Kerala SSLC · Social Science · Class 10
Along the Trails of Natural Resources: Important Questions with Answers
These are 10 important multiple-choice questions from the Kerala SSLC Social Science chapter “Along the Trails of Natural Resources” (Kerala SCERT syllabus). Each one shows the correct answer and a short explanation of why it is right. Try answering before you read the answer. ExamSummary has 10 practice questions on this chapter in total.
Q1.Which of the following is classified as a non-renewable resource?
- A)Solar Energy
- B)Wind Power
- C)Coal
- D)Biomass
Answer: C) Coal
Non-renewable resources take millions of years to form and deplete much faster than they can be replenished. Coal is a fossil fuel derived from ancient organic matter, making it finite compared to perpetual sources like solar or wind energy.
Q2.What is the primary objective of sustainable development?
- A)Maximize industrial profit
- B)Preserve resources for future generations
- C)Increase population growth
- D)Eliminate all agriculture
Answer: B) Preserve resources for future generations
Sustainable development aims to meet current human needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It seeks to balance economic growth with environmental protection and social equity.
Q3.In Kerala, which type of soil is predominantly found due to high rainfall and temperature?
- A)Alluvial
- B)Black Cotton
- C)Laterite
- D)Red Sandy
Answer: C) Laterite
Laterite soil is rich in iron and aluminum oxides and forms in hot and wet tropical areas with heavy rainfall. It is the most common soil type in Kerala, though it is prone to nutrient leaching due to excessive rain.
Q4.The Silent Valley National Park is primarily known for conserving which type of ecosystem?
- A)Mangroves
- B)Tropical Evergreen Forests
- C)Dry Deciduous Forests
- D)Alpine Meadows
Answer: B) Tropical Evergreen Forests
Silent Valley is a hotspot for endemic species and represents a pristine tropical evergreen forest in the Western Ghats. Its conservation was crucial to protect unique biodiversity from hydroelectric projects.
Q5.What makes the agricultural practice in Kuttanad unique among Indian farming systems?
- A)Use of genetically modified seeds
- B)Farming below sea level
- C)Irrigation via drip systems only
- D)Cultivation in desert conditions
Answer: B) Farming below sea level
Kuttanad is famous for being the only place in India where paddy is cultivated below sea level. This requires extensive embankments and drainage systems to manage water levels effectively.
Q6.Which mineral resource is notably abundant in the monazite sands along Kerala's coastline?
- A)Iron Ore
- B)Gold
- C)Thorium
- D)Diamond
Answer: C) Thorium
Kerala's coastal sands contain significant deposits of monazite, which is a major source of thorium. Thorium is considered an important potential nuclear fuel for energy production.
Q7.What is the main benefit of implementing rainwater harvesting structures in Kerala?
- A)Increasing groundwater levels
- B)Creating artificial lakes
- C)Preventing floods completely
- D)Replacing river water usage
Answer: A) Increasing groundwater levels
Rainwater harvesting captures runoff and directs it into the ground to recharge aquifers. This helps combat water scarcity and maintains the water table during dry seasons in the state.
Q8.How does deforestation in the Western Ghats impact local water resources?
- A)Increases groundwater recharge
- B)Reduces evaporation rates
- C)Leads to soil erosion and siltation
- D)Promotes better crop yield
Answer: C) Leads to soil erosion and siltation
Removing tree cover reduces the land's ability to hold soil and absorb water, leading to erosion. This causes siltation in rivers and reservoirs, affecting water quality and availability downstream.
Q9.Which sector contributes significantly to Kerala's electricity generation using its natural water resources?
- A)Thermal Power
- B)Nuclear Power
- C)Hydroelectric Power
- D)Solar Power
Answer: C) Hydroelectric Power
Kerala relies heavily on hydroelectric power generated from the perennial rivers originating in the Western Ghats. This renewable energy source utilizes the state's topography and rainfall patterns efficiently.
Q10.Why is community participation essential for natural resource management?
- A)It reduces government costs
- B)It ensures local ownership and sustainability
- C)It eliminates the need for laws
- D)It increases private profits
Answer: B) It ensures local ownership and sustainability
Local communities understand the specific ecological and social needs of their region best. Their involvement fosters a sense of responsibility and ensures that conservation measures are maintained long-term.