Class 9 Geography Chapter 2: Shaping of the Earth’s Surface Question bank

100+ Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
80+ Fill in the Blanks
60+ True/False Questions
50+ Match the Following
80+ Very Short Answer Questions (1 mark)
60+ Short Answer Questions (2–3 marks)
40+ Long Answer Questions (4–5 marks)
Diagram-based Questions
Map-based Questions
Assertion–Reason Questions
Case Study / Source-based Questions
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Questions
Competency-Based Questions (CBQs)
Application-Based Questions
Picture-based Questions
Revision Test Papers
Sample Question Paper
Answer Key

Part 1 – Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Section A: Basics of the Earth (1–20)

1. The outermost layer of the Earth is called:
A) Mantle
B) Core
C) Crust
D) Asthenosphere

Answer: C

2. The thick middle layer of the Earth is the:
A) Crust
B) Mantle
C) Core
D) Lithosphere

Answer: B

3. The innermost layer of the Earth is:
A) Crust
B) Mantle
C) Core
D) Lithosphere

Answer: C

4. The lithosphere consists of:
A) Crust only
B) Mantle only
C) Crust and upper mantle
D) Mantle and core

Answer: C

5. The semi-molten layer below the lithosphere is:
A) Core
B) Asthenosphere
C) Crust
D) Inner core

Answer: B

6. Plate tectonics explains:
A) Weather
B) Ocean currents
C) Movement of Earth’s crust
D) Rainfall

Answer: C

7. Tectonic plates move because of:
A) Gravity
B) Winds
C) Convection currents
D) Rainfall

Answer: C

8. Tectonic plates move:
A) Several metres every year
B) Several kilometres every year
C) A few centimetres every year
D) They do not move

Answer: C

9. The hottest layer of the Earth is:
A) Crust
B) Mantle
C) Core
D) Lithosphere

Answer: C

10. Which layer do humans live on?
A) Mantle
B) Crust
C) Core
D) Asthenosphere

Answer: B

11. The Earth’s crust is broken into:
A) Continents
B) Islands
C) Tectonic plates
D) Mountains

Answer: C

12. The movement of tectonic plates creates:
A) Seasons
B) Ocean waves
C) Mountains and volcanoes
D) Clouds

Answer: C

13. Which plate carries both continents and oceans?
A) Continental plate
B) Oceanic plate
C) Mixed plate
D) Polar plate

Answer: C

14. Which is NOT a major tectonic plate?
A) Pacific Plate
B) Eurasian Plate
C) African Plate
D) Himalayan Plate

Answer: D

15. The Pacific Plate is mainly beneath:
A) Atlantic Ocean
B) Pacific Ocean
C) Indian Ocean
D) Arctic Ocean

Answer: B

16. The Indo-Australian Plate includes:
A) Africa
B) Europe
C) India
D) Antarctica

Answer: C

17. Heat from the Earth’s core creates:
A) Rain
B) Winds
C) Convection currents
D) Clouds

Answer: C

18. The Earth’s surface is:
A) Completely stable
B) Constantly changing
C) Flat
D) Covered only by water

Answer: B

19. Which layer is mostly solid?
A) Mantle
B) Outer core
C) Atmosphere
D) Ocean

Answer: A

20. The outer core is mainly made of:
A) Sand and clay
B) Iron and nickel
C) Granite
D) Limestone

Answer: B

Section B: Plate Boundaries (21–40)

21. When two plates move towards each other, it is called:
A) Divergent boundary
B) Transform boundary
C) Convergent boundary
D) Passive boundary

Answer: C

22. Fold mountains are formed at:
A) Divergent boundaries
B) Convergent boundaries
C) Transform boundaries
D) Coastal boundaries

Answer: B

23. The Himalayas were formed by:
A) Wind erosion
B) River erosion
C) Collision of continental plates
D) Sea waves

Answer: C

24. New crust is formed at:
A) Convergent boundary
B) Divergent boundary
C) Transform boundary
D) Fault line

Answer: B

25. Plates sliding past each other form:
A) Volcanoes only
B) Mountains only
C) Earthquakes
D) Rivers

Answer: C

26. Which is an example of a divergent boundary?
A) Himalayas
B) Mid-Atlantic Ridge
C) Mount Everest
D) Thar Desert

Answer: B

27. San Andreas Fault is an example of:
A) Divergent boundary
B) Convergent boundary
C) Transform boundary
D) Ocean ridge

Answer: C

28. Volcanoes are common where:
A) Plate boundaries exist
B) Plains occur
C) Rivers meet
D) Forests grow

Answer: A

29. Earthquakes mostly occur:
A) In deserts
B) At plate boundaries
C) In plains
D) Near lakes

Answer: B

30. Oceanic plates are generally:
A) Thicker than continental plates
B) Thinner than continental plates
C) Not solid
D) Smaller than islands

Answer: B

31. Continental plates mainly carry:
A) Oceans
B) Continents
C) Rivers
D) Volcanoes

Answer: B

32. Oceanic plates mainly carry:
A) Mountains
B) Oceans
C) Deserts
D) Forests

Answer: B

33. Which boundary destroys crust?
A) Divergent
B) Convergent
C) Transform
D) Coastal

Answer: B

34. Which boundary neither creates nor destroys crust?
A) Divergent
B) Convergent
C) Transform
D) Oceanic

Answer: C

35. Magma rises mainly at:
A) Divergent boundaries
B) Transform boundaries
C) Continental interiors
D) Desert regions

Answer: A

36. Plate tectonics helps explain:
A) Rainfall
B) Earthquakes
C) Clouds
D) Seasons

Answer: B

37. Plate movement changes:
A) Earth’s surface
B) Sun’s temperature
C) Moon’s shape
D) Earth’s atmosphere

Answer: A

38. Which natural disaster is directly related to plate movement?
A) Flood
B) Earthquake
C) Cyclone
D) Tornado

Answer: B

39. Volcanoes are formed due to:
A) Plate movement
B) Rain
C) Wind
D) Rivers

Answer: A

40. The theory of plate tectonics helps us:
A) Predict rainfall
B) Understand landform formation
C) Measure temperature
D) Study stars

Answer: B

Section C: Weathering and Erosion (41–60)

41. Weathering is the process of:
A) Moving rocks from one place to another
B) Breaking rocks into smaller pieces
C) Forming volcanoes
D) Creating earthquakes

Answer: B

42. Weathering does not involve:
A) Breaking of rocks
B) Formation of soil
C) Movement of materials
D) Change in rocks

Answer: C

43. Which process involves transportation of soil and rocks?
A) Weathering
B) Erosion
C) Deposition
D) Folding

Answer: B

44. Physical weathering is caused by:
A) Chemical reactions only
B) Temperature changes and frost
C) Plant growth only
D) Ocean currents only

Answer: B

45. Chemical weathering occurs due to:
A) Water and acids reacting with rocks
B) Earthquakes
C) Wind movement
D) Glacier movement

Answer: A

46. Roots breaking rocks is an example of:
A) Physical weathering
B) Chemical weathering
C) Biological weathering
D) Erosion

Answer: C

47. Soil formation is mainly helped by:
A) Weathering
B) Earthquakes
C) Volcanoes only
D) Plate movement only

Answer: A

48. Erosion is caused by:
A) Natural agents like water and wind
B) Only humans
C) Only earthquakes
D) Only volcanoes

Answer: A

49. Which is NOT an agent of erosion?
A) Wind
B) Water
C) Ice
D) Sunlight

Answer: D

50. Wind erosion is common in:
A) Rainforests
B) Dry deserts
C) Oceans
D) Mountains only

Answer: B

51. Glacial erosion is caused by:
A) Rivers
B) Moving ice
C) Wind
D) Rainfall

Answer: B

52. Coastal erosion is caused mainly by:
A) Sea waves
B) Earthquakes
C) Volcanoes
D) Underground water

Answer: A

53. Erosion can affect farmers by:
A) Increasing soil fertility always
B) Removing fertile topsoil
C) Creating rainfall
D) Increasing forests

Answer: B

54. The process of depositing transported materials is called:
A) Weathering
B) Deposition
C) Folding
D) Melting

Answer: B

55. Running water can create:
A) Valleys and plains
B) Volcanoes
C) Earthquakes
D) Plate boundaries

Answer: A

56. Which human activity increases erosion?
A) Afforestation
B) Deforestation
C) Soil conservation
D) Terrace farming

Answer: B

57. Terracing helps to:
A) Increase erosion
B) Reduce soil erosion
C) Create earthquakes
D) Form volcanoes

Answer: B

58. Bunding is used for:
A) Water and soil conservation
B) Mining
C) Volcanic activity
D) Increasing wind speed

Answer: A

59. Contouring helps in:
A) Increasing soil loss
B) Conserving water and soil
C) Creating deserts
D) Destroying forests

Answer: B

60. Agents of gradation include:
A) Rivers, glaciers, wind and waves
B) Only earthquakes
C) Only volcanoes
D) Only sunlight

Answer: A

Section D: River Landforms (61–75)

61. A waterfall is usually found in the:
A) Upper course of a river
B) Lower course of a river
C) River mouth
D) Coastal area

Answer: A

62. Waterfalls form due to:
A) Deposition only
B) Difference in rock resistance
C) Wind erosion
D) Glacier melting

Answer: B

63. A meander is:
A) A straight river
B) A bend in a river
C) A mountain peak
D) A desert feature

Answer: B

64. Meanders are formed mainly due to:
A) River erosion and deposition
B) Volcanic eruptions
C) Earthquakes
D) Glacial melting

Answer: A

65. A delta is formed at:
A) River source
B) River mouth
C) Mountain top
D) Desert centre

Answer: B

66. Deltas are made mainly of:
A) Lava
B) Sand and sediments
C) Snow
D) Rocks from volcanoes

Answer: B

67. Delta regions are suitable for agriculture because:
A) They have fertile alluvial soil
B) They have no water
C) They are very dry
D) They have rocky land

Answer: A

68. The Sundarbans is an example of:
A) Desert
B) Delta
C) Glacier
D) Plateau

Answer: B

69. The lower course of a river is mainly a zone of:
A) Deposition
B) Strong erosion
C) Mountain building
D) Volcanic activity

Answer: A

70. Floodplains are formed by:
A) River deposition
B) Wind erosion
C) Glacier melting only
D) Earthquakes

Answer: A

71. Oxbow lakes are associated with:
A) Rivers
B) Deserts
C) Glaciers
D) Oceans

Answer: A

72. River valleys are important because they:
A) Support agriculture and settlements
B) Stop human activity
C) Prevent transportation
D) Have no resources

Answer: A

73. A river carrying sediments helps in:
A) Land formation
B) Plate movement
C) Volcano formation
D) Earthquake prediction

Answer: A

74. A V-shaped valley is formed mainly by:
A) Rivers
B) Wind
C) Waves
D) Underground water

Answer: A

75. A river delta is usually:
A) Fertile
B) Rocky
C) Dry
D) Snow-covered

Answer: A

Section E: Coastal, Glacier, Wind and Underground Water Landforms (76–100)

76. Beaches are formed mainly by:
A) Deposition by waves
B) Volcanic eruptions
C) Earthquakes
D) Glacial movement

Answer: A

77. Sea cliffs are formed by:
A) Wave erosion
B) River deposition
C) Wind deposition
D) Volcanic lava

Answer: A

78. A sea arch is formed from:
A) A sea cave
B) A glacier
C) A river valley
D) A sand dune

Answer: A

79. A sea stack is:
A) An isolated pillar of rock
B) A river island
C) A sand hill
D) A glacier

Answer: A

80. Glaciers are:
A) Moving masses of ice
B) Rivers of water
C) Wind currents
D) Underground lakes

Answer: A

81. U-shaped valleys are created by:
A) Glaciers
B) Rivers
C) Wind
D) Waves

Answer: A

82. A moraine is formed by:
A) Glacier deposition
B) River erosion
C) Wind action
D) Sea waves

Answer: A

83. Fjords are created by:
A) Glacial erosion
B) River deposition
C) Desert winds
D) Underground water

Answer: A

84. Yardangs are formed by:
A) Wind erosion
B) River erosion
C) Glacier erosion
D) Wave deposition

Answer: A

85. Sand dunes are formed by:
A) Wind deposition
B) River erosion
C) Earthquakes
D) Volcanic activity

Answer: A

86. Crescent-shaped dunes are called:
A) Barchan dunes
B) Star dunes
C) Longitudinal dunes
D) Parabolic dunes

Answer: A

87. Karst landforms are mainly formed by:
A) Underground water
B) Wind
C) Glaciers
D) Volcanoes

Answer: A

88. Stalactites hang from:
A) Cave ceilings
B) Cave floors
C) Mountains
D) River banks

Answer: A

89. Stalagmites grow from:
A) Cave floors
B) Cave roofs
C) Sea beds
D) Desert surfaces

Answer: A

90. Sinkholes are formed due to:
A) Collapse of underground cavities
B) Wind deposition
C) Glacier movement
D) River flooding

Answer: A

91. Landslides are commonly caused by:
A) Heavy rainfall and unstable slopes
B) Calm weather
C) Flat land
D) Dry climate only

Answer: A

92. Deforestation increases the risk of:
A) Landslides
B) Soil conservation
C) Glacier formation
D) River formation

Answer: A

93. Avalanches occur mainly in:
A) Snow-covered mountains
B) Deserts
C) Plains
D) Coastal areas

Answer: A

94. GLOF stands for:
A) Glacial Lake Outburst Flood
B) Global Land Ocean Force
C) Glacier Land Overflow Flow
D) Ground Level Ocean Flood

Answer: A

95. GLOFs are mainly caused by:
A) Sudden release of glacial lake water
B) Wind erosion
C) River pollution
D) Sand deposition

Answer: A

96. Dust storms occur when:
A) Strong winds lift dry soil particles
B) Heavy snowfall occurs
C) Rivers overflow
D) Glaciers melt

Answer: A

97. Planting trees can help reduce:
A) Dust storms and erosion
B) Earthquakes
C) Volcanoes
D) Plate movement

Answer: A

98. Natural disasters are linked with:
A) Different landforms
B) Only cities
C) Only oceans
D) Only forests

Answer: A

99. Understanding landforms helps humans to:
A) Prepare for natural disasters
B) Stop Earth’s movement
C) Control volcanoes completely
D) Stop all erosion

Answer: A

100. The Earth’s surface changes due to:
A) Internal and external forces
B) Only humans
C) Only rainfall
D) Only sunlight

Answer: A

Part 2 – Fill in the Blanks (100 Questions with Answers)

Section A: Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics (1–25)

1. The outermost layer of the Earth is called the ________.
Answer: Crust

2. The three main layers of Earth are crust, mantle and ________.
Answer: Core

3. The crust and upper mantle together form the ________.
Answer: Lithosphere

4. The semi-molten layer below the lithosphere is called the ________.
Answer: Asthenosphere

5. The theory explaining the movement of Earth’s plates is called ________.
Answer: Plate tectonics

6. Tectonic plates are large pieces of the Earth’s ________.
Answer: Crust

7. Tectonic plates move over the ________ layer.
Answer: Asthenosphere

8. Heat from Earth’s core creates ________ currents in the mantle.
Answer: Convection

9. Tectonic plates move a few ________ per year.
Answer: Centimetres

10. Mountains, earthquakes and volcanoes are caused by ________ movements.
Answer: Plate

11. The Pacific Plate is one of the world’s major ________ plates.
Answer: Tectonic

12. The ________ Plate carries the Indian subcontinent.
Answer: Indo-Australian

13. A plate carrying continents is called a ________ plate.
Answer: Continental

14. A plate carrying ocean floors is called an ________ plate.
Answer: Oceanic

15. A plate carrying both land and ocean is called a ________ plate.
Answer: Mixed

16. When two plates move towards each other, it is called a ________ boundary.
Answer: Convergent

17. Himalayas were formed due to the collision of ________ plates.
Answer: Continental

18. Plates moving away from each other form a ________ boundary.
Answer: Divergent

19. New crust is created at ________ boundaries.
Answer: Divergent

20. Plates sliding past each other form ________ boundaries.
Answer: Transform

21. San Andreas Fault is an example of a ________ boundary.
Answer: Transform

22. The region around the Pacific Ocean with many earthquakes and volcanoes is called the ________.
Answer: Ring of Fire

23. Earthquakes and volcanoes are common near plate ________.
Answer: Boundaries

24. Internal forces of Earth create mountains, valleys and ________.
Answer: Ocean basins

25. Plate tectonics explains the distribution of continents and ________.
Answer: Oceans

Section B: Weathering and Erosion (26–45)

26. Weathering is the breaking down of ________ into smaller pieces.
Answer: Rocks

27. Weathering does not involve the ________ of materials.
Answer: Movement

28. Physical weathering is caused by temperature changes, frost and ________.
Answer: Wind

29. Chemical weathering involves reactions with water, air and ________.
Answer: Acids

30. Biological weathering is caused by plants, animals and ________.
Answer: Micro-organisms

31. Plant roots breaking rocks is an example of ________ weathering.
Answer: Biological

32. Weathering helps in the formation of ________.
Answer: Soil

33. Erosion involves the wearing away and ________ of materials.
Answer: Transportation

34. Rivers, wind, glaciers and waves are agents of ________.
Answer: Erosion

35. Water erosion is mainly caused by rivers, rain and ocean ________.
Answer: Waves

36. Wind erosion is common in dry and ________ areas.
Answer: Sandy

37. Moving ice causes ________ erosion.
Answer: Glacial

38. Sea waves cause ________ erosion.
Answer: Coastal

39. Removal of fertile topsoil affects ________.
Answer: Agriculture

40. Planting trees helps to reduce soil ________.
Answer: Erosion

41. Terrace farming helps prevent soil ________.
Answer: Erosion

42. Earthen embankments built to reduce runoff are called ________.
Answer: Bunding

43. Continuous trenches along hillsides are called ________.
Answer: Contouring

44. Agents that wear down, transport and deposit materials are called agents of ________.
Answer: Gradation

45. Deposition occurs when transported materials are ________.
Answer: Dropped

Section C: River and Coastal Landforms (46–65)

46. Rivers shape land through erosion, transportation and ________.
Answer: Deposition

47. Waterfalls are usually found in the ________ course of rivers.
Answer: Upper

48. A waterfall forms when a river flows over a steep ________.
Answer: Cliff

49. A winding curve in a river is called a ________.
Answer: Meander

50. Meanders are formed due to erosion and ________.
Answer: Deposition

51. A delta forms at the ________ of a river.
Answer: Mouth

52. Deltas are made of deposited ________.
Answer: Sediments

53. Delta soil is rich in ________ soil.
Answer: Alluvial

54. The Sundarbans is a famous ________.
Answer: Delta

55. Beaches are formed by deposition of sand by ________.
Answer: Waves

56. Sea cliffs are formed due to coastal ________.
Answer: Erosion

57. A sea cave develops when waves erode weak parts of ________.
Answer: Rocks

58. A sea arch is formed when two caves ________.
Answer: Meet

59. A sea stack is an isolated pillar of ________.
Answer: Rock

60. Waves and currents reshape the ________ areas.
Answer: Coastal

61. Beaches support tourism and ________.
Answer: Fishing

62. River valleys support human settlements and ________.
Answer: Agriculture

63. Floodplains are formed by river ________.
Answer: Deposition

64. Oxbow lakes are formed from river ________.
Answer: Meanders

65. Rivers are important for irrigation and ________.
Answer: Transport

Section D: Glaciers, Wind and Underground Water (66–85)

66. Glaciers are slowly moving masses of ________.
Answer: Ice

67. Glaciers create ________-shaped valleys.
Answer: U

68. Bowl-shaped depressions formed by glaciers are called ________.
Answer: Cirques

69. Sharp ridges between glacial valleys are called ________.
Answer: Aretes

70. Deposits left by glaciers are called ________.
Answer: Moraines

71. Fjords are formed by ________ erosion.
Answer: Glacial

72. Wind erosion is common in ________ regions.
Answer: Desert

73. Streamlined rock ridges formed by wind are called ________.
Answer: Yardangs

74. Sand hills formed by wind are called ________.
Answer: Dunes

75. Crescent-shaped dunes are called ________ dunes.
Answer: Barchan

76. Karst landscapes are formed by ________ water.
Answer: Underground

77. Hollow spaces formed in rocks are called ________.
Answer: Caves

78. Stalactites hang from cave ________.
Answer: Ceilings

79. Stalagmites rise from cave ________.
Answer: Floors

80. Sinkholes are formed by collapse of underground ________.
Answer: Cavities

81. Underground rivers flow through ________ systems.
Answer: Cave

82. Wind transports loose particles of ________ and soil.
Answer: Sand

83. Desert landforms are greatly influenced by ________.
Answer: Wind

84. Glacial soil can support ________.
Answer: Agriculture

85. Underground water can create ________ topography.
Answer: Karst

Section E: Disasters Related to Landforms (86–100)

86. Landslides occur mainly on unstable ________.
Answer: Slopes

87. Heavy rainfall increases the risk of ________.
Answer: Landslides

88. Deforestation makes slopes more ________.
Answer: Unstable

89. Avalanches involve sudden movement of ________.
Answer: Snow

90. Avalanches occur mainly in ________ regions.
Answer: Mountainous

91. GLOF stands for Glacial Lake ________ Flood.
Answer: Outburst

92. GLOFs occur due to sudden release of water from ________ lakes.
Answer: Glacial

93. Rising temperatures increase glacier ________.
Answer: Melting

94. Dust storms occur when strong ________ lift dry soil particles.
Answer: Winds

95. Dust storms are common in desert and ________ regions.
Answer: Semi-arid

96. Planting vegetation helps control ________ storms.
Answer: Dust

97. Early warning systems help reduce disaster ________.
Answer: Damage

98. Natural disasters are connected with different ________.
Answer: Landforms

99. Understanding landforms helps in disaster ________.
Answer: Management

100. Earth’s surface changes due to internal and ________ forces.
Answer: External

Part 3 – True/False Questions (100 Questions with Answers)

Section A: Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics (1–25)

1. The Earth’s surface is constantly changing.
Answer: True

2. The Earth has only two layers.
Answer: False
(Earth has three main layers: crust, mantle and core.)

3. The crust is the outermost layer of the Earth.
Answer: True

4. The core is the outermost layer of the Earth.
Answer: False

5. The lithosphere includes the crust and upper mantle.
Answer: True

6. The asthenosphere is a completely solid layer.
Answer: False

7. Tectonic plates are large pieces of the Earth’s crust.
Answer: True

8. Plate tectonics explains the movement of Earth’s plates.
Answer: True

9. Tectonic plates move several kilometres every year.
Answer: False
(They move only a few centimetres per year.)

10. Convection currents in the mantle help move tectonic plates.
Answer: True

11. The Pacific Plate is a major tectonic plate.
Answer: True

12. The Himalayan Plate is a major tectonic plate.
Answer: False

13. Continental plates carry continents.
Answer: True

14. Oceanic plates carry ocean floors.
Answer: True

15. Mixed plates carry only oceans.
Answer: False
(They carry both continents and oceans.)

16. The Indo-Australian Plate includes India.
Answer: True

17. The Ring of Fire is located around the Pacific Ocean.
Answer: True

18. Earthquakes never occur near plate boundaries.
Answer: False

19. Volcanoes are related to plate movements.
Answer: True

20. Convergent boundaries occur when plates move apart.
Answer: False

21. Divergent boundaries create new crust.
Answer: True

22. Transform boundaries involve plates sliding past each other.
Answer: True

23. The Himalayas were formed due to plate collision.
Answer: True

24. San Andreas Fault is an example of a transform boundary.
Answer: True

25. Plate tectonics helps explain the formation of mountains and oceans.
Answer: True

Section B: Weathering and Erosion (26–45)

26. Weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces.
Answer: True

27. Weathering always transports rock materials.
Answer: False

28. Erosion involves movement of materials.
Answer: True

29. Weathering and erosion are exactly the same process.
Answer: False

30. Physical weathering can occur due to temperature changes.
Answer: True

31. Chemical weathering involves reactions with water and air.
Answer: True

32. Plant roots can cause biological weathering.
Answer: True

33. Weathering helps in soil formation.
Answer: True

34. Wind cannot cause erosion.
Answer: False

35. Rivers are agents of erosion.
Answer: True

36. Glaciers can erode land surfaces.
Answer: True

37. Ocean waves cause coastal erosion.
Answer: True

38. Erosion always improves agricultural land.
Answer: False

39. Removal of topsoil affects farmers.
Answer: True

40. Deforestation increases soil erosion.
Answer: True

41. Terrace farming helps reduce erosion.
Answer: True

42. Bunding is a method of soil conservation.
Answer: True

43. Contouring helps slow water flow on slopes.
Answer: True

44. Deposition occurs when materials are dropped after transport.
Answer: True

45. Agents of gradation only destroy landforms.
Answer: False

Section C: River and Coastal Landforms (46–65)

46. Rivers shape land through erosion, transportation and deposition.
Answer: True

47. Waterfalls are commonly found in the upper course of rivers.
Answer: True

48. Waterfalls are formed only by wind erosion.
Answer: False

49. Meanders are bends in rivers.
Answer: True

50. Meanders are formed due to erosion and deposition.
Answer: True

51. Deltas are formed at the mouth of rivers.
Answer: True

52. Deltas are made of lava deposits.
Answer: False

53. Delta regions usually have fertile soil.
Answer: True

54. The Sundarbans is a famous delta region.
Answer: True

55. Rivers do not support human settlements.
Answer: False

56. Beaches are formed by wave deposition.
Answer: True

57. Sea cliffs are formed by coastal erosion.
Answer: True

58. Sea caves are formed by wave action.
Answer: True

59. Sea arches form from caves.
Answer: True

60. Sea stacks are isolated rock pillars.
Answer: True

61. Beaches are important for tourism.
Answer: True

62. Coastal erosion can damage human settlements.
Answer: True

63. Rivers can provide water for irrigation.
Answer: True

64. Floodplains are created by river deposition.
Answer: True

65. River landforms have no effect on human life.
Answer: False

Section D: Glaciers, Wind and Underground Water (66–85)

66. Glaciers are moving masses of ice.
Answer: True

67. Glaciers create U-shaped valleys.
Answer: True

68. Cirques are formed by glaciers.
Answer: True

69. Moraines are deposits left by glaciers.
Answer: True

70. Fjords are created by glacial activity.
Answer: True

71. Wind has no role in shaping deserts.
Answer: False

72. Yardangs are formed by wind erosion.
Answer: True

73. Sand dunes are created by wind deposition.
Answer: True

74. Barchan dunes are crescent-shaped.
Answer: True

75. Karst landforms are created mainly by underground water.
Answer: True

76. Caves can be formed by groundwater action.
Answer: True

77. Stalactites grow from cave floors.
Answer: False
(They hang from cave ceilings.)

78. Stalagmites grow upward from cave floors.
Answer: True

79. Sinkholes can form due to collapse of underground cavities.
Answer: True

80. Underground rivers may flow through caves.
Answer: True

81. Wind erosion is common in desert regions.
Answer: True

82. Glaciers provide freshwater resources.
Answer: True

83. Dunes can protect some coastal settlements.
Answer: True

84. Underground water never changes landforms.
Answer: False

85. Wind, glaciers and groundwater are agents of gradation.
Answer: True

Section E: Landform-Related Disasters (86–100)

86. Landslides occur when slopes become unstable.
Answer: True

87. Heavy rainfall can trigger landslides.
Answer: True

88. Deforestation reduces landslide risk.
Answer: False

89. Avalanches involve movement of snow.
Answer: True

90. Avalanches commonly occur in mountains.
Answer: True

91. GLOF means Glacial Lake Outburst Flood.
Answer: True

92. GLOFs can occur due to melting glaciers.
Answer: True

93. Earthquakes cannot affect glacial lakes.
Answer: False

94. Dust storms occur due to strong winds carrying dry particles.
Answer: True

95. Dust storms are common in dry regions.
Answer: True

96. Vegetation can help reduce dust storms.
Answer: True

97. Disaster management is important in hazard-prone areas.
Answer: True

98. Human activities can increase disaster risks.
Answer: True

99. Understanding landforms helps in disaster preparedness.
Answer: True

100. Internal and external forces together shape Earth’s surface.
Answer: True

Part 4 – Match the Following Questions (50 Questions with Answers)

Section A: Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics (1–15)

1. Match Column A with Column B

Column A	Column B
1. Crust	a. Semi-molten layer
2. Mantle	b. Outermost layer of Earth
3. Core	c. Innermost layer
4. Asthenosphere	d. Thick middle layer

Answer:
1 – b
2 – d
3 – c
4 – a

2. Match the following:

Column A	Column B
1. Lithosphere	a. Allows plate movement
2. Tectonic plates	b. Broken pieces of crust
3. Convection currents	c. Crust and upper mantle

Answer:
1 – c
2 – b
3 – a

3. Match the plates with their regions:

Column A	Column B
1. Pacific Plate	a. India and Australia region
2. Indo-Australian Plate	b. Pacific Ocean region
3. Eurasian Plate	c. Europe and Asia

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

4. Match the plate boundaries:

Column A	Column B
1. Convergent boundary	a. Plates slide past each other
2. Divergent boundary	b. Plates move towards each other
3. Transform boundary	c. Plates move apart

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

5. Match the features with their causes:

Column A	Column B
1. Himalayas	a. Transform movement
2. Mid-Atlantic Ridge	b. Continental collision
3. San Andreas Fault	c. Divergent movement

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

6. Match:

Column A	Column B
1. Earthquakes	a. Movement of plates
2. Volcanoes	b. Magma reaching surface
3. Mountains	c. Plate collision

Answer:
1 – a
2 – b
3 – c

Section B: Weathering and Erosion (7–20)

7. Match the types of weathering:

Column A	Column B
1. Physical weathering	a. Plant roots
2. Chemical weathering	b. Temperature changes
3. Biological weathering	c. Reaction with water and acids

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

8. Match the processes:

Column A	Column B
1. Weathering	a. Movement of materials
2. Erosion	b. Breaking of rocks
3. Deposition	c. Dropping of sediments

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

9. Match agents with their action:

Column A	Column B
1. River	a. Coastal erosion
2. Wind	b. Valley formation
3. Waves	c. Desert shaping

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

10. Match conservation methods:

Column A	Column B
1. Terracing	a. Trenches along slopes
2. Bunding	b. Steps on hills
3. Contouring	c. Earthen barriers

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

11. Match human activity with its effect:

Column A	Column B
1. Deforestation	a. Soil erosion
2. Mining	b. Slope instability
3. Afforestation	c. Reduces erosion

Answer:
1 – a
2 – b
3 – c

Section C: River Landforms (21–30)

12. Match river landforms:

Column A	Column B
1. Waterfall	a. River mouth
2. Meander	b. Steep river drop
3. Delta	c. River bend

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

13. Match river courses:

Column A	Column B
1. Upper course	a. Deposition
2. Middle course	b. Waterfalls and valleys
3. Lower course	c. Meanders

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

14. Match:

Column A	Column B
1. Delta	a. Fertile agriculture area
2. Floodplain	b. River deposition
3. Oxbow lake	c. Former meander

Answer:
1 – a
2 – b
3 – c

15. Match river features:

Column A	Column B
1. Sediments	a. Deposited materials
2. Valley	b. Low area between hills
3. River mouth	c. Place where river meets sea

Answer:
1 – a
2 – b
3 – c

Section D: Coastal and Glacial Landforms (31–40)

16. Match coastal features:

Column A	Column B
1. Beach	a. Rock pillar
2. Sea cave	b. Sand deposition
3. Sea stack	c. Wave erosion

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

17. Match:

Column A	Column B
1. Sea cliff	a. Isolated rock
2. Sea arch	b. Steep coastal face
3. Sea stack	c. Opening through rock

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

18. Match glacial landforms:

Column A	Column B
1. U-shaped valley	a. Glacier deposit
2. Moraine	b. Glacial erosion
3. Fjord	c. Flooded glacial valley

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

19. Match:

Column A	Column B
1. Cirque	a. Sharp ridge
2. Arete	b. Bowl-shaped hollow
3. Hanging valley	c. Smaller valley above main valley

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

20. Match glacier importance:

Column A	Column B
1. Glacier water	a. Tourism
2. Glacial valleys	b. Freshwater source
3. Fjords	c. Harbours

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

Section E: Wind, Underground Water and Disasters (41–50)

21. Match wind landforms:

Column A	Column B
1. Yardang	a. Sand hill
2. Dune	b. Wind-carved ridge
3. Oasis	c. Water source in desert

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

22. Match dune types:

Column A	Column B
1. Barchan	a. Multiple arms
2. Star dune	b. Crescent shape
3. Longitudinal dune	c. Long ridges

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

23. Match underground features:

Column A	Column B
1. Stalactite	a. Cave floor formation
2. Stalagmite	b. Cave roof formation
3. Sinkhole	c. Ground depression

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

24. Match disasters:

Column A	Column B
1. Landslide	a. Snow movement
2. Avalanche	b. Slope failure
3. GLOF	c. Glacial lake flood

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

25. Match causes:

Column A	Column B
1. Heavy rainfall	a. Dust storms
2. Heavy snowfall	b. Landslides
3. Strong winds	c. Avalanches

Answer:
1 – b
2 – c
3 – a

26. Match disaster prevention:

Column A	Column B
1. Tree plantation	a. Reduces erosion
2. Warning systems	b. Disaster preparedness
3. Safe construction	c. Reduces risk

Answer:
1 – a
2 – b
3 – c

27. Match terms:

Column A	Column B
1. Karst	a. Glacier deposits
2. Moraine	b. Limestone landforms
3. Delta	c. River deposits

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

28. Match agents and landforms:

Column A	Column B
1. River	a. Dunes
2. Wind	b. Delta
3. Glacier	c. U-shaped valley

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

29. Match:

Column A	Column B
1. Internal forces	a. Weathering
2. External forces	b. Earthquakes
3. Gradation	c. Erosion and deposition

Answer:
1 – b
2 – a
3 – c

30. Match chapter concepts:

Column A	Column B
1. Plate movement	a. Creates mountains
2. Weathering	b. Breaks rocks
3. Erosion	c. Moves materials

Answer:
1 – a
2 – b
3 – c

Part 5 – Very Short Answer Questions (1 Mark)

100 Questions with Answers

Section A: Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics (1–25)

1. What is a landform?
Answer: A natural feature on the Earth’s surface formed by natural processes.

2. Name the three main layers of the Earth.
Answer: Crust, mantle and core.

3. Which is the outermost layer of the Earth?
Answer: Crust.

4. Which layer lies below the crust?
Answer: Mantle.

5. Which is the innermost layer of the Earth?
Answer: Core.

6. What is lithosphere?
Answer: The rigid outer layer consisting of the crust and upper mantle.

7. What is asthenosphere?
Answer: A semi-molten layer below the lithosphere that allows plate movement.

8. What are tectonic plates?
Answer: Large pieces of the Earth’s lithosphere that move slowly.

9. What theory explains the movement of tectonic plates?
Answer: Plate tectonics theory.

10. Who gave the theory of plate tectonics?
Answer: W.J. Morgan.

11. Why do tectonic plates move?
Answer: Due to convection currents in the mantle.

12. How fast do tectonic plates usually move?
Answer: A few centimetres per year.

13. Name one major tectonic plate.
Answer: Pacific Plate.

14. Which plate contains India?
Answer: Indo-Australian Plate.

15. What is a continental plate?
Answer: A plate that carries continents.

16. What is an oceanic plate?
Answer: A plate that carries ocean floors.

17. What is a mixed plate?
Answer: A plate carrying both continents and oceans.

18. What happens at a convergent boundary?
Answer: Two plates move towards each other.

19. What landform is created when continental plates collide?
Answer: Fold mountains.

20. Name the mountain range formed by plate collision.
Answer: Himalayas.

21. What happens at a divergent boundary?
Answer: Plates move away from each other.

22. Name one feature formed at divergent boundaries.
Answer: Mid-ocean ridge.

23. What happens at a transform boundary?
Answer: Plates slide past each other.

24. Name one example of a transform boundary.
Answer: San Andreas Fault.

25. What is the Ring of Fire?
Answer: A region around the Pacific Ocean with frequent earthquakes and volcanoes.

Section B: Weathering and Erosion (26–45)

26. What is weathering?
Answer: The breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces.

27. Does weathering involve movement of materials?
Answer: No.

28. What is erosion?
Answer: The wearing away and transportation of materials.

29. Name any one agent of erosion.
Answer: Water.

30. Name the three types of weathering.
Answer: Physical, chemical and biological weathering.

31. What causes physical weathering?
Answer: Temperature changes, frost and wind.

32. What causes chemical weathering?
Answer: Reactions with water, air and acids.

33. What causes biological weathering?
Answer: Plants, animals and microorganisms.

34. How do plant roots cause weathering?
Answer: They grow into cracks and break rocks.

35. How does weathering help humans?
Answer: It helps form soil.

36. What is soil erosion?
Answer: Removal of soil by natural agents.

37. Which activity increases soil erosion?
Answer: Deforestation.

38. What is contouring?
Answer: A soil conservation method using trenches along slopes.

39. What is bunding?
Answer: Building earthen barriers to reduce runoff.

40. What is terracing?
Answer: Creating step-like fields on slopes.

41. What are agents of gradation?
Answer: Natural forces that erode, transport and deposit materials.

42. Name two agents of gradation.
Answer: Rivers and glaciers.

43. What is deposition?
Answer: The process of dropping transported materials.

44. Which process creates many landforms?
Answer: Weathering, erosion and deposition.

45. Why is erosion harmful to farmers?
Answer: It removes fertile topsoil.

Section C: River and Coastal Landforms (46–65)

46. What are the three main processes of rivers?
Answer: Erosion, transportation and deposition.

47. Where are waterfalls commonly found?
Answer: Upper course of rivers.

48. What is a waterfall?
Answer: A river flowing over a steep drop.

49. What is a meander?
Answer: A winding bend in a river.

50. Where are meanders commonly formed?
Answer: Middle and lower courses of rivers.

51. What is a delta?
Answer: A landform formed by sediment deposition at a river mouth.

52. Give one example of a famous delta.
Answer: Sundarbans Delta.

53. Why are deltas fertile?
Answer: Because they contain rich alluvial soil.

54. What is a floodplain?
Answer: Flat land formed by river deposits.

55. What is an oxbow lake?
Answer: A curved lake formed from a cut-off meander.

56. What is a beach?
Answer: A coastal landform made of deposited sand or pebbles.

57. What causes coastal erosion?
Answer: Sea waves and currents.

58. What is a sea cave?
Answer: A hollow formed by wave erosion.

59. What is a sea arch?
Answer: An opening formed when caves join.

60. What is a sea stack?
Answer: An isolated pillar of rock left after erosion.

61. How do beaches help humans?
Answer: They support tourism and fishing.

62. What is a river mouth?
Answer: The place where a river enters a sea, ocean or lake.

63. Why are river valleys important?
Answer: They support agriculture and settlements.

64. Which process creates deltas?
Answer: Deposition.

65. Which natural agent forms coastal landforms?
Answer: Waves and currents.

Section D: Glaciers, Wind and Underground Water (66–85)

66. What is a glacier?
Answer: A slowly moving mass of ice.

67. Which valley is formed by glaciers?
Answer: U-shaped valley.

68. What is a moraine?
Answer: Material deposited by glaciers.

69. What is a fjord?
Answer: A deep narrow inlet formed by glaciers.

70. What is a cirque?
Answer: A bowl-shaped hollow formed by glaciers.

71. What are aretes?
Answer: Sharp ridges between glacial valleys.

72. What landforms are created by wind?
Answer: Dunes and yardangs.

73. What is a yardang?
Answer: A wind-carved rock ridge.

74. What is a sand dune?
Answer: A hill of sand formed by wind deposition.

75. Name one type of sand dune.
Answer: Barchan dune.

76. What is Karst topography?
Answer: Landforms created by underground water in limestone areas.

77. What is a cave?
Answer: A hollow underground space.

78. What are stalactites?
Answer: Deposits hanging from cave ceilings.

79. What are stalagmites?
Answer: Deposits rising from cave floors.

80. What is a sinkhole?
Answer: A depression formed by collapse of underground cavities.

81. Which agent creates karst landforms?
Answer: Underground water.

82. Which landforms attract tourists in deserts?
Answer: Yardangs and dunes.

83. Why are glaciers important?
Answer: They provide freshwater.

84. What is the main agent shaping deserts?
Answer: Wind.

85. Underground rivers flow through what structures?
Answer: Cave systems.

Section E: Landform-Related Disasters (86–100)

86. What is a landslide?
Answer: Sudden movement of soil and rocks down a slope.

87. Name one cause of landslides.
Answer: Heavy rainfall.

88. How does deforestation increase landslides?
Answer: It makes slopes unstable.

89. What is an avalanche?
Answer: Sudden movement of snow down a slope.

90. Where do avalanches occur?
Answer: Mountain regions.

91. What does GLOF stand for?
Answer: Glacial Lake Outburst Flood.

92. What causes GLOFs?
Answer: Sudden release of water from glacial lakes.

93. What causes dust storms?
Answer: Strong winds lifting dry soil particles.

94. Where are dust storms common?
Answer: Desert and semi-arid regions.

95. How can dust storms be reduced?
Answer: By increasing vegetation cover.

96. Why are disaster warning systems important?
Answer: They help reduce loss of life and property.

97. What are internal forces?
Answer: Forces originating inside the Earth.

98. What are external forces?
Answer: Forces acting on Earth’s surface.

99. Name two internal forces.
Answer: Earthquakes and volcanoes.

100. Why should we study landforms?
Answer: To understand Earth processes and prepare for disasters.

Part 6 – Short Answer Questions (2–3 Marks) with Answers

Section A: Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics (1–20)

1. What are the main layers of the Earth? Explain briefly.

Answer:
The Earth has three main layers:

Crust: The thin outer layer where life exists.
Mantle: The thick middle layer made of hot rocks.
Core: The innermost layer mainly made of iron and nickel.

2. What is lithosphere? Why is it important?

Answer:
The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of Earth made up of the crust and upper mantle. It is important because it is divided into tectonic plates that move and create landforms.

3. Explain the role of the asthenosphere in plate movement.

Answer:
The asthenosphere is a semi-molten layer below the lithosphere. Its slow-moving material allows tectonic plates above it to move.

4. What is plate tectonics theory?

Answer:
Plate tectonics theory explains that Earth’s lithosphere is divided into large plates that move slowly over the asthenosphere. Their movement causes mountains, earthquakes and volcanoes.

5. Why do tectonic plates move?

Answer:
Tectonic plates move due to heat from Earth’s interior. This heat creates convection currents in the mantle, which push and pull the plates.

6. Differentiate between continental and oceanic plates.

Answer:

Continental Plates	Oceanic Plates
Carry continents	Carry ocean floors
Usually thicker	Usually thinner
Less dense	More dense

7. What happens when two continental plates collide?

Answer:
When two continental plates collide, the rocks are compressed and folded, forming fold mountains. The Himalayas were formed in this way.

8. Explain convergent plate boundaries.

Answer:
Convergent boundaries occur when two plates move towards each other. They may cause mountain formation, earthquakes and volcanic activity.

9. Explain divergent plate boundaries.

Answer:
Divergent boundaries occur when plates move away from each other. Magma rises from below and forms new crust.

10. What are transform boundaries?

Answer:
Transform boundaries are places where two plates slide past each other. They mainly cause earthquakes.

11. Why are earthquakes common near plate boundaries?

Answer:
Plate boundaries are areas where plates interact. Their sudden movement releases energy, causing earthquakes.

12. What is the Ring of Fire?

Answer:
The Ring of Fire is a region around the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanoes occur due to active plate boundaries.

13. How do internal forces change Earth’s surface?

Answer:
Internal forces from inside Earth create mountains, volcanoes, earthquakes and ocean basins by moving the Earth’s crust.

14. Why is the Earth’s surface not permanent?

Answer:
The Earth’s surface constantly changes due to internal forces like plate movement and external forces like erosion and weathering.

15. How are mountains formed?

Answer:
Mountains are formed mainly through tectonic activity. When plates collide, layers of rock may fold and rise to form mountains.

16. Give examples of landforms created by plate movements.

Answer:
Examples include:

Himalayas
Volcanoes
Ocean ridges
Rift valleys

17. What are tectonic plates made of?

Answer:
Tectonic plates are made of the Earth’s lithosphere, which includes the crust and uppermost mantle.

18. Why are volcanoes found near plate boundaries?

Answer:
Plate movement allows magma from Earth’s interior to reach the surface, causing volcanic activity.

19. How do plate movements affect humans?

Answer:
Plate movements can create useful landforms but may also cause earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and disasters.

20. Why is the study of plate tectonics important?

Answer:
It helps us understand the formation of mountains, earthquakes, volcanoes and the changing nature of Earth’s surface.

Section B: Weathering and Erosion (21–40)

21. Define weathering. Mention its types.

Answer:
Weathering is the breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces without movement. Its types are:

Physical weathering
Chemical weathering
Biological weathering

22. Explain physical weathering with examples.

Answer:
Physical weathering breaks rocks without changing their chemical composition. It occurs due to temperature changes, frost action and pressure.

23. Explain chemical weathering.

Answer:
Chemical weathering occurs when rocks react with water, oxygen or acids, causing changes in their composition.

24. Explain biological weathering.

Answer:
Biological weathering occurs due to living organisms. Plant roots, animals and microorganisms can break rocks.

25. What is erosion?

Answer:
Erosion is the process of wearing away and transporting soil and rock materials by agents like water, wind, glaciers and waves.

26. Differentiate between weathering and erosion.

Answer:

Weathering	Erosion
Breaks rocks	Removes and transports materials
No movement occurs	Movement occurs
Forms soil	Changes landscapes

27. Name the major agents of erosion.

Answer:
The major agents are:

Running water
Wind
Glaciers
Sea waves
Underground water

28. How does deforestation increase erosion?

Answer:
Trees hold soil together with their roots. Removing forests leaves soil exposed, making it easier for wind and water to remove it.

29. How can soil erosion be controlled?

Answer:
Soil erosion can be controlled by:

Planting trees
Terrace farming
Contour farming
Bunding

30. What is deposition?

Answer:
Deposition is the process in which eroded materials are dropped and accumulated in a new location.

31. What are agents of gradation?

Answer:
Agents of gradation are natural forces that wear down, transport and deposit materials. Examples include rivers, wind, glaciers and waves.

32. Why is soil conservation important?

Answer:
Soil conservation protects fertile soil, supports agriculture and prevents land degradation.

33. How does water cause erosion?

Answer:
Running water removes soil and rocks from one place and transports them to another location.

34. How does wind cause erosion?

Answer:
Strong winds carry loose soil and sand particles, wearing away exposed surfaces.

35. Why is erosion faster in areas without vegetation?

Answer:
Vegetation protects soil. Without plants, soil becomes loose and is easily removed by wind and water.

36. What is the importance of deposition?

Answer:
Deposition creates new landforms such as deltas, floodplains and sand dunes.

37. How do glaciers act as agents of erosion?

Answer:
Moving glaciers scrape and remove rocks from the land surface, creating valleys and other landforms.

38. Why are rivers important agents of landform formation?

Answer:
Rivers erode, transport and deposit materials, creating valleys, waterfalls, meanders and deltas.

39. What is land degradation?

Answer:
Land degradation is the decline in land quality due to erosion, deforestation and improper use of land.

40. How does human activity affect erosion?

Answer:
Activities like deforestation, mining and construction increase erosion by disturbing natural protection of soil.

Section C: River Landforms (41–55)

41. How do rivers shape the Earth’s surface?

Answer:
Rivers shape the Earth’s surface through three processes:

Erosion – removal of rocks and soil.
Transportation – movement of sediments.
Deposition – dropping of sediments.

These processes create valleys, waterfalls, meanders and deltas.

42. Explain how waterfalls are formed.

Answer:
Waterfalls form when a river flows over a steep drop or a layer of hard rock above softer rock. The softer rock erodes faster, creating a vertical fall.

43. Why are waterfalls usually found in the upper course of rivers?

Answer:
The upper course of rivers has steep slopes and strong erosion. This allows rivers to cut deep valleys and form waterfalls.

44. What is a meander? How is it formed?

Answer:
A meander is a curved bend in a river. It forms when faster-flowing water erodes the outer bank while slower water deposits sediments on the inner bank.

45. How are deltas formed?

Answer:
Deltas are formed when rivers slow down near their mouth and deposit the sediments they carry. Over time, these deposits build new land.

46. Why are delta regions densely populated?

Answer:
Delta regions have:

Fertile alluvial soil
Availability of water
Flat land suitable for farming

These conditions support human settlements.

47. Why are river valleys important for humans?

Answer:
River valleys provide:

Water for drinking and irrigation
Fertile land for agriculture
Transport routes
Suitable places for settlements

48. What are floodplains?

Answer:
Floodplains are flat areas beside rivers formed by the deposition of sediments during floods.

49. How are oxbow lakes formed?

Answer:
When a meander becomes highly curved, the river cuts through the narrow neck. The old bend gets separated and forms an oxbow lake.

50. Explain the importance of rivers.

Answer:
Rivers are important because they provide water, support agriculture, generate electricity and help in transportation.

51. What is river deposition?

Answer:
River deposition occurs when a river loses energy and drops the sediments it carries.

52. Why do rivers form fertile plains?

Answer:
Rivers deposit fine sediments rich in nutrients, creating fertile alluvial plains suitable for farming.

53. What is the difference between erosion and deposition by rivers?

Answer:

River Erosion	River Deposition
Removes materials	Drops materials
Creates valleys	Creates plains and deltas

54. How do rivers help in economic activities?

Answer:
Rivers support:

Agriculture
Fishing
Tourism
Hydroelectric power generation
Transport

55. Why should river systems be protected?

Answer:
River protection is important because rivers provide water, support ecosystems and maintain human livelihoods.

Section D: Coastal Landforms (56–65)

56. How are beaches formed?

Answer:
Beaches are formed when sea waves deposit sand, pebbles and other materials along the coast.

57. Explain the formation of sea caves.

Answer:
Sea caves form when waves attack weak parts of coastal rocks and gradually enlarge cracks into hollow spaces.

58. How is a sea arch formed?

Answer:
A sea arch forms when waves continue eroding a sea cave until it cuts through the rock completely.

59. How is a sea stack formed?

Answer:
A sea stack forms when a sea arch collapses, leaving behind an isolated pillar of rock.

60. What are sea cliffs?

Answer:
Sea cliffs are steep rock faces along coasts formed by continuous erosion caused by sea waves.

61. How do waves change coastal areas?

Answer:
Waves change coasts through:

Erosion of rocks
Transportation of sediments
Deposition of materials

62. Why are coastal regions important?

Answer:
Coastal regions support:

Fishing
Tourism
Trade
Ports and settlements

63. What problems are caused by coastal erosion?

Answer:
Coastal erosion can:

Damage buildings
Remove beaches
Threaten coastal communities

64. How can coastal erosion be reduced?

Answer:
It can be reduced by:

Planting coastal vegetation
Building protective structures
Proper coastal management

65. Name the main agent responsible for coastal landforms.

Answer:
Sea waves and currents are the main agents responsible for coastal landforms.

Section E: Glacial, Wind and Underground Water Landforms (66–80)

66. How do glaciers shape the land?

Answer:
Glaciers shape land by eroding rocks, carrying sediments and depositing materials as they move.

67. What are glacial valleys?

Answer:
Glacial valleys are valleys carved by moving glaciers. They are usually U-shaped.

68. What is a moraine?

Answer:
A moraine is a deposit of rocks, soil and sediments left behind by a glacier.

69. Explain the formation of fjords.

Answer:
Fjords form when glacial valleys are filled with seawater after glaciers retreat.

70. Why are glaciers important?

Answer:
Glaciers are important because they:

Store freshwater
Support rivers
Attract tourism

71. How does wind create landforms in deserts?

Answer:
Wind erodes rocks, transports sand and deposits materials, creating features like dunes and yardangs.

72. What are sand dunes?

Answer:
Sand dunes are hills of sand formed by wind deposition in desert regions.

73. Explain the formation of yardangs.

Answer:
Yardangs are formed when strong winds remove softer rock materials, leaving behind streamlined ridges.

74. What are barchan dunes?

Answer:
Barchan dunes are crescent-shaped sand dunes formed in areas with limited sand supply and steady winds.

75. What is karst topography?

Answer:
Karst topography is a landscape formed in limestone areas due to the action of underground water.

76. How are caves formed?

Answer:
Caves form when underground water dissolves weak rocks, creating hollow spaces.

77. Differentiate between stalactites and stalagmites.

Answer:

Stalactites	Stalagmites
Hang from cave ceilings	Grow from cave floors
Point downward	Point upward

78. What are sinkholes?

Answer:
Sinkholes are depressions formed when underground cavities collapse due to the removal of supporting rocks.

79. Why are underground water landforms important?

Answer:
They provide groundwater resources and attract tourists because of their unique structures.

80. How do wind and glaciers differ as agents of erosion?

Answer:

Wind	Glaciers
Common in deserts	Common in cold regions
Moves sand particles	Moves large masses of ice
Forms dunes and yardangs	Forms valleys and moraines

Section F: Landform-Related Disasters and Management (81–100)

81. What is a landslide?

Answer:
A landslide is the sudden movement of soil, rocks and debris down a slope due to gravity. It commonly occurs in mountainous areas.

82. Mention any three causes of landslides.

Answer:
Causes of landslides include:

Heavy rainfall
Earthquakes
Deforestation
Mining and construction activities

83. How does deforestation increase landslide risk?

Answer:
Trees hold soil together through their roots. When forests are removed, soil becomes loose and unstable, increasing the chance of landslides.

84. Suggest measures to prevent landslides.

Answer:
Landslides can be reduced by:

Planting trees
Improving drainage systems
Avoiding construction on unstable slopes
Using slope protection methods

85. What is an avalanche?

Answer:
An avalanche is the sudden movement of a large mass of snow, ice and debris down a mountain slope.

86. Where do avalanches commonly occur?

Answer:
Avalanches commonly occur in high mountain regions covered with snow, especially during heavy snowfall or sudden temperature changes.

87. Mention the causes of avalanches.

Answer:
Causes of avalanches include:

Heavy snowfall
Earthquakes
Rising temperatures
Human activities in mountain areas

88. How can avalanches be managed?

Answer:
Avalanches can be managed through:

Weather monitoring
Warning systems
Controlled release of snow in risky areas
Restricting movement in dangerous zones

89. What is GLOF?

Answer:
GLOF stands for Glacial Lake Outburst Flood. It occurs when water stored in a glacial lake suddenly releases and causes flooding.

90. What causes GLOFs?

Answer:
GLOFs may occur due to:

Rapid melting of glaciers
Weakening of natural barriers
Heavy rainfall
Earthquake activity

91. Why are Himalayan regions vulnerable to GLOFs?

Answer:
The Himalayas have many glaciers and glacial lakes. Rising temperatures and unstable conditions increase the risk of sudden floods.

92. How can the impact of GLOFs be reduced?

Answer:
The impact can be reduced by:

Monitoring glacial lakes
Installing early warning systems
Planning safe settlements
Creating disaster preparedness plans

93. What are dust storms?

Answer:
Dust storms are strong winds that lift and carry large amounts of dry soil and dust particles.

94. Where do dust storms commonly occur?

Answer:
Dust storms commonly occur in deserts and dry, semi-arid regions where loose soil is easily carried by winds.

95. Mention the causes of dust storms.

Answer:
Causes of dust storms include:

Strong winds
Dry conditions
Lack of vegetation
Drought

96. How can dust storms be controlled?

Answer:
Dust storms can be reduced by:

Planting trees
Protecting vegetation
Preventing overgrazing
Improving land management

97. Why is disaster preparedness important?

Answer:
Disaster preparedness helps people reduce damage, protect lives and respond effectively during emergencies.

98. How do human activities increase natural disaster risks?

Answer:
Activities like deforestation, mining and unplanned construction disturb natural systems and increase the chances of disasters.

99. Why is understanding landforms important for humans?

Answer:
Understanding landforms helps humans:

Choose safer places for settlements
Manage natural resources
Prepare for hazards
Plan development activities

100. Explain how internal and external forces work together to shape Earth’s surface.

Answer:
Internal forces such as plate movements, earthquakes and volcanoes create new landforms. External forces like weathering, erosion and deposition modify these landforms over time.

Part 7 – Long Answer Questions (4–5 Marks) with Answers

Questions 1–25

Section A: Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics

1. Explain the internal structure of the Earth.

Answer:
The Earth is made up of three main layers:

1. Crust

It is the outermost and thinnest layer.
Humans live on this layer.
It contains continents and ocean floors.

2. Mantle

It lies below the crust.
It is the thickest layer of Earth.
Heat movement in the mantle creates convection currents that help move tectonic plates.

3. Core

It is the innermost layer.
It is mainly made of iron and nickel.
It has extremely high temperature and pressure.

These layers together control many processes that shape Earth’s surface.

2. Explain the theory of plate tectonics.

Answer:
The theory of plate tectonics explains the movement of large pieces of Earth’s lithosphere.

Main points:

The lithosphere is divided into several tectonic plates.
These plates move slowly over the semi-molten asthenosphere.
Plate movement occurs due to heat-driven convection currents.
Movement of plates creates mountains, volcanoes and earthquakes.

This theory helps explain how Earth’s surface changes over time.

3. Describe different types of plate boundaries.

Answer:

There are three major types of plate boundaries:

1. Convergent Boundary

Plates move towards each other.
Collision may create mountains and volcanoes.
Example: Formation of the Himalayas.

2. Divergent Boundary

Plates move away from each other.
New crust is formed when magma rises.
Example: Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

3. Transform Boundary

Plates slide past each other.
Sudden movement causes earthquakes.
Example: San Andreas Fault.

4. How do plate movements create landforms?

Answer:
Plate movements create different landforms through internal forces.

Collision of plates forms fold mountains.
Plates moving apart create new ocean floors and valleys.
Volcanic activity creates volcanic mountains.
Plate movements also form earthquakes and ocean basins.

Thus, tectonic activity plays an important role in shaping Earth’s surface.

5. Explain the importance of studying plate tectonics.

Answer:
The study of plate tectonics is important because:

It explains the formation of mountains and oceans.
It helps understand earthquakes and volcanoes.
It helps identify disaster-prone regions.
It improves planning for human settlements.
It explains changes in Earth’s surface over millions of years.

Section B: Weathering and Erosion

6. Explain weathering and its different types.

Answer:
Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces without movement.

Types of weathering:

Physical Weathering

Rocks break due to temperature changes, frost and pressure.
Chemical composition remains unchanged.

Chemical Weathering

Rocks are changed due to reactions with water, oxygen and acids.

Biological Weathering

Living organisms break rocks.
Plant roots growing into cracks are an example.

Weathering helps in soil formation and landscape development.

7. Explain the process of erosion and its agents.

Answer:
Erosion is the removal and transportation of weathered materials from one place to another.

Main agents of erosion are:

1. Running Water

Creates valleys, waterfalls and deltas.

2. Wind

Shapes desert landscapes and forms dunes.

3. Glaciers

Carve valleys and transport rocks.

4. Sea Waves

Form coastal features like caves and cliffs.

Erosion continuously changes Earth’s surface.

8. Differentiate between weathering and erosion.

Answer:

Weathering	Erosion
Breaks rocks into smaller pieces	Removes and transports materials
Materials remain in the same place	Materials move to another place
Helps form soil	Changes landscapes
Caused by physical, chemical and biological processes	Caused by water, wind, glaciers and waves

9. Explain methods of soil conservation.

Answer:
Soil conservation methods protect soil from erosion.

1. Afforestation

Planting trees helps hold soil together.

2. Terrace Farming

Steps are made on slopes to reduce water flow.

3. Contour Farming

Crops are planted along natural contours to slow runoff.

4. Bunding

Small barriers are built to prevent soil loss.

These methods maintain soil fertility and support agriculture.

10. How do human activities increase soil erosion?

Answer:
Human activities that increase erosion include:

Deforestation: Removes vegetation that protects soil.
Mining: Disturbs land surfaces.
Construction: Exposes loose soil.
Overgrazing: Removes protective grass cover.
Improper farming: Reduces soil stability.

These activities make land more vulnerable to erosion.

Section C: River Landforms

11. Explain how rivers create different landforms.

Answer:
Rivers shape the land through erosion, transportation and deposition.

Upper Course:

Strong erosion creates valleys and waterfalls.

Middle Course:

River bends form meanders.

Lower Course:

Deposition creates floodplains and deltas.

Rivers continuously modify landscapes through their movement.

12. Explain the formation of waterfalls and meanders.

Answer:

Waterfalls

Form when rivers flow over hard and soft rocks.
Softer rocks erode faster, creating a steep drop.

Meanders

Form due to uneven erosion and deposition.
Outer bends experience erosion.
Inner bends receive deposited sediments.

Both are important river landforms.

13. Explain the formation and importance of deltas.

Answer:
A delta forms when a river slows down near its mouth and deposits sediments.

Importance of deltas:

They have fertile soil.
Support agriculture.
Provide fishing opportunities.
Support large populations.

Example: Sundarbans Delta.

14. Why are river valleys important for human settlements?

Answer:
River valleys are important because:

They provide fresh water.
They have fertile soil.
They support farming.
They provide transport routes.
They encourage development of settlements.

Many civilizations developed near rivers because of these advantages.

15. Explain the importance of rivers in human life.

Answer:
Rivers are important because they provide:

Drinking water
Irrigation facilities
Hydroelectric power
Transport routes
Fishing resources
Support for agriculture and industries

Rivers are essential for both ecosystems and human development.

Section D: Coastal Landforms

16. Explain how sea waves create coastal landforms.

Answer:
Sea waves continuously change coastal areas through erosion, transportation and deposition.

Erosional landforms:

Sea cliffs: Formed when waves cut steep coastal rocks.
Sea caves: Formed when waves erode weak parts of rocks.
Sea arches: Form when caves become wider and join through a rock wall.
Sea stacks: Form when arches collapse, leaving isolated rock pillars.

Depositional landforms:

Beaches form when waves deposit sand and other materials along the coast.

Thus, sea waves play an important role in shaping coastal landscapes.

17. Describe the formation of sea caves, arches and stacks.

Answer:

The formation takes place in stages:

Waves attack weak cracks in coastal rocks.
Continuous erosion enlarges these cracks into caves.
Further erosion may join caves to form a sea arch.
When the arch roof collapses, a separate pillar of rock called a sea stack remains.

These features are examples of coastal erosion.

18. Explain the importance of coastal landforms.

Answer:
Coastal landforms are important because:

Beaches attract tourists.
Coastal areas support fishing activities.
Ports develop along suitable coastal regions.
Coastal ecosystems support marine life.
They provide resources and employment opportunities.

However, coastal areas need protection from erosion and disasters.

19. What are the causes and effects of coastal erosion?

Answer:

Causes:

Strong sea waves
Storms
Rising sea levels
Removal of coastal vegetation

Effects:

Loss of beaches
Damage to houses and infrastructure
Threat to coastal communities
Loss of habitats

Coastal protection measures help reduce these impacts.

Section E: Glacial Landforms

20. Explain how glaciers shape the Earth’s surface.

Answer:
Glaciers are large moving masses of ice that shape land through:

1. Erosion

Glaciers scrape and remove rocks.
They create valleys and mountain features.

2. Transportation

Glaciers carry rocks and sediments as they move.

3. Deposition

Materials are deposited when glaciers melt.

Glaciers create landforms such as U-shaped valleys, moraines and fjords.

21. Describe the major landforms created by glaciers.

Answer:

Major glacial landforms include:

1. U-shaped valleys

Created when glaciers widen river valleys.

2. Cirques

Bowl-shaped depressions formed at glacier origins.

3. Aretes

Sharp ridges between glacial valleys.

4. Moraines

Deposits of rocks and sediments left by glaciers.

5. Fjords

Deep coastal valleys filled with seawater.

22. Explain the importance of glaciers.

Answer:
Glaciers are important because:

They store large amounts of freshwater.
They supply water to rivers.
They support ecosystems.
They attract tourists.
They help scientists study climate changes.

Glacier conservation is important for maintaining water resources.

23. How does climate change affect glaciers?

Answer:
Climate change increases temperatures, causing glaciers to melt faster.

Effects include:

Reduction in freshwater storage.
Rise in sea levels.
Formation of unstable glacial lakes.
Increased risk of GLOFs.

Protecting the climate helps preserve glaciers.

Section F: Wind Landforms

24. Explain how wind shapes desert landscapes.

Answer:
Wind shapes deserts through:

1. Erosion

Removes loose sand and rocks.
Creates features like yardangs.

2. Transportation

Carries sand particles over long distances.

3. Deposition

Deposits sand to form dunes.

Wind is one of the major agents that modify desert regions.

25. Describe different types of sand dunes.

Answer:

Different types of sand dunes include:

1. Barchan dunes

Crescent-shaped dunes.
Form where sand supply is limited.

2. Longitudinal dunes

Long ridges formed parallel to wind direction.

3. Star dunes

Have several arms.
Form where winds blow from different directions.

4. Parabolic dunes

U-shaped dunes usually found in coastal areas.

26. What are yardangs? How are they formed?

Answer:
Yardangs are long, narrow ridges found in deserts.

Formation:

Strong winds remove softer rock materials.
Harder rocks remain as raised ridges.
Continuous wind action shapes them into streamlined forms.

27. Explain the importance of desert landforms.

Answer:
Desert landforms are important because:

They attract tourists.
They provide unique landscapes.
Sand deposits provide construction materials.
Some desert areas support human settlements around water sources.

Section G: Underground Water Landforms

28. Explain how underground water creates landforms.

Answer:
Underground water acts on soluble rocks like limestone.

Process:

Water enters cracks in rocks.
It dissolves minerals over time.
Underground cavities and caves develop.
Deposits form structures like stalactites and stalagmites.

These features are called karst landforms.

29. Describe stalactites and stalagmites.

Answer:

Stalactites:

Hang from cave ceilings.
Form when mineral-rich water deposits material downward.

Stalagmites:

Grow upward from cave floors.
Form from water droplets falling from ceilings.

Together they create beautiful cave formations.

30. What is karst topography? Explain its features.

Answer:
Karst topography is a landscape formed mainly in limestone regions due to underground water action.

Features include:

Caves
Sinkholes
Underground streams
Stalactites
Stalagmites

These areas often have unique landscapes and tourism value.

Section H: Landform-Related Disasters

31. Explain landslides, their causes and prevention methods.

Answer:

A landslide is the downward movement of rocks and soil on a slope.

Causes:

Heavy rainfall
Earthquakes
Deforestation
Mining
Road construction

Prevention:

Planting trees
Proper drainage
Avoiding construction on unstable slopes
Slope protection measures

32. Explain avalanches and their causes.

Answer:
An avalanche is the sudden movement of snow and ice down a mountain slope.

Causes:

Heavy snowfall
Temperature changes
Earthquakes
Human activities

Avalanches are common in high mountain regions.

33. What is GLOF? Explain its causes and effects.

Answer:
GLOF means Glacial Lake Outburst Flood.

Causes:

Rapid glacier melting
Weak glacial barriers
Heavy rainfall
Earthquakes

Effects:

Sudden flooding
Damage to settlements
Destruction of roads and bridges
Loss of life and property

34. Explain dust storms, their causes and prevention.

Answer:

Dust storms are strong winds carrying large amounts of dust and soil.

Causes:

Dry climate
Strong winds
Lack of vegetation
Drought

Prevention:

Planting trees
Protecting vegetation
Sustainable land management

35. How can communities prepare for landform-related disasters?

Answer:

Communities can prepare by:

Using early warning systems.
Creating disaster management plans.
Avoiding risky areas for construction.
Educating people about hazards.
Maintaining forests and natural barriers.

Prepared communities can reduce disaster impacts.

Section I: Integrated Concepts

36. Explain how internal and external forces work together in shaping the Earth’s surface.

Answer:
The Earth’s surface is shaped by both internal and external forces.

Internal forces:

Originate from inside the Earth.
Cause earthquakes, volcanoes and mountain formation.
Create new landforms.

External forces:

Act on the Earth’s surface.
Include weathering, erosion and deposition.
Modify existing landforms.

Together, these forces continuously change the Earth’s surface.

37. Explain the role of rivers, glaciers and wind as agents of landform formation.

Answer:

Rivers:

Erode rocks and transport sediments.
Create valleys, waterfalls, meanders and deltas.

Glaciers:

Move slowly over land.
Create U-shaped valleys, moraines and fjords.

Wind:

Common in desert regions.
Creates dunes and yardangs through erosion and deposition.

These agents continuously reshape landscapes.

38. Compare the work of internal and external forces.

Answer:

Internal Forces	External Forces
Originate inside Earth	Act on Earth’s surface
Create new landforms	Modify existing landforms
Cause earthquakes and volcanoes	Cause erosion and deposition
Work over short or long periods	Usually work gradually

Both forces are responsible for Earth’s changing surface.

39. Explain the importance of landforms in human life.

Answer:
Landforms influence human activities in many ways:

Plains provide fertile land for agriculture.
Mountains provide resources and tourism opportunities.
Rivers provide water and transport.
Coastal areas support fishing and trade.
Deserts have unique ecosystems and mineral resources.

Human settlements often develop according to landform conditions.

40. How do natural processes create both opportunities and hazards for humans?

Answer:

Natural processes create opportunities such as:

Fertile plains from river deposits.
Mineral resources from geological activity.
Tourism opportunities from mountains and coasts.

They can also create hazards:

Earthquakes
Volcanic eruptions
Landslides
Floods

Understanding these processes helps humans manage risks.

Section J: HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills)

41. Why are areas near plate boundaries more vulnerable to disasters?

Answer:
Areas near plate boundaries experience frequent movement of tectonic plates. Sudden plate movement releases energy, causing earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

42. A region has heavy rainfall and large-scale deforestation. What landform-related problem may occur? Explain.

Answer:
The region may experience landslides.

Reasons:

Removal of trees weakens soil.
Heavy rainfall increases soil saturation.
Loose soil and rocks may move down slopes.

43. Why are river valleys considered suitable places for human settlements?

Answer:
River valleys provide:

Fresh water supply.
Fertile soil.
Flat land for construction.
Opportunities for farming and transport.

Therefore, many civilizations developed near rivers.

44. Why do deserts have more wind-created landforms than river-created landforms?

Answer:
Deserts have:

Very little rainfall.
Less vegetation.
Loose sand and soil.
Strong winds.

Therefore, wind becomes the main agent shaping desert landscapes.

45. Why is protecting vegetation important in preventing soil erosion?

Answer:
Vegetation protects soil because:

Roots hold soil together.
Leaves reduce the impact of rainfall.
Plants slow down surface runoff.

Removing vegetation increases erosion.

Section K: Case-Based Questions

46. A village is located near a mountain slope. After continuous heavy rainfall, rocks and soil move downward, damaging houses.

(a) Name the disaster.
Answer: Landslide.

(b) Mention two causes.
Answer: Heavy rainfall and unstable slopes.

(c) Suggest two preventive measures.
Answer: Plant trees and improve drainage systems.

47. A river carries sediments from mountains and deposits them near the sea, creating new fertile land.

(a) Which landform is formed?
Answer: Delta.

(b) Which process creates this landform?
Answer: Deposition.

(c) Why are these areas useful?
Answer: They have fertile soil suitable for agriculture.

48. A coastal area has steep cliffs, caves and isolated rock pillars.

(a) Which agent created these features?
Answer: Sea waves.

(b) Are these erosional or depositional features?
Answer: Erosional features.

(c) Name two features mentioned.
Answer: Sea caves and sea stacks.

49. A cold region has deep valleys with steep sides and deposits of rocks left behind by moving ice.

(a) Which agent shaped this region?
Answer: Glacier.

(b) Name the type of valley formed.
Answer: U-shaped valley.

(c) What are the rock deposits called?
Answer: Moraines.

50. A desert region has crescent-shaped sand hills formed by strong winds.

(a) Name the landform.
Answer: Barchan dunes.

(b) Which agent formed it?
Answer: Wind.

(c) Is it formed by erosion or deposition?
Answer: Deposition.