Water Resources - Class 10 Geography - Chapter 3 - Notes, NCERT Solutions & Extra Questions
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Notes - Water Resources | Class 10 Contemporary India - II | Social Science
Water resources are one of the most crucial aspects of life on Earth. This article provides comprehensive notes for Class 10 students to understand water resources, their importance, causes of scarcity, and conservation methods. Let's dive into the essentials of water resources.
Understanding Water Resources
What Are Water Resources?
Water resources refer to all sources of water that are potentially useful to humans. These include surface water (rivers, lakes) and groundwater (aquifers).
Importance of Water Resources
Water is vital for daily human use, including drinking, cooking, and sanitation. Industries use water for cooling machines and generating power, while agriculture relies on irrigation.
The Hydrological Cycle
The hydrological cycle is a continuous process through which water circulates between the Earth's surface and the atmosphere. It involves stages such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.
Freshwater Sources
Freshwater is essential for all terrestrial life. Major sources include:
Surface run-off
Groundwater
Direct precipitation
Understanding Water Scarcity
Despite water being a renewable resource, many regions face water scarcity due to over-exploitation, excessive use, and unequal distribution. It's predicted that by 2025, around two billion people will live in absolute water scarcity.
Causes and Effects of Water Scarcity
Water scarcity arises from several factors:
Population growth: Increased demand for domestic and agricultural water.
Agricultural demand: Expansion of irrigated areas for food production.
Urbanisation: Increased water and energy consumption.
Industrial activities: Heavy usage and pollution of water.
Strategies for Water Conservation
To address water scarcity, various conservation strategies can be employed:
Efficient usage: Minimizing waste in households.
Agricultural practices: Adopting drought-resistant crops and dry farming techniques.
Industrial practices: Recycling water and reducing waste.
Traditional and Modern Water Conservation Methods
Traditional Water Harvesting Techniques
India has a rich history of water conservation. Traditional methods like 'Kuls' in the Himalayas and 'Khadins' in Rajasthan have been used for centuries.
Modern Water Conservation Techniques
Modern techniques include rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge. Rooftop rainwater harvesting is an effective way to collect and store water for future use.
Multi-purpose River Projects and Dams
Multi-purpose River Projects
These projects are designed to serve multiple purposes like irrigation, electricity generation, and flood control. Examples include the Bhakra-Nangal Project and the Hirakud Dam.
Role of Dams in Water Management
Dams store and regulate river flow, helping in irrigation, providing drinking water, and generating hydroelectric power.
Environmental and Social Impacts of Dams
While beneficial, dams can alter habitats, displace communities, and cause sedimentation issues.
Role of Governments and Policies
Government Initiatives
The Government of India has launched initiatives like the Jal Jeevan Mission to provide potable water to rural households and ensure sustainable water management practices.
Community and Individual Efforts
Community-led water management and awareness programs play a crucial role in conserving water resources. Individuals can contribute by using water efficiently and participating in local conservation efforts.
Conclusion
Water resources are vital for sustaining life, agriculture, and industry. Given the challenges of water scarcity, it is crucial to adopt both traditional and modern conservation methods. With collective efforts from governments, communities, and individuals, we can ensure the sustainable use of water resources for future generations.
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Extra Questions - Water Resources | Contemporary India - II | Social Science | Class 10
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Ask Chatterbot AINCERT Solutions - Water Resources | Contemporary India - II | Social Science | Class 10
Based on the information given below classify each of the situations as ‘suffering from water scarcity’ or ‘not suffering from water scarcity’.
(a) Region with high annual rainfall.
(b) Region having high annual rainfall and large population.
(c) Region having high annual rainfall but water is highly polluted.
(d) Region having low rainfall and low population.
(a) Region with high annual all rainfall: Not suffering from water scarcity.
(b) Region having high annual rainfall and large population: Suffering from water scarcity, mainly due to high population needing more water resources.
(c) Region having high annual rainfall but water is highly polluted: Suffering from water scarcity, since polluted water is not usable despite the rainfall.
(d) Region having low rainfall and low population: Not suffering from water the scarcity as the low population can be supported by the available water.
Which one of the following statements is not an argument in favour of multipurpose river projects?
(a) Multi-purpose projects bring water to those areas which suffer from water scarcity.
(b) Multi-purpose projects by regulating water flow helps to control floods.
(c) Multi-purpose projects lead to large scale displacements and loss of livelihood.
(d) Multi-purpose projects generate electricity for our industries and our homes.
(c) Multi-purpose projects lead to large scale displacements and loss of livelihood.
Here are some false statements. Identify the mistakes and rewrite them correctly.
(a) Multiplying urban centres with large and dense populations and urban lifestyles have helped in proper utilisation of water resources.(b) Regulating and damming of rivers does not affect the river’s natural flow and its sediment flow.
(c) Today in Rajasthan, the practice of rooftop rainwater water harvesting has gained popularity despite high water availability due to the Indira Gandhi Canal.
(a) Original Statement:Multiplying urban centres with large and dense populations and urban lifestyles have helped in proper utilisation of water resources.
Corrected Statement:Multiplying urban centres with large and dense populations and urban lifestyles have aggravated the problems related to water scarcity by increasing demand and strain on existing water resources.
(b) Original Statement:Regulating and damming of rivers does not affect the river’s natural flow and its sediment flow.
Corrected Statement:Regulating and damming of rivers significantly affect the river’s natural flow and disrupt the sediment flow, leading to ecological and environmental consequences downstream.
(c) Original Statement:Today in Rajasthan, the practice of rooftop rainwater water harvesting has gained popularity despite high water availability due to the Indira Gandhi Canal.
Corrected Statement:Today in Rajasthan, the practice of rooftop rainwater harvesting is on the decline as plenty of water is available due to the perennial Indira Gandhi Canal, although some households maintain traditional systems due to preference for the taste of rainwater.
Explain how water becomes a renewable resource.
Water is classified as a renewable resource because it gets continuously replenished through the hydrological cycle. This cycle involves the processes of evaporation (from bodies of water), condensation (forming clouds), and precipitation (rain or snow), which returns water to the surface of the Earth. Additionally, water also recharges groundwater sources like aquifers through infiltration from the surface. This constant recycling and natural replenishment ensure that water, although finite in quantity at any given moment, is renewed over time, making it a renewable resource.
What is water scarcity and what are its main causes?
Water scarcity refers to the shortage in water resources sufficient to meet the standard water demands within a region. It is not just about the physical availability of water but also about the quality of water being good enough for use. The main causes of water scarcity are primarily:
Over-exploitation: Using water beyond sustainable levels, for instance, excessive groundwater pumping leading to a decrease in water tables.
Excessive Use: High consumption patterns, especially in agriculture (the largest consumer of water) and industries, can lead to unsustainably high levels of water usage.
Unequal Access to Water: Differences in availability due to socio-economic status or geographical location can lead to water scarcity even when physically, water is present.
Variations in Seasonal and Annual Precipitation: Changes in weather patterns can cause areas to have drought conditions which exacerbate scarcity conditions.
Pollution: Contamination of water supplies by industrial, agricultural, and human pollutants can render water unfit for use, effectively reducing the quantity of usable water.
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of multi-purpose river projects.
Advantages of Multi-Purpose River Projects:
1. Irrigation Support: They provide water for agricultural activities, enhancing food production.
2. Hydropower Generation: They facilitate electricity production, contributing to energy supplies.
3. Flood Control: Dams help regulate river flow, reducing the risk of floods.
4. Water Supply: They ensure a consistent water supply for domestic and industrial uses.
Disadvantages of Multi-Purpose River Projects:
1. Environmental Impact: Dams can lead to ecological damage, affecting local wildlife and habitats.
2. Displacement: Construction often displaces communities, leading to loss of livelihood and cultural heritage.
3. Sedimentation: Accumulation reduces reservoir capacity and affects water quality.
4. High Costs: These projects require significant investment and ongoing maintenance.
Discuss how rainwater harvesting in semi-arid regions of Rajasthan is carried out.
In semi-arid regions of Rajasthan, rainwater harvesting is a crucial practice due to the limited and erratic rainfall. Traditional methods include the construction of tanks or tankas; these are underground storage systems often built within the courtyards of homes. Rooftop rainwater harvesting is also prominent where rainwater from rooftops is channeled through pipes into these tankas. The first rain is usually not collected to allow for cleaning of surfaces. Once collected, the water is preserved and used judiciously during dry spells. Some households maintain these systems alongside modern facilities, as they prefer the taste and reliability of harvested rainwater over tap water. This method proves sustainable and enhances water security in these arid zones.
Describe how modern adaptations of traditional rainwater harvesting methods are being carried out to conserve and store water.
Modern adaptations of traditional rainwater harvesting methods have incorporated advanced technology and design to enhance efficiency and ease of use. Rooftop rainwater harvesting is commonly practiced, where water from roofs is channeled into storage tanks via pipes, often equipped with first flush devices to discard the initial runoff which may contain pollutants. In urban settings, rain gardens and permeable pavements are used to increase water absorption into the ground, reducing runoff and promoting groundwater recharge. Additionally, artificial recharge wells are sometimes used to direct collected rainwater into underground aquifers, ensuring a sustainable water supply. These adaptations demonstrate a blend of traditional wisdom and modern technology to preserve and utilize precious water resources efficiently.
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In Rajasthan, an old method in which ponds that are dug up to store rainwater are called:
A) Talabs or Bandhis
B) Rapat
C) Jaleb
D) pond
The correct answer is A) Talabs or Bandhis.
In Rajasthan, a traditional method to store rainwater involves creating excavated bodies of water known as Talabs or Bandhis. These structures serve as reservoirs or medium-sized lakes, playing a crucial role in water conservation.
Mahibur takes a bath every day, Pallav washes his clothes every alternate day, and Anmol has three leaking taps in his house which constantly drip water. Who among the three is responsible for the wastage of water?
A) Mahibur
B) Pallav
C) Anmol
D) All three of them are wasting water
Correct Answer: C) Anmol
Explanation: The activities of Mahibur and Pallav, such as taking a bath and washing clothes, involve the usage of water, which is essential for maintaining personal hygiene. While these activities use water, they do not necessarily imply wastage if done responsibly.
On the other hand, Anmol has three leaking taps in his house that are continuously dripping water. Even though this may seem minor, leaking taps can lead to a significant and continuous wastage of water. This type of water loss is often overlooked but accumulates over time, contributing to a considerable waste of precious resources.
Thus, among the three, Anmol is responsible for the wastage of water due to the non-stop dripping of leaking taps.
Can we consume distilled water?
Yes, you can drink distilled water. However, you might find the taste to be flat and less flavorful compared to tap and bottled waters. Distillation removes impurities and minerals from the water. Some sources suggest that drinking distilled water can help detoxify your body and improve your health.
Is the big clay jar used to store drinking water?
A) Panpoi
B) Dam
C) Bund
D) Houd
The correct answer is A) Panpoi.
In various regions, large clay jars, commonly placed on roadsides, are utilized for storing drinking water. These are referred to as panpoi. The water stored in these jars is usually available free of charge to anyone who needs it.
Consider the following statements regarding Bharat Nirman:
It aims to build rural infrastructure.
National Rural Drinking Water Programme is one of the six components of Bharat Nirman. Identify the correct statements:
A (a) Only 1
B (b) Only 2
C (c) Both 1 and 2
D (d) None of the above
The correct option is C (c) Both 1 and 2.
Bharat Nirman, initiated in 2005 by the Government of India, is a transformative initiative specifically designed to construct rural infrastructure. Among its integral aspects, the program encompasses the National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP), which is crucial for providing adequate and safe drinking water to India's rural populace. Indeed, the NRDWP stands as one of the six pivotal components of Bharat Nirman, emphasizing its role in facilitating essential infrastructure development in rural areas.
Which of the following are marine water fishes?
A) Grey Mullet
B) Mrigal
C) Catla
D) Milk Fish
The correct options are A) Grey Mullet and D) Milk Fish.
Grey Mullet and Milk Fish are species that thrive in marine or saltwater environments.
In contrast, other options like B) Mrigal and C) Catla are typically found in freshwater settings. They belong to the group known as Indian major carps, which also includes other freshwater species like Rohu and Tilapia. These fishes are primarily cultured in freshwater environments rather than marine waters.
Thus, for the given question, the marine water fishes are options A) Grey Mullet and D) Milk Fish.
Select the appropriate option based on the following statements.
Statement 1: In India, there are more than 70 lakh wells, that are both Kutcha and Pucca, in the alluvial plain regions. Statement 2: We can generally find tanks in the Deccan plateau region.
A. Both statements are false.
B. Both statements are true.
C. Statement 1 is true and Statement 2 is false.
D. Statement 1 is false and Statement 2 is true.
The correct answer is B. Both statements are true.
Statement 1 notes that in India, there are more than 70 lakh wells, both Kutcha and Pucca, in the alluvial plain regions. These wells significantly contribute to irrigation, covering about 38% of the net irrigated area of the country.
Statement 2 mentions that tanks are generally found in the Deccan plateau region. These tanks also aid in irrigation, managing to irrigate approximately 10% of the net irrigated area. The hard and impervious rock formations in the Deccan plateau prevent the water from seeping deeply into the ground, which supports the existence and utility of these tanks in this specific region.
Small area dug up to collect rainwater, mostly found in Rajasthan is called
A) Kund
B) Talab
C) Johad
D) Bandhi
The correct options are:
B) Talab
D) Bandhi
Talabs and Bandhis are traditional methods used for rainwater harvesting in Rajasthan. These structures have been used for many years to effectively collect and store rainwater.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a water purification technique which uses the principle of ion exchange to remove impurities. Consider the following statements with reference to RO: Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1 only
2 only
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
The correct option is D
Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: The National Green Tribunal has directed the Environment Ministry to issue a notification banning RO Purifiers where the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in water is below 500 milligrams per litre and to sensitise the public about the ill-effects of demineralized water. TDS are vital minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, sodium, potassium, and carbonates, which are usually present in potable water.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The ban is applicable to household RO purifiers, packaged drinking water industries, the pharmaceutical industry, and institutional users of RO purifiers. Desalination plants in coastal cities are exempt from the ban, as the TDS in saline waters is usually more than 500 mg per litre. Desalination plants normally add essential TDS, post-RO desalination of saline water, to replenish the distilled water with vital minerals.
Analyse the scenarios given below and identify the people responsible for the wastage of water.
Mahibur takes a bath every day.
Pallav washes his clothes every alternate day.
Anmol has three leaking taps in his house.
Priya has a water fountain in her garden.
The people responsible for the wastage of water are:
C. Anmol, who has three leaking taps in his house.
D. Priya, who has a water fountain in her garden.
Explanation:
Daily activities like bathing and washing clothes are essential for maintaining personal hygiene and can't be considered wastage of water.
Leaking taps and water fountains, on the other hand, can lead to significant water wastage over time, often without being noticed.
Therefore, Anmol and Priya are the ones responsible for the unnecessary wastage of water in the given scenarios.
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