06.

Environment Education
 World Environment Protection Day-26 November
6.1 Environment : An Introduction
 International Mountain Day - 11 December
Environment- An environment is everything that is
around us, which includes both living and non-living  World Energy Day - 14 December
things such as soil, water, animals and plants, which  International Biodiversity Day - 22 May
adopt themselves to their surroundings.  Rajiv Gandhi Akshaya Urja Diwas - 20 August
The word 'Environment' is derived from the French  Wildlife Week - 2 to 8 October
word "Environ" which means "surrounding".
 World Wild Life Day- 3 March
Components of Environment and Environmental
Factors-  Global Recycle Day - 18 March
(1) Physical or Abiotic components-  Anniversary of the Chipko Andolan - 26 March
 Atmosphere- The earth is surrounded by gaseous  World Population Day - 11 July
layer that make up the atmosphere.  World Soil Day - 5 December
 Water- Water is the only naturally occurring Ecomark- It is a certification mark issued by the
inorganic liquid on earth that serves as a resource, Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) for products which
ecosystem, or habitat. are ecologically safe. It is issued by the Ministry of
 Soil - Soil is the topmost layer of the earth's crust, Environment and Forest.
which is made up of minerals and partially Environmental Awards
decomposed organic matter. Country Award Sponsor Notes
(2) Biotic Components- International Global 500 United Environmental
 Plant- Plants are the most important organic Nations Achievements of
Environment individuals and
components, because plants produce organic Programme organizations all
substances which are consumed by the plants around the world
themselves. They are autotrophs. India Indira Gandhi Ministry of Who have made
 Organism- An organism refers to a living thing that Paryavaran Environment, significant
has an organized structure, can react to stimuli, Puraskar Forest and contributions
Climate towards protecting
reproduce, grow, adapt, and maintain homeostasis. change the environment
 Microorganism- An organism that is so small, it India Indira Ministry of Who have done
can only be viewed under a microscope. It can be Priyadarshini Environment, pioneering and
bacteria, fungi, archaea. (does not include viruses Vrikshamitra Forest and exemplary work in
Award Climate the field of
and prions). They are also known as decomposers. change forestation and
(3) Energy component - wasteland
development
 Light- It is a type of electromagnetic radiation that
International Forest Hero United Who have devoted
allows the human eye to see or make objects visible. Award Nations their lives in
Sun is the ultimate source of energy directly or protecting forests.
indirectly for almost all living beings on the earth. India Himalayan Himalayan Exceptional
Green Welfare service in the field
Environmental Dates Awards Organization of environmental
 World Wetlands Conservation Day - 2 February Kashmir conservation and
development.
 World Forestry Day - 21 March India Rajiv Gandhi Ministry of Industrial units that
 World Water Day - 22 March Paryavaran Environment make a significant
Puraskar and forest contribution
 International Earth Day - 22 April towards the
development of
 World Environment Day - 5 June new technologies
 World Ground Water Day - 10 June that prevent
environmental
 International day for the preservation of the pollution.
Ozone layer - 16 September India Mahavriksha Indian science Preserving and
puraskar technology protecting trees of
 World Animal Day- 4 October and notified species
 National Bird Day - 12 November innovation,
Government
 World Toilet Day - 19 November of India.

Environment Education 443 YCT

 Previous Years Question
1. Environment means - different can be established between them. The
RRB Bhopal Section Engineer, 24.11.2002 meaning of environmental pollution is-degradation of
(a) The natural world of land, water, air, plants and the quality of the environment at the local level only by
animals that exist around them. human actions, while environmental degradation
means-degradation and degradation of quality of the
(b) The sum total of all the conditions that
environment at the local, regional and global levels by
surround a person at a point of time.
human actions and natural process for example-
(c) Interacting system of physical, biological and volcanic eruption, earthquake, elevation and
cultural elements which are inter linked. subsidence of landmass, folding and faulting,
(d) All of the above atmosphere storms (such as typhoon, hurricane,
Ans. (d) : Environment is the sum total of all those tornado etc.), Hood and drought, outbreak of forest
conditions and influences, which affect the fire due to natural causes, natural lightning discharge,
development and life of a group of organisms. hailstorm snowfall, excessive snowfall, geological
Environment includes air, water and land. along with erosion, landslides etc. are the natural factors by which
this, inter-relationships between humans, other living environmental degradation starts due to disturbance in
beings, plants, micro-organisms and their properties are the ecosystems at the terrestrial and regional levels.
also included in dynamic form. Hence, environment Hence, all the given options are correct.
refers to all the three options given in the question.
(Important facts)
2. What is the environment made of ? Ecology was used for the first time
RRB Kolkata Chemical & Metallurgical Er., – By Ernst Haeckel
01.12.2002 Origin of species was written by
(a) From biological components – Charles Darwin
(b) From geomorphic components Who developed the concept of natural selection
(c) From inorganic components – Charles Darwin
(d) All of the above Cloud seeding occurs
Ans. (d) : Environment is an indivisible whole and is –By a mixture of Carbon dioxide and iodine
made up environmental functional systems consisting Which river's water has been given the name of
Green soup
of physical, biological and cultural elements.
Environment is the place where we live consist of air, –Yamuna River
water, land, animals, plants and the micro-organisms. 4. Which one of the following is the most suitable
It is nature's gift that helps in nourishing life on earth. and appropriate method from the point of view
3. Environmental degradation means – of healthy environment?
RRB Kolkata Jr. Engineer-II Electrical/DRG &
RRB Bhopal & Mumbai Apprentice Section
Design 11.06.2006
Eng. 23.03.2003 (a) Burning of plastic wastes to keep the
(a) Completer degradation of environmental environment clean
properties. (b) Burning of dry and fallen leaves in a garden or
(b) Bringing opposite changes through human open place
activities. (c) Treatment of domestic sewage before
(c) Ecological imbalance as a result of ecological discharge
variation (d) Use of chemical fertilizers in agricultural fields
(d) All of the above Ans. (c) : From the point of view of a healthy
Ans. (d) : Generally environmental pollution and environment treating domestic sewage before releasing
environmental degradation are considered synonyms it is the most appropriate method. That's why there is a
because both are related to the degradation of the need to filter and release the sewage generated from the
quality of the environment. But on the basis of their urbon complexes situated on the banks of rives Ganga
factors and the area and scale of their influence, a through STP.

Environment Education 444 YCT

5. World Environment Day is celebrated on – World Animal Day – October 30
RRB Secunderabad Section Engineer (Civil) National Bird Day – 5 January
29.06.2008 World Toilet Day – November 19
st
(a) December 1 World Environment Protection Day – November 26
(b) June 5th National Energy Conservation Day, World Energy-
(c) November 14th Day –14 December
(d) August 15th International Mountain Day – December 11
Ans. (b) : Question wise the following days are as World Ground Water Day – 22 March
follows – Dedicated day to the continuous war against
December 1st World AIDS Day desertification and drought – June 17
June 5th World Environment Day/World Rajiv Gandhi Renewable Energy Day – August 20
Filariasis 8. The 'Global 500' awards are given to –
th
November 14 World Children Day/World RRB Chandigarh Section Engineer
Diabetes day
(Civil), 26.02.2012
6. Which of the following day is celebrated on 5th (a) To Control Population
June
(b) For Campaign against terrorism
RRB Bangalore Section Engineer
(c) For environmental protection
(Civil) 01.02.2009
(d) For campaign against drugs
(a) World AIDS Day
(b) World Environment Day Ans. (c) An international award named 'Global-500' is
(c) International Ozone Day given for the excellent work done for environmental
(d) National Science Day protection. The award was instituted in 1987 by the
United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). The
Ans. (b) : World Environment Day is celebrated on 5
following Indian awards related to environment are -
June. World AIDS Day is celebrated on 1 December
and International Ozone Day 16 September and Pitambarpant National Award given since 1978 for
National Science Day on 28 February. outstanding contribution in environmental science.
7. Rajiv Gandhi Environment Award is given for Indira Gandhi Environmental Award (1987), Rajiv
the best contribution– Gandhi Environment Award (1993), Mahavriksha
RRB Chandigarh Section Engineer (Electrical) , Award (1993 - 94) etc. are awards related to
15.03.2009 environment.
(a) Afforestation and conservation of follow land 9. The basis of Indira Gandhi Environment Award
(b) In clean technology and development given every year is
(c) In wildlife conservation RRB Chennai Section Engineer, 12.02.2012
(a) Meaningful contribution in the field of
(d) In writing a Hindi book on environment
environment
Ans. (b) : The Rajiv Gandhi Environment Award was
(b) Outstanding contribution in the field of
instituted in 1993. This award is given for clean
technology and development. forestation
(c) Outstanding contribution to the development of
(Environmental Day) barren land
World Wetlands Conservation Day – February 2 (d) Exemplary work in the field of conservation and
World Foresty Day – March 21 research of wildlife.
World Water Day – March 22
Ans. (a) : The Indira Gandhi Environment Award ,
International Earth Day – April 22
given every year, is given to an organization or
World Environment Day – June 5
individual who has made a significant contribution in
International Day for Disaster Reduction – October 14
the field of environment. This award was established
International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone
in 1987.
Layer – September 16

Environment Education 445 YCT

10. 'Eco Mark' is given to those Indian products 14. Which factor is most important in determining
which– the impact of anthropogenic activates on the
RRB Chandigarh Section Engineer (Mech.), environment?
26.02.2012 RRB Bhubaneshwar App. Electrical , 19.08.2001
(a) be pure and unadulterated (a) Population, per capita wealth and technology
(b) be protein -rich used to exploit the resources.
(c) be friendly towards the environment (b) Atmospheric conditions, population and forest
(d) be economically viable cover.

Ans. (c) : Eco Mark is used for those Indian products (c) Population, forest cover and per capita land
whose production has not caused damage to the availability.
environment, that is friendly towards the environment. (d) Population, per capita wealth, per capita land
This certificate is being given by the Bureau of Indian availability.
Standards (BIS) since the year 1991. It's logo are Ans. (a) : Environment is the collective unit of all
earthen pots. those physical, chemical and biological factors that
11. to identify eco-friendly consumer products, the affect any living organism or ecological population
government has started – and determine their form, life and survival. In general
RRB Jammu Section Eng. (Mech, sense, it is a unit made up of a set of all biological and
Elec/Elect./Telecom), 2013 a biotic elements, facts, processes and events affecting
(a) Agmark our lives. It pervades all around us and every event of
our life takes place within it and we also affect this
(b) Ecomark
environment with all our actions. Thus there is also a
(c) ISI mark
relationship of interdependence between an organism
(d) Water mark and its environment.
Ans. (b) : For the purpose of distinct identification of From micro-organisms to insects, all living beings and
eco-friendly consumer goods, the system of trees and plants come in the biological components of
'Ecomark' label has been adopted. Bureau of Indian the environment and along with it all the biological
Standards/Directorate of Marks and Inspection is the activities and processes related to them. Abiotic
main agency to implement this scheme. components include non-living elements and processes
12. The world Environment facility was started in – associated with them, such as rocks, mountains, rivers,
DMRC Civil Engineering, 07.09.2014 elements of air and climate etc.
(a) 1985 15. Which one of the following approaches is the most
(b) 1989 comprehensive approach to the problem of
(c) 1991 human- environment ambivalence?
(d) 1994
RRB Ranchi Signal Maintainer Group-III,
Ans. (c) The World Environment facility was started 20.11.2005
in October 1991 with the cooperation of 183 countries.
(a) Natural resource conservation approach
it provides a platform to solve global environment
(b) Urbon-industrial growth oriented approach
problems and promote sustainable development.
(c) Growth oriented approach to rural agriculture
13. E.V.S. Abbreviation is used in sense of ………….
(d) Watershed Development Approach
DMRC Electronics Engineering, 21.09.2014
Ans. (d) : The problem of human environment
(a) Environmental science
interaction's that when humans exploit the resources
(b) Environmental sources
present in the environment, as a result of which the
(c) Environmental studies problem is born. To prevent this problem, many plans
(d) Environmental skills and strategies are being made by humans. Like-
Ans. (c) : E.V.S. the abbreviation is used in the sense Watershed development approach. Under this scheme,
of Environmental studies. water can be used judiciously.

Environment Education 446 YCT

 (1) Tundra-
6.2 Biosphere and Biome  Type - Arctic Tundra (high latitudes), Alphine tundra
Biosphere- The biosphere is defined as the region on, (high altitudes)
above, and below the earth's surface where life exists.  Climate - Arctic, arid
Parts of the biosphere-  Growing season - very short
 Lithosphere- It is the term for solid portion of the
 Soil quality - Very poor
earth.
 Very low biotic diversity
 Atmosphere- The earth is surrounding by gaseous
layer that make up the atmosphere.  World's coldest biome
 Hydrosphere- The vast volume of water that make  500 to 700 North latitude
up the majority of the earth's surface.  Dry & little rain fall
 Long winter, short summer
 Permafrost - Permanently
 Plants- No trees, mosses, grasses, lichens and
herbaceous etc.
 Animals - insects, birds (summer only), no
amphibians or reptiles, mammals such as rodents,
arctic foxes, polar bears, caribou (summer only)
mountain goats etc.
(2) Desert-
• Climate- temperate or tropical, arid
• Growing season - varies
Biotic Community- It is the group of organisms that • Soil quality- very poor,
live together and interact with each other within an • Biodiversity - none / very low.
environment or habitat. It is also called as a 'biota' or • Receive less than 250mm rainfall annually
'biocoenosis'. • Found around 300 to 500 latitude, called mid-latitudes
Community Characteristics- • Deserts are cold (Gobi) or hot (Sahara, Thar)
 A group of people  A definite locality according to temperature.
 Community Sentiment  Neutrality • Plants- Organ pipe cactus, sage plants, mesquite
 Permanence  Similarity virtually no plants etc.
 Total organized social life  A particular name • Animals- Insects, reptiles (snake & Lizards), camels,
 Size of community rodent (rat), birds and coyotes etc.
Species Diversity- It is defined as the number of (3) Grassland -
different species present in an ecosystem and relative Other name - savanna
abundance of each of those species.  Mid-latitude (25-550)
Keystone Species- Species that in fluence its  Limited annual rainfall (25 - 75cm)
community by creating, modifying or maintain physical  Soil quality - Excellent
habitat for itself and other species.  Semi - arid climate
Keystone species is an organism that helps hold the
system together.  Poor vegetation growth dominated by grasses.
Other Important Species For Ecosystem  Type- Tropical and Temperate
Foundation Species- The foundation species are  This biome are mainly between a forest and a desert.
species that have a strong role in structuring a  Growing season - Low or medium
community or maintaining a habitat. Ex. corals.  Biodiversity- Low or medium
Umbrella Species- Umbrella species are species that  Plants- Grasses, scattered clumps of trees
are selected for conservation-related decisions because  Animals- Insects, reptile (snake), and birds,
the conservation and protection of these species mammals such as zebras, giraffe antelopes, lions,
indirectly affect the conservation and protection of
etc.
other species within their ecosystem. Ex. Grizzly bear
(4) Deciduous forests-
(Threatened), Spotted owl (new threatened).
Indicator species- An organism whose presence,  Other name hardwood forest, broadleaf forest.
absence or abundance reflects a specific environmental  Mid - Latitude
condition. Ex. Escherichia coli.  Climate- semi-humid, temperate
Biome- A biome is a community of plants and animals  (76 - 127 cm) average rainfall per year
that is found in a large geographic area. In other words,
 Growing season- Good
all the major ecosystem on earth including plants and
animals are called biome.  Bio diversity - high
Environment Education 447 YCT
  Plants- Broadleaf deciduous trees such as beeches,  Located between 230- 550 latitude
oak and hickory, maple, etc.  No dry season, all year rainy season
 Animals - Insects, amphibians, reptiles and birds,  200 - 250 cm of rainfall per year
mammals such as squirrels, foxes, deer, black bears  Rainforests turn CO2 into O2 and reduces the green
and wolves etc. house effect
 Tropical deciduous (monsoon forests) are found in  Provide source of medicines
large parts of India, northern Australia and Central
America. While temperate deciduous forests are  Rainforest layer-
found in eastern China, northern New Zealand and (i) Emergent layer- has tallest tree appx. 200 feet
western Europe. above the forest floor.
(5) Boreal forest- (ii) Canopy layer- The height of trees in this layer
 Other name - Taiga, northern coniferous forest ranges from 35 to 40 meters.
(iii) Understory layer - Receive little sunshine
 Climate - semi-arid, subarctic
(iv) Forest Floor- Very Dark, with little sunlight
 Growing season is short (almost 2 percent).
 Soil quality - poor, lack of nutrients  Plants- Goliath water lily, heliconia, Cacao, Passion
 Biodiversity - low fruit flower, coffee plant, monkey Brush vines,
 It is also found in some parts of southern hemisphere orchid etc.
tundra, such as New Zealand  Animal - Monkey, blue morpho butterfly, Okapi,
 Plants - conifers such as cedar, spruce, pine and fir, Brown-throated three -toed sloth, jaguar, capybara,
mosses etc. toucan and poison dart frog etc.
 Animals - Insects, birds (mainly in summer), no  Soil quality - highly acidic (poor quality)
amphibian mammals such as rodents, rabbits,  Biodiversity - high
moose, caribou (winter only) etc.  Growing season - year-round (dry and wet season)
(6) Tropical Rain Forests-
 Evergreen forests.

Previous Years Question

1. Oxides of carbon, nitrogen and sulphur (a) Otter - Turtle - Shark (b) Shark -Turtle - Otter
released while burning fossil fuels are –––––––. (c) Turtle -Shark - Otter (d) Shark -Otter - Turtle
(a) Acidic oxides (b) Silver oxides RRB Allahabad Signal Maintainer-II,
(c) Alkaline oxides (d) Copper oxides 22.01.2006
RRB ALP & Tech. 22.01.2019 Shift-III Ans. (b) : Shark- Scientists beleive that sharks came
Ans : (a) Oxides of carbon, nitrogen and sulphur, into existence around 400 million years ago. It is
which are released on burning fossil fuels, are acidic beleived that they descended from a small leaf -
oxides. These cause acid rain which affects are water shaped fist that had no eyes, bones on fish.
and soil resources. Turtle-is beleived to have existed for 250 million
2. Substances that are broken down by biological years. They are among the longest - living land
processes are said to be animals in the world.
(a) Bio degradable (b) Non-recyclable Otters-are beleived to have existed on earth for the past 23
million years. They have evolved significantly and have
(c) Recyclable (d) Non-biodegradable gone through many adaptations to survive till this time.
RRB ALP & Tech. 23.01.2019 Shift-III Hence, Shark- Turtle - Otter is the correct sequence.
Ans : (a) Substances that are broken down by 5. A sustainable biotic group in an ecosystem is
biological processes bacteria and other micro- called –
organisms are called biodegradable. Example: All (a) Ecotone (b) Succession
living plants and animals, vegetables, jute and fruits. (c) Climax (d) Simple
3. Fossil fuels are –––––––– sources of energy. RRB Kolkata Apprentice Supervisors, 14.10.2001
(a) Air (b) Solar
Ans. (a) : In ecology, sustainable bio-groups are called
(c) Renewable (d) Non-Renewable
transects or ecotones. Ecotone is a transitional or very
RRB ALP & Tech. 22.01.2019 Shift-III wide area between two biome, in which animals and
Ans : (d) Fossil fuel is a non-renewable and non- plants of both biomes are found. Sequencing or
renewable source of energy. Coal, oil and natural gas succession is called that, in which the place of one
are all primary energy sources of fossil fuels. biological community is taken by another biological
4. From the point of view of evolution in living community over time. while in the peak stage or climax,
beings, which one of the following is the correct the succession of one species by another slows down with
sequence of evolution? time and gradually the species acquires a definite form.
Environment Education 448 YCT
6. With reference to the evolution of organisms, 11. The limit on the number of organisms in a given
which one of the following sequence is correct area that the environment can support is called –
(a) Octopus → Dolphin → Shark Jaipur Metro Rail, 02.12.2012
(a) Population (b) Carrying capacity
(b) Pangolin → Turtle → Falcon
(c) Pyramid of numbers of bio-mass
(c) Salamander → Pythan → Kangaroo (d) None of the above
(d) Frog → Crab → Prawn Ans. (b) The limit on the number of species that an
RRB Kolkata Supervisor (P.Way), 20.02.2000 environment can support in a given area is called the
Ans. (c) : the correct sequence in the context of evolution carrying capacity. While population is the number of
people living in a unit area and biomass is the quantity
of organisms is → Salamander → Pythan → Kangaroo of organisms present in a particular area.
7. A time-varying gradual change in the intensity 12. Which of the following is of organic origin?
of a region is called – (a) Coral (b) Emerald
(a) biome (b) indexing (c) Ruby (d) Topaz
(c) nutritional (d) peak stage DMRC Maintainer (Fitter) , 20.07.2014
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Train Operators’, Ans. (a) : Coral are small aquatic creatures and the
14.09.2003 process of biological nutrition operates smoothly in
Ans. (b) : A time-varying gradual change in the them. They are very sensitive from the point of view of
intensity of a region is called indexing. ecology and at present global warming, is having an
To monitor the change in landscap, and to relate these adverse effect on them. The organic matter in coral
to ecological processes, we need robust and skeleton is typically considered to be a 50m that is
reproducible method for quantifying the changes in produced by the coral polyp and that plays an active
landscape pattern. role in crystal nucleation and growth.
8. The' Man and Biosphere Programme' (MAB)was 13. In which one of the following layers of the
started by UNESCO in – atmosphere is the concentration of ions high?
(a) Stratosphere (b) Exosphere
(a) 1970 (b) 1972
(c) Thermosphere (d) Troposphere
(c) 1971 (d) 1991
DMRC Station Controller, 27.07.2014
RRB Bangalore Material Superintendent,
Ans. (c): The height of the outer atmosphere is between
21.11.2004
80-640 km. There is an excess of electrically charged
Ans. (c) : The 'Man and Biosphere Programme' was particles in it and the temperature starts increasing with the
stated by UNESCO in the Year 1971 to establish a increase in height. The concentration of ions is high in
sustainable relationship between humans and the this layer. Radio waves of frequency D-Layer, E-Layer, F-
environment. Layer, G-Layer etc. are reflected from this layer of the
9. The biosphere reserve is a conservation area of atmosphere. As a result of which the facilities of radio,
(a) The grassland (b) Agricultural production television, telephone and radar etc. are available on the
earth. Communication satellites are located in this circle.
(c) Atmospheric balance (d) Genetic variation
DMRC Station Controller, 09.09.2007 14. Which is the most abundant gas in the
atmosphere on the basis of percentage?
Ans. (d) : Biosphere reserves are multipurpose areas that (a) Nitrogen (b) Oxygen
maintain genetic diversity in terrestrial and coastal (c) Hydrogen (d) Carbon-dioxide
ecosystems. So far 18 Biosphere Reserves have been RRB Trivandrum (Tech.), 09.11.1997
established in our country. Out of these 18 Biosphere Ans. (a):According to the volume, the mixture of
Reserves, 10 are recognized on the UNESCO World different gases in the atmosphere is as follows- Nitrogen
Network Biosphere Reserves. 78.07%, Oxygen 20.93%, Carbon dioxide .03%.
10. Which one of the following is the correct 15. Eskimos build their houses 'igloo' out of snow
sequence of steps in biological succession? what is the reason for this?
(a) Nudation, Establishment, Reaction, Stabilization (a) Ice does not allows cold air and water to enter
(b) The air present between the walls of ice
stripping
prevents the heat inside from escaping
(b) Nudation, Stripping, Establishment, Reaction, (c) Ice is available free of cost, other ingredients
Stabilization will cost more
(c) Installation, Nudation, Stripping, Reaction, (d) Ice is available only in the polar regions.
Stabilization RRB Ajmer (Tech.), 25.01.1998
(d) Stabilization, Reaction, Stripping, Nudation,
Ans. (b) : Eskimos are tribes living in the polar regions
Establishment.
who build their houses from snow, their houses are
DMRC Customer Relations Ass., 22.07.2012 called igloo's. Eskimos build houses out of snow
Ans. (b) : The correct sequence of steps of biological because the air present between the walls of snow
succession world be as follows. Nudation, Stripping, prevents the heat inside from going out, due to which
Establishment, Reaction, Stabilization. the house feels warm inside.
Environment Education 449 YCT
 Characteristic of Ecosystem-
6.3 Ecology and Ecosystem
 It is a structured and well organized system.
Ecology- Ecology is the science under which all living
 Natural resource system
beings and their inter-relationship between the physical
environment are studies.  The productivity of an ecosystem depends on the
 The term 'Ecology' was first used by Ernst Haeckel in availability of energy in it.
1869. The nomenclature 'Oecology' created by  Different type of ecosystem are powered by energy.
Haeckel, is formed from two words of Greek language,
 It is an open system in which there is continuous
in which Oikos (Living place) and logus (study). Later
on, Oecology name to be called ecology. input and output of materials and energy.
Ecosystem - The set of all the components of the  On the basis of size, it can be divided into several
biosphere, which are involved in interaction, is called parts-
ecosystem. An ecosystem is a functional unit of nature Ecological niche- The ecological niche describes how a
that includes complex interactions between its biotic species interacts within an ecosystem. The niche of a
and abiotic components. species depends on both abiotic and biotic factors, they
 The term ' ecosystem' was first used by A.G allow different species to live togather.
Tansley.

Abiotic Factor- Abiotic factors are the non-living parts (2) Consumers-
of the environment that have a major influence on living  These organisms depends on producers for their
organisms. It include water, sunlight, oxygen, soil,
foods.
temperature, humidity, weather and more.
Biotic Component- Biotic factor are living component Ex. Human (usually animals)
in an ecosystem. It consists of all living organism and (i) Primary consumer (Herbivores)
physico-chemical components. Plant eater, Ex. a cow
The biotic factor has been classified into 3 groups- (ii) Secondary consumer (Carnivores)
(i) Produces Meat eaters, Ex. a Lion and omnivores.
(ii) Consumers (iii) Tertiary consumer (Omnivores)
(iii) Decomposers Plant and animal eaters, ex. human or birds.
(1) Producers or Autotrophs-
(3) Decomposer or saprophyte (Detritivores)-
 Produce their own food by using sunlight by the
 Consume, decompose dead and decaying matter.
process of photosynthesis.
 Ex. Plants, green Algae.  organism like bacteria and fungi.

Environment Education 450 YCT

 Type of Ecosystem-  Terrestrial Ecosystem
There are 2 types of ecosystem:  Aquatic Ecosystem

Terrestrial

Terrestrial Ecosystem- (ii) Marine Ecosystem- The marine ecosystem

Terrestrial ecosystem are exclusively land based includes sea and oceans. These have a more
ecosystems. They are as follows. substantial salt content and greater biodiversity in
(i) Forest Ecosystem- A forest ecosystem consists of comparison to the freshwater ecosystem.
several plants, particularly trees, animals and Problems of terrestrial Ecosystem-
micro-organisms. They help in maintaining the  Conversion of forest land into agricultural land
temperature of earth and are the major carbon sink.  Shifting or jhum cultivation.
(ii) Grassland Ecosystem- In grassland, the vegetation  Conversion of forest into pastures.
is dominated by grasses and herbs.
 Demand for firewood
(iii) Tundra Ecosystem- Tundra ecosystems are devoid
of trees and are found in cold climates or where  Demand for industrial and commercial wood
rainfall is scarce. These are covered with snow for  Forest fire
most of the year.
 Urbanization and develop project.
(iv) Desert Ecosystem- These are regions with little
rainfall and scarce vegetation. The days are hot,  Diseases in forests.
and the nights are cold.  Increase in desertification because of some natural
(2)Aquatic Ecosystem- Aquatic ecosystems are reason, scarce water resources, drought and high
ecosystems present in a body of water. They are as biotic pressure.
follows.
Problems of Aquatic Ecosystem-
(i) Freshwater Ecosystem- The freshwater ecosystem
is an aquatic ecosystem that includes lakes, ponds,  Eutrophication (Natural and manmade)
rivers, streams and wetlands. These have no salt  Water bloom/Algal Bloom
content in contrast with the marine ecosystem.

Previous Years Question

1. ––––– is the physiological adjustment by an (a) A community of organisms interacting with
organism to environmental change. each other
(a) Bioaccumulation (b) Bioremediation (b) That part of the earth which is inhabited by
(c) Acclimation (d) Cogeneration living organisms
RRB ALP & Tech. 23.01.2019 Shift-I (c) The community of organisms together with the
Ans : (c) Physiological adjustments made by an organism to environment in which they live
environmental changes are called acclimation. (d) Flora and Fauna of a geographical area.
Acclimation - The adjustment of human body to suit Ans. (c) : The term of ecosystem was first used by
the climate with respect to temperature, altitude, A.G. Tansley in 1935. According to him, there is a
humidity, ph, light etc. reciprocal relationship between the organisms of the
2. Which one of the following is the best description biotic community of any place and the abiotic
of the term 'ecosystem'? environment found around them and both of them
RRB Ajmer (Tech.), 01.03.1998 influence each other.
Environment Education 451 YCT
 • The composition, function of the organisms of the Establishes relationship between biotic and abiotic
communities and the interrelationship with their components – Decomposer
environment is called ecosystem. Which noun is given to the amount of non-living
3. Which of the following is not correct about matter in any ecosystem at a given time?
ecosystem? – Standing state
RRB Trivandrum (Tech.), 11.04.1999 In which direction does energy flow in the food
(a) It contains both abiotic and biotic components chain – in the same
(b) It has its own productivity direction
(c) It is a closed ecosystem Establishes relationships among all the organisms
of an entire community – Food
(d) It is a natural resource system
web
Ans. (c) : Ernst Haeckel (Zoologist) used the word In which of the following, the flow of energy
ecology in 1869. Biotic- abiotic components in passes through many paths even though it is in the
ecosystem, nutrient level, energy , geochemical cycle, same direction? – In food
photosynthesis, food chain, food web, productivity, web
sustainability, plant kingdom, fauna, biome,
Energy is a unit of measurement in ecology.
environmental degradation, imbalance, natural
disasters, pollution and environmental management are – Heat
studied. an ecosystem is an open system. A functional unit of nature is – Ecosystem
• Ecosystem is an integration of all living and non- What name was given by Carl Mobius and Forbes
living factors of the environment . to the concept of ecosystem?
An ecosystem is normally an open system with a – Respectively biocoenosis and microcosm.
continuous but variable influx and loss of material and 5. What is studied in ecology is –
energy. RRB Bangalore (Tech.), 22.08.1999
4. Ecology is the study of the interrelationships (a) Earth (b) Environment
among the following – (c) Space (d) Sky
RRB Trivandrum (Tech.), 29.06.1999 Ans. (b) : In ecology, the mutual relationship of
(a) Organism and environment organisms with their environment are studied. The
(b) man and forest living community of animals and plants in an area as
(c) soil and water well as the abiotic components of the environment
(d) husband and wife such as soil, air, water are called ecosystems.

Ans. (a) : The German biologist Ernst Haeckal (1869) 6. Which of the following is not a biotic component
coined the term ecology. According to him, the study of an ecosystem?
of mutual relationship between the environment and RRB Bangalore (Tech.), 22.08.1999
the living community is called ecology. (a) Vegetation (b) Bacteria
(c) Animal (d) Air
Exam points
Who first used the term 'ecosystem'? Ans. (d) : Air is not a biotic component of the
ecosystem. Air is an abiotic factor, which are the non-
– A.G. Tansley living physical and chemical elements in the
Respiration is. – Reducing agent ecosystem.
In which light color does photosynthesis 7. Who among the following used the term 'Deep
– Red and Blue Ecology,' for the first time?
In the process of photosynthesis CO2 and H2O are RRB Kolkata (Tech.), 29.08.1999
respectively. (a) E.P. Odum (b) C. Raunkiaer
– Reduction and Oxidation (c) F. E. Clements (d) Arne Naess
Which quality is found in all consumers? Ans. (d) : The term deep ecology was first used by
– Host properties Arne Naess.
What are secondary producers? •It is a movement and philosophy meaning to protect
– Host consumer animals nature on its own sake.
Those animals which get their food by hunting 8. The concept of ecosystem is credited to –
other animals are called – Predators RRB Kolkata Supervisor (P. Way), 20.02.2000
Some animals are both vegetarian and non- (a) A. H. Strahler (b) A. G. Tansley
vegetarian, they are called – Universal (c) C. C. Park (d) F. R. Fosberg
Environment Education 452 YCT
 Ans. (b) : The credit for the concept of ecosystem is Tamil Nadu Point Calimere Wildlife and bird
given by A. G. Tansley. Santuary
Ecosystem refers to the habitat environment where Tripura Rudrasagar Lake
biotic components and abiotic components
continuously interact. The basic reason for this Manipur Loktak Lake (included in the
attraction is the flow of food energy within the biotic Montreux record)
community. It is an open system which keeps on Uttar Pradesh Upper Ganges River (Brijghat to
changing due to ecological and human interference. Narora)
9. The concept of ecological niche was propounded West Bengal East Kolkata Wetlands
by – Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Wetland
RRB Mahendrughat (Patna) Diesel Driver,
18.02.2001 Gujarat Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary (latest
addition)
(a) Grinnels (b) Darwin
(c) E. P. Odum (d) C. C. Park 11. Which of the following is an artificial ecosystem?
Ans. (a) : The concept of ecological niche was first RRB Mumbai Electrical/Diesel Drivers’,
given by Grinnels (1971).It is an inclusive term that 03.06.2001
involves not only the physical space occupied by an (a) Paddy Field (b) Forest
organism but also its functional role in the community. (c) Grassland (d) Lake
10. The Ramsar Convention was related to the Ans. (a) :Paddy field is an artifical ecosystem. These
conservation of – ecosystems are created by humans for commercial or
RRB Mahendrughat (Patna) Diesel Drivers’, other purposes. It is made to mimic a natural
11.11.2001 ecosystem but often is less complex and with a very
(a) Biofules (b) Forests low genetic diversity.
(c) Wetlands (d) Dry lands 12. Which lake of Rajasthan has been included in
Ans. (c) : In 1971 there was a multipurpose the list of Ramsar wetlands?
agreements for the protection of water-logged land or RRB Gorakhpur Diesel Ass. Diesel Drivers’,
wetlands, which is known as the Ramsar Convention 14.04.2002
(Iran). India joined it in 1982 and a program is being (a) Jaisamand Lake (b) Anasagar Lake
run by the (Ministry of Environment and Forests) since (c) Rajsamand Lake (d) Sambhar Lake
1987 for their protection. A total of 26 wetlands have
Ans. (d) : World-class organizations that conserve
been selected for conservation in 15 states under this wetlands made a list of water bodies meeting the world-
programme. class standards in the Ramsar convention, in which two
26 wetland areas of India under Ramsar sites-Sambhar Lake and Keoladeo National Park are
Convention located in Rajasthan.
Jammu & Kashmir Wular Lake, Hokersar Wetland, 13. Which one of the following is a source of
Surinsar-Mansar Lake methane emissions to the atmosphere ?
Himachal Pradesh Chandra Taal Wetland, Pong dam RRB Bhopal Section Engineer, 24.11.2002
Lake, Renuka wetland (smallest (a) Automatic vehicle vaccume tune
wetland of India). (b) Industrial chimney
Punjab Harike Lake (Artificial wetland, (c) Mining
created from Sutlej River), Kanjli (d) Wet land
Lake, Ropar Lake Ans. (d) : Methane gas emissions are mainly from
Kerala Ashtamudi, Sasthamkotta, wetlands such as rice fields, livestock lands and
Vembanad Wetlands (Largest seepage into natural gas system. It accounts for 11%
wetlands in India) of the greenhouse gas emissions.
Rajasthan Sambhar Lake, Keoladeo National 14. Which one of the following ecological regions of
Park (included in Montreux record) India is not correctly matched?
RRB Ranchi Assistant Drivers’, 09.01.2003
Odisha Chilka Lake, Bhitarkanika
(a) South Western ghat ─ Moist forest
Mangroves
(b) Terai Duar ─ Broad leaf forests
Andhra Pradesh Kolleru Lake
(c) Rann of Kutch ─ Grasslands
Assam Deepor beel (d) Eastern Deccan Plateau ─ Moist forest
Environment Education 453 YCT
 Ans. (d) : The correct match is as follows – Ans. (d): The tropical evergreen forest or evergreen
(1) South Western ghat – Moist forest rain forest biome provides optimal conditions for the
growth and development of plants and animals because
(2) Terai Duar – Broad leaf forests
of high rainfall and high temperatures throughout the
(3) Rann of Kutch – Grasslands year. For this reason it is also called optimum biome.
(4) Eastern Deccan Plateau – Dry Mangrove forest The tropical evergreen biome is called the megathermal
15. Which of the following trees is not eco-friendly? biome because of the presence of high temperatures
throughout the year. Evergreen rain forest biome is
RRB Bhopal & Mumbai Apprentice Section
spread between 100N 10° South latitudes. Its maximum
Engineer, 23.03.2003
development extends is found in Amazon Basin, Congo
(a) Acacia (b) Eucalyptus Basin and Indonesian region.
(c) Neem (d) Peepal
19. Kanha National Park is related to which one of
Ans. (b) : Eucalyptus trees is not ecofriendly. It the geographical areas?
depletes the nutrients and moisture reserves of the soil RRB Kolkata Diesel/Electrical Ass., 06.02.2005
and inhibits the undergrowth due to allelopathic (a) Tropical evergreen forest
properties.
(b) Tropical forest
16. Which of the following forests is known as the (c) Tropical Dry forest
'lungs of the planet earth'?
(d) Tropical moist forest
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Train Operators’,
14.09.2003 Ans. (c) : Kanha National Park belongs to tropical dry
forest. It is one of the tiger reserves of India and the
(a) Taiga forest (b) Tundra forest
largest national park of Madhya Pradesh.
(c) Amazon rain forest
20. 'Nepenthes' is a plant that eats small creatures
(d) Rain forests of Northeast India
like frogs, insects and rats by trapping them
Ans. (c) : The Amazon rain forest is known as the inside. This plant is found in our country.
lungs of the planet Earth. It produces about 20% of the RRB Ranchi Signal Maintainer Group-III ,
world's oxygen. Due to being very wide, it would have 20.11.2005
contained a large part of carbon dioxide in itself. (a) Meghalaya (b) Assam
Therefore, it is also called 'Carbon sink'.
(c) Odisha (d) Arunachal Pradesh
17. Phreatophytes are found in deserts, i.e. plants in
Ans. (a) : 'Nepenthes' is a plant that eats small
which –
creatures like frogs, insects, spiders, and rats trapped
RRB Ranchi Diesel/Electric Assitant (Driver), inside it. It is found in Meghalaya.
21.09.2003
• Nepenthes is a insectivorous plant which eat insect
(a) There is storage of fat (20 -30mg) in the leaves. to fulfill nitrogen deficiency.
(b) Long (20–30 ft.) taproot is there Nepenthes khasiana is a endangered species.
(c) Small (2-3mm.) or spiny leaves are there
21. Which one of the following is the correct
(d) Succulent stem (100– 200 mm. thick) sequence of them in the order of decreasing
Ans. (b) : Phreatophytes are found in the productivity of Ecosystem?
desert.Phreatophytes are a long- rooted plant that RRB Secunderabad Technical-III (Electrical),
absorbs its water from the water table or the soil above 11.12.2005
it. (a) Ocean, Lake, Grassland, Mangrove
Ex- Welwitschia, Alfalfa. (b) Mangrove, Ocean, Grassland, Lake
18. The tropical evergreen rainforest biome provides (c) Mangrove, Grassland, Lake, Ocean
favorable environmental conditions for the (d) Ocean, Mangrove, lake, Grassland
growth of flora and fauna. Which of the following Ans. (c) : The correct sequence in order of decreasing
statements is not correct in this regard? productivity of ecosystem is mangroves, grasslands,
RRB Bangalore Material Superintendent, lakes, oceans.
21.11.2004
22. Which of the following pairs is correctly
(a) It receives rainfall throughout the year and matched?
maintains high temperature.
RRB Secunderabad Technical-III (Electrical),
(b) This biome is also called mega-thermal biome 11.12.2005
(c) The evergreen rain-forest biome is spread (a) Mountain – Most stable ecosystem
between 10° N and 10° S latitude. (b) Abiotic components – Bacteria
(d) The maximum development of this biome has
(c) Green plants – Ecosystem
taken place in central and southern California
and in the northwestern regions of Africa. (d) Rainfall – Global warming
Environment Education 454 YCT
 Ans. (c): The concept of 'ecosystem' was first (a) Arctic and Greenland ice sheets
proposed by A. G. Tansley in 1935. The green plants (b) Amazon rain forest
are involved in producing food for the consumers, (c) Taiga
serving as the primary producers of the ecosystem. (d) Indian monsoon
23. Which one of the following ecosystems is spread Ans. (a) The most fragile ecosystem that will be first
over the largest area of the earth? affected by global warming is the Arctic and
RRB Allahabad Junior Engineer-II Greenland ice sheet. Due to global warming, ice will
[Mechanical, DSL (C&W)], 08.01.2006 melt and it will increase the sea levels, which will lead
(a) Desert (b) Grasslands to higher storm surges and more coastal flooding, etc.
(c) Maintains (d) Marine 28. Which one of the following terms describes not
only the physical space occupied by an organism,
Ans. (d) : Marine ecosystem is spread over the
but also its functional role in the community of
largest area of the earth. They are usually
organisms?
characterized by the presence of salt content. Besides,
marine ecosystems have distinctive flora and fauna, DMRC Station Controller, 09.09.2007
which support greater biodiversity than freshwater (a) Ecotone (b) Ecological niche
ecosystem. (c) Accommodation (d) Residential area
24. The most stable ecosystem is – Ans. (b) : Ecological niche is the term that describes
RRB Allahabad Signal Maintainer-II, 22.01.2006 not only the physical space occupied by an organism,
but also its functional role in the community of
(a) Forest (b) Grassland
organisms. Ecological niche is the position of a
(c) Desert (d) Oceanic species within an ecosystem, describing both the range
Ans. (d) : The most stable ecosystems is ocean of conditions necessary for the existence of species.
because it remains unchanged over the long time. They 29. "Ecology is sustainable economy" is the slogan
have been constant throughout the long history of the of which movement?
planet.
RRB Patna Technical Eng., 27.07.2008
25. Which of the following is the most important (a) Epica movement
factor in coral bleaching? (b) Narmada rescue movement
RRB Chennai Technical (Eng.), 15.04.2007 (c) Chipko movement
(a) coral reef mining (d) None of the above
(b) outbreak of coral diseases
Ans. (c) : "Ecology is sustainable economy", this is
(c) deposition of sediments in sea water the slogan of the chipko movement. It occured in the
(d) Global warming year 1973. It was a women's movements towards the
Ans. (d) : Global is the most significant factor in coral conservation of trees.
bleaching. 30. The unit of measurement of ecological footprint
The coral bleaching occurs when corals lose their is:
vibrant colours and turns white due to the rise in the RRB Allahabad Ass. Loco Pilot, 03.08.2008
normal temperature of sea water. When water is too (a) Global hectare (b) Nanometer
warm, corals will expel the algae living in their tissues (c) Hops cubic foot (d) Cubin tone
causing the coral to turn completely white.
Ans. (a) : Ecological footprint is the minimum amount
26. Which of the following functions deteriorates of land required to make human life fully sustainable.
the ecological balance? The unit of measurement of it is in global hectare.
RRB Bangalore Technical (Eng.), 22.04.2007
31. Who among the following has such an acute sense
(a) Wood Cutting (b) Social forestry of hearing that he can differentiate between the
(c) Van Mahotsav (d) Afforestation sound of leaves rustling in the wind and the
Ans. (a) : Wood cutting deteriorates the functions of sound of an animal working on the grass?
the ecological balance. as continuous deforestation and RRB Thiruvananthapuram Section
soil erosion cause mass destruction of wildlife, disrupt Eng. (Mechanical), 04.01.2009
ecological balance. (a) Tiger (b) Vulture
27. Which of the following is one of the most fragile (c) Silkworm (d) Dog
ecosystems that will be affected first by global Ans. (a) : A tiger's sense of hearing is so sharp that it
warming? can make out the difference between the rustling of
RRB Secundrabad Technical (Eng.), 20.05.2007 leaves and the sound of an animal moving on the grass.

Environment Education 455 YCT

 Types of food chain-
6.4 Functions and transmission of
(1) Grazing food chain- The grazing food chain is a
substances in ecosystem type of food chain in which energy at the lowest
Introduction- trophic level is acquired via photosynthesis.
 Ecosystem is a chain of interactions between Ex.
organisms and their environment. Grass/plants→Grasshoppers→Mice→Snake→Eagles
 Ecosystem function are exchange of energy and (2) Detritus food chain- Detritus food chain is the type
nutrients in the food chain. of food chain that starts with dead organic material.
Source of Energy- Ex. Dead leaves → Woodlouse → Blackbird.
The sun is called the ultimate source of energy because Food web-
it is the primary source of energy on the earth. With the  A food web consists of all the food chains in a single
help of solar energy, all green plants (producers)
ecosystem.
produce food by the process of photosynthesis.
 The fundamental purpose of food webs is to describe
Ecological Productivity-
feeding relationship among species in a community.
Ecological productivity refers to the primary fixation of
solar energy by plants and the subsequent use of that  Food webs can be constructed to describe the species
fixed energy by plant eating herbivores, animal eating interactions.
carnivores, and the detrivores that feed upon dead
biomass.
Net primary production (NPP) = Gross primary
production (GPP) – amount of energy lost by
respiration.
Trophic level- The various steps in a food chain or
ecological pyramid, at which the transfer of food (or
energy) takes place from one organism to another is
known as trophic levels.
Food chain- Group of organisms linked in order of the
food they eat, from producers to consumer and from
prey, predators, scavenger and decomposer.
The four trophic level in this food chain are-
(i) Producers
(ii) Primary consumer
(iii) Secondary consumer
(iv) Tertiary consumer

Bioaccumulation-
Bioaccumulation is defined as the increase of
contaminant concentrations in aquatic animals
following uptake from the ambient environmental
medium.

Environment Education 456 YCT

Biomagnifications- (ii) Pyramid of numbers - inverted- In inverted
Biomagnifications is the accumulation of a chemical by pyramid, the number and biomass of organisms at
an organism from water and food exposure that results first trophic levels of producers is lowest.
in a concentration that is greater than would have  This type of pyramid can be seen in the forest.
resulted from water exposure only and thus greater than
expected from equilibrium.

2. Pyramid of Biomass- Biomass pyramid is the

graphical representation that determines the
relationship between the factors such as number or
biomass of different trophic level.
 The biomass pyramid can be of two types:
(i) Pyramid of Biomass-Upward- An Upward
pyramid is where the mass of producers is higher
than that of consumers.
 Upward biomass pyramid is exist in most terrestrial
ecosystem.
Ecological Pyramid- An ecological pyramid is a
graphical representation showing the relationship
between different organisms in an ecosystem.
 It shows the flow of energy at different trophic
levels in an ecosystem-
1. Pyramid of numbers
2. Pyramid of biomass
3. Pyramid of energy
1. Pyramid of Number- It is a graphical
representation that shows the number of organisms
at each trophic level.
 The pyramid of numbers was proposed by Charles
(ii) Pyramid of Biomass - Inverted- An inverted
Elton in 1927.
pyramid is where the mass of producers is lower
 Number pyramid are of both upward and inverted than that of consumers.
types
 Inverted biomass pyramid exist in oceans, pond or
(i) Pyramid of numbers-upward- In upright lake ecosystem.
pyramid, the number and biomass of the organisms
which are at first tropic level of producer is high.
 This type of pyramid can be seen in the grassland
and pond ecosystem.

Environment Education 457 YCT

 3. Pyramid of Energy- An energy pyramid is a  Both biotic and abiotic components are involved in
graphical representation of the energy found within this change.
the trophic levels of an ecosystem.  There are two types of sequencing-
 It is the only type of ecological pyramid, which is (i) Primary succession
always upright.
(ii) Secondary succession
(i) Primary succession-
 Primary succession happens when a new patch of
land is created or exposed for the first time (without
previous life, or a barren habitat).
 During primary succession, organisms must start
from scratch.
 This can happen, for ex, when lava cools and creates
new rocks, or when a glacier retreats and exposes
rocks without any soil.
 It takes more time as compared to secondary succession
as the soil formation process takes place first.

Energy flow- Energy flow in ecosystem refers to the

flow of power that occurs along a food chain.
 Only about 1% of the solar energy reaching the earth
is used photosynthesis. The process of formation of
biological tissues in various organism is called
biosynthesis.
 In fact, the process of biosynthesis represents the
conversion of solar energy or light energy into
chemical energy.
 On the contrary, the process of decomposition and
decomposition of organic substances is called
biodegradation.
 Energy is always transferred from one trophic level
to another in an ecosystem.

(ii) Secondary succession- Secondary succession happens

when the existing vegetation and soil from a site.
 Many different kinds of disturbances, such as fire,
flooding, wind storms, and human, activities etc. can
initiate secondary succession.
 The stage of Ecological succession include the
following - Nudation, Invasion, Competition and
Co-action, Reaction and climax or stabilization.

Ecological succession- The process by which

communities of plant and animal species found in an
area change over time to another community or are
replaced by other communities is called ecological
succession.
Environment Education 458 YCT
Succession in Aquatic Ecosystem-(Hydrarch)- Aquatic Commensalis (+) (0) One species is
succession is a series of stages involving the gradual m benefited and other
infilling of a shallow lake or pond with sediments. species is
 It is composed of following stages: unaffected. Ex.
The sucker fish
- Phytoplankton stage.
remains attached
-Rooted submerged stage.
to the surface of
- floating stage. the shark.
- reed - swamp stage. Mutualism (+) (+) Both species
- sedge - mead stage. benefited Ex.
- woodland stage. Lichen, where
Biotic interaction- Biotic interaction refers to the fungus provides
relationship among organisms. They can be intraspecific protection to the
or interspecific. algae and the algae
provide food to the
Type of Fir Second Effect of fungus.
interaction st species interaction
Ecological efficiency- The efficiency in which
spe
organisms obtain their food into biomass and make it
cies
available for other higher level of nutrition is called
Amensalism (-) (0) One species ecological efficiency.
remains at a
disadvantage while Energy used in biomass production at trophic level
Ecological efficiency = ×100
the other species Energy used in biomss production at pre - trophic level
remains Transmission of substances- The creation of living
ineffective. Ex . beings depends on the flow of energy and circulation of
Penicillium nutrients within the ecosystem. In the biosphere,
tongues and atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere, various biotic
bacteria. and a biotic elements circulate through different cycles in
Predation (+) (-) One species is such a way that the gross mass of these elements remains
benefited i.e, almost the same and these elements are always available
hunter and the for the consumption of biological communities.
other species Biogeochemical cycle- The movement of nutrients and
(prey)is harmed. important minor and major elements from biotic to
Ex. Deer hunting abiotic or from abiotic to biotic components determines
by Lion the flow of nutrients in the ecosystem. This is commonly
called the biogeochemical cycle.
Parasitism (+) (-) One species is
benefited and the  The movement of nutrients through the various
other species is components of an ecosystem is called nutrient
harmed. Ex. cycling. Nutrient cycle is also called biogeochemical
Immortelle cycle.
growing on
another plant.
Neutralism (0) (0) Do not affect each
other.
Competition (-) (-) Both species are
affected. Ex. The
problem of food,
housing, such as
the lack of rats will
affect both the cat
and the snake.

Environment Education 459 YCT

 Types of Nutrient Cycles-
1. Gaseous cycle- In this the storage is either in air or
sea (by evaporation). Under this, there is storage of
nitrogen, oxygen, carbon and water.

2. Sedimentary cycle- In this the storage takes place

on the earth's crust. Under this there is storage of
elements like iron, calcium, phosphorus, sulphur.

1. Gaseous cycle-

(i) Water cycle (H2O Cycle) - The water cycle also

known as hydrologic or hydrological cycle, shows
the continuous movement of water within the earth
and atmosphere. It is a complex system that includes (iii) Nitrogen cycle- Nitrogen cycle is a biogeochemical
many different processes. Liquid water evaporates process through which nitrogen is converted into
into water vapor, condenses to form clouds, and many form, consecutively passing from the
precipitates back to earth in the form of rain and atmosphere to the soil to organism and back into the
snow. atmosphere. It involves several processes such as
nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, decay
and putrefaction

.
(ii) Carbon cycle- Carbon cycle shows the movement
Nitrogen fixation- Nitrogen fixation is the essential
of carbon in elemental and combined state on earth. biological process and the initial stage of the nitrogen
cycle. In this process, nitrogen in the atmosphere is
 Carbon present in the atmosphere is absorbed by
converted into ammonia (another form of nitrogen) or
plants for photosynthesis. related nitrogenous compounds (nitrates, nitrites) by
certain bacterial species like Rhizobium, Azotobacter
 These plants are then consumed by animals and
etc and by other natural phenomena.
carbon gets bioaccumulated into their bodies. Ammonification- Ammonification occurs when a
 These animals and plants eventually die, and upon plant or animal dies or excretes waste. Decomposers,
such as bacteria and fungi, first break down the proteins
decomposing, carbon is released back into the in the organic matter. This releases ammonia, which
atmosphere. dissolves with water in the soil. Ammonia then
combines with a hydrogen ion to create ammonium.
 Some of the carbon that is not released back into the
Nitrification- The process of conversion of ammonia or
atmosphere eventually become fossil fuels. reduced nitrogen compounds into the easily absorbable
 These fossil fuels are then used for manmade form of nitrogen that is nitrates and nitrites. It is an
aerobic process. Chemoautotrophic bacteria play a major
activities, which pump more carbon back into the role in this process. First, the ammonia is converted into
atmosphere. nitrite by the process of oxidation.

Environment Education 460 YCT

Denitrification- The process of conversion of nitrates the health of microbes inhabiting the soil, but is
and nitrites into the gaseous form of nitrogen is called gradually depleted from the soil overtime.
denitrification. It is mostly converted to nitrogen and
nitrous oxide. Bacteria participating in this reaction
Pseudumonas and Thiobacillus .
(iv) Oxygen cycle- The oxygen cycle is an essential
biogeochemical cycle to maintain the concentration
and level of oxygen in the atmosphere. It begins
with the process of photosynthesis in the presence of
sunlight, releases oxygen back into the atmosphere,
which humans and animals breathe in oxygen and
breathe out carbon dioxide, and again linking back
to the plants.

(ii) Sulphur cycle- The sulfur cycle describes the

movement of sulfur through the geosphere and
biosphere. Sulphur is released from rocks through
weathering, and then passed up the food chain and
assimilated by plant and animals, and released when they
decompose.

2. Sedimentary cycle- The sedimentary cycle is

defined as the weathering of existing rock. The most
important geological processes that lead to the
creation of sedimentary rocks are erosion,
weathering, dissolution, precipitation, and
lithification.
(i) Phosphorus cycle- The phosphorus cycle is the
process by which phosphorus moves through the
lithosphere for plant and animal growth, as well as

Previous Years Question

1. Reservoirs with low nutrient concentration are – (b) Transfer of heat from one substance to another.
RRB Bangalore Section Eng. (Civil), 01.02.2009 (c) Movement of birds from one zone to another.
(a) Velanchal region (d) Movement of water from one zone to another
(b) The undernourished area (e) None of these
(c) Neritanchali area Ans. (a) : The ten percent rule was given by Raymond
(d) The nether region Lindeman in 1942. According to this rule, only ten
percent of energy can reach from one trophic level to
Ans. (d) : Reservoirs with low nutrient concentration
another trophic level in the form of food. For example,
are neither region, because it is the part of if the grasslands get 1000 joules of energy from the
oligotrophication, which have the process of depletion, sun, then the deer eating it gets only 100 joules of
or reduction in rates of nutrient cycling in aquatic energy. The same process continues from lower
ecosystem. trophic level to higher trophic level.
2. What is the 10 percent rule related to? 3. Approximately what percentage of energy does a
RRB Chandigarh Section Eng. (Electrical), trophic level get from its previous level?
15.03.2009 RRB Patna/Allahabad ESM-III, 30.01.2011
(a) Transfer of energy in the form of food from one (a) 1³ (b) 10³
trophic level to another. (c) 20³ (d) 30³
Environment Education 461 YCT
Ans. (b): Each trophic level in an ecosystem receives 7. The first trophic level comes under-
about 10% of the energy from its previous level. There RRB Customer Relations Ass. , 22.07.2012
is a great loss of energy at each level in the food chain,
(a) Herbivorous (b) Carnivores
an animal in a food chain only transmits 10 percent of
the amount of energy. It receives 90% of the potential (c) omnivores (d) Green plants
energy is lost as heat. Therefore, the further one goes in Ans. (d) : Green plants (producers) in the ecosystem
the food chain, the less energy is available. The take energy directly from the sun and convert it into
principle of 10% was given by Lindeman. food. Such plants are the very basic or first food level
4. Which of the following forms the food chain? (First Trophic Level) of the food pyramid. Aphids are
RRB Chennai Section Eng., 12.02.2012 the second food level, feeding on green plants and being
(a) Grass→Wheat→Mango the primary consumers. At the top of the food pyramid
(b) Grass→Goat→Man are a small number of carnivorous animals, which form
the third food level. Living beings use energy in this
(c) Goat→Crow→Elephant
sequence and the flow of energy from the base to the
(d) Grass→fish→Goat top of the ecosystem is in this way.
(e) None of the above 8. The primary source of energy in the ecosystem
Ans. (b) : In the above statements, the food chain is is–
formed by grass-goat-man. Grass is classified as a Jaipur Metro Rail, 02.12.2012
producer and is eaten by goat (primary consumers), (a) Heat released in fermentation
while goat can be eaten by humans (omnivores). In (b) Sugars preserved in plants
fact, food chains show the food dependence of
(c) Solar energy
different organisms on each other.
(d) None of the above.
5. Which one of the following statements is not
correct? Ans. (c) : Sun is the primary source of energy in the
ecosystem. The process of photosynthesis takes place
RRB Chandigarh Section Eng. (Civil), 26.02.2012
only with the energy of the sun. Therefore, solar
(a) In a food chain, trophic dynamics refers to the energy is the primary source.
transfer of energy from one trophic level of
another. 9. ………….are primary producers.
(b) In the deeper parts of the oceans, primary DMRC Maintainer (Fitter), 20.07.2014
production is almost zero. (a) Autotroph (b) Omnivorous
(c) Primary consumers are called autotrophs. (c) Vegetarian (d) Both b and c
(d) The decomposers are called saprophytes Ans. (a) : Primary producers or autotrophic components
Ans. (c) : Primary consumers are animals or birds that include green plants, they make their own food by the
are herbivores. Trophic movement in a food chain process of photosynthesis, primary consumers include
refers to the transfer of energy from one trophic level those animals which depend on the primary producer
to another, Primary production remains almost zero in i.e. green plants for their food, they are herbivores,
the deeper parts of the oceans. The decomposers are secondary consumers include both carnivores and
called saprophytes. omnivorous animals.
6. Which are the productive components among the 10. What does Ecological Footprint represent?
biotic components of the ecosystem? DMRC Station Controller, 27.07.2014
RRB Chandigarh Section Eng. (Mech.), (a) Are of productive land and water to meet
26.02.2012 resource requirement.
(a) Cow (b) Peacock (b) Energy consumption.
(c) Tiger (d) Green Plants (c) Per capita CO2
Ans. (d) : The German scientist Haeckel used the term (d) Forest area
ecology in 1866 for the science in which the Ans. (a) : Ecological footprint refers to the productive
relationship between organisms (plants and animals) land and water area required to meet resource
and their environment is studied. Green plants are the requirements.
productive components of the biotic components of the For the first time, a zoologist named 'Ernst Haeckel'
ecosystem. Green plants make their own food by the used the word Ecology in the form of "Oekologie" in
method of photosynthesis using sunlight. 1866. This word is made up of two Greek words oikas

Environment Education 462 YCT

 = House and Lagos = Study. It is called 'Ecology' one class of organisms to another class of organisms
Under this, the effect of the habitat of living beings are called trophic levels. Food and energy are
(plants and animals) or the effect of the environment transferred from one group of organisms to another
on them is studied. group of organisms in a chain manner. These chains
German biologist 'Ernst Haeckel' also has the credit are called food chains. Nutritional levels and food
for first defining ecology and studying it in detail. chain can be explained by the following examples –
According to him-'The study of the mutual relocations Green plants synthesis food energy-Grazing animals
between the environment and the organism-community (Such as cow, goat, rabbit, deer etc.) get energy from
is called ecology'. plants by grazing of grasses etc. In this way energy is
transferred from the green plants to the grazing -animal
11. Chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticide are sprayed
and carnivorous gets energy from grazing animals. The
on a food crop. The order of the food chain is:
carnivorous animals (such as lions, leopards, bears,
Food crops - rodents - snakes - eagles-In which of
snakes, lizards, frog etc.) eat the herbivores and take
the following will the highest concentration of
food. In this way, food energy is transferred from
pesticide accumulate in this food chain?
herbivorous animals to carnivorous animals-
DMRC Junior Engineer (Electrical), 03.08.2014 Omnivorous animals (such as humans) take their food
(a) Food crop (b) Rodent by eating green plants (vegetables, and food grains)
(c) Snake (d) Eagles and herbivorous (meat and milk etc). In this way food
Ans. (d) : The concentration of pesticide in the final energy is transferred from green plants and
consumer will be maximum. To a large extent, this is herbivorous animals to omnivorous animals.
also the reason for the decreasing number of vultures
15. After DDT is introduced into the ecosystem,
and eagles. which one of the following organisms will likely
12. Humans are in the food chain: show its maximum concentration?
DMRC Civil Engineering, 07.09.2014 DMRC Mechanical Engineering, 18.02.2017
(a) A producer (a) Grasshopper (b) Lamb
(b) Primary consumers only (c) Snake (d) Cattle
(c) Secondary consumers only Ans. (c) : After DDT is introduced into the ecosystem,
(d) Primary and secondary consumers the concentration of DDT in the food chain will be
lowest at the first level, higher at the second level and
Ans. (d) : In the food Chain, humans are both primary highest at the third level. Since the snake is a tertiary
and secondary consumers because they are omnivores. consumers, the concentration of DDT will be highest
13. The source of energy for omnivores is – in the snake.
DMRC Mechanical Engineering, 21.09.2014 16. Based on the estimation of DDT concentration in
(a) Primary producer and primary consumer the aquatic environment, the level of pollution in
(b) Primary consumer and secondary consumer the food chain increases in the following
(c) Primary producers and consumers, carnivores sequence–
(d) Primary producers, carnivores and decomposers. DMRC Mechanical Engineering, 06.03.2016
Ans. (c) : Omnivores are a consumer classification in (a) Bird, fish, Snail, water plant
food chain. It means one who eats everything. It needs (b) Water plant, Snail, Fish, Bird
energy requirements, from chemical nutrients obtained (c) Snail, water plant, Fish, Bird
from both plants and animals. (d) Snail, Fish, Bird, water plant
14. The highest nutritional level is achieved in the Ans. (b) : Based on the estimation of DDT
ecosystem– concentration in the aquatic environment, the level of
DMRC Mechanical Engineering, 21.09.2014 pollution in the food chain increases in the following
(a) Vegetarian (b) Non-vegetarian sequence. Water flow in the sequence of water plant-
(c) Decomposer (d) Omnivores snail-fish-bird. Therefore, the Government of India has
Ans. (d) : In the ecosystem ,food is organized in a banned the use of DDT, considering it as a harmful
nutritional hierarchy. This dietary nutrition is chemical. This process is called biomagnifications in
accomplished at many levels. Thus, those levels or which toxic substances are stored in the tissues of
points through which food energy is transferred from organisms. Its sequence is from low level to high level.

Environment Education 463 YCT

17. What is the cycling of elements in an ecosystem 20. The energy pyramid in of energy in the
called? ecosystem.
RRB Bhopal Diesel Driver, 24.11.1996 RRB Gorakhpur Assistant Diesel Driver,
(a) Chemical cycle 21.10.2001
(b) Bio-geochemical cycle (a) Reverse (b) Logiform
(c) Geological cycle (c) Curve (d) Straight
(d) Geochemical cycle Ans. (d) : The energy pyramid in an ecosystem is
Ans. (b) : The flow of elements such as water, energy always straight. In such a pyramid, the energy at each
and other nutrients in the ecosystem is called trophic level gradually decreases because the animals of
biogeochemical cycle. Carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle, each trophic level give only 10% the energy to the next
phosphorous cycle etc. are prominent in this. These trophic level. 90% of the energy is consumed from all
cycles affect the biomass and productivity in the the remaining nutritional levels.
ecosystem. 21. Which of the following converts solar energy
into chemical energy most efficiently
18. Arsenic present in ground water can be partially
removed RRB Mahendrughat (Patna) Diesel Driver,
11.11.2001
RRB Kolkata Trainee Assistant Driver,
(a) Chlorella (b) Tiger
15.07.2001
(c) Earthworm (d) Kaskutt
(a) Along with the removal of iron by
precipitation/coagulation method, if iron is also Ans. (a) : Chlorella efficiently converts solar energy
present in the water. into chemical energy. Chlorella has an efficiency of 8%
(b) By boiling, even though iron is absent in water, in converting solar energy into chemical energy.
chlorella is a species (genus) of algae. Chlorella mainly
(c) By UV-treatment.
used by astronauts can get protein rich food, water and
(d) By filtration, even though iron is absent in oxygen. These algae reproduce quickly and make food
water. using carbon dioxide. After consuming CO2, they
Ans. (a) : Arsenic removal is done on the basis of release pure oxygen. These algae use substances
arsenic and iron toxicity in ground water. Water that produced from urine and fasces as a source of nitrogen
contains more than 50 parts per billion arsenic and for protein synthesis.
more than one milligram per liter of iron is not 22. Which of the following organisms produces its
considered potable water, arsenic present in such food from inorganic substances?
ground water can be practically removed by
RRB Secunderabad Diesel Driver, 18.11.2001
precipitation/coagulation method along with removal
of iron, if iron is also present in the water,. The most (a) Ant (b) Virus
affected city of India is Kolkata. The concentration of (c) Rubber plant (d) Mushroom
arsenic oxide or arsenic in the underground water is Ans. (c) : The rubber plant producers its food from
high inorganic substances. Hence, options (c) in the question
19. The most important role of solar energy is – is correct. It is note that rubber trees are found in
RRB Secunderabad Diesel Driver, 01.06.1997 equatorial evergreen forests. Rubber is tropical plant.
(a) The carbon cycle 23. This plant has leaves which are used as a
(b) The Oxygen cycle vegetable, Oil is obtained from its seeds, this is
plant of ?
(c) The Nitrogen cycle
RRB Gorakhpur Diesel Assistant Driver,
(d) The water cycle
14.04.2002
Ans. (b) : The most important role of solar energy is
(a) Spinach (b) Coconut
that of the oxygen cycle. Oxygen is dissolved in the
atmosphere in the form of gas. Animals take oxygen (c) Cabbage (d) mustard
and release CO2, which plants take and convert into Ans. (d) : When the mustard plant is small, its leaves
oxygen in the presence of the sun by the process of are used as a vegetable and when it grows big, they
photosynthesis, due to which the balance is maintained. are used to extract oil from it seeds.

Environment Education 464 YCT

 (i) Natural Pollution– These pollutants emerge from
6.5 Environment Pollution natural sources or natural activities. Ex- Pollen
Pollution– grains and volcanic eruptions and gases released
• The undesirable change in the physical, chemical from decomposition of organic matter, such as SO2,
and biological characteristics of the abiotic nitrogen oxides (NO), from forest fires and oceans.
components of the environment (air, water and soil) They do not cause serious harm.
that have a negative impact on life and life-based (ii) Man-made Pollutants– This includes pollutants
systems is called pollution. released from factories, kitchens, automatic vehicles
Pollutants– A pollutant is a dangerous substance that is etc.
released into the environment. 2. On the basis of their nature, they are divided into
Pollutants are divided on different basis– two categories-
1. On the basis of source of origin, Pollutants are (i) Gaseous Pollution– These includes the following
divided into two parts- pollutants-
(i) Natural pollutants • Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons etc
(ii) Man-made pollutants Produced by the combustion of fossil fuels.
2. On the basis of state, Pollutants are divided into three • Chloro-fluorocarbons released from aerosol cans
types- and refrigeration systems.
(i) Solid Particulate Pollutants– Dust particles, • Compounds of sulfur released from the combustion
industrial waste etc. of fossil fuel containing sulphur, such as: SO2, SO3
(ii) Liquid Pollutants– Water containing ammonia, urea etc
nitrate etc. • Chlorine released from bleaching of cotton clothes
(iii) Gaseous Pollutants– Various pollutant gases like and other chemical activities.
SO2, CO2, NO2 etc.
• Nitrogen compounds- NO, N2O, NO2, NO3.
3. On the basis of form, Pollutants are divided into two
(ii) Particulate pollutants– The main source of
parts-
pariculate pollutants are vehicle exhaust, thermal
(i) Primary Pollutants– They spread pollution only by plants, oil refineries, construction work etc. These
remaining in their original form in nature. Like- DDT, pollutants are harmful to the lungs and respiratory
Plastic, CO, CO2 etc. process and also reduces the visibility effect. Ex- Fly
(ii) Secondary Pollutants– These are formed by the ash & other metal particles.
interaction of primary pollutants. Ex- Peroxyacetyl
■ Other Pollutants–
Nitrate (PAN).
Aerosole– An aerosol is a collection of microscopic
4. On the basis of the Nature of disposal, There are two
types of pollutants- particles, (1-10µ) solid or liquid, suspended in a gas. In
the context of air pollution, an aerosol refers to fine
(i) Biodegradable Pollutants– These include domestic
particular matter, that is larger than a molecule, but small
waste, excreta, sewage, etc. which are decomposed by
enough to remain suspended in the atmosphere for at
microbial action.
least several hours.
(ii) Non-biodegradable Pollutants– These pollutants
are not decomposed by microbial activities. Plastics, Ex- smoke and automobile exhaust, dust, flame, fog.
heavy metals, radioactive elements, lead DDT etc. come Photo Chemical Smog– It is a mixture of pollutants that
under this category. are formed when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic
Air Pollution– Air is mixture of various gases that compound (VOCs) react to sunlight, creating a brown
surround the earth in the form of a cover, this cover is haze above cities.
called the atmosphere. It is composed of 78% nitrogen, • Effect of Photochemical smog on humans–
21% oxygen, 0.93 argon, 0.03% carbon dioxide. Apart Respiratory diseases (asthma, coughing and
from this gases like neon, krypton, helium, hydrogen, bronchiolities), cardiovascular disease, neurological
ozone etc are also present in small quantities in the disorders, cancer, infant health, low birth weight,
atmosphere. eye irritation and breathing difficulties etc.
• When the amount of one or more pollutants in the Fly Ash–
atmosphere so high that the quality of air • Fly ash pollution is caused by thermal power plants.
deteriorates and it is harmful to the biological • Fly ash can have different chemical makeup
community, then it is called air pollution. depending on where the coal was mined.
■ Type of Air Pollution– • Fly ash is a pollutant, and it contains acidic toxic
1. On the basis of origin, they are divided into two and radioactive matter. This ash can contain lead,
major types- arsenic, mercury, cadmium and uranium.
Environment 465 YCT
Suspended Pariculate Matter– SPM are fine solid or • Acid rain affects both aquatic and terrestrial
liquids that are distributed in the air as a result of organisms. It also damages buildings and
activities such as combustion processes, industrial monuments. The biological and chemical properties
operations or natural sources (Like volcanic eruptions). of soil are seriously affected by acid rain. Acid rain
• This complex mixture contains organic and affects trees and shrubs in many ways, as a result of
inorganic particles such as dust, pollen soot, smoke which their growth is stunted.
and liquid droplets. • Effects on Ozone Layer– Man-made processes due
Indoor/Household Air Pollution– Most indoor air to which molecules like chlorine, bromine, etc are
pollution comes from sources that release gases or emitted into the atmosphere, and these cause ozone
particles into the air. Things such as building materials destruction. The substances that destroy ozone are
and air fresheners give off pollution constantly. Other mainly Chloroflorocarbons (CFCs)
sources such as tobacco smoke and wood-burning stoves Hydrochloroflorocarbons (HCFCs), Carbon
also cause indoor pollution. tetrachloride (CCl4) etc.
• The effect of indoor air pollution can be life • Environmental Impact– There is a lack of
threatening. phytoplankton in the aquatic ecosystem, which
• The global death toll is 4.1 million due to indoor air adversely affects this ecosystem. The developmental
pollution, as published in major recent studies. process of plants is affected. Ultraviolet radiation
Effects of Air Pollution– Air pollution affects not only affects terrestrial and aquatic biogeochemical cycles.
humans but also the environment. • Effects on Climate and Weather– An increase in
• Effects on Humans– Clean air is essential for the concentration of carbon dioxide in the
human health. Air pollutions affects the respiratory atmosphere will increase the greenhouse effect of
system, nervous system, lungs and blood circulation the atmosphere. This will increase the temperature
system. Various diseases, such as skin diseases, of the earth's surface, due to which the ice will melt
respiratory diseases, asthma, insomnia, tiredness and the sea water level will rise which will
headache, T.B. bronchitis, villinosic etc. are caused submerge many areas. Higher temperature rise will
by polluted air. increase desertification and drought. This will
• Effects on Flora and Fauna– Air pollution has adversely affect local weather changes, rainfall,
direct and indirect effects on vegetation. Various temperature, wind speed.
activities of plants are affected by acid rain., Measures to prevent air pollution–
depletion of ozone layer, oxides of sulfur and
(i) Vehicular emission control–
nitrogen etc. Air pollution has a negative effect on
aquatic and terrestrial organism. • Use of efficient engines
Bhopal Gas Tragedy: • Using good quality automobile fuel
• On the night of December 2-3, 1984, water • Using lead-free petrol
containing catalysts entered into tank number E610 • Use catalytic converter (exhaust emission
of union carbide corporation (Pesticide factory) at control device)
Bhopal. • Vehicle maintenance
• Due to this, about forty tons of toxic methyl • Optimize home deliveries
isocyanate gas slowly came out and spread all over • Use efficient lawn and gardening equipment
the city and within a few hours thousands of people
died. • Turning off the engine at the traffic light
• This gas polluted drinking water, soil, water of • Under CAFÉ norms, corporate average CO2
ponds and reservoirs and badly affected fetuses, emission are mandated to be less than 130
gm/km per phase I (till 2022) and less than 113
newborns, pregnant woman, old people etc.
gm/km per phase II (post- 2022).
• Methyl isocyanate [MIC-CH3NCO]– It is a
• Using public transports and environments
colourless tear inducing, flammable gas which is
friendly vehicles like bicycle to cover short
extremely toxic. It is used for the production of
distances.
carbonate insecticides.
Acid Rain– The atmosphere receives oxides of sulfur • Awareness programs should be conducted.
and nitrogen from natural and man-made sources. Some Water Pollution– Water pollution occurs when harmful
of these oxide are deposited back on the surface as dry substances- often chemicals or microorganisms
deposits. Precipitation, which contains sulfate, nitrate, contaminate a water bodies (stream, river, lake, ocean,
ammonium and hydrogen ions, falls on land as acid rain. aquifers, reservoirs and ground water).
Environment 466 YCT
 Causes of Water Pollution– • Avoid using plastic.
• Mixing of domestic and industrial wastes in water • Help clean up litter in water filled areas.
bodies. • Avoid throwing waste into the river.
• Water containing fertilizers and weeds used in • Waste water treatment.
agriculture gets mixed in the river.
• The sewage should not be discharged directly into
• Oil spills. the rivers.
• Chemicals containing radioactive elements reaching • Dead human and animal bodies should not be
the aquatic system. thrown into rivers.
• Discharge of high temperature water coming out of Marine Pollution– Marine Pollution is a combination of
the electric power station into the water source. chemicals and trash, into the marine environment.
• Use of river water for bathing and washing clothes. Causes of Marine Pollution–
Effects of water pollution– Deteriorating water quality • Non Point source Pollution (runoff)
is damaging the environment health conditions and the
• International discharge
global economy.
• Oil spills
• Biological Oxygen demand (BOD)– The indicator
that measures the organic pollution found in water • Littering
exceeds a certain threshold. • Ocean mining
• Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is the parameter Effects of marine pollution–
to measure the organic pollution in sewage water • Harmful to marine organisms
and other water bodies. • Depletion of oxygen in seawater
• The amount of oxygen required by bacteria while • A teat to human health (contaminated seafood)
stabilizing decomposable organic matter under
aerobic condition. • Loss of wildlife population
• Destruction of biodiversity– water pollution • Reduce these economic opportunities.
depletes aquatic ecosystems and triggers unbridled Sound Pollution–
prolife ration of phytoplankton in lakes- • The general/normal voice produced by an object is
eutrophication. called sound. When the intensity of sound is high
• Contamination of the food chain– Fishing in and not interesting to the listener, it is called noise.
polluted waters and the use of waste water for • Noise pollution is the condition of disturbance and
livestock farming and agriculture can introduce restlessness in the human class due to high intensity
toxin into foods which are harmful to our health sound i.e. unwanted noise, such as noise of
when eaten. industries, noise of vehicles etc.
• Disease– Typhoid, Giardiasis, Amoebiasis, • The decibel (dB) unit has been set to measure the
Ascariasis, Hookworm, Diarrhea, Hepatitis, intensity of sound.
Respiratory infections, Liver damage and even
• The WHO has set the maximum level of noise at
Cancer, kidney damage, Neurological Problems,
Reproductive and endocrine damage, Thyroid 45dB.
system disorders, Malaria, Rashes, Earaches, Pink Effects of Noise Pollution on Animals &
eyes etc. Environment–
• Infant mortality– According to the UN diarrheal • Wild animals suffer chronic stress fertility problems
diseases linked to lack of hygiene causes the death and change their migration routes in response to
of about 1,000 children a day world wide. noise.
Control of Water Pollution– • Research shows noise causes confined animals pain,
• Use the minimum amount of detergent and/or bleach fear and cognitive problems.
when you are washing clothes or dishes, use only • Noise pollution increase the risk of death by altering
Phosphate free soaps and detergents. prey-predator behavior (avoidance or detection) may
• Minimize the use of pesticides, herbicides, interfere with navigation.
fertilizers. • Also affects the reproductive behaviour.
• Do not dispose of these chemicals, motor oil or other • Problems related to noise include stress related
automotive fluids into the sanitary sewer or storm illnesses, high blood pressure, speech interference,
sewer systems. hearing loss, sleep disruption and lost productivity.
• Dispose of waste properly.
• It may cause temporary or permanent hearing loss in
• Conserve as much water as possible. humans as well as animals.
Environment 467 YCT
Laws to Control Noise Pollution– In India, noise Treatment of solid waste–
pollution is included in air pollution itself. The air • Landfill
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 was
• Incineration
amended in 1987 to include 'noise pollutants' under the
definition of 'air pollutants'. • Waste compaction
Using section 6 of the environment (Protection) Act, • Biogas generation
1986 the noise pollution (Regulation and control) Rules, • Composting
2000 have been passed. • Vermicomposting
• Section 268 and section 290 of the Indian Penal • Further Reading
code can be used for its control considering noise • Ocean dumping
pollutants as criminal.
• The 3R's - Reduce Reuse Recycle
Radioactive Pollution– The radioactive pollution is
defined as the physical pollution of living organism and
their environment as a result of release of radioactive
substances into the environment during nuclear
explosions and testing of nuclear weapons, nuclear
weapon production and decommissioning, mining of
radioactive ores, handling and disposal of radioactive
waste and accident at nuclear power plants.
Thermal Pollution– Thermal pollution is the discharge Soil Pollution– Soil refers to the contamination of solid
of heated water into water bodies. The main contributors with anomalous can concentrations of toxic substances.
to thermal heat pollution are thermal or nuclear power It is a serious environmental concern since it harbous
plants: industrial effluents, sewage effluents; and many health hazards.
biochemical activity. Causes of Soil Pollution–
Solid Waste– Municipal solid waste (MSW) includes all • Use of chemicals
items from home and businesses that people no longer • Soil erosion
have any use for. These wastes are commonly called
• Saline water
trash or garbage and include item such as food, paper.
plastics, textiles, leather, wood, glass, metals, sanitary • Urban waste
waste in septic tanks and other wastes. • Industrial waste
Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2016– • Underground waste
• No person should throw, burn or bury the solid • Radioactive waste
waste generated by him, on streets, open public • Acid rain
space outside, his premises or in the drain, or water
• waste from mining
bodies.
• Leakage of toxins
• Generator will have to pay 'user fee' to waste
collector and 'spot fine' for littering and Non- Effects of Soil Pollution–
segragation. • Damage to health
• Reduce the volume of solid waste stream through • Poorer harvests
the implementation of waste reduction and recycling • climate change.
programs. • Water and air pollution
Effect of solid waste on human health & • Population displacement
Environment–
• Species extinction
• Littering in environment
• Desertification
• Effect on human health (cholera & vector borne
• Economic impact
disease such as malarial and dengue)
Measures to Prevent Soil Pollution–
• Pests that spread disease
• There should be limited use of fertilizers and
• Environmental issue
insecticides instead of organic fertilizers should be
• Toxic gas emission used.
• Effects on animal present on land and in water • Waste should be disposed properly.
• Obstruction of drains • D.D.T. and other harmful chemical should be
• Loss of biodiversity banned.
• It causes all type of pollution: air, soil and water. • Use of bioremediation technique.

Environment 468 YCT

• Proper disposal of industrial waste. • With the help of this technique, a wide range of
• Tree plantation contaminants can be completely eliminated.
• Use of 3R's and 4R's techniques • With its help the targeted pollutants can be
eliminated.
• Use of technique to prevent soil erosion.
Bioremediation– Bioremediation is a biotechnical • This technique is relatively less expensive.
process, which abates or cleans up contamination. It is a Disadvantages of Bioremediation–
type of waste management technique which involves the • This technology is capable of decomposing only
use of organisms to remove or utilize the pollutants from those pollutants which are biodegradable.
a polluted area. • This technique takes longer than other treatments.
Benefits of Bioremediation– • It is very difficult to implement this technology in a
• It is an eco-friendly technology. wide area.

Previous Years Question

1. Which of the following gases is a highly (a) To measure the level of oxygen in the blood.
poisonous, odorless, tasteless and colourless (b) To calculate the oxygen levels in forest
gas? ecosystem.
(a) Nitrogen dioxide (b) Carbon dioxide (c) To measurement of pollution in aquatic
(c) Methane (d) Carbon monoxide ecosystem.
RRB ALP & Tech. 23.01.2019 Shift-I (d) Assessment of oxygen levels in high altitude
Ans : (d) Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous, areas.
odorless, colorless, tasteless and highly soluble in water Ans. (c) : Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a
along with that heavy as air and Flammable gas. It standard parameter used to measure pollution in aquatic
burns with blue flame. The chemical formula of Carbon ecosystem. Its high level indicates the decrease in the
monoxide is CO. amount of dissolved oxygen in the water, that is, it
indicates highly polluted water.
2. Which of the following gases is a colourless,
5. Which one of the following air pollutants
flammable, and highly toxic gas? combines with the hemoglobin of human blood
(a) Arsine (b) Carbon dioxide and reduces its ability to carry oxygen, causing
(c) Methane (d) Nitrogen oxide asphyxiation and many even lead to death?
RRB ALP & Tech. 08.02.2019 Shift-I RRB Chandigarh Diesel/Electric Assistant,
25.05.2003
Ans : (a) : Arsine is an inorganic compound whose
(a) Chlorofluorocarbon (b) Fly ash
chemical formula is AsH3. It is a colorless, flammable
(c) Carbon monoxide (d) Sulphur dioxide
and highly toxic gas. Arsine is used in the
semiconductor, metal refinery industries, and as a Ans. (c) : Carbon monoxide is released as a result of
doping agent in crystal manufacturing. incomplete combustion of fuels used in automobiles,
furnaces and various types of industries. Carbon
3. _______ are a subset of air pollution that refers monoxide is a very harmful gas. It combines with the
to the tiny particles suspended everywhere in hemoglobin of the blood to form acarboxyhemoglobin
our atmosphere. of the blood to form a carboxyhemoglobin bond. Which
(a) Humus (b) Genomes is 300 times more powerful than oxyhemoglobin due to
which it stops the transport of oxygen. Thus, carbon
(c) Aerosols (d) Loam
monoxide reduces the amount of hemoglobin available
RRB ALP & Tech. 23.01.2019 Shift-II to transport oxygen, causing headache, dizziness,
Ans : (c) Aerosols are a subset of air pollution which fatigue and can even lead to death.
refers to the tiny particles that are ubiquitous in our Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) – CFC's are very
atmosphere. dangerous for the environment because they deplete the
ozone layer, due to which ozone holes are formed.
•An aerosol is a collection of microscopic particles,
solid or liquid, suspended in a gas. Fly ash – Fly ash is produced due to combustion of
solid materials. Fly ash contains silica, aluminum, iron
4. Biological oxygen demand (BOD) is a standard oxide, calcium, magnesium and other toxic metals like
parameter for? As, Co, Cu etc. Fly ash not only pollutes air and water
RRB Ranchi Assistant Driver’s, 09.01.2003 but also causes respiratory problems.

Environment 469 YCT

Sulphur dioxide – Sulphur dioxide is very harmful Ans. (d) : The biggest source of air pollution in big
gas. Its presence in the air causes respiratory diseases, cities of India is the transport sector. Where, there is an
heart diseases, blockage in throat, burning sensation in undesirable change in the quantity and ratio of gases
the eyes etc. It is also a cause of acid rain. Acid rain has due to human or natural reasons or apart from these
harmful effects on plants, animals and causes corrosion gases, some other toxic gases or particulate matter are
in buildings, marble structures, fabrics, paper, leather found in the air, then it is called air pollution. Due to
etc. excessive use of petroleum products due to transport
6. Which one of the following is not a mechanical sector in big cities of India, various gases and smoke
method of preventing air pollution? are produced which is the biggest factor of air
RRB Kolkata Diesel/Electrical Assistant, pollution.
06.02.2005 10. What is caused by the height of 'supersonic' Jet?
(a) bag filter (b) Cyclone collector RRB Chandigarh Assistant Loco Pilot, 03.01.2010
(c) Cyclone separator (d) Cyclone divider (a) Pollution in air
Ans. (d) : Mechanical method of air pollution (b) Eye diseases
prevention is -bag filter, cyclone collector, cyclone (c) Obstruction of ozone layer
separator but cyclone divider is not a mechanical (d) None of these
method of air pollution prevention.
Ans. (c) : The aerosol substance emitted from
7. Which one of the following is not related to air
supersonic jets destroys the ozone layer, it's causes
pollution?
disruption in the ozone layer.
RRB Allahabad Assistant Loco Pilot,
11. Which of the following is an inorganic gaseous
03.08.2008 Ist
pollutant of air
(a) Smog (b) Acid rain
RRB Trivandrum (Technical), 09.11.1997
(c) Eutrophication (d) Asbestosis
(a) Hydrogen cyanide (b) Hydrogen sulphide
Ans. (c) : Eutrophication is related to water pollution.
(c) Methane (d) Phosgene
Increase in the concentration of inorganic and organic
nutrients in water is called eutrophication. Excess of Ans. (b) : Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) is an inorganic
nutrients in water also affects the organisms, it gaseous pollutant of air. Apart from this, carbon
increases the productivity of water. Due to this, aquatic dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur
plants like algae etc. grow more and cover the surface dioxide gases are also inorganic gaseous pollutants.
of the water also, they use most of the oxygen in water • Hydrogen is used to produce heavy water for nuclear
for respiration, as a result of which there is a lack of power plants.
oxygen in the water for other animals and they start 12. The most important source of indoor air
dying. pollutant is –
8. Combustion of coal, petrol, diesel etc. is the basic (a) Sulphur dioxide (b) Carbon dioxide
source of – (c) Nitrogen dioxide (d) Radon gas
RRB Allahabad Assistant Loco Pilot, (e) None of the above
03.08.2008 IInd RRB Ajmer (Technical), 25.01.1998
(a) Water pollution (b) Land pollution
Ans. (d) : The most important of indoor air pollution is
(c) Air pollution (d) Noise pollution radon gas. It is found in high concentrations in indoor
Ans. (c) : According to the question, combustion of environments, such as homes and workplaces.
Coal, Petrol and Diesel in a large quantities, gradually Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive inert gas.
increases the amount of air pollution. There is a possibility of this gas causing lung cancer
9. The biggest source of air pollution in big cities of and blood cancer.
India is – 13. Nowadays, the amount of concentration of CO2 in
RRB Ahmedabad Assistant Loco Pilot, 05.04.2009 the atmosphere in ppm is approximately –
(a) Thermal power sector RRB Ajmer (Technical), 01.03.1998
(b) Industrial sector (a) 250 (b) 300
(c) Municipal solid waste (c) 360 (d) 400
(d) Transport sector (e) 460
Environment 470 YCT
 Ans. (c): The concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere 18. In the study of pollution, what does SPM refer
during the period in question was 360 in ppm. It is to?
increasing at a rate of 2.0 ppm/year and has reached RRB Bhopal (Technical), 21.11.1999
400 ppm (Parts per million) according to the latest (a) Sulphur Phosphorous matter
scientific data (as of May, 2013). (b) Sulphur particulate matter
Note- According to recent data, 2023- 421 ppm. (c) Solid particulate matter
14. Arrange the following fuels in the decreasing (d) Suspended particulate matter.
order of air pollution caused by burning of one Ans. (d) : Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), are fine
kilogram of each of them dust particles whose size is 30 times smaller than a hair,
RRB Ajmer (Technical), 01.03.1998 these dust particles directly reach the lungs when
(a) CNG, Petrol, Diesel (b) Diesel, Petrol, CNG inhaled and prove to be harmful to the body.
(c) Petrol, Diesel, CNG (d) Diesel, CNG, Petrol 19. Which one of the following gases is mostly
Ans. (b) : The pollution assessment of fuels depends released from landfills in urban area.
on the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by them on RRB Bhubaneshwar (Technical), 03.06.2001
combustion. In which the emission of carbon dioxide (a) Nitrogen (b) Hydrogen
is less, it is a pure fuel. The approximate CO2 per liter (c) Meathane (d) Oxygen
of diesel fuel is 2.68 kg, and for petrol it is
approximately 2.31kg. Less harmful gases are emitted Ans. (c) : In urban areas, most of the methane and
during combustion in CNG. carbon dioxide gas in released from the garbage fillings
areas (landfill). Both of these are important greenhouse
15. Which of the following is not a gaseous air gases. Methane itself is a flammable gas.
pollutant?
20. Major source of pollution in urban areas is due
RRB Trivandrum (Technical), 11.04.1999
to nitrogen oxides (NO2).
(a) Oxide of Sulphur (b) Oxides of Nitrogen
RRB Chennai Technician (Engineering),
(c) Hydrocarbon (d) Smoke
15.04.2007
Ans. (d) : Oxides of sulphur, oxides of nitrogen and (a) Road transport
hydrocarbon are gaseous air pollutants. Whereas smoke
(b) Commercial sector
is a particulate air pollutant.
(c) Energy used in industries
16. Which of the following is not an air pollutant in
(d) Power plant
general?
RRB Trivandrum (Technical), 29.06.1999 Ans. (a) : Road Transport – Oxides of nitrogen are
produced by burning of mineral oils and coal. Due to
(a) CO (b) CO2
the high concentration of nitric oxide in the human
(c) Hydrogen (d) SO2 body, he suffers from many diseases, such as
Ans. (b) : CO2 is not an air pollutant at normal levels. inflammation of the gums, bleeding, pneumonia, lung
Because it is produced naturally by humans and animals cancer etc.
as a byproduct of metabolic activities. The normal 21. Identify the air pollutants in urban areas which
amount of CO2 in the atmosphere is 0.04% But due to cause irritation to human eyes and repiratory
the continuous use of fossil fuels for transportation and tract.
industry, the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere is
RRB Bangalore Technical (Engineering),
continuously increasing.
22.04.2007
17. The main factor for photochemical smog is –
(a) Particulate matter (b) oxide of nitrogen
RRB Bangalore (Technical), 22.08.1999
(c) Surface ozone (d) Carbon monoxide
(a) SO2 (b) NO2
Ans. (c) : Surface ozone reacts with hydrocarbons in
(c) O3 (d) CO sunlight such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides,
Ans. (b) : NO2 (Nitrogen dioxide) is a dark brown gas carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide to produce many
that spreads in the atmosphere and forms photochemical secondary pollutants such as surface ozone,
smog. The 44% amount of the nitrogen dioxide present formaldehyde and PAN. Due to which irritation in the
in the atmosphere is produced only by means of eyes and nose of man and irritation in the throat as
transport. well as causes respiratory problems.

Environment 471 YCT

22. Which of the following pollutants can cause 3. Nitrogen oxide It comes out when fields
cancer in humans? and fuel are burnt
RRB Secundreabad Technical (Engineering), (N2O)
20.05.2007 4. Increase in temperature due
Hydrofluro carbon
(a) Mercury (b) Glass (HFCs) to waste materials generated
(c) Ozone (d) Insecticide by industrial activities.
Ans. (d) : Pesticides can cause cancer in humans.
5. Per fluro carbon By aluminum electronics
Indiscriminate use of pesticides can lead to various
health and environmental problems. Unsafe handling materials
and misuse of hazardous pesticides can have toxic 6. Sulphur Combustion of sulphur
effects on farmers and farm workers who spray them. containing fuel which is the
hexafluoride
Being in contact with them for a long time can cause
cause of acid rain.
permanent diseases like heart and lung related, nervous
system, skin diseases and fetal deformities, abortion, 26. The major precursors of winter smog are:
decrease in sperm count etc. RRB Asst. Locopilot (Kolkata) Paper 2002
23. Which gaseous pollutant from anthropogenic (a) N2O and hydrocarbons
source are chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's (in the (b) NOX and hydrocarbons
air?
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Patna) Paper 2001 (c) SO2 and hydrocarbons
(a) Cement industry (b) Fertilizer industry (d) SO2 and ozone
(c) Foam industry (d) Insecticide industry Ans. (b) :The major precursor of winter smog are NOx
and hydrocarbons. During the cold winter months,
Ans. (c) : Main sources of production of
consumption of coal and other fossil fuels to heat
chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's) – A.C., refrigerator,
homes increases. Winter smog is formed due to
themocol foam, sofa set.
combustion emission by coal and similar fuels.
24. Which pollutant causes irritation in the eyes.
27. The maximum emission of pollutants from fuel
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Gorakhpur) Paper 2001 source in India is:
(a) sulphur dioxide (b) Ozone RRB Asst. Locopilot (Mumbai/Bhopal) Paper 2003
(c) PAN (d) Nitrus oxide (a) By coal
Ans. (c) : PAN is the main source of difficulty and (b) By burning
irritation of the eyes. Peroxyacylnitrates are present in (c) Burning of garbage
photochemical smog. These are products of nitrates and
(d) By vegetable waste products
are released into the atmosphere as toxic pollutants
through chemical reactions. Ans. (b) : Combustion is the major source of
pollutants from fuel sources in India as it emits more
25. Which of the following polluting substances is not
CO2. The biggest source of fuel source pollutants is
emitted from the transport sector?
burning, which accounts for 75% of all pollution.
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Gorakhpur) Paper 2002
(a) Oxide of nitrogen 28. Acid rain occurs due to the following pollution in
the environment–
(b) Chlorofluorocarbon
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Ranchi) Paper 2003
(c) Carbon mono-oxide
(a) Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide
(d) Polly Aromatichydrocarbon
(b) Carbon dioxide and nitrogen
Ans. (b) : The polluting gas chlorofluorocarbons
(c) Ozone and Carbon dioxide
(CFCs) are not emitted from the transport sector. This
gas is widely used as refrigerator, AC, sofa, foam and (d) Nitrus oxide and sulphur dioxide
propellant (in aerosol use) and solvent and is also Ans. (d) : The amount of sulphur dioxide (SO2) gas
emitted by these plants. increases in the atmosphere of industrial cities. This
gas dissolves in water vapor of the atmosphere and
6 Green House Gases
forms sulfuric acid (H2SO4). This acid falls on the
1. Carbon dioxide It is produced by burning of ground with rain. This is called acid rain. The first acid
(CO2) fuel (Coal, oil, petroleum) rain occurred in Sweden in 1972. Acid rain is a
and forest fires. phenomenon that results from the deposition of humid
dilute acids. When acidic gases pass through the
2. Methane (CH4) It is caused by oil seepage
atmosphere, a number of chemical changes take place
and animal husbandry. simultaneously.
Environment 472 YCT
29. Which country has the most acid rain? 33. Which of the following is the biggest source of
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Ranchi) Paper 2003 water pollution in major rive in India?
(a) China (b) Japan RRB Asst. Locopilot (Kolkata) Paper 2005
(c) Norvey (d) U.S.A (a) Untreated sewage
Ans. (c) : Scandinavian courtiers (Iceland's, Sweden, (b) Agricultural water flow
Norway, Denmark) generally receive more acid rain. (c) Untreated small scale industries
Therefore, acid rains is more than Norway. Acid rain is (d) Religious customs
caused by Sulphur dioxide.
Ans. (a) : The biggest cause of water pollution in
30. The main component of acid rain are: major rives in India is untreated sewage which is
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Bengaluru) Paper 2004 discharged directly into the rivers from hospitals, city
(a) H2SO4 and HNO3 (b) NaOH and KOH drains, etc. Domestic and public sewage mainly
(c) Na2CO3 and K2CO3 (d) NaCI and KCI consists of food waste, water used in household and
water used in toilets. Many types of bacteria, yeast,
Ans. (a) : Oxides of nitrogen and sulphur are mostly
fungus and eggs of helminths, viruses are found in its
produced from combustion of petrol diesel. These gases
pollution elements. An Indian family throws about 50
come back to the earth in the form of acid, sulphuric
kg of garbage in a week
acid (H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3) along with water
droplets present in the atmosphere. This is called acid 34. The primary source of organic pollution in fresh
rain. These gases remain present in the form of clouds water bodies is
and fog even when there is no rain. Generally, 60-90% RRB Asst. Locopilot (Ajmer) Paper 2005
acidity in the atmosphere is due to H2SO4 and 30-40% (a) Flow from urban areas
is due to HNO3. (b) Flow from agricultural forms
31. The inorganic pollutants that contaminate (c) Sewage effluent
undergrounds water are – (d) Industrial water effluent
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Trivandrum) Paper 2004
Ans. (c) : Sewage effluent is the primary source of
(a) Bacteria (b) Algae
organic pollution in fresth water bodies. Domestic and
(c) Arsenic (d) Virus public sewage mainly consists of food waste, water
Ans. (c) : Arsenic is an inorganic substance that used in homes and water used in toilets. Many types of
contaminates groundwater. It remains mixed in the bacteria, yeast, fungi and eggs of helminths viruses are
vapors of the volcano, in the sea and in many mineral found in its pollutants. Inorganic impurities such as
waters. dye, minerals, salts and sands are present. Micro-
organisms oxidize them into CO2 and water. As a
32. Which one of the following would result if
result, the level of dissolved oxygen in the water
household sewage is continuously discharged
decreases. due to which the water gets polluted.
into a stream in large quantities?
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Ahmadabad) Paper 2004 35. The 'Minamata disaster' in Japan was due to
(a) Increase in algae bloom in stream water whose pollution
(b) Increase in the temperature level of stream RRB Asst. Locopilot (Ranchi) Paper 2005
water (a) Glass (b) Mercury
(c) Decrease in carbon dioxide level of stream (c) Cadmium (d) Zinc
water Ans. (b) : Minamata- This disease is caused by the
(d) Decrease in dissolved oxygen level of stream toxic effect of mercury (Hg) in the human body, which
water results in disability or death. The initial symptom of
Ans. (d) : Water is colorless liquid. Its chemical Minamata disease is Numbness of lips, limbs and
formula is H2O. Its density is maximum at 4°C. Its dengue, Apart from this, there is also blurred vision.
freezing point is 0° Celsius and boiling point 100° Eventually the disease destroys the brain, leading to
Celsius. Water pollution causes abundance of algae in death. This disease first came to light in 1950. The root
water and this causes lack of oxygen. Therefore, if cause of this disease was the plastic industry of Japan
domestic sewage is continuously discharged into the which was established in 1905 in Japan. The by-product
stream (rives) in large quantities so the level of of this industry was the bleach (bi-product), mercury
dissolved oxygen in the stream water will reduce. which used to mix in sea water. Gradually this mercury

Environment 473 YCT

got stored in the body of sea creatures, later dogs, cats, Ans. (d) : According to the world health organization,
birds who ate sea creatures, fish became victims of 45 decibels of sound is the best for humans. WHO has
disability and finally death, then when humans eat fish considered sound above 75 decibels to be harmful to
etc. Also became victims of disability and death. human health. Thus, an ordinary human can hear a
36. The concentration of total liquefied solids in sound of maximum intensity up to 130 decibels, but a
drinking water should not exceed the following: person can become deaf in a sound of more than 85
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Mumbai) Paper 2006 decibels and a person with a sound of 150 decibels can
make a person mad.
(a) 500 mg/L (b) 400 mg/L
(c) 300 mg/L (d) 200 mg/L 40. Which of the following causes maximum noise
pollution?
Ans. (a) : According to the World Health Organization
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Allahabad) Paper 2007
(WHO), TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) of drinking
water shows the concentration of inorganic substances (a) Heavy truck traffic (b) Election meetings
present in it. TDS level of good drinking water should (c) Pop-music (d) Jet flight
be 300 mg/L and pure water should be 300 – 600 mg/L Ans. (d) : Jet flight causes maximum noise pollution.
and normal water should be 600 – 900 mg/L. Sound source Sound produce
37. Which pesticide is being used less due to (Decibel)
environmental problems? 1. Heavy truck traffic 80 dB
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Patna) Paper 2007 2. Jet engine 120 dB
(a) Gammaxene (b) D. D. T. 3. Orchestra 100 dB
(c) B.H.C. (d) D. M.T. 41. Green muffler –
Ans. (b): D.D.T. (Dichloro Diphenyl Trichloroethane) RRB Asst. Locopilot (Kolkata) Paper 2008
was the first modern insecticide which was used against (a) Techology to reduce air pollution
malaria, but later i.e. after 1950, it started being used as
(b) afforestation method
an agricultural insecticide. But due to its non-
biodegradable nature, its gets saturated in the (c) planting trees along roads to reduce roise
environment. pollution
Hence, it is regarded as a non-biodegradable pollutant. (d) vibration reduction process
These pollutants mix with the soil and affect plants and Ans. (c) : Green plants are planted to control noise
crops. Its effect falls on animals and relatively larger pollution. Because they have the ability to absorb
animals. sound and plants that control noise pollution are
called' green mufflers'.
Therefore we started decreasing the use of DDT.
42. In which of the following ranges is the human ear
38. Which of the following is not a source of pollution most sensitive?
in soil?
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Secunderabad) Paper 2008
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Bengaluru) Paper 2007 (a) 1-2 kilohartz (b) 100-500 Hartz
(a) Transport sector (c) 10-12 kilohartz (d) 2-5 kilohartz
(b) Agricultural sector
Ans. (d) : Human ear is most sensitive in 2-5 kHz
(c) Thermal power plant
43. Which unit is used to measure the loudness of
(d) Hydro power plant
voice from the following units?
Ans. (d) : In hydropower plant, electricity is generated RRB Asst. Locopilot (Allahabad) Paper 2008
from the energy of falling or flowing water. It is a
(a) desibel (b) Harts
renewable source of energy and protects scarce fuel
resources. It is pollution free and hence environment (c) Phone (d) Watt/m2
friendly, it does not cause any kind of pollution. Ans. (a) : "Decibel" is the unit which is used to
39. Sound above what level (in decibels) is called measure the loudness of the voice.
hazardous noise pollution? 44. Human-caused environmental pollution is called–
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Ranchi) Paper 2007 RRB Asst. Locopilot (Chandigarh) Paper 2008
(a) 30 dB (b) 40 dB (a) Parasite (b) Antibiotic
(c) 60 dB (d) 80 dB (c) Humeline (d) Anthropogenic

Environment 474 YCT

 Ans. (d) : The undesirable changes in the physical, Ans.(a): Hydrogen fuel produces minimal
chemical and biological characteristics of the abiotic environmental pollution. Combustion of hydrogen fuel
components of the environment (air, water and soil) produces water and heat as by- products which can be
which have a negative impact on life are called recycled.
pollution. Chemical and biological wastes introduced 48. Excessive use of fertilizer causes:
into the environment by human activities are called
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Jammu-Srinagar) Paper 2010
anthropogenic pollutants.
(a) Soil pollution (b) Water pollution
Hence, it is clear that pollution generated by humans is
called anthropogenic pollution. (c) Air pollution (d) All of the above

45. Which of the following is a biodegradable Ans. (d) : Excessive use of fertilizer causes pollution
pollutant? of soil, water and air. Fertilizers are used in the soil.
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Muzaffarpur) Paper 2009 Crops are irrigated on the soil, as a result of which
(a) Sewage (b) Asbestos these pollutants reach the air due to evaporation.
Therefore, excessive use of fertilizers causes pollution
(c) Plastic (d) Polythene
of all three types of soil, water and air.
Ans. (a) : Such pollutants which get decomposed into
49. The most polluted city of India is
simple, harmless elements in rapture over time by
micro-organisms like bacteria etc. are called RRB Asst. Locopilot (Secunderabad) Paper 2010
biodegradable pollutants. Some examples of (a) Ankleshwar (b) Lucknow
biodegradable pollutants are domestic waste (garbage), (c) Ludhiana (d) Raipur
urine and fasces, sewage etc. While asbestos, plastic,
polythene are examples of non-biodegradable Ans. (a) : Among the three most polluted cities of
pollutants. India, Ankleshwar is on the first place, Vapi which is
IInd state of Gujarat and Ghaziabad city of Uttar
46. Euro norms have been made – Pradesh which is adjacent to Delhi is the third most
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Mumbai) Paper 2009 polluted city. But according to the latest data of the
(a) To control the speed of vehicles. year 2016, the order of top three polluted cities of
India is as follows–
(b) For size classification of vehicles.
(1). Vapi, (2). Ghaziabad, (3). Ankleshwar
(c) To control hazardous gases emitted from
vehicles. 50. the most non toxic metal pollutant is exhaust from
automatic vehicles.
(d) To tell the power of the engine.
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Mumbai) Paper 2012
Ans. (c) : The standards set by the countries of the
(a) Copper (b) Lead
European community to control pollution and
hazardous gases caused by smoke emitted from (c) Cadmium (d) Mercury
vehicles are called Euro standards. Euro-I norms are Ans. (b) : The most non-toxic metal pollutant emitted
more liberal than Euro-II norms. There are three types from automobiles is lead. When its quantity exceeds
of pollutants in Euro-I and four types of pollutants in 0.2 ppm in human blood, anemia and kidney diseases
Euro-II. These are carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and occur. If its quantity in children becomes 0.6 pmm,
nitrous oxide, volatile emissions and particulates. The then human life is in danger.
dust related norms are only for diesel vehicles falling 51. Which of the following is biodegradable?
under Euro-II. These four polluting elements have RRB Asst. Locopilot (Chandigarh) Paper 2012
been measured in the unit of 'gram per kilometer'. Use (a) Plastic (b) Polythene
of unleaded fuel is mandatory in both Euro-I and Euro- (c) Mercury (d) Rubber
II countries. In both, the vehicle 'durability' is fixed at
Ans. (d) : Natural rubber is biodegradable. It is made
80 thousand kilometers.
from the sap or rubber sap of trees and vines. Rubber is
47. Which of the following fuel produces minimum obtained from the sap of large trees. Most of the rubber
environmental pollution? is obtained from Hevea brasiliensis. It grows in the
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Gorakhpur) Paper 2009 Amazon Rivers forests of America and is now grown
in Trovancore, Cochin, Mysore, Malabar, Durg and
(a) Hydrogen
Salem in India. The amount of dry rubber in rubber is
(b) Power Alcohol about 32 percent. It is elastic and transparent. Its
(c) Petrol refractive Index is '5219'. Due to the action of bacteria,
(d) Compressed Natural Gas (C.N.G) its color becomes yellow and blue spots appear.

Environment 475 YCT

52. Which of the following is identified and measured (a) Woolen mat (b) silver foil
in 'pollution test' of motor cars at a service (c) Leather bag (d) Jute basket
station?
Ans. (b) : Woolen mat, leather bag and jute basket are
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Bengaluru) Paper 2012
biodegradable. Whereas polythene, silver foil etc. are
(a) Lead and carbon particles
not biodegradable. It take hundreds of years for their
(b) Oxide of nitrogen and sulphur degradation.
(c) Carbon monoxide
56. The gas that was released during the Bhopal gas
(d) Carbon dioxide
tragedy was –
Ans. (a) : Lead and carbon particles are the main
RRB Asst. Locopilot/technician (Ranchi)
substances that pollute the atmosphere through vehicle
exhaust. Its quantity is checked at service stations. Paper 2014
(a) Methyl isothiocyanate
53. Which one of the following commodity groups
includes biodegradable commodities (b) Ethyl isothiocyanate
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Bhubaneswar) Paper 2012 (c) Methyl isocyanate
(a) Paper, grass, glass (d) Ethyl isocyanate
(b) Wood, flower, iron scraper Ans. (c) : Methyl isocynate was released in Bhopal (in
(c) Sewage, Plastic, leather 1984), the capital of Madhya Pradesh, due to which
(d) Cow dung, paddy straw, vegetable waste lakhs of people were affected. This is called Bhopal
Ans. (d) : Biodegradable things are those things which gas tragedy. It was a U.S.A company.
can be easily decomposed by micro-organisms like Methyl isocynate gas leaked from pesticide plant in
bacteria, fungi etc. Among the given options, cow dung, Bhopal.
paddy husk, vegetable waste are biodegradable items. 57. Which of the following is a pollution indicator
The biodegradation time period for some items is as plant?
follows –
RRB Asst. Locopilot/technician (Kolkata)
1. Paper towel – 2 – 4 weeks Paper 2014
2. Cardboard box – 2 months (a) Algae (b) Fungus
3. Cotton gloves – 1 – 5 months (c) Lichen (d) Fern
4. Wool gloves – 1 year Ans. (c) : Lichen is Thallophyta type of vegetation,
5. Plywood – 1–3 year which is made up of both fungi and Algae. The term
lichen was first used by the Greek philosopher
54. In which climate does photo-chemical smog Theophrastus. Lichen are indicators of air pollution.
occur? Where air pollution is high, they do not grow there.
RRB Asst. Locopilot (Bilaspur) Paper 2012
58. In which one of the following places does 'blood
(a) Cold and humid climate rain' occur?
(b) Warm, arid and infertile RRB Bhopal Section Engineer, 24.11.2002
(c) Cold, dry and hot climate (a) Italy (b) France
(d) Warm and humid climate (c) Canada (d) Spain
Ans. (b) : Photochemical smog occurs in warm-arid Ans. (a) : Blood rain occurs in Italy. This rain is
and infertile climates, i.e., more in urban areas where caused by the local wind called siracco. This wind is
greater amounts of sunlight are received. This is due to
known by different names in different countries. This
the photochemical reaction between nitrogen oxides,
hydrocarbon and other constituents of polluted air wind is extremely humid or quite dry as it passes
producing photochemical oxidants, which is stimulated through the Sahara Desert through North Africa, Sicily
by light. The main components of photochemical smog and southern Italy. It carries with it red colored sand
and ozone, peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) and (NOx). This which starts falling with rainfall in Italy. This type of
is often called brown air where solar radiation is rain is called bloody rain.
denser. 59. The polluted atmosphere is cleaned by which of
55. Which one of the following is not biodegradable? the following?
RRB Asst. Locopilot/technician (Ahmedabad) RRB Kolkata Chemical & Metallurgical Er.,
Paper 2014 01.12.2002

Environment 476 YCT

 (a) Oxygen (b) Rain 63. Which of the following is the most dangerous
(c) Nitrogen (d) Air radioactive pollutant?
Ans. (b): The pollution-free atmosphere, which RRB Chandigarh Section Engineer (Civil),
includes dust, smoke and other harmful substances, is 26.02.2012
cleaned by rain. (a) Phosphorus -32 (b) Sulphur - 35
60. Which of the following pair is not correctly (c) Strontium-90 (d) Calcium-40
matched: Ans. (c) : All the above elements are radioactive, but
RRB Bhopal & Mumbai Apprentice Section Eng. Strontium-90 is a very dangerous radioactive
23.03.2003 contaminant, it's half-life is 28.8 years. It is used in
(a) Ozone depletion - Chloro fluorocarbons medicine and industries, but in case of a nuclear bomb
(b) Acid rain – Nitric acid or accident, its effect falls on a very large area.
(c) Rocket fuel – Kerosene 64. Which of the following is a secondary air
(d) Greenhouse effect-Kerosene oil pollutant –
RRB Chandigarh Section Engineer (Mech.),
Ans. (c) : The fuel used in rockets is called propellant.
it is of two types – 26.02.2012
(i) Liquid propellant – This includes alcohol, liquid (a) CO2 (b) Fogg
hydrogen, liquid ammonia, hydrogen etc. (c) Glass (d) Formaldehyde
(ii) solid propellant- It is a mixture of oxidizing and Ans. (d) : A primary air pollutant is emitted directly
reducing substances present in solid state at normal into the atmosphere from a source. Whereas secondary
temperature. This mixture contains different solid pollutants are not emitted directly into the atmosphere
hydrocarbons as fuel and chlorate, nitrate etc. as
like the above. These react with other pollutants
reducing agents.
(primary pollutants) in the environment to form a
61. Which of the following is used in the synthesis of pollutants.
polythene?
65. Which of the following rivers of India is called
RRB Secunderabad Section Engineer (Civil)
29.06.2008 'Biological Desert' ?
(a) Methane (b) Ethane DMRC Junior Engineer (Electronics),
(c) Propane (d) Butane 03.08.2014
Ans. (b) : Polythene is obtained as a result of (a) Noyal (b) Damodar
polymerization of ethane of high temperature and high (c) Bhiwani (d) Bhadar
pressure. It 'n' molecules of ethylene participate in the Ans. (b) : Due to the water pollution prevalent in
polymerization then polythene is formed as a result of Damodar river, it is called biological Desert. It is the
the following reaction – most polluted rivers of India. It has become a 'biological
High temp.
nCH2 = CH2  → CH2 – CH2 desert' in the 300 km long stretch between Giridih and
Durgapur. Damodar river is also known as Sorrow of
62. If water pollution continues at the current rate
Bengal.
then eventually
RRB Chennai Section Engineer, 12.02.2012 66. What produces maximum soot?
(a) The water cycle will stop RRB Ranchi Signal Maintainer Group-III,
(b) Precipitation will stop 20.11.2005
(c) Oxygen molecules will become unavailable to (a) Petrol vehicle (b) C.N.G. vehicle
the water plants (c) Diesel vehicle (d) Thermal Power plant
(d) Nitrate will become unavailable to water plants. Ans. (d) : Most of the soot comes from thermal power
Ans. (c) : It dissolved minerals, organic, inorganic plants. After power plants, diesel vehicles produce the
substances and gases accumulate in water in more most soot.
quantities then required or such harmful substances 67. Which of the following pairs of specific types of
dissolve in water, which are not naturally found in hospital waste is not correct?
water, then such water is called polluted water. It water RRB Allahabad Signal Maintainer-II, 22.01.2006
pollution by various human activities continues at the (a) Plastic (9 - 12)% (b) Metal (1 - 2)%
present place, not only will a situation become
(c) Clay(8 - 10)% (d) Biodegradable (5-40)%
dangerous for the existence of human life, but the
oxygen molecules dissolved in water will also become Ans. (c) : According to the specific pair of hospital's
unavailable for aquatic plants. waste, clay (8-10)% are not the correct pair.

Environment 477 YCT

6.6 Biodiversity and its Conservation • Gamma diversity is the product of α and β diversity
components.
Biodiversity– Biodiversity is all the different kinds of
life you'll find in one area - the variety of animals, plants, γ = α×β
fungi and even microorganisms like bacteria that make • Gamma diversity can be expressed on the basis of
up our natural world. Each of these species and organism abundance of species and component of
work together in ecosystem, like an intricate web, to communities as follows–
maintain balance and support life. r = S1+S2–C
Types of Biodiversity– Where,
1. Genetic diversity– Genetic diversity is the S1 = Total recorded number of species in the first
biological variation that occurs with species. It community.
makes it possible for species to adapt when the S2 = Total recorded number of species in the second
environment changes. Genetic diversity is community.
particularly important under rapid environmental C = Total common species in both communities.
change.
Gradient of Biodiversity–The difference in the number
Ex.- Different breeds of dogs, different varieties of of species in latitudes from high altitudes to low latitudes
rose flower. and in mountainous areas from top to bottom is called
• The total genetic diversity in a species or its the gradient of biodiversity.
population is called gene pool. • Number of species increase in area with favorable
2. Species Diversity– Species diversity is defined as environment.
the number of different species present in an Importance of Biodiversity–
ecosystem and relative abundance of each of those
• Biodiversity is essential for the processes that
species.
support all life on earth, including humans.
• Diversity is greatest when all the species present are
• Human obtains food, fuel, shelter and medicine from
equally abundant in the area.
biodiversity.
3. Community or Ecosystem Diversity– The
diversity found between the animals and plants of • Healthy soil is diverse.
one community and the animals and plants of • Biodiversity is vital for healthy plants and animals.
another community is called community diversity or • Biodiversity protects medicinal plants.
ecosystem diversity. • Less biodiversity means more zoonotic disease.
• Community diversity is due to change in habitat, • Biodiversity keeps the planet liveable.
type of niches and ecological processes, such as
• Biodiversity supports our ecosystem.
nutrition cycles, food chains and energy flows.
Treats to Biodiversity–
Measurement of Biodiversity– Biodiversity is
measured by the following three methods : • Climate change
1. α-diversity– Alpha diversity refers to diversity on a • Habitat loss and degradation
local scale, describing the species diversity • Pollution
(richness) within a functional community. For • Invasive species
example, alpha diversity describes the observed
• Overexploitation of species and epidemics
species diversity within a defined plot or ecological
unit, such as a pond, a field, or a patch of forest. Biodiversity Conservation Measures– Two methods
are used for biodiversity conservation–
2. β-diversity– Beta diversity describes the amount of
1. In-situ conservation
differentiation between species communities. Unlike
the other levels of species diversity, the exact 2. Ex-situ conservation
interpretation and quantification of beta diversity
varies substantially across studies.
Originally, beta diversity was defined as the ratio
between gamma and alpha diversity (β = γ/α).
3. γ-diversity– Gamma diversity describes the overall
species diversity across communities within a larger
geographic area. It is often summarized across
biogeography of political units, such as ecoregions
or countries.

Environment Education 478 YCT

In-situ conservation– In-situ conservation is the process are kept in an artificial habitat are away from their
of preserving a threatened plant or animal species in its natural habitat. Here, large and biodiversity important
natural habitat. animals are kept and conserved. Zoos ensure increase in
National park– It is a kind of in-situ conservation of the reproduction rate of endangered animals.
wildlife. The national parks are the protected regions • The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) was established
where no interference from humans takes place except under the Indian wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for
for educational and research purposes. the conservation and care of animals. Its main work
• The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 empowers the is to manage zoological park.
States to declare any natural ecosystem rich in Gene Bank–
biodiversity as a National Park.
• Gene banks are a type of biorepository which
• India has a total of 94 National Parks based on the preserve genetic material.
2005 survey. According to national wildlife
• A collection of seed plants, tissue culture etc. are
Database, the total number of National Parks has
potentially useful species, especially species
increased to 105 as of May 2019.
containing genes of significance to the breeding of
Wildlife Sanctuaries– According to the Wildlife Act, crops.
1972, where there is sufficient biological, geological,
abundance of fauna, flora, etc. then that area is declared a • Plant genetic material in a gene bank is preserved at-
Wildlife Sanctuary. There are 551 Wildlife Sanctuaries 196º Celsius in Liquid Nitrogen as mature seed (dry)
in India as of May 2019. or tissue (meristems).
Bird Sanctuaries– An area of land in which birds are • In animals, the freezing of sperm and eggs in
protected and encouraged to breed. Further, it promotes zoological freezers.
the survival and rehabilitation of these birds. Cryopreservation– Cryopreservation is a process that
Community Reserves and Conservation Reserves– maintains biological samples in a state of suspended
Community Reserves and Conservation Reserves were animation at cryogenic temperature for any considerable
added by the 2002 Amendment to the Wildlife period and is used to preserve the fine structure of cells.
(Protection) Act, 1972. Conservation Reserves and National Biosphere Reserve Programme– The
Community Reserves in India are terms denoting Biosphere Reserve Programme was launched by
protected areas of India which typically act as buffer UNESCO in 1971 under its "Man and Biosphere
zones or connectors and migration corridors between Programme" (MAB). In India, it was launched in the
established National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries and year 1986.
Reserved and Protected Forests of India. • Under this a network of protected areas has been
Sacred Groves of India– Scared groves are areas that prepared for the conservation of biodiversity, in
are protected because of people's faith and their natural which 105 National Parks, 551 Wildlife Sanctuaries,
attachment. According to the IUCN, sacred groves are a 18 biosphere reserves, 50 Tiger Reserves and 32
form of natural worship. Under this, forests of natural Elephant Reserve Centers have been created.
and cultural importance, natural vegetation etc are
conserved. This area is dedicated to the local folk • India's rich biodiversity has given a variety of
culture. They are found in the north-east Himalayan culture and ethnic diversity.
region, Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, Coastal areas, Biosphere Reserve in India– There are 18 biosphere
Central Plateu and Western desert regions of India. reserve in India.
Ex-situ Conservation– Ex-situ conservation means the • Cold Desert, Himanchal Pradesh
conservation of species outside their natural habitats. It • Nanda Devi, Uttarakhand
involves the transfer of genetic material away from the
• Khangchendzonga, Sikkim
location where it is found.
Botanical Garden– It is a kind of ex-situ conservation • Dehang-Debang, Arunanchal Pradesh
as the plants are conserved away from their natural • Manas, Assam
habitat. • Dibru-Saikhowa, Assam
• It preserve those plants which are endangered. • Nokrek, Meghalaya
• It help us to study different types of plants and used • Panna, Madhya Pradesh
for scientific research. • Pachamarhi, Madhya Pradesh
Important botanical Garden of India–
• Achanakmar-Amarkantak, MP-Chhattisgarh
Lalbagh, Jawaharlal Nehru botanical garden, Jhansi
botanical garden, Narendra Narayan Park, Government • Kachchh, Gujrat (Largest Area)
botanical garden etc. • Similipal, Odisha
Zoo– Under the ex-situ conservation method, in zoo rare • Sundarban, West Bengal
and endangered species of animals, birds and creatures • Seshachalam, Andhara Pradesh

Environment Education 479 YCT

• Agasthyamalai, Karnataka-Tamilnadu-Kerala endemic here, which are now on the verge of
• Nilgiri, Tamilnadu-Kerala extinction.
• Gulf of Mannar, Tamilnadu The Western Ghats Hotspot Region–
• Great Nicobar, Andaman & Nicobar Island • This hotspot area extends to the highlands of south-
west India.
Biodiversity Hotspots– Biodiversity hotspots are
regions that contain a high level of species diversity, • The Western Ghats of India are mostly mountainous
many endemic species (species not found anywhere else region.
in the world) and a significant number of threatened or • Due to excessive rainfall, rain forests and moist
endangered species. deciduous forests are found here.
Biodiversity hotspot in India– India is a country with • Due to the favorable conditions for the development
immense biodiversity. Due to the greater variation in the of flora and fauna, abundance of biodiversity is
environmental conditions of its different areas, more found here.
diversity is seen in fauna and flora. • About 6,000 species of plants are found here. Large
There are a total of 36 hotspot regions in world, 4 of population resides in this area.
them are located in India: • Some special species, such as Asian elephant,
• The Himalayan Region Nilgiri tahr, Indian tiger, Lion-tailed monkey, Gaint
squirrel are also found here.
• Indo-Burma Region
• Sundaland Hotspot– The sundaland hotspot region
• Western Ghats extends to the western part of the Indo-Malayan
• Sundaland Region archipelago located in Southeast Asia. The United
Himalayan Hotspot– Nations declared the Sundaland hotspot area a
World Biosphere Reserve in 2013.
• The eastern Himalayan hotspot region is spread over
the North-eastern part of India, South central and • Very important fauna and flora are found in this area
from natural point of view.
eastern Nepal and Bhutan.
• Special species like coral, whale, dugong, turtle,
• Due to excessive rainfall, evergreen forests are
crocodile, fish etc. are found.
found here. Due to favorable conditions in terms of
rainfall and temperature, abundance of endemic • Biodiversity is being greatly affected due to over
species of fauna, trees and flora is found here. exploitation of marine resources.
Hope-spot–
• Due to the confluence of different biogeography
regions, the Himalayan mountains are very rich in • A 'hope-spot' is an area of the ocean where
terms of biodiversity. important marine flora and fauna require special
protection under water.
• Of the estimated 10,000 species of plants in the
• The concept of hope-spots was proposed in 2009 by
Himalayan hotspot, about 3,160 are endemic, as are
renowned American marine scientist Dr. Sylvial
71 genera. The largest family of flowering plants in
Earle in collaboration with the International Union
the hotspot is the Orchidaceous with 750 species.
for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) under 'Mission
• The hotspot support globally significant populations blue'.
of several large mammals-including the endangered
• With the addition of 14 new hope-spots in
tiger and Asian elephant along with smaller
September 2016, the total number of hope-spots is
mammals and birds.
76 at present.
Indo-Burma Hotspot–
• Under Mission Blue, a target has been set to
• The area includes portions of Eastern India
conserve 20% of marine area by the year 2020.
(including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands) the
eastern part of Bangladesh, South most China, most Efforts are being made for the conservation of
of Myanmar, most of Thailand and all of Cambodia, animals in India– In 1973, conservation efforts were
Laos and Vietnam. started to save the species of important animals that are
• The hotspot is surrounded by heavily forested areas, getting extinct in India. Under this, fast disappearing
but due to environmental imbalance and human species are being conserved by creating protected areas.
encroachment, these forests areas are shrinking. • Project tiger
• Many primate species like monkeys, langurs and • Global tiger forum
gibbons are found in this area and fresh water turtle • Project Elephant (Hathi mere saathi campaign &
species are found in large numbers. Elephant corridor)
• Ginger is an endemic species of this region and • Ganges dolphin
many species of birds are found here. The
endangered white eared Night Heron, gray crowned • Sea Turtle Project
Crocias and orange necked partridge species are • Vultures conservation project

Environment Education 480 YCT

 Previous Years Question
1. Which of the following is more important from • The term 'Biodiversity' was coined by Walter G.
the ecological point of view, being a good link Rosen for the first time in 1985.
between the Eastern Ghats and the Western 5. Biodiversity changes –
Ghats? DMRC Customer Relations Ass., 22.07.2012
RRB Kolkata Supervisor (P.Way), 20.02.2000 (a) Moves towards the equator.
(a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
(b) Decreases towards the equator
(b) Nallamala Forest
(c) Remains the same on earth
(c) Nagarhole National park
(d) Moves towards the poles.
(d) Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve
Ans. (a) : From the ecological point of view, Ans. (a) : Biodiversity increases towards the equator.
Satyamangalam Tiger Reserve is a good link between The reason for this is the equatorial climate. It has a
the Eastern Ghats and the western Ghats. favourable climate rich in nutrients and sunlight that
Satyamangalm Tiger Reserve is the largest wildlife promotes the development of microhabitats.
santuary in Tamilnadu. 6. 'Biodiversity' is –
2. If you want to see alligators in their natural Jaipur Metro Rail , 02.12.2012
habitat which of the following is the best place to (a) The sum of entire species, entire genes and
visit? entire ecosystems
RRB Kolkata Apprentice Supervisors, 14.10.2001 (b) Diversity of plants
(a) Bhitarkanika Mangroove (c) Diversity of animals
(b) Chambal River (d) Sum of cultural environment.
(c) Pulicate Lake Ans. (a) : The diversity of living beings (plants and
(d) Deepor Beel animals) present in an ecosystem is defined as bio
Ans. (b) : Most of the gharials mentioned in the diversity.
category of critically endangered by IUCN are found in 7. In which of the following regions of India the
Chambal and Girwa river in India. Therefore, if we
'Great Indian Hornbill' are most likely to be
want to see crocodiles in their natural habitat then it
found in its natural habitat?
would be most appropriate to go to the banks of
RRB Ajmer (Tech.), 25.01.1998
Chambal.
(a) Sandy desert of north-western India
3. The most important aspect of biodiversity is –
(b) Higher Himalayan region of Jammu and
RRB Bangalore Material Superintendent,
Kashmir
21.11.2004
(c) Salt Kutch region of western Gujarat
(a) Food
(d) Western Ghats
(b) Medicine
Ans. (d) : The Western Ghats range starts from the
(c) Industrial use
(d) Discharge of ecosystem border of Gujarat and Maharashtra, passes through Goa,
Karnataka, Tamilnadu and Kerala and ends in Kanya
Ans. (d) : Biodiversity refers to the variety of animals,
Kumari 1600 kms. This World Heritage Site is home to
plants, fungi live together and form nature.
84 amphibian species, 16 bird species, 7 mammals and
Biodiversity term was first used in 1986 by Walter. G.
1600 endemic flower species which are not found
Rosen. The basic reason for the discharge of the
anywhere else in the world. Great Indian Hornbill
ecosystem is biodiversity.
(Mahan Dhanesh) is prominent among the bird species
4. Who of the following first used the word
here. It is noteworthy that 9 species is long and curved
biodiverstiy?
downwards and usually there is a long bulge above the
DMRC Station Controller, 09.09.2007
upper beak, hence the name hornbill.
(a) C. J. Barrow
8. When is biodiversity day celebrated?/
(b) De Kastri
DMRC Maintainer (Fitter) , 20.07.2014
(c) Walter G. Rosen (a) 29 December
(d) D. R. Batish (b) 27 June
Ans. (c) : Biodiversity refers to the variety of animals, (c) 28 February
plants, fungi live together and form nature. (d) January

Environment Education 481 YCT

 Ans. (a) : Biodiversity Day is celebrated by the United • Hotspot is a region that contain high level of species
Nations on 22 May, while many countries of the world diversity, many endemic species and a significatnt
celebrate Biodiversity Day on 29 December. It is number of endangered species.
noteworthy that on 29 December, 1993 the convention 13. Maximum bio-diversity is found in –
on Biological Diversity came into force. RRB Kolkata (Tech.), 29.08.1999
9. 'Project Tiger' was started in India- (a) Tundra
RRB Trivandrum (Tech.), 11.04.1999 (b) Coniferous forest
(a) in 1970 (c) Tropical rain forests
(b) In 1973 (d) Temperate forests
(c) in 1981 Ans. (c) : Maximum biodiversity is found in tropical
(d) in 1984 rain forests. The tropical rain forest is mainly spread
Ans. (b) : The government of India started the Project around the equator. Warm climate and optimum
Tiger in 1973 to protect the tiger population. This conditions for the growth and development of plants
schemes are being implemented on a large scale in the and animals are found in the equatorial region. Most
country. bio-diversity is found in the silent valley located in the
10. Gavialis (Gharial) is found in abandance in– state of Kerala, India. It is 12 km from Palakkad
RRB Trivandrum (Tech.), 29.06.1999 district or Kerala.
(a) in Ganga 14. Which of the following areas in India is
(b) in Godavari considered a 'hot spot' in terms of biodiversity?
(c) in Krishna RRB Kolkata Supervisor (P. Way), 20.02.2000
(d) in Kaveri (a) Andaman and Nicobar Inslands
Ans. (a) : Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is one of the (b) Gangetic plain
two extant members of the Gavialis family. It is also (c) Central India
called fish eating crocodile. It is a crocodile-like reptile (d) None of the above
which has long but narrow teeth. It is an almost extinct Ans. (a) : In terms of biodiversity, the 'Andaman and
species. Gharial is the longest of the living species of Nicobar Islands' area in India is considered a 'Hot spot'
crocodiles, measuring 3.5 to 4.5m (11 to 15 feet). It is where various biological diversities are present. The
found in abundance in the river Ganga. Andaman and Nicobar Islands group is part of the
11. Operation Kachhapa is an NGO initiative for Myanmar India border area.
the protection of? 15. (With reference to environment) The 'hot spots'
RRB Bangalore (Tech.), 22.08.1999 found in India are.
(a) Hawksbill turtle RRB Mahendrughat (Patna) Diesel Driver,
(b) Olive Ridley sea turtle 18.02.2001
(c) Green turtle (a) Eastern Ghats, Western Ghats
(d) Leatherback turtle (b) Vindhya Mountain Range, Eastern Ghats
Ans. (b) : Operation Kachhapa is an NGO initiative (c) Eastern Himalayan Range, Western Ghats
for the conservation of the Olive Ridley sea turtle. It is (d) Shivalik range, Eastern Ghats
known that mass nesting of endangered species of Ans. (c) : Officially, out of 36 biodiversity hotspots of
Olive Ridley sea turtle was started in the second week the world, four are located in India, namely the
of march, 2015 near Rushikulya river in Ganjam Himalayas, Western Ghats, Indo-Burma area and
district of Odisha. Sundaland.
12. Which one of the following is not a 'Bio 16. Where is Biodiversity relatively rich?
diversity Hotspot RRB Kolkata Trainee Assistant Drivers’,
RRB Bhopal (Tech.), 21.11.1999 15.07.2001
(a) Himalayas (a) In tropical regions
(b) Vindhya (b) In polar regions
(c) North-Eastern India (c) In temperate regions
(d) Western Ghats (d) In the oceans
Ans. (b) : Biodiversity hotspots are found not only in Ans. (a) : Biodiversity is relatively richest in tropical
tropical regions but also in high latitude regions. The regions, whereas most permanent biodiversity is found
four biodiversity hotspots in India are the Eastern in the oceans. The abundance of animal and plant
Himalaya's, the Western Ghats and the central species found in a natural region is called biodiversity.
Myanmar-India border and Sundaland.
Environment Education 482 YCT