NCERT Class 8 Social Science Chapter 1 Natural Resources and Their Use

 SGHT 

NCERT Class 8 Social Science 

Unit -1  Chapter 1. Natural Resources and Their Use

Question 1.    How do we categorise natural resources?

Answer:        Natural resources are elements found in the environment that humans use for various purposes. They can be categorised based on their use and renewability. By use, natural resources are divided into essential resources like air, water, and soil, which are crucial for life; material resources like wood, coal, and metals, used to create products; and energy resources like solar, wind, and fossil fuels, which are used for generating electricity and powering industries. By renewability, they are classified as renewable resources, such as timber, water, and solar energy, which can regenerate over time and non-renewable resources, like coal, petroleum, and minerals, which are limited and take millions of years to form, making them hard to replace, once used.

Question 2.    What is the connection between the distribution of natural resources and                                    different aspects of life?
Answer:       The distribution of natural resources impacts various aspects of life, including human settlements, trade, and international relations. Areas rich in resources tend to attract industries, which fosters economic growth and creates job opportunities. However, unequal distribution can lead to conflicts over access to resources, such as water or minerals, both within countries and between nations. It also shapes the development of infrastructure and can create disparities in quality of life, with some regions benefiting more from their resources than others.

Question 3.    What are the implications of unsustainable use/over exploitation of natural resources?
Answer:            When natural resources are used unsustainably or over-exploited, it can lead to severe long-term consequences. Resources may become depleted, and ecosystems suffer damage, affecting biodiversity and natural habitats. The excessive use of renewable resources, like water or soil, can prevent them from regenerating, leading to shortages. Similarly, overuse of non-renewable resources, may exhaust them, leaving fewer options for future generations. This disruption not only harms the environment but can also negatively impact the livelihoods of communities dependent on these resources. Over-exploitation often contributes to broader issues, such as climate change and pollution, and can provoke conflicts over the remaining resources.

Question 1.    Identify human actions in your surroundings that result in Nature losing her ability to restore and regenerate. What types of interventions can be undertaken to restore Nature’s cycle? (Page 7)
Answer:        Human activities such as cutting down trees faster than they can grow back, polluting rivers with industrial and domestic waste, over-extracting groundwater, and excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides disturb Nature’s ability to restore and regenerate itself.

These actions disrupt natural cycles, leading to soil degradation, water contamination, and loss of biodiversity. To help restore Nature’s balance, we can take steps like planting native trees to rebuild forests, practising sustainable water management such as rainwater harvesting, reducing pollution by properly treating waste before disposal, and using organic farming methods that avoid harmful chemicals. These measures support natural restoration and regeneration, allowing ecosystems and resources to recover over time.

Question 2.    Take up a small research study to assess the types of renewable resources in your region; you may discuss with your teacher the geographical area of your study and sources to access information that you may need. What has been the change in their status over time? Make a small report that identifies the reasons for the change and what may be done. (Page 8)
Answer:        In my region, Delhi, the primary renewable resources are solar energy, wind energy, and biomass. Solar energy has grown with government incentives, but adoption is limited by high costs and space constraints. Wind energy is underdeveloped due to the city’s flat terrain, and biomass remains untapped due to inefficient waste management. Delhi is working to increase its renewable energy capacity through initiatives like rooftop solar panels and projects such as a 1,000 MW solar plant and a 111 MW wind power plant.

The status of these resources has changed due to urbanisation and rising energy demand. While solar energy is growing, pollution and overcrowding reduce its efficiency. Wind energy has not progressed, and biomass potential remains unused. To improve, Delhi needs stronger policies for solar adoption, better waste-to-energy systems, and urban planning focused on renewable energy.

Question 3.    What are the non-renetvable resources that you use daily, directly or indirectly? What are the possible renewable substitutes? What are some of the steps we can take to transition to renewables? (Page 8)
Answer:        Non-renewable resources that we use daily, either directly or indirectly, include coal, petroleum, natural gas, and metals like iron and copper. These are used for electricity, transportation, heating, and manufacturing many products. Possible renewable substitutes include solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, biofuels, and sustainably managed timber. To transition to renewable resources, we need to increase the use of clean energy sources, improve energy efficiency, develop better energy storage, promote electric vehicles and public transport, and protect natural ecosystems. Additionally, raising awareness and supporting government policies that encourage sustainable use of resources are vital to ensure this transition is successful.

Question 4.    Observe the map in Figure Notice the uneven distribution of important minerals. What types of resources are available in your region? How are they distributed? (Page 9)

Answer:        The map shows that minerals are unevenly distributed across India. Coal is mainly found in eastern and central regions like Jharia, Raniganj, and Korba, as well as in the south at Neyveli and Singareni. Iron ore is abundant in central, eastern, and southern parts, including Bailadila and Mayurbhanj. Bauxite deposits are mostly in central and eastern India, such as Katni and Koraput in southern Odisha. Petroleum and natural gas fields are located along the western coast near Mumbai High and Ankleshwar, and in the northeast at Digboi. This uneven distribution reflects India’s varied geology, with certain regions rich in specific minerals.

In my region, Jharkhand, several important minerals are found. The state is especially rich in coal, with major coalfields located in Jharia, Bokaro, and Dhanbad. Iron ore is another key resource, mainly found in the Singhbhum district. Jharkhand also has deposits of bauxite, copper, mica, and uranium, spread across different parts of the state. These minerals are mostly located in the eastern and central parts of Jharkhand, making it one of India’s most resource-rich areas. The distribution of these resources supports many industries and plays a vital role in the state’s economy

Question 5.    Select any two natural resources. Gather information about their availability across different parts of India. Mark them on a map. What do you observe about their distribution? What are the types of economic actimties connected with them? (Page 10)

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Answer:        Coal and iron ore are two important natural resources found in different parts of India. Coal is mainly found in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal, while iron ore is mostly found in Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, and Goa. Their distribution is uneven, with large deposits located in the eastern and southern regions. This has led to the growth of mining and related industries in these areas. Coal is used mainly for electricity generation and in industries, while iron ore is used to make steel, supporting construction and manufacturing activities.

Question 6.    Discuss the implications of extracting the natural resources in those parts for current and future generations. Suggest ways in which we can use Nature’s gifts in responsible ways. (Page 10)

Answer:        The extraction of natural resources brings economic benefits but often leads to the displacement of communities, loss of cultural heritage, and environmental damage. Over time, it depletes resources, harms ecosystems, and creates sustainability challenges for future generations.

To use Nature’s gifts responsibly, it is essential to adopt sustainable extraction methods, prioritise renewable energy, and implement effective resource management. Supporting policies that promote conservation and respect local communities’ rights is crucial. Encouraging a circular economy, where resources are reused and recycled, helps reduce waste and ensures long-term sustainability. Educating future generations on the importance of preserving natural resources is key to safeguarding the Earth for the future.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1. Resources that we find in nature and are used without much modification are called ___________
(a) Human Resource
(b) Natural Resource
(c) Renewable Resource
(d) Human Made Resource

Ans: (b) Natural Resource 
Natural resources are those that we find in nature and can be used without much modification, such as air, water, minerals, and forests.

Q2. How are natural resources primarily categorized?
(a) By color
(b) By use and renewability
(c) By size
(d) By location

Ans: (b) By use and renewability

Natural resources are classified by how they’re used and whether they can be renewed — renewable (like sunlight) or non-renewable (like coal).

Q3. Which of the following is an example of a renewable resource?
(a) Coal
(b) Petroleum
(c) Solar energy
(d) Natural gas

Ans: (c) Solar energy 
Solar energy is an example of a renewable resource because it is continuously replenished by the sun and will not be depleted with use.

Q4. What factor can change substances into resources?
(a) Air
(b) Time and technology
(c) Water
(d) Soil

Ans: (b) Time and technology 
Time and technology are factors that can change substances into resources. Over time, advancements in technology can make previously unusable substances valuable resources.

Q5. What is the main focus of sustainable development?
(a) Exploiting resources for short-term gain
(b) Using resources carelessly
(c) Balancing present needs with future conservation
(d) Wasting resources

Ans: (c) Balancing present needs with future conservation 
The main focus of sustainable development is to balance present human needs with the conservation of resources for future generations, ensuring that resources are used responsibly and not depleted.

Q6. Which of the following is a non-renewable resource?
(a) Solar energy 
(b) Timber
(c) Coal
(d) Wind

Ans: (c) Coal
Non-renewable resources are those that exist in limited amounts and take millions of years to form, so they cannot be replenished quickly. Coal is a non-renewable resource used for energy, as its formation takes a very long time, and once used, it is gone.

Q7. What is the "natural resource curse"?

(a) When resources are evenly distributed across a region
(b) When resource-rich regions experience slower economic growth
(c) When renewable resources are overexploited
(d) When non-renewable resources are used sustainably

Ans: (b) When resource-rich regions experience slower economic growth
The natural resource curse refers to the paradox where countries rich in natural resources often grow more slowly due to poor governance or overreliance on resource income.

Q8. Which of the following is an example of an ecosystem service provided by forests?

(a) Producing cement
(b) Filtering water and preventing soil erosion
(c) Extracting petroleum
(d) Mining coal

Ans: (b) Filtering water and preventing soil erosion
Forests help clean water, prevent soil erosion, and support biodiversity—key ecosystem services that sustain the environment.

Q9. What is a key focus of Vrikshayurveda in promoting sustainable agriculture?
(a) Using chemical fertilizers
(b) Crop rotation and natural pest control
(c) Overexploitation of groundwater
(d) Mining non-renewable resources

Ans: (b) Crop rotation and natural pest control
Vrikshayurveda emphasizes sustainable farming practices like crop rotation and using natural methods to control pests instead of chemicals.

Ans:

Q1. Natural resources include only those substances that have economic value.
Ans: False

Natural resources include substances found in nature, whether or not they have economic value. For example, air and water are natural resources that are essential for life but may not have direct economic value.

Q2. Renewable resources can never be depleted or exhausted.
Ans: False

While renewable resources can be replenished over time, they can still be depleted or exhausted if used unsustainably. For example, forests can be depleted if trees are cut down faster than they can regrow.

Q3. Overexploitation of renewable resources can disrupt nature’s restoration and regeneration cycles.
Ans: True

Using renewable resources faster than they can naturally replenish can harm ecosystems and reduce their long-term availability.

Q4. Resource conservation involves using resources carelessly without thinking about the future.
Ans: False

Resource conservation involves using resources carefully and responsibly, considering the needs of both the present and future generations. It aims to avoid wasteful consumption and ensure the long-term sustainability of resources.

Q5. Sustainable development aims to balance the use of resources for current needs and conserve them for the future.
Ans: True

Sustainable development seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves balancing economic, social, and environmental factors to ensure that resources are used efficiently and equitably.

Q6. The uneven distribution of natural resources can lead to conflicts between states or countries.
Ans: True

Uneven resource distribution shapes settlements, trade, and conflicts, citing examples like the Kaveri River water-sharing disputes.

Q7. Traditional practices, such as regulating fishing during spawning seasons, help maintain ecosystem balance.
Ans: True

Traditional practices like regulating fishing to maintain fish populations, which supports ecosystem balance.

Q8. Cement production is one of the least polluting industries.
Ans: False

Cement production is highly polluting, releasing fine dust that harms health and the environment.

Q1. All ___________ have some utility and value.
Ans: All resources have some utility and value.

Q2. _______ is an example of a resource essential for life. 
Ans: Water is an example of a resource essential for life. 

Q3. Human beings use ________ and _________ to develop resources.
Ans: Human beings use technology and knowledge to develop resources.

Q4. _________ is an example of a renewable resource that can be depleted if overused.
Ans: Forest is an example of a renewable resource that can be depleted if overused.

Q5. _______or _______ makes an object or substance a resource.
Ans: Utility or value makes an object or substance a resource.

Q6. _____________ is an example of a non-renewable resource used for energy
Ans: Petroleum is an example of a non-renewable resource used for energy

Q7. The _______ River water-sharing dispute among Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry is an example of tensions caused by uneven resource distribution.
Ans: The Kaveri River water-sharing dispute among Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry is an example of tensions caused by uneven resource distribution.

Q8. _______ is a traditional Indian science that promotes sustainable agriculture through practices like crop rotation and natural pest control.
Ans: Vrikshayurveda is a traditional Indian science that promotes sustainable agriculture through practices like crop rotation and natural pest control.

Q9. The _______ Solar Park in Rajasthan is an example of India’s efforts to transition to renewable energy sources.
Ans: Bhadla Solar Park as a symbol of India’s renewable energy ambitions.

Q1. What are non-renewable resources?
Ans: Non-renewable resources are those which have a limited stock.

Q2. How are natural resources classified by their use?
Ans: Natural resources are classified by their use into those essential for life (e.g., air, water), for materials (e.g., wood, marble), and for energy (e.g., coal, solar energy).

Q3. Why must renewable resources be used sustainably?
Ans: Renewable resources must be used sustainably to allow nature’s restoration and regeneration cycles to replenish them, preventing depletion.

Q4. How does the uneven distribution of natural resources affect human life?
Ans: Uneven distribution shapes settlements, trade, and conflicts, as people settle near resources for jobs, trade them, or compete for control.

Q5. What is resource conservation?
Ans: Using resources carefully and giving them time to get renewed is called resource conservation.

Q6. Name some natural resources.
Ans: The air we breathe, the water in our rivers and lakes, the soils, minerals are all natural resources.

Q7. What is sustainable development?
Ans: Balancing the need to use resources and also conserve them for the future is called sustainable development.

Q8. What is the natural resource curse?
Ans: The natural resource curse is when regions rich in natural resources experience slower economic growth due to poor management or over-reliance on resources.

Q9. What is an ecosystem service? Give one example.
Ans: An ecosystem service is a benefit humans receive from natural processes. Example: Forests filter water to provide clean drinking water.

Q10. How does overexploitation of groundwater in Punjab affect sustainability?
Ans: Overexploitation of groundwater in Punjab has depleted water tables, making water inaccessible at shallow depths and causing health hazards due to chemical contamination.

Q11. What role does the International Solar Alliance play in promoting renewable energy?
Ans: The International Solar Alliance, launched by India and France, promotes solar energy in sunshine-rich countries by funding projects and sharing technical expertise.

Q12. Why is responsible stewardship of natural resources important?
Ans: Responsible stewardship ensures the restoration and regeneration of renewable resources and the judicious use of non-renewable ones, preventing pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change.

Q13. Name a traditional practice that helps keep soil healthy.
Ans: Using cow dung as a natural fertilizer helps maintain soil health.

Q14. What makes a substance a resource?
Ans: Utility or usability is what makes an object or substance a resource.

Q15. What are renewable resources?
Ans: Renewable resources are those which get renewed or replenished quickly.

Q16. What is Vrikshayurveda, and how does it promote sustainable resource use?
Ans: Vrikshayurveda is an ancient Indian science of plant care that promotes sustainable agriculture through practices like crop rotation, natural pest control, and soil management.

Q17. What is technology?
Ans: Technology is the application of latest knowledge and skill in doing or making things.

Q18. What are natural resources?
Ans: Resources that are drawn from nature and used without much modification are called natural resources.

Q1. How does the uneven distribution of natural resources affect where people live and the economic activities they pursue? Give an example.
Ans: Uneven distribution of natural resources influences human settlements and the types of economic activities in an area. Regions with abundant minerals, water, or fertile soil attract industries, creating jobs and encouraging towns and cities to develop. However, resource-rich areas may also face challenges, such as the displacement of local communities or harm to sacred and environmentally sensitive sites.

Example: Industries near mineral resources provide employment and boost the local economy, but they can also lead to conflicts with nearby communities over land and environmental impacts.

Q2. What are the consequences of overusing renewable resources? Explain with an example from Punjab.
Ans: Overexploiting renewable resources disrupts nature’s restoration and regeneration cycles, leading to shortages and environmental damage. In Punjab, excessive groundwater extraction for high-yielding crops during the Green Revolution depleted water tables, making water inaccessible at depths up to 30 meters. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides have also contaminated groundwater, posing health risks. This shows that unsustainable use can compromise long-term food and water security.

Q3. How does Sikkim’s adoption of organic farming show sustainable use of resources?
Ans: Sikkim’s move to 100% organic farming is an excellent example of sustainable resource use. Farmers replaced chemical fertilizers and pesticides with compost, natural pest repellents, and practiced multi-cropping to maintain soil fertility. This approach restored soil health, increased biodiversity, and improved farmers’ incomes by around 20%. Sikkim’s model demonstrates that using resources responsibly can simultaneously protect the environment and support economic growth.