Question Answers for Chapter 1 Geographical Diversity of India Class 7 Social Science Exploring Society: India and Beyond
Class 7 Social Science Geographical Diversity of India Extra Questions
Very Short Answer Questions
Question 1. What is the cleanest village in Asia?
Answer
Mawlynnong in Meghalaya.
Question 2. Name the two island groups of India
Answer
Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Question 3. Which hill stations are found in the Himachal range?
Answer
Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala.
Question 4. Which natural feature protects India from the north?
Answer
The Himalayas protect India from the north.
Question 5. What is the total length of the Himalayan range?
Answer
The Himalayan range stretches for about 2,500 kilometers.
Question 6. Which major rivers originate from the Himalayas?
Answer
The Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra rivers originate from the Himalayas.
Question 7. What is the highest part of the Himalayan range called?
Answer
The highest part of the Himalayan range is called the Himadri or Greater Himalayas.
Question 8. Which Himalayan range is known for hill stations like Shimla and Darjeeling?
Answer
The Himachal or Lower Himalayas are known for hill stations like Shimla and Darjeeling.
Question 9. What is the outermost Himalayan range called?
Answer
The outermost range is called the Shivalik Hills.
Question 10. What kind of desert is Ladakh?
Answer
Ladakh is a cold desert in India.
Question 11. Name a famous salty lake in Ladakh.
Answer
Pangong Tso is a famous salty lake in Ladakh.
Question 12. Which animal is very useful for the people of Ladakh?
Answer
The yak is very useful for the people of Ladakh.
Question 13. Which festivals are celebrated in Ladakh?
Answer
Festivals like Losar and Hemis are celebrated in Ladakh.
Question 14. What makes the soil of the Gangetic Plains fertile?
Answer
Minerals carried by rivers from the Himalayas make the soil fertile.
Question 15. Which crops are mainly grown in the Gangetic Plains?
Answer
Rice and wheat are the main crops grown in the Gangetic Plains.
Question 16. What is the national bird of India found in the Gangetic Plains?
Answer
The peacock is the national bird of India found in the Gangetic Plains.
Question 17. Which desert covers parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana?
Answer
The Thar Desert covers parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana.
Question 18. What is a taanka used for in desert areas?
Answer
A taanka is used for harvesting and storing rainwater in desert areas.
Question 19. What is the highest peak in the Aravalli Hills?
Answer
Mount Abu is the highest peak in the Aravalli Hills.
Question 20. Name two minerals found in the Aravalli Hills.
Answer
Marble and zinc are two minerals found in the Aravalli Hills.
Question 21. Which two rivers flow westward into the Arabian Sea?
Answer
The Narmada and Tapti rivers flow westward into the Arabian Sea.
Question 22. What is the name of India’s only active volcano?
Answer
Barren Island is the name of India’s only active volcano.
Question 23. Which delta is home to the Sundarbans mangrove forest?
Answer
The delta formed by the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers is home to the Sundarbans.
Question 24. Which village in Meghalaya is known as the cleanest village in Asia?
Answer
Mawlynnong Village in the East Khasi Hills is known as the cleanest village in Asia.
Question 25. Define ‘biodiversity’.
Answer
Biodiversity is the variety of plants and animals in an area.
Short Answer Questions
Question 1. Why are the Himalayas called the ‘Water Tower of Asia’?
Answer
Himalayas called the ‘Water Tower of Asia’ because they store snow and glaciers which melt in summer and feed rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus, providing water to millions of people.
Question 2. What are some adaptations seen in the Thar Desert region?
Answer
People use camels for transport, clean utensils with sand, and harvest rainwater using tankas and kunds due to water scarcity.
Question 3. Describe two features of the Peninsular Plateau.
Answer
Two features of the Peninsular Plateau:
- It is a triangular plateau surrounded by water on three sides.
- It is rich in minerals and forests, supporting agriculture and hydroelectric power.
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| Peninsular Plateau |
Question 4. How are the islands of Andaman and Nicobar ecologically important?
Answer
They have coral reefs, tropical forests, unique wildlife, and are home to some of the oldest tribes in India, contributing to biodiversity.
Question 5. What makes the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers culturally special?
Answer
They are considered sacred in Indian culture and are personified as deities like Ganga and Brahmaputra, playing a role in rituals and beliefs.
Question 6. Which countries form the Indian Subcontinent along with India?
Answer
The Indian Subcontinent includes India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.
Question 7. What are the five main physical regions of India?
Answer
The five main physical regions of India are the Himalayas, the Gangetic Plains, the Thar Desert, the Southern Peninsula, and the Islands.
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| Physical features of India |
Question 8. How were the Himalayas formed?
Answer
The Himalayas were formed when the Indian plate collided with the Eurasian plate around 50 million years ago.
Question 9. Why are the Himalayas called the "Water Tower of Asia"?
Answer
They are called the "Water Tower of Asia" because they feed many major rivers that supply water to millions.
Question 10. Why is India called a subcontinent?
Answer
India is called a subcontinent because it has distinct geographical features like mountains, plains, deserts, plateaus, and coasts. It is also culturally and historically different from its neighbours.
Question 11. How do natural boundaries affect India's geography?
Answer
Natural boundaries like the Himalayas, deserts, and oceans protect India and influence its climate and biodiversity. They also help shape regional cultures and lifestyles.
Question 12. What are the main features of the Himachal range?
Answer
The Himachal range has moderate height, rich biodiversity, and human settlements. It is home to popular hill stations like Shimla and Mussoorie.
Question 13. What role do the Shivalik Hills play in India’s geography?
Answer
The Shivalik Hills are the outermost part of the Himalayas and are covered with forests. They form the transition between the mountains and the Gangetic plains.
Question 14. Describe the climate and terrain of Ladakh.
Answer
Ladakh is a cold desert with freezing winters and little rainfall. It has rocky terrain, high valleys, and lakes like Pangong Tso.
Question 15. How do people in Ladakh adapt to their environment?
Answer
People in Ladakh use yaks for transport, wool, and milk. They celebrate local festivals and live simply due to harsh weather conditions.
Question 16. What is the importance of rivers in the Gangetic Plains?
Answer
Rivers like the Ganga and Brahmaputra provide water for farming and daily use. They also carry minerals from the Himalayas that enrich the soil.
Question 17. Why is the Thar Desert known for its unique lifestyle?
Answer
People in the Thar Desert use camels, store rainwater, and clean utensils with sand. These adaptations help them survive in the hot, dry climate.
Question 18. What is the historical importance of forts in the Aravalli Hills?
Answer
Forts like Chittorgarh and Ranthambore were built in the Aravalli Hills for defense. They show India’s rich historical and architectural heritage.
Question 19. How is the Peninsular Plateau different from the Northern Plains?
Answer
The Peninsular Plateau is elevated and made of hard rocks, while the Northern Plains are flat and fertile. The plateau is rich in minerals and forests.
Question 20. Define the term 'peninsula' and name the major peninsular plateau of India.
Answer
A peninsula is a piece of land surrounded by water on three sides. The major peninsular plateau of India is the Deccan Plateau.
Question 21. Name two physical regions of India and mention one feature of each.
Answer
Two physical regions of India:
- Himalayas: Home to tall peaks like Mount Everest.
- Gangetic Plains: Fertile soil ideal for agriculture.
Question 22. How were the Himalayas formed?
Answer
The Himalayas formed when India when part of Gondwana, collided with the Eurasian plate about 50 million years ago. This crumpled the land into mountains.
Question 23. What is a delta, and name one river that forms a delta on India’s East Coast?
Answer
A delta is a triangular landform formed by river sediments at its mouth. The Godavari forms a delta on India’s East Coast.
Question 24. Why is Ladakh called a cold desert?
Answer
Ladakh is called a cold desert due to its low rainfall, rocky terrain, and extremely low winter temperatures below -30°C.
Question 25. Name two major river systems of the Gangetic Plains and mention one way they support human life.
Answer
The Ganga and Brahmaputra are two major river systems of the Gangetic Plains. They support human life by providing water for agriculture, enabling fertile soil for farming.
Question 26. What is a cold desert? Name one example in India.
Answer
A cold desert is a desert with extremely low temperatures, especially in winter, and minimal rainfall. An example in India is Ladakh.
Question 27. Explain how the Himalayas influence the climate and water resources of India.
Answer
The Himalayas act as a natural barrier, blocking cold winds from Central Asia, which helps maintain a warmer climate in northern India. They also trap monsoon winds, causing heavy rainfall in the region. Additionally, the melting snow from Himalayan peaks feeds major rivers like the Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra, providing water for drinking, farming, and industrial use, supporting millions of people.
Question 28. Describe the role of the Aravalli Hills in shaping the geography of northwestern India.
Answer
The Aravalli Hills act as a natural barrier, preventing the Thar Desert from expanding eastward, thus protecting the fertile lands of northwestern India. They influence the climate by moderating the spread of arid conditions. Additionally, the Aravallis are rich in minerals like marble, granite, zinc, and copper, supporting mining and construction activities for centuries.
Question 29. Why is the Western Ghats considered a biodiversity hotspot?
Answer
The Western Ghats are considered a biodiversity hotspot due to their rich variety of flora and fauna, including unique species like the lion-tailed macaque, king cobra, and insectivorous plants. The region’s dense forests and varied altitudes create diverse habitats. It is also home to many rivers and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ecological significance.
Question 30. Why is it important to protect India’s geographical diversity, and how can students contribute, inspired by the story’s emphasis on natural features?
Answer
Protecting India’s geographical diversity, as highlighted by features like the Himalayas, Sundarbans, and Western Ghats, is crucial because it supports ecosystems, livelihoods, and cultural heritage.
For example, the Himalayas provide water for millions, and the Sundarbans protect the Royal Bengal Tiger. Loss of these features due to deforestation or pollution harms biodiversity and human life.
Long Answer Questions
1. Match the Column A with the correct option in Column B.
|
Column A |
Column B |
|
1. Himadri |
(a) Living root bridges |
|
2. Ladakh |
(b) Highest Himalayas |
|
3. Mawlynnong |
(c) Cold desert |
|
4. Barren Island |
(d) Active volcano |
|
5. Aravalli Hills |
(e) Prevent desert spread |
Answer
|
Column A |
Column B |
|
1. Himadri |
(b) Highest Himalayas |
|
2. Ladakh |
(c) Cold desert |
|
3. Mawlynnong |
(a) Living root bridges |
|
4. Barren Island |
(d) Active volcano |
|
5. Aravalli Hills |
(e) Prevent desert spread |
Question 2. How do India’s diverse physical features influence the way people live across the country?
Answer
- India’s physical features—mountains, plains, deserts, plateaus, coasts, and islands—shape climate, agriculture, transport, and lifestyle.
- People in the mountains rely on terrace farming and wool, while those in plains farm extensively.
- Desert communities adapt with water conservation methods.
- Coastal areas engage in fishing and trade, while islanders depend on marine life.
- These geographical conditions also influence housing, clothing, food habits, and festivals.
Question 3. Explain the economic and cultural importance of the Peninsular Plateau.
Answer
- The Peninsular Plateau is rich in minerals like iron, bauxite, and manganese, which support mining and industries.
- Rivers such as the Krishna and Godavari provide water for farming and hydroelectric power.
- The region is home to tribal communities with unique traditions.
- Forests and wildlife here promote biodiversity and tourism.
- The plateau’s waterfalls and scenic beauty attract visitors, adding to its economic value.
Question 4. What makes the Andaman and Nicobar Islands ecologically and strategically important?
Answer
- The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to coral reefs, dense forests, rare wildlife, and ancient tribes.
- Barren Island, India’s only active volcano, is located here.
- These islands also have a strategic military importance due to their location near international sea routes.
- The naval base helps protect India's maritime interests.
- The islands are also important for environmental studies and eco-tourism.
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| Islands of India |
Question 5. Describe the features and importance of India’s delta regions.
Answer
- Deltas in India, like the Sundarbans in West Bengal and the Godavari Delta on the east coast, are formed by sediment deposits at river mouths.
- These regions are highly fertile and ideal for rice and jute cultivation.
- The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with mangrove forests and the Royal Bengal Tiger.
- Deltas also protect coastal areas from storms and support fishing and farming communities.
Question 6. How does high rainfall impact the lifestyle and environment of the Northeast region?
Answer
- The Northeast receives some of the world’s highest rainfall, especially in places like Cherrapunji and Mawsynram.
- This supports thick forests, waterfalls, and a wide variety of plants and animals.
- The soil is fertile, allowing people to grow crops like rice, ginger, and pineapple.
- The heavy rainfall has led to the creation of unique features like living root bridges.
- Cultural festivals and eco-friendly lifestyles are also part of life in this region.
Question 7. Explain the significance of India’s coastline and describe the key differences between the West Coast and East Coast.
Answer
India’s coastline, over 7,500 km long, is significant for its economic, cultural, and ecological roles. It supports major ports and cities, facilitating trade and economic activities for millennia. The coastline features diverse landscapes like beaches, cliffs, coral reefs, and deltas, which support fishing, tourism, and biodiversity.
Key Differences between West Coast and East Coast:
- Location and Extent: The West Coast stretches from Gujarat to Kerala along the Arabian Sea, while the East Coast lies between the Ganga delta and Kanyakumari along the Bay of Bengal.
- Physical Features: The West Coast has a narrow plain with estuaries, coves, and creeks formed by short, swift rivers from the Western Ghats. The East Coast has wider plains with large river deltas formed by rivers like the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri.
- Water Bodies: The West Coast features estuaries like those of the Narmada and Tapti, while the East Coast has significant deltas and water bodies like Chilika Lake and Pulicat Lake.
- Economic Activity: The West Coast has major ports and cities like Mumbai, while the East Coast supports extensive agriculture due to fertile deltaic plains.
These differences highlight the diverse geographical and economic contributions of India’s coastlines.
Question 8. Discuss the major geographical regions of India and explain how they contribute to the country’s diversity.
Answer
India’s major geographical regions include the Himalayas, Gangetic Plains, Thar Desert, Peninsular Plateau, Coastlines, and Islands, each contributing to the country’s diversity in unique ways:
- Himalayas: This mountain range in the north, with peaks over 8,000 meters, acts as a climatic barrier and feeds major rivers like the Ganga and Brahmaputra, supporting agriculture and water supply. Its cultural significance attracts spiritual seekers, and its biodiversity includes unique wildlife.
- Gangetic Plains: These fertile plains, nourished by rivers, are ideal for agriculture, supporting a large population. They have well-developed transportation networks and have been central to India’s historical and cultural development.
- Thar Desert: Located in the west, this arid region with golden dunes has shaped a unique lifestyle adapted to harsh conditions, including water conservation techniques like taankas. It acts as a natural barrier and supports cultural festivals like the Pushkar Mela.
- Peninsular Plateau: Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean, this plateau, including the Deccan, is rich in minerals, forests, and fertile land. It supports tribal communities and rivers like the Godavari and Krishna, vital for farming and hydroelectric power.
- Coastlines and Islands: India’s extensive coastline supports trade, fishing, and tourism, with diverse features like coral reefs and deltas. The Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands add unique ecosystems, including coral reefs and volcanic landscapes, and are home to ancient tribes.
These regions create varied soil types, climates, flora, fauna, and economic opportunities, fostering a rich cultural and ecological diversity that makes India a ‘mini-continent.’
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| Indo-Gangetic Plain |
Question 9. Describe the Himalayas and their importance to India, with examples.
Answer
Himalayas and their importance:
- The Himalayas, stretching 2,500 km across six countries, are India’s northern mountain range, divided into Himadri (highest peaks like Mount Everest), Himachal (hill stations like Shimla), and Shivalik Hills (dense forests).
- They act as a natural barrier, protecting India and influencing its climate.
- Himalayas also known as the ‘Water Tower of Asia,’ as their melting snow feeds rivers like the Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra, supporting millions for farming, drinking, and industries.
- The Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases rich biodiversity. The Himalayas also shape cultural practices and attract tourists, contributing to India’s economy and identity.
Question 10. Explain the characteristics and lifestyle adaptations in the Thar Desert, with examples.
Answer: Characteristics and lifestyle adaptations in the Thar Desert are:
- The Thar Desert, located in western India, features golden sand dunes up to 150 meters, high daytime temperatures, cold nights, and scarce water.
- Its rugged terrain and arid climate pose challenges, but people have adapted uniquely.
- They use camels for transport, seen at the Pushkar Mela, and practice rainwater harvesting with taankas or kunds to store water.
- Women travel long distances to fetch water, and utensils are cleaned with sand to conserve it.
- Jaisalmer, the Golden City, has the UNESCO-listed Jaisalmer Fort.
- These adaptations, like special clothing and food, enable survival in harsh conditions, showcasing resilience and resourcefulness.
Question 11. Discuss the Peninsular Plateau and its significance to India’s economy and culture.
Answer
The Peninsular Plateau, a triangular highland in central and southern India, is surrounded by the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean, bordered by the Western and Eastern Ghats.
- Its Deccan Plateau supports farming, industries, and hydroelectric power through rivers like Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri, which flow eastward, and Narmada and Tapti, which flow westward.
- Rich in minerals and forests, it boosts India’s economy.
- Dense forests are home to tribal communities like Santhal and Gond, whose traditions are tied to nature.
- The Western Ghats, a UNESCO site, have biodiversity like insectivorous plants.
Waterfalls like Periyakanal attract tourists, enhancing economic and cultural value.