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Soil pollution-control - class-VIII

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Which one of the following is not a method of soil conservation?

  1. Mulching

  2. Overgrazing

  3. Strip cropping

  4. Crop rotation


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Soil conservation is the process of prevention of soil erosion and to prevent the soil from becoming infertile.  In mulching, a protective layer is placed over the soil such as straw, grasses etc., which helps in retaining soil moisture and also regulates soil temperature. Strip cropping is a process in which field is divided into strips and different crops are grown in alternate strips to preserve soil fertility. Crop rotation means growing of different types of crops on the same field in succession which prevents the depletion of nutrients from the soil. Overgrazing or intense grazing will erode the soil.

Thus, the correct answer is option B.

Crop rotation is helpful because

  1. lt provides more nitrates in the soil.

  2. lt provides more sulphates in the soil.

  3. lt provides more potassium in the soil.

  4. lt provides more phosphorus in the soil.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

If the same crop is grown year after year, fertility of soil is lost due to utilization of same minerals again and again, thus, disturbing the soil structure, which facilitates soil erosion. Legumes are useful in rotation of crops because of having nodulated roots which harbour nitrogen fixing Rhizobium bacteria and it leaves more nitrates in the soil when the roots are left over in fields and only aerial parts of legume crops are harvested.

Which of the following may increase the fertility of soil?

  1. Vermicompost

  2. Manure

  3. Industrial waste

  4. Both A and B


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Vermicomposting is a method in which earthworms are used to convert the organic wastes into compost, which is a good fertilizer for plants. It increases the soil fertility. Manure is the organic matter mainly animal feces and straw. It adds nutrients (nitrogen) in the soil, which increases the soil fertility. So, the correct option is D.

In hilly areas, erosion is minimized by

  1. Terracing

  2. Manuring

  3. Ploughing

  4. Mixed cropping


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Soil erosion is removal of top soil by agency of water (water erosion) and wind (wind erosion). One of the methods for soil conservation against soil erosion is terracing. In terracing, slope is divided into a number of flat fields for slowing down the flow of water. Terracing is very effective in hilly areas for control of soil erosion.

Soil erosion can be prevented by

  1. Overgrazing

  2. Removal of vegetation

  3. Afforestation

  4. Increasing birds population


Correct Option: C
Explanation:
Soil erosion can be prevented by afforestation and reforestation. Reforestation is restoration of forests, which have been destroyed by deforestation, while afforestation is planting of new forests. Plants hold soil with there roots and thus prevent erosion.
So, the correct answer is 'Afforestation'

Soil conservation can be best achieved by having a

  1. Wind screens

  2. Good plant cover

  3. Restricted human activity

  4. Low rainfall


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Anthropogenic soil erosion is caused by removal of plant cover through over grazing, litter collection, tree felling, leaving the soil unprotected during agricultural operations. Anthropogenic factors remove green cover and expose the soil to natural agents of soil erosion i.e., water and wind. When rains fall, most of the top layer of soil is washed away, if the soil is not covered by vegetation. 

Conservation of soil can best be achieved through good green cover over soil.

Which of the following can be considered as soil pollutants?

  1. Fertilizers

  2. Pesticides

  3. Weedicides

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Soil pollution is caused by removal or addition of substances which decrease its productivity. It is caused by agrochemicals, industrial wastes, municipal wastes etc. It adversely affects the fertility of the soil. Pesticides, weedicides, and fertilizers are added to soil in agriculture practices to remove unwanted plants and increase the fertility of the soil. These chemicals penetrate into soil and damages the soil.

Thus, the correct answer is option D.

Soil salinization is common in semi-arid region because

  1. Soil erosion occurs very frequently

  2. Leaching is not adequate

  3. Dense microbial flora

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: B
Explanation:
Soil salinization is the process of increasing the salt content in the soil. It is common in semi-arid regions because of inadequate leaching which leads to accumulation of salt below the root zone leading to salinization.
So, the correct answer is option B.

Soil pollution can lead to water pollution

  1. True

  2. False


Correct Option: A
Explanation:
  • The contamination of soil with solid waste, acid rain excess of fertilizers, Insecticides, and herbicides is called soil pollution.
  • Soil pollution can lead to water pollution if toxic chemicals leach(drain away from the soil) into groundwater, or if contaminated runoff reaches streams, lakes, or oceans.
  • Hence Soil pollution can lead to water pollution is a true statement.
  • So, the correct answer is 'True'.

Mulching is helpful in

  1. Increasing soil fertility

  2. Improvement of soil structure

  3. Moisture conservation

  4. Better crops


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Mulching refers to the covering of harvested field with plant litter or polythene of low density, in order to decrease run off, prevent the growth of weeds and retention of water. It protects the roots from seasonal variations.During initial stages of growth, mulching helps to maintain a stable temperature for proliferation of seedling.

Which of the following prevents soil erosion?

  1. Allowing herbivorous animals to graze excessively.

  2. Growing plants to form a soil cover.

  3. Increasing fertility of the soil.

  4. Making the land slopy.


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

When trees are cut on a large scale land becomes barren. This results in the loss of upper soil layer due to heavy wind or flowing water leading to soil erosion. Roots of plants hold the soil particles and prevent their loss. Hence afforestation i.e. growing plants to form a soil cover prevents soil erosion. Thus the correct answer is option B.

Soil conservation is achieved through

  1. Restricted human activities

  2. Good plant cover

  3. Wind screen

  4. Ploughing


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Soil erosion is removal of top soil by agency of water (water erosion) and wind (wind erosion). Soil erosion is of two types- natural and anthropogenic. 

Natural or geological erosion is extremely slow removal of top soil due to rain water or wind. 
Anthropogenic soil erosion is caused by removal of plant cover through over grazing, tree felling, leaving the soil unprotected during agricultural operations. 
Thus, soil conservation can be achieved through good plant cover.

In hilly areas, erosion is minimised by

  1. Terracing

  2. Manuring

  3. Ploughing

  4. Mixed cropping


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Terracing is a process of making sloped plane into series of succesively receding flat surfaces or platforms resembling stairs, this is how erosion is minimised.

So, the correct answer is 'Terracing'

Which of the following area possess poorest decomposition of dead organic matter:-

  1. Tropical rain forest

  2. Temperature deciduous forest

  3. Tundra

  4. Taiga


Correct Option: A
Explanation:
One reason the rainforest soil is so poor is that a large portion of the supplements is put away in the plants themselves. In any woods, dead natural issue tumbles to the ground, giving profitable supplements to new development. In cooler or drier atmospheres, the supplements develop in the dirt. 
So, the correct option is 'Tropical rain forest'.

Soil erosion can be prevented by

  1. Restricted human activity

  2. Good plant cover

  3. Checking movement of animals

  4. Wind screen alone


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Soil erosion is the phenomenon in which the top most layer of soil gets lost, since plants have the capability of holding the soil particles together and prevent them from being eroded away

So, the correct answer is 'Good plant cover'

Which of the following reasons contribute to negative soil pollution?

  1. Reduction of soil productivity due to the addition of agrochemicals

  2. Reduction of soil productivity due to soil erosion and overuse

  3. Reduction of soil productivity due to the addition of industrial wastes

  4. Reduction of soil productivity due to faulty sanitation


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Soil pollution greatly due to use of  large amount of herbicides, pesticides. There also some more reason of soil pollution like industrial wastes are dumped into fertile soil which get polluted and also not having proper satiation. But soil erosion is not responsible for soil pollution, soil erosion is mainly due to deforestation. So B option is right. 

Process of soil conservation involves 

  1. Addition of fertilisers

  2. Aeration of soil

  3. Ploughing

  4. Prevent soil erosion


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Soil conservation is the prevention of soil from erosion or reduced fertility, caused by overuse, acidification, salinization or other chemical soil contamination. Techniques for improved soil conservation include crop rotation, cover crops, conservation tillage and planted windbreaks, that affect both erosion and fertility. 

The management of biosphere in such a way that it may yield one greatest suitable benefit to present generation while maintaining its potential to meet the needs of future generation is 

  1. Conservation

  2. Afforestation

  3. Fossilization

  4. Over-exploitation


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Afforestation is the act of planting trees in a barren land or converting a farmland to a forest in order to use the trees for commercial purposes. Many programs are organised by the government as well as non-government associations to plant trees and thus improving biodiversity.

So, the correct answer is option B.

Alluvial soils are mostly found in which region?

  1. Eastern Ghats

  2. Southern India

  3. Upper Gangetic plains

  4. Eastern Himalaya


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

There is no alluvial basin in the world, which can compare with the Ganga Basin in terms of size, fertility, acreage and topography. It is the most densely populated river basin in the world and is often characterized as a granary or the bread basket of India. 

Alluvial soil is poor in organic matter deficient in nitrogen, rich in potassium and lime. They are formed by weathering of rocks and brought by river and wind. It is characteristic of Indogangetic plains.

Soil erosion can be prevented by 

  1. Over grazing

  2. Removal of vegetation

  3. Afforestation (plantation)

  4. Increasing bird population


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Afforestation is the process of establishing a forest on land, that has not been a forest for a long time by planting trees or their seeds. Soil erosion is when the soil is blown away by the wind or washed away by the rain. Roots of trees or plants hold the soil. Thus, when more trees are planted their roots do not allow the soil to be blown or washed away and prevent soil erosion.

Which of the following statements is not correct?

  1. Forests does not protect the soil from erosion

  2. Plants and animals in a forest are not dependent on one another

  3. Forests influence the climate and water cycle

  4. Soil helps forests to grow and regenerate


Correct Option: A
Explanation:
Trees reduce the rate of erosion by protecting the soil from the impact of rain,
transpiring large amounts of water, which counteracts very wet soil,
binding soil to sloping land with their roots. Forests play a major role in the prevention of the soil erosion.
Thus answer is "Option A"

Soil conservation is the process where 

  1. Soil is aerated

  2. Sterile soil is converted into fertile soil

  3. Soil is protected against loss

  4. Both B and C


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Soil conservation is the prevention of soil from erosion or reduced fertility caused by overuse, acidification, salinization or other chemical soil contamination. Techniques for improved soil conservation include crop rotation, cover crops, conservation tillage and planted windbreaks, that affect both erosion and fertility. 

Soil erosion can be prevented by 

  1. Overgrazing

  2. Removal of vegetation

  3. Afforestation

  4. Deforestation


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Afforestation is the establishment of a forest or trees in an area where there was no forest. As the roots of trees spread deep into the layers of soil, they hold it tightly, thus preventing soil erosion. 

Therefore, the correct answer is option C.

Soil conservation is

  1. Aeration of soil

  2. Erosion of soil

  3. Protection of soil against loss

  4. Conversion of sterile soil into fertile soil


Correct Option: C
Explanation:
Soil conservation is the prevention of soil from erosion or reduced fertility caused by overuse, acidification, salinization or other chemical soil contamination. Slash-and-burn and other unsustainable methods of subsistence farming are practiced in some lesser developed areas.

Terracing is an effective method of soil conservation in

  1. Desert areas

  2. Plain areas

  3. Hill areas

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: C
Explanation:
Terracing is a soil conservation practice applied to prevent rainfall run-off on sloping land from accumulating and causing serious erosion. Terraces consist of ridges and channels constructed across-the-slope. The major benefit is the conservation of soil and water. Terraces reduce both the amount and velocity of water moving across the soil surface, which greatly reduces soil erosion. Terracing thus, permits more intensive cropping than would otherwise be possible
So, the correct answer is 'Hill areas'

Forests

  1. Maintain natural balance

  2. Control atmospheric pollution

  3. Prevent soil erosion

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:
Forests are essential to life on Earth. Without them, the energy of the sun would not be harnessed through the process of photosynthesis, nor would oxygen be released through the same process. Aside from these two vital ingredients to life, they are also important in that they are home to countless species of plants and animals, many of which are endangered. Though tropical forests cover only 7% of the Earth's land mass, they are home to more than 50% of the world's 10-50 million plant and animal species. Often, the plants in the forests also provide us with medicines. On a more basic level, they have provided the human race with wood for centuries, without which people would not be living at the level of comfort they have today.
Having a few trees around homes can cut heating and cooling energy costs in half! Also, with increased levels of contamination of groundwater by chemicals, it is important to note that the thin hair-like root fibers of trees helps in filtering the water. The leaves also act as natural filters of air and water by removing particulate matter. A very important function of trees in the growing concrete-based world is in flood control. The roots hold soil in place, which would otherwise be washed away in heavy rains. Trees also act as natural barriers to the weather elements such as wind and snow. In effect, they are nature's method of climate control.
On a more social level, trees are important to people since they are very aesthetically pleasing -- they provide the scenery which helps relax people. As such, they are a valuable resource for recreation, which in turn contributes to local and national economic growth by providing more jobs.

Soil erosion can be prevented by

  1. Increase in bird population

  2. Afforestation

  3. Over-grazing

  4. Removal of vegetation


Correct Option: B
Explanation:
Afforestation is the planting of vegetation. The vegetative cover protects the soil from the beating and dispersing action of the raindrops by forming a canopy over the soil surface. Vegetation also acts as a mechanical obstruction to flowing water, thus reducing its erosive potential. The plant roots help in building a better structure. They said in opening the soil and thereby accelerating water absorption and reducing surface run-off.
All other factors given in the options will promote soil erosion.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B.
Tree hugging movement is associated with the protection of
  1. Land

  2. Water bodies

  3. Forests

  4. Wildlife


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Tree hugging movement also known by the name of chipko movement is forest conservation movement of India which came forward when the forest cover started deteriorating at an alarming rate then soon villagers, especially women, began to organize themselves under several smaller groups and resorted to hugging the trees to stop them from being felled.

So, the correct answer is option C.

Which of the following kills the organisms in the soil?

  1. Metallic substances

  2. Earthern pots

  3. Polythene bags and plastics

  4. Glass ware


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

As a result of various activities of mankind, our environment is getting increasingly polluted. pollutants are of 2 types: Biodegradable and non-bio degradable

Biodegradable pollutants are the ones which decompose after some time but non-bio degradable pollutants are the ones which don't degrade easily. 
Plastics are non-bio degradable wastes. They remain intact until a long period of time. it takes thousands of years for plastic to get rid of its toxic substances and break down. Thus, their toxic chemicals cause harm to the plants. Apart from this, if any plastic material or polythene bag is eaten by animals, they eat the toxic substance present in them and thus catch deadly diseases. 
Thus, Plastics and polythene bags are extremely harmful to the environment.
So, option C ' Polythene bags and plastics' is the correct option.





Select the wrong statement

  1. Forests provide variety of products.

  2. Forests have greater plant diversity.

  3. Forests do not conserve soil.

  4. Forests conserve water.


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Forests conserve and enhance the soils ability to sustain diverse ecosystems. They conserve the productive capacity of the land by reducing soil and nutrient loss. Forests also restrict soil and nutrient loss by reducing the volume of rain falling to the ground. The forest canopy absorbs much of the kinetic energy of rain, reducing its ability to loosen and displace soil particles and cause surface runoff. 

All the following are proper plans for increasing agricultural production except

  1. Expansion of irrigation facilitles

  2. Increase in application of fertilizers

  3. Mechanisation of various aspects offarming

  4. Cutting of forests to add land for cultivation


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Cutting of forests also called as deforestation that can provide additional area for cultivation. However, this is an incorrect plan because it leads to decrease in the number of trees. This will in turn lower rainfall and hence decrease the agricultural production. Thus the correct answer is option D.

The check-dams stop the rainwater from ______

  1. Flowing away

  2. Reduce soil erosion

  3. Above both options

  4. None of these


Correct Option: C

Which of the following is not a method of preventing soil erosion?

  1. Terrace farming

  2. Contour ploughing

  3. Strip cropping

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The prevention of soil erosion is called as soil conservation and the ways can be as follows:
Terrace farming is one way to do so and involves cutting terraces along a slope. These terraces reduce the speed of water flowing down the slope and help in soil conservation.
Contour ploughing is also beneficial in reducing the flow of water down the slope and involves ploughing at right angles to the natural slope of land.
Effective farming techniques further help in soil erosion. In plain areas, strip cropping can be used for soil conservation where strips of grass are allowed to stand between crops in large fields. These strips of grass reduce the force of wind and thus prevent soil erosion.

Planting rows of trees along farm lands

  1. Causes soil erosion

  2. Break the force of wind

  3. Both A and B

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Planting rows of trees along farmland also help break the force of wind and help in soil conservation. Shelter belts of trees, when planted along sand dunes, help stabilise them and prevent the desert from extending into land available for cultivation.

Soil erosion can be prevented by

  1. Over-gazing

  2. Removal of vegetation

  3. Afforestation

  4. Deforestation


Correct Option: C

Soil pollution can be controlled by

  1. Recovery and recycling

  2. Dumping

  3. Sludge burning

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D

Strip cropping is a method of

  1. Water conservation

  2. Soil conservation

  3. Air pollution

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Effective farming techniques further help in soil erosion. In plain areas, strip cropping can be used for soil conservation where strips of grass are allowed to stand between crops in large fields. These strips of grass reduce the force of wind and thus, prevent soil erosion.

Terrace farming is a method of

  1. Water conservation

  2. Soil conservation

  3. Air pollution

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Terrace farming is one way of soil conservation and involves cutting terraces along a slope. These terraces reduce the speed of water flowing down the slope and help in soil conservation.

Contour ploughing is a method of

  1. Water conservation

  2. Soil conservation

  3. Air pollution

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Contour ploughing is also beneficial in reducing the flow of water down the slope and involves ploughing at right angles to the natural slope of land.

Which of the following prevents soil erosion?

  1. Afforestation

  2. Eutrophication

  3. Deforestation

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Deforestation is the destruction of forest resources. The major effect of deforestation is the loss of precious wildlife, rare species of flora and fauna. Directly or indirectly, deforestation causes soil erosion and drought. Soil erosion can be prevented by afforestation and reforestation. Afforestation is the planting of the new forests. Plants hold soil with their roots and thus prevent erosion. Eutrophication is the process of enriching water bodies with nutrients.  It supports the abnormal growth of algae.

Thus, the correct answer is option A.

Aeration of soil can be increased by

  1. Earthworm

  2. Domestic waste

  3. Industrial waste

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: A
Explanation:
Earthworms increase the soil porosity by improving the soil aggregation and by creating permanent burrows. By increasing the porosity, they help in the exchange of gases with the atmosphere. They also increase the water holding capacity of soil, moisture content, soil texture and degrade pesticide residues. They decompose the organic matter and add humus to the soil. So, the correct option is A.

How can recycling materials help in reducing soil pollution?

  1. It decreases the volume of refuse

  2. It increases the volume of refuse

  3. It decreases reuse

  4. It reduces natural conservation


Correct Option: A

What measures are taken for the prevention of soil pollution?

  1. Organic methods of farming

  2. Crop rotation

  3. Marine culture

  4. Horticulture


Correct Option: A

Soil pollution can be controlled by

  1. Planting trees on barren slopes

  2. Proper dumping of unwanted materials

  3. Production of natural fertilizers

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Soil pollution can be controlled by several factors. It includes the limited use of fertilizers and pesticides. The biological control method must be known and implemented. The grazing must be controlled and forest management should be done properly. The afforestation and reforestation must be done. In areas of wind erosion wind breaks and shields must be used. The soil binding grass must be planted and the large trees must be placed along the banks. The industrial wastes must be dumped in the low lying areas. There is a definite technique of cropping which does not allow the weeds to settle on the fields.
So, the correct answer is 'All of the above'.

Which of the following is helpful in controlling soil pollution?

  1. Use of pesticides should be minimised

  2. Cropping techniques should be improved to prevent growth of weeds

  3. Use of fertilisers should be judicious

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The harmful change in the colour, texture, and quality of soil due to addition and removal of any material is called soil pollution. Soil pollution reduces the productivity of the soil. There are several pollutants that cause soil pollution. For example, agricultural wastes, radioactive wastes and discarded materials of hospitals etc. Weeds are the unwanted crops that compete with the main crop. Weedicides are the chemicals used to kill the weeds so that plants can grow properly. Cropping techniques should be improved to prevent the growth of weeds to minimise soil pollution. Other chemicals like pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers etc. are also used to promote the growth of crops. These are the chemicals that get consumed with the food by the living beings and are also involved in changing the pH of the soil. These are harmful to living beings and the ecosystem. For example, repeated use of fertilizers makes the soil acidic which in turn decreases the productivity of the soil. So, use of pesticide and fertilizers should be minimised, fertilizers should be replaced by manures and composts. Therefore, the correct option is D.

Which of the following helps in the formation of compost?

  1. Earthworm

  2. Flatworm

  3. Leech

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Earthworms are traditionally called as friends of farmers because they increase aeration and make available nitrogen and potassium to plants in easily usable form. The dead and decaying materials contain certain complex molecules which are churned and broken down into simpler one and forms compost. The process is known as vermicomposting.

Thus, the correct answer is option A.

Choose the correct statement.
a)Trash which breaks down into the soil is the major cause of pollution.
b) Biodegradable waste is the main cause of soil pollution.
c) Soil contamination is a part of land degradation.

  1. Only A

  2. Both A and B

  3. Only C

  4. A, B and C


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The trash is mainly composed of the papers and the cardboard. These components contain the cellulose and can be degraded by the activity of the microorganisms. These products do not cause soil pollution. 

Biodegradable is the waste which can be degraded by the activity of microbes. They are converted into elements which get mixed with the soil. These sources are not the cause of soil pollution. 
When there is a change in the soil fertility and the composition of the soil contains toxic and harmful compounds, the soil is said to be contaminated. The contaminated soil reduces the fertility and productivity of the soil. The land gets degraded and cannot be used for production purposes. 
Thus, the correct answer is option C. 

The name of Smt.Thimmakka is associated with the

  1. Planting and conservation of avenue trees

  2. Agitations against hydroelectric project

  3. 'Appiko' movement

  4. Conservation of fauna and flora of the western ghats


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Saalumarada Thimmakka is an Indian environmentalist from the state of Karnataka, noted for her work in planting and tending to 384 banyan trees along a four-kilometre stretch of highway. Her work has been honoured with the National Citizen's Award of India.

Which of the following may cause the disturbance in soil profile?

  1. Industrial effluents

  2. Domestic waste

  3. Biodegradable waste

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The industrial wastes include the chemicals which act as pollutants. These pollutants reduce the fertility of the soil and the soil becomes less productive. This disturbs the soil profile and nutrient content of the soil. The number of beneficial microbes in the soil gets reduced. The domestic and biodegradable wastes can be degraded by the microbial activity and converted to nutrient forms. So, there is no effect of these wastes in the contamination of the soil.

Thus, the correct answer is option A. 

Afforestation should be with

  1. Exotic species

  2. Indigenous species

  3. Bamboos

  4. Eucalyptus


Correct Option: B
Explanation:
  • Afforestation is the process of planting trees, or sowing seeds, in a barren land devoid of any trees to create a forest. The term should not be confused with reforestation, which is the process of specifically planting native trees into a forest that has decreasing numbers of trees.
  • Indigenous species refers to species originating or occurring naturally in a particular place(native).
  • Hence Afforestation should be with Indigenous species because they are easily available and have a high growth rate.
  • So, the correct answer is  'Indigenous species'.

Mulching is helpful in

  1. Increasing soil fertility

  2. Prevent soil erosion

  3. Control weeds

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:
  • Mulching is a process of covering (as of straw, compost, or plastic sheeting) the soil and make more favorable conditions for plant growth and development.
  • Mulch is a layer of material applied to the surface of the soil. Reasons for applying mulch include conservation of soil moisture, improving fertility and health of the soil, reducing weed growth and enhancing the visual appeal of the area.
  • Hence Mulching is helpful in Increasing soil fertility, Prevent soil erosion and Control weeds.
  • So, the correct answer is 'All the above'.

Which of the following is an agrostologic method of soil conservation?

  1. Dry farming

  2. Mulching

  3. Basin listing

  4. Terracing


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Agrostologic method of soil conservation means in which grasses are grown to check the soil erosion. In dry farming, crop production, animal husbandry and grazing fields are used to prevent soil erosion. It is carried out in low and moderate rainfall areas. 

Mulching is effective against wind and water erosion. In this maize stalks, cotton stalks are used as mulch which is upto 2-3 inches thick. 
In basin listing, small basins are constructed along contours to retain water. 
In terracing, a channel is constructed along the slope to divert the run off water. 
Thus, the correct answer is option A. 

Pyrolysis means

  1. Burning in absence of carbon dioxide

  2. Burning in absence of oxygen

  3. Burning in absence of carbon monoxide

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Pyrolysis is a thermochemical decomposition of organic material at high temperatures in the absence of oxygen. It involves the change of chemical composition as well as physical state. It is an irreversible process. The process is used heavily in the chemical industry to produce charcoal, activated carbon, to convert biomass into biochar, to turn waste into safely disposable substances.

Thus, the correct answer is option B.

Terracing helps in soil conservation in

  1. Plains

  2. Deserts

  3. Hilly areas

  4. Wet areas


Correct Option: C
Explanation:
  • In agriculture, a terrace is a piece of sloped plane that has been cut into a series of successively receding flat surfaces or platforms, which resemble steps, for the purposes of more effective farming. This type of landscaping is therefore called terracing.
  • Terracing reduces both the amount and velocity of water moving across the soil surface in hilly areas, which greatly reduces soil erosion.
  • Hence Terracing helps in soil conservation in hilly areas.
  • So, the correct answer is 'Hilly areas'.

Afforestation should be with

  1. Exotic species

  2. Indigenous species

  3. Bamboos

  4. Eucalyptus


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Reforestation means replanting of forest trees in areas, which were once having dense forests but the forests were later on destroyed by cutting of trees in large numbers. Afforestation is different from reforestation. Afforestation is planting of trees in new areas, which were not previously under forest cover. Typically, waste lands or land other wise not previously having forest cover is selected. Indigenous species are more suited for this purpose because they are well adapted to local climatic and soil conditions. These species are already acclimatized to local conditions.

The shifting cultivation method, called as jhum, belongs to the category of

  1. Industrial forestry

  2. Agro-forestry

  3. Commercial forestry

  4. Social forestry

  5. Conservation forestry


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Agroforestry or agro-sylviculture is a land use management system in which trees or shrubs are grown around or among crops or pastureland.

Shifting cultivation is an agricultural system in which plots of land are cultivated temporarily, then abandoned and allowed to revert to their natural vegetation, while the cultivator moves on to another plot. The period of cultivation is usually terminated, when the soil shows signs of exhaustion or, more commonly, when the field is overrun by weeds. 
Shifting cultivation is a form of agriculture or a cultivation system, in which, at any particular point in time, a minority of 'fields' are in cultivation and a majority are in various stages of natural re-growth. Over time, fields are cultivated for a relatively short time, and allowed to recover, or are fallowed, for a relatively long time. Eventually a previously cultivated field will be cleared of the natural vegetation and planted in crops again. This type of farming is called as jhumming in India.

Soil pollution can cause digestive problems.

  1. True

  2. False


Correct Option: A
Explanation:
  • Soil pollution is defined as the presence of toxic chemicals (pollutants or contaminants) in soil, in high enough concentrations to pose a risk to human health and/or the ecosystem.
  • Soil pollution causes digestive problems such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc. Soil pollution can also cause a neuromuscular blockage as well as depression of the central nervous system, headaches, nausea, fatigue, eye irritation, and skin rash.
  • Hence Soil pollution can cause digestive problems is a true statement.
  • So, the correct answer is 'True'.

Which of the following is an effect of soil pollution?

  1. Sewage sludge is contaminated with pathogenic bacteria, viruses and worms.

  2. Loss of fertility

  3. Various diseases related to digestive system

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:
  • Soil pollution is defined as the presence of toxic chemicals (pollutants or contaminants) in soil, in high enough concentrations to pose a risk to human health and/or the ecosystem.
  • The effects of soil pollution are:
  • Sewage sludge is contaminated with pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and worms.
  • Loss of fertility of soil.
  • Results in Various diseases related to the digestive system.
  • So, the correct answer is 'All the above'.

For better survival of human population, which is the most important step?

  1. Afforestation

  2. Reduction in population density

  3. Conservation of wild life including tribals

  4. Both A and B


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Afforestation refers to the conversion of wasteland into a woodland or forest. It is essentially the transformation of land which has not been forested for a period of more than 40 year to woodland through seeding and planting. Afforestation is the best technique used to minimize the greenhouse effect. Planting of trees in semi-arid areas attracts rainfall. This way, agricultural practices such as irrigation are carried out efficiently. In addition, afforestation acts as a catchment for water and soil conservation. With an increase in demand for forest and timber products, afforestation is very valuable due to the explosion of livestock and human population. Disadvantages of high human population density are global warming, pollution, rapid use of natural resources, more exploitation of other living forms and non living systems like rivers, faster destruction of natural systems, deforestation, habitat destruction, pollution, extinctions etc. Hence population density should be reduced. 

Therefore, the correct answer is option D.

Which of the following statement is incorrect?

  1. Pesticides seeps into the soil and affects it biological level by killing the natural bacteria in the soil.

  2. Soil pollution does not affect the productivity of the soil.

  3. Soil contaminants move away from the soil into crops which causes digestive problems.

  4. Air borne contaminants can also cause soil pollution.


Correct Option: B
Explanation:
  • Soil pollution is defined as the presence of toxic chemicals (pollutants or contaminants) in soil, in high enough concentrations to pose a risk to human health and/or the ecosystem.
  • Due to the soil pollution the harmful chemicals present in the soil increase toxicity so soil fertility decreases and yield of soil is also decreased. Hence soil pollution affects the productivity of the soil.
  • Hence Soil pollution does not affect the productivity of the soil is a wrong statement.
  • So, the correct answer is 'Option B'.

Which of the following can be considered as a example of negative pollution?

  1. Slash and but agriculture

  2. Water logging

  3. Soil salinity due to over irrigation

  4. Land filling and productivity loss


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Negative soil pollution occurs because of overuse of soil & its erosion thereby decreasing soil productivity. For example soil salinity due to over irrigation.

So the correct answer should be option C "soil salinity due to over irrigation".

Select the wrong statement from the following.

  1. Forests provide variety of products.

  2. Forests have greater plant diversity.

  3. Forests do not conserve soil.

  4. Forests conserve water.


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Forests are an important natural resource. They provide a variety of products, are a center of biodiversity, conserve water and soil. Forests are very important for maintenance of water cycle and ecological balance. Forests provide habitat to a large variety of organisms and tribal humans are directly dependent on forests for food and habitat.

In hilly regions, erosion can be minimised by 

  1. Terracing

  2. Ploughing effectively

  3. Manuring

  4. Strip cropping


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Terracing is the practice of creating nearly level areas in a hillside area. The terraces form a series of steps, each at a higher level than the previous. Terraces are protected from erosion of soil. 

Strip cropping or strip farming is defined as alternating crop rows between heavy-rooted plants and loosely-rooted plants to minimize erosion. An example of strip cropping is planting a field with strips of soybean and alfalfa.

Which is not a method of soil conservation?

  1. Strip cropping

  2. Overgrazing

  3. Crop rotation

  4. Mulching


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Soil conservation is a technique aimed at preserving the soil. There are various methods for soil conservation such as afforestation, manuring and crop rotation, step farming, windbreaks, strip cropping, mulching. Strip cropping is the method of farming in which the field is partitioned into long, narrow strips which are alternated in a crop rotation system. Crop rotation is the method of farming in which different types of crops are grown in the same area in different seasons. Mulching is the process of applying a layer of material on the soil in order to conserve soil moisture, improve fertility.

Thus, the correct answer is 'Overgrazing.'

The importance of soil for plant growth is

  1. Soil provides water

  2. Soil provides nutrients

  3. Soil provides support

  4. Both A and B


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The importance of soil for plant growth is
1. Anchoring the plant.
2. Source of water and minerals.
3. Availability of oxygen for respiration of root cells.
4. Symbiotic association with microbes.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D.

Read the given statements and select the correct option.


Statement 1: Open landfilling refers to the throwing waste on an uncovered area, which is periodically burnt or compressed.
Statement 2: In sanitary landfilling, the waste is compacted and covered by layer of dirt.

  1. Both statements 1 and 2 are correct.

  2. Statement 1 is correct but statement 2 is incorrect.

  3. Statement 1 is incorrect but statement 2 is correct.

  4. Both statements 1 and 2 are incorrect.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Open dumping or open landfilling is throwing of waste on uncovered low lying area. The waste is piled as high as the equipment can easily do. The waste is periodically burnt or compressed at intervals to reduce its bulk. In sanitary dumping or sanitary landfilling the waste is pulverised, compacted and covered over by a layer of dirt.

Soil fertility can be increased with out addition of fertilisers by 

  1. Strip cropping

  2. Crop rotation

  3. Terracing

  4. Roots


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Crop rotation is the practice of growing a series of different types of crops in the same area in sequential seasons. Crop rotation gives various nutrients to the soil. Growing the same crop in the same place for many years in a row disproportionately depletes the soil of certain nutrients. With rotation, a crop that leaches the soil of one kind of nutrient is followed during the next growing season by a dissimilar crop that returns, that nutrient to the soil or draws a different ratio of nutrients: for example, rice followed by cotton. 

Strip cropping or strip farming is defined as alternating crop rows between heavy-rooted plants and loosely-rooted plants to minimize erosion. Terracing is the practice of creating nearly level areas in a hillside area. The terraces form a series of steps, each at a higher level than the previous.

An agrostologic method of soil conservation is

  1. Terracing

  2. Mulching

  3. Basin listing

  4. Dry Farming


Correct Option: D
Explanation:
  • Soil conservation is the protection of soil from erosion and other types of deterioration, so as to maintain soil fertility and productivity.
  • Dryland Farming is the cultivation of crops without irrigation in regions of limited moisture, typically less than 20 inches (50 centimeters) of precipitation annually. It helps in soil conservation.
  • Hence an agrostologic method of soil conservation is Dry Farming.
  • So, the correct answer is 'Dairy farming'.

Ethylene dibromide is used as a  

  1. fumigant

  2. fertilizer

  3. food preservative

  4. source of vitamins.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Fumigant kills the insects with poisonous fumes. Examples are calcium cyanide, ethylene dibromide, etc.

Malathion is used as 

  1. fungicide

  2. pesticide

  3. weedicide

  4. biocide.


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Malathion is an organophosphate. It is an insecticide (pesticide) with relatively low human toxicity. It is being widely used in agricultural application. 

The pH of water sample collected from a river was found to be acidic in the range of 3.5 to 4.5, on the banks of the river were several factories that were discharging effluents into the river. The effluents of which one of the following factories is the most likely cause for lowering the pH of river water?

  1. Soap and detergent factory

  2. Lead battery manufacturing factory

  3. Plastic cup manufacturing factory

  4. Alcohol distillery


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Lead battery manufacturing factory have acid electrolyte, so it will cause for lowering tin pH of river water.

In this soil conservation method, several grasses are left out in soil after the crop is harvested

  1. Tillage

  2. Crop rotation

  3. Terrace farming

  4. Contour farming


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Tillage is the method of mechanical agitation of various types like as digging, stirring, and overturning to improve the crop yield. Crop rotation helps in increase in soil fertility. It is the process of growing a series of different crops in the same area in sequenced seasons. Terrace farming is a type of farming that consists of various steps or terraces. In contour farming, several grasses are left out in soil after the crop is harvested. In contour farming, crops are placed perpendicular to slopes to follow the contours of a slope of a field. This helps in breaking down the flow of water and prevent soil erosion.

Thus, the correct answer is 'Contour farming.'

Mulching is a process, that helps in 

  1. Moisture conservation

  2. Weed control

  3. Soil fertility

  4. Both A and B


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Mulch is a protective layer of a material, that is spread on top of the soil. Mulches can either be organic - such as grass clippings, straw, bark chips, or inorganic - such as stones, brick chips, and plastic. Materials used as mulches are used to retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, suppress weed growth, and for aesthetics. They are applied to the soil surface, around trees, paths, flower beds, to prevent soil erosion on slopes, and in production areas for flower and vegetable crops. Mulch layers are normally two inches or more deep when applied.

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