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Agriculture, Social Science, Class- 8, Solved exercises

Paddy field in my village

1. Answer the following questions

(i) What is agriculture?
Answer:- Agriculture is the practice of growing crops and rearing animals to meet human needs for food, fibre, and other products.

(ii) Name the factors influencing agriculture.
Answer:- The main factors influencing agriculture are climate, soil, topography, rainfall, irrigation, and technology.

(iii) What is shifting cultivation? What are its disadvantages?
Answer:- Shifting cultivation is a farming method in which a patch of land is cleared by cutting and burning trees, crops are grown for a few years, and then the land is left fallow while the farmer moves to a new area.
Disadvantages:

Causes deforestation

Reduces soil fertility

Leads to soil erosion

(iv) What is plantation agriculture?
Answer:-Plantation agriculture is a type of farming in which a single crop is grown on a large scale for sale, often in tropical regions.
Examples: tea, coffee, rubber, sugarcane.

(v) Name the fibre crops and name the climatic conditions required for their growth.
Answer:- Fibre crops: Cotton and jute

Cotton: Grows well in black soil and warm climate with moderate rainfall.

Jute: Requires hot and humid climate with heavy rainfall.

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2. Tick the correct answer

(i) Horticulture means
✅ (a) Growing of fruits and vegetables

(ii) Golden fibre refers to
✅ (c) Jute

(iii) Leading producers of coffee
✅ (a) Brazil

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3. Give reasons

(i) In India agriculture is a primary activity.
Answer:- Because a large section of India’s population depends on farming for their livelihood and it involves the direct use of natural resources.

(ii) Different crops are grown in different regions.
Answer:- Because climatic conditions, soil types, and availability of water vary from region to region.

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4. Distinguish between the following

(i) Primary activities and Tertiary activities

Primary Activities Tertiary Activities

These involve the use of natural resources directly from nature.

These provide services that support primary and secondary activities.
Example: Agriculture, fishing, mining. Example: Transport, banking, trade, education.
They form the base of all economic activities. They help in the smooth running of all economic activities.

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(ii) Subsistence farming and Intensive farming

Subsistence Farming Intensive Farming

The farmer grows crops mainly for his own family’s consumption. The farmer grows crops for sale in the market.
Usually practised on small pieces of land using simple tools. Practised on small farms but with large labour input and modern techniques.
Yield is generally low. Yield is high due to better use of inputs like fertilizers and irrigation.

Public Facilities, class -8, Subject -Social Science (Social and Political Life), solved exercises.

1. Why do you think there are so few cases of private water supply in the world?

Answer:
Water is a basic necessity for life. Supplying water to everyone requires huge infrastructure and investment, which private companies usually avoid because profit is low. Also, water is considered a public good, so governments take responsibility to ensure equal access for all people.

2. Do you think water in Chennai is available to and affordable by all? Discuss.

Answer:
No, water in Chennai is not equally available or affordable to all.
Rich people can buy water from private tankers, while poor people depend on irregular public supply. During water shortages, poor people suffer more. This shows inequality in access to water.

3. How is the sale of water by farmers to water dealers in Chennai affecting local people
Can local people object? Can the government do anything?

Answer:
The sale of groundwater by farmers reduces water levels, causing shortage for local people.
Yes, local people can object through protests and complaints.
The government can:
Regulate groundwater use
Ban illegal extraction
Improve public water supply

4. Why are most private hospitals and private schools located in cities and not in rural areas?

Answer:
Private hospitals and schools are mostly in cities because:
(I) Cities have more paying customers
(ii) Better infrastructure and facilities
(iii) Higher profits
(iv) Rural areas have low income and fewer facilities, so private institutions avoid them.

5. Do you think the distribution of public facilities in our country is adequate and fair? Give an example.

Answer:
No, the distribution is not adequate or fair.
For example, cities have better hospitals, schools, and roads, while villages often lack proper water supply and transport.

6. Public facilities in my area
(I) Facility
Is it available?
How can it be improved?
(ii) Water
Yes, but irregular
Regular supply, clean water
(iii) Electricity
Yes
Reduce power cuts
(iv) Roads
Partly
Repair damaged roads
(v) Public Transport
Limited
More buses, better timing

7. Are these public facilities shared equally by all people in your area?

Answer:
No, public facilities are not shared equally.
Poor people face more problems in accessing water, healthcare, and transport compared to rich people.

8. How does the Census collect data on public facilities?

Answer:
The Census collects data by:
Visiting houses
Asking questions about water, electricity, toilets, etc.
Recording information every 10 years

9. What could be the impact of private educational institutions growing and government institutions becoming less important?

Answer:
The impact may be:
Education becomes expensive
Poor students suffer
Inequality increases
Government schools are important to ensure education for all.

Republic day Speech for a student

High-quality Republic Day speech for a student, suitable for school:

Respected Principal, honoured teachers, and my dear friends,
Today, we proudly celebrate 26 January – the Republic Day of India. On this day in 1950, our country adopted its Constitution and became a sovereign democratic republic.
Our Constitution gives us important rights and duties and teaches us the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. These values guide us to become good citizens of our nation.
As students, it is our responsibility to study sincerely, respect our teachers, and contribute positively to society. The future of our country depends on us.
Let us promise to work hard and serve our nation with honesty and unity.

Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!

Republic day Speech

Respected Principal, my dear colleagues, and beloved students,
Today we gather to celebrate 26 January – the Republic Day of India. On this historic day in 1950, our nation adopted the Constitution of India, laying the foundation of our democracy.
As teachers, we believe that education shapes responsible citizens. The Constitution teaches us the values of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity, and it is our duty to pass these values on to our students.
Republic Day reminds us that freedom comes with responsibility. Let us encourage our students to respect the Constitution, serve the nation with honesty, and uphold unity in diversity.
May we all work together to build an India that is educated, disciplined, and compassionate.

Jai Hind!

Equality in Democracy, Class – 7, Subject – Social science, solved exercises

A. Choose the correct answer
1. India is a democratic country as it has:
(a) elected head of the state
(b) elected representative of the people
(c) Universal Adult Franchise
(d) all of these
Answer: (d) all of these

2. Political equality is affected when there is:
(a) only one political party
(b) multi-party system
(c) Universal Adult Franchise
(d) none of these
Answer: (a) only one political party

3. Rule of law means:
(a) special laws for elected leaders
(b) same law for all the citizens
(c) special laws for ruling the country
(d) when armed forces rule the country
Answer: (b) same law for all the citizens

4. “Equal wages for equal work” means there is:
(a) political equality
(b) social equality
(c) economic equality
(d) religious equality
Answer: (c) economic equality

B. Fill in the blanks
1. The Indian __________ is the primary source of all laws, rules and regulations in our country.
Answer: Constitution
2. The __________ is the __________ head of the executive.
Answer: President, nominal
3. In India, the practice of bonded labour restricts __________ freedom.
Answer: personal
4. Indian citizens can vote after attaining the age of __________ years.
Answer: 18
5. __________ gave the term “Unity in Diversity” for India.
Answer: Jawaharlal Nehru

C. Match the columns
Column A | Column B
Rosa Parks | (b) Civil Rights Movement in the USA
Adult in India | (c) 18 years and above
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar | (d) Fought for the self-respect of the backward classes
Mid-day meals | (a) Special scheme for school children

D. Very Short Answer Type Questions (20–30 words)
1. What is the primary source of laws in India?
Answer: The Constitution of India is the primary source of all laws, rules and regulations in the country.

2. Write the names of the three organs of the government.
Answer: The three organs of the government are the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary.

3. Which revolution led to the foundation of individual dignity? What was its main slogan?
Answer: The French Revolution led to the foundation of individual dignity. Its main slogan was Liberty, Equality and Fraternity.

4. Which article of the Constitution of India prohibits discrimination?
Answer: Article 15 of the Constitution of India prohibits discrimination.

5. How can you say that India follows Universal Adult Franchise?
Answer: India follows Universal Adult Franchise because every citizen above 18 years has the right to vote without discrimination.

E. Short Answer Type Questions (50–60 words)
1. What is meant by equality in a democracy?
Answer: Equality in a democracy means that all citizens are treated equally before law. Everyone enjoys equal rights and freedoms without discrimination based on caste, religion, gender or economic status.

2. What is social equality?
Answer: Social equality means that all individuals are treated equally in society. There is no discrimination based on caste, religion, gender or social background, and everyone gets equal respect and opportunities.

3. Which movement swept through various nations demanding the right to vote for women in the 19th and 20th centuries?
Answer: The Women’s Suffrage Movement swept through various nations in the 19th and 20th centuries demanding voting rights for women.

4. What steps have governments in India taken to bring social equality?
Answer: The Indian government has taken steps like abolition of untouchability, reservation for backward classes, right to education, mid-day meal scheme and laws against discrimination to promote social equality.

5. What does economic equality mean?
Answer: Economic equality means equal opportunities to earn a livelihood. It includes equal pay for equal work, fair wages and reducing the gap between the rich and the poor.

F. Long Answer Type Questions
(80–100 words)
1. Political equality is provided by the Indian Constitution. Explain.
Answer:
Political equality means giving every citizen equal political rights. The Indian Constitution provides political equality through Universal Adult Franchise, which gives all citizens above 18 years the right to vote without discrimination. It ensures equal opportunity to contest elections and form political parties. The Constitution also guarantees equality before law and prohibits discrimination on the basis of caste, religion, gender or class. Thus, political power lies with the people, making Indian democracy inclusive and representative.

2. How is social equality sought to be achieved by the Constitution of India?
Answer:
The Constitution of India aims to achieve social equality by removing social discrimination and inequality. Article 15 prohibits discrimination on the grounds of caste, religion, race, sex or place of birth. Untouchability has been abolished under Article 17. The government has introduced reservations, laws against social injustice, and welfare schemes for backward classes, women and minorities. Education, equal opportunities and legal protection help promote dignity and equality for all citizens.

3. What is meant by economic equality? How is it sought to be achieved?
Answer:
Economic equality means providing equal opportunities to earn a livelihood and reducing economic disparities among citizens. It does not mean equal income for all but fair wages and equal pay for equal work. The Constitution promotes economic equality through minimum wage laws, labour welfare laws, land reforms and poverty alleviation programmes. Government schemes for employment, education and social security help reduce the gap between the rich and the poor.

4. Discuss how the Indian Constitution divides powers between different organs of the government.
Answer:
The Indian Constitution divides powers among three organs of government—the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. The Legislature makes laws, the Executive implements laws, and the Judiciary interprets laws. This separation of powers prevents misuse of authority and ensures smooth functioning of democracy. Each organ works independently but also keeps a check on the others through a system of checks and balances. This division protects citizens’ rights and maintains the rule of law.

5. What privileges have been given to Indian citizens keeping in mind Article 15 of the Indian Constitution?
Answer:
Article 15 of the Indian Constitution prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth. At the same time, it allows special provisions for women, children and socially backward classes. Reservation in education and jobs, scholarships, and welfare schemes are provided to uplift disadvantaged groups. These privileges help promote equality, social justice and inclusive development, ensuring that weaker sections get equal opportunities in society.

G. Higher-Order Thinking Skills
1. The government has to accommodate various differences present in our country. Why is it so?
Answer:
India is a diverse country with different religions, languages, cultures, castes and traditions. To maintain unity and harmony, the government must accommodate these differences. Respecting diversity ensures equality, prevents discrimination and strengthens democracy. Inclusive policies help people feel secure and respected, promoting national integration.

2. What is the significance of equality in democracy?
Answer:
Equality is the foundation of democracy. It ensures that all citizens enjoy equal rights, opportunities and protection under law. Without equality, democracy cannot function properly, as discrimination leads to injustice and social conflict. Equality promotes dignity, participation and trust in democratic institutions.

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Understanding Diversity, Chapter -1, Subject – Social and Political Life, solved exercises

B. Write T for True and F for False
1. India has 25 States and 7 Union Territories. → F
2. Differences in society and its structure create unrest. → T
3. India is not a secular country. → F
4. Classical and folk are the two main types of dances in India. → T
5. Diversity in languages has added a great variety to our literature. → T

C. Fill in the blanks
1. Culture refers to the ideas, customs, beliefs and social behaviour of a particular country or group.
2. The North Indian School of music is called Hindustani while the South Indian School of music is called Carnatic.
3. Diversity adds flavour to our lives and enriches our culture.
4. Our National Flag and National Song remind us of India’s capacity to unite.
5. Geographical features influence the lifestyle and occupation of people.
D. Very Short Answer Type Questions (20–30 words)
1. What is diversity?

Answer:
Diversity means differences among people in terms of language, religion, food, dress, customs, traditions and ways of living.

2. How many States and Union Territories are there in India?

Answer:
India has 28 States and 8 Union Territories.
3. What do you understand by the term ‘inequality’?

Answer:
Inequality means a situation where people do not get equal rights, opportunities and resources in society.

4. What do you understand by the term ‘culture’?

Answer:
Culture includes the ideas, beliefs, customs, traditions, art, music and social behaviour of a group of people.

5. In which of his books did Jawaharlal Nehru coin the phrase ‘unity in diversity’?

Answer:
Jawaharlal Nehru used the phrase “unity in diversity” in his book The Discovery of India.

E. Short Answer Type Questions (50–60 words)
1. Write a note on the linguistic diversity of India.

Answer:
India shows great linguistic diversity. People speak many languages such as Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi and Gujarati. These languages belong to different language families. Linguistic diversity has enriched Indian literature and culture and reflects the country’s rich heritage.

2. Write a note on the religious diversity of India.

Answer:
India is home to many religions like Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism. People of different religions live together and celebrate different festivals. Religious diversity promotes tolerance and peaceful coexistence in India.

3. What are the two main schools of music in India?

Answer:
The two main schools of Indian classical music are Hindustani and Carnatic. Hindustani music developed in North India, while Carnatic music developed in South India. Both styles are rich and have unique features.

4. Discuss why India’s diversity is recognized as a source of its strength.

Answer:
India’s diversity is a source of strength because it encourages unity, mutual respect and understanding among people. Different cultures, traditions and languages enrich national life and help people live together peacefully.

5. Examine how India’s struggle for freedom depicts unity in diversity.

Answer:
During India’s freedom struggle, people from different regions, religions and languages united against British rule. Leaders and common people worked together, showing strong unity in diversity and national integration.

F. Long Answer Type Questions (80–100 words)
1. List any five ways in which Kerala is different from Ladakh.

Answer:
Kerala and Ladakh are very different from each other in many ways.
Kerala has a hot and wet climate, while Ladakh has a cold and dry climate.
Kerala has plains, rivers and backwaters, whereas Ladakh has mountains and plateaus.
People in Kerala grow rice and coconut, while people in Ladakh grow barley and vegetables.
Houses in Kerala are made to suit heavy rainfall, while houses in Ladakh are made to protect from cold.
Food, clothing and lifestyle also differ due to climate.

2. India is a land of diverse cultures and religions. Elaborate.

Answer:
India is a land of great cultural and religious diversity. People in India follow different religions such as Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism. Each religion has its own festivals, customs and traditions. People speak different languages, eat different kinds of food and wear different dresses. There are various forms of art, dance and music across regions. Despite these differences, people live together peacefully and respect each other’s beliefs, making India a unique and diverse country.

3. Despite the diversity, there is a strong feeling of oneness among the people of India. Elaborate.

Answer:
India has many languages, religions and cultures, yet its people feel united. This feeling of oneness comes from a shared history, common freedom struggle and national symbols like the National Flag and National Anthem. Festivals are celebrated together, and people help each other in times of need. The Constitution treats everyone equally and promotes unity. Thus, despite differences, Indians feel proud to belong to one nation, showing unity in diversity.

G. Higher-Order Thinking Skills
1. Why do people living in different parts of the world look different and behave differently?

Answer:
People living in different parts of the world look and behave differently due to differences in climate, geography and environment. Climate affects food habits, clothing and physical features. Geography influences occupations and lifestyle. Culture, traditions, language and religion also shape behaviour. Over time, these factors create differences in appearance, habits and ways of living among people in different regions.

2. Why is diversity an essential component of our world and life?

Answer:
Diversity is essential because it enriches our lives and helps us learn from one another. It promotes creativity, understanding and mutual respect among people. Different cultures, ideas and traditions make the world interesting and vibrant. Diversity also teaches tolerance and cooperation, helping people live together peacefully. Without diversity, life would be monotonous and less meaningful.

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Advertising, Chapter – 5, Class – 7, Subject – Social science(Social and Political Life), solved exercises

A. Choose the correct answer

1. Communication to persuade a consumer to buy a product is called:
(a) Advertisement
2. USP in advertising means:
(c) Unique Selling Proposition
3. Which of the following statements shows a disadvantage of advertising?
(b) Encourages consumerism among people
4. Print advertisement can be seen in:
(d) All of these

B. Fill in the blanks

1. Advertising convinces the consumer to buy the products.
2. Brand value of a product is built with the help of advertising.
3. Advertising is an important source of income for the media.
4. Consumerism is one of the biggest drawbacks of advertising.
5. Celebrities endorse the product which influences the consumer’s decision.

C. Write T for True and F for False
1. Consumerism means to buy limited things and only when required.
F
2. Some advertisements are run during particular time slots in order to reach the target audience.
T
3. Social advertising educates and raises awareness about a particular social issue.
T
4. Advertisements do not help to form or establish stereotypes.
F
5. Advertising is expensive and as such most small businesses can’t affort it.

T
D. Define the following terms
1.Print media

Answer:
Print media refers to advertisements published in newspapers, magazines, pamphlets, posters and brochures.

2.Brand

Answer:
A brand is the unique name, symbol or image that identifies a product and distinguishes it from others.

3.Social advertising

Answer:
Social advertising spreads awareness about social issues like health, education, environment and consumer rights.

4.Commercial advertising

Answer:
Commercial advertising promotes goods and services to increase their sales and profits.

E. Very Short Answer Type Questions (20–30 words)

1.What is advertising?

Answer:
Advertising is a form of communication that persuades people to buy goods or services by providing information about them.

2. What is the main purpose of an advertisement?

Answer:
The main purpose of an advertisement is to inform, attract and convince consumers to buy a product or service.

3. List some of the different advertisement media available.

Answer:
Newspapers, magazines, television, radio, internet, hoardings, posters and social media are different advertisement media.

4. What is Jago Grahak Jago? How does it help consumers?

Answer:
Jago Grahak Jago is a government campaign that spreads awareness about consumer rights and helps consumers avoid cheating.

F. Short Answer Type Questions (50–60 words)
1. What is social advertising? What is its purpose?

Answer:
Social advertising focuses on spreading awareness about social problems such as cleanliness, education, health and environment. Its purpose is to educate people, change social behaviour and promote social welfare rather than selling products.

2. Explain commercial advertising in detail.

Answer:
Commercial advertising is done by companies to promote their products or services. It highlights features, price and benefits to attract customers. Its main aim is to increase sales and earn profit.

3. List some advantages of advertisements.

Answer:
Advertisements create awareness about products, help consumers make informed choices, increase sales, promote competition and help businesses grow.

4. Discuss the relationship between media and the advertisement industry.

Answer:
Media provides platforms like TV, newspapers and the internet for advertisements. Advertising provides income to media. Thus, both depend on each other for growth.

G. Long Answer Type Questions (80–100 words)
1. Discuss different advertising techniques.

Answer:
Advertisers use many techniques to attract consumers. These include celebrity endorsement, catchy slogans, emotional appeal, repetition, attractive visuals and special offers. Some ads target children while others target specific age groups. Advertisements are also shown at specific time slots to reach the right audience. These techniques help in influencing consumer choices and increasing sales.

2. Write about the disadvantages of advertising.

Answer:
Advertising encourages consumerism and unnecessary buying. It may create false needs, spread misleading information and promote stereotypes. Advertising also increases product prices as companies recover advertising costs from consumers. Small businesses may not afford expensive advertisements, leading to unfair competition.

3. Explain how advertisement helps to create a brand and increase sales.

Answer:
Advertisements help create brand identity by repeatedly showing the product name, logo and features. This builds trust and familiarity among consumers. A strong brand attracts more customers and increases sales. Advertising also highlights the uniqueness of a product, helping it stand out in the market.
4. Write a note on the social responsibility of advertisers.

Answer:
Advertisers should provide truthful information and avoid misleading claims. They should not promote harmful products or stereotypes. Advertisements must respect social values and consumer rights. Responsible advertising helps protect consumers and builds trust in the market.

H. Higher-Order Thinking Skills
1. Why do celebrities endorse many products used by children?

Answer:
Children easily get influenced by celebrities they admire. Companies use celebrities to attract children and increase sales as children trust and follow them.

2. Why do governments spend money on advertising their programmes or schemes?

Answer:
Governments advertise schemes to inform people about their benefits. Advertising helps reach a large population and ensures public participation and awareness.

Understanding Marginalisation, Class -8, Chapter – 7, Social science (Civics ), solved exercises

1. What do you understand by the word ‘marginalisation’?

Answer:
Marginalisation means pushing a group of people to the edge of society. Such groups have less access to education, jobs, land and political power, and they often face discrimination and neglect.

2. List two reasons why Adivasis are becoming increasingly marginalised.

Answer:
Many Adivasis have been displaced from their forests due to mining, industries and dams.
They have limited access to education, healthcare and employment opportunities.

3. Write one reason why the Constitution’s safeguards to protect minority communities are very important.

Answer:
Constitutional safeguards are important because they protect minority communities from discrimination and ensure equality, freedom of religion and equal opportunities.

4. What do you understand by the term ‘minority’?

Answer:
A minority is a community that is smaller in number compared to the rest of the population and may face social, economic or political disadvantage.

5. Give two reasons to support the statement:

Answer :

“Muslims are a marginalised community.”
Muslims have lower literacy rates and limited access to higher education compared to many other communities.
Many Muslims face economic poverty and discrimination in many other fields.

6. What would you tell your friend about the lives of Adivasis? (Any three points)

Answer:
Adivasis have a deep connection with forests and depend on them for livelihood.
They have rich cultures, languages, music and traditions.
Many Adivasis struggle due to displacement, poverty and lack of basic facilities.

7. Write a short story on Adivasis.

Answer:
Ramu lived in a small Adivasi village near a forest. His family depended on forest produce for food and income. When a factory was built nearby, many villagers lost their land. Still, Ramu dreamed of studying and helping his community protect their rights and culture.

8. Do you agree that economic marginalisation and social marginalisation are interlinked? Why?

Answer:
Yes, economic and social marginalisation are interlinked because lack of money leads to poor education and healthcare, which further causes social discrimination and exclusion from society.

Motions of the Earth, Class -6, Subject -Social Science,(Geography) Solved exercises.

B. Write T for True and F for False

1.Leap year comes after three years. — T
2.Winter solstice occurs on 22nd December. — T
3.The circle of illumination separates day and night. — T
4.The Earth’s movement around the Sun is called rotation. — F
5.The tilting of the Earth’s axis is called inclination. — T

C. Fill in the blanks
1.The Earth revolves around the Sun in an elliptical orbit.
2.The vernal equinox occurs on 21st March.
3.The rotation of the Earth causes day and night.
4.The revolution of the Earth causes change in seasons.
5.The fixed path on which the Earth revolves is called orbit.
6.The inclination of the Earth’s axis causes variation in the length of day and night.
D. Match the columns
1. Rotation —. (c) Spinning of the Earth
2. Leap year — (e) 366 days
3. Path on which Earth revolves — (d) Orbit
4. Axis — (a) Imaginary line joining the poles
5. 23rd September — (b) Autumn equinox

E. Very Short Answer Type Questions

1. What is meant by rotation of the Earth?

Answer:
Rotation of the Earth is the spinning of the Earth on its axis from west to east, taking about 24 hours.

2. Describe the circle of illumination.

Answer:
Circle of illumination is an imaginary circle that divides the Earth into day and night regions.

3. Why do seasons change on the Earth?

Answer:
Seasons change on the Earth due to the inclination of the Earth’s axis and its revolution around the Sun. As the Earth moves around the Sun, different parts receive unequal heat and sunlight, causing seasons.

4. Tell the exact time the Earth takes to complete one round of the Sun.

Answer:
The Earth takes 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes and 45 seconds to complete one revolution around the Sun.

5. When does summer solstice occur?

Answer:
The summer solstice occurs on 21st June in the Northern Hemisphere, when the day is the longest and the Sun’s rays fall vertically on the Tropic of Cancer.

Short Answer Type Questions (50–60 words)

1. Examine the consequences if the Earth stays still on its axis.
Answer:
If the Earth stays still on its axis, there will be no day and night. One side of the Earth will always face the Sun and remain very hot, while the other side will be in permanent darkness and extreme cold. Such conditions will make life difficult for plants, animals, and humans.

2. Discuss the need to add one “day” after every four years in our calendar.
Answer:
The Earth takes about 365 days and 6 hours to complete one revolution around the Sun. These extra hours add up to one full day in four years. To adjust this difference and keep the calendar correct, one extra day is added in February every four years, called a leap year.

3.What are the effects of Earth’s rotation?
Answer:
The rotation of the Earth causes day and night. It also causes the apparent movement of the Sun, Moon, and stars from east to west. Rotation helps in fixing time and leads to differences in local time at different longitudes.

4. Describe the term “equinox.”
Answer:
An equinox is the time when the Sun’s rays fall vertically on the Equator. On this day, day and night are equal all over the Earth. Equinox occurs twice a year—on 21st March (spring equinox) and 23rd September (autumn equinox).

5. Compare axis and orbit.
Answer:
The axis is an imaginary line passing through the centre of the Earth and joining the North and South Poles, around which the Earth rotates. The orbit is the fixed elliptical path along which the Earth revolves around the Sun.

G. Long answers type question:

3. Discuss the revolution of the Earth. What are its effects?
Answer:
Revolution is the movement of the Earth around the Sun along its elliptical orbit. The Earth takes about 365 days and 6 hours to complete one revolution. This movement causes the change of seasons, variation in the length of day and night, and the formation of leap years. Revolution combined with the tilt of the Earth’s axis leads to solstices and equinoxes.

The Desert Region, Chapter -9, Subject – Social Studies, Class – 5, solved exercises.

A. Tick the correct answer

1. In which continent is the Arabian Desert located?
✅ Asia

2. Which of the following latitudes passes through the centre of Saudi Arabia?
✅ Tropic of Cancer

3. Which of the following minerals is found in the largest quantity in Saudi Arabia?
✅ Crude oil

4. Which of the following cities is the capital of Saudi Arabia?
✅ Riyadh

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B. Fill in the blanks

1. The largest and continuous stretch of dry and sandy desert in Saudi Arabia is known as Rub-al-Khali.

2. Sandstorms blow away sand from place to place forming sand dunes.

3. Arabian horses are known for their swiftness and faithfulness.

4. Long loose white cotton gowns worn by the Bedouins are called thobes.

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C. Match the columns

Column A Column B

1. The Great Basin Desert (d) North America
2. The Great Australian Desert (f) Australia
3. The Gobi Desert (e) China
4. The Atacama Desert (c) South America
5. The Thar Desert (b) India
6. The Sahara Desert (a) Africa

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D. Answer the following questions

1. Where is Saudi Arabia located?
Saudi Arabia is located in South-West Asia on the Arabian Peninsula.

2. Name the neighbouring countries of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia is bordered by Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, Oman and Yemen.

3. Describe the climate of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has a hot and dry desert climate. Rainfall is very low, summers are extremely hot and winters are mild.

4. How has Saudi Arabia developed in such a short time?
Saudi Arabia has developed rapidly due to the discovery of large reserves of crude oil, which brought wealth and modern development.

5. Write a note on the religion and culture of the people of Saudi Arabia.
Most people of Saudi Arabia follow Islam. Arabic is their language. People wear traditional clothes, follow Islamic customs and live a simple cultural life.

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E. Give reasons

1. Rainfall in Saudi Arabia is very scanty.
Rainfall in Saudi Arabia is very scanty because it lies in a desert region, far away from the sea, and receives very little moisture-bearing winds.

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2. Crude oil is known as “liquid gold”.
Crude oil is called “liquid gold” because it is very valuable, earns huge income, and is used to produce fuel, electricity and many useful products.

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3. Most of the land surface in a desert is sandy.
Most of the land surface in a desert is sandy because strong winds blow away fine soil, leaving behind sand and forming sand dunes.

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