The Class 8 Social Science chapter 1 Natural Resources and Their Use, invites students to explore the intricate relationship between humans and nature.
We live in a world where every part of our life is deeply connected to nature—whether it’s the air we breathe, the food we eat, or the materials used to build our homes, roads, and technologies. Yet, many of us rarely pause to think about where these resources come from, how they are used, and what happens when they are misused or overused.
Natural Resources and their Use Worksheet
The chapter begins by helping us understand what makes something a “natural resource”, not just its presence in nature, but also whether we can access, afford, and accept it for use.
It categorizes natural resources based on their uses (like for food, materials, and energy) and renewability (renewable vs. non-renewable). It highlights the critical importance of maintaining nature’s cycles of restoration and regeneration to ensure that renewable resources – like forests, rivers, and sunlight – remain available for future generations.
A major focus of the chapter is sustainability. Through real-life examples such as the groundwater crisis in Punjab, cement pollution, and Sikkim’s transformation into an organic farming state, the chapter explains how careless usage of resources leads to environmental and social problems.
Looking for answers to the question given in the text book? Download our free Class 8 Social Science NCERT Solutions – complete with Q&A, MCQs, fill in the blanks, and more. Ideal for revision, homework, and exam prep!
Also Download:
Science Worksheets for Class 8 Curiosity
Hindi Worksheets for Class 8 Malhar
Maths Worksheets for Class 8
Natural Resources and their Use class 8 Notes
What Are Natural Resources?
- Resources from nature that humans find useful.
- Examples: air, water, soil, forests, minerals, etc.
When Does Nature Become a Resource?
- When humans start using elements of nature for sustenance or utility.
- Must be: Technologically accessible, economically feasible, culturally acceptable.
Categories of Natural Resources:
- Based on Use:
- Essential for life (air, water, soil)
- Material resources (wood, marble, coal, gold)
- Energy resources (coal, water, solar, wind)
- Based on Renewability:
- Renewable: Regenerate naturally (solar, wind, water, forests)
- Non-renewable: Cannot regenerate quickly (coal, petroleum, minerals)
Sustainable Use of Resources:
- Overuse of groundwater and soil degradation are major issues.
- Traditional practices like crop rotation, water harvesting are effective solutions.
Unequal Distribution:
- Some regions are rich in resources while others are not.
- Leads to trade, economic development, and conflicts.
Responsible Use and Stewardship:
- Balance short-term gains with long-term sustainability.
- Use resources wisely and ensure future generations benefit.
Social Science class 8 Chapter 1 Question Answer
Q1. Define natural resources with examples.
Ans: Natural resources are materials and substances found in nature that humans use for survival or economic gain. E.g., air, water, coal, forests.
Q2. What are renewable and non-renewable resources?
Ans: Renewable resources regenerate naturally (e.g., solar energy, forests). Non-renewable resources take millions of years to form and can run out (e.g., coal, petroleum).
Q3. Why is it important to use natural resources responsibly?
Ans: Irresponsible use leads to pollution, climate change, and resource depletion, endangering ecosystems and human well-being.
Q4. Explain the ‘resource curse’ with reference to natural resources.
Ans: Countries rich in resources often fail to achieve development due to poor management. This is known as the ‘resource curse’.
Q5. How did Sikkim become a 100% organic state?
Ans: By switching to compost, natural pest control, and crop diversity. Over time, biodiversity improved and incomes rose.
Q6. What are 10 uses of natural resources?
Ans: 10 important uses of natural resources:
- Drinking Water – Freshwater from rivers, lakes, and groundwater is essential for human survival.
- Breathable Air – Oxygen and other gases from the atmosphere are necessary for respiration in living beings.
- Food Production – Soil, water, and sunlight help grow crops and sustain agriculture.
- Fuel and Energy – Resources like coal, petroleum, natural gas, solar, and wind are used to generate energy for homes, transport, and industries.
- Construction Materials – Wood, stone, sand, and minerals are used to build houses, roads, and infrastructure.
- Clothing and Fabrics – Cotton, wool, silk, and other natural fibers come from plants and animals.
- Medicinal Resources – Many plants and minerals are used in traditional and modern medicines.
- Transportation – Fossil fuels power vehicles like cars, buses, airplanes, and ships.
- Metals and Minerals – Iron, copper, gold, and bauxite are extracted for tools, electronics, wires, and machines.
- Recreation and Tourism – Natural landscapes (forests, rivers, mountains) support eco-tourism and recreational activities.
Class 8 Social Science Chapter 1 MCQs
Q1. Which of the following is a renewable resource?
a) Petroleum
b) Coal
c) Wind Energy
d) Gold
Q2. Which state became India’s first fully organic state?
a) Sikkim
b) Himachal Pradesh
c) Kerala
d) Punjab
Q3. The term ‘resource curse’ refers to:
a) Overuse of solar energy
b) Harmful effects of using plastic
c) Slow development in resource-rich regions
d) Balanced use of resources
Q4. Which of the following is NOT a condition for something to be called a resource?
a) Technological accessibility
b) Historical importance
c) Economic feasibility
d) Cultural acceptability
Q5. What is Vṛikṣhāyurveda about?
a) Space research
b) Care of trees and plants
c) Mining laws
d) Animal husbandry
Answers:
c) Wind Energy
a) Sikkim
c) Slow development in resource-rich regions
b) Historical importance
b) Care of trees and plants