c. Temperate Oceanic Climate
This climate is said to be very suitable for human Oceanic Climate
settlement. This region gets rainfall throughout the
year because of the influence of the ocean. Westerly
wind and cyclones cause rainfall in this region.
This type of climate is also called the St. Lawrence
climate because it is experienced all around the
St. Lawrence river. This region has short, warm
and wet summer and severely long dry winter.
Therefore, this region is not suitable for agriculture.
Location and Areas
This type of climate is found from 450 to 600 latitudes in the northern hemisphere and 400 to
500 latitudes in the southern hemisphere in the western sides of the continents. This climate
is found in western Europe, Eastern Canada, Chile, Tasmania Island and New Zealand,
Northern Korea and Japan.
Characteristics
"" There are two seasons: summer and winter.
"" This region experiences rainfall throughout the year.
"" It has short, warm and wet summer and long, severe and dry winters.
"" Summer average temperature varies from 20° C to 25° C. and winter temperature
goes below freezing point.
"" The average annual rainfall ranges from 75 cm to 150 cm. Temperature, oceanic
cyclones and western winds cause rainfall here.
Vegetation and Wildlife
"" Mixed type of vegetation is found in this region.
"" Deciduous forests are found in the plain areas whereas coniferous forests are found
in the hills.
"" The evergreen coniferous trees like spruce, fir, larch, pine and deciduous trees like
maple, oak, ash chestnut and elms are found in extreme southeast. This climatic
region is suitable for growing fruits like pear plum, apple, peach and oranges.
"" Fur bearing animals like bears, foxes, beavers, skunks, squirrels, etc. are found in this region.
d. Temperate Monsoon Region
This type of climate is also called China Type Temperate Monsoon Region
because it is found in the eastern part of China.
This type of climate is found in the eastern sides of
the continents. This region receives rainfall in the
summer season because of the monsoon wind. The
Social Studies Book 10 201
type of vegetation varies here as per the variation in the amount of rainfall. It is suitable for
agriculture. The trees that are useful for silk farming are found here.
This region receives adequate rainfall. No prolonged drought is experienced here. The climate
is suitable for the cultivation of various types of cash crops, food crops and vegetables. Though
the summer season is the busiest season for farming, it is done throughout the year. The hills
here are terraced and there is well management of irrigation facility. Therefore, agriculture is
one of the best economic activities of this region.
Location and Areas
This climate is found from 300 to 450 latitudes in the northern hemisphere and 300 to 400
latitudes in the southern hemisphere in the eastern sides of the continents. It is abundant in
north and central China, southern Japan, Korea, south-east USA, south Brazil, north
Argentina, New South Wales and Queens land in Australia.
Characteristics
"" It has warm moist summer and cool dry winter. The average summer temperature
ranges from 21°C to 27° C and winter temperature ranges from 5° to 12° C.
"" It receives rainfall in summer season. The amount of rainfall ranges from 75 cm to
125 cm. It does not rain in winter here.
Vegetation and Wildlife
"" Mixed type of natural vegetation is found in this region.
"" The type of vegetation here varies with the variation in the amount of rainfall.
"" Most of the trees found here have commercial values for timber and other purposes.
"" Areas receiving heavy rainfall have luxuriant evergreen vegetation,areas receiving
moderate rainfall have deciduous forest, and highlands and mountains have
coniferous forest. Different species of birds and animals are found in this climatic
region.
"" Bear, beaver, fox, squirrel, deer, rat, wolf, bald eagle, nightingale, cardinal and hawk,
etc. are the common animals and birds found in this climatic region.
Word Meaning
• temperate : having mild and moderate climate, not extreme
• husbandry : management and care of farm animals
• luxuriant : abundant or lush in growth
• paddy : rice plant
• coarse : rough, not smooth
• adequate : sufficient, plenty
• prolonged : expanded
202 Social Studies Book 10
Points to Remember:
"" Temperate Zone is neither too cold nor too hot.
"" Temperate Zone has the Mediterranean, Temperate Grassland, Temperate Oceanic and
Temperature Monsoon climates.
"" Mediterranean Climate region is called the garden of the world.
"" Temperate Grassland Region is occupied by thick grasslands and is known as the
Granaries of the world.
"" Temperate Oceanic Climate is very suitable for human settlement.
"" Temperate Oceanic Climate has deciduous forests and evergreen coniferous forests.
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. Write two characteristics of temperate climate.
b. Name two countries having Mediterranean Climate.
c. Why is the Mediterranean Region called the ‘Garden of the World’?
d. Why is the Prairies called the ‘Granary of the World’?
e. Name some birds found in Temperate Grasslands.
f. What is the main characteristic of Temperate Oceanic Climate?
g. Name the countries having Temperate Monsoon Climate.
h. Which climatic region is suitable for silk farming?
2. Short answer questions
a. Write down any four characteristics of the Mediterranean Climate.
b. List out any four major difference between the Mediterranean Climate and
Equatorial Climate.
c. Which climate do you choose between the Mediterranean and the Tropical
Monsoon, and why?
d. What are the major differences between the Temperate Grassland and the
Tropical Grassland?
e. Describe the features of the Temperate Grassland Climate.
f. Describe the vegetation and wildlife found in the Temperate Grassland Region.
g. Describe the characteristics of the Temperate Monsoon Climate.
h. Describe vegetation and wild life found in the Temperate Monsoon Climate.
i. How does the Temperate Monsoon Climate differ from the Tropical Monsoon
Climate?
j. In the outline map of the world, show the climatic regions you have learnt.
Social Studies Book 10 203
5 Life in Temperate Zone
Lesson
Temperate zone has the most suitable climatic condition for human settlement. This region is
the most populated region. The most developed and advanced places of North America, Asia
and Europe lie in this climatic zone. This region has a good development of infrastructures.
Hence, the life of the people has been easy and convenient here. Moreover, the largest
industrialized cities of the world like Sanghai of China, Tokyo of Japan, Seoul of Korea,
London of Britain and Chicago of the USA lie in this region. Similarly, the densely populated
cities of the world like New York, Beijing, Hongkong, Washington, Paris, etc. are located here.
This region has been made prosperous because of the construction of the towering buildings,
big bridges, transportation facilities and recreational centers. Furthermore, this region has
scaled the peak of commercial prosperity. The store house of the world, the Prairies of North
America and Steppes of Eurasia are good for agriculture. These places produce the largest
amount of wheat in the world. Silk farming has been done commercially since ancient times
in the eastern part of Korea and China.
a. Mediterranean Climate
The Mediterranean climatic region supports about 5% of the world population. This region
is known as ‘Garden of the world’ because of ideal climatic condition for the cultivation of
citrus types of fruits. It produces 70% of the world’s exports of such fruits like lemon, orange,
lime, grapes, etc. Hence, the people here involve in horticulture. Besides growing such fruits,
people cultivate vegetables and flowers. This place is good for human settlement because
of the development of infrastructures and science and technology. Some people involve in
animal husbandry, oil refining, wine making, mining, manufacturing, trade and commerce
too. Moreover, fishing along the coastal areas are important occupations. Wine industries play
important role in the economy. This region produces more than 65% of the world’s total wine
produce. This region is popular for tourists as it has mild temperature. The world’s largest film
industry, ‘World’s Entertainment Capital’is located in Los Angeles.
b. Temperate Grassland Region
The traditional inhabitants of this region are the Kirghiz of the Central Asia, the Red Indians
of North America and the Hottentots of Veld, in Africa. The Kirghiz move from pasture to
pasture with their herds of camels, cows, sheep and goats. The Red Indians are hunters. They
live in tents called tepees made of branches and animal skins. The Hottentots are nomads.
They also rear animals and move from place to place taking their animals.
Agriculture is the main occupation of the people of this region. Wheat and maize are the most
important crops grown here. People use a large area of grassland for cultivation. The land is
204 Social Studies Book 10
very fertile and climate favours for wheat farming since the rainfall occurs during the wheat
growing period. Prairies of the USA and Canada are the largest producer and exporter of
wheat in the world.
Animal husbandry and agriculture are the main occupations of the people living in this region.
Richer pastures are used for cattle rearing and poorer pastures for sheep. Argentina is the
largest exporter of beef in the world. Cattle rearing is one of the most important occupations
of the people in the temperate grassland in Argentina. Similarly, Australia has a grassland
called Downs where sheep rearing is the main occupation of the people. Hence, this region
is the largest exporter of the wool in the world. In this way, agriculture, animal rearing are
predominant economic activities of this climatic belt.
c. Temperate Oceanic Climate
The living standard of the people in this region is advanced. Here, the people are involved
in mining and manufacturing. Besides, some of them are engaged in cultivation, lumbering,
hunting, fishing, animal husbandry, etc. The people have opportunities to work in industries
and involve in different service oriented sectors too. Hence, the rank of HDI and PCI of
the people living in this region is very high. Manchuria of China has one of the largest iron
and steel processing factories of the world. Though agriculture is a less important economic
activity because of long and severely cold winter, some people involve in agriculture and
cultivate potatoes, oats, barley, soyabeans, ground nuts, sesame and mulberry. Lumbering is
the most important economic activity in eastern Canada where evergreen coniferous forest,
taiga is intensively used for timber, paper and pulp industries. A minute marine organism on
which fishes feed, planktons are found in New Found Land and Japan. This is the reason for
which different varieties of fishes are found here. Hence, this region is suitable for fishing.
d. Temperate Monsoon Climate
The people living in this climatic region are involved in different economic activities. Hence,
their living standard is good and advanced. Agriculture is the main occupation of the people
living in this region. People can cultivate the crops in all seasons, however, summer is the
busiest time for cultivation. The suitable climatic condition, fertility of the soil, development
of irrigation facility, availability of advanced agricultural tools and technology have supported
for the production of various kinds of food crops, cash crops and vegetables here. China
is famous for paddy cultivation. Tea and mulberries are highly grown in China and Japan.
Similarly, cotton farming and cultivation of other food crops are famous in the USA. Besides
farming, animal rearing, fishing, dairy farming, mining, industries and tourism also provide
good work opportunities to the people of this region.
Social Studies Book 10 205
Word Meaning
• temperate : having mild and moderate climate, not extreme
• Eurasia : the combined landmass of the continents of Europe and
• recreational Asia in the northern part of the Earth, which are on the same
• planktons tectonic plate and do not have a sea between them
: done for enjoyment
• mining : are the diverse collection of organisms that live in the water
• horticulture column of large bodies of water and are unable to swim
against a current (singular plankter)
: extraction of valuable minerals or other geological materials
from the earth
: growing fruits, vegetables, and flowers
Points to Remember:
"" Temperate zone has the most suitable climatic condition for human settlement.
"" Temperate zone has the store house of the world known as the Prairies and Steppes.
"" The Mediterranean climatic region is known as ‘Garden of the world’ because of ideal
climatic condition for cultivation.
"" Wine industries in the Mediterranean region produce more than 65% of the world’s
total wine.
"" The traditional inhabitants are the Kirghiz (Central Asia), the Red Indians (North
America) and the Hottentots (Africa).
"" The Red Indians build tent houses called tepees from the branches and animal skins.
"" Prairies of the USA and Canada are the largest producer and exporter of wheat in the
world.
"" Pampas in Argentina are suitable for cattle rearing.
"" Sheep rearing in the Downs is the main occupation of the people in Australia.
"" People in Temperate Oceanic region has high living standard.
"" Lumbering is the most important economic activity in eastern Canada.
"" People in Temperate Monsoon Climate mostly depend on agriculture.
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Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. Which place is called the store house of the world?
b. Which place is known as the garden of the world?
c. Where is the world entertainment capital located?
d. Who are Khirgis, Red Indians, and Hottentots?
e. Why is Mediterranean Region one of the densely populated region?
f. Who are the natives of the Temperate Grasslands Regions?
g. What is Prairies popularly known for?
h. Why are the living standard of people living in Temperate Grasslands Regions
high?
i. Why are lumbering industries popular in Canada?
j. What are 'Planktons'? Where are they found?
k. Name the popular crops grown in Temperate Oceanic Climate.
l. Which country is the largest exporter of beef?
2. Short answer questions
a. If you were the inhabitant of Mediterranean region how would be your economic
life? Explain.
b. How do Kirghiz and Hottentots of temperate grassland region live?
c. Describe the economic activities found in the Temperate Oceanic Climate.
d. Temperate monsoon region is more developed. Why?
e. Discuss the interrelationship of climate with economic activities of mediterranean
climate with the examples.
f. Why is Japan more developed in Asia?
Social Studies Book 10 207
6 Polar Zone
Lesson
The places from 60° to 90° latitudes in both the hemispheres are cold regions. These regions
are polar zones. This region receives most slanting sun rays and remains extremely cold
throughout the year. When the northern region gets sun rays, southern region is entirely
dark and when the southern region gets sun rays, northern region is entirely dark. Lakes, seas
and water body remain frozen almost throughout the year. Similarly, Antarctica, Greenland,
Iceland, etc. remain covered by thick mass of snow. This region is called the desert of snow.
There is no vegetation region. Mosses and lichen are found in some places. Polar zone can be
classified into three regions according to the location and climate of the places.
a. Siberian Climatic Region
Location and Areas
This region extends from 55° to 70° latitudes in the Taiga Forests in Canada
northern hemisphere of the earth. This climate is
mainly found in Siberia, Alaska, northern part of
Canada, Sweden, Finland and northern Russia.
This region is suitable for lumbering.
Characteristics
"" The summer season lasts here for four months whereas the winter season for eight
months.
"" July is the hottest month when the temperature rises up to 19° C.
"" The winter temperature falls below freezing point. Convectional and cyclonic type
of rainfall is received mainly in summer.
"" Winter precipitation occurs in the form of heavy snowfall.
"" This region is known for the taiga forest. The trees like pine, spruce and firs are
commonly found here.
Vegetation and Wildlife
"" The ground freezes here, so the short root plants cannot grow here. But taiga forest
is found.
"" The trees like pine, spruce and firs are commonly found here.
"" Taiga forests are cone shaped with short branches and needle like leaves.
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"" Similarly, wild life is not found in abundance due to extreme cold and shortage of
food.
"" The animals having thick fur are found in this region.
"" Some common animals of this region are musk deer, mink, elk, caribou, moose, and
grizzly bear.
"" The forests found here are called taiga.
b. Tundra Climatic Region
Tundra is almost a barren land with a very less Tundra zone
rainfall. Hence, it is basically a desert, and unlike
the hot desert, it is cold. The other features like less
precipitation, vegetation and population etc are
the same. Tundra is confined only to the northern
hemisphere.
Location and Areas
This region extends from 70° to 90° latitudes in the northern hemisphere of the earth. Northern
Alaska, northern coastal belt of Canada, northern Scandinavia, southern Greenland, Iceland
and northern Siberia have this type of climate. In summer the temperature of this region
ranges from -2° C to -5° C and in winter it ranges from -35° C to -45° C.
Characteristics
"" This region has extremely cold climate.
"" Summers are cool and short, 2 to 3 months, with almost 24 hrs sunlight. But winters
are severely cold and long, 9 to 10 months, with continuous darkness in winter.
"" It receives very scanty rainfall in summer and snowfall in winter.
Vegetation and Wildlife
"" Moses and lichens, which can withstand freezing temperature, grow here.
"" Southern borders of Tundra have dwarf trees like birch, juniper, berry bearing
shrubs and willows.
"" Wild life is not found in abundance due to extreme cold and shortage of food.
"" Animals in this climatic region have thick layer of fat and thick furs to survive long
cold winters. Penguin can live here because of its thick feathers. Their wings serve
as flippers as they “fly” through the water in search of prey such as squid and fish.
"" Seal fish has thick layer of fat beneath its skin. The fat keeps cold out and warmth in.
Polar bears, musk and wolves are found in this region.
Social Studies Book 10 209
Native People in Various Climatic Regions
Climatic Region No. Native People
Equatorial Climate a. Pygmies of Congo/Red Indians of
Amazon Valley-Masai in Kenya,
Tanzania
Tropical Grassland Climate b. Hausa in Nigeria
Tropical Desert Climate c. Bushman of Kalahari Desert /
Bedouins of Arabian Desert
Temperate Grassland d. Kirghiz of Asia/ Hottentots of Africa
Tundra e. Eskimas of Greenland and Alaska /
Lapps of Scandinavia /
Inuits of Greenland and Northern
Canada
c. Antarctic Climatic Region
Like tundra region, this region is also barren with a very less Antarctic Region
rainfall. Hence, it is basically a desert, and unlike the hot
desert, it is cold. The other features like less precipitation,
vegetation, and population, etc. are the same. This climatic
region is confined only to southern hemisphere. While
this region does not have permanent residents, it is a busy
outpost for a variety of research scientists who come from
different countries. The number of scientists conducting
research varies throughout the year, from about 1,000 in
winter to around 5,000 in summer.
Location
This region extends from 66° to 90° latitudes in the southern hemisphere of the earth. It is
found in the continent of Antarctica where the temperature drops below minus forty five
degrees Celsius.
Characteristics
"" This region extends from 66° to 90° latitudes in the southern hemisphere of the earth.
"" This region is extremely cold and dry.
"" The average annual temperature is less than -45° C.
"" The whole continent is covered by snow and ice.
"" The mean annual precipitation is very low.
"" The climate is cold throughout the year.
210 Social Studies Book 10
Vegetation and wildlife
"" Moses and lichens, which can withstand freezing temperature, grow here.
"" Wild life is not found in abundance due to extreme cold and shortage of food.
"" Animals in this region have thick layer of fat and dense furs to survive long cold winter.
"" In spite of having no trees more than 100 million birds nest and breed there.
Word Meaning
• slanting : bent, not direct or straight
• frozen : turned into hard ice
• research : investigate
• withstand : endure, survive, tolerate
Points to Remember
"" The Polar zones covers mainly the Arctic Circle and Antarctica.
"" The Polar climate includes: Siberian, Tundra and Antarctic Climate.
"" Siberian climatic region lies in southern hemisphere.
"" Tundra climate exists only in southern hemisphere.
"" Tundra region has very low temperature, short summers and long cold winters.
"" Antarctica is unique among the continents for being almost totally covered by glacier
ice.
"" Antarctic Climatic Region is barren and not suitable for human settlement.
"" Antarctic Region is an important place for research and studies.
"" The glacier ice of Antarctica covers over 99% of the continent.
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. Why is it very cold in the Polar Zone? Write in one sentence.
b. There is no human settlement in Antarctica. Why?
c. Where does Siberian climatic region fall?
d. Why does the Tundra Region get snowfall instead of rainfall?
e. Why is there long winter and short summer in Tundra Region?
f. Name some vegetation found in Siberian Climatic region.
g. Antarctic Climatic region is mostly visited by scientists and researchers. Why?
2. Short answer questions
a. Write about the climatic features and vegetation of the Siberian Climate.
b. How can penguin and seal fish live in cold climate region.
c. Describe the natural vegetation and wildlife of the Tundra Climatic Region.
Social Studies Book 10 211
7Lesson Activities in Polar region
The natives of Taiga region live nomadic life. Their main
occupation is hunting, fishing and trapping of animals for fur,
skin and flesh. In fact, some of the world’s finest fur comes
from the Eurasia taiga. They use canoes in summer and
sledge in winter to move from one place to another. These
days, lumbering has become one of the most important
activities in the taiga. Some of the taiga regions are best
known for large mineral deposits. They use traditional
weapons, arrows, knives and ropes for hunting. They make Hunting
tents and clothes from the skin of polar bear and seal fish.
Similarly, they make clothes from the fur and feathers of birds and animals.
Eskimos of Greenland and Alaska, the Lapp of
Scandinavia and Inuits of Greenland and northern
Canada are the natives of this climatic region. Most
of them have nomadic life and live by hunting and
fishing. Reindeer or caribou are used for milk, meat,
skin and transport. Polar dogs are used for hunting
and as means of transportation. Fishes are caught
through holes cut in the frozen sea. They live in two Igloos
types of shelter: tupiks and igloos. They live in the
igloos in winter season and tupiks in summer season. An igloo is a house of Inuits made of ice
blocks. Similarly, a tupik is a tent made of driftwood, bones of whales and skins of animals.
Discovery of important minerals like gold, silver, uranium and petroleum in Alaska and
copper, nickel and coal in eastern Siberia has brought people from outside into this region.
Due to these reasons, life of the people has been changing rapidly. Russia and Canada are
trying their best to develop their territories lying in the polar region. Some people these days
are employed in mining and lumbering and live in wooden houses. Many countries have
established scientific research centres in Antarctica.
212 Social Studies Book 10
There is a vast coniferous forest in Canada and Russia
called Taiga. This forest is very good from the economic
perspective. It is soft wood forest that is useful for making
furniture. Moreover, it is good for making paper because
these trees give pulp that is the raw material used to make
paper. Inuits people
There is no human settlement in the Antarctic region
because of extremely cold climate and it is covered with
snow throughout the year. However, many developed countries have set up big research
centers with huge investment here. There is no human activity in this region except those who
go there for research. Though this region is extremely cold and dark, a kind of bird Penguin is
found only in this region. These birds eat fish from the ocean. They live in group.
Word Meaning
• trapping : catching
• canoes : a light boat
• employed : engaged
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. Who are Eskimos, Lappps and Inuits?
b. What are tupiks and igloos?
c. Why do the people go to polar regions?
d. What is taiga?
e. Why is the life of the people in Alaska and Siberia changing fast? Write in a sentence.
2. Short answer questions
a. How do the people in the polar region travel?
b. Name some weapons used by the people in this regions.
c. What is the main occupation of the people living in the polar regions?
d. Name some minerals found in this regions.
e. Why do people have nomadic life style in polar climate region?
f. Describe the life style and economic activities of the people of the Tundra Region.
Social Studies Book 10 213
8Lesson Plants and Animals in the
World
Interrelation among Climate, Vegetation and Animals
We see different types of vegetation when we
go to different climatic regions. It means the
climate has direct relation with natural
vegetation. Vegetation is the product of
climate. Vegetations must adapt the climate
of the places for their survival. The vegetations
that can adjust themselves in the particular Umbrella shaped tree
climate and modify their features as per the
climate of the place can exist, otherwise they
vanish. It is the reason that we see the plants having different shape, size and other features.
Two chief requirements for the proper growth of the plants are enough rainfall and suitable
temperatures. If these requirements are fulfilled, the trees grow bigger and taller. But they
can't grow well in the dry regions.
We can see much difference in vegetations of different places. The
equatorial region having hot and wet climate has evergreen thick
tropical forest, whereas there are moss and lichen in severely cold
tundra region. Similarly, there is less vegetation where it rains little.
Desert places have no vegetation or have only small thorny bushes.
Most of the desert plants have thorns or thick waxy leaves so that
they can store water and prevent its loss through evaporation. In
cold places, we find plants with cone shaped and needlelike leaves
like pine, fir and spruce. Snow can’t remain longer on such leaves
Pine tree and this enables them to survive even in freezing temperature.
Windy region, Savanna of Africa has umbrella shaped plants.
Similarly, the types of animals found in different climatic zones also differ from place to place.
The animals found in polar region can adopt the climate of the place, so they have thick fur
and thick layer of fat beneath the skin so that they can survive in the cold climate. On the other
hand, animals found in the hot climatic regions have thin and short hair and fur. Therefore,
they can easily survive in the hot region.
214 Social Studies Book 10
Human Life
We human beings live and interact with the environment. Our day to day activities and life
styles are influenced by the climatic condition of the place we live in. The way we eat, dress
up, live and do various activities largely depend on climate. That’s why cultures, customs,
traditions, costumes and festivals differ from place to place. People living in hot and humid
places wear thin cotton clothes and eat less fatty food, whereas it is the opposite in cold
places. The climatic condition determines the production that largely influences the life style,
food habit, facilities and level of civilization of inhabitants. For instance, Eskimos living in
extreme cold places and Pygmies living in lower forested areas are different from each other.
Pygmies eat fruits, nuts, yam, etc. collected from the rain forest whereas the Eskimos mainly
eat reindeer and seal fish caught in the area they live in. You can easily imagine how their lives
is different from the people of hot desert regions.
In Nepal too, terai region is very hot. People there wear thin and light clothes. They generally
eat rice, vegetable and roti. On the other hand, people in Himalayan region wear thick woollen
clothes to keep themselves warm. They generally eat dhindo and potato. Hence, we can say
that climatic condition of the place has a direct influence on the life and culture of the people.
Types of Vegetation
a. Evergreen Forest
This type of forest is found in the places having hot and wet climatic condition. This forest
requires enough rainfall and high temperature. So, evergreen forest is found in those places that
receive more than 200 cm annual rainfall. This forest has very big trees with fewer branches. It
is hard wood forest. Some important trees found in this forest are rubber, teak, sal, mahogany,
rose wood and ebony. Very big animals like elephant, tiger, bear, rhino, anaconda etc. are
found here. Similarly, python, crocodile, peacock and crane also live in this forest.
b. Deciduous Forest
The regions that are cold in winter and hot in summer have deciduous forest. This forest is
found in the regions that receive the average annual rainfall 100 cm. The trees found in this
region shed their leaves at once in winter season because of the extremely cold climate. The
new leaves appear in these trees in summer season. Oak, beach, maple, birch, magnolia, etc.
are the main trees found in this region. Leopard, monkey, jackal, etc. are the main animals of
this forest and crow, heron, crane, sparrow, pangolin, etc. are the chief birds found hare.
c. Coniferous Forest
The places that receive 50 cm average annual rainfall and have cold climatic condition have
coniferous forest. Taiga found in Canada, Norway and Russia also comes under this type of
forest. The cone shaped and soft wood trees like pine, fir and spruce are found in this region.
Main animals found in this forest area are musk deer, polar beer, snow leopard, etc.
Social Studies Book 10 215
Word Meaning
• product : as a result of
• adapt : adjust
• requirements : necessity
• modify : change
• vanish : disappear
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. What are the two chief requirements for the proper growth of the plants?
b. Why do deserts have scanty vegetation?
c. How do the animals in polar region adopt the climate of their place?
d. How do the animals in the hot climatic regions survive?
e. What clothes do people in terai region wear? Why?
f. Name some important trees found in Evergreen forest.
g. How are climate and natural vegetation interdependent?
h. Why do the windy regions have umbrella shaped plants?
i. Why do the trees in Deciduous forest shed their leaves in winter season?
j. Why does the Coniferous forest have cone shaped trees?
2. Short answer questions
a. Compare Evergreen forest, Deciduous forest and Coniferous forest.
b. How are Climate, Vegetation and Animals life interrelated? Explain.
c. Prepare a short speech on "Vegetations must adapt the climate of the places for
their survival."
d. Complete the following chart with the animals and plants found in the given
regions.
Types of forests Animals Plants
Evergreen forest
Deciduous forest
Coniferous forest
216 Social Studies Book 10
Lesson 9 Effects of Climate and
Topography on Human Life
Laxmi and Shraddha study together in grade ten. They just finished reading about the different
types of climate found in the world. Today, their social studies teacher is absent. So they are
discussing about the effects of climate and topography on human life in the world.
Laxmi : It is really interesting to read the geography of the world, isn’t it?
Shraddha : Of course. I liked it. It is really interesting to know about the life of the people
living in different parts of the world.
Laxmi : How do climate and topography influence people’s life?
Sharddha : Yes. Our teacher has told us that climatic condition and topography of the place
directly influence the human life. The climate and topographical condition
influence people’s food, clothing, state of civilization, profession, religion,
culture, development of the place and economic activities.
Laxmi : Could you please make me clear about the effect of these factors in the life of
people in Nepal?
Shraddha : As you know, the Himalayan region and hilly regions of Nepal have mountainous
topography. It is difficult to carry out development works in these regions. On
the other hand, people in terai can enjoy more facilities. Similarly, look what
they wear. Can the Tharus of terai live wearing Bakhhu and Docha of Bhote
and Sherpa living in Himalayan region of Nepal? No, it is because they wear the
clothes as per the climate of the place.
Laxmi : Is there any difference in term of their nature, behavior and activity?
Shraddha : Certainly. The studies have proved that the residents of cold regions are laborious
and can do adventurous works. But the people living in the hot region are lazy.
It is said that the people who live in the plain land and the place having good
climatic condition do not need to learn to face challenges, but those who are in
extreme climatic region and the places having difficult topography are grown
up and live facing such challenges. It makes them laborious. It also enables
them to adapt to the harsh climate and physical topography of their place.
Laxmi : Is there any relation between climate and topography with people’s culture and
religion?
Shraddha : Yes, our teacher had told about it yesterday. Were you absent yesterday?
Laxmi : Yes. Could you please help me with this?
Social Studies Book 10 217
Shraddha : The culture and religious activities of Hindus, Buddhists and Islam are
determined by the climatic condition and topographical diversity. For example:
Islam religion was originated in the desert of Saudi Arabia. Hence, the use of
sand is mandatory while constructing mosque. Similarly, the followers of this
religion wear thin and loose clothes so as to protect themselves from the heat
of the sun. Since this religion originated in hot desert area, the Islam wear white
plain clothes that easily reflects the sunlight.
Laxmi : Most Islam people keep their head bald and keep their beard long. Is there any
such reason behind this?
Shraddha : Listen! Bald head keeps the head cool through sweating. They wear a net like
cap on the head too. And long beard helps them protect their skin of the face.
The more interesting thing is since they have been troubled by the sun heat,
they are never positive towards the sun. The Islam’s do not respect the sun. It
can be proved if we study their month long Ramjan festival.
Laxmi : Do the Islam worship the sun or moon?
Shraddha : The moon provides us coolness. The people in Arabian region feel comfortable
at night. So the followers of Islam worship the moon and have kept it in their
flag too.
Laxmi : Thank you, Shraddha. We will discuss about the relation of other religion and
religious people with the climate and topography of the place tomorrow. The
bell rang. Let’s go out.
Both of the girls go out.
The teacher makes three students give their opinion about the people and climate.
Afjal Says:
The Inuits living in the Russia and Canada are backward in term of human development.
Their daily activities include hunting with traditional weapons, making clothes and tents
from the skin of seal fish and collecting wild herbs and roots of plants.
Nita Says:
The people living in the temperate regions of Europe, North America and Asia are educated,
civilized and progressive compared to the people of other regions. Most of the scientific
research works have been made in these places. This region has made a good deal of progress
in the field of economic and physical development.
Sunil Says:
Red Indians living in the Amazon Basin and Pygmies of Guinea still live a primitive life.
Since they cannot use modern facilities and tools and equipment, they hunt animals with
arrows. They live a nomadic life.
218 Social Studies Book 10
Word Meaning
• bald : having no hair on one's head
• diversity : variation
• topography : land forms
• mandatory : compulsory
• progressive : changing, developing
• Guinea : is a country on the West coast of Africa
• Ramjan : a month long fasting festival of the Muslims to commemorate the
first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad according to Islamic
belief.
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. What do the people in the Himalayan region of Nepal wear?
b. Who can do adventurous works?
c. How does topography influence the climate of a place? Write in sentence.
d. Why do Islam use sand to construct mosque?
e. Who keep their beard long?
f. Who are pygmies?
g. Why do the Islam worship the moon?
h. Why do the people in mountain region keep their hair long?
2. Short answer questions
a. What are Laxmi and Shraddha discussing about?
b. How do climate and topography influence people’s life?
c. How have the climate affected the life of people in Nepal?
d. Why do the Tharus don't wear Bakhhu and Docha? Wy is their life different from
Sherpa and Northern Nepal?
e. How are people's nature, behavior and activity affected by the climate and
topography of their places?
f. How do climate and topography relate to people’s culture and religion?
Social Studies Book 10 219
10 North America
Lesson
Introduction
The continent of North North America
America extends from 8° N
to 82° N latitudes and 52° W
to 172° W longitudes. It lies
in the Western Hemisphere.
The 100° W longitude divides
this continent into two almost
equal halves. North America
is the third largest of the seven
continents. It occupies about
16 % of the total earth land. It is
bordered by the Atlantic Ocean
to the east, the Pacific Ocean to
the west, the Arctic Ocean from
the North and Caribbean Sea
from the South. It is separated
from South America by the
Panama Canal and by the Bering
Strait from Asia. In the far
north, the continent stretches
halfway around the world, from
Greenland to the Aleutians.
North America is dominated by its three largest countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United
States. Central America and the Caribbean are usually considered part of North America,
but they have their own section here. Although Columbus is given much credit as having
discovered America, there were plenty of people already living in North America prior to
the Europeans' arrival. In the 1600's, the Europeans quickly colonized and took over much of
North America. The most populous country in North America, the United States, was formed
in the late 1700's and became a "melting pot" of people and cultures from around the world.
220 Social Studies Book 10
Physical Features
North America has varied landforms ranging from mountains and coastal plains. The coastal
areas have many bays, gulfs and seas. The Hudson Bay in the North and the Gulf of Mexico
in the South are large openings to the sea. North America can be divided into five physical
regions. They are explained below.
a. Western Region
There is a long mountain range in the western part of this continent extending from Alaska
Range in the north to Panama in the south. It is called the Rocky Mountain Range. It is about
6400 km long. The Rocky Mountains are part of a system of parallel mountain ranges known
as the Cordilleras. Volcanic mountain ranges in Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica,
and Panama are also considered part of the Cordilleras. It is volcanic and earthquake prone
region. It also contributes to the rich, fertile soils of the region. McKinley, Logan, Rainier,
Whitney and Albert are the chief and tall mountain peaks of this region.
There are some young mountains in the Cascade Range of the U.S. states of Washington,
Oregon, and California. Some peaks began to form only about a million years ago. There
is temperate rain forest in these mountains. However, the cool winters and mild summers
help in the growth of mosses, ferns, fungi, and lichens. The temperate rain forest supports a
wide variety of life. Sitka spruce, western red cedar and Douglas fir are found in this region.
Black bears, Roosevelt elk and marmots are indigenous animal species found here. Sonoran,
Mojave, and Chihuahua are major desert regions in the American southwest and northern
Mexico. They are in the rain shadow area of the mountains. It has deep canyons, such as
Copper Canyon in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, and Grand Canyon in Colorado. Death
valley is also located here.
b. Great Plains
The Great Plains lie in the middle part of the continent extending from the Gulf of Mexico
in the South to the Hudson Bay in the north. This region has fertile soil and is good for
cultivation. This region is also called the “Breadbasket of North America,” It feeds a large
part of the world. The Great Plains are also home to rich deposits of oil and natural gas. There
is big temperate grassland called prairies in this region. Because of the extreme weather the
big trees do not grow in this region. The grasses found here are 2 meters tall to only 20 or 25
centimeters in short.
c. Canadian Shield
The Canadian Shield is a geologically stable area of rock that occupies most of the northeastern
quadrant, including Greenland. It is a raised but relatively flat plateau. It extends over eastern,
central, and northwestern Canada. The Canadian Shield is characterized by a rocky landscape
pocked by an astounding number of lakes. The tundra, stretching along the northern borders
of Alaska and Canada to the Hudson Bay area, is a biome common to the Canadian Shield.
Tundra is where low temperatures and precipitation levels hinder tree growth. The tundra is
Social Studies Book 10 221
characterized by permafrost—soil that is frozen for two or more years. This permafrost keeps
moisture near the soil’s surface, promoting vegetation growth even in the extreme, Arctic
conditions of the tundra.
d. Eastern Region
This region includes the
Appalachian Mountains and
the Atlantic coastal plain. The
Appalachian Mountain Range
rises near the east coast of the
United States and Canada. This
region has the large deposits of
coal and other minerals. The
Atlantic coastal plain extends
from river, marsh, and wetland Nigara Falls
regions east of the mountains towards the sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast. There are many
lakes from Appalachian Mountain Range to near Alaska. Great Bear Lake, Great Slag Lake,
Lake Winnipeg, Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, Lake
Jri, etc. are the major lakes of this region. Between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario lies the most
magnificent and largest water falls, the Niagara Falls.
e. Caribbean Region
The Caribbean Region includes more than Coral Reef
7,000 islands, islets, reefs, and cays. The
region’s islands and smaller islets are varied
in their topography. Some have relatively
flat and sandy terrain while others are
rugged, mountainous, and volcanic. The
coral reefs and cays of the Caribbean Sea
are among the most spectacular biomass in
North America. Some coral reefs surround
islands, such as the Bahamas, Antigua, and
Barbados.
Rivers and Lakes
There are plenty of lakes from the Appalachian Mountain Range to near Alaska. Some of the
major lakes situated in North America are Great Bear, Great Slave, Lake Superior, Lake Erie,
Lake Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Nipigon, Winnipeg etc. The main rivers are the St. Lawrence
in the east, the Mississippi in the middle, and Colorado in the west.
The major bays of North America are Hudson Bay in mid-north Canada, the Gulf of Mexico
in the southeast of the United States, and California in the west.
222 Social Studies Book 10
Climate and Vegetation
The climate in North America is typically cool and humid. The rainy zone disproportionately
extends in America, and as the continent stretches over the climatic zones, vegetation is
remarkably distinctive. Great indentations of the shoreline make limited conditions prevail
in much of its interior. The area along the west coast tends to be milder and wetter than other
areas with the same latitude.
There are various plant life distributions in North America. Plant life in the Arctic includes
grasses, mosses, and Arctic willows. Coniferous trees,including spruces, pines, hemlocks,
and firs, are indigenous to the Canadian and Western U.S. mountain ranges as far south
as San Francisco. Among these are giant sequoias, redwoods, great firs, and sugar pines. Sugar
pines are generally confined to the northwestern area of the United States. The central region
of the country has hardwoods. Southern states grow extensive yellow pines. In addition,
mahogany, logwood, and lignumvitae - all tropical in nature are grown here. The southwest
has desert plants, including yucci and cacti. The cultivated native plants of North America
are tobacco, maize, potato, vanilla, melons, cacao, gourds, indigo plant, and bean.
Word Meaning
• melting pot : many different types of people existing together
• bays : an area of the coast where the land curves inwards
• canyon : a long deep valley with very steep sides made of rock
• astounding : extremely surprising or shocking
• indentations : having a 'V' shaped edge
Points to Remember:
"" North America is the third largest continent which occupies 1/6 of the earth’s total land
surface.
"" North America is divided almost into two equal halves by the 100° W longitude.
"" North America is separated from South America by the Panama Canal and from Asia
by the Bering Strait.
"" Niagara Falls lies between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.
"" The Rocky Mountains extends from Alaska in the North to Panama in the South.
"" Mt McKinley (6,194 m) is the highest peak in North America.
"" A biome is a community of plants and animals living together in a certain kind of climate.
"" The climate in North America is typically cool and humid.
"" There are various plant life distributions in North America.
Social Studies Book 10 223
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. Name the highest mountain peak in North America.
b. Name the longest river in North America.
c. Name the main rivers and lakes in North America.
d. Which part of North America is most fertile?
e. Write the geographical location of North America.
f. Name the important peninsulas of North America.
g. What is the largest mountain range in North America?
h. Which region is known as the 'Bread Basket of America'?
2. Short answer questions
a. Name the main vegetations found in North America.
b. Name the three largest countries that dominate the North America.
c. Why is the United States called the melting pot?
d. Name the five physical regions of North America and describe them in brief.
e. Describe the climate and vegetation of North America.
f. Compare the physical features of Canadian Shield with that of Caribbean Region.
3. Long answer questions
Draw the outline map of North America and insert the following.
Hudson Bay, Panama canal, Gulf of Mexico, Rocky Mountain, Mt. McKinley,
Caribbean sea, Great lakes, Lake Winni Peg, Niagara falls, Honduras, Death valley,
Chicago, Greenland, Cuba, Mississippi rive, Great salt lake, Atlantic Ocean, Alaska,
Canadian shield, San Franscisco, Haiti, New York, Tropic of Cancer, Pacific Ocean,
Area of Coniferous Forest
224 Social Studies Book 10
Lesson 11 Socio-Economic Activities
in North America
North America has been the star attraction among the world population. Many Europeans
migrated to this continent after Christopher Columbus discovered America in 1492. These
people dominated the indigenous nationalities of the place and established their rule. The
native people are the Red Indians. Majority of the people have European origin followed by
Africans and Asians. Eskimos live in the Northern part. Majority of the people are Christians
and the main language is English. A significant number of people speak French and Spanish.
The USA and Canada are economically well developed countries. They have made a great deal
of progress in the field of infrastructural development. Because of the availability of workforce
and maximum utilization of resources, the economic condition of North America is very
strong. Canada and The USA have occupied the most part of the continent of North America.
Hence, the study of these two countries represents the condition of the whole continent. The
per capita income of Canada is 43,248 US Dollar and per capita income of the USA is 55,836
US Dollar.
Canada
The majority of the people speak French and English in Canada. Besides, the people
who speak different languages have come to live in this place. Inuits are the indigenous
people of this country. They are nomads. The majority of the people in this country
are engaged in trade, commerce, industries and services. However, there are people
involved in agriculture, animal husbandry, lumbering, mining, industry, service and
fishery too. Canada is the second exporter of wheat in the world. Potato is produced in
the east and fruits are produced in the west of this country.
Canada gets a significant profit from forest resources. There are many industries based on
mines and minerals. This country is rich in the mines of iron, copper, nickel, gold and
platinum. The coal and petroleum are also found here in significant amount. In Canada,
forestry is a major industry in the provinces of Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia.
USA
There are many industries established in the USA. The industries include iron and
nickel industries, oil refining industries, animal based industries for the production of
meat, skin and dairy products. This country has made a great progress in the field of
technology. The industries are established to produce the parts of aeroplane, ship and
train. Huge investment has been made in the field of trade and commerce.
In the USA, people are engaged in commercial farming, vegetable production and fishing.
There is good availability of resources and modern infrastructures. Moreover, the country
has made a significant progress in the field of sports, art, education, literature, science and
technology.
Social Studies Book 10 225
Tourism industry is the next main economic activity of the USA. Spending holiday at the
weekend with great fun and pomp has been the tradition of the people these days. They
intend to enjoy the holiday with musical feast, family gathering and visiting new places. In the
United States, the timber industry occupies important place in the Pacific Northwest,
the Gulf States, and South Atlantic coastal plains.
Word Meaning
• provinces : areas, regions
• intend : to plan
• timber : wood prepared for use in building and carpentry
• pomp : magnificence
Points to Remember
"" North America has become a melting pot continent, where people from all over the
world are found.
"" Majority of the people in this continent are engaged in trade, commerce, industries
and services.
"" Canada is the second exporter of wheat in the world.
"" In the USA, people are engaged in commercial farming, vegetable production and fishing.
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. Who discovered North America and when?
b. Who are the natives of North America?
c. Which countries in North America are economically developed?
d. Write the per capita income of Canada and the US.
e. Which country is the second largest exporter of wool in the world?
f. What is the main occupation of the people in the USA?
g. What are the main occupations of the people in Canada?
h. Nepal has good diplomatic relation with the countries of North America. What
lesson should Nepal get from North American Countries? Write in a sentence.
2. Very short answer questions
a. North America is a rich continent. Explain.
b. Write about the socio-economic life of the people in Canada.
c. Compare the economic activities of Nepal with the USA.
226 Social Studies Book 10
12 South America
Lesson
South America is the fourth largest
continent in size and the fifth largest
in population. It occupies about 12
% or one eighth of total earth land.
This continent extends from 12°
North to 55° North latitudes and 35
° West to 82° West longitudes. It is
in the Western Hemisphere. More
than two-third of the continent
is in the tropical zone and bigger
portion lies in the Southern
Hemisphere. The geography of
South America contains many
diverse regions and climates.
South and North America are
sometimes considered a single
continent or supercontinent, while
constituent regions are infrequently
considered subcontinents.
Geopolitically and geographically, Map of South America
all of Panama is generally considered
a part of North America alone. It is surrounded by water from all around except for the narrow
Isthmus of Panama in the North-West. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean in the East, by the
Pacific Ocean in the West, by the Antarctic Ocean in the South, and by Caribbean Sea in the
North. It is separated from North America by the Panama Canal.
South America became attached to North America only recently with the formation of
the Isthmus of Panama some 3 million years ago, which resulted in the Great American
Interchange. The Andes, likewise a comparatively young and seismically restless mountain
range, run down the western edge of the continent. The land to the east of the northern Andes
is largely tropical rain forest and the vast Amazon River basin. The continent also contains
drier regions such as eastern Patagonia and the extremely arid Atacama Desert.
Social Studies Book 10 227
Physical Features
South America has varied landforms. The coastline of the continent is quite regular. The
largest river in term of volume of water in the world, Amazon lies in this continent. There
is the highest lake in the world, Lake Titicaca (2,812 m). The highest waterfalls, Angel Falls
(979 m) is in Venezuela.
South America can be divided into three physical regions.
a. The Andes Region
This region lies to the west of the continent. Andes Mountain Chain is the longest mountain
chain of the world, which lies in this region. It stretches Venezuela in the north to the southern tip
to the northernmost coast of South America. The range is about 8,850 kilometers long. There
are hundreds of peaks more than 4,500 meters tall. Many of them are volcanic mountains. Mt.
Aconcagua (6,962 meters) is the highest peak in this mountain range. Other tall mountains
of this region are Mt. Cotapaxi, Mt. Chimbarazo and Mt. Corupuna. The Bolivian Plateau lies
at the central part and the Pacific coast land which stretches in the western side of this region.
This region is an earthquake prone region.
At the Southern end, there is Tierra del Fuego (land of fire) island. The Southernmost tip
is called the Cape Horn. The strait between Tierra del Fuego and its southern tip is called
Magellan Strait. The altitude of the mountains decreases from North to South. Atacama
Desert also lies in this region. Atacama is considered the driest region in the world. The
average rainfall is about 1 mm (0.04 inches) a year, and some parts of the Atacama have never
had rain in recorded history.
The Patagonia region of Argentina and Chile consists of lower-elevation plateaus and rugged
glaciers. Similarly, Lake Titicaca, the largest fresh water and navigable lake, situated at the
highest altitude also lies here.
b. Central Lowland
The central lowland lies in between western mountain region and eastern highlands. It covers
almost half territory of South America. They are drained out by river Orinoco in the north,
river Amazon and its tributaries in the center and Parana-Paraguay River has formed a fertile
plain in the Pampas. It has provided irrigation facility to the Pampas Grassland for cultivation.
The Amazon River is the life force of the equally vast Amazon rain forest. It makes up about
half of the rain forest of the entire planet. This forest is called Selvas. The Orinoco River flows
north of the Amazon. It originates in the Guiana Highlands of northern Brazil and discharges
in the Atlantic Ocean in Venezuela. A vast tropical grassland region, known as the Llanos lies
228 Social Studies Book 10
in the Orinoco River basin. Swamp grasses, sedges and bunch grass are found in wet, low-
lying areas. Carpet grass is found in the higher and drier elevations.
c. Eastern Highland
The continent of South America has two main highlands i.e. the Brazilian Highlands and the
Guiana Highlands. The Brazilian Highlands are located to the south of the Amazon River
in Brazil. It is made up of low mountains and plateaus. The Guiana Highlands are located
between the Amazon and Orinoco Rivers. This region gets a lot of rainfall and has thick
forests. These highlands are formed from the ancient rock. They are older than the Andes.
These days these mountains are worn down because of the continuous erosion. Angel’s Falls,
the longest waterfall of the world lies in Guiana Highland.
Climate and Vegetation
Amazon Basin lies in the equatorial region. This region has very hot climate. Hence, it has
tropical rain forest called Selvas. The forest can absorb the heat and help to blow the cool air
from the high pressure belt. This region gets convectional rainfall every afternoon because of
the influence of equatorial climate. The coastal area has a mild climate due to the influence
of sea, ocean currents and wind directions. Similarly, the southern part of the continent has
varied types of climate and natural vegetation. Some places are warm whereas some places
have desert climate and vegetation. The Atacama Desert lies here. It is the driest part of the
world. Very few species of natural vegetations are found here. The central and southern part
of South America has been covered by tropical grassland with tall grass and umbrella shaped
trees. This grassland is differently known in different countries. They are called Pampas in
Argentina, Salvas in Paraguay and Llanos in Venezuela. Central part of Chile and California
has Mediterranean type of climate. These regions get rainfall in the winter season.
South America is known as land of superlative. Why?
South America is the fourth largest continent in the world. It is known as land of superlatives
because of following reasons:-
i) Andes - Largest Mountain Range (7200 Km long) 229
ii) Chile - Longest country
iii) Antofona - in Argentina - Most active volcano
iv) Amazon - Largest river (touched by 9 countries)
v) Angel Falls - Longest waterfall (979 meter)
vi) Atacama Desert - Driest Desert
vii) Titicaca Lake - Navigable Lake at highest altitude (3812 meter)
viii) Brazil - Richest in water resource
Social Studies Book 10
ix) Lapaz - Bolivia's capital at highest altitude
x) Cape Horn - Wildest and stormiest area
xi) Amazon Basin (65000 Sq. km) - Largest, wettest, dense equatorial rain forest, selvas
xii) Largest tortoise in Galapagos islands, Pacific Ocean
Points to Remember
"" South America is the fourth largest continent which occupies 1/8 of the total earth’s
land surface.
"" South Americais divided almost into two equal halves by the 60° W longitude.
"" The Panama Canal separates South America from North America.
"" South America has varied climate ranging.
"" The physical regions of South America can be divided into: Andes, Central Lowland
and Eastern Highlands.
"" The longest mountain range in the world, Andes, lies in South America.
"" The Atacama Desert, the driest region in the world, lies in South America.
"" The world's highest waterfall, Angel Fall, lies in South America.
"" Pampas in Argentina, Selvas in Venezuela are tropical grasslands of South America.
"" South America has two main highlands i.e. the Brazilian Highlands and the Guiana
Highlands.
Word Meaning
• isthmus : neck of land, cape
• basin : area nearby river side
• arid : dry
• navigable : crossable, passable
• tributaries : branches of rivers
• erosion : wearing away
• convectional : equatorial rainfall
230 Social Studies Book 10
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. Where is South America located?
b. What separates South America from North America?
c. Name the main rivers in South America.
d. Name the main lakes in South America.
e. What is Selvas?
f. What are the grasslands of South America called?
g. Which part of South America is most fertile?
h. Why is the climate hot throughout the year in South America?
i. Name the largest river in terms of water volume in the world.
j. What is the longest mountain range in the world?
2. Short answer questions
a. Distinguish between the Andes Region and Central Lowland.
b. The geography of South America contains many diverse regions and climates.
Discuss.
c. Mention the two main highlands of South America. Where are they located?
3. Long answer questions
a. Describe the physical regions of South America?
b. Describe the Climate and vegetation of South America.
c. Draw an outline map of South America and insert the following information:
Isthmus of Panama, the Andes Mountain, River Amazon, Angel Falls, 60° W
Meridian, Guinea Highland, Selvas, Equator, Cape horn, Tropic of Capricorn,
Folkland Highland, Lake Titicaca, Brazilian Highland, Columbia, Rio de Generio,
Lima, Peru, Brazil, Sao Paulo, Tierra del Fuego, Galapagos Island, Atlantic Ocean,
Guiana Highlands, Selvas.
Social Studies Book 10 231
Lesson 1 3 Socio-Economic Activities
of South America
South America was under the European empire for a long time in the history. Hence, there is
European influence in social and economic activities of the continent of South America. Red
Indians of Amazon Basin are the indigenous people of this continent. Their life style is still
traditional. After Columbus discovered America, the Spanish and Portuguese people migrated
to this continent. These people dominated the indigenous people of the region and established
their culture and civilization there. Eventually the Inca civilization of this place vanished.
Majority of the people in South America are Spanish and Portuguese. Their main religion is
Christianity. Brazil and Argentina are the big countries of this continent. Most of the northern
part of this continent is covered with tropical rain forest. Agriculture, animal husbandry,
lumbering, mining and fishery and industry are the main occupations of the people of this
continent.
Nearly 10% of the total land area of the continent
is brought under cultivation. Agriculture employs
about 10% of the total population of the continent.
Many crops thrive in the tropical climates of South
America. Cashews and Brazil nuts are cultivated.
Fruits such as avocado, pineapple, papaya, and
guava are also native to tropical South America.
Two very important cash crops are coffee and cacao.
Cacao is the source of cocoa, the base ingredient
in chocolate. Brazil is the world’s largest exporter
of coffee. The continent’s temperate climates are Cocoa plant
located south of the Tropic of Capricorn and in the
mid-level elevations of the Andes mountains. South America’s temperate climates are home
to a number of industrial crops and livestock. The Pampas’ vast, high-quality pastures are
suitable for animal husbandry. Therefore, Brazil is one of the leading exporters of beef in the
world. Similarly, people in this country are involved in sheep rearing. The sheep found here are
said to be good for meat. This country exports the meat of sheep in the European countries.
The people who live in Andes mountain region rear Llama. Llama is a breed of sheep. They
use Llama for meat, wool and to carry their load. Besides animal rearing, tourism industry is
also flourishing in Andes mountain region.
However, the agricultural production in the central part of the continent is very low because of
the uncertain rainfall. Due to the lack of food stuff and employment opportunities, the people
from the central part are migrating to the coastal areas and the big cities. Consequently, the
population density in the coastal areas is high but very sparse in the central area.
For the people living in Amazon River Basin, forestry is a major economic activity. Many
high-value tree species, such as mahogany and rosewood, are native to the rain forest. Lumber
232 Social Studies Book 10
from these trees is exported to foreign markets. Some countries have tree plantations. Chile,
for example, is an important exporter of wood chips, plywood, and paper pulp.
Fishery is one of the important economic activities of the people in this continent. The people
living in Pacific coast involve in this occupation. The cold Peru Current brings nutrient-rich
waters to the coast, creating a fishery with everything from whales to shrimp. Chile is a global
leader in farm-raised salmon and trout, while Ecuador is an important shrimp exporter.
The continent of South America contains about one-fifth of the world’s iron ore reserves. Iron
and steel are used in construction and machinery throughout the world. Mining is one of the
most important economic activities of this continent. More than one-quarter of the world’s
known copper reserves are in South America, mostly in Peru and Chile. Chile is the world’s
largest copper exporter. Other important metal deposits include tin and zinc. South America
is home to some deposits of oil and natural gas. Oil and gas extraction is the dominant industry
of Venezuela.
Word Meaning
• Vanished : disappeared
• empire : territory
• sparse : thin
• flourishing : prosperous, thriving
1. Very short answer questions Activities
a. Name the two largest countries in South America?
b. How has the European colonization affected South America?
c. Name some popular fruits grown in South America.
d. How much land has been cultivated in South America?
e. Which country is the leading exporter of beef in the world?
f. What is the main occupation of the people living in the coastal areas?
g. Name the countries where copper reserves are located?
h. What is the dominant industry of Venezuela?
i. Name some minerals found in South America.
2. Short answer questions
a. Name some important economic activities of South America?
b. Why is the population density higher in the coastal areas than in the central region?
c. What is Llama? Why do people keep this animal?
d. Write about the life of the people in Amazon River Basin.
Social Studies Book 10 233
14 Africa
Lesson
Africa is the second largest continent
in the world. It nearly covers 22%
of total land area of the earth. Its
latitudinal extension is 37° N to 36°
S and longitudinal extension is 51° E
to 17° W.It is almost equally divided
into two halves by the equator. It is
the only continent through which
Equator, Tropic of Cancer and Tropic
of Capricorn pass. The continent of
Africa borders the southern half of
the Mediterranean Sea. The Atlantic
Ocean is to the west and the Indian
Ocean is to the Southeast. It is
separated from Asia in the North-East
by the Suez Canal and from Europe
by the Strait of Gibraltar in the North-
West.
Physical Features Map of Africa
a. Mountains
Most of Africa is a series of stable, ancient plateau surfaces, low in the north and west and higher
in the south and east. The plateau is composed mainly of metamorphic rock that has been
overlaid in places by sedimentary rock. This continent has varied landforms like mountains,
coastal plains, plateaus, rift valleys and deserts. Africa itself is a plateau where there are many
other plateaus. So, Africa is called the plateau of plateaus. The plateaus are higher in the East
and South. There are some mountain peaks in the eastern part of the continent. The only parts
without plateaus are the Atlas Mountains in the north-west and the Cape Range in the South.
There are mountain ranges like the Atlas in the north-west, and the Namib and Drakensberg
in the south-east. Mt Kilimanjaro (5899 m) is the highest mountain in Africa.
b. Great Rift Valley
The Great Rift Valley extends from Red Sea in the north to Zambezi River in the south. It
is 7,000 km long and 3000 m deep. There are many lakes in this area. It is said to be a boon
for Africa because of the minerals available in this region. Lake Victoria is a famous lake of
234 Social Studies Book 10
this area. The longest river of the world, River Nile originates from this lake and gets into
Mediterranean Sea.
c. Rivers, Lakes and Waterfalls
The continent's largest rivers are the Nile (the world's longest river), the Congo, the Niger, the
Zambezi, the Orange, the Limpopo, and the Senegal. River Zambezi has the Victoria Falls.
It flows to the South-East into the Indian Ocean. Victoria Falls is the world’s highest and
most beautiful falls. The largest lakes are Victoria (the world's second largest freshwater lake),
Tanganyika, Albert, Turkana, and Nyasa (or Malawi), all in East Africa; shallow Lake Chad,
the largest in West Africa, shrinks considerably during dry periods. The lakes and major rivers
form an important inland transportation system.
d. Deserts
Sahara desert, the biggest desert of the world lies in the northern part of the continent. It is
a hot desert. It occupies the area of 8.5 million sq km. It covers almost all of North Africa.
It defines Africa’s northern bulge. It covers almost 1/4 part of the continent. Kalahari and
Namib are other important deserts of Africa.
e. Sahel
The transition zone between the Sahara to the north and the savannas to the south is Sahel.
This region is made up of flat barren plains. It stretches roughly 5,400 km across Africa, from
Senegal to Sudan. This place is an example of growing desertification in the world. The fertile
land of the place has turned into desert as a result of drought, deforestation and intensive
agriculture.
Climate and Vegetation
Africa's climatic zones are largely controlled by the continent's location on both sides of
the equator and its almost equal extensions into the northern and southern hemispheres.
Thus, except where altitude exerts a moderating influence on temperature or precipitation
(permanently snow capped peaks are found near the equator), Africa may be divided into
six general climatic regions. Areas near the equator and on the windward shores of south
east Madagascar has a tropical rain forest climate, with heavy rain and high temperatures
throughout the year. North and south of the rain forest are belts of tropical savanna climate,
with high temperatures all year and a seasonal distribution of rain during the summer season.
The savanna grades pole ward in both hemispheres into a region of semiarid steppe (with
limited summer rain) and then into the arid conditions of the extensive Sahara (north) and the
Kalahari (south). Belts of semiarid steppe with limited winter rain occur on the pole ward sides
of the desert regions. At the northern and southern extremities of the continent are narrow
belts of Mediterranean-type climate with subtropical temperatures and a concentration of
rainfall mostly in the autumn and winter months.
Social Studies Book 10 235
Word Meaning
• Strait : a narrow stretch of land that separates two water bodies
• Inland : interior, land far away from water
• Snow capped : covered with snow
Points to Remember
"" Africa is the second largest continent in the world.
"" Africa is divided into almost two equal halves by the Equator.
"" Africa is separated from Europe by the Strait of Gibraltar and from Asia by the Suez Canal.
"" Africa is known as the plateau of the plateaus.
"" Africa has the world's largest desert called the Sahara Desert.
"" Mt Kilimanjaro (5899 m) is the highest mountain in Africa.
"" Great Rift Valley is 7,000 km long and 3000 m deep.
"" Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa.
"" Nile River is the longest river in the world.
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. Name the second largest continent in the world.
b. What divides Africa almost into two equal halves?
c. What separate Africa from Asia and Europe?
d. Name the highest mountain peak of Africa.
e. Name the longest river of the world.
f. Name the highest water falls in Africa.
g. Name the biggest deserts in the world?
h. Into how many climatic regions is Africa divided? Name them.
i. What is Sahel?
2. Short answer questions
a. Describe about the Great Rift Valley.
b. What are the important lakes, rivers and waterfalls in Africa? Name them.
c. Africa is called the plateau of plateaus. Why?
3. Long answer questions
a. Describe briefly the physical features of Africa.
b. Describe the climate and vegetation of Africa.
c. Draw an outline map of Africa and insert the following: Sahara Desert, Lake
Victoria, River Nile, Victoria Falls, Mt Kilimanjaro, Suez Canal, Strait of Gibralter,
Great Rift Valley, Kalahari Desert, Equater, Tropic of Capricon, Sahel, Mt. Atlas,
Winter rainfall area, Lake Albert, Lake Chad, Namib Desert, Cairo.
236 Social Studies Book 10
15 Social and Economic
Activities in Africa
Lesson
African people, who account for over 12% of the world's population, are distributed among
55 countries and are further distinguishable in terms of linguistic and cultural groups,
which number around 1,000. The Sahara forms a great ethnic divide. North of it, mostly
Arabs predominate along the coast and Berbers and Tibbu in the interior regions. People of
European descents are concentrated in areas with subtropical climates or tropical climates
modified by altitude. In the south are people of Dutch and British descents, and in the
northwest are people of French, Italian and Spanish descent. Lebanese make up an important
minority community throughout West Africa, as do Indians in many coastal towns of South
and East Africa. There are also significant Arab populations both in East Africa and more
recently in West Africa. As a whole, Africa is sparsely populated; the highest densities are
found in Nigeria, the Ethiopian highlands, the Nile valley, and around the Great Lakes (which
include Victoria and Tanganyika). The principal cities of Africa are usually the national
capitals and the major ports, and they usually contain a disproportionately large percentage
of the national populations. Cairo, Lagos (Nigeria), Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of the
Congo), Alexandria (Egypt), and Casablanca (Morocco) are the largest cities of Africa.
The continent of Africa has prospects of economic development. However, this continent is
backward in term of development. Famine, conflicts, drought, disease, illiteracy and poverty
are the chief problems of this continent. The social and economic activities of this continent
are much influenced by extremity of the climate and big deserts found there. The African
people have been adversely affected by AIDS and Ebola Virus. The life style of the people
living in the Central African Region is of primitive type. Moreover, in the past many people
didn’t have good idea about this continent; hence it used to be called the ‘Dark Continent’.
Mines and Mineral Resources
The continent of Africa has many invaluable mineral resources. Africa exports uranium,
platinum, nickel, bauxite and cobalt. Africa’s two most profitable mineral resources are gold
and diamonds. South Africa accounts for almost half of Africa’s gold production. Ghana,
Guinea, Mali, and Tanzania are other major producers of gold. Unfortunately, this continent
has witnessed several conflicts and civil wars which is said to have been caused and funded by
the diamond industries. Moreover, Africa is home to huge deposits of oil and natural gas. Oil
and natural gas production have also been connected to civil conflict, so they have not been
able to make their optimum utilization.
Agriculture
Social Studies Book 10 237
Most of the people in this continent are involved in agriculture. Camel is an important animal
in desert region. People keep it for milk, meat and carrying load. Other domestic animals and
birds too are kept in traditional way. Here is no commercialization of agriculture. Since, most
part of the continent is occupied by the deserts and vast grasslands;the land is not suitable for
agriculture. People cultivate crops mainly on the bank of rivers. Some countries have already
begun agricultural commercialization especially on the river banks. They cultivate pineapple,
coffee, cocoa, banana, jute and oil palms. People in Savanna region too involve in cultivation.
Important savanna crops include wheat, peppers, eggplant, watermelon and cucumber.
Mediterranean climate condition is found along the extreme northern and southern coasts
of Africa. These regions have mild temperatures, dry summers, and moderately rainy winters.
Important crops include figs, olives, oranges, tomatoes, onions, and large vegetables, such as
cabbage and cauliflower.
Savanna is called the zoo of the world. There are many national parks and wildlife reserves set
up here for the protection of wild lives. This region is popular for film shooting. Large number
of tourists visits this place every year. The attraction among the researchers is increasing day
by day in African countries especially for the observation and study of Pyramids of Egypt,
Nile valley Civilization, National Parks of Savanna Region and ethnic diversity in African
countries. Tourism industry in this area is rapidly developing. However, this industry has not
been fostered as per its potentiality. These national parks have contributed a lot for earning
foreign currency, increasing employment opportunities and making the advertisement of
African countries. The following works are necessary for the development of tourism in Africa.
a. There must be good hotels and lodges in the tourism centers to provide good food
and accommodation services to the visitor.
b. The security condition must be improved.
c. Awareness among the local people about the importance of tourism industry must
be raised.
d. Needy advertisement about the places should be made.
Forestry
Forestry is one of the important activities of the people. Africa exports high-grade woods like
mahogany and oakum. These woods are generally exported to Japan, Israel, and the European
Union. It is one of the main income sources of the continent.
Fishery
Marine fishery is the important economic activity of the people living in the coastal areas.
West Africa is one of the most economically important fishing zones in the world. Namibia and
South Africa are also major players in the marine fish market. The Eastern African countries
have well-established fisheries in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. Africa’s Great Lakes support
the largest inland fisheries on the continent. Lake Victoria is the most productive freshwater
fishery in the world.
238 Social Studies Book 10
Word Meaning
• descendants : offspring, children
• sparsely : thinly
• disproportionately : unevenly, not in balanced way
• optimum : extensive, to great extent
• potentiality : prospects
Points to Remember
"" As many people didn’t have good idea about this continent in the past, it was called the
‘Dark Continent’.
"" Africa is a resource-rich continent but many African people are poor.
"" Most of the African countries are in the early stage of economic development.
"" Agriculture is the primary economic activity which employs almost 2/3 of the
continent’s working population.
"" Forestry is an important economic activity in Africa.
"" Africa has fisheries on all its coastal regions.
"" Lake Victoria is the most productive freshwater fishery in the world.
"" Africa’s two most profitable mineral resources are gold and diamonds.
"" Cairo, Lagos, Kinshasa, Alexandria, and Casablanca are the largest cities of Africa.
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. Why was Africa called a ‘Dark Continent’?
b. Name the oldest civilizations developed in Africa.
c. Name some important crops of Africa.
d. Savanna is called the zoo of the world. Why?
e. Name two most profitable mineral resources of Africa?
2. Short answer questions
a. Africa is rich in natural resources but it is not economically developed. Why?
b. Why is Egypt called the gift of the Nile? Give reasons.
c. How can Africa develop its tourism industry? Suggest some ways.
d. Marine fishery is an important economic activity of the Africans living in the
coastal areas. Give reasons.
Social Studies Book 10 239
1 6 North America, South
Lesson America, Africa and Nepal
North America, South America, Africa And Nepal
We can find many similarities among North America, South America, Africa and Nepal.
We can find similarities among them in term of the physical features. There are mountain
ranges, grasslands, rivers and different types of climatic conditions. Atlas and Drakensberg
are fold mountains of Africa. Similarly, Mt. Kilimanjaro is the highest peak of this continent.
There is a long mountain range extending from Alaska in the north to Panama in the south.
This mountain range is Rocky Mountain. This is also a fold mountain. The highest peak is
Mt. Albert. It is 4,401 meters high. Andes Mountain Range lies in the western part of the
continent of South America. Mt. Aconcagua is the highest peak of this continent. Nepal too
has many high mountain peaks. There is The Himalayas in the northern part of Nepal. It has
the world's highest peak called Mt. Everest. Similarly, the third highest peak of the world Mt.
Kanchanjangha, along with other high peaks is in the Himalayas of Nepal.
St. Lawrence, Mississippi, Missouri and Colorado are the big rivers of the continent of North
America. Similarly, Amazon, Panama, Paraguay, etc. are the important rivers of the continent
of South America. The continent of Africa too has many big rivers. The longest river of the
world River Nile lies in this continent. Besides this river, Congo and Zambezi are other big
rivers of this continent. Nepal is the second richest country in the world in term of water
resources. Nepal is drained out by many big rivers that originate from the Himalayas in the
north and flow towards south. Koshi, Gandaki, Karnali, Narayani, etc. are the important rivers
of Nepal.
Prairies in North America, Pampas in South America, Velds in Africa and the grasslands of
northern part of Nepal are suitable for animal husbandry. People in these regions involve in
rearing sheep and cattle.
North America is ahead compared to others in term of socio-economic development. The
countries of the continent of South America and Nepal are in more or less similar condition
in this regard. However, Africa is a bit backward in development.
240 Social Studies Book 10
Nepal has very good diplomatic relation with the USA and Canada. Many Nepalese students
go to Canada and the USA of the North America for higher studies. These countries provide
scholarship to large number of Nepalese students for higher studies. There are many
Nepalese either settled down or working and studying in the USA and Canada. Although
Nepal maintains friendly relations with all the countries around the world, its relations with
South American countries are not much developed. It is due to the geographical distance and
the level of development of South American countries. Majority of the countries in South
America are also in the same developmental stage as Nepal.
On the other hand, we can notice some difference among them. The time differs between
Nepal and North America and South America is about 12 hrs because of the huge longitudinal
difference. When it is Sunday morning in Nepal, it will be only Saturday evening in these
two continents. Similarly, Africa is situated between Nepal and the Americas in South-West
direction. It is closer to Nepal in term of distance. Time difference between Nepal and Africa
is about 6 hrs. We have also social, cultural and economic differences between Nepal and
Africa. Majority of the people in Nepal are Hindus and Buddhists where as both Americas are
dominated by Christians.
Points to Remember
"" We can find many similarities among North America, South America, Africa and Nepal.
"" Mt. Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa.
"" Mt. Aconcagua is the highest peak in South America.
"" St. Lawrence, Mississippi, Missouri and Colorado are the big rivers of North America.
"" Koshi, Gandaki, Karnali, Narayani, etc. are the important rivers of Nepal.
"" Nepal has very good diplomatic relation with the USA and Canada.
"" The time differs between Nepal and North America and South America is about 12 hrs.
Activities
1. Answer these questions
a. What are the geographical similarities that exist between Nepal, North America,
South America and Africa?
b. Name the highest mountains of North America, South America, Africa and Nepal.
c. Name one each important lakes of North America, South America, Africa and Nepal.
d. Agriculture is the main occupation of the people in Africa and Nepal. Give
reasons.
e. Discuss the problems and prospects of tourism industry in Nepal and Africa?
f. How has the water resources benefitted the economy of Africa, North America
and Nepal?
Social Studies Book 10 241
Lesson 1 7 Natural Disaster:
Earthquake and Tsunami
Earthquake
A sudden and terrible event resulting from a variety of natural processes inside or outside of
the earth's surface that causes great loss of wealth,
distruction, death, hardship etc. is called natural disaster.
Earthquake, tsunami, volcanic eruption, flood, landslide,
hurricane, avalanche, cyclone, hailstone, lightning,
tornado. drought etc. are the major natural disasters due
to which there is a serious loss of lives and properties Earthquake
every year in the world. A brief description of earthquake
and tsunami has been presented in this lesson.
The sudden shaking of Earth’s crust caused by the release of energy along fault lines or from
volcanic activity is called earthquake. During the earthquake, the Earth’s crust shakes either
vertically or horizontally. Vertical movement is up and down and horizontal is forward and
backward movement.
The powerful vibrations or tremors or shock waves produced by an earthquake are called
seismic or earthquake waves. These seismic shock waves or vibrations travel outward from the
focus of an earthquake in all directions like ripples in water. Focus also called hypocenter is
the place below the Earth’s surface where an earthquake actually originates. Most of the
earthquakes have focus in depths of less than 60 km. The point just above the Focus is known
as the Epi-center.
Nepal lies in the earthquake prone zone. A devastating Dharahara after Earthquake
earthquake of 7.8 magnitude hit Nepal on 12th Baisakh
2072 BS. It's epi-center was in Barpak VDC of Gorkha.
The earthquake was followed by many aftershocks
(more than 400 aftershocks). A very powerful aftershock
appeared on 13th Baisakh. Due to earthquake many
buildings were damaged. There were nearly about 9000
deaths in Nepal. Another huge earthquake on 29 Baishak,
2072, having 6.8 richter scale also affected the Nepal.
The effect of the earthquake on Nepal is given below:
"" The earthquake caused tremendous loss of lives and properties.
"" It lowered economic growth rate.
"" It pushed about a million people below the poverty line.
"" It slowed progress on achieving some of the MDGs.
242 Social Studies Book 10
Richter
The intensity of an earthquake is measured on the Richter Richter Sale
scale. It is ordered series of numbers (1-10) used to indicate
the amount of energy released during an earthquake. This
scale is named after the American seismologist Charles F
Richter. Earthquakes of 7 and above intensity on Richter
scale are very destructive. The Richter scale is now outdated.
Scientists now use the moment-magnitude scale called
seismograph. It is an instrument that detects and records
vibrations caused by seismic shock waves.
Cause
Earth’s crust is divided into several plates known as the Earthquake Plates
Continental Plates. These plates are floating on molten mass
called the mantle. Some of these plates have large oceans.
Sometimes these plates move towards each other and
sometimes move away from each other due to the tectonic
force developed deep inside the Earth’s surface. Such
movement is called tectonic activity, which causes the
plates to bend, fracture and overlap resulting in earthquake.
Earthquake also occur due to volcanic eruption.
Earthquake Zones
Earthquakes are common along the fault lines and plate boundaries, which are the weaker
zones of the Earth’s crust. Earthquakes and volcanoes frequently occur more in these zones.
The region surrounding the Pacific Ocean, also known as the 'Pacific Ring of Fire' and the
Rocky Mountain Range, the Andes Mountain Range, the South East Asia, the Hindukush,
the Suleiman Range, the Himalayan Range, Iran, Iraq, Turkey and the Alps are earthquake
prone zones.
Effects of Earthquakes
a. It can affect our lives in many ways.
b. It damages property and other infrastructures.
c. It causes the loss of lives.
d. It causes fires that burn buildings to the ground.
e. It can cause bursting of dams, flooding, landslides, etc.
f. During an earthquake, tidal waves and tsunamis are created which destroy
everything in their path.
g. It can change in the Earth’s level, surface, crust or sea.
Social Studies Book 10 243
Awareness and Safety Measures
Earthquakes happen all the time, and can be barely noticeable or terribly devastating. What
can we do to be prepared? It is always advisable to remain alert of the earthquake, its effects
and safety measures. Especially people living in the earthquake zones should be more alert.
During earthquake, the following safety measures should be followed:
"" One shouldn’t run in panic situation.
"" One should keep calm and composed.
"" One should try to cover head and eyes with hands, pillows or cushion.
"" One should turn off gas, electricity etc.
"" One should come out of the house as soon as the Earth’s shaking subsides down.
"" One should be careful of the aftershock that follows the earthquake.
"" One should help old, physically challenged, children and neighbours.
Tsunami
Tsunami is a series of huge water waves caused by an earthquake or volcanic eruption under
the sea or a landslide or meteoroid impact or any kind of underwater explosion. The series
of tsunami waves is also known as wave train and the time between any two waves can range
between a few minutes and couple of hours. Usually, the first wave of tsunami is not the
most destructive one. The 5th or 6th waves are the strongest ones having the capability of
demolition over a wide area.
Tsunami Risk Zones
Studies have shown that about 70-80% of tsunamis occur in the Pacific Ocean due to the
active subduction zones and their associated volcanic arcs. Also, due to its size, a meteor
impact is more likely in the Pacific than in other oceans. However, any large body of water
is at risk for tsunami disasters, and significant events have even occurred in the Caribbean
and Mediterranean seas. The states of Hawaii, Washington and Oregon also come under high
risk zones. The Alaska and Aleutian subduction zones have a high likelihood of tsunami but
low populations. The islands of Java and Sumatra in Indonesia have a significant history of
tsunamis, both from subduction earthquakes and from volcanic eruptions, but unlike Pacific
coastlines, do not face the risks associated with similar events occurring across the ocean.
Effects of Tsunami
Earthquake-induced movement of the ocean floor most often generates tsunamis. If a major
earthquake or landslide occurs close to shore, the first wave in a series could reach the beach
in a few minutes, even before a warning is issued. Areas are at greater risk if they are less than
25 feet above sea level and within a mile of the shoreline. Drowning is the most common
cause of death associated with a tsunami. Tsunami waves and the receding water are very
destructive to structures in the run-up zone. Other hazards include flooding, contamination
of drinking water, disruption of electricity, transportation and communication and fires from
gas lines or rupture tanks. A tsunami can damage whole infrastructure in the affected place.
244 Social Studies Book 10
Awareness and Safety Measures
"" Although a tsunami cannot be prevented, the impact of a tsunami can be lowered
or minimized through community preparedness, timely warnings and effective
response.
"" The following are things you can do to protect yourself, your family and your
property from the effects of a tsunami.
"" To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family
communications plan.
"" Talk to everyone in your household about what to do if a tsunami occurs. Create
and practice an evacuation plan for your family.
"" Follow the evacuation order issued by authorities and evacuate immediately. Take
your animals with you.
"" Move to high ground or away from water immediately.
"" Stay away from the beach. Never go down to the beach to watch a tsunami come in.
Difference between Earthquake and Tsunami
Earthquake S.N Tsunami
A sudden movement of earth's crust due to I The wave caused by submarine
natural force is called earthquake. earthquake is called tsunami.
It causes vertical and horizontal quake. II It moves in cyclic motion.
It is caused due to movement of tectonic III It is caused due to fluctuation of air
plates to either side. pressure and solar heat.
It occurs in prone zone and near the area Iv It occurs in the coastal region of sea
with high movement of plates. near land.
Points to Remember
"" About 80% of the planet’s earthquakes occur along the rim of the Pacific Ocean due to
the fault lines there.
"" The place below the Earth’s surface where an earthquake originates is called Focus or
Hypocenter.
"" The place on the Earth’s surface where the vibration comes first is called the Epicenter.
"" The instrument used for measuring the intensity of an earthquake is called the
Seismograph.
"" Earthquakes often cause other hazards, such as mud slides, fires, floods and tsunamis.
"" The Earth’s solid crust is divided into several plates known as the Continental Plates.
"" 7.8 rector scale earthquake hit Nepal on 12th Baisakh, 2072 BS.
"" Tsunami is a series of huge water waves caused by an earthquake or volcano eruption
under the sea.
"" About 70-80% of tsunamis occur in the Pacific Ocean.
"" Drowning is the most common cause of death associated with a tsunami.
Social Studies Book 10 245
Word Meaning
• crust : stiff outer layer coating
• eruption : ejection, burst
• fault lines : line of rock
• ripples : wave wrinkle
• rubble : remains, debris
• tectonic : structural
• trauma : severe mental or physical pain, agony
• prone : having higher risks
• MDGs : Millennium Development Goals
• alert : cautious, careful
• demolition : destruction
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. What is an earthquake?
b. Name the instrument used in measuring the intensity of an earthquake.
c. What are the causes of an earthquake?
d. Name the earthquake zones of the world.
e. Distinguish between epicenter and hypocenter.
f. What is Tsunami?
g. What is a Richter scale?
h. Where is the 'Pacific Ring of Fire' located?
i. Which part of the world has higher risk of earthquakes?
j. Which part of the world has higher risk of Tsunami?
2. Short answer questions
a. What are safety measures to be taken during an earthquake?
b. Write a news report about effect of Gorkha Earthquake.
c. How does an earthquake affect people and properties?
d. Discuss the effects of tsunami.
e. Construct a dialogue about the safety measures of Tsunami.
f. What were the effects of the earthquake on Nepal that occurred on 2072 BS?
g. What do you think were the regions behind the distruction caused by the
earthquake 2072 BS? What suggestions would you like to give to minimize the
risk of earthquake? Make a list of them.
246 Social Studies Book 10
Lesson 1 8 Methods of Drawing Maps and
Modern Map Technology
Methods of Drawing Map
The world now has been flooded with information technology. It has brought a great change
in drawing maps. Different methods are in practice to sketch a map. Though we may use
any methods, the map should be meaningful and clearly communicate the information to
everyone. Some methods that are in use at present for drawing maps are described below.
a. Free Mapping Method: It is a method of drawing map by looking at another map.
Though it is difficult to draw the map exactly alike in the first attempt, frequent practices
help us to make similar. Perhaps, everyone uses this method for the first time.
b. Carbon Method: In this method one draws the map exactly alike using the carbon paper.
c. Tracing Method: This method needs a glass table through which light passes easily. A light
is fixed beneath the table and the map is pasted on the inner surface of the glass of the table
so that the map can be seen from outside with the help of the light. Then a paper of the
appropriate size is placed over map on the table and the map is drawn carefully with a pencil.
d. Photocopy Method: This only fulfills the need of the map but does not develop any skill
because the map is copied with the help of the photocopy machine.
e. OHP (Over Head Projector): We do not generally use this method. In this method a
map drawn on a transparent plastic is reflected on the wall with the help of OHP and the
picture is drawn looking at it.
f. Stencil Method: In this method, at first, needy sketch is made on the stencil paper. Then
it is copied using stencil machine. This method is not in much use these days.
g. Square Method:In this method, the squares of equal size are made on blank sheet of paper
and base map. The picture is sketched looking at the base picture especially the parts of the
picture that fall on the squares. This method helps to sketch the map like the base map.
h. GIS Method:This is the modern technology used for drawing with the help of special
software. In most countries of the world, this method is in use to draw the map.
i. Template Method: In this method, a map is cut carefully with the scissors and given the
form of frame or block. It is placed on the blank sheet of paper making it immovable. Then,
its border around is marked with the help of the pencil. Finally the cut map/block is removed
and the lines are joined if broken. Finally, we get the map exactly alike the base one.
Modern Map Technology
Geographical Information System (GIS) GIS System
A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer system
for capturing, storing, checking, and displaying data related
to positions on Earth’s surface. GIS can show many different
kinds of data on one map. This enables people to more easily
see, analyze, and understand patterns and relationships.
Social Studies Book 10 247
Today GIS has become an important tool for the modern geographers. This system combines
computer cartography with database management software. In other words, GIS merges
information in a computer database with spatial coordinates on a digital map.GIS is used to:
a) measure natural and human phenomena and processes from a spatial perspective; b) store
these measurements in digital form c) analyze collected measurements to produce new data
or discover relationships; and d) depict the measured or analyzed data in some type of display.
GIS can use any information that includes location. The location can be expressed in many
different ways, such as latitude and longitude, address, or ZIP code. The system can include
data about people, such as population, income, or education level. It can include information
about the land, such as the location of streams, different kinds of vegetation, and different
kinds of soil. It can include information about the sites of factories, farms, and schools,
or storm drains, roads, and electric power lines.
People working in many different fields use GIS technology. Many businesses use GIS to help
them determine where to locate a new store. Biologists use GIS to track animal migration
patterns. City officials use GIS to help plan their response in the case of a natural disaster such
as an earthquake or hurricane. GIS maps can show these officials what neighborhoods are
most in danger, where to locate shelters, and what routes people should take to reach safety.
Scientists use GIS to compare population growth to resources such as drinking water, or to
try to determine a region’s future needs for public services like parking, roads, and electricity.
There is no limit to the kind of information that can be analyzed using GIS technology.
Advantages of GIS technology
� Land use planning projects � Ecological and hydrological investigations
� Environmental assessments � Watershed assessments
� Public health � Disaster management
� Security � Agricultural efficiency
� Community growth � Urban planning
� Crime analysis � Weather monitoring
� Water quality monitoring and assessment
� Development of water resource
� Public outreach and education programs
Global Positioning System (GPS)
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a navigation
system based on satellites. The GPS network operates on GPS System
24 satellites orbiting the earth. This system was initially
developed by the US Department of Defense for military
purposes. However, the system was extended in the 1980s
for civilian use.
GPS satellites circle the earth twice a day in a very precise orbit and transmit signal information
to earth. GPS receivers take this information and use triangulation to calculate the user’s
exact location. Essentially, the GPS receiver compares the time a signal was transmitted by a
248 Social Studies Book 10
satellite with the time it was received. The time difference tells the GPS receiver how far away
the satellite is. Now, with distance measurements from a few more satellites, the receiver can
determine the user’s position and display it on the unit’s electronic map. Smart phones now
often have GPS and electronic compass so you can be located on a map on the phone. Often
they are slightly less accurate than GPS units.
This system is used to determine latitude, longitude, and elevation anywhere on or above
the Earth's surface. This system involves the transmission of radio signals from a number of
specialized satellites to a hand held receiving unit. The receiving unit uses triangulation to
calculate altitude and spatial position on the Earth's surface.
GPS works in all weather conditions and all over the world. GPS does not have any subscription
fee of set up charges. The principle behind GPS is very simple- it works by providing a set of
geographical coordinates such as a place’s latitude, longitude and elevation on Earth. The GPS
device also gives out very accurate time.
The basic functionality of GPS technology is limited to receiving satellite signals and
calculating position information. Things like navigation systems, tracking devices, surveying
and mapping instruments are simply different applications of the technology. The primary use
of GPS is navigation, and there are many different models of automotive GPS on the market,
ranging from pre-installed units to hand-held devices and even programs for smart phones
and tablets. These devices can provide you with a map of your surroundings and help you
plot a course to your destination. Advanced models can even update themselves wirelessly,
providing real-time information about gas prices and traffic conditions to maximize the
efficiency of your morning commute.
Advantages of GPS:
"" GPS is extremely easy to navigate as it tells you the direction for each turns you take
or you have to take to reach to your destination
"" GPS works in all weather so you need not worry of the climate as in other navigating
devices
"" The GPS costs you very low in comparison to other navigation systems
"" The most attractive feature of this system is its100% coverage on the planet
"" It also helps you to search the nearby restaurants, hotels, hospitals, schools,
department stores, cinemas, police stations, gas stations, etc. and is very useful for
a new place
"" Due to its low cost, it is very easy to integrate into other technologies like cell phone,
tablets, laptop, etc.
"" The system is updated regularly by the service providers and hence is very advance.
Google Earth:
Google Earth is a geobrowser that accesses satellite and aerial imagery, ocean bathymetry, and
other geographic data over the internet to represent the Earth as a three-dimensional globe.
Geobrowsers are alternatively known as virtual globes or Earth browsers
Social Studies Book 10 249
Advantages of Google Earth. � Extremely detailed
� Additional layers available
"" Available on a wide array of devices � Historical view
"" Up-to-date maps and data
� 3D capabilities
� Ability to "visit" select buildings
Points to Remember:
"" The 21st century has witnessed a flood of new technologies that help us in diverse fields.
"" GPS helps users know exactly where they are, which direction they are travelling in and at what
speed.
"" GIS describes a range of information that is gathered and applied to maps.
"" GIS combines computer cartography with database management software.
"" Scientists use GIS to compare population growth to resources such as drinking water, or to try
to determine a region’s future needs for public services like parking, roads, and electricity.
"" There is no limit to the kind of information that can be analyzed using GIS technology.
"" The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a navigation system based on satellites.
"" The principle behind GPS is very simple- it works by providing a set of geographical coordinates
such as a place’s latitude, longitude and elevation on Earth.
Activities
1. Very short answer questions
a. What is GIS?
b. How is GIS technology helpful for us?
c. What is GPS?
d. What is the primary use of GPS?
e. Distinguish between GIS and GPS.
f. What is Google Earth?
2. Short answer questions
a. What are the advantages of GIS?
b. What are the advantages of GPS?
c. There is no limit to the kind of information that can be analyzed using GIS
technology. Discuss.
d. State the importance or benefits of using Google map.
250 Social Studies Book 10
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Shubharambha Social studies-10, 2078
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