prominent members of the Jacobin party were Danton, Marat and Robespierre. In order to terrorise the supporters of monarchy, they advocated the establishment of the Reign of terror. The chief organs of the Reign of Terror were

1. The Committee of Public Safety,
2. The Committee of General Security and
3. Revolutionary Tribunal by which the suspects were put to death after a summary trial.

The chief weapon to establish control over the public of France were the ‘Law of Maximum’ and the ‘Law of Suspects’. Thousands of people were guillotined by the help of ‘Law of Suspects’ on the ground of mere suspicion. Many were punished for non-compliance of the Law of Maximum. Thus during the Reign of Terror they let loose tremendous atrocities on the people and put an end to the Girondists who opposed their policy.

Various causes led to the downfall the Jacobins.

1. The differences of opinion among the Jacobins contributed to their downfall.
2. The life and property of the people were not safe during the Reign of Terror and so the people opposed it.
3. The Jacobin leader Robespierre began to interfere in the religious beliefs of the people which hurt their feelings
4. The labourers were annoyed with the party as they had fixed their wages under the Law of Maximum.
5. The machinery of the Reign of Terror alienated the sympathy of the people and the Jacobins lost their ground.

Question 10.
What were the results of the French Revolution?
Answer:
The results of the French Revolution of 1789 are discussed below-

1. The revolution brought an end to the privileges of the clergy and the nobility.
2. It laid down that every nation should be free to choose its own form of government.
3. It ended the arbitrary rule of the king and developed the idea of a peoples’ republic.
4. It emphasised the principle of equality. All men were made equal in the eyes of law.
5. It asserted that each individual should have liberty of speech, worship and personal liberty.
6. To the liberals, the principle of civil equality and national sovereignty offered a model for an exploitation-free, progressive sociopolitical system.
7. After the revolution, the sovereign will of the people gained importance. No government could justify its existence unless it rested upon the consent of the people.
8. The political developments in 1789 in France made the conservatives apprehensive of a further outbreak of revolutionary fervour.
9. The ideas of democracy, nationalism, liberalism and fraternity stirred the minds of European people.
10. It inspired revolutionary movements in almost every country of Europe and in south and central America.

Question 11.
What were the main causes of the French Revolution?
Answer:
The French Revolution broke out in 1789. The main causes which sparked off the French Revolution were as follows :
1. Despotic rule of Louis XVI: King Louis XVI, had drained the financial resources of France in successive wars. To meet the cost of his extravagant lifestyle, he increased taxes which were paid by the Third Estate.

2. Rising prices: Due to rise of population in France there was more demand of food grains. So the price of food soared and the poor could not afford to buy food. So the gap between the rich and the poor widened.

3. Division of French society: French society was divided into three estates-the first estate, the second estate and the third estate. The first and the second estates enjoyed privileges yet did not pay taxes. The Third Estate paid heavy taxes both direct and indirect. This discrimination led to the outbreak of revolution by the third estate.

4. Role of French philosophers: French philosophers like Rousseau, Voltaire and Montesquieu propagated the ideas of a society where people would enjoy freedom, equality before law and equal opportunities. Their ideas inspired the common people to rise in rebellion.

5. Presence of educated people: Unlike other countries, France had an enlightened middle class and other professionals like lawyers, administrative officials who were educated and believed that no group in society should be privileged by birth. It was they who organised the people and inspired them to revolt.

Question 12.
Why did the French Revolution break out in France only and not in any other country?
Answer:
Different historians have put forward different theories as to why Revolution broke out in France and not in any other country. However, it is possible to find out some common factors which made the Revolution in France inevitable.
1. The miserable economic condition of the people of France and the poor management of finances by the government of France contributed to the outbreak of the Revolution in France. The tottering economic structure of France was a very important cause for the outbreak of the Revolution.

2. The burden of tax on the common people was much higher than anywhere else in Europe. So the intensity of discontent was much more among the peasants in France than in other parts of Europe.

3. The feudal system in France became worn out. In different European countries feudal lords enjoyed privileges and performed their duties but in France the feudal lords enjoyed rights and privileges without rendering any services to the king. The French people resented this system of unequal privileges and wanted to do away with this inequality in the society.

4. The backward agricultural and industrial condition of France resulted in under production which led to excessive rise in food prices. This made the people of France burst out in rebellion.

5. The presence of the French philosophers who resented the privileges of the nobles and the absolutism of French monarchy contributed to the outbreak of the Revolution only in France.

6. Unlike in other countries, France had an enlightened middle class. It was they who organized the people and taught them to revolt.

Question 13.
What is the importance of the French Revolution?
Answer:
The French Revolution is one of the greatest landmarks in the history of the world.
Importance:

1. The French Revolution changed the course of history of France. It destroyed the old order and replaced it with a new system.
2. The revolution put an end to the absolutism of the French kings.
3. The revolutionary and republican ideas took strong roots in France.
4. After the revolution the ideals of liberty, equality and fraternity became popular and these ideals remained as a source of inspiration for revolutions
5. which took place in the 19th century Europe.
6. The revolution established people’s participation in political administration and equality in the eye of law.

Detailed explanations in West Bengal Board Class 9 History Book Solutions Chapter 2 Revolutionary Ideals: Napoleonic Empire and the Idea of Nationalism offer valuable context and analysis.

WBBSE Class 9 History Chapter 2 Question Answer – Revolutionary Ideals: Napoleonic Empire and the Idea of Nationalism

Very Short Answer (VSA) Type Questions : (1 mark for each question)

Question 1.
Where was Napoleon Bonaparte born?
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Ajaccio in the island of Corsica.

Question 2.
What was the period of rule of Consulate in France?
Answer:
The period of rule of Consulate in France was 1794-1799.

Question 3.
Who is known as Justinian II and why?
Answer:
Napoleon’s most important contribution was the Code Napoleon. It incorporated the noble principles of the French Revolution. For this progressive code he was known as Justinian II.

Question 4.
Who established the Bank of France?
Answer:
Napoleon established the Bank of France.

Question 5.
Who remarked, “I am the Revolution and I destroyed the Revolution”?
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte, the ruler of France remarked, “I am the Revolution and I destroyed the Revolution”.

Question 6.
Into how many parts was Code Napoleon divided?
Answer:
Code Napoleon was divided into five parts – the Civil Code, the Criminal Code, the Penal Code, the Commercial Code and other codes.

Question 7.
What is known as the ‘Bible of the French’?
Answer:
‘Code Napoleon’ is known as the Bible of the French.

Question 8.
What are Lyces?
Answer:
Lyces are residential semi-military schools of France where boys of the noble and aristocratic families used to study to become officers in the army.

Question 9.
When was Napoleon born?
Answer:
Napoleon was born in 1769.

Question 10.
When did the French Revolution break out?
Answer:
The French Revolution broke out in 1789.

Question 11.
When was the Treaty of Campo Formio signed?
Answer:
The Treaty of Campo Farmio was signed in 1797.

Question 12.
In which year Napoleon launched campaign against Egypt?
Answer:
Napoleon launched campaign against Egypt in 1798.

Question 13.
Who was the first Consul of France?
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte was the first Consul of France.

Question 14.
What do you mean by a Republic?
Answer:
A Republic is a state in which power is held by the peoples’ representatives and the head of the state is not a monarch.

Question 15.
What is the meaning of Code?
Answer:
Code means a systematic set of laws.

Question 16.
What was the Legion of Honour?
Answer:
Napoleon introduced a special title of honour for eminent citizens called the legion of Honour.

Question 17.
In which year did Napoleon become the Emperor of France?
Answer:
Napoleon became the Emperor of France in 1804.

Question 18.
When and against whom did the Battle of Trafalgar take place?
Answer:
The Battle of Trafalgar took place in 1805 against Napoleon.

Question 19.
When and between whom was the Battle of Ulm fought?
Answer:
The Battle of Ulm was fought in 1805 between France and Austria.

Question 20.
Which two countries of Europe did Napoleon reconstitute?
Answer:
Napoleon reconstituted Italy and Germany.

Question 21.
Which nation was called the ‘Nation of Shopkeepers’ and by whom?
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte called the English ‘the Nation of Shopkeepers’.

Question 22.
When and between whom was the Treaty of Tilsit concluded?
Answer:
The Treaty of Tilsit was concluded in 1807 between Napoleon Bonaparte, the ruler of France and Alexander I, the Tsar of Russia.

Question 23.
When was monarchy re-established in France?
Answer:
In 1804 Napoleon declared himself the emperor of France and monarchy was reesablished in France.

Question 24.
Who was Nelson?
Answer:
Nelson was the naval chief of England.

Question 25.
Who routed the French navy in the historic naval Battle of Trafalgar?
Answer:
Admiral Nelson of England routed the French navy in the historic naval Battle of Trafalgar.

Question 26.
What were the two major incidents of the year 1807 ?
Answer:
In the year 1807 the Battle of Jena was fought between Prussia and France and the Treaty of Tilsit was signed between Napoleon and Alexander I of Russia.

Question 27.
According to which treaty France and Russia promised to remain neutral against each other?
Answer:
According to the Treaty of Tilsit France and Russia promised to remain neutral against each other.

Question 28.
Who established the Duchy of Warsaw?
Answer:
Napoleon established the Duchy of Warsaw.

Question 29.
When was the Duchy of Warsaw established?
Answer:
The Duchy of Warsaw was established in 1807.

Question 30.
What was the year of the Peninsular War?
Answer:
The year of the Peninsular War was 1808.

Question 31.
Which nation was called the ‘Nation of Shopkeepers’ and by whom?
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte called the English ‘The Nation of Shopkeepers’.

Question 32.
Who introduced the Continental System?
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte introduced the Continental System.

Question 33.
When was the Continental System introduced?
Answer:
The Continental System was introduced in 1806.

Question 34.
What was the Continental System?
Answer:
Napoleon introduced the Continental System in 1806 which was an economic strategy in Europe intended to cripple and prevent Great Britain from trading with other European powers.

Question 35.
When and by whom was the Berlin Decree introduced?
Answer:
The Berlin Decree was introduced by Napoleon in 1806.

Question 36.
What was the Berlin Decree?
Answer:
The Berlin Decree issued by Napoleon in 1806 declared naval blockade against England i.e., the countries allied to Napoleon would have to stop trade with England.

Question 37.
When and by whom was the Milan Decree introduced?
Answer:
The Milan Decree was introduced by Napoleon in 1807.

Question 38.
What was the Milan Decree?
Answer:
The Milan Decree issued by Napoleon in 1807 was that any ship of any country trying to reach England would be caught and confiscated.

Question 39.
When did Napoleon invade Russia?
Answer:
Napoleon invaded Russia in 1812.

Question 40.
Which country followed the ‘scorched earth policy’ against France?
Answer:
Russia followed the ‘scorched earth policy’ against France.

Question 41.
When did the Battle of Waterloo take place?
Answer:
The Battle of Waterloo took place in 1815.

Question 42.
When and against whom did the Battle of Nations take place?
Answer:
In 1813 the Battle of Nations took place against Napoleon Bonaparte.

Question 43.
Who was defeated in the Battle of Waterloo?
Answer:
Napoleon was defeated in the Battle of Waterloo.

Question 44.
Name the final battle that sealed Napoleon’s fate.
Answer:
The final battle that sealed Napoleon’s fate was the Battle of Waterloo.

Question 45.
Name the islands where Napoleon was banished.
Answer:
Napoleon was banished to the islands of Elba and St. Helena.

Question 46.
Mention the period of ‘Hundred Days Rule’.
Answer:
The period of Hundred Days Rule was from 20 March to 29 June 1815.

Short Answer (SA) Type Questions : (2 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What was the first military success of Napoleon?
Answer:
Napoleon removed the English from the port of Toulon in 1793 as an employee of the French army and curbed the counterrevolutionaries there. This was the first military success of Napoleon.

Question 2.
Which incident is known in France as the 13th Vendemiaire?
Or
What was the incident of October 5, 1795?
Answer:
The incident of 5 October, 1795 is an important stage in the rise of Napoleon to power who got the responsibility of commanding the French army in Italy. At that time the Reign of Terror was going on in France.

On 5 October, 1795 the members of the National Convention were attacked by a rowdy mob. Napoleon with the help of his soldiers resisted the attack and thus saved the National Convention. This incident is known in history as the 13th Vendemiaire.

Question 3.
In which year and between whom was the Battle of Nile fought? Who was defeated?
Answer:
1. The Battle of Nile was fought in 1798 between England and France.
2. France was defeated in the Battle of Nile.

Question 4.
Give an account of Napoleon’s invasion of Egypt.
Answer:
1. In 1798 Napoleon launched a campaign against Egypt. On his way to Egypt he conquered Malta and Alexandria and achieved.
2. victory in the Battle of Pyramid. The Egyptian army was defeated by him and he entered Cairo, the capital of Egypt.

Question 5.
In which year and between whom was the Battle of Pyramid fought? Who was defeated?
Answer:
1. The Battle of Pyramid was fought between France and England in 1798.
2. England was defeated in the Battle of Pyramid.

Question 6.
What do you mean by rule of the ‘Consulate’?
Answer:
In 1799 Napoleon took away the powers of the Directory, concentrated power in his own hands and himself became the ruler of the country. At this time he introduced an adminis-tration popularly known as the ‘Consulate’. Under the Consulate France was ruled by a council which consisted of three members.

Question 7.
What is the importance of Code Napoleon?
Answer:
The importance of Code Napoleon introduced by Napoleon Bonaparte is as follows:

1. It protected the interests of the rising middle class.
2. It guaranteed civil liberties.
3. It preserved the social aims of the revolution.

Question 8.
When and between whom was the Treaty of Luneville signed?
Answer:
The Treaty of Luneville was signed between France and Austria in 1801.

Question 9.
When and between whom was the Treaty of Amiens signed?
Answer:
The Treaty of Amiens was signed in 1802 between France and England.

Question 10.
What is ‘Legion of Honour’?
Answer:
Napoleon introduced a special title of honour for eminent citizens called the Legion of Honour in 1802. Those who could show their ability, courage or any other work of outstanding ability were given the title of Legion of Honour. Its inductees received the Legion’s small white enamelled cross which hung on a red silk ribbon, as a public show of gratitude.

Question 11.
What is the importance of the year 1804 in France?
Answer:
In 1804 Napoleon declared himself to be the emperor of France. In this year the legal veil of republicanism was dropped and monarchy was re-established in France.

Question 12.
Against whom was the Third European Coalition formed? Who were the members of the Third Coalition?
Answer:
1. The Third European Coalition was formed against France.
2. Under the leadership of England, Austria and Russia united against France and the Third European Coalition was formed.

Question 13.
What is the importance of the Battle of Trafalgar?
Answer:
The Battle of Trafalgar was fought in 1805 between Nelson, the naval chief of England and Napoleon. Napoleon was totally defeated in this battle. This battle indirectly paved the way for the downfall of Napoleon.

Question 14.
In which year was the Treaty of Tilsit signed? What were the countries which signed the treaty?
Answer:
1. The Treaty of Tilsit was signed in the year 1807.
2. It was signed between Czar Alexander of Russia and Napoleon Bonaparte of France.

Question 15.
What is the importance of the Battle of Austerlitz?
Answer:
The Battle of Austerlitz was fought between France on one side and the joint army of Austria and Russia on the other. Austria and Russia were totally defeated by France and was forced to sign the Treaty of Pressburg in 1805.

Question 16.
Between whom was the Battle of Jena fought? Who was defeated?
Answer:
1. The Battle of Jena was fought between Prussia and France.
2. Prussia was defeated in this battle.

Question 17.
Why did Napoleon annex Portugal?
Answer:
Napoleon introduced the Continental System. When Portugal, an ally of the British, rejected the Continental System Napoleon sent. the French army to Portugal through Spain without caring to take consent of the Spanish king. Portugal was annexed in 1807.

Question 18.
What was the ‘Peninsular War’ (1808)?
Answer:
Portugal suffered greatly because of the Continental System introduced by Napoleon and naturally began to flout it. Napoleon therefore attacked Portugal and occupied it. The French army on their way back to France occupied Spain. At this time Portugal joined Spain and declared war against Napoleon which is known as the Peninsular War (1808).

Question 19.
“The Spanish Ulcer ruined me”-Who said this and why?
Answer:
Napoleon came to know through his agencies that Spain was not following his Continental System. He therefore, launched an attack on Spain in 1808 but his so far invincible army was defeated by Spain with the help of the English army in 1808. The Spanish attack proved disastrous and ultimately Napoleon himself accepted it to be an ‘ulcer’ for him.

Question 20.
What was the Fontainebleau Decree?
Answer:
To make his Continental System successful Napoleon issued the Fontainebleau Decree in 1810. It was declared that those found guilty of violating the commercial rules of France would be punished. By this decree it was declared that the goods confiscated would be burnt publicly. A court of law was also established for those found guilty.

Question 21.
Write a short note on the Battle of Leipzig (or Battle of Nations), 1813.
Answer:
The European nations were annoyed by Napoleon’s expansionist policy and the dissatisfied nations like Prussia, Russia, Sweden, England and Austria formed a coalition against Napoleon. A fierce battle which is known as the Battle of Leipzig between Napoleon and the allied countries was fought in 1813. In this battle also known as the ‘Battle of Nations’, Napoleon was defeated.

Question 22.
Why is the Battle of Leipzig also known as the ‘Battle of Nations’?
Answer:
The Battle of Leipzig (1813) was fought between Napoleon and dissatisfied nations like Prussia, Russia, Sweden, England and Austria. This battle is also known as the Battle of Nations because in this battle soldiers of all nations excepting Turkey fought against Napoleon.

Question 23.
Why was Napoleon banished to the island of Elba?
Answer:
The European nations were threatened by Napoleon’s expansionist policy and dissatisfied nations like Prussia, Russia, Sweden, England and Austria formed a coalition against Napoleon. A fierce battle was fought at Leipzig between Napoleon and the allied countries in 1813. In this battle Napoleon was defeated. Napoleon could not defend France from the violent invasion of the European powers. By the treaty of Fontainebleau, he resigned the crown of France. He was banished to the island of Elba, a small island in Corsica.

Question 24.
Who was Napoleon Bonaparte? Can he be called a Liberator?
Answer:
In 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte crowned himself the emperor of France and reintroduced monarchy in France. He conquered his neighbouring countries and created kingdoms, where he placed his own family members.
Initially, people believed that Napoleon was a liberator who would bring freedom to the people, but soon his army was viewed as an invading force. So he was finally defeated in the Battle of Waterloo.

Question 25.
Why is Napoleon called a moderniser of Europe?
Answer:
Napoleon is called a moderniser of Europe because he introduced many laws such as protection of private property and a uniform system of weights and measures as provided by the decimal system.

Analytical Answer (AA) Type Questions (4 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What is known in history as 18th Brumaire?
Answer:
When the popularity of the Directors of France was at the lowest ebb, Napoleon took advantage of the unpopularity of the Directory administration. He joined hands with a few Directors to overthrew it. It was a bloodless coup d’etat. Napoleon by a military coup seized the administrative power of France on 9-10 November 1799. This incident is known in history as the 18th Brumaire. The ‘Eighteenth Brumaire’ refers to November 9, 1799 in the French calender. It was the day when Napoleon Bonaparte had made himself dictator by a coup d’ etat. Napoleon was proclaimed first Consul. The event is often viewed as the effective end of the French Revolution.

Question 2.
When and between whom was the treaty of Campo Formio signed? What were the provisions of the treaty? What was the importance of the treaty?
Answer:
The Treaty of Campo Formio was signed in 1797 between Napoleon Bonaparte and Count Philip von Cobenzi as representatives of France and Austria respectively. Austria being defeated by France was forced to sign the treaty.
Provisions: The provisions of the treaty were:

1. Austria gaave up Netherlands and Lombardy to France.
2. The province of Rhine situated between Austria and Germany was also handed over to France.
3. Italy accepted the supremacy of France over Lombardy.
4. In return France gave Austria most of the old Venetian republic.

Importance: By this treaty Napoleon for the first time tried to change the map of European states. Later on this continued till his downfall.

Question 3.
Write a note on the Concordat of 1801.
Answer:
Napoleon made a compromise with the Papacy. He entered into an agreement with the Pope in 1801 which is known as the ‘Concordat’ in the history of Europe.
Terms: The terms of the agreement were-
1. All the Bishops would be appointed by the pope from a list proposed by the state, and all the officials would receive their salary and take an oath of loyalty to the government.
2. The Pope agreed to the decision taken during the revolutionary period that the property of the church which was confiscated during the course of the revolution would not be given back.
3. Toleration was given to the Protestants, Lutherans and Jews.

Importance: Catholicism was declared to be the religion of the great majority of the French but not the official state religion. The Concordat solved the question of conflict between the Pope and the French government.

Question 4.
What was Code Napoleon?
Answer:
The most important of Napoleon’s contribution was the Code Napoleon-the French civil code established by him in the year 1804 . France was plagued by numerous conflicting codes of law. These codes obstructed administrative efficiency as well as national unity. Napoleon therefore instituted the codification of the laws of France and gave it a new name-Code Napoleon. It incorporated the great principles of the French Revolution of 1789-equality before law, job in the administration on the basis of merit, freedom of thought and religion; individual liberty, abolition of serfdom, protection of private property and secularisation of the states.

The Code had its less liberal side as well. Women were declared to be inferior to men by law. Workers were denied collective bargaining and trade unions were outlawed. The Code was simple in form but was the work of a genius as it touched upon all aspects of French life.

Question 5.
Did Code Napoleon aim to protect the basic principles of the French Revolution?
Answer:
The Civil Code of Napoleon aimed to protect some of the basic principles of the French Revolution. It provided:

1. legal and social equality, equal rights of property among the children of a father;
2. It assured freedom of thought, religion and individual liberty and freedom of work;
3. It made laws secular in character;
4. Everybody was taxed without distinction of caste and creed and equal justice was awarded to all;
5. All persons were allowed to seek a job in the administration on the basis of merit.

Question 6.
What were the defects of Code Napoleon?
Answer:
The most important of Napoleon’s contributions was the Code Napoleon. The defects of Code Napoleon were:
1. Women were declared to be inferior to men by law. Complete freedom was not granted to women. They were supposed to be the subordinates of their husbands. Napoleon did not allow women to receive education or to take part in public meetings.
2. Workers were denied collective bargaining and trade unions were outlawed.
3. The civil code was incomplete and full of inconsistencies.

Question 7.
Write a note on the Battle of Trafalgar (1805).
Answer:
Napoleon chalked out a plan to attack England and mustered a large army: He gathered a large army at Boulogne. Villeneuve, the French naval commander, proceeded to Spain. The Spanish fleet tried to join Villeneuve, but could not unite with them due to the presence of British fleet under the command of Admiral Nelson. A fierce naval battle was fought by both the commanders in the island of Trafalgar (1805). The French and the Spanish fleets were completely destroyed. The supremacy of the English naval fleet was established. After this fateful battle, Napoleon

realised that England could not be defeated in a direct war and abandoned the idea of defeating England on the sea.

Question 8.
What were the terms of the Treaty of Tilsit?
Or
The Treaty of Tilsit marked the highest watermark of Napoleon’s glory-explain.
Answer:
The terms of the Treaty of Tilsit (1807) signed between Czar Alexander of Russia and Napoleon Bonaparte were as follows:
1. Czar Alexander of Russia recognised the Napoleonic settlement in Germany, Italy and Poland.
2. Napoleon and Alexander were free to interfere according to their will in western and eastern Europe. 3. A new state named Westphalia was created by taking the provinces of Rhine from Prussia.
4. Russia was to act as a mediator between England and France. It was decided that England should give up its rights on the sea. If England did not agree to it, Russia and France would jointly declare war against England. Thus, the Treaty of Tilsit marked the highest watermark of Napoleon’s glory.

Question 9.
Why did Napoleon invade Russia?
Answer:
Napoleon and the Czar of Russia became allies after the Treaty of Tilsit (1807) but this relationship did not last long. Very soon, differences arose between the two due to the following reasons:
1. Napoleon was annoyed with the Czar because he felt that the Czar had not helped him in the battle of 1809 between Austria and France.
2. Napoleon turned against the Czar as he was not following the Continental System rigidly.
3. The Czar had a fear that Napoleon would help and instigate the Poles against him.
4. The Czar doubted that Napoleon wanted to establish his sway over the whole of Europe including Russia. So he became suspicious of Napoleon.
Thus the Russian Czar became an unreliable ally and so Napoleon decided to attack Russia.

Question 10.
What are the Decrees through which Napoleon declared the Continental System?
Answer:
Napoleon, the ruler of France, issued several decrees which taken together formed the socalled Continental System.

1. In 1806 the Berlin Decree was issued by Napoleon which declared naval blockade against England i.e., the countries allied to Napoleon would have to stop trade with England.
2. The Milan Decree issued by Napoleon in 1807 was that any ship of any country trying to reach England would by caught and confiscated.
3. The Warsaw and Fontainebleau Decrees issued by Napoleon was that all goods seized from England or neutral vessels would be treated as enemy goods and were to be burnt.
England and her allies and colonial ports were henceforth under French blockade.

Question 11.
What do you mean by ‘Orders in Council’?
Answer:
In 1807 Napoleon issued the Milan Decree by which the whole of British Isles and her colonies were put under blockades.
Neutral countries were warned not to enter any British or her colonial or allied port. All goods seized from England or neutral vessels were to be treated as enemy goods and were to be burnt.
England strongly reacted and in 1870 issued the Orders in Council by which it was said:
1. The French and her allies and colonial ports were henceforth under British blockade.
2. No country not even neutral countries could import goods from France or her colonies or any allied port. Violation of this order would be punished by seizure and confiscation.
3. Any neutral country willing to send goods to France, must visit at first any British port and take a license for going to France or to any allied port of France by payment of heavy fees.

Question 12.
What were the causes of Napoleon’s defeat in Russia?
Answer:
Napoleon made the most daring adventure in his life by launching the invasion of Russia in 1812 with 600,000 French soldiers. The causes of his defeat were as follows:
1. As a General and Commander Napoleon committed certain mistakes which resulted in his defeat.
2. Napoleon had not made proper arrangements to fight against Russia. Disaster hit the French army in the form of severe cold; lack of food, clothings and war materials.
3. The French army was shattered due to the guerrilla tactics of the Russian soldiers.
4. The superior military tactics of the Russian commanders made Napoleon’s defeat inevitable.
5. The Russians followed the ‘scorched earth policy’. Napoleon’s road to return was destroyed by the Russians. Bridges were demolished, food supplies were cut off and towns were destroyed by ‘scorched earth policy’. His grand army was decimated due to starvation.

Question 13.
What were the consequences of Napoleon’s defeat in Russia?
Answer:
Napoleon made the most daring adventure in his life by launching the invasion of Russia in 1812. His invasion of Russia not only failed but proved contrary to his expectations.
1. His Russian campaign destroyed his military strength.
2. The enemies of Napoleon, being inspired by his defeats, raised their heads against him. The countries of central Europe were inspired and tried to achieve their independence. They united themselves for war of liberation.
3. The joint army of Prussia and Russia began a war of independence against France and created a havoc in the French army. It adversely affected the power and glory of Napoleon.

Question 14.
Write a note on the Battle of Waterloo.
Answer:
In 1815 Napoleon came to France fiom Elba and his faithful soldiers and officers joined him. The allies forgot all their differences and prepared themselves to crush him. They accused Napoleon of disturbing the peace of Europe.

Napoleon had a firm faith that he would defeat the joint army of the allies. The allies also organised two armies under the Chief Commander Duke of Wellington and Marshall Blucher. Blucher was defeated at Ligny. The Duke of Wellington gathered a huge army on the plains of Waterloo. In June 1815 a fierce battle was fought for seven hours on plains of Waterloo. Napoleon and his soldiers fought gallantly but were defeated in the Battle of Waterloo (1815). This battle sealed the fate of Napoleon forever.

Question 15.
“The French blockade was a paper blockade”-Explain.
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte, the Emperor of France, made several attempts to defeat England in direct wars, but he was unsuccessful due to lack of naval force. So, Napoleon introduced the Continental System in order to defeat England in an indirect war. By this system of economic warfare he wanted to destroy the trade and commerce of England.
The Continental System introduced by Napoleon failed. British goods were smuggled to different parts of Europe and Napoleon could not check it due to his weak navy. It was impossible for France to control the vast sea without a powerful fleet. So it has been remarked, “the French blockade was a paper blockade.”

Question 16.
Why did Napoleon Bonaparte introduce the Continental system?
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte introduced the Continental System in 1806 which was an economic strategy in Europe intended to cripple Great Britain. The reasons for the introduction of the Continental System were:

1. If England’s trade and commerce were destroyed it would ruin her economically.
2. If the British made goods were not exported, she would become bankrupt and she could neither wage war nor help her allies.
3. If the manufactured goods were not exported, the factories of England would be ruined. The businessmen and capitalists would suffer.
4. The condition of England would deteriorate and thus England would have to sue for a treaty.

Explanatory Answer (EA) Type Questions (8 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What were the causes of Napoleon’s rise to power?
Answer:
After the Reign of Terror (1793-94) in France a new government known as the Directory came into power in 1795 . From the very beginning the Directory rule was in danger. The task of meeting the danger was entrusted to Napoleon Bonaparte, a very able military officer. The causes of his rise to power are as follows:
1. The people of France were tired of lawlessness, disorder and bloodshed and were keenly looking forward to see the reins of the government in some powerful hands. The people of France found in him a ‘messiah’ as they believed that he could bring them out of their critical days.

2. Napoleon was a skillful soldier, a grand tactician and a military genius which helped him to rise to power.

3. The new technique of warfare that he adopted brought him tremendous success.

4. Another aspect that helped him to rise to power was that he was unscrupulous in his ambitions. He was willing to go to any extent to achieve his goal. He did not bother about theories and principles. He did not have fear of God or man nor was he averse to any brutality, as such, nothing could stop him from striving to excel in his ambitions.

5. His marriage with Josephine Beauharnais, the widow of a revolutionary general and the mistress of one of the Directors, further boosted his image among the French people.

Question 2.
Can Napoleon be called the ‘Child of the Revolution’?
Answer:
Napoleon called himself the ‘Child of the Revolution’. He was a supporter of the principles of the Revolution viz. liberty, equality and fraternity. He laid great stress on equality but destroyed liberty.

He provided equality to every individual in the country by implementing the Code Napoleon. Everybody was taxed irrespective of occupation and social status and equal justice was awarded to all. The civil code aimed to protect some of the basic principles of the Revolution like legal and social equality, equal rights of property among children of the same father. It asserted freedom of thought, religion and individual liberty and freedom to work. Every individual, however, low born could attain high posts on the basis of merit and qualification.

Though Napoleon provided equality to his people, he took away their liberty. He believed in absolute monarchy and established his empire on the strength of his autocratic personality. The administration was centralised completely. He captured the real power of the provincial government by placing all the officials under the central government. With all the rights of judiciary and executive vested in him, he used to live in the palace of Tuileries like the Bourbon kings. He established full control over education and destroyed individual freedum, rule of law, freedom of speech and press. He sent honest critics arbitrarily to prison. Thus he killed the principles of the Revolution keeping in view the necessity of his times.

Question 3.
Can Napoleon be called the ‘Destroyer of the Revolution’?
Answer:
Napoleon was a supporter of the principles of French Revolution viz, liberty, equality and fraternity. He provided equality to every individual in the country by implementing his code. Though he provided equality to his people he took away their liberty. He believed in absolute monarchy and established his empire on the basis of his personality. The administration was centralised completely.

He captured the real power of the provincial government by placing all the officials under the central government. With all the rights of the judiciary and executive vested in him, he used to live in the palace of Tuileries like the absolute Bourbon kings. He established full control on education and destroyed individual freedom, rule of law, freedom of speech and press. He sent honest critics arbitrarily to prison. Thus he killed the principles of the revolution keeping in view the necessity of the time. He is thus called ‘the destroyer of the Revolution’.

Question 4.
Discuss the administrative reforms of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Answer:
France was under the Consulate between 1799 and 1804. Napoleon was the First Consul. It was as the First Consul that Napoleon introduced important reforms in all branches of administration.
1. Administrative reforms: Napoleon divided the country into 83 departments. The officers of each department were called Prefect, Sub-Prefect, Judge, Mayor, etc.

2. Economic reforms: Nepoleon reformed the currency system of France. He undertook various plans to solve the problem of unemployment. He established the Bank of France to encourage trade and commerce.

3. Code Napoleon: The most important of Napoleon’s contributions was the Code Naponeon-the french civil code instituted. by him in the year 1804 which aimed to protect some of the basic principles of the French Revolution, like legal and social equality, freedom of thought, inividual liberty, secular laws, equal taxation, etc.

4. Concordat of 1801: Napoleon entered into an agreement with the Pope in 1801 by which Catholicism became the state religion.

5. Other reforms: Napoleon established a banking system and set up a Network of museums and libraries. He repaired and constructed a large number of roads and bridges and also dug canals. He abolished serfdom and introduced new taxes.

6. Assessment: Though Napoteon provided equality to his people, he took away their liberty. He destroyed individual freedom, rule of law, freedom of speech and press Thus he killed the principles of the Revolution keeping in view the necessity of his times.

Question 5.
How did Napoleon reorganise Germany and Italy?
Answer:
Reorganisation of Germany: Napoleon virtually became the master of Germany after the defeat of Austria and Russia. His most significant work was the reorganisation of Germany. He organised 150 small states of Germany and established Federal Diet for their administration. His aim was to create 39 kingdoms as satellites of France. He formed:
1. the confederation of Rhine and declared himself the President of this confederation.
2. A part of Poland which was with Prussia was taken back from her. The Grand Duchy of Warsaw was given to Napoleon’s friend, Duke of Saxony.
3. A new state named Westphalia was created by taking the provinces of Rhine from Prussia. A brother of Napoleon called Jerome was given this state later on.
He introduced Code Napoleon and his land reformed in Germany. Though he undertook all these activities for his own advantage, indirectly it contributed a lot towards the unification of Germany.

Reorganisation of Italy: Napoleon reorganised Italy in many ways, such as-

1. In Italy Napoleon carried the reorganisation by virtue of the Treaties of Campo Formio (1798) and Pressburg (1805).
2. He assumed the title of the king of Italy and he appointed his stepson Prince Eugine as the governor of North Italy.
3. He appointed his brother Joseph as the king of Naples.
4. He created uniformity in different laws, taxes, educational systems, coins and weights and measures.
5. His acts created a feeling of unity in Italy and paved the way for its ultimate unification.

Question 6.
Describe the growth of Napoleonic empire from 1804 to 1807 (Treaty of Tilsit).
Answer:
Napoleon became the emperor of France in 1804. He pursued a vigorous foreign policy.
1. Formation of Third Coalition: To counteract the ambition of Napoleon, the Third European Coalition against France took place. Alexander I of Russia was the architect of this coalition and treaties were concluded with Austria, Prussia, Sweden and Great Britain.

2. Battle of Trafalgar: The Battle of Trafalgar was fought in 1805 . The British won the naval battle at Trafalgar over Napoleon. Napoleon was totally defeated in the battle.

3. Battle of UIm:The Battle of UIm was fought between France and Austria. Napoleon made a lightening attack upon Austria and the unprepared Austrians were defeated.

4. Battle of Austerlitz: The Battle of Austerlitz was fought between France on one side and the joint army of Austria and Russia on the other. Austria and Russia were totally defeated by the French and was forced to sign the treaty of Pressburg in 1805.

5. Battle of Jena: The battle of Jena was fought between Prussia and France.The French troop defeated Prussia in this battle. So all the major European powers came under the control of France except England.

6. Treaty of Tilsit: The Treaty of Tilsit was signed in 1807 . It was signed between Czar Alexander of Russia and Napoleon Bonaparte of France. According to this treaty Russia promised to help France against England. The Treaty of Tilsit marked the highest watermark of Napoleon’s glory.

Question 7.
What do you mean by Continental System? How did it contribute to the downfall of Napoleon?
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte, the Emperor of France, made several attempts to defeat England in direct wars, but he was unsuccessful due to lack of naval force. So Napoleon introduced the Continental System in order to defeat England in an indirect war. By this system of economic warfare he wanted to destroy the trade and commerce of England. Through the Berlin Decree in 1806, he declared naval blockade against England. He asked his vassal countries to stop the entry and movement of British ships around their ports. Through the Milan Decree, he proclaimed that any ship of any country trying to reach England would be confiscated. He compelled the European countries to take active part in this scheme.

Napoleon adopted a high-handed policy to implement the Continental System. As a result, prices of various commodities shot up. The people began to suffer hardships even with regard to their daily necessities. Various countries gradually started flouting the Continental System. So Napoleon waged wars against Russia, Spain, Portugal and Holland. The Pope of Rome also rejected the Continental System and Napoleon captured Rome. The whole of Europe was disturbed by his scheme and various countries began to conspire against France. Thus the Continental System failed and led to Napoleon’s downfall.

Question 8.
What were the causes of the fallure of the Continental System?
Answer:
The Continental System introduced by Napoleon failed due to various reasons:
1. Most of the European countries depended on British goods, but when the supply of these articles was stopped, people had to face great difficulties and they began to oppose the Continental System.
2. It was impossible for France to control the vast sea without a powerful fleet.
3. British goods were smuggled to different parts of Europe and Napoleon could not check it due to his weak navy.
4. Spain and Portugal did not join this scheme and extended their cooperation to England.
5. Napoleon lost the sympathy of the people. He was hated by the people for his selfish and tyrannical rule.
In fact, Napoleon’s Continental System was a total failure and proved suicidal for him.

Question 9.
Describe the Russian campaign of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Answer:
Napoleon made the most daring decision of his life by launching the invasion of Russia in 1812 with 600,000 French soldiers. The Russians deserted all the towns and villages which fell in Napoleon’s path. Only in Borodin, the Russian troops were defeated by Napoleon but he lost thousands of his own soldiers. Napoleon next marched to Moscow where the Russian general Kutuzov followed a new military tactics. Kutuzov adopted direct battle and forced Napoleon to chase the Russian army deep into the interior of Russia.

Meanwhile the roads to return were destroyed by the Russians. Bridges were demolished and towns were destroyed. The Russians adopted the ‘scorched earth policy’. It was winter and bitterly cold. Napoleon could not procure any food for his soldiers. He and his army marched back to France. Of the 600,000 soldiers, less than 10000 were left. Napoleon lost his grand army in Russia. His Russian campaign ended in a major disaster.

Question 10.
Give an account of the nationalist reactions of the people of Iberian Peninsula against the Napoleonic empire.
Answer:
As soon as Napoleon became the emperor of France in 1804 he started warfare against the European powers.
Invasion of Iberian Peninsula: Napoleon set his armies for the control of Iberian Peninsula (Portugal and Spain). The French army occupied Portugal and Spain. Napoleon set his brother Joseph Bonaparte on the Spanish throne. This was a national dishonour for the Spanish people.

Peninsular War (1808): The military conflict fought by Spain and Portugal assisted by the United Kingdom against the invasion of France for the control of the Iberian Peninsula, during the Napoleonic Wars is known as the Peninsular War.
Nationalist reactions of the people of Iberian

Peninsula: Most Iberians rejected French rule and fought to oust them. Madrid and other cities throughout the Peninsula rose up against the French. Revolutionary councils and national guards were organised. Provincial insurrection took place throughout Spain and the Spaniards showed great capacity for guerilla warfare.

The proclamation of Joseph as the new king of Spain led to a general anti-French revolt across the Iberian peninsula. Irregular bands of troops sprang up, mob violence visited upon those accused of being pro-French. The uprising of the Spanish people and the guerillas prevented Napoleon from being able to deploy troops sufficient to win the battles against the Spanish and British armies. The ‘Spanish ulcer’ ruined Napoleon.

Question 11.
Describe the nationalist reactions against the Napoleonic empire.
Answer:
Napoleon declared himself the ‘Emperor of French’ in 1804 and he established a vast empire. He conquered Italy, Germany, Prussia, Holland, Switzerland, Denmark, Spain, Portugal and Naples. But his empire did not last long and there were nationalist reactions against his empire.
1. He was regarded as a foreigner by the people of the vanquished nations. Gradually, the spirit of nationalism grew powerful and people began to oppose him.
2. The people of Spain began to organise revolutionary councils and national guards. All of Spain stood as one man against Napoleon.
3. The spirit of nationalism which developed in Spain gradually spread to other European countries and initiated a formidable liberation struggle. The nationalist spirit of the Dutch, Belgians, German,. Italians, Swiss and Poles was provoked when they found that the French formed a ruling class over them.
4. When Napoleon was trying to consolidate at home, Germany started their war of liberation under the leadership of Prussia to which Austria and Russia also joined.
5. Students, teachers, peasants, clergy and nobles of Germany joined hands against Napoleon. Thus Napoleon had to face people imbued with the spirit of nationalism.

Question 12.
Give an account of the reactions of the people against the Napoleonic empire.
Answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte, the French emperor, pursued a vigorous foreign policy with a view to rebuild the French colonial empire that resulted in acquiring for France a large number of territories. He conquered most of Europe and Egypt for France. There were reactions of the people against the Napoleonic empire.

1. The Battle of Leipzig was a battle of nations and nationality. Students, teachers, peasants, clergy and nobles of Germany joined hands against Napoleon.
2. Napoleon’s empire became very vast. There were Dutch, Belgians, Germans, Italians, Swiss and Poles in his empire. The nationalist spirit of the people were provoked when they found that the French formed a ruling class over them and brought no new message.
3. The people of Holland enthroned Prince of Orange against the wishes of Napoleon.
4. The Italian provinces rose in revolt against Napoleon.
5. Even in France people began to oppose Napoleon. They were against the policy of forced recruitment.
6. He lost the support of the people of Europe. When he captured the Papal kingdom and imprisoned the pope for the latter’s refusal to accept the Continental System, the whole of the Christian world blamed him as a high handed man.

Question 13.
What were the noble ideas which spread through the Napoleonic Empire?
Answer:
Different noble ideas spread to different parts of Europe through the Napoleonic empire. These were nationalism, religious toleration and secularism.

1. Ideas of nationalism and patriotism spread to Europe through the Napoleonic empire. Before the outbreak of the French Revolution people of Europe were loyal to monarchy. But the French Revolution taught the people to give top most priority to the national interests. The deep sense of nationalism spread to different parts of Europe through the Napoleonic empire. The concept of national flag, national song, national school inspired the people and spread through the Napoleonic empire.

2. Napoleon showed religious toleration to the Jews. This put to shame many European countries even in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The idea of religious toleration was adopted by almost all the modern states.

3. Through the Napoleonic empire secularism i.e., the idea that religion was separate from politics came to be established in Europe. Henceforth, in any matter of the state, the church was not involved.

West Bengal Board Class 9 History MCQ Questions with Answers WBBSE

WBBSE Class 9 History MCQ Questions in English Medium

1. Some Aspects of the French Revolution Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
2. Revolutionary Ideals: Napoleonic Empire and the Idea of Nationalism Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
3. Europe in the 19th Century: Conflict of Nationalist and Monarchial Ideas Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
4. Industrial Revolution: Colonialism and Imperialism Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
5. Europe in the Twentieth Century Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
6. The Second World War and Its Aftermath Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
7. The League of Nations and The United Nations Organisation Class 9 WBBSE MCQ

WBBSE Class 9 History MCQ Questions in Hindi Medium

1. फ्रांसीसी क्रांति के विभिन्न पहलू Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
2. क्रांतिकारी आदर्श, नेपोलियन का साम्राज्य एवं राष्ट्रवाद Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
3. 19वीं सदी का यूरोप राजतांत्रिक एवं राष्ट्रवादी विचारधारा में संघर्ष Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
4. औद्योगिक क्रांति, उपनिवेशवाद तथा साम्राज्यवाद Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
5. 20वीं सदी में यूरोप Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
6. द्वितीय विश्वयुद्ध एवं उसके बाद Class 9 WBBSE MCQ
7. राष्ट्रसंघ एवं संयुक्त राष्ट्रसंघ Class 9 WBBSE MCQ

WBBSE Class 9 Solutions

WBBSE Class 9 History Question Answer West Bengal Board

WBBSE Class 9 History Book Solutions West Bengal Board in English Medium

• Chapter 1 Some Aspects of the French Revolution
• Chapter 2 Revolutionary Ideals: Napoleonic Empire and the Idea of Nationalism
• Chapter 3 Europe in the 19th Century: Conflict of Nationalist and Monarchial Ideas
• Chapter 4 Industrial Revolution: Colonialism and Imperialism
• Chapter 5 Europe in the Twentieth Century
• Chapter 6 The Second World War and Its Aftermath
• Chapter 7 The League of Nations and The United Nations Organisation

WBBSE Class 9 History Book Solutions West Bengal Board in Hindi Medium

• Chapter 1 फ्रांसीसी क्रांति के विभिन्न पहलू
• Chapter 2 क्रांतिकारी आदर्श, नेपोलियन का साम्राज्य एवं राष्ट्रवाद
• Chapter 3 19वीं सदी का यूरोप राजतांत्रिक एवं राष्ट्रवादी विचारधारा में संघर्ष
• Chapter 4 औद्योगिक क्रांति, उपनिवेशवाद तथा साम्राज्यवाद
• Chapter 5 20वीं सदी में यूरोप
• Chapter 6 द्वितीय विश्वयुद्ध एवं उसके बाद
• Chapter 7 राष्ट्रसंघ एवं संयुक्त राष्ट्रसंघ

WBBSE Class 9 History Question Paper Design West Bengal Board 2024

Section A: Examinees are to answer 4 (four) different types of Questions.

Section B: The 4 types of Questions are Multiple Choice Questions, short answer Type Questions, short answer type Questions, and answer type Questions.

Section C: The Long-Answer Type Questions have two characters, namely Pattern I and Pattern II.

Section D: The distribution of Marks for different types of Questions would be as follows:

• The Multiple Choice Questions – 1 mark each
• Very Short Answer Type Questions – 1 mark each
• Short-answer Type Questions – 2 marks each
• Long-answer Type Questions – 8 marks each

(In category IV there may be questions having both 4 and 8 Marks. For the convenience of the students a separate type of question has been included as ‘Pattern I’ for those bearing 4 Marks)

Section E: Regarding the Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) students are only to tick off (V) the correct answers. Answers to the short answer questions should be in one or two words. Answers to each of the Short-answer Type Questions should be in one or two sentences.

Section F: The West Bengal Board of Secondary Education has not yet specified the quantum of words/sentences/lines that may be allowed for answering the Long-answer Type Questions. However, according to his wisdom, the author of the book determined the sentences/words that may be devoted to answering Questions bearing 4 and 8 Marks. For example, the question bearing 4 Marks may be answered in about 10 sentences (or 100 words) while the question bearing 8 Marks could be answered in about 20 sentences (or 200 words)

Chapterwise Distribution of the Type of Questions and the Marks
Full Marks 100 [Question-answer 90 + Internal Assessment 10 = 100]

Chapter	Section A Multiple Choice Questions Full Mark 1	Section B Very-Short Answer Type Question Full Mark 1	Section C Short-Answer Type Question Full Marks 2	Section D Evaluation Type Question Full Mark 4	Section E Explanatory Type Question Full Marks 8
Chapter 1	Mark 1 × Questions 4 = 4	Mark 1 × Questions 2 = 2	Marks 2 × Questions 2 = 4	Marks 4 × Question 1 = 4	1 Question either from Chapter 1 or Chapter 2 Marks 8 × Question 1 = 8
Chapter 2	Mark 1 × Questions 3 = 3	Mark 1 × Questions 2 = 2	Marks 2 × Questions 2 = 4	Marks 4 × Question 1 = 4
Chapter 3	Mark 1 × Questions 3 = 3	Mark 1 × Questions 2 = 2	Marks 2 × Questions 2 = 4	Marks 4 × Question 1 = 4	1 Question either from Chapter 3 or Chapter 4 Marks 8 × Question 1 = 8
Chapter 4	Mark 1 × Questions 3 = 3	Mark 1 × Questions 2 = 2	Marks 2 × Questions 2 = 4	Marks 4 × Question 1 = 4
Chapter 5	Mark 1 × Questions 4 = 4	Mark 1 × Questions 2 = 2	Marks 2 × Questions 2 = 4	Marks 4 × Question 1 = 4	1 Question either from Chapter 5 or Chapter 6 Marks 8 × Question 1 = 8
Chapter 6	Mark 1 × Questions 3 = 3	Mark 1 × Questions 2 = 2	Marks 2 × Questions 2 = 4	Marks 4 × Question 1 = 4
Chapter 7	Mark 1 × Questions 4 = 4	Mark 1 × Questions 3 = 3	Marks 2 × Questions 2 = 4	–	–
Total	24 Marks	16 Marks	22 Marks	20 Marks	8 Marks

Section C: In this Group the students are to answer 11 Questions out of 14 Questions given. Hence Marks 2 × 11 Questions = 22 Marks
Section D: In this Group, the students are to answer 5 Questions out of 6 Questions given. Hence Marks 4 × 5 Questions = 20 Marks
Section E: In this Group the students are to answer 1 (one) Question out of 3 given. Hence Marks 8 × 1 Question = 8 Marks.
The question may be sub-divided with varying Marks, e.g. 4 + 4 = 8; 5 + 3 = 8; 3 + 5 = 8; 8

WBBSE Class 9 History Syllabus West Bengal Board 2024

Foreword: Europe and the Modern Age

• Political-Social Evolution of Europe: Conflict between temporal and religious institutions; Empire vs. Papacy; Crisis of Feudalism in Western Europe and the abolition of Serfdom; Invention of new agricultural technology; Expansion of agriculture, Increasing demand for foodstuff and daily commodities (agricultural and non-agricultural); Rise of new Mercantile community.
• Renaissance and Humanism: Rediscovery of the past and new philosophy of life. The growing importance of the ‘Man’; Development of an Anthropocentric world view.
  Did you know?: Leonardo da Vinci; Michelangelo.
• The Age of ‘Discovery’: Printing ‘revolution’; Invention of new warfare techniques; Rise of a new scientific view; Voyages and ‘discoveries’ of ‘New’ lands.
  Did you know?: Galileo; Use of gunpowder; Printing machine; Mariner’s Compass.
• Rise of the Modern State: Foundation of Absolute Monarchy in England and France during the 15th and 16th centuries.
• Crisis of Absolute Monarchy (17th century); Development of free-thinking—the Age of Reason.

Note: 2 colored maps should be used here—one of 17th-century Europe, and another of contemporary Europe.

Chapter 1 Some Aspects of the French Revolution
France as the “Political Prison” and the “Museum of Economic Errors” – Brief analysis of taxation system – example Corvee; Pre-revolutionary social structure of France and the idea of Divine Monarchy; Different critiques posed by Philosophers towards the French absolutism and fiscal policies (individual biography of philosophers not needed); Development of popular opinion in opposition to the existing social hierarchy and unequal distribution of wealth; Opposition to the Monarchy by the Aristocracy.

Fall of the Bastille: Conflict of the Royalty with the Girondists and the Jacobins regarding the Estates-General; Tennis Court Oath; Storming of the Bastille; Fall of Bastille as a symbol of the downfall of the French Monarchy, National Constituent Assembly; Execution of the King.

Call to save the Revolution: Internal crisis and foreign attacks on the Revolution; Jacobin rule. Peoples’ Revolution, People of the Revolution—Connections between the people of the lower strata of French society and the French Revolution; Participation of urban and rural poor in the Revolution; Women and the French Revolution, Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen; Role of rumors in mass psychology (brief analysis).

Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite: The larger impact of the ideals of the French Revolution; New French constitution; Abolition of Feudalism; Declaration of the Democratic Rights of the Citizens.

Did you know?: Ancient Regime; Third Estate; Bourgeoisie; “The Reign of Terror”; Tipu Sultan and the Jacobin Club; Sans Culottes.

(Contemporary paintings of/on the French Revolution and its different aspects. Maps during the time of the Revolution. Diagram of Pre-Revolutionary French social structure. Timeline of the Revolution).

Chapter 2 Revolutionary Ideals, Napoleonic Empire, and the Idea of Nationalism
Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise to power (in brief), The Code Napoleon in respect of the ideals of the French Revolution. Conflict of the Napoleonic Empire with the ideals of the French Revolution; Conflict between Imperial ideology and the ideals of the Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite; Conflict between the Napoleonic Empire and new ideas of Nationalism; Reconstitution of Europe Nationalist reactions against the Napoleonic Empire; Reactions of the peoples of France, Germany, and the Iberian Peninsula against Napoleon; Invasion of Russia.
Did you know?: The Continental System; The Battle of Trafalgar, Elba and the Hundred Days (in brief with St. Helena).

(Contemporary paintings of/on Napoleon Bonaparte and different aspects of his activities. Maps of the Napoleonic Empire with dates of imperial expansion. Timeline of Napoleon’s; rise to power and other important incidents).

Chapter 3 Europe in the 19th Century: Conflict of Monarchical and Nationalist Ideas
Concept of Nationalism and concept of the Nation-State; Conflict of Monarchical and Nationalist ideas: Vienna Settlement; Metternich System. Revolutions of 1830 and 1848 – In what ways did these two Revolutions represent the conflict between Monarchical and Nationalist ideas?
Expression of Nationalist ideas in Italy (Risorgimento, Young Italy) and Germany; Brief discussion on the making of Nation-States in Italy and Germany; Blood and Iron Policy of Bismarck; Ottoman Empire and the rise of Balkan Nationalism; Crimean War; Tsar Alexander M’s abolition of Serfdom.

Did you know?: The July Monarchy; The July Revolution of 1830 and Raja Rammohan Ray; Zollverein; Ems Telegram; Greek nationalism and the Hetairia Philike.

(Contemporary paintings, photographs, and maps. Maps of Europe in 1815, Cenrets of the Revolution of 1848, Italy, Germany and the Ottoman Empire. Timeline of important incidents to these topics).

Chapter 4 Industrial Revolution, Colonialism and Imperialism
What is the Industrial Revolution? When did it take place? Which were the locations of the Industrial Revolution? Comparative discussion on Industrial Revolutions in England and the Continent (using diagrams, timelines, and maps).
Impact of Industrial Revolution on the Society, Polity, and Economy: Experience of England— Rise of an Industrial Society and its internal divisions; Rise of new Cities; Migration from rural areas to the urban centers; Development of a Bourgeois-Capitalist political system; Inequality of distributing the resources; Rise of new Classes. Different critiques on the Industrial Society – Socialist critiques; Critiques by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels.

Brief discussion on the process of colonial expansion as an outcome of the Industrial Revolution; Which European powers established their colonies outside of Europe? Identify these locations with a map; Development of communication and transportation, mainly the Railway, Suez Canal, and Telegraph system; the Transformation of India from an exporter to an importer and its designation as The Jewel in the Crown of the British Empire’.

Colonial rivalry and European Imperialism – Economic aspect of colonial rivalry; Search for markets to sell the surplus; Relations between the colonial rivalry and the jingoistic nationalism (in this context the discussion should be based on non-Indian experiences, mainly on the scramble for China and Africa); Conflict of Imperial powers; The First World War (upto its outbreak); A brief overview of the First World War based on maps, timelines and charts.

Did you know?: Revolution in Industrial Technology; Ghetto; Factory system; Industrial Revolution and the position of women; Paris Commune; Henri de Saint-Simon and Charles Fourier; Triple Alliance and Triple Entente; Sarajevo Incident.

(Contemporary paintings, newspaper reports, cartoons, maps, photographs, etc.; Maps of the centers of the Industrial Revolution in Europe; Map of the First World War locating areas of expansion and its years and dates; Time-line of relevant issues; Diagrams and Statistical data wherever possible).

Chapter 5 Europe in the Twentieth Century
Russia: From Tsarism to Socialism; Russian Revolution (1917): Social-Economic-Political background; Brief overview of the Russian Revolution with a timeline; Influence of the Russian Revolution on the contemporary social, political, and economic world.

A brief outline of the events of the First World War; International relations in the context of World War & the 14 point principles; The economic implications of the Treaty of Versailles; League of Nations; The Great Depression of 1929 and its impact in contemporary Europe and the USA; The substitution of Europe by the USA as the power-centre of the world.

Correlation between the Settlement of Versailles and the growth of aggressive nationalism; Economic crisis as a consequence of the Great Depression and the rise of Fascist and Nazi powers in Italy and Germany; The Spanish Civil War and the struggle between supporters and opponents of Fascism.

Did you know?: Narodnik Movement; Lenin and his thought; NEP; Weimar Republic; Floover Moratorium; Fascism and Nazism; Politics, Economics, and Racism; Spanish Civil War and progressive movements in India.

(Contemporary paintings, newspaper reports, cartoons, maps, photographs, etc.; Maps of Russia (in 1917), Europe (in 1919 and 1930); Time-line of relevant issues; Diagrams and Statistical data wherever possible).

Chapter 6 The Second World War Its Aftermath
Fascism and Nazism versus Democratic ideals; Outbreak of the Second World War; Locating the main theatres of conflict chronologically with the aid of maps; Discussion on the course of the Second World War using time-lines; Struggle between Soviet Russia and Germany; USA and the Second World War; Impact of the Second World War on contemporary World history; Technological changes in war weaponry; Second World War as a truly “global” war; The qualitative and quantitative changes in the destructiveness of war; Aggressive nationalism versus Internationalism.

Did you know?: Anglo-French policy of appeasement; Rome-Berlin-Tokyo axis; Battle of Leningard; The Pearl Harbour incident; Hiroshima-Nagasaki.

(Contemporary paintings, newspaper reports, cartoons, maps, photographs, etc.; Maps of Europe (in 1939 and 1945), Map of the Second World War locating areas of expansion and its years and dates; Time-line of relevant issues; Comparative diagrams and statistical data related to the expansion and impact of the two World Wars).

Chapter 7 The League of Nations and the United Nations Organisation
Formation and structure of the League of Nations. Nature and structure of the United Nations Organisation; UN Charter.

WBBSE Class 9 Solutions

Detailed explanations in West Bengal Board Class 9 Geography Book Solutions Chapter 7 Resources of India offer valuable context and analysis.

WBBSE Class 9 Geography Chapter 7 Question Answer – Resources of India

Very Short Questions and Answers : (1 mark for each question)

Question 1.
What is the resource which is found in only one place in the world known as?
Answer:
Invaluable Resource/Explicit resource

Question 2.
Give an example of fossil fuel.
Answer:
Coal.

Question 3.
Which conventional energy is known as white coal?
Answer:
Hydroelectric power.

Question 4.
Which type of coal can be regarded as the best quality?
Answer:
Anthracite.

Question 5.
Which element is most abundant in mineral oil?
Answer:
Hydrocarbon.

Question 6.
Which process is more commonly used to produce nuclear power?
Answer:
Nuclear fission.

Question 7.
Which type of energy can prevent pollution?
Answer:
Alternative energy.

Question 8.
What type of energy can be generated from Durgaduani region of Sundarbans?
Answer:
Tidal energy.

Question 9.
What is the other name for petroleum?
Answer:
Hydrocarbon.

Question 10.
The anticlinal form of a fold where mineral oil gets accumulated is known as-
Answer:
Pool.

Question 11.
What type of coal is usually used for industrial purpose?
Answer:
Bituminous.

Question 12.
Name a nuclear power station in South India.
Answer:
Kalpakkam.

Question 13.
What is the concept of inherent or potential quality of a neutral stuff known as?
Answer:
Resource Perception.

Question 14.
Where does India stand in the production of wind energy?
Answer:
Fifth in the world.

Question 15.
Which region in India produces maximum amount of mineral oil?
Answer:
Western India.

Question 16.
Where is the potential mineral oil reserve in West Bengal?
Answer:
Sundarban area.

Question 17.
What is ‘Sagar Samrat’?
Answer:
Floating ship used for drawing up mineral oil.

Question 18.
Give an example of a renewable resource
Answer:
Sunlight / Solar power.

Question 19.
What are the two by products of coal?
Answer:
Bitumen, coal tar.

Question 20.
What percent of mineral oil is imported in India?
Answer:
80 percent.

Question 21.
What is full form of OIL?
Answer:
Oil India Limited.

Question 22.
What are those matter which do not have any utility or function known as?
Answer:
Neutral stuff.

Question 23.
What is capability of fulfilling the gap of resource called?
Answer:
Utility.

Question 24.
What are the resources which are derived from nature called?
Answer:
Natural resource.

Question 25.
What are the resources derived from the biological world called?
Answer:
Biotic or Biological resources.

Question 26.
What are the resources which cannot be touched are known as?
Answer:
Intangible resource

Question 27.
What is India’s rank in the world in terms of export of iron ore?
Answer:
Fifth.

Question 28.
What type of resource involves man’s knowledge, intellect and technical skill?
Answer:
Cultural resource.

Question 29.
What type of resources are under the control of a country?
Answer:
National resources.

Question 30.
What type of fuel does not pollute nature?
Answer:
Green fuel

Question 31.
How many type of barriers are there for creating resources?
Answer:
Three.

Question 32.
When was the National Thermal Power Corporation formed?
Answer:
1975.

Question 33.
Under what type of resources can resources of Antarctica be categorised?
Answer:
International resource.

Question 34.
What is India’s world rank in terms of population?
Answer:
Second.

Question 35.
In which country do majority of the productive people like?
Answer:
India.

Question 36.
How can iron ore be classified on the basis of purity of the ore?
Answer:
Four types.

Question 37.
What is the percent of liquite in terms of all the types of coal produced in India?
Answer:
15 percent.

Question 38.
Which type of coal has excessive amount of carbon content?
Answer:
Graphite.

Question 39.
What is the lead of pencil made of?
Answer:
Graphite.

Question 40.
Which geological age does the coal found in India belong to?
Answer:
Gondwana age.

Question 41.
Which category does most of the Gondwana coal in India belongs to?
Answer:
Bituminous coal.

Question 42.
What is the rank of West Bengal in the production of coal?
Answer:
Fourth.

Question 43.
Which is the deepest oil field in India?
Answer:
Digboi.

Question 44.
Which type of energy production is being stressed upon nowadays in India?
Answer:
Alternative energy.

Question 45.
Name a nuclear power station which is under construction in Maharashtra
Answer:
Jaitapur.

Question 46.
Into how many types can mineral oil be classified on the basis of variation in chemical composition?
Answer:
Three types.

Question 47.
What is the percentage of nuclear power in terms of total world production of electricity?
Answer:
15 percent.

Question 48.
How much electricity is produced form one pound of uranium?
Answer:
About 12,000 MW.

Short Questions and Answers : (2 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What is neutral stuff?
Answer:
The materials which are available in nature and are of no use are called neutral stuff. For example, a piece of rocky barren land.

Question 2.
What are the two main features of a resource?
Answer:
The two main features of resources are-

• Utility: To fill in the gap of demand for resource.
• 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.

Question 3.
What are natural resources?
Answer:
The resources which are easily available from nature are called natural resources for example, sunlight, wind, fertile soil along river banks etc.

Question 4.
What are non-renewable or exhaustible resources?
Answer:
The resources which are available in nature in limited quantities and cannot be replaced or replenished after being utilised are called non-renewable or exhaustible resources. For example, coal, mineral oil etc.

Question 5.
What are renewable or inexhaustible resources?
Answer:
The resources which are easily available in nature and can be used over and over again without they being depleted, are called renewable or inexhaustible resources. For example, sunlight, wind, sea-waves etc.

Question 6.
What is regional resource?
Answer:
The resource which are available in and restricted to any particular region is called regional resource. For example, coal, iron ore, gold etc.

Question 7.
What is biotic resource?
Answer:
The resource which are obtained from the biological (flora and fauna) world is called biotic resource. For example, wood, milk, meat etc.

Question 8.
What is intangible resource?
Answer:
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.

Question 9.
What is potential resource?
Answer:
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.

Question 10.
What is resource perception?
Answer:
The perception by mankind of the function, utility and benefit derived out of any matter and preliminary investigation of it is called resource perception. This perception varies on the basis of technological skill, requirement or demand, environmental issue or concept and abundance of such matter. For example, paper can be derived from sugarcane bagasse.

Question 11.
What is conservation of resource?
Answer:
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.

Question 12.
What are mineral resources?
Answer:
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 resources have specific physical and chemical compositions.

Question 13.
What are the aims of conserving resources?
Answer:
The aims of conserving resources-

• To preserve the quality of environment resources.
• To conserve the resource for the next generation (sustainable development).
• To increase the utility and function of resource.
• To prevent wastage of resources.

Question 14.
How can Iron ore be classified?
Answer:
Iron ore can be classified into four groups on the basis of quantity and quality of ore iron
E.g. regnetite Fe₃O₄, Haematite Fe₂O₃,
Limeonete Fe₂O₃, 3H₂O and Siderite FeCO₃.

Question 15.
To which countries does India export iron ore?
Answer:
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.

Question 16.
What are the main power resources of India?
Answer:

• Power or energy derived from coal and mineral oil.
• Hydroelectricity produced from swift-flowing mountanous rivers.
• Nuclear power derived from radio-active minerals like Uranium, Thorium etc.

Question 17.
Mention one iron ore producing and one coal-producing centre in India.
Answer:
Iron ore producing centre-Gorumahisani of Mayurbhanj in Odisha. Coal producing centre-Jharia in Jharkhand.

Question 18.
Where is coal found in Jharkhand?
Answer:
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.

Question 19.
What is ‘Sagar Samrat’ and ‘Sagar Vikash’?
Answer:
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.

Question 20.
Mention the names of two thermal-power centres in West Bengal.
Answer:
The two thermal power centres in West Bengal are-

• Kolaghat and
• Bandel.

Kolaghat is the most important thermal power project in West Bengal.

Question 21.
What are the by-products of petroleum?
Answer:

• Asphalt or Peat
• Naphtha
• Carbon Black
• Vaseline.

All these are used as raw materials in a host of industries.

Question 22.
What are the sources of Conventional energy?
Answer:
The sources of conventional energy are coal, mineral oils or petroleum, swift flowing rivers, radio active minerals like Uranium, Thorium, etc. These sources of energy are being utilised over long periods of time.

Question 23.
What are the sources of unconventional energy?
Answer:
The sources of unconventional energy are sunlight, wind, tides, sea-waves, geothermal energy etc. These are unlimited resources.

Question 24.
Discuss the saliant features of resource.
Answer:
Resource is a matter which is capable of fulfilling the lack of supply or demand. The main features of a resource are its

• utility
• function
• acceptability
• applicability
• universal demand
• availability
• restricted or limitedness
• reducibility
• environment-friendliness
• capability of conserving the biodiversity.

Question 25.
Give the names of three coal mines in India.
Answer:
The three coal mines of India are-

• The coal belt of Damodar valley: This is the richest coal belt in India. Raniganj, Jharia etc are important coal mines here.
• The coal belt or Mahanadi valley: Talcher, Rampur in Odisha and Korba in Chattisgarh.
• The coal belt of Son valley: Umarie in Madhya pradesh and Jhilimili in Chattisgarh.

Question 26.
What are inexhaustible resources?
Answer:
The resources which are not depleted even after using them repetitively are called inexhaustible resources. For example, sunlight, wind etc.

Question 27.
What are reusable resources?
Answer:
The resources which are not completely depleted after use and can be used again are called renewable resources. For example, iron, copper, gold etc.

Question 28.
What are the raw materials used for producing nuclear energy?
Answer:
Uranium, Thorium, Plutonium, heavy water, Hydrogen etc. are the raw materials used for producing nuclear energy.

Question 29.
What is cultural resource?
Answer:
When knowledge, intellect and applicability are used in creating resources, they are known as cultural resources. Man is the creator of cultural resources. No resource would have been utilised unless there was development in cultural resources.

Question 30.
What are the obstacles of resources?
Answer:
The factors which act as barriers in creating resources or destroy resources are considered to be obstacles of resources. For example, storms, war, etc.

Question 31.
What are national resources?
Answer:
Those resources which are under the control of any state or country are called national resources.

Question 32.
What are social resources?
Answer:
The resources which are governed by, is under the control and fulfills the demands of the society, are called social resources. For example, school, college, hospital etc.

Question 33.
Name the oldest coal mine and petroleum producing region in India.
Answer:
1. The oldest coal mine in India is Raniganj. For the first time coal was hauled in 1774.
2. The oldest oil-producing centre India is Digboi. The first oilfield was drilled here in 1889.

Question 34.
What are international resources?
Answer:
The 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.

Question 35.
What is Green fuel?
Answer:
Any fuel which is environment-friendly is called Green Fuel. At present, diesel is made sulphur-free and petrol is made lead-free in order to prevent pollution. They are called Green fuels.

Short Questions and Answers : (3 marks for each question)

Question 1.
Define resources.
Answer:
According to Zimmerman (1992), 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.

Question 2.
What is meant by natural or physical, human and cultural barrier or obstacle?
Answer:
The phenomena which cause harm to man by hampering the growth of resources, are called barrier. They are-
1. Natural barrier: When a natural or physical phenomenon acts as a barrier in the creation of resource, it is called natural barrier for example, severe storm, thunderstorm, cyclone, flood etc.

2. Human barrier: When human activities interfere with the creation of resources it is called human barrier.
E.g., war, scarce population, over population.

3. Cultural barrier: When any cultural factor acts as a barrier for creating resources, it is called a cultural barrier. E.g., religious fanaticism, superstition etc.

Question 3.
What are the factors responsible for creating resources?
Answer:
There are 3 main factors responsible for creating resources- E.g.,

• Nature
• Man
• Culture

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 staff. 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.

Question 4.
Explain the functionability of resources.
Answer:
The ability to function of any object or inanimate matter is called the functionality of resource. The main concepts are-

• Functional capability: The capability of any object to function converts it into a resource.
• Dynamic in nature: The resource has to be dynamic in terms of its functionality.
• The multifaceted roles of function: Any resource should not have any specific function. It should have the capability to function in many ways and for various purposes. For example, although petrol and diesel are derived from mineral oil, but at the same time, it has the capability of producing many other substances.

Question 5.
What are the controlling factors for creating resources?
Answer:
The controlling factors for creating resources are-

1. Culture: The advancement of culture changes the function of a resource. In this way mentral stuff is converted to resource.

2. Place and time: An object or matter lying idle is considered neutral stuff in one place, but the same stuff is considered to be a resource in some other place. For example, radio-active minerals were considered to be barriers for development in early times, but now they are used as resources for producing electricity in the developed countries.

3. Technology: Technology or technical skill increases the functional capability of a resource. On The other hand demand, population figures etc., control the functionality of a resource.

Question 6.
What do you know about ONGC?
Answer:
The full form of ONGC is Oil and Natural Gas Commission. It was established in the year 1956 and is a government organisation. Its headquarter is located in Dehradun in the state of Uttarakhand.

Importance:

• This organisation carries out surveys to locate mineral oil and natural gas in different parts of India.
• Most up the mineral oil of India is hauled up by this organisation.
• It also operates in various countries outside India.

Question 7.
What do you understand by fossil fuel?
Answer:
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.

Question 8.
What is Coke?
Answer:
When the grade of bituminous coal is improved through various processes in a coke furnace, it is called coke.
Process: 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.

Uses:

• Used for the purpose of producing thermal power.
• It is widely used for extraction of metal from the original ore.

Question 9.
Where are oil refineries located in India?
Answer:
There are about 22 oil refineries in India which purify or refine impure or unrefined mineral oil. They are-

• Digboi, Guwahati, Bongaigaon, Numaligarh, Noonmati in Assam
• Two refineries in Jamnagar, Koyali and Bhadinar in Gujarat
• Manali and Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu
• Trombay I and II of Maharashtra
• Haldia in West Bengal
• Tatipaka, Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.
• Barauni in Bihar
• Mathura in Uttar Pradesh,
• Panipat in Haryana
• Kochi in Kerala
• Mangalore in Karnataka
• Bhatinda in Punjab
• Madhya Pradesh

Question 10.
What do you know abot NTPC?
Answer:
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 for 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.

Question 11.
How does man hinder the creation and development of resources?
Answer:
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 –

• Over-exploitation and over-usage of resources have led to permanent depletion of resources.
• There is a constant and indiscriminate destruction of forests (deforestation) which results from man’s greed and self-centredness.
• Soil is polluted and the fertility is also decreased as a result or unscientific farming.
• 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.

Question 12.
Why is iron considered to be an aid in modern civilisation and industrialisation?
Answer:
Iron is the carrier of modern civilisation. It is because of its multifarious use and importance, that the modern age is at times known as the iron age. Iron aids in modern civilisation and industrialisation in the following ways-

• In the creation of pig iron or iron lumps.
• A host of products E.g., manufacturing of tools and machineries, light and heavy engineering industry, automobile industry, manufacturing of alloys, building construction, agricultural implements and a number of household products.
  
• Iron is widely used for making paints and other chemical products.

Question 13.
Why is coal known as stratified organic rock?
Answer:
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 sedinentary 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.

Question 14.
What is the importance of multipurpose river valley projects?
Answer:
Inspite of having abundant water resources (numerous rivers etc), only 7 percent of the flowing water is used for irrigation.

Concept: 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.

Aims:

• To ensure irrigation during dry and rainless reasons.
• To control flood by controlling the flow of river water.
• Generate hydroelectric power,
• Supply of drinking water
• Construction of bridges, roads and railways
• Pisciculture or raising fish in the reservoir constructed behind the dam
• Promotion of tourism in and around the dam area
• To use the river as a waterway (water transport) etc.

Write the differences between the following

Question 1.
Renewable and Non-Renewable resources.
Answer:
The differences between the two are given below —

Points of difference	Renewable Resource	Non-Renewable Resource
Exhaustibility	Renewable resources do not exhaust due to gradual or regular usage.	Non-Renewable resources exhaust due to gradual or regular usage.
Replenishment	These resources replenish on its own.	These resources can not be renewed or replenished.
Cost-effective	Resources are more cost-effective	Resources are less cost-effective

Question 2.
Exhaustible and Inexhaustible resources.
Answer:
The differences between exhaustible and inexhaustible resources are given below —

Points of difference	Exhaustible Resources	inexhaustible Resources
Recycled/Renewed	Exhaustible resource cannot be renewed or recycled.	Inexhaustible resources are renewed or recycled.
Cost-effective	Procurement of these resource is costly.	Procurement of these resource is not so costly. It is more cost-effective.
Environment pollution	Usage of these resources cause the risk of environmental pollution.	There is no risk of environmental pollution due to usage of these resources.

Question 3.
Neutral Stuff/Matter and Resources.
Answer:
The differences between neutral stuff and resources are —

Points of difference	Neutral Stuff/Matter	Resources
Utility	Neutral stuff do not have any utility, for example, barren land.	Resources have utility, for example, coal.
Nature	Neutral stuff are static in nature.	Resources are dynamic in nature.
Importance/ Significance	The significance of its usage is very low.	The significance of its usage is higher.

Question 4.
Conventional and Non-conventional sources of energy.
Answer:
The differences are as given below —

Points of difference	Conventional Sources of Energy	Non-Conventional Sources of Energy
Usage	This type of energy has been in use for a long period of time. E.g., coal	The use of this type of energy has gained popularity recently. E.g., tidal energy
Environment Pollution	Except hydroelectricity, the use of all other conventional sources of energy causes environmental pollution.	Use of non-conventional sources of energy do not cause any pollution.
Storage	Sources of this type of energy are exhaustible (except hydroelectricity).	Sources of this type of energy are inexhaustible.

Question 5.
Coal from Gondwana and Tertiary Age
Answer:
The differences are as follows-

Points of difference	Coal from Gondwana Age	Coal from Tertiary Age
Age	It was created approximately 30 crore years ago.	It was created approximately 6-8 crore years ago.
Amount of carbon and heat (generated)	Content of carbon 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.
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.

Question 6.
Tangible and Abstract or Intangible resources
Answer:
The differences between concrete and abstract resources are —

Points of difference	Tangible Resources	Intangible Resources
1. Tangibility	These resources are tangible.	These resources are intangible.
2. Visibility	These resources have physical existence and can be seen with our eyes.	These resources can not be seen with our eyes as they do not have any physical existence.
3. Utility	These resources are useful to man.	These resources are useful to man.
4. Example	Minerals, crops, forests, etc.	Skill, education, health, etc.

Question 7.
Personal/Individual and Social resources.
Answer:
The main differences are given below-

Points of difference	Personal / Individual Resources	Social Resources
Concept	Personal resources are owned/ controlled by an individual.	Social resources are owned/controlled by the whole society.
Durability	The social durability of this type of resource is low. Its use is restricted to one or a few persons.	This resource is more for the use of general people. It is used for the benefit of many people in the society.
Creation	This resource is created by an individual or he gets it as hereditary ownership/legacy.	This type of resource is created by the collective effort of many people from within the society.
Examples	House, Car, Education etc.	School, Hospital, etc.

Question 8.
Biotic and Abiotic resources
Answer:
The differences between biotic or organic and abiotic/in organic resources are given below-

Points of difference	Biotic Resources	Abiotic Resources
Concept	Resources that are obtained from living organisms.	Resources that are obtained from non­living objects.
Durability	It is a renewable resource. If used properly this resource can last for a long time.	Though mostly this type of resource is non-renewable, it is not destroyed quickly
Examples	Fish, Forest, Cattle etc.	Water, minerals etc.

Give reasons for the following

Question 1.
Coal is known as Black Diamond.
Answer:
Coal is known as Black Diamond because of the following reasons-

• Composition: Coal and diamond are both made up of carbon.
• 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.

Question 2.
Man is sometimes responsible for destroying resources.
Answer:
Man not only creates resource, but also destroys it. For example-

• Forests are lost due to indiscriminate felling of trees, thereby causing irreversible damage to the ecosystem.
• Fertility of the land is diminished as a result of unscientific agricultural practices.
• Quantities of fish are reduced as result of excessive and unscientific fishing.
• Resources are (destroyed as a result of warfare, riots (based on religion, caste etc)
• Pollution of water, land and wind is caused as a result of excessive use of fossil fuels.

Question 3.
Mineral oil is found only in
Answer:
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.

Question 4.
Why is the use of conventional sources of energy reducing day by day in modern times?
Answer:
The reasons for the decreasing use of conventional sources of energy are-

• Depletion: The various sources of conventional energy like coal, mineral oil etc, have already diminished due to overexploitation.
• Pollution: Except hydroelectric power, all other conventional sources of energy lead to pollution.
• Expensive: Conventional sources of energy are more expensive.

Question 5.
Petroleum is called Liquid Gold.
Answer:
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 very much dependent on petroleum. It is because of this value that petroleum has been compared to gold and is called ‘Liquid Gold’.

Question 6.
Hydroelectricity is an environment friendly energy.
Answer:
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.

Question 7.
India lags behind in the production of nuclear power in comparison to other countries of the world.
Answer:
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 percent comprises nuclear power. The total potential of producing nuclear energy from the existing nuclear power stations in India amounts to 4780 M.W. hours.

The reasons for the low production of nuclear power in India are-

• Reserves of Uranium and Thorium are meager in India. Lack of raw materials is thus a hindrance to produce nuclear energy.
• Huge amount of money is needed to build up the infrastructure of a nuclear power plant which is a problem for India.
• A lot of social stigma exists for the setting up of nuclear power plants.

Question 8.
Hydroelectric power is called white coal.
Answer:
Coal is the major resource for producing electricity. However, it is an exhaustible 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 again. Taking into consideration the importance of hydroelectric power and comparing it will coal, it is called ‘White coal’.

Question 9.
Man is both the creator and destroyer of resource.
Answer:
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’.

Question 10.
Population is called a resource.
Answer:
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 population figures. 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.

Long Questions and Answers : (5 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What do you understand by resources? Classify resources citing examples.
Answer:
Resource: A noted resource specialist Prof. Zimmerman (1992) has defined resource as-“Resource does not mean dry matter or substance, but it implies the utility and functionality of that matter or substance, which, in turn, fulfills man’s demand. Thus, ‘Resource is medium through which a goal is achieved, that is, to fulfill the demand of any individual or a society.’

On the other hand, in the Earth Summit held in Rio-de-Janeiro in 1992 resource was defined any matter which, besides fulfilling the demand of man through its utility and functionality also preserves biodiversity, should be considered a resource’. For 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.

According to Encyclopedia of Social Science, resource is a factor of man’s material and socioeconomic environment. Actually, to fulfill man’s demand and aspiration and to achieve a social objective.

Classification of Resources:

Question 2.
Give an account of different types of resources in India.
Or
‘India is a resource-rich country’-Explain.
Answer:
There are a variety of resources in India. They are as follows –
1. Land resources:

• The total area of India is about 32 lakhs 87 thousand sq. kms.
• India has the largest agricultural land among the Asian countries and the largest irrigated area in the world.

2. Water resources:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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:

• Forests cover about 2-5 percent of the total area of India (India State Forest Report, 2011)
• Valuable timber and other products are obtained from these forests.

4. Animal resources:

• 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.
• 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:

• 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.
• Besides, large quantities of tea, coffee, rubber, coconut, different types of spices, fruits and vegetables are also produced here.

7. Mineral resource:

• India is rich in resources such as coal, iron ore, bauxite, mica, manganese, limestone etc.
• However, petroleurn 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:

• India has the second largest population in the world after China. Hence, India has strong labour force.
• 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.

Question 3.
Discuss the concept of resources.
Answer:
Concept of resources:
1. Physical factors: Natural resource like coal, iron ore, mineral oil etc. were known as physical or natural resources earlier.

2. Functionality of resources: According to a noted resource specialist, Dr. Zimmerman, ‘Resources do not mean the type of matter or substance, but its functionality and utility which enables to fulfill man’s demand’

3. Ability to fulfill demand or lack of supply: Any matter or substance is not a resource, it is neutral stuff. In fact, the functional ability and utility of that matter which enables to fulfill the gap in demand. Coal can be cited as an example.

When coal is present beneath the earth’s surface, it is not considered to be a resource. But, when coal is burnt to produce heat, it becomes a resource. This heat comes into various types of uses to fulfill man’s demand – this is its utility. Thus, coal and mineral oil are examples of resources.

Again, when land lies barren, it is not a resource since it does not have any utility or functional capacity. However when this land is used for agriculture and consequently yields of paddy, wheat, cereals etc. are obtained, then that land becomes a resource.

4. Intangibility: Coal and land can be seen and they are tangible in nature. However, man’s knowledge, intellect, social law and others cannot be seen or touched and hence they are intangible. However, they are considered to be resource since they have utility and functional capacity and are able to fulfill man’s individual and social demands. Thus, even if they are intangible, they are considered as resources.

5. Man-made: Since creation of resources is in the hands of man, their contraction and expansion occur (dynamic in nature) according to man’s demand as per time and space. Thus, if any matter can be used at any particular time (temporal) and space (spatial), and is capable of fulfilling man’s individual or social demands, it is called a resource.

Question 4.
What is the need for conserving resources? Give an account of the measures taken to conserve resources.
Answer:
Need for conserving resources:

• The ecological balance is maintained by conserving resources.
• Natural growth is preserved in the case of biological or biotic resources.
• Resources are retained to be used for the next generation (as a result of sustainable development of resources).
• Economic growth is accelerated.
• In some cases, resource conservation may also come into our aid during disaster management.

Measures taken to conserve resources:

• To increase the longevity of conventional resources like coal, mineral oil by using renewable and non-conventional resources like solar power, wind energy etc.,
• to curb wastage of resources by application of proper technology
• 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)
• 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
• re-using and recycling resource. For example, used and damaged Aluminium utensils can be melted to manufacture new utensils
• to collect resources by using scientific methods
• to conserve resources by implementing government policies
• to protect resources from being damaged by natural disasters
• to control population growth worldwide, so that demand for resources is reduced.

Question 5.
Give examples of the iron ore mining centres in india. Mention the reserves and the trade capacity of India in iron ore.
Answer:
The areas of iron-ore mining in india are:

State-wise production of iron ore (201 1-12)

State	Production (‘000 ton)
Odisha	67,013
Goa	33,372
Chattisgarh	30,455

State	Production (‘000 ton)
Jharkhand	18,942
Karnataka	13,189
Andhra Pradesh	1,714

[source: indian Bureau of Mines, 2011-12]-
Reserves and Trade of Iron Ore in India:
Reserves: India has a reserve of about 2524 crore tonnes.
Trade: Japan, South Korea, Germany, Italy, China, are some of the countries which import iron ore from India.

Question 6.
Classify iron ore. What are the uses of iron ore?
Answer:
Classification of iron ore: On the basis of extraction of pure iron ore which is obtained after hauling up the mineral from the mine, it can be divided into 4 categories.

Iron ore	Amount of iron ore (in%)	Colour	Salient features
Magnetite (Fe3O4)	>72	Black	Iron ore of most superior quality
Haematite (Fe2O3)	60-70	Red, Dark brown	Abundantly found medium quality iron ore.
Limonite (2Fe2O3, 3H2O)	40-60	Yellowish brown	Iron ore of superior quality
Sriderite (FeCO3)	40-50	Greyish brown, greyish yellow	Iron ore of most inferior quality

Uses of iron ore: Iron ore can be melted down to obtain pure iron from which cast iron and pig iron are obtained. Steel is produced by mixing proportionate amounts of manganese, nickel, tungsten etc. with pure iron. These, are used for various purposes.
For example,

• For manufacturing tools and instruments like boiler, radiator, etc.
• For manufacturing ships, railway engine, wheels of trains, cycles, etc.
• For manufacturing different types of weapons used in warfare, e.g., tanks, rifles, etc.
• For making agricultural implements like, axe, plough, tractor, etc.
• Articles used for domestic purposes like scissors, knife, needle, etc.
• Construction of houses like rods, frills, etc.
• Articles used in transports, like buses, trucks, automobile, etc.

Besides these, iron and steel are also used in the manufacture of factories, bridges, etc. It is because of excessive use of iron and steel, in modern civilisation that this age is know as the ‘Iron Age’.

Question 7.
Give an account of coal giving its classification.
Answer:
The main component of coal is carbon. Other matters like volatile matter, moisture and other impurities are also present in coal. It is on the basis of percentage of carbon present in coal that it is classified into 4 groups-

• Anthracite
• Bituminous
• Lignite
• Peat.

The details of these types are discussed below-

Name of coal	Percentage of coat	Other Compounds		Quality	Percentage of world coal production
		Volatile matter	Moisture
Anthracite	85%-95	3%-5%	Residual	Most superior quality (best)	5%
Bituminous	50%-85%	10%-30%	Residual	Moderately good quality	About 80%
Lignite	35%-50%	15%-20%	Residual	Low quality	About 15%
Peat	Less than 35%	20%-35%	Residual	Worst quality	Not used much

1. Anthracite: It is the best quality of coal. It has 85% – 95% of carbon content, but is scarcely found in India. It is hard and is shiny black in colour. It does not emanate smoke when burnt. It is usually used for heating purposes in houses.

2. Bituminous: This is a moderately good quality of coal and the carbon content is 50% – 85 %. Most of the world’s coal reserves are of this type. It is black in colour, but is not so shiny. It is not much hard and gives off smoke when brunt. Coke produced from this type of coal is used extensively in the iron and steel industry. Besides, it is also used for producing water vapour and most of the by products are obtained from this type of coal.

3. Lignite: This is inferior in quality and the carbon content ranges from 35%-50%. About 15 per out of the coal produced in the world is lignite. It is black or brown in colour and gives off smoke when burnt. It is used to keep houses warm and also to produce water vapour.

4. Peat: This contains less than 35% of carbon and that is why peat is not considered to be coal by many geologist. When brunt, wood is found in it and the odour of the smoke is also that of wood. Its fuel efficiency is much less, generates very little heat and emanates much smoke. When the carbon content of coal is very high (about 99% ) it is called graphite and the lead of pencil is made from it.

Question 8.
Mention the different uses of the byproducts of coal.
Answer:
The by-products of coal are used for a variety of purposes, like-
1. Tar: After processing tar, a number of other matters are obtained, like-

• Bitumen: used for constructing roads
• Creosote: a variety of pesticides are developed from it.
• Napthalene: it is used as pesticides
• Phenol: used primarily as a pesticide. Beside these, perfumes and different types of paints etc. are derived from tar.

2. Toluene or T.N.T: Used for explosives.
3. Saccharine: It is sweeter than sugar and is mainly used as a medicine.
4. Ammonium Sulphate: It is used as freezing agent and fertiliser.
5. Benzol: Used to make paints.
6. Pyridine: Used to obtain paint and also used to vulcanize rubber.

Actually there are numerous by products (about 1,500 according to some and even more than 15,000 according to others) of coal, most of these byproducts are used as raw materials in the chemical industries and therefore boosts this industry.

Question 9.
Give a brief account of the coal mining areas in India. Mention the coal reserves and trade of coal.
Answer:
Coal mining areas in India: The coal extracting regions in India are discussed under two subheads. These are-

1. Coal of the Gondwana Age: The formation of this layer of coal has its origin about 28-30 million years. About 99% of India’s coal reserves belong to this age. This coal is mainly of bituminous type. The regions from where Gondwana coal is extracted are as follows:

2. Coal of the Tertiary Age: During the formation of the Himalayas, about 67 million years ago, these coal deposits were formed. This type of coal is mostly of the inferior, lignite type coal. The areas of Tertiary Age coal production are —

• Makum, Najira, Jeypore, Janji, and Disai in Assam
• Namphuk, Namchuk and others in Arunachal Pradesh
• Cherrapunji, Mauling and Tura in Meghalaya,
• Bagrakot near Darjeeling and Teenjharia in West Bengal,
• Kalakot, Methka, Chakar and Ladda in Jammu and Kashmir,
• Umarsar in Gujarat
• Palana in Bikaner district of Rajasthan
• Bharkala in Kerala
• Neyveli in South Arcot district of Tamil Nadu; Neyveli is also the largest storehouse of lignite coal in India.

Production of coal in India (2013-2014) —

State	Coal reserves (In million metric ton)
1. Jharkhand 2. Odisha 3. Chattisgarh 4. West Bengal 5. Madhya Pradesh 6. Andhra Pradesh 7. Maharashtra 8. Uttar Presh	80,716 75,073 52,533 31,318 25,673 22,468 10,964 1,062

1. Reserves: Coal reserves in India amount to about 26.76 thousand million metric tonnes. It ranks fifth in the world in terms of coal reserves.

2. Trade: Small quantities of coal are exported to Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Japan, Nepal, Hong Kong and other countries. Coal is imported from South Africa, Australia, China, Ukraine and Russia.

Question 10.
Give a brief account of the oil and petroleum producing regions in India. Mention the petroleum trade that is carried out in India.
Answer:
The petroleum producing regions of India are-

[Source: Indian Bureau of Mines 2011-12]
Petroleum related trade in India: To meet the demand for petroleum, India imports oil form Russia, Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia and others.

Question 11.
Give a brief account of uses of coal and mineral oil in India.
Answer:
Uses of coal in india:
1. Production of thermal power: About 74 percent 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 for manufacturing 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:

• Very little amount of coal is used in steam engines.
• Byproducts like ammonia, creosote etc. are used for making fertilisers.
• Bitumen is used for constructing roads and tar is used for constructing houses.

Uses of mineral oil in india: 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, aerroplanes, 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 byproducts 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 byproducts 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 asphait, for lighting kerosene lamps etc.

Question 12.
What do you mean by conventional and non-conventional sources of power? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Answer:
Sources of conventional and non conventional power: The sources of power which have been in use over long periods of time and are still used abundantly are called conventional sources of power. For examples coal, mineral oil etc. On the other hand, 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 conventional sources of power:

1. Advantages:

• Since they have been in use for ages the technology used for its development and use are known and easily accessible.
• Even if any country does not possess a particular source of power, it can import that power from another country where it is available.

2. Disadvantages:

• Environmental pollution is caused by the use of most of the conventional sources of power.
• 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.
• Huge capital and latest technology are needed to procure, use and develop such sources.
• Use of conventional sources of power create differences between developed and developing countries.

Advantages and disadvantages of using non-conventional sources of power:

1. Advantages:

• Its use does not lead to environmental pollution.
• Too much capital is not required since they are used in small amounts.
• Since they are not limited, inexhaustible or renewable in nature, there is no fear of them being depleted.
• Such sources of power are easily available in most parts of any country.

2. Disadvantages:

• 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.

Question 13.
What is fossil fuel? Why are nonconventional forms of energy being given importance in India?
Answer:
Fossil fuels: Remains of plants and animals are embedded in the layers of sediments which are deposited on the ocean beds, beds of lakes or wetlands etc. Over due course of time, these gradually turn into fossils due to the pressure exerted on them from the overlying layers of sediments as well as the heat generated below them (from the earth’s interior).

It is in this way, the remains are converted to coal, whereas, mineral oil and gas are produced from the cells of plants, marine organisms, bacteria etc. This is the reason why coal and mineral oil etc. are called fossil fuels.

Reasons for giving importance to use of non-conventional sources of power in India: The sources of power which are less used presently but have the potentials of being extensively in the future are called non-conventional sources of power. For example-

• Solar power
• Wind power
• Tidal energy
• Power from sea waves
• Geothermal energy
• Bioenergy.

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.

Question 14.
How is mineral oil formed? Classify mineral oil.
Answer:
Formation of mineral oil: The term ‘petroleum’ has been derived from the Latin word ‘petre’ 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 ways-organically and inorganically.

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 3 types-

1. Paraffin-based crude oil: This oil contains high amounts of light hydrocarbon (e.g., methane). Petrol, wax (paraffin) and high grade 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 ashalt 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.

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 ashalt 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 fuel and as lubricant. The chemical composition of this type of oil varies both in terms of quantities and locations.

Question 15.
Give an account of the thermal power plants in India. Why are the thermal power plants concentrated in eastern India?
Answer:
Thermal Power Plants in India:

Region	Location
1. East India	Durgapur, Farakka, Bandel, Budge Budge, Santaldih, Mejia, Bakreshwar and Kolaghat (West Bengal); Bokaro, Patratu, Chandrapura and Tenughat (Jharkhand); Talcher, Ib valley, Angul and Rourkela (Odisha); Kahalgaon, Muzaffarpur and Barauni (Bihar).
2. North east India	Bongaigaon, Kathaiguri and Namrup (Assam).
3. North India	Singrauli, Anpara, Obra and Harduaganj (Uttar Pradesh); Panipat, Guru Hargobind and Guru Nanak 0ev (Punjab); Badarpur and indraprastha (Delhi); Tau Devi Lai and Faridabad (Haryana).
4. Middle Western India	Korba (Chhattisgarh); Satpara, Vindhyachai and Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh); Chandrapur, Trombay, Koradi and Nasik, Bhusawal and Paru (Maharashtra); Wanakbori, Gandhinagar, Ukai, Dhuvaran and Sabarmati (Gujarat); Suratgarh, Kota and Anta (Rajasthan).
5. South India	Neyveii, Mettur, Tuticorin (Tamil Nadu); Raichur (Karnataka); Ramagundam, Vijayawada and Kottagudem (Andhra Pradesh including Telangana).

Reasons for concentration of thermal power plants in eastern India: The reasons are as follows-
1 Easy availability of coal: The eastern part of India has the richest reserves of coal. Asansol-Raniganj in West Bengal; Jharia, Bokaro, Karanpura, Giridih in Jharkhand; Talcher, Rampur in Odisha etc. are well known for coal reserves.

2. Huge demand for electricity: The four states of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha are all densely populated. Besides a host of industries in this region, like, Hooghly industrial area of West Bengal, Jamshedpur-Ghatshila industrial area, Sindri-Bakaro-Dhanbad industrial area, Raurkela industrial area in Odisha are located here. As a result of this, there are huge demands of electricity in these areas.

3. Scarcity of other sources of power:

• Eastern India does not produce mineral oil and natural gas.
• There is dearth of hydroelectricity production since swift flowing perennial rivers are not present here abundantly. That is why coal based thermal power has found importance.

4. Historical reason: Since the British period, the source of power used by the Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation is 100% thermal power based. The thermal power plants under CESC are Mulajore Kashipur, Metiaburuj, Titagarh, Budge Budge etc. The power consumed by the industries in Kolkata and its surrounding areas are met by these plants.

5. Other facilities:

• Developed transport infrastructure is available in this region, like, National Highways- NH-2,6,23,31,33 etc. and eastern and southeastern railway lines.
• Cheap and abundant labour and skilled technologists are available for the thermal power plants.
• Government policy for development of industries in this region has also paved the way for overall development and concentration of thermal power plants in this region.

Question 16.
What are the favourable locational factors for the development of hydroelectric power? Mention the major hydroelectric power plants of India.
Ans:
Favourable locational factors for development of hydroelectric power can be classified into-

1. Natural or physical factors and
2. Non-physical factors.

Natural or physical factors:

Rugged or mountainous terrain: Swift-flowing rivers flowing over rugged terrain can be tapped for generating hydroelectricity. South Indian rivers flow over such terrains and hence are conducive for generating hydroelectric power.

Regular and abundant water: Continuous supply of water in the rivers either through rainfall or melting of snow is needed for producing hydroelectric power.

Ice-free winters and moderate summers: Such conditions prevail in South India where the rivers do not freeze in winter or the river water is not exposed to evaporation due to excessive temperature in summers.

Presence of forests: If the source region of a river is forested, soil erosion is prevented, which in turn, prevents siltation of the river bed. Besides, rainfall is also influenced by vegetative cover of forests.

Geological structure: Hydroelectric power stations are usually built on geologically stable areas. This is why although North India has more potential for generating hydroelectricity, it is not exploited. Being geologically stable, more hydroelectricity is generated in South India.

2. Non-Physical factors: The favourable conditions for generating hydroelectricity are-

• highly developed technology
• sufficient capital
• huge demand for electricity in the are a and its vicinity
• lack of other sources of power like coal, petroleum etc.
• developed transport system
• easy availability of skilled labour etc.

Question 17.
What are the advantages of generating hydroelectricity in South India compared to North India? What is the economic importance of hydroelectricity?
Answer:
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. Rivers flowing from mountains: The courses of south Indian rivers are long enough to allow swift flow of rivers which can be tapped for harvesting hydroelectricity and hence many hydel stations has been set up there 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:

• Hydroelectricity is a flow resource, and hence is it is renewable and inexhaustible. Hence, nonrenewable and exhaustible resources like mineral oil can be conserved by using hydroelectricity.
• Environmental pollution is not caused by hydroelectricity.
• Hydroelectric power is comparatively cheaper.
• A number of economic purposes like those of irrigation, flood control, fisheries or pisciculture, and others are served through generation of hydroelectric power.

Question 18.
Mention the advantages of hydroelectric power as compared to other sources of power. What are the disadvantages of producing hydro electricity?
Answer:
Advantages of hydroelectric power in comparison to other sources of power:

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 hydel 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 hydroelectric power: They 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 for storage.

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 as means of livelihood.

Question 19.
Give a comparative study of coal, petroleum and hydroelectric power.
Answer:
A comparative study of coal, petroleum and hydroelectric power is-

Question 20.
Show comparison between thermal power and hydel power. What is “White Coal” ?
Answer:
A comparison between thermal power and hydel power is given below-

Subject	Thermal power	Hydel Power
1. Sources	Resources like Coal, Petroleum are used for production.	Torrential flow of water is used for production.
2. Nature	It is non renewable resource, and is exhaustible in nature.	It is a renewable resource and is exhaustible in nature.
3. Production cost	Though its primary cost is low, the recurring cost is quite high.	Its primary cost is very high, though the recurring cost is low.
4. Location	Thermal power plants are not required to built near the coal extracting or oil extracting areas.	Hydel power plants has to built near banks of swift flowing river.
5. Maintenance cost	Maintenance cost is high.	Maintenance cost is low.
6. Cost of construction	Cost of construction and the time taken for construction is quite low.	Cost of construction is quite high. Skilled labour is required for construction.
7. Effect on environment	It causes environmental pollution, air pollution, loss of bio diversity.	No environmental pollution or loss of bio-diversity seen due to hydel power projects.

Question 21.
State the distribution of non-conventional energy in India and also its usage.
Answer:
The usage and distribution of non-conventional forms of energy in India is shown below-

Power energy	Distribution	Use
1. Solar energy	Uttar Pradesh (Barbanki), West Bengal (Jamuria), Rajasthan (Phalodi, Jodhpur), Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat (Patan, Mithapur, Rajkot) Madhya Pradesh (Bhagwanpur, Ujas),    Andhra Pradesh (kadiri), Lakshwadeep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, etc.	1. Used for lighting. 2. Heating of water. 3. Used as fuel for cooking purpose.
2. Wind energy	West Bengal (Frazerganj, Sagardweep), Chennai, Hyderabad, Gujarat (Lamba), Tamil Nadu (Southern Coastal areas).	1. Used for pumping water for irrigation. 2. Used for electricity production. 3. Water pumps are run by wind power.
3. Geo-thermal energy	Himachal Pradesh (Manikaran), West Bengal (Bakreshwar), Gujarat (Cambay), Maharashtra (Jalgaon).	1. Used for keeping rooms warm. 2. Used for melting ice or snow. 3. Used for production of electricity.

Question 22.
What do you mean by Nuclear power? Give the distribution of nuclear power plants and their use in India.
Answer:
Nuclear power: When energy is generated by fusion or fission of a nucleus of an atom, with the help of advanced technology, such an energy is called nuclear energy or power.
Nuclear energy is produced from Uranium Thorium, Plutonium, Lithium etc. Of the total
energy generated in the world, 15 percent comes from nuclear power.

Uses of Nuclear power:

• It is used in the production of electricity.
• Nuclear power is used to supply energy to artificial satellites.
• Nuclear power is used for desalination of sea water.
• Nuclear power is also used for running sub ships etc.
• It is used for producing geothermal energy and for medical purposes.
• It is used for extraction of copper and manganese and as fuel to be used for various industries.

About 12,000MW of electricity is generated from only a pound of Uranium or Plutonium, whereas, about 6,000 tonnes of coal is needed to produce the same amount of electricity. This is the reason why nuclear energy has much possibilities.

Question 23.
What are the merits and demerits of using nuclear power?
Answer:
Nuclear energy is produced by fusion or fission of the nucleus of an atom.

The merits of using nuclear power are as follows-

• More production of energy: A large amount of energy can be produced by using Uranium, Thorium etc. as raw material. For example, about 12,000 megawatts of electricity can be obtained from only a pound of Uranium.
• Establishing nuclear power plant: A nuclear power plant can be established at any place requiring small quantity of raw material.
• Low cost of production: Nuclear energy can be produced by using less capital. Thus, electricity can be produced at a low cost.
• Environmental pollution is not directly caused: Although, the nuclear wastes are toxic, the environment is not directly polluted.

The demerits of using nuclear power are as follows-

Problem of radition: The effect of radiation as a result of using nuclear power is harmful as it is the cause of cancer and other diseases and affects life adversely.

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.

Other Problem:

• Lack of advanced technology
• In may cases, nuclear power is used to harm human lives.
• A nuclear power plant’s longevity is about 30-40 years after which a new power plant has to be constructed which involves huge costs at any point of time.

Question 24.
What is wind power? What are the merits and demerits of wind power?
Answer:
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:

• Environment-friendly: Environmental pollution is not caused by producing or using wind energy.
• Unlimited: This being a flow resource its availability is unlimited in nature and is renewable.
• Easy technology: Technology can be accessed easily.
• Low cost: A wind power plant (wind mills) can be constructed at a low cost and reporting the machineries are also relatively cheap.
• Used for various purposes: Wind power can be used for hauling water, grinding wheat etc.

Demerits of using wind power:

• Sound pollution: High waves of sound are generated when wind mills operate causing sound pollution.
• Dependant on wind: Problem is caused as a result of varying wind speed and change in direction of wind.
• Less amount of energy produced: Electricity produced by wind power is relatively less in amount.
• Region-based: Wind power can only be harnessed in coastal areas, open deserts and in mountainous areas.
• Awareness: It is not yet universally used due to lack of awareness.

Question 25.
What is geothermal energy? What are the merits and demrits of geothermal energy?
Answer:
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 1km of depth below the earth’s surface, temperature rises at the rate of 25°C. Geothermal energy does not cause environmental pollution. India generates only a small amount of such energy.

Merits of using geothermal energy:

• Unlimited resource: Since its availability is unlimited in nature, its continuous use does not cause depletion of these resources.
• Environment-friendly: Toxic gases do not emanate as a result of using wind-power and so it does not cause environmental pollution.
• Continuous use: This type of energy can be used throughout the year continuously during day and night time.
• Easy production: Geothermal energy can be produced easily.

Demerits of using geothermal energy:

• Expensive: The initial cost of establishing a wind power plant is quite high.
• Productivity is low: It can meet local demand only as its production is low.
• Developed technology: The technology is available only in developed countries of the world.
• Region based: This type of energy is not well-distributed and occurs in pockets in certain regions and hence cannot be used universaliy.

Question 26.
Discuss the uses of solar power. What are the merits and demerits of solar power?
Answer:
Uses of solar power: The 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 photo-voltaic cells. From the resource point of view, solar energy is a flow resource, renewable and universally available (ubiquitous in nature). There are uses of solar power, for example-

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.

7. Through the solar heating system, sunlight is used for a variety of processes, like-

• Solar dryer: The air is dehumified by blowing hot air and thereby conserving the crops.
• Solar lumber kiln: Wood is dried by this method.
• Solar desalination: Fresh drinking water is obtained from the saline sea water through the process of alternate evaporation and condensation process.
• Solar distillation: Water is purified by solar heating by using aiternate evaporation and condensation techniques.
• 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.

Merits and demerits of using solar power:

Merits:

• Solar power is an unlimited resource and it is renewable.
• Sufficient solar power can be tapped even on cloudy days.
• It is an environment-friendly energy.
• A number of small, medium and large solar power plant can be established.

Demerits:

• Since sunlight is not evenly distributed throughout the world, solar power cannot be produced everywhere.
• Since the cost of production is relatively high, developing nations cannot use solar power on a large scale.
• The technology used is not available easily everywhere.

Question 27.
Make a comparative study between conventional and non-conventional energy.
Answer:
The comparative study between conventional and non-conventional energy is given below-

Subject	Conventional energy	Non-conventional energy
1. Concept	This energy is produced by using traditional age old processes.	This energy is produced by using ecofriendly sources.
2. Sources	Coal, petroleum, natural gas, radioactive substances, flowing water are the sources of this kind of energy.	Sunlight, wind, tides, geo-thermal energy are the sources of this type of energy.
3. Power intensity	A huge amount of energy can be produced by using conventional methods. So large scale industries have a high demand for this type of energy.	It is used in small amounts for household purposes, or for small scale industries. Large amount of energy has not been produced through this source yet.
4. Capital	Huge capital is needed.	Capital requirement is less.
5. Impact on environment	It is not eco-friendly in nature and has adverse effect on the environment.	It is eco-friendly in nature, and has no adverse effect on the environment.
6. Importance	As large amount of energy can be produced through this source, the conventional source of energy is very important. But it is quite uncertain whether this source would be important in the future.	As less amount of energy is produced through this source, less importance is given to it. But there are high chances that this form of energy would gain importance in near future.

Question 28.
Discuss the distribution of solar and geo-thermal energy in India.
Answer:
Distribution of Solar energy:

State	Centre	Production capacity (%)
1. Gujarat	Patan, Mithapur, Rajkot, Surendranagar	49.90
2. Rajasthan	Pokhran, Jodhpur, Phalodi	38.89
3. Madhya Pradesh	Bhagwanpur, Ujas	9.15
4. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana	Kadiri	3.18
5. Maharashtra	Katol, Osmanabad, Mulsi	1.38
6. Tamil Nadu	Coimbatore	1.14
7. Odisha	Patapur	0.99
8. Uttar Pradesh	Barabanki	0.91
9. Karnatak	Belgaon, Kolar	0.69
10. West Bengal	Jamuria	0.15

Distribution of geo-thermal energy:

State	Production center
1. Jammu and Kashmir 2. Chattisgarh 3. Himachal Pradesh 4. West Bengal 5. Gujarat 6. Maharashtra	Puga Valley Tatapani Manikaran Bakreshwar Cambay Unai, Jalgaon

 

Detailed explanations in West Bengal Board Class 9 Geography Book Solutions Chapter 6 Hazards and Disasters offer valuable context and analysis.

WBBSE Class 9 Geography Chapter 6 Question Answer – Hazards and Disasters

Very Short Questions and Answers : (1 mark for each question)

Question 1.
Which type of hazard is easiest to manage?
Answer:
Man-made hazards.

Question 2.
Which force is one of the factors behind the occurrence of avalanches?
Answer:
Gravitational force.

Question 3.
Which type of hazard is a tornado?
Answer:
Natural hazard.

Question 4.
Name a man-made cause for landslides in the mountains.
Answer:
Reckless deforestation.

Question 5.
What type of disaster may occur if absolutely no rain falls for a long stretch of time?
Answer:
Drought.

Question 6.
In which type of climate is snowfall a common affair?
Answer:
Extremely cold climate.

Question 7.
Which instrument is used to measure the intensity of earthquakes?
Answer:
Seismograph.

Question 8.
Which type of hazard is a volcano?
Answer:
Natural hazard.

Question 9.
Name a semi-natural hazard.
Answer:
Landslide.

Question 10.
Name a man-made disaster.
Answer:
War.

Question 11.
Name a flood-prone district in West Bengal.
Answer:
Cooch Behar.

Question 12.
Give a non-tectonic cause of earthquakes.
Answer:
Meteor impact.

Question 13.
Cite a recent example of a very severe cyclonic storm that occurred in India.
Answer:
Hudhud.

Question 14.
Which areas do tsunamis affect most severely?
Answer:
Coastal regions.

Question 15.
Name the wind that influences the occurrence of both droughts and floods in India.
Answer:
Monsoon wind.

Question 16.
Into how many divisions can hazards be classified?
Answer:
Three.

Question 17.
In which year was Uttarakhand affected severely due to a flash flood?
Answer:
2013.

Question 18.
What destroyed the city of St. Pierre in 1902?
Answer:
Volcanic eruption.

Question 19.
Which type of natural hazard occurs when trees rub against each other?
Answer:
Forest fire.

Question 20.
What percentage of the total land area in India is prone to flood?
Answer:
12.

Question 21.
Name a disaster that may result in landslides.
Answer:
Earthquake.

Question 22.
Which kind of disaster can be prevented by adopting proper patterns and methods of land-use on the hill-slopes?
Answer:
Landslides.

Question 23.
Which area of India is mostly affected by tsunamis?
Answer:
Coastal regions.

Question 24.
Which mountain range in India is most prone to earthquakes?
Answer:
The Himalayas.

Question 25.
What are the adverse effects resulting from natural processes of the earth called?
Answer:
Natural hazards.

Question 26.
Which type of disaster may result due to faulty and unscientific methods of farming in the hills?
Answer:
Landslides.

Question 27.
Cite an example of a geological disaster.
Answer:
Earthquake.

Question 28.
Cite an example of a hazard associated with landscape change.
Answer:
River bank erosion.

Question 29.
Which type of disaster are whirlwinds and snowstorms?
Answer:
Atmospheric disaster.

Question 30.
What type of disaster may result due to human intent, negligence or a failure of a man-made system?
Answer:
Man-made disaster.

Question 31.
What are the floods created suddenly in the hills due to heavy rainfall known as?
Answer:
Flash floods.

Question 32.
Name a natural cause of earthquakes.
Answer:
Movement of the earth’s plate.

Question 33.
Name a man-made cause of earthquakes.
Answer:
Nuclear tests.

Question 34.
What is the rapid flow of snow down a sloping surface known as?
Answer:
Avalanche.

Question 35.
Which region in West Bengal is most prone to landslides?
Answer:
The hilly regions in Darjeeling.

Question 36.
What is planning to cope with disasters known as?
Answer:
Disaster management.

Question 37.
Which type of rain causes damage to the aquatic ecosystem?
Answer:
Acid rain.

Question 38.
Which type of hazard may lead to a disaster in the forest regions?
Answer:
Forest fires.

Question 39.
What kind of disaster results from excessive rainfall?
Answer:
Flood.

Question 40.
Into how many divisions can seismic waves be classified?
Answer:
Three.

Question 41.
What type of disaster devastated the city of Bhuj in Gujarat in 2001?
Answer:
Earthquake.

Question 42.
What is the strong wind carrying ice flakes with it known as?
Answer:
Blizzards.

Question 43.
Into how many sub-types can disaster management be mainly classified?
Answer:
Two.

Question 44.
To control which type of disaster does the Ministry of Water Resources play a significant role?
Answer:
Flood.

Question 45.
Which ministry is responsible for dealing with the Integrated Drought Management Programme in India?
Answer:
Ministry of Agriculture.

Question 46.
Name one of the most prominent causes of tsunamis.
Answer:
Earthquake.

Question 47.
What type of disaster is the Phailin?
Answer:
Very severe tropical cyclone.

Question 48.
In which type of drainage basin is the probability of flash floods highest?
Answer:
Circular drainage basin.

Question 49.
Which type of disaster is most prominent in the coastal regions of South Bengal?
Answer:
Cyclone.

Question 50.
On which slopes are avalanches more likely to occur?
Answer:
Convex slopes.

Question 51.
Which type of disaster is most prominent in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal?
Answer:
Landslide.

Question 52.
Which type of disaster is most prominent in the Purulia district of West Bengal?
Answer:
Drought.

Question 53.
Cite an example of a type of severe cyclone.
Answer:
Tornado.

Question 54.
What are deep focus earthquakes known as?
Answer:
Plutonic earthquakes.

Question 55.
Name two important volcanoes in India.
Answer:
Narcondam and Barren.

Question 56.
What is the helpless condition caused due to the occurrence of hazards and disasters known as?
Answer:
Vulnerability.

Question 57.
What is the centre of a whirlwind known as?
Answer:
Eye.

Question 58.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) if an area receives less than 75% rainfall then the area is affected by?
Answer:
Drought.

Short Questions and Answers : (2 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What is meant by a hazard?
Answer:
A dangerous condition or event that threatens or has the potential to cause injury to life or damage to property or the environment is known as a hazard. The word ‘hazard’ originates from the word ‘hasard’ in old French and ‘az-zahr’ in Arabic meaning ‘death’. Hazards can be classified into three broad categories- natural, seminatural and man-made.

Question 2.
What is meant by a disaster?
Answer:
According to the Oxford dictionary, a disaster is “a sudden accident or a natural catastrophe that causes great damage or loss of life”. A disaster is an event or series of events that results in casualties and damage or loss of property, infrastructure, environment, essential services or means of livelihood on such a scale that is beyond the normal capacity of the affected community to sustain. A disaster is a combination of hazard, vulnerability and insufficient capacity or measures to reduce the potential chances of risk.

Question 3.
What is meant by natural hazard?
Answer:
A natural event causing a great damage to human life, property and environment is known as natural disaster. Events such as flood, earthquake or hurricane is known as natural hazard.

Question 4.
What is meant by a semi-natural hazard?
Answer:
The hazards that are caused by any combination of natural and man-induced processes are known as semi-natural hazards. For instance, landslide is a seminatural hazard as it can be caused by natural processes (such as heavy or prolonged rainfall, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc.) and can also be caused by man-made activities (such as slope excavation and loading, land use changes, irrigation, and such others).

Question 5.
What is meant by a flood?
Answer:
Flood may be defined as a situation caused due to the overflow of rivers and other water bodies due to excessive rainfall. Floods result in massive water-logging and thus is a threat to human life and property.

Question 6.
What is meant by a flash flood?
Answer:
A flash flood can develop within a few hours of heavy rainfall. Flash floods can be highly dangerous and have the potential to instantly turn a gasping rivulet into a thundering channel of water that sweeps away everything in its path. Most of the casualties from flooding occur as a result of flash floods. The intensity of flash flood cannot be classified. Desert regions are vulinerable to flash floods.

Question 7.
How can dam failure cause floods?
Answer:
Dams are water storage or diversion barriers that seize water upstream in reservoirs. Dam failure involves the overtopping, breach or collapse of a dam. It is an extremely destructive occurrence and in such an event, the energy of the water stored behind even a small dam is capable of causing loss and damage to life and property. For example, in 1977, Tamil Nadu experienced a dam failure from the Kodaganar Dam that led to over-topping by flood waters.

Question 8.
What is meant by a drought?
Answer:
Drought may be defined as a situation caused due to lack of rainfall or scarcity of rainfall for a long period. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) an area is considered to be affected by drought, if it receives less than 75% rainfall than its normal value.

Question 9.
What is meant by meteorological drought?
Answer:
A drought is categorised as a meteorological drought, when actual rainfall over an area is significantly less than the climatological mean. Definitions of meteorological droughts must be region-specific as the atmospheric conditions that result in deficiencies of precipitation are highly variable from region to region.

Question 10.
What is meant by hydrological drought?
Answer:
A drought is categorised as a hydrological drought, when there is a marked depletion of surface water causing very low stream flow and drying of lakes, reservoirs and rivers. Therefore, hydrological drought is related to the effects of periods of precipitation deficits on surface or subsurface water supply.

Question 11.
What is meant by agricultural drought?
Answer:
The situation when soil moisture is insufficient and results in the lack of crop growth and production, is known as agricultural drought. Agricultural drought has huge impact on the economy of the country.

Question 12.
What is a cyclone?
Answer:
A cyclone is a giant whirlwind or a very strong wind system moving rapidly in a cylindrical or funnel shape about a centre of low atmospheric pressure over tropical or subtropical waters. It advances at a speed of about 30 to 50 kilometre per hour and often brings heavy rain.

Question 13.
What is meant by the eye of a cyclone?
Answer:
The centre of the cyclone is known as its eye. The eye of the cyclone generally remains calm and cloudless.

Question 14.
What is vulnerability?
Answer:
Vulnerability can be defined as the impaired capability of any individual or group to conceive of, cope with, resist and recover from the impact of a natural, semi-natural or man-induced hazard. Vulnerability develops when an individual or a small group is isolated, insecure and defenceless as, before or after they face any hazard, shock or stress.

Question 15.
Name the districts of West Bengal that are prone to drought.
Answer:
The western uplands of West Bengal consisting of the districts of Bankura, Birbhum, Midnapore and Purulia are the most drought-prone districts of the state.

Question 16.
Name the districts of West Bengal that are prone to flood.
Answer:
The flood-prone districts of West Bengal can be classified into two groups-
1. Districts of North Bengal: Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Malda, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur.
2. Districts of South Bengal: Nadia, Howrah, Murshidabad, North and South 24 Parganas, Hooghly, Burdwan, Birbhum, West Midnapore and East Midnapore.

Question 17.
What is meant by a landslide?
Answer:
A landslide is the movement of rocks or debris down a slope. Landslides occur when gravitational and other types of shear stress within a slope exceeds the shear strength of the materials that form the slope. Landslides are also known as landslips, slumps or slope failure.

Question 18.
What is meant by a snowstorm?
Answer:
Snowstorm is a severe weather condition where frozen precipitation falls in the form of snow and creates a hazardous condition. It is characterised by low temperature, strong winds and enormous quantities of either falling or blowing snow.

Question 19.
Where do snowstorms mostly occur?
Answer:
People experience snowstorms in middlelatitude to high-latitude areas during winters. The occurrence of snowstorms is most prominent in Antarctica, northern parts of North America, Canada, north of Europe and Asia as well as in the New South Wales in Australia. Also, the snowcapped high mountainous regions also experience snowstorms.

Question 20.
What is meant by a volcano?
Answer:
Volcanoes develop when magma reaches the earth’s surface through an opening in the earth’s crust, causing eruptions of lava and ash. They generally occur at destructive and constructive plate boundaries.

Question 21.
Name the most commonly faced hazards and disasters in West Bengal.
Answer:
The most commonly faced hazards and disasters in West Bengal are drought, flood, landslides and tropical cyclones.

Question 22.
What is meant by a forest fire?
Answer:
A forest fire, also known as a wild land fire or wildfire, is an uncontrolled fire often occurring in forest areas. The blazes are fueled by lightning, volcanic eruptions, pyroclastic flow from active volcanoes, heat waves, droughts, cyclical climate changes such as EI Nino as well as human carelessness. It is observed that more than four out of every five forest fires are humaninduced. Forest fires often begin unnoticed, but they spread quickly at a speed that extends up to 23 kilometre an hour igniting bushes, trees, homes and agricultural resources.

Question 23.
Name the districts of West Bengal that are prone to cyclones.
Answer:
The coastal area in West Bengal mostly faces the wrath of the tropical cyclones. The districts of East Midnapore, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly and Kolkata are more susceptible to the hazard caused due to tropical cyclone.

Question 24.
What are the three phases in a disaster management cycle?
Answer:
The three phases in a disaster management cycle are-

• Pre-Disaster Phase
• During Disaster Phase
• Post-Disaster Phase

Short Questions and Answers : (3 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What is meant by hazard and disaster?
Answer:
1. A dangerous condition or event that threatens or has the potential to cause injury to life or damage to property or the environment is known as a hazard. Hazards can be classified into two broad categories-natural and man-made.
2. A disaster is an event or series of events that results in casualties and damage or loss of property, environment or means of livelihood on such a scale that is beyond the normal capacity of the affected community to sustain.
3. A landslide that occurs on a hill-slope can be termed as a hazard. But when this same landslide causes casualties and damage to life and property on the slope, it becomes a disaster.

Question 2.
What are the characteristics of a hazard?
Answer:
The characteristics of hazards are as follows –

1. Generally speaking, most hazards are difficult to predict and occur all of a sudden.
2. Hazards may be nature-induced, humaninduced or even a combination of both.
3. The expansion of hazards is generally over smaller areas, and its magnitude is comparatively low.
4. Hazards have the potential for causing injury to life or damage to property or the environment.
5. Hazards with higher potential leads to disasters.

Question 3.
Discuss the causes of man-induced hazards.
Answer:
The hazards that are caused by an element of human intent, negligence or error, or involves a failure of a man-made system are known as man-induced hazards. The notable causes of man-induced hazards are as follows-
1. Unscientific activities: Faulty and unscientific activities of man often lead to man-induced hazards. For instance, unplanned construction of houses on the hill-slopes, faulty farming in the hill-slopes or even carving roads across the slopes of hills intensifies the probabilities of landslides.
2. Illiteracy: Illiteracy leads to lack of knowledge, intolerance and even negligence. All these leads to common man-induced hazards like arson, civil disorder and even terrorist activities.
3. Ungoverned population growth: Ungoverned population growth can lead to competition for scarce resources and susceptibility to diseases, that in turn, may cause civil strife and even loss of human life.

Question 4.
What is meant by flash flood? What are the main causes for the occurrence of flash floods?
Answer:
A flash flood can develop within a few hours of heavy rainfall. Flash floods can be highly dangerous and have the potential to instantly turn a gasping rivulet into a thundering channel of water that sweeps away everything in its path. Most of the casualties from flooding occur as a result of flash floods. The intensity of flash floods cannot be classified.

The most common causes of flash floods are occurrence of heavy rains, dam failure, rapid snow melt and ice jams. The causes of flash floods can be classified into two categories. They are –
Natural causes of flash floods: The natural causes of flash floods are as follows-
1. A flash flood may occur when it precipitates rapidly on saturated soil or dry soil with poor absorption ability. The run-off collects in gullies and streams and as they join to form larger volumes, it often exceeds the carrying capacity of the streams. This may lead to occurrence of flash floods.
2. A flash flood may also occur in areas on or near volcanoes, when glaciers may have been melted by the intense heat after eruptions.
3. Multiple or slow moving thunderstorms occurring over the same area can also produce a flash flood.

Man-induced causes of flash floods: Dam failure is extremely destructive and can create a flash flood. In such an event, the energy of the water stored behind even a smail dam is capable of causing loss and damage to life and property in the downstream areas of the dam.

Question 5.
What are the effects of forest fires?
Answer:
The effects of forest fires can be categorised into two sub-types. They are as follows-
Primary effects of forest fires:

1. Casualties and injury to people and animals who are caught in the flames.
2. Damages to property and possessions.
3. Burning of vegetation and crops.
4. Release of large amounts of smoke.

Secondary effects of forest fires:

1. Health troubles for people as a result of the smoke and ash.
2. Loss of jobs for agricultural workers whose animals and crops get destroyed.
3. Diminution in the tourist industry, leading to loss of jobs and restriction to recreational areas.
4. Soil erosion and landslides because there is less vegetation to bind the soil together.
5. Loss of habitats for animals may lead to extinction of some species.

Question 6.
Discuss the causes of droughts.
Answer:
The causes of droughts can be classified into two categories. They are as follows-
The main natural factors that cause drought:
1. Rise in land and sea surface temperature increases water evaporation leading to droughts.
2. Atmospheric circulation patterns that influence the moisture content of the atmosphere. Reduction in atmospheric moisture in turn will reduce the average precipitation.
3. Soil moisture content can also influence the occurrence of drought. If the soil is dry, then there is little or no water available to evaporate. Consequently, the incoming sunlight can only continue to warm the surface, thereby making conditions hotter and drier, thus beginning the chain of events leading toward drought.

The main man-induced factors that cause drought:

1. Reckless deforestation that leads to decrease in atmospheric as well as soil moisture.
2. Unplanned urbanization that restricts the replenishment of groundwater level and subsequently puts pressure on water resources.

Question 7.
What are the impacts of earthquake?
Answer:
The impacts of earthquakes can be devastating. Some of the most commonly observed impacts of earthquakes are as follows-

1. People may be killed or injured.
2. Built landscape such as houses may be destroyed.
3. Transport and communication links may be interrupted and shops and business may be destroyed. This can subsequently lead to difficulty in trade.
4. Water pipes may burst and water supplies may be contaminated.
5. Fires can spread due to gas pipe explosions that can even lead to forest fires in certain areas.
6. Landslides may occur.
7. Tsunamis may cause flooding in coastal areas.
8. Can lead to social unrest and heedless looting may take place.

Question 8
Discuss about the disaster-prone regions in West Bengal in brief.
Answer:
The disaster-prone regions in West Bengal are as follows-
1. Darjeeling-Himalayan region: This region frequently experiences landslides and floods.
2. Sunderban region: This region frequently experiences tropical cyclones and floods.
3. Plateau region: The areas under Purulia, West Midnapore, Bankura, Bardhaman and western part of Birbhum fall under the plateau region. This region frequently experiences the wrath of droughts.
4. Plain region: The areas that are situated on or near the Ganga plain falls under the plain regions in West Bengal. This region experiences heavy monsoon and thus are prone to flooding.

White the differences between the following –

Question 1.
Natural hazard and Man-made hazard
Answer:
The differences between natural and man-made hazards are as follows-

Points of diference	Natural Hazard	Man-made Hazard
1. Concept	Natural hazards characterise those elements of the physical environment that are detrimental to human beings and are caused by forces extraneous to us.	Man-made hazards are caused by an element of human intent, negligence or error, or involving a failure of a manmade system.
2. Extent	It has a widespread impact.	The extent of impact is lesser, nuclear explosion being an exception.
3. Control	Natural hazards cannot be resisted or controlled but precautions can be taken.	Man-made hazards can be controlled by increasing awareness among communities.

Question 2
Meteorological drought and Agricultural drought
Answer:
The differences between meteorological and agricultural drought are as follows-

Points of difference	Meteorological Drought	Agricultural Drought
1. Concept	Meteorological drought occurs when actual rainfall over an area is significantly less than the climatological mean.	Agricultural drought occurs when inadequate soil moisture produces acute crop stress and affects productivity.
2. Dependency	It is not dependent on agricultural drought.	It is dependent on meteorological drought.
3. Impact	It has a widespread impact.	The extent of impact is lesser than meteorological drought.

Question 3.
Flood caused by Snow Melt and Flood caused by Rain
Answer:
The differences between flood caused by snow melt and flood caused by rain are as follows-

Points of difference	Flood caused by snow melt	Flood caused by rain
1. Extent	Flood caused by melting of snow extends over a larger area.	Flood caused by heavy rainfall extends over a lesser stretch of area.
2. Region	It occurs mostly in the downstream areas of the hill-slopes.	It occurs in the plains, mostly near the river banks.
3. Season	It mostly occurs in summer.	It mostly occurs during the monsoon season.

Question 4.
Hazard and Disaster
Answer:
The differences between hazards and disasters are as follows-

Points of difference	Hazard	Disaster
1. Concept	A dangerous condition or event that threatens or has the potential for causing injury to life or damage to property or the environment is known as a hazard.	A disaster is an event or series of events that results in casualties and damage or loss of property, infrastructure, environment, essential services or means of livelihood on such a scale that is beyond the normal capacity of the affected community to sustain.
2. Extent	The extent of impact is limited to a smaller region.	The extent of impact runs to a comparatively larger area.
3. Nature	Hazards lead to disaster.	Disasters are impacts of hazards.
4. Casualty	Hazards have the potential for causing injury to life, but may not always be fatal.	Disasters result in casualties.
5. Economic damages	Accounts for damage or loss of property that is lesser in comparison to disasters.	Accounts for damage or loss of property that is at a scale which is beyond the normal capacity of the area to sustain.
6. Sub-types	Hazards can be classified into three broad categories-natural, semi-natural and man-made.	Disasters can be classified into two broad categories – natural disaster and man-made disaster.
7. Control	Hazards are manageable and precautions can be taken to a certain level.	Disasters are unmanageable and precautions cannot be taken most of the times.

give reasons for the following –

Question 1.
Mountainous regions are prone to landslides.
Answer:
A landslide refers a sequence of processes that results in the downward and outward movement of slope-forming materials like rocks, soil, artificial fill or a combination of all these. Landslides are mainly associated with mountainous regions. This is because of the following reasons-
1. Geological causes: Weak or sensitive materials of the hill-slopes and the abundance of weathered materials make the mountainous regions prone to landslide.

2. Climatic causes: Mountainous regions are inclined to freeze-thaw cycles and wetter conditions promote organic activity and associated weathering. Soil slopes and rocks are weakened through saturation by heavy rains or snow melt. Moreover, winter snowstorms may produce avalanche-like conditions. All these together cause a landslide-prone condition.

3. Human causes: Landslides are frequently caused by the undercutting of slopes during road construction or when fill materials are dumped onto already less stable slopes. Defectively constructed mine tailing piles, dams and waste landfills may result in landslides. Construction of houses on hillslopes and reckless deforestation are the most commonly observed causes of landslides in the hills.

Question 2.
The Himalayan regions are prone to earthquakes.
Answer:
The Himalayan mountain range was formed due to the collision of Indian and Eurasian plates – a process that began at least 50 million years ago. Where the two plates converge, the Indian plate plunges below the Eurasian. The two plates continue to rub against each other due to the northward movement of the Indian plate-this continuously generates immense geological stress. This builds up pressure, leads to seismic vulnerability and is later released as earthquakes.

The east-west lying fault line that separates the two plates is known as the Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT). Since there is no historical evidence of earthquakes in several portions of the Himalayan arc, it is predicted that, there is potential energy available to generate large earthquakes.

Question 3.
Adoption of disaster management techniques can be used to reduce the after-effects of a disaster.
Answer:
Occurrence of most natural disasters cannot be stopped but measures can be taken to reduce the after-effects. The organization and management of resources and responsibilities for dealing with all humanitarian aspects of emergencies, in particular preparedness, response and recovery in order to lessen the impact of disasters is termed as disaster management. The procedures to be followed are as follows-
Preventive measures: Even before the actual disaster occurs there are some prior measures that can be taken to reduce the intensity of the disaster. Such as

• Conducting awareness programmes
• Compiling suitable laws
• Conducting proper regional surveys and preparing maps
• Forecast of the disaster can be transmitted through radio and television channels to the common people.

Remedial measures: These measures are taken once the disaster has hit a region. There are two stages of remedial measures-

1. The first stage involves rescue and recovery of the affected people and providing them with relief facilities like food, medicine, clothing, temporary houses and such others.
2. The second stage involves working towards recovery in order to lessen the impact of disasters and revert to normal conditions. The measures taken under this stage is re-establishing the communication systems, rebuilding the roads, houses, schools and working toward’s supply of electricity, safe drinking water.

Long Questions and Answers : (5 marks for each question)

Question 1.
Classify hazards.
Answer:
A dangerous condition or event that threatens or has the potential for causing injury to life or damage to property or the environment is known as a hazard. Hazards can be classified into the following types-

The following broad categories of disasters are discussed below-

1. Natural hazard: Natural hazards characterise those elements of the physical environment that are detrimental to human beings and are caused by forces extraneous to us. More precisely, the term ‘natural hazard’ refers to all atmospheric, hydrological and geological phenomena that, because of their location, intensity and frequency have the potential to affect adversely the human beings, their constructions or their activities.

2. Semi-natural hazard: The hazards that are caused by any combination of natural and man-induced processes are known as the semi-natural hazards. For instance, landslide is a semi-natural hazard as it can be caused by natural processes (such as heavy or prolonged rainfall, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, slope undercutting by rivers) and can also be caused by man-made activities (such as slope excavation and loading, land use changes, irrigation, blasting vibrations, water leakage from utilities and such others).

3. Man-made hazard: Man-made hazards are caused by an element of unscientific human activity, negligence or error, or involving a failure of a man-made system. Man-made hazards can be controlled by increasing awareness among communities.

Question 2.
Classify and explain the various types of disasters.
Answer:
A disaster is an event or series of events that results into casualties and damage or loss of property, infrastructure, environment, essential services or means of livelihood on such a scale which is beyond the normal capacity of the affected community to sustain. External aid is usually needed to combat disasters

Natural disaster: An event or series of events that results in casualties and damages by natural causes are known as natural disasters. They can be classified as follows –
1. Geophysical disaster: The disasters that are caused due to tectonic disturbances are called geophysical disasters. Earthquakes and volcanoes are examples of geophysical disasters.

2. Landform-process related disaster: Landform processes like riverbank erosion, landslides in mountainous areas, coastal erosion due to sea waves, etc., may give rise to disasters if they occur on a macro-scale.

3. Meteorological/Climatic disaster: The disasters originating from events caused by short or long lasting periods of climatic variability processes come under this category. They include both hydrological as well as meteorological events.

Storms, tropical cyclones, heat/cold waves, floods and droughts are examples of climatic disasters.

4. Extra-terrestrial disaster: Meteorite strikes are examples of extra-terrestrial disasters.

Man-made disaster: An event or series of events that results in casualties and damages by man-induced causes are known as man-made disasters. They can be classified as follows –

1. Technology-related disaster: A technology-related disaster is the failure of modern systems, viz., unchecked exhaust fumes from vehicles, untreated wastes from industries, leakage of radioactive minerals from nuclear power plants, etc., which harms people and also pollutes the environment.
2. Economic disaster: An economic disaster is the widespread disruption or collapse of a national or regional economy, possibly causing financial loss, hoarding, famine, inflation, etc.
3. Biological disaster: Disasters caused due to the exposure of human beings to toxins, viruses leading to epidemics, are known as biological disasters. Extinction of any species is also possible.
4. Disasters due to other complex emergencies: These involve a breakdown of administration, riot, religious conflicts, war. etc.

Question 3.
What is meant by flood? Briefly discuss the main causes of a flood. [1 + 4]
Answer:
A flood occurs when water overflows and inundates the land that is usually dry. There are various reasons for floods to occur. The most common is overflowing of the rivers and streams due to heavy rains, a broken dam or rapidly melting ice in the mountain regions. Floods are the second-most widespread natural disaster on earth, after wildfires. About 12 % of the total land mass in india is prone to floods. West Bengal is one the most flood-prone states of India. The flood-prone areas of West Bengai include low-lying areas, coastal regions and settlements along rivers downstream from dams. The flood-prone districts of West Bengal can be classified into two groups-
1. Districts of North Bengal: Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Malda, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur.
2. Districts of South Bengal: Nadia, Howrah, Murshidabad, North and South 24 Parganas, Hooghly, Burdwan, Birbhum, West Midnapore and East Midnapore.

The main causes of a flood are as follows-
1. Natural causes:
1. Excessive precipitation: Excessive levels of precipitation occurring over a prolonged period of time causes floods. Due to this excessive rainfall, the river’s discharge exceeds the capacity of its channel to carry that discharge. Thus the river overflows its banks causing floods. Therefore, excessive precipitation is positively related to flood.

2. The shape of a river course: The probability of flooding increases if the course of a river is meandering rather than straight since the flow of the river is hindered by obstacles along its course and hence overflowing occurs.

3. Snow melt: During the warm summers, the glacial snow in the mountains melt down. This results in the flow of large amounts of water downslope within a short period of time. As the ground is almost frozen, water cannot penetrate and be absorbed. The water therefore, flows off the surface and runs into lakes, streams and rivers. This cause excess water to spill over the respective banks and cause snow-melt floods.

4. Shape of the drainage basin: The possibility of flash floods increases in a drainage basin that is circular in shape rather than in an elongated drainage basin. This is because, in the latter case, rivers have the capacity to carry water over longer distances.

5. The relief of the land: The areas with steep slopes are less susceptible to flood as the rain water flows down the slopes. But the plain lands where the rain water cannot flow down the slopes are more susceptible to flood and water logging.

Man-made causes:

1. Deforestation: Vegetation type and cover play major roles in causing flood, with forests intercepting more rainfall than grasses. This interception enhances

the lag time and reduces the risk of a flood. Deforestation can increase soil erosion, reduce interception and increase the impact of floods.

2. Modification of the catchment area: The land-use pattern of the catchment area changes with development of increasing number of settlements, urbanisation, industrialisation and also change in agricultural patterns. All these may subsequently lead to flooding.

3. Change in the course of the river: Artificial modification in the course of a river such as construction of dams, development of irrigation system and such others to satisfy human needs may also lead to flooding in the long run.

Question 4.
What is meant by vulnerability? Discuss the main characteristics of a disaster. [2 + 3]
Answer:
Vulnerability can be defined as the impaired capability of any individual or group to conceive of, cope with, resist and recover from the impact of a natural, semi-natural or maninduced hazard. Vulnerability is a relative and dynamic concept. Vulnerability develops when an individual or a small group is isolated, insecure and defenseless, before they face any hazard, shock or stress. In this context, more preparedness to face a disaster means lesser vulnerability.
The main characteristics of a disaster are as follows-
1. Distressed public life: The normal public life and activities are hampered and disrupted because of a disaster.
2. Casualties: A large number of human and animal life is devastated by a disaster. Damages and loss of property also take place.
3. Magnitude: The magnitude of a disaster is not always the same. They vary from intense to moderate.
4. Speed of occurrence: Disaster can be slow and predictable, or they may even be sudden and temporary.
5. Affects the environment: The negative environmental effects of the disasters are by and large severe and persist for long.
6. Disfunctioning of essential services: The functioning of essential services such as transport and communication gets disrupted.
7. Vulnerability: A disaster is a combination of hazard, vulnerability and insufficient capacity or measures to reduce the potential chances of risk.

Question 5.
What are the major impacts of a flood? Name the flood-prone districts of West Bengal. [4 + 1]
Answer:
The major impacts of a flood can be divided into two categories. They are as follows-
The negative impacts of a flood: The various negative impacts of a flood are as follows-
Impact on physical nature:

• Can cause water pollution,
• disrupts the environmental balance,
• can cause soil pollution.

Impact on the ecosystem:

• Destroys the standing crops and other small vegetation covers
• disrupts the food chain
• causes inadequacy of food for the herbivores
• loss of large number of animals and birds.

Impact on the human:

• Hampers the agricultural activities
• causes loss of life and damage to property
• results in water-borne diseases (such as cholera and typhoid)
• disrupts public life by destroying settlements, communication and transport systems.

The positive impacts of a flood: Along with many negative impacts, a flood does have some positive impacts too. They are as follows-
1. Deposition of silt from the flood water enhances the soil fertility.
2. People living on or near the lower floodplains rely upon flood water for irrigation and pisciculture.

The flood-prone districts of West Bengal:
The flood-prone areas of West Bengal include low-lying areas, coastal regions and settlements on rivers downstream from dams. The floodprone districts of West Bengal can be classified into two groups –
1. Districts of North Bengal: Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Malda, Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur.
2. Districts of South Bengal: Nadia, Howrah, Murshidabad, North and South 24 Parganas, Hooghly, Burdwan, Birbhum, West Midnapore and East Midnapore.

Question 6.
What is meant by drought? Classify and discuss the various types of drought. [1 + 4]
Answer:
As per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), a region is considered to be under the influence of drought if it receives an average annual rainfall that is less than 75 % of its normal value. However, there is no internationally accepted definition of drought.
Droughts can be classified into the following categories –
On the basis of water availability: Drought is classified into three types on the basis of water availability-
1. Meteorological drought: A drought is categorised as a meteorological drought, when actual rainfall over an area is significantly less than the normal amount of rainfall. Meteorological droughts need to be defined specific to particular regions as the atmospheric conditions that result in deficiencies of precipitation vary highly from region to region.

Meteorological drought can also be defined as the actual precipitation departures from average amounts on monthly, seasonal or annual time scales. According to the Interim Management Policy, drought can be classified into the following sub-types: (i) Mild drought: When rainfall is 11 % to 25 % less from the normal rainfall. (ii) Moderate drought: When rainfall is 26 % to 50 % less than the normal rainfall. (iii) Severe drought: When rainfall is less than 50 % of the normal rainfall.

2. Hydrological drought: A hydrological drought occurs when there is a marked depletion of surface water causing very low stream flow and drying of lakes, reservoirs and rivers. Therefore, hydrological drought is related to the effects of periods of precipitation deficits on surface or subsurface water supply. It can again be classified into two types – (i) Surface water drought: This is caused when ponds, lakes and rivers dry up due to inadequate rainfall. (ii) Groundwater drought: When the level of groundwater decreases due to deficit of rainfall, this type of drought occurs.

3. Agricultural drought: An agricultural drought occurs when inadequate soil moisture produces acute crop stress and affects productivity in the long run. Inadequate topsoil moisture during the planting stage may obstruct germination, leading to low plant populations per hectare and a reduction of final yield. However, if topsoil moisture is sufficient for early growth requisites, insufficiencies in subsoil moisture at this early stage may not impact final yield if subsoil moisture is replenished as the growing season progresses or if precipitation meets plant water needs.

On the basis of time period: Droughts differ in time and period of their occurrence. Thornwaite delineated drought as follows-

1. Permanent drought area: This area consists mostly of permanently dry or arid desert regions. Crop production is not possible without irrigation, due to inadequate rainfall. In these areas, xerophyte type of vegetation is generally observed, for example, cactus, thorny shrubs.
2. Seasonal drought: It occurs in the areas with clearly defined wet and dry climates. Seasonal drought occurs due to large-scale seasonal circulation. This occurs in monsoon areas.
3. Contingent drought: This results due to irregular and variable rainfall, especially in humid and sub-humid regions. The occurrence of such droughts may coincide with growth periods of the crops when the water needs are critical and greatest, resulting in severity of the effects i, e, yield reduction.

On the basis of medium: This is also done on the basis of the medium in which drought occurs. It can be of two types-

1. Soil drought: It is the condition when soil moisture depletes and falls short of meeting the potential evapotranspiration of the crop.
2. Atmospheric drought: This occurs due to low humidity, dry and hot winds that causes desiccation of plants.

Question 7.
How are cyclones generated? Briefly discuss the impacts of a cyclone. [2 \(\frac{1}{2}\) + 2 \(\frac{1}{2}\)]
Answer:
A cyclone is generated as a giant whirlwind or a very strong wind system moving rapidly in a cylindrical or funnel shape around a centre of low atmospheric pressure in tropical or subtropical regions. It usually advances at a speed of about 30 to 50 kilometre per hour and often brings heavy rain. The air circulates inward in an anticlockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
Suitable conditions for development of a cyclone:

• The sea-surface temperature should be above 26° C,
• the warm temperature of the sea causes air to rise upwards
• a strong low pressure is formed at the centre.

Stages of a cyclone: There are four stages that form a cyclone-
1. Formative stage: In this stage the circulation centre is not well developed. So the intensity is less and it generally tends to move inland but does not cause much damage. The sky is overcast with clouds.

2. Immature cyclone: The minimum surface pressure drops and wind speed increases. Convection winds organize themselves into a wind structure that spiral inwards. Due to well developed circulation, the ‘eye’ begins to form. Damage caused by a cyclone in this stage of the life-cycle is severe but the area affected is small.

3. Mature cyclone: Cyclonic circulation and extent of the giant whirlwind increases. There are only random fluctuations in central pressure and maximum wind speed. In a mature cyclone, the eye is welldeveloped.

4. Waning stage: The warm core is destroyed during this stage, the central pressure rises, and the belt of maximum wind expands near the centre. Waning may occur very rapidly if the system moves into an unfavourable atmospheric or geographic environment like on land or on cooler water surface.

Impacts of a cyclone:

Impact on the physical environment:

1. Disturbs the balance in the ecosystem: Vast number of animals and birds die due to the occurrence of a cyclone that subsequently leads to the imbalance of the local ecosystem.
2. Flood: Heavy rainfall may accompany a cyclone – this may lead to a devastating flood.
3. Coastal erosion: The strong waves formed by a cyclone near the coast may result in coastal erosion.

Impact on human beings:

Loss of life: Huge loss of human and animal life occurs due to cyclones. Vast areas of vegetation cover are also destroyed due to cyclone.

Loss of property: Cyclones disrupt the communication and the transport systems. They ravage and inundate the agricultural fields and subsequently may cause food scarcity. They also hamper public life by destroying houses.

Spreading of epidemics: The water gets polluted as a result of cyclones, resulting in water-borne diseases. Epidemics like cholera may spread from this polluted water.

For example, tropical cyclones like Sidr and Aila originated from the Bay of Bengal and caused immense devastation in the coastal regions of India and Bangladesh.

Question 8.
Briefly discuss the impacts of a drought. Name the drought-prone regions of West Bengal. [4 + 1]
Answer:
Droughts create immense environmental and socio-economic impacts. The impacts are as follows-
Impact on the environment:

The ecological balance is disturbed due to enhanced soil erosion (due to loss of soil moisture) and soil fertility decreases.
Loss or destruction of vegetation cover may lead to desertification of the region.
Spread of diseases in wild animals and migration of wildlife may be observed because of reduced food and water supplies.

Impact on the ecosystem:

It causes damage to plants and animals.
The plants struggle to survive due to the hampering of the process of photosynthesis.
Food scarcity is noticed for the herbivorous animals that leads to death of vast number of animals from all trophic levels.
Drought conditions can also provide a substantial increase in risk of wildfires as plants and trees wither and die from lack of precipitation and become fuel for wildfires.

Impact on the economy:

1. Droughts may lead to reduced production of agricultural yields (such as food crops, vegetables and fruits) and livestock production (such as egg, milk, meat and such others).
2. Lack of water and agricultural raw materials hampers the production of various industries.

Impact on the population:

1. Lack of precipitation may subsequently lead to lesser replenishment of ground water and as a result the ground water level falls. This makes irrigation more difficult and many of the farmers become jobless.
2. Excessive drought condition may lead to famine and starvation becomes a common picture.
3. Many people die due to lack of nutrition and tremendous heat.
4. Droughts lead to international and intra-national migration.

The districts of West Bengal that are prone to drought are as follows-

The western uplands of West Bengal consisting of the districts of Bankura, Birbhum, Midnapore and Purulia are most the droughtprone districts of West Bengal.

Question 9.
What is meant by an earthquake? Briefly discuss the causes of an earthquake. [1+4]
Answer:
Seismic waves are produced when some form of energy stored in the earth’s crust is abruptly released. This happens usually when masses of rock layers pushing against one another abruptly fracture and slip. Therefore, earthquake is any sudden shaking of the ground caused by seismic waves originating within the earth’s crust.

Earthquakes occur mostly along the geologic faults. The major fault lines of the world are located at the edges of the huge tectonic plates that form the earth’s crust.
The causes of an earthquake:
Natural causes: The natural causes of the earthquake can be divided into tectonic and non-tectonic causes.
1. Tectonic causes: The earthquakes occur due to tectonic causes, when rocks in the earth’s crust break due to geological forces created by the movement of tectonic plates. The various tectonic causes are-
i. Plate tectonics: Due to prevailing high temperature and pressure convection currents evolve in the viscous mantle below the earth’s crust. These convection currents cause the plates (parts of the earth’s crust) to move in different directions and at different speeds from those of the adjacent ones which at times causes earthquakes.

For example-
(A) Divergent plate boundaries: The boundaries where the plates pull away from each other are known as the divergent plate boundary. This type of earthquake is quite popular near the mid-Atlantic ridges.

(B) Convergent plate boundaries: The boundaries where two plates move towards each other and subsequently one plate dives under another are known as the convergent plate boundaries. The largest occurrence of earthquakes is usually seen under convergent plate boundaries.

(C) Transformational plate boundaries: The boundaries where the plates slide horizontally past each other are known as the transformational plate boundaries.

ii. Contracting earth theory: As the earth cooled, heavier metals such as iron sank down to form the core, while lighter metals such as aluminium remained up in the crust. The crust cooled and hardened, while the core remained in a hot, molten state. The contraction and expansion of the earth’s surface that occurs due to this gives rise to earthquakes.

iii. Isostatic causes: Isostasy is the state of gravitational equilibrium between the earth’s lithosphere and asthenosphere and in this process of trying to attain a hydrodynamic equilibrium, earthquakes may take place.

iv. Formation of fold mountains: Formation of new fold mountains may also result in occurrence of earthquakes.

v. Volcanism: Volcanic activity may also cause earthquakes.

2. Non-tectonic causes: Earthquakes may also occur due to various non-tectonic causes. They are as follows-
i. Meteorite: Meteorite impacts could cause larger earthquakes than have ever been observed.
ii. Collapse of subterranean cavities: Sometimes, because of the removal of soil from below (viz., by the action of underground water mostly in the Karst areas) the ground surface collapses suddenly – thus producing local tremors.

Anthropogenic causes: Unplanned anthropogenic activities may lead to earthquakes. For example,

Faulty construction of dams: It is well accepted that large dams can cause earthquakes. Dams cause earthquakes due to the extra pressure of water created in the minor cracks and fissures in the ground under and near a reservoir.
Nuclear testing: Nuclear testing may also trigger earthquakes.
Dynamite blasting for road construction: Blasting of rocks by dynamite for construction of roads may trigger earthquakes.

Question 10.
What is meant by a tsunami? Briefly discuss its origin and impacts.
Answer:
A catastrophic ocean wave, generally caused by an earthquake on the seabed or by an underwater or coastal landslide or by the eruption of a volcano is known as tsunami. It is derived from a Japanese word meaning harbour waves. It is also commonly referred to as seismic sea wave or tidal wave.

Causes of tsunami: The major causes of tsunami are discussed below-
Submarine earthquake: Most severe earthquakes occur in convergent boundaries where an ocean plate slides under a continental plate. All earthquakes do not generate tsunamis. To generate a tsunami, the fault where the earthquake occurs must be underneath or near the ocean. It must also cause vertical movement of the sea-floor over a large area. Earthquakes originating at shallow depths of the seabed (focus) responsible for the most destructive tsunamis.

Landslides: Landslides resulting in rockfalls, submarine landslides or slumps can generate tsunamis. For example, movement of a significant amount of earth for the construction of an airport triggered an underwater landslide in 1980 in southern France. This resulted in a devastating tsunami hitting the harbour of Thebes.

Eruption of volcano: Volcanic eruptions can generate waves as a result of sudden displacement of water giving rise to tsunami. For example, one of the most devastating tsunamis ever recorded occurred on August 26, 1883 after the explosion and collapse of the Krakatoa in Indonesia.

Extra-terrestrial collision: Although tsunamis caused by extra-terrestrial collisions such as meteors and asteroidsinduced tsunami have not been recorded in recent history and the possibilities are rare, but tsunamis may be generated by such extra-terrestrial collisions.

Effects of tsunami: The major effects of tsunami are discussed below-

Physical changes: Tsunami may result in various physical changes. For example, the islands of Andaman and Nicobar experienced widespread devastation because of a tsunami in 2004. Some smaller islands in the Nicobars have entirely vanished and some others have changed shape, such as Trinket which has been split into two parts after the tsunami.

Change in soil characteristics: Tsunami may result in a change in the characteristics of soil, especially soil salinity. The coastal regions are bounded by vast expanses of salty, marine waters and thus the salinity of the soil may increase at certain times. This may negatively affect soil fertility and productivity.

Damages the marine ecosystem: Tsunamis cause great damage and even devastation to marine ecosystem.

Shortening the length of the day: The massive earthquake that struck Sumatra in 2004 has shortened the length of earth’s day. The intense tremor of 9.1 magnitude has accelerated the spin of the earth, shortening the length of the 24 hours day by 6.8 microseconds.

Casualties: Tsunamis are generally very devastating and cause huge loss to life of human and animals. The tsunami waves in the morning hours of December 26, 2004 around Bay of Bengal caused an official death toll of 812 and unofficial death toll is estimated to be about 7,000.

Damage to property: Tsunamis generally cause great damage to property especially in the coastal regions. Huge loss of houses, roads, agricultural fields, factories are caused by tsunami.

Question 11.
What is meant by a landslide? Briefly discuss the causes of a landslide. [1 + 4]
Answer:
A landslide is the movement of rock, debris or earth down a slope. Landslide occurs when gravitational and other types of shear stress within a slope exceeds the shear strength of the materials that form the slope. Landslides are known also as landslips, slumps or slope failure.

Natural causes: The natural causes of landslides are as follows-
Intense/prolonged rainfall: Prolonged and intense rainfall is the immediate and direct cause of landslides where water acts as a lubricant. With prolonged and intense rainfall large amount of rainwa-
ter seeps into the soil that results in the increase in water pressure in the pores of the soil. The friction and internal cohesion of slope materials reduces which subsequently destabilises the slopes and causes landslides.

Earthquake: Earthquakes can trigger landslides in the critical reaches of hill slopes if the magnitude reaches 6 and above.
Slope gradient: Slopes with steeper gradients are more prone to landslides as gravity has more influence on these slopes, increasing its sliding force.
Loose materials: Unstable materials like large boulders increase the vulnerability of the slope to landslides.

Anthropogenic causes: The anthropogenic causes of landslides are as follows-
Deforestation: Large-scale deforestation can make a place vulnerable to landslide. As the trees are cut, the soils become loose as the roots do not bind them any more. This makes the region prone to landslides.

Urbanization: Unscientific construction of roads and houses on steep slopes disturbs soil stability which may lead to landslides.
Shifting cultivation: Shifting cultivation is an unsustainable practice that depletes the soil nutrients and reduces the forest cover, causing landslides.
Overgrazing: Overgrazing may result into land degradation that may subsequently lead to landslides.

For example: Darjeeling district is one of the most landslide-prone districts of West Bengal. Paglajhora region is highly prone to landslides due to both natural factors and increasing human activities for the last five decades.

Question 12.
What is meant by a blizzard? Discuss with examples how a blizzard can cause hazards and disasters. [2 + 3]
Answer:
A blizzard is a severe storm condition characterized by low temperatures, strong winds, and heavy snow. Blizzards can restrict visibility to near zero. Blizzards have a negative impact on local economies.
Characteristics: The main characteristics of a snowstorm are discussed below-
1. Strength of wind: Winds that are at least 56 kilometre per hour or greater than the normal snowstorm are identified as blizzards.
2. Visibility: The visibility is reduced to almost 400 metre or even to zero at times.
3. Duration: Most blizzards last for a duration of almost 3 hours.

Location: The occurrence of blizzards is most prominent in the countries of Antarctica, northern parts of North America, Canada, north of Europe and Asia as well as in New South Wales in Australia. Apart from these, the snowcapped high mountainous regions also experience blizzards.
Hazards caused by blizzards: During blizzards, winds combined with fleeting snow produce extreme conditions and disrupt normal living conditions. The hazards caused by blizzards are as follows-
1. Physical illness: The extreme cold winds during blizzards are a cause of great discomfort to the local people which may subsequently lead to physical illness and may even cause hypothermia.

2. Disrupts transport system: The thick layers of snow that accumulate during blizzards may disrupt the local transport system. Blizzards paralyse the transport system and leave the roads in an unsafe condition. For example, from March 11 to 14,1888 , a blizzard dumped an average of 1 metre of snow over southeast New York and south New England. It killed over 400 people, of which New York City alone recorded 200 deaths.

3. Flooding: The sudden warm-up that may follow a blizzard can prove to be damaging as the rapid snow-melt may trigger serious flooding and accidents.

4. Disrupts public life: Blizzards generally disrupt public life by interrupting transport, electricity and water supplies and also normal day-to-day life by interrupting health and educational facilities.

Question 13.
What is meant by volcanism? Discuss briefly the causes of volcanism.
Answer:
Volcanism is the process that refers to hot molten magma escaping from the earth’s core, cooling down and forming hard rocks. Volcanism can be of three types depending on the place where it occurs. They are as follows-
1. Extrusive volcanism: Molten lava that escapes the earth and reaches the surface is known as extrusive volcanism.
2. Intrusive volcanism: Molten magma that cools and hardens beneath the surface of the earth is known as intrusive volcanism.
3. Plutonic volcanism: Molten magma that cools and hardens deep beneath the surface of the earth, far below the crust is known as plutonic volcanism.

Causes of volcanism: The major causes of volcanism are as follows-
Plate tectonics: The earth’s crust is divided into a number of tectonic plates moving in different directions and at different speeds. This gives rise to occurrence of volcanoes.
At the divergent plate boundary: When two oceanic plates move away from each other, a gap is created in the seabed. Magma rises from great depths below to fill the space resulting in seafloor spreading which occurs at a rate of about 10 centimetres a year.

Convergent plate boundary: The volcanoes that occur at the boundaries where two plates move towards each other and subsequently one plate dives under another i.e., the convergent plate boundary, creating an deistic lava. These volcanoes undergo more violent eruptions containing ash.

Transformational plate boundary: The volcanoes that occur at the boundaries where the plates slide horizontally past each other i.e., the transformational plate boundary, are not very violent.

The buoyancy of the magma: As a rock inside the earth melts, its volume increases, producing magma that is less dense than the surrounding rock. This lighter magma rises up because of its buoyancy. Since the density of the magma between the zone of its generation and the surface is less than that of the surrounding and overlying rocks, the magma will reach the surface and erupt.

The pressure from the dissolved gases in the magma: Magma contains dissolved volatiles like water, sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide. The amount of dissolved gases in magma at atmospheric pressure is zero, but rises with increasing pressure. When magma moves toward the surface, the solubility of the water in the magma decreases, and excess water separates from the magma as bubbles. The closer it gets to the surface, more water comes from the magma, increasing the gas and magma ratio in the magma tube. When the volume of bubbles reaches about 75 %, the magma turns into partially molten and solid fragments and it erupts explosively.

Injection of new magma into an already filled magma chamber: As an additional amount of magma enters a chamber that is already at its full capacity, the new magma causes some of the existing magma to move to the surface and erupt.

Release of energy: A volcanic event occurs when there is a sudden or continued release of energy caused by magma movement near the surface. The energy can be in the form of earthquakes, gas emission at the surface, release of heat through geothermal activity, explosive release of gases and the non-explosive extrusion or intrusion of magma.

Question 14.
Briefly discuss the impact of vulcanicity.
Answer:
The impact of vulcanicity has been broadly shown as follows-

Impact on nature:

1. Deveiopment of landforms: Different types of landforms like caldera, cinder cones, lacolith, dykes, sills, etc., are formed due to vulcanicity.
2. Change in ecosystem: The ecological balance of the affected area is disturbed as many species of plants and animals become endangered.
3. Change of soil formation: Soil characteristics get changed as lava spreads across the land.
4. Change in local environment: Local environment is considerably changed. For example, there is a possibility of acid rain as a reaction of toxic gases released during vulcanicity.
5. Earthquakes: When explosions take place during volcanic eruptions on a massive scale, earthquakes may be felt in the adjoining areas.
6. Change in temperature: The temperature of the surrounding areas of a volcanic eruption increases.

Impact on human life:
Loss of life: A massive loss of life occurs as a result of vulcanicity. E.g., about 3600 people died in the coastal areas of Java when the Krakatoa volcano erupted in 1883.
Loss of property: Huge loss of property like buildings, transport network, industries occurs and the economic life of the whole region is affected.
(Loss of agricultural land: Large tracts of land are rendered infertile as a result of being covered by hot molten lava gushing out of the volcanoes. For example, the famous Barren Island of Andaman and Nicobar islands.

Volcanic activity occurs all of a sudden without any warning. However, an analysis of the movement of magma below the earth’s surface can provide some clue for future occurrences of volcanic activity and warnings can be issued accordingly.

Question 15.
What is a forest fire? Briefly discuss the causes of a forest fire. What remedial measures can be taken to prevent the occurrence of forest fires? [1+2+2]
Answer:
Forest fire: When a fire is ignited in a forest due to natural or man-made reasons, it is called a forest fire. There are various reasons for this, for example, lightning, vulcanicity, heat wave, casual or irresponsible activities of men.

Causes of forest fire:
Natural causes:

1. If a lightning strikes, dry leaves of trees or tree-trunks may get ignited.
2. in the dry season, a boulder coming down a mountain slope may give rise to a spark that leads to a fire.
3. A volcanic eruption may also cause a forest fire.

Man-made causes:

1. When a forest is burnt for clearing land for agricultural activities like in shifting cultivation, the fire may spread, causing a forest fire.
2. The fire used for cooking in tents by mountaineers may also cause forest fires.
3. If a lit cigarette is discarded by someone unmindfully on the forest floor, the dry leaves on the forest floor may cause a fire to break out.

Preventive measures against forest fires: The different measures that can be taken to prevent forest fire are-

1. not to throw any inflammable object or lighted object on the forest floor
2. to remove dry leaves and parts of plants and trees to safe corners as much as possible
3. to keep pets and other valuables at a safe distance
4. to dig a circular canal and make arrangements for adequate water around the zone of forest fire
5. act as per emergency instructions broadcast by radio or other devices during a forest fire
6. to arrange for awareness programmes for forest dwellers and people residing in forests regarding measures to save themselves.

Question 16.
Describe the main disasters of West Bengal.
Answer:
West Bengal is prone to various disasters such as droughts, floods, landslides, cyclonic storms, etc. The following table reveals the features of each of them-

Besides the above, certain phenomena like forest fires, river bank erosion, erosion of shorelines, pollution of underground water (arsenic pollution) etc., can take the shape of disasters.

Question 17.
What is an avalanche? What are the factors that cause avalanche? [2 + 3]
Answer:
Avalanche: When accumulated snow and ice slide down along the steep slopes (35°-45°) of mountains, encompassing a wide area, it is called an avalanche.

In the higher altitude of the mountain slopes, the upper part of the accumulated ice breaks apart from the underlying layer of ice. It hurls down along the steep slopes as a vast expanse of white sheet mainly due to the earth’s gravity. This phenomenon mostly occurs during the winter months.

Such occurrence of avalanches may be predicted by analysing the nature of the terrain on mountain peaks and slopes as well as meteorological or climatic data. Avalanches are a common feature in the mountainous areas of the Himalayas and the Alps.

Factors causing avalanches:
1. Slope of the land: It has been observed that avalanches are a common occurrence on slopes ranging from 35°-45° and concave slopes are more favourable than convex slopes of the mountain.
2. Accumulation of snow: Avalanches are influenced by the amount of snow or ice on the mountain tops, wind speed and direction, increase in temperature and melting of snow. Usually, the north and northeast facing slopes of mountains are more prone to avalanches.
3. Smoothness of slope: In comparison to forested or vegetated slopes, bare and smooth slopes act as a trigger for avalanches.
4. Size of ice crystals: Since bigger ice crystals are weak and break easily, they are more prone to initiate an avalanche compared to compacted or packed ice.
5. Sun rays: Since the sun’s rays warm up the ice, they lead to avalanches.
6. Wind flow: Winds blowing from varying directions loosen up the ice and initiate an avalanche.
7. Human interference: Human activities such as cutting down of trees, construction of roads, explosion by dynamite, ice-sports etc., increase the possibilities of avalanches.

Question 18.
What measures should be taken to control disasters like floods and droughts?
Answer :
To reduce occurrence of floods:
1. If climatic conditions change naturally, rainfall intensity is decreased and as a result, there would be lesser floods.
2. Watershed management and proper drainage system, afforestation, changing the slope by constructing terraces, control of overgrazing, contour-farming etc., can check the occurrence of floods.

Change of direction of floods:

1. Construct barrages and reservoirs to store excess water of rivers,
2. construct dykes or dams across rivers at specific locations in order to prevent flooding of low-lying areas,
3. regular dredging of the river bed is needed to lower the level of silt for smooth flow of river water so that the banks do not overflow and cause floods.

Planning to prevent occurrence of floods:

1. Implementation of strict laws to bar construction of houses etc., in floodprone areas along rivers
2. dredging and reclaiming dead and decaying rivers
3. increasing public awareness through propaganda and advertisements – by these methods, losses incurred due to floods can be reduced.

Measures to be taken during floods:

• Stay back at home, or at a higher ground when the level of floodwater rises.
• Keep the following items handy-polythene packets, cord, torch, matchbox, candles, important documents, dry clothes, dry food, radio, mosquito net, pure drinking water etc.
• Switch off electrical switches and appliances, close taps and lock gas cylinders.
• Wait for relief to arrive from government agencies, NGOs etc., and abide by the advice given by them instead of panicking.

Measures to be taken to control droughts:

• Construction of reservoirs, implementation of water conservation projects, increasing the efficiency of irrigation etc.
• encourage and practice dry farming and use drought-resistant seeds of crops
• have food security and reduce wastage of water
• drill deep tubewells by adopting modern techniques
• arrange for proper distribution of relief to droughthit victims.

Question 19.
Discuss the importance of disaster management.
Answer:
Importance of disaster management: The main purpose of disaster management is to reduce losses in all spheres such as, social, economic, environmental etc.

Prevention of environmental damage:

1. Pollution control: Pollution can be controlled to a great extent if certain measures are taken. For example, air pollution can be controlled if the dust particles produced during landslides are reduced by attempting to check the occurrence of landslides (by adopting various measures).
2. To maintain ecological balance: By adopting appropriate measures of disaster management, the damage incurred to the environment can be reversed.
3. Prevention of loss due to natural disasters: Disasters can be reduced or even prevented by adopting disaster management measures like forecasting disasters, carrying on research, conducting mock drills and spreading awareness, warnings, etc.

Prevention of social damage:

1. Rehabilitation of affected people: A damaged area can be restored to its original normal state by acting on an emergency basis and on a war-footing. For example, rapid action taken for rescuing people and rehabilitating them would be of immense help.
2. Aids and supplies: Supply of necessary items like food, water, shelter, etc., is possible through the aids by state and central governments.
3. Prevention of loss of property: If a warning is issued prior to the disaster, much of the damage caused to life and property can be minimised.

Prevention of economic loss:

1. Prevention of agricultural loss: The fertility of the land diminishes and salinity of soil may also increase as a result of floods, droughts, earthquakes etc. Proper infrastructure can be developed for cultivation of crops if forecast of any disaster is made.
2. Prevention of disruption of transport system: When the transport system is disrupted due to calamities like, landslides, earthquakes etc., alternative modes of transport can be arranged to alleviate the problem.
3. Reducing economic loss: The economy of any region is hampered as a result of loss in the agricultural and industrial sector due to natural calamities. Appropriate measures can be taken for proper disaster management, thereby reducing such economic losses.
4. Prevention of industrial loss: Various industrial products and infrastructure are damaged which can be restored by undertaking proper disaster management programmes.

Question 20.
What is meant by disaster management? What are the various measures adopted for it? [1 + 4]
Answer:
Disaster management: Disaster is any kind of temporary or permanent damage entailing a loss of human life and disruption of normal activities (due to natural or man-made causes) and cannot be dealt without external aid. Disaster management is the means to control and restore such a disruptive situation (through various measures).
Measures taken for disaster management: They are as follows-

Pre-disaster measures:
1. Data collection: Data related to causative factors of disasters should be collected. For example, in the case of floods and droughts, rainfall data for the past years should be taken.
2. Data analysis and mapping: The collected data is then analysed to determine the intensity and extent of the disaster and mapping is done on that basis. For example, 375 mmannual rainfall for drought, 375-750 mm annual rainfall for semi-arid conditions are the usual determinants.
3. Research: After mapping, a thorough research is undertaken in order to assess the past as well as future predicaments.
4. Forecast: If proper forecast is done through data analysis using modern technology, the amount of loss or damage caused by any disaster can be minimised.
5.Training: Training can be imparted to all including common people, army personnel etc., by the authorities at the centre, state and district levels so that the loss and damage incurred in a disaster is minimal.
6. Warning: Steps should be taken for increasing public awareness and precautionary measures should be taken.

Measures taken during disasters:

1. Rescue operations: These should be done on an emergency basis by both the general public and army personnel in order to save maximum number of people and animals.

2. Relief operations: Relief materials can be made available to the people of the affected area by central and state government agencies and the extent of loss and damage can be estimated. Preventive measures can also be taken to control further deterioration of the situation. For example, necessary medicines, food and safe drinking water can be provided to them to prevent the spread of an epidemic in the near future.

Post-disaster measures :

1. Rehabilitation: Normal life can be restored by providing aid and making arrangements for reconstruction of damaged houses, roads, transport and other civic amenities and services including agricultural and industrial establishments. Temporary shelters must also be made on an urgent basis.

2. Reconstruction: A host of measures can be taken, like planning different projects and creating jobs in different sectors, to normalise the economic condition of the affected people. For example, in the case of drought-prone areas, watershed projects, irrigation projects etc., can aid in reducing the chances as well as the impact (where a disaster has already taken place) of such disasters.

Although natural calamities like earthquakes, vulcanicity, etc., cannot be prevented and are beyond human control, proper pre-disaster planning by conducting surveys and analysing previously recorded data can reduce the impact of such a calamity. By providing precautionary measures and spreading general awareness in the concerned areas, the disastrous effects can be minimised.

Question 21.
What are the measures taken for managing disasters like earthquakes and landslides? [3 + 2]
Answer:
The measures taken to control and manage such disasters are as follows-
Measures taken before an earthquake:

1. Earthquake-resistant houses should be constructed for people living in earthquake prone areas.
2. Electricity, gas and water connections should be promptly disconnected when an earthquake strikes.
3. The basic amenities needed for survival, like drinking water, food, torch, candles, etc., should be stored in adequate amounts.
4. People should also know how to contact the nearest fire station, health-centre etc., in case of exigencies.

Measures to be taken during an earthquake:

1. One should leave the house and move to any vacant, open place.
2. One can take shelter beneath any sturdy furniture, like a table, bed, etc.
3. Any kind of inflammable objects like matchboxes, candles, gas ovens should not be used.
4. One should not try to jump from windows or doors from great heights.

Measures to be taken after an earthquake:

1. If the house is damaged, one must take shelter in any relief camp, but necessary medicines, water and dry food should be taken along.
2. One should be calm and listen carefully to the advice given on radio or any other public announcements made outside the house.
3. One should not go to the seashore or to a lowlying river bank as there are chances of rising of water level.
4. First-aid should be given to the injured people.
5. One should not touch any electrical wire or metal object as he may get electrocuted due to short circuit.
6. Lighting of matches, lighters and cigarette smoking should be avoided. In case of any emergency, for example, a leak property) can be reduced to a great extent.

The students have a major role to play here. Usually, there are 3 steps of disaster management –

1. pre-disaster stage,
2. during disaster stage,
3. post-disaster stage.

Pre-disaster stage:
Evaluation of risk: The students must have an idea of the area in which they reside and how prone it is to a disaster. E.g., Nadia is a highly flood prone area while East Midnapore is prone to thunderstorms.

Preparedness: Any place or area can experience a disaster, hence mock-drills must be done to make people aware about what measures can be taken to combat it. For example, if any area is prone to floods, how should people reach higher grounds to save themselves, what types of food and medicines they should carry with them, etc., must be rehearsed.

Warning measures: If the students get the warning beforehand, they can not only prepare themselves, but can also warn their neighbours at the same time.

Development of infrastructure: The students can learn from their teachers the names and addresses of those government and non-governmental organisations and agencies, which usually provide with relief, evacuation, rehabilitation measures, etc. Examples of such organisations are the Meteorological Office, police administrations, hospitals, NGOs, etc.

Spreading awareness among general public: The students’ volunteers should impart lessons on measures to be taken for disaster management. The local people can thus be educated and made aware of tackling such situations.

Enlisting property: The students must make a list of certain properties that may be used as safety props during a disaster. For examples, suitable buildings and schools-for converting them into relief camps, dry food, torch and other emergency articles like medicines etc.

During disaster stage: Every student must undertake the responsibility of protecting and rescuing himself or herself and their family members. Their neighbours must also receive the same helping hand.

Post-disaster stage:
1. During the urgent need for providing relief (in the form of food, water, medicines, clothes, temporary shelters, etc.), the students must properly contact the relevant organisations which provide these in order to accelerate the relief process.
2. The students should work hand in hand with the professional rescue operators.

From the above discussion, it is clear that if the students are imparted relevant lessons and given proper training, a substantial amount of life and property can be saved. The teachers have an important role in this regard as well.

Question 24.
Discuss the measures taken to tackle disasters in West Bengal.
Answer:
In West Bengal, different types of measures are taken to tackle various disasters. The following are some of the measures taken-
Tangible measures: They are as follows-
In case of droughts:
1. Reclamation of dying and decaying rivers, ponds, lakes and wetlands are to be done for storing water for times of crises.
2. Sources of water are to be conserved carefully and rainwater harvesting measures are to be taken.

In case of floods:

1. Level of the rivers are lowered by dredging of silt accumulated in them, so that the water-bearing capacity is increased to allow smooth flow of the river.
2. Reservoirs are constructed adjacent to rivers in order to store excess water.
3. Embankments are constructed along the river banks to prevent water from overflowing and inundating the floodplains.

In case of landslides:

1. Soil erosion can be prevented on mountain slopes by planting trees.
2. Landslides can also be prevented by putting boulders, building concrete walls, etc., at the base of the mountain slopes.

In case of cyclonic storms:

1. Construct stable shelters so that people can save their lives during storms.
2. Plant big stormresistant trees along the shoreline to obstruct gusty winds.
3. Make announcements to warn the fishermen against going for fishing in the open sea.

In case of tsunamis: Tall embankments are being constructed and sturdy trees are being planted along the coastline of West Bengal.
In case of earthquakes: A geological study of specific areas is conducted prior to building houses. For constructing multistoreyed buildings, earthquake-resistant structures are recommended.

Intangible measures: The measures taken are as follows –

In case of droughts:

1. Maps of drought prone areas of West Bengal are being prepared.
2. Land conservation measures are being taken.

In case of floods:

1. Maps of flood-prone areas of West Bengal are being prepared by surveying flood-affected and flood-prone areas.
2. People are warned before water is discharged from any dam to release excess flood water.
3. Various projects are under way in different parts of West Bengal, where several two-storeyed houses are constructed for villagers to take shelter during floods.

In case of landslide:

1. Maps are being prepared for landslide prone areas of West Bengal.
2. Proper land-use practices in mountainous areas and scientific farming methods (like terrace-farming, contourfarming, etc.) are being adopted here.
3. Laws are being made and implemented to prevent overgrazing of animals in areas where landslides are rampant.
4. Planned urbanisation, including building of houses and construction of roads, etc., should be done.

In case of cyclonic storms:

1. Minimum settlement areas have to be developed in coastal areas where prevalence and impact of cyclonic storms are the greatest.
2. Arrangements are made so that announcements of forecasts of such storms can reach the people of the area well in advance and should therefore be made on an emergency basis.

In case of tsunamis: Various projects are being planned to construct shelters on higher grounds so that people can be shifted there during a tsunami.

In case of earthquakes:

1. Various kinds of training are being imparted to the people by the Government as to how to tackle such occurrences.
2. Preventive measures have been taken for after-effects of earthquakes like landslides, forest fires, houses catching fire, etc.

A ‘Disaster Management Team’ has been formed by the government of West Bengal. Moreover, propaganda through seminars, posters, documentary films, slideshows, etc., are being made so that people can save themselves when faced with a natural disaster.

Detailed explanations in West Bengal Board Class 9 Geography Book Solutions Chapter 5 Weathering offer valuable context and analysis.

WBBSE Class 9 Geography Chapter 5 Question Answer – Weathering

Very Short Questions and Answers : (1 mark for each question)

Question 1.
Where does granular disintegration take place?
Answer:
Desert area.

Question 2.
Which gaseous component is needed in oxidation?
Answer:
Oxygen.

Question 3.
Combining of rock minerals with water is called?
Answer:
Hydration.

Question 4.
Which type of weathering results in rusting of rocks?
Answer:
bxidation.

Question 5.
Name a burrowing animal.
Answer:
Rat.

Question 6.
Exfoliation occurs in which type of rock?
Answer:
branite.

Question 7.
Which type of weathering occurs due to construction of houses and roads?
Answer:
Mechanical weathering.

Question 8.
Ice disintegration occurs in which climatic region?
Answer:
Tundra.

Question 9.
Which type of weathering causes changes in the structural composition of rocks?
Answer:
Chemical weathering.

Question 10.
Which type of weathering is hydrolysis?
Answer:
Chemical weathering.

Question 11.
Name the cone-shaped depositional feature formed as a result of mechanical weathering on hill slopes.
Answer:
Scree or Talus.

Question 12.
Decomposition of organic matter creates which acid?
Answer:
Humic acid.

Question 13.
Where does mass wasting occur?
Answer:
Mountainous area.

Question 14.
Give example of an easily soluble rock.
Answer:
Limestone.

Question 15.
Which two components are most important in case of weathering?
Answer:
Temperature and rainfall.

Question 16.
Mechanical weathering is predominant in which climatic regions?
Answer:
Arid and semi-arid regions.

Question 17.
Which type of weathering is prevalent in homogeneous rocks?
Answer:
Exfoliation.

Question 18.
Which type of weathering occurs in limestone areas?
Answer:
Carbonation.

Question 19.
Which type of weathering is prevalent in the rainy tropical region?
Answer:
Chemical weathering.

Question 20.
What is the loose and thin layer of finely fragmented rocks caused due to weathering known as?
Answer:
Regolith.

Question 21.
What type of chemical weathering is caused due to the reaction of iron with oxygen?
Answer:
Oxidation.

Question 22.
Ferrous oxide is converted into which compound as result of oxidation?
Answer:
Anhydrous ferrous oxide.

Question 23.
What is the process whereby small grained rocks are further fragmented known as?
Answer:
blaking.

Question 24.
Which process causes disintegration of rocks as a result of decrease in pressure of the rock layers (due to mechanical weathering)?
Answer:
Sheeting.

Question 25.
What is formed as a result of decomposition of branches, leaves, flowers and fruits of trees after they fall to the ground?
Answer:
Humus.

Question 26.
The process whereby rocks are broken apart is an example of which type of weathering?
Answer:
Mechanical weathering.

Question 27.
What occurs when rocks get heated during day time?
Answer:
They increase in volume.

Question 28.
Which type of weathering causes rocks to get fragmented in a square shape?
Answer:
Block disintegration.

Question 29.
Which type of weathering causes rock layers to come off like the peels of an onion?
Answer:
Exfoliation.

Question 30.
Who was the first to use the term ‘weathering’?
Answer:
G. K. Gilbert.

Question 31.
Which type of weathering is predominant in the Thar Desert?
Answer:
Granular disintegration.

Question 32.
In which type of weathering does gunshotlike noises occur?
Answer:
Granular disintegration.

Question 33.
In which type of weathering does both physical and chemical changes occur in rocks?
Answer:
Chemical weathering.

Question 34.
In the process of soil formation, when the minerals present in the regolith are removed from the upper to lower layers, what is this process known as?
Answer:
Eluviation.

Question 35.
What is the process by which humus is formed?
Answer:
Humification.

Question 36.
When weathering occurs as a natural process, what is it called?
Answer:
Geomorphic weathering.

Question 37.
What is the process by which the depth of gullies increases due to erosion called?
Answer:
Gully erosion.

Question 38.
How can the soil in the slopes of mountains be conserved by carving step-like structures?
Answer:
Terrace farming.

Question 39.
What is the process of conserving soil by covering it with a layer of organic material called?
Answer:
Mulching.

Short Questions and Answers : (2 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What is weathering?
Answer:
When rocks are broken down in their own places (‘in situ’) either mechanically or chemically due to the action of various elements of weather (viz., temperature, rainfall, etc.) the process is known as weathering.

Question 2.
What are the various types of weathering?
Answer:
Weathering can be of 3 types-

1. mechanical
2. chemical
3. biological weathering

Question 3.
What is mechanical weathering?
Answer:
When different elements of weather (like temperature, rainfall, etc.) break down the rocks in their own places, this process of rock fragmentation is known as mechanical weathering.

Question 4.
What is chemical weathering?
Answer:
When rocks are subject to decomposition due to reaction with oxygen, carbon dioxide, water vapour, etc., present in the atmosphere or water, the process is known as chemical weathering.

Question 5.
Where is mechanical weathering more prevalent on the earth’s surface?
Answer:
Mechanical weathering takes place mostly in high mountainous areas and in hot and dry desert regions. For example, the rocks are fragmented as a result of exfoliation, block disintegration and granular disintegration in the hot and dry desert regions.

Question 6.
Chemical weathering is prevalent in which climatic region?
Answer:
Due to high temperature and heavy rainfall, the Equational regions are more prone to chemical weathering (as a result of hydrolysis, hydration, etc.).

Question 7.
What is erosion?
Answer:
When fragmented rocks are transported from their original place of weathering to some other place by various agents like rivers, glaciers, winds, etc., this process is called erosion.

Question 8.
What is denudation?
Answer:
When the underlying rock layer of the earth’s surface is exposed as a result of the upper layer of rock being weathered and transported to some other place (erosion) by various agents, this process is called denudation (‘denude’ means to ‘lay bare’).

Question 9.
What is biological weathering?
Answer:
Rocks are sometimes broken down by plants and animals. Again, humic acid from decaying plants and animals results in breaking down of rocks. When the rocks are subject to change as a result of the decaying of plants and animals, the process is known as biological weathering.

Question 10.
What are the different types of biological weathering?
Answer:
Biological weathering is of two types 1. bio-mechanical weathering, and 2. biochemical weathering.

Question 11.
What is mass wasting?
Answer:
When fragmented rocks, pebbles, mud, etc., slide down the slope or gradient of a mountain or a highland (as a result of gravitational force), as a mass of weathered matter, the process is called mass wasting.

Question 12.
How can mass wasting be classified?
Answer:
The 2 main types of mass wasting are 1. slow movement, and 2. rapid movement.

Question 13.
What is block disintegration?
Answer:
It is a type of mechanical weathering. When the cracks in the rocks expand and contract due to differential heating (i.e., hot during daytime and cool at night), they are weakened and eventually break apart in the form of blocks. This is called block disintegration.

Question 14.
Where does mechanical weathering due to frost/ice occur?
Answer:
In the high mountainous areas and Arctic regions, frost/ice plays a major role in mechanical weathering. The ice filling up in the cracks of the rocks exerts pressure on either side and eventually breaks the rocks.

Question 15.
What is granular disintegration?
Answer:
Granular disintegration is a type of mechanical weathering found in the hot and arid desert regions. Due to of differential heating, the various minerals present in the rocks expand and contract alternately and these rates of expansion and contraction differ in case of different minerals. As a result, the rocks are broken down into small fragments. This process is known as granular disintegration.

Question 16.
What is exfoliation?
Answer:
When the intensity of temperature is high, there is a difference of temperature in the outer and inner layers of the rocks. As a result, the outer layers of the rocks come off from the underlying layers (like onion peels). This is called exfoliation. The surface of the rock assumes a rounded shape as a result of this. Exfoliation is a common occurrence in the granite-gneiss rocks of Chota Nagpur Plateau (near Ranchi) in India.

Question 17.
What is oxidation?
Answer:
Chemical reaction occurs in the rocks as a result of water (in the presence of oxygen) reacting especially with iron present in the rocks. It forms oxides and hydroxides and eventually weakens and dissolves the rocks. Brownish/yellowish stains are seen on the rocks as a result of rust formation.

Question 18.
What is carbonation?
Answer:
When water is mixed into carbon dioxide, carbonic acid is formed and it chemically reacts with calcium carbonate present in the rocks, and then dissolves the rocks. This process is known as carbonation. This is how limestones are dissolved and karst landforms are formed. For example, Borra caves near Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.

Question 19.
What is hydration?
Answer:
When the minerals present in the rocks mix with water, they expand, create pressure on the rocks and dissolve them. This process is called hydration. This is an important process of chemical weathering.

Hydration actually causes granular disintegration and makes the rocks further susceptible to chemical weathering, especially by oxidation and carbonation. For example, the process of hydration changes feldspar into kaolinite clay, and the process known as kaolinisation.

Question 20.
What is hydrolysis?
Answer:
The chemical combination of minerals with water to form insoluble precipitates like clay is called hydrolysis. For example, clay and silicon are by-products of such a chemical reaction of granite. Another example is shown below-

Question 21.
What is the role of plants in biological weathering?
Answer:
1. When the roots of plants grow and exert pressure on the cracks in the rocks, the rocks disintegrate.
2. The rotten plant remains (viz., leaves, stems/trunks, etc.) result in the formation of humic acid, which eventually dissolves the rocks.

Question 22.
What is the role of human beings in biological weathering?
Answer:
1. Rocks are broken down into fragments as a result of agricultural practices, mining activities, etc.
2. Rocks are disintegrated and dissolved as a result of construction of houses, roads, excavation of canals, etc.

Question 23.
What is soil erosion?
Answer:
When soil particles are separated and transported elsewhere due to natural or man-made factors, it is called soil erosion. For example, soil erosion occurs as a result of run-off caused by rainfall (the top soil is washed off and transported elsewhere).

Question 24.
Where is terrace farming practiced?
Answer:
Terrace farming (or step farming) is usually practiced along the slopes of mountains. For example, it is common in the hill slopes of Darjeeling.

Question 25.
Why is weathering also known as disintegration process?
Answer:
The rocks on the earth’s surface are either disintegrated or decomposed as a result of the process of weathering and that is why it is also called a process of disintegration.

Question 26.
What is ‘colloid plucking’?
Answer:
The wet soil particles or colloids that form on the rocks, dry up eventually and exert pressure on the minerals present in the rocks. This results in weathering of rocks and this process is called ‘colloid plucking’.

Question 27.
Why is carbonation more predominant in limestone regions?
Answer:
The process of carbonation is predominant in limestone regions. When carbon dioxide mixes with water it forms carbonic acid, and when this reacts with limestone (calcium carbonate), it forms calcium bicarbonate and dissolves the limestone.

Question 28.
What is talus?
Answer:
Action of ice and snow in the cold mountainous regions, widens the cracks in the rocks and eventually breaks the rocks into angular fragments. These fragments are deposited at the foothill zones in a conelike formation known as talus or scree. These features are commonly seen in the Ladakh region. They are also known as Blackspade or Felsenmeer.

Question 29.
What type of mechanical weathering is more prevalent in the mountainous regions?
Answer:
In the high mountainous regions where the temperature falls below freezing point at night, water turns into ice and during daytime, when the temperature increases, this ice melts down into water. Due to this alternate heating and cooling process, mechanical weathering is prevalent in such areas.

Question 30.
What is humification?
Answer:
The process by which the organic matter present in the soil is decomposed by microorganisms and turned into black coloured hums, is called hunification.

Question 31.
What is eluviation and illuviation?
Answer:
1. The process by which the dissolved minerals in the upper layers of the soil are transferred to the lower layers is called eluviation.
2. The process in which the minerals present in the soil are deposited in the lower layers of the soil/rocks is known as illuviation.

Question 32.
What is Terra Rosa?
Answer:
In the karst region, the dissolved limestone is removed and accumulated in the upper layers of the soil as a result of the process of carbonation. This red coloured layer of soil deposited on the earth’s surface is called Terra Rosa (‘terra’ meaning soil and ‘rosa’ meaning red).

Question 33.
What is regolith?
Answer:
The disintegrated and decomposed rock particles lying on the upper layers of the earth’s surface are called regolith. It is from this regolith that the soil-forming process starts (a slow process).

Question 34.
What is solum?
Answer:
The soil which is formed from the original rock bed lying beneath it is called solum. The term ‘soil’ is derived from the Latin word ‘solum’.

Question 35.
Why is chemical weathering more common in the Equatorial regions?
Answer:
The Equatorial regions experience chemical weathering because-
1. the equatorial regions have high temperature and receive rainfall throughout the year
2. the leaves of the forests in this region fall on the ground and form humic acid, which facilitates chemical decomposition of the rocks.

Question 36.
Why does rust form on rocks?
Answer:
The iron-bearing minerals present in certain rocks are prone to the formation of rust. The process of oxidation converts the ferrous oxide present in the rocks into ferric acid, which results in the formation of light brown and yellow coloured rust.

Question 37.
What are tors?
Answer:
Due to differential weathering, the inner layers of the rocks are exposed to the surface when the surrounding soft regolith is removed. Sometimes the rocks that have broken apart along the points or cracks in the granite-gneiss rocks may tumble down the slope of hills. These upright hard rocks situated on the slopes or in the foothills of gently sloping hills are called tors.

Question 38.
What is desert-varnish?
Answer:
In the desert areas, the orangish-yellow coloured coating that forms on the rock layers is called desert-varnish. It is composed of clay, iron and manganese oxide. They are found mostly in basalt and quartzite rocks.

Short Questions and Answers : (3 marks for each question)

Question 1.
How does terrace farming help in conserving soli?
Answer:
The rate of flow of water along the slopes of hills and mountains can be controlled. In such areas, farming is done on steps cut along the slopes at different heights. Each step on terrace is bordered by slightly elevated mud bunds which prevent washing away of water down the slope and thus store water on these terraces. Thus, run off is reduced and infiltration of water underground is increased. These terraces are of three types-

1. Bench-like steps: The lower part of these steps are flat and on the outer sides, low bunds are constructed.
2. Successive steps: A series of steps or terraces at different altitudes (like a staircase), prevents water from flowing out and thus conserves soil.
3. Plain or flat steps: The lower part of these steps are flat and different crops are cultivated here. Thus, water is stored and soil erosion is prevented because run-off is controlled.

Question 2.
Why is granular disintegration more prevalent in hot desert areas?
Answer:
In the hot desert areas, the rocks expand on being heated up during daytime, whereas during the night, when the temperature falls, the rocks cool down and contract. This alternate process of relaxation (during heating) and tension (during cooling) results in breaking up of the rocks into smaller fragments.

Question 3.
Which type of landforms result from mechanical weathering?
Answer:

1. A soft layer of soil called regolith is formed due to mechanical weathering.
2. Due to exfoliation, rounded hills (especially in granite-gneiss rocks) are formed. For example, Ranchi dome near Ranchi lake in Jharkhand.
3. In cold climatic regions, angular rock fragments are formed as a result of weathering by ice and these accumulate in a cone-shaped manner in the foothill zones, and is called talus or scree.

Question 4.
What are the controlling factors of weathering?
Answer:
The controlling factors of weathering are as follows-

1. Structure of rocks: Weathering is accelerated in soft and jointed (with cracks and fissures) rocks.
2. Relief or topography: Weathering process is more active in steep slopes of hills and plateaus.
3. Climate: The different factors of climate (moisture in the air or humidity, rainfall, temperature) influence weathering to a great extent.
4. Biotic factors: Roots of plants and trees, flowers, fruits, man and other animals (viz., burrowing animals), are important controlling factors of weathering process.

Question 5.
How does weathering help in increasing soil fertility?
Answer:
The role of weathering in increasing soil fertility is discussed as follows –
A soft layer called regolith is formed on the upper surface of the earth as a result of weathering. The minerals present in this regolith seep underground and supply essential nutrients to the plants.

The roots of trees cause the rocks to break apart (biotic or biological weathering). Besides, burrowing animals like rabbits, rats, etc., loosen up the soil by digging into it and thereby allows air to pass below the soil which is beneficial to the plants.

Humus is formed as a result of decaying of leaves, flowers, etc., that are shed from the trees. When humus mixes with the oxygen present in the atmosphere, it enriches the various minerals found in the soil, which, in turn, increase the fertility of the soil.

Question 6.
What is the role of man in soil erosion?
Answer:
The activities carried out by human beings that lead to soil erosion, are as follows-

1. Deforestation: Due to cutting down of trees, the soil is exposed to weathering. Thus rains wash away the fertile topsoil.
2. Unscientific methods of cultivation: Shifting cultivation, intensive cultivation, etc., reduce soil fertility and increase soil erosion.
3. Increased grazing: Excessive grazing practised on the thin soil along the mountain slopes, leads to exposure of the soil to weathering and erosion.

Write the differences between the following –

Question 1.
Exfoliation and Frost action
Answer:
The differences between exfoliation and frost action are as follows-

Points of difierence	Exfoliation	Frost Action
1. Concept	The rock layers peel off and come out like onion peels as a result of high temperature in this process.	In the cold climatic regions, ice crystals formed within the rock layers aid in disintegrating the rocks.
2. Process	Due to difference of temperature there is expansion and contraction of the rocks, resulting in its weathering.	The ice crystals formed within the cracks of the rocks exert pressure and thereby break the rocks.
3. Occurrence	It usually occurs in deserts or arid and dry climatic regions.	It usually occurs in cold mountainous regions or polar regions.

Question 2.
Weathering and Mass wasting
Answer:
The differences between weathering and mass wasting are as follows-

Points of difference	Weathering	Mass Wasting
1. Concept	When climatic elements are responsible for disintegration and decomposition of rocks, it is called weathering.	When the weathered debris of rocks are carried down slopes due to gravity and are transported and deposited elsewhere, it is known as mass wasting.
2. Classification	(1) Mechanical, (2) chemical, (3) biological	(1) Slow, and (2) rapid or fast movement
3. Characteristics	This is a static process, i.e., the weathered material is deposited ‘in situ’ or in its original place.	This is a dynamic process, where weathered material is transported and deposited elsewhere.

Question 3.
Weathering and Erosion
Answer:
The differences between weathering and erosion are as follows-

Points of difference	Weathering	Erosion
1. Concept	It is the disintegration and decomposition of rocks ‘in situ’, carried out by the climatic factors (temperature, precipitation, etc.).	Erosion is the process of carrying away of rock debris by rivers, winds, etc., (operating on the earth’s surface) from one place to another.
2. Dependency	It does not depend on erosion.	It depends on weathering.
3. Rate / Pace	It is a very slow process.	It is a relatively fast process.

Question 4.
Weathering and Denudation
Answer:
The differences between weathering and denudation are as follows-

Points of difference	Weathering	Denudation
1. Concept	Weathering is the disintegration and decomposition of rocks by climatic factors (temperature, precipitation, etc.).	Denudation is the process in which the lower layers of the rocks are exposed when the upper layers are removed by weathering and erosion.
2. Dependency	It does not depend on denudation.	It depends on weathering.
3. Evolution of landforms	It is not related directly to evolution of landforms.	It has a vital role in the evolution of landforms, which is a long-term process.

Question 5.
Exfoliation and Granular disintegration
Answer:
The differences between exfoliation and granular disintegration are as follows-

Points of difference	Exfoliation	Granular Disintegration
1. Nature of rocks	This occurs in homogeneous rocks.	This occurs in heterogeneous rocks.
2. Type of weathering	In this type of weathering, the rock layers come off like peeled off onions.	Rocks are disintegrated into smaller and minute particles or grains.
3. Relief	The landforms formed as a result of this type of weathering are rounded or dome shaped.	The tops of the hills and mountains become conical as a result of this type of weathering.

Question 6.
Erosion and Mass wasting
Answer:
The differences between erosion and mass wasting are as follows-

Points of difference	Erosion	Mass Wasting
1. Concept	It is the process of carrying away of weathered rocks by natural agents from one place to another.	Mass wasting is the movement of rock debris down hill slopes due to gravity.
2. Process	Abrasion, attrition, solution, etc.	This process can be both slow and fast.
3. Visibility	It is visible everywhere.	It is visible in high relief or sloping areas.

Question 7.
Mechanical and Chemical weathering
Answer:
The differences between mechanical and chemical weathering are as follows-

Points of difference	Mechanical Weathering	Chemical Weathering
1. Place of occurrence	Rocks are disintegrated in their own places in this type of weathering.	Rocks are decomposed in their own places in this type of weathering.
2. Alteration of Minerals	It does not lead to the formation of new minerals.	It leads to the formation of new minerals.
3. Main factors	Temperature, precipitation, etc.	O2, CO2, water, minerals, etc.

Question 8.
Oxidation and Carbonation
Answer:
The differences between oxidation and carbonation are as follows-

Question 9.
Hydration and Hydrolysis
Answer:
The differences between hydration and hydrolysis are as follows-

Question 10.
Mechanical weathering and Biological weathering
Answer:
The differences between mechanical weathering and biological weathering are as follows:-

Points of difference	Mechanical Weathering	Biological Weathering
1. Concept	Disintegration of rocks by various climatic factors is called mechanical weathering.	Disintegration of rocks by various plants and animals (man, bacteria, virus) is called biological weathering.
2. Process	Rocks disintegrated only by mechanical weathering.	Rocks disintegrated by both mechanical as well as chemical weathering.
3. Areas of occurrence	This type of weathering is commonly seen in hot desert areas, cold mountainous areas and cold polar regions.	It is commonly seen in areas where life forms are abundant.

Question 11.
Chemical weathering and Biological weathering.
Answer:
The differences between chemical and biological weathering are as follows-

Points of difference	Chemical Weathering	Biological Weathering
1. Concept	The process of decomposition and disintegration of rocks by acid, CO2, O2 water is called chemical weathering.	The process of disintegration of rocks by plants and animals is called biological weathering.
2. Characteristics of rocks	Characteristics of rocks change as a result of change in their chemical composition in this process.	Physical and chemical characteristics of rocks change in this process.
3. Areas of occurrence	This type of weathering is common in Equatorial, Tropical and humid climatic regions.	This type of weathering is common in regions characterised by abundant life forms.

Give reasons for the following –

Question 1.
Mechanical weathering is predominant in desert areas.
Answer :
The factors responsible for the predominance of mechanical weathering in desert areas are as follows –
1. Range or difference of temperature is high: The daily or diurnal range of temperature (difference of temperature between day and night) is high in desert areas. Rocks expand due to heating during daytime while they contract due to cooling at night. This results in the fragmentation and mechanical disintegration of rocks.

2. Scarcity of rainfall: Chemical weathering rarely takes place due to scarcity rainfall in the desert areas. Vegetation is also scarce due to lack of water. So, when rainfall occurs all of a sudden, rocks are weathered rapidly under its influence.

3. Excessive denudation: Desert areas, being more prone to denudation, the upper layers of the rocks are removed and the rocks beneath are relieved from pressure. The underlying rocks expand consequently and cracks are formed. Subsequently, the rocks disintegrate along these cracks.

Question 2.
Rainfall has an impact on mechanical weathering.
Answer:
Rainfall influences mechanical weathering due to the following reasons-

1. Formation of ice: Rainfall is responsible for the formation of ice crystals within the cracks of rocks in colder climatic regions. These crystals subsequently disintegrate the rocks.
2. Raindrops hitting rocks: Raindrops hitting the rock surface over long periods ultimately lead to the breaking of the rocks.
3. Expansion of rocks: Rain water seeping into the rocks expand the volume of the mineral constituents within them, which, in turn, leads to the breaking apart of the rocks (by mechanical weathering).

Question 3.
Weathering and climate are interrelated.
Answer:
The interrelation between weathering and climate can be discussed if we study the following climatic regions-
1. Equatorial climatic region: Temperature and rainfall are intense throughout the year in this region. Along with chemical weathering, mechanical weathering is also rampant here due to excessive heat.
2. Hot and dry desert climatic region: Due to long periods of intense heat and almost negligible rainfall, mechanical weathering is predominant here. For example, exfoliation, granular disintegration, etc.
3. Cold mountainous climatic region / Arctic region: Due to excessive cold, formation of ice crystals along the cracks of rocks cause mechanical weathering.

Question 4.
Hot and humid climatic regions are more prone to chemical weathering.
Answer:
The hot and humid climate of the Equatorial and Tropical regions have high temperature and rainfall and this is the reason why chemical weathering is predominant here. The following are the specific reasons-
1. When rainwater falls over the earth’s surface, it mixes with the CO₂ present in the atmosphere and converts it into mild carbonic acid. When this water comes in contact with limestone (calcium carbonate), it changes into calcium bicarbonate, and thus chemical weathering is initiated.

2. Some minerals present in the rocks have higher absorbing capacity. When these minerals expand in volume, the overall compactness of the mineral is lost, subsequently giving rise to weathering.

3. In humid areas, the leaves, flowers, fruits, etc., are shed from trees, which, on decaying, form humus and subsequently humic acid. This acid facilitates chemical decomposition of the rocks.

Question 5.
Exfoliation is predominant in granite rocks.
Answer:
When the upper layers of the rocks come off from the underlying layers due to differential heating in homogeneous granitic areas, the process is known as exfoliation. Since the upper layers of the rock are more heated than the underlying layers, a thermal gradient is created. The heat affected upper layers of the rocks expand and come off like the layers of an onion. Exfoliation is thus a common occurrence in granite rocks.

Question 6.
Chemical weathering is prominent in regions having limestone rocks.
Answer:
Carbonation is a process that occurs when calcium carbonate (present in limestone) reacts with CO₂ in the atmosphere. When rain falls, the CO₂ in the atmosphere reacts with it and turns it into mild carbonic acid. This carbonic acid reacts with calcium carbonate (limestone) to form calcium bicarbonate and ultimately dissolves the limestone.

H₂ O + CO₂ → H₂ CO₃
H₂ CO₃ + CaCO₃ → Ca (HCO₃)₂

In limestone regions, limestone is dissolved by the process of carbonation and creates a host of landform features like stalactites, stalagmites, pillars, etc.

Question 7.
The hills formed of granite have rounded or dome-shaped tops.
Answer:
The regions having granite rocks that have high temperature or a dry, and desert type of climate, are found to have hills with rounded tops. This is became the rocks expand due to heat during the day while they contract at night when the temperature drops. This alternate heating and cooling process affects the upper layers of the rocks. Due to the alternate tension and compression, the upper layers come off from the underlying rock layers like the layers of an onion. This process is called exfoliation. The hills here are thus rounded in shape.

Question 8.
People residing in desert areas can hear sounds similar to gunshots.
Answer:
The temperature is very high in the desert areas and the rocks are heated over a long period during the day. However, since different minerals in the rocks have different capacities of absorbing and releasing heat, this unequal expansion and compression within the rocks exert great pressure on them and subsequently they burst, making a loud noise, that is similar to the sound of gunshots.

Long Questions and Answers : (5 marks for each question)

Question 1.
Briefly explain the concepts of erosion and denudation. [2 \(\frac{1}{2}\) + 2 \(\frac{1}{2}\)]
Answer:
The concepts of erosion and denudation are discussed below-
Erosion:
Definition: When the weathered rocks are transported from their place of origin to some other place by physical agents like rivers, glaciers, winds, etc., the process is called erosion.
Process: The main processes of erosion include attrition, friction, plucking, removal of weathered debris, etc.
Agent: Agents like flowing water, winds, moving glaciers, etc., transport the weathered material from one place to another.

Characteristics:

1. Rocks are removed
2. underlying layers of rocks are exposed after the upper layers are removed
3. dependent on weathering
4. a fast process.

Example: High velocity winds in the desert areas remove large quantities of sand and small rock fragments (by the process of erosion) to far away places.

Denudation:
1. Definition: When the lower or underlying layers of the rocks are exposed after the upper layers are removed by weathering and erosion, the process is known as denudation. The term ‘denude’ means ‘to lay bare’.

Process: The main factors responsible for denudation are-land erosion, cultivation, construction of roads and settlements, etc.

Characteristics:

• Weathering and erosion are dependent on mass wasting.
• This is a slow process.
• New rocks are exposed to the earth’s surface.

Regional differences: The rate of denudation is lower in hot dry desert areas than in the high mountainous regions. In humid regions, the rate of denudation is again higher.

Importance: Soil is formed as a result of this process and it also plays an important role in the evolution of landforms.

Question 2.
Briefly describe the concepts of weathering and mass wasting. [2 \(\frac{1}{2}\) + 2 \(\frac{1}{2}\)]
Answer:
Weathering:
1. Definition: The climatic agents (e.g., temperature, rainfall, etc.) disintegrate and decompose the rocks in their own place (‘in situ’) and this process is called weathering.

2. Nomenclature: As this is an alteration of the physical or chemical characteristics of rocks by various factors of weather/climate, the term weathering is pertinent.

3. Factors: The agents of weathering are temperature and rainfall, plant, man and other animals, landform, nature of rocks (lithological characteristics), time, etc.

4. Types: Weathering can mainly be of 3 types-

• Mechanical (rocks are disintegrated or broken into fragments)
• Chemical (rocks undergo alteration in chemical composition)
• Biological (rocks are altered by the action of plants and animals).

5. Process: Exfoliation, granular disintegration, hydration, oxidation, hydrolysis, etc.

6. Characteristics:

• Rocks are disintegrated and decomposed.
• This is a static process.
• The weathered material is not removed or transported.
• The force of weathering depends on structure and nature of the rock, climatic factors, etc.

7. Effect: Landforms like rounded or domeshaped hills, inselbergs, tors, caves, etc., are formed. Weathering also plays a significant role in soil formation.

Mass Wasting:

Definition: When the weathered materials like pebbles, boulders, etc., slide down the slopes of mountains due to gravitational pull, the process is known as mass wasting.

According to geomorphologist A. L. Bloom-“…gravitational or down slope movements of weathered rock debris is mass wasting”.

Nomenclature: As the weathered rock debris are dumped at the lower slopes of the mountains after being carried there, following the natural slope or gradient (by gravitational pull), the term ‘mass’ is thus relevant.

Factors: Slope of the land, altitude, shape, size and amount of the weathered materials, presence of vegetation, precipitation, force of gravity, etc.

Types: Mass wasting can be of 4 types-

• Slow flow
• Rapid flow
• Landslide
• Subsidence.

Process: Mud flow, soil flow, solifluction, slump, rock slide, etc.

Characteristics:

• This process is rampant in sloping lands.
• The debris are removed as a result of gravitational force.
• It can occur as a slow or rapid process.
• Physical agents of weathering and erosion (rivers, glaciers, etc.) do not have any role to play in the process of mass wasting.

Effect:

• Landslides occur in mountainous areas as a result of mass wasting.
• These cause loss of life and property.
• Landforms like steep slops, erosion on slopes, talus cones, etc., are formed.

Question 3.
What is meant by mechanical weathering? Describe the main processes involved.
Answer:
Mechanical Weathering: The process of fragmentation or disintegration of rocks in their own places (‘in situ’) by various agents of climate like temperature, rainfall, snowfall, etc., is called mechanical or physical weathering. The rocks are broken down into smaller fragments, but the chemical compositions are unaltered.

Different processes of mechanical weathering: The various processes of mechanical weathering are-
Block disintegration: When the rocks are broken into blocks or boulders, as a result of temperature difference, the process is called block disintegration.

1. Process: When there is differential heating of the outer and inner parts of rocks (the outer parts are more heated than the inner parts). There is a difference in the expansion of the components of those rocks. It is then that the vertical and horizontal cracks are formed within these rocks and they break apart along these cracks into several blocks.

2. Characteristics:

• Mostly seen in basaltic rocks
• several cracks are formed within the rocks both horizontally and vertically
• the rocks are broken in square or rectangular shapes
• the rocks are broken apart as big chunks or blocks.

3. Occurrence: Mostly occur in high temperature regions.

Exfoliation: When the layers of rocks peel off like an onion, this process is called exfoliation.

Process: Due to differential heating and cooling of the outer and inner parts of the rocks, the upper layers come off like onion peels and are prone to further weathering.

Characteristics:

1. Mostly seen in granitic rocks,
2. tops of highlands become rounded in shape as a result of this type of weathering
3. this weathering occurs in homogeneous rocks.

Occurrence: Exfoliation is most common in the hot desert regions like the Sahara and Thar deserts.

Granular disintegration: When the rocks expand and contract alternately as a result of differences (hot and cold) in temperature, they break into smaller fragments. This process is called granular disintegration.

1. Process: Rocks composed of different types of minerals absorb and release heat at varying rates and thereby do not have a uniform rate of expansion and contraction. This results in granular disintegration of these rocks.
2. Characteristics:

• This type of weathering is more common in rocks which are heterogeneous in nature.
• When the rocks burst, sounds similar to gunshots are heard.
• Formation of sand is an ultimate result of such weathering process.

3. Occurrence: This type of weathering is more commonly seen in hot desert regions.

Work of ice: In cold climatic regions, rocks are broken apart by ice crystals.

1. Process: In the cold Arctic region and other cold mountainous areas, the cracks in the rocks are filled up with water. This water freezes at night due to condensation (low temperature) and exerts pressure on either side of the cracks, ultimately breaking them apart.

2. Characteristics:

• Weathering occurs as a result of the formation of ice crystals.
• Talus cones are formed on the lower slopes of mountains.

3. Occurrence: This type of weathering occurs mostly in cold climatic regions.

Other processes: Other processes of mechanical weathering include formation of salt crystals, dirt cracking, boulder clearing, hitting by raindrops, etc.

Question 4.
What is meant by chemical weathering? Explain the main processes involved in it. [1 + 4]
Answer:
Chemical weathering: The chemical composition of rocks are altered when they react with oxygen, carbon dioxide, water vapour, etc., in their own places. This process is called chemical weathering.
Different process of chemical weathering: They are as follows –
Oxidation: When the nature of minerals within a rock alters under the influence of atmospheric oxygen and water, the process is called oxidation.
1. Process: In iron-bearing rocks, new minerals are formed and chemical decomposition takes place as a result of the chemical reactions in the presence of oxygen and water.

2. Reaction:

3. Characteristics:

1. This type of weathering takes place due to the action of water.
2. Iron-bearing rocks are subject to rusting as an effect of this.
3. Presence of oxygen is required in this type of weathering.

Carbonation: When the nature of rocks are altered as a result of the chemical reaction of water mixed with carbon dioxide, this process is called carbonation.
1. Process: When rainfall mixes with carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere, carbonic acid is formed (CO₂ + H₂O arrow H₂CO₃). This dissolves limestone (calcium carbonate) by altering it into calcium bicarbonate (due to chemical reaction).

2. Reaction:

3. Characteristics:

• This type of weathering occurs mostly due to the action of rain water.
• It is more active in limestone rocks.

Hydration: When water reacts with the minerais present in the rocks and alters their chemical composition, this process is called hydration.
1. Process: Some minerals present in the rocks have more capacity to absorb water and they expand while undergoing chemical reactions.

2. Reaction:

3. Characteristics:

• The minerals in the rocks expand.
• As a result of absorption of water, the rocks become softer/weaker.
• This usually occurs in homogeneous rocks.

Hydrolysis: When the minerals present in the rock react with ionised water, and chemical decomposition takes place, the process is known as hydrolysis.

1. Process: When water reacts with the minerals in a rock, new minerals are formed, and the rock is decomposed.
2. Reaction:

3. Characteristics:

• It occurs with the help of ionised/charged water.
• New minerals are formed by this process.
• Specific temperature is needed for reactions to occur.

Besides, by the process of solution, gypsum, rocksalt, etc., are dissolved in water and the rocks are decomposed.

Question 5.
Classify weathering. Explain the role played by man, plants and other animals in biological weathering. [2 + 3]
Answer:

Roles of man, plants and other animals in biological weathering: Man, plants and animals aid biological weathering both directly and indirectly. The roles played by them are as follows-

1. Role of man	Construction of buildings, roads, etc., lead to disintegration of rocks.
2. Role of plants	Cultivation of land also leads to mechanical weathering.
3. Role of other animals	Mineral exploitation/mining, digging up of ponds and tanks, industrial establishments, etc., directly or indirectly cause weathering.

Question 6.
State the effects of weathering and explain how soil is formed as a result of weathering. [2+3]
Answer:
Effects of weathering:
1. Formation of landforms: Landforms like tors and rounded hills in the humid tropical regions, inselbergs in the hot dry desert regions, caves, stalactites and stalagmites in limestone areas, etc., are all formed as a result of weathering.

2. Formation of minerals: New minerals are formed as a result of chemical reactions. For example, bauxite is formed in humid tropical countries.

3. Facilitates agriculture: Due to disintegration of rocks by weathering, the porosity of soil increases, which facilitates air and water circulation and hence aids in agricultural practices.

4. Formation of regolith: Due to the disintegration and decomposition of rocks, regolith is formed, which plays a major rule in soil formation later on.

Soll Formation: The soil-forming process, as a result of weathering, may be explained by the following stages-
First stage: Various processes of mechanical weathering (for example, block disintegration, exfoliation, granular disintegration, as well as plants and animals, break down rocks into smaller fragments. This loose layer of fragmented rocks is called regolith.

Second stage: Rain water and air seeps into the various layers of the rock through these regoliths. Decomposition of these fragmented rocks also takes place as a result of the process of chemical weathering. Due to the leaching process, the nutrients of the soil seep down to the lower layers of the soil.

Third stage: The upper layer of the regolith (top soil) is rich in dead remains of plants, animals, etc. The bacteria and fungi decompose this matter, leading to the formation of humus. Humus mixes with the fragmented rocks of the regolith and makes it more soft and increases its water retention capacity.

The combined processes of regolith formation, leaching, humus formation, decomposition, etc., lead to the formation of a layer with five particles called the solum. Soil has its origin from this solum.

The upper layers of the soil have finer particles, while the deeper layers have coarser particles. Based on physical and chemical characteristics, horizontal layers of the soil can be identified. These are termed as layers A, B and C (from topdown).

Scientist Mohr has explained 5 steps of soil formation. They are-

• Primary stage/Initial stage-Unaltered parent or original rock,
• Childhood or Juvenile stage-Initiation of the process of weathering,
• Youth or Virile stage-Chemical reaction of minerals leading to decomposition,
• Old/Senile stage-Last stage of chemical weathering.
• Last/Final stageEnd stage of soil formation process.

Question 7.
Briefly explain the concept of soil erosion.
Answer:
Concept of soil erosion:
Definition: The process in which soil particles are removed from the original rock by natural or man-made factors, it is called soil erosion.
Factors: The following equation explains the process-
e = g (cl, v, t, s, h)

where, e = soil erosion, g = effectiveness, cl = climate, v = vegetative cover, t = land- form or relief, s = type of soil, h = role of man or human interference.
Causes of soil erosion: They may be classified as-natural and man-made causes.

Natural causes:

1. Rainfall: In regions with high rainfall, the raindrops loosen the soil particles from the rock layer and wash them away.
2. Wind: Winds blow with high velocity in open desert areas and coastal tracts (receiving no obstacles) and lead to soil erosion.
3. Flowing water: Currents of river water and sea waves cause soil erosion.

Man-made causes:

1. Deforestation: In deforested areas, the bare land is more prone to soil erosion. The roots of the trees bind the soil together. When the trees are cut down, the region becomes infertile.
2. Overgrazing: Excessive grazing by cattle, goats and sheep in grassland areas results in the baring of the ground, leading to soil erosion.
3.Unscientific methods of cultivation: In areas where shifting or ‘jhum’ cultivation is practised, the forest is cleared by burning it down (which is unscientific), and this leads to soil erosion.

Process of soil erosion: Soil erosion is mainly caused by flowing water and wind (natural factors).

Flowing water:

1. Sheet erosion: When rainfall or flowing water removes the soil layer by layer, it is known as sheet erosion.
2. Rill erosion: When rainwater or a flowing river (in its initial slope), flows along the slopes of a mountain as narrow channels or rills, soil erosion occurs.
3. Gully erosion: These rills become wider and deeper due to more soil erosion, and this is known as gully erosion.
4. Ravine erosion: When the gullies become further deepened and widened, the topography is converted to a ‘bedland’, where cultivation is not possible and the area becomes inaccessible too.

By work of wind: In the desert areas, winds carry sand from one area to other distant areas, leading to erosion.

Effects of soil erosion:
Effects on physical environment:

1. As a result of soil erosion, the level of water in the soil subsides,
2. hydrological cycle is affected,
3. food chain is disturbed as habitats of the decomposers (like bacteria, fungi, etc.) present in the soil are destroyed,
4. the navigability of rivers and other water bodies decrease (due to aggradation by soil deposits or siltation), and the areas become more prone to floods.

Effects on human environment:

1. Fertility of soil decreases, crop productivity is reduced,
2. decrease in navigability of rivers hampers trade and water transport,
3. ecosystem of wetlands is damaged as they get filled up with soil deposits.

Areas prone to soil erosion: Continuous flat areas, plateaus devoid of vegetation, desert areas, coastal areas, riverine tracts, etc., are more prone to soil erosion.

Question 8.
Briefly discuss the methods of soil conservation.
OR,
Discuss the preventive measures for soil erosion.
Answer:
Different methods of soil conservation: The various measures adapted for preventing soil erosion and for increasing the fertility of the soil are known as soil conservation measures.

Agricultural methods:
Afforestation: If trees are planted along the slopes of mountains, on infertile and barren lands, soil erosion can be prevented. This is because the roots of the trees bind the soil together.

Restriction on overgrazing: If overgrazing can be controlled in the grassland areas, soil erosion can be prevented.

Ban on shifting or ‘jhum’ cultivation: When the forests are burnt for clearing land, the trees are destroyed and soil erosion also increases. This can only be prevented by banning such a practice.

Slope/Terrace farming: The slopes of the mountains are carved into steps or terraces to retain rainwater on each step (to be used by the cultivated crops). Soil erosion can be prevented by practising such type of farming.

Creation of forest line/boundary: If forest boundaries are created (by planting trees) on all sides of agricultural fields, coastal regions (especially in the direction of the winds), etc., then soil erosion can be reduced.

Crop rotation: If any land is cultivated throughout the year with different types of crops (not allowing it to lay bare), then the land is not exposed to soil erosion.

Contour farming: Bunds are constructed along the contour of the land (horizontally along the slopes of mountains), water is prevented from flowing away and hence it prevents soil erosion.

Strip cropping: When crops are cultivated in long strips prepared along the slopes, they prevent soil from being carried away by flowing water along the slopes.

Land cover: If the unused parts of the crops like stems, hay, etc., are spread over any bare land, soil erosion can be prevented, especially in muddy areas.

2. Infrastructural measures:

1. Construction of artificial walls: If walls are constructed on seashores and along river banks, soil erosion by flowing water can be prevented.
2. Digging of canals: If canals are dug to facilitate drainage and several water bodies are constructed especially in the desert areas, soil erosion can be prevented.
3. Other measures: More advanced research on preventing soil erosion and increasing soil fertility, spreading awareness among the people, can help in soil conservation.

Question 9.
What is biological weathering? State the various processes of biological weathering. [1+4]
Answer:
Biological weathering: When rocks are disintegrated and decomposed by plants and animals, either directly or indirectly, the process is known as biological weathering. Such type of weathering occurs in almost all climatic regions.
Main processes of biological weathering: Biological weathering takes places mainly by two processes-

Bio-mechanical weathering:
By animals: Burrowing animals like rats, earthworms, prairie dogs, mice, etc., dig holes in the ground to live and thereby aid in bio-mechanical weathering. Termites also help in weathering by bringing the lower layers of the soil to the upper part. Moreover, the CO₂ released by the animals living underground, brings about changes in the chemical composition of rocks and soil and aids in their weathering.

Man also has a vital role in inducing weathering. For example-carrying out mining activities, construction of roads, cultivation of lands and other unplanned activities.

By plants: When the roots of trees and plants penetrate beneath the soil into the underlying rocks, they break the rocks into fragments. Roots can reach upto about 175 feet below the ground and thus aid in mechanical weathering. This is more prominent in areas with CO₂ with their exhalation, which combines with water to form carbonic acid. This dissolves the limestone rocks.

The acid formed by rotting of parts of plants like leaves, flowers, fruits, branches, etc., accelerates chemical weathering. During respiration, the tree roots release CO₂ which, after combining with water present in the soil, converts into carbonic acid. This eventually dissolves and disintegrates the rocks.

Detailed explanations in West Bengal Board Class 9 Geography Book Solutions Chapter 8 West Bengal offer valuable context and analysis.

WBBSE Class 9 Geography Chapter 8 Question Answer – West Bengal

Very Short Questions and Answers : (1 mark for each question)

Question 1.
Which is the highest peak of West Bengal?
Answer:
Sandakhphu (3630 m).

Question 2.
What is the total area of West Bengal?
Answer:
88752 sq.km.

Question 3.
Name two snowfed rivers of West Bengal.
Answer:
Teesta, Mahananda.

Question 4.
What is the meaning of ‘Dooars’?
Answer:
‘Duar’ or Door.

Question 5.
To which side of the Teesta river does the Terai plain lie?
Answer:
Western side.

Question 6.
Which is the longest river of North Bengal?
Answer:
Mahananda.

Question 7.
What is the combined flow of Dwarkeshwar and Shilai rivers called?
Answer:
Rupnarayan.

Question 8.
What is the combined flow of the Kangsabati and Keleghai called?
Answer:
Haldi.

Question 9.
Which area in West Bengal receives maximum rainfall?
Answer:
Buxaduar of Alipurduar.

Question 10.
Which is the hottest district in West Bengal?
Answer:
Bankura.

Question 11.
Which wind influences West Bengal’s climate most?
Answer:
Monsoon wind.

Question 12.
Which is the newly formed district of West Bengal?
Answer:
Alipurduar.

Question 13.
Which district in West Bengal occupies the largest area?
Answer:
South 24 Parganas.

Question 14.
Balurghat is the headquarters of which district?
Answer:
South Dinajpur.

Question 15.
Which position does West Bengal hold in India in terms of paddy cultivation?
Answer:
First.

Question 16.
Which city is called ‘City of Joy’?
Answer:
Kolkata.

Question 17.
The Sevoke bridge spans across which river?
Answer:
River Teesta.

Question 18.
Which district accounts for maximum forest cover in West Bengal?
Answer:
Darjeeling.

Question 19.
Which is the most famous animal of Jaldapara national park?
Answer:
horned rhinoceros.

Question 20.
Name two commercial crops grown in West Bengal.
Answer:
Tea and jute.

Question 21.
What is the capital of West Bengal?
Answer:
Kolkata.

Question 22.
How many districts does West Bengal have?
Answer:
20 districts.

Question 23.
What is the percentage of West Bengal’s area with respect to that of India?
Answer:
2.69%

Question 24.
Name a river that flows over the western plateau area.
Answer:
Damodar.

Question 25.
In which part of West Bengal is the Himalayas located?
Answer:
The northern side of West Bengal.

Question 26.
What is the meaning of ‘Tal’?
Answer:
Lake.

Question 27.
Name the tributary of Teesta river.
Answer:
Rangpo.

Question 28.
In West Bengal, when does western disturbances occur?
Answer:
Winter.

Question 29.
What is the colour of mountainous soil?
Answer:
Black or grey.

Question 30.
Which city is called the ‘Ruhr of India’?
Answer:
Durgapur.

Question 31.
Name two rivers of the Sundarbans.
Answer:
Matla and Bidyadhari.

Question 32.
In which year was Alipurduar formed?
Answer:
2014

Question 33.
What is the capital of Jharkhand?
Answer:
Ranchi.

Question 34.
What is the capital of Assam?
Answer:
Dispur.

Question 35.
In which district is Bolpur located?
Answer:
Birbhum district.

Question 36.
In which district is Panchet hill located?
Answer:
Bankura.

Question 37.
Name two tributaries of the Damodar river.
Answer:
Konar and Barakar.

Question 38.
Name two tributaries of the Bhagirathi.
Answer:
Mayurakshi and Ajay.

Question 39.
Which two districts in West Bengal have laterite soil?
Answer:
Birbhum and Bankura.

Question 40.
How many towns are located in West Bengal according to the 2011 census?
Answer:
138.

Question 41.
Name one jute research institute of West Bengal.
Answer:
Nilgunge near Barrackpore.

Question 42.
Which two types of plantation crops are grown in West Bengal?
Answer:
Tea and cinchona.

Question 43.
Name two food crops grown in West Bengal.
Answer:
Paddy and wheat.

Question 44.
Name two fibre crops grown in West Bengal.
Answer:
Jute and shon.

Question 45.
Name two areas of fish processing industry.
Answer:
Shankarpur and Jaunput.

Question 46.
Name two areas of milk processing industry.
Answer:
Dankuni and Asansol.

Question 47.
Name the two centres of mineral water processing in West Bengal.
Answer:
Kalyani and Berhampore.

Question 48.
Name the two food parks of West Bengal.
Answer:
Shankarpur and Kakdwip.

Question 49.
Which city is called the ‘Glasgow of India’?
Answer:
Howrah.

Question 50.
Which is the ‘commercial hub’ of north Bengal?
Answer:
Siliguri.

Question 51.
Name a tributary of Damodar.
Answer:
Mundeswari.

Question 52.
Name the associate port of Kolkata.
Answer:
Haldia.

Question 53.
Which river bisects the mountainous area of north Bengal?
Answer:
Teesta.

Question 54.
In which year was Midnapore classified into two administrative divisions?
Answer:
January 1, 2002.

Question 55.
Name two trees of the western plateau region.
Answer:
Arjun and shimul.

Question 56.
Krishnanagar lies in which district?
Answer:
Nadia.

Question 57.
Name two trees belonging to the plain region.
Answer:
Mango and jamun.

Question 58.
Where did the name ‘Sundarban’ originate from?
Answer:
Sundari tree.

Question 59.
Which district in West Bengal is called the ‘Queen of hill stations’?
Answer:
Darjeeling.

Question 60.
In which district is the Susunia hill located?
Answer:
Bankura.

Short Questions and Answers : (2 marks for each question)

Question 1.
What were the earlier administrative divisions of West Bengal?
Answer:
The three earlier administrative divisions of West Bengal were–

• Presidency division
• Burdwan division
• Jalpaiguri division.

Question 2.
What are the physical divisions of West Bengal?
Answer:
With respect to physical features, West Bengal is divided into 3 parts-

• Northern Hilly region
• Western Plateau region, and
• Plain region.

Question 3.
What is ‘Tal’?
Answer:
In the southern part of Cooch Behar and Jalpaiguri district, there are scattered wet lands and lowlands which are locally called ‘Tals’. They are located in the northern part of the Kalindi river.

Question 4.
What is ‘Barendrabhumi’?
Answer:
In the eastern part of Malda and South Dinajpur, the gently undulating highland formed of laterite soil and older sediments is known as ‘Barendrabhumi’.

Question 5.
What is ‘Diara’?
Answer:
In the southern part of Malda district, along the river banks of the Ganga, the land made up of fertile silty soil is called ‘Diara’.

Question 6.
Where is the Rarh plain located?
Answer:
Apart from the area composed of fresh river sediment, i.e., the western part of Bhagirathi-Hooghly river, the whole area of Birbhum, Bankura, western part of Murshidabad, West Midnapore and eastern part of Burdwan district, which is composed of red soil is called the Rarh plain.

Question 7.
Where is the active delta of West Bengal found?
Answer:
The active delta is usually found in the southern and eastern parts of South 24 Parganas and northern part of North 24 Parganas. Here the process of delta formation is still going on.

Question 8.
How many seasons are observed in West Bengal?
Answer:
There are 4 seasons in West Bengal. They are-summer, monsoon, autumn and winter.

Question 9.
What do you mean by western disturbance?
Answer:
During winter, cyclonic storms originating from the Mediterranean region, cause low pressure cyclones in northwest india. This cyclonic weather also partly affects the pleasant winter climate of West Bengal by causing little rainfall and stormy weather. Such weather phenomenon causes a strong wind to blow which is called western disturbance.

Question 10.
What is ‘Aswin’ storm?
Answer:
Generally, West Bengal does not experience rainfall during autumn. However, sometimes the cyclones formed in the Bay of Bengal cause thunderstorms. This is known as ‘Aswin’ storm.

Question 11.
What is ‘Kal Baisakhi’?
Answer:
During early summer months, West Bengal and its adjoining areas are affected by thunderstorms and even hail storms, especially in the late afternoons. The winds causing these, originate from the northwest. Such storms are called ‘Kal Baisakhi’ or ‘Nor’westers’.

Question 12.
What is ‘Bagri’ area?
Answer:
The plain areas of Murshidabad and Nadia districts, where the Ganga and Bhagirathi rivers complete their sedimentation process is known as the ‘Bagri’ area. This area is also called Moribund Delta.

Question 13.
What is groundwater?
Answer:
Groundwater refers to water present underground. When rainwater seeps through the soil layers and gets accumulated under the ground, it is called groundwater.

Question 14.
Where does snowfall occur in West Bengal?
Answer:
The northern part of West Bengal, i.e., the Himalayan mountainous region experiences snowfall due to higher altitude, as the temperature decreases to below freezing point.

Question 15.
West Bengal is famous for the cultivation of which crops?
Answer:
West Bengal is famous for the cultivation of crops such as paddy, jute, tea, etc.

Question 16.
What type of soil is found in the plains of West Bengal?
Answer:
In the plain regions of West Bengal, river-borne fertile silt and silty loam soils are found.

Question 17.
Where is saline soil found in West Bengal?
Answer:
Saline soil is found in the active delta (Sundarban) region of the southern part of West Bengal.

Question 18.
Which districts of West Bengal are well known for paddy cultivation?
Answer:
Burdwan, Nadia, Murshidabad, Hooghly, North and South 24 Parganas, East and West Midnapore districts of West Bengal are best known for paddy cultivation.

Question 19.
Which is the best place for tea cultivation in West Bengal?
Answer:
In the northern parts of Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts and some places of North Dinajpur, tea is well-cultivated.

Question 20.
What is a city?
Answer:
A city is a place where the minimum population is at least 5000 and the population density is more than 4000 per sq.km and at least 75% of the total population is engaged in non-agricultural activities. For example, Asansol.

Question 21.
What is a megalopolis?
Answer:
The Greek word ‘Megas’ means big. Megalopolis means a big city. It has a population of more than 10 lakhs. For example, Kolkata.

Question 22.
How many types of paddy are cultivated in West Bengal on the basis of seasons?
Answer:
Three types of paddy are cultivated in West Bengal based on the seasons in which they are cultivated-

• Aman Paddy (July – November)
• Aus Paddy (April – August)
• Boro Paddy (November – March)

Question 23.
What are the two main characteristic features of agriculture in West Bengal?
Answer:
The two main characteristics of agriculture in West Bengal are-

• Agriculture is dependent on monsoon rains.
• Agriculture is labour-intensive.

Question 24.
What are the types of irrigation methods practiced in West Bengal?
Answer:
Irrigation methods in West Bengal are carried out through wells, tubewells and canals.

Question 25.
What is information technology industry?
Answer:
Information technology refers to the storage, sending, receiving, coding, decoding and editing of data with the help of computer and telecommunication.

Question 26.
On the basis of seasons, into how many types can the crops of West Bengal be divided?
Answer:
On the basis of seasons, the crops of West Bengal can be classified into two types

• Winter rabi crops (like wheat, potatoes, etc.), and
• Rainy kharif crops (paddy, jute).

Question 27.
State the major companies associated with the food processing industry of West Bengal.
Answer:
The major food processing companies are Mother Dairy, Haldiram’s, Anmol Biscuit Limited, Raja Biscuit, K. C. Das and Sons, etc.

Question 28.
Mention some of the tourist places in Kolkata.
Answer:
The tourist places of Kolkata are-Indian Museum, Victoria Memorial Hall, Birla Planetarium, Science City, etc.

Question 29.
Who established the city of Kolkata and when?
Answer:
Kolkata was founded by Job Charnock in 1690. The city was founded by combining the 3 villages of Kolikata, Sutanuti and Gobindapur.

Question 30.
Name the high-yielding variety of jute seeds.
Answer:
The high yielding varieties of jute seeds are-Chaitali, Basudev, Sobujsona D-154, JRC-1108, etc.

Question 31.
Mention some tea-producing areas of Darjeeling.
Answer:
Happy Valley, Sukhiapokhri, Kurseong, Makaibari, Bijanbari, etc., are some of the notable tea-producing areas of Darjeeling.

Question 32.
Name some of the tea-producing areas of Dooars and Terai region.
Answer:
Mal, Jayanti, Chalsa, Nagarkata, Madarihat, Kumargram, etc., are some of the tea producing areas of the Dooars and Terai region.

Question 33.
Where and when was the first jute mill established in West Bengal?
Answer:
The first jute mill was established in Rishra of Hooghly district of West Bengal.

Question 34.
When and where was the first cotton mill established in Kolkata?
Answer:
The first cotton mill was first established in 1818 in Ghusuri of Howrah.

Question 35.
Why is Teesta called the ‘River of Threat’?
Answer:
Teesta is the main river of North Bengal. It is extremely swift-flowing in this mountainous area, but when it enters the plain, the river current decreases. This river gets flooded when it is in spate during the monsoons. The river overflows its banks and floods its adjacent plain lands to a great extent thereby causing much loss to the life and property of the people being there. This is the reason why Teesta is called the ‘River of Threat’.

Question 36.
What is Bhabar?
Answer:
The sand, silt, pebbles brought down by the rivers from the Himalayan mountains get deposited in the foothill zone giving it a gentle slope. Such a feature is known as the Terai in North Bengal. The rocky boundary of the Terai region which is covered by forests in known as Bhabar.

Question 37.
What is Mahananda Corridor?
Answer:
The southern part of Jalpaiguri district, southern part of Cooch Behar district, North and South Dinajpur districts and Malda district together forms the plain region of North Bengal. The major area of North Dinajpur is known as the ‘Mahananda Corridor’. This is the mountainous part of river Mahananda. This corridor connects the plains of Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar.

Question 38.
Why is Bhagirathi-Hooghly river called the ‘Lifeline of West Bengal’?
Answer:
The Bhagirathi-Hooghly river is the most significant river of West Bengal. Many tributaries join this river on both banks. This has resulted in the formation of a great plain and delta in the southern part of West Bengal. This is a fertile land ideal for cultivation of crops.

River Hooghly has an important role to play in supplying water to the industries located on either banks, supplying drinking and domestic water to the towns and cities, supplying water for irrigation to the agricultural fields, even acting as waterways (river transport). This is the reason why it is called the ‘Lifeline of West Bengal.

Question 39.
Mention two harmful effects of overexploitation of groundwater.
Answer:
Over-exploitation of groundwater has many harmful effects. Some of these effects are as follows-

• continuous lowering of water level (both pre-monsoon and postmonsoon)
• lowering of pump sets, causing low efficiency and higher cost of operation.

Question 40.
State the characteristics of mangrove forests.
Answer:
Some of the characteristics of mangrove forests are as follows-

• Stilted roots are a special feature of the trees of mangrove forests to prevent them from falling under the influence of tidal waters.
• Pneumatophores are present on the stilted roots which stay above the water level, so the trees can carry out their respiration process.
• They breathe in a special way.
• The trees are evergreen in nature.

Question 41.
What is outsourcing?
Answer:
The process of carrying out work in a comparatively cheaper way and to increase the standard and skill of a company, by an overseas organisation is called outsourcing. Since the service cost is less in India, much of the work from America and Europe is sent here (in the form of data) which is processed and sent back, Kolkata is a leading provider of outsourcing.

Short Questions and Answers : (3 marks for each question)

Question 1.
Discuss the factors leading to the development of steel industry in West Bengal.
Answer:
The main factors that have led to the development of Iron and Steel Industry in West Bengal are as follows –
1. Geographical factors:

• Accessibility to raw materials: Iron ore (Jharkhand), coal (Raniganj), limestone (Bankura), etc., are important raw materials for iron and steel industry.
• Accessibility to water: Water of river Damodar is easily accessible to the it on and steel industry.
• Supplement of energy: DVC (Damodar Valley Corporation) helps in hydroelectric and thermal power generation which facilitates the iron and steel industry.

2. Economic factors:

• Availability of labour: Cheap and skilled labour is available in the outskirts of West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar and Durgapur.
• Well-developed communication system: This industrial centres are connected with Eastern Railway and Grand Trunk Road for import of machine and export of materials.
• Demand or market: The demand of the Durgapur-Asansol and the Kolkata industrial beats lead to industrial development.

Question 2.
Write a note on the location of West Bengal.
Answer:
West Bengal is an eastern state of india. in terms of area, West Bengal holds the 14th position among the 29 states in india. The south-north expansion of the state is 21° 38’ N to 27° 10’ N latitute and the longitudinal expanse is 85° 50’ East to 89° 50‘ East. The Tropic of Cancer passes across Nadia, Burdwan, Bankura and Puruila districts. From north to south, West Bengal extends for about 650km, and from west to east, it extends up to 325km.

Question 3.
Discuss the problems and prospects of the iron and steel industry of West Bengal.
Answer:
Problems of iron and steel industry:
The problems of iron and steel industry are:

• lack of modern technology,
• lack of important machines and equipments,
• unavailability of adequate skilled labour.

Prospects of iron and steel industry: In West Bengal, after independence, the increase in the rate of demand for steel is more than that of its production. Steel is exported to Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, etc., from West Bengal. The prospects of the iron and steel industry in West Bengal is quite commendable. Supply of iron and steel will increase with the completion of the undergoing projects for construction of iron and steel industries.

Question 4.
Discuss the causes of development of jute industries of West Bengal.
Answer:
The causes of development of jute industry are as follows –
1. Geographical causes:

• Availability of raw materials: Jute, which is the primary raw material of the jute industry, is available in plenty in West Bengal.
• Favourable climate: The climate of West Bengal is ideal for growing jute, and this has helped in the development of the jute industry in this state.
• Avallability of power sources: Easy availability of power in West Bengal has contributed much to the growth of the jute industry here.

2. Economic causes:

Developed communication system: West Bengal is well-connected to the rest of India through roads, railways and waterways. This plays an important role in the development of the jute industry.

Availability of labour: Availability of cheap labour from West Bengal and its neighbouring states like Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha have helped in the development of the jute industry.

Port facility: The port at Kolkata in West Bengal facilitates export of jute products and import of necessary equipments, which further helps in the development of the jute industry.

Question 5.
Discuss the problems and prospects of jute industry of West Bengal.
Answer:
Problems of the jute industry are as follows-

• Availability of substitute material in the market: Cotton bags, plastic bags, etc., are now available in the market and so the demand for jute materials has decreased.
• Obsolete machinery: The jute machines are very old and are being used since the British period. Thus the production is very low and takes a lot of time.
• High rate of export tax: As the Government has to pay very high export tax, price of the jute product increases.

Prospects of jute industry: The jute industry has faced many problems. These may be solved by developing jute cultivation, using modern machineries etc. Jute products are reasonable, earn lots of foreign reserves and has no harmful effects on the environment. Hence, nationalization of jute products will open up new prospects for its development.

Question 6.
Discuss the causes of development of in tea industry in West Bengal.
Answer:
The causes of development of tea industry are as follows-
1. Geographical causes:

• Availability of raw materials: Tea is available in plenty in West Bengal.
• Availability of power sources: The power sources necessary for the development of the tea industry are easily available in West Bengal.
• Favourable climate: The climate of West Bengal is ideal for growing tea, and this has helped in the development of the tea industry in this state.
• Abundance of water resources: Water is abundantly available for the development of the tea industry in West Bengal.

2. Economic causes:

• Developed transportation system: The transportation system in West Bengal is well-developed, and this facilitates the growth of tea industry here.
• Availability of labour: West Bengal, being highly populated, faces no shortage of labour for working in the tea industries.
• Ready market: The tea industry has a high market demand, which has consequently helped in the growth of this industry.

Question 7.
Discuss the problems and prospects of tea industry in West Bengal.
Answer:
The problems of tea industry are as follows-

• Unhealthy tea gardens: The gardens are very old, and hence the production of tea is quite low.
• Substitute beverages: The availability of substitute drinks has decreased the demand of tea and hence its production.
• Lack of skilled labour: Though labour is available in plenty for tea industry in West Bengal, the lack of skilled labour poses a major problem.
• Lack of modern technology: The quality of the tea industry in West Bengal is suffering due to the lack of the use of modern technology.

Prospects of tea industry: West Bengal holds second position in terms of tea production in India. Obsolete machineries, high production cost causes hindrance to the development of industry. Expansion and development of tea gardens will help to develop the tea industry of West Bengal.

Question 8.
Discuss the development of food processing industry in West Bengal.
Answer:
Food processing industry is one of the oldest industries in the history of mankind. At present, various food processing industries have developed in Kolkata, Barasat, Malda, Shankarpur, Burdwan, Dumdum, etc.
Causes of development of food processing industry:

1. Supply of high quality raw materials: Varieties of agricultural crops (grains, vegetables), animal and sea food are the raw materials of food processing industry. The adequate supply of these raw materials have helped in the development of the industry.

2. Increased purchasing power of people: The price of food products increases on processing. So, to buy these products, the purchasing power of the people of the area, where food processing industries are located, should be high. West Bengal is one such area.

3. Development of technology: Food products are perishable. To maintain quality of the products, high technology is required, which is available in West Bengal.

4. Development of transport system: The process of gathering of fish, meat, fruit which rot fast have to be produced in the processing house with the help of good transport system which is available in the West Bengal.

5. Food habits: Demand for processed food is high in West Bengal. This makes it a flourishing centre for food processing industry.

6. Government policy: Government policies are quite favourable towards food processing industries in West Bengal.

Question 9.
Discuss the problem and prospects of the food processing industry.
Answer:
Increasing demand in the food processing industry has led to different problems in the industry. They are-

• Perishable crops: The main problems of this industry are-mismanagement in the process of crop cultivation, crop collection and sorting.
• Lack of modern technology: The modern technology that the developed countries use for the food processing industry is not available in West Bengal.
• Lack of crop preservation: in West Bengal, the lack of proper crop preservation techniques decreases industrial demand.

Prospects of food processing industries: The food processing industry is gaining importance. Adequate government help, food park, cold storages, plans by the centre, awareness regarding preservation, control of pollution will help the growth of food processing industry.

Question 10.
Which factors have led to the development of the tourism industry in West Bengal?
Answer:
The two main factors that led to the development of the tourism industry are
1. physical factors,
2 . cultural factors.

1. Physical factors: The physical factors include-

• Hilly region: The pleasant weather and picturesque sceneries of hilly regions attract tourists from all over the world. So the tourism in hilly regions have developed. For example, the hilly region of Darjeeling.
• Sea beach: The moderate weather of the sea beaches also attracts tourists. For example, the sea beach at Digha.
• Plateau area: Tourist spots have developed in the plateau areas or red soil areas in West Bengal. For example, Bankura, Birbhum.
• Forest: Abundance of various species of animals and plants in the forest regions have also turned them into popular tourist destinations. For example, North and South 24 Parganas, Sundarbans.

2. Cultural factors: The cultural factors responsible for the development of tourist spots in West Bengal are-

• Historical places: Places of historical importance in West Bengal attract tourists from all over the world. For example, Palashi.
• Religious places: Many tourist spots have developed in and around religious centres in West Bengal. For example, Belur Math in Howrah district.

Question 11.
Discuss the causes of development of the Haldia port.
Answer:
The causes of development of the Haldia Port are as follows–

• As a support to help the Kolkata port: The importance of the port at Kolkata has decreased since the navigability of river Hooghly has decreased (due to siltation). As a result, big ships are not able to enter the port. This is the reason why the port of Haldia has been established at the junction of Hooghly and Haldi rivers.
• Easy availability of land: Easy availability of land has facilitated infrastructural development of the Haldia port.
• Fulfilling the demand for trade and commerce: The import and export of raw materials and products in the Haldia port fulfills the demand for trade and commerce.

Question 12.
Discuss the utilisation of water bodies, rivers, canals, wells, etc.
Answer:
1. Agriculture: The state of West Bengal is agriculture oriented. Irrigational practices depend mainly on rivers, canals, etc.

2. Transport: The river Bhagirathi-Hooghly is an important component of West Bengal’s transport system.

3. Drinking water and other household work: The purified water is utilised for regular work.

4. Industrial sector: Water from rivers, canals, etc. contribute mostly to the development of the industrial sector. For example, many industries have developed on the banks of the river Hooghly.

5. Plantation: The water helps in social afforestation and agricultural afforestation. Huge amounts of water is used for planting trees in the western plateau regions.

6. Generation of electricity: The production of hydroelectricity is done by river dams. For example, the hydroelectricity is produced in Mython, Panchet, Tiliya dam on the river Damodar.

Question 13.
Discuss the disadvantages of excessive utilisation of surface water.
Answer:
The disadvantages of excessive utilisation of surface water are as follows-

• Missing of chemicals: Washing clothes in the rivers and canals cause chemical reaction in the water. This process creates pollution in the water which cannot be treated naturally.
• Water polluted by the effluents of factories: Water pollution occurs due to the mixing of toxic chemical materials which are released from factories and industries.
• Hampering agricultural productivity: The polluted water makes the land alkaline, and agricultural production is thus decreased.
• Water scarcity: Water scarcity is a result of excessive use of surface water.

Question 14
Delineate the multifarious uses of groundwater in West Bengal.
Answer:

• Agriculture: Groundwater is used in areas where there are no rivers or other water bodies.
• Drinking water: Groundwater is mainly used for drinking purposes.
• Domestic purposes: The domestic or household work like cooking, washing clothes, cleaning rooms, etc., are done by using groundwater.

Question 15.
What are the disadvantages of excessive use of groundwater?
Answer:
1. Arsenic contamination: The excessive use of groundwater results in deposition of tritrates, fluoride etc., in the groundwater and it causes diseases like black foot and cancer. In West Bengal, Nadia, Murshidabad, North and South Dinajpur, Burdwan, Howrah, Hooghly districts are affected by arsenic pollution.

2. Increase of salinity: The excessive use of groundwater increases the salinity of water. The districts of Nadia and Burdwan face this problem and there is scarcity of drinking water here as a result.

Question 16.
Discuss the impact of seasonal change on human life.
Answer:
The impact of seasonal change is observed not only on human body and mind, but also in the livelihood and economy of the region.

Increase of diseases: Several diseases are caused due to seasonal change. For example, cold and cough during rainy season, chicken pox in spring, etc., are seasonal diseases.

Impact on body and mind: Seasonal change affects human body and mind heavily. For example, extreme hot weather. brings tiredness in the human body and excessive cold temperature causes lethargy.

Change in cultivation: The seasonal change have caused a change in the process of cultivation. For example, vegetables grow well in winter. Winters are ideal for cultivating ‘Rabi’ crops and rainy season for ‘Kharif’ crops.

Change in diet: The diet of human beings changes according to the season, because people consume seasonal fruits and vegetables available in the market.

Impact on festivals and tourism: Festivals, ‘melas’, tourism, etc., change in accordance with the change of seasons. For example, Durga Puja is held in autumn, picnics are held in winter, etc.

Change in biological processes: The duration of days and nights vary according to different seasons. Thus, the biological clock of human body changes accordingly.

Question 17.
What is the significance of the geographical location of West Bengal?
Answer:
West Bengal is located in the eastern side of India. The Himalayas are located to the north and Bay of Bengal to the south of West Bengal. The geographical location of West Bengal is significant in many ways-

• The cold wind from the northern part are not able to reach India because of the location of Himalaya which acts as a barrier in the north. It also protects us from foreign invasion.
• The location of the Bay of Bengal protects us from enemies and also helps in international trade. The Kolkata and Haldia ports play a major role in carrying out trade via sea.
• The seasonal variation and biodiversity are a result of the geographical location of West Bengal.

Question 18.
Why is Howrah called the ‘Glasgow of India’?
Answer:
The headquarters of Howrah district is Howrah. The second largest city of this state, Howrah is located opposite Kolkata on the western bank of the Hooghly river. Howrah is an important town of the Hooghly industrial region.

The jute industry, engineering industry, cotton textile and other industries are located here. A large number of engineering industries are situated here like the Glasgow city of England, so the city is called the “Glasgow of India’.

Question 19.
Why is Durgapur called the ‘Steel City’?
Answer:
Durgapur is one of the modern industrial cities in West Bengal. Here the engineering industries are highly developed. The Durgapur Steel Plant, Alloy Steel, Central Mechanical Research Institute are located here. In Durgapur, ‘stainless steel’ is made by mixing chromium and nickel. With the help of the joint venture of Canada and Japan, alloy steel is manufactured. The variety of steel projects has made Durgapur a ‘Steel City’.

Question 20.
Why is Siliguri called the ‘Gateway of Northeast India’?
Answer:
Siliguri is the headquarters of Darjeeling district. The NH 31 and NH 24 pass through this town. The NH 31 is connected with Bihar, West Bengal and Assam. The eastern, north eastern railways and Bagdogra airport are located here, which are connected to Kolkata, Patna and Guwahati. This is why Siliguri is known as the ‘Gateway of Northeast India’.

Question 21.
Why is river Damodar called the ‘Sorrow of Bengal’?
Answer:
Damodar is the main river of western plateau and the Rarh region. The excess rain water falling on the river causes the river to overflow its banks leading to floods. A huge loss of life and property is the outcome of these floods, especially for the people residing along the banks of the river. This is why river Damodar is called the ‘Sorrow of Bengal’.

Question 22.
Why are ‘khanris’/creeks found in the Sunderban region of West Bengal?
Answer:
When the tides approach from the Bay of Bengal, much water reaches the innermost parts of the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans and the river causes flood in the delta region. The wide mouth of a river is called ‘Khanri’ or creek. Many such ‘Khanris’ (big and small) have formed as a result of action of tide and ebb.

These ‘khanris’ or creeks merge with each other and the interim lands give rise to islands. These ‘khanris’ are connected with big rivers ultimately, the mouths of which are much wide, but gradually narrow down towards the interior of the land.

Question 23
Why is ground water level of western plateau not high?
Answer:
The groundwater level of Purulia, Bankura, West Midnapore, Birbhum is not high because-

• The rainfall is very low in the plateau area, so the level of ground water remains low.
• The slope of the area is from west to east, so it does not allow the water to stand and infiltrate below.
• The land is made of hard rocks so the infiltration of water is very low.

Question 24.
Discuss the problems and prospects of information technology industry in West Bengal?
Answer:
Problems of information technology industry:

• Land problem: Land problem exists in Kolkata and its surrounding areas where the industries are to come up. Land is either scarcely available or prices are too high.
• Lack of infrastructure: The lack of infrastructure increases the problem of this industry.

Prospects of information technology industry:

• 1 acre- 25 acre land have been handed over to 41 companies in Rajarhat.
• The ‘Look East’ policy has helped in the growth of the industry.
• The SEZ have been formed for this industry.

Question 25.
Discuss the problems and prospects of tourism industry in West Bengal.
Answer:
Problems of tourism industry in West Bengal:

• Lack of plans: The infrastructure of the industry is very under-developed. The roads, houses and connectivity are in dismal condition.
• Lack of security: The main problem of the industry is lack of proper security.
• Lack of maintenance: Historical statues, buildings are ill maintained.

Prospects of tourism industry in West Bengal:

• Tourism fair: Foreign tourists are interested in tourism fairs that are held here.
• New tourists spots: New tourist spots are being explored for development of more tourist destinations.
• Infrastructural development: New hotels, resort are being constructed to facilitate the growth of industries in this state. The infrastructural development with government aid will help the industry to develop further.

Question 26.
What influence does ‘EI Nino’ have on arrival of monsoons in West Bengal?
Answer:
Meaning: ‘El Nino’ is a local term meaning ‘Jesus Christ’.
Concept: The warm current moving towards the south on certain years, in the Pacific Ocean, along eastern Peru, western part of Ecuador, etc., is called El Nino.

Effect on the Monsoon wind in West Bengal: In the years which are affected by El Nino, the southwest monsoon winds become less active although its direct influence is not fully established. However, a link always exists between the occurrence of the El Nino phenomena and the prevalence of draught conditions in India.

Since the southwest monsoons blow over West Bengal, India and south east Asia in general, El Nino influences the climate of West Bengal too. It is commonly seen that EI Nino years coincide with draught conditions in West Bengal.

Write the differences between the following-

Question 1.
Climate of Hilly region and Plateau region
Answer:
The differences between the climate of hilly regions and that of plateau regions are as follows-

Points of difference	Climate of Hilly Region	Climate of Plateau Region
1. Temperature	Average summer temperature: 16°C Average winter temperature: 2°C	Average summer temperature: 40°C Average winter temperature: 10°-12°C
2. Rainfall	Annual rainfall in these regions is greater than 400 cm.	Annual rainfall in these regions is between 100-150 cm.
3. Nature	Wet and cold temperate climate prevails in these regions.	Dry and extreme type of climate prevails in these regions.

Question 2.
Relief of Hilly region and Plateau region
Answer:
The differences between the relief of hilly regions and relief of plateau regions are as follows-

Points of difference	Relief of Hilly Region	Relief of Plateau Region
1. Location	The northern side of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, constitutes the hilly region.	The western plateau is found in Purulia district, Bankura, Burdwan, West Midnapore and Birbhum districts.
2. Characteristics	Mountain, canyon, high slopes are the main features of hilly regions.	Undulating highlands, erosional plateaus, small hills are the features of this region.
3. Slope	It slopes from north to south.	It slopes from west to east and southeast.

Question 3.
Climate in Hilly regions and Coastal regions
Answer:
The differences between climate in hilly regions and climate in coastal regions are as follows-

Points of difference	Climate in Hilly Region	Climate in Coastal Region
1. Temperature	Average summer temperature: 16° C Average winter temperature: 2°C	Average summer temperature: 30°C Average winter temperature: 25°C
2. Rainfall	Annual rainfall is 400 cm in these regions.	Annual rainfall is 200 cm in these regions.
3. Cyclone	In this climate, cylones generally do not occur.	In this climate, cyclones occur during autumn.

Question 4.
Rivers in Hilly regions and Plateau regions
Answer:
The differences between rivers in hilly regions and rivers in plateau regions are as follows-

Points of difference	Rivers in Hilly Regions	Rivers in Plateau Regions
1. Source	Rivers are snowfed. E.g., Teesta river.	Rivers are rainfed. E.g., Ajay river.
2. Direction/Path of Flow	These rivers flow from north to south.	These rivers flow from west to east.
3. Availability of water	Water is available throughout the year.	Water is available only in rainy season.

Question 5.
Rivers of North Bengal and South Bengal
Answer:
The differences between rivers of North Bengal and rivers of South Bengal are as follows-

Points of difference	Rivers of North Bengal	Rivers of South Bengal
1. Source of water	Rivers are snowfed. E.g., Teesta, Torsa, etc.	Rivers are rainfed. E.g., Damodar, Ajay, etc.
2. Direction/Path of flow	The rivers flow across the hilly and plain regions.	The rivers flow in the plateau and plain regions.
3. Availability of water	Rivers in this region are perennial.	Rivers in this region are seasonal.

Give reasons for the following:

Question 1.
The rivers of the western plateau region of West Bengal have no water during the dry season.
Answer:
The famous rivers of the western plateau region are the Damodar, Ajay, Mayurakshi, Kangsabati etc. The rivers have no water in the dry season because-

• Rainfed river: Most of the rivers of the plateau area are fed by rain water, and so it has water only during the rainy season.
• High temperature: The temperature of the summer season is about 40°C and hence the evaporation ratio is also very high.
• Impact of dams: Various dams and reservoirs have been built in this area, for example, on Damodar, Kangsabati, etc. in the lower courses of the river, the amount of water is reduced as a result of this.

Question 2.
Man is responsible for the reduction of the amount of groundwater.
Answer:
The accumulation of water in the permeable rock beds is called groundwater. This groundwater level is decreasing day by day as a result of its withdrawal and exploitation by man for various purposes. Some of them are-

• Supply of drinking water: Since population is increasing at a fast pace, the groundwater level is gradually lowering as a result of its withdrawal from wells, tubewells, etc.
• Urbanisation: Increasing urbanisation has led to increased concretisation (of roads, pavements, buildings etc.) and decrease in open spaces. Hence the rain water is not able to infiltrate or seep in below the ground. As a result of this, groundwater resources are depleting day by day.
• Agriculture: Since cultivation is done throughout the year, even during the dry season (with the help of irrigation-mostly relying on groundwater), the groundwater resources are depleted.

Question 3.
The plain area of West Bengal is ideal for paddy and jute cultivation.
Answer:
In the plain area of West Bengal comprising North and South Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia, Burdwan, Hooghly, North and South 24 Parganas, etc., districts production of jute and paddy are quite high.

The conducive factors for cultivation of these two crops are-

• Plain land: Plain and flat land is needed for the cultivation of paddy and jute. Thus, plain areas are better for cultivation than the hilly and plateau regions.
• Fertile soil: The fertile silty soil is ideal for cultivation of paddy and jute and this is found in these places (including the Gangetic plain of West Bengal).
• Labour: Easy availability of cheap labour is important for cultivation of paddy and jute. Since the plains are densely populated, labour is abundant and readily available.

Question 4.
The importance of the Kolkata port is declining gradually.
Answer:
Kolkata was considered as one of the best ports in india. However, its importance is declining due to the following reasons-

1. The decrease in navigability of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river: The regular deposition of sediments (silt and sand) has decreased the navigability of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river. Thus, the entry of big ships is becoming difficult in Kolkata port.

2. The meandering nature of the rivers: Numerous big and small meanders exist on the Hooghly river (from its mouth to Kolkata port). This causes difficulties for the ships to enter.

3. Other causes: Since other ports like Paradip, Visakhapatnam, Haldia, etc., have been established, the hinterland of Kolkata port has decreased. Moreover, excessive taxes, labour dissatisfaction, etc., also contribute to the diminishing importance of the port of Kolkata.

Question 5.
A comfortable climate prevails in the northern hilly region.
Answer:
During the summer season in West Bengal, the temperature is high in almost every region. The temperature of the nothern hilly region is comparatively much lower and pleasant and therefore comfortable. The temperature decreases at the rate of 6.4°C 100 m increase in altitude. The altitude of Darjeeling region is 2000 metre and hence the temperature is naturally low. The temperature here during the summer season is 15°-18° and thus the weather is pleasant in summer.

Question 6.
Durgapur is called the ‘Ruhr of India’.
Answer:
Ruhr is a small tributary river of river Rhine of Germany. Industries have developed in this area based on coal found in abundance here. The whole region is called the Ruhr Industrial Region. In West Bengal, coal is found in the Damodar river valley of Burdwan district. The iron and steel industry, cement, engineering industry,etc. have developed here based on coal. That is why, Durgapur is called the ‘Ruhr of India’.

Question 7.
Western plateau is rich in mineral resources.
Answer:
The western plateau is rich in mineral resources. Iron ore, coal, fireclay, china clay, dolomite, limestone, quartz, apatite, wolfram, manganese, and graphite are found here. This region is ancient and is an extension of the Chota Nagpur Plateau. The coal deposits belonging to the Gondwana age are found in the Damodar valley region.

Question 8.
Agriculture in the Terai region is not developed.
Answer:
The Terai region comprises parts of the subdivisions of Siliguri, Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar. The area is made up of unconsolidated sediments. The average altitude of the area ranges from 75m to 150m above sea level. Teesta, Torsa, Jaldhaka, Raidak, Sankosh, Mahananda, etc., deposit cobbles, pebbles and other finer sediments here. As such, the region is not suitable for agriculture. On the other hand, the humid conditions are not favourable for cultivation here. However, tobacco and small quantities of paddy and various types of fruits are cultivated here.

Question 9.
The Terai region of West Bengal is also known as the ‘Dooars’ or ‘Duars’.
Answer:
The southern sloping region, in the foothills of the Himalayas is known as ‘Terai’. The area is covered by pebbles and wetlands. ‘Terai’ means wet land. The eastern side of the Terai region along with the northern part of Alipurduar is known as the ‘Dooars’ or ‘Duars’. The word ‘Dooars’ originates from the word ‘Door’. The ‘Dooars’ region is basically the entrance (door) to the plains of West Bengal and the mountainous Bhutan region. It is actually the ‘door’ to Bhutan.

Question 10.
Floods are frequent in the ‘Tal’ area.
Answer:
The area to the left bank of Kalinda river is called ‘Tal’. The western side of Malda, Cooch Behar, North Dinajpur districts is known as the ‘Tal’ area. In this lowland area the rivers flow very slowly and they often change their courses. For example, Mahananda, Kalindi, Jaldhaka, Torsa, etc. Since these rivers have shallow depths, they overflow their banks during the rainy season.

Question 11.
Agriculture is well-developed in the Gangetic delta.
Answer:
The Gangetic delta region is famous for agriculture. Most of the people here depend on agriculture for their livelihood. The reasons for development of agriculture here are-

1. Extensive plain area: The delta region is flat and plain and so it is favourable for agricultural practice as well as irrigation facilities.

2. Fertile silty soil: The area is made up of silty sedimentary soil which is fertile and therefore favourable for agriculture.

3. Appropriate temperature and rainfall: The temperature and rainfall of the tropical area is appropriate. Paddy, jute, and vegetables are cultivated here.

4. High density of population: The high density of population provides abundant labour required for agricultural practice and the demand for crops is also high. That is the reason why agricultural productivity is high here.

Question 12.
The Gangetic delta region has a high density of population.
Answer:
The Gangetic delta is one of the world’s most densely populated regions. The causes of high density of population are-

• Plain relief: The plain relief is ideal for agriculture as well as transport and communication.
• Moderate climate: The moderate climate and proper rainfall are the causes of high density of population here.
• Fertile sedimentary soil: The soil of delta region is made up of sedimentary soil (silt) which is suitable for agriculture.
• Development of transport: The area is covered by a good network of railways, roads (State and National Highway).
• Job opportunities: The area is developed both in agriculture and industry and so job opportunities are plenty here.

Question 13.
The Sundarbans is called a backward or underdeveloped region.
Answer:
The Sundarbans is called a backwarded or underdeveloped region because-
1. Agricultural problem: The area is comprised of saline soil. Besides, outdated and traditional methods of cultivation are prevalent here which are not favourable for agriculture.

2. Lack of mineral resources: Mineral resources have not been found in this region. Thus industries based on these minerals have not developed here.

3. Underdeveloped transport: The area is riverine in nature and so roadway and railway facilities are underdeveloped here. Boats and steamers are the main modes of transport here.

4. Lack of electricity: Many small islands here are devoid of electricity. Thus, even small industries have not developed here.

5. Natural hazards: Oceanic cyclone, tsunami, flood, breaking of dams causing floods, etc., are the main problems of this area. They cause much loss to life and property in this region.

Question 14.
The Sundarban area has low population.
Answer:
The Sundarban area has low population because-

• The agricultural land available is very small.
• The soil is saline and so agricultural production is low.
• Irrigation facility is low in this region.
• Transport and communication system are outdated and underdeveloped. Proper transport system is lacking here.
• There is no industry in this area.
• Natural hazards like cyclone, floods are the main problems.
• Insects, snakes and wild animals like tigers are the main causes of the low population.

Question 15.
Agriculture is of much importance in West Bengal.
Answer:
The importance of agriculture in the economy of West Bengal is unlimited-
1. Source of employment: About 70% people are engaged in agriculture. Around 53-55% of the labourers are engaged in agriculture either directly or indirectly. Agriculture thus provides ample job opportunities to the people of the state.

2. Agriculture oriented industry: Tea, jute, food processing industries are agro-based industries. The industry depends on agriculture for its development.

3. Foreign exchange: The two major agricultural crops of West Bengal are tea and jute. The export of these two crops helps in earning foreign exchange.

4. Prosperity of the fertiliser industry: Various fertilisers are used for production of crops and this has led to the prosperity of this industry.

Question 16.
Agriculture faces several problems in West Bengal.
Answer:
Although agriculture in West Bengal has great importance, yet it is faced with several problems-

• Much of the land could not be brought under irrigation yet and so agricultural productivity in certain areas is hampered.
• Agriculture is mainly dependent on monsoon winds. Any fluctuation in the wind pattern causes loss of crops.
• High quality seeds are not used everywhere and hence agricultural productivity is low.
• Old agricultural methods like ploughs, sickles and animals are still used. Modern implements are not used.
• The capital investment is very low.
• The market price of produced crops is very low. Many farmers commit suicide out of frustration.

Question 17.
West Bengal is known as a riverine or riparious state.
Answer:
West Bengal is a riverine or riparious state with many rivers, tributaries, sub-tributaries, etc. They all have created a drainage network. The sources of these rivers are the Himalaya range and western plateau or Chota Nagpur Plateau. The rivers fall into the Bay of Bengal. It will not be wrong to call West Bengal a gift of the Ganga, Bhagirathi and their tributaries. Hence it is called a riverine or a riparious state.

Question 18.
Kangsabati is called the ‘Sorrow of Midnapore’.
Answer:
River Kangsabati has its sources in the Ajodhya Hills and flows through Bankura, West Midnapore and East Midnapore districts. It meets river Haldi in Malda and enters the Bay of Bengal. Since the gradient is very low in East Midnapore district, flooding occurs as a result of heavy rainfall in this region. Since these floods result in massive destruction of life and property here, Kangsabati is called the ‘Sorrow of Midnapore’.

Question 19.
Kolkata and Howrah are called ‘Twin Cities’.
Answer:
The two main and significant cities of West Bengal-Kolkata and Howrah, are located on either banks of river Hooghly. Kolkata is located on the eastern bank and is the capital of West Bengal, while Howrah which is the main industrial city lies just on its opposite bank.

These two cities are connected by two bridges which have been built over river Hooghly, known as the Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu) and Vidyasagar Bridge/Setu. Kolkata is the centre of trade and commerce, politics and culture. On the other hand, Howrah is known as the ‘Glasgow of India’ and stands out as an important industrial centre. These two cities are dependent on each other and this is the reason why they are called ‘Twin Cities’.

Long Questions and Answers : (5 marks for each question)

Question 1.
Write a note on the administrative divisions of West Bengal.
Answer:
West Bengal is divided into 20 districts. The districts are divided into sub-divisions and blocks. Earlier, the districts were also divided into administrative divisions of Presidency, Burdwan and Jalpaiguri. The districts and their headquarters are as follows-

Question 2.
Describe the restructuring of West Bengal after independence of India.
Answer:
There was no state known by the name of West Bengal before India’s independence on August 15, 1947. At that time, undivided Bengal was known as ‘Bangadesh’. The different stages of evolution of the administrative regions of West Bengal from the previous Bangadesh are as follows-

1. In 1947 when India was divided, Bengal was divided too. One-third of the land area of Bengal formed West Bengal, while the rest went on to form East Pakistan. The Boundary Commission was formed in 1947 under the leadership of the English lawyer Radcliff Brown. He marked the boundary between West Bengal and Bangladesh.

2. Religion was the major basis of the partition of Bengal. The majority non-Muslins formed West Bengal and Bangladesh was formed where Muslim community was the majority. At that point of time in 1947, the total area comprising West Bengal was 78,000 sqkm.

3. The Islampur sector of Bihar was annexed to the district of West Dinajpur of West Bengal in 1947.

4. The French colonies of Chandannagar, Gaurhati was included in West Bengal.

5. The Mahananda Corridor was formed after including the Bengali-speaking region of eastern Purnea district of Bihar (in accordance with the law of re-construction of states).

6. A self-governed region of Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Board (‘Parshad’) was formed including the hilly region of Darjeeling district of West Bengal in 1988.

7. In 1986, the 24 Parganas district of West Bengal was divided into two-North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas.

8. In 1992, the district of West Dinajpur was divided as North Dinajur and South Dinajpur. The corridor named ‘Teen Bigha’ was leased to Bangladesh, that included the district of Cooch Behar, the bordering regions of Makaliganj and Kuchilbari.

9. In 2002, the district of Midnapore was divided into two-West Midnapore and East Midnapore.

10. The latest development/change in the administrative boundary of West Bengal was the creation of Alipurduar district (by breaking a part of Jalpaiguri district) on June 25, 2014.

Question 3.
Give an account of the relief features of West Bengal.
Answer:
The relief features of West Bengal are very diverse.

Northern Hilly Region:
Location: The whole of Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts are the sub-divisions of Siliguri and the area is a hilly region.

Characteristics:

• The area is a part of eastern Himalayas.
• The average height is 2600-2700m.
• The area has several canyons and is inaccessible in general.

The western side of Teesta river has the Himalayan mountain ranges-

• Singalila mountain range,
• Darjeeling-Kurseong range.

Three main peaks of Singalila mountain range are located in Darjeeling district. They areSandakphu (3630 m), Phalut (3596 m), Sabargram (3543m ). In Darjeeling-Kurseong mountain range the highest peak is Tiger Hill (2573 m). The eastern side of Teesta river has Jayanti Hill and Dooars, where the peak Rishila (3121m) is located.

Western Plateau Region:
Location: The whole district of Purulia, West Midnapore, Bankura, Burdwan, and the western part of Birbhum district, is an undulating land and this is the plateau area.

Characteristics:

• In west the height is 600m and in east the height is 100m.
• The soil of the area is rocky and full of pebbles.

Hills: The area has many low hills, e.g., the Ayodhya Hill, Baghmundi Hill, Panchet Hill of Purulia district. Biharinath Hill, Susunia Hill of Bankura district, Mama Bhagne Hill of Birbhum district are located here. The highest peak of the plateau region is Gorgaburu Hill (677m).

Plain Region:
Location: Except the Northern hilly region and western plateau region, the whole area is a plain region.

Characteristics:

• The region is not very high.
• The region is not continuous.

Division: The region is divided into four parts, namely-
1. Plain region of North Bengal: Northern plain region lies in the middle of the northern hilly region and southern part of Ganga river. The slope of the region is from north to south. Terai region is the foothill of Himalayan range and the Ganga Brahmaputra doab region is known by different names in different areas.

For depositional work, that is, siltation and thereby helps in the process of delta formation. An island called ‘Purbasha’ has recently been created here. example, the low regions of Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, South Dinajpur is known as ‘Tal’, the old sediment soil in the east of the Malda district is called ‘Barendra’ land and the western part is known as ‘Diara’.

2. Rarh plain: The eastern side of Birbhum, Bankura, Burdwan, West Midnapore district, major part of Howrah, Hooghly, north-central part of East Midnapore is called Rarh Plain. The slope of the area is from west to east.

3. Delta plain: Nadia, North and South 24 Parganas and Howrah, Hooghly and the eastern low lands of Murshidabad district is called the delta region.

4. Sandy coastal plain: The sandy coastal plain is located along the Bay of Bengal in East Midnapore. The slope of the area is from north to south.

Question 4.
Describe the rivers of West Bengal.
Answer:
Rivers of West Bengal: The rivers are divided on the basis of source, direction of flow, amount of water carried, type of delta, etc.

• Rivers of North Bengal,
• Middle Ganga and ts tributaries,
• Rivers of western plateau area and Rarh area,
• Southern Sunderban region and its rivers,
• Rivers of the sandy area.

1. Rivers of North Bengal: The rivers of North Bengal are snowfed. They flow from north to south. The rivers are Teesta, Jaldhaka, Mahananda, Sankosh, Raidak, Torsa, etc.

2. Middle Ganga and its tributaries: The river is divided into two parts, one is Hooghly river in West Bengal and other is Padma in Bangladesh. The tributaries of Ganga are ichamati, Churni, Jalangi, etc.

3. Western Plateau and Rarh region and its rivers: The rivers are rainfed. The slope of the land is from west to east and southeast. The rivers of this region are-Damodar, Dwarkeshwar, Silabati, Kangsabati, Ajay, Mayurakshi, Dwarka, etc.

4. Rivers of Sundarbans: Saptamukhi, Matla, Raimangal, Bidyadhari, etc., are the rivers of Sundarbans.

5. Rivers of sandy area of Kanthi: The rivers of this region are of tidal nature. Rasulpur and Champa are the rivers of the sandy area of Kanthi.

Question 5.
Describe the relief and rivers of the plateau area of West Bengal.
Answer:
Relief features of the plateau area:

• Purulia district, western part of West Midnapore, Bankura, Burdwan and undulative areas of Birbhum are all parts of the western plateau region.
• From the geological point of view this area is a part of the plateau region. This ancient part of west Bengal is made up of old igneous and metamorphic rock.
• The western part is higher than the eastern part. The highest peak of this area is Gorgaburu (677m). The land slopes from west to east.
• The plateau area is covered with hard rocks. For example, Ayodhya hill, Baghmundi Hill.
• Gorgaburu is the highest peak of the Ayodhya Hill. Panchet Hill and Bhandari Hill are in the southern part of this district.
• Belpahari in West Midnapore, and Susunia Hill (440m), are located in the western plateau.

Rivers of the plateau area:

• The rivers are the tributaries of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river.
• The rivers originate from Chota Nagpur plateau region.
• The rivers are rainfed and so they remain dry except during the rainy season.

The major rivers of this region are-

• Damodar: It originates from the Khamarpat hill of Palamau district in Jharkhand and joins river Hooghly downstream.
• Kasai or Kangsabati: It originates from the hills of Purulia district and flows to the southeast to meet river Hooghly later on. Kumari Nadi is a tributary of this river.
• Dwarakeswer and Shilai or Silabati: These two rivers combine near Ghatal in West Midnapore and then is known Rupnarayan. It then meets river Hooghly near Gaonkhali in East Midnapore.
• Others: The other important rivers of this region are Mayurakshi, Ajay, Dwarka, Brahmani, Bakreswar, Kopai, Subarnarekha, etc.

Question 6.
Give an account of the landforms of the various plains of West Bengal.
Answer:
The whole of West Bengal is comprised of plains except the mountainous region of the north and the plateau region in the west. These vast plain can be divided into four types of landforms-

• Plains of North Bengal,
• Rarh plains,
• Deltaic plains and
• Sandy coastal plains.

Plains of North Bengal: The plain region lying between the river Ganga in the south and the Darjeeling region in the north is known as the plains of North Bengal. This region can be classified into-

• Terai or Dooars plains, and
• Ganga-Brahmaputra doab plain.

1. Terai and Dooars Plain:

• This region comprises most part of southern Jalpaiguri district and Siligrui.
• The Himalayan mountains meet the plain here with gentle slope and create almost a plain-like landform.
• Heaps of pebbles and rocks and westlands are seen scattered all around.
• This land slopes from north to south. This region receives heavy rainfall, and hence remains wet.

2. Ganga-Brahmaputra Doab Plain: The plain lying between the Ganga and Brahmapurta may be classified as-

• Tal: The lowlying area between rivers Kalindi and Mahananda is known as ‘Tal’. Numerous wetlands and marshes are seen here.
• Barind or Barind Tract: The area encompassing the eastern part of South Dinajpur district and the eastern part of Malda district is undulating and made up.
  of ancient silt. This region is known as Barind tract.
• Diara: This lowlying area composed of new silt, to the south of river Kalindi flowing along the southwestern part of Malda district is called ‘Diara’.

Rarh Plain:

• The vast expanse of plains lying between Bhagirathi-Hooghly to the east and the plateau region to the west is known as ‘Rarh’ region.
• It comprises the plains of the district of West and East Midnapore, Bankura, Burdwan, Birbhum etc.
• The Rarh plains have been formed as a result of deposition of silt of rivers Damodar, Ajay, Mayurakshi.
• The highest elevation of this region is in the west (75m) and lowest in the east (10m) and thus it has a general slope from west to east.
• The region is composed of silt.
• Small hills are seen scattered here and there.
• To the south of the Rarh plains, Digha and Kanthi are present in the sandy area of East Midnapore.

Deltaic Plain: It comprises the plains of the districts of Nadia, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas and Kolkata. This area can be divided into further groups on the basis of structural differences-

1. Moribund delta: The northernmost part of the delta is known as the Moribund delta. This is because the rivers here do not deposit silt and so the process of delta formation no longer exists here. The landforms here comprise some ox-bow lakes, creeks and wetlands.

2. Mature delta: This region stretches from the southern part of the Moribund delta to the northern part of the Sundarban region. It comprises Kolkata, the southern part of North 24 Parganas and northern part of South 24 Parganas. The rivers flowing here deposit some amount of silt when the rivers are flooded.

3. Active delta: The southern part of South 24 Parganas is a part of the active delta. This region is called active since the rivers of the Sundarbans are still carrying out the depositional work, that is, siltation and thereby helps in the process of deltaformation. An island called ‘Purbasha’ has recently been created here.

Question 7.
Give an account of the landforms and rivers of the Rarh plain and the Gangetic delta.
Answer:
Rarh Plain:
1. Landforms: The extensive plains composed of reddish soil and stretching between the Bhairathi-Hooghly river to its east and the plateau region to its west, is known as ‘Rarh’ region. The plains of the districts of East and West Midnapore, Bankura, Burdwan, etc., are all parts of this region.

This region has been formed as result of deposition of silt by the rivers Ajay, Damodar, Mayurakshi, etc. The average elevation of this area is higher in the west (75m) and lower in the east (10m). As such, the slope of the land is from west to east.

2. Rivers: Most of the rivers in this region have their sources in the Chota Nagpur Plateau to its west and they either flow to the east or southeast, following the slope of the land. For example, the Damodar river originates from the Khamarpat hills of Palamau district of Jharkhand and meets the Bhagirathi-Hooghly to its east.

A branch of river Damodar, known as Mundeswari meets the Rupnarayan river. Later on, the Dwarakeswar and Silabati rivers, after flowing towards the southeast, are known as Rupnarayan and meets the Hooghly river. Other notable rivers of this region include Kangsabati, Ajay, Bakreswar, Mayurakshi, Dwaraka, etc.

Gangetic Delta:
1. Landforms: The plains of Kolkata and the districts of Nadia, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly and Murshidabad fall under the delta plains.

This region has been divided into 3 parts on the basis of structural differences-

• Moribund delta: The rivers in this region does not deposit any silt and therefore the process of delta formation has stopped here. The districts of Nadia and Murshidabad come under this region.
• Mature delta: Kolkata, northern parts of North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas comprise this area. The rivers here deposit some amount of silt during floods.
• Active delta: The process of delta formation is very much active here because the rivers deposit silt in large amounts. Recently an island called ‘Purbasha’ has been created here.

2. Rivers: The major river of this delta region is the Bhagirathi-Hooghly and its important tributaries are Ichamati, Churni, Jalangi, etc. These rivers flow from north to south over the deltaic plains. Besides, many rivers of the Sunderbans are fed by tidal waters, such as, Raimangal, Matla, Gosaba, Bidyadhari, etc.

Question 8.
Write a note on the characteristics of the climate of West Bengal. In which region of West Bengal are winter clothes required even in summer?
Answer:
Characteristics of the climate:
1. Change of seasons: The main characteristics of the climate of West Bengal is season change. Summer, monsoon, autumn and winter are the four main seasons of West Bengal. Before the arrival of winter, the dewy season is observed, while spring marks the beginning of summer.

2. Extensive impact of Tropical Monsoon wind: In summer the hot southwestern monsoon winds and in winter the dry northeastern monsoon winds blow over the state. These two winds bring hot and humid summers and cold and dry winters in West Bengal.

3. Opposite direction of winds: In West Bengal, the direction of wind in summer is opposite to the direction of wind in winter.

4. Wet summer and dry winter: Generally rainfall occurs in summer so the summer is basically wet and humid. In winter, rainfall is little in amount (due to northern disturbances) and so the winter is dry.

5. Northern region is rainfall prone: As a result of the Southwest monsoon winds West Bengal receives heavy rainfall in its northern Himalayan region. The hilly regions of West Bengal receives an average rainfall of 400 cm annually.

6. Entire West Bengal except the mountainous regions has moderate type of climate: As North Bengal is a mountainous area, summers are pleasant but winters are bitterly cold. In the rest of West Bengal the annual range of temperature is not very high. Pleasant climate prevails in the plains and coastal regions. The western plateau area (especially Purulia) experiences night.

Question 9.
Discuss the main climatic factors of West Bengal. What are the characteristics of the rivers of the Sundarbans?
Answer:
The main climatic factors of West Bengal:
1. Tropic of Cancer: Since the Tropic of Cancer (23% 1/2N°) passes over West Bengal, the state (except the mountainous region of Darjeeling) is warm in nature.

2. Monsoon winds: The moisture-laden southwest monsoon winds blow over West Bengal during the rainy season causing widespread rainfall. Again, the dry northeast monsoon winds blow over the state causing no rainfall. These winds are cold since they arrive from mountainous areas. Thus, West Bengal experiences cold weather devoid of rainfall during the winter months.

3. Altitude of the land: There is an inverse relationship between altitude and temperature. With every 1000 metre of ascent, the temperature drops at the rate of 6.4C and hence the temperature lowers with increase in altitude. Since the Himalayan mountain regions are greater in altitude as compared to the plains, they have much lower temperature.

4. Location of the Bay of Bengal: Since the Bay of Bengal lies to the south of West Bengal, it has a moderate climate with no extreme temperature.

5. Location of the Himalayan mountains: The Himalayas are aligned from west to east across the northern part of the state. On one hand, it is responsible for causing rainfall (relief or orographic rainfall), while on the other, it acts as a barrier and prevents the cold winds (northeast monsoon winds) from blowing over the state during the winter months.

The characteristics of the rivers of Sundarbans: Most of the rivers of Sunderbans are fed by tidal waters. For example, Saptamukhi, Matla, Raimangal, Bidyadhari, etc. The characteristis of these rivers are-

• They are perennial and have water throughout the year since they are tidal in nature.
• The river water is saline.
• They have short courses.
• Creeks are seen in these rivers.
• The rivers have wide mouths.
• All the rivers fall into the Bay of Bengal.

Question 10.
Give an account of the climatic characteristics of the different seasons in West Bengal.
Answer:
Climate of West Bengal: Although the Government of India has demarcated four types of climate in West Bengal, viz., summer, monsoon, autumn and winter, the autumn season just before the onset of winter and the dewy season just before the onset of summer are also noticeable.

Different Seasons:

1. Summer:
Duration: It lasts from March to May. As the sun moves towards the Tropic of Cancer from the Equator, the temperature in West Bengal gradually increases.

2. Characteristics:

About 30°C is the standard normal temperature of West Bengal, but in the plateau region in the west, temperature reaches 45°C. Purulia district experiences the maximum temperature and dry hot winds called ‘loo’ are rampant during this season here.

Since the mountainous areas have high altitude, temperatures are low here and the coastal regions also experience moderate/maritime climate. The temperature in the mountainous area of Darjeeling is 12-18°C.

Thunderstorms accompanied with lightning called ‘Kalbaishakhi’ are a common feature which usually occur during afternoons in the summer season. Rainfall is often accompanied with hailstorms.

2. Rainy season:
Duration: It lasts from June to September. The rainy season usually convenes from early June. It establishes itself in West Bengal with heavy rainfall, starting from the second week of June with the entry of moisture-laden southwest monsoon wind in West Bengal.

Characteristics:

• Under the influence of the moisture-laden monsoon winds, highest amount rainfall is experienced in the mountainous region of the north (an average of about 400cm.
• The rainfall amount gradually decreases towards the south. In the plains of North Bengal it is 200-250 cm, and in the delta region it is 150-200cm. But the coastal regions receive a comparatively higher amount if rain.
• The average rainfall amount in the rainy season is 175cm in West Bengal.
• Highest amount of rainfall is recorded in the Buxaduar region (535 cm) and the least amount in Purulia district (75cm). Compared to the summer season, the temperature is quite low during this time.

3. Autumn:
Duration: It lasts from October November. Autumn arrives when the sun moves from the Equator to the Tropic of Capricorn, i.e., from the end September and the beginning of October.

Characteristics:

• The southwest mo soon winds retreat from West Beng which results in decreasing amount rainfall
• The average temperature about 30°C.
• During the retreatin monsoon season, thunderstorms having their origin in the Bay of Bengal are common feature during this period These thunderstorms are known a ‘Aswin’ storms.

4. Winter:
(1) Duration: It lasts from December t February. The sun is directly overhead the Tropic of Capricorn during this time

Characteristics:

• Cold and dry northeast monsoon winds begin to blow during this period.
• The temerature o West Bengal is much lower during this time (E.g., it is 4°C-7°C in the mountainous regions and from 16°C-10°C in the southern and western parts of the state).
• Rainfall does not occur and the weather is stable.
• Occasionally slight rainfall occurs under the influence of low depressions in northwest India. These are known ‘Western Disturbances’.

Question 11.
Explain the influence of monsoon winds on the climate of West Bengal.
Answer:
Influence of monsoon winds on the climate of West Bengal: Two different types of winds blow over West Bengal-

• The humid southwest monsoon wind that blows during summer,
• The dry northeast monsoon wind that blows during winter. These two winds are mainly responsible for regulating the climate of West Bengal.

1. The climate of West Bengal can be divided into 4 seasons according to the onset and retreat of these two wind systems-

• premonsoon or summer season,
• monsoon or rainy season when the southwest monsoon winds are active,
• retreat of the southwest monsoon winds or autumn season, and
• onset of northeast monsoon winds or winter season.

2. Not only the demarcation of seasons, the climatic characteristics of West Bengal are also influenced by the nature of monsoon winds.

3. The northeast monsoon winds blow from the north towards the south during winter (from December to February). Since these winds are cold, the temperature drops in West Bengal and it is known as the winter season. Rainfall does not occur in this period as these winds are dry.

4. The northeast monsoon winds start retreating from West Bengal from the end of February and the southwest monsoon winds arrive during the interim period (from March to May). As a result, the temperature rises, and this period is known as the summer season.

5. The southwest monsoon wind blows over West Bengal from June to September. Since this wind is moisture-laden, the sky is overcast and rainfall occurs. This season is called the rainy/monsoon season.

6. With the retreat of the southwest monsoon winds, the sky is clear and temperature gradually decreases.

Question 12.
Give a classification of soils in West Bengal and describe them in brief.
Answer:
According to the famous soil scientist Jenny, soil is formed by the combined effect of climate, biosphere, relief, parental rock and time. The classification of soil has been shown below-

1. Soil of hilly region:
Location: It is mostly found in the districts of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, etc.

Characteristics:

• This is a type of podsol soil,
• brown in colour,
• soil fertility is medium.

Crops produced: Tea, orange, cinchona, etc.

2. Terai soil:
Location: It is found in the foothills of the Himalayas.
Characteristics:

• Pebbly soil,
• grey in colour,
• soil fertility is medium.

Crops produced: Paddy, wheat, tea, potato are cultivated.

3. Soil of plateau region:
Location: It is mostly found in Purulia, Bankura, Birbhum, Burdwan, West Midnapore, Malda and South Dinajpur.

Characteristics:

• Generally laterite soil, which is red in colour and hard as brick,
• soil is infertile,
• water absorbing capacity is low,
• soil is of two types-laterite soil, red soil.

Crops produced: Tea, corn, etc.

4. Soil of the plain region:
Location: It is mostly found in North and South Dinajpur, Murshidabad, Nadia, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly etc.

Characteristics:

• Soil is fertile,
• usually silty in nature.

Crops produced: Paddy, wheat, jute, sugarcane, etc.

5. Coastal soil:
Location: It is found in the Sunderbans and Kanthi coastal region.

Characteristics:

• Soil is saline,
• black in colour,
• water-retaining capacity is low,
• soil is infertile.

Question 13.
Describe the natural vegetation of West Bengal.
Answer:
The monsoon winds blow over West Bengal and the climate is tropical monsoon type. The natural vegetation is directly influenced by the climate.

Vegetation of Northern Hilly Region:
Location: Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri districts.

• Evergreen trees: These trees grow between an altitude of 100m and 1500m from the foothills. The main trees of this category are-sal, segun, shishu, garjan, bamboo, cane, etc.
• Temperate coniferous forest: These trees are found between 1500m and 3000m of altitude. The important trees of this region are oak, maple, pine, spruce, deodar, birch, etc.
• Alpine trees: These trees grow between 3000m and 4000m of altitude. The mostly found trees are-silver pine, rhododendron etc.

Vegetation of Northern Dooars Region:
1. Location: Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts fall under the Dooars vegetation area.
2. Characteristics:

• The trees are typical to hilly regions.
• The forests are concentrated in the foothills of the mountains.

3. Main trees: Sal, segun, khair, cane, bamboo, etc.

Vegetation of Western Plateau Region:
1. Location: Purulia, Bankura, West Midnapore districts.
2. Characteristics:

• The area has low rainfall.
• The area is covered by laterite soil.

3. Main trees: Arjun, shimul, sal, palash, mahua, etc.

Vegetation of Plain Region:
1. Location: North and South Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, North and South 24 Parganas, East and West Midnapore, Burdwan, Howrah and Birbhum districts.

2. Characteristics:

• The forests are dispersed in nature.
• The forests have been mostly cleared because of population and agriculture.

3. Main trees: Banyan, mango, tamarind, bel, jamun, asathwa, jackfruit, etc.

Vegetation of Delta Region:
1. Location: North and South 24 Parganas, the coastal areas of the Bay of Bengal.
2. Characteristics:

• The trees grow in the saline soil.
• The trees are of mangrove type.

3. Main trees: Sundari, garan, geoa, hetal, hogla, keora, surja shisir, etc.

Question 14.
What are the characteristics of agriculture in West Bengal?
Answer:
Characteristics of agriculture of West Bengal: West Bengal is a monsoon-dependent state. The impact of monsoon is great on agricultural practices in West Bengal. The agricultural characteristics of West Bengal are-

1. Monsoon-dependent agriculture:

• Most of the cultivation is largely dependent on the southwest monsoon winds.
• The kharif crops are cultivated as per the monsoon rains.
• The cultivation is incertain because of the uncertainty of the monsoon rains.

2. Intensive agriculture:

• Intensive agriculture is practised because the population density is high.
• Intensive agriculture is practised because the demand for food is also very high. A single piece of land is thus cultivated more than once to produce various crops.

3. Labour-intensive agriculture:

• The agriculture of West Bengal is labourintensive since use of machines is minimal.
• The farmers cultivate their fields with outdated implements like ploughs and bullocks.

4. Livelihood-based agriculture:

• The agricultural practises of West Bengal are for the livelihood of the people.
• The cultivated crops are used by the farmers themselves since surplus is very less.

5. Crop rotation system: The crop rotation system is followed to retain the fertility of the soil.

6. Importance of paddy cultivation:

• Since rice is the staple food of the people of West Bengal, paddy is cultivated in abundance.
• Moreover, the fertile silty soil of the delta regions as well as the warm and humid climate is conducive for paddy cultivation.

7. Development of irrigation and cultivation of rabi crops:

• In winter, rabi crops are cultivated with the help of irrigation.
• The productivity of rabi crops is increased with the help of irrigation by wells, tubewells, and canals. The capacity of irrigation has been increased which facilitates productivity.

8. Decrease in importance of jute cultivation:

• Demand for jute products in the international market is low and thus the state is now faced with a crisis in the jute industry.
• Since the price of jute has decreased, the farmers are not interested in cultivating jute anymore.

9. Increase in the importance of tea cultivation: The production and sale of tea has increased in West Bengal in recent times. The tea gardens have increased in numbers in North Dinajpur and Purulia district as a result.

10. Production of silk and indigo:

• The price of silk has increased in the world market over the past few years.
• Silk and indigo are now raised on a large scale in the districts of Malda, Murshidabad, North and South Dinajpur.

11. Increase in the production of oil seeds:

• Since the production of mustard and ‘rai’ oil seeds are low in West Bengal. They have to be imported from the northern states of India, as a result of which fluctuation of price occurs.
• At present, much stress is laid on increased production of oil seeds.

12. Production of fishing and poultry farming besides crop cultivation: Since the main food of West Bengal comprises fish, egg, meat, etc., poultry-farming is gaining importance along with pisciculture together with cultivation of crops.

13. Agricultural development programmes: The development of agriculture has increased with the help of 5 year plans and 3-tier Panchayat Management System.

14. Forecast of Green Revolution: The crop cultivation in West Bengal has increased as result of the Green Revolution in Punjab and Haryana (where cultivation is done using ‘modern measures).

Question 15.
Give an account of the main agricultural crops of West Bengal.
Answer:
The main agricultural crops of West Bengal: The fertile silty soil is found almost everywhere in West Bengal except the hilly and plateau regions. This soil has great influence on agricultural productivity in West Bengal.

1. Paddy: West Bengal holds the first position in terms of production of paddy in India. About 91% of food grains in West Bengal is comprised of paddy.

Areas of paddy production: Burdwan, Murshidabad, Birbhum, Bankura, Nadia, North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, Bihar, Cooch Behar, North Dinajpur, etc.

Types of paddy: On the basis of seasons, the paddy produced are of three types-

• Aman
• Aus and
• Boro.

Aman paddy: The cultivation of this type of paddy is done from July to November. Paddy is cultivated in Birbhum and Burdwan districts.
Aus paddy: The cultivation of this type of paddy is done from April to August.
Boro paddy: The cultivation of this type of paddy is done from November to April.

2. Jute: West Bengal is one of the most important centres of jute production in India. Jute is the most important cash crop here. So, jute cultivation influences the economy of West Bengal in a large scale.
Areas of jute production: Howrah, Hooghly, North and South Dinajpur, Murshidabad, Malda are the major jute producing areas of West Bengal.

3. Tea: West Bengal holds the second position in the production of tea, and is quite consistent in its productivity. Tea cultivation is largely practised in the hilly slopes of the northern regions.
Areas of tea cultivation: Best quality tea is produced in Darjeeling in West Bengal. Important tea producing centres of Darjeeling are Happy Valley, Kurseong, Makaibari, Bijanbari etc. Tea is also produced in the foot, hills of Himalayas of the Dooars region. The areas where tea is cultivated are Mal, Binaguri, Madarihat, Chalsha, Naxalbari, Kumargram, Nagarkata etc.

Type of Crops	Main Crops
1. Food grains	Paddy, wheat, corn, lentils, etc.
2. Plantation crops	Tea, cinchona, indigo, etc.
3. Fibre crops	Jute, ‘shon’, mesta, etc.
4. Fruits	Mango, jackfruit, papaya, banana, litchi, pineapple, guava, etc.
5. Vegetables	Potato, onions, stripped gourd, cauliflower, cabbage, brinjal, ridge gourd, etc.
6. Other crops	Coconut, pan/betel leaf, cashew nuts, sugarcane, tobacco, oil seeds, etc.

Question 16.
Give an account of rice-producing regions of West Bengal. What are the conducive factors for the cultivation of paddy/rice?
Answer:
The staple diet of most of the people of West Bengal is rice. intensive cultivation is practised here since the land is not enough to support the large population. Again, the same piece of land is utilised for growing different types of paddy like ‘Aus’, ‘Aman’ and ‘Boro’, according to the seasons. Moreover, high-yielding variety of seeds are cultivated to reap maximun productivity from the lard, viz., ‘Jaya’, ‘Ratna’, ‘Padma’, etc.

Regions in West Bengal where paddy is cultivated: Large quantities o. addy are produced from the districts of Burdwan, West Midnapore, Murshidabad, Birbhum, East Midnapore, South 24 Parganas, North Dinajpur, Purulia, Malda, South Dinajpur, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, etc.

Congenial Environment for cultivation of paddy: Both natural and artificial/man-made factors are responsible for producing paddy.

1. Natural/Physical factors:
Rainfall: High amount of rainfall is needed during paddy cultivation. An annual rainfall of 150-200cm is suitable. However, if it rains below 100cm, irrigation is necessary. Thus, paddy cultivation in West Bengal mainly depends on rainfall.

2. Temperature: About 10°C-20° C temperature is needed from planting the sapling to opening of the leaves. 35°C-37°C temperature is needed during the harvesting time.

3. Soil: Fertile silty or alluvial soil is needed for paddy cultivation. Besides, loamy, clayey, sandy, laterite and soils of the ‘Terai’ and hilly soils are also suitable for paddy cultivation.

4. Land: Though all types of land are suitable, plains which are flat are ideal for paddy cultivation. This is the reason why riverine flood plains are ideal.

2. Man-made factors:

• Labour: Being a labour-intensive cultivation, the densely populated regions produce more paddy.
• Transport: Since rapid and developed modes of transport are needed, areas having such facilities are ideal.
• Demand: Demand is particularly high in the densely populated region and paddy cultivation has gained much importance here.

Question 17.
Mention the tea-producing regions of West Bengal and underline the conducive factors for tea cultivation.
Answer:
Tea is a mild beverage and is a commercial/ cash crop. The plantations are mostly located in tropical and sub-tropical regions. West Bengal ranks second in the production of tea in india.

Main tea-producing regions of West Bengal: Best quality flavoured tea is produced in the Darjeeling district. Along the hilly slopes ranging between 90m to 2000m in altitude, terraces have been made for tea plantations. The most important tea producers here are Happy Valley, Kurseong, Makaibari, Mobaibari, Mohorgan, etc. Some tea plantations are seen in Cooch Behar and Jalpaiguri of the Dooars region of West Bengal and the foothills of the Himalayas in the district of Alipurduar.

Conducive factors for cultivation of tea: They can be grouped into two-
1. Physical environment: The important factors are-

Relief: This is an important factor for the cultivation of tea. Sloping land where water does not stand is required and that is why hill slopes are ideal locations. Since these soil areas are prone to erosion, terraces are prepared along the contours for tea plantations.

Climate: Hot and wet climate having a high amount of rainfall is necessary since they influence the flavour, colour and taste of tea. Rainfall ranging between 150cm and 200cm, and average annual temperature of
20°C-30°C and summer temperature of 27° C, is ideal for tea cultivation. Snowfall is harmful for tea plantations.

Soil: Fertile, acidic, iron and manganese-bearing soils are ideal for tea cultivation. However, sufficient amounts of nitrogen, zinc and potassium are also needed.

2. Man-made factors: Some of the important artificial/man-made factors are-

• Capital: The capital is needed for maintenance of tea gardens, labour wages, implements, fertilisers, pesticides etc.
• Labour: Skilled workers are required to pick tea-leaves. Large number of laboures are required for the tea processing work.
• Transport: Developed transport system is essential for exporting after processing it (since tea plantations are located in hilly areas).
• Others: Besides the above factors, advanced technology, demand for tea, administrative facilities, market etc., also influence production of tea.

Question 18.
What are the reasons for development of industries in West Bengal?
Answer:
Reasons for development of industries in West Bengal: Among all human activities, industrial development is the most prominent one. When the raw materials are processed into utility items for the benefit of mankind, the process is known as industry. The factors causing industrial development may be grouped into two types-

• geographical and
• economic factors.

1. Geographical factors: The geographical factors behind improvement of industries in West Bengal are as follows-
(1) Importance of raw materials: Raw material is the most important factor for industrial development. Certain characteristics of raw materials are important, viz.,

• nature of utility of raw materials,
• perishability of raw materials,
• use of alternative raw materials.

(2) Availability of power/energy: Energy is required to run the equipments for processing the raw materials. Thermal power and hydroelectricity are the two most widely used powers.

(3) Congenial climate: Certain industries need specific climatic conditions. For example, dry climate for leather industry, sunny climate for film industry, humid climate for textile industry etc.

(4) Supply of water: Large amount of water is required for any industry. This is the reason why jute mills are located on either banks of river Hooghly.

2. Economic factors: The most important factors are-

(1) Advanced transport system: Since the raw materials have to be brought to the industrial sites and the finished products to be taken to the domestic markets as well as for export, transport system plays a vital role. Developed transport network and accessibility are therefore important factors for industrial development.

(2) Availability of labour: Labour is essential for industrial development. Lack of skilled labour in Australia has therefore hampered industrial development there.

(3) Huge capital: This is needed for acquiring land for industries, bringing equipments, wages for labourers and procuring raw materials.

(4) Demand and market: If there is no demand for a particular commodity, production of that commodity is not required. This is the reason why demand and accessible markets are important factors for development of industries.

(5) Political stability: The industrialists can invest in establishing industries if there is political stability instead of frequent change of power in any country/state.

Question 19.
Give an account of the main industries of West Bengal.
Answer:
Main industries of West Bengal: Although West Bengal is mainly an agricultural state, industries have also flourished here. The main industries of West Bengal are-iron and steel, jute and tea, food-processing, cotton textile, tourism, information technology (IT), etc.

1. Iron and steel industry: The first iron and steel industry was established in Kulti (Burdwan) in 1870. Another one was established in Burnpur in 1918. The Durgapur industrial beit has developed due to the abundant availability of iron ore, coal, water, electricity, labour, etc., in this region.

2. Jute industry: West Bengal is known in india for the production of jute. The first jute industry was established in 1855 in Rishra (Hooghly district). At present, there are about 59 jute mills located on either side of river Hooghly.

3. Cotton textile industry: Cultivation of cotton does not take place in West Bengal, but based on import, the cotton textile industry has developed here. The first cotton-textile industry was established in Ghusuri (Howrah district). Other centres are in Serampore, Shyamnagar, Sodepur, etc.

4. Tea industry: This is an important industry of West Bengal. The first tea industry was established in 1834. The tea estates were established in Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, etc., centered around the tea gardens there.

5. Food processing industry: The processing of fish, eggs, meat, vegetables etc., is done for ready-to-eat products to be consumed by making the people. Due to great demand, the food-processing industry has developed in West Bengal.

6. Tourism industry: Any centre for entertainment is considered to be a tourism spot. Tourism industry has developed around various centres like religions places, hilly areas, sea beaches, educational centres, big cities, historical places, etc. The important tourist places of West Bengal are-Kolkata (Victoria Memorial, Alipore Zoo, etc.), Sundarbans, Digha, Darjeeling, etc.

7. Information technology industry: This industry has developed in West Bengal and holds an important position in the state. The Electronics Complex (Software Park) of Salt Lake near Kolkata is famous and further development of this industry is taking place here.

Question 20.
What are the main cities and towns of West Bengal? Give an account of Kolkata as the capital of the state.
Answer:
The main cities of West Bengal: The census of India has designated those places as cities which have the following criteria-a population of more than 5000, population density of more than 400 persons per 5q km, and at least 75% of the people engaged in nonagricultural activities.

The major cities of West Bengal include-Kolkata, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, Durgapur, Krishnanagar, Bolpur, Raniganj, English Bazar, Midnapore, Bankura, Malda, Burdwan, Asansol, Haldia, Berhampore, Purulia, Shantipur, Chakdah, Ranaghat, Nabadweep, Balurghat, Chandannagar, Barrackpore, Howrah, Alipore, Barasat, Kalyani, Bongaon, Basirhat, etc.

Kolkata as a capital: Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal. Thus it is of much importance in this state.

1. Location: The capital of West Bengal, Kolkata is situated on the left bank of river Hooghly about 130km inland from the mouth of river Ganga. This is one of the most significant cities in India.

2. Year of establishment: Job Charnock, the governor of the East India Company established the city of Kolkata on August 24, 1690. The three villages of Sutanuti, Govindapur and Kalikata were united to form this city. Kolkata was the capital of India under the British rule till 1911.

3. Importance of the city of Kolkata: Kolkata is a very important city. Some of the important features of Kolkata are as follows-

1. Commercial capital: Having an area of about 183 sq km, Kolkata is India’s main commercial centre and the capital of West Bengal.

2. City of Palaces: Kolkata boasts of having quite a number of beautiful palaces and heritage buildings (likeMarble Palace of Rajen Mullick in north Kolkata, Rabindranath Tagore’s house in Jorasanko, Palace of Sovabazar, etc.). This is why Kolkata is known as the ‘City of Palaces’.

3. Population: Kolkata is one of the most important cities of India and the city’s population is about 4496694 (2011), and the population density is about 24252 persons per sq km (2011).

4. ‘City of Joy’: As per the book entitled ‘City of Joy’ by the famous author Dominique Lapiere, the people of Kolkata are ever-happy in spite of all the sufferings endured by them. That is why it is called the ‘City of Joy’.

5. Centre of education, culture, trade and commerce: Kolkata is the main centre of education, culture, trade and commerce of east and northeast India.

6. Industrial centre: Many industries have developed with Kolkata as its centre, like, jute industry, engineering industry, textile industry, paper industry etc.

7. Centre of communication: Kolkata is the headquarter of the eastern and southeastern railways. Dumdum, the only international airport of east India, is in Kolkata. National Highway numbers 2,34,35 and 6 all pass through Kolkata.

8. Others: Others significant features of Kolkata are-

• The only underground metro railway in eastern India is located here.
• Kolkata is the main port of West Bengal.
• The popular tourist spots of Kolkata are-Museum, Alipore Zoo, Victoria Memorial Hall, Birla Planetorium, Science City, etc.

Question 21.
Mention the major ports of West Bengal and state the importance of Kolkata port.
Answer:
Major ports of West Bengal: The term ‘port’ has been derived from the latin word ‘parte’ meaning ‘entrance door’. In other words, a port means a place where entry is made between land and sea and also from sea to land through which transport or flow of goods and passengers is made.

The major ports of West Bengal are Kolkata (located on the left bank of river Hooghly) and Haldia. They are riverine ports.

Importance of Kolkata port: Kolkata is a riverine port. About 130km inland from the Bay of Bengal, it is located on the left bank of river Hooghly. The hinterland of Kolkata port covers an area of about 13 lakh sq km. Kolkata port plays a vital role in the economic development of West Bengal.

1. Control over trade: Kolkata port has a very significant role in the economy of West Bengal and even northeast India as well as Nepal and Bhutan. The exports and imports of this vast region are all handled by this port.

2. Earning foreign exchange: Since international trade is carried out through this port, the city earns foreign exchange.

3. Aid to industries: Products of West Bengal like jute products, coal, tea (from Assam, Darjeeling), iron-ore (from Bihar and Odisha), mica, etc., are all exported from this port.

4. Aid to agriculture: Fertilisers, pesticides, equipments, etc., required for agricultural practices are imported through this port.

5. Employment opportunities: Lakhs of people are either directly or indirectly influenced by this port for getting employment opportunities in the agricultural, industrial, trade and commerce sectors, etc. Besides, a large number of people also get employment as labourers within the port area itself.

6. Development of transport: Taking advantage of the Kolkata port, a good network of roads, railways and water transport have developed not only in West Bengal, but also throughout northeast India.

7. Import of food crops: Since West Bengal is not totally self-dependent on food crops produced in the state, a lot has to be imported through the Kolkata port. These are the reasons why the port of Kolkata is such a significant port among all other ports of West Bengal.

Question 22.
Discuss the rise and fall of the port of Kolkata.
Answer:
Reasons for the rise or development of Kolkata port: The conducive factors leading to the development of this port are-
1. Import of industrial raw materials: The port of Kolkata was established in the nineteenth century during the British period. They established it on the banks of river Hooghly in order to facilitate transport of industrial raw materials, defence equipments, etc., to India.

2. Navigability of Bhagirathi-Hooghly river: Since the depth of the river is more and navigability of this river is quite high, ships could ply smoothly through this river to the sea.

3. Resource-rich hinterland: The Kolkata port has a huge hinterland encompassing almost the whole of eastern India. This region has rich natural resources like tea, jute, rice, etc., (agricultural) as well as coal, iron ore, mica, etc., (minerals), along with forest-based resources. Besides, the established industries of tea, jute, engineering, cement, paper, etc., have made this region densely populated.

4. Densely populated city: Kolkata being a densely populated metropolis, labour required for port activities are easily available.

5. Developed transport system: Kolkata is linked to all parts of eastern India through a well-developed transport network like southeastem railway, national highways (like NH 6 and NH 34) etc.

6. Conducive physical environment: The areas in and around Kolkata have the advantage of having flat places and delta, congenial moderate climate, etc., which are all conducive to the development of a port.

7. Location of centre of trade: Kolkata being the main industrial and trade centre of eastern India, has naturally developed as a port.

Reasons for the downfall of Kolkata port: This port is gradually losing its significance due to the following factors-

• Decrease in navigability of Kolkata port: Due to continuous siltation of the river bed over a long period of time, the river bed has risen and therefore navigability has decreased. As a result, ships cannot ply much inland from the sea through this river.
• Meandering nature of river: The numerous meanders of the river hinder the smooth plying of big ships inland.
• Presence of huge sand-bars in the river: The river has about 14-15 big sand bars stretching from the mouth of the river to Kolkata port. This is why big foreign ships cannot enter Kolkata port without the guidance of other smaller ships.
• Lack of space/infrastructure in the port: Due to space crunch, many ships cannot be anchored at the same time. Lack of jetties also hamper uploading and downloading of larger quantities of materials from the ships.

Question 23.
Give an account of the cottage industry of West Bengal.
Answer:
The goods that are produced by the members of the household with little capital and ordinary equipments are known as cottage industry

Cottage industries in West Bengal: Lakhs of people in West Bengal are engaged in minor or small-scaie industries or cottage industries and the role of those industries have a major contribution especially in the rural economy. The various industries here include-

1. Cotton textile industry (‘Tant’): A majority of the people engaged in cottageindustries work in this ‘Tant’ industry. In West Bengal about 6,66,514 people are engaged in this industry either on a fulltime or part-time basis. These textiles are usually woven by hand-driven machines or gadpets. Shantipur and Phulia of Nadia district and Dhanekhali, Bankura and Bishnupur of Hooghly district are famous for this type of industry.
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2. Clay industry: Kumartull of Kolkata is famous for making clay-idols, Krishnanagar for clay-dolls, Bankura and Bishnupur for terracotta products. Moreover, almost everywhere in the state of West Bengal, clay utensils, pots, etc., are made (especially in the villages) and many people are engaged in it.

3. ‘Bidi’ industry: ‘Bidi’ is made by filling in tobacco into the dried ‘kendu’ leaves which are collected from the forests. A large number of people of West Bengal depend on ‘bidi’ making for their livelihood. Aurangabad, Raghunathganj of Murshidabad district, North and South 24 Parganas and Purulia district abound in such ‘bidi’ making industry.

4. Mat industry: The sticks used for making mats are actually a type of aquatic plant. This industry is famous in West and East Midnapore districts.

5. Jute products: Many articles like threads, ropes, carpets, mattresses, bags and other decorative items for households are produced from jute in the villages of West Bengal. Kaliganj of Nadia district is well known for weaving of jute fibres and dyeing them.

6. Wooden furniture: Many carpenters of West Bengal are engaged in making beds, wardrobes, chairs, tables, benches, doors, windows, etc.

7. Articles made from iron: Articles like sickle, hammer, axe, spade, plough and other household items are made from iron.

8. Others: Besides these, many industries like molasses-making, silk industry, bamboo products, making of musical instruments, toys as well as articles made of brass and bronze, machines used in rice mills, etc., are scattered all over West Bengal.

Question 24.
Discuss the importance of small-scale industries in West Bengal.
Answer:
Small-scale industries are a grade higher than cottage industries. The total financial investment ranges from Rs. 75 lakhs to 1.5 crores involving construction of small factories, machines, etc. The small-scale industries are very significant in West Bengal.

1. Financial investment: Investments in small scale industries are of medium range. However, the overall financial investment is quite large indicating the importance of such industries.

2. Employment: Mary people are employed in small-scale industries which have led to the economic development of West Bengal. About 20 lakh people are engaged in the leather industry alone.

3. Huge exports: A large market has developed for the products of the small scale industries both in India and abroad. Thus, a huge amount of foreign exchange is earned from this industry, Items like leather goods, silk, cotton textile, gold jewellery, ceramic products, etc., are especially exported.

4. Development of domestic trade and commerce: As a result of the flourishing small-scale industries, domestic or internal trade and commerce have increased, leading to economic development of the country.

5. Increase in infrastructure: Development of roads, electricity, water supply and other infrastructural facilities develope around any area where small-scale industries are developing.

Question 25.
Discuss the various tourism sites of West Bengal.
Answer:
Traveling from one place to another either for business, for leisure or for entertainment purposes is called tourism. Tourist guides, agencies etc, are part of the tourism industry.

Center District

Nature of Tourism	Center	District	Places of attraction
1. Town or city	Kolkata	Kolkata	Victoria Memorial, Alipore Zoo, Museum, etc.
	Jhargram	West Midnapore	Salbani, ihargram, Rajbari,etc.
	Chandannagar	Hooghly	Laldighi, Aliadurg, French Museum, house of Rashbehari Bose, etc.
2. Mountain Hills	a. Darjeeling	Darjeeling	Rock garden, Tea gardens, Kangchenjunga, Tiger Hilis, etc.
	b. Ayodhya Hills	Purulia	Tribal house, Sitakunda, Chhau dance, etc.
	c. Susunia Hill	Bankura	Bishalakshmi temple, Gandheswari river, etc.
3. Sea beaches	a. Digha	East Midnapore	Sea beach, Amaravati Park, Snake Park, etc.
	b. Shankarpur	East Midnapore	Sea beach, crabs, fishing port, etc.
	c. Bakkhali	South 24 Parganas	Henry island, temple of Banadevi, etc.

Question 26.
Discuss the importance of West Bengal as a state.
Answer:
West Bengal has immense importance as a state-

• West Bengal comprises about 2.7% of the total area of India.
• Pertaining to the length of international border, West Bengal ranks second in India.
• It has international border with Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan.
• Population-wise West Bengal ranks fourth in position and comprises about 4% of the total population of India.
• West Bengal has the second highest population density (1029 persons per sq km) after Bihar.
• Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is the second largest city in India (population wise).
• It is the only state in India where both mountains (Himalayas) and seas are found.

Question 27.
Write about the neighbouring countries and states of West Bengal.
Answer:
Neighbouring Countries:
1. Nepal: It is located to the northwest of West Bengal with a total area of about 1,477,181 sq.km. The capital of Nepal is Kathmandu. The world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest (8,848m) is located in Nepal. The main river here is Kaligandaki.

2. Bhutan: Bhutan is located to the north of West Bengal with an area of about 46,500 sq.km. Its capital is Thimphu. The highest peak is Kulu Kangri and the longest river is Manas.

3. Bangladesh: Bangladesh is located on the eastern side of West Bengal. Its area is 1,48,309sq km. Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh. The highest peak in Bangladesh is Keokradong and longest river is Padma Meghna.

Neighbouring states:
1. Bihar: Bihar is located to the west of West Bengal. The area is 94,163 sq km. Its capital is Patna. Besides the main river Ganga, other rivers are Kosi, Gandak, Son, etc.

2. Jharkhand: It is located on the western side of West Bengal. The area is 79,714 sq km. Its capital is Ranchi. The main river is Mayurakshi. This state is called the mineral resource store of India.

3. Assam: It is located to the east of West Bengal. Its total area is 78,523 sq km. Its capital is Dispur. The main river is Brahmaputra. The famous Majuli island has developed in this river.

4. Odisha: It is located in the southwestern side of West Bengal with an area of 1,55,782 sq km. Its capital is Bhubaneshwar. The main river is Mahanadi. Puri is a famous religious city and tourist centre of Odisha.

5. Sikkim: It is located on the northern part of West Bengal covering an area of 7,229 sq km. Its capital is Gangtok. The highest peak is the Kangchenjunga and the longest river is Teesta.

Question 28.
What do you mean by tourism industry? What are the causes of development of the tourism industry?
Answer:
Tourism industry: When people travel from one place to another for entertainment, leisure, business and educational purposes and attain satisfaction, it is called tourism. When development of infrastructural facilities like roads, hotels, resorts, etc., are made for such purposes, it is then considered as an industry. While the tourists benefit, many people get employment in this industry. About 12 lakh foreign tourists and more than 2 crores of other tourists visited West Bengal during 2011-12.

The reasons of development of tourism industry in West Bengal:

1. Diversity in physical environment: The lofty and majestic Himalayan mountains in the north and the beautiful Bay of Bengal to the south, the physical features of the western plateau provide an exquisite variety of natural or scenic beauty in West Bengal which has led to the development of tourism industry here.

2. Historical and cultural centres: The historical and cultural centres like Murshidabad, Kolkata, etc., attract tourists from different part of the world.

3. Transport facility: All the major tourist centres are connected with a good network of roads, railways, airways, water ways, air conditioned buses, helicopters, steamers, etc. These have benefited the tourists to travel from one place to another.

4. Development of hotel and resorts: New hotels and resorts have come up in historical places. Eco-resorts and tree houses are attracting tourists in the Terai and Dooars in the north and Sundarbans in the southern part of the state.

5. Tourist guides: The tourist guides make people aware of conservation of the Sundarbans area, importance of historical places and conservation of heritage sites, etc. They aid in the development of the tourism industry.

6. Local festivals: Sharadiya Festival of Kolkata, Poushmela of Santiniketan, Jagadhatri Puja of Chandannagar, Kolkata’s New Year celebration, etc., have led to development of the tourism industry.

Question 29.
What is Information Technology industry? What are the causes of development of IT industry in West Bengal?
Answer:
Collection of data, their analysis, research, change, modification by using computers and telecommunication is called the IT industry.

Main industries :

• Production of software,
• Telephone,
• Data collection and its preservation or storage,
• Exchange of data and information.

The causes of development of IT industry:

1. Human resource: Human resource is the main resource of this industry. The main human resources include brilliant students of Mathematics, English etc. Knowledge of software, hardware, etc., imparted to students from the school level have contributed to the development of this industry.

2. Vocational centres: In West Bengal, vocational training related to Information Technology is imparted in quite a number of reputed institutions. Many skilled workers are the products of these institutions.

3. Outsourcing: Most of the IT work comes from foreign countries. Thus, work of foreign countries can be done sitting at home in West Bengal itself. The profit earned by foreign countries is very large since the work is done at much cheaper rate.

4. Investment: The big companies like IBM, ICS, Infosys, Wipro, Siemens invest much capital in this industry. Besides them, other organisations have also come forward to invest nowadays.

5. Infrastructural development: The infrastructure and other amenities of Rajarhat, Salt Lake, Siliguri, Kalyani, etc., have been