Class 8 : Practice Questions and Answers

Rivers, lakes, and glaciers are the primary sources of freshwater, which is essential for drinking, agriculture, and industry. Ocean water is salty and cannot be directly used as freshwater.

Land use decisions are influenced by many factors, including cultural practices, physical characteristics of the land (such as climate and soil), and human population needs.

Deforestation leads to soil erosion by removing tree cover that protects the soil from wind and water. This can result in the loss of fertile topsoil.

Black soil is rich in nutrients and retains moisture well, making it ideal for cotton farming. It is found mainly in the Deccan Plateau of India.

Weathering is the gradual breakdown of rocks due to various natural forces like wind, water, and temperature changes. This process leads to the formation of soil over time.

Sustainable development aims to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It requires careful management of natural resources and environmental protection.

Wood is a natural resource, derived from trees, which are part of nature. It is widely used for fuel, construction, and paper production.

Non-renewable resources, like coal, oil, and natural gas, cannot be replaced once they are exhausted. This is why it is important to conserve them for future generations.

Resources are any items or materials that help satisfy human needs. These can include natural resources like water, air, and minerals, or even human-made resources like tools and knowledge.

Union Carbide owned the pesticide plant where the gas leak occurred. The disaster led to a major environmental and human tragedy.

Methyl isocyanate is the gas that leaked in Bhopal. It is highly toxic and caused severe harm to people in the area.

The Bhopal Gas Tragedy happened because of a chemical leak. A pesticide plant released toxic gas, which caused thousands of deaths.

Many Adivasis rely on farming, hunting, and gathering as their primary occupations. They are closely connected to nature and rely on sustainable practices to meet their daily needs, particularly in remote forested areas.

Adivasis are India's indigenous communities. They have lived in rural and forested areas for generations, with distinct cultures and languages.

People who are marginalised often struggle to access things like education, healthcare, and jobs. This keeps them at a disadvantage in society.

The judiciary's primary role is to interpret and apply the laws of the land. It ensures that the laws are enforced fairly, and it resolves disputes by giving judgments based on the Constitution.

The Supreme Court handles disputes between states. It is the highest court in India and ensures the laws are applied correctly.

Article 17 of the Constitution bans untouchability. It ensures that no one can be discriminated against based on caste.

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is chosen from the elected Members of Parliament. The Speaker's job is to ensure that parliamentary sessions run smoothly.

Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) have faced exclusion and discrimination in India. These groups often have less access to resources and opportunities.