Keywords To Remember
Mineral Resources
Mineral (Mineral)
Definition: Naturally occurring inorganic substance with a definite chemical composition and structure, found in the Earth’s crust.
Ore (Ore)
Definition: A type of rock from which valuable minerals, typically metals, can be extracted economically.
Alloy (Alloy)
Definition: A mixture of two or more metals, or a metal and a non-metal, to achieve specific properties, such as strength or resistance to corrosion (e.g., steel, bronze).
Extraction (Extraction)
Definition: The process of removing minerals or metals from the earth, often through mining, drilling, or quarrying.
Mining (Mining)
Definition: The process of extracting valuable minerals or other geological materials from the Earth.
Surface Mining (Surface Mining)
Definition: A method of mining where materials are removed from the Earth’s surface, including open-pit mining and strip mining.
Subsurface Mining (Subsurface Mining)
Definition: Mining that occurs below the Earth’s surface, often using tunnels or shafts.
Bauxite (Bauxite)
Definition: The principal ore of aluminum, typically consisting of aluminum oxide minerals.
Coal (Coal)
Definition: A fossil fuel formed from plant remains, used as an energy source for electricity generation and industrial activities.
Petroleum (Petroleum)
Definition: A naturally occurring liquid found in rock formations, primarily used as fuel for vehicles and industries (also known as crude oil).
Natural Gas (Natural Gas)
Definition: A fossil fuel found in underground deposits, mainly composed of methane, used for heating and electricity generation.
Renewable Resources (Renewable Resources)
Definition: Resources that can be regenerated naturally within a short time period, like solar energy, wind energy, and biomass.
Non-renewable Resources (Non-renewable Resources)
Definition: Resources that are finite and cannot be replenished within a human lifetime, such as coal, petroleum, and natural gas.
Energy Resources
Solar Energy (Solar Energy)
Definition: Energy derived from the Sun’s rays, harnessed through solar panels or other technologies.
Wind Energy (Wind Energy)
Definition: Energy generated from the movement of air masses, captured by wind turbines.
Hydroelectric Energy (Hydroelectric Energy)
Definition: Energy produced by the flow of water, typically from dams or rivers, to generate electricity.
Geothermal Energy (Geothermal Energy)
Definition: Energy derived from the heat stored beneath the Earth’s surface, used for heating or electricity generation.
Biomass (Biomass)
Definition: Organic material (like wood, crop waste, or animal waste) used as a source of fuel.
Nuclear Energy (Nuclear Energy)
Definition: Energy released from atomic nuclei, typically through fission, used to generate electricity in nuclear power plants.
Fossil Fuels (Fossil Fuels)
Definition: Fuels formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, including coal, oil, and natural gas, used to generate energy.
Energy Efficiency (Energy Efficiency)
Definition: The practice of using less energy to perform the same task, minimizing energy waste.
Hydrogen Energy (Hydrogen Energy)
Definition: Energy produced from hydrogen, which can be used in fuel cells to generate electricity or as a fuel for vehicles.
Tidal Energy (Tidal Energy)
Definition: Energy generated from the movement of tides in the ocean, often used in coastal areas.
Wave Energy (Wave Energy)
Definition: Energy generated by the movement of surface water waves, used to generate electricity.
Energy Conservation (Energy Conservation)
Definition: The practice of reducing energy consumption through more efficient usage, behaviour changes, and technological advancements.
Carbon Footprint (Carbon Footprint)
Definition: The total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted due to human activities, often related to energy consumption.
Sustainability (Sustainability)
Definition: The ability to maintain or improve the quality and availability of resources for future generations without causing environmental harm.
Clean Energy (Clean Energy)
Definition: Energy that is produced with minimal environmental impact, often from renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.
Something to Know
Tick (✔️) the correct option.
- Which one of the following is not a characteristic of rocks?
(a)These are composed of mineral crystals.
(b) These have a definite mineral composition.
(c) These vary in hardness and colour.
(d) These form outermost shell of the earth.
Answer – (b) These have a definite mineral composition.
- Which one of the following is the best quality of coal?
(a) lignite
(b) bituminous
(c) anthracite
(d) peat
Answer – (c) anthracite
- The major oilfields of India are located in which one of the following states of India?
(a) Assam
(b) Rajasthan
(c) Bihar
(d) Tamil Nadu
Answer – (a) Assam
- The metallic minerals used in electrical industry are—
(a)copper and bauxite
(b) iron and copper
(c) mica and manganese
(d) bauxite and iron
Answer – (b) iron and copper
- Petroleum is not extracted from the oilfields of North Sea by—
(a) United Kingdom
(b) Denmark
(c) Norway
(d) Sweden
Answer – (d) Sweden
B. Fill in the blanks.
- A mineral is extracted from the region where its concentration is _________ .
Answer – high
- _________ minerals are divided into ferrous and non-ferrous.
Answer – Metallic
- _________ is obtained from bauxite ore.
Answer – Aluminium
- Petroleum, coal, _________ and hydroelectricity are conventional sources of energy.
Answer – natural gas
- _________ and _________ are the major types of iron ore.
Answer – Hematite and Magnetite
C.Write a technical term or an appropriate word for each of the following statements.
1 Energy generated by turbines run by water falling from a height.
Answer – Hydroelectricity
2 The resultant metal with improved strength which is produced by mixing two or more than two metals.
Answer – Alloy
3 Materials formed inside the earth by the decomposition of dead remains of plants and animals in sedimentary rocks.
Answer – Fossil Fuels
- Mineral deposits that are formed when a river erodes rock constituents from a primary source and deposits them in the river beds.
Answer – Placer Deposits
- The process of extracting minerals from the earth’s crust.
Answer – Mining
D. Answer the following questions in brief.
- What is a mineral? Mention the three main processes of mineral extraction.
Answer – A mineral is a naturally occurring substance with a definite chemical composition and physical properties.
The three main processes of mineral extraction are:
Mining (surface or underground)
Drilling (for liquid minerals like petroleum and natural gas)
Quarrying (for building materials like limestone and granite)
- What is tidal energy? How can it be harnessed?
Answer – Tidal energy is the energy generated from the movement of ocean tides.
It can be harnessed by building dams or tidal barrages across narrow openings of the sea and using the flowing water to rotate turbines and produce electricity.
- Why do we need to conserve mineral resources? Explain any three reasons.
Answer – We need to conserve mineral resources because:
They are non-renewable and take millions of years to form.
Overuse leads to depletion and shortage for future generations.
Mining causes environmental damage like land degradation and pollution.
- What are two types of energy sources? Which one of them is a better resource and why?
Answer – The two types of energy sources are:
Conventional sources (like coal, petroleum)
Non-conventional sources (like solar, wind, nuclear)
Non-conventional sources are better because they are renewable, eco-friendly, and help in reducing pollution.
- Highlight any three advantages of using nuclear energy.
Answer – Three advantages of nuclear energy are:
It produces a large amount of energy from a small quantity of fuel.
It causes very low air pollution compared to fossil fuels.
It helps in reducing dependence on coal and oil.
E. Answer the following questions.
1- How are minerals useful to us? Explain with the help of examples.
Answer – Minerals are extremely useful in our daily lives as they serve as raw materials for many industries.
Metallic minerals like iron, copper, and aluminum are used in construction, transportation, and manufacturing.
Non-metallic minerals like limestone and gypsum are used in cement and fertilizer industries.
Energy minerals like coal, petroleum, and uranium are vital for generating power and running vehicles.
Thus, minerals play a crucial role in economic development and human advancement.
- In your opinion, electricity is a boon or a bane? Support your answer with relevant arguments.
Answer – Electricity is definitely a boon.
It powers homes, industries, hospitals, and schools, improving our standard of living.
It enables the use of modern technology like computers, appliances, and machinery.
It is essential for communication, transportation, and healthcare.
Although generating electricity through non-renewable sources may cause pollution, cleaner alternatives like solar and wind make it sustainable.
Hence, electricity is a boon when used wisely and responsibly.
- What is meant by nuclear energy? Explain the progress made by India in this field.
Answer – Nuclear energy is the energy released during nuclear reactions, especially fission of uranium or thorium.
It is used to generate electricity in nuclear power plants.
India’s progress:
India has developed several nuclear power stations like Tarapur, Kakrapar, Kalpakkam, and Rawatbhata.
It has invested in the Indian Nuclear Power Programme and uses thorium, which is abundant in India.
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) plays a major role in research and development in this field.
4- Assess the importance of petroleum on the basis of its wide range of applications.
Answer – Petroleum is one of the most important energy resources due to its versatility.
It is used as fuel in vehicles (petrol, diesel) and for heating and electricity generation.
It is the raw material for many products like plastics, synthetic fibres, paints, fertilizers, and medicines.
It supports transport, agriculture, and industry.
Due to its multiple uses, petroleum is rightly called “liquid gold” and is vital for economic growth.
- Suggest any five measures to conserve minerals and energy resources.
Answer – Five important measures are:
Use resources judiciously and avoid wastage.
Promote recycling and reuse of metals and minerals.
Use energy-efficient appliances and adopt energy-saving habits.
Develop and use renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro.
Enforce strict laws and encourage public awareness about conservation.
Value Based Question
As we become more and more familiar with the harmful effects of burning fossil fuels, we need to look for alternatives. Nuclear energy is one such example. It is a carbon free energy source and can provide a major solution to global warming and energy security. Nuclear energy is much more proficient than other energy resources.
However, the development and use of nuclear energy has its flaws also. The potential for severe harm caused by nuclear energy to human communities and future generations is too great a threat to our collective survival.
- How far is nuclear energy really a viable source of energy?
Answer – Nuclear energy is a highly viable source of energy due to its ability to produce large amounts of electricity without emitting carbon dioxide. It is a clean and efficient alternative to fossil fuels, contributing to the fight against climate change. However, it must be used with strict safety regulations, as nuclear accidents can have catastrophic consequences. With proper technology, waste management, and international cooperation, it can be a reliable part of our energy mix.
- How can technological advancements fulfil the increasing demand for energy sources? Give examples to substantiate your answer.
Answer – Technological advancements play a crucial role in meeting rising energy demands through:
Development of renewable energy technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and hydropower systems.
Smart grids that manage electricity distribution efficiently.
Electric vehicles and battery storage systems that reduce dependence on oil.
Improved nuclear reactors with higher safety standards and better efficiency.
For example, countries like Germany and China are expanding their solar energy capacity using advanced technology.
- Why should we discourage burning of fossil fuels? List any three reasons.
Answer – Burning fossil fuels should be discouraged because:
It causes air pollution, leading to respiratory diseases and smog.
It releases greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming.
Fossil fuels are non-renewable and will eventually be depleted, leading to an energy crisis.
(Map Skill)
- Locate and label any four major nuclear power stations on an outline political map of India.
Answer – The following are four major nuclear power stations in India:
Tarapur – Maharashtra
Kudankulam – Tamil Nadu
Narora – Uttar Pradesh
Kaiga – Karnataka
- On an outline political map of India, locate and label the leading states with respect to the reserves of:
(a) Iron ore
(b) Bauxite
(c) Coal
(d) Petroleum
Answer – (a) Iron ore – Odisha
(b) Bauxite – Jharkhand
(c) Coal – Chhattisgarh
(d) Petroleum – Assam
Something To Do
- Collect specimens of various minerals and display them in the science exhibition in your school.
Answer – To complete this activity:
Collect specimens such as mica, quartz, feldspar, bauxite, coal, limestone, and magnetite.
Label each sample with the following details:
Name of the mineral
Type (metallic/non-metallic)
State where found
Uses
Arrange them neatly on a display board or in a box with proper sectioning.
Include a chart explaining the classification of minerals and their uses in daily life.
- Prepare a report on the hazards and environmental impact of mining In the coalfields, especially in the state of Jharkhand.
Answer – Title: Hazards and Environmental Impact of Coal Mining in Jharkhand
Introduction:
Jharkhand is one of the richest states in India in terms of coal reserves. While coal mining contributes significantly to the state’s economy, it has serious environmental and health consequences.
Major Hazards:
Land degradation – Open cast mining leaves behind deep pits and spoils soil fertility.
Water pollution – Discharge of harmful chemicals and mining residues pollutes rivers and groundwater.
Air pollution – Dust and smoke from mining and coal transportation cause respiratory problems.
Deforestation – Forests are cleared to access coal mines, affecting biodiversity.
Health issues – Local communities suffer from diseases like asthma, bronchitis, and skin disorders.
Conclusion:
Strict environmental regulations, use of eco-friendly technologies, afforestation, and proper rehabilitation plans must be enforced to reduce the harmful impact of mining in Jharkhand.
Additional Questions and Answers – 01
Fill in the Blanks
- _________ is the hardest naturally occurring mineral.
Answer: Diamond - _________ is the most widely used metal in the world.
Answer: Iron - _________ energy is generated from the heat stored beneath the Earth’s surface.
Answer: Geothermal - The first nuclear power station in India was set up at _________.
Answer: Tarapur - The Damodar Valley region is rich in _________ resources.
Answer: Coal - Bauxite is the ore of _________.
Answer: Aluminium - _________ is called the black gold.
Answer: Petroleum - Non-conventional energy sources are _________ and renewable.
Answer: Eco-friendly
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Which mineral is used in making cement?
(a) Limestone
(b) Mica
(c) Copper
(d) Bauxite
Answer: (a) Limestone - Which state is the largest producer of coal in India?
(a) Maharashtra
(b) Jharkhand
(c) Odisha
(d) Chhattisgarh
Answer: (b) Jharkhand - Which of the following is a non-metallic mineral?
(a) Mica
(b) Iron
(c) Copper
(d) Zinc
Answer: (a) Mica - Which energy source is renewable?
(a) Natural gas
(b) Solar
(c) Petroleum
(d) Coal
Answer: (b) Solar - The mineral used in the production of nuclear energy is:
(a) Thorium
(b) Mica
(c) Bauxite
(d) Limestone
Answer: (a) Thorium
True/False (with Answers)
- All minerals are metallic in nature.
False - Petroleum is a renewable resource.
False - Tidal energy is generated from ocean tides.
True - Aluminium is extracted from copper ore.
False - Iron ore is found in abundance in India.
True
Competency-Based Questions
- Question: Ramesh’s village has access to wind and sunlight but lacks coal and What type of energy resources should they use and why?
Answer: They should use renewable energy sources like solar and wind energy as they are locally available, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. - Question: If mining is banned in a region rich in minerals, what will be its economic and social impact?
Answer: It could lead to unemployment and economic slowdown in the region. However, it might also reduce environmental degradation and promote sustainable practices.
High Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Questions
- Question: Why is the overuse of non-renewable resources considered unsustainable? Suggest alternatives.
Answer: Overuse leads to depletion and environmental damage. Alternatives include solar, wind, and hydroelectric energy. - Question: Suggest a balanced approach to mining that protects the environment and supports development.
Answer: Sustainable mining practices like afforestation, land reclamation, use of eco-friendly technologies, and community involvement should be adopted.
Short Answer Questions
- What are conventional sources of energy?
Answer: Energy sources like coal, petroleum, and natural gas that are traditionally used and exhaustible. - Define mineral.
Answer: A naturally occurring substance with a definite chemical composition found in the Earth’s crust. - What is solar energy?
Answer: Energy derived from the Sun’s rays that can be converted into heat and electricity.
Long Answer Questions
- Explain the classification of minerals with suitable examples.
Answer: Minerals are broadly classified into metallic (e.g., iron, copper, bauxite) and non-metallic (e.g., mica, limestone). Metallic minerals may be further divided into ferrous (e.g., iron) and non-ferrous (e.g., copper, bauxite). - Discuss the environmental consequences of mining and how they can be mitigated.
Answer: Mining leads to land degradation, deforestation, air and water pollution. These can be mitigated through land reclamation, afforestation, reducing chemical use, and enforcing strict environmental laws. - How is energy important for economic development? Explain with examples.
Answer: Energy powers industries, transport, agriculture, and services. For instance, electricity helps run factories, and oil fuels transport. Lack of energy hampers
Additional Questions and Answer – 02
Fill in the Blanks
- Minerals are extracted through mining, drilling, and quarrying.
- Haematite and Magnetite are the two main types of iron ore.
- Bauxite is the ore from which aluminium is extracted.
- Petroleum is also called black gold.
- The largest solar plant in India is located in Gujarat.
- Anthracite is the highest quality coal with 90% carbon content.
- Geothermal energy is harnessed from the internal heat of the Earth.
- Biogas is produced from organic waste like animal dung and kitchen waste.
- Uranium and thorium are used in nuclear power plants.
- Hydel power contributes to about one-fourth of the world’s electricity.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Which mineral is known as the “backbone of modern civilization”?
- a) Copper
- b) Iron
- c) Bauxite
- d) Mica
- Which country has the largest reserves of copper?
- a) USA
- b) Chile
- c) China
- d) India
- Which of the following is a non-metallic mineral?
- a) Iron ore
- b) Mica
- c) Bauxite
- d) Copper
- Which energy source is obtained from tides?
- a) Solar energy
- b) Tidal energy
- c) Geothermal energy
- d) Biogas
- Which Indian state has the largest coal reserves?
- a) Maharashtra
- b) Jharkhand
- c) Rajasthan
- d) Tamil Nadu
- Which of the following is NOT a fossil fuel?
- a) Coal
- b) Petroleum
- c) Solar energy
- d) Natural gas
- What is the main use of bauxite?
- a) Making steel
- b) Producing aluminium
- c) Generating electricity
- d) Lubricating machines
- Which energy source is harnessed using windmills?
- a) Wind energy
- b) Nuclear energy
- c) Geothermal energy
- d) Hydel power
- Which of the following is a conventional source of energy?
- a) Solar energy
- b) Hydel power
- c) Tidal energy
- d) Biogas
- Which Indian state is famous for geothermal energy at Manikaran?
- a) Himachal Pradesh
- b) Uttarakhand
- c) Jammu & Kashmir
- d) Sikkim
True/False Questions
- All rocks have a fixed mineral composition. (False)
- Coal is formed from the decomposition of dead plants. (True)
- Mica is a metallic mineral. (False)
- Natural gas is always found with petroleum. (False – Sometimes found separately)
- Solar energy is a conventional source of energy. (False)
- Nuclear energy is obtained from uranium and thorium. (True)
- India has no reserves of uranium. (False – Found in Jharkhand & Rajasthan)
- Wind energy is mainly used in coastal regions. (True)
- Hydel power plants do not cause pollution. (True)
- Biogas is produced from inorganic waste. (False – Made from organic waste)
Competency-Based Questions
- Why is iron called the “backbone of modern civilization”?
Answer: It is used in construction, machinery, vehicles, and infrastructure development.
- How does mining affect the environment?
Answer: Causes deforestation, soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat destruction.
- Why are non-conventional energy sources gaining importance?
Answer: They are renewable, eco-friendly, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
- What are the advantages of using biogas?
Answer: Reduces waste, provides clean fuel, and produces organic manure.
- Why is petroleum called “black gold”?
Answer: Due to its high economic value and widespread industrial use.
High Order Thinking Skill HOTS Questions
- Compare conventional and non-conventional energy sources.
Answer: Conventional sources are non-renewable except hydel power and polluting, while non-conventional sources are renewable and eco-friendly.
- Why is solar energy not widely used despite being abundant?
Answer: High initial costs, dependence on weather, and lack of efficient storage technology.
- How does recycling metals help in mineral conservation?
Answer: Reduces the need for mining, saves energy, and minimizes environmental damage.
- What would happen if fossil fuels were completely exhausted?
Answer: Energy crisis, economic slowdown, and need for rapid shift to renewable sources.
- Why is nuclear energy considered both a boon and a threat?
Answer: Boon – High energy output; Threat – Radioactive waste and accidents like Chernobyl.
Short Answer Questions
- Name two states in India rich in iron ore.
Answer: Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka.
- What are placer deposits?
Answer: Minerals deposited by rivers in their beds after erosion.
- List two uses of bauxite.
Answer: Making aluminium, aircraft parts, and electrical wires.
- Why is coal a non-renewable resource?
Answer: It takes millions of years to form and cannot be replenished quickly.
- What is the main advantage of hydel power?
Answer: Renewable, pollution-free, and multipurpose irrigation + electricity.
Long Answer Questions
- Explain the classification of minerals with examples.
Answer: Metallic iron, copper, Non-metallic mica, limestone, Mineral fuels coal, petroleum.
- Describe the distribution of coal and petroleum in the world.
Answer: Coal – USA, China, India; Petroleum – Middle East, Venezuela, Russia.
- Discuss the importance of conserving minerals and energy resources.
Answer: Prevents depletion, ensures sustainable development and reduces environmental harm.
- Compare thermal power and hydel power.
Answer: Thermal – Uses coal polluting, Hydel – Uses water clean but needs dams.
- Explain how non-conventional energy sources can solve future energy crises.
Answer: Solar, wind, and tidal energy are renewable, abundant, and eco-friendly alternatives.
These questions cover different difficulty levels and can be used for tests, quizzes, and