CBSE Class 6 Social Science Important Questions Chapter 3 - Landforms and Life

1. What are landforms?
Ans: Landforms are physical features on the surface of the Earth, such as mountains, plateaus, and plains, that have formed over millions of years.

2. What are the three main types of landforms?
Ans: The three main types of landforms are mountains, plateaus, and plains.

3. What is a mountain?
Ans: A mountain is a landform that rises significantly above its surrounding landscape, with steep slopes, a broad base, and a narrow summit.

4. What is a plateau?
Ans: A plateau is a flat or gently sloping landform that rises above the surrounding land, with some steep sides.

5. What is a plain?
Ans: A plain is a large area of flat or gently undulating land that is generally lower in elevation than mountains and plateaus.

6. How do mountains affect the climate?
Ans: Mountains affect the climate by blocking winds, causing rain to fall on one side (windward) while creating dry conditions on the other side (leeward). Higher altitudes also lead to cooler temperatures, influencing local weather patterns. Mountains can also affect precipitation, as snow forms at higher altitudes.

7. What is terrace farming, and why is it practised in mountainous regions?
Ans: Terrace farming is a method of farming where steps are cut into the slopes of mountains. It is practised in mountainous regions to prevent soil erosion and to create flat areas where crops can be grown on steep land. This method allows for better water retention and makes farming possible in hilly terrains.

8. How are plateaus formed, and why are they rich in minerals?
Ans: Plateaus are often formed through volcanic activity or the uplift of the Earth's crust. They are rich in minerals because geological processes have exposed mineral deposits near the surface, making them easier to mine. Plateaus like the Deccan Plateau in India are known for their valuable resources such as coal, iron, and manganese.

9. Why do more people live on plains than on mountains or plateaus?
Ans: More people live on plains because plains have fertile soil, making them ideal for agriculture. The flat terrain also makes it easier to build roads, cities, and infrastructure, supporting larger populations. Plains are generally less harsh in terms of climate and easier to access compared to mountains and plateaus.

10. What challenges do people face living in mountainous areas?
Ans: People living in mountainous areas face challenges such as rugged terrain, harsh weather conditions, landslides, avalanches, and limited agricultural opportunities. These factors can make transportation and communication difficult, and residents often rely on terrace farming, herding, and tourism for their livelihood.

11. Describe the characteristics of montane forests found in mountainous regions.
Ans: Montane forests, found in mountainous regions, are characterised by coniferous trees such as pines, firs, spruce, and deodar. These trees grow tall and are cone-shaped, with thin, needle-like leaves. Montane forests thrive in cooler climates, and as altitude increases, they give way to grasslands and smaller plants like mosses and lichen. These forests provide habitats for diverse wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects. Montane forests also play a crucial role in protecting water sources, as rivers often originate in mountainous regions.

12. How do plains contribute to the economic activities of a region?
Ans: Plains contribute significantly to the economic activities of a region by supporting agriculture, which is the primary occupation in these areas. The fertile soil of plains, often enriched by rivers, is ideal for growing crops such as rice, wheat, maize, and cotton. Additionally, plains' flat terrain facilitates transportation, trade, and the development of cities, allowing industries to flourish. River navigation also supports fishing, transport, and tourism. As a result, plains are densely populated and economically vibrant regions.

13. Explain the importance of rivers in the development of early civilizations.
Ans: Rivers played a crucial role in the development of early civilizations by providing a reliable source of water for agriculture, drinking, and sanitation. Fertile river valleys, such as the Ganga plain in India and the Nile valley in Egypt, supported the growth of crops, enabling surplus food production. This allowed civilizations to settle and grow. Rivers also served as natural transportation routes, facilitating trade and communication between different regions. Additionally, rivers held cultural and religious significance, influencing the spiritual and social life of early societies.

14. What are the economic benefits of tourism in mountainous regions?
Ans: Tourism in mountainous regions offers significant economic benefits by providing income through hospitality services such as hotels, restaurants, and local markets. Visitors are drawn to mountains for activities such as trekking, skiing, and sightseeing, which create jobs for local guides, transport operators, and artisans selling handicrafts. Pilgrimages to holy sites in mountainous areas also boost tourism. However, managing tourism sustainably is crucial, as overcrowding can harm the fragile mountain environment, leading to pollution and the degradation of natural landscapes.

15. How have humans adapted to life in deserts, despite harsh living conditions?
Ans: Humans have adapted to life in deserts by developing unique lifestyles and traditions suited to the arid environment. Communities in desert regions, such as the Thar Desert in India, rely on water conservation techniques, including the use of wells and rainwater harvesting. Nomadic groups raise livestock and move with the seasons to find grazing land. Traditional clothing, like loose, light-coloured garments, helps protect against the heat, while local architecture uses thick walls and small windows to keep homes cool. Cultural practices, such as folk songs and storytelling, reflect life in the harsh desert landscape.

16. How do landforms influence cultural traditions in different regions?
Ans: Landforms influence cultural traditions by shaping the way people live, work, and interact with their environment. For example, mountainous regions often have rich folklore related to the mountains' sacred status, while plains may focus on agricultural festivals. In deserts, storytelling traditions may emphasise resilience and survival, while coastal communities celebrate their relationship with the sea through fishing and maritime festivals.

17. What are the environmental impacts of uncontrolled tourism in mountain regions?
Ans: Uncontrolled tourism in mountain regions can lead to deforestation, pollution, and habitat destruction. The increased foot traffic can erode trails and natural landscapes, while waste left by tourists can harm local wildlife. Additionally, the overuse of water resources and energy to accommodate tourists can strain the local environment. Balancing tourism with environmental preservation is essential for maintaining the natural beauty of mountain regions.

18. How can technology aid in reducing the challenges faced by people living in remote mountainous areas?
Ans: Technology can reduce the challenges faced by people in remote mountainous areas by improving communication, transportation, and access to services. For example, satellite-based internet can provide connectivity, allowing residents to access education, healthcare, and markets. Drones can deliver essential supplies to difficult-to-reach locations, and renewable energy sources like solar panels can offer sustainable power solutions. Additionally, technology can support disaster preparedness, helping communities monitor and respond to events like landslides and avalanches.

19. How does terrace farming help in preventing soil erosion in mountainous areas?
Ans: Terrace farming helps prevent soil erosion by creating flat, step-like areas on mountain slopes where crops can be grown. These terraces reduce the speed of water runoff, allowing it to soak into the soil rather than washing it away. By slowing down water flow, terrace farming minimises the risk of landslides and soil erosion, helping to preserve the landscape and maintain soil fertility.

20. What role do rivers play in supporting both cultural and economic life in plains?
Ans: Rivers in plains support both cultural and economic life by providing water for agriculture, enabling the growth of crops that sustain large populations. Culturally, rivers hold spiritual significance, often being the site of festivals, rituals, and pilgrimages. Economically, rivers facilitate transportation, fishing, and trade, connecting different regions and supporting industries along their banks. The rich agricultural output from river plains contributes to the food supply and economic stability of the region.

CBSE Class 6 Social Science Chapter 3 Landlords and Life Important Questions Extra Questions

1. What is a floodplain, and how does it form?
Ans: A floodplain is a flat or gently sloping area of land near a river that is formed by the deposition of sediments during floods. When rivers overflow their banks, they spread nutrient-rich silt across the surrounding land, creating fertile soil that is ideal for agriculture.

2. Why are mountains considered sacred in many cultures?
Ans: Mountains are considered sacred in many cultures because they are often seen as places of spiritual significance, closer to the heavens. Many religions associate mountains with gods, spiritual beings, and ancient legends. For example, Mount Kailash is revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, and Mount Everest holds sacred status for people in Nepal and Tibet.

3. How do plains support large populations?
Ans: Plains support large populations because they offer fertile soil for agriculture, making them ideal for growing crops. The flat terrain also makes it easier to build infrastructure like roads and cities. Additionally, rivers running through plains provide water for drinking, irrigation, and transportation, supporting economic activities and allowing civilizations to thrive.

4. What challenges do people face living in desert regions?
Ans: People living in desert regions face challenges such as extreme temperatures, water scarcity, and limited vegetation. They often rely on innovative methods for water conservation, such as rainwater harvesting and well digging. Additionally, they must adapt to long periods of drought and manage the harsh desert environment, which can make agriculture difficult.

5. What are the benefits of living in mountainous areas?
Ans: The benefits of living in mountainous areas include access to clean air, scenic beauty, and a peaceful environment. Mountain regions also offer opportunities for tourism, sports, and cultural activities, such as pilgrimages. However, residents must balance these benefits with challenges like rugged terrain, harsh weather, and limited access to services.

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