Question 6 of 12intermediate🔧 ApplyLong Answer5 marks

In a village, the temperature has been increasing and rainfall has become unpredictable over the past few years. What could be causing this change? Suggest two ways the village could adapt to these new conditions.

Correct Answer

The increasing temperature and unpredictable rainfall in the village are likely caused by climate change, which results from human activities.

The burning of fossil fuels like coal and oil releases greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane, which trap heat in the atmosphere and cause global warming.

Additionally, deforestation in the region could be contributing, as trees absorb carbon dioxide and help regulate local temperature and rainfall patterns.

The chapter explains that even small increases in temperature can cause extreme weather conditions and disrupt normal rainfall patterns.

Two ways the village could adapt:

First, implement water conservation and harvesting techniques—building rainwater harvesting structures, check dams, and ponds to capture and store rainwater when it does fall. This would ensure water availability during dry periods. Using drip irrigation and drought-resistant crop varieties would also help agriculture survive with less water.

Second, increase green cover through tree plantation drives. Trees provide shade, reduce local temperature through transpiration, help retain soil moisture, and can make rainfall patterns more predictable over time.

The chapter emphasises that 'preserving and protecting clean air, water, soil, and all forms of life isn't just important but essential for keeping Earth healthy for the future.'

Exercise: Keep the curiosity alive | Q: 10 | (Page Page 18)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The chapter discusses climate change as part of the 'triple planetary crisis' and explains how 'Burning fossil fuels like coal and oil releases greenhouse gases' causing 'extreme weather conditions.' It also mentions adaptation strategies like 'using renewable energy like solar and wind' and that 'Local communities can play a big role in using natural resources sustainably.'

Solution Steps

  1. Climate change from human activities is the likely cause of increasing temperature and unpredictable rainfall

  2. Burning fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide and methane) that trap heat and cause global warming

  3. Deforestation contributes by reducing trees that absorb carbon dioxide and regulate local climate

  4. Adaptation method 1: Implement water conservation and rainwater harvesting (structures, check dams, ponds, drip irrigation, drought-resistant crops)

  5. Adaptation method 2: Increase green cover through tree plantation to provide shade, reduce temperature, and improve rainfall patterns