Question 1

Which of the following is considered a primary use of land?

Accepted Answer

Land is used for different purposes such as agriculture, forestry, mining, building houses, roads and setting up of industries. This is commonly termed as land use. Therefore, agriculture is one of the primary and most common uses of land across the globe.

Question 2

What is the thin layer of grainy substance covering the surface of the earth called?

Accepted Answer

Soil is the thin layer of grainy substance covering the surface of the earth. It is closely linked to land. Landforms determine the type of soil. Soil is made up of organic matter, minerals and weathered rocks found on the earth.

Question 3

Which factor affects the rate of weathering and humus formation in soil?

Accepted Answer

Climate, particularly temperature and rainfall, influences the rate of weathering and humus formation. High temperature and heavy rainfall accelerate both weathering processes and the rate of organic matter decomposition to form humus.

Question 4

What percentage of the earth's surface is covered by water approximately?

Accepted Answer

Water is a vital renewable natural resource. About three-fourths of the earth’s surface is covered with water. That is approximately 71% of the earth is covered with water, making it the 'Blue Planet'.

Question 5

Out of the total water available on Earth, what approximate percentage is fresh water fit for human use?

Accepted Answer

Only about 2.7 percent of water is freshwater. Nearly 70 percent of this occurs as ice sheets and glaciers in Antarctica, Greenland and mountain regions; they are inaccessible. Only 1 percent of freshwater is available and fit for human use.

Land, Soil, Water, Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Resources — NCERT Class 8 Social Science Important Questions & Revision Notes