UNIT-2 SHAPING OF EARTH’S SURFACE
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (20–30 WORDS EACH)
Q1. Explain why direct observation of Earth’s interior is not possible.
Ans: Direct observation of Earth’s interior is not possible due to extreme heat, pressure, and depth. Therefore,
scientists depend mainly on indirect sources like seismic waves to study it.
Q2. What are tectonic plates? Why are they important?
Ans: Tectonic plates are large pieces of the Earth’s lithosphere that move slowly over the mantle. Their
movement causes earthquakes, volcanoes, and formation of major landforms.
Q3. What is GLOF?
Ans: GLOF (Glacial Lake Outburst Flood) is a sudden release of water from a glacial lake due to breaking of
natural dams, causing floods and destruction in nearby areas.
LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS (3–5 MARKS EACH)
Q4. Describe the composition and characteristics of three layers of Earth. Also, draw a well-labelled
diagram.
Ans:
The Earth is divided into three main layers: crust, mantle, and core.
1. Crust
• Outermost and thinnest layer
• Made of rocks and minerals
• Includes continents and ocean floors
• Supports all forms of life
2. Mantle
• Lies below the crust and is much thicker
• Composed of molten and semi-molten material called
magma
• Convection currents occur here, causing plate movement
3. Core
• Innermost, hottest, and densest layer
• Made of iron and nickel (NIFE)
• Divided into outer (liquid) and inner (solid) core
Q5. Explain the theory of plate tectonics and its role in shaping Earth’s surface.
Theory of Plate Tectonics
• The Earth’s lithosphere is divided into several large and small tectonic plates
• These plates float over the semi-molten mantle
• Their movement is caused by convection currents inside the Earth
Role in Shaping Earth’s Surface
• Movement leads to formation of mountains, plateaus, and valleys
• Causes earthquakes and volcanic eruptions
• Creates ocean basins and ridges
• Leads to continuous reshaping of continents
Q6. Explain the three types of plate movements (boundaries).
1. Divergent Boundary
• Plates move away from each other
• Magma rises and forms new crust
2. Convergent Boundary
• Plates move towards each other
• Causes folding or subduction
3. Transform Boundary
• Plates slide past each other
• Results in earthquakes
Q7. Differentiate between Weathering and Erosion.
Q8. Describe the formation of mountains and types with examples.
Formation of Mountains
Mountains are formed mainly due to internal forces such as tectonic plate movements, folding, faulting, and
volcanic activity.
Types of Mountains
1. Fold Mountains
o Formed by compression of plates
o Example: Himalayas
2. Block Mountains
o Formed due to faulting and uplifting of land blocks
3. Volcanic Mountains
o Formed by accumulation of lava
o Example: Mount Fuji
Q9. Discuss the causes and impacts of earthquakes. Suggest mitigation measures.
Causes
• Movement of tectonic plates
• Sudden release of energy along faults
• Volcanic activity
Impacts
• Loss of life and property
• Damage to buildings and infrastructure
• Landslides and tsunamis
Mitigation Measures
• Construct earthquake-resistant buildings
• Develop early warning systems
• Conduct awareness and preparedness programmes
• Avoid construction in high-risk zones
Conclusion
Proper planning and awareness can reduce the impact of earthquakes.
Q10. Define a volcano. Explain how it occurs.
Definition
A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust through which molten magma, gases, and ash are ejected.
Occurrence
• Heat inside the Earth melts rocks into magma
• Pressure builds up in the mantle
• Magma rises through cracks in the crust
• It erupts on the surface as lava, ash, and gases
Effects
• Formation of new landforms
• Fertile soil due to lava deposits
• Can cause destruction and air pollution