Landforms and Life Class 6 Question Answer | Social Science Chapter 3 NCERT Solutions

 

NCERT Class 6 Social Science SST Chapter 3 Landforms and Life Questions and Answers Solutions

Landforms and Life Class 6 Questions and Answers (In-Text)

The Big Questions (Page 41)

Question 1.

What are the major types of landforms and their significance to life and culture?

Answer:

The major types of landforms are the mountains, the plateaus and the plains.

• Mountains: Mountains are the land- forms that are much higher than the surrounding landscape. Depending on their height, some mountains are covered with snow. At lower altitudes, the snow melts eveiy summer and turns into water that feeds rivers. At high altitudes, the snow may never melt, leaving the mountain permanently snow-capped.
• Plateaus: A plateau is a land form that rises up from the surrounding land and has a more or less flat surface; some of its slides are often steep slopes. Tibetan Plateau is the largest and highest plateau in the world. Plateaus are the ‘store house of minerals’. Mining is the major activity on plateaus where many of the world’s largest mines are found.
• Plains: Plains are the landforms that have an extensive flat or gently undulating surface. They donot have any large hills. They are generally not more than 300 metres above the sea level. Significance of mountains, plateaus and plains in human life and culture.

Mountains:

• Mountain regions has rich flora and fauna.
• Most of the mountain regions has almost very low pollution.
• Regular farming is practised on the slopes by cutting steps into the slope called terrace farming.
• Tourism is often an important source of income for the people living in the mountains.
• The crisp mountain air and scenic beauty attracts many tourists.

Plateaus:

• Plateaus have rich mineral deposits.
• Many of the mining areas in the world are located in the plateau regions.
• For e.g. the African plateau is famous for gold and diamond mining.
• The Chhota Nagpur plateau in India has huge reserves of Iron, Coal etc.
• The Plateau environment is very diverse across the world. Many Plateaus have a rocky soil, which makes them less favourable for farming.
• Plateaus are the home to many spectacular water falls.
  Plains: Thousands of years ago, the first civilisations developed around rivers in fertile plains. In our times too, a large part of the worlds population lives in plains. Most of the big cities around the world are based near the river bed.
• Plains in many areas are important for doing agriculture work on a large scale.
• Plains have a gentle slope, river navigation is easy and supports a lot of economic activities.
• Even today these are stretches along Ganga where people prefer to use boats to move around.

Question 2.

What are the challenges and opportunities of life associated with each landform?

Answer:

The challenges and opportunities of life associated with each landform are as follows:

Mountains: Living in mountainous regions presents several challenges and opportunities. The cold weather and heavy snowfall can make everyday life difficult, impacting transportation and agriculture. Steep slopes also pose challenges for construction and infrastructure development. However, mountains offer unique opportunities, including breathtaking scenery that attracts tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, creating economic opportunities through tourism.

Mountains are also vital souqrees of freshwater, as many rivers and streams originate there, providing essential resources for downstream communities. Additionally, the diverse ecosystems support unique flora and fauna, contributing to biodiversity.

Plains: Plains are generally favourable for human habitation due to their flat and fertile land, making them ideal for agriculture and the development of infrastructure. This leads to dense human settlements and thriving communities. However, plains can also face challenges, such as the risk of flooding, which can damage crops and property.

Despite this, the ease of transportation and trade in plains areas facilitates cultural and economic growth, turning many plains regions into cultural and economic hubs. The agricultural potential of plains supports large populations and contributes significantly to food production.

Plateaus: Plateaus, characterized by elevated flatlands, offer a mix of challenges and opportunities. The terrain can be less fertile and dry, making agriculture difficult without proper irrigation. Access to water sources may also be limited. However, plateaus are often rich in mineral resources, making them prime locations for mining activities.

They are suitable for livestock grazing and sometimes provide unique ecosystems and isolated communities with distinct cultures. The scenic landscapes of plateaus can also attract tourists, adding to their economic opportunities.

Hills: Hills, smaller than mountains, present their own set of challenges and opportunities. The slopes can complicate farming and construction, and there is a risk of landslides in certain areas. Despite these challenges, hills offer opportunities for terraced farming, which can make agriculture viable on slopes. They are also popular for tourism and outdoor activities, thanks to their scenic views and cooler climates. Hills often host historical sites and ancient structures, adding cultural significance and attracting visitors.

Deserts: Deserts are known for their harsh living conditions, with extreme temperatures and limited water sources posing significant challenges to human habitation and agriculture. However, deserts also offer unique opportunities. The ariaf environment is home to specialized plants and animals that have adapted to the conditions.

Deserts are often rich in minerals like oil and natural gas, providing economic opportunities through resource extraction. Additionally, the stark beauty and unique landscapes of deserts attract tourists and support cultural traditions adapted to the harsh environment.

Valleys: Valleys, often formed by rivers between hills or mountains, offer fertile land that is ideal for agriculture, presenting significant opportunities for food production. However, they can be prone to flooding, which poses a risk to crops and settlements.

Valleys provide natural protection and resources for communities, fostering early civilizations due to the availability of water and fertile soil. The rivers in valleys offer water for irrigation, drinking, and transportation, supporting both agricultural and human needs. Valleys often become centers of human activity and development, blending natural beauty with practical living conditions.

Let’s Explore

Question 1.

As a class activity, form groups of four or five students and observe the school’s surroundings. What kind of landscape do you see? Will the landscape change a few kilometres away? Or within some 50 kilometres? Compare with other groups.

Answer:

• Our school located in urban area. We see tall buildings, roads, parks, some trees around the school. There are no water bodies or hills.
• Landscape nearby: Residential areas, commercial buildings, crowded markets, garden, parks, etc.

Question 2.

In the same groups, discuss a journey that any of you has made through a region of India. List the different landscapes seen on the way. Compare it with other groups.

Answer:

The following landscapes can be observed during the journey in India

(a) Mountains

(b) Plains

(c) Plateaus

(d) Deserts

(e) Coastal region

Question 3.

Here are two verses from a long poem by Kālidāsa, who lived at least 1,500 years ago and is often considered to be the greatest poet of ancient India. The poem, Kumarasambhava, begins with an invocation to the Himalayas. (This is a simplified translation from the Sanskrit.)

In the north rises Himãlaya, the Lord of mountains, like a living god, who measures the Earth and stretches from the western to the eastern oceans….

From it the wind comes down, carrying spray from descending Gangā, shaking the deodar trees, opening the peacocks’ tail feathers and cooling the mountain people after they hunt deer.

Discuss the verses and the following questions in class. (Page 46)

(i) What are the ‘western to the eastern oceans’? Can you locate them as well as the ‘Lord of mountains’ (on page no. 76)?

Answer:

The phrase “western to the eastern oceans” refers to the Arabian Sea to the west and the Bay of Bengal to the east of the Indian subcontinent. These bodies of water form the western and eastern boundaries of the Indian Ocean.

The “Lord of mountains” is the Himalayas, which stretch across northern India, from the west in the region near the Arabian Sea to the east near the Bay of Bengal. On a map (Page no. 76); the Himalayas can be located as the mountain range running across northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.

(ii) Why is Ganga mentioned? (Hint: There could be several reasons.)

Answer:

The Ganga is mentioned due to the following reasons:

(a) The Gangā River, or Ganges, is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is often associated with purity, spiritual cleansing, and has numerous religious festivals centered around it.

(b) The Ganga originates from the Himalayas and flows through the northern plains of India, providing water for agriculture, drinking, and various daily needs. It is a lifeline for millions of people.

(c) The Ganga is a cultural icon, celebrated in literature, poetry, and folklore. Its mention evokes the rich cultural heritage and the natural beauty of the region.

(d) The verses highlight the natural scenery of the Himalayas, where the wind carries the spray from the descending Gangā, illustrating the river’s dynamic presence in the mountainous landscape.

Question 4.

The images (on page 50) depict a few challenges that people living in the mountains may face. Discuss them in groups in the class and write one paragraph on each. Also discuss why, despite many such challenges, people still choose to live in the mountains. (Page 49)

Answer:

Do it yourself.

Question 5.

The picture in Fig. 3.9 has been taken from a satellite. It captures a portion of north India from a high altitude. Observe and discuss the image as a class activity. (Page 54)

(i) Which colour is the Ganga plain?

Answer:

Ganga plain is blue in colour.

(ii) What does the white expanse represent?

Answer:

The white expanse represent the snow or ice sleets in the mountains (Himalayan range).

(iii) What does the brown expanse at the bottom left of the image represent?

Answer:

Plains.

Question 6.

Can you give examples of river sources or confluences from your region that are regarded sacred by any community?

Answer:

Rivers are the main source of fresh water. I am impressed by that region where I am living. River Ganga passes from nearby place. Cool air blows in the morning, birds are chirping. The water is flowing with great speed with full enthusiasm. Fishermen catch hold of the fishes. Children enjoy near the bank of the river.

Question 7.

Visit a nearby river and observe all activities there, whether economic or cultural. Note them down and discuss with your classmates.

Answer:

Do it yourself.

Question 8.

Name some popular tourist destinations in India and identify the category of landform they are associated with.

Answer:

Some popular tourist destinations in India and the category of landform they are associated with are as follows:

1. Shimla and landform is hilly.
2. Goa and landform is coastal plains.
3. Rajasthan and landform is desert.
4. Ladakh and landform is mountains.

Class 6 SST Landforms and Life Question Answer (Exercise)

Question 1.

In what type of landform is your town/village/city located? Which features mentioned in this chapter do you see around you?

Answer:

Do it yourself.

Question 2.

Let us go back to our initial trip from Chhota Nagpur to Prayagraj and Almora. Describe the three landforms you came across on the way.

Answer:

The three landforms that come across on the way are as follows:

The Chhota Nagpur Plateau is a large plateau in eastern India, covering parts of Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. It is known for its rich mineral resources, including coal, iron ore, and bauxite. The plateau has a rugged

terrain with numerous hills and valleys, and it is covered with dense forests and rivers. It is also home to various tribes and has a unique cultural heritage.

As you travel from Chhota Nagpur towards Prayagraj, you enter the Indo-Gangetic Plains. These are expansive flat lands that stretch across northern India. The plains are formed by the deposition of silt by the Ganga and its tributaries, making the soil very fertile. This region is known for its extensive agriculture, supporting the cultivation of crops like wheat, rice, and sugarcane. The plains are also densely populated and have numerous cities and towns.

Continuing the journey from Prayagraj to Almora, you reach the Kumaon Hills in the state of Uttarakhand. The Kumaon region is part of the larger Himalayan mountain range. It is characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and lush forests. Almora, situated in the Kumaon Hills, offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and is known for its pleasant climate, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. The region is also famous for its terraced farming, traditional handicrafts, and temples.

Question 3.

List a few famous pilgrimage spots in India along with the landforms in which they are found.

Answer:

A few famous pilgrimage spots in India along with the landforms in which they are found are:

Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh): It is a river plain and it is located on the banks of the Ganga River, Varanasi is one of the oldest and most sacred cities in Hinduism. It is known for its ghats, temples, and spiritual significance.

Amarnath (Jammu and Kashmir): It have a mountainous landform. Amarnath is famous for the Amarnath Cave Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the Himalayas and attracts thousands of pilgrims during the annual Amarnath Yatra.

Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh): It is located in the hills. Tirupati is home to the famous Venkateswara Temple, situated in the Tirumala Hills. It is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India.

Question 4.

State whether true or false –

i) The Himalayas are young mountains with rounded tops.

Answer:

False

ii) Plateaus usually rise sharply at least on one side.

Answer:

True

iii) Mountains and hills belong to the same type landform.

Answer:

True

iv) Mountains, plateaus and rivers in India have the same types of flora and fauna.

Answer:

True

v) Ganga is a tributary to the Yamuna.

Answer:

False

vi) Deserts have unique flora and fauna.

Answer:

True

vii) Melting snow feeds rivers.

Answer:

True

viii) Sediments from rivers deposited in the plains makes the land fertile.

Answer:

True

ix) All deserts are hot.

Answer:

False

Question 5.

Match the following

Column A	Column B
1. Mount Everest	(a) Africa
2. rafting	(b) roof of the world
3. camels	(c) rice fields
4. plateau	(d) desert
5. Gangetic plains	(e) river
6. waterway	(f) Ganga
7. Mount Kilimanjaro	(g) tributary
8. Yamuna	(h) climbing

Answer :

Column A	Column B
1. Mount Everest	(b) roof of the world
2. rafting	(e) river
3. camels	(d) desert
4. plateau	(a) Africa
5. Gangetic plains	(c) rice fields
6. waterway	(f) Ganga
7. Mount Kilimanjaro	(h) climbing
8. Yamuna	(g) tributary