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CBSE Class 10 Geography Important Questions - Chapter 5 Minerals and Energy Resources

Q: 1. What is a mineral? As per the CBSE Class 10 syllabus, describe the different modes in which minerals occur.

A mineral is a homogenous, naturally occurring substance with a definable internal structure. For the 2025-26 board exams, it is important to know their modes of occurrence:In igneous and metamorphic rocks, they occur in cracks or joints as veins and lodes. Examples include tin and copper.In sedimentary rocks, they occur in beds or layers as a result of deposition and accumulation. Examples include coal and gypsum.As a residual mass of weathered material after the decomposition of surface rocks. Bauxite is formed this way.As alluvial deposits in the sands of valley floors and at the base of hills, also known as 'placer deposits'. Examples include gold and silver.In ocean waters and ocean beds, where minerals like common salt, magnesium, and manganese nodules are found.

Geography Chapter 5 Minerals and Energy Resources Class 10 Important Questions - FREE PDF Download

Geography Chapter 5, Minerals and Energy Resources Important Questions, minerals are essential in our daily lives, used in everything from small pins to large buildings and ships. To learn more about minerals and energy resources, explore Chapter 5 in CBSE Class 10 Geography. Practising Minerals and Energy Resources Class 10 Important Questions will help students understand the material better and prepare effectively for their exams. Some of these questions might appear in the Social Science exam, so thorough practise is beneficial.

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Students can also download the Class 10 Geography Important Questions PDF for free. This resource will help improve their scores in Social Science. With PDF notes that match the updated CBSE Class 10 Social Science syllabus, students can study and review the material easily to perform better in their exams.

Access Chapter 5 Minerals and Energy Resources Important Questions and Answers for Class 10

1. What defines a mineral and where can minerals typically be found?

Ans: A mineral is a natural, non-living substance with a set chemical makeup and a crystal structure. Minerals form through geological processes and have distinct properties like hardness and colour. They are found in various places on Earth, including in rocks, soil, and sediments. Minerals can be located in mountains, sedimentary layers, and volcanic regions. They are also extracted from mines and quarries. Knowing where minerals are found helps us locate and use these important resources effectively.

2. What are the key differences between an open pit mine, a quarry, and an underground mine with shafts?

Ans: The key differences between an open pit mine, a quarry, and an underground mine with shafts are:

Open Pit Mine: This method digs large, open holes in the ground to access minerals near the surface. It is used for minerals like copper and iron and involves removing lots of soil and rock. While it is cost-effective and extracts a lot of material, it can cause significant environmental changes.
Quarry: A quarry is like an open pit mine but is mainly used for getting building materials such as granite or limestone. It involves removing large chunks of rock and is usually less deep than open pits. Quarries can affect the landscape and produce dust and noise.
Underground Mine with Shafts: This mining method involves digging tunnels deep into the ground to reach minerals found far below the surface. It is used for valuable minerals like gold. This method requires complex equipment and safety measures but has less impact on the surface area.

3. What effects does mining have on both the health of miners and the surrounding environment?

Ans: The effects mining has on both the health of miners and the surrounding environment are:

Health of Miners: Mining can expose workers to dangerous dust, chemicals, and extreme conditions. Breathing in dust can cause lung diseases like silicosis. Miners can also suffer from accidents and injuries due to heavy machinery and unsafe conditions.
Environmental Impact: Mining can harm the environment in several ways. It can lead to deforestation, loss of animal habitats, and soil erosion. Water from mining operations can become polluted with harmful chemicals, affecting fish and drinking water. The land can be damaged, and restoring it can be challenging.

4. Which of the following minerals is formed through the decomposition of rocks, resulting in a residual mass of weathered material?

(a) Coal

(b) Bauxite

(d) Zinc

Ans: (b) Bauxite

5. In which type of rocks do minerals generally get deposited and accumulated?

(a) Sedimentary rocks

(b) Igneous rocks

(d) None of the above

Ans: (a) Sedimentary rocks

6. How are minerals formed within igneous rocks and metamorphic rocks?

Ans: Minerals in igneous rocks form when molten rock, called magma or lava, cools down and hardens. If the cooling happens slowly, the minerals have time to form large crystals, while fast cooling leads to smaller crystals. In metamorphic rocks, minerals are created when existing rocks change due to high pressure and temperature. This process, called metamorphism, changes the minerals in the original rock, either by forming new ones or by rearranging the existing minerals into different structures.

7. Can you provide two examples of traditional energy sources?

Ans: The two examples of traditional energy sources are:

Coal: This is a type of fossil fuel made from ancient plant material that was buried under layers of sediment. Over millions of years, heat and pressure transformed it into coal, which is used for making electricity and heating.
Natural Gas: This fossil fuel is mainly methane and comes from the remains of marine organisms buried under sediment. It's used for heating homes, generating electricity, and as fuel for vehicles.

8. Describe the process of how fossil fuels are formed and give some examples of fossil fuels.

Ans: Fossil fuels formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals. For coal, plant material in swamps gets buried under sediment and turns into coal over millions of years with heat and pressure. Oil and natural gas come from tiny marine organisms buried under sediment. Over time, heat and pressure change these remains into oil and natural gas. Examples include coal, which is used for electricity, and oil (petroleum), used for fuel and various products.

9. What is solar energy, and in what ways is it utilised?

Ans: Solar energy is the energy we get from the sun’s light and heat. We capture it using solar panels, which convert sunlight into electricity or heat. Solar energy is used to power homes and businesses, heat water, and run appliances. It helps reduce the need for fossil fuels and lowers electricity bills while being environmentally friendly.

10. What are the benefits and drawbacks of using wind energy?

Ans: Benefits:

Renewable: Wind energy is a renewable source, meaning it won’t run out as long as the wind blows.
Clean: It produces no pollution, making it better for the environment compared to fossil fuels.

Drawbacks:

Inconsistent: Wind energy depends on wind, which isn’t always reliable or strong.
Wildlife Impact: Wind turbines can be harmful to birds and bats, and they can also affect local wildlife habitats.

11. What are four different uses for manganese?

Ans: Manganese has several important uses. It is mainly added to steel to make it stronger and harder, which helps in building and making machinery. It is also used in batteries, like those in flashlights and remote controls, to make them work better. Manganese is used to make special alloys, such as manganese bronze, which are tough and resist rust. Lastly, it is included in fertilisers and animal feed to provide essential nutrients for plants and animals.

12. What are three methods for conserving mineral resources?

Ans: The three methods for conserving mineral resources:

Recycling and Reuse: Recycling old metal products reduces the need to mine for new materials. Reusing items helps cut down on waste and saves resources.
Efficient Use: Using minerals carefully means we don’t waste them. Improving how we use and process these materials helps to use less and make more from what we have.
Sustainable Practices: Following methods that protect the environment while mining helps save resources. This includes careful planning and management to ensure minerals last longer and are available for future needs.

13. Which of the following fuels is considered environmentally friendly?

(a) Coal

(b) Firewood

(d) Natural gas

Ans: (d) Natural gas

Natural gas is considered the most environmentally friendly fuel among the options. It burns cleaner than coal, firewood, and petroleum, meaning it creates less pollution and fewer harmful gases. However, it’s still a fossil fuel, so it does have some impact on the environment.

14. Is it true or false that ferrous minerals account for approximately three-fourths of the total value of metallic mineral production?

(a) True

(b) False

Ans: (a) True

Ferrous minerals, like iron ores, make up about three-fourths of the total value of metallic minerals produced. These minerals are very important for making steel and other materials.

15. What are three key differences between conventional and non-conventional sources of energy?

Ans: Conventional energy sources are the traditional ones we’ve used for a long time, like coal and oil. They are often not renewable and can cause pollution. Non-conventional energy sources are newer, like solar and wind power. They are renewable, meaning they won’t run out, and they are better for the environment.

Conventional sources can run out and often cause pollution.
Non-conventional sources are renewable and cleaner.
Conventional sources have a high environmental impact, while non-conventional sources are more eco-friendly.

16. How is energy essential to our modern life? Provide three examples to illustrate its importance.

Ans: Energy is very important because it powers many things we use every day. It makes our lives easier and supports many activities that we rely on.

Energy powers our home appliances, like refrigerators and lights.
It helps us travel using cars, buses, and trains.
It enables factories to produce goods and support jobs.

17. Who are the leading producers of petroleum in India?

Ans: The leading producers of petroleum in India are:

Reliance Industries: A large private company in India, Reliance Industries runs big oil refineries and explores oil. They are known for their major role in the oil industry and advanced technology.
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC): ONGC is a major government company responsible for a lot of India’s oil production. They find and extract oil from various places across the country.
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC): IOC is a big public company that refines oil into products like petrol and diesel. They also distribute these products widely across India.

18. What are the three main types of fossil fuels found in India?

Ans: the three main types of fossil fuels found in India are:

Coal: India has large coal reserves. It is mainly used for generating electricity and in industries like steel production.
Petroleum: This includes crude oil, which is refined into fuels such as petrol and diesel. It is essential for transportation and making other products.
Natural Gas: Found in several places in India, natural gas is used for cooking, heating, and generating power. It is also important for making fertilisers and chemicals.

19. What are three characteristics of the Bellary-Chitradurga, Chikmagalur-Tumkur iron-ore belt in India?

Ans: The Bellary-Chitradurga, Chikmagalur-Tumkur iron-ore belt is a major iron ore mining area in India known for its large iron ore reserves. This region is important because it provides a lot of high-quality iron ore used in making steel.

High-Quality Deposits: This belt has large amounts of high-quality iron ore.
Major Mining Towns: Key towns include Bellary, Chitradurga, and Tumkur.
Economic Impact: It supports a big steel industry and helps the local economy.

20. How is coal distributed across India?

Ans: Coal is found in several parts of India, which affects where energy is produced and how different regions develop.

Eastern India: The main coal reserves are in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. These areas have large coal mines that produce most of the country's coal.
Central India: Coal deposits are also found in Madhya Pradesh. This region helps meet the energy needs of central India.
Western and Southern India: These regions have fewer coal reserves, so they rely on coal from other parts of the country.

21. How does India’s mineral resource wealth vary across different regions? Provide examples to support this.

Ans: India has different types of minerals in various regions, and this affects regional industries and economies.

Northern India: This area has a lot of coal and limestone. Coal is used for power generation, while limestone is used to make cement. States like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan are notable for these resources.
Eastern India: Rich in iron ore and bauxite, which are used in making steel and aluminium. States like Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal are key players in these industries.
Southern India: Known for deposits of gold and mica. Gold is used in jewellery and electronics, while mica is used in cosmetics and electrical equipment. States like Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh are important for these minerals.

22. How are minerals an essential part of our daily lives? Provide examples to support this statement.

Ans: Minerals are very important because they are used in many everyday items and activities.

Electronics: Minerals like copper and lithium are essential for making phones, computers, and batteries. Copper is used in wiring, and lithium is used in rechargeable batteries.
Construction: Cement, made from limestone, and steel, made from iron ore, are used to build houses, roads, and bridges. These materials are fundamental for construction and infrastructure.
Transportation: Metals such as aluminium and steel are used in vehicles like cars, trains, and aeroplanes. Aluminium is lightweight and helps in making vehicles more fuel-efficient, while steel provides strength and durability.

23. What are the main types of manufacturing industries in India, and how do they contribute to the country's economy?

Ans: India has several important manufacturing industries like textiles, steel, cars, chemicals, and electronics. Textiles, which include clothes and fabrics, provide many jobs and bring in money from exports. Steel is used for building and construction. Car factories create jobs and drive new technology. The chemical industry makes products used in many other industries. Electronics help India stay advanced in technology. All these industries support economic growth by making products, creating jobs, and boosting the economy.

24. Describe the role of industrialisation in the economic development of a region. Provide examples of how industrialisation has impacted specific areas in India.

Ans: Industrialization helps regions grow by creating jobs, increasing production, and improving living conditions. For example, Gujarat has grown economically because of its industries in chemicals and textiles. In Tamil Nadu, Chennai has become a major car-making centre, boosting the local economy. Mumbai in Maharashtra has developed into a big industrial and financial centre, attracting businesses and investment. These examples show how industrialization leads to better economic development in different areas.

25. How do factors like raw materials, labour, and transportation affect the location of manufacturing industries?

Ans: The location of manufacturing industries is influenced by raw materials, labour, and transportation. Industries often set up near raw materials to reduce transport costs and ensure they have a steady supply. For instance, steel plants are near iron ore sources. The availability of workers also affects where industries are located; they might choose areas with lots of workers or lower wages. Good transport links, like roads and railways, are important for moving materials and products. These factors help decide the best place to set up industries.

26. What is the significance of the textile industry in India, and how does it impact employment and economic growth?

Ans: The textile industry is very important for India. It provides many jobs and helps the economy grow. It contributes a lot to the country's earnings and exports. The industry gives jobs to millions of people, especially in rural areas where other jobs might be scarce. It also helps keep traditional crafts and skills alive. By creating jobs and supporting local economies, the textile industry is key to India’s growth and development.

27. Discuss the environmental challenges associated with manufacturing industries and suggest measures to mitigate these challenges.

Ans: Manufacturing industries have several environmental challenges like pollution and resource depletion. Factories can pollute the air, water, and soil. To reduce this, they can use cleaner technologies and improve waste management. Overusing natural resources can cause shortages, so industries should use resources more efficiently and recycle. Industrial activities can also harm natural habitats, so it’s important to follow environmental rules and practice sustainability. High energy use can lead to more pollution, so switching to renewable energy and using energy wisely can help reduce these issues.

Important Topics of Class 10 Geography Chapter 5 Minerals and Energy Resources

In Class 10 Geography Chapter 5, Minerals and Energy Resources Important Questions students explore various important topics related to farming and crop production. Understanding these topics helps students understand how Minerals and Energy Resources work and why it is important in everyday life.

S. No	Important Topic	Explanation
1	Types of Minerals	This topic explains different minerals like metals and non-metals. It covers what they are used for and where they are found.
2	Mineral Resources in India	This section talks about important minerals in India, such as coal and iron ore. It shows where they are found and why they are important to the country.
3	Energy Resources	Energy resources include things like coal, oil, and natural gas. This topic explains how these are used to produce energy for homes and industries.
4	Conservation of Mineral Resources	This topic focuses on saving and managing mineral resources carefully. It discusses how to use these resources wisely so they last longer.
5	Problems of Mineral Extraction	Students learn about problems caused by mining, like environmental damage and health risks. It also covers challenges in extracting minerals.
6	Types of Energy Resources	This section covers different energy sources, like coal and solar power. It explains their uses and how they affect the environment.
7	Importance of Renewable Energy	Renewable energy sources, like wind and solar power, are important for reducing pollution. This topic highlights why using these sources is better for the environment.

Benefits of Learning with Minerals and Energy Resources Important Questions and Answers Class 10

Using Vedantu’s important questions helps students focus on the main points of the chapter, making studying easier.
Practising Minerals and Energy Resources Important Questions prepare students for the types of questions they will see on the exam, helping them feel more confident.
Answering these questions helps students learn about different minerals and energy resources and understand their importance.
Regular practise with these questions can improve exam scores by making the key ideas clearer.
Learning about minerals and energy resources shows students how these materials are used in everyday life and industries.
Minerals and Energy Resources Chapter 5 teaches how to manage and conserve resources, which is important for protecting the environment.

Conclusion

Studying Class 10 Chapter 5 of Minerals and Energy Resources Important Questions and Answers is essential. It covers various minerals and energy sources, their importance in daily life, and how they are used. Understanding these resources helps us see their role in our economy and environment. Proper management and conservation are crucial for ensuring these resources last for future generations. For extra help with Geography, explore Vedantu’s live classes and study materials. Start learning about these resources today, and visit Vedantu for live classes and resources to score well in exams.

Important Study Materials for Class 10 Geography Chapter 5

S. No	Study Materials Links for Chapter 5 Minerals and Energy Resources
1	Class 10 Geography Minerals and Energy Resources NCERT Solutions
2	Class 10 Geography Minerals and Energy Resources Revision Notes

CBSE Class 10 Geography Chapter-wise Important Questions

S.No	Chapter-wise Important Questions for Class 10 Geography
1	Chapter 1 - Resources and Development Important Question
2	Chapter 2 - Forest and Wildlife Resources Important Question
3	Chapter 3 - Water Resources Important Question
4	Chapter 4 - Agriculture Important Question
6	Chapter 6 - Manufacturing Industries Important Question
7	Chapter 7 - Lifelines of National Economy Important Question

Additional Study Materials for Class 10 Geography

S. No	Study Materials for Class 10 Geography
1	CBSE Class 10 Geography NCERT Solutions
2	CBSE Class 10 Geography Revision Notes
3	CBSE Class 10 Geography NCERT Book
4	CBSE Class 10 Social Science Sample Papers
5	CBSE Class 10 Social Science Previous Years Question Papers

FAQs on CBSE Class 10 Geography Important Questions - Chapter 5 Minerals and Energy Resources

1. What is a mineral? As per the CBSE Class 10 syllabus, describe the different modes in which minerals occur.

A mineral is a homogenous, naturally occurring substance with a definable internal structure. For the 2025-26 board exams, it is important to know their modes of occurrence:

In igneous and metamorphic rocks, they occur in cracks or joints as veins and lodes. Examples include tin and copper.
In sedimentary rocks, they occur in beds or layers as a result of deposition and accumulation. Examples include coal and gypsum.
As a residual mass of weathered material after the decomposition of surface rocks. Bauxite is formed this way.
As alluvial deposits in the sands of valley floors and at the base of hills, also known as 'placer deposits'. Examples include gold and silver.
In ocean waters and ocean beds, where minerals like common salt, magnesium, and manganese nodules are found.

2. What are the key differences between conventional and non-conventional sources of energy? This is an important question for board exams.

The key differences between conventional and non-conventional energy sources are crucial for Class 10 Geography:

Conventional Sources: These are traditional sources that have been in use for a long time. They are generally non-renewable (except hydropower), and their use often leads to environmental pollution. Examples include coal, petroleum, and natural gas.
Non-conventional Sources: These are newer, modern sources of energy. They are renewable, generally eco-friendly, and considered sustainable alternatives for the future. Examples include solar energy, wind energy, tidal energy, and biogas.

3. Explain the distribution of the four major types of coal found in India. Which type is most widely used for commercial purposes?

The distribution of coal is a high-weightage topic. The four major types found in India are:

Anthracite: This is the highest quality hard coal. It is found in small quantities, primarily in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
Bituminous: This is the most popular coal in commercial use and is formed due to increased temperature and burial depth. Major reserves are located in Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.
Lignite: A low-grade brown coal that is soft with high moisture content. The principal reserves are in Neyveli in Tamil Nadu.
Peat: This is formed from decaying organic matter in swamps. It has low carbon content and is not a significant energy source in India.

4. Why is conservation of minerals and energy resources considered more critical today than ever before? Provide three compelling reasons.

Conservation of resources is a vital concept for modern society, and this is a frequently asked HOTS question. Here are three key reasons:

Finite Nature: Mineral and fossil fuel resources are non-renewable and took millions of years to form. Our current rate of consumption is unsustainable and will deplete these resources for future generations.
Economic Impact: Over-extraction and dependence on imports, especially for petroleum, put a heavy strain on the economy. Conserving resources reduces import bills and promotes national self-sufficiency.
Environmental Degradation: The extraction and use of minerals and conventional energy sources lead to severe air, water, and land pollution, deforestation, and contribute significantly to global climate change. Conservation is essential to protect our environment.

5. Describe the adverse effects of mining on the environment and the health of miners.

Mining has significant negative impacts, an important topic for value-based questions in exams:

Environmental Effects: Mining activities cause large-scale deforestation, soil erosion, and land degradation. The slurry and chemical waste from mines often pollute nearby rivers and groundwater. Dust and toxic fumes released into the atmosphere contribute to severe air pollution.
Health of Miners: Miners work in hazardous conditions and are constantly exposed to dust and poisonous fumes, leading to respiratory diseases like pneumoconiosis (black lung disease). The risk of mine roof collapse, flooding, and fires makes it a very dangerous occupation.

6. “India has a rich and varied mineral resource base, but it is unevenly distributed.” Justify this statement with three examples from different regions.

This statement reflects a core geographical reality of India, often expected in a 5-mark question:

The Peninsular Plateau: This region acts as the storehouse for most of India's metallic minerals, coal, and mica. The Chotanagpur Plateau, covering parts of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, is exceptionally rich in iron ore and coal deposits.
Western and Eastern Flanks: The sedimentary basins of the west and east coasts, particularly in Gujarat (Ankleshwar) and Assam (Digboi), contain most of the country's petroleum reserves.
The Northern Plains: The vast alluvial plains of North India are almost entirely devoid of economic minerals because their geological structure, formed by river deposits, is not conducive to mineral formation.

This uneven distribution heavily influences the location of industries and the economic development of various regions.

7. How can India strategically reduce its dependence on imported oil and what role can non-conventional energy sources play in this shift?

Reducing oil dependency is crucial for India's energy security. A strategic shift towards non-conventional sources is essential:

Expanding Solar Power: India has immense potential for solar energy. By promoting large-scale solar parks and rooftop solar installations under the National Solar Mission, particularly in sunny states like Rajasthan and Gujarat, India can generate vast amounts of clean electricity.
Harnessing Wind Energy: Developing large wind farms, especially in the long coastal stretches of Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, can provide a significant, clean alternative for power generation.
Promoting Biofuels and Electric Vehicles (EVs): Encouraging the use of biofuels like ethanol and promoting the adoption of EVs can directly reduce the consumption of petrol and diesel in the transport sector, which is a major consumer of imported oil.

8. What is bauxite? Explain its formation and its importance in the manufacturing industry.

Bauxite is a crucial non-ferrous mineral for the Indian economy. Key points for a 3-mark question include:

Formation: Bauxite is a clay-like substance formed by the decomposition of surface rocks rich in aluminium silicates. This weathering process leaves behind a residual mass of bauxite ore.
Importance: Bauxite is the primary ore from which aluminium is extracted. Aluminium is a highly valued metal due to its properties of being extremely lightweight, strong, and a good conductor of electricity. It is extensively used in manufacturing aircraft, automobiles, utensils, and electrical wires.
Major Deposits: The Amarkantak plateau, Maikal hills, and the plateau region of Bilaspur-Katni are significant bauxite-producing areas in India.

9. Explain the importance of manganese as a raw material. Name the largest manganese-producing state in India.

Manganese is a vital ferrous mineral, and its applications are a common topic for exams:

It is a key raw material for the iron and steel industry; nearly 10 kg of manganese is required to manufacture one tonne of steel.
It is used to produce ferro-manganese alloys, which improve the strength and hardness of steel.
Beyond steel, manganese is also used in manufacturing bleaching powder, insecticides, and paints.

As per the 2025-26 syllabus reference, Madhya Pradesh is the largest producer of manganese ore in India.

10. Why is natural gas considered an important and environmentally friendly fuel for the 21st century?

Natural gas is often highlighted as a 'bridge fuel' in the transition to renewable energy. Its importance can be explained in three points:

Eco-Friendly Fuel: It is a cleaner-burning fuel compared to coal and petroleum because it emits significantly lower levels of carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, thus reducing air pollution.
Versatile Uses: It serves as a primary fuel in power generation, a raw material in the petrochemical industry, a heating fuel for homes and industries, and a transport fuel (CNG).
Improved Infrastructure: The expansion of the Hazira-Vijaipur-Jagdishpur (HVJ) pipeline has been instrumental in making gas accessible to major industrial sectors, especially fertilizer plants, across India.