1. World Geography Some Glimpses part 2 class VIII

       PART 2 

Class VIII – Social Science

Chapter 1: World Geography: 

Some Glimpses

1. Why do all map projections have some amount of distortion?

Ans 

1)The Earth is round, while maps are drawn on flat surfaces.

2)It is impossible to show the curved surface of the Earth perfectly on a flat map.

3)Converting a curved surface into a flat map causes distortion.Some projections change the shape, size, distance or direction of places.

4)Therefore, every map projection has some amount of distortion.

2. What makes the Tibetan Plateau unique?

Ans  The Tibetan Plateau is the highest and largest plateau in the world.

2.It lies to the north of the Himalayas.

Its average height is over 4,500 metres above sea level.

3.It is called the 'Third Pole' because it has the largest freshwater reserves outside the polar regions.

4.It influences the climate of Asia.

5. It is the source of many major rivers such as the Indus, Brahmaputra and Yangtze.

3. Why are coral reefs called the ‘rainforests of the sea’?

Ans:1. Coral reefs support a large variety of marine plants and animals.

2. They provide food, shelter and breeding grounds for many marine organisms.

3.  They support fish, sea turtles, moll

Sponges and other marine creatures.

4.  They help maintain the balance of marine ecosystems.

5. Like tropical rainforests, coral reefs are rich in biodiversity.

4. How do the oceans help to regulate the Earth's climate?

Ans:1. Oceans absorb heat from the Sun and slowly release it over time.

2.They help maintain the Earth's temperature.

3.Oceans add moisture to the air, forming clouds and rainfall.

3.Ocean currents carry warm and cold water across the globe.

4.These currents influence the climate of coastal regions.

5. What is the main reason for the Great Barrier Reef facing threats today?

Ans:1. The Great Barrier Reef faces serious threats due to human activities such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change.

2. Changes in the chemical composition of ocean waters have caused coral bleaching, which damages and destroys coral habitats.

6. Why is the Amazon Rainforest often called the ‘Lungs of the Earth’?

Ans:1.The Amazon Rainforest absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen through photosynthesis.

2.  Its trees store enormous amounts of carbon.

3.  It helps regulate global temperatures and rainfall patterns.

4. Biodiversity: It is home to millions of plant and animal species.

5. It plays a major role in maintaining the ecological balance of the planet.

7. Choose two different types of geographical features you have explored in this chapter. Write short paragraphs on how they influence the flora and fauna or human lives in that area. Do they also have an implication for the whole globe?

Ans:1. Mountains:

Mountains influence the climate, vegetation and wildlife of an area. Their height affects temperature and rainfall. They provide habitats for animals such as snow leopards, mountain goats and yaks. Many rivers also originate in mountains, providing water for agriculture and human settlements. Globally, mountains influence climate, water supply and biodiversity.

2. (ii) Rainforests: Rainforests like the Amazon are home to many plants, animals and indigenous communities. They help regulate the Earth's climate and maintain biodiversity. They face threats like deforestation, forest fires and climate change. They can be conserved by stopping illegal cutting of trees, planting more trees and protecting wildlife.

8. Discuss how oceans influence climate and trade. Use examples from the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Ans:1. Oceans influence climate by absorbing and distributing heat through their currents. For example, warm and cold currents affect weather patterns and coastal temperatures.

2. The Indian Ocean provides moisture to the monsoon winds, bringing rainfall to India and neighbouring countries.

3.  The Indian ocean has historically supported international trade, connecting regions such as Asia and Africa. and Europe.

4. The Pacific Ocean connects countries such as China, Japan, Australia and the United States, supporting international trade.

5. Both oceans support fishing, tourism, transportation and the livelihoods of millions of people.

9. Choose one environmental issue (deforestation, reef bleaching, or desertification) and explain its causes, impacts, and possible solutions.

Ans:Environmental Issue: Deforestation

Ans:A. Causes:

1) Expansion of agriculture and cattle grazing

2) Cutting trees for timber and paper

3) Urbanization and construction of roads and industries

4) Forest fires (natural and human-made)

5) Mining activities

B. Impacts:

1. 1. Loss of biodiversity (plants and animals lose habitat)

2. Climate change due to increased carbon dioxide

3. Soil erosion and floods

4. Disturbance in the water cycle

5. Loss of livelihood for forest-dependent communities

C. Possible Solutions:

1. Afforestation and reforestation

2. Sustainable forest management

3. Strict laws against illegal logging

4. Promoting the use of recycled paper and wood alternatives

5. Creating awareness and community participation

ii) Reef bleaching ( Do yourself) 

×10. Imagine you are a geographer asked to advise a government about protecting one major landscape in your country. Which one would you choose, and why?  (Do it Yourself) 

Ans:Landscape Chosen: The Himalayan Region

1. Importance: The Himalayas are one of the most important mountain ranges in India.

2. Source of Rivers: They are the source of major rivers such as the Ganga, Indus and Brahmaputra.

3. Biodiversity: They provide habitats to rare animals such as snow leopards, red pandas and Himalayan musk deer.

4. Climate Regulation: They influence India's climate and play an important role in the monsoon system.

5. Tourism: They support tourism, agriculture and the livelihoods of local communities.

6. Conservation Measures:

1 Promote afforestation and prevent deforestation.

2.Control pollution and plastic waste.

3.Encourage responsible tourism.

4.Prevent illegal hunting and protect wildlife.

5.Promote sustainable construction and development.

Conclusion: Protecting the Himalayan region is essential because it supports biodiversity, provides freshwater, influences the climate and sustains millions of people.