Environmental Awareness For Semester Exam

 Chapter 5: Environmental Pollution

Q. The main pollution emitted through thermal power plant is known as? [1]

Answer: The main pollutant emitted through thermal power plant is CO2, a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. 

Q. What is air pollution? Classify air pollutants and give its sources. [6]

Answer: Air pollution refers to presence of harmful substances in earth's atmosphere which can have harmful effects on human health, environment and overall quality of air that we breathe.

Air pollutants are classified as follows:

1. Primary Pollutants: The pollutants which are emitted directly from the sources are called as primary pollutants.

- Particulate Matter: Tiny particles like ash, dust, smoke,etc.

- Inorganic Gases : Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S), Nitric Acid (NO), Ammonia (NH3), Carbon monoxide (CO), Carbon ioxide (CO2). 

- VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds): Found in gasoline, solvents and industrial process they contribute to formation of ground level ozone and smog.

2. Secondary Pollutants: The pollutants which are formed because of chemical reactions between primary pollutants and other substances.

- Ozone (O3): Heat and sunlight cause chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen.

- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): Oxidation of nitrogen oxides takes place which is typically released by vehicles and power plants.

- Sulphuric Acid (H2SO4):  When sulphur dioxide reacts with oxygen and water vapor in atmosphere contributing to acid rain.

Q. What is noise pollution? Give sources of noise pollution. [4]

Answer: Noise pollution refers to presence of excessive or disturbing noise that disrupts the natural balance of sound in the environment.  It is unwanted or unpleasant sound which can have negative effects on human health and well being.

Sources of noise pollution are:

1. Automobiles and Vehicles: Vehicles on road are increasing day by day which contributes to unwanted noises mostly for people living near highways.

2. Factories and Industries: As industrialization grows, more industrial plants are established leading to more machinary noises in the environment.

3. Construction Activities: Heavy equipments used in construction also produce large noise in the nearby communities.

4. Loud Speaker: These are used during elections or religious festivals which contributes to several problems to human health.

Q. How acid rain is formed? What are impacts of acid rain. [6]

Answer: Acid rain is formed because of chemical compounds like Sulphur dioxide (SO2) and Nitrogen Oxides (NO) are released into air. These compounds rise very high in atmosphere, and react with water, oxygen and other chemicals to form acid pollutants called acid rain.

Impacts of acid rain are as follows :

1) Environmental impacts: It can damage aquatic life by acidifying lakes, rivers and soil. It can also damage forests by harming the soil nutrients.

2) Economical impacts:  It also corrodes historical monuments and buildings. It can reduce the agricultural productivity and damage infrastructure like pipelines,etc.

3) Human health impacts: Acidic pollutants in air can lead to respiratory diseases. It also affects water quality by acidifying water through rivers,lakes,etc.

Q. Short note on solid waste management.

- Solid waste management is the process or systematic handling, disposal and treatment of solid waste materials generated due to human activities. It involves various processes aimed at reducing the impact of waste on environment and human health, resource recovery and maintain sanitation.

Chapter 6: Social Issues and the Environment

Q. Who started Chipko movement? [1]

Answer: It was started by a group of local women in the state of Uttarakhand.

Q. Why Chipko movement is started? What is reason behind chipko movement? [6]

Answer: The Chipko movement was started in response to the rampant deforestation and commercial logging practices in the forests of Uttarakhand, India. The movement arose from concerns over ecological imbalance, livelihood threats, and the need to protect natural resources. Massive deforestation was leading to the loss of forest cover, biodiversity, and the disruption of the water cycle. Local communities, particularly women, recognized that their traditional rights and sustainable practices were being undermined by commercial interests. The Chipko movement aimed to raise awareness about the importance of forests, protect the rights of local communities, conserve water resources, and promote sustainable development. It became a symbol of grassroots environmental activism and inspired similar movements worldwide.

Q. Environmental protection act is inacted in which year ? [1] 

Answer: The environment protection act was enacted in 1986.

Q. Why natural Reserves are important? [4] 

Answer: Natural reserves are important for several reasons. They serve as habitats for diverse plant and animal species, contributing to biodiversity conservation. They also act as ecological corridors, enabling the movement and migration of species. Natural reserves help protect natural resources, such as water, soil, and forests, promoting sustainable use and preventing environmental degradation. Furthermore, they provide opportunities for scientific research, education, and recreation, allowing people to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty and value.

Q. What is silent valley. [2.5] 

Answer: Silent Valley is a national park located in the state of Kerala, India. It is known for its rich biodiversity and untouched wilderness. The name "Silent Valley" originated from the absence of the usual sounds of wildlife due to the dense forest cover. The valley is home to several endangered and endemic species, including the Lion-tailed macaque. Silent Valley National Park is renowned for its ecological significance and has been a subject of conservation efforts to preserve its unique and fragile ecosystem.

Q. Short note on climate change. [2.5]

Answer: Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature patterns and weather conditions, primarily caused by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. It leads to a range of impacts, including rising global temperatures, melting ice caps, sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity. Climate change poses significant challenges to human societies, including threats to food and water security, displacement of populations, and increased vulnerability to natural disasters. Addressing climate change requires global cooperation, mitigation strategies, adaptation measures, and transitioning to sustainable practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Q. Short note on tribal people and their rights. [2.5]

Answer: Tribal people, also known as indigenous communities, have unique cultural identities and close relationships with their ancestral lands. They have traditionally lived in harmony with nature, practicing sustainable ways of life. Tribal people have specific rights recognized by international conventions and national laws, including the right to self-determination, cultural preservation, and participation in decision-making processes that affect their communities. Protecting tribal people's rights is crucial for ensuring their well-being, promoting social justice, preserving cultural diversity, and maintaining sustainable practices that contribute to the overall health of ecosystems and the planet.

Chapter 7: Human Population and Environment

Q. What is global warming? [1]

Answer: Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, which trap heat in the atmosphere and disrupt the natural balance of the climate system.

Q. Which is most polluted city in India? [1]

Answer: As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the most polluted city in India was often reported to be New Delhi, the capital city, due to high levels of air pollution caused by factors such as vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices.

Q. Give two examples of environmental impact associated with population growth. [1].

Answer: Two examples of environmental impacts associated with population growth include increased pressure on natural resources, such as water and land, leading to depletion and degradation, as well as increased waste generation, contributing to pollution and landfill issues.

Q. What is earthquake ? How is earthquake managed? [4]

Answer: An earthquake is a sudden shaking or trembling of the Earth's surface, usually caused by the release of energy in the Earth's crust due to tectonic plate movements. Earthquakes are managed through various measures, including seismic monitoring systems, building codes and regulations for earthquake-resistant structures, public awareness and preparedness campaigns, and disaster response and recovery plans implemented by governments and relevant authorities.

Q. Short note on land slide. [2.5].

Answer: A landslide refers to the downward movement of a mass of soil, rocks, or debris on a slope. It is often triggered by factors such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or human activities. Landslides can result in property damage, loss of life, and the disruption of ecosystems and infrastructure. They are managed through geological surveys, slope stabilization measures, land-use planning, early warning systems, and community education on recognizing landslide-prone areas and taking preventive actions.