Solution:

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

The two main climatic factors responsible for soil formation are temperature and precipitation.

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

1. Deforestation.
2. Overgrazing by livestock.

(iii) Why is land considered an important resource?

Land is considered an important resource because it provides space for agriculture, settlements, industries, and natural resources such as minerals, water, and forests.

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

1. Establishing wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
2. Enforcing laws like the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

(v) Suggest three ways to conserve water.

1. Rainwater harvesting.
2. Fixing leaks in pipes and taps.
3. Reducing water wastage in agriculture through drip irrigation.

Solution:

Answer the following questions:

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

• (a) time
• (b) soil texture
CORRECT
• (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
CORRECT

(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
CORRECT

Solution:

Answer:

1. (i) Land use → (c) productive use of land
2. (ii) Humus → (d) organic matter deposited on top soil
3. (iii) Rock dams → (a) prevent soil erosion
4. (iv) Biosphere → (b) narrow zone of contact between the lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere

Solution:

(i) Ganga–Brahmaputra plain of India is an overpopulated region.

True. The Ganga–Brahmaputra plain is one of the most densely populated regions in India due to its fertile soil, ample water supply, and favorable climatic conditions, making it suitable for agriculture and settlement.

(ii) Water availability per person in India is declining.

True. The per capita water availability in India has been declining due to factors like population growth, over-extraction of groundwater, and climate change affecting water resources.

(iii) Rows of trees planted in the coastal areas to check the wind movement is called intercropping.

False. The rows of trees planted in coastal areas to check wind movement are called "windbreaks" or "shelterbelts," not intercropping. Intercropping refers to the practice of growing two or more crops together in the same field.

(iv) Human interference and changes of climate can maintain the ecosystem.

False. Human interference and climate change often disrupt ecosystems rather than maintain them. While conservation efforts can help restore ecosystems, uncontrolled human activities and climate change typically lead to ecosystem degradation.

Solution:

Reasons Responsible for Changes in Land Use Pattern

Land use patterns change over time due to various factors. Some of the key reasons responsible for changes in land use patterns are:

• Population Growth: As population increases, the demand for housing, transportation, and infrastructure also rises. This leads to urbanization and a shift from agricultural land to residential, commercial, and industrial use.
• Technological Advancements: The development of new technologies can alter the way land is used. For example, improved farming techniques may increase agricultural productivity, while new construction technologies may enable better urban development.
• Economic Activities: Economic changes, such as industrialization or the expansion of the service sector, can lead to the conversion of land from agricultural or natural use to urban or industrial use.
• Government Policies: Government policies related to land zoning, urban planning, or environmental conservation can impact land use patterns. For example, policies encouraging industrialization may convert rural areas into industrial zones.
• Climate Change: Changes in climate, such as droughts or floods, can affect agricultural productivity, leading to a shift in land use from farming to other forms of land utilization.
• Infrastructure Development: The construction of roads, highways, airports, and railways can change the accessibility of land, prompting a shift from rural or agricultural use to urban or industrial development.
• Globalization: Global economic trends and international trade can influence local land use, with increased demand for land to support industries or services linked to global markets.
• Cultural and Social Factors: Changes in lifestyle and cultural preferences can also influence land use. For example, urban sprawl may occur as more people seek suburban living options, or recreational spaces may be developed in response to changing leisure activities.

Changes in Land Use Pattern in My Area

In recent years, my area has undergone significant changes in its land use pattern. Agricultural land has gradually been converted into residential and commercial zones due to the increasing demand for housing and business space. The construction of new roads and transportation infrastructure has facilitated urban expansion, and more industries are being established in previously rural areas. This transformation reflects the broader trends of urbanization and economic growth that are affecting many regions.