I PU Geography English Medium PDF

Government of Karnataka

I PUC
GEOGRAPHY
FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
AND
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT OF INDIA

DEPARTMENT OF PRE-UNIVERSITY EDUCATION

Malleshwaram, Bangalore - 560 012.
www.pue.kar.nic.in
Revised Edition - 2017
Director’s Message
Dear Students,
We at the Department of Pre-university Education,

Karnataka strive to empower each student to dream big
and equip them with the tools that enable them to reach
new heights and successfully deal with the challenges of
life. As Swami Vivekananda said, "Real education is that
which enables one to stand on one's own legs".
The course contents in this book are designed with

the objective of equipping you well for the next level of
study.
We wish you well on your journey and look forward to

you becoming a responsible citizen of the nation and give
back to the betterment of the society.
With best wishes,
Sd/-
C. Shikha, IAS
Director
Department of Pre University Education
Bengaluru
PREFACE
The Department of Pre-University Education for the first time, in its
history, has constituted a Text Book Development Committee comprising
of teachers belonging to Pre-University Education to frame syllabus and
prepare a Text book for I PUC. This is a welcome move by the department
towards promotion of standard of teaching on the one hand and content
development on the other. Hence it could be termed as a reformative move
because teaching is not merely injecting ideas into the learners; it is to
make learning a passion and it should be an integral part of the learner.
This implies that the teacher, on his part, should be a learner
himself first, so that he knows what he needs to impart and how. This
enables the learners to receive the best and the most.
The Text book, ‘Fundamentals of Physical Geography and Physical
Environment of India’ for I PUC is prepared in accordance with the NCERT
guidelines and CBSE syllabus.
The framework of the Text book has been set into three parts. In
Part-A Fundamentals of Physical Geography is discussed with the objective
of giving basic information about Geography, the Earth, Interior of the
Earth, Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Rocks and Minerals, Denudational agents,
Atmosphere, Hydrosphere, Ecology, Biomes and Biodiversity.
In Part-B Physical Environment of India is discussed with a focus on
Location, Extent, Physiographic divisions, River system, Inter-linking of
Rivers, Climate, Soil, Forest, Natural hazards and Disasters.
In Part-C Cartography is included to give proficiency to students and
teachers in the practical aspects of Geography. This part discusses about
Maps, Essentials of a Map, Types, Map reading, Identification of Places
with Latitudes and Longitudes, Representation of physical aspects through
diagrams and drawing of outline map of India to mark and show various
physical aspects.
Maps, Diagrams, Flow charts and Photographs are used sufficiently
to illustrate and explain the concept and to make the subject interesting,
lively and easy to study. Local examples have been quoted wherever
possible.
In the text, Facts file and Do you know? items are included here and
there to help the student to acquire more facts and update his/her
knowledge. To assist the student, important terms are mentioned at the
end of each chapter. A few thought provoking sample questions are also
included in each chapter. To initiate better learning process a few suggested
activities are also mentioned.
The committee is grateful to many Authors, Publishers and Internet
sources who helped in the production of this book.
I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to Director, Department of
Pre-University Education for assigning this work, Convenors and Members
of the Text Book Development Committee for the preparation of syllabus
and production of text book and the various Authors and Friends who
have generously helped me.
13. 02. 2013 K. R. Manjunath

Chairperson
Text Book Development Committee
TEXT BOOK DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
CHAIRPERSON
K.R. Manjunath, Principal, M.E.S. PU College, 2nd Stage BTM Layout,
Bangalore - 560 076.
CONVENORS
Khamer Taj, Principal, Govt. PU College, Agrahara Gate, Hadavanahalli,
Channarayapattana, Hassan District.
B. Hanumantha Rao, Lecturer, Govt. PU College, Chikkaballapura,
Cikkaballapura District.
MEMBERS
Kumar S.N., Principal, Govt. PU College, Channarayapatna, Hassan District.
Ganapathi Vasudeva Bhat, Lecturer, Banguranagar PU College, Dandeli,
Uttara Kannada District.
Marigoudar M.N., Lecturer, Nalanda PU College, Jagaluru, Davanagere District.
Dr. Kabbur N.G., Lecturer, SSC PU College, Inchal, Soudathi Taluk, Belgaum
District.
Moosa B., Lecturer, Madani PU College, Alekala, Ullala, Dakshina Kannada
District.
Hanumanthgowda K., Lecturer, S.R.A. PU College, Gubbi, Tumkur District.
M. Basavaraj, Lecturer, S.U.A.J. PU College, Kubihala, Kundagola, Dharwad
District.
M.S. Manjula, Lecturer, Govt. Girls PU College, 13th Cross, Malleshwaram,
Bangalore - 560 003.
B. Ashoka, Lecturer, Govt. PU College, Beguru, Gundlupet Taluk, Chamarajnagar
District.
Venkatesha B.S., Lecturer, Govt. Girls PU College, K.R. Nagar, Mysore District.
Srinivasan G.M., Lecturer, Govt. Girls PU College, Chintamani, Chikkballapur
District.
Nanjundaswamy, Lecturer, Govt. Girls PU College, Peoples Park, Nazarbad,
Mysore-10.
Channappa S., Lecturer, National PU College, Balraj Urs Road, Shimoga.
Chandrashekar R.B., Lecturer, Empress Girls Govt. PU College, Tumkur.
Jyothi S. Basappanavar, Lecturer, Govt. Girls PU College, Haveri.
Changappa, Lecturer, Srimangala PU College, Srimangala, Kodagu District.
B.A. Devi, Lecturer, Abbas Khan PU College, OTC Road, Bangalore - 560 002.
TEXT BOOK REVIEW COMMITTEE
Prof. P. Mallappa
Prof. of Geography (Rtd.)
J.S.S. Womens College,
Saraswathipuram,
Mysore.
Dr. B.N. Shivalingappa

Prof. and Head
Dept. of Geography (PG)
University of Mysore,
Manasagangotri,
Mysore.
Prof. L. Shaheen Safiha Khanum

Principal
Abbas Khan Womens College,
OTC Road Cross,
Cubbonpet,
Bangalore.
CONTENT
PART-A : FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
CHAPTER 1 GEOGRAPHY AS A DISCIPLINE (5 hrs) 1
1.1 Meaning and scope of Geography
1.2 Geography as an integrating discipline
1.3 Branches of Geography:
Importance of Physical Geography
CHAPTER 2 THE EARTH (10 hrs) 6

2.1 Earth as a planet
2.2 Shape and size of the Earth
2.3 Movements of the Earth: Rotation and Revolution
CHAPTER 3 INTERIOR OF THE EARTH (14 hrs) 24

3.1 Structure and Composition of the Earth
3.2 Earthquakes
3.3 Volcanoes
3.4 Rocks and Minerals
CHAPTER 4 LANDFORMS (12 hrs) 45

4.1 Geomorphic processes
4.2 Weathering
4.3 Denudational agents: Work of River
CHAPTER 5 ATMOSPHERE (16 hrs) 59

5.1 Composition and Structure of Atmosphere
5.2 Temperature
5.3 Atmospheric Pressure
5.4 Winds
5.5 Rainfall
5.6 Weather and Climate
CHAPTER 6 HYDROSPHERE (10 hrs) 82
6.1 Topography of the Ocean Floor
6.2 Temperature and Salinity
6.3 Movements of the Ocean water
6.4 Tides
6.5 Conservation of Oceans
CHAPTER 7 BIOSPHERE (4 hrs) 94

7.1 Environment
7.2 Ecology
7.3 Biomes
7.4 Biodiversity
PART-B : PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT OF INDIA

CHAPTER 8 INDIA (3 hrs) 101
8.1 Location and its Environs
CHAPTER 9 PHYSIOGRAPHY (14 hrs) 106

9.1 Physical divisions
9.2 River system
CHAPTER 10 CLIMATE, SOIL AND FOREST (14 hrs) 138

10.1 Climate: Important Seasons
10.2 Soil: Types, Soil erosion and conservation
10.3 Forest: Major types, importance,
Conservation of Forests and Biosphere reserves
CHAPTER 11 NATURAL HAZARDS AND DISASTERS (6 hrs) 159

11.1 Types, causes, distribution and consequences
PART-C : CARTOGRAPHY
CHAPTER 12 CARTOGRAPHY (12 hrs) 169
12.1 Maps: Meaning, essentials of a map,
types and uses.
12.2 Map reading: Identification of places,
latitudes and longitudes-Karnataka.
12.3 Representation of physical aspects
through Diagrams (10 diagrams).
12.4 Map drawing: Drawing of outline map of India
and showing physical aspects
(10 physical aspects).
PART-A : FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
CHAPTER 1
GEOGRAPHY AS A DISCIPLINE
1.1 MEANING AND SCOPE OF GEOGRAPHY
Meaning of Geography
Geography is defined as the ‘Science of Earth’ and the ‘Home of Man’.
It describes the Earth’s surface-its physical features, climates, soils,
vegetation, population, human activities etc., and their distribution.
Geography: Greek words ‘Geo’ and ‘graphos’.
Geo - Earth and graphos - study or description
The Earth’s surface includes the upper part of the Earth’s crust-
mountains, plateaus, plains, water bodies-lakes, rivers, seas, oceans,
atmosphere and biosphere.
Earth is the home of man and man is the product of the environment.
Human beings use the natural resources of the Earth such as land, water,
air, forests, animals, minerals and many others for their living.
Modern Geography deals with the ‘Earth and its inhabitants’. It studies
the factors and processes which change these features, their mutual
relationships and their spatial arrangement.
Scope of Geography
Geography is as old as mankind. It is an old field of knowledge known
to the philosophers, scholars and experts in the ancient world. Geography
is often called the ‘Mother of all Sciences’. Earlier its field of study used to
comprise mere facts and information about the Earth and its features.
During 19th and 20th centuries there was a plea for widening the scope
of study of Geography, particularly, in its relation to other allied subjects.
Modern geographical research, development in science and technology in
the recent years helped to see a rapid change in the subject matter. Modern
Geography is being developed as an inter-disciplinary subject and serves
as an important link with Natural and Social Sciences. The aims and
Fundamentals of Physical Geography 1

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objectives of the present study is to understand the interaction of the vast

natural environment with the cultural environment.
1.2 GEOGRAPHY AS AN INTEGRATING DISCIPLINE

Geography is a discipline of synthesis. It is considered to be a liaison
subject. It recognizes the fact that the world is a system of interdependency.
Geography as an integrating discipline stands midway between Natural
Science and Social Science. Modern Geography focuses attention on man’s
physical, biological and cultural environments and thereby points out the
inter-relationship between human activities and the environment.
Physical Geography has interface with Natural Sciences. The traditional
Physical Geography is linked with Geology, Meteorology, Hydrology and
Pedology which have very close link with Natural Sciences. Bio Geography
is closely related to Botany and Zoology. Astronomical Geography is related
to heavenly bodies such as Galaxy, Solar System, Stars, Planets, Satellites
and Mathematical Geography helps to represent Latitudes, Longitudes,
Shape of the Earth, Size, Cartographic and Quantitative Techniques.
Fig. 1.1 Geography and its relation with other subjects
2 Fundamentals of Physical Geography

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Geography also has interface with Social Sciences like History,

Sociology, Economics, Political Science, Commerce etc., These subjects
have close links with other disciplines as each one of them has spatial
attributes. History is concerned with past events and studies about people
of different times and Geography deals with the people of different places.
The core concern of Political Science is territory, people and sovereignty.
While Political Geography deals with the spatial unit, people, distribution,
political behaviour, political divisions etc., Economics studies about basic
attributes of the economy such as production, distribution, exchange of
goods and consumption. Each of these attributes has spatial differences
and implications. Economic Geography deals with the spatial aspects of
production, distribution and consumption and also helps in understanding
the most proper location for establishing different human activities.
Commercial Geography deals with the spatial distribution of trade and
commercial practices with respect to exchange of goods, balance of trade,
inter and international trade practices etc., Population Geography helps
to understand the distribution, growth, density, migration and various
other components of population. Thus Geography behaves like an inter-
related and integrating discipline to assess the spatial distribution of
various natural and social aspects on the Earth and its interaction with
each other.
1.3 BRANCHES OF GEOGRAPHY

Geography is the only discipline that brings all Natural and Social
Sciences on a common platform to understand the dynamics of the spatial
configuration of the Earth surface. It is an inter-disciplinary science having
numerous branches.
Geography is divided into two main branches on the basis of systematic
approach. 1) Physical Geography 2) Human Geography
Physical Geography: It deals with the physical environment or physical
aspects of the Earth that are created by nature. Important areas of study
are: a) Geomorphology-Land, land features and landforms b) Climatology-
Climate, atmospheric conditions and climatic change. Meteorology-
Weather conditions and weather changes, C) Oceanography-Seas, oceans,
relief of the ocean floor, configuration of ocean water, movements of ocean
water etc., d) Soil Geography-Formation and distribution of soils on the
Earth. Pedology is the study of soils in their natural environment.

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Human Geography: It deals with man and his activities, particularly

cultural environment factors or man made features. Important among
them are culture, society, agriculture, mining, industry, transport, tourism,
trade, population size etc., viz., Cultural Geography, Historical Geography,
Political Geography, Agricultural Geography, Economic Geography,
Industrial Geography, Geography of Transport etc.,
Bio Geography: It deals with the living organisms on the Earth. Plant
Geography dealing with the distribution of natural vegetation, forest,
grassland etc., and Zoo Geography dealing with distribution of animal
wealth on the Earth are the additional branches in the study of Geography.
Many more branches are also being introduced in recent years.
Importance of Physical Geography
Physical Geography is an important branch in Geography which deals
with the physical features of the Earth, including land, air and water. It is
an area of study that brings together and inter-relates the important
elements of the physical environment of humans.
Physical Geography draws attention in understanding the land,
landforms, layers of the Earth (Geomorphology), elements of atmosphere,
composition and structure (Meteorology, Climatology), Ocean topography,
movement of ocean water (Oceanography), soil formation, types (Soil
Geography) etc.,
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Physical Geography emphasizes spatial relationships with the

systematic arrangements of environmental elements into regions over the
Earth’s surface, and the causes for those patterns.
The main focus of the Physical Geography is on the life layer, a zone
of the lands and oceans containing most of the world of organic life, or
biosphere. The major concern of physical geography is the sum of the
physical factors that make the life layer habitable for all forms of plants
and animals, but more particularly for humans.
IMPORTANT TERMS .....

Geomorphology Climatology Oceanography
Meteorology Pedology Zoo Geography
I Answer the following in a word or a sentence each.

1. Define Geography.
2. What is Modern Geography?
3. Which branch of Geography studies about heavenly bodies?
4. What is Bio Geography?
5. Name any one branch of Physical Geography.
II Answer the following in two or three sentences each.

1. Why is Geography called as the ‘Science of Earth’?
2. How is Geography a discipline of synthesis?
3. What is Oceanography?
4. Name any two branches of Human Geography.
5. What is the main focus of Physical Geography?
III Answer the following.

1. Explain the important branches of Geography.
SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES .....

• Prepare chart to show Geography and its relation with other subjects.
• Prepare flow chart to show Geography and its branches.
• List out the main branches and sub-branches of Geography and add
the latest branches.

CHAPTER 2
THE EARTH
2.1 EARTH AS A PLANET
Our Earth is a member of the Solar System. It is the third planet from
the Sun and fifth largest planet in the solar system. Its age is around 4.6
billion years. The Earth is called 'Terrestrial Planet', because it has rocks
and soils.
Earth is the only planet which supports various forms of life, because
of the atmosphere, presence of water and suitable distance from the Sun.
Our Earth is called by many names. They are 'Watery planet', 'Blue planet',
'Man made greenhouse planet', 'Biosphere planet' , 'Unique planet' etc.,
Earth has a natural satellite called Moon. The position, rotation and
revolution of the Moon cause various effects on the Earth viz., eclipses,
tides etc.
2.2 SHAPE AND SIZE OF THE EARTH

SHAPE OF THE EARTH
Circle
The shape of the Earth was a matter of

12.714 km
(7900 mi)
se
Diameter
lip
El
controversy for a longer period. With the latest

information and facts Sir Isaac Newton Geoid
(1643-1727) asserted that the Earth was not a Equatorial Diameter

12.756 km
complete circle, but it is slightly flattened at (7926 mi)
the Poles and bulged at the Equator. This shape
Polar
se
lip
is called 'Oblate spheroid' or later named as

El
'Geoid'. Recent pictures of the Earth taken from

the space have proved that the Earth is not in
circular shape, but it is spherical or Geoid in Fig. 2.1 Shape of the Earth
shape.
Proofs in support of the spherical shape of the Earth
To ascertain the Geoid shape of the Earth, several proofs are forwarded
by experts. The most important among them are:

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1. Heavenly bodies appear to be

spherical: The Sun, the Moon and
other heavenly bodies appear to be
spherical when viewed from
different position. The Earth is one
of them and hence it must also be
spherical in shape.
Fig. 2.2 Heavenly bodies
2. The Lunar Eclipse: The lunar

eclipse proves that the Earth is in
spherical shape. During lunar
eclipse when the Earth is between
the Sun and the Moon, the shadow
of the Earth falls on the Moon.
Aristotle was the first scholar to
show this by looking at the shadow
of the Earth on the lunar surface.
Later, this was ascertained by Fig. 2.3 Lunar Eclipse
Ptolemy. This is considered to be the
oldest proof in respect of the shape
of the Earth.
3. Sunrise and Sunset: The time of
Sunrise and Sunset is not the same
everywhere in the world. This is due
to spherical shape of the Earth. If
the Earth were to be flat all places
on the Earth would have had
sunrise and sunset at the same time
everywhere in the world. Fig. 2.4 Sunrise and Sunset
4. C i r c u m n a v i g a t i o n :
Circumnavigation of the world can
only be possible when the Earth is
in spherical shape. If one start on a
sea voyage towards the east, by
moving constantly in the same
direction, he would be able to
complete a circle of the world and
reach the original point from where Fig. 2.5 Circumnavigation
he had started. of the Earth

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Do you know?
Ferdinand Magellan (1519-
1522), a Portuguese
explorer is known for the
circumnavigation of the
world. 'Victoria' was the sole
ship of his fleet to complete
the circumnavigation.
5. The Bed Ford level experiment:

Dr. Alfred Russel Wallace conducted
an experiment in 1956, along the
Bed Ford level canal area in Britain.
It is the most convincing proof of the
curvature of the Earth. He fixed Fig. 2.6
three poles of same height at an
interval of about 1mile apart and observed through a telescope. It was
found that the pole in the middle was higher than the other two poles
(Fig. 2.6). It is due to the curvature of the Earth. If the Earth were to
be flat all the poles would have the same horizontal level.
6. Sighting a ship: A ship on the sea
approaching the coast, when seen
from the shore does not come into
view all at once. The observer first
sees the mast and then the hull and
finally the whole ship. A ship moving Fig. 2.7
away from the coast, disappears
gradually and finally out of view (Fig. 2.7). If the Earth were to be flat
the whole ship would have come into view.
7. Aerial and Satellite photographs: The most
clinching evidence of the spherical shape of the
Earth is obtained from aerial and satellite
photographs taken from the space. This is
considered to be the latest proof in respect of the
shape of the Earth.
In addition to the above, spherical horizon, position of
the Pole Star, weight of an object are also considered Fig. 2.8 Satellite
as some of the convincing proofs regarding the shape image of the Earth
of the Earth.
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SIZE OF THE EARTH

The ancient Philosophers, Mathematicians and Geographers made
several attempts to determine the size of the Earth. The distance between
places on the Earth was first calculated by a Greek Philosopher
Eratosthenes (276-195 BC). He calculated the circumference of the Earth
to be 2,52,000 stadia (measuring system Stades) or 46,250 km which is
very close to modern calculations.
Do you know?
Eratosthenes (276 BC-195 BC): 'Father of Geography'
- was the first person to use the word 'Geography';
first to calculate the tilt of the Earth's axis; also was
the first to prepare the map of the World.
Circle
The Equatorial circumference of the Earth
is 40,076 km and the Polar circumference is
12.714 km
(7900 mi)
se
Diameter
lip
El
40,006 km. In the same way the Equatorial

Geoid
diameter of the Earth is 12,756 km and its Polar
Equatorial Diameter
12.756 km diameter is 12,714 km. The difference of 70
(7926 mi)
km in circumference and 42 km in diameter is
Polar
se
lip
due to Oblate spheroid or Geoid shape of the

El
Earth.
Fig. 2.9 Size of the Earth
According to size of the Planets, Earth is the fifth largest planet in the
Solar System. The total geographical area of the Earth is 510 mil sq km.
Of this, water bodies cover 361 mil sq km (71%) and land masses cover
149 mil sq km (29%). The ratio between land and water bodies is 1:2.43.
Distribution of land and water
The Earth's surface is made up of land and water bodies. The huge
land masses are called Continents and the vast water bodies are called
Oceans. The continents and oceans are unevenly distributed throughout
the world.
On the basis of Equator the globe is divided into two hemispheres.
The region which lies to the North of the Equator is called Northern
Hemisphere and area to the South is called Southern Hemisphere.

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Northern hemisphere is covered with more land than water. In this

region nearly 60% of the area is covered by land and 40% is covered by
water. Therefore, Northern hemisphere is called 'Land Hemisphere'. In
the same way Southern hemisphere is covered with more water than land.
In this region nearly 81% is covered with water and only 19% is land
masses. Therefore, Southern hemisphere is called 'Water hemisphere'.
Fig. 2.10 World Physical
The arrangement of land and water bodies on the Earth is called

‘Antipodal balance’. Land on the one side of the Earth is balanced by
water on the other side. eg., The Arctic ocean is opposite to the Antarctic
continent.
Antipodes: Two places situated geometrically on opposite sides of

the Earth. eg. North Pole and South Pole, New Zealand and Iberian
Peninsula.
The average height of the land is 900 m, while the average depth of the
oceans is 3800 m.
The world has seven Continents. They are 1) Asia 2) Africa 3) North
America 4) South America 5) Antarctica 6) Europe and 7) Australia.

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Africa is the oldest Continent and it lies in all the four directions. Asia is
the largest Continent having vast geographical area and greatest population
in the world. Antarctica is located entirely in the southern hemisphere
covered with ice. It is popularly called 'Ice Continent', 'Southern Continent',
'White Continent' etc.,
Mt. Everest (8850 m -Nepal) is the highest peak in the world and
Dead Sea (400 m below sea level-Asia) is the lowest point on the land.
The Earth surface is covered with water bodies like oceans, seas, bays,
gulfs, lakes etc., There are four major oceans in the world. They are 1) The
Pacific Ocean 2) The Atlantic Ocean 3) The Indian Ocean and 4) The Arctic
Ocean. The Pacific Ocean is the largest and the deepest ocean in the world.
The Atlantic Ocean is the busiest and the most dangerous ocean. It has
the longest coastline in the world. The Indian Ocean is the only ocean in
the world named after a country-India. It is surrounded by land in the
north. The Arctic Ocean is the smallest and the shallowest ocean in the
world. It is surrounded by land in all directions. All the oceans of the
world are named by Ferdinand Magellan. Challenger deep (10,898 m or
35,755 ft) of Mariana trench in the Pacific Ocean near Philippine islands
is the deepest point in the ocean floor.
2.3 MOVEMENTS OF THE EARTH: ROTATION AND REVOLUTION

The origin, shape and the movements of the Earth have been a subject
of speculation for a long time. Earlier philosophers and geographers were
of the opinion that the Earth is a stationary body and other heavenly
bodies revolve round it. According to Cladius Ptolemy (120-180 AD) Earth
is the centre of the Solar System and all heavenly bodies including Sun
revolves around the Earth (Geo-centric or Earth- centre theory). Nicolous
Copernicus (1473-1543) a Polish astronomer disagreed with the Earth-
centre theory and advanced Sun- centre (Helio-centric) theory. In this he
suggested that the Sun is in the centre of the Solar System and Earth and
other planets revolve around the Sun. Galileo Galieli accepted Copernicus’s
explanations and proved the position of Sun and other planets in the
Solar System. John Kepler supported the Copernicus theory and opined
that all planets have elliptical orbits.
Like the Sun and other planets the Earth also has two movements.
They are Rotation and Revolution.

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ROTATION OF THE EARTH

The Earth rotates or spins on its axis
from west to east. This movement is called
'Rotation' or 'Daily motion' of the Earth.
The axis of the Earth is an imaginary line
passing through the centre of the Earth and
joining north and south poles. The two ends
of the Earth's axis are known as the Poles.
The actual period of one Rotation is 23
hr 56 min and 4.09 sec, known as 'Sidereal
day'. But one complete Rotation in respect
to the Sun or average period of rotation takes Fig. 2.11 Rotation and Axis
24 hr, known as 'Mean Solar Day'.
The average speed of the Rotation of the Earth varies from latitude to
latitude. At 0º or Equator it is 1670 km/hr. While at 60º N/S latitudes it
is half the speed at the Equator, at 80º N/S latitudes it is 10 km/hr, at
89º N/S it is 1 km/hr and at the Poles it is 0 km/hr respectively. This
variation is due to shape of the Earth and its diameter at different latitudes.
Effects of the Earth's Rotation
Rotation of the Earth causes various effects. They are: Day and Nights,
deflection of winds, sense of time, identification of directions, longitudes,
influence on the shape of the Earth, magnetic attraction, ocean currents,
tides etc.,
Day and Night: Day and nights are
caused due to the rotation of the Earth.
Our Earth is a non-luminous body and
it has to depend on the Sun's light. If
the Earth does not rotate there would
be no day and night. The effect is one
half of the Earth would always face the
Sun and get illuminated and would
always have day. The other half away
from the Sun would remain dark and
would always have night.
Fig. 2.12 Day and Night

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Do you know?
Circle of illumination: A line that bisects
areas on the Earth receiving sunlight and
those areas in darkness cuts the spherical
Earth into lighted and dark halves.
Fig. 2.13 Circle of Illumination
Deflection of winds: Rotation of the

Earth from West to East cause change in the
direction of winds i.e., to its right in the
Northern hemisphere and to its left in the
Southern hemisphere.
Fig. 2.14 Deflection of Winds
Facts File
• Coriolis force: It is caused by the rotation of the Earth. Coriolis
force or effect (named after French scientist Gaspard-Gustave
Coriolis) is noticeable on the large scale movement of air in the
atmosphere or water in the ocean. This force causes moving objects
on the surface of the Earth to be deflected in a clockwise direction
in the Northern Hemisphere and in the anti-clockwise direction in
the Southern Hemisphere.
Sense of time: Earth's rotation from

West to East help us to understand and
calculate the periodic change in time in
a day. When the Sun rises from the
horizon it is called morning, when it is
overhead it is called noon and when it is
setting it is said as evening and finally
when there is no Sun's light or darkness Fig. 2.15
the period is called night. This happens
due to regular spinning of the Earth on its axis.
Identification of directions: Rotation of the Earth causes apparent
movement of the Sun and other heavenly bodies. The direction in which
the Sun rises is called East, the direction where the Sun sets is identified
as West. Based on the Pole Star (North Star) North is identified and South
is recognized on the basis of Southern Cross - a group of stars found in
the Southern Sky.
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Longitude and time: Longitudes are the imaginary lines drawn on

the globe from North Pole to South Pole. These lines are marked on the
spherical shape of the globe with the help of degrees. A sphere consists of
360º and every line of longitude demarcates one degree. Rotation of the
Earth influences the falling of direct Sun's light on these longitudes one
after the other. The difference in the fall of Sun's light is 4 minutes from
one longitude to another and every 15 longitudes receive sun's light in 60
min or 1 hr. In the same way 180 longitudes get light in 12 hr and 360
longitudes receive light in 24 hr or 1 day.
GMT: Greenwich Meridian (Mean) Time - 0º

longitude: Prime Meridian (passes on
Greenwich of London)- Standard time of UK.
IST: Indian Standard Time - 82½º E
longitude (+5½ of GMT): Standard time of
India (passes on Allahabad (Prayag) of Uttar
Pradesh).
IDL: International Date Line - 180º
longitude : Zig zag line drawn on the water
bodies of the Pacific Ocean - to recognize
Fig. 2.16 date and day difference in the East or West
Longitude and Time of IDL.
Shape of the Earth: The continuous Rotation of the Earth at high

speed has its influence on the shape of the Earth. The bulging of the
Equatorial region and flattening of the polar areas is due to rotation of the
Earth. It is said that, when the Earth was formed it was in circular shape,
now it has changed to spherical or Geoid and later may change into oval
shape.
Magnetic attraction of the Earth: The Earth acts as a huge magnet.
The one end of the compass needle is always pointed towards the North
pole because of high magnetic attraction in that pole caused by the rotation
of the Earth.
Ocean currents: Rotation of the Earth influences the movement of
ocean water, particularly ocean currents. The ocean water flows
continuously to its right in the northern hemisphere and to its left in the
southern hemisphere from low latitudes to high latitudes due to rotation
of the Earth and wind movement.

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Fig. 2.17 Ocean currents
Tides: The rise and fall in the sea level is called tides. Rotation of the
Earth causes the facing of water bodies to the Moon. The gravitational
attraction of the Moon and position of the water bodies cause tides. This
is a regular phenomenon due to Earth's rotation.
Apparent movement of the Sun, the Moon and other heavenly
bodies: Earth Rotates from west to east. Therefore, we can see the Sun,
Moon and other heavenly bodies appearing to be rising in the east and
setting in the west.
REVOLUTION OF THE EARTH
With its rotation on its axis, the Earth also revolves around the Sun in
a fixed orbit. This is called Revolution. The fixed path on which the Earth
revolves round the Sun is known as 'Orbit'. Our Earth has elliptical orbit,
which is around 927 mil km long. The average speed of the revolution of
the Earth in its orbit is 29.8 km/sec. or 1,07,000 km/hr. The revolution
of the Earth is in anticlockwise direction and one revolution takes around
one year. Therefore, this movement is also called 'yearly movement'.
The time taken by the Earth to complete one revolution is around
365 days, 6 hr, 9 min and 9.545 sec. This period is called 'Sidereal year'.
The average period of one revolution is around 365 days and 6 hr. This is
called 'Solar year'. However a normal year consists of 365 days. To
compensate 6 hr or ¼ day, a day is added once in four years. The year
having 366 days and particularly 29 days in the month of February is
called 'Leap year'. Any year divisible equally by 4 or 400 is considered as
leap year.

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The average distance between the Earth and the Sun is 150 mil km.
Due to its elliptical orbit the distance between the Sun and the Earth do
not remain the same. On January 3rd the Earth will be very close to the
Sun and the position is called 'Perihelion' (Peri-near). At this point the
mean distance between the Sun and the Earth will be 147 mil km. Similarly,
on July 4th the Earth is far from the Sun. This position is called 'Aphelion'
(Ap-away). At this point the average distance between the Sun and the
Earth will be 152 mil km.
Fig. 2.18 Aphelion and Perihelion
The Earth's axis is not at right angle (perpendicular) to the plane of

the elliptical orbit. The axis is inclined at an angle of 66½º to the plane of
the orbit. This is known as 'Inclination of the Earth's axis'.
Fig. 2.19 Inclination of the Earth
Effects of Earth's Revolution

The inclination and revolution of the Earth causes many effects. They
are: 1) Cycle of Seasons 2) Variations in the length of day and night and
3) Identification of special Latitudes and Temperature zones.

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1. Cycle of Seasons
It is the most important effect of the inclination and revolution of the
Earth. The yearly movement of the Earth on its elliptical orbit takes the
Earth to be in four important positions from the Sun. This results in
causing cycle of seasons. They are: a) Summer Season b) Autumn Season
c) Winter Season and d) Spring Season
Fig. 2.20 Cycle of Seasons
Of these Seasons two are Solstices (June 21st & December 22nd) and
the other two are Equinoxes (September 23rd & March 21st). During
Solstices the direct rays of the Sun falls either on the Tropic of Cancer or
the Tropic of Capricorn and on Equinoxes it will be on the Equator. Solstices
influence on the variation in the length of day and nights (both
hemispheres), while Equinoxes (Equinox: Equal nights) influence in getting
equal length of days and nights (both hemispheres).
Summer Season (June 21st to September 22nd)
On June 21st, due to the Earth's inclination and revolution, vertical
rays of the Sun fall on the Tropic of Cancer (23½º North) - 'Summer solstice'.
This is the beginning of Summer Season in the Northern Hemisphere
(Winter in SH) and continues up to September 22nd. During this season
the average temperature is high and days are longer and nights are shorter
in all the countries of Northern Hemisphere and vice versa in the Southern
Hemisphere. At this time the length of the day increases with the increase
in latitude towards the North of the Equator till north of the Arctic circle
(66½º North), as the North Pole is tilted towards the Sun. There is no sun
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set to the north of the Arctic circle (66½º North)during this period.
Therefore, northern part of Norway (Hammerfest) lying to the north of the
Arctic Circle receives Sun light for almost 24 hours and the Sun never
sets below the horizon. So, Norway is called 'Land of mid-night Sun'. In
this period the North Pole faces the Sun for six months and the length of
day is six months.
Fig. 2.21 Summer Season Land of Mid-night Sun
Autumn Season (September 23rd to December 21st)

On September 23rd, the vertical rays of the Sun falls on the Equator-
'Autumn Equinox'. Therefore, the days and nights are equal in both the
hemispheres. This is the beginning of Autumn Season in all the countries
of the Northern Hemisphere and it continues up to December 21st. In this
Season many plants and trees (natural vegetation) shed their leaves, known
as 'Fall Season'. During this period Southern Hemisphere witnesses Spring
Season. This season lasts for three months.
Fig. 2.22 Autumn Season
Winter Season (December 22nd to March 20th)

On December 22nd, the vertical rays of the Sun falls on the Tropic of
Capricorn (23½º South) - 'Winter solstice'. This is the beginning of Winter
Season in all the countries of the Northern Hemisphere and it continues
till March 20th. In this period Southern Hemisphere record Summer

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Season. During this season the average temperature is low and the days
are shorter and nights are longer in the Northern hemisphere and it is
vice versa in the Southern hemisphere. Countries situated above 50º North
latitude record severe winter with high snow storms. The areas coming
under the Antarctic Circle (66½º S) receive vertical sun rays as the South
Pole is tilted towards the Sun. Hence, there is no sun set to the south of
the Antarctic Circle. The South Pole faces the Sun for six months and the
length of the days is also six months.
Fig. 2.23 Winter Season
Spring Season (March 21st to June 20th)

On March 21st, the vertical rays of the Sun falls on the Equator -
'Spring Equinox' or 'Vernal Equinox'. Therefore, the duration of days and
nights are equal in both the hemispheres. This is the beginning of spring
in the Northern hemisphere and it continues up to June 20th. At the
same time in the Southern hemisphere it will be Autumn. In this season
many plants and trees (natural vegetation) get new leaves and nature
looks afresh with greeneries. This season lasts for three months and
continues with fresh cycle of summer. In India, the beginning of the spring
is considered very auspicious and is celebrated as the first day of the
year.
Fig. 2.24 Spring Season

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2. Variation in the length of Day and Night

The variation in length of Day and Night is due to the inclination of
the Earth's axis and revolution. As one moves from the Equator to Poles
the duration of day and night is not equal; it changes from latitude to
latitude. When the vertical sun rays are on the Tropic of Cancer (23 ½º N)
or the Tropic of Capricorn (23½º S) the duration of day and night is longer.
In the North and South poles the duration will be 6 months due to tilting
of the Poles towards the Sun. When the vertical rays of the Sun is on the
Equator the duration of day and night are equal (12 hr day and 12 hr
night).
3. Identification of Special Latitudes and Temperature zones :

Due to the Earth's inclination at 66½º (orbit) and revolution, we
recognize a few special latitudes (Imaginary lines drawn on the globe from
west to east) on the globe. The vertical rays of the Sun strike the Earth at
different points at different times of the year. On March 21st and September
23rd it falls on the middle of the Earth i.e., Equator (0º). On June 21st the
vertical rays fall on 23½º North - Tropic of Cancer and on December
22nd it falls on 23½º South - Tropic of Capricorn. On June 21st the
Sun's rays reach 66½º North - Arctic circle and on December 22nd the
rays reach 66½º South - Antarctic circle. The North pole (90º North)and
South pole (90º South) are the two ends of the Earth's axis.
On the basis of special latitudes the globe may be divided into
'Temperature zones' or 'Heat zones'. Direct rays of the sun produce
more heat than the slanting rays. The region near the equator receives
more direct rays of the Sun. These rays are intense over a smaller area

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and so it heats up the Earth more. As we go away from the equator, the
sun's rays strike the Earth's surface with slanting rays, spreading over a
larger area so, they do not heat as intensely as the direct rays. Therefore,
when we go from the equator to the poles, we come across zones with
varying temperatures.
The temperature zones are: a) Torrid zone b) Temperate zone and
c) Frigid zone.
a. The Torrid Zone or Tropical Zone : The area between the Tropic
of Cancer (23½º North) and Tropic of Capricorn (23½º South) is
known as 'Torrid zone or Tropical zone'.
b. The Temperate Zone : The area between the Tropic of Cancer
and Arctic circle and Tropic of Capricorn and Antarctic circle (23½º
N/S to 66½º N/S) is known as 'Temperate Zone'.
c. The Frigid Zone : Between the Arctic circle to North pole (66½º N
to 90º N) in the Northern Hemisphere and the Antarctic circle to
South pole (66½º S to 90º S) is Known as 'Frigid Zone'. (Refer
Chapter 5.2 also).
Fig. 2.25 Temperature Zones

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Terrestrial planet Coriolis force Solstice
Geoid Axis Equinox
Lunar Eclipse Orbit Land of Mid-night Sun
Circumnavigation Leap year Equator
Satellites Perihelion Tropic of Cancer
Antipode Aphelion Tropic of Capricorn
Circle of Illumination Inclination of the Earth Torrid zone
Frigid zone

1. What is the approximate age of the Earth?
2. Name the oldest proof in respect of shape of the Earth.
3. Who conducted Bed Ford level experiment?
4. What is the total geographical area of the Earth?
5. Who was the first person to calculate the distance between places?
6. What is Earth's axis?
7. What amount of time does the Earth take to complete one rotation?
8. Define Orbit.
9. On what date does the Summer Solstice occur?
10. How many temperature zones are there on the globe?

1. What is Geoid?
2. Mention the Equatorial and Polar diameter of the Earth.
3. Why are Northern and Southern hemispheres called as Land and
Water hemisphere?
4. Name the highest and lowest points on the land.
5. What is deflection of Winds?
6. What is Inclination of the Earth?

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7. Distinguish between Perihelion and Aphelion.

8. State the difference between Autumn Equinox and Spring Equinox.
9. Why is Norway called 'Land of Mid-night Sun'?
10. Mention the difference between Torrid and Temperate zones.

1. Name and explain the proofs in support of the spherical shape of
the Earth.
2. Describe the size of the Earth.
3. Explain the effects of the rotation of the Earth.
4. How do seasons occur? Explain with a neat diagram.
5. Describe the special latitudes and temperature zones of the globe
with a neat diagram.

• Collect photographs of Solar system and identify the position of the
Earth and the Moon.
• Draw diagrams to show the shape of the Earth and proofs in support
of the shape of the Earth.
• Collect the pictures of Eclipse and identify the difference between Lunar
and Solar eclipses.
• Prepare models to show the size of the Earth-distribution of land and
water bodies.
• Prepare tables to show the effects of the Rotation and Revolution of
the Earth.
• Prepare model to show the cycle of Seasons.
• Collect photos to show various effects of the movement of the Earth.

CHAPTER 3
INTERIOR OF THE EARTH
Understanding the interior of the Earth is very important to
geographers. The study helps to know where solid, gas and also liquid
materials lie. Man is not in a position to understand the Earth’s interior
directly, but he is in quest of knowing the information through indirect
sources. Understanding the internal features of the Earth was a mystery
for many years. With the development in science, technology, and modern
research man started understanding the Earth’s interior indirectly from
the last few years.
The important direct and indirect evidences through which most
of the information gathered are Temperature and Pressure in the Earth,
density of rocks, seismic waves, volcanic materials, observations of natural
valleys, gorges, sea shores, mining, deep oil drilling etc.
Deepest places in the World

1. Kola Super deep Borehole: Scientific
drilling project of Russia (1989) near
Murmansk in Kola Peninsula.
Deepest artificial point on the Earth-
12,262 m
2. Tau Tona mine: A Gold mine in South
Africa is currently deepest mine (3.9
km) in the World.
3.1 STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION

OF THE EARTH
On the basis of velocity of seismic

waves, density of material, chemical
composition and physical state of matter
the Earth’s interior is divided into three
concentric zones viz.,
1) The Crust 2) The Mantle
3) The Core Fig. 3.1 Interior of the Earth
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1) THE CRUST: The uppermost layer of the Earth is called the Crust.
This layer comprises of continental and oceanic regions. The thickness
of the crust varies under the oceanic and continental areas. The depth
of the crust is 60 km.
On the basis of its nature and features the Crust is divided into two
layers. They are Continental Crust and Oceanic Crust. The Crust
consists of all three major types of rocks such as Igneous, Sedimentary
and Metamorphic.
a. Continental Crust: This is the uppermost layer of the crust and
the Earth.Continental Crust is thicker than the Oceanic Crust.
The mean thickness of Continental Crust is around 30 km, whereas
the Oceanic Crust is around 5 km. The Continental Crust is thicker,
its maximum thickness is around 60 km beneath mountain ranges.
The outer portion of the Crust is known as Sial [silica and
aluminium]. It is the lightest layer with the density of 2.7 gm/cm3.
Continental Crust is floating on the dense Oceanic Crust.
b. Oceanic Crust: The lower part of the Crust is known as Oceanic
Crust. Its thickness is around 5 km. This layer is rich in silica and
magnesium. Therefore, it is called Sima. The mean density of this
layer is 2.95gm/cm3. Sima forms the ocean floors and is heavier
than Sial.
The two important discontinuities in the Crust are: a) Conrad
discontinuity - between Sial and Sima and b)Mohorovicic (Moho)
discontinuity - between Crust and Mantle
2) THE MANTLE: The portion of the Earth’s interior below the Crust is
called Mantle. It extends from 60 km to 2,900 km. The density of this
layer ranges from 3.3 to 5.7gm/cm3. The materials are in semi liquid
or partially molten state due to high temperature known as Magma.
The mantle is a composition of dense and rigid rocks which have
minerals like magnesium and iron (Olivine). The mantle has two parts:-
a. Upper Mantle: This is the outer layer of the Mantle known as
Asthenosphere, partially in molten condition. Most of the
earthquakes and volcanoes take birth due to disorder in this layer.
b. Lower Mantle: This is the lower layer of the Mantle known as
Mesosphere and it is in solid form.

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The important discontinuities in the Mantle are: a) Repetti discontinuity

-between Asthenosphere and Mesosphere and b) Gutenberg/Oldham
discontinuity - between Mantle and Core.
3. The CORE: The Core is the inner most layer of Earth. The depth of
this layer is up to 6371 km from the surface. The most important
materials of core are nickel and ferrous (iron). Therefore, it is known
as Nife. It is the densest layer with density varying between 5.5 and
11gm/cm3.
a. Outer Core: It is the outer layer of the Core consisting of hard
molten rocks. Most of the materials are in molten form. It extends
from 2900km to 4980km.
b. Inner Core: It is the lower layer of the Core with very high
temperature and pressure. Most of the materials are in solid form.
Therefore, it is called solid core. The average temperature of this
layer is around 2900º C. This layer lies between the depth of 4980
and 6371km.
Lehmann/ Bullen/Transition discontinuity is found between Outer
Core and Inner Core.
3.2 EARTHQUAKES
Earthquake is a natural hazard and disaster that
takes place due to sudden movement and disturbance
in the rocks in the interior of the Earth. It is one of
the most dangerous and destructive natural calamities that causes great
damage to men and material on the surface of the Earth. Earthquakes are
movements within the Earth caused by natural or man-made stresses.
An Earthquake is a sudden
vibration or oscillation in the Crust
of the Earth. It is a form of energy
of wave motion transmitted
through the surface layer of the
Earth. It is also defined as a shock
or series of shocks due to sudden
movement of crustal rocks. The
place of origin of an Earthquake in
the Earth’s Crust is called ‘Focus’ Fig. 3.2 Focus and Epicentre

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or ‘Hypocenter’ or ‘Seismic Focus’. The depth of the focus generally

varies between 10 km and 700 km below the surface of the Earth. The
point on the Earth surface which is perpendicular to the focus, receiving
seismic waves is called ‘Epicentre’ (Fig. 3.2). The areas affected by
earthquakes are usually around this point.
The scientific study of earthquakes is called ‘Seismology’. ’The place,
time, velocity and direction of seismic waves are recorded by an instrument
known as ‘Seismograph’. A Seismogram is a graph output by a
Seismograph. The people who are specialized in the study of earthquakes
are called ‘Seismologists’.
Fig. 3.3 Seismograph
Causes of Earthquakes
On the basis of their occurrence earthquakes can be classified into
three types.
1) Tectonic Earthquakes: These are caused due to folding, faulting and
displacement of blocks of rocks in the Earth’s Crust. They are highly
intensive and destructive seismic activities.
2) Volcanic Earthquakes: These are associated with the volcanic activities
and are usually caused at great depths. They are with low intensity
and magnitude. The destruction and damage are slightly lesser than
earthquakes caused by Tectonic Forces.
3) Earthquakes caused by man-made factors: Over interaction of man
on nature such as construction of huge dams, reservoirs, deep mining,
underground nuclear explosion etc. are causing great change in the
crustal formation leading to seismic activity. eg. Koyna dam (India) -
1967, Hoover dam ( U.S.A.)-1935, Mangla dam (Pakistan), Kariba dam
(Zambia) etc.,

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Earthquake waves:
Earthquake waves are classified into three main types based on their
mode of travelling and velocity. 1) Primary waves (P.W) 2) Secondary waves
(S.W) and 3) Surface waves (L.W)
1) Primary waves: These are the first and the fastest earthquake waves
from the Seismic Focus to Epicentre. These waves travel horizontally
in the land, gaseous and water bodies and make the materials to move
forward and backward. These are also called ‘Push’ or ‘Longitudinal’
or ‘Compressional’ waves. The speed of the waves is around 4 to 13
km per sec. Even though these waves reach the Epicentre first they
don’t cause earthquakes, but they prepare the area for earthquakes.
2) Secondary waves: These waves are also called ‘Transverse’ or
‘Distortional’ waves. Secondary waves reach the epicentre after primary
waves. These waves make the particles to move at right angles.
Secondary waves cannot pass through liquid materials. The speed of
these waves is around 4 to 6 km per sec.
3) Surface waves: These are the slowest waves and reach the Epicentre
at the last stage. Surface waves are also called ‘Long’ waves or ‘Long
period’ waves. The speed of these waves is around 3 to 4 km per sec
and are confined to the upper layer of the crust. These waves cause
heavy destruction and damage on the crust of the Earth. Therefore
they are called destructive earthquake waves.
Tsunami: A large sea wave occasionally experienced along the sea
coast caused by an underwater or sub-marine earthquake is called
‘Tsunami’ (“Tsu” - harbour, “nami”- wave). It is quite common in Japan
and locally called ‘Harbour Waves’. These waves have become common in
the recent years in seismic zones of the Pacific and the Indian Ocean and
are causing great havoc. Tsunami causes sudden high tidal waves leading
to problems for navigation, fishing and coastal activities. In the recent
years they are named as ‘Killer waves’.
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Greatest Tsunami of recent years

1. 26.12. 2004 - Tsunami of Indonesia (Banda Aceh).
2. 11.3.2011- Tsunami of the Pacific ocean (Sendai Daichi, Fukushima,
Miyagi – Japan)
To measure the intensity and magnitude of the earthquakes two scales
are used.
a) Richter Scale: Most common scale used to measure the magnitude
of an earthquake. But in the recent years it is used to measure the
intensity of the earthquake.
b) Mercalli Scale: Commonly used to measure the intensity of the
earthquake.
The intensity and magnitude of the earthquake waves are recorded on
the Seismograph in the seismic recording centres. Later these centres
declare the areas of destruction, epicentre etc. Some such centres in India
are Gowribidanur (Karnataka), Kodaikanal (Tamilnadu), Kolaba
(Maharashtra), Hyderabad (A.P), Dehradun (Uttarakhand) etc.
To indicate the places of earthquake occurrence, intensity and time of
occurance three types of lines are drawn on the maps. They are:
Iso-seismal lines: Lines drawn on the map to show the places
experiencing the same intensity of earthquake.
Homo-seismal lines: Lines drawn on the map to show the places
recording the same time of occurrence of earthquake.
Co-seismal lines: Lines drawn on the map to show the places
experiencing same intensity and same time of occurrence of earthquake.
Earthquake Zones
Earthquakes are closely connected with certain seismic zones of the
world. Most of the earthquakes occur in the areas of folded regions, zones

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of faulting, active volcanic areas and zones of continental and oceanic

margins.
1) The Circum-Pacific belt: This belt is found all along the coastal
margins of the Pacific Ocean. The important areas in this belt are
Philippines, Japan, Alaska, Western USA, Mexico, Central America,
western part of South America. Japan and USA are the most important
earthquake-prone zones in this belt. Eastern Japan and San Andrews
fault of USA are the intense seismic zones. About 65 % of the
earthquakes in the world are recorded in this belt.
2) The Mid-continental belt: It is also known as Mediterranean or Alpine
belt. This is a ‘Zone of fracture’. The Alpine mountains and their
branches, Europe, North Africa, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan,
Himalayan mountain ranges, China and Myanmar are in this belt.
This belt records around 21% of the earthquakes in the world.
3) The Mid-Atlantic belt: This belt extends along the mid-oceanic ridges
and in the islands of Atlantic Ocean.
4) Siwalik belt: This is the most important seismic zone of India in the
foot hills of Himalayas: Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal
Pradesh, Assam and parts of West Bengal record earthquakes
frequently.
Fig. 3.4 Earthquake zones of the World

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Effects of Earthquake
Earthquakes are natural hazards which cause great disaster. Their
effects depend on the strength of the seismic waves, nature of the rocks,
material through which they pass. Earthquakes cause damage to the
topography, course of the river, structure of mountains, underground water
levels and on the human life and property. The inhabitance, economic
activities, transport, communication system are also affected by
earthquake. Loss of human life, animal wealth and destruction of the
vegetation are the most important concern to man in the recent years.
3.3 VOLCANOES
Volcano is also an important natural hazard and
disaster like the Earthquake. It is an internal agent
of the Earth which influence changes on the face of
the Earth and cause great damage to life and property.
In ancient times, Greeks believed that volcanic eruptions were due to
anger of Goddess ‘Vulcan’, living under the Mt. Vulcan (Lipari Islands
near Sicili of Italy). People thought that Volcano was the mountain of fire
(‘Agni’, means Fire in Sanskrit). Some volcanoes are still worshipped as
Goddess of fire eg. ‘Mt. Fujiyama’ or Fuji of Japan.
Volcano is a vent or opening, through which heated materials consisting
of gases, hot water, lava and fragments of rocks are ejected from the interior
of the Earth. A passage in the earth’s Crust through which magma and
other volcanic materials are ejected is called ‘Vent’. The funnel shaped
hollow at the top of the cone of a volcano is called ‘Crater’. A large basin
shaped crater bounded by steep sides is known as ‘Caldera’.
The scientific study of volcano is known as ‘Volcanology’ or
‘Vulcanology’.

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Causes of Volcano
The volcanic eruptions are closely associated with various causes.
a) The temperature inside the Earth increases with the increasing
depth( 1º C per 32 m).
b) Formation of magma because of increase in temperature and
reduction in pressure.
c) Gases and water vapour formed due to heating of underground
water.
d) Movement and breaking of major and minor plates of the Earth.
e) Ascent of magma forced by excess pressure.
Types of volcano
On the basis of periodicity or frequency of eruption, volcanoes are
classified into three types.
1) Active Volcanoes: Volcanoes which constantly eject solid, liquid and
gaseous materials are known as active volcanoes. Eg. Mt Etna and
Stromboli of Italy, St Helens of USA, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea of
Hawaiian Islands, Pinatubo of Philippines, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo
of Ecuador and Izalco of El Salvador etc.
Facts File
• Stromboli is known as ‘Lighthouse of the Mediterranean’.
• Izalco is called ‘Lighthouse of Central America’.

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2) Dormant Volcanoes: Volcanoes which become quiet after eruption,

show no indications of further future eruptions, but erupt again after
a long period very violently are called Dormant Volcanoes. These
volcanoes cause enormous damage to human life and property. Eg.Mt
Vesuvius of Italy, Mt Fujiyama of Japan and Mt. Krakatau of Indonesia.
Facts File
• Mt Vesuvius, Mt Krakatau and Mt. Pelean Volcanoes are called
‘Super Volcanoes’.
Fig. 3.5 Mt. Vesuvius Mt. Krakatau Mt. Pelean
3. Extinct Volcanoes: Those Volcanoes which have not been active for
considerable period of time are called ‘Extinct Volcanoes’. There are
no possibilities of future eruption in these volcanoes. Sometimes these
volcanoes are referred to as ‘sleeping’ or ‘dead’ volcanoes. Eg.
Narcondum (Andaman & Nicobar Islands of India), Aconcagua
(Argentina), Arthur Seat (Scotland) etc.
Barren island of Andaman & Nicobar islands is also an important
volcano in our country.
Fig. 3.6 Barren Island Narcondum Island
Volcanic Materials
There are three types of materials ejected from the Volcanoes.

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1) Liquid materials: Lava is the most important liquid material ejected

by volcanoes. The molten rock materials found below the Earth’s
surface is called ‘Magma’. When the molten matter reaches the surface
of the Earth it is called ‘Lava’.
There are two types of lava :
a. Acid Lava: It has high percentage of Silica. It is highly viscous
and flows slowly. It produces steep sided cones.
b. Basic Lava: It has low percentage of Silica. It is hot, highly fluid
and flows faster. It forms flattened shield like landforms.
2) Solid Materials: Volcanic bombs, dust, pumice, scoria, volcanic ash,
cinder and rock fragments.
3) Gases: Sulphur, Hydrogen and Carbon-dioxide.
Volcanic landforms
The landforms produced by volcanoes can be grouped into two types.
a) Extrusive landforms:
These are formed by the
accumulation and
solidification of lava and
other materials ejected
by volcanoes. eg.
Volcanic Cones, Crater,
Caldera, Lava cone,
Lava dome, Volcanic Fig. 3.7 Extrusive landforms
shield etc.
b) Intrusive landforms:
These are formed along
the bedding planes of
sedimentary rocks
below the Earth surface.
eg. Dyke, Sill,
Batholiths, Laccolith,
Lapolith, Phacolith etc.
Fig. 3.8 Intrusive landforms

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Distribution of Volcanoes
Volcanoes are mainly found in three belts.
1) The Circum-Pacific belt: This belt is also called Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’.
It is found in the eastern part of New Zealand, New Guinea, Philippines,
Japan, western part of Alaska, USA, Hawaiian Islands, Central America
and western margins of South America etc., This belt experiences
greater number of volcanoes.
2) Mid-continental belt: This belt is found in Alpines, Mediterranean
region, Europe, North Africa etc.,
3) Mid -Atlantic belt: This belt is found in the Mid- Atlantic ridge, Iceland,
Caribbean Islands etc.
Fig. 3.9 Volcanic regions of the World
Effects of Volcanoes
i. Volcanoes are natural hazards and disaster which causes extensive
damage to life and property.
ii. Volcanoes cause damage to agricultural fields, industries, dwellings,
buildings, roads, railways, airports, dams, reservoirs etc.
iii. Volcanoes cause diversion of river course and flooding of water.
iv. Volcanic dust, ash and smoke cause air pollution.
v. Volcanic eruption sometimes produce seismic waves.
vi. Volcanoes form roocks and minerals.
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Fig. 3.10 The Pacific Ring of Fire
3.4 ROCKS AND MINERALS

ROCKS
Earth’s crust is made up of various solid substances
(rocks) formed by volcano and other natural agents. The understanding of
rocks is very important for students of Geography to know about different
kinds of minerals, soil formation and their types, shaping of landforms
etc.
Rocks are the natural solid substances
that are found in the Earth’s Crust. Rocks
are also called aggregate of minerals. The
scientific study of rocks is called ‘Petrology’.
Lithosphere (Litho means Rock) is the
uppermost layer of the Earth formed by
rocks. A Rock may be hard like granite or
soft like limestone. It may be porous like
sandstone or nonporous like shale.
Types of Rocks: On the basis of mode
of formation, texture and features rocks are
classified into three types. I) Igneous rocks
II) Sedimentary rocks III) Metamorphic rocks
Rock Cycle: It is a continuous process
through which old rocks are transformed Fig. 3.11 Rock cycle
into new ones.
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I IGNEOUS ROCKS
The term Igneous is derived from the Latin word ‘Ignis’, means fire.
Igneous rocks are the primary (first) rocks formed by the action of Volcano.
They are formed on the surface of the Earth and in the Crust by the
cooling of lava and magma.
On the basis of Silica content, Igneous rocks are classified as:
a) Acid Igneous rocks - these rocks have more Silica eg. Granite
b) Basic Igneous rocks - these rocks have low Silica eg. Gabbro.
On the basis of mode of occurrence, Igneous rocks are classified into
two types.
1) Intrusive Igneous rocks: Rocks formed below the Earth’s surface or

in the Crust of the Earth by the solidification of magma are called
Intrusive Igneous rocks. Plutonic rocks and Hypabyssal rocks are two
important sub-types in this category.
Plutonic rocks are deep seated, coarse grain in size, formed by slow
cooling of magma at great depth. eg. Granite, Gabbro, Diorite etc.
Hypabyssal rocks are formed by fast cooling and solidification of rising
magma in the intermediate regions i.e., just beneath the Earth’s surface.
eg. Dyke
2) Extrusive Igneous rocks: Rocks formed by cooling and solidification
of lava on the surface of the Earth is called extrusive Igneous rocks.
eg. Basalt.
Fig. 3.12 Granite Dyke Basalt

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Igneous rocks are hard, compact, massive, non-fossiliferous and

crystalline in nature. They do not occur in layer or strata formation.
Valuable minerals like Iron ore, Manganese ore, Copper, Tin, Bauxite,
Zinc, Lead etc., are found in this rock.
II SEDIMENTARY ROCKS
The word Sedimentary is derived from the Latin word ‘Sedimentum’
means, setting. Sedimentary rocks are formed by the action of wind and
water. The accumulation and consolidation of sediments form sedimentary
rocks. These rocks are also known as Stratified rocks (Strata), Secondary
rocks (formed after Igneous rock) and Aqueous rocks (formed by water).
On the basis of character of the material, composition and the process
of its formation, Sedimentary rocks are classified into three major types.
1) Mechanically formed Sedimentary rocks 2) Chemically formed
Sedimentary rocks 3) Organically formed Sedimentary rocks.
1) Mechanically formed Sedimentary rocks: The rocks which are formed

by the process of weathering, erosion and accumulation of fragments
from the pre-existing rocks are called mechanically formed rocks.
Agents like river, wind, waves etc., transport the fragmented materials
and deposit them in the bottom of the lake, sea or oceans.
The consolidation and cementing of these materials form sedimentary
rocks. In this process three types of rocks are formed. a) Arenaceous
rocks: Formed by sand grains, porous in nature. eg. Sandstone.
b) Argillaceous rocks: Formed largely by fine clay particles, non-porous

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in nature. eg. Shale. c) Rudaceous rocks: Formed by the cementation

and consolidation of pebbles and boulders. eg. Breccia and
Conglomerates.
Fig. 3.13 Sandstone Shale Conglomerate
2) Chemically formed Sedimentary rocks: These rocks are formed by

the accumulation and cementation of sediments by chemical action.
eg. Gypsum, Rock salt, Quartz etc.
Fig. 3.14 Gypsum Quartz
3) Organically formed Sedimentary rocks: These rocks are formed by

the decay and decomposition of vegetation and skeletal remains of
certain animals. There are two types of organically formed sedimentary
rocks. a) Calcareous rocks: These are formed by the skeletal remains
of certain animals, which are rich in calcium eg. Limestone b)
Carbonaceous rocks:These are formed by the decay and decomposition
of plants, trees and vegetation, which are rich in carbon eg. Coal.
Fig. 3.15 Limestone Coal

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Sedimentary rocks are in strata or layer form, usually porous, contain

fossils, formed from the pre-existing rocks, non-crystalline in nature, found
in the largest surface area of the Earth. Minerals like Coal, Petroleum,
Natural gas, Sandstone, Clay, Limestone are found in this rock.
III METAMORPHIC ROCKS
The word metamorphic means ‘change of form’. When the Igneous

and Sedimentary rocks undergo physical and chemical changes due to
the influence of temperature and pressure, it results in the formation of
Metamorphic rocks. Metamorphism is the process in which original rock
becomes harder and the mineral content also undergoes transformation.
Generally these rocks remain in their original location and alter under the
impact of internal and external forces.
The process of Metamorphism is of two types:
a) Contact Metamorphism: It is directly related to the volcanic

activity. When the hot molten magma comes to the surface of the
Earth, it passes through joints and fissures in the rocks. The rocks
coming in contact with the magma or lava get baked or burnt to
form Metamorphic rock. It is also known as Thermal or Local
metamorphism. eg. Marble from Limestone.
b) Regional Metamorphism: It is associated with Earth movements

and processes of mountain building. In this the masses of Igneous
and Sedimentary rocks are squeezed and buried deep in the Earth.
The heat and pressure causes metamorphism on these rocks. eg.
Slate from Clay, Graphite from Coal etc.,
Influence of heat and pressure on the original rock (Igneous

or Sedimentary) forms Metamorphic rock. eg. Granite  Gneiss,
BasaltSchist, SandstoneQuartzite, ShaleSlate, LimestoneMarble,
CoalGraphite, GraphiteDiamond etc.,
Metamorphic rocks are compact, hard and do not contain fossils.

A few precious minerals and gem stones like Diamond, Gold ore, Marble,
Quartzite, Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire etc., are found in this rock.

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Fig. 3.16 Gneiss Schist Marble Diamond
Uses of Rocks:
1) Rocks supply various minerals.
2) Rocks are used for constructional activities.
3) Rocks are used to make statues, idols and other art and sculpture.
MINERALS
Mineral is a natural inorganic substance which has
certain chemical and physical properties. As per the
estimates, 2000 minerals have been identified and
named in the World. The scientific study of minerals is
called ‘Mineralogy’. Minerals are used by man for
various human activities. Understanding the minerals, their types and
uses is very important as natural resources of the Earth.
Earth’s Crust comprises of various minerals. Some of the major
minerals are: Feldspar - it is rich in silica and oxygen, found in more than
half of the Earth’s Crust. Quartz – it is a combination of sand and granite
and consists of silica. This mineral covers around 20% of the Earth’s crust.
Mica – it comprises of magnesium, potassium, aluminium, etc. which
covers more than 4% of the Earth’s crust. In addition to these minerals
Pyroxene, Olivine, Amphibole, Calcite, Magnetite, Bauxite etc., are also
present in the crust of the Earth.
Types: Minerals are classified into different types on the basis of nature,
texture and uses. Important among them are 1) Metallic Minerals
2) Non-Metallic Minerals
1) Metallic Minerals : These are the minerals in metallic form or contain
metal. Few metallic minerals are Iron ore, Manganese ore, Bauxite,
Copper ore etc.
2) Non-Metallic Minerals: These minerals are not in metallic form and
they do not contain metal. A few non-metallic minerals are Mica,
Asbestos, Sulphur, Lead, Zinc, Phosphate etc.
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Minerals are also classified into other types. Ferrous minerals- which
contain Iron (ferrous) eg. Iron ore. Non ferrous minerals – these minerals
do not contain ferrous eg. Bauxite, Mica.
A few minerals are used for making decorative, commercial and
precious ornaments. They are called Precious minerals. eg. Platinum,
Diamond, Gold and Silver.
Some minerals are used for the generation of energy. They are Nuclear
or Atomic minerals. eg. Uranium, Thorium etc.
Uses: Minerals are useful in many ways. They help in the
manufacturing of various structural items, commercial, domestic utensils,
ornaments, decorative articles and as raw materials in agriculture,
industry, automobiles, transport industry etc.

Crust Transverse waves Acid lava
Mantle Long waves Basic Lava
Core Tsunami Pacific Ring of Fire
Sial Iso-seismal lines Petrology
Sima Homo-seismal lines Lithosphere
Nife Co-seismal lines Hypabyssal rock
Conrad discontinuity Zone of fracture Arenaceous rock
Mohorovicic discontinuity Vent Argillaceous rock
Asthenosphere Crater Calcareous rock
Mesosphere Caldera Carbonaceous rock
Repetti discontinuity Contact
Magma
Metamorphism
Gutenberg discontinuity
Lava
Regional
Lehmann discontinuity
Volcanology Metamorphism
Focus
Lighthouse of the Minerology
Epicentre Mediterranean Metallic minerals
Seismology Lighthouse of Ferrous minerals
Push waves Central America
Nuclear minerals

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1. What is Continental Crust?
2. Name the discontinuity found between Mantle and Core.
3. Why is the inner core called 'Solid Core'?
4. Name the instrument used to record seismic waves.
5. Which is the most destructive earthquake wave?
6. Define Tsunami.
7. What is Homo-seismal line?
8. Mention the region which record more seismic activities in the
world.
9. What is Volcano?
10. Name any one volcano of India.
11. Which is a famous active Volcano in USA?
12. What is 'Ring of Fire'?
13. Define Petrology.
14. Give an example for Plutonic rock.
15. Why are secondary rocks called Aqueous rocks?
16. How is Carbonaceous rock formed?
17. What is Metamorphism?
18. What is a Mineral?
19. Which mineral covers largest area of the Earth's crust?
20. Give an example for non-ferrous mineral.

1. Mention any two features of Oceanic Crust.
2. Why is Mantle very important in the Earth's interior?
3. State the difference between Focus and Epicentre.
4. Name any two causes for earthquakes.
5. Distinguish between Iso-seismal and Co-seismal lines.
6. Which scales are used to measure the intensity of an earthquake?
7. Mention any two causes of a Volcano.

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8. Distinguish between Active and Extinct volcanoes.

9. Name any two active volcanoes of the World.
10. Name any two countries which come under the Circum- Pacific
belt.
11. How are Igneous rock formed? Give examples.
12. Distinguish between Arenaceous and Argillaceous rocks.
13. How is contact metamorphism different from regional
metamorphism?
14. Give four examples of Metamorphic rock.
15. What are metallic and non-metallic minerals?

1. Explain the structure and composition of the Earth with a neat
diagram.
2. What is an Earthquake? Describe the causes and effects of
earthquake.
3. How does a Volcano erupt? Explain the types of Volcanoes.
4. What is a rock? Describe the different types of rocks.
5. What is a mineral? Explain the types of minerals.

• Prepare model to show the interior of the Earth.
• List out the deepest mines and places of India and the World.
• Collect photos of recent earthquakes and tsunamis of the world.
• Draw outline maps of India and the World and show the important
earthquake and volcanic prone zones.
• Prepare a list of greatest earthquakes and volcanoes of the world.
• Visit a nearby seismic recording centre and understand how they work.
• List out the important volcanic landforms.
• Prepare chart to show the different types of Rock.
• Collect a few rock samples and understand its texture and features.
• List out the important minerals found in the World.

CHAPTER 4
LANDFORMS
A landform is any natural formation of rock and dirt, found on the
Earth. A landform can be as large as a mountain range or as small as a
hill. Landforms are natural features of the landscape, natural physical
features of the earth’s surface. eg., Valleys, Plateaus, Mountains, Plains,
Hills, Loess Plains etc.,
The major landforms of the Earth are i) Mountains ii) Plateaus and
iii) Plains. The minor landforms include hills, ridges, valleys, basins etc.,
According to Geo-scientists the landforms are formed by the forces acting
from the interior and on the surface of the Earth.
4.1 GEOMORPHIC PROCESSES

The surface of the Earth is facing continuous changes because of the
influnce of some natural agents. The agents that influence on the surface
of the Earth are called External agents or Exogenic agents, while the agents
which bring the change inside the Earth are called Internal agents or
Endogenic agents. The processes carried out by Endogenic and Exogenic
forces are called Geomorphic processes.
Endogenic Forces: The internal forces are also known as Endogenic
forces. These are mainly the land building forces. Diastrophism includes
all these processes that move, elevate or build portions of the Earth’s
Crust. It includes Orogenic or Mountain building processes and Epeirogenic
or Continental building processes. Volcanoes and Earthquakes are the
most important internal forces which involve in the Crustal disturbances.
Fig. 4.1 Exogenic forces

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Exogenic Forces: The external forces are also known as Exogenic

forces. These forces are found on the surface of the Earth, which bring
changes through degradation and aggradation processes. The important
external forces are river, glacier, wind, sea waves etc.,
Mass Movements
Mass movements are directly under the influence of gravity. Transfer
of one mass of rock debris down the slopes is the regular activity of mass
movement or mass wasting. The term includes a variety of gravity induced
movements of slope material, but excludes transportation by running water,
wind, glacier etc.,
The processes of mass wasting and the landforms they produce are
extremely varied and tend to grade one into another. The mass movements
usually depends on: a) kinds of earth materials involved b) kinds of motion
that occur and c) physical properties of those materials. The most important
forms of mass movements or wasting are Rockfall, Talus, Earthflows,
Mudflows, Landslides, Rockslides etc.,
The external and internal forces of the Earth play a major role in
changing the face of the Earth. Geomorphic processes are building
mountains, continents and other landforms. The shaping, sculpturing
and carving of the surface of the Earth is the outcome of geomorphic
processes. The end result of this process is formation of relief features,
soils, and its influence on land use, vegetation, biomes and biodiversity.
Fig. 4.2 Mass movements
4.2 WEATHERING
The process of disintegration and decomposition of
rocks is known as “Weathering”. Factors like
temperature, pressure, rainfall, frost, wind, plants,
animals, and human beings are responsible for weathering.

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The character of the rock, its chemical composition, hardness, texture,

joints & permeability play an important role in weathering.
Types of Weathering:- There are three types of Weathering processes:
i)Mechanical weathering ii) Chemical weathering iii) Biological weathering
I. MECHANICAL WEATHERING : The disintegration of rocks by

mechanical way and without any chemical changes is called
“Mechanical weathering”. It is also called “Physical weathering”.
Mechanical weathering is mainly influenced by temperature, frost,
wind and sea waves. The agents of mechanical weathering are:
a) Temperature: High temperature leads
the rocks to expand and low
temperature makes them to contract.
During the day the rocks expand due
to high temperature and at night
contraction takes place due to
reduction in temperature. This
continuous process leads to breaking Fig. 4.3 Weathering by
or disintegration of rocks. Temperture
b) Frost: In the cold and frigid regions during night time, due to low
temperature water solidifies into ice (freezing) and in the day ice
melts (thawing). Continuous freezing and thawing leads to
expansion and contraction of rocks, resulting in the disintegration
of rocks.

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Fig. 4.4 Weathering by Frost
c) Wind: In the desert, wind carries sand

materials from one region to another and
causes friction of particles on the rock
surface. This results in scratching and
breaking of rocks.
Fig. 4.5 Weathering by Wind
d) Gravitation: The gravity of the Earth makes

the huge rocks to roll towards the slope.
Rolling rocks strike against each other and
break up into pieces.
Fig. 4.6 Weathering by Gravitation
e) Sea waves: Sea waves brush against the

coastal rocks of the Sea and cause breaking
of rocks.
Fig. 4.7 Weathering by Sea waves
The process of Mechanical weathering is in various forms, depending on

the type of rock. They are:
1. Block disintegration: Due to temperature
variation, there is continuous expansion
and contraction in the rocks causing
tension and stress. Later these rocks
disintegrate into blocks known as “Block
Disintegration”.
Fig. 4.8 Block disintegration

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2. Granular disintegration: Rocks consist of several types of minerals

and these minerals react differently to heat. As a result, the
rocks break into different mineral grains known as “Granular
Disintegration”.
3. Exfoliation: Due to the heat of the Sun,
outer surface of rocks gets heated up, but
inside it remains almost cool. This makes
the rock to expand and crack. The thin layer
of rocks peel off, like the peeling of an onion.
This process is called “Exfoliation”.
Fig. 4.9 Exfoliation
II. CHEMICAL WEATHERING: Disintegration and Decomposition of rocks

by chemical processes is called “Chemical Weathering”.
In this process secondary or new minerals are developed from the
original minerals of the rocks .The rain water and atmospheric gases are
the main agents of chemical weathering. It is very common in humid
regions.
Types of Chemical weathering
There are four types of chemical weathering processes. They are:
a) Oxidation b) Carbonation c) Hydration and d) Solution
a) Oxidation: The rain water with oxygen, reacts on rocks containing
iron and produce oxides. This chemical reaction is known as
“Oxidation”. The common process of rusting of iron is an example
of oxidation.
b) Carbonation: The rain water with carbon-di-oxide, becomes a
weak carbonic acid and it reacts with calcium carbonate or
limestone to form calcium bicarbonate, which dissolves easily. This
process is called “Carbonation”. It is very active in limestone
regions.
c) Hydration: The rock minerals take up water, the increased volume
creates physical stress within the rock. As a result certain minerals
like feldspar and gypsum are reduced into powder. This process is
called “Hydration”.

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d) Solution: The rain water is able to dissolve some of the soluble

minerals, such as rock-salt, gypsum, potash. This process is called
“Solution”.
III. BIOLOGICAL WEATHERING: The disintegration of rocks caused by
plants, animals and human beings is called “Biological Weathering”.
a) Plants: The roots of the plant grow
through soil and in the cracks of rocks
to find water and minerals. As the roots
grow deep in the rock they widen and
disintegrate the rocks. This process is
most prominent in thick forests and
vegetative regions. Fig. 4.10 Weathering by plants
b) Animals: The burrowing animals like rats, rabbits, ants,

earthworms and termites influence in the breaking up of rocks
and make passages below the ground. The seepage of air and water
through these passages results in rapid weathering of rocks.
c) Human beings: Human beings play an important role in
weathering of rocks, through activities like agriculture, mining,
quarrying, oil drilling, deforestation etc.
IMPORTANCE OF WEATHERING
1. Weathering is an important process in the formation of soil and
helps for natural vegetation and agriculture.
2. The process of weathering produces a new landscape and variety
of sceneries.
3. This process prepares the ground for the work of different agents
of denudation.
4.3 DENUDATIONAL AGENTS

The word denudation is derived from the Latin word
“denudare” means, to lay bare. The wearing or tearing
away of the land surface is referred as “Denudation”.
The surface of the Earth is changing regularly due to influence of various
natural agents viz., Endogenic (internal) and Exogenic (external) agents.

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Agents of Denudation
The natural agents which are responsible for the modelling and shaping
of the Earth’s surface are known as, “Agents of Denudation”. The
important agents are:
1. River - Its activity is common in the drainage (river) regions.
2. Underground water - Its activity is familiar to the limestone
regions.
3. Glaciers - Its activity is widespread in the polar and high mountain
regions.
4. Wind – Its activity is regular in arid regions.
5. Waves - Its activity is familiar in the coastal regions.
The Denudational agents perform three important works. They are:
I. Erosion - The wearing away of the land surface.
II. Transportation – Carrying the eroded materials.
III. Deposition – Deposition of materials eroded and transported.
Work of River
River is an important external (Exogenic) agent of denudation on the
ever - changing face of the Earth. The work of river is more or less common
in all the drainage systems of the World.
A river is a natural water course, usually freshwater, flowing towards
a sea or an ocean. The river gets its water from the rainfall, underground
water, glaciers etc.
The place where a river rises is called the ‘Source’ or ‘Birth place of
River’. The place where the river meets or drains into a sea or an ocean is
called ‘River mouth’ (mouth of the river). The path of the river in which
it flows from its source to its mouth is called ‘Course of the River’. A
ridge of high land which separates two river (stream) system is called
‘Water Shed’ or ‘Water Divide’. ‘Catchment area’ is the region from
which a river or stream receives water from different sources. The main
river is joined by a number of streams or small rivers called ‘Tributaries’.
The place where a tributary river joins the main river or another river is
called ‘Confluence’. The area drained by a river, and its tributaries,
including distributaries form “River basin”.
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Fig. 4.11 River course
THE RIVER COURSE

The entire path of the river from source to mouth is divided into three
courses. 1) The upper course 2) The middle course 3) The lower course.
1. The Upper course: It is near the source of a river and is normally
found in mountainous areas. Here erosional work is dominant, because
the river flows in steep slopes with great velocity. This stage of the
river course is known as ‘Young stage’.
2. The Middle course: The middle course begins when the river enters
the plateau and plains from the mountains. The dominant work of the
river in this stage is transportation. This stage of the river course is
called ‘Mature stage’.
3. The Lower course: It is the plain course of a river near its mouth. In
the lower course the slope is very gentle, the valley is broad, the speed
of the river is very slow, hence deposition work is dominant. This
stage of the river is known as ‘Old stage’.
Fig. 4.12 Stages of River course

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The work of river consists of three closely interrelated activities.

1. Erosion 2. Transportation and 3. Deposition
1. Erosional work: - The process of wearing and taking away the part of
rock is known as ‘Erosion’. It depends upon the volume and velocity
of water, nature of slope and the nature of rocks.
The erosional work of the river is performed in two ways.
i) The Mechanical erosion:- It involves hydraulic action.
ii) The Chemical erosion: - It involves corrosion or solution.
There are various landforms associated to erosional work of river. They
are ‘V’ shaped valley, Gorges, ‘I’ shaped valley, Canyon, Potholes, Waterfall,
River capture etc.
a) ‘V’ shaped valley: In the mountain
course the speed of the river is greater
and volume is less. As the water rushes
down the steep slopes there is
maximum vertical or lateral erosion.
The rapid down cutting or vertical
erosion results in the formation of ‘V’
shaped valley.
Fig. 4.13 ‘V’ shaped valley
b) Gorge: A deep and narrow valley with

steep rocky sides in the river course is
known as ‘Gorge’. They are formed by
the regular vertical cutting by the rivers
in the valleys. eg. Narmada gorge,
Gangothri gorge etc.,
Fig. 4.14 Gorge
c) ‘I ‘ Shaped Valley : A very steep, deep river valley formed by the

river, looking like ‘I’ alphabet, is called ‘I’ Shaped Valley. These are
very deep compared to gorges.
d) Canyon: It is a wide, deep and steep valley almost with vertical
walls like feature found in the arid or semi arid regions is called
‘Canyon’ eg. Grand canyon of River Colorado in USA.

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Facts File
The Grand Canyon of Colorado river is one
of the Natural Wonders of the world. It is
known as “Bad lands”of U.S.A. The Grand
Canyon is 446 km long, up to 29 km wide
and attains a depth of over 6,000 feet /
1,800 m. Nearly two billion years of the
Earth’s geological history has been exposed
as the Colorado River and its tributaries
Fig. 4.15 Canyon cut their channels through layer after layer
of rock while the Colorado Plateau was
uplifted.
e) Potholes: These are the small depressions in the rocky beds of the
river valley. They are formed by corrosion. Pebbles, sand and small
rocks carried by the river swirled around on the river bed. This action
erodes the rock on the river bed forming potholes.
Fig. 4.16 Potholes
f) Waterfalls: Huge volume of water falling from a great height along

the course of a river is called ‘Waterfalls’. They are formed when the
hard and soft rocks come in the way of flowing river. The soft rock gets
eroded faster and hard rock does not erode easily. Therefore huge
amount of water falls from great height and creates waterfalls.
eg: The Jog falls (river Sharavathi), The Angel falls (river Churun-
Venezuela), The Niagara falls (St.Lawrence – North America), The
Victoria falls (river Zambezi – Zambia and Zimbabwe) etc.
Fig. 4.17 Jog Angel Niagara

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g) River Capture: It is formed mainly due to

head - ward erosion by the river near its
source. When the source of a river is
captured by another major and strong river
it is called ‘River Capture’. eg. River Testa –
it was a tributary to Ganga but, now it is a
tributary to river Brahmaputra.
Fig. 4.18 River Capture
2. Transportational work: The process of carrying away the eroded

materials is known as ‘Transportation’. The rock materials and eroded
particles carried by a river is called its ‘Load’. The transportation
capacity of a river is based on velocity of water, volume of water, load,
slope, smooth valley floor etc.
The most important landforms associated with the transportational
and depositional work of the river are Alluvial fans, Alluvial cones etc.
a. Alluvial fans: The term alluvium refers to the debris transported
and deposited by rivers. When the fast flowing river enters the
plateau or plain region, it experience sudden decline in gradient
and obstruction in its path. Due to obstruction the river spreads
and deposits many of its light materials in fan shape known as
‘alluvial fans’.
Fig. 4.19 Alluvial fans
b. Alluvial Cones: In the plateau and foot hill region when the river
spreads out, the eroded materials (alluvium) carried by the river
is deposited in conical shape called ‘Alluvial cones’.
3. Depositional work: - The process of carrying and accumulating the
eroded materials by the river at the lower course is called ‘Deposition’.
In the lower course due to gentle slope the river slows down and
deposits most of its materials on the banks, course and the mouth.
The important landforms resulting from depositional work of the river
in its lower course are Meanders, Ox-bow Lakes, Flood Plains, Natural
Levee, River Distributaries, Delta, Estuary etc.

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a. Meanders: In the lower course, river flows slowly in zig zag or curved
manner due to smaller obstruction in its path. A curve or loop formed
by the river in its path is called ‘Meander’. When the river course is
formed by such crescent shaped loops due to continuous lateral
deposition it is called meandering course.
Fig. 4.20 Meanders
b. Ox-bow Lakes: The ox-bow lakes are

formed by depositional and erosional
actions taking place simultaneously and
they are a result of excessive meandering.
The River which flows through the shorter
route leaving the curve of the meander cut
off and crescent shaped lake is formed
Fig. 4.21 Ox-bow Lakes
known as ‘Ox-bow lakes’.
c. Flood Plains: When the river is in floods

the water over flows on its bank and
spreads in the surrounding regions. The silt
carried by the water gets deposited in these
areas and creates flat plains on both the Fig. 4.22 Flood Plains
banks of the river known as ‘Flood Plains’.
d. Natural Levee: During floods the water of

the river crosses its banks and deposits the
sediments near the bank. Here the river
banks are higher than the flood plain. This
high wall like feature is called a ‘Natural
levee’.
Fig. 4.23 Natural Levee
e. Distributaries: As the river approaches the Sea or Ocean , due to

reduction in gradient, joining of tributaries, its volume increases, speed
decreases hence, the river begins to break up into a number of branches
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from the main river called ‘Distributaries’. eg. The Hoogly, The
Madhumathi, The Meghana etc.,
Fig. 4.24 Distributaries
f. Delta: A triangular shaped alluvial

deposition formed at the mouth of the river
is called ‘Delta’. Important types of deltas
are a) Arcuate or Common delta – Triangular
in shape, resembles Greek letter delta
(Triangle). eg. The Sunderban delta (Ganga
and Brahmaputra : India and Bangladesh – Fig. 4.25 Bird Foot Delta
Largest delta in the World) b) Bird – foot delta
– Fingers of a hand or Bird foot shape
eg. Mississippi and Missouri delta (USA).
g. Estuary: Estuaries are the tidal mouth of a
river having a narrow, gradually widening
lay at the mouth. In estuary river water is
mixed with sea water. eg. The Narmada
estuary, The Kali estuary, The Nethravathi
estuary etc.
Fig. 4.26 Estuary
Facts File
• Potomology: The Science of Rivers.
• Limnology: The Scientific study of lakes and ponds with respect to
their physical, chemical and biological properties.

Endogenic forces Granular disintegration Distributaries
Exogenic forces Oxidation Gorge
Diastrophism Carbonation Canyon
Orogenic activity Hydration River capture
Epeirogenic activity Solution Meanders
Mass wasting Denudation Ox-bow lakes
Mechanical weathering Water shed Natural levee
Block disintegration Catchment area Delta
Exfoliation Tributaries Estuary

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1. What is geomorphic process?
2. Define Diastrophism.
3. Mention the force responsible for Mass movement.
4. What is Weathering?
5. Name any two factors of Mechanical weathering.
6. How does granular disintegration occur?
7. What is the role of oxygen in Oxidation?
8. Which region is predominant in Carbonation?
9. What is River capture?
10. How are Ox-bow lakes formed?
1. State the difference between Endogenic and Exogenic forces.
2. What is Mass movement?
3. Name any two types of Weathering processes.
4. Distinguish between Oxidation and Hydration.
5. How does Biological weathering take place?
6. Mention any two agents of denudation.
7. What is Canyon? Give example.
8. Distinguish between Meanders and Ox-bow lakes.
9. What is Delta? Name any two types of delta.
10. Mention the difference between Tributaries and Distributaries.
1. What is landform? Explain the different types of geomorphic
processes.
2. Describe the factors affecting Physical weathering.
3. Explain chemical weathering with examples.
4. Describe the landforms associated to work of river.

• Prepare a list of Exogenic and Endogenic forces.
• Prepare a chart to show different processes of weathering.
• Collect photos of weathered regions.
• List out and collect the photos of various landforms associated to work
of River.
• Visit the coastal areas and identify the formation of deltas and estuaries.

CHAPTER 5
ATMOSPHERE
Atmosphere is the most important realm of the Earth. It is essential
for existence of life on Earth. The elements of the atmosphere are
temperature, pressure, wind, humidity etc. The atmosphere is attached
to the Earth’s surface by the gravitational pull. It acts as a store house of
water vapour and helps in its condensation and precipitation. It protects
the living organisms on the Earth’s surface from the harmful rays
(Ultraviolet) of the Sun and meteor showers and acts as a medium of
transmitting Radio waves. Atmosphere is dense near the Earth’s surface
and becomes thin away from the surface. Atmosphere extends to
approximately 1,600 km.
The word atmosphere is derived from the Greek words “atmos” - vapour
and “spaira” - sphere. In total it is the thin layer of vapour, gases and dust
particles around the Earth.
5.1 COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE OF ATMOSPHERE

The Earth’s atmosphere consists of a mixture of various gases, water
vapour and dust particles. The composition of air varies from time to time
and from place to place. About 78% of the air is made up of Nitrogen and
21% is Oxygen. Although these gases are plentiful they are of great
significance to life on Earth. The remaining 1% of air is made up of a
number of major and minor gases viz., Argon, Carbon dioxide, Hydrogen,
Neon, Helium, Methane, Xenon, Krypton, Ozone etc.
Oxygen is very important for breathing and for combustion. Nitrogen
is necessary to dilute Oxygen and it is used indirectly by plants and
animals. Carbon dioxide is needed for plants. It traps heat and acts as an
insulating agent, that is why the Earth is warm during night. It is also
used as fire extinguisher .
Water vapour is the most significant component of the atmosphere,
as far as its effect on weather is concerned, although its quantity varies
considerably from partially nil to about 4% by volume.
The atmosphere also contains dust particles. The amount of dust
particles varies from place to place and is more in urban areas compared

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to rural areas. Dust particles help to trap heat and hold the water vapour.
It helps water vapour to condense, disperse Sun light and give blue colour
to the sky.
STRUCTURE OF THE ATMOSPHERE
The atmosphere extends to about 1,600 km, from the surface of the
Earth. But 99% of its mass is found within 32 km. The atmosphere has its
multi-layered structure consisting of the following basic layers.
Troposphere, Stratosphere, Mesosphere, Thermosphere and Exosphere.
Fig. 5.1 Layers of Atmosphere
Troposphere - Region of Mixing

The term Troposphere literally means “the region of mixing’. It is derived
from the Greek word ‘Tropos’ means ‘mixing’ or ‘turbulence’. Troposphere
is the lowest layer in which life exists. All changes in weather conditions
take place in this layer. It is known as ‘weather manufacturer’.
Temperature, pressure, winds, clouds and other special features like
thunder, lightning, rainbow and precipitation are common in this layer.
This layer serves as a good means of transport for passenger aircraft. This
is due to the fact that the density of air decreases with height and so the

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heat absorbed is lost. It extends to a height of 8 km at the poles and 18

km at the Equator. The average height of the troposphere is 12 km.
Temperature decreases with increase in height at an average rate of 1ºC/
165 m or 6.4ºC/1000m is called Normal Lapse Rate. Tropopause is the
boundary between Troposphere and Stratosphere.
Stratosphere
This is the second layer of the atmosphere. It extends to about 50 km
from the surface of the Earth. It is free from water vapour and dust particles.
There are no clouds or turbulence in the air, thus, this layer provides
ideal conditions for flying of jet aircrafts. Temperature increases due to
the absorption of the ultraviolet radiation of the Sun by ozone. This region
is rich in Ozone which is vital for life on the Earth. The ozone layer is
found between 5 to 20 km. Stratopause is the boundary between
Stratosphere and Mesosphere.
Mesosphere
Mesosphere extends to a height of 80 km from the surface of the Earth.
It is the ‘coldest’ layer of the atmosphere. The gases are too thin to absorb
the sun rays. Temperature starts decreasing with increase in altitude and
reaches up to minus 100ºC at the height of 80 km. Mesopause is the
boundary between Mesosphere and Thermosphere.
Thermosphere
This layer extends from 80 km to 600 km from the surface of the
Earth. In this layer temperature rises drastically because, the gas molecules
in this layer absorb the x-rays and shortwave radiation of the Sun. This
results in the break up of the gas molecules into positively and negatively
charged particles. These electrically charged particles are known as “Ions”
and hence this layer is known as Ionosphere. Radio waves transmitted
from the Earth are reflected back to the Earth by this layer. It helps in
Radar, Navigator communication. The ionosphere protect us from meteors.
It also forms Aurora or Natural bands of light. They are Aurora Borealis
and Aurora Australis.
Facts File
• Aurora Borealis is a phenomenon of coloured lights seen in the sky
in the Northern Hemisphere - 66½º North to 90º North. Similar
phenomenon in the Southern hemisphere is called Aurora Australis
- 66½º South to 90º South.

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Aurora Borealis Aurora Australis
Exosphere
The region beyond the Thermosphere is called Exosphere. It extends
to about 1,000 km and the gravity of the Earth is too weak in this layer.
Magnetosphere is found above this layer.
5.2 TEMPERATURE
The Sun is the ultimate source of light and energy for the various
phenomena that takes place on the earth’s surface and in its atmosphere.
The Earth due to its small size and great distance from the Sun, intercepts
only a small fraction of the energy radiated by the Sun. The radiant energy
received by the Earth is called the incoming solar radiation or Insolation.
Temperature is the hotness or coldness of an object or body. The heat is a
cause, temperature is its effect. The temperature received (Insolation) by
the Earth is responsible for all forms of life and activity on the Earth. The
radiant energy from the Sun enables plants to produce their own food.
This forms the basis for food needed by all other organisms on the Earth.
The circulation of ocean water
is also due to the unequal
heating of the ocean water.
Heating of the Atmosphere
Our atmosphere is not
directly heated from the Sun,
but by the terrestrial radiation
of the Earth. There are four
main processes through which
the Earth’s atmosphere is
heated. They are Radiation,
Convection, Conduction and
Advection.
Fig. 5.2 Heat budget

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Facts File
• Albedo: The proportion of solar radiation falling on a non-luminous
body which the latter reflects, is usually expressed in percentage.
The albedo of the Earth is approximately 40 % of the solar radiation
which is reflected back into space.
Radiation: It is the process by which a body emits radiant energy i.e.,

energy received from the Sun in the form of heat.
Convection: The transmission of heat from one part of a liquid or gas
to another by movement of particles themselves is called convection. It is
the upward movement of a mobile medium like air or water, which has
been heated by contact with the earth’s surface. Air is therefore, said to
rise in convection current.
Conduction: It is a process by which heat is transferred directly
through matter from point of high temperature. Heat passes from warmer
to colder substances, as long as temperature difference exists.
Advection: Wind carries the temperature horizontally from one place
to another. The temperature will rise, if a place lies in the path of wind
coming from warmer regions.
Thermometer: It is an instrument used to measure the atmospheric
temperature. Two types of thermometers are used in the normal life
a) Centigrade thermometer and b) Fahrenheit thermometer.
Do you know?
• Centigrade Thermometer – Freezing point 0º C, Boiling point 100º C
• Fahrenheit Thermometer – Freezing point 32º F, Boiling point 212º F
Factors affecting the distribution of Temperature:

Normally the temperature distribution is recorded horizontally and
vertically. Horizontal distribution of temperature is determined by latitude.
The general decline in temperature from the equator towards the poles is
one of the most fundamental and best known facts. The horizontal
distribution of temperature is the function of numerous other physical
factors. They are: Latitude, Altitude, Distance from the Sea, Ocean currents,
Wind, Clouds & Rainfall, the slope of the land, Vegetation and Nature of
the Soil.

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Of the various climatic elements, temperature, pressure, wind,

precipitation have far reaching effects, whether it be horizontally from the
equator to the poles or vertically from sea level to high altitudes.
Latitudes
Places close to the equator
have higher temperature and are
warmer than places away from the
equator. This is because the Sun
rays reach the Earth after passing
through the layers of the
atmosphere. In the low latitudes
the Sun rays are direct and have
to travel a lesser extent through the
atmosphere. Hence, the heat of
these rays is more intense. But in
high latitudes the Sun rays are Fig. 5.3 Effect of Latitude
slanting and have to pass through
a greater extent of atmosphere. These rays lose heat and so the areas in
the high latitudes are not very hot as compared to the equatorial regions.
Altitude
The height of a place above the
mean sea level is the altitude of
that place. The atmosphere is
mostly heated by various heat
processes. Air is cooler at higher
altitudes than near the Earth’s
surface. So the places near the
Earth’s surface are warmer than
places higher up. This is because
air near the surface is denser and
contains gases like carbon dioxide,
Fig. 5.4 Effect of Altitude water vapour and other gases. So
their capacity of heat absorption is
more than in the upper layers. Temperature decreases with increase in
height at an average rate of 1ºC/165 m or 6.4ºC/1000 m. Sometimes
temperature increases with the increase in height known as ‘Inversion of
Temperature’. This feature is common during winter season, less
cloudiness, slow movement of winds, clear sky in the mountain valley.
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Distance from the Sea

This factor also
influences on the
distribution of temperature
and differential heating of
land and water. Land gets
heated faster compared to
water. Water takes longer
time to get heated and to Fig. 5.5 Distance from the sea
cool than land. Hence
during the day when the land gets heated quickly, water takes longer time
and remains cool. Therefore, during the day time land gets more heat
than the surrounding water bodies (sea and ocean). The coastal areas are
cooler and wetter than the inland areas.
Ocean currents
Ocean currents increase or decrease the temperature of the Earth’s
surface. Warm ocean currents along the coast make the coastal areas
warmer and cold currents reduce the temperature and cools the coastal
areas. Warm currents can be noticed on the eastern margins of the
continents in the middle latitude, while it is the cold currents flow at the
western margins of the continents. eg. Gulf Stream a warm current,
increases the temperature in the eastern coast of U.S.A. and California
cold current decreases the temperature of the western coast of U.S.A.
Winds
Winds that blow from the lower latitudes are warm and make the
places warmer. On the other hand, winds that blow from the higher
latitudes are cold and make the places cooler. Winds that blow from the
sea bring plenty of rain especially if they are warm winds. While off shore
winds hardly bring any rain.
Clouds
During the day clouds prevent Insolation from reaching the Earth’s
surface. Clouds also prevent the escape of terrestrial radiation during the
night. Clear sky permits Insolation readily during the day time and allow
the rapid escape of terrestrial radiation during the night.
Isotherms: Lines drawn on the map or globe joining the places having
the same temperature.
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Temperature Zones or Heat Zones

The temperature generally decreases as one proceeds from the equator
towards the poles. As such, different temperature zones are found on the
Earth. They are Torrid Zone, Temperate Zone and Frigid Zone.
Fig. 5.6 Temperature Zones of the Earth
Torrid Zone: This region receives direct Sun rays throughout the year.
It lies between 0º – Equator to 23 ½º N/S latitudes. The three important
latitudes that come under this zone are Equator, Tropic of Cancer and
Tropic of Capricorn. The shape of the Earth, direct sun’s rays make this
area always hot with high temperature called ‘Torrid Zone’. This belt is
also known as ‘Tropical Zone’.
Temperate zone: This region lies between 23 ½º N/S to 66 ½º N/S. It
is spread over between Tropic of Cancer to Arctic circle in the Northern
Hemisphere and Tropic of Capricorn to Antarctic circle in the Southern
Hemisphere. This zone receives oblique sun rays due to the shape of the
Earth, inclination and revolution of the Earth. Therefore, this area neither
records high temperature nor low temperature. The temperature is more
or less uniform. Hence this belt is called ‘Temperate Zone’.
Frigid zone: This region receives oblique sun rays for more than 8 to
9 months. The shape of the Earth and oblique sun rays for a long period
form very low temperature with freezed weather condition in this zone,
called ‘Frigid Zone’ or ‘Polar Zone’. This zone lies between 66 ½º N/S to
90º N/S. There are two frigid zones a) North frigid zone (66 ½º N to 90º N)
b) South frigid zone ( 66 ½º S to 90º S).

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5.3 ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE

Atmosphere has air which cannot be seen but can be felt. We are
surrounded by air on the Earth. Air pressure or atmospheric pressure is
the force exerted by air on the Earth. Atmospheric pressure changes from
time to time and place to place due to differential heating. Air pressure is
crucial to all forms of life and it plays a dominant role in wind movement
and precipitation. It directly and indirectly, influences the weather and
climatic changes.
The atmospheric pressure is measured by an instrument called
Barometer. Mercury, Aneroid and Digital barometers are commonly used
to measure pressure. Air pressure is expressed by a unit called ‘millibar’
(mb). The average atmospheric pressure at the sea level is 1013.25 mb.
Fig. 5.7 Aneroid and Digital Barometers
Factors affecting atmospheric pressure

Atmospheric pressure is influenced by various factors. Most important
among them are:
Altitude: Air is compressible. Earth’s gravity pulls the molecules and
gases towards the ground. The lowest layer of the atmosphere gets
compressed and also becomes dense. These dense layers exert great
pressure and form high pressure. With the increase in altitude there is a
decrease in atmospheric pressure, at the rate of 1 inch for every 900 feet.
Latitude: Lower latitudes record high temperature, with that pressure
falls. In the same way higher latitudes record low temperature and forms
high pressure.
Water vapour: Moist air is light and exerts less pressure than dry air.
While cool air exerts high pressure.
MAJOR PRESSURE BELTS
There are seven pressure belts on the globe. They are Equatorial low
pressure belt (1 belt), Sub-tropical high pressure belts (2 belts), Sub-polar
low pressure belts (2 belts) and Polar high pressure belts (2 belts).
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1. Equatorial Trough or Low Pressure belt

This belt extends from
0 to 50 North and South of
0
the Equator. It receives direct

rays of the Sun almost
throughout the year. Hence
the air becomes hot,
expands and rises. Thus a
belt of low pressure is created
in this region. It is a ‘belt of
calm’ with very little wind,
therefore it is known as
‘Doldrums’ (Equatorial
calm). This is a region
of convergence of trade
winds. It receives regular
convectional rainfall. Fig. 5.8 Global pressure belts
2. Sub-tropical High Pressure belt
This belt is found between 250 to 350North and South of the equator.
The formation of this belt is associated with rotation of the Earth and
descending air currents. The warm air rises at the equator, blows to higher
altitude and diverts towards poles. The wind cools down as it rises and
spreads towards the poles. Gradual cooling makes this air heavy and
sinks down to the surface at 300 North and South of the equator. This
results in the formation of high pressure belt. The trade winds and anti
trade winds originate in this belt. This belt is also called ‘Horse Latitudes’.
There are two Sub-tropical high pressure belts a) North sub-tropical high
pressure belt and b) South sub-tropical high pressure belt.
Facts File
• Horse Latitudes: Horse latitudes are generally areas of high
pressure marked by calm, subsiding air that gets heated during
descent. It is said that Spanish sailors ferrying horses to the West
Indies were usually stuck for months in these calm waters and had
to throw their horses into the water to conserve drinking water for
themselves. This led to the term ‘horse latitudes’.

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3. Sub-polar low pressure belt

This belt lies between 60º to 70º North and South of the equator. A low
pressure belt is created mainly due to the rotation of the Earth, which
swings the bulk of the air towards the equator. These are the areas of
storminess, especially in winter. There are two sub-polar low pressure
belts a) North Sub-polar low pressure belt and b) South Sub-polar low
pressure belt.
4. Polar high pressure belt
The two polar regions experience low temperature throughout the year.
Thus the cold air sinks down because of its greater density. Sinking of
cold air in the polar region results in high pressure. Polar high pressure
belt extends from 80º to 90º latitudes in both the hemispheres. The polar
high pressure belts record extremely cold weather condition so air is dense
and heavy. There are two polar high pressure belts a) North Polar high
pressure belt and b) South Polar high pressure belt.
Shifting of pressure belts
The above mentioned
pressure belts are neither fixed
nor permanent. The pressure
belts move (5º North and South)
in response to the apparent
migration of the Sun. We assume
that the Sun is directly over head
on the equator on all the days of
the year. But this happens only
twice a year, during Autumn (23rd
September) and Spring (21 st
March) seasons. Between
December and June the Sun
moves northwards, and between
June and December it moves
southwards. Therefore, the
pressure belts follow the annual
Fig. 5.9 Shifting of pressure belts
migration of Sun towards the
North and South. This results in shifting of pressure belt.
Isobars: Lines drawn on the map or globe joining places having equal
atmospheric pressure.
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5.4 WINDS
The horizontal movement of air, parallel to the Earth’s surface is known
as ‘Winds’. The winds play an important role in the distribution of
temperature and humidity in the atmosphere. Winds are generated due
to differences in pressure from one place to the other. Winds have a
tendency to move from areas of high pressure to those of low pressure.
The direction of the winds is determined by the direction of the pressure
gradient.
The direction of winds is identified by an instrument called ‘Wind
vane’ or ‘Wind cock’. ‘Anemometer’ is used to measure the speed of the
winds.
Fig. 5.10 Wind Vane Anemometer
Characteristics of Winds:
1) Difference in Pressure: Wind always blows from places of high
pressure to the areas of low pressure. The speed of wind is directly
governed by the ‘pressure gradient’. Steeper the gradient greater will
be the speed, whereas gentle gradient causes slow movement of air.
2) The Rotation: Due to the rotation of the Earth the wind movement is
towards its right and become clock wise direction in the northern
hemisphere. While in southern hemisphere the wind movement is
towards its left become anti clockwise direction (Refer Chapter 2.3 -
Coriolis force).
3) Direction of wind: The direction of wind is generally identified from
its source. On the basis of this, different types of winds are seen on
the Earth. eg. In India during June to September wind blows from
south west to north east direction and from September to December it
blows from north east to south west.

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Types of Winds :
Winds are influenced and supported by temperature and pressure.
On the basis of origin, nature and features winds are classified into four
main types: 1) Planetary winds 2) Seasonal or Periodic winds 3) Local
winds 4) Variable winds
1) Planetary winds: Planetary

winds are also called
Permanent winds. These winds
blow regularly from high
pressure to low pressure belts
in a fixed direction throughout
the year. They play a major role
in climate change, desert
formation, guide navigation
routes etc., There are three
types of Planetary winds. They
are: a) Trade winds
b) Westerlies or Antitrade
winds and c) Polar winds.
Fig. 5.11 Planetary winds
a) Trade Winds : Trade winds are also called the ‘Tropical Easterlies’.
These winds originate and blow from Sub-tropical high pressure
belts to Equatorial low pressure belt. The word trade is derived
from the Latin word ‘trado’ means, constant direction (Phrase-to
blow trades). There are two types of trade winds. 1) North East
Trade (NET) winds, 2) South East Trade (SET) winds.
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Trade winds are also called Easterlies. North East trade winds from
northern hemisphere and South east trade winds from southern
hemisphere meet near the Equator. This region is the converging zone of
trade winds known as ‘Inter-tropical convergent zone’ (ITCZ). This region
has different characteristics-low pressure, variable winds and calm
conditions and convergence of trade winds.
b) Antitrade winds : These winds originate and blow from Sub-
tropical high pressure belts to Sub -polar low pressure belts. These
are from South west to North east direction in northern hemisphere
and North west to South east in the southern hemisphere.
Therefore, they are called ‘Westerlies’. The direction of these winds
are opposite to trade winds. Hence, they are known as ‘Antitrade
winds’.
In the northern hemisphere because of the presence of vast land masses
with varied relief features large scale disturbance are formed by Antitrade
winds.
In the southern hemisphere they are more regular and blow with great
velocity because of vast expanse of ocean water. These winds cause great
problem to navigation in the southern hemisphere.
The important westerlies in the southern hemisphere are:
1) ‘Roaring Forties’ found around 40º south latitude.
2) ‘Furious Fifties’ found around 50º south latitude.
3) ‘Shrieking sixties’ or ‘Screeching sixties’ or’ Screaming sixties’
around 60º south latitude.
c) Polar winds : These are extremely cold winds blowing from Polar
high pressure belts to Sub-polar low pressure belts. Polar winds
are more regular and blow without much variation. However they
are strong in the winter season (cold wave) than in summer.
They blow from North east to South west in the northern
hemisphere and South east to North west in the southern
hemisphere (similar to trade winds), as such they are also known
as ‘Polar Easterlies’.
2) Seasonal or Periodic winds: The winds which change their direction
in different seasons are called Seasonal or Periodic winds. Monsoon
winds are the best example of seasonal winds. They are primarily
formed with the unequal heating of land and water bodies. Seasonal

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winds are mainly found in the tropical region and sometimes extended
towards temperate regions. They are mainly caused with thermal
variation.
In India, South West monsoon winds blow from South west to North
east direction during June to September and North East monsoon winds
blow from North east to South west direction from late September to middle
of December due to thermal variation and pressure difference in the land
and water bodies.
3) Local Winds: The regular pattern of planetary and seasonal winds
are affected with the local disturbances. Difference in temperature
and pressure leads to the development of movement of winds, called
as ‘Local winds’. Several types of local winds are found in different
parts of the world. Important among them are: a) Land and Sea breezes
b) Mountain and Valley breezes
a) Land and Sea Breezes: The winds blowing alternatively during
day and night from the sea and the land near the coasts are known
as ‘Sea Breeze’ and ‘Land Breeze’ respectively. These are the best
developed local winds near the coastal regions.
During day time land gets heated more quickly than the adjacent sea.
So the air gets heated and rise upwards to produce a low pressure region.
At the same time the pressure at sea is comparatively high. The warm air
of the land, being light, rises upwards allowing the air from sea to enter
in. Such incoming air from the sea is called ‘Sea Breeze’.
Fig. 5.12 Sea breeze during day Land breeze at night
At night the land loses its temperature quickly due to rapid radiation
and high pressure is developed. As the sea water still retains temperature
the air is lighter and rises upward, thus allowing the air from the land to
move towards the sea. Such wind is called ‘Land Breeze’.
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b) Mountain and Valley Breezes : Mountain and Valley breezes are

the best developed local winds in mountain regions.
During night the mountain peaks, (height) which are exposed, radiate
and get cooled quickly, while the valleys still remain warm. So the dense
air of the high altitudes (high pressure) slowly moves down along the slopes
towards the valley (low pressure). These are known as ‘Mountain Breeze’
or ‘Katabatic winds’.
Fig. 5.13 Mountain breeze Valley breeze
During the day the rays of the Sun strikes the peaks as well as their
slopes and they get heated (low pressure) faster than the deep valleys
(high pressure). The uprising air of the peaks and slopes allows the dense
air of the valleys to move up. Such winds are known as ‘Valley Breeze’ or
‘Anabatic winds’.
Other important local winds found in different parts of the world are:
Loo (India), Aandhi (India), Brickfielder (Australia), Blizzard (High latitudes),
Sirocco (Sahara desert), Harmattan (Western Africa), Foehn (Northern Alps),
Mistral (France), Chinook (USA), etc.,
Fig. 5.14 Local winds

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4) Variable winds : Local irregularities in temperature and pressure

produce the disturbances and form ‘Variable Winds’. The ‘Cyclones’
and ‘Anti-Cyclones’ are the important variable winds. The origin, extent
and direction of these winds are most uncertain and their prediction
is difficult.
Cyclones: Cyclone is a small low pressure area in the center
surrounded by high pressure. The winds blow spirally towards the low
pressure area and form convergence of winds. In the northern hemisphere
the direction of cyclonic winds is anti clock-wise and in the Southern
hemisphere it is clockwise. The cyclones are classified into two types.
i) Tropical Cyclones ii) Temperate Cyclones.
i) Tropical Cyclones : The origin of tropical cyclones are much
related to intensive pressure gradient with the temperature
variation. The rise of convectional currents develop low pressure
convergence zone. The high pressure zone in the water bodies
develop the movement of winds towards tropical low pressure land
masses. This tropical convergent winds form tropical cyclones in
the eastern coasts of many countries. They cause heavy rainfall
with high velocity winds. Tropical cyclones are highly dangerous
and devastating.
Fig. 5.15 Cyclones Anti Cyclones
ii) Temperate Cyclones : In the temperate region, cyclones are

produced by the meeting of warm air mass of tropical region and
cold air mass of the polar region. The tropical air mass is lighter
and it is pushed up by the advancing dense cold air mass. The
process of mixing of these two air masses takes place in the form
of cyclones. They are associated with heavy rainfall. The Temperate
region thus gets maximum rainfall from the cyclones.

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Facts file
• Cyclones are labelled by different names in different parts of the
world. Japan and China – ‘Typhoon’, USA and Mexico – Hurricane,
Australia – Willy Willies, UK & Europe – Depression, Russia –
Whirlpool, India & nearby countries-Cyclone.
• In the last few years Indian ocean and Bay of Bengal coasts have
experienced a few disastrous cyclones. Some of them are Bola,
Nargis, Nisha, Aila, Laila, Bijli, Jal, Neelam etc.
Anti-cyclones : As the name itself indicate the Anti-cyclones are

contrasting to Cyclones. Anti-cyclone is a high pressure area in the center
with winds blowing outwards, towards the low pressure areas. In the
northern hemisphere the direction of anti-cyclone wind is clockwise and
in the southern hemisphere it is anti-clock wise. These are common in
sub-tropical high pressure areas and absent in equatorial region. The
weather condition during anti-cyclone is generally fine and dry.
5.5 RAINFALL
Water occurs in three states on the Earth viz, the
gaseous(vapour or steam), liquid(water) and the
solid(ice). It can change its state from one to another
by absorption or release of heat and energy. The process of liquid water
passing into gaseous or vapour form is called ‘Evaporation’, water vapour
passing into liquid is called ‘Condensation’ and water vapour passing
into solid state without the intervening liquid state is called ‘Sublimation’.
Humidity is the amount of water vapour or gaseous form of water
present in the air or atmosphere. Cloud is made up of water droplets or
ice particles suspended in air. Condensation is the process of conversion
of water vapour present in the air into water droplets.
Rainfall is the natural process of condensation through which gaseous
form of water is converted into liquid water droplets. It occurs due to
cooling of saturated air mass, warm and moist air mass rising upward,
warm air rising over cold air, sufficient humidity in the air and condensation
etc.,
Types of Rainfall : According to the process of formation, nature and
features, three types of rainfall are recognized. 1) Convectional Rainfall
2) Orographic Rainfall 3) Cyclonic Rainfall.

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1. Convectional Rainfall : The rain caused by the process of convection

is called convectional rainfall. In the areas of high temperature, air
rises up due to heating. This rising air cools, gets saturated, as a
result condensation takes place and later rainfall occurs. Conventional
rainfall is very common in the Equatorial region and also in the Tropical
regions in summer. This rain is accompanied by thunder and lightning.
Do you know?
In the Equatorial region
convectional rainfall is named
as:
1) Afternoon rainfall
2) Tea Time rainfall
3) 4’o clock rainfall
Fig. 5.16 Convectional Rainfall
2. Orographic Rainfall: It is the

most common and widespread
form of rainfall in the world. It
is also called ‘Mountain
Rainfall’ or ‘Relief Rainfall’.
During this rain the moisture
laden winds are forced to
ascend over the mountains in
their path. As the wind rises,
Fig. 5.17 Orographic Rainfall
it expands and looses
temperature. This results in condensation, leading to rainfall. This
rainfall is found in the windward side of the mountain and is heavy.
In the leeward side of the mountain, as the wind begins to descend,
temperature steadily increases resulting in dry air by forming ‘Rain
Shadow Region’.
Do you know?
‘Torrential terror in Mumbai’
The Orographic rainfall in Mumbai on 26.7.2005 was exceptional, which
broke all the previous records of the last 100 years (Cherrapunji)- 700
mm of rainfall in 12 hours. Unprecedented thunderstorm and thick
cloud cover of 15 km.

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3. Cyclonic rainfall: The cyclonic rainfall is most common in the

temperate region. The rainfall caused with a cyclone or depression is
known as cyclonic rainfall. The winds take a circular movement in
the regions where warm and cold air masses meet.
Fig. 5.18 Cyclonic Rainfall
Do you know ?
1. Mawsynram of Meghalaya in India, has recorded 1141 cm of
rainfall per year. It is considered as one of the wettest or rainiest
places on the Earth.
2. Atacama desert of Chile is considered as the driest region on
Earth. It has not received rainfall in the last few years.
Rain Gauge : The amount of rainfall received, is measured by an

instrument called Rain gauge.
Fig. 5.19 Rain gauge

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Isohyets : Lines drawn on the map or globe to show the places having
the same amount of rainfall.
5.6 WEATHER AND CLIMATE

Weather and climate are the two terms used to express the atmospheric
conditions.
Weather: Weather refers to frequent changes or average conditions in
the atmosphere of a place at a given time. It refers to conditions of
temperature, pressure, winds, clouds, humidity, rainfall etc., eg. Cloudy
weather in the morning, hot weather in the evening etc.,
Elements of Weather: Weather is determined by internal elements of
atmosphere like temperature, pressure, winds, humidity, clouds and
precipitation.
The scientific study of weather conditions is called ‘Meteorology’.
The Head quarters of Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is situated
in Poona (Pune) of Maharashtra.
Climate : The average weather condition of a place for a long period
like 30-33 years in known as climate. It refers to long durational changes
in the atmospheric condition of a Country/Region/part of the Continent
etc., Different types of climate are experienced in the World. eg., Tropical
Monsoon type, Desert type, Mediterranean type, Maritime type, Tundra
type etc.
The scientific study of climate is known as ‘Climatology’.
Factors determining the Climate :
Factors that determine the climate of a region are latitude, distance
from the sea, altitude or height from the mean sea level, prevailing winds,
directions of mountains, ocean currents, and nature of land cover.
These factors influence on climate of a region depending on the
atmospheric conditions and local features. eg., India has Tropical Monsoon,
Southern Europe has Mediterranean type of climate etc.

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Troposphere Inversion of Temperature Furious fifties
Stratosphere Isotherms Shrieking sixties
Thermosphere Tropical zone Sea breeze
Ionosphere Temperate zone Land breeze
Exosphere Frigid zone Katabatic winds
Region of Mixing Barometer Anabatic winds
Tropopause Doldrum Cyclones
Stratopause Horse latitudes Anti-cyclones
Mesopause Isobars Condensation
Ozone layer Wind vane Precipitation
Ions Anemometer Sublimation
Aurora Pressure gradient Wind ward side
Insolation Planetary winds Lee ward side
Radiation Trade winds Convectional rainfall
Convection Westerlies Orographic rainfall
Conduction Easterlies Cyclonic rainfall
Advection ITCZ
Normal Lapse Rate Roaring forties

1. Define Atmosphere.
2. What is the percentage of Nitrogen in the Atmosphere?
3. Why is Carbon dioxide important in the Atmosphere?
4. Which layer of Atmosphere is called 'Weather manufacturer'?
5. In which layer do you find Aurora?
6. What is Stratopause?
7. Which is the coldest layer in the Atmosphere?
8. Define Insolation.
9. What is Convection?
10. Mention the average atmospheric pressure of the Earth.
11. How many pressure belts are there in the globe?
12. Define Doldrms.
13. Where do we find 'Horse latitudes'?
14. Name the instrument used to measure speed of the Wind.
15. What is ITCZ?
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16. Where do we see 'Roaring Forties'?

17. Why are Tropical cyclones more dangerous?
18. What is Rain shadow region?
19. Which instrument is used to measure the amount of Rainfall?
20. Mention any two factors that determine the climate of a place.

1. Mention any two components of Atmosphere.
2. Name any four important gases present in the atmosphere.
3. Why is Troposphere called 'Region of Mixing'?
4. What is the role of Ionosphere in the Atmosphere?
5. Mention the features of Inversion of Temperature.
6. Why do Pressure belts shift?
7. Name the two important Trade winds.
8. How is Sea breeze formed?
9. Mention the features of a Cyclone.
10. How is Mountain rainfall caused?

1. Explain the structure of the Atmosphere.
2. Briefly explain the factors affecting the distribution of temperature.
3. Describe the major pressure belts of the world with a neat diagram.
4. Explain the planetary winds with the help of diagram.
5. What is Rainfall? Explain the types of rainfall with neat diagrams.

• Prepare a model to show the layers of the atmosphere.
• List out the benefits of Oxygen, Carbon-di-oxide and other gases.
• Collect the photos of aurora borealis and aurora australis.
• Prepare model to show temperature zones of the Earth.
• Draw diagrams to show pressure belts of the globe.
• Prepare flow chart to show the different types of winds.
• List out the various local winds and cyclones.
• Prepare models to show Mountain, Cyclonic and Convectional rainfall.

CHAPTER 6
HYDROSPHERE
Like Lithosphere and Atmosphere, Hydrosphere is also an important
component of the Earth. The study of hydrosphere is very important to
geographers to know and understand the various water bodies like lakes,
bays, straits, gulfs, seas, oceans etc. The process through which water is
formed on the Earth is called ‘Hydrological cycle’. The water bodies of
the Earth is in the form of liquid and solid and covers an area about 71%
or 361 mil sq km. The seas and oceans contain about 93% of the earth’s
water. While 5% is in the form of fresh water bodies, ground water and
remaining 2% is in the form of ice and glaciers. The Earth has vast expanse
of water bodies. Therefore, it is called ‘Watery Planet’ and ‘Blue Planet’.
Water is an important resource essential to all forms of life, particularly
the life layer.
Hydrological cycle: The cyclic (evaporation, condensation and

precipition) movement of water between the atmosphere and the Earth’s
surface is called Hydrological cycle.
The scientific study of water bodies (Seas, Oceans etc.,) is called

‘Oceanography’. It deals with Ocean bottom topography, temperature,
salinity, depth, ocean currents, tides etc.
Fathom is the unit of measurement of the depth of the ocean. One
fathom is equal to 6 feet. Fathomometer is the instrument used to measure
the depth. The unit to measure length, width, area of the oceans is called
nautical miles.
Isobaths: Lines drawn on the map to show the places having same
depth in the sea or ocean floor.
Echo sounding: Is a technique of using

sound pulses to find the depth of water.
Eco sounder is a device for measuring
depth of water by sending pressure waves
down from the surface and recording the
time until the echo returns from the
bottom.

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6.1 TOPOGRAPHY OF THE OCEAN FLOOR

The surface beneath the water is
characterized by a great diversity of relief
(topography) features. The major submarine relief features are
a) The Continental Shelf b) The Continental Slope c) The Deep Sea Plains
and d) The Ocean Deep
Fig. 6.1 Ocean bottom topography
a) The Continental Shelf: The shallow submerged extension of

continent is called the continental shelf. It is the shallowest part
of the ocean with depth varying between 20 to 600 m. Its width
vary from one ocean to another ranging between 65 to 75 km. The
width of the shelf is often related to slope of the adjacent land. It is
wide along the low lying land and narrow along the mountainous
coasts. Nearly 70% of continental shelves are covered with thick
deposits of silt, sand, mud and sediments derived from the land.
This region occupies about 7.6% of the ocean floor. Many ports
and harbours, major fishing grounds and natural resources like
oil, natural gas etc., are found in the continental shelf.
b) The Continental Slope: The steep slope extending to the ocean
basin floor from the continental shelf is called the continental
slope.It is characterized by gradients of 2-5º. The continental slope
makes a boundary between the continental crust and the ocean
crust. The depth of water in this region varies from 200 to 2000
m. This region covers an area of about 8.5% of the total area of the
ocean floor. The most outstanding land feature found in the
continental slope are submarine canyons.

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c) The Deep Sea Plains: A vast level or plain area found between the
continental slope and the ocean deep is called the deep sea plains.
This region lies between 3000 and 6000 m below the surface of
the ocean. Deep sea plains account for about 82.7% of the total
area of the ocean floor. Sea mounts, ridges and guyots are the
outstanding land features in this region.
d) The Ocean Deep or Trench: An arc-shaped depression in the
deep ocean floor is called ocean deep or trench. These are the
deepest parts of the ocean floor. Ocean trenches are produced by
the subduction of oceanic crust under continental crust. They
resemble steep sided valleys or canyons on the land. Trenches or
deeps are generally parallel to the coasts facing mountains and
along the islands. Great earthquakes and tsunamis generally take
birth in this region. About 1.2% of the ocean floor is covered by
trenches. Its depth vary from 6000 to 8000 m. As per the records,
57 deeps have been identified in the ocean floor. Of these 32 are
in the Pacific ocean, 19 in the Atlantic ocean and 6 in the Indian
ocean.
The Challenger deep: The deepest known point in the Earth’s sea floor
- 10,898 m or 35,755 ft.
Trieste a bathyscaphe descended to the ocean floor on 23.1.1960,
manned by Jacques Piccard.
Deepsea Challenger a bathyscaphe descended to the bottom of the
Challenger deep, on 26.3.2012 by James Cameron a Canadian film
director.
6.2 TEMPERATURE OF THE OCEAN WATER

The temperature of the oceans is one of the most important component
of the study of oceanography. Ocean water gets heated by solar energy.
The process of heating and cooling of the ocean water is slower than land.
The average surface temperature of the ocean water is 26º Celsius. The
temperature decreases from the equator towards the poles. The Sun rays
pass through the ocean water up to 200 m. Below this depth temperature
decreases slowly. Temperature in the ocean water determines marine life,
movements of ocean water, climate of coastal areas, salinity, density of
the water etc. Factors affecting the distribution of temperature are latitudes,
prevailing winds, ocean currents, unequal distribution of land and water,
salinity etc.

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Fig: 6.2 Distribution of Temperature
Salinity of the Ocean water

The total amount of dissolved solids (minerals) in the ocean water is
called salinity. The ocean’s salinity consists of various elements. They are
Sodium chloride, Magnesium chloride, Magnesium sulphate, Calcium
sulphate, Potassium sulphate, Calcium carbonate, Magnesium bromide
etc. Of these Sodium chloride (77.8%) is the most important constituent.
Elements of Salinity Percentage

1. Sodium Chloride 77.8
2. Magnesium Chloride 10.9
3. Magnesium Sulphate 4.7
4. Calcium Sulphate 3.6
5. Potassium Sulphate 2.5
6. Calcium Carbonate 0.3
7. Magnesium Bromide 0.2
Elements of Salinity in ocean water
Factors affecting the salinity in the ocean water are: a) Evaporation:

High evaporation in the ocean water leads to high salinity. b) Precipitation:
High rainfall and snowfall in the oceans lowers the salinity. c) Fresh water
mixing with ocean water: Continuous mixing of dissolved salts by running
water (river), groundwater and glaciers increase the percentage of salt
content in the ocean. d) The trade winds drive away saline water to less
saline areas resulting in the variation of salt content.

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Distribution of Salinity
The average salinity of the ocean water is 35ppt (parts per thousand),
means 35 grams of salt per 1000 grams of sea or ocean water. The amount
of salt content vary from one ocean to another. The average salinity of the
Atlantic ocean is around 36ppt, the Pacific ocean is 35ppt and the Indian
ocean is 35ppt.
Latitude, precipitation, mixing of fresh water etc., influence on the
horizontal and vertical distribution of salinity. The regions near Tropic of
Cancer and Capricorn record high salinity due to high temperature, more
evaporation, low rainfall and extensive arid and semi-arid areas. While
the equatorial region record low salinity because of high temperature and
high rainfall. The polar region record least salinity due to very low
temperature, evaporation and less rainfall.
Fig. 6.3 Distribution of Salinity
Isohalines are the lines drawn on the map to show the places having
the same amount of salinity.
Most saline water bodies
1. Lake Van (Turkey) 330ppt
2. Dead sea (Asia) 238ppt
3. Great salt lake (USA) 220ppt
4. Lake Sambhar (India) 205ppt

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6.3 MOVEMENTS OF THE OCEAN WATER

The ocean water is not stationary. It is in movement due to the external
influence of the Sun, the Moon and the winds and internal influence of its
temperature, salinity, density etc. The ocean water has three types of
movements. They are waves, currents and tides. Waves and currents are
the horizontal movement of the ocean water, while tides are vertical motion.
Waves
Waves are the undulations found
on the surface of the sea or ocean.
These are formed due to the influence
of wind and wind friction on the
surface of the ocean water.
Sometimes waves are formed by
earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides
etc. Waves have two parts – the crest
and the trough. The upper part of the
Fig. 6.4 Waves - Crest and Trough
wave is called ‘Crest’ and the lower
part is called ‘Trough’. The horizontal
distance between two successive crests or troughs is called ‘Wave length’.
Similarly the vertical distance between the crest and trough is called ‘Wave
height’.
Ocean currents
Ocean current is the general movement of a mass of oceanic water in
a definite direction. The faster movement of the ocean water is called
‘currents’ and the slower movement of water is called ‘drift’. The main
factors which produce the ocean currents are: a) Rotation of the Earth
b) Planetary winds c) Temperature variation d) Variation in salinity
e) Configuration of coastlines f) Density of ocean water g) Relief of the
ocean floor etc.
On the basis of latitude and temperature two types of ocean currents
are identified. They are: 1) Warm currents: These are the high temperature
ocean currents flowing from the equatorial regions to polar regions.
2) Cold currents: These are the cool ocean currents flowing from polar
regions to equatorial regions.
The three major water bodies of the world viz, the Pacific ocean, the
Atlantic ocean and the Indian ocean have their own pattern of currents.
Each of these oceans play a major role on the coastal climate of different

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countries and continents. Of these the Indian ocean currents are very
important because it has its influence on the climate and weather condition
of India. The currents of Indian ocean form monsoon winds and drive
these winds to put its effect on the Indian sub-continent.
Currents of the Indian Ocean
Indian Ocean is the third largest ocean on the Earth. It is situated
between the continents of Africa, Asia and Australia. This ocean is mainly
found in the southern hemisphere but a small portion is in the northern
hemisphere. Indian ocean is bordered by land in the north and open to
water in the south. The currents of this ocean is influenced by the shape
of the land mass and monsoon winds.
The Indian ocean currents are of two types. a) North Indian Ocean
currents and b) South Indian Ocean currents.
North Indian Ocean currents
The ocean currents of the North Indian ocean is very closely influenced
by the monsoon winds. The direction of ocean currents get reversed as a
result of monsoonal change of air streams. The south west monsoon and
north east monsoon winds change the direction of north Indian Ocean
currents twice a year.
In the summer season south west monsoon winds influence on the
flow of North Indian ocean water from the Arabian Sea to Bay of Bengal.
The currents (Arabian sea-warm) flow in a clockwise direction along the
east coast of Somalia – Somalia current, Gulf of Aden, brushes the western
and eastern coasts of India (Arabian sea and Bay of Bengal currents) and
finally joins North Equatorial current.
Fig. 6.5 Indian Ocean currents during summer

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In the winter season the monsoon winds get reversed, blow from north
east to south west. Hence the ocean currents flow from the western coast
of Thailand and Myanmar and brushes the eastern and western coast of
India as North east currents (warm), passes along Gulf of Aden, Somalia
and finally reaches North Equatorial currents in anti-clockwise direction.
Fig. 6.6 Indian Ocean currents during winter
South Indian Ocean currents

The currents of the South Indian ocean are not affected by the monsoon
winds. The South Equatorial current flows from the Indonesian archipelago
towards the eastern coast of Africa. After reaching Madagascar it is divided
into two branches: a) Mozambique current (warm)-Flows between Africa
and Madagascar in the Mozambique channel b) Madagascar current
(warm)-Flows in the east coast of Madagascar towards south. These two
currents meet in the east of South Africa and form ‘Agulhas current’
(warm). This current further flows southward and reach Cape of Good
Hope in the south tip of Africa.
In the south of Indian ocean West wind drift flows towards Australia
due to the influence of westerlies. After reaching Australia it separates
into two branches as: a) West Australian cold current-Moving northward
in the west coast of Australia and finally joins South Equatorial current
b) West wind drift (warm)-Flows to the south of Australia and finally
merges into the Pacific west wind drift.

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6.4 TIDES
The regular rise and fall of water level in the world’s sea and oceans is
called ‘tides’. Causes for the occurance of tides are: a) Gravitational
attraction of the Moon b) Gravitational pull by the Sun c) Centrifugal force
of the Earth.
Tides are universal and are an
every day activity on the water bodies.
Generally 4 tides are observed in a
day. Of this 2 are high tides and 2 are
low tides. Whenever the sea level rises
it is called ‘High tide’ or ‘Flood tide’
and, when the sea level falls it is
known as ‘Low tide’ or ‘Ebb tide’.
The interval between two high tides
and two low tides is around 12 hours
and 26 minutes and between one high
Fig. 6.7 Tides (High tide & Low tide)
tide and one low tide it is around 6
hours and 13 minutes. In a period of
24 hours and 52 minutes, 2 high tides and 2 low tides take place. The
time between successive high tide and low tide is known as ‘Tidal period’.
Types of Tides
The tides are of different height and magnitude in different regions of
the sea or ocean. In the open ocean its height is different compared to
closed water bodies. On the basis of the strength of gravitational attraction
by the Sun and the Moon tides are classified into two types. a) Spring
tides b) Neap tides
a) Spring tides: These tides occur during
full moon and new moon days. When
the Sun, Moon and the Earth are in a
straight line (Syzygy), the gravitational
attraction by the Sun and the Moon
together act on the water bodies of the
Earth. Therefore, the water level in the
ocean or sea rises to maximum height
Fig. 6.8 Spring tide
causing very high tidal forces known
as ‘Spring tides’. Every month two
spring tides occur with a gap of 15 days each.

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b) Neap tides: These tides occur on the

days when the moon is in first quarter
or in the third or last quarter. When
the Sun and the Earth are in a straight
line and the Moon is perpendicular
(right angle) to the Earth the
gravitational force of the Moon and the
Sun will be in opposite direction. Fig. 6.9 Neap tide
Therefore, minimum pull is exerted on
the seas and oceans. This results in the
formation of low tidal forces known as ‘Neap tides’. Every month
two neap tides occur with a gap of 15 days each.
Uses of tides
Tides are useful to man and society in various ways. They are:
1. Tides increase the depth of water in shallow harbours and help
navigation during high tides.
2. Tides clean the entrance of ports, harbours and river mouths.
3. Tides help fishing and other aquaculture activities.
4. Tides promote salt and foam production in the coastal areas.
5. To some extent Tides prevent, the freezing of sea or ocean water in
the coast.
6. Tides promote the generation of tidal energy - France, USA,
Germany, Italy, Japan etc.,
6.5 CONSERVATON OF OCEANS

In the prehistoric period, people used to live near the
sea or ocean coast to use marine resources. Traditionally
man used the oceans for fishing (food), transportation
and defence. Fishing and transportation have been the two most important
economic activities of man for a very long time. Oceans are the storehouse
of various resources, which man is using in an unplanned and non-
judicious manner. The exploitation of the marine resources are in the
form of extraction of minerals like crude oil, natural gas, thorium,
magnetite, common salt, generation of power in the form of wave energy,
tidal energy, biomass conversion and marine food resources like fish,
plankton, animals, seaweeds etc.,

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Over population, unplanned economic development, exploitation of

resources, territorial and marine boundary supremacy, nuclear test etc.,
have resulted in fear and threat to marine organisms, resources,
configuration of coastal areas etc.,
To control the exploitation and pollution in the sea or ocean,
conservation of Ocean is very much necessary and important. A few
measures recommended by the experts are: 1) Sewage disposal must be
regulated and treated. 2) Oil leakage has to be brought under control
3) Disposal of toxic metals, pesticides must be reduced 4) Radioactive or
Nuclear mineral dumping must be stopped 5) Coastal mining activities
have to be regulated and monitored 6) Over fishing, aquaculture activities
have to be controlled 7) Unwanted battles and wars, military establishments
near the coasts have to be reduced 8) Literacy and education programmes
on marine features must be initiated and promoted 9) Proper law to be
enacted to save sea and ocean 10) World wide awareness programme must
be arranged to show the pros and cons of the marine pollution etc.,

Hydrological cycle Salinity Agulhas current
Oceanography Isohalines West Wind drift
Fathom Sea waves High Tide
Isobaths Crest Ebb Tide
Continental shelf Trough Tidal Period
Continental slope Currents Spring tide
Deep sea plains Arabian sea currents Neap tide
Ocean Trench Bay of Bengal currents

1. What is Hydrological cycle?
2. Define Oceanography.
3. Which instrument is used to measure depth of the Ocean?
4. Name the region which covers largest area in the ocean floor.
5. What is Salinity?
6. Which lines are drawn on the map to show places having same
salinity?

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7. What are Sea waves?

8. Where do we find the 'Agulhas current'?
9. How does a tide occur?
10. What is Tidal period?

1. Name the four submarine relief features of the Ocean floor.
2. Mention the important features of Continental Shelf.
3. Why is Ocean deep or Trench important in the Ocean bottom?
4. State any four factors that influence on the distribution of
temperature in the ocean.
5. Mention any four dissolved minerals in the Ocean water.
6. What factors affect the salinity in the Ocean water?
7. Name the two types of Ocean currents. Where are they found?
8. Mention any four South Indian Ocean currents.
9. Distinguish between High tide and Low tide.
10. Mention any four uses of tides.

1. Explain the topography of the Ocean floor with a diagram.
2. Describe the salient features of Salinity of the Ocean water.
3. Explain the Indian Ocean currents with the help of Maps.
4. Briefly explain the types of tides.
5. What is Conservation of Ocean? Mention the important measures.

• Draw diagram to show 'Hydrological cycle'.
• Prepare chart to show the relief features of the Ocean floor and list out
the important deepest places in the sea floor.
• Draw the outline map of Indian Ocean and show the important ocean
currents.
• Prepare models to show spring and neap tides.
• Prepare a list of uses of Oceans and a few important measures
recommended for conservation of Oceans.

CHAPTER 7
BIOSPHERE
Earth is called ‘Biosphere Planet’ or ‘Living Planet’ because, it is the
home of various forms of life. The existence of living organisms on the
Earth is the result of solid lithosphere, gaseous atmosphere and liquid
hydrosphere.
All forms of life - plants, animals and micro organisms found in a
contact zone between lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere is called
‘Biosphere’ (Bio-life and Sphaira-sphere or zone).
Biosphere and its components are
very significant elements of environment.
These elements interact with the
components of the natural landscape like
water and soil. They are also influenced
by atmospheric elements such as
temperature, pressure, wind,
precipitation etc., The interaction of the
Biosphere with land, air and water is
Fig. 7.1 Biosphere important for the evolution, growth and
development of organisms.
7.1 ENVIRONMENT
The word Environment is derived from the French word “Environer”,
which means “to surround”. The whole sum of surrounding external
conditions within which an organism, a community or an object exists is
called ‘Environment’. In other sense it includes everything that surrounds
us. The environment is not uniform on the Earth. Change in Environment
takes place due to natural and human activities. Irregular and over
exploitation of nature by human activities pose the greatest danger and
threat to the environment.
Human beings use the environment for their living, and for development
activities. This may disturb its natural status. If the disruption is less,
nature adjusts by it self, but when the exploitation is excess and beyond
its control, nature is not able to set the things right.
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Types of Environment :
The Environment is divided into two types.
1) Physical Environment 2) Cultural Environment
1. Physical Environment : The environment which is created or
formed naturally with biotic things is called Physical Environment.
Land, water, soil, rainfall, winds and biological features on the
Earth are the factors of Physical Environment.
2. Cultural Environment : The environment created or formed by
human beings for their living conditions is called Cultural
Environment. Civilization, culture, religion, language, customs,
traditions, economic activities etc., are the factors of Cultural
Environment.
The economic development of a Country depends on the favourable
physical and cultural environmental factors. The regions where the physical
and cultural factors of environment are co-related with each other, have
achieved progress and prosperity, while the regions where such co-relation
is not existing are facing several problems even today.
7.2 ECOLOGY
Ecology is the science of the relationship between living organisms
and their surroundings. It deals mainly with the healthy interaction
between biotic (living) and abiotic (non living) components. The subject
matter of ecology is the influence of organisms on environment and counter
influence of environment on organisms. The components in the ecosystem
exists with varying ranges of environmental conditions. On the Earth
plants, animals and micro-organisms are co-exit with various ecological
conditions.
Ecology is a human science as well. There are many practical
applications of ecology in wetland management, natural resource
management (agro ecology, agriculture, forestry, agro forestry, fisheries),
city planning (urban ecology) and human social interaction (human
ecology). Ecosystems maintain evolutionary dynamics between living (biotic)
and non living (abiotic) components of the planet. Ecosystems sustain
life-supporting functions and produce natural capital through the
regulation of continental climates, global biogeochemical cycles, water
filtration, soils, food, fibres, medicines, erosion control, and many other
natural features of scientific, historical and economic value.

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The ‘Ecological Balance’ or ‘Balance of Nature’ is a theory that says

that ecological systems are usually in a stable equilibrium, which is to
say that a small change in some particular parameter will be corrected by
some negative feed back that will bring the parameter back to its original
“Point of Balance” with the rest of the system. It may apply where
populations depend on each other and may also apply, at times, to the
relationship between the Earth’s ecosystem, the composition of the
atmosphere, and the world’s weather.
............................ ...............................................................
Man is a product of environment. He/she is one of the important
components of living sphere, adjusting himself with the environment.
Urbanization, industrialization, modern life styles and excess growth of
population etc., are causing plenty of problems and changes in the human
environment and ecology.
7.3 BIOMES
Fig. 7.2 Biomes of the World
A distinct group of life forms and the environment in which they are
found is called ‘Biomes’. In other words, Biome is a plant and animal
community that covers a large geographical area. It is the largest
recognizable sub-division in a terrestrial ecosystem. The boundaries of
different biomes on land are determined mainly by climatic conditions
like rainfall, temperature, humidity and soil conditions. It is the total
assemblage of plant and animal species interacting within specific
conditions.
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Types of Biomes
Geographers recognize 10 to 20 major types of terrestrial ecosystems or
biomes in the World. On the basis of the dominant life form, six major
biomes are identified. They are: 1) Forest biome 2) Savanna biome
3) Grassland biome 4) Desert biome 5) Tundra biome & 6) Aquatic biome.
1. Forest biome: Trees are the dominant life form of forest biome. High
temperature, humid climate and soil moisture help for thick tree cover.
Equatorial region is dominant with forest biome.
Fig. 7.3 Forest Savanna Grassland
2. Savanna biome: It is the transitional biome between the forest biome

and grassland biome. Savanna biome comprises of trees with grasses
and herbs . It occupies the areas of low and seasonal rainfall.
3. Grassland biome: In this biome grasses constitute the dominant
vegetation. It is dominant in the moderate soil water deficit regions,
semi-arid areas of dry tropical, sub-tropical and mid-latitude regions.
Fig. 7.4 Desert Tundra Aquatic
4. Desert biome: It includes organisms capable of surviving in moderate

to severe water deficit for most of the year. In this region temperature
may range from hot to cool. Most common plants found in this belt are
xerophytes (survives in dry weather).
5. Tundra biome: It includes small plants that can grow quickly during a
short warm to cool summer season, in the low temperature and high
latitudinal areas.
6. Aquatic biome: Aquatic regions house numerous species of plants and
animals, both large and small. This is where life began billions of years
ago. Without water, most life forms would be unable to sustain
themselves and the Earth would be a barren, desert-like place. Important
Aquatic biomes are found in Ponds, Lakes, Rivers, Wetlands and Oceans.

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7.4 BIODIVERSITY
The varied range of flora and fauna found within a specified geographic
region is called ‘Biodiversity’. The term ‘Biodiversity’ is derived from two
words ‘Bio’-life and ‘diversity’-variety. It is expressed as the totality of
different organisms (plants, animals and micro-organisms), the genes they
contains and ecosystem they form.
The study of biodiversity has become a major environmental issue
because environments are being degraded at an accelerating rate. Much
diversity is being irreversibly lost through the destruction of natural
habitats, and science is discovering new uses for biological diversity (Wilson,
1988).
Biodiversity has five main aspects: 1) The distribution of different kinds
of ecosystem 2) The total number of species in a region 3) The number of
endemic species in an area 4) The genetic diversity in an individual species
5) The sub-population of an individual species which embrace the genetic
diversity (Majid Husain-2009)
The study of biodiversity is dealt at three levels. 1. Genetic Diversity
2. Species Diversity 3. Ecosystem Diversity
1. Genetic Diversity: Genes are the basic building blocks of various life
forms. Genetic biodiversity refers to the variation of genes within the
species. It refers to the variation of individual organisms having certain
similarities in their physical characteristics called species. Human
beings genetically belong to the homo-sapiens group and also differ in
their characteristics such as height, color, hair, physical appearance
etc., This genetic diversity is essential for a healthy breeding of
population species.
Do you know?
Gene pool and Gene pool centre:
• The Gene pool is the set of all genes or genetic information, in any
population, usually of a particular species. This also proves to be
the basic level at which evolution occur.
• The Gene pool centres are the places of origin of plants and animals
for the first time. They are the regions where large scale
domestication occurred for the first time for particular species.
• Major Gene pool centres of India : 1) Western ghats (Niligiri),
2) North east and 3) Western Himalayas

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2. Species Diversity: The Species diversity refers to the variety of species.

It relates to the number of species in a defined area and it is measured
through its richness, abundance and types. Some areas are more rich
in species than others. Areas rich in species diversity are called the
‘Hot Spots’ of biodiversity.
Fig. 7.5 Bio hot spots of the World Bio hot spots of India-Western Ghats
3. Ecosystem Diversity: Broad differences between ecosystem types

and the diversity of habitats and ecological processes occurring within
each ecosystem constitute Ecosystem diversity. The boundaries of
communities (association of species) and ecosystem are not clearly
defined. The demarcation of ecosystem boundaries is difficult and
complex.
Biodiversity is important for human existence. All forms of life are so
closely interlinked that disturbance in one gives rise to imbalance in the
others. If species of plants and animals become endangered, they cause
degradation in the environment, which may threaten human being’s own
existence (NCERT 2006).
Thus, Biosphere with its elements like environment, ecology, biomes
and biodiversity describes the characteristics of life layer, types and their
spatial distribution on the Earth. Understanding the inter-relationship
between man and nature and their existence is the essence of the study of
life layer.
“The planet Earth is

able to provide natural
resources to fulfill
essentials of man but,
not unlimited desires”.
– Mahatma Gandhi
“SAVE EARTH AND
SAVE MOTHER PLANET”
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Living Planet Forest biome Genetic diversity
Environment Savanna biome Species diversity
Ecology Desert biome Ecosystem diversity
Ecological balance Tundra biome Hot spots
Biomes Biodiversity

1. Why is the Earth called 'Living Planet"?
2. What is Environment?
3. Define Ecology.
4. What is Biomes?
5. Define the term Biodiversity.

1. What are the components of Biosphere?
2. Name the two types of Environment.
3. What is 'Ecological balance'?
4. Mention any four types of biomes.
5. State the features of Genetic biodiversity.

1. Briefly explain the Biomes.
2. Describe the main aspects and three levels of study of Biodiversity.

• Prepare chart to show the different types of environment.
• Draw the outline map of the World and show the important biomes.
• Conduct group discussions on biological imbalance and biodiversity.

PART-B : PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT OF INDIA
CHAPTER 8
INDIA
8.1 INDIA - LOCATION AND ITS ENVIRONS
India, is an important (Physical and Cultural) country in the world in
the 21st century. It is universally called ‘Bharat’ or ‘Hindustan’. It is a
subcontinent having various physical, climatic, social, cultural, economical
and political diversities. It is popularly called, ‘land of great unity in
diversity’.
The physical environment of India has diversified features. eg. The
Mountains in the North, the Plateaus in the South, the water bodies and
coastal plains in the East and West, the dry desert in the north west,
monsoon climate, rivers etc., with a most strategic peninsular location.
India is situated in the southern part of Asian continent and lies to
the northern tip of the Indian Ocean. It is a peninsula covered with water
on three sides (West, South and East) and land on the North.
Fig. 8.1 India in Asia
Physical Environment of India 101

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Fig. 8.2 India – Latitude and longitude
Location
The main land of India extends between 8º 4Ń to 37º 6Ń latitude and
68º 7É to 97º 25É longitude. The latitudinal and longitudinal extent of
India is around 30º. The country stretches to 3214 km from North to
South and 2933 km from West to East. The northern tip of India is
recognized as ‘Indira Col’ in Jammu & Kashmir while, the southern tip
(main land) is ‘Kanyakumari’ or ‘Cape Camorin’ in Tamilnadu. In the same
way the western and eastern tips of the country are ‘Sir Creek’ or ‘Rann of
Kutch’ in Gujarat and ‘Luhit’ or ‘Lohit’ in Arunachal Pradesh respectively.
102 Physical Environment of India

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The territorial limit of India extends up to 6º 45´ North latitude. ‘Indira

point’ situated at this latitude in Great Nicobar Islands of the Andaman
and Nicobar group is recognized as the Southern most point (territorial
boundary) of India.
The main land of India has 6100 km of coastline while, the total length
of coastline including islands (Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar
Islands) is 7516 km. The territorial water extends into the sea to a distance
of 12 nautical miles (22.2 km) from the coastal baseline.
India is a peninsula, located at the north tip of the Indian Ocean. It is
bordered by the Arabian sea in the west, Indian ocean in the south and
Bay of Bengal in the east and covered by land in the north - China, Nepal,
Bhutan etc.,
The Tropic of Cancer -23½º N latitude and the Indian Standard Time
(IST) -82½º E longitude are the most important lines in the country. Tropic
of Cancer passes through the middle of India (West to East) and divides
the country into almost two equal halves. The northern part is called North
India and southern part is called South India. This line passes through 8
states of India.
82½º E longitude which passes through the middle of India (North to
South – 5 states) is recognized as standard longitude of the country to
keep Standard Time. The Indian Standard Time (IST) is 5½ hrs ahead of
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). This line passes through Allahabad
(a historical city) of Uttar Pradesh.
SIZE
India is the seventh largest country (area) in the world next to Russia,
Canada, China, USA, Brazil and Australia. It has a total geographical
area of 32,87,263 sq.km. This constitutes about 2.4% of the total land
area of the Earth.India is the second most populous country in world next
to China. According to 2011 census the total population of the country
was 121.6 crore or 1216 million or 1.21 billions, which accounts for about
17.45 % of the total world’s population. India has 28 States, 6 Union
territories and 1 National Capital Region (New Delhi). Among the states,
Rajasthan is the largest state and Goa is the smallest state in area. In
terms of population UP ranks first and Sikkim occupies the last position.

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Frontiers
India has 15,200 km of long land frontier extending from west to east
running from Gujarat in the west to West Bengal in the east. The Himalayas
form a natural boundary in the north, between India and China. Similarly,
Thar desert in the west & northwest and eastern hills acts as boundary
between India & Pakistan and India & Myanmar respectively. India share
land frontier with seven countries, they are Pakistan and Afghanistan to
the Northwest, China,Nepal and Bhutan to the North and Bangladesh
and Myanmar to the East.
Sri Lanka, an island country, situated to the southeast, is separated
by Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar.
The important international boundary lines demarcated between India
and neighbouring countries are:
1. The Durand line - India and Afghanistan (80 km) by Mortimer
Durand.
2. The Mc Mahon line - India and China (PRC) (3488 km) by Henry
Mc Mahon.
3. The Radcliff line - India and Pakistan (2910 km) by Sir Cyril Radcliff.
4. India and Bangladesh (4097 km).
In addition to the above Nepal – 1751 km, Myanmar – 1643 km and
Bhutan – 699 km also have land boundaries with India. (Source: Wikipedia
– Dec, 2012)
Even though India has natural and manmade boundaries, it has land
disputes with many countries. Most important are: India & Pakistan- North
West Jammu and Kashmir (POK), India & China- North east Jammu and
Kashmir – Aksai chin, India & Bangladesh - West Bengal and Assam,
India & Myanmar – Mizoram and Nagaland and India & Nepal – Kalapani
area etc., The disputed areas are causing hitch and threat to the country
in the form of frequent boundary line problems, destruction of flora &
animal wealth, water sharing, transportation, national security, utilization
of resources, infiltration, slow growth in the economic activities etc.,

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Sub-continent Kanyakumari Indian Standard Time
Peninsula Sir Creek Durand line
Indira Col Luhit Radcliff line
Indira Point Tropic of Cancer Mc Mahon line

1. State the geographical location of India.
2. Name the southernmost and northernmost points of main land of
India.
3. In which Island of India, is 'Indira Point' situated?
4. What is the total geographical area of India?
5. Mention the International boundary between India and China.

1. Write the latitudinal and longitudinal extent of India.
2. Name the water bodies that surround India.
3. Which latitude and longitude passes in the centre of the Country?
4. According to 2011 census what is the total population of India
and what is its percentage to total World’s population?
5. Name the international boundaries between India & Pakistan and
India & Afghanistan.

1. Explain the location, size and frontiers of India.

• Draw the outline map of Asia and locate India.
• Draw the outline map of India and show the latitudes, longitudes and
international boundaries.

CHAPTER 9
PHYSIOGRAPHY
Physiography is the systematic description of nature in general. India
is a land of varied physiographic diversity. The physical features which
are formed naturally in a country, have evolved over a very long time by
crustal movements, denudation and climatic conditions. The Sub-continent
of India has various physical features which have its direct influence on
the drainage, climate, forest, soil, land use and other human activities.
9.1 PHYSICAL DIVISIONS

India is characterised by great diversity in its physical features. It
includes mountains, plateaus, plains, coastal plains, desert etc. On the
basis of physiography, the country is divided into four major physical
divisions. They are: 1) The Northern Mountains 2) The Northern Plains
3) The Peninsular Plateau 4) The Coastal Plains (Islands).
Fig. 9.1 Physical map of India

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1.The Northern Mountains (The Himalayas):

The Northern Mountains are the loftiest,
snow covered chain of young fold mountains in
the world. They are formed by the tectonic forces in the recent past with
the folded layers. Hence, they are called ‘Young fold mountains’. These
mountains stretch in a continuous chain from Pamir Knot in the north
west, (North West of Jammu & Kashmir) to Arunachal Pradesh in the east
along the northern boundary of India and then run in south west direction
towards Myanmar. It is in the convex shape towards India. The length of
this mountain is around 2400 km and width is 240 to 320 km. The average
height of this mountain is 6000 m and it covers an area of 5 lakh sq km.
The Northern mountains are divided into three major systems. a) The
Trans-Himalayas b) The Himalayas c) The Purvachal or Eastern off-shoots.
a) The Trans-Himalayas: This is a continuous range of mountains
found in Jammu & Kashmir commencing from Pamir knot to Indus
valley. The Trans-Himalayas comprises of three important ranges
running parallel to each other. i) Karakoram range ii) Ladakh range
and iii) Zaskar range. Karakoram (‘backbone of high Asia’) is a
range of high mountain peaks and glaciers. K2 or Mt Godwin Austin
(8611m), India’s highest peak (POK) and the World’s second highest
peak is found in this range. Other important peaks are Hidden
peak, Broad peak, Gasherbrum peak etc., The important glaciers
of this region are Siachen, Biafo, Batura, Hispar and Baltaro etc.,
Siachen is the longest and largest glacier of India. It is the highest
battle ground in the world.
Fig. 9.2 Map of the Himalayas

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b) The Himalayas: This is the loftiest and snow covered (Himalaya –

‘abode of snow’) mountains in the world. The area occupied by the
Himalayas was earlier a part of ‘Tethys Sea’. The formation of this
mountain is by tectonic forces (folding and faulting) of Gondawana
and Angara land masses. It is situated to the north of the Indus,
Ganga and the Brahmaputra plains. The slope of the Himalayas
are gentle towards the north (China) and steep towards south (Indo-
Gangetic plain). The Himalayas have distinct characteristics of
high relief, snow covered peaks, complex geographical structures,
parallel separated by deep valleys and rich temperate vegetation
etc.,
The Himalayas are classified into three parallel ranges based on altitude
and latitude. i) The Great Himalayas or Himadri ii) The Lesser Himalayas
or Himachal iii) The Outer Himalayas or Siwaliks.
i) The Great Himalayas: These are the inner most loftiest and continuous
ranges of mountains (Himadri-abode of gods). The average height of
the Great Himalayas is 6100 m and the width varies between 120 and
190 km. The important peaks of great Himalayas in India are,
Kanchenjunga - 8598 m (third highest peak in the world) in Sikkim
(highest peak of India, under its control), NangaParbat - 8126 m,
Nandadevi, Badrinath,Kamet, Trishul etc.
Mt. Everest is the highest peak on Peaks of

the Earth (named after Sir George Great Himalayas
Everest).
It is called Sagarmatha in Nepal and Mt. Everest - 8850 m.
Chomolungma or Qomolangma in Kanchenjunga - 8598 m.
China
Makalu - 8481 m.
First successful ascent - 29.5.1953
by Tenzing and Hillary Dhaulagiri - 8172 m.
First Indian woman to climb – Manaslu - 8156 m.

Bachendri Pal, 23.5.1984 Cho Oyu - 8153 m.
Youngest Indian to climb – Arjun Nanga Parbat - 8126 m.
Vajpai, 22.5.2010
Annapurna - 8078 m.
Youngest person to climb – Jordan
Romero (13 yr), 22.5.2010 Nandadevi - 7817 m.

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Fig. 9.3 Mt. Everest K 2 or Mt. Godwin Austin Mt. Kanchenajunga
ii) The Lesser Himalayas: These ranges are also known as Inner
Himalayas or Himachal ranges. It is situated between Greater
Himalayas in the north and Outer Himalayas or Siwaliks in the south.
Its average height is around 1500-4500 m and the width is about 60
to 80 km. These are very rugged and complex ranges due to erosion
by rivers.The important ranges in Lesser Himalayas are Pirpanjal,
DhaulDhar (Mussorie range) and Nag-Tiba etc.,The important Hill
stations are Shimla, Mussorie, Ranikhet, Nainital, Almora, Chakrata,
Darjeeling etc. This range is famous for valleys. Some of them are
Kulu valley, Kangra valley, Spiti valley etc.,
iii) The Outer Himalayas or Siwaliks: These are the outer most ranges
situated to the south of Lesser Himalayas, known as Siwaliks. The
Siwaliks extend from Jammu & Kashmir in the north west to Arunachal
Pradesh in east. The average height of this range is around 600-1500
m and its width varies between 15-50 km. The Siwaliks are formed
from the sediments brought down by the rivers of Lesser and Greater
Himalayas.
There are flat floored structure valleys between Siwaliks and Lesser
Himalayas called Doons/Duns. Some of the important doons are Udampur,
Kotli, Dehradun (largest doon), Kota, Patli,Choaukamba etc. The Outer
Himalayas are fertile, intensively cultivated and thickly populated regions.
c. Purvachal or Eastern off shoots: Other than the above ranges
there are some hills and hill ranges in the north eastern region,
popularly called Purvachal or Eastern Hills. These are the extension
of Himalayas in north east towards Myanmar. Their height is lesser
than other mountain ranges but are covered with dense forest. The
important ranges and hills are Dafla, Miri and Mishmi hills, Patkai
Bum (Arunachal Pradesh), Naga hills (Nagaland), Mizo hills (Mizoram),
Mikir hills (Assam),Garo, Khasi and Jaintia hills (Meghalaya) –
Mawsynram of Meghalaya receives highest rainfall in the country.
These are inhabited by various tribes and nomadic groups.
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Regional or Longitudinal divisions of the Himalayas

The Himalayas are also classified into Regional and Longitudinal
divisions. They are: 1) The Kashmir Himalayas 2) The Himachal Himalayas
3) The Kumaun Himalayas 4) The Central or Sikkim Himalayas
5) The Eastern Himalayas
1. The Kashmir Himalayas: They are spread over in Jammu and Kashmir
for about 700 sq km. The important parallel ranges in the Kashmir
Himalayas are Karakoram, Ladakh, Zaskar and Pirpanjal. They are
characterised by high snow covered peaks, largest number of glaciers,
deep valleys and high mountain passes. The north-eastern part of the
Kashmir Himalayas (Ladak region) is a cold region and it lies between
the Greater Himalayas and the Karakoram ranges. A special feature
of the Kashmir valley is the Karewas. The important mountain passes
are Banihal (Jawahar Tunnel), Zoji-la, Chang-la, Khardung-la etc.
Karewas: It is a special feature of the 'Vale of Kashmir' consisting of

silt, compact sand and clay. These are the thick deposits of glacial clay
and other materials embedded with moraines. This area is famous for
cultivation of Almond, Saffron (Zafran), Apple, Pear etc.
Banihal pass: It is a pass across the Pir Panjal range. This range
separates the Kashmir valley from the outer Himalayas and plains to
the south. National Highway 1A (Jammu to Srinagar), is built on this
pass. Jawahar road tunnel - 2.5 km is the longest road tunnel built in
this mountain pass. Indian Railways has constructed 11.21 km railway
tunnel in this mountain pass to reduce the distance. This is the longest
railway tunnel in the country, built between Qazigund and Banihal.
2. The Himachal Himalayas: It is found in Himachal Pradesh and parts

of Punjab, comprising of all the three ranges (Great, Lesser and
Siwaliks) of Himalayas. The beautiful valleys of Kullu, Kangra, Lahul
and Spiti known for orchards and scenic beauty are found here. Shipki-
la, Rohtang, Bara-lacha la are the famous mountain passes and Kullu-
Manali, Shimla, Dalhousie, Chamba etc., are the popular hill stations
of this region.
3. The Kumaon Himalayas: It extends from river Sutlej in the west to
Kali in the east, and lies in the states of Himachal Pradesh (parts) and
Uttarakhand. Peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, Trisul, Badrinath,

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Kedarnath, Gangotri are found in this region. Gangotri, Yamunotri,

Pindar, Alakapur are the famous glaciers. The important mountain
passes are Mana, Niti, Balcha Dhura etc. Mussorie, Nainital, Raniket,
Almora are the famous hill stations.
‘Valley of Flowers’ (Uttarakhand):

Longest valley of flowers in the world
having Alpine flowers and a variety
of flora. It has many colourful
flowers, taking on various shades of
colours as time progresses. It is the
home of Brahmakamal, Blue poppy,
Cobra lily flowers. It is under Nanda
Devi Biosphere Reserve.
Fig. 9.4 Valley of Flowers
4. The Central or Sikkim Himalayas: This range stretches from river
Kali to river Tista. The major part of it lies in Sikkim and a small part
in West Bengal. The highest peaks of the world are found in this part.
This region has two famous passes Nathu-la (Silk route) and Jelep-la
(Largest pass in India). In Sikkim, the slopes of Himalayas have been
developed for tea cultivation.
5. The Assam or Eastern Himalayas: This range extends from river
Tista to Brahmaputra valley covering the states of Assam and
Arunachal Pradesh. Important mountain passes in this region are
Debang, Tse-la, Bomdi-la etc., Due to heavy rainfall, fluvial erosion is
quite prominent. This region (Tea gardens in Assam) is very important
for tea cultivation.
The important lakes in the Himalayas are: a)Wular lake (Largest fresh
water lake of India) – Jammu & Kashmir b) Dal lake (biggest tourist lake
of India, water freezes during winter) - Jammu & Kashmir c) Loktak lake
(Floating National Park - Keibul Lamjo) - Manipur etc.
The important Pilgrimage centres in the Himalayas are: Vaishno Devi
and Amarnath cave (Jammu and Kashmir), Yamunotri, Gangotri,
Kedarnath, Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib (Uttarakhand) etc.
Significance of the Himalayas
The Himalayas play a very important role in the life of the people and
economy of the country. It is said that, the ‘Himalayas are the body and
soul of India’.

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1. They act as a natural frontier (boundary) in the north and check foreign
invasions.
2. They influence on climate - prevent cold winds blowing from Central
Asia to India during winter season.
3. They cause heavy rainfall in the north eastern region by obstructing
the rain bearing south-west monsoons.
4. They are the source of many perennial rivers - Ganga, Indus,
Brahmaputra and their tributaries.
5. They are very rich in forest resources and the habitat for various
animals.
6. They are the store house of minerals - copper, lead, zinc, nickel,
uranium etc.
7. The climate of the Himalayas is suitable for cultivation of various crops
– Tea, Apple, Cherry, Pear, Almond, Saffron, Walnut etc.,
8. Hill stations and Pilgrimage centres in the Himalayas attracts National
and International tourists.
9. Recreation and sport activities like rafting, gliding, mountaineering,
trekking etc. are quite popular in the Himalayas.
10. The Himalayas are suitable site for the generation of hydro electricity.
eg. Bhakra Nangal, Tehri, Silal etc.
2. The Northern Plains

The Northern plains or the Great plains of
India is a transition zone between the Northern
Mountains in the north and the Peninsular
plateau in the south. These plains are formed by the alluvial deposits
brought by the rivers like the Indus, the Ganga and the Brahmaputra.
Therefore, it is also called the Indo- Gangetic and Brahmaputra plains.
The Northern Great Plains stretch for about 2,400 km from west to east,
width varying from 240- 320 km and cover an area of about 7 lakh sq.km.
The average depth of alluvium is 1300-1,400 m. The Northern Plains is
spread over in the states of Punjab, Haryana, parts of Rajastan,
Uttarkhand, Uttarpradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Assam.

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Fig. 9.5 Northern plains
The Great plains may be divided into a number of smaller regions on

the basis of the characteristics of the alluvium, slope of the land, drainage
channels etc.
a) Bhabar plains: This region is found all along the foot of the Siwaliks
from the river Indus to the Tista. It consists of gravel and
unassorted sediments deposited by the Himalayan rivers due to
sudden break in the slope. This area is not suitable for agriculture
but big trees with large roots thrive.
b) Terai plains: It is found to the south of Bhabar with wide marshy
tract, where streams reappear to the surface. It is a marshy land
wide spread in the regions of excess dampness, thick forests, rich
wild life etc.
c) Bhangar plains: It is a type of alluvial soil formed by the deposition
of the older alluvium and lie above the flood-limit of the plains.
The main constituent of Bhangar is clay which at places gives way
to loam and sandy loam.

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d) Khadar plains: The younger alluvium of the flood plains of the

numerous rivers is called the Khadar. It is enriched by fresh
deposits of silt every year during the floods. It consists of deposits
of sand, silt, mud and clay.
On the basis of regional characteristics the Northern Plains is divided
into three regions: 1. The Western Plains 2. The Central Plains
3. The Eastern Plains
1. The Western Plains: This plain is spread over in Rajasthan, Punjab
and Haryana. Most of the Rajasthan plains are covered by vast stretches
of sand, formed by sand dunes.
The Punjab-Haryana plains are formed by the aggradational activity
of the Sutlej, Beas and the Ravi rivers. The Bari Doab (between Beas and
Ravi), the Bist Doab (between Beas and Sutlej) are the most important
agricultural regions.
2. The Central Plains or Ganga Plains: The Ganga plains extend from
the Yamuna river in the west to the western borders of Bangladesh. It
is formed by the Ganga and its tributaries. It spreads in the states of
Uttarkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and
West Bengal. It slopes towards the south east. The Ganga Plain is a
low lying plain, which causes floods during the rainy season. The lower
Ganga plains has a vast network of distributaires. In the lower part,
the Ganga and Brahmaputra collectively form Sunderban delta. It is
considered as the ‘Largest Delta in the World’.
3. The Eastern Plains or Brahmaputra plains: The Eastern plains is
also known as Assam Valley. It is formed by the Brahmaputra and its
tributaries. It is a low level plain, surrounded by high mountains on
all sides except on the west. The Brahmaputra brings red soil from
the mountain and deposit in its plains. Therefore, this plain is called
‘Red plain’. Due to low gradient the Brahmaputra is a highly braided
river and has numerous river islands. Majuli is the largest river island
of India and Second largest in the world.
Significance of the Northern Plains:

1. The Northern plains have fertile soil, uniform surface and perennial
rivers -suitable for agriculture.

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2. The Plains have encouraged the development of transport and

communication.
3. They are helpful for agro-based industries and urbanization.
4. They have great social, religious and political significance.
5. The rivers in the plain help in the development of inland water
transportation.
6. It has rich underground water, useful for irrigation and other activities.
7. It has cultural and traditional importance - house hold goods, art,
articrafts, music etc.
8. The Northern plains have high concentration of population - 45% of
India’s population.
3. The Peninsular Plateau
This is the oldest and the largest physiographic
division of India. It lies to the south of the Northern
Great Plains and covers an area of about 16 lakh sq
km. The elevation of this upland varies from 600 to
900 m. This is in inverted triangle shape, with wide
base lying in the north and the apex formed in the
south, with tilt towards south east. It is bounded by
the Aravallis in the north west, Bundelkhand plateau
in the north, Rajmahal hills in the north east, the Western Ghats in the
west and the Eastern Ghats in the east. The highest peak of Peninsular
Plateau is Anaimudi (2695 m) situated in Annamalai hills of Kerala. The
fault in which the Narmada river flows divides the region into two unequal
parts.
On the basis of relief features the Peninsular plateau can be divided
into two main divisions.
a) The Central Highlands.
b) The Deccan Plateau.
a) The Central Highlands: This is a smaller region of peninsular plateau
situated to the north of the Narmada river. It is slightly tilted towards
north. It include the Aravallis, the Malwa plateau, the Vindhya range,
the Bundelkhand , the Baghelkhand and Chotanagpur Plateau and
Rajmahal Hills etc.
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Fig. 9.6 Peninsular Plateau

The Aravallis
It is a range that runs from north east to south west for about 800km
between Delhi to Palanpur (Gujarat). It is one of the oldest folded mountains
of the world. Its highest peak is Guru Shikar (1722m). It separates
Rajasthan into two parts as i) Western Rajasthan-Desert region ii) Eastern
Rajasthan-upland and agricultural region. The Aravallis are composed of
quartzites, gneisses and schists. Rivers like the Luni, Sabarmathi and the
Mahi flow from Aravalli Ranges. Mt Abu, a well known place is situated in
this range.
Do you know ?
• Rashtrapathi Bhavan is built on the Raisena hills,
which is a part of the Aravalli.
• The Goranghat: connects Guru Shikar and Mt. Abu.
• The Haldighat: connects Rajsamand and Pali districts.
The Malwa plateau

It is bordered by the Aravallis in the north and the Vindhyan range in
the south. This plateau has two drainage systems i) Narmada and Mahi
towards the Arabian sea ii) Chambal, Sind, Betwa and Ken towards the
Bay of Bengal.
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The Vindhya Range

It extends in east west direction for about 1050 km. The Kaimur hills
lies in the east of Vindhya range and the Maikala range forms a link
between the Vindhya and Satpura ranges.
The Chotanagpur Plateau
It is spread over in the states of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal
and Odisha. It covers Ranchi, Hazaribagh, Singhbhum, Dhanbad, Palmavu,
Santhal Paragana and Purulia regions. This region is composed of granite,
gneiss and dharwar rocks, which are rich in mineral wealth. Chotanagpur
plateau is prosperous in minerals as well as industries. Therefore, it is
called ‘Mineral bowl of India’ and ‘Ruhr of India’. The Subernarekha and
the Damodar rivers drain the Chotanagpur plateau.
b) The Deccan Plateau: This is a triangular plateau situated to the south
of the river Tapi or Tapati. The Deccan trap is the crystalline core of
the peninsular plateau and it is made up of very old and hard rocks.
The lava effusions forming this plateau are believed to have occurred
through a fissure volcano and this region is considered a lava shield.
It occupies the areas of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh
and parts of Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Tamil Nadu.The Deccan Plateau
is bordered by the Western Ghats in the west, Eastern Ghats in the
east and the Satpura, Maikal and Mahadeo hills in the north. The
Deccan plateau is divided into Maharashtra plateau (Maharashtra),
Telangana plateau (Andhra Pradesh) and Karnataka plateau
(Karnataka).
The Western Ghats
The Western ghats are also known as Sahyadris. They are almost
continous mountain system running parallel to west coast for about 1600
km, from north-west to south direction (Tapti Valley to Kanyakumari).
The western slope of Sahyadri is steep, while the eastern slope is gentle.
The western ghats meet the eastern ghats in Nilgiri hills (Blue Mountains).
Further, it continuous to south as Palani, Annamalai and Cardamom hills
(potential region for wind energy).
The Western ghats form a watershed of the peninsular rivers. Important
rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri, Sharavati, Periyar etc, rise in
this belt. The southern parts of western ghats have more rugged
topography, giving rise to the formation of waterfalls, which are beneficial
for generating hydro-electricity. They are covered with dense evergreen
and monsoon forests and rich bio-diversity zones.
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The average height of Western Ghats varies between 1000-1300 m.

The important peaks of this region are Anaimudi (2695 m), Mullainagiri
(1923 m), Kudremukh (1882 m), Pushpagiri (1714 m), Kalsubai (1646 m),
Salher (1567 m), Mahabaleshwar (1438 m) etc. The important ghats are
Thalghat, Bhorghat, Palghat, Agumbeghat, Shiradighat, Charmadighat,
Kollurghat etc.
The western ghats are also rich in minerals. Basalt, granite, gneiss
and schist are widespread rocks, which have sufficient quantities of Iron
ore, Manganese ore, Bauxite etc.
• Agumbe: Receives highest rainfall (above 400 cm/year) in South

India. It has the highest King Cobra population in the country.
Best place to watch Sun set.
• Agumbe ghat: Connects Udupi and Shimoga.
• Famous Waterfalls: Jog, Iruppu, Abbe, Lalguli, Doodsagar etc.
• Thalghat- connect Mumbai and Nasik

• Bhorghat- connect Mumbai and Pune
• Palghat- connect Trivandrum and Chennai
The Eastern Ghats

They form eastern boundary of the Deccan Plateau. They are not
continuous chain of mountains like western ghats. They are separated by
the river valleys. The eastern ghats stretch to 800 km from Mahanadi
valley in the north to Nilgiri hills in the south. Its average height is around
600 m.
The important peaks of the eastern ghats are Aramakonda (1680 m)
Singaraju (1516m), Nimalgiri (1515 m), Mahendragiri (1501m) etc. The
Aramakonda (Andhra Pradesh) is considered as the highest peak of the
Eastern Ghats.
Nallamalla, Kondavidu, Velikonda, Palkonda, Tirumala (Andhra
Pradesh) Kallamalai, Pachmalai, Gondamalai, Shevaroy, Javadi (Tamil
Nadu), Biligiri Rangana Betta and Malai Mahadeshwara Betta (Karnataka)
are the important hills of Eastern ghats.
The Eastern ghats are rich in Iron ore, Manganese ore, Limestone,
Coal, Mica etc., minerals.

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Significance of the Peninsular plateau:

1) This region is rich minerals. eg. Iron ore, Manganese, Bauxite, Coal,
Mica, Uranium, Gold, Diamond etc.
2) The peninsular region is the source of many rivers. eg. Narmada,
Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri etc.,
3) The Western Ghats are rich in bio-diversity and are of great ecological
significance.
4) This region is covered with black, red and laterite soils, which are
favourable for the cultivation of cotton, coffee, millets, maize, tobacco,
tea, pulses, cashew, groundnuts etc.
5) The high lands of the plateaus are covered with thick forest. They
provide timber, fuel wood, medicinal plants and other forest products.
6) The western ghats check south west monsoons and cause heavy rainfall
in the west coast and windward side of the western ghats.
7) The rivers flowing in peninsular India create waterfalls and rapids
and are useful for the generation of hydro electricity.
8) There are numerous hill stations and tourist centres: Ooty, Kodaikanal,
Mahabaleshwar, Khandala, Pachmarhi, Mt. Abu, Kemmannugundi,
Bababudangiri, Biligiriranganabetta, Nandi hills, Chamundi hills etc.,
9) The hills of peninsular region are habitat of many tribes. eg.Uralis
(Nilgiris), Pullayans (Palni Hills) Bhils, Badagas, Karwas, Mundas,
Kurumbas, Yeruvas (Central Highland) etc.
4. The Coastal Plains
The peninsular plateau of India is flanked by
narrow coastal plains of varied width from north to
south, known as the West coastal plains and the East
coastal plains. They are formed by the depositional
action of the rivers and the erosional and depositional
actions of the sea waves.
The main land of India has a coastline of 6100 km
from Gujarat (Rann of Kutch) in the west to West Bengal in the east. This
coastline is washed by the water of Arabian sea in the west and the Bay of
Bengal in the east.

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The coastal plains of India is divided into two parts. They are:
a) The West coastal plains and b) The East coastal plains.
a) The West Coastal Plains: It lies between the Western ghats and the
Arabian Sea, from the Rann of Kutch to Kanyakumari. It is narrow,
steep and rocky (except in Gujarat) coast, having an average elevation
of 150 m above sea level. The west coastal plains is almost straight
and has many sandy beaches, sand dunes, lagoons, estuary, residual
hills etc.
The west coastal plains have Gujarat, Konkan, Karnataka and Malabar
Coasts. The Gujarat Coast comprises of Rann of Kutch and Cambay
Coasts. It is formed by the alluvial deposits of Sabarmati, Mahi, Luni
and other small streams. Gujarat has the longest coast line in India.
Kandla and Okha are famous sea ports and Alang is the biggest ship
breaking centre. This coast produces highest salt in the country. The
Konkan Coast lies to the south of Gujarat coast and extends from
Maharashtra to Karnataka for about 530 km. It is a broken coast line
which provides suitable site for natural seaports. eg: Mumbai,
Navasheva (Jawaharlal Nehru Port), Marmagoa, Karwar, New
Mangalore etc.,This coast records highest coastal erosion. It is very
rich in Petroleum and Natural gas (Bombay high). The Karnataka
Coast is a part of Konkan coast. It extends from Karwar in the north
to Mangalore in the south. It is the narrowest part of west coastal
plains. Karwar and New Mangalore are important ports in this belt.
Sea Bird, the Naval base near Karwar is the largest naval base in
India. The Malabar Coast extends from Mangalore to Kanyakumari.
Sand dunes, lagoons and backwaters are the important features of
Malabar Coast. Cochin or Kochi is the biggest seaport in this coast.
Backwaters of Kerala facilitate navigation and tourists enjoy travelling
through small country boats. The first south west monsoon rainfall is
received in this coast.
b) The East coastal plains : It lies between the Eastern ghats and the
Bay of Bengal stretching from the delta of Hoogly in the North to
Kanyakumari in the south. Compared to the west coastal plains the
east coastal plains are broader. These plains are formed by the alluvial
fillings. The coastal plain has a straight shoreline with well defined
beaches of sand and shingles. eg. Marina beach of Chennai. Many
rivers of south India cut across the east coastal plains and have formed
deltas eg. Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri deltas etc. Due to its
gentle slope, the sea water near the coastal plain is shallow.

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Hence, this coast does not have natural harbours except at

Vishakpatnam. Other ports like Chennai, Kolkata, Paradeep etc. are
artificial (man-made) ports. The southern part of east coast is known
as the Coromandel coast (Kanyakumari to delta of Krishna). While,
the northern part is known as North Circar coast (delta of Krishna to
river Hoogly). The Coromandel coast gets more rainfall from the north
east monsoons and it is highly affected by cyclones.
There are few lakes in the east coast. They are: a) Pulicat lake (border
of Andhra Pradesh & Tamilnadu) b) Kolleru lake (Andhra Pradesh)
c) Chilka Lake (Odisha)
Fig. 9.7 Coastal Plains and Ports
Sriharikota: An island situated on Important Beaches of

the Pulicat lake. It is a Satellite Karnataka:
launching centre of India. Gokarna
Chilka lake (Odisha): Biggest lake Om
in the country. Malpe
Tuticorin (Tamilnadu): Is the Kaup
biggest Coral and Pearl rearing Murudeshwar
centre in India. Maravanthe
Wheeler Island (Odisha): Is a Panambur
famous missile testing place of India. Ullal etc.

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Significance of the Coastal plains:

1) The coastal plains provide natural and man-made harbours.
2) The plains are very productive agriculturally .
3) The coastal areas are centres for fisheries and other aquaculture
activities.
4) The backwater and lagoons are useful for inland navigation.
5) The low laying areas of the coastal plains are favourable for the
production of salt, foam, coral and pearls.
6) The coastal plains are rich in minerals. eg. Thorium.
7) The beaches in the coast provide for recreation and tourism.
The Indian Islands:
India has a total of 247 islands. Of these 204
are in the Bay of Bengal and the remaining 43
are in the Arabian Sea.
The islands of the Bay of Bengal are called Andaman and Nicobar
Islands, which are largely tectonic and volcanic in origin. In Andaman
there are four group of islands – North Andaman, Middle Andaman (biggest
group), South Andaman and Little Andaman. Port Blair, the Capital of
Andaman and Nicobar islands is situated in South Andaman islands.
Barren and Narcondam are famous volcanic islands in this group.
In the Nicobar there are three group of islands - Car Nicobar, Little
Nicobar and Great Nicobar (biggest island).
The Andaman and Nicobar islands have warm tropical climate and
receive heavy rainfall during monsoon seasons (southwest and northeast).
They have thick forest and rich wildlife.
The islands of the Arabian Sea are called Lakshadweep Islands. These
islands are very close to Kerala. These are coral in origin and are
surrounded by fringing reefs. Kavaratti is the capital of Lakshadweep
islands. Minicoy and Amindivi are the important groups in Lakshadweep.
The Indian Desert
The Indian desert or Thar desert lies to the
west of the Aravallis. This desert is formed by the
work of wind and climatic extremities. The total

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area of the desert is around 1,75,000 sq.km. Rajasthan, parts of Gujarat,

Punjab and Haryana come under Thar desert.
The central regions of the desert is called ‘Marustali’, while the outer
region is called ‘Bhagar’. Rajasthan bhagar in Rajasthan and Bhivani
Bhagar in Haryana are the two outer limits of the Thar region.
The Atmospheric condition in the desert is extreme. During summer
temperature exceeds 50º Celsius and in winter it comes down to 10º Celsius
and below. Sri Ganganagar of Rajasthan has recorded more than 54º
Celsius of temperature. It is recognized as the hottest place in India. The
rainfall in the desert is very low. Roylee, a place in north Rajasthan,
recorded the lowest rainfall in the country (8 cm per annum).
Indian desert comprises mainly of sand dunes. There are a few salt
lakes in the desert eg. Sambhar, Tal, Katu. The desert has very thin
vegetation. A few species of vegetation found here are bushes, shrubs,
babul, acacia, munj, kans etc.
9.2 RIVER SYSTEM

A river is a natural water
course, usually freshwater, flowing
towards a lake, a sea, an ocean or
another river.
The origin and development of
the main river and their tributaries
is known as ‘River system’. The
area drained by the main river
including all its tributaries is
known as ‘river basin’.
Rivers are the water resources
of a country. They provide water
for drinking, domestic purposes,
agriculture, fisheries, irrigation,
navigation, generation of hydro-
electricity, industry, recreation,
etc. Rivers are the centres of
civilization, culture and tradition
of a country, and they influence on
life layer. Fig. 9.8 India - Rivers

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On the basis of origin and flow the river system of India can be broadly
divided into two groups. They are, 1) The Himalayan Rivers or North Indian
Rivers and 2) The Peninsular Rivers or South Indian Rivers.
1. The Himalayan Rivers: The Himalayan rivers are also known as North
Indian Rivers. These rivers take birth in the Himalayan mountains by
glaciers (snowfed) and flows throughout the year (perennial). There
are three main river systems in the Himalayan rivers. They are the
Indus, the Ganga and the Brahmaputra.
The Indus (Sindhu)
The Indus is one of the most important river systems of India. It rises
near Mt. Kailash(6714 m), has a length of 2880 km, of which 709 km lies
in India. It flows through narrow gorges between Ladakh and Zaskar ranges
in the north west direction in Jammu & Kashmir.
Fig. 9.9 The Indus system
It is one of the oldest river systems of the world. Major part of its
course and catchment area are in Pakistan. The main tributaries are
Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas and Sutluj. The Jhelum: It rises from a
spring at Verinag in the south eastern part of the valley of Kashmir. It
flows in north west direction where, it enters the Wular lake (Largest fresh
water lake of India). Dal lake is also formed by this river. Jhelum Treaty
has temporarily settled the water dispute between India and Pakistan.
The Chenab: The river Chenab rises in the greater Himalayas, it is called
Chandra Bhaga in Himachal Pradesh. The Baglihar, Selal and Dulhasti
are the famous hydroelectric projects on this river. The Baglihar has become
a disputed project (between India & Pakistan) in the south western part of
Jammu & Kashmir. The Ravi: It rises near Rohtang pass in Kullu, very
close to the source of the Beas river. It flows along the Indo-Pak boundary
along Gurudaspur and Amristar districts. The Beas: It rises at Beas Kund

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near Kullu. It flows in the Kullu and Kangra valley and finally joins the
Sutlej near Harike. The Sutluj: The Sutluj river rises from the Lake Rakas
in China. This is the only tributary of the Indus, which takes its birth
outside India. It enters India through Shipki-la Pass in Himachal Pradesh.
The Bhakra Nangal multi-purpose river valley project is constructed on
this river, near Bhakra gorge. It is the joint venture of Punjab, Haryana
and Rajasthan. The Bhakra dam is the second highest dam (741 ft.)
of India. The Govindasagar lake (reservoir) is considered as the largest
man-made lake of India.
The Ganga
The Ganga is the longest (2500km) and the largest river system of the
country. It is generally called, the ‘National river’ of India. The Ganga
has two head streams - the Bhagirathi and the Alakananda. The Bhagirathi
takes its birth in Gangotri and Alakananda rises near Badrinath in Garhwal
himalayas. These two meet at Devaprayag, and continue to flow as the
Ganga. After flowing across the Himalayas, the Ganga enters the great
plains at Haridwar. From Haridwar it flows towards south and south east
upto Mirzapur. Further, it continues to flow eastwards in the Gangetic
plains of Bihar and West Bengal and enters Bangladesh, where it joins
the Brahmaputra and become Padma, and finally flows into Bay of Bengal.
The Hooghly, an important distributary of Ganga flows through Kolkata.
Hooghly is a tidal river on which the Kolkata port is situated. The water
level of Hooghly river is maintained from the Farakka barrage.
Gangetic Dolphin is the National Aquatic Animal of India
Tehri dam on the river Bhagirathi is the highest dam (855 ft.) of India.
Fig. 9.10 The Ganga and The Brahmaputra rivers

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The Ganga receives water from many tributaries. Two important groups
are: 1) Left bank tributaries 2) Right bank tributaries
1) Left Bank tributaries:The main left bank tributaries of the Ganga are
Ramganga, Sarada, Gomati, Ghaghra, Gandak and Kosi. The Gomati
is an important tributary on which Lucknow city is situated. The
Ghaghra river is joined by the Sarada, later they meet Ganga near
Chapra. The Gandak flows from Nepal and joins the Ganga near Patna.
The Kosi is one of the largest tributaries in this group. It is often
referred to as the ‘Sorrow of Bihar’, because the river which has shifted
its course by more than 100 km, cause devastating floods regularly in
Bihar.
2) Right Bank tributaries: The main right bank tributaries of the Ganga
are Yamuna and Son. The Yamuna is the longest (1380km) and largest
tributary of the Ganga. It rises in Yamunotri glacier, flows as a right
bank tributary and joins Ganga at Allahabad. Prayag or Allahabad of
Uttar Pradesh is called ‘Triveni Sangama’, where the Ganga, Yamuna
and the Saraswathi meet. Delhi, Mathura and Agra cities are situated
on the banks of the river Yamuna. The river Yamuna has a few
tributaries – The Chambal, Sind, Betwa and Ken. The Chambal river
is famous for its extensive ravines (Chambal valley - Bad lands) in
Madhya Pradesh, Rajastan and Uttar Pradesh. The important dams
built across the river are Gandhi Sagar, Rana Pratap Sagar
(Rawatbhata) and Jawahar Sagar. The Son: The river son is also an
important right bank tributary of Ganga. It flows from Madhya Pradesh
and joins the Ganga. The Rihand dam is constructed across the river
Rihand, which is a tributary of Son. Govinda Vallab Panth Sagar is
the reservoir of Rihand dam.
The Damodar: This river drain the eastern parts of the Chotanagpur
plateau. It is called the ‘Sorrow of West Bengal’, for its devastating floods.
After the construction of Damodar valley multi-purpose project (now DVC),
it has become the backbone of Jharkhand and West Bengal. It meets
Hooghly river at Falta in West Bengal.
The Brahmaputra
It is one of the largest river systems in the world. It rises in Chemayung
dung glacier near Manasarovar (China). The Brahmaputra is called ‘Tsang
Po’ in China, ‘Brahmaputra’ in India and ‘Jamuna’ in Bangladesh. The
total length of the river is 2580 km but, in India it flows for about 750 km.
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It enters India from Namcha Barwa (Arunachal Pradesh) by piercing the

great Himalayan ranges. The catchment area of the Brahmaputra receives
heavy rainfall. Therefore, it has numerous tributaries. The main tributaries
are Subansiri, Dhansiri, Manas, Tista, Dihang, Lohit, Burhi Dihang etc.,
This river basin is notorious for flooding and river bank erosion. The river
has produced many river islands. Majuli is the largest in the Assam region.
Sundarban delta is formed by the river Ganga and Brahmaputra. It is
the largest delta in the world.
2. The Peninsular Rivers
The Peninsular rivers are also known as South Indian Rivers. The
Peninsular plateau of India has the largest network of river systems in the
country. Most of the south Indian rivers rise in the western ghats and
central high land regions. On the basis of the direction of flow the rivers
are grouped into two types. i) The East flowing rivers ii) The West flowing
rivers.
i) The East flowing rivers: These rivers rise in Peninsular region, flow
in eastern direction and finally join the Bay of Bengal. The important
east flowing rivers are the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna and the Kaveri.
The Mahanadi: It rises in Sihawa or Simhava region of Chhattisgarh
and is the most important river of Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The river
flows to a length of 885 km and joins the Bay of Bengal near Cuttack. The
main tributaries of Mahanadi are Seonath, Hasdeo, Mand and Jonk. The
Hirakud (longest dam in India), Naraj and Tikarpara dams are built across
this river.
The Godavari: It is the longest and largest river of Peninsular India. It
rises at Triambakeshwar in Nasik district of Maharashtra. It flows through
Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh to a length of 1465 km and joins the
Bay of Bengal near Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh). The main tributaries of
Godavari are the Purna, Penganga, Pranhita, Sabri, Indravathi and Manjra.
The delta of Godavari is characterised by a number of Channels and
Mangrove associated with lagoons. The Kolleru lake is one of the island
lagoons.
The Krishna: The Krishna is the second longest and largest east flowing
river of peninsular India. It rises near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra,
flows to a length of 1400 km before joining the Bay of Bengal near Divi
point (Andhra Pradesh). The Koyna, Yerla, Panchganga, Dudhganga,

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Bhima, Ghataprabha, Malaprabha, Tungabhadra and the Musi are the

main tributaries. Important dams built on the Krishna and its tributaries
are Nagarjunasagar, Alamatti (Lal Bahadur Shastri), Narayanpura,
Tungabhadra, Koyna etc.
Important reservoirs: 1. Narayanpura dam – Basavasagara 2. Alamatti
dam – Shastrisagara 3. Tungabhadra dam – Pampasagara
Fig. 9.11 Peninsular rivers
The Kaveri (Cauvery): The Kaveri is a sacred river like the Ganga.
Therefore, it is also known as ‘Ganga of South India’. It rises at Talakaveri
in the Brahmagiri hills of Kodagu district, flows to a distance of 805 km
and joins the Bay of Bengal near Kaveripattanam. Karnataka, Tamilnadu,
Kerala and Pondicherry are benefited by the waters of Kaveri. Its main
tributaries are Arkavathi, Hemavathi, Harangi, Lokapavani, Shimsa,
Lakshmanathirtha, Kabini, Suvarnavathi, Bhavani and Amaravathi. Along
its course, the river passes through Srirangapattana, Shivanasamudra
and Srirangam islands. It also flows through series of rapids, cascades
and waterfalls viz, Gaganachukki, Barachukki, Mekedatu, Hogenkal falls
etc., The first hydroelectric project of Asia was started on the river Kaveri,
in 1902 at Shivanasamudra (Shimsha). After Srirangam the river divides

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into two branches. The Northern branch - ‘Coleroon’ and the Southern
branch – ‘Kaveri’. The Gorur, Harangi, Kabini, Krishnarajasagara (KRS),
Mettur and Bhavani are the important dams on the river Kaveri.
The other east flowing rivers of Peninsular plateau are Subarnarekha,
Palar, Pennar, Vaigai, Tamraparni etc.
ii) West flowing rivers: These rivers rise in the peninsular region, flow
in western direction and join the Arabian sea. These are short and
swift rivers flowing through rugged topography of the Western ghats.
The main rivers are the Luni, Sabarmati, Mahi, Narmada, Tapi (Tapati),
Mandovi, Zuari, Kali, Sharavathi, Gangavati, Bedthi, Netravathi,
Periyar etc. The Luni: It rises near Ajmer in the Aravalli ranges and
flows through the Thar desert and then runs into the Rann of Kachch.
The Narmada: The Narmada river rises in the Amarkantak hills of
Chattisgarh and passes through impressive marble gorges of Madhya
Pradesh. Dhunwadhar and Kapiladhara are the important waterfalls
in the Narmada course. The ‘Sardar Sarovar’ multi-purpose river valley
project is constructed on this river. It is the longest and largest west
flowing river of peninsular India, having alluvial deposits in its valley.
The Narmada forms the biggest estuary at Bharuch in Gujarath.
The Tapi: It is the second largest west flowing river of the peninsular
region. It rises at Multai in Madhya Pradesh and flows through a rift
valley between Satpura and Ajanta ranges. It joins the Arabian sea
near Surat of Gujarath. The Kali: It rises near ‘Supa’ in North Canara
and flows westward through narrow gorges and joins the Arabian sea
near Karwar. Lalguli waterfalls is formed by the Kali river.
The Sharavati: It rises at Ambuthirtha in Shimoga district and flows
in Shimoga and North Canara districts. The river flows in a westerly
direction and joins the Arabian sea near Honnavara. The Sharavathi
is famous for the magnificient ‘Jog falls’ (275 m) and production of
hydro-electricity. The Mahatma Gandhi hydel power station and
Linganamakki dam are in this river. The Netravati is an important
river in South Canara district. It rises in Kudremukh ranges, flows
towards west and joins the Arabian Sea near Mangalore. The Periyar:
It is the largest river in Kerala. It rises in the Sivagiri forests, flows in
western direction and joins the Arabian Sea near Pallipuram. The
Periyar project is constructed on this river.

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Comparison between North and South Indian rivers

Sl. North Indian Rivers South Indian Rivers
No.
1. The North Indian rivers are The South Indian rivers are non-
perennial as they flow by perennial, as they flow with
melting of ice in the summer monsoon rain.
and rain water during rainy
season.
2. They have long and broad They have short, narrow and
valleys. deep valleys.
3. They flow slowly through They are swift rivers, flow
gentle slope valleys. through rugged topography
make rapids and waterfalls.
4. The rivers have been used The rivers have been harnessed
mainly for agriculture and mainly for generation of hydro
other allied activities. electricity.
5. They make vast plains and They make deep valleys and
deltas. estuaries.
6. They rise in the Himalayan They rise in the Peninsular
mountains. plateau.
7. They are suitable for They are generally not navigable.
navigation.
8. They make numerous sharp They make shallow meanders.
meanders and ox-bow lakes.
9. They transport huge quantities These have low carrying capacity
of sediments.
10. The rivers are much younger The rivers are much older.
compared to Peninsular rivers.
11. River capturing is a regular There is no river capturing.
phenomenon.
River Regimes
The pattern of the seasonal flow of water in a river is called its regime.
It is the variability in its discharge throughout the course of a year in
response to precipitation, temperature and drainage basin characteristics.

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The pattern of flow of water (regime) in the Himalayan river is different

from the peninsular river due to difference in climate. The Himalayan
rivers are perennial and their regimes are dependent on the pattern of
water supply by the melting of ice in the Himalayan mountain and rainfall
in the foot hills and plains of India. On the other hand, the regime of the
peninsular rivers are seasonal as they are dependent on monsoon rains.
Also the rivers in penisular India have inequal distribution of water through
monsoon rains.
The discharge is the volume of water flowing in a river measured over
time. It is measured either in cusecs (cubic feet per second) or cumecs
(cubic metres per second). TMC is the measure of volume of water, meaning
thousand million cubic feet of water. Usually refers to volume of water in
storage dams.
The Ganga has its minimum flow during the January-June period.
The maximum flow is attained either in July or August. After September
there is a steady fall in the flow. The river thus, has a monsoonal regime.
The Narmada has a very low volume of discharge from January to
July but it suddenly rises in August when the maximum flow is attained.
The fall in October is as spectacular as the rise in August.
The Godavari has the minimum discharge in May and the maximum
in July-August. After August, there is a sharp fall in water flow although
the volume of flow in October and November is higher than that in any of
the months from January to May.
The Kaveri has maximum flow during July and August but, it has
minimum flow from January to May.
The data on water discharge in different rivers in different parts of the
year has important implications on their utilization by states. It is on this
count that inter-state disputes arise.
Fig. 9.12 River regime graphs

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The River water disputes

Water is a primary natural resource, a basic human need and a
precious national asset. Water is essential to our daily lives and is a
principal compound in nature. The significance of water is increasing with
the tremendous increase in population.
Water, being the most precious resource is required for domestic,
irrigation and industrial purposes. Most of the Indian rivers flow across
more than one state. Each of the state of the river tries to obtain the
maximum quantity of water. This has resulted in many water disputes in
the country.
In the recent years the rivers flowing across more than two countries
are also creating trouble between the neighbouring countries. At present
river water dispute has become a global phenomenon.
India is a country with inadequate water resources. Many rivers are
non-perennial and seasonal. The states are utilizing the river water for
maximum purposes.
In the Indian constitution (1950) water is a state subject. Under the
water dispute act 1956, a tribunal of three sitting judges of the Supreme
Court has to be constituted by the central government for the settlement
of an inter-state water dispute when a request is received from a state
government.
Some of the important inter-state water disputes in India are
1) TheKaveri water dispute between Karnataka, Tamilnadu, Pondicherry
and Kerala. 2) The Tungabadra water dispute between Karnataka and
Andhra Pradesh. 3) The Krishna water dispute between Karnataka,
Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh 4) The Mandovi water dispute between
Karnataka and Goa, 5) The Narmada water dispute between Gujarat,
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. 6) The Yamuna dispute
between Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh 7) The
Godavari water dispute between Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka
and Andhra Pradesh, 8) The Ravi and Beas water dispute between Punjab,
Haryana, Rajasthan and Jammu and Kashmir, 9) The Mulla Periyar water
dispute between Kerala and Tamilnadu etc.
In the same way a few international water disputes are also found in
the international borders of India eg., a) The Jhelum and the Chenab
water dispute between India and Pakistan, b) The Brahmaputra water

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dispute between India and China, c) The Tista water dispute between
India and Bangladesh, d) The Barak water dispute between India and
Bangladesh, e) The Indus water dispute between India and Pakistan etc.,
In the developing countries like India the inter-state water dispute
must be resolved quickly so that water resources could be utilized and
harnessed properly for basic need and economic development. One of the
measures could be to declare all the major rivers as national property and
national schemes under Central assistance should be launched for the
development of total command area of the concerned states. Establishment
of separate corporations, river diversion and linking projects may be useful
in this direction.
Inter-linking of Rivers
The distribution of rainfall in India is highly uneven and seasonal.
The Himalayan Rivers are perennial while the peninsular rivers are
seasonal. During rainy season, much of the water is lost in floods and
wasteful flow into the sea. But in other seasons there is scarcity of water.
Even in India some parts get more rainfall and some other parts get very
low rainfall. Consequently there are floods in one region and drought and
famine in other regions in the country. The problems of floods and drought
can be minimized through the inter-river linkages or through national
water grid, under which water from one river basin can be transferred to
another river basin for optimum utilization.
The Indian Rivers Inter-link is a large-scale civil engineering project
that aims to join the majority of India’s rivers by canals and so reduce
persistent water shortages in parts of India. In 1972 the Ministry for
Irrigation proposed a 2640 kilometer long link between the Ganga and
Kaveri rivers. In 1974 plans were proposed for the ‘Garland Canal’. In
1982 the National Water Development Agency was set up to carry out
surveys of the links and prepare feasibility studies.
The Inter-link would consist of two parts, a northern Himalayan River
Development component and a southern Peninsular River Development
component.
The northern component would consist of a series of dams built along
the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers in India, for the purposes of storage.
Canals would be built to transfer surplus water from the eastern tributaries
of the Ganga to the west. The Brahmaputra and its tributaries would be
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linked with the Ganga and the Ganga with the Mahanadi river. This part
of the project would provide additional irrigation and generate electricity.
In theory it would provide extra flood control in the Ganga and Brahmaputra
river basins.
Fig. 9.13 Inter-link of River projects
The main part of the project would be to send water from the eastern
part of India to the south and west. The southern development project
would consist of four main parts. First, the Mahanadi, Godavari. Krishna
and Kaveri rivers would all be linked by canals. Extra water storage dams
would be built along the course of these rivers. The purpose of this would
be to transfer surplus water from the Mahanadi and Godavari rivers to
the south of India. The Ken and Chambal rivers would be linked in order
to provide better water facilities for Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. A
number of west-flowing rivers along the Western Ghats simply discharge
into the Arabian Sea. As many of these as possible would be diverted for
irrigation and generation of hydroelectricity purposes.

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The important inter-linking river projects proposed are:

1) The Ganga-Kaveri link canal connecting the basins of the Son,
Narmada, Tapti, Godavari, Krishna and Pennar.
2) The Brahmaputra – Ganga link canal passing through Bangladesh.
3) The Narmada canal passing through Gujarat and Rajasthan.
4) The link canals between the rivers of the Western ghats towards the
east.
5) The canal from the Chambal to central Rajasthan.
Fig. 9.14 Proposed inter-linking of Rivers

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Young fold mountains Terai plains Pulicat lake
Trans-Himalayas Bhangar plains Kolleru lake
Purvachal Khadar plains Chilka lake
Abode of Snow Doab Barren Islands
Tethys Sea Sunderban delta Narcondum Islands
Siwaliks Red plain Marustali
Doons Majuli Bhagar
Karewas Anaimudi Drainage system
Banihal pass Deccan trap National river
Shipki-la Kutch coast Devprayag
Nathu-la Konkan coast Sorrow of Bihar
Jelep-la Karnataka coast Triveni Sangama
Wular lake Malabar coast River regimes
Dal lake Coramandal coast Inter-linking rivers
Loktak lake North Circar coast Garland canal
Bhabar plains

1. What is the other name to the Himalayas?
2. Which mountain range is called 'backbone of Asia'?
3. Name the longest and the largest glacier of India.
4. What is the other name to Outer Himalayas?
5. Name the largest doon of India.
6. In which regional Himalayas Jelep la pass is found?
7. What is Terai plain?
8. Mention the highest peak of Peninsular plateau.
9. Which region of India is called 'Ruhr of India'?
10. Where do Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats meet?
11. Name the longest coastal plains of India.
12. Why are the Himalayan rivers perennial?
13. From which mountain pass does the river Sutlej enter India?
14. Which is the longest and the largest tributary of Ganga?
15. Name the largest and the longest river of South India.
1. Mention any two ranges of Trans Himalayas.
2. Name any two hill stations of the Himalayas
3. Distinguish between Bhangar and Khadar plains.
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4. Name any two ghats of the Western Ghats.

5. Which coastal plains are found in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu?
6. State the difference between Lakshadweep and Andaman and
Nicobar islands.
7. Name any four tributaries of river Indus.
8. Mention any four west flowing rivers of Peninsular India.
9. What are the salient features of River regime?
10. What is the necessity of Inter-linking of Rivers?
1. Name the important physical divisions of India. Explain the
Himalayas.
2. Briefly explain the Regional Himalayas.
3. Describe the significance of Northern Plains.
4. Peninsular Plateau is the largest physical division of India. Explain
its features.
5. Briefly explain the Coastal plains of India.
6. Describe the important features of Islands and Indian desert.
7. Explain the river system of India with suitable maps.
8. Compare the North Indian rivers with South Indian rivers.
9. Why does River water dispute arise? Mention the important
disputes and proposed measures.
10. Briefly explain the importance of inter-linking of Rivers in India.

• Prepare model to show the physical divisions of India.
• List out the important peaks, passes, glaciers and tourist places of the
Himalayas.
• Prepare a model of Peninsular plateau of India and show the important
plateaus, hills etc.
• List out the important coastal plains, ports, harbours and ship building
centres.
• Prepare a list of North Indian and South Indian rivers with their
tributaries.
• List out the West flowing and East flowing rivers of Peninsular India.
• Prepare table to show the rivers and major projects.
• List out the important inter-linking river projects of India.

CHAPTER 10
CLIMATE, SOIL AND FOREST
India is a peninsula covered by water on three sides and land on the
other. The Tropic of Cancer passes through the center of the country. The
Tropical location, water bodies and topography influence the climate, soil
and forest resources of India.
10.1 CLIMATE
India’s climate is said to be “Tropical Monsoon”, due to its tropical
location and reversal of winds seasonally. The word Monsoon is derived
from an Arabic term ‘Mausim’ means ‘reversal of winds’ or ‘Seasons’.
Monsoons are the periodic winds in which there is a reversal of wind
direction periodically. On account of the variability in climatic conditions,
seasonally and regionally, India is called ‘Meteorological Unit’. The seasonal
variation in the climatic condition is due to various factors like temperature,
pressure, wind, rainfall etc.
There is a wide variation in the distribution of temperature and rainfall
over the entire sub-continent of India. In summer the western Rajasthan
records more than 55°c of temperature while, during winter Ladakh in
Jammu and Kashmir record -250C of temperature.
The distribution of rainfall vary from region to region. Mawsynram of
Meghalaya receives the highest rainfall - 1141cm per year while, Roylee of
Rajasthan receives less than 8 cm of rainfall per year.
Factors determining the climate of India
India’s climate is controlled by a number of factors. The main factors
are latitude, mountain ranges, distribution of land and water bodies, relief
and monsoon winds.
i) Latitude: The northern part of India lies in sub-tropical and temperate
zone and the part lying to the south of the tropic of cancer comes
under tropical zone. The tropical zone being nearer to the Equator,
experiences high temperature throughout the year, with small daily
and annual range (Trivandrum and Chennai). Area north of the Tropic
of Cancer being away from the Equator, experiences high daily and
annual range of temperature (Amritsar and New Delhi).
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ii) Mountain ranges: The lofty Himalayas in the north along with its
extension, act as an effective climatic divide. The towering mountain
chain provides an invincible shield to protect the sub-continent from
the cold northern winds.
iii) Distribution of Land and Water: India is flanked by water bodies on
three sides and land on the other. The differential heating of land and
sea creates different air pressure zone in different seasons in and
around the country. This difference in air pressure causes movement
and reversal in the direction of winds.
iv) Relief: The relief features of India also affects the temperature, air
pressure, direction and speed of wind, the amount and distribution of
rainfall. The windward side of Western Ghats and North east receive
high rainfall from June to September, whereas the eastern side (rain
shadow region) of Western Ghats remain dry eg. Mumbai to Trivandrum
- windward region, Jalgoan to Coimbatore - leeward region.
v) Monsoon Winds: The climatic conditions of the country are greatly
influenced by monsoon winds. The winds blow in a particular direction
during one season, but get reversed during the other season. South
West monsoon winds blow from south west to north east, while north
east monsoon winds blow from northeast to south west.
SEASONS OF INDIA
On the basis of temperature, wind and rainfall the climate of India is
classified into four seasons. These are: 1) The Winter or Cold weather
season 2) The Summer or hot weather season 3) The South West monsoon
season and 4) The Retreating monsoon season.
The Winter Season (Mid December to End of February): The winter
season is also called cold weather season. In this season direct rays of the
Sun fall on Tropic of Capricorn. Therefore, India receives oblique Sun
rays. The temperature in the country is not uniform from north to south.
Regions lying to the north of Tropic of Cancer record low temperature
compared to regions in the south. There is a general decrease in
temperature from south to north. December is the beginning of cold weather
season and it extends up to February. The annual average temperature is
around 18º C. In the northern parts of the plains temperature falls below
5º C. January is the coldest month in the year. Jammu and Kashmir,
Punjab, Haryana, UP and parts of Bihar record very low temperature with
snow storms (cold wave). This is the clear sky season with lowest rainfall
in the year. Some parts of Tamil Nadu and Jammu and Kashmir receive
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small quantity of rainfall. Though the rainfall is less, in some parts on

North India it is beneficial for Rabi crops. Annual rainfall in this season is
around 2%.
Fig: 10.1 Temperature distribution in Winter
The Summer or Hot Weather Season (March to End of May):

The summer season is also known as hot weather season. It begins in
March and continues up to May. During this season there is gradual
increase in temperature from south to north due to shifting of Sun rays
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from Tropic of Capricorn towards the

Equator. In this period south Indian
states - Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh,
Karnataka and Kerala record high
temperature. Some parts of Andhra
Pradesh and Karnataka (Raichur and
Bellary) record more than 40 0C of
temperature. Sri Ganganagar of
Rajasthan has recorded the highest
temperature of above 52 0 C. The
average temperature of the country
will be around 24º C. In this season
some parts of India receive
convectional rainfall. They are
“Mango Showers” in Kerala, “Cherry
Blossoms” in Karnataka and
“Kalabaisaki” in West Bengal and
Assam. During this season the
country receives 10% of annual Fig. 10.2 Temperature distribution
in Summer
rainfall.
The Southwest Monsoon Season

(June to September): It is also known as
Advancing Monsoon Season or Rainy
Season. This season begins in June and
extends up to September due to the
influence of temperature, pressure and
winds. During this season, India gets
more than 75% of its annual rainfall and
more than 90% of the country’s area
receives downpour. It is the prime season for Kharif crops.

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In the middle of June the direct

rays of the Sun fall on Tropic of
Cancer due to shift in the position of
the Sun from Equator towards
northern hemisphere. Therefore,
there is an increase in temperature
from south to north. The temperature
in the main land of India and nearby
land masses is high compared to
water bodies of the Indian Ocean,
Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
The high temperature results in the
formation of low pressure in the land,
while the water bodies record high
pressure. The pressure gradient from
water to land form monsoon winds
in the Indian Ocean and they blow
towards India as Southwest Monsoon
Fig. 10.3 Rainfall distribution
winds. These winds after taking birth
in July
in the Indian Ocean blow towards
western coast of India as Arabian Sea winds (branch) and the other branch
as Bay of Bengal winds.
The Arabian Sea winds by carrying more moisture blow along the
western coast of India and cause heavy rainfall in the western parts of
Western Ghats due to obstruction. These winds behave like sea breeze
and cause continuous rainfall in the wind ward side of the Western Ghats
till they lose their moisture. The Malabar Coast of Kerala receives the first
southwest monsoon rainfall in the country. The first monsoon rainfall
received here is called “Monsoon Outburst”. Agumbe of Karnataka receives
the highest rainfall during this season. It is called ‘Mawsynram of South
India’. The regions coming under southwest monsoon winds receive good
rainfall wherever they get obstruction by hills and plateaus. But this rainfall
is scanty and insufficient in the western parts of Aravalli Mountains
because this range runs parallel to southwest monsoon winds and the
winds lose moisture by the time they reach Western Rajasthan.
The Bay of Bengal winds (branch) blow from water bodies towards the
Indian mainland due to variation in pressure. These winds carry moisture
from the Bay of Bengal and blows along eastern coast and finally reach
north eastern hills. In its path, whenever these winds receive obstruction,
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they cause good rainfall. The eastern part of Eastern Ghats and north
eastern hills receive heavy rainfall. These winds after crossing eastern
coast merge with the Arabian Sea winds.
The Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal winds, after merging, blow
towards north eastern regions of India. The Shape of the Himalayan
mountains and northeastern hills greatly obstruct these winds. Therefore,
the Meghalaya Plateau region, particularly Nokrek areas of Mawsynram
and Cherrapunji, receive very high rainfall. The altitude of Mawsynram,
thick vegetation cover and hill locked location help this place to receive
the highest annual rainfall in the world. This place is popularly called
‘Rainiest’ or ‘Wettest place on the Earth’.
The Southwest monsoon after crossing northeastern region blow
towards east. Since the Himalayas obstruct these winds they have to take
westerly direction and blow along the foot hills (Siwalik) of Himalayas.
The shift in the direct sun rays from Tropic of Cancer towards Equator
(September) results in the gradual disappearance of southwest monsoons.
Agriculture, industry, transport, communication, generation of
hydroelectricity, inland navigation and various other economic activities
in India depend on the Southwest Monsoon. In other words, Indian
economy depends on the Monsoons to a large extent.
Fig. 10.4 South West Monsoon winds
The Retreating Monsoon Season (Mid September to Mid December):

This season is also called North East Monsoon Season. It starts in the
middle of September and extends up to middle of December. On September
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23rd the direct rays of the Sun falls

on Equator. Therefore, there is a
change in temperature and pressure
in the land and water bodies. In this
period the Indian Ocean records high
temperature compared to the land
bodies of Indian sub-continent. The
high pressure formed in the northern
part of Bay of Bengal results in
movement of wind from northeastern
part of India towards southwestern
region (Arabian Sea and Indian
Ocean). These winds blow along the
eastern coast of India and Bay of
Bengal. While blowing, they carry
moisture and cause rainfall in the
east coast particularly the
Coromandel Coast due to its shape Fig. 10.5 Rainfall distribution
in October
and obstruction by the land. During
the northeast monsoon season the country receives 13% of annual rainfall.
In this season due to pressure variation between the Bay of Bengal
and main land of India variable winds- cyclones and anti-cyclones originate
in the Bay of Bengal. The tropical Cyclones take birth in this season and
cause great damage in the eastern coast of India. The coastal areas of
Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal come under the
frequent effect of cyclones. Some cyclones recorded in the last few years
are Bola, Nargis, Nisha, Laila, Jal, Neelam etc.
Fig. 10.6 North East Monsoon winds

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Significance of the Monsoon

The Monsoon of India play a pivotal role on all the economic activities
of the country. The cropping pattern, crop season, nature and types of
crops, yield and production has direct relationship with the monsoon.
The agro based industries, transport and communication network have
their base in the southwest and northeast monsoons.
Generation of Hydro-electricity, Inland navigation, fishing and various
other agro allied activities depend completely on the Indian monsoon.
Of the total rainfall in the country, nearly 88% is received during the
southwest and northeast monsoon seasons. June to September and
September to December are the period for more economic activities in the
country.
10.2 SOIL
Soil is the minute or finer rock particles found
on the surface of the Earth. It is formed naturally,
due to the weathering of rocks, under the influence of climate. Other factors
in its formation are vegetation, age of the rock, parent material and relief.
Soil as a natural resource, provide nutrients and water to the plants. The
scientific study of soil is known as ‘Pedology’. The soil Research Institute
of India is situated at Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh.
India is a vast country having great variations in its relief and climatic
conditions. The geo-climatic conditions of the country have affected the
general distribution of soils, their texture, structure, colour, pH value and
porosity. The combined result of climate and relief features has produced
various types of soils in the country.
Types of Soil
The main types of soil in India are : 1) Alluvial Soil, 2) Black Soil,
3) Red Soil, 4) Laterite Soil, 5) Desert Soil, 6) Mountain Soil.

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1) Alluvial Soil: This soil is formed

by depositional work of rivers and
they are mainly found in the flood
plains & deltas. Alluvial soil
covers largest geographical area
43.36% in the country. They are
mainly distributed in the river
plains of the Ganga,
Brahmaputra and the Indus.
Uttar Pradesh has the largest
area under alluvial soil. It is also
found in the deltas of east flowing
rivers. Alluvial soils of India are
mainly of two types
a) Khadar – new alluvium, finer
in nature, found in the low lying
flood plains and rich in fertility.
b) Bhangar – older alluvium,
coarse and pebble like in nature, Fig. 10.7 Soil map of India
found at the lower depths of the
plain. Alluvial soils are more suitable for the cultivation of Wheat,
Sugarcane, Rice, Maize, Pulses etc.
2) Black Soil: This is one of the most important soils in the peninsular
India. Deccan trap region has the largest distribution of black soil.
This soil is also called ‘Cotton soil’ or “Regur soil”. It is derived from
the weathered basalt rocks. This soil holds water for long period and
become hard whenever it is dry. It is light-black to dark-black in colour.
Nearly 15.09% of the country’s area is covered with this soil.
Maharashtra and Gujarat have the largest distribution of black soil in
the country. Other states are Madhya Pradesh, parts of Karnataka,
Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Important crops grown in this soil
are Cotton, Sugarcane, Tobacco, Pulses, Millets, Citrus fruits,
Sunflower etc.
Fig. 10.8 Black Soil Red Soil Laterite Soil

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3) Red soil: This soil is formed by the weathered granite rocks. It is red
in colour and rich in ferrous content. Generally the top layer of this
soil is red, while the horizon is yellowish in colour. Red soil covers the
second largest area 18.49% in the country. Larger parts of Peninsular
region is covered with red soil. Tamil Nadu has the largest distribution
of this soil in the country. Other states are Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh,
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Odisha.
Rice, Ragi, Jowar, Groundnut, Tobacco, Millets, Oil seeds, Potato are
the main crops cultivated in this soil.
4) Laterite soil: The hot and humid tropical regions of India are rich in
laterite soil. This soil is derived from the fragmentation and dis-
integration of rocks in the hilly and mountain ranges. It is mainly
found in the Western Ghats, parts of Eastern Ghats and Northeastern
hills of India (3.70%). Plantation corps like Tea, Coffee, Rubber,
Cashewnut, Arecanut are cultivated in this soil.
5) Desert soil: This soil is also called ‘arid soil’. They are mainly found in
the desert and semi-desert regions of Western and North Western parts
of India (4.42%) . This soil has the least water holding capacity and
humus content. Generally it is not suitable for cultivation of crops.
This soil is mainly found in Rajasthan, Parts of Gujarat and Haryana.
With water facility crops like Bajra, Pulses and Guar are cultivated in
this soil.
6) Mountain soil: The Himalayan mountain valleys and hill slopes are
covered with Mountain or Forest soil (5.51%). It is found in the
mountain slopes of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh,
Uttarkhand regions. Crops like Tea, Almond, Saffron, Walnut are
cultivated in this soil.
Other than the above, Alkaline, Saline, Peaty, Marshy, Grey and Brown
soils are also found in different parts of the country. These soils are
distributed in smaller areas compared to major soils (9.43%). Marshy soils
are mainly found in the coastal deltas while, other types are spread over
in small pockets.
Soil Erosion
The removal or wearing away of the top soil by various natural agents
and man-made factors is called ‘Soil Erosion’. High temperature, Rainfall,
Wind and Waves are the natural agents while, human activities like
deforestation, over grazing, shifting cultivation, improper and unscientific
methods of agriculture cause Soil Erosion.

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The rate of soil erosion differs from region to region and agent to agent
depending on climate and man-made factors. In the hilly regions rainfall
and temperature cause more soil erosion. In coastal areas sea waves and
in desert, winds are the dominant factors in the soil erosion process.
Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarkhand, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Madhya
Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh are most
important regions under the influence of soil erosion.
Fig. 10.9 Soil Erosion
Deforestation, Overgrazing, improper methods of agriculture, shifting

cultivation are the most familiar human activities which are causing soil
erosion in the country.
According to one estimate nearly 40% of the total area of the country
is adversely affected by soil erosion. This has resulted in decrease of fertility,
reduction in cultivable land, more flooding, silting, decrease in percolation
of water etc.
Conservation of Soil
Soil conservation is a set of management strategies for prevention of
soil being eroded from the Earth’s surface or becoming chemically altered
by overuse, acidification, salinization or other chemical soil contamination.
Conservation of Soil is an important activity in the country to protect
the soil layer, which is useful to man for various purposes. Soil conservation
is very much necessary to have different activities like agriculture, agro
based engagements, some industrial activities and also to conserve
vegetation and animal wealth.
The important measures followed in the Conservation of Soil are:
i)Afforestation ii) Control of over grazing iii) Contour ploughing iv) Terrace
farming v) Erection of bunds vi) Construction of check dams vii) Crop
rotation viii) Control of shifting cultivation ix) Strip farming x) Mulching

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xi) Control of floods xii) Reclamation of Ravine & Badlands xiii) Proper use
of water xiv) Literacy and Education programmes on soil conservation
etc.,
Fig. 10.10 Terrace farming Afforestation Erection of bunds
10.3 FOREST
A forest is usually an area filled with trees.
It is a region with variety of botanical species
such as trees, shrubs, climbers and grasses. The forests that grow naturally
undisturbed over a long time are called Natural Vegetation. They function
as habitats for organisms, hydrologic flow modulators and soil conservers,
constituting one of the most important aspects of the biosphere.
The varied relief features, soils and climatic conditions have contributed
to the growth of a variety of forests in India. Forests are distributed unevenly
in the country. According to the world estimates, the forest area in India is
about 22.50%, which is very less when compared to the world’s average of 34.5%.
The forests and their resources are useful to man in various forms.
Therefore, they are called ‘Green Gold’.
The peninsular region of India has the largest forest cover with around
57% of the total forest area. The Himalayan region has the second largest
forest cover having 18%, while the Indo-Gangetic plains and desert regions
have the least forest cover in the country. Madhya Pradesh has the largest
area under forests, while Haryana has the least forest cover.
Types of Forests: On the basis of administration and legal aspects
the Forests in India are classified into three types. a) Reserved Forests
b) Protected Forests and c) Unclassified Forests.
According to geo-climatic conditions, forests are classified into:
1) Evergreen Forests 2) Deciduous/Monsoon Forests 3) Coniferous Forests
4) Desert/Arid Forests 5) Mangrove Forests

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1) T h e E v er gr een F o r est s: These forests are found in the regions of

heavy rainfall (above 250 cm) and high temperature (above 27º C).
Tall umbrella shaped trees with dense assemblage is a prominent
feature of this forest. The evergreen forests always look green because,
various species of trees are found here and they shed leaves in different
seasons. The hardwood trees, rosewood, white cedar, toon, gurjan,
chaplash, ebony, mahogany, canes, bamboo, shisham etc. are very
common in this forest. These forests are found in North-east India,
Western Ghats, Andaman and Nicobar islands, parts of Assam and
some areas of Himalayan foot hills.
Fig. 10.11 Evergreen Forest Deciduous Forest
2) The Deciduous Forests: The Deciduous forests cover a wide range of

rainfall regimes. The trees of these forests seasonally shed their leaves.
The Indian deciduous forests are found in a range of landscapes from
the plains to the hills. These forests provides shelter to most endangered
wildlife in the country, such as the Tiger, Asian Elephant, Bison, Gaur
etc. The deciduous forests are of two types. viz., a) The moist deciduous
forests and b) The dry deciduous forests.
a) The Moist Deciduous/Monsoon Forests: The moist deciduous
forests are found in wet regions, receiving annual rainfall between
100 cm to 200 cm and temperature of 25o to 30oC. The trees of
these forests shed their leaves during spring and early summer.
They are found on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, Chota
Nagpur Plateau, the Siwaliks etc. Some of the important trees
found in these forests are Teak, Sandalwood, Sal, Khair, Mango
Tree, Wattle, Bamboo, Deodar, Blue gum, Ebony, Jackfruit, Semal,
Arjun and the Banyan Tree. Teak is considered as one of the most
important species of this region.
b) The Dry Deciduous Forests or Grassland: The dry deciduous
forests are found in the areas where annual rainfall is between

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50 cm to 150cm and temperature of 25o to 30oC. Sal is the most

significant tree found in this forest. Varieties of acacia and bamboo
are also found here. These forests are found in areas of central
Deccan plateau, South-east of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana and
parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Dwarf Deciduous
trees and long- grasses grow in these regions. Most of the areas of
these forests are used for agriculture.
Fig. 10.12 Moist Deciduous forest Dry Deciduous forest
Fig. 10.13 Forests in India

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3) The Mountain/Coniferous forests: As the name indicates these

forests are confined to the Himalayan region, where the temperature
is less compared to other parts of the country. The trees in these
forests are cone shape with needle like leaves. The important trees are
oak, fir, pine spruce, silver fir, deodhar, devdar, juniper, picea,
chestnut, cedar etc. They provide softwood for making country boats,
packing materials and sports articles.
4) The Desert/Arid forests: These forests are found in the areas of very
low rainfall (50 cm per year). Thorny bushes, shrubs, dry grass, acacia,
cacti and babul are the important vegetation found in these forest.
The Indian wild date known as ‘Khejurs’, is common in the deserts.
The plants grow far apart from each other. They have spine leaves,
long roots and thick fleshy stems in which they store water to survive
during the long drought. These vegetations are found in Rajasthan,
parts of Gujarat, Punjab and Haryana.
Fig. 10.14 Coniferous forest Arid forest Mangrove forest
5) The Mangrove (Tidal) forests: These forests occur along the river
deltas (Ganga, Mahanadi, Godavari and Krishna) of eastern coast and
also concentrated in the coastal areas of Katchch, Kathiawar, and
Gulf of Khambat (Cambay). The mangrove forests in the Ganga delta
are called Sunderbans because, they have extensive growth of Sundari
trees. The trees in these forests are hard, durable and are used in
boat making and as fuel. In the recent years mangrove vegetation is
being grown in the coastal areas to control effects of tidal waves
(Tsunami) and coastal erosion.

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Importance of forests
Forests are multipurpose resources rendering various benefits to man
and environment. The important benefits are:
1) Forests supply fresh air, food and fodder.
2) Forests are the rain bearers, help in causing good rainfall.
3) They control soil erosion and desertification.
4) Forests provide various products like bamboo, timber, resin, lac, gum,
cane, fuel wood etc.
5) They provide medicinal trees and plants used in ayurvedic medicines

eg. Neem tree, Basil, Brahmi etc.
6) They provide shelter to various birds and animals.
7) They absorb much of the rainwater and control floods and safeguards
against drought.
8) They act as wind breakers and protect the agricultural crops.
9) The forest soils are rich in humus and thereby maintain the fertility of
the soil.
10) They provide raw materials to paper, match box, plywood and sports
articles industries.
11) They provide pastures for grazing animals.
12) Forests control the local weather and climate - temperature, wind,
rainfall etc.
13) They provide beautiful scenic spots and become recreational centers.
14) They provide employment opportunities and also promote foreign trade.
15) They maintain the ecological balance.
Thus, forests play a vital role in influencing on the life and activities of
man.

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Conservation of Forests: Forests, once destroyed, take thousands

of years to regenerate into their original form. The conservation of forests
is concerned with proper utilisation of forest, protection from destructive
influences, misuse of forests etc. The important measures of conservation
of forest are:
1) Careless felling of tree, over-grazing and shifting cultivation should be

avoided. Afforestation should be practiced.
2) Forest fires, pests and diseases should be controlled through the

scientific methods.
3) Use of fuel wood, wood-charcoal by the tribal people must be prohibited.
4) Encroachers of forest area should be severely punished.
5) Government should promote intensive tree planting programmes in

urban centers.
6) Forest education, research and training should be expanded through

programmes like Vanamahotsava, social forestry, reforestation, etc.
7) Massive awareness about the aesthetics of forests (Chipko and Appiko

movements) should be created through mass media, workshops, live
programmes etc
8) Industrial and mining activities in the forest regions should be

compensated by reforestation.
9) Development of Green belts in the urban areas.
10) Plantation of trees along the roads, railway lines, river, canal banks,
tanks and ponds.
Thus, the forests are interrelated with life and environment. A rich
forest resource symbolizes the national heritage of our country. Forests
should be safeguarded to maintain biological diversity, ecological balance,
to increase agricultural and industrial production and to create pollution-
free environment.

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Biosphere Reserves
The biosphere reserves protect every plant and animal species in its
natural habitat so that this natural heritage can be transmitted to future
generations. The regions surrounding the biosphere reserves would be
utilized for the research and experimentation in developing forest and
other products.
The Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) of UNESCO was
established in 1971 to promote interdisciplinary approaches to
management, research and education in ecosystem conservation and
sustainable use of natural resources.
The Government of India has established 18 Biosphere Reserves of
India, which protect larger areas of natural habitat (National Park or Animal
Sanctuary) and often include one or more National Parks along buffer
zones that are open to some economic uses. Protection is granted not only
to the flora and fauna of the protected region, but also to the human
communities who inhabit these regions, and their ways of life.
Eight of the Eighteen biosphere reserves are a part of the World Network
of Biosphere Reserves, based on the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere
(MAB) Programme list.
1. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve Tamil Nadu, 2000
Kerala, Karnataka
2. Gulf of Mannar Tamil Nadu 2001
Biosphere Reserve
3. Sunderbans Biosphere Reserve West Bengal 2001
4. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve Uttarakhand 2004
5. Nokrek Biosphere Reserve Meghalaya 2009
6. Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve Madhya Pradesh 2009
7. Simlipal Biosphere Reserve Odisha 2008
8. Achanakmar - Amarkantak Chhattisgarh, 2012
Biosphere Reserve Jharkhand
Other Biosphere reserves of the country are Great Rann of Kutch

(Gujarat), Cold desert (HP), Dehang Debang (Arunachal Pradesh),
Sheshachalam hills (AP), Manas (Assam), Khangchendzonga (Sikkim),
Agasthyamalai (Kerala), Great Nicobar (Anadaman & Nicobar Islands),
Dibru-Saikhova (Assam) and Panna (MP).
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Fig. 10.15 Biosphere Reserves
Fig. 10.16 Functions and Structure of Biosphere Reserves

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Tropical Monsoon Agumbe Evergreen Forest
Seasons Mawsynram Moist deciduous
Range of temperature Retreating Monsoon Dry deciduous
Winter Cyclones Coniferous forest
Cold wave Pedology Arid forest
Mango showers Regur soil Mangrove forest
Cherry blossom Soil erosion Conservation of forest
Kalbaisaki Conservation of Soil Biosphere reserves
South west Monsoon Green Gold Man and Biosphere
(MAB)

1. What type of climate is found in India?
2. Define Monsoon.
3. Mention the place which records high range of Temperature.
4. Which is the driest season in India?
5. Name the region which receives 'Monsoon outburst'.
6. Which is called 'Mawsynram of South India'?
7. Why are cyclones formed during North East Monsoon season?
8. Define Pedology.
9. Name the soil which covers vast area of the country.
10. Why is Black soil called Regur soil?
11. Where do we see Laterite soil?
12. What is 'Green Gold'?
13. Mention the average forest cover of the country.
14. Which forest has high economic value trees?
15. Where do we find Dehang Debang Biosphere reserve?

1. Why is India called 'Meteorological Unit'?
2. Mention any two convectional rainfall of India.
3. Write the significance of Monsoon.
4. Mention the importance of Red soil.

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5. Name any four factors that affect Soil erosion.

6. State four best measures in the conservation of soil.
7. Name the states which have the highest and the lowest forest area
in the country.
8. Write the salient features of Evergreen forests.
9. What is Mangrove forest? Why has it become important in the
recent years?
10. Mention any four measures of conservation of forest.

1. What is Climate? Explain the factors that determine the climate of
India.
2. Explain the South West Monsoon season with the help of a map.
3. Briefly explain the characteristic features of Winter and Summer
seasons.
4. Give details of North East Monsoon season.
5. What is Soil? Explain the major types of soils.
6. Explain soil erosion and conservation of soil.
7. Describe the major types of forests in India.
8. Briefly explain the importance of forests.
9. Explain the important measures of conservation of forest.
10. What are Biosphere reserves? Mention the important biosphere
reserves of India.

• Prepare a list of factors that influence on the climate of India.
• Prepare table to show the features of Indian monsoon.
• Prepare model to show types of soil.
• Collect a few soil samples found in your region.
• List out the important measures to check soil erosion.
• Construct model to show types of forest and biosphere reserves.
• Collect samples of plant species found in and around your region.
• List out the importance of forest and suggest remedies for conservation
of forest.
• Draw the outline map of India, name and mark the important Biosphere
reserves.

CHAPTER 11
NATURAL HAZARDS AND DISASTERS
A Natural Hazard is a threat of a naturally occurring event that will
have a negative effect on people or the environment. Many natural hazards
are interrelated eg. earthquakes can cause tsunamis and drought can
lead directly to famine or population displacement. It is possible that some
natural hazards are inter-temporally correlated.
If the Natural Hazard becomes a serious reality then it becomes a
disaster. A Natural Disaster is a major adverse event resulting from natural
processes of the Earth eg. earthquakes (Tsunami), floods, severe weather
(drought & famine), volcanic eruptions, cyclones, landslides, coastal erosion
and other geologic processes. A natural disaster can cause loss of life or
property damage and typically leave some economic damage in its wake,
the severity of which depends on the affected population’s resilience or
ability to recover.
Disasters are of different types in their origin. Some of them are Tectonic
(Earthquakes, Volcanoes), Meteorological (Hurricanes, Cyclones, Floods,
Droughts), Topographical (Landslide, Avalanche) etc.
India is one of the most natural disaster prone countries in the world.
Some of the major natural disasters are: i) Earthquake and Tsunami
ii) Floods iii) Cyclones iv) Drought and famines v) Landslides vi) Avalanches
and vii) Coastal erosion.
EARTHQUAKES
Earthquake is a sudden vibration or shaking in the Earth’s crust. It is
considered to be one of the worst natural disasters causing wide spread
destruction and loss to human life.
Causes
Earthquakes are caused due to various natural and man–made factors.
They are i) Tectonic forces – folding, faulting ii) Volcanic activity
iii) Landslides and Landslips iv) Collapse of underground cave roofs.
Man-made factors are a) Mining b) Huge dams and reservoirs c) Digging
of deep wells d) Nuclear tests etc.,

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Distribution
The distribution of earthquake in India is mainly found in the fractured
zones, folded areas, faulting belts and human interference regions on the
crust. National Geophysical Laboratory, Geological Survey of India,
Department of Meteorology along with the National Disaster Management
have made an intensive analysis of more than 1200 earthquakes that
have occurred in India in different years in the past, and based on these,
they have divided India into five main Seismic Zones.
Fig. 11.1 Seismic Zones
• Zone V: This is the most severe (intensity above 7 in Richter Scale)

seismic zone and is referred as Very High Damage (disastrous and
catastrophic) Risk Zone. The areas are Northeastern states, parts
of Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Bihar and Kutch region.
• Zone IV: This zone is second in severity (intensity between 5 and
7 in R.S) to zone V. This is referred to as High Damage (destructive)
Risk Zone. Northern regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal
Pradesh, Parts of Bihar, UP, Gujarat, West Bengal lie in this region.

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• Zone III: This is termed as Moderate Damage (Very Strong) Risk

Zone (intensity between 3 and 5 in R.S). The areas are Gujarat,
Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra,
Northern Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, West coastal region etc.
• Zone II: This zone is referred to as Low Damage (Strong) Risk
Zone (intensity 2 to 3 R.S). The areas are Rajasthan, Madhya
Pradesh, Parts of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha etc.
• Zone I: This zone is termed as Very Low Damage (Slight–tremor)
Risk Zone. The left out parts of India and Deccan Plateau region.
Tsunami
Tsunami (“Tsu”-harbour, “nami”- wave) means “Harbour Waves”. It is
a series of waves generated in an ocean water in the form of high waves.
The impact of Tsunami is less over the Ocean and more near the coast,
where they cause large-scale devastations. After reaching the coast, the
water flows turbulently into the land destroying port cities and towns,
structures, building and other settlements, causing loss of life and property.
East coast of India, especially the Coromandel Coast has recorded a few
tsunamis in recent years.
FLOODS
Floods are natural hazards related to the Monsoons, which are
uncertain and uneven in the country. When there is heavy rainfall in the
catchment area of a river, there are floods in the lower basin. Floods are
high stream flow that overflows the natural banks of the rivers.
Causes
Floods are caused by both natural and man-made factors. They are :
a) Natural factors- i) Continuous rainfall for a long period ii) Cyclones
iii) Obstruction on flow of river water iv) Storm surge (coastal areas)
v) Melting ice and snow vi) Presence of eroded material due to soil erosion
vii) Blockage of free flow of water due to volcanic eruptions, landslides
and meandering of river. b) Man-made factors - i) Deforestation
ii) Unscientific Agricultural practice (iii) Urbanization iv) Disturbance along
the natural drainage and channel v) Occupancy of flood plains and river
beds etc.,

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Distribution
India, being a peninsular
country and surrounded by the
Arabian sea, Indian ocean and
the Bay of Bengal, is quite prone
to floods. As per the Geological
Survey of India, the major flood
prone areas of India cover more
than 12.5% area of the country.
Every year, flood, the most
common disaster causes
immense loss to the country’s
property and lives.
Fig. 11.2 Flood prone areas
Flood prone areas of India
1. The Ganga basin: The badly affected states of the Ganga basin are
U.P, Bihar and West Bengal. Besides the Ganga River, Sarada, Gandak
and Ghagra cause flood in Eastern part of U.P. The Yamuna is famous
for flooding Haryana, U.P. and Delhi. Bihar experiences massive and
dangerous flood every year by the Kosi. Rivers like the Mahanadi,
Bhagirathi and Damodar also cause floods.
2. The Brahmaputra basin: The Brahmaputra along with its tributaries
floods the areas of Assam and North West Bengal regions.
3. The Central India and Peninsular river basin: In Odisha spilling over
of river banks by the Mahanadi, Baitarnika and Brahmani causes
havoc. Southern and central India experience floods caused by the
Narmada, Godavari, Tapti and Krishna during heavy rainfall. Cyclonic
storms in the deltaic regions of the Godavari, Mahanadi and the Krishna
flood the coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Tamil Nadu.
Small rivers of Kerala and Mud stream from the nearby hills add on to
the destruction.
CYCLONE
Cyclone refers to a whirl in the atmosphere with very strong winds
circulating (high pressure to low pressure) around it in anti-clock wise
direction in the Northern hemisphere and clock wise in the Southern
hemisphere.
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Indian Ocean is the center for the formation of cyclones. The Bay of
Bengal of India regularly forms Tropical cyclones during October to
December and cause heavy damage and destruction in the eastern coast.
The western coast record cyclone very rarely but, is not far away from the
cyclones. Usually the cyclones of India originate in the Bay of Bengal and
blow towards eastern coast.
Causes
Cyclones are caused by atmospheric disturbances around a low
pressure (Bay of Bengal) area distinguished by swift and often destructive
air circulation. They are usually accompanied by violent storms and bad
weather. The Bay of Bengal is subject to intense heating, giving rise to
humid and unstable air masses that produce cyclones.
Distribution
The occurrence and distribution of cyclones in India is mainly found
in the eastern coast – Coromandel and North Circar Regions. Coastal Tamil
Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal are severely affected by
cyclones. The northeast Monsoon period, by forming tropical cyclone, cause
great damage and disaster in the eastern coast of the country. The Malabar
and the Konkan coast are also affected by mild cyclonic storms. The
severity in this region, is less than eastern coast.
Fig. 11.3 Cyclone prone areas Cyclone Nilam affected areas

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DROUGHT AND FAMINE

The term ‘drought’ is applied to an extended period when there is a
shortage of water availability due to inadequate precipitation, excessive
rate of evaporation and over utilization of water from the reservoirs and
other storages, including the ground water. When drought becomes severe
there is a famine. Drought occurs when rainfall is less than 25% to 50% of
the average rainfall. If rainfall is below average, famine occurs.
Causes
The main causes for the occurrence of drought and famine
are reduction in annual rainfall, long period scarcity of surface
and underground water, scarcity of stored water, excess utilization of
fresh water, overgrazing, deforestation, improper agricultural practice,
mining etc.,
Fig. 11.4
Drought prone areas

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Distribution
On the basis of severity of droughts, India can be divided into three
drought prone areas.
1. The Extreme drought prone areas: This is the most important drought
prone area of the country which has been recording continuous drought
for many years. The regions are western parts of Rajasthan, Kutch
regions of Gujarat and semi-arid and arid regions of Western and
North western parts of India.
2. The Severe drought prone areas: This is the second important drought
prone areas of the country. The eastern parts of Rajasthan, western
parts of Madhya Pradesh, parts of Maharashtra, interior parts of
Andhra Pradesh, north and northeastern parts of Karnataka, northern
and interior parts of Tamil Nadu, interior Odisha and southern parts
of Jharkhand.
3. The Moderate drought prone areas: This region is mainly found in
northern parts of Rajasthan, western parts of Haryana, southern
regions of U.P., parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu
and Interior parts of Karnataka.
LANDSLIDES
Landslides are the mass movement of rocks and debris due to various
surface activities eg. high rainfall, snowfall, gravitation etc. Landslide is
the rapid sliding of large mass of rocks by the force of Gravity.
Fig. 11.5 Landslide Landslide hazard zone
Causes
Landslide and landslip are caused by natural and human induced
forces. It is largely controlled by localized factors (i) Severe Marine erosion
of sea coast (iii) Seismic activity (iii) Heavy rainfall (iv) Construction of
roads, railway lines, tunnels v) Canals and channel construction (vi) Mining
and quarrying vii) Over grazing viii) Deforestation (ix) Unscientific
agricultural activities along the hill slopes etc.,
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Distribution
Landslides are more common in the hills, mountains and high
altitudinal regions. Hill states like Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh,
Uttarkhand, parts of West Bengal, Sikkim and many parts of northeastern
states come under regular and severe damage by landslides and landslips.
COASTAL EROSION
The landward displacement of the shoreline caused by the forces of
sea waves and ocean currents is called coastal erosion. It is mainly found
in certain coastal areas of the country. Coastal zone is a transitional area
between the land and the sea. As per the recent estimate about 23% of
shoreline along the Indian mainland is affected by coastal erosion.
Fig. 11.6 Coastal Erosion

Causes
Major causes of coastal erosion are: 1) Natural Causes: i) Wave action
ii) Tsunami iii) Wind iv) Tides v) Ocean currents vi) Storm surge
2) Man-made causes (Human interferences): i) Construction of artificial
Structures ii) Mining of beach sands iii) Offshore dredging or building of
dykes iv) Destruction of mangroves and other natural buffers.
Distribution
The coastal erosion is mainly found in the coastal regions of Indian
mainland. Most affected areas are Western and Eastern coasts of India.
The Konkan, Canara, Malabar, Coromandel and North Circar coasts record
more coastal erosion. The coastal areas of Kerala, Karnataka (Ullala and
Maravante) and Maharashtra are facing maximum threat by coastal
erosion.
AVALANCHE
Avalanche is also one of the important natural hazards and disaster
in certain specified areas of the country. Avalanche is the mass of snow,
ice and rock debris that come rushing down the mountain slopes. They
are extremely powerful, fall rapidly under the force of gravity in the snow
covered mountains.

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Fig. 11.7 Avalanche

Causes
The important causes for avalanches are: i) Heavy snowfall and nature
of mountain slope ii) Heavy snow storms iii) Earthquake and tremors
iv) Explosions, heavy sound of vehicles v) Deforestation vi) Hill slope cutting
etc.
Distribution
The avalanche prone areas are mainly found in the Himalayan states
of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarkhand, Sikkim, parts of
Arunachal Pradesh etc. The snow covered mountains in this region
occasionally cause severe damage by causing avalanche. The irregular
weather condition and influence of human interference have caused great
threat to the Himalayan belt by sliding of snow.
Consequences of hazards and disasters
The consequences of natural hazards and disasters are more or less
same with respect to different agents of disaster. The areas of disaster
and their effect vary from region to region and season to season.
The most important consequences of natural disasters are loss of
human life and property, animal wealth, destruction of vegetation etc.
Natural disasters create fear, anguish and trauma in the human beings
leading to various physical, biological and psychological changes. Natural
disasters affect population, its distribution and density. In addition to
this, agriculture, cropping pattern, industries, transport and
communication, public health, water supply, food, fodder, buildings,
settlements and in total human life and existence are affected by these
Natural Disasters.

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Natural hazard Floods Landslides
Natural disaster Drought Coastal erosion
Earthquakes Famine Avalanche
Tsunami Cyclone

1. What is a Natural Hazard?
2. What do you mean by Natural Disaster?
3. Mention any two types of disasters.
4. What are floods?
5. Name the most important flood prone area of India.
6. Why are cyclones caused in the Bay of Bengal?
7. What is drought?
8. Which region of India is in the extreme drought prone area?
9. Why does landslide occur?
10. Mention the most important avalanche prone area of India.
1. Name the two most important seismic zones of India.
2. Mention any four factors that cause floods.
3. State two important flood prone areas of the country.
4. Name any four factors that cause drought and famine.
5. Mention any four consequences of natural hazard and disasters.
1. Explain the major seismic zones of India.
2. Briefly explain the distribution of flood prone areas of India.
3. Explain the major drought prone areas of India.

• Show the seismic zones of India on the outline map.
• Draw the outline map of India, name and mark the flood, drought,
coastal erosion and cyclone prone zones.
• Collect photographs and articles of recent natural disasters.
• List out the important methods of disaster management.

PART-C : CARTOGRAPHY
CHAPTER 12
Cartography is the study and practice of making maps. Combining
science, aesthetics, and technique, cartography builds on the premise
that reality can be modeled in the ways that communicate spatial
information effectively.
The art of drawing maps, charts, globe, models and graphs is also
known as “Cartography”. It is an important branch in Geography which
acts as a bridge between Physical sciences and Social sciences.
A Cartographer should have the knowledge of physical and cultural
geography, art, geodesy, earth science, measurements, engineering, remote
sensing, computer, photography, GIS, GPS, etc.,
Map represents a small part or the whole surface of the Earth.
Cartographer should study the Lithosphere, Atmosphere, Oceanography,
Biosphere etc., for making maps. The art of map making is not only a
practical science like Physics and Chemistry but also a social science
because, it includes some aspects of History, Culture, Economics,
Sociology, Political science, Population, Trade, Commerce etc. Cartography
is based on science and logic. The field and scope of modern cartography
is gaining more importance after the introduction of computer application
and usage of GIS and GPS techniques.
12.1 MAPS
The word Map is derived from the Latin term ‘Moppa’ means, a Table
Cloth or Cloth Cover. A part or whole of the Earth drawn on a paper
according to scale is called a Map.
A scale is a ratio between any two points on the ground surface and
their corresponding distance on the map. All good maps should possess a
scale which helps reader to find the actual distance on the ground.
Essentials of a Map
A Map must help and guide a reader to understand various features
marked on it. It should be like a mirror to know the location, direction,
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distance and to draw comparative analysis of the spatial distribution of

various items in a Country or on the Earth.
Following are the essential features of a map.

1) Title - A Map should have a title eg. India Physical, Karnataka Political,
World Cultural, District Roads etc.
2) Scale - A Map must have a scale and Maps have to be drawn according
to scale. It denotes the relationship between the length on the map
and the actual distance on the ground. Scales may be Verbal or R.F
(Representative Fraction) or Graphical eg. 1 cm = 10 km, 1 inch = 100
miles, 1: 1000, 1: 100000 etc.
3) Direction - A Map should have a direction symbol which helps the reader
to understand the direction of a Place or Area or City or Country etc.
4) Index - It is a key or legend to the map. The conventional signs and
symbols are shown in the index of a map. It helps the reader to find
the required information from the map.
1) National Capital 2) State Boundary
3) Mountain Peak 4) Sea Port 5) River

5) Latitudes and Longitudes – A Map must have a network of horizontal
and vertical lines known as latitudes and longitudes. These are the
Geographic co-ordinates through which location of a place or city or
country is identified. In addition to this, they help to understand the
direction and to calculate distance between places.
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Types of Maps
Maps may be broadly divided into two types. 1) On the basis of Scale
2) On the basis of Purpose.
1) On the basis of Scale Maps are classified into three types. a) Large
Scale Maps b) Medium Scale Maps c) Small Scale Maps.
a) Large Scale Maps: The Maps drawn on the scale of 1cm=1km
or 1:1,00,000 and 1inch=1mile or 1:63,360 eg. Cadastral maps
(Village, Town and City maps).
b) Medium Scale Maps: The Maps drawn on the scale of 1cm=1km
to 1cm=10km or 1:1,00,000 and 1:10,00,000 eg. Topographical
Maps (Mountains, Plateaus, Plains).
c) Small Scale Maps: The Maps drawn on the scale below
1cm=15km or 1:15,00,000 eg. Atlas and Wall Maps. These
maps show broad physical and cultural features.
Fig. 12.1 Large scale map Medium scale map Small scale map
2) On the basis of purpose various types of Maps are prepared.

i) Topographical Maps: To show relief features, forests, land use,
river system, roads, railways, pipelines, distribution of rural
and urban settlements etc.
ii) Cadastral Maps: The Cadastral maps are drawn to register
the ownership of field, farm, building, firm (boundary) etc.
iii) Economic Maps: These maps provide information about human
economic activities eg. agriculture, mining, industry,
marketing, trade etc.
iv) Population Maps: These maps show the information about
distribution, growth, density, migration, age and sex
composition of population. These maps are also drawn to show
the distribution of occupational structure, language, social
groups of people etc.
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v) Weather Maps: These are useful to analyze weather condition

and distribution of temperature, pressure, humidity, winds,
rainfall etc.
Uses of Maps
1. Maps are essential to a Geographer, to present spatial information
systematically.
2. They help to get correct picture of relief features of the Earth.
3. Maps/Charts are useful to study the invisible features like winds,
temperature, pressure etc.,
4. They are very much helpful at the time of war and defence.
5. They are useful to locate wells, lakes, rivers, vegetation, coastal features
and also to understand the distribution of soils, minerals, crops,
population, tourist places, etc.,
6. Maps are useful for planners (City and Economic) agriculture, industry,
transportation, communication etc.,
7. Maps are the most important teaching aid to the Teachers.
8. They are a source of various information-Physical, Cultural, Economic,
Social, Historical etc.
9. Maps help to analyze various physical and cultural items to prepare
plans, programmes.
10. Maps help to mark political boundary, administrative areas to formulate
legislation and legal jurisdiction.
12.2 MAP READING

Identification of Places, Latitudes and Longitudes - Karnataka
Map reading is nothing but the study of places, latitudes and
longitudes, direction and features of a map. A Map reader must have the
knowledge of both physical and cultural aspects. The reader must be in
touch with conventional signs, index, scale, direction, latitude and
longitude. With the help of latitudes and longitudes one can identify a
Place, Taluk, District, State, Nation etc.
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Identify the places, latitudes and longitudes in the map of Karnataka.

Latitude and Longitude Map of Karnataka
1. Bengaluru - 13° N – 77° 35É 6. Haveri - 14° 48Ń – 75° 24É

2. Mysore - 12° 18Ń – 76° 38É 7. Bellary - 15° 09Ń – 76° 56É
3. Madikeri - 12° 25Ń – 75° 44É 8. Hubli - 15° 21Ń – 75° 10É
4. Tumkur - 13° 20Ń – 77° 06É 9. Belgaum - 15° 52Ń – 74° 30É
5. Mangalore - 12° 51Ń – 74° 50É 10. Bidar - 17° 54Ń – 77° 35É
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12.3 REPRESENTATION OF
PHYSICAL ASPECTS THROUGH DIAGRAMS
1. Cycle of Seasons
2. Temperature or Heat Zones
4. Volcano 3. Layers of the Earth’s interior
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5. Layers of the Atmosphere
6. Ox-bow Lakes
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7. Pressure belts
8. Orographic Rainfall 9. Bottom Relief of the Ocean floor
10. Tides
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12.4 MAP DRAWING

Outline map of India and showing Physical aspects.
1. Latitude and Longitudinal extent of India
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2. Physical divisions of India
3. Coastal Plains and Ports of India
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4. Rivers of India
5. Southwest and Northeast Monsoons
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6. Soils of India 7. Forests of India
8. Biosphere Reserves
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9. Earthquake Zones
10. Flood prone areas

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Cartography Direction Cadastral maps
Maps Index Atlas
Scale Latitude & Longitude
Title Topographical maps
I Answer any five of the following in a word or a sentence each.

1. Define the term Cartography. 1x5 = 5
2. What is a Map?
3. Name any two essential features of a Map?
4. What is Scale?
5. Draw the Geographical symbol of River.
6. Mention any two uses of Maps
II Identify the latitudes and longitudes for the given places
in the map of Karnataka. 1x5 = 5
* Latitude and Longitude map of Karnataka must be given.
1. Bengaluru 2. Mangalore
3. Bellary 4. Hubli
5. Bidar
III Draw diagrams to any two of the following. 2x2 = 4
1. Cycle of Seasons
2. Layers of the Earth's interior
3. Draw any two Geographical symbols
IV Draw the outline map of India, mark and name the following 2
1. Physical divisions of India 2
2. Forests of India 2

• Practice to draw different maps with the help of latitudes, longitudes
and symbols.
• Prepare chart to show types of maps.
• List out the uses of Maps.
• Identify the places, latitudes and longitudes with the help of Atlas.
• Practice to draw the diagrams to show various physical aspects.
• Learn how to draw the outline map of India and to show the physical
aspects.
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GEOGRAPHY
Pattern of I PUC Question Paper
I. Answer the following in a word or a sentence each.

10 questions-one mark each 1x10=10
II. Answer any ten of the following in two or three sentences each.
12 questions-two marks each (2 Choices) 2x10=20
III. Answer any eight of the following.

12 questions-five marks each (4 Choices) 5x8=40
IV. Answer any one of the following.

2 questions-ten marks each (1 Choice) 1x10=10
V. Questions on Cartography.
a. Answer the following in a word or a sentence each. 1x5=5
b. Identify the latitudes and longitudes for the

given Places (5 places) in the map of Karnataka. 1x5=5
c. Draw diagrams to any two of the following. 2x2=4
Draw the outline map of India, mark and name the following
d. Drawing of outline map of India 2
e. Showing the physical aspects of India - 2 questions 2x2=4
Total 100
183
I PUC GEOGRAPHY (24)
Model Question Paper : BLUE PRINT
Periods Know- Appli-
Understanding Skill Total
and ledge cation
Unit
Marks
Allotted 1 2 1 2 5 10 2 5 1 2 1 2 5 10
1 5 5 1 1 1 1
2 10 9 1 1 1 1
3 12 12 1 1 1 1
4 14 14 1 2 1 2 1 1 3 1 3 1
5 16 16 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 2
6 8 8 2 1 1 1 2 2 1
7 6 6 1 1
8 3 5 1 1 1 1 2
9 14 12 1 2 1 2
10 14 12 1 1 2
11 6 5 1 1 2
12 12 20 5 6 6 11 6
Hours 120 124 11 5 4 5 5 2 2 7 6 6 21 18 12 2 53
Marks +20
Total Marks = 144 No. of questions 53
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MODEL QUESTION PAPER

Sub: GEOGRAPHY (24)
Time: 3.15 hrs Max. Marks: 100
Class: I PUC
Note: 1) Answer all questions.

2) Draw maps and diagrams wherever necessary.
3) Question no. V is on Cartography.
I Answer the following in a word or a sentence each. 1x10=10

1. What is the shape of the Earth?
2. Mention the equatorial diameter of the Earth?
3. Give an example for Metamorphic Rock.
4. Define Mineral.
5. What is denudation?
6. What are Isotherms?
7. One fathom is equal to how many feet?
8. Define the term Biosphere.
9. Name the important latitude that passes through the middle
of India.
10. Define ‘Tsunami’.
II Answer any ten of the following in two or three

sentences each. 2x10=20
11. Name any two types of Volcanoes.
12. What are exogenic and endogenic forces?
13. What is air pressure? Name the instrument used to measure
atmosphere pressure.
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14. Give two examples for local winds.

15. What is convectional rainfall?
16. Mention the difference between weather and climate.
17. Name any two important salts present in the ocean water.
18. What is the latitudinal and longitudinal extent of India?
19. Name the international boundaries of India with China and
Pakistan.
20. Name any four tributaries of river Cauvery.
21. What are Natural hazards and disasters?
22. State the difference between flood and famine.
III Answer any eight of the following in 25 to 30 sentences each.

5x8=40
23. What is Geography? Explain how Geography is an integrating
discipline.
24. Explain the revolution of the Earth with its effects.
25. Write a detail note on Earthquakes.
26. Name the major types of rocks and describe Sedimentary
rocks.
27. Give a detail account of the geomorphic processes.
28. What is weathering? Explain the types of weathering.
29. Describe the pressure belts of the globe with a neat diagram.
30. Give an account of topography of the ocean floor.
31. Name the physical divisions of India and explain the coastal
plains.
32. Explain the North Indian Rivers of India.
33. Write briefly about the types of soils found in India.
34. Explain the major types of forests of India.
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IV Answer any one of the following. 10x1=10

35. Explain the important types of Rocks with suitable examples.
36. Describe the work of river with suitable diagrams.
V (A) Answer any five of the following in a word or a

sentence each. 1x5=5
37. What is Cartography?
38. Define Map.
39. What is Scale?
40. What is Index?
41. Draw the Geographical symbol of Sea Port.
42. Give an example for small scale map.
(B) Identify the latitudes and longitudes for the

given places in the map of Karnataka. 1x5=5
* Latitude and Longitude map of Karnataka must be given.
43. Mysore
44. Tumkur
45. Mangalore
46. Haveri
47. Bidar
(C) Draw diagrams to any two of the following. 2x2=4

48. Pressure belts of the globe
49. Orographic rainfall
50. Draw any two Geographical symbols
(D) Draw the outline map of India, mark and

name the following.
51. Outline Map of India 2
52. Southwest and Northeast monsoon winds 2
53. Nokrek and Agasthyamalai biosphere reserves 2
187
KARNATAKA
NOTES
NOTES
NOTES
NOTES

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Government of Karnataka

DEPARTMENT OF PRE-UNIVERSITY EDUCATION

We at the Department of Pre-university Education,

The course contents in this book are designed with

We wish you well on your journey and look forward to

With best wishes,

13. 02. 2013 K. R. Manjunath

Dr. B.N. Shivalingappa

Prof. L. Shaheen Safiha Khanum

CHAPTER 2 THE EARTH (10 hrs) 6

CHAPTER 3 INTERIOR OF THE EARTH (14 hrs) 24

CHAPTER 4 LANDFORMS (12 hrs) 45

CHAPTER 5 ATMOSPHERE (16 hrs) 59

CHAPTER 7 BIOSPHERE (4 hrs) 94

PART-B : PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT OF INDIA

CHAPTER 9 PHYSIOGRAPHY (14 hrs) 106

CHAPTER 10 CLIMATE, SOIL AND FOREST (14 hrs) 138

CHAPTER 11 NATURAL HAZARDS AND DISASTERS (6 hrs) 159

Fundamentals of Physical Geography 1

objectives of the present study is to understand the interaction of the vast

1.2 GEOGRAPHY AS AN INTEGRATING DISCIPLINE

Fig. 1.1 Geography and its relation with other subjects

2 Fundamentals of Physical Geography

Geography also has interface with Social Sciences like History,

1.3 BRANCHES OF GEOGRAPHY

Fundamentals of Physical Geography 3

Human Geography: It deals with man and his activities, particularly

Physical Geography emphasizes spatial relationships with the

IMPORTANT TERMS .....

I Answer the following in a word or a sentence each.

II Answer the following in two or three sentences each.

III Answer the following.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES .....

Fundamentals of Physical Geography 5

2.2 SHAPE AND SIZE OF THE EARTH

The shape of the Earth was a matter of

controversy for a longer period. With the latest

(1643-1727) asserted that the Earth was not a Equatorial Diameter

is called 'Oblate spheroid' or later named as

'Geoid'. Recent pictures of the Earth taken from

6 Fundamentals of Physical Geography

1. Heavenly bodies appear to be

2. The Lunar Eclipse: The lunar

Fundamentals of Physical Geography 7

5. The Bed Ford level experiment:

SIZE OF THE EARTH

40,006 km. In the same way the Equatorial

due to Oblate spheroid or Geoid shape of the

Fundamentals of Physical Geography 9

Northern hemisphere is covered with more land than water. In this

Fig. 2.10 World Physical

The arrangement of land and water bodies on the Earth is called

Antipodes: Two places situated geometrically on opposite sides of

10 Fundamentals of Physical Geography

2.3 MOVEMENTS OF THE EARTH: ROTATION AND REVOLUTION

Fundamentals of Physical Geography 11

ROTATION OF THE EARTH

12 Fundamentals of Physical Geography

Deflection of winds: Rotation of the