The fifth chapter in Geography textbook is 'Minerals and Energy Resources'.
Minerals are “homogenous, naturally occurring substances with a definable internal structure.” They are found in varied forms in nature, ranging from the hardest diamond to the softest talc. Rocks are combinations of homogeneous substances called minerals.
Various metals are extracted from these minerals after refinement. In all stages of development, human beings use minerals for their livelihood, decoration, festivities, religious and ceremonial rites.
Minerals are “homogenous, naturally occurring substances with a definable internal structure.” They are found in varied forms in nature, ranging from the hardest diamond to the softest talc. Rocks are combinations of homogeneous substances called minerals.
Various metals are extracted from these minerals after refinement. In all stages of development, human beings use minerals for their livelihood, decoration, festivities, religious and ceremonial rites.
Conservation of minerals is necessary because:
- The formation of minerals takes a long geological period of millions of years.
- They are finite in nature, non-renewable and exhaustible.
- The rate of replenishment of minerals is infinitely small in comparison to rate of consumption.
- They have to be preserved for our future generations.
Importance of energy
Energy is required for all activities. It is needed to cook, to provide light and heat, to propel vehicles and to drive machinery in industries. It is the basic requirement for economic development. Every sector of national economy—agriculture, industry, transport and commerce needs greater inputs of energy. Energy demands, in the form of electricity, are growing because of increasing use of electrical gadgets and appliances.
Ways to conserve energy
- Using more of public transport system instead of individual vehicles.
- Switching off electrical devices when not in use, using power saving devices.
- Using non-conventional sources of energy such as solar energy, wind energy, etc.
- Getting the power equipment regularly checked to detect damages and leakages
The topics discussed in this chapter are as follows:
- What is a mineral?
- Mode of Occurrence of Minerals
- Classification of Minerals
- Ferrous Minerals
- Non-Ferrous Minerals
- Non-Metallic Minerals
- Rock Minerals
- Conservation of Minerals
- Energy Resources
- Non-Conventional Sources of Energy
- Conservation of Energy Resources
Students can view and download the chapter from the link given below.
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Download NCERT Solutions for Chapter 5: Minerals and Energy Resources
Also Check
Chapter 1: Resources and Development
Chapter 2: Forest and Wildlife Resources
Chapter 3: Water Resources
Chapter 4: Agriculture
Chapter 6: Manufacturing Industries
Chapter 7: Lifelines of National Economy
Check out Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chapter 5: Minerals and Energy Resources
Why are there a wide range of colours, hardness, crystal forms, lustre and density found in minerals?
A mineral that will be formed from a certain combination of elements depends upon the physical and chemical conditions under which the mineral forms. It is because of these physical and chemical conditions that minerals possess a wide range of colours, crystal forms, lustre and density.
How do minerals occur in sedimentary rocks?
In sedimentary rocks a number of minerals occur in beds or layers. They have been formed as a result of deposition, accumulation and concentration in horizontal stratas.
Where is the largest solar plant located in India?
The largest solar plants located at Madhapur near Bhuj in Gujarat.
Define the term ‘ore’.
The term ‘ore’ is used to describe an accumulation of any mineral mixed with other elements.
Which is the main source of energy in India?
The main source of energy in India is fossil fuels especially coal.