i) Why are resources distributed unequally over the earth?

Answer: Resources are unequally distributed over the Earth due to natural factors like geological processes, climate, and topography, as well as human factors such as technological development, economic capacity, and political stability. For example, Saudi Arabia has abundant oil due to its unique geology, while Japan excels in technology despite fewer natural resources.

ii) What is resource conservation?

Answer: Resource conservation is the practice of using resources efficiently and sustainably to ensure they are available for future generations. This involves reducing waste, recycling, protecting natural habitats, and managing consumption to prevent depletion of resources like water, minerals, and forests.

(Remember: Resource conservation is a part of sustainable development but doesn’t cover all aspects of it)

iii) Why are human resources important?

Answer: Human resources are important because they drive economic growth and development through their skills, knowledge, and labor. They innovate, improve productivity, and provide essential services. Additionally, investing in human resources through education and training enhances a society’s overall well-being and quality of life.

iv) What is sustainable development?

Answer: Sustainable development means using resources wisely to meet today’s needs while protecting future generations’ ability to do the same. It balances economic growth, environmental protection, and social well-being to ensure long-term health and prosperity for all.

Note: If you find short answers easier to learn, focus on the highlighted lines of the answers only.

2. Exercise Multiple choice Questions along with answers:

(i) Which one of the following does NOT make substance a resource?
(a) utility

(b) value

(c) quantity

Answer: (c) quantity

(ii) Which one of the following is a human made resource?
(a) medicines to treat cancer
(b) spring water
(c) tropical forests

Answer: (a) medicines to treat cancer

(iii) Complete the statement.

Non-renewable resources are
(a) those which have limited stock
(b) made by human beings
(c) derived from non-living things

Answer: (a) those which have limited stock

3. Additional / Extra Questions along with answers:

Q.1 What does “value” mean in the context of resources?

Answer: Value means worth. Some resources have economic value, while others do not.

Q.2 How can resources become economically valuable over time?

Answer: Resources can become economically valuable if they are patented and sold, like home remedies.

Q.3 What does “patent” mean?

Answer: Patent means the exclusive right over any idea or invention.

Q.4 What factors can change substances into resources?

Answer: Time and technology can change substances into resources.

Q.5 Why are people considered the most important resource?

Answer: People are important because their ideas, knowledge, inventions, and discoveries lead to the creation of more resources.

Q.6 What are natural resources?

Answer: Natural resources come from nature and require little modification, like air, water, and minerals.

Q.7 What are renewable resources?

Answer: Renewable resources renew quickly, such as solar and wind energy.

Q.8 Give an example of a non-renewable resource.

Answer: Coal serves as an example of a non-renewable resource.

Q.9 What are non renewable resources ?

Answer: Non-renewable resources have a limited supply and take thousands of years to regenerate. Examples include coal, petroleum, and natural gas.

Q.10 Why does the distribution of natural resources vary?

Answer: The distribution varies due to physical factors like terrain, climate, and altitude.

Q.11 What are human-made resources?

Answer: Human-made resources are things created by people using natural materials, like buildings, machines, and technology.

Q.12 How can we develop human resources?

Answer: We develop human resources through education and health to improve skills and create more resources.

Q.13 What is resource conservation?

Answer: Resource conservation means using resources carefully and allowing them to renew for future use.

Q.14 How can individuals contribute to conserving resources?

Answer: By reducing consumption, recycling, and reusing items.

Q.15 Why is it important not to waste paper?

Answer: Because making paper requires cutting down trees.

Q.16 What are some principles of sustainable development?

Answer: Respect all life, improve human quality of life, conserve earth’s vitality, minimize resource depletion, and change attitudes towards the environment.

Q.17 What role does technology play in creating resources?

Answer: Technology helps create and improve resources by enhancing efficiency.

Q.18 What is the stock of a resource?

Answer: The stock of a resource is the total amount of it available for use.