2. Structure & Physiography

Competency Based Questions:

1. India’s landmass is divided into four physiographic units. How does this division influence the distribution of natural resources?

Ans: Each physiographic division has distinct geology and resources:

a) Himalayas – forests, hydropower, minerals in valleys

b) Northern Plains – fertile alluvial soils

c) Peninsular Plateau – rich in metallic minerals (iron ore, manganese)

d) Coastal Plains & Islands – fisheries, ports, tourism

Thus, physiography directly shapes resource availability.

2. A highway needs to be built from Delhi to Bhutan. Which physiographic barriers must engineers consider, and why?

Ans: Engineers must consider the Shiwalik and Lesser Himalaya ranges, high slopes, landslide zones, and fragile rocks. These features make construction challenging and require tunnelling, slope stabilization, and earthquake-resistant planning.

3. A map shows the Deccan Plateau sloping eastward. What is the geographical significance of this slope?

Ans: The eastward slope results in:

a) Major rivers (Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri) flowing east to the Bay of Bengal

b) Formation of deltaic coasts

c) Fertile agricultural plains in the east

d) Easy sediment deposition in the Bay of Bengal

4. Why are the Northern Plains one of the most densely populated regions of India?

Ans:  The Northern Plains are one of the most densely populated regions of India because of:

a) Fertile alluvial soil

b) Adequate water from perennial rivers

c) Flat topography

d) Ideal conditions for agriculture

These support dense settlements and intensive farming.

5. A state government wants to promote eco-tourism in the Western Ghats. The region includes steep slopes, dense forests, and biodiversity hotspots.

Suggest one opportunity and one caution the government must consider.

Ans: An opportunity and a caution the government must consider can be:

a) Opportunity: Rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes attract tourists, generating income.

b) Caution: Over-tourism could harm fragile ecosystems; strict conservation guidelines are needed.

6. Explain how the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates continues to influence India’s physiography even today.

Ans: The plates still move, causing:

a) Uplift of Himalayas

b) Frequent earthquakes in Himalayan and northern plains

c) Changes in river courses

Thus, physiography is dynamic, not static.

7. Evaluate the role of the Himalayas in shaping India’s climate.

Ans: The Himalayas:

a) Block cold winds from Central Asia – keep winters milder

b) Force monsoon winds to rise – heavy rainfall on Indian side

c) Protect northern plains – allow agriculture

Thus, they are India’s climate shield.

8. Frequent landslides occur in the Himalayas during monsoons. Suggest two preventive measures using geographic understanding.

Ans: Frequent landslides occur in the Himalayas during monsoons; the preventive measures can be:

a) Avoid road construction on unstable slopes; use terracing and retaining walls

c) Plant deep-rooted vegetation to stabilize soil

These reduce slope erosion and landslide risk.

9. Compare the Himalayan region with the Peninsular Plateau in terms of geological structure and seismic activity.

Ans: A comparative study between the Himalayan region with the Peninsular Plateau in terms of geological structure and seismic activity

a) Himalayas: Young, fold mountains; unstable; high seismic activity

b) Peninsular Plateau: Old, igneous & metamorphic rocks; stable; low seismic activity

10. Why is the Indo-Gangetic plain called an ‘agricultural heartland’ of India?

Ans: The Indo-Gangetic plain is called an ‘agricultural heartland’ of India

due to:

a) Deep fertile alluvium

b) Abundant water supply

c) Favourable climate

d) Large flat land for mechanization

This makes it ideal for intensive agriculture.

CASE STUDY 1: Himalayan Mountain System

Read the passage below and answer the questions:

The Himalayas are young fold mountains formed due to the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. This region is geologically unstable and prone to earthquakes and landslides. The Himalayas consist of three major ranges: the Himadri, Himachal, and Shiwaliks. They play an important role in influencing India’s climate by blocking cold winds and forcing monsoon winds to rise.

Questions:

1. Why are the Himalayas considered geologically unstable?

Ans: The Himalayas are considered geologically unstable as they are young fold mountains formed by ongoing tectonic plate collision, making them prone to earthquakes and crustal movements.

2. Mention any one major climatic role played by the Himalayas.

Ans: They block cold winds from Central Asia, keeping northern India warmer in winter.

3. Which of the three Himalayan ranges is the highest and why?

Ans: The Himadri (Greater Himalaya) is highest because it consists of the youngest, loftiest folded peaks, including Mt. Everest and Kanchenjunga.

4. Give one reason why landslides are common in the Himalayan region.

Ans: Landslides are common in the Himalayan region because steep slopes, high rainfall, and unstable rocks cause frequent landslides.

CASE STUDY 2: The Peninsular Plateau

Read the paragraph and answer the questions:

The Peninsular Plateau is one of the oldest landmasses of India, composed mainly of hard igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is divided into the Central Highlands and the Deccan Plateau. The region is rich in mineral resources such as iron ore, manganese, and coal. The plateau slopes eastwards, affecting the drainage pattern of major rivers.

Questions:

1. What type of rocks ?

Ans: Igneous and metamorphic rocks dominate the Peninsular Plateau.

2. How does the eastward slope of the plateau influence drainage?

Ans: The eastward slope of the plateau causes major rivers to flow eastwards, forming deltas on the east coast.

3. Name major rivers that flow eastward across the plateau.

Ans: Major rivers that flow eastward across the plateau are Godavari, Krishna and Kaveri.

4. Why is the Peninsular Plateau considered a mineral-rich region?

Ans: The Peninsular Plateau is made of ancient rocks that contain metallic minerals like iron ore and manganese thus is considered a mineral-rich region

CASE STUDY 3: The Northern Plains

Read the passage below and answer the following:

The Northern Plains are formed by the deposition of alluvium brought by the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra River systems. They have deep fertile soils, a flat surface, and dense river networks. This region supports some of the highest population densities in the world. The plains can be divided into the Bhabar, Tarai, Bhangar, and Khadar zones.

Questions:

1. How were the Northern Plains formed?

Ans: The Northern Plains are formed by alluvial deposition from the Indus–Ganga–Brahmaputra rivers.

2. Which type of soil is found in abundance in this region?

Ans: Alluvial soil is found in abundance in this region.

3. Why is this region densely populated? Give any one reason.

Ans: This region is densely populated because of fertile soil, abundant water, and flat land suitable for agriculture and settlement.

4. What is the main difference between Bhangar and Khadar?

Ans: The main difference between Bhangar and Khadar is:

a) Bhangar: Older alluvium

b) Khadar: Newer, more fertile alluvium

CASE STUDY 4: Coastal Plains and Islands

Read the passage and respond:

India has two coastal plains—the Western Coastal Plain and the Eastern Coastal Plain. The eastern coast has broad deltas formed by major rivers, while the western coast is narrower and rocky. India also has two major island groups: the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the Lakshadweep Islands. These regions support tourism, fishing, and strategic defence activities.

Questions:

1. Why does the eastern coastal plain have more deltas than the western plain?

Ans: The eastern coastal plain have more deltas than the western plain because east-flowing rivers like the Ganga and Godavari deposit large amounts of alluvium, forming deltas.

2. Name one island group of India and mention its importance.

Ans: Andaman & Nicobar Islands – important for defence, biodiversity, and tourism.
OR
Lakshadweep – important for coral ecosystems and fisheries.

3. Mention one economic activity supported by coastal regions.

Ans: Fishing, tourism, port-based trade.

4. Why is the western coastal plain narrower?

Ans: The western coastal plain is narrower because the Western Ghats lie very close to the coast, leaving a narrow strip of land.

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. The Himalayas were formed due to the collision of the:

a) African and Eurasian plates
b) Indian and Eurasian plates
c) Pacific and Eurasian plates
d) Arabian and Indian plates

Ans: b) Indian and Eurasian plates

2. Which of the following is the oldest physiographic division of India?

a) Northern Plains
b) Himalayas
c) Peninsular Plateau
d) Coastal Plains

Ans: c) Peninsular Plateau

3. The Northern Plains are mainly formed by which process?

a) Volcanic eruptions
b) Wind erosion
c) Alluvial deposition
d) Sea wave action

Ans: c) Alluvial deposition

4. The Shiwalik range of the Himalayas is composed mainly of:

a) Metamorphic rocks
b) Igneous rocks
c) Unconsolidated sediments
d) Hard granite

Ans: c) Unconsolidated sediments

5. The Deccan Plateau slopes towards the:

a) West
b) North
c) East
d) South

Ans: c) East

6. Which of the following rivers flows westward from the Deccan Plateau?

a) Krishna
b) Mahanadi
c) Luni
d) Godavari

Ans: c) Luni

7. The Bhabar zone in the Northern Plains is known for:

a) Swampy conditions
b) Porous gravel rivers
c) Fertile new alluvium
d) Sand dunes

Ans: b) Porous gravel rivers

8. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are of which origin?

a) Coral
b) Fold Mountain
c) Volcanic
d) Alluvial

Ans: c) Volcanic

9. The highest Himalayan range is the:

a) Lesser Himalayas
b) Himadri
c) Shiwaliks
d) Purvanchal

Ans: b) Himadri

10. The Western Coastal Plain is narrower than the Eastern Coastal Plain because:

a) It has more rivers
b) Heavy rainfall occurs
c) Western Ghats lie close to the coast
d) It is more urbanised

Answer: c) Western Ghats lie close to the coast

11. Which of the following plateaus is rich in minerals like iron ore and manganese?

a) Chota Nagpur Plateau
b) Malwa Plateau
c) Banas Plateau
d) Meghalaya Plateau

Ans: a) Chota Nagpur Plateau

12. The region of the Northern Plains consisting of new alluvium is called:

a) Bhangar
b) Bhabar
c) Tarai
d) Khadar

Ans: d) Khadar

13. Purvanchal hills are located in:

a) Western Himalaya
b) Eastern extension of Himalaya
c) Peninsula
d) Coastal region

Ans: b) Eastern extension of Himalaya

14. The Lakshadweep Islands are composed mainly of:

a) Volcanic rock
b) Coral deposits
c) Igneous rock
d) Metamorphic rock

Ans: b) Coral deposits

15. The Indo-Gangetic Plain is considered ideal for agriculture mainly because:

a) It has deserts
b) It has steep slopes
c) It has fertile alluvial soil
d) It has volcanic soil

Ans: c) It has fertile alluvial soil

Competency Based Short Answer Type Questions:

1. Describe how the Himalayas influence India’s climate.

Ans: The Himalayas influence India’s climate in following ways:

a) The Himalayas block cold Siberian winds, keeping North India warmer in winter.

b) They force the southwest monsoon winds to rise, causing heavy rainfall on the Indian side.

c) They prevent monsoon winds from escaping northwards, helping maintain moisture within India.

2. Why is the Peninsular Plateau considered one of the oldest landmasses of India?

Ans: The Peninsular Plateau is considered one of the oldest landmasses of India because:

a) It is part of the Gondwana landmass, formed in the Pre-Cambrian era.

b) Composed mainly of igneous and metamorphic rocks, which are very old.

c) The region shows no active folding, proving its geological stability and age.

3. State two differences between the Western Coastal Plain and the Eastern Coastal Plain.

Ans: Two differences between the Western Coastal Plain and the Eastern Coastal Plain are:

4. What are the Purvanchal Hills? Name any two ranges.

Ans: The Purvanchal Hills are the eastern extension of the Himalayas, curving around Myanmar. E.g., Patkai Hills, Naga Hills, Mizo Hills, Manipur Hills.

5. What is the significance of the Northern Plains for agriculture?

Ans: The significance of the Northern Plains for agriculture is:

a) It is rich fertile alluvial soil

b) Abundant water from perennial rivers

c) Flat terrain allows mechanized farming

These make the Indo-Gangetic Plains India’s agricultural heartland.

6. Why do the rivers of the Peninsular Plateau form waterfalls?

Ans: The rivers of the Peninsular Plateau form waterfalls because:

a) Rivers originate from hard, uneven plateau surfaces.

b) They cross resistant rocks and steep slopes, causing sudden vertical drops (e.g., Jog Falls).

7. What is the difference between Bhangar and Khadar?

Ans: The difference between Bhangar and Khadar is:

a) Bhangar: Old alluvium, slightly higher ground.

b) Khadar: New alluvium, more fertile, deposited annually by floods.

8. State two characteristics of the Shiwalik Range.

Ans: Two characteristics of the Shiwalik Range are:

a) They are formed of unconsolidated sediments like sand, clay, and silt.

b) They are prone to landslides due to weak geological structure.

9. Explain why the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are strategically important for India.

Ans: Andaman & Nicobar Islands are strategically important for India because they are:

a) Located near major international sea routes.

b) Important for naval presence, maritime security, and trade monitoring.

10. Mention two major physiographic divisions of India and a key feature of each.

Ans: Two major physiographic divisions of India with their key feature are:

a) Himalayas: Young fold mountains, high peaks.

b) Peninsular Plateau: Old, stable landmass rich in minerals.

Competency Based Long Answer Type Questions:

1. Describe the major physiographic divisions of India.

Ans: India has six major physiographic divisions:

1. The Himalayas

• Himalayas are young fold mountains.
• Three parallel ranges are Himadri, Himachal, Shiwaliks that run from north west to east.
• Himalayas act as climate barrier; it protects India from cold winds from north east and do not allow monsoon winds to cross Himalayas.

2. The Northern Plains

• Formed by Indus, Ganga, Brahmaputra Rivers.
• It has fertile alluvial soils and densely populated.

3. The Peninsular Plateau

• Oldest landmass made out of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
• It can be divided into two parts Central Highlands and Deccan Plateau.
• It is rich in minerals.

4. The Indian Desert

• Sandy terrain with low rainfall (<150 mm).
• Luni is the only major river that disappears in summers.

5. The Coastal Plains

• Western coastal plain is narrow and Eastern coastal plain is wide and deltaic.
• It supports sport, fishing, agriculture.

6. The Islands

• Andaman & Nicobar Islands are of volcanic origin and Lakshadweep islands are having coral origin
• These islands are important for tourism and national security.

2. Explain the formation, characteristics, and importance of the Northern Plains.

Ans:

Formation

• Northern Plains are formed by alluvial deposits from Indus, Ganga, Brahmaputra
• Sediments brought from the Himalayas and Peninsular rivers has created a vast plain.

Characteristics

• It is a flat, low-lying area.
• Covered by highly fertile alluvial soil.
• It is well-connected by river network.
• Its subdivisions are Bhabar, Tarai, Bhangar, Khadar.

Importance

• It is known as the agricultural heartland of India.
• It is a densely populated region.
• It supports major cities, industries, and transport networks.
• And provides water, fertile soil, and easy terrain for settlement.

3. Discuss the formation of the Himalayas and describe their three major ranges.

Ans: The Himalayas were formed by the collision of the Indian Plate with the Eurasian Plate about 50 million years ago. Sediments between them compressed and folded giving birth to Himalayas.

Three Major Ranges

a) Himadri (Great Himalaya) Highest range with peaks above 6000 m (e.g., Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu). It is composed of crystalline rocks.

b) Himachal (Lesser Himalaya) This part of Himalaya includes famous hill stations like Shimla, Mussoorie. It features deep valleys and thick forests. The prominent ranges are Pir Panjal, Dhaula Dhar and Mahabharat.

c) Shiwaliks (Outer Himalaya) Formed from unconsolidated sediments. It has lower elevation; prone to earthquakes and landslides. The longitudinal valleys lying between Lesser Himalayas and Shivaliks are known as duns e.g., Dehradun, Kotli Dun, Patli Dun.

4. Compare the Himalayan region with the Peninsular Plateau in terms of geological structure, age, and relief.

Ans:

5. “India’s physiography has shaped its economic development.” Justify the statement.

Ans: Yes, India’s physiography has shaped its economic development in following ways:

a) Northern Plains – Agriculture Fertile soil allows intensive agriculture – food security & Green Revolution.

b) Himalayas – Climate & Rivers

Himalayas interrupt cold winds to enter India from the north and north east; it causes monsoon winds to divert from Purvanchal to west of India, bringing rain to the Northern Plains.

Himalayas are the source of major rivers, giving chance to build dams and produce hydropower and give way to irrigation

c) Peninsular Plateau – Minerals & Industry

Plateaus are rich in iron ore, coal, manganese and supports steel and mining industries

d) Coastal Plains – Trade & Fisheries

Ports like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata support foreign trade

Long coastline give way to fishing, tourism and building ports.

e) Desert & Islands – Tourism & Defence

Whereas Thar Desert preserves tourism and cultural heritage

Andaman & Nicobar Islands help in maritime security

Thus, India’s economy is deeply connected to its physiographic diversity.

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