ES IMP Question Solution

Que 1: Define the term ecosystem and Biosphere.

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Ecosystem: An ecosystem refers to a community of living organisms, along with their non-living environment, functioning as a unit. It consists of all the organisms in a given area, as well as the physical and chemical factors with which they interact. Ecosystems can be terrestrial, aquatic, or a combination of both, and they exhibit complex ecological relationships, including predation, competition, and symbiosis.

Biosphere: The biosphere refers to the zone of Earth where life exists. It encompasses all living organisms, their interactions, and the physical environments they inhabit. The biosphere includes all ecosystems on land, in water, and in the atmosphere. It extends from the deepest parts of the ocean to the highest mountains and covers the entire surface of the Earth.

Que 2: Define autotrophs, heterotrophs, ‘herbivores, ‘carnivores.

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• Autotrophs: Autotrophs are organisms that are capable of synthesizing their own organic compounds and energy from inorganic sources. They can convert sunlight into organic molecules. Examples of autotrophs include plants, algae, and some bacteria.
• Heterotrophs: Heterotrophs are organisms that cannot produce their own organic compounds and energy and rely on consuming other organisms or organic matter for their nutrition.
• Herbivores: Herbivores are a type of heterotroph that primarily consume plants or plant-based material as their source of nutrition. They obtain energy and nutrients by grazing on grasses, leaves, fruits, and other plant parts. Examples of herbivores include cows, rabbits, and deer.
• Carnivores: Carnivores are heterotrophic organisms that primarily feed on other animals. They obtain energy and nutrients by consuming the flesh, organs, or body fluids of other animals.

Que 3: Explain the way by which organisms are assigned various trophic level.

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Organisms are assigned to various trophic levels based on their position in the food chain and their source of energy. Trophic levels represent the different levels of energy transfer and nutrient flow within an ecosystem.

• Producers (Autotrophs): Producers, also known as autotrophs, occupy the first trophic level. They are capable of synthesizing their own food using inorganic substances and energy from the sun through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. Producers convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and other organic compounds, providing the initial energy source for the ecosystem.
• Primary Consumers (Herbivores): Primary consumers are the organisms that consume producers as their primary food source. Examples include rabbits, deer, and cows. Primary consumers occupy the second trophic level and obtain their energy by consuming plant matter.
• Secondary Consumers (Carnivores/Omnivores): Secondary consumers are carnivores or omnivores that feed on primary consumers. They occupy the third trophic level. Carnivores primarily consume other animals, while omnivores have a mixed diet of both plants and animals. Examples of secondary consumers include snakes, hawks, and humans.
• Tertiary Consumers (Carnivores/Omnivores): Tertiary consumers occupy the fourth trophic level and are typically top predators in the ecosystem. They feed on secondary consumers and obtain their energy from consuming other carnivores or omnivores. Examples include lions, eagles, and large predatory fish.
• Decomposers and Detritivores: Decomposers and detritivores, such as bacteria, fungi, and certain insects, occupy their own trophic level.

Que 4: Describe the ecological pyramid and explain its relationship with the trophic levels.

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Ans: I) Ecological Pyramid refers to a graphical representation of the trophic levels of a given ecosystem. It illustrates the relative amounts of energy, biomass, or numbers of organisms at different trophic levels.

There are three types of ecological pyramids:

Pyramid of Energy: This type of pyramid represents the amount of energy present at each trophic level. It is always upright and the energy is measured in units of joules or calories.

Pyramid of Biomass: Thís type of pyramid represents the total biomass present at each trophic level. It can be either upright or inverted depending on the ecosystem.

Pyramid of Numbers: This type of pyramid represents the number of individuals present at each trophic level. It can be either upright or inverted depending on the ecosystem.

Que 5: Write the structure and function of forest ecosystem, lake ecosystem, ocean” ecosystem, marine ecosystem, Desert ecosystem.

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1. Forest Ecosystem:

Structure: A forest ecosystem consists of various components, including trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants, fungi, insects, birds, mammals, reptiles, and microorganisms. It has different layers, such as the canopy (tall trees), understory (smaller trees and shrubs), herb layer (herbaceous plants), and forest floor (leaf litter and soil).

Function: Forest ecosystems play a vital role in carbon sequestration, regulating the climate, and maintaining biodiversity. They provide habitats for numerous species, help in water retention and purification, prevent soil erosion, and serve as a source of timber, food, medicine, and other resources for humans.

2. Lake Ecosystem:

Structure: A lake ecosystem consists of various zones, including the littoral zone (shallow water near the shoreline), limnetic zone (open water surface), profundal zone (deep, dark waters), and benthic zone (bottom sediments). It includes aquatic plants, algae, fish, amphibians, water birds, insects, and microorganisms.

Function: Lake ecosystems support a diverse range of aquatic life. They help in water storage, nutrient cycling, and sediment deposition. Lakes provide habitats for various species, act as breeding grounds for fish, regulate water temperature, and offer recreational opportunities for humans.

3. Ocean Ecosystem:

Structure: An ocean ecosystem comprises different zones, such as the intertidal zone (shoreline area), neritic zone (shallow waters near the coast), pelagic zone (open ocean), and abyssal zone (deep sea). It includes marine plants (e.g., seaweeds), phytoplankton, zooplankton, fish, marine mammals, coral reefs, and numerous other marine organisms.

Function: Ocean ecosystems are essential for regulating the Earth’s climate, providing oxygen through photosynthesis, and supporting a vast biodiversity. They contribute to nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and maintaining the balance of marine food webs. Oceans also play a crucial role in global weather patterns and serve as a source of food, energy, and economic resources for humans.

4. Marine Ecosystem:

Structure: A marine ecosystem encompasses various habitats, such as coral reefs, mangroves, estuaries, and open ocean. It consists of a diverse range of marine organisms, including fish, sea turtles, marine mammals, crustaceans, mollusks, and coral polyps.

Function: Marine ecosystems support high biodiversity and provide numerous ecological services. They help in carbon sequestration, oxygen production, nutrient cycling, and maintaining coastal habitats. Marine ecosystems are vital for fisheries, tourism, coastal protection, and contribute to the overall health of the planet.

5. Desert Ecosystem:

Structure: A desert ecosystem is characterized by extreme aridity, sparse vegetation, and a harsh climate. It consists of desert-adapted plants such as cacti, succulents, and shrubs, as well as desert-dwelling animals like reptiles, insects, rodents, and certain bird species.

Function: Desert ecosystems have unique adaptations to survive in the arid conditions. They play a crucial role in soil stabilization, water conservation, and nutrient cycling. Desert plants provide food and shelter for specialized wildlife, and desert ecosystems have cultural significance for indigenous communities.

Que 6: Define and differentiate between reuse and recycle of the resources.

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Que 7: Differentiate between renewable and non- renewable resources.

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Renewable Resources	Non-Renewable Resources
Resources that can be replenished or regenerated	Resources that are finite and depleted over time
Constantly replenished by natural processes	Formed over millions of years and not replenished
Potentially available in unlimited quantities	Limited availability and will eventually run out
Solar energy, wind energy, biomass, hydropower	Fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), minerals
Generally lower environmental impact	May have significant environmental impact during extraction and use
Can be used indefinitely without depletion	Finite supply, unsustainable if consumption exceeds replenishment
Typically lower carbon emissions and greenhouse gases	Higher carbon emissions and contribute to climate change

Que 8: How does solar power helps to conserve energy? Explain it.

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1. Renewable Energy Source: Solar power is derived from sunlight, which is an abundant and renewable resource. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and depletable, sunlight is available every day and will continue to be available for billions of years. By harnessing solar energy, we can reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy sources, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which helps to conserve these valuable resources.
2. Reduced Electricity Consumption: Solar power allows individuals, businesses, and communities to generate their own electricity on-site. By installing solar panels on rooftops or in open spaces, solar energy can be converted into electricity to power various devices and appliances.
3. Energy Efficiency: Solar power promotes energy efficiency by encouraging people to be more conscious of their energy usage. When individuals generate their own electricity through solar panels, they become more aware of the amount of energy they consume.
4. Grid Relief and Peak Demand Reduction: Solar power systems can contribute to relieving strain on the electrical grid, especially during peak demand periods. During sunny hours, when solar panels are producing the most electricity, they can help meet the energy demand in the local area.
5. Environmental Benefits: Solar power is a clean energy source that produces no greenhouse gas emissions or air pollutants during operation. By shifting to solar energy, we can reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate the negative impacts of climate change.

Que 9: Discuss the manufacturing of coal and petroleum.

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Formation of coal dates back to millions of years ago, when the earth was covered only with vast moist forests, having huge trees, shrubs, ferns, etc. New plants replaced them, they underwent a life cycle and the whole process continued repeatedly over the years, as a result of which the earth bed started accumulating all these dead plants.

This gave rise to a very thick layer of dead decomposed matter packing down plant matter washing away all the decayed matter. Physical and chemical changes took place as a result of heat and temperature extracting out all oxygen leaving the plant layers with carbon-rich content, thus resulting in the formation of coal over a period of time.

Petroleum products are obtained as a result of refining crude oil in oil refineries. There are numerous products that are created from petroleum and its by-products. A study reveals that by-products of petroleum alone provides scope to obtain 6000+ new products, to name a few, fertilizers, perfumes, flooring, insecticides, soaps, vitamins, petroleum jelly, etc.

Que 10: Explain and discuss the working of tidal energy.

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Tidal energy is a renewable energy source that utilizes the natural ebb and flow of ocean tides to generate electricity. Here is a concise explanation of its working:

1. Tidal Barrages: Tidal barrages are constructed across estuaries or bays. These structures include turbines or sluice gates that allow water to enter during high tide and release it during low tide.
2. Tidal Flow: As the tide rises, water enters the enclosed area through the turbines or sluice gates, causing water levels to increase behind the barrage.
3. Power Generation: When the tide reaches its peak, the sluice gates are closed, and as the tide recedes, the water trapped behind the barrage is released. The outflowing water drives the turbines, which are connected to generators, producing electricity.
4. Grid Integration: The generated electricity is transmitted to an onshore substation through underwater cables. It is then integrated into the electrical grid for distribution to consumers.

Que 11: Write notes on thermal en biogas, thermal energy nuclear energy.

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Thermal Energy:

• Thermal energy refers to the energy in the form of heat. It is often generated by burning fossil fuels like coal, natural gas, or oil.
• The heat energy produced can be converted into other forms of energy such as electricity, mechanical energy, or used directly for heating purposes.
• Thermal energy is widely used for space heating, industrial processes, and electricity generation through steam turbines or heat engines.
• It is a conventional energy source but contributes to environmental issues like greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

Biogas:

• Biogas is a renewable energy source produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic waste materials like animal manure, crop residues, and food waste.
• It consists mainly of methane and carbon dioxide, along with small amounts of other gases.
• Biogas can be used as a fuel for heating, cooking, and electricity generation.
• It provides a sustainable solution for waste management, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and generating renewable energy.

Thermal Energy Nuclear Energy:

• Thermal energy in the context of nuclear energy is produced through the process of nuclear fission.
• Nuclear fission involves splitting the nucleus of an atom, typically uranium or plutonium, releasing a significant amount of heat energy.
• This heat is then used to generate steam, which drives turbines connected to generators to produce electricity.
• Nuclear energy is a low-carbon energy source that does not emit greenhouse gases during electricity generation.

Que 12: Define biodiversity and explain the types of biodiversity.

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Ecological Diversity – It is the diversity seen between the ecosystems in a region. Several ecosystems like rainforests, deserts, mangroves, etc., show a vast diversity of life forms living in them.

Que 13: Discuss about threats to biodiversity.

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Que 14: Explain in-situ and ex-situ conservation.

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Que 15: Define environmental pollution, environmental conservation, environment.

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Environmental Pollution: Environmental pollution refers to the introduction of harmful substances or pollutants into the environment, which can have adverse effects on the natural resources, ecosystems, and human health. Pollution can occur in various forms, such as air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, noise pollution, and light pollution.

Environmental Conservation: Environmental conservation refers to the protection, preservation, and sustainable management of natural resources and ecosystems. It involves the responsible and ethical use of resources to ensure their availability for future generations.

Environment: The environment refers to the natural surroundings and conditions in which living organisms exist. It encompasses the physical, biological, and chemical factors that influence the growth, development, and survival of organisms. The environment includes components such as air, water, soil, climate, flora, fauna, and the interactions between them.

Que 16: Discuss the causes and effects of water pollution.

Ans: Causes of Water Pollution:

Industrial activities- Industries discharge various chemicals, toxins, and heavy metals into the water bodies which cause water pollution.

Agricultural activities- The use of fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture can lead to runoff into nearby water bodies, contaminating them with harmful chemicals.

Urbanization- The increasing population of cities leads to the release of untreated sewage into water bodies, which causes water pollution.

Oil Spills- Accidental oil spills from tankers and offshore drilling platforms can cause severe water pollution, killing aquatic life and affecting the quality of water for human consumption.

Effects of Water Pollution:

• It can lead to the death of aquatic plants and animals, affecting the biodiversity of water ecosystems.
• It can cause water-borne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid fever, which can be fatal.
• It can affect the quality of water, making it unfit for human consumption or use.
• It can cause soil erosion and damage to agricultural lands, affecting food security.

Que 17: Explain the causes of air pollution and discuss any one case study.

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1. Industrial Emissions: Industrial activities, including power generation, manufacturing processes, and chemical production, release pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
2. Vehicle Emissions: Combustion of fossil fuels in vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and motorcycles, contributes to air pollution through the release of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx).
3. Burning of Fossil Fuels: The burning of fossil fuels for energy production, including coal, oil, and natural gas, emits pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides.
4. Agricultural Activities: Agricultural practices involving the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and the burning of agricultural waste can release ammonia (NH3) and other pollutants into the air. The burning of crop residues and forest clearing also contributes to air pollution.
5. Residential Sources: Household activities, such as cooking with solid fuels, burning biomass for heating, and inefficient stoves, contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution, releasing pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2).

Que 18: Write a note on Desertification Effects

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Desertification refers to the process by which fertile land becomes increasingly arid and desert-like due to various factors such as climate change, deforestation, overgrazing, and unsustainable agricultural practices. The effects of desertification can have far-reaching consequences for both the environment and human populations. Here are some key effects of desertification:

1. Loss of Productive Land: One of the primary effects of desertification is the loss of productive land. As fertile soil turns into desert, it becomes incapable of supporting plant life and agriculture. This leads to a decrease in crop yields, food insecurity, and reduced livelihood opportunities for communities that depend on agriculture.
2. Biodiversity Loss: Desertification causes a decline in biodiversity as many plant and animal species are unable to adapt to the harsh desert conditions. The loss of vegetation and habitat degradation affects the survival of numerous species, leading to a decrease in biodiversity and the potential extinction of certain plants and animals.
3. Soil Erosion: The process of desertification often results in increased soil erosion. As vegetation cover diminishes, the soil becomes exposed to wind and water erosion. Soil erosion further exacerbates the degradation of land, making it more vulnerable to desertification.
4. Water Scarcity: Desertification contributes to water scarcity in affected regions. With the loss of vegetation, the ability of the land to retain moisture is reduced, and water sources such as rivers and underground aquifers may dry up.
5. Human Migration and Social Impacts: Desertification often forces communities to migrate in search of more habitable and productive lands. The displacement of people can lead to social and economic disruptions, as well as increased pressure on already scarce resources in the areas where migrants settle. It can also contribute to conflicts over land and resources.
6. Climate Change Feedback: Desertification and climate change are interconnected. As deserts expand, they contribute to climate change by releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide stored in the soil.

Que 19: Discuss the reality of solid waste management in India.

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Que 20: Discuss the concept of cleaning environment.

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The concept of cleaning the environment refers to the collective efforts and actions taken to maintain and restore the cleanliness and health of the natural surroundings in which we live. It involves addressing various forms of pollution, waste management, and promoting sustainable practices.

• Waste Management: Proper waste management is crucial for keeping the environment clean. This includes reducing waste generation, recycling and reusing materials, and implementing efficient disposal methods for different types of waste.
• Pollution Control: Cleaning the environment involves addressing different forms of pollution, including air pollution, water pollution, and soil pollution. Efforts are made to reduce emissions from industrial sources, vehicles, and other human activities that contribute to pollution.
• Conservation of Natural Resources: Cleaning the environment also entails the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. This involves adopting practices that minimize resource consumption, protect ecosystems, and promote biodiversity.This can involve reforestation projects, habitat restoration, and efforts to rehabilitate polluted areas.
• Education and Awareness: Raising awareness and educating the public about the importance of cleaning the environment is crucial. Informing individuals about the impacts of pollution, waste mismanagement, and unsustainable practices can inspire behavioral changes and promote environmentally responsible actions.

Cleaning the environment is a shared responsibility that involves individuals, communities, businesses, governments, and organizations working together.

Que 21: Explain the causes and effects of thermal pollution and marine pollution.

Ans: Thermal Pollution:

Causes of Thermal Pollution:

• Power Plants: Thermal pollution is primarily caused by the discharge of heated water from power plants that use water for cooling purposes. When this heated water is released back into water bodies like rivers, lakes, or oceans, it raises the temperature of the receiving water.
• Industrial Processes: Industries that require the use of water for cooling or as a byproduct of their processes can also contribute to thermal pollution. Wastewater discharged from these industries at high temperatures can significantly increase the temperature of receiving water bodies.

Effects of Thermal Pollution:

• Ecosystem Disruption: Increased water temperatures can disrupt aquatic ecosystems, affecting the survival and reproductive abilities of various organisms. Some species may struggle to tolerate the higher temperatures, leading to a decline in their populations. This disruption can affect the entire food chain and alter the balance of the ecosystem.
• Decreased Oxygen Levels: Warm water holds less dissolved oxygen, which is crucial for aquatic organisms. Higher water temperatures can decrease the oxygen solubility, leading to oxygen depletion and creating hypoxic or anoxic conditions, which are harmful to aquatic life.
• Altered Aquatic Biodiversity: Thermal pollution can cause shifts in species composition and favor the growth of certain species that are more tolerant of higher temperatures. This can lead to changes in biodiversity and a reduction in the abundance of sensitive species.

Marine Pollution:

Causes of Marine Pollution:

• Oil Spills: Accidental or intentional release of oil into the ocean can cause severe marine pollution. Oil spills coat the water surface, affecting marine life, birds, and coastal habitats.
• Chemical and Waste Disposal: Improper disposal of chemicals, sewage, industrial waste, and agricultural runoff can introduce pollutants into marine environments. These pollutants can contaminate water, damage coral reefs, and harm marine organisms.
• Plastics and Marine Debris: Improper waste management and excessive use of single-use plastics contribute to marine pollution. Plastics and other debris can entangle marine animals, be ingested by marine life, and disrupt marine ecosystems.

Effects of Marine Pollution:

• Harm to Marine Life: Marine pollution can result in the death of marine organisms through ingestion of pollutants, entanglement in debris, or destruction of their habitats. It can also cause reproductive issues, genetic mutations, and long-term health effects on marine species.
• Degradation of Ecosystems: Marine pollution can disrupt marine ecosystems and damage important habitats such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. This leads to the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of essential ecosystem services.
• Impact on Human Health: Marine pollution can contaminate seafood, making it unsafe for human consumption. Polluted waters can also pose risks to human health, particularly for individuals engaging in recreational activities in polluted coastal areas.