Natural Resources: Exhaustible and Inexhaustible

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Questions and Answers

Explain the crucial difference between exhaustible and inexhaustible resources, providing an example of each.

Exhaustible resources are finite and can be depleted through use, like coal. Inexhaustible resources are virtually unlimited, such as solar energy.

How can renewable resources become non-renewable if they are exploited beyond their regeneration rate?

If the rate of consumption exceeds the rate at which they can naturally replenish, renewable resources can diminish to the point of becoming non-renewable.

Describe how deforestation can lead to long-term environmental consequences, even if new trees are planted?

If forests are completely cleared for activities like construction, the entire ecosystem is lost and replanting may not fully restore the original biodiversity and ecological functions.

Why is it important to conserve natural resources even if a country has abundant reserves?

Conserving resources ensures they are available for future generations and prevents environmental degradation, aligning with principles of sustainable use, regardless of current abundance. Signup and view all the answers

How does vegetation in areas that act as water catchment areas contribute to ensuring a continuous water supply?

Vegetation in catchment areas facilitates the infiltration of water into the soil, recharging groundwater reserves and ensuring a steady flow into streams, rivers, and oceans, which is essential for maintaining water availability. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how the '3R Concept' (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) can minimize environmental pollution and promote environmental conservation.

The 3R concept helps to diminish waste production, reduces resource consumption and pollution. Recycling turns waste into new products reducing the need for raw materials, and helps to preserve the environment. Signup and view all the answers

Discuss the advantages of using alternative energy sources like solar and wind power.

Alternative sources of energy diminish ozone depletion. They are also less likely to be fully depleted. They are also typically cheaper. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways does uncontrolled industrialization pose risks to water resources, and what can be done to mitigate these impacts?

Rapid industrialization leads to the discharge of harmful wastes into water bodies, causing pollution. Treating industrial effluents before release helps to minimize this pollution ensuring a healthier ecosystem. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the role of an individual in the conservation of natural resources, providing a specific action and its impact.

An individual can utilize in-situ conservation of wildlife to ensure native plants and animals are protected in their natural habitats. This helps maintain biodiversity and the balance of ecosystems. Signup and view all the answers

How does ‘abiotic’ support influence the distribution of life and resources across different regions?

Abiotic factors, such as soil composition, water availability, climate, and solar energy, vary geographically and influence the distribution of life and resources differently. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Renewable Resources

Resources that can be replenished naturally over time.

Non-Renewable Resources

Resources that cannot be easily replaced once used.