Chapter 1: Environment

Geography • Class 7

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Chapter Analysis

Beginner6 pages • English

Quick Summary

The chapter 'Environment' introduces students to the concept of environment, emphasizing its components such as the natural environment (lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere), and human-made environments. It discusses how humans interact with and modify these environments to fulfill their needs, impacting the balance of nature. The chapter also explains the idea of ecosystems and the interdependence of plants, animals, and human beings on each other and their surroundings.

Key Topics

  • Natural and human-made environment
  • Lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere
  • Human interaction with the environment
  • Concept of ecosystems
  • Environmental balance and sustainability
  • Environmental degradation and conservation

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the components of the natural environment
  • Learn how human activities affect the environment
  • Identify different ecosystems and their significance
  • Comprehend the interdependence of biotic and abiotic components
  • Recognize the necessity of environmental conservation
  • Develop awareness towards sustainable living practices

Questions in Chapter

What is an ecosystem?

Answer: It is a system formed by the interaction of all living organisms with each other and with the physical and chemical factors of the environment in which they live, all linked by transfer of energy and material.

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What do you mean by natural environment?

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Which are the major components of the environment?

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Give four examples of human made environment.

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What is lithosphere?

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Which are the two major components of biotic environment?

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What is biosphere?

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Additional Practice Questions

Explain the importance of the atmosphere for life on Earth.

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Answer: The atmosphere is essential for life on Earth as it provides the air we breathe, protects us from the harmful rays and scorching heat of the sun, and consists of various gases, dust, and water vapor that are crucial for weather and climate regulation.

Discuss the factors that can lead to environmental degradation.

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Answer: Environmental degradation can be caused by factors such as deforestation, pollution, overpopulation, excessive use of natural resources, industrialization, and urbanization, which disrupt the balance of ecosystems and lead to loss of biodiversity.

How do human activities modify the natural environment?

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Answer: Human activities such as construction, agriculture, industrialization, and transportation modify the natural environment by altering landscapes, depleting natural resources, polluting air and water, and contributing to climate change.

What measures can be taken to ensure sustainable use of the lithosphere?

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Answer: Sustainable measures include promoting afforestation, soil conservation techniques, sustainable agricultural practices, responsible mining, and implementing policies to reduce land degradation and protect natural habitats.

Why is it important to maintain biodiversity within ecosystems?

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Answer: Maintaining biodiversity is crucial as it ensures ecosystem stability and resilience, provides resources like food and medicine, and supports ecosystem services such as pollination, climate regulation, and nutrient cycling.