CBSE Class 10 Geography Important Questions - Chapter 3 Water Resources

1. From your everyday experiences, write a short proposal on how you can conserve water.

Ans: To conserve water in our daily lives, we should adopt simple practices that can make a big difference. Small changes in how we use water can help reduce waste and ensure we use this important resource wisely.

• Fix Leaks: Regularly check and repair any leaks in faucets, toilets, and pipes.

• Shorten Showers: Take shorter showers and use a water-saving showerhead.

• Turn Off Taps: Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, washing your hands, or doing dishes.

• Use Water-Efficient Appliances: Choose dishwashers and washing machines that use less water.

• Collect Rainwater: Use rain barrels to collect rainwater for watering plants and gardens.

By making these changes, we can help save water and use it more efficiently.

2. What are dams and how do they help us in conserving and managing water?

Ans: Dams are large structures built across rivers or streams to store water and control its flow. They help in managing water resources by creating reservoirs, which can be used for various purposes such as drinking water, irrigation, and hydroelectric power.

Here’s how dams help in conserving and managing water:

• Water Storage: Dams create reservoirs that store excess water during rainy seasons, which can be used during dry periods.

• Flood Control: By regulating the flow of water, dams help reduce the risk of floods downstream.

• Irrigation: Stored water can be released to irrigate agricultural land, ensuring a steady supply of water for crops.

• Hydroelectric Power: Dams generate electricity by harnessing the energy of flowing water, contributing to renewable energy sources.

3. Explain about Narmada Bachao Andolan or Save Narmada Movement.

Ans: The Narmada Bachao Andolan (Save Narmada Movement) is a social and environmental campaign that began in the 1980s in India. It aims to prevent the construction of large dams on the Narmada River, which activists argue displace local communities and harm the environment.

Key points:

• Purpose: The movement seeks to protect the rights of people affected by the Narmada Valley Development Project, which includes the Sardar Patel Dam.

• Key Figures: Led by Medha Patkar and supported by various social and environmental groups.

• Impact: The campaign has raised awareness about the negative effects of large dams, including displacement of indigenous people and environmental degradation.

• Outcome: It has led to revisions in policies regarding displacement and environmental management in India.

4. Basic safety precautions to be taken during floods.

Ans: During floods, staying safe is very important. First, don’t walk or drive through flooded areas, as the water can be deeper and stronger than it looks. Always keep up with weather updates and emergency alerts.

Here are some basic safety tips:

• Move to higher ground if you are in a flood area.

• Stay away from electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

• Do not drink flood water as it may be dirty.

• Avoid contact with floodwater to stay clear of dangerous debris.

• Follow evacuation orders and return home only when it is safe.

5. Based on the information given below, classify each of the situations as ‘suffering from water scarcity’ or ‘not suffering from water scarcity’.

(a) Region with high annual rainfall.

(b) Region having high annual rainfall and large population.

(c) Region having high annual rainfall but water is highly polluted.

(d) Region having low rainfall and low population

Ans: Water scarcity isn’t just about how much it rains; it also depends on factors like pollution and population.

1. A region with high annual rainfall usually does not suffer from water scarcity because it gets plenty of water.

2. But if a region has high rainfall and a large population, it can suffer from water scarcity. The large population might use up more water than what is available, causing a shortage.

3. If a region has high rainfall but the water is polluted, it suffers from water scarcity. Even though there is a lot of rain, the water is not clean and usable.

4. A region with low rainfall and a low population typically does not suffer from water scarcity. The small population means the limited water supply is usually enough.

6. What are the main causes of water scarcity?

Ans: Water scarcity is caused by several factors. Even though water is renewable, it isn’t always available where needed due to overuse and pollution.

The main causes of water scarcity are:

• Overuse: Taking more water than can be naturally replaced for farming, industry, and homes.

• Pollution: Contamination from chemicals and waste makes water unsafe to use.

• Climate Change: Weather changes can lead to droughts and less water.

• Population Growth: More people need more water, which puts a strain on supplies.

• Poor Management: Inefficient use and management of water resources can worsen the problem.

7. Discuss how rainwater harvesting in semi-arid regions of Rajasthan is carried out.

Ans: Rainwater harvesting in semi-arid regions of Rajasthan is crucial for managing water scarcity. In these areas, where rainfall is limited and irregular, people use various techniques to capture and store rainwater for later use.

• Traditional Methods: Farmers build small ponds called "talabs" or "kunds" to collect rainwater.

• Roof Harvesting: Rainwater is collected from rooftops and directed into storage tanks or underground pits.

• Check Dams: Small barriers are constructed across streams to slow down and capture rainwater.

• Jal Mandir: Special structures are built to collect and store water from springs and other sources.

• Water Conservation Practices: Techniques such as spreading sand and gravel to slow water flow and improve infiltration are used to maximise water storage.

• These methods help in efficiently using the limited rainfall and improving water availability.

8. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of multi-purpose river projects.

Ans: Multi-purpose river projects are designed to serve various functions such as irrigation, hydroelectric power, and flood control. These projects can provide numerous benefits but also have their drawbacks.

Advantages:

• Irrigation: They provide water for agriculture, increasing crop yields and supporting farmers.

• Hydroelectric Power: They generate electricity, which helps meet the energy needs of growing populations.

• Flood Control: They reduce the risk of floods by controlling river flow and storing excess water.

• Water Supply: They offer a reliable source of drinking water for communities.

Disadvantages:

• Environmental Impact: These projects can harm local ecosystems and wildlife.

• Displacement: They may force people to leave their homes and relocate.

• Cost: They require significant investment and maintenance costs.

• Siltation: They can become less effective over time due to silt buildup.

9. Explain about a multi-purpose river valley project. Give its objectives.

Ans: The multi-purpose river valley project is a major initiative aimed at harnessing the potential of river valleys for various uses. By building dams and creating reservoirs, these projects help in managing water resources more effectively and support multiple needs.

Objectives:

• Irrigation: Provide water for farming to increase agricultural productivity.

• Hydroelectric Power: Generate electricity from water to meet energy needs.

• Flood Control: Manage river flow to prevent floods and protect communities.

• Drinking Water Supply: Ensure a steady supply of clean water for people.

• Recreation: Create lakes and recreational areas for public enjoyment.

• Navigation: Improve waterways for easier transportation and trade.

These projects aim to address multiple challenges and contribute to overall development.

10. ‘‘Urbanisation has added to water scarcity.’’ Support the statement with arguments.

Ans: Urbanisation has made water scarcity worse. As cities grow, they need more water for people, businesses, and infrastructure. This increased demand can outstrip the available water supply, causing shortages.

• More Demand: Cities use more water for drinking, cleaning, and industry, which puts stress on local water sources.

• Pollution: Urban areas produce a lot of waste that can pollute water sources. Chemicals and sewage can make rivers and lakes unsafe to use.

• Land Use: Building cities often means covering natural land with concrete, which prevents water from soaking into the ground. This reduces the amount of water that can replenish underground sources.

• Overuse: To meet city needs, we often take water from sources faster than they can refill, leading to lower water levels.

11. ‘‘Water harvesting system is an effective measure to reduce the problem of water scarcity.’’ Justify the statement.

Ans: Water harvesting helps solve the problem of water scarcity by collecting and storing rainwater. This method ensures a steady water supply, especially in areas where freshwater is hard to find. It also helps refill groundwater supplies, making water available during dry times.

Benefits of Water harvesting:

• Increases water supply: Collecting rainwater adds to the amount of water available.

• Reduces dependence: Less need for distant or costly water sources.

• Replenishes groundwater: Stored rainwater helps refill underground water sources.

• Lowers flood risk: Capturing rainwater reduces surface runoff, which can cause flooding.

• Saves money: Cuts costs for getting and treating water.

12. Give the sources of freshwater in India.

Ans: In India, freshwater comes from different sources that are very important for daily life. The main sources are rivers, lakes, and groundwater.

• Rivers: Major rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra provide a lot of freshwater.

• Lakes: Lakes such as Dal Lake and Vembanad help store and supply water.

• Groundwater: Water from wells and underground sources is used for drinking and farming.

• Rainwater: Rain during the monsoon season helps refill rivers and lakes.

• Snow and Glaciers: Snow from the Himalayas melts and feeds rivers, especially in dry times.

13. Explain the need for rainwater harvesting in India. How is it useful? Explain the mechanism with a diagram.

Ans: Rainwater harvesting is crucial in India due to the country's uneven rainfall and frequent water shortages. Collecting and storing rainwater helps ensure a reliable water supply for various needs.

Here’s how it works:

• Collection: Rainwater is captured from roofs or open areas through pipes and channels.

• Conveyance: The water is directed through pipes to a storage tank or pit.

• Storage: The collected water is stored in tanks or underground reservoirs.

• Filtration: Before use, the water is filtered to remove impurities.

• Usage: The filtered rainwater is used for drinking, irrigation, and other purposes.

This system helps reduce dependence on groundwater and provides a sustainable water source, especially in dry regions.

14. Is it possible that an area or region may have ample water resources but is still facing water scarcity?

Ans: Yes, it is possible for a region to have plenty of water resources and still face water scarcity. This can happen if the water is not easily accessible or polluted. For example, a region might have large rivers or lakes, but if the infrastructure to deliver water to people is poor, or if the water quality could be better, people may need more clean water.

Here are some reasons why this can occur:

• Pollution: Contaminated water is not safe to use.

• Overuse: Excessive use of water can deplete resources.

• Climate Change: Changes in weather patterns can affect water availability.

• Poor Infrastructure: Inadequate systems can limit access to water.

15. What are the advantages of building dams? Mention 4 points.

Ans: Building dams offers several significant benefits. They help manage water resources and support various activities that benefit communities. Here are four key advantages:

• Water Storage: Dams store water during rainy seasons, which can be used during dry periods. This helps ensure a reliable water supply throughout the year.

• Flood Control: By controlling the flow of water, dams can reduce the risk of flooding in downstream areas, protecting homes and farmland.

• Hydroelectric Power: Dams can generate electricity by using the energy of flowing water, providing a source of clean, renewable energy.

• Irrigation: Stored water can be used for irrigation, helping to support agriculture and increase food production.

These benefits make dams crucial for managing water resources and supporting various needs in different regions.

16. Mention the states, where the practice of ‘rooftop water harvesting’ is largely practised.

(a) Rajasthan

(b) Assam

(c) Madhya Pradesh

(d) Kerala

Ans: Rooftop water harvesting is widely practised in Rajasthan and Assam. In these states, collecting rainwater from rooftops helps manage water scarcity and ensures a steady supply of water.

Other states where rooftop water harvesting is also practised include:

• Madhya Pradesh: Here, it helps in saving water for agricultural and domestic use.

• Kerala: This state uses rooftop water harvesting to address water shortages, especially in rural areas.

17. Mention the disadvantages of building large dams. Mention 4 points.

Ans: Building large dams has several problems. They can force people and animals to move because the water floods a large area. This flooding can destroy farmland and harm the local environment. Also, building and maintaining these dams is very costly.

Disadvantages of Large Dams:

• Displacement: People and wildlife may need to move.

• Environmental Impact: Flooding can harm natural habitats.

• High Costs: It is expensive to build and upkeep.

• Sedimentation: Sediment build-up can reduce the dam's usefulness over time.

18. Analyse the impact of water scarcity.

Ans: Water scarcity leads to serious issues. Without enough clean water, people can get sick from diseases. It also affects farming because there isn’t enough water for crops. Economically, it can hurt businesses and local economies. Additionally, not having enough water can cause conflicts between different groups or countries.

Impact of Water Scarcity:

• Health Issues: Lack of clean water can cause diseases.

• Agricultural Loss: Less water means lower crop production.

• Economic Problems: Water shortages can harm businesses and economies.

• Conflict: Limited water can lead to disputes between people or countries.

19. Jawaharlal Nehru proudly proclaimed dams as the ‘temples of modern India’. Explain.

Ans: Jawaharlal Nehru referred to dams as the ‘temples of modern India’ because he saw them as vital to the country's development and modernization. Dams were not just structures for storing water; they represented the promise of progress and prosperity. Nehru believed that dams would play a crucial role in harnessing water resources, which would enhance agricultural productivity, provide a reliable water supply for drinking and industrial use, and stimulate economic growth. In Nehru's view, these engineering marvels were symbols of India's move towards a modern, self-sufficient nation, transforming both its landscape and its economy.

20. Name two techniques of rooftop water harvesting.

Ans: 

• Rooftop Catchment System: This involves collecting rainwater directly from rooftops using pipes and channels. The rainwater is directed into storage tanks or reservoirs for future use, such as irrigation or drinking water.

• Gutter and Downspout System: Rainwater is collected through gutters installed along the edges of the roof and is channelled through downspouts into storage tanks or barrels. This method helps to efficiently gather and store rainwater for later use.

21. How have intensive industrialisation and urbanisation put great pressure on the existing freshwater resources in India? Explain?

Ans: Intensive industrialisation and urbanisation have put significant pressure on India's freshwater resources. As cities and industries expand, they consume more water for various needs like cooling systems, production, and daily activities. This increased demand often leads to the overuse of rivers, lakes, and groundwater. Additionally, industrial activities can pollute water sources, further reducing the availability of clean water. The growing population in urban areas also leads to more wastewater, which can strain existing water treatment facilities and affect water quality.

22. On which river, the Hirakud dam was constructed?

Ans: 

• The Hirakud Dam is constructed on the Mahanadi River.

• It is situated in the state of Odisha, India.

• The dam is one of the longest earthen dams in the world.

• It was built to control floods, provide irrigation for agriculture, and generate hydroelectric power.

• The project also helps in creating a reservoir that supports fishery and recreation activities.

23. Explain how water becomes a renewable resource.

Ans: Water is considered a renewable resource because it is constantly being replenished through natural processes. When it rains, water falls back to Earth, refilling lakes, rivers, and groundwater supplies.

Here’s how water renews itself:

• Evaporation: Water from oceans, rivers, and lakes turns into vapour and rises into the air.

• Condensation: The water vapour cools down and forms clouds.

• Precipitation: Water falls from the clouds as rain, snow, or hail.

• Runoff and Infiltration: Rainwater flows over the ground and soaks into the soil, replenishing groundwater.

This cycle keeps water moving and available, but human activities and climate change can disrupt it, leading to water scarcity.

24. What are the impacts of over-exploitation of water resources?

Ans: Over-exploitation of water resources happens when we use water faster than it can be replenished. This can lead to several negative effects on the environment and society.

Here are the impacts:

• Depletion of Water Sources: Rivers, lakes, and groundwater levels drop, leading to reduced water availability.

• Loss of Ecosystems: Aquatic plants and animals lose their habitats, disrupting ecosystems.

• Increased Pollution: The concentration of pollutants rises as less water is available to dilute waste.

• Reduced Agricultural Productivity: Less water for irrigation can lead to lower crop yields and food shortages.

• Water Conflicts: Competition for scarce water can cause disputes between regions and countries.

• Economic Costs: Managing water shortages can be expensive and affect industries that rely on water.

These effects highlight the importance of using water resources wisely and sustainably.

25. Explain the concept of rainwater harvesting and its benefits.

Ans: Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater for later use. This can be done using tanks, barrels, or special collection systems. Benefits include reducing the demand for traditional water sources, providing water for irrigation, and decreasing the risk of flooding. It helps conserve water and can be a sustainable solution for areas with limited water supply.

26. Discuss the role of rivers in providing water resources and how their use can lead to conflicts.

Ans: Rivers are crucial sources of water for drinking, agriculture, and industry.

• They support ecosystems and provide livelihoods for many people. 

• However, conflicts can arise when different regions or countries share a river.

• Disputes may occur over water rights, pollution, and dam construction. 

• Managing shared rivers requires cooperation to balance the needs of all stakeholders and protect the river's health.

27. What is the water cycle? Illustrate and explain its different stages.

Ans: The water cycle describes how water moves through the environment. It has four main stages:

• Evaporation: Water from oceans, lakes, and rivers turns into vapour and rises into the atmosphere.

• Condensation: Water vapour cools and forms clouds.

• Precipitation: Clouds release water as rain, snow, or sleet.

• Collection: Water flows back into rivers, lakes, and oceans, ready to start the cycle again.

This cycle helps distribute water across the planet and supports life.

Important Topics of Class 10 Geography Chapter 3 Water Resources

Chapter 3 Water Resources covers key aspects of water resources, including their importance and how they are distributed. It also explores the challenges related to water use and conservation.

Benefits of Learning with Water Resources Class 10 Important Questions and Answers

• Water Resources Class 10 Important Questions and Answers PDF helps students understand key concepts, making them more likely to perform well in exams.

• Students learn the importance of saving water, which helps them use resources more responsibly.

• Answering these questions clarifies important topics like the water cycle and conservation methods, enhancing overall knowledge.

• Studying conservation measures like afforestation and wildlife sanctuaries empowers students to contribute actively to environmental sustainability.

• Understanding issues like water scarcity prepares students to contribute to solutions in their communities.

• Knowledge of water resources gives awareness of how human actions affect the environment and encourages sustainable practices.

Conclusion

Studying Chapter 3 on Water Resources is crucial as it explains the various sources of freshwater, the importance of conserving water, and the problems related to water scarcity. Understanding these issues helps us take steps to protect and manage our water resources effectively. Actions such as saving water, supporting rainwater harvesting, and reducing pollution are essential. For more assistance with Geography, explore Vedantu's live classes and study materials. Begin learning and contributing to water conservation today. Check out Vedantu for resources and live classes to score in Geography.

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