NCERT Solutions Class 8 Social Science Chapter 2 Land Soil Water Natural Vegetation Wildlife Resources

1. Answer the following questions.

(i) Which are the two main climatic factors responsible for soil formation?

Ans. The two main climatic factors responsible for soil formation are temperature and rainfall that influence rate of weathering and humus.

(ii) Write any two reasons for land degradation today.

Ans. Factors contributing to land degradation are deforestation, overgrazing, and the indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers in agricultural lands.

(iii) Why is land considered an important resource?

Ans. Land is considered as an important resource because wide variety of flora and fauna is found on land. Land is used for various purposes by human beings, such as agriculture, forestry, mining, building houses and roads, and setting up of industries.

(iv) Name any two steps that government has taken to conserve plants and animals.

Ans. Steps taken by the government to conserve plants and animals are as follows:

1. Establishment of National parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves to protect our natural vegetation and wildlife.

2. Killing of lions, tigers, deers, great Indian bustards and peacocks have been banned. Government has passed laws for declaring killing as well as trade of birds and animals as illegal.

(v) Suggest three ways to conserve water.

Ans. Three ways to conserve water are as follows:

1. Sewage, agricultural chemicals and industrial effluents should be treated suitably before releasing them in water bodies.

2. Rainwater harvesting helps in conserving water.

4. The canals, used for irrigation, should be properly lined to minimise losses by water seepage.

2. Tick the correct answer.

(i) Which one of the following is NOT a factor of soil formation?

(a) time          

(b) soil texture           

(c) organic matter

(ii) Which one of the following methods is most appropriate to check soil erosion on steep slopes?

(a) shelter belts  

(b) mulching    

(c) terrace cultivation

(iii) Which one of the following is NOT in favour of the conservation of nature?

(a) switch off the bulb when not in use

(b) close the tap immediately after using

(c) dispose polypacks after shopping

3. Match the followings.

Ans.3.

4. State whether the given statement is true or false. If true, write the reasons.