Wednesday, April 1, 2020

CLIMATE OF INDIA - NOTES


INDIA

(Notes)




e) Why are there great variations in the climate of the Indian Subcontinent? Give three reasons.* THE HIMALAYAN MOUNTAIN CHAIN: It protects Indian subcontinent from cold winds of the
Central Asia. It creates barriers before the S-W Monsoon.
* THE LARGE COAST LINE: South India is a Peninsula and has a large coast line. Peninsular
situation has helped it to enjoy maritime climate.
* JET STREAMS: The aircurrents blowing in upper layer of the atmosphere are known as jet streams.
These help western disturbances to enter into India.

f. What is a jet stream?A jet stream is fast wind in a narrow zone in the upper atmosphere.

g. What are trade winds?Trade winds are strong winds that blow towards the equator from the north-east or south east. They can be defined as Planetary winds blowing constantly from the subtropical high pressure zones towards the equatorial low pressure zones.

h. Give two reasons why the entire Indian sub-continent has the tropical monsoon climate.The climate of the subcontinent is greatly affected by the presence and influence of the Himalayas. It prevents the cold winds of north Asia from blowing into India.
The monsoon winds which are trapped by the Himalayas give the climate of the continent a tropical touch.

i. What is loo?It is a local wind which is hot and dry.



l. What is windward side?The upwind side or the side exposed to the direction from which the wind blows. Windward side always receive more rainfall as compared to leeward side. For example, Mahabaleshwar situated on the western side of the Ghats receive 250 cm of rain fall whereas Pune, receives 70 cm as it is on the leeward side.

j. How do Himalayas act as ‘climate divide’?* It prevents the cold winds of the North Asia from blowing into India.
* It also traps the Monsoon winds in summer and causing them to shed their moisture over huge part of the land located south of it..

k. How is average rainfall calculated?
Total annual rainfall
Average rainfall = ________________________

Number of Months

k. Write two features of tropical climate.*Tropical climate has relatively high temperature throughout the year.
* Dry winters are another important feature of tropical climate.

l. What is retreating monsoon and name any two months associated with them. Normally by what date does the monsoon advance into Kerala?During the months of October and November the temperature in the Northern Plains begins to decrease and because of low temperature pressure starts rising and the low pressure is no longer strong enough to attract the monsoon winds. This results in the retreat of the monsoon.
Normally monsoon advances into Kerala on 1st June.

m. State two features of the monsoon climate.* The monsoon climate comes under the domain of trade wind belt which experiences seasonal shifting.
* Monsoon areas are affected by high and low pressure system due to winter and summer seasons.

n. What is meant by ‘rain shadow’ area or ‘ Leeward Area’? Give two examples of ‘Rain Shadow’ areas in India.Area which gets a little or no rainfall is called the Rain Shadow area or Leeward area. This side is completely opposite to the windward side of the mountain.
· Eastern side of Eastern Ghats
· North west Deccan trap
· Eastern side of Eastern Ghats during the south-west monsoon.

n. What is meany by ‘monsoon’?Monsoon is a season in which there is a complete reversal in the direction of wind, i.e. it begins to blow from sea to land contrary to land to sea.

o. What do you understand by ‘Pre-monsoon period’?The period during which low pressure begins to replace the high pressure due to intense heat in the Northern Plains. This period is said to be ‘Pre-Monsoon period.”



2.a) What type of climate is found in India? Give reason.Tropical monsoonal climate because the greater part of the country lies within the tropics and it is also
influenced by the W.W. and N.E. Monsoons.

b) It is cooler on the mountain slopes than in the plains during summer. Give reason.The temperature decreases with increasing altitude. Hence the mountain slopes being higher are cooler than plains.

c) Mumbai is warmer than Kanpur in December. Give reason.Mumbai is near the coast so it enjoys the equable influence of the sea whereas Kanpur is far away from
the sea, so it does not enjoy the equable climate.

d) Western coastal plains receive more rainfall than the Eastern coastal plains.Western coastal plains receive more rainfall than the Eastern Coastal plains because winds come from South West direction and are obstructed by Western Ghats.

e) Though Mangalore and Mysore are on the same latitude, Mangalore experiences more rainfall than Mysore. Give reason.Mangalore is in the windward side of the Western Ghats whereas Mysore is on the leeward side of the
Western Ghats

f. “Western Rajasthan or Thar Desert receives less rainfall.” Or Arabian Sea branch of S-W monsoon does not shed any moisture in western Rajasthan. Or Inspite of Aravalli Hills, many parts of Rajasthan do not receive much rain. Give two reasons.
‘Western Rajasthan receives less rainfall’ because :
* there is no relief or barrier to obstruct the Arabian sea branch of the monsoons. The Aravalli hills
lie parallel to the direction of the monsoon as such they pass without any obstacles. They are also
lower in height.
· Secondly, the summer temperatures in Thar Desert are so high that monsoons that pass over the
desert get dry.

g. Chennai receives less rain than Thiruvanathapuram although it has more rainy days. Give reason.Chennai receives less rain from northeast monsoons during October-November which is not very strong,
hence gives less rain where as Thiruvanathapuram which is in Kerala receives very heavy rain from South
West Monsoons which are much more powerful.

h. Mangalore and Chennai lie on the same latitude, yet Mangalore receives its rainfall from June to September, Chennai receives most of its rain in November-December. What are the reasons for this difference?Mangalore receives rain from South West Monsoons, which blow from June-September as it lies on the windward side of the Western Ghats where Arabian sea branch of the South-West Monsoon gives heavy rainfall. By the time, the South-west Monsoon descends on the leeward side, very little mositre is left. Hence, Chennai receives a little or no rain during this period.
Chennai receives its rainfall in November – December from the North-East monsoon winds which blow over the Bay of Bengal and meet with the moist wind of the retreating summer monsoon. These winds, further, cross Bay of Bengal and blow on the Tamil Nadu causing heavy rain in coastal region including Chennai.
Hence, Mangalore and Chennai lie on the same latitude, yet Mangalore receives its rainfall from June to September, Chennai receives most of its rain in November-December.

i. Explain why Nainital is cooler than Agra.Nainital is a hill station located at a higher altitude. Since temperature decreases with altitude, it is
cooler as compared to Agra which lies in the interior. It experiences continental type of climate.

j. Punjab receives rain in winter. Explain.
Punjab receives rain in winter by westerly depressions which originate in the Mediterranean sea during
January-February.

k. Hill stations in the South never experience snowfall even when temperature fall to 0 degree C. Give reason.
The hill stations in the south are closer towards the Equator, hence the temperatures even if they touch 0
degree C do not experience snowfall.

l. Jaipur has higher annual range of temperature than Mumbai. Give two reasons.
* Jaipur is far away from the moderating influence of the seas. It is an inland town with extreme type of climate but Mumbai has a marine climate.
* It does not get much rain from south west monsoon because the Aravalli range lies parallel to the
direction of winds.
* Jaipur being located in a desert has a high range of temperature. But Mumbai being located on a coastal plain has a low range of temperature.

j. India has varied climatic conditions. Give reason.
India has varied climatic conditions because of its vastness and varied physiographic divisions.

k. South West Monsoons does not give much rainfall to Chennai. Give reason.
Chennai is located on the Eastern Coast. The South-West Monsoon first strikes the Western Ghats and causes a very heavy rainfall. When these winds reach Chennai or the eastern coast they become dry.

l. Patna gets heavier rainfall than Varanasi. Why?
Amount of rainfall decreases as monsoon winds moves westward. These get drier and drier as the distance from sea increases.


m. “Shillong gets less than 200 cm of rainfall in the year while Cherrapunji receives more than 1250 cm of rainfall. Give reason.
Cherrapunji lies on the foothills of Khasi hills in Meghalaya. They are funnel shaped hills. When the moisture laden monsoon winds enter into these hills they are trapped in these hills, causing heavy rainfall. Shillong, on the other hand, lies in the rain shadow area of the Khasi hills and gets less rainfall.

n. Coramandel coast receive most of its rainfall during winter season. Why?
Because its location is on the windward side of the Eastern Ghats.

o. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the Bay of Bengal during months of Oct-Nov. Why?
It is the season of retreating monsoons when tropical cyclones originate over the Bay of Bengal.

p. Amritsar experiences temperatures around 0 degree in December and around 35 degree C + in May. Why?
Amritsar is situated far from the influence of sea, thus experiencing a continental climate with extremes of temperature.

q. The Malabar coast has less rainy months but more rainfall than the Coramandel coast. Why?
* The Malabar Coast in on the windward side of the Western Ghats, while Coromandel Coast is on the
lower side of the Eastern Ghats during summer monsoon.
* The Malabar Coast is first to get rainfall from south-west, while the Coromandel coast gets rainfall
from north-east winds in winter season.

r. The Himalayas act as a perfect climatic divide.
The Himalayas act as a perfect climatic divide as they separate the Indian subcontinent from rest of Asia. On one hand they prevent the chilly cold winds from central Asia from entering the Subcontinent and force the South-West Monsoon winds for rain on the other.

s. The monsoon is unevenly distributed over India. Why?
The amount of rain received by an area depends on its relief, for example, windward side of the mountain receives more rain while leeward side receives less rain. That is why, the monsoon rain is unevenly distributed over India.

t. India is called the ‘Land of Contrast’.
India is called the ‘Land of Contrast’ due to the Himalayas which separate the Indian subcontinent from the rest of Asia and the Tropic of Cancer which divides the country into two halves – North Temperate and South Tropical Zones. These two factors influence the climate of the regions greatly.

u. Most of the rainfall of the Indian subcontinent is received only in 4 months of the year. Why?
Most of the rainfall in the Indian subcontinent occur during mid-June to mid-October due to the South-West monsoon winds as these winds are very strong and laden with plenty of moisture. These moisture laden winds give torrential rain which lasts for 4 months.

v. Kolkatta receives about 145 cm of rainfall while Lahore gets only 45 cm from the South-West Monsoons.
As the South-West Monsoon winds proceed towards west, moisture content gradually decreases thereby rainfall decreases. That is why Kolkatta receives about 145 cm of rainfall while Lahore gets only 45 cm from the South-West Monsoons.

w. The Indo-Gangetic Plain gets some rainfall in the month of December and January. Give reason.The Indo-Gangetic Plain gets some rainfallin the months of December and January due to Western Disturbances moving eastward from the Mediterranean Sea. These disturbances cross into the Indian subcontinent through the Khyber, Bolan and Gomal Passes and give rain showers to the Indo-Gangetic Plain.

x. Chennai has more rainy season months but less rain than Mumbai. Why?Chennai receives most of the rainfall from the North-East monsoon with less moisture thereby causes less rain while Mumbai receives rainfall from the South-West monsoon laden with plenty moisture thereby causes heavy rain.

y. Hot dust-storm are quite common in Thar desert.
Hot and dry weather of the Thar desert creates low pressure over the area which attracts winds from the surrounding areas causing hot dust-storms.

3.a. Which type of climate is experienced in the Northern Plains of India? State one main characteristics of this type of climate.
Tropical monsoon type of climate is experienced in the Northern Plains of India. This type of climate is
marked by very hot summers and very cold winters .

b) Name a state which is influenced by : i) Mango showers ii) Loo
Mango showers – Kerala
Loo – Punjab

C) Name the region in India which receives rainfall from the Western Disturbances. State the importance of this rainfall.
Plains of north-western India i.e. Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
The rain is highly beneficial to Rabi crop especially wheat.

D) Name and give the direction of winds that cause snow and rainfall in the northern parts of India during the winter season.
‘Western Disturbances’ cause rain in the northern parts during winter season. These Cyclones originate from the Mediterranean Sea. They travel eastwards across Iran and Pakistan and reach India during winter season. On their way, the moisture content gets augmented from the Caspian Sea in the north and the Persian Gulf in the south and give some rain to Punjab and Haryana.

E) Distinguish between windward and leeward side.
WINDWARD SIDE: That side of the mountain which comes across the striking winds and gets heavy rainfall is called windward side. For example, the western side of the Western Ghats gets heavy rainfall 9 like Mangalore 280 cms) because it is in the windward side.
LEEWARD SIDE: It is the other side of the mountain where winds descend after shedding much of the rainfall. This portion receives very less rainfall. For example, Bangalore gets 50 cms rainfall because it is in the leeward side.

g.. What type of climate is found in India? Give reason. (2)
Tropical monsoonal climate because the greater part of the country lies within the tropics and it is also influenced by the South West and North East Monsoons.

h. Name the four seasons of India.# The Cold weather season – December to February.
# The Hot weathr season – March to May
# Advancing Monsoon Season – June to September
# Retreating Monsoon season – October to November.

i.Name two important features of the Indian Monsoon.* Most of the country gets rain from the Southwest Monsoon
* the rain is unevenly distributed.
* It is erratic and unpredictable.
* It is seasonal mostly coming in rainy season.
* Monsoon rains have great effect on our economy.

j. Name any two states that receive rain in January – February. What causes this rain?
Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir. Western disturbances originating over the Mediterranean sea causes these
states to receive rainfall.

k. Name the state which experiences the longest monsoon season and another state which has the shortest monsoon season.
Kerala experiences the longest monsoon season. Jammu and Kashmir experiences the shortest monsoon season.

l. Name the two states where “Mango showers’ are common.
Kerala and Karnataka.

m. Much of the Central Maharashtra has only light rainfall. Give reason.
Central Maharashtra has equable climate. So it does not attract South West Monsoon winds.
Secondly, it is not a hilly region which can trap the South West Monsoon.

n. Thar is a desert area. Why?
# The soil contains a high proportion of salts and percentage of organic matter is low.
# Thar does not get much rain because the ‘Aravalli Range’ lies parallel to the direction of winds and so
no condensation occurs. So this region gets less than 25 cm of rainfall per annum.

o. “Loo’ blows over northern and north-western India during the summer season. What is the cause of this ‘Loo’. Give reason.
Because of high temperature in this region low pressure conditions prevail which help the ‘Loo’ to blow.

4.a. How will you differentiate between SW monsoon and NE monsoon?

SOUTH WEST MONSOONS (SUMMER)
NORTH EAST MONSOON (WINTER)
1. They blow during the months of June to September.
They blow during the months of December to February.
2. These cause heavy rainfall almost throughout India.
These cause very less rainfall.
3. These monsoon travel from sea to land.
These monsoon travel from land to sea.
4. These are characterized by oppressive heat and
humidity known as ‘October Heat’.
This is very pleasant season with low temperature,
low humidity and clear skies.

5.a. Name a state which receives rainfall from three different sources and name the three sources of rainfall.Punjab is the state which receives rainfall from three different sources and the sources are:
a) Northeast Retreating Monsoon
b) Westerly depressions
c) South West Monsoons or cyclonic disturbances originating in the Meditarranean Sea.

b. Mention any two characteristics of winter rainfall in India.
* Winter rainfall is north-western India is due to western disturbances.
* Tamil Nadu receives fair amount of rainfall from N-E monsoons.

c. i) Name the place in India which receives the heaviest rainfall. - MAWSYNRAM

ii) name the state where the place is located. - MEGHALAYA

iii) name the winds which are responsible for this heavy rainfall.- The South West winds coming from the Bay of Bengal branch.

d) What are ‘Western Disturbances’? Name two areas receiving rains from them. What are its importance ?Western Disturbances are shallow cyclonic depressions originating over Mediterranean sea, disturbing fine
weather conditions in north-western parts of India by little rainfall during winter season.
Punjab and Haryana and Himachal receive rains from the Western Disturbances.
IMPORTANCE: These are highly beneficial to rabi crop especially wheat.

e) Why is it that India gets abundant rainfall and still is a thirsty land?
* All the rain is concentrated during a few months (June – Sep.) of the year.
* Distribution of rainfall is uneven.
* No proper facilities are available to store the rain water.

f. Why is the diurnal range of temperature during summer, greater at Bikaner (Rajasthan) than at
Panjim (Goa)
Bikaner at Rajasthan has very high temperature (45 degree C) due to being located further inland experiences a continental climate or it being an arid region, absence of clouds, the day is hot and night temperatures too low resulting in a great diffence or range.. Whereas Panjim (Goa) is in coastal region, and due to moderating influence of the sea, has lower temperature. (27 degree – 32 degree C)

g. Name any two local winds which blow in India and write briefly about each.
i) Loo – It is the hot and dry wind which blows in the northern plains.
ii) Land breeze – The wind blows in the coastal regions. These blow from land to sea.

h. Write two features of mango showers.
* These are the result of contact between dry and moist air masses.
* These are common towards the close of summer and basically found in Kerala and the coastal areas of
Karnataka.

i. State two differences between tropical cyclones and temperate cyclones.

TEMPERATE CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONES
1
The origin and influence of these cyclones is in the temperate zone due to which they are known as temperate cyclones.
These cyclones originate and travel in the tropical zone and are known as tropical cyclones.
2.
The wind velocity is very low.
The wind velocity is very high.
3.
They are more active in winter season.
They are more active in summer season.
4.
Temperate cyclones are bigger in size.
Tropical cyclones are small in size.
5
Temperate cyclones cause less rain useful for wheat crop.
Tropical cyclones cause heavy rains with more destruction.

j. Name the factors which influence the climate of India or South Asia. Or Why are there great variations in the climate of the Indian subcontinent?
* THE HIMALAYAN MOUNTAIN CHAIN: It protects Indian subcontinent from cold winds of the
Central Asia. It creates barriers before the S-W Monsoon.
* THE LARGE COAST LINE: South India is a Peninsula and has a large coast line. Peninsular
situation has helped it to enjoy maritime climate.
* JET STREAMS: The air currents blowing in upper layer of the atmosphere are known as jet
streams. These help western disturbances to enter into India.
* LOCATION AND VAST EXTENT OF THE COUNTRY: India is a vast country. It is located
between 8 degree 4’ N and 37 degree 6’ latitude and 68 degree 7 ‘ to 97 degree 25’E longitude . India
is divided in almost two equal parts by the Tropic of Cancer.


k. Mention two weather conditions which are associates with the ‘break’ or ‘burst monsoon’. Name two states which are affected by ‘Kal Baisakhi’.
Violent thunder and lightening re associated with ‘break’ or ‘burst’ of monsoons.
Assam and West Bengal are affected by ‘Kal Baisakhi’.

l. What is meant by ‘rain shadow area’? Give two examples of ‘rain shadow’ areas in India.
‘Rain Shadow area’ is an area sheltered by the hills from the prevailing winds and having a lighter rainfall than the windward side of the hills.
i) Bangalore ii) Shillong

m. Name one part of India that receives rainfall both in the winter and summer.
Punjab – In winter, Punjab gets rainfall from western disturbances and in summer from South West monsoons.

n. What is the general direction of prevailing winds over the Indian Sub continent in April – May and in July?
IN April – May – N-E Trade Winds , IN July – South West Monsoon

o. Name the place in India which receives the heaviest rainfall. Name the state and the winds which are
responsible for this heavy rainfall.
Mawsynram receives the heaviest rainfall. It is in Meghalaya. They Bay of Bengal branch of South West monsoon winds are responsible for this heavy rainfall.

p. How are the sources of rainfall in the north-west part of India different from the rainfall experienced on the coastal area of eastern India in winter?
In the North-West part of India winter rainfall is brought by ‘Western Disturbances’ which originate in the Mediterranean sea.
The coastal area of Eastern India gets rainfall from North – East trade winds which picks moisture from the Bay of Bengal.

q. Name the season during which the North East Trade Winds dominate the Indian subcontinent? In which season do the above mentioned winds get completely reversed? Name the four months covered by this season.
The North East trade winds dominate the India subcontinent during cold weather season. (Dec to Feb)
The North East trade winds get completely reversed during summer season. Four months covered by this season are June, July, August and September.

r. Name the region in India which receives rainfall from the Western Disturbances. State the importance of this rainfall.
During the winter season because of low temperature, pressure is sufficiently high in the North-Western part of India. On the Southern India, there is low pressure. Light winds with a low velocity (5 km) begin toblow from North – West to Southern part. The system of pressure and winds is disturbed as a result of the inflow of shallow cyclonic depressions from the West and the North-West which originate from the Mediterranean Sea. These low pressure depressions are called Western Disturbances. Due to Western disturbances, the moisture content of the wind gets augmented from Caspian and Persian Gulf. These cause rainfall in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
The rain is highly beneficial to Rabi crop especially wheat.

s. What is meant by ‘the season of retreating monsoon’? Name the months of retreating monsoons. Explain how these winds are different from the north-east Trades?The withdrawal of south-west monsoons in the months of October to November is called the season of retreating monsoon.
These are the same winds of summer which come back due to the migration of the sun. North-east trade winds return between the months of December to February when north-western part becomes cold and winds give rainfall on Tamilnadu coast after collecting moisture from Bay of Bengal.

6. a. What is meant by ‘Kal Baisakhi’?Kal Baisakhi are local thunderstorm experienced in the month of Baisakh (april) in West Bengal.

b. Name two states which receive rain in January and February.
Tamilnadu and Andhra Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir receive rain in Jan and Feb.

c. What causes the winter rain? How does the winter rain benefit agriculture in the area?
North-Eastern winds while passing over the Bay of Bengal pick up moisture and cause rain on the south-eastern coast of India.
The winter rain is beneficial for rice and millet crops in Tamilnadu and for Rabi crops in Punjab.

d. What is the cause or reason for the winter rain in northern India.
* Northern India receives rainfall due to western disturbances, originated over the Mediterranean Sea.
* In Tamil Nadu the northeast monsoon winds pick up moisture from the Bay of Bengal and bring rain.

e. Under what rainfall conditions are the Tropical Rain forests found?
They are found in those regions having rainfall more than 200 cm.

f. India is considered a subcontintent. Give two reasons.
India is considered a Subcontinent because :
· India is a part of Asia from which it is separated by the Great Himalayas.
· It is a large, relatively self contained land mass forming a part of Asia.
· It has varied vegetation and climate of its own. It has tropical monsoon climate.

g. Which wind is responsible for the rainfall experienced over the greater part of the Subcontinent? During which part of the year is this rainfall experienced? Why does Coromandel coast receive most of its rain during winter?
Wind responsible for the rainfall experienced over the greater part of the subcontinent is South West Arabian Sea branch of the monsoon.
They experience the above rainfall during June-September.
The northeast monsoon winds blow over the Bay of Bengal. Before reaching the Coromandel Coast they become moisture laden and give rain to this area during winter season. (Dec-Jan)

h. What is the general direction of prevailing winds over the Indian subcontinent?
i) in April-May - the direction is north east
ii) In July - the direction is southwest to northeast.

i) Why does the most of central Maharashtra have only light rainfall?
Most of central Maharasthtra has only light rainfall because it lies in the rain shadow area of the Western Ghats.

j. What are there great variations in climate of the Indian subcontinent?There are great variations in the climate due to:
· the vast latitudinal expanse
· the varied topographical features
· size of the land
· distance from the sea.

k. A cricket match at Chennai from Oct 24 to 28 had to be abandoned because of bad weather. As a student of geography provide an explanation for this happening. Ensure that your explanation provides the technical name of this seasonin India, the atmospheric pressure conditions over the Bay of Bengal during this part of the year and the typical rainfall regime experienced in Chennai city.The technical name of the season is ‘the season of retreating monsoon’/’northeast monsoon’.
The atmospheric condition over Bay of Bengal during this season is very unstable causing severe cyclones or it can be a low pressure area too.
The months of October and November are the rainiest months.

l. Name the seasons during which the northeast trade winds dominate the Indian subcontinent. In which season do the above mentioned winds get completely reversed? Name the four months of this season.
The season during which these winds dominate are winter/summer.
During the Southwest Monsoon season, the winds get reversed. The four months are June, July, August and September.

m. Name the state which receives rainfall from three different sources and name the three sources of rainfall.Punjab is the state that receives rainfall from three different sources and the sources are:
· Northeast Retreating Monsoons
· Westerly depressions
· Southwest Monsoons or cyclonic disturbances originating in the Mediterranean Sea.


n. Give two reasons why India is considered a Subcontinent?The two reasons for India being considered a Subcontinent are:-
India is a part of Asia from which it is separated by the great Himalayas
It is a large, relatively self-contained landmass forming a part of Asia.
It has a varied vegetation and climate of its own.


10E2 -INDIA- LOCATION , EXTENT & PHYSICAL FEATURES (NOTES)


INDIA


'
LOCATION
3. a. Which parallels of latitude mark the northern and southern extent of India?
8 degree 4 ‘ N and 37 degree 6’ N

b. What is the value of the Standard Meridian of India? If the Indian cricket team is playing at Lords(England) at 9.30 am, what time will it be in India?
Longitude of 82 degree 30 ‘E
If the time in England is 9.30 a.m.,
Time will be 3 p.m. / 15.00 hrs because India’s time is always 5 ½ hours ahead from England as it is situated in Eastern side. (Hemisphere).

c) Why has India selected this value?
It lies almost in the middle of India and as such it suits us the most.

d. If we take India’s north-south extent as 8 degree N and 37 degree N latitudes:
i) How many km apart is each latitude?
ii) Calcualte in km. the north-south length of the country.
Ans. i) 37 – 8 = 29 degree
ii) The N-S length of the country is 3,214 km.

e) Which parallels of latitude mark the northern and southern extent of India?
8 degree 4’ N and 37 degree 6’ N

f) What is the value of the Standard Meridian of India?
Longitude of 82 degree 30’E.

g. Why has India selected a Standard Meridian of India with an odd value of 82 degree 30’ E? Name the state in India through which the Standard Meridian of India as well as the Tropic of Cancer pass covering the longest distance.
It lies almost in the middle of India and as such it suits us the most.
Madhya Pradesh

h. In which hemisphere does India lie with reference to Prime Meridian?
India lies in the Eastern Hemisphere with reference to Prime Meridian.

i. What is the total area of India?
32,87,263 sq km is the total area of India.

j. State the value of the angle which the Standard Meridian of India makes with the Prime Meridian. Show by calculations the time lag between I.S.T. and G.M.T.
Value of angle is 82 1/2 degree E.
Calculation:
1 degree = 4 mins
Time taken for 1 degreee = 4 mins
Time taken for 82.5 degree = 4 X 82.5
= 330 mins
60 mins = 1 hour
330 mins = 5 and half hours.
So total time lag is 5 and half hours.

k. State the latitudinal and longitudinal extension of India. Which important line of longitude passes the middle of India? Also state which important latitude passes through the middle of India. What is the importance of its central location? Give two points (2)
* LATITUDE : 8 degree 4’ N to 37 degree 18’ N
LONGITUDE: 68 degree 7’ to 97 degree 25’ E
· The longitude of 82 degree 30’ E passes through the middle of India and is taken as the Standard Time Meridian of India.
· The Tropic of Cancer (23 ½ degree N) is an important line of latitude passes through the middle of India.
IMPORTANCE:
* India’s geographical location is favourably important for international trade.
** Due to its central location in the Eastern Hemisphere India lies on the major trade routes.

l. By what name is the parallel of latitude 23 degree 30’ N known? Name the zones or belts into which it divides India almost equally.
Tropic of Cancer. It divides India into two Tropical zone and the subtropical zone.

m. Along which meridian of India is the Indian Standard Time calculated? If the Indian Cricket Team is playing at Lords (England) at 9.30 am, what time will be it in India? Name the two other countries which also base their standard time as this meridian.
Indian Standard Time is calculated on the basis of 82 ½ degree E longitiude.

It the time in England is 9.30 a.m.
Time in India will be 3.00 p.m./15:00 hrs because India’s time is always 5 ½ hours ahead from England as it is situated in Eastern side (Hemisphere).
Nepal and Sri Lanka are the other two countries which also base their standard time as this meridian.

n. What is a subcontinent? Give example. (2)
A subcontinent is a large, relatively self contained landmass forming a subdivision of a continent. A large part of a continent that stands distinct from the rest of the continent..For example: India is called a sub-continent because of varied relief features, climate, natural vegetation, and diversities among the people. India constitutes nearly 74% of South Asia. Therefore , the subcontinent is also referred to as the Indian subcontinent.
o. Which is the southern most tip of India?
Indira Point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
p. Write the names of the diverse land features of India. or Write the names of the diverse land features of India.
· The Himalayan Mountains
· The Great Plains of North
· The Peninsular Plateau
· The Coastal Plains
· The Islands.
q. Name the States of India which touch the borders of Nepal.
Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal), Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, West Bengal

r. Name the northern most and the southern most points of India.
Indira Col and Indira Point respectively.



HIMALAYAS

4. A. Himalayas are the source of northern rivers. Justify the statement by giving two examples.
* The Himalayas create barrier before the south west monsoons which causes precipitation in the
form of rain or snow.
* The rain water adds to the water of rivers and melting of snow is also the source of water.
* Example: Rivers Indus, Ganga, Brahamaputra

b. State the importance of the Himalayas with regard to the race and occupation of the people of South Asia.
* The severity of the cold climate and rugged terrain have resulted in typical short statured, high cheek boned, small eyes and fair complexioned people belonging to the Mongoloid race.
* As the Himalayas offer good pastures on its hill-slopes, cattle- rearing is an important occupation.
* Agriculture is another important activity of the people of South Asia. This is because of fertile plains and sufficient water. The moisture of the South-West monsoon is captured by the mountain barrier.
* By virtue of their scentic beauty and healthy environment, the Himalayan ranges have developed several tourist spots and tourism offers a major economic activity in the region.

c. Write any three features of Himadri. (3)
* It makes up the highest part of the Himalayas.
* The average elevation is more than 6000 m.
* Mount Everest *8848 m), the highest peak in the world is located here.

d. State the climatic significance of the Himalayas to the people of South Asia. (3)
EFFECT ON CLIMATE: These act as a guard against the northern cold winds. The Himalayas act like a natural wall that keeps the fertile Indo-Gangetic plains safe from the cold, bleak winds from the north.
The Himalayas cause the monsoon winds to shower life giving rains on the valleys and the plains to their south.
SOURCE OF RIVERS: These are the source of important rivers like the Ganga, the Indus, etc.
FOREST WEALTH: The Himalayas are covered by thick forests which are the source of numerous raw material.

OTHER SIGNIFICANCE OF HIMALAYAS:
TOURISM: The Himalayas are known for beautiful valleys and tourist spots which help in earning foreign exchange.
HYDROELECTRICITY: Dams can be constructed across the Himalayan rivers to generate Hydroelectricity..

e. With reference to the Himadri, answer the following: (2)
i) Name two mountain peaks included in this range.
Mount Everest (8848 m)
Kanchenjunga (8598m)

ii) Name two passes of this range.
Burzil Pass in Jammu and Kashmir
Skipkila Pass in Himachal Pradesh

iii. Name two important glaciers of Himadri.
The Gangotri and the Yamnotri

iv. What is the height of Himadri?
Its height is 6,000m.

f. Explain the impact of the Himalayas on the occupation of the people. or Mention two favourable effects of the Himalayas on the economy of India.(3)
* The rivers originating from the Himalayas are responsible for the formation of plains. These plains provide fertile alluvial soil. So most of the people are engaged in agriculture.
* Slopes of Himalayas have been terraced for cultivation of fruits, food crops and plantation crops.
* The Himalayan ranges are rich in forest resources and pastures. So most of the people are engaged in lumbering and animal rearing.
* Rivers flowing from Himalayas has a great potential to generate hydroelectricity.

g. Name the four mountain ranges radiating from the Pamir Knot. (2)
Hindukush, Sulaiman range, Karakoram and Tienshan range and Zaskar

h. Name two passes of middle Himalayas.
The Pir Panjal and Golabghar are two important passes of middle Himalayas.

i. Write any two features of the Shiwaliks.
· The average elevation is less than 1200 m.
· It is made up of unconsolidated sediments.
j. Name the second highest peak in the world.
K2

K. Between which two ranges Himachal is situated. Write any two of its important features.
Himachal is situated between Shiwaliks in the South and Himadri in the North.
Most of the hill stations like Shimla, Mussoorie, Nainital, Darjeeling etc. lie here.
It extends over an average width of 50 km and have an altitude of 3750 to 4,500 km.
.

l. Name the three ranges of the Himalayas with one feature of each range. Write one feature of these ranges.(3)
* THE HIMADRI (Greater Himalayas): It makes up the highest part of the Himalayas.
* THE HIMACHAL (Lesser Himalayas): It has an average height of 4,500 m.
* THE SHIWALIKS ( Outer Himalayas): It has an average elevation of 1,200 m.
THE HIMADRI: It is the loftiest of all. All the high peaks belong to this range.
THE HIMACHAL : all the important hill stations such as Dalhousie, Dharamsala, Shimla belong to this range.
THE SHIWALIKS: It is the outermost and lowest range. It is made of fluvial deposits.


m. Mention three differences between the Western Himalayas and the Eastern Himalayas. (3)
* The Western Himalays lie in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. The Eastern Himalayas lie in West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan.
* Western part of the Himalayas is very high. Eastern part of the Himalayas in of medium height.
* The major rivers of the Western Himalayas- Indus and Sutlej – flow into Arabian Sea. The major rivers of the Eastern Himalayas- Brahmaputra flows into the Bay of Bengal.
* The Western Himalayas get less rainfall. The Eastern Himalayas get more rainfall.
* Western Himalayas consist of mountain ranges of Hindukush, Sulaiman and Kirthar. The Patkai Bum, Naga Hills, Mizo hills, etc., are the parts of Eastern Himalayas.
* These hill ranges pass through the countries of Afghanistan and Pakistan. Eastern Himalayas run through India and Myanmar
* Western Himalayas have two important passes – Khyber pass, Bolan Pass. Eastern Himalayas are famous for its sandstone and slate..

n. Millions of years ago what covered Himalayas and the Great Plains?
Tethys sea covered the Himalayas and The Great Plains.

o.. Name the four mountain ranges radiating from the Pamir Knot. (2)
* Hindukush Range * Karakoram Range * Sulaiman Range * Tienshan Range

p. Give the length and breadth of the Himalayas.
The Himalayas are about 2500 km long and from 250 km to 400 km broad.

q. Name the main peaks of the Himalayas.
Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Nanga Parbat, Nanda Devi, and Namcha barwa.

r. Which is the outermost range of the Himalayas? Write any three features of that range.
The Shiwalik is the outermost range of the Himalayas and is also known as the ‘Outer Himalayas’.
The Shiwalik range runs almost parallel to the leser Himalayas from the Potwar plateau to the Brahamaputra valley.
It has an average height of les than 1200 m and average width of 30 km.
There are broad longitudinal valleys in the Shiwaliks known as duns. Dehra Dun is the best example of such a plain which is 75 km long and 15-20 ms wide. Kota, Patli, and Chauk hamba are other duns in Uttar Pradesh.
s. Name the hills that make up the Purvanchal Ranges in India.
The hills that make up the Purvanchal Ranges in India are the Patkoi Bum, Garo-Khasi, Jaintia Hills, Lushai Hills , Mizo and Naga Hills.

t. Why are the Himalayas known as Tethys Himalayas also?
The Himalayas are fold mountains said to have risen from the sediments of the Tethys sea-floor due to earth-movements. Since these mountains originated from the Tethys Sea, they are also called Tethys Himalayas.

DECCAN PLATEAU
4. a. How was the Deccan Plateau formed? Name two important ranges that run through it and mention an important feature of this region. State the significance of the Plateau region to the people of India.
Deccan Pleateau was formed due to the breaking and drifting of the Gondwana land. It is formed as a result of cooling of thick horizontal lava sheets and is a dormant vocano.
The Vindhyas, the Satpuras, Rajmahal Hills, the Mahadeo Hills are some of the ranges that run through Deccan Plateau.
The Triangular Deccan Plateau is India’s largest and its height is between 800 to 3000m and are situated between the Eastern and Western Ghats.

· It is made up of hard crystalline igneous rocks. These rocks contain a very rich variety of minerals.
· The highlands of the plateau are covered with different types of of forests which provide a large
variety of forest products.
The swift flowing rivers flowing through the plateau are ideal for production of hydro-electricity.
Much of it has black lava soil good for crops like cotton, sugar-cane and tobacco.

b. Name the oldest mountain range in India, stating its highest peak?
The oldest mountain range in India – Aravallis. Its highest peak is Gurushikhar.

c. What is significance of the Peninsualr Plateau? (3)
* The Peninsualr Plateau is rich in useful minerals like manganese, iron ore, bauxite and gold , etc
* Its black soil is useful for growing cotton and sugarcane while laterite soil prove useful for tea, rubber, and coffee plantations.
· Valuable varieties of wood is provided by the Western Ghats.
The hill stations like Ooty, Panchmarhi, are the source of attraction for tourists

d. Name any three hill ranges lying on the Indian Plateau. (3)
Vindhya, Satpura, Maikal ranges


e.. How was the Deccan Plateau formed? State the significance of the Plateau region to the people of India. Name the longest river of Deccan Plateau.
Deccan Pleateau was formed due to the breaking and drifting of the Gondwana land.
* These rocks contain a very rich variety of minerals.
* The highlands of the plateau are covered with different types of of forests which provide a large
variety of forest products.

Godavari is the longest river of Deccan Plateau

f. State three reasons for the importance of the Peninsualr Plateau. (3)
* Many rivers originate from this plateau.
* the plateau is very rich in mineral wealth.
* black cotton soil of the Deccan Plateau is extremely useful for growing cotton and sugarcane.

g. Where is ChhotaNagpur Plateau located? What is its economic importance? What is its origin?
Chhota Nagpur Plateau is located in Jharkhand , east of Bundelkhand and ends up in Rajmahal Hills east.
It is a store-house of coal, iron-ore, mica, etc which support the steel industries and engineering industries.
Its origin due to intense volcanic activity which occurred millions of years ago and eruption of lava through fissures being solidified.

h. Which is the largest unit of the Peninsular Plateau of India?
The Deccan Plateau is the largest unit of the Peninsualr Plateau.

I . Where is Malwa Plateau located? Name the rivers that drain it. What is it made up of?
Malwa Plateau is located between the Aravallis and the Vindhyas. The Aravallis lie to its west and the Vindhyas lie to its south.
Chambal, Sind and Betwa are the rivers that drain it.
They were formed by solidified molter lava. The flat top is forested and broken by ravines.


RIVERS
5. a. Mention any three characteristics of Brahamputra river. By what name is it known in Tibet and Bangladesh? Name its tributaries.(3)
* It flows only in northern India.
* It passes through three countries i.e. Tibet, India, Bangladesh
* It causes disastrous floods.
In Tibet, it is known as Tsang Po and in Bangladesh , is is known as Jamuna.
Tista, Subansiri, Barali, Manas, Buri, Dihang are tributaries of Brahamaputra.

b. Which is the longest river of India? Name the source of the river Ganga. Where does this river enter the plains? Name any two tributaries of Ganga.
River Ganga is the longest river of India.
Gangotri glacier is the source of river Ganga. The river enters the plains near Haridwar river.
Two tributaries of Ganga are Gomati and Gandak.

c. Why most of the peninsular rivers have straight and linear courses? (3)
* Due to gentle slope, the intensity of erosional activity is less.
* The hard rock bed and lack of silt and sand does not allow meandering.
* During most of the year they have less water.

d. Distinguish between the rivers of the North Plains and those of Peninsular India. (Southern India)
North Indian rivers originate from the lofty Himalayan ranges. Rivers of Peninsular India originate from Peninsular Plateau.
Rivers of North Plains have large basins. Rivers of Peninsular India have small basins.
Rivers of North Plains are perennial in nature. They are fed by Glaciers. Rivers of Peninsular India are non-perennial. They are mainly fed by rain.
Rivers of Northern Plains are suitable for navigation as they flow gently in the plains whereas rivers of Peninsular India are not suitable for navigation as they flow swiftly over the plateaus and highlands.

e. Himalayas are the source of northern rivers. Justify the statement by giving two examples.
* The Himalayas create barrier before the south west monsoons which causes precipitation in the form of rain or snow.
· The rain water adds to the water of rivers and melting of snow is also the source of water.
· Example: Rivers Indus, Ganga, Brahamaputra

f. Distinguish between the rivers of the North Indian Plains and those of Peninsular India.
* Rivers of North India are much longer as compared to those of Peninsular India.
* Rivers of North India are good for irrigation where as those of peninsular India are less suitable
as they flow through hard rocky terrain.
* Rivers of North India form large deltas whereas those of Peninsular India form smaller deltas.

g.. State two reasons why the rivers of the Deccan Plateau are non-perennial and non-navigable.
* They are non-perennial as they receive water only from rainfall and water flows in these rivers in
rainy seasons only.
* Since they are rainfed rivers, they become dry in the summers.

The rivers of Deccan Plateau are non-navigable because
they flow in comparatively shallow valleys
This area has a rugged topography and the rivers are swift flowing.
The rivers have a number of waterfalls in them.

h. Name a river of the Peninsualr Plateau that does not form a delta.
Narmada river does not form a delta.

i. Name the river which divides Peninsualr Plateau into two parts. Name the parts also.
The Narmada river divides the Peninsualr Plateau into two parts. i.e. the Malwa Plateau and the Deccan Plateau.

j. What is braided river? Give an example.
A river which is divided into a number of converging and diverging channels separated by sand bars and islands is known as braided stream. For example, Brahmaputra

k. Name the source of the river Ganga. Where does this river enter the plains?
The source of the river Ganga is Goumukh., Gangotri glacier. This river enters Haridwar.

l. What are doabs?
The land between two rivers is called doab.

m. name five rivers which make up Punjab-Haryana Plain.
The Satluj, the Beas, the Ravi, the Chenab, and the Jhelum.

n. Name the rivers which the drain the Malwa Plateau.
Chambal and its tributaries like the Kali, Sindh, and Parbati.

o. Name four rivers forming deltas on eastern coastal plain.
Krishna, Kaveri, Godavari and Mahanadi.

p. What are the lengths of the river India and the river Ganga?
River Indus – 2900 km River Ganga: 2500 km

q. Which river is known for creating havoc of floods in Assam and Bangladesh? Why is the river prone to floods?
The river Brahamaputra is known for creating havoc of floods in Assam and Bangladesh.
The river is prone to floods because it has braided stream.

r. With reference to the Indus River, answer the following:
i. Name its source. What is its total length?
The Indus originates from the glaciers of the Kailas Range in Western Tibet. The total length of Indus river is 2,880 km.
ii. Name the treaty signed on the sharing of its water between India and Pakistan.
India and Pakistan signed The Indus Water Treaty on the sharing of its water.

s. One of the most important rivers of the Ganga drainage system is the Ganga. With reference to it , answer the following:
i. Where does it originate? Where does it enter the plains?
Ganga originates as Bhagirathi from the Gangotri glacier in Uttar Kashi district of Uttarkhand. It enters Haridwar.
ii. From where does it get its name?
The river acquires its name after its headstreams Alaknanda and Bhagirathi unite at Devaprayag.

t. What is a Delta? Name two deltas in South Asia.
A low lying area found at the mouth of a river and formed of deposits of alluvium.
Ganga-Brahamaputra and Krishna delta are two deltas of South Asia.

u. Briefly give the characteristics of the forests that flourish in the delta of the River Ganga.
The forest is called mangrove forest. This forest is flooded by the tides of the sea, the trees bend down branches into the salt water of the sea, which enable them to remain fixed. They have breathing roots.

v. Mention two features of the east-flowing Peninsular rivers.
· They have their source in the Western Ghats.
· They are non-perennial since they are rain-fed.
· They are not navigable.

w. Which are the two major waterfalls in India? What is their importance?
The Jog Waterfalls and the Shiva Samudra are two major waterfalls They are source of Hydro Electric Power in South India.

x. Into how many drainage systems can the rivers of Peninsular India be grouped? Which is the longest river here and where does it rise?
Rivers of Peninsular India can be grouped into East fllowing towards Bay of Bengal and West flowing towards Arabian, towards Ganga, i.e. flowing North from the Vindhyas, Godavari, rising in the Western Ghats.

PLAINS.

6. a. Mention three benefits of the long coastline of India. Or What is the significance of the coastal plains?
# The coastline of India is uniform and regular, little indented by large inlets. The West Coast contains a few natural harbours like Mumbai, Marmagao, Cochin, etc
# Large parts of the coastal plains are covered with fertile plains on which different crops are grown.
# The back waters and lagoons are ideal for fishing.
# Sea beaches serve as tourist attraction, thus earning foreign exchange.
# The coastal plains have been centres of commerce since ancient times. Various factories and forts of the Dutch, Portuguese were established on the coast.
#Petroleum in sea beds can be drilled out.
# The Kerala coast has abundant deposits of monazite and the off shore areas of Mumabi have petroleum deposits in abundance

b. Distinguish between west coastal plain and east coastal plain. Or Differentiate between the Eastern Coast and the Western Coast.(3)

West Coastal Plain is a narrow and uneven plain with an average width of 65 km. East Coastal Plain is comparatively broader and more level plain with an average width of 80 -100 km.
There are several estuaries lagoons especially in the southern part of West Coastal Plain. Lagoons are comparatively less in East Coastal Plain. It has fertile deltas of rivers.
The western plain has indented coast which supports many ports. The eastern plain has more or less a straight coast where good ports are lacking.
Western coast gets more rainfall than the Eastern Coast of India. Eastern coast gets less rainfall . (100-125cm)
West Coastal Plain lies between Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. East Coastal Plain lies between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal.
West Coastal Plain is known as the Konkan Coast in Maharashtra and Goa, Kanara Coast in Karnataka and Malabar Coast in Kerala. East Coastal Plain is known as the Northern Circars in the north and Coromandel Coast in the south.

c. Which is the largest unit of the Great Plain of India.
The Ganga Plain.

d. What is the Konkan region?
The region extending from Goa and Daman is called the Konkan region.

e. What is the extent of the West Coast of India? What are the different names given to different parts of this coast?
The West Coast of India extends from River Narmada in the north to Kanyakumari in south.
In Kerala, it is known as Malabar Coast, in Karnataka, it is known as Kanara coast, in Goa and Maharashtra, it is known as Konkan Coast.
.

WESTERN AND EASTERN GHATS

7. a. Distinguish between the Western and Eastern Ghats. (2)
Western Ghats are higher. The average height is between 900 to 1100 m. The highest peak in the Western Ghats is Anaimudi with a height of 2,696 m. Eastern Ghats are lower with average height of 600m. The highest peak in the Eastern Ghats is Mahendragiri with a height of 1500 m.
The Western Ghats are continuous. The Eastern Ghats are discontinuous. They are broken.
Western Ghats are closer to the sea. Eastern Ghats are not closer to the sea. There are wider plains in between the Eastern Ghats and the sea.
Western Ghats rise steeply from the west coast. Eastern Ghats rise gently from the east coast.
All the rivers of the Deccan Plateau rise to the Western Ghats. No river originates from the Eastern Ghats.The rivers cut valleys through Eastern Ghats.
Western Ghats are situated perpendicularly to the South-West Monsoon winds, consequently the heavy rainfall in the monsoon, been experienced. Eastern Ghats are parallel to the South-West Monsoon winds and so do not cause for the rainfall in the monsoon season.
The Western Ghats receive rainfall in summer only, whereas the Eastern Ghats get rainfall both in winter and summer.

OCCUPATION

8. a. What is the main occupation of the people of India? (2)
Agriculture

b. Mention two problems associated with agriculture in India. (2)
* OVERDEPENDENT ON NATURE: Indian agriculture is mainly dependent on monsoons. If there is heavy rain, it leads to floods and if there is less rain it leads to drought.
* OLD TECHNOLOGY AND MORE PRESSURE ON LAND: Our farmers still use old implements. They are very poor and cannot afford modern technology and implements. Secondly, 67% of our population is directly or indirectly dependent on agriculture.

c. What is subsistence agriculture?
Farming in which the main production is consumed by the farmer’s household.


ISLANDS

9. a. Mention any three features of the island group of India.
* The Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep island are two island groups of India.
* The Andaman and Nicobar islands are made up of tertiary sandstone, limestone and shale.
* Lakshadweep islands are coral islands.

b. With reference to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, answer the following:
i. Where are they situated?
They are situated in Bay of Bengal.
ii. What is the other name of these islands? Why are they called so?
They are called Bay Islands. They are called so because they are located in the Bay of Bengal.
iii. Name the highest peak of these islands.
Saddle Peak in North Andaman is the highest peak.

c. With reference to the Lakshadweep Islands, answer the following:
i. Where are they situated?
They are situated in the Arabian Sea.
ii. How were they formed?
They have been formed through deposition of the dead bodies of micro-organisms like corals over a long period of time.

LAGOONS:
10. a. What is a lagoon? give an example.
It is a salt water lake on the coast. e.g. chilka.


11. NAME THEM:
a. Name the neighbour countries of India.
Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Sri Lanka.

b. Name any two harbours on the east coast of peninsular India.
Chennai and Vishakhapatnam

c. Name any two important inlets in the Gujarat region of the west coast strip.
The Gulf of Kachchh and The Gulf of Cambay are two important inlets in the Gujarat region of the west coast strip.

d. Name the highest peak of the Western Ghats.
Anaimundi (2695 m)

e. Name the highest peak in the Eastern Ghats.
Mahendragiri is the highest peak in the Eastern Ghats.

f. Name the highest plateau of Indian Union.
The Ladakh Plateau

g. Name the hills which form the watershed between India and Myanmar.
Patkai Bum and Naga Hills.

h. Name the hill of Arunachal Pradesh which forms the international boundary between Indian and Myanamar.
Patkai Bum.

i. Name the hill which forms boundary between Manipur and Myanmar.
The Manipur Hills

j. Name two salt lakes of Rajasthan Plain.
The Sambhar and the Diwana.

k. Name the hills that make up the Purvanchal Ranges in India.
The hills that make up the Purvanchal Ranges in India are the Patkoi Bum, Garo-Khasi. Jaintia Hills, Lushai Hills, Mizo and Naga Hills.

12. GIVE REASONS.
a. The deltas on the east coast are not suitable for harbours.
The deltas on the east coast are not suitable for harbours because their mouths are full of silt.

b. The Peninsular rivers are not navigable.
The Peninsualr rivers are marked by a number of waterfalls which are being harnessed for the production of hydroelectricity. These rivers have also been impounded for irrigation and hydroelectric power . Moreover, these rivers are non-perrenial.

c. The Brahmaputra river is called the ‘Red River’.
Because during the floods, the water of the Brahmaputra looks reddish in colour after mixing with the Red soil of Assam.

d. The northern frontier of India is practically an impossible barrier.
Because the valleys formed by the great ranges of this mountain run parallel to the ranges, i.e. from west to east. This fact has made the Himalayas a huge barrier, which is practically impossible to cross.

e. The Deccan system of rivers is unsuitable for navigation.
* Because most of the peninsular rivers are seasonal in character due to which they flow only when they are fed by the monsoon rains.
* Since this area has a rugged topography, the rivers are swift flowing.
* The rivers have a number of waterfalls in them, thus, making navigation difficult.

f. The peninsular plateau of India is considered to be part of Gondwana hundreds of millions years ago.
The southern plateau of India is as ancient as the global continent of Pangea. Pangea had two parts- its northern part was known as Angaraland and its southern part as Gondwana land. The peninsular plateau of India was a part of the southern continent, i.e. Gondwana land which broke away 250 million years ago.

g. The Peninsular Plateau of India is rich in mineral resources.
The Peninsular Plateau of India is rich in mineral resources as it is made up of hard and crystalline igneous rocks.

h. Most of the rivers in South India flow into the Bay of Bengal.
Most of the rivers in South India rises in the western Ghats. As the slope of the Western Ghats is from west to east , so the rivers flow into Bay of Bengal.

i. The delta region of the Indus is largely a wasteland.
The delta region of the Indus is largely a wasteland because it is being often flooded with brackish water.

j. The coromandel coast receive most of its rainfall during winter season.
This is because its location is on the windward side of the Eastern Ghats.

k. Destruction of vegetation cover increases the soil erosion.
Vegetation cover protects the soil from erosion as the roots of the trees and plants hold the soil particles together and strengthen the soil.

l. The Brahmaputra is a braided river.
The Brahmaputra which rises in Tibet crosses a long mountainous area and carries a lot of sediments with it. When it enters the plain, it slows down and starts depositing its load in its river channel causing it to split into two or three channels forming islands in its course. Thus, it appears to form braids.

m. Damodar is called the Sorrow of Bengal.
Damodar is called the sorrow of Bengal because it gets flooded frequently and causes widespread destruction of lives and property.

o. The rivers of the Indus-Ganga plain are perennial.
Because these are the Himalayan rivers which do not depend for their supply of water on monsoon rains, but are fed all the year round by the melting snow of the Himalayas.

p. In the coastal strips of the Southern India, there are regions of good soils.
Along the eastern coastal strip, the south Indian rivers carry much water, especially, during rainy season and form large deltas before they empty their water in the sea. Thus, these deltas prove to be areas of fertile soil.

q. The Narmada and the Tapi do not form deltas.
Only sluggish rivers which carry a lot of sediments, form a delta. Such rivers travel a long distance from their origin to the mouth. In case of the Narmada and Tapi, such conditions whichare pre-requisites for the formation of delta, are not available. Their distance from origin to the Arabian Sea is very small and they do not carry much sediment also. that is why they do not form deltas, rather they form estuaries.

r. The northern plains of India are one of the most densely populated regions of the world.
The deep alluvial fertile soil and assured source of water through perennial rivers have made this plain a rich agricultural land. This source of food has made this plain one of the most densely populated regions of the world. The level and flat land suitable for transportation has also attracted population.

s. The rivers of South India are less suitable for the irrigation than the rivers of north India.
The rivers of South India are non-perennial, as been fed by rainwater and so they dry up after rainy seasons, while the rivers of north India are perennial been fed by glaciers. Therefore, the rivers of South India are less suitable for the irrigational purpose throughout the year, than the rivers of north India.

t. Less land is available for agriculture on the West Coast than on the East Coast.
On the Western coast , there are less rivers than the eastern coast. It has two major rivers, Narmada and Tapi which have no delta at their meeting point to the sea at the western coast. On the eastern coast , there are number of major rivers like Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri, Mahanadi having the delta as well as a great extent of alluvial formation at their meeting points with the sea.
West coast is also narrow coast land whereas Eastern Ghats are further from the East coast . These Eastern Ghats are also broken and therefore it has larger land for cultivation.

u. The Ganga is navigable from its mouth upto Allahabad.
The Ganga rises from the Gangotri glacier of the Great Himalayas. The Tributaries of the river Ganga join it in its course through northern plains. the main right bank tributary Yamuna joins it at Allahabad. Hence, it is navigable from its mouth right upto Allahabad.

v. The rivers of the Deccan Plateau are non-perennial and non-navigable.
The rivers of the Deccan Plateau are non-perennial and non-navigable because they are fed by only the rainwater and been dried u after the rainy season. Furthermore, those rives flow swiftly through steep slopes, and so they are non-navigable, too.
w. Access through the Western Ghats is difficult.
Access through the Western Ghats is difficult because the hills use to rise steeply from the coastal plain.
x. The Deccan Plateau is highly dissected one.
The Deccan Plateau is dissected by many rivers like Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, etc.. The region is highly eroded with deep ravines scarring the landscape.

y. The Western Ghats are covered by thick evergreen forests while the Eastern Ghats are covered by deciduous type forests.
The Western Ghats, having more altitude than the Eastern Ghats , are standing on the wind ward side to the monsoon, and consequently gets a considerable amount of rainfall, which causes of the thicker evergreen forests. But the eastern sides does not get the great content of rainfall as it is not having the comparable higher altitude to winder the south-west monsoon. Only the retreting north-east monsoon cause a meager quantity of rainfall as it contains the lesser water-vapour than its south-west counterpart. So, the eastern coast is mainly covered with deciduous type of forests. It is well-known that the heavier rainfall will cause move evergreen forests rather than the deciduous type of forests.
z. The Rann of Kutch is not cultivated.
Rann of Kutch is a tidal flat which cannot be cultivated. It is salty and marshy as it was once a shallow part of the sea.
13.
a. The most of the south Indian rivers flow into the Bay of Bengal.
The most of the south Indian rivers flow into the Bay of Bengal because Deccan Plateau slopes from west to east.

b. Luni river in Rajasthan does not meet the sea.
River Luni which rises in the Aravallis near Jaipur, traverses the desert which is a low rainfall
region with high temperatures. Hence, it carries less water and has no tributaries. When it reachers the marshy region of Rann of Kachchh, it cannot cross it to meet the Arabian Sea, but ends its course there itself.

c. The big rivers of Peninsular India flow from west to east.
Peninsular India slopes from west to east as the lava from the fissure-erruptions occurring in the west flowed towards the east. The Western Ghats, the highest mountains in the Peninsula, also lie in its west. All the rivers, therefore, rising from the Western Ghats flow towards the east.



Thursday, March 26, 2020

A02 INTRODUCTION TO TOPOSHEETS -2


2. Toposheets 

 INTRODUCTION TO TOPOSHEETS -2

Hi, I'm Br. Hector. Sorry, I had not updated my geography blog for almost 10 years. Many students had been asking me to update my blog even though I don't teach the subject. Anyway, here I am. Do write your comments. I will be updating only if you find it useful. I hope you have gone through

INTRODUCTION TO TOPOSHEETS-1

I hope you have been able to understand. If not, go through that again and come back to this chapter. Let us continue.

Direction has been defined as an imaginary straight line on the map or the ground showing the angular position of various maps with respect to a common base direction












The line pointing to the north is regarded as the zero direction or base direction line. A map must have the base directions represented on it to enable the user to locate different features with respect to each other. North, south, east and west are the four major directions. These are also called cardinal points. In between cardinal points one may have several intermediate directions.A rough estimation of direction of the true north can be obtained by the Means of an ordinary watch. In the northern hemisphere if the watch is held in the horizontal position and turned until its hour hand points to the sun, the line that bisects the angle made by the hour hand with the line joining 12’O clock through the centre of the watch will point to the south. A similar exercise in the southern hemisphere will indicate the true north. This is also a crude method dependent upon the sun .

Question: What is the compass direction of Antroli (9576) from Sangla?
Check the map below.
See the arrow. Direction of  Santroli from Sangla is between North and East. So answer is North East. 
Remember the word "of" and " from". Don't get mixed up. "From" is the base. You are standing "from Sangla"  and  moving towards to Santroli.




Let's change the question.
Now you are in Santroli. You want to go back to Sangla. What is the direction?
Ofcourse, South West 


DISTANCE - TYPES

Direct Distance
Straight line (As the Crow Flies) distance
Indirect Distance
Along a path
Road
Cart Track
River
Canal

FINDING DIRECT DISTANCE
1.Measure the distance between the centre of the two places in cm
2.Convert distance in km (or meters)
  (Use the scale, i.e.; 2cm = 1 km)
3.  Round off to nearest 0.25 km (250 meters)









Calculation of Area

Area= Length x Breadth
•In topo maps, each grid (square) 2cm X 2cm or 1 km to 1 km as per the scale 2 cm=1 km
•Therefore , area of each square is
4 sq cm (on the map)= 1 sq km (on the ground)
In metres, this can be expressed as
Area of each square (i.e. 4 sq cm) = 1000 X 1000
or 1,000,000 sq m.


To calculate the area by grid square method:

If there are some incomplete squares, area can be calculated as follows:
-Note the number of completed squares
-Squares covered half are taken as ½
-Squares covering less than half area are taken as 1/3
-Squares covering more than half of the area are taken as 2/3
-All these estimated squares are added together and the sum is multiplied by the scale of the area given out above to obtain the desired area.



Let's do it again! 














Representation of Relief on the Map and its Interpretation



•Earth’s surface – uneven – made up of hills, plains, plateaus, lowland which are varying in their elevation or heights from sea level.
•The total terrain is also called physical landscape.
•It can be represented on the maps through different methods, such as spot heights, contouring, etc.
•Surveying is considered a part of science of map making.
•Topographical maps are large-scale maps, they show a great deal of details about the relief.
•In Topographical survey, actual survey is carried out and different methods are used to represent relief on the map as follows.
i)  Hachuring
ii)  Hill shading
iii)  Form lines
iv)  Spot heights
v)   Triangulation points
vi)  Bench marks 
vii) contours
i)Hachuring: are short lines representing directions of a slope.
- For steep slopes , they are drawn closer together than for the gentle slopes.
- on flat grounds they can not be used at all.

DISADVANTAGE: it gives no indication of the actual height and that both high plateau region and low plain are unshaded
The close hachuring of the high mountain regions tends to obscure other details of the map.
II) HILL SHADING: A method of representing relief on a map by depicting the shadows that would be cast by high ground if light were shining from a certain direction.
It can be defined as the addition of shadows to give the optical illusion of a third dimension, making hills stand out in relief. The shadows can be regarded as those which would be cast on an imaginary relief model of the ground when illuminated by parallel rays of light from a selected direction or directions.
In this map, it is assumed to be from north west at an angle of 45 degree with the horizon.
This method too gives a general idea of relief of the country by it does not give the actual height and that it is difficult to know whether a piece of land is sloping uphill or downhill.

WHAT ARE RELIEF FEATURES?
Major
Mountains
Hills
Ridges
Rivers
Plains
Minor
Broken Ground
Sand Dunes
Rock Outcrops





Man-made and Natural Features


Toposheets shows various details of an area- natural and man made features by means of conventional signs(legends), contours and pictorial diagrams in conventional colours.



Natural features – rivers, streams, sand features, trees, broken grounds, natural ponds, unlined wells, jungles, depresions (Dep), islands (in the exposed river beds), physical features like hills, waterfalls, spurs, river valleys and cliffs, shown by contours and their heights.



MAN made features – surveyed trees, queries, permanent huts, causeways, mines, metalled and unmetalled roads, pack tracts, cart tracts, artificial lakes with embankments, boundaries (national and international), post offices, police chowkies and inspection bungalows.

THE DRAINAGE





 The term drainage basin describes an area drained collectively by the network of a river along with its tributaries and sub-tributaries of various dimensions.
An area drained by a single river is called its Catchment Area. 
A drainage system as seen in the topographical sheets usually develops a pattern which is related to the general structure of its basin.
The entire river system including
Tributaries
Main river
Distributaries
Has a specific spatial arrangement
What is drainage pattern?
The pattern that emerges due to the spatial arrangement of different components of the river system
Tributaries
Main river
- Distributaries







In ICSE, you need to concentrate on 4 drainage patterns.


3 distinct patterns can be recognized

1)Dendritic:












Dendritic drainage patterns are most common. They develop on a land surface where the underlying rock is of uniform resistance to erosion.
•Dendritic drainage systems are the most common form of drainage system. The term dendritic comes from the Greek word "dendron", meaning tree, due to the resemblance of the system to a tree.
•In a dendritic system there is one main river (like the trunk of a tree), which was joined and formed by many smaller tributary rivers. They develop where the river channel follows the slope of the terrain.
•Dendritic systems form in V-shaped valleys; as a result, the rock types must be impervious and non-porous








2. TRELLIS

Rectangular drainage patterns develop where linear zones of weakness, such as joints or faults cause the streams to cut down along the weak areas in the rock.

Trellis systems form in areas of alternating geology, particularly chalk and clay. The main river (the consequent) flows straight down hill.
Subsequent streams develop perpendicular to the consequent along softer rock and erode it away, forming vales.•The consequent river then cuts through the escarpments of harder rock.•Obsequent streams flow down the dip slope of the escarpments to join the subsequent streams.


3. RADIAL


•Radial drainage patterns develop surrounding areas of high topography where elevation drops from a central high area to surrounding low areas.





DIRECTIONS
•Directions- important tool while reading topo map.
•Directions are important for physical as well as urban features.
•Physical features- directions of rivers, streams,
•Urban cities from one another

DIRECTION-TO RIVER AND RIVER BANKS

•Need to know which direction river flows.
•REMEMBER THESE STEPS:
1.First look at the spot heights to determine the slope of the land
2.To know which side/bank of the river a place is situated, one has to locate the source of the river. Having located the direction of the river, imagine yourself standing at the source of the river facing the main river facing the main river. Now to your right is right bank and to your left is the left bank.


SIGNIFICANCE OF COLOURS IN TOPOSHEETS

Topo maps are not in black and white.
Various colours are used to show certain features. Each colour used on a map has significance.
1. BLACK – All names, river banks, broken ground, dry streams, surveyed trees, heights and their numbering, railway lines, telephone and telegraph lines, lines of latitude and longitude.
2. BLUE – Water features or water bodies that contain water.
3. GREEN – All wooded and forested areas, orchards, scattered trees and scrubs.
Note:- Prominent surveyed trees are shown in black. Surveyed trees have numbers on their trunks. They serve as landmarks and are not allowed to be cut.
4. YELLOW – All cultivated areas are shown with a yellow wash.
5. WHITE PATCHES – Uncultivable land
6. BROWN – Contour lines, their numbering, form lines, and sand features such as sand hills and dunes.

7. RED Grid lines (eastings and northhings) and their numbering, roads, cart tracks, settlements, huts and buildings.






































LAND USE


It includes the use of land under different categories  like : ° Natural vegetation and forest (which part of the area is forested, whether it is dense forest or thin, and the categories of forest found there like Reserved, Protected, Classified / Unclassified).

° Agricultural, orchard, wasteland, industrial, etc. ° Facilities and Services such as schools, colleges, hospitals, parks, airports, electric substations, etc.



In topo map location of vegetation is closely related to relief.

•In the highlands, vegetation is shown –green colour along with contours in brown showing elevation.

•To show density of wooded area, different terms used:

•Dense forest, open-mixed forest, open jungle, fairly-mixed jungle, dense-mixed jungle, mixed jungle, Reserved Forest (RF), Protected Forest (PF), fairly mixed jungle with bamboo, dense mixed jungle with bamboo.

•The exterior boundaries of areas of Reserved or Protected forest are shown by green ribands .






THE PLAINS:-

Plains-mainly agriculture- cultivable land is shown in yellow colour

•White patch in plain shows bad land or rocky, uncultivable land.

•In such land, following features are found

Open scrub – scrub land where mostly sheep and goat rearing is practiced

•Stony waste – the land which is mostly covered with rock boulders and stones and cultivation is not possible.

SHEET ROCKS:-

•Sheet rocks – a region mostly covered with a sheet of rock.

•Rock outcrop – In such region subsoil is exposed and cultivation is not possible.

•Broken ground – developed because of absence of natural vegetation on both the banks of the river. It is common in the desert area and in the areas of gully erosion.This is formed due to floods which occur during rainy season. Because of floods, the top soil is washed away developing into bad land which has loose soil and is uncultivable.

LOW LANDS:-

Plains which are situated at lower level are mostly characterized by a meandering river.

•A disappearing stream shows a desert or limestone area

•Presence of canal, wells, tube wells and tanks indicate use of land for agriculture by means of irrigation

•A meandering river shows a flat area

•Perennial lined wells indicate a higher water table and are shown by blue dots.

•Presence of dry streams, dry ponds, exposed river beds and broken land shown in black indicate an area with scanty rainfall or seasonal rainfall or a desert region.

•Settlements are generally found on either side of river-wherever irrigation by canals or perennial lined wells is available

SETTLEMENTS


 Settlements are studied under the following heads : 
° Rural Settlements: The types and patterns of rural settlements, i.e. compact, semi-compact, dispersed, linear, etc. 
° Urban Settlements: Type of urban settlements  and their functions, i.e. capital cities, administrative towns, religious towns, port towns, hill stations, etc

1. On a Topo map, all settlements are shown by symbols in RED colour.
2. The size of the symbol and size and style of letters used give an idea of the size of the settlement.
3. In the case of large cities, major roads are marked and named.
4. Deserted village cities, temporarily occupied huts are also shown.
5. Places of worship, forts, water towers, burial grounds, police stations, post office, dak bungalow, circuit houses, etc. are indicated by suitable symbols.
NOTE – Site is the land on which the settlement (village or town) is built.
Dense settlements : Fertile plains and wide river valleys.
· Sparse Settlements : forests, deserts, mountain slopes, plateaus and hill tops with poor vegetation·
Absence of Settlements: Swamps, marsh land, sandy deserts, thick impenetrable forests, flood-prone areas, steep mountain slopes.




OCCUPATION AND MAP FEATURES

The general occupation of the people of the area may be identified with the help of land use and the type of settlement. For example, in rural areas the main occupation of majority of the people is agriculture; in tribal regions, lumbering and primitive agriculture dominates and in coastal areas, fishing is practised. Similarly, in cities and towns, services and business appear to be the major occupations of the people.

AGRICULTURE – Level land with yellow wash; many wells
LUMBERING: Forests
CATTLE REARING – Pastures, meadows, grasslands, presence of road in highland region (sheep)
FISHING – Plenty of rivers
MINING –Stony wastes, quaries, limestone beds
TRADE – Dense settlements near road
INDUSTRY – Large settlements near roads and railways, presence of raw materials, (like making, cement industry near limestone beds)
TOURISM – hotels and inns


For ICSE students, you are to study the occupations in 45D/7 and 45D/10. Please study the symbols to interpret the occupation of the people.

Occupations have to be inferred from toposheets as there are no symbols to show the occupations of people.
•Sometimes, certain names like ‘farms’, ‘orchards’ provide some evidence of these occupations.

•The following list gives you some information about occupation of the people from a topo-sheet.


 The general occupation of the people of the area may be identified with the help of land use and the type of settlement. For example, in rural areas the main occupation of majority of the people is agriculture; in tribal regions, lumbering and primitive agriculture dominates and in coastal areas, fishing is practised. Similarly, in cities and towns, services and business appear to be the major occupations of the people.


OCCUPATIONS EVIDENCES
Forestry- lumbering, Forest or Green Patch
Agriculture- Yellow Patch or orchards with many wells
Cattle-grazing or sheep rearing, Meadows or Scrub, grasslands, meadows, pastures
Quarrying and mining -Mines and Quarries, lime stone beds
Trade Settlement near main roads, ports, rivers, etc – dense 
settlement
Entertainment & Cultural development -Golf Courses, Parks, Rifle Ranges, etc
Industry -Factory, mines, large settlements near roads and
railways, presence of raw materials (lime making and
cement industry near limestone beds)
Fishery- Coast,lakes, rivers, etc
Tourism- Hotels and Inns
•Thus, the occupation of the people of an area can be inferred from the following :
•Topography of land
•Size of settlement
•Presence of quarry and mines
•Communication network indicating trade









CLIMATE AND VEGITATION














MEANS OF IRRIGATION

 Irrigation largely depends on relief and land use pattern of area (blue)
•Hilly region- no cultivation is possible, hence there is no need for irrigation
•On the flat lands which are coloured yellow, one can see blue, round spots which represent perennial lined wells. – therefore one can say that the main source of irrigation in such areas are wells and the occupation of people is farming.
•Other means of irrigation are canals, ponds, artifical lakes with embankments and river in case it is perennial.
•Presence of dry streams and dry ponds with uncultivable lands shown in white indicates that the rainfall in the area is scanty.
•Presence of artificial man-made lake with embankment shows that water is being stored in off season and is used for irrigation through canals.




Means of Transport in Relation to Relief




•Transport always depend on the type of relief and drainage
Eg. Very high altitudes, mountaineous areas-only roads 
and no railway tracks- difficult to build at such heights
•On the map-roads are shown by means of symbols of cart tracks, pack tracts, metalled roads, unmetalled roads, footpaths with a bridge.

•Main towns- well connected by metalled roads show economic devp of the area-is the indication of trade being carried on.

•Hence town shows well developed.

•Causeways are raised platforms across a dry stream.

•During dry season when the stream dries up, people make a habit of crossing it.

•Thus, a footway is formed.

•Presence of many causeways shows that the area gets seasonal or scanty rainfall.




























MODES OF TRANSPORT





HEIGHTS











APPROXIMATE OR RELATIVE HEIGHT-is height is not taken from sea level but with respect to the surrounding area. It may be the height of a dam, bridge, sand dune or it can be the depth of a well, tank, hill or river canal, for example , 3r, 5r, 8r, etc.
EXAMPLE: 3r - the relative depth of perennial lined well in 3 metres
●5r – the relative height of dry tank is 5 metres
NOTE: CHECK THE SYMBOL – if it is tank, dam, bridge, embankment, etc then write the answer this way - the relative height of .............................. is ................meters.


Let's do the conventional signs again












HOME WORK 


Identify the symbol!