Class 10 - Chapter 5: Minerals and Energy Resources

1. Multiple Choice Questions

(i) Which one of the following minerals is formed by decomposition of rocks, leaving a residual mass of weathered material?

(a) Coal
(b) Bauxite
(c) Gold
(d) Zinc

Answer: (b) Bauxite

(ii) Koderma, in Jharkhand is the leading producer of which one of the following minerals?

(a) Bauxite
(b) Mica
(c) Iron ore
(d) Copper

Answer: (b) Mica

(iii) Minerals are deposited and accumulated in the stratas of which of the following rocks?

(a) Sedimentary rocks
(b) Metamorphic rocks
(c) Igneous rocks
(d) None of the above

Answer: (a) Sedimentary rocks

(iv) Which one of the following minerals is contained in the Monazite sand?

(a) Oil
(b) Uranium
(c) Thorium
(d) Coal

Answer: (c) Thorium

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2. Answer the Following Questions in About 30 Words

(i) Distinguish between the following in not more than 30 words.

(a) Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Minerals

Ferrous Minerals	Non-Ferrous Minerals
Contain iron as the main constituent. Example: Iron ore, manganese, chromite.	Do not contain iron. Example: Copper, bauxite, lead, zinc and gold.

(b) Conventional and Non-Conventional Sources of Energy

Conventional Sources	Non-Conventional Sources
Traditional sources such as coal, petroleum and natural gas.	Renewable sources such as solar, wind, tidal and geothermal energy.

(ii) What is a mineral?

Answer:
A mineral is a naturally occurring homogeneous substance with a definite chemical composition and a specific physical property, formed through geological processes.

(iii) How are minerals formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks?

Answer:
In igneous and metamorphic rocks, minerals occur in cracks, crevices, faults and joints. They are formed when mineral-rich molten material or solutions solidify and crystallize.

(iv) Why do we need to conserve mineral resources?

Answer:
Mineral resources are finite and take millions of years to form. Conservation is necessary to ensure their availability for future generations and to reduce environmental degradation.

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3. Answer the Following Questions in About 120 Words

(i) Describe the distribution of coal in India.

Answer:
Coal is one of the most important sources of energy in India. Most coal deposits are found in the Gondwana rock formations. The major coal-producing states are Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Maharashtra. The Damodar Valley region, including Jharia, Raniganj and Bokaro coalfields, is particularly rich in coal reserves. Lignite, a low-grade coal, is mainly found in Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Jammu & Kashmir. Coal is used extensively in thermal power generation and various industries. The distribution of coal resources has played a significant role in the industrial development of many regions of India and continues to be an important source of energy.

(ii) Why do you think that solar energy has a bright future in India?

Answer:
Solar energy has a bright future in India because the country receives abundant sunlight throughout the year. Most parts of India experience clear skies and long sunny days, making solar power generation highly effective. Solar energy is renewable, non-polluting and inexhaustible. It helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Technological advancements have reduced the cost of solar panels, making solar energy more affordable and accessible. Government initiatives such as the National Solar Mission promote the adoption of solar power. With increasing energy demand and growing environmental concerns, solar energy offers a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for India's future energy needs.