Ge6351 Evs Q&a - 2016

GE6351 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
UNIT I ENVIRONMENT, ECOSYSTEMS AND BIODIVERSITY 12
Definition, scope and importance of Risk and hazards; Chemical hazards, Physical hazards,
Biological hazards in the environment – concept of an ecosystem – structure and function of an
ecosystem – producers, consumers and decomposers-Oxygen cycle and Nitrogen cycle – energy
flow in the ecosystem – ecological succession processes – Introduction, types, characteristic
features, structure and function of the (a) forest ecosystem (b) grassland ecosystem (c) desert
ecosystem (d) aquatic ecosystems (ponds, streams, lakes, rivers, oceans, estuaries) – Introduction to
biodiversity definition: genetic, species and ecosystem diversity – bio-geographical classification of
India – value of biodiversity: consumptive use, productive use, social, ethical, aesthetic and option
values – Biodiversity at global, national and local levels – India as a mega-diversity nation – hot-
spots of biodiversity – threats to biodiversity: habitat loss, poaching of wildlife, man-wildlife
conflicts – endangered and endemic species of India – conservation of biodiversity: In-situ and ex-
situ conservation of biodiversity. Field study of common plants, insects, birds Field study of simple
ecosystems – pond, river, hill slopes, etc.
UNIT II ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION 10
Definition – causes, effects and control measures of: (a) Air pollution (Atmospheric chemistry-
Chemical composition of the atmosphere; Chemical and photochemical reactions in the atmosphere
- formation of smog, PAN, acid rain, oxygen and ozone chemistry;- Mitigation procedures- Control
of particulate and gaseous emission, Control of SO2, NOX, CO and HC) (b) Water pollution :
Physical and chemical properties of terrestrial and marine water and their environmental
significance; Water quality parameters – physical, chemical and biological; absorption of heavy
metals - Water treatment processes. (c) Soil pollution - soil waste management: causes, effects and
control measures of municipal solid wastes – (d) Marine pollution (e) Noise pollution (f) Thermal
pollution (g) Nuclear hazards–role of an individual in prevention of pollution – pollution case
studies – Field study of local polluted site – Urban / Rural / Industrial / Agricultural.
UNIT III NATURAL RESOURCES 10
Forest resources: Use and over-exploitation, deforestation, case studies- timber extraction, mining,
dams and their effects on forests and tribal people – Water resources: Use and overutilization of
surface and ground water, dams-benefits and problems – Mineral resources: Use and exploitation,
environmental effects of extracting and using mineral resources, case studies – Food resources:
World food problems, changes caused by agriculture and overgrazing, effects of modern agriculture,
fertilizer-pesticide problems, water logging, salinity, case studies – Energy resources: Growing
energy needs, renewable and non-renewable energy sources, use of alternate energy sources. Energy
Conversion processes – Biogas – production and uses, anaerobic digestion; case studies – Land
resources: Land as a resource, land degradation, man induced landslides, soil erosion and
desertification – role of an individual in conservation of natural resources – Equitable use of
resources for sustainable lifestyles. Introduction to Environmental Biochemistry: Proteins –
Biochemical degradation of pollutants, Bioconversion of pollutants. Field study of local area to
document environmental assets – river/forest/grassland/hill/mountain.
1
UNIT IV SOCIAL ISSUES AND THE ENVIRONMENT 7
From unsustainable to sustainable development – urban problems related to energy – water

conservation, rain water harvesting, watershed management – resettlement and rehabilitation of
people; its problems and concerns, case studies – role of non-governmental organization-
environmental ethics: Issues and possible solutions – 12 Principles of green chemistry- nuclear
accidents and holocaust, case studies. – wasteland reclamation – consumerism and waste products –
environment production act – Air act – Water act – Wildlife protection act – Forest conservation act
–The Biomedical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules; 1998 and amendments- scheme of
labeling of environmentally friendly products (Ecomark). Enforcement machinery involved in
environmental legislation- central and state pollution control boards- disaster management: floods,
earthquake, cyclone and landslides. Public awareness.
UNIT V HUMAN POPULATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT 6
Population growth, variation among nations – population explosion – family welfare programme –
environment and human health – human rights – value education – HIV / AIDS – women and child
welfare –Environmental impact analysis (EIA)- -GIS-remote sensing-role of information technology
in environment and human health – Case studies
TEXT BOOKS:
1. Gilbert M.Masters, “Introduction to Environmental Engineering and Science”, 2nd Edition,

Pearson Education, 2004.
2. Benny Joseph, „Environmental Science and Engineering‟, Tata Mc Graw-Hill, New Delhi, 2006.
REFERENCES:
1. R.K. Trivedi, “Handbook of Environmental Laws, Rules, Guidelines, Compliances and

Standard”, Vol. I and II, Enviro Media.
2. Cunningham, W.P. Cooper, T.H. Gorhani, “Environmental Encyclopedia”, Jaico Publ., House,
Mumbai, 2001.
3. Dharmendra S. Sengar, “Environmental law”, Prentice Hall of India PVT LTD, New Delhi, 2007.
4. Rajagopalan, R, “Environmental Studies-From Crisis to Cure”, Oxford University Press 2005
2
UNIT I - ENVIRONMENT, ECOSYSTEM AND BIODIVERSITY
PART A
1. Define Ecosystem. (or) what is an ecosystem? (Nov/ Dec 2013)

Ecosystem has been defined as a system of interaction of organisms with their
surroundings. Numerous dynamic interactions are occurring within an ecosystem and these are
complex. Always alterations to the biotic and Abiotic components are happening within the
ecosystems.
2. Enumerate some characteristics of an Ecosystem.

 Ecosystem is the major ecological unit.
 It contains both biotic and abiotic components.
 Through the biotic and abiotic components nutrient cycle and energy flow occur.
 The boundary of the ecosystem is not rigidly defined and it is flexible.
 The function of ecosystem is related to the cycling of materials and flow of energy.
 The amount of energy needed to maintain an ecosystem depends on its structure.
 Ecosystems pass from a less to more complex state, which is called as succession.
 Adaptation to local environmental condition is the important feature of the biotic
components of an ecosystem, failing which they might perish.
3. Classify the Ecosystem.

The ecosystem can be generally classified into three types.
 Terrestrial Ecosystem;
 Aquatic Ecosystem;
4. Name the types of consumers.

1.Herbivores (or) Primary Consumers;
2. Carnivores (or) Secondary Consumers
3.Omnivores (or) Tertiary Consumers
5. Differentiate between Food chain and Food web. (Nov/ Dec 2013)
Food Chain Food Web
A food chain is a picture or model that shows the A food web refers to a bunch of food chains that
flow of energy from Autotrophs to a series of make up an ecosystem. It is a mass of connected food
organisms in an environment. chains that are interlinked at various points.
It describes a pattern through which energy is It basically depicts a broader picture of all
transmitted from the producers or the plants to interconnected food chains that exist within an
the decomposers. ecosystem.
It shows only one string of connected plants and It shows the food habit of various plants and animals
animals and their food habits. in an ecosystem.
6. What is Nitrogen fixation?

Hydrogen bonding of water molecule is defined as the bonding developed between the
positive hydrogen end of one molecule and the negative lone pair of another water molecule. Four
hydrogen bonds are formed around each and every water molecule.
3
7. Define the term Nitrification.
The process of converting the free nitrogen gas available in the atmosphere into
compounds of nitrogen is called as nitrification.
8. What do you mean by Denitrification?

The process of converting ammonia into nitrites with the help of nitrosomonas bacteria,
and nitrites into nitrates with the help of nitrobactor bacteria is called as nitrification.
9. What are the methods by which nitrogen fixation takes place in the nature?
Natural nitrogen fixation can be obtained from lightening of clouds and bacteria and fungi
present in soil and water. Artificial fixation of nitrogen obtained with the help of fertilizer of
fertilizer industries, which convert the atmosphere nitrogen into ammonia.
10. Define Ecological succession.

Ecological succession is defined as the process in which communities of plant and animal
species in a particular area are replaced over time by a series of different and often more complex
communities.
11. Define Primary and secondary succession

(i) Primary ecological succession comprises of Hydrarch(Hydrosere – establishment
starting in a watery area like pond and lake) and Xerarch (Xerosere – establishment starting in a
dry area like, desert and rock)
(ii) Secondary succession involving establishment of biotic communities in an area, where
some types of biotic community is already present.
12. What is the structure & function of grassland ecosystem?

Abiotic components:
 C,H,O,N,P,S etc – supplied by nitrates, phosphates and sulphates.
Biotic components:
 Producers – grasses, forbs and shrubs
 Consumers–cows, cows, buffaloes, deer, sheep
 Decomposers – fungi and bacteria.
13. Give the characteristic features of desert ecosystem.

1. Desert air is dry and the climate is hot
2. Annual rainfall is less than 2.5 cm
3. The soil is very poor in nutrients and organic matter
4. Vegetation is very poor.
14. What is the structure & function of desert ecosystem?

Abiotic component:
 Temperature, rainfall, sunlight, water
Biotic component:
 Producers – shrubs, bushes, grasses
 Consumers – squirrels, mice, foxes
 Decomposers – fungi and bacteria.
15. What are the three steps involved in process of succession?

1. Facilitation
2. Inhibition
4
3. Tolerance
16. What are producers?

Producers are organisms , like green plants , that produce organic compounds
from inorganic compounds. These are also a type of autotroph. Then green plants, for
example, are eaten by consumers in this case, grazing animals like the zebra.
17. What are consumers?

Consumers are organisms, which cannot prepare their own food and depend directly or
indirectly on the producers. E.g. Insects, rabbits, Fish, lions
18. What are decomposers?

A decomposer is an organism of decay. These are also called saprobes. They break
down the remains of dead animals and plants, releasing the substances that can be used by other
members of the ecosystem.
19. Give the characteristic features of an Estuarine system.

1. They are transition zones strongly affected by tides of the sea
2. Water characteristics are periodically changing
3. Living organism have wide tolerance
4. Salinity remains highest in summer and lowest during winter.
20. What are the 4 kinds of diversity?

Species, genetic, community or ecosystem
21. Write any two endangered species of mammals and birds in India.
 Mammals – Tiger, Lion
 Birds – Peacock, Horded crane.
22. Why is Biodiversity rich in tropics?
 More s table clima te
 Warm temperatures and high humidity
 Opportunity for many species to coexist
 Rate of out crossing appears to be higher in tropics.
23. What is the significance of Biodiversity?

 Very i m p o r t a n t f o r h u m a n l i f e
 Protects fresh air, clean water and productive land
 Important for forestry, fisheries and agriculture.
24. What is species & Genetic diversity?

 Species diversity is the diversity between different species.
 Genetic diversity – it means to the variation of genes within species. Gene and
chromosome mutation and in organism with sexual reproduction or by recombination for
creation of new genetic variation in individuals.
25. What are the values of biodiversity?

 Consumptive
 Productive
5
 Social
 Ethical
 Aesthetic
26. What is In-situ conservation?

In-situ conservation is conservation of species in its natural ecosystem or manmade
ecosystem.
27. What do you understand by ,  &  diversity?

 Alpha – refers to number of species found in a small homogeneous area
 Beta – refers to rate of change of species composition across different habitats
 Gamma – refers to rate of change across large landscape.
28. What steps can be taken to conserve biodiversity?

 Adequate crop and cattle compensation
 Solar powered fencing,
 Changes i n c r o p p i n g p a t t e r n
 Adequate f o o d a n d w a t e r f o r a l l a n i m a l s
 Developmental a n d constructional work in and around forest region must be stopped.
29. Define biodiversity. (Nov/Dec 2015)

Bio means life and diversity means variety refers to wide variety of life on earth to all plants,
animals and micro-organisms
30. Enumerate human activities which destroy biodiversity.

 Farmers prefer hybrid seeds – many plants become extinct
 For production of drugs the pharma companies collect wild plants – become extinct
 Tropical forests – disappearing due to agriculture, mining and logging.
31. What do you understand by habitat loss?

The loss of population of interbreeding organisms is caused by habitat loss. It threatens
wide range of animals and plants.
32. What are the factors influencing habitat loss?

 Deforestation,
 Destruction of wetlands,
 Habitat fragmentation
 Usage of hybrid seeds
 Usage of wild plants for medicinal productions without replenishing their growth
 Illegal trade and developmental activities
33. What is poaching?

Poaching refers to killing of animals or commercial hunting which leads to loss of animal
biodiversity.
34. What are the factors influencing poaching?

Factors influencing poaching – human population and commercial activities
35. What are the factors influencing man – animal conflicts?
 Shrinking of forest cover
 Human encroachment into forest
6
 Injured animals attacking man
36. What do you understand by Global biodiversity?
Global biodiversity refers total number of living species in the world is about 20 million,
1.5 million are found, tropical deforestation is reducing biodiversity by 0.5 % each year.
37. What are the hot spots of biodiversity?

Key areas of the world that have great biological diversity, high levels of endemism and are
under immediate threat of species of extinction.
38. What are the major threats to the Indian biodiversity? (NOV/DEC 2014)
1. Habitat loss
2. Poaching of wild life
3. Climate
4. Deforestation
39. Write any two objectives of Indian Forestry Policy

1. Maintenance of environment stability through preservation and restoration of ecological
balance.
2. Steps to create massive people’s movement with involvement of women to achieve the
objectives.
40. Define the term Environment with reference to ISO 14001.

According to ISO 14001, environment can be defined as, "surroundings in which an
organization operates- air, water, land, natural resources, flora, fauna, humans and inter relation".
41. What are gases present in the air?

Nitrogen, oxygen, Argon, Carbon dioxide, hydrogen, helium, ozone, radon, neon,
krypton, xenon, Sulphur dioxide, ammonia, methane, hydrogen sulphide, etc
42. Explain Biosphere.

The biological environment where the living organisms live and interact with physical
environment is called biosphere. It is the component of the earth which involves all the living
constituents such as birds, animals, plants etc. It supports various eco systems
43. List out the biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem. (NOV/DEC 2014)
Biotic Components:
Producers Consumers Decomposers
Abiotic components
Physical Component – Air, water, soil, sunlight
Chemical Component- organic and inorganic substances
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS:
1. State the significance and scope of environmental education.
Significance:
 It informs the people about their effective role in protecting the environment by
demanding changes and enforcement systems.
 It develops a concern and respect for the environment and also provides basic
knowledge of different types of environmental hazards.
Scope:
 To get an awareness and sensitivity to the total environment and its problems.
7
 To motivate the people for the active participation of improvement and
environmental protection.
2. Define environmental impact statement.

It is defined as an analysis of the expected effects of a development or action on the
surrounding natural and fabricated environment. It outlining the environmental effects and
solutions.
3. What are renewable and non-renewable energy sources? Give examples.

Renewable energy resources:
Renewable energy resources are those natural resources which are inexhaustible and
can be produce energy again and again.
Example: Solar energy, wind energy, water energy.
Non-renewable energy resources:
Non-renewable energy resources are those natural resources which are exhaustible
and cannot be replaced once they are used.
Example: coal, nuclear power.
4. What are the three effects of deforestation?

 Increased soil erosion
 Decrease in availability of forest products.
 Loss of biodiversity.
5. Suggest three damages caused by the use of fertilizers.

 Pesticides and fertilizers reduces endangered species and brings loss to biodiversity.
 Many useful organisms are also killed in the soil.
 Excessive applications of fertilizers cause stomach problem and cancer.
PART-B
1. Describe the types, characteristics features, structure and function of

(i) forest ecosystem (ii) aquatic ecosystem. (Nov/Dec 2015) (16 mark)
FOREST ECOSYSTEM:
Forest cover about 40% of the land. The forests covered with trees of different
height, the shrubs and the herbs.
Classification:
1. Tropical rain forest
2. Tropical deciduous forest.
3. Tropical scrub forest
4. Temperature rain forest
5. Temperature deciduous forest.
1] Tropical rain forests:
These are found near the equator and are characterized by high temperature. They have
broad leafed trees like teak and sandal and the animals like lion, tiger and monkey.
2] Tropical deciduous forests:
These are found a little away from the equator and are characterized by a warm climate with
rain only during monsoon. They have different types of deciduous trees like maple, oak and
hickory and animals like deer, fox, rabbit and rat.
8
3] Tropical scrub forests:
These are characterized by a dry climate for longer time. They have small deciduous trees
and shrubs and animals like deer, fox etc.
4] Temperate rain forests:
They are found in temperate areas with adequate rainfall. They are characterized by
coniferous tees like pines, firs, red wood etc., and animals like squirrels, fox,
cats, bear.
5] Temperate deciduous forests:
These are found in areas with moderate temperatures. They have major trees including broad
leaf deciduous trees like oak, hickory and animals like deer, fox, bear etc.
Characteristics of forest ecosystem:
 Forest maintain climate and rainfall
 Forests are known as biggest factories on earth which is day time they generate
oxygen and absorb carbon di oxide.
 They provide shelter to animals, human beings and thousands of microorganisms.
 They maintain the equilibrium of gases on the atmosphere due to photosynthesis.
 They protect biodiversity and organic matter into nutrients.
Structure and functions of forest ecosystem:

Abiotic components:
Examples: climatic factors and minerals.
The abiotic components are organic and inorganic substances found in the soil and
atmosphere. In addition, minerals are also occurring in the forests.
Biotic components:
1. Producers:
Examples: trees, shrubs and linans.
In a forest trees are the primary producers. The plants produce food by photosynthesis
process.
2. Consumers:
(a) Primary consumers (Herbivores)
Examples: ants, reptiles, flies and insects.
They take their food from plants.
(b) Secondary Consumers (Primary Carnivores)
Examples: snakes, birds, fox.
They directly depend on the herbivores for their food.
(c) Tertiary consumers:
Examples: lion, tiger, etc.
They depend on the primary carnivores for their food.
3. Decomposers:
Examples: fungi and bacteria
Aquatic bacteria and fungi are the prime factors of this category. Without decomposers
cannot possible for ecosystem. They decompose the plant and animal matter.
AQUATIC ECOSYSTEM:
Pond ecosystem:
A pond is a small water reservoir which can be natural or artificial, temporary or
permanent. The water may not dry u during dry periods. In temporary ponds the living
community is unstable but in permanent ponds a stable community can be found except for
seasonal variations. Seasonal variations appear due to change in temperature, pH, rainfall
9
and annual growth of some organisms. The various components of a pond ecosystem are as
follows:
Structure and function of pond ecosystem:

Abiotic components:
Examples: temperature, light, water, pH, organic and inorganic components
Biotic component:
1. Producers:
(a) Phyto plankton:
They are microscopic aquatic plants. They freely float on the surface of water.
Example: algae, Volvos, osmarium.
(b) Microphtes:
Examples: they are large floating plants like hydrilla, jussiaes.
2. Consumers:
(a) Primary consumers (Herbivores)
Examples: protozoa, small fish
They take their food from plants.
(b) Secondary Consumers (Primary Carnivores)

Examples: insects
They feed on zooplankton.
(c) Tertiary consumers:
Examples: large fish like game fish
They feed on smaller fish
3. Decomposers:
Examples: fungi, bacteria
They decompose the dead organisms, materials and again they are reused by the green
plants.
Stream and river ecosystem:

Characteristic features of stream and river:
 Stream and river ecosystem is continuously moving water. Current is main
controlling and limiting factor in streams. Flowing water transports nutrients and
carries waste products away from many aquatic organisms.
 These ecosystems are characterized as having running water (lotic) and still water
(lentic). Lotic and lentic stream floating and emergent vegetation may be found. In
both environments find gray fish, fish of various sizes. The upper reaches of lentic
environments are rich in oxygen.
Structure and function of stream and river ecosystem:

 Producers: these are the autotrophs. Sagittaria, pistia, hydrilla and algae are
producers.
 Primary consumers: are cyclops, cypris and their larvae.
 Secondary consumers: are large animals which include insect, larvae, insects and
fishes.
 Decomposers: bacteria and fungi are decomposers.
Ocean ecosystem:
Characteristic features of ocean ecosystem:
 It comprises about 70% of the earth surface.
10
 The water is saltish with an average mineral content of 3.5%
 Tides consists of a rise and fall of water level caused by the gravitational effects of
the moon and the sun.
 Temperature varies from below 0oC in the arctic and Antarctic region to about 28o at
equator.
 Circulation of water occurs due to wind stress, tides and temperature differences.
 Organisms which float on the surface of the sea and moved about by the winds and
current are termed Planktonic forms.
 The Plankton includes many algae, protozoans, crustaceans and larval firms.
 The planktons are the primary source of food to large animals in the sea.
 The nekton includes animals like fishes, turtles, whales, seals, etc.
Structure and function of ocean ecosystem:

 Producers: The phytoplankton, the dinolagellates, diatoms and algae.
 Phytoplankton are composed of members of protest and plants. Phytoplankton are
autotrophs. The phytoplankton constitute a major sources of food.
 Consumers: squid, fishes, snakes, whales, seals, etc.
 Decomposers: the decomposers of the sea are mainly bacteria which are
heterotrophs.
2. Explain the various threats of biodiversity and the measures recommended for
conservation of biodiversity. (May/Jun 2016) (16 marks)
VARIOUS THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY:

As human population rises, an ever increasing demand for land, house, raw materials, food
placed on the natural ecosystem. If the present trend continues, millions of animals, plants and
microorganisms may be destroyed in the next few decades.
Habitat loss:
Human disturbances of natural habitat is the large single cause of loss of biological
biodiversity. Habitat loss threatens a wide range of plants and animals.
Factors influencing habitat loss:
1. Fragmentation:
Fragmentation is the reduction of habitat into smaller and more scattered patches.
Fragmentation reduces biodiversity because many species such as bears and large cats
require large territories to subsit.
2. Production of drugs:
Most f he medical plants are slowly vanished by pharmaceutical companies for
manufacture of drugs.
3. Deforestation:
The loss of habitat is mainly caused by deforestation activities. The conversion of forest
land to agricultural use, fuel wood, expansion of industrial area is important reason for
deforestation.
4. Destruction of wet lands:
The wetlands and mangroves are destroyed due to pollution which causes huge
biodiversity loss.
5. Illegal trade:
Illegal trade also reduces the biodiversity. For example, illegal trade for sandal wood,
elephants tusk leads for loss of sandal wood and elephants.
6. Development activities:
Projects such as the construction of large dams, industrial plants, hydroelectric projects
11
have contributed to the loss of biodiversity.
Poaching (over harvesting) of wild life:
Poaching means hunting of animals or killing of animals. It leads to loss of animal
biodiversity.
1. Commercial poaching:
Hunting and killing animals to sell their products
2. Subsistence poaching:
Killing animals for food for their life survival
Factors influencing poaching:
1. Human population:
Increased human population has led to reduce forest resources and also degradation of
wild life habitats.
2. Commercial activities:
Organized crime has moved into illegal wild life smuggling because of the huge profits.
Poachers hunt these prohibited wild life animals and smuggles it to other countries.
Because of selfish behavior of every individual, valuable resources will be destroyed.
Remedial measures:
1. To protect whales, the International Whaling Commission has been established
2. IWC prevent overharvesting and commercial extinction.
3. Biodiversity law should be strengthened.
CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY:
IN-SITU conservation:
In-situ conservation is conservation of species in its natural ecosystem or man-made
ecosystem.
 Protected areas (national parks and wild life sanctuaries) are the most important In-situ
conservation method.
 Large areas are essential for not only conserving large number of species of living organisms
but also provide opportunities to evolve.
 Protected areas are national parks, sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, etc.
 No biotic interference is allowed in the National park and sanctuaries.
 In-situ conservation is cheaper to protect animals and plants in their natural habitat.
 Many protected habitats are used for logging tourism and other beneficial activities.
 This area where killing, hunting, shooting of birds or animals is prohibited.
 There are 447 sanctuaries and 89 national parks in the country.
 Some special projects are designed to protect the species.
 (a) Indian Board for Wild Life (IBWL). (b) Wild Life Advisory Board (WLAB), (c) Wild
Preservation Society of India all are doing useful work for the conservation of wild life.
 In-situ conservation is the best strategy for the long term protection of biodiversity.
EX-SITU conservation:
Ex-situ conservation means conservation of species away from the natural habitat.
 Conserving biodiversity in Seed Bank and Green Bank.
 National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resource in New Delhi.
 Collect and preserve genetic material of crops.
 National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources in Allahabad collect and preserve genetic natural
material of rare fish.
 Any species may be declined due to inbreeding, environmental factors, diseases and human
disturbances. Under such circumstances the species can be breeded from seed banks gene
banks.
 Gene species can be preserved at very low temperature for period raising from 10 to 50
12
years.
 The G-15 countries have setup a network of gene banks for medicinal plants.
 The Madras Crocodile Bank (MCB) preserved various state of forest crocodile eggs.
 Collection of living materials in the form of zoo animals, botanical collections and seeds
together with DNA collections have been termed as gene banks.
 India ‘s’ seed bank preserved seeds of rice, banana and beans.
 Before the storage, the seeds are cleaned and dehydrated and then cooled to a temperature of
-20oC.
 Royal Botanical Garden of England is the world’s largest botanical garden.
 Egg pulling involves collecting wild eggs and then hatching them in zoos or research
centers.
3. Define ecosystem. Give an account of the structure and functions of an ecosystem.

(NOV/DEC 2014) (8 mark)
Ecosystem is broadly classified into major types.
1. Terrestrial ecosystem
2. Aquatic ecosystem
Terrestrial ecosystem:
It is further classified into four major types
1. Forest ecosystem
2. Grass land ecosystem
3. Desert ecosystem
4. Manmade or artificial ecosystem
Aquatic ecosystem:
It is further classified into two types:
1. Fresh water ecosystem
2. Marine or oceanic ecosystem
Structure and function of an ecosystem:
An ecosystem has two major components
1. Abiotic components
2. Biotic components
CLASSIFICATION OF BIOTIC COMPONENTS:
They are living organisms.
(a) producers: mainly green plants
(b) consumers: mainly animals
(c) decomposers: mainly bacteria and fungi
1. Producers (Autotrophs):
Producers are autotrophic organisms like chemosynthesis and photosynthetic bacteria,
bluegreen algae and other green plants. They are called ecosystem producers. They capture
energy from non-organism sources like light to synthesis organic food carbohydrate by the
process of photosynthesis. Trees, herbs are the producers.
2. Consumers (Heterotrophs)
The heterotrophs depend directly or indirectly upon the autotrophs for their food and they
are called consumers. They take the food synthesized by the producer and digest it inside the
bodies. They may be
Herbivores: Plant eating
Carnivores: Animal eating
Omnivores: Eating all kinds of food.
(a) Primary Consumers
They are Herbivorous animals that are dependent for their food on green plants. Eg, insects,
13
rabbit, goat, deer, cow, horse.
(b) Secondary Consumers
They are Carnivorous which feed on the primary consumers. They are chiefly insects and
fish. Fish consumes small fish, larvae.
(c) Tertiary Consumers
These are the top carnivores which feed upon other carnivores, omnivores and herbivores.
Eg, lion, tiger.
Grass  Rat  Cat  Tiger
3. Decomposers:
Producers dead bodies are attacked by decomposers and consumers. They break the dead
bodies into smaller molecules. During the decomposition, inorganic nutrients are released. The
producers absorb the inorganic nutrients and synthesize their own food.
ABIOTIC COMPONENTS:
The non-living components of an ecosystem collectively form a community called abiotic
components. Example: soil, water, energy, air, etc.
1. The chemical components
They are the source of essential nutrients
Examples:
1. Inorganic substances: Al, Co, Cu and C, H, O, P, N, P, K elements.
2. Organic substances: Carbohydrates, Fat, Glucose, Proteins, etc.
2. Physical components:
Physical components are temperature, humidity, climate, energy and raw materials.
4. Explain oxygen and nitrogen cycle briefly with diagrams. (May/Jun 2016) (16 mark)
Oxygen cycle:
 The atmosphere contains about 21% oxygen. The atmospheric oxygen enters the living
organisms, as a gas required in respiration. During this process carbon di oxide and water are
formed.
C6 H12 O6 + 6O2  6CO2 +6H2 O + energy.
 The metabolic water thus formed is added to all other water present in living organisms and
as such it may undergo three possible fates.
 Some of it may be excreted and so added to the water content of the environment. Another
part may be used as a building material for the formation of more living matter.
 A third possible fate of the water within organism is its consumption as a fundamental raw
material along with the carbo di oxide in the photosynthesis. In this process the oxygen is
liberated as shown by the following equation:
6CO2 +6H2 O + energy  C6 H12 O6 + 6O2
 Such free oxygen may now again be used in respiration or it may be returned to the
environment as a molecular atmospheric oxygen, completing the cycle.
 Thus oxygen enters organisms only through respiration and leaves through photosynthesis.
 In intervening steps the oxygen is incorporated in water, and in this form it can interlink with
the water cycle or indirectly with carbon cycle.
 The oxygen in the atmosphere is the source of ozone. The ozone layer protects organisms by
preventing most of the ultraviolet and X-rays from reaching the earth’s surface.
 The most recent factors affecting the oxygen cycle of the biosphere and the oxygen budget
of the earth is the man himself.
 In addition to inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon di oxide, man decreases the oxygen level
and increases the carbon di oxide level by burning fossil fuels.
14
Nitrogen cycle:
Nitrogen (N2) constitute 78% volume of air.

1. Natural Fixation:
(i) Gaseous nitrogen which is converted into nitrates by nitrogen fixing bacteria and certain
blue green algae.
(ii) Lightning also converts gaseous nitrogen and converting the same into nitrates.
(iii) The nitrogen containing protein foods are passed to animals.
(iv)Animals and plans die decomposed into nitrogenous wastes to the air. These are converted to
ammonia to the air. The process is done by bacterial activities.
(v) The process of converting ammonia to nitrites and nitrate is called nitrification
(vi)The process with the help of microorganisms known as nitrosomanes and nitrobacter
bacteria.
(vii) Nitrogen cycle is an example of less perfect cycle due to the possible loss of some
nitrogen in the form of nitrates from water, lands, sea.
Nitrification:
The conversion of ammonia into nitrate is termed as nitrification. It involves two steps:
Step 1: ammonia is converted to nitrite
Step 2: conversion of nitrite to nitrate by nitrates bacteria, nitrobactor.
2. Denitrification:
The conversion of nitrates to gaseous nitrogen (N2) as well as to nitrous oxide ad nitric oxide
(NO2) is called denitrification.
5. Explain the following (i) Ecological Succession (ii) Ecological Pyramids.(Nov/Dec 2015)
(16 mark)
Ecological succession:
 In an area one community may be replaced by another community or by a series
of communities. Thus the progressive replacement of one community by another
community till the development of stable community in a particular area is called
ecological succession.
 The first group of organism, which establish their community in the area is called
Pioneer community.
 The various developmental stages of a community are called sere.
 The group of plants or animals living in an area is called climax community.
15
There are two types of ecological succession recognized by ecologists, based
on the conditions present at the beginning of the process.
Primary succession:
It involves the gradual establishment of biotic communities on a lifeless ground. Hydrarch
or Hydrosere: Establishment starts in a watery area like pond and lake; Xerarch or
Xerosere: Establishment starts in a dry area like, desert and rock.
Secondary succession: It involves the establishment of biotic communities in an area,

where some type of biotic community is already present.
Annual weeds  herbaceous perennials  shrubs  trees  forests
Process of succession:
Process of success involves 3 steps:
(i) Facilitation
(ii) Inhibition
(iii) Tolerance
Facilitation:
Facilitation is prominently observed in early stages of primary succession. Changes in
abiotic environment that are imposed by the developing community. Pioneer species prepare the
ground allowing other species to invade. This stage is the competition among plants as well as
animals for nutrition from the atmosphere and the soil.
Inhibition:
It is the secondary stage. In this stage the death of pioneer species increases nutrients in
the soil. The enriched nutrient soil is more suitable for the growth of secondary communities.
Tolerance:
In this stage invaders tolerate the physical conditions compete successfully with the
species. In this stage the species dominance is determined by the availability of two resources,
light and nutrients.
Ecological pyramids:
The representation of amount of energy stored in the bodies of living things is called as
ecological pyramid.
There are three different types of ecological pyramid:
(i) Pyramid of numbers
(ii) Pyramid of energy
(iii) Pyramid of biomass.
Pyramid of numbers:
 In this pyramid there is a decrease in the number of individuals from the lower level to
the higher trophic levels. This can be found in a grass land.
 In the grass land ecosystem, the grasses occupy the lowest tropic level and they are
abundantly present.
 The second level is occupied by the deer’s. The number of deer are less when compared
to the grasses.
 The next level is wolves. They feed on the deer’s and are less in number when compared
with deer’s.
 The lions occupy the next level. They feed on wolves. In the last trophic level the
number of individuals is the lowest.
16
Pyramid of Energy:
 The rate of energy flow and productivity each successive tropic level is shown below. In
this case there will be gradual decrease in the availability of energy from autotrophs to
higher trophic levels.
 In the course of energy flow from one organism to the other, there is considerable loss of
energy in the form of heat.
Pyramid of Biomass:
 Biomass may be defined as the total weight of dry matter present in the ecosystem at any
one time.
 In this pyramid there is decrease in biomass from the lower level to the higher level. The
biomass in autotrophs like algae, green plants, etc., is maximum.
 The next level is occupied by primary consumers like crustaceans, fish larva, etc.
 In the next trophic level there is reduction in the amount of biomass of small fishes.
They are called as secondary consumers.
 In the top of the trophic level contains least amount of biomass like large fishes.
17
6. What are the major causes of man-wild conflicts? Discus the remedial steps that can
curb the conflict. (Nov/Dec 2015) (8 mark)
Reason for Man-wild conflicts:

 Female animals attack the humans if she feels that her new born cubs are in danger.
 The villagers maintain electric wiring around their field. The elephants get injured,
suffer in pain and turn violet.
 Human encroachment into the forest areas raises a conflict between man and the wild
life. Perhaps because it is an issue of survival of both.
 May tourist in the wild life areas disturbed by transport, resorts and hunting.
 The glamour of products obtained from wild life such as skin, horns, tusks, etc.,
Remedial measures (or) conservation of biodiversity:

 Solar power can be used instead of electric current to prevent the animals from straying
into fields.
 Cropping pattern should be changed near the forest borders and fruit and water should
be made available for the elephants within forest zones.
 Tiger Conservation Product (TCP) has made provisions for making available vehicles,
tranquillizer guns, binoculars and radio sets, etc., to tactfully deal with any imminent
danger.
7. Explain briefly the energy flow through ecosystem (Nov/Dec 2015) (8 marks)
 Energy flows through the ecosystem in the form of carbon-carbon bonds.
 When respiration occurs, the carbon-carbon bonds are broken and the carbon is
combined with oxygen to form carbon dioxide. This process releases the energy which is
either used by the organism or the energy may be lost as heat.
 The other components are inorganic nutrients. They are inorganic because they do not
contain carbon-carbon bonds.
 These inorganic nutrients include the phosphorous in our teeth, bones, and cellular
membranes, the nitrogen in our amino acids and the iron in our blood.
 The autotrophs obtain these inorganic nutrients from the inorganic nutrient pool, which
is usually the soil or water surrounding the plants or algae. These inorganic nutrients are
18
passed from organism to organism as one organism is consumed by another.
 At this stage the last energy is extracted and the inorganic nutrients are returned to the
soil or water to be taken up again. The inorganic nutrients are recycled, but the energy is
not recycled.
19
UNIT II - ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
PART - A
1. Define Noise Pollution (Nov-Dec 2015), (Nov-Dec 2013), (Nov-Dec 2010)

Noise pollution may be defined as the unwanted sound which gets dumped into the
atmosphere without regarding to its adverse effect.
2. What is the role of individual in Pollution Prevention? (Nov-Dec 2015)

 Adopt renewable energy resources
 Use natural fertilizers than chemical fertilizers
 Use natural gas than coal
 Use of eco-friendly products
 Use CFC refrigerators
 Do not use plastic cups
3. Define BOD5 (April-May 2015), (Nov-Dec 2012)

The amount of dissolved / free oxygen consumed in five days by bacteria that
perform biological degradation of organic matter under aerobic conditions at 20°C
4. What are the effects of Ozone on plants? (Nov-Dec 2014)

Ultra violet radiation affects the ability of plants to capture light energy during the
process of photosynthesis. This reduces the nutrient content and the growth of plants. This is
seen especially in legumes and cabbage.
5. What are the sources of Marine Pollution (Nov-Dec 2014)

Rivers, Catchment area and Oil drilling and shipment
6. List out the types of land pollution (May-June 2014)

There are four main types of Land Pollution
1. Solid Waste
2. Pesticides and Fertilizers
3. Chemicals
4. Deforestation
7. What are the major causes of earthquake? (May-June 2014)

1. Sudden violent shaking of a part of earth
2. The stress in the earth crust can cause solid rock to deform until it suddenly fracture
and shifts along the fracture producing the fault
3. The abrupt movement on the existing fault causes the earthquake
8. What is a Cyclone? (Nov- Dec 2013)

It is an area of low pressure in the center and high pressure outside. It’s a powerful
swirling storm that measures from 300 to 500 km in diameter. The wind in the center of a
cyclone blows at a speed of 120 kmph.
9. Define Thermal Pollution (May-June 2013)
Thermal pollution is defined as the presence of waste heat in the water which can cause
undesirable changes in the natural environment that is harmful to man, animal and aquatic
life.
20
10. Mention the sources of water pollution (May-June 2013)
They are classified as point sources which are discharged pollutants at specific locations
through pipes, ditches or sewers into bodies of surface water and non-point sources that
cannot be traced to any single site of discharge, usually large land areas or air sheds that
pollute water by run-off, subsurface flow or deposition from the atmosphere.
Sewage, Industrial influents, Synthetic detergents, Agrochemicals, Oil and waste heat are the
sources of surface water (streams, lakes and estuaries) pollution.
11. What is Photo Chemical Smog? (Nov-Dec 2012)
It is mainly due to chemical reactions among nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons by sunlight
12. What are the sources of air pollution? (Nov-Dec 2011)

(i) The natural sources (volcanic eruptions, forest fires, biological atmosphere) and
manmade sources (Anthropogenic) such as fossil power plants, agricultural activities
(ii) Carbon monoxide ( CO)
(iii) Sulphur dioxide (SO2)
(iv) Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
(v) Suspended particulate matter
13. What are the major sources of Solid waste cause? (May-June 2012)
Wastes arising from human and animal activities that are normally solid and that are
discarded as useless or unwanted.
Solid Wastes based on their origin are: Urban Solid Waste, Industrial Solid Waste.
14. Define Marine Pollution (Nov-Dec 2011)

It is defined as the introduction by man directly or indirectly of substances or energy into the
marine environment resulting in such deleterious effect as harm to living resources, hazards to
human health, hindrance to marine activities including fishing, impairment of quality for use of
sea water and reduction of amenities.
15. What are the causes of Air Pollution? (Nov-Dec 2011)

Volcanoes, which release ash, dust, sulphur and other gases, or by forest fires that are
occasionally naturally caused by lightning.
16. What is recycling (April-May 2011)

It is the reprocessing of the discarded materials into new useful products.
Example: Old aluminum cans and glass bottles are melted and recast into new cans and
bottles, Preparation of fuel pellets from kitchen waste
17. Define Soil pollution (Nov-Dec 2010)

It is defined as the contamination of soil by human and natural activities which may cause
harmful effects on living beings
18. What are the two effects of Noise pollution in human being? (April-May 210)
1. Damage to heart, brain, kidney and liver
21
2. Noise pollution causes contraction of blood vessels, makes the skin pale, leads to
excessive secretion of adrenalin hormone into blood stream which is responsible for
blood pressure.
3. It causes muscles to contract leading to nervous breakdown, tension etc.,
4. It affects efficiency and behavior.
5. It may leads to loss of hearing.
19. Define BOD, COD, Toxity (April-May 2011)

Biological oxygen demand (BOD) is the amount of oxygen required to break down a certain
amount of organic matter.
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) is the amount of oxygen required for chemical oxidation
of organic matter using some oxidizing agent like K2Cr2O7 and KMnO4.
Toxity is Sum of adverse effects or the degree of danger posed by a substance to living
organisms. It is expressed generally as a dose response relationship involving the quantity of
substance to which the organism is exposed and the route of exposure skin (absorption),
mouth (ingestion), or respiratory tract (inhalation).
20. Define Pollution

Pollution is the effect of undesirable changes in our surroundings that have harmful
effects on plants, animals and human beings.
21. What is Air Pollution?

Air pollution occurs due to the presence of undesirable solid or gaseous particles in the
air in quantities that are harmful to human health and the environment.
22. List the sources and effects of CO and SO2 Pollution. (May-June 2012)
Sources:
 Transportation
 Forest Fire
 Coal Mines
Effects:
 Air Pollution to human health
 Air Pollution to animals and plants
23. What do you understand by the term thermal pollution? (May-June 2012)
A pollution due to heat which changes the physical and chemical properties of water thus
affecting the whole aquatic system.
24. What is composting?

It’s one of the solid waste management technique in which bulk organic waste are converted
into a fertilizing manure by biological action
25. Write any four major water pollutants.
a. Pesticides and biocides.

b. Heavy metals, mercury, crude oil, plastics.
c. Industrial and agricultural wastes.
d. Thermal pollution.
22
PART B
1. Explain Causes, Effects and Control Measures of Water Pollution (Nov-Dec 2015),
(Nov-Dec 2012) (8)
The alternation in physical, chemical & biological characteristics of water which causes
harmful effects on humans and aquatic life. The major pollutants are sewage, effluents,
Bacteria.
Infections Agents: Bacteria, viruses, protozoa, parasitic worms
Human Source- Human and animal works
Health Effect – Variety of diseases.
Oxygen demanding wastes: Organic wastes, such as animal manure & Plant debris that
are decomposed by aerobic bacteria.
Human Source- Sewage, animal feedlots, paper mills, food processing facilities.
Health Effect – Depletion of dissolved O2 in water. This causes death of aquatic
life.
Inorganic Chemical: water soluble chemicals like acids. Compounds of toxic metals
like Lead, arsenic and selenium. Salts like NaCl in sea water and fluorides found in some
soils.
Human Source- Industrial effluents, street wash, household waste.
Health Effect – Causes skin cancer & neck damage. Damage nervous system,
liver & Kidney. Harm fish and other aquatic life.
Organic Chemical: Plastics, pesticides, detergents
Human Source- Industrial effluents, household waste.
Health Effect – Damages nervous system, causes some cancers.
Plant Nutrients: Water soluble compounds containing Nitrates, (NO4-3) phosphates
(PO4-3) and NH4+ions.
Human Source- Sewage, manure, runs off of agriculture, urban fertilizer.
Health Effect – Drinking water with high levels of nitrate lowers the O2 carrying
capacity of Blood and kills urban children and infants
Sediment: Soil, silt.
Human Source- Land Erosion
Health Effect – Clouds water and reduces photosynthesis. Disturbs aquatic food
web carry Pesticides, bacteria and other harmful substances.
Radioactive materials: Radio isotopes of I2, radon, uranium and thorium
Human Source- I131, Co60, Fe55 Nuclear power plants, mining and processing
of thorium.
Health Effect – Genetic mutation, birth defects and certain cancers.
Thermal Pollution Excessive heat
Human Source- Water cooling of electric power plants and some types of
industrial plants. Hence the temperature of water increases. The rise in temperature
decreases the dissolved O2 and affects the aquatic organisms.
Controlling of water pollution:

1. All domestic and municipal effluents be drained to water bodies only after treatment
2. Use of pesticides in agriculture should be limited. Only standard quality pesticides
should be used.
23
3. Chemicals like potassium permanganate should be sprayed regularly to protect water
from microorganisms.
4. Radioactive substances can be removed by Ion-exchange method.
5. Plants, trees and forests control pollution and they act as natural air conditions.
6. Bacteria are killed by passing chlorine gas into water bodies.
7. Highly qualified and experienced persons should be consulted from time to time for
effective control of water pollution.
8. Inorganic wastes can be treated chemically.
9. Acids and bases are removed by neutralization
10. Sewage is treated by biochemical oxidation. The chemicals retards the growth of
plants and retard reproduction process.
2. Explain the Various methods of controlling Air Pollution (Nov-Dec 2015) (8)
Some of the effective methods to Control Air Pollution are as follows: (a) Source Correction
Methods (b) Pollution Control equipment (c) Diffusion of pollutant in air (d) Vegetation (e)
Zoning.
(a) Source Correction Methods:

Industries make a major contribution towards causing air pollution. Formation of pollutants
can be prevented and their emission can be minimised at the source itself.
By carefully investigating the early stages of design and development in industrial processes
e.g., those methods which have minimum air pollution potential can be selected to
accomplish air-pollution control at source itself.
These source correction methods are:
(i) Substitution of raw materials:

If the use of a particular raw material results in air pollution, then it should be substituted by
another purer grade raw material which reduces the formation of pollutants. Thus,
(a) Low sulphur fuel which has less pollution potential can be used as an alternative to high
Sulphur fuels, and,
(b) Comparatively more refined liquid petroleum gas (LPG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG)
can be used instead of traditional high contaminant fuels such as coal.
(ii) Process Modification:

The existing process may be changed by using modified techniques to control emission at
source. For example,
(a) If coal is washed before pulverization, then fly-ash emissions are considerably reduced.
(b) If air intake of boiler furnace is adjusted, then excess Fly-ash emissions at power plants
can be reduced.
(iii) Modification of Existing Equipment:

Air pollution can be considerably minimised by making suitable modifications in the
existing equipment:
24
(a) For example, smoke, carbon-monoxide and fumes can be reduced if open hearth furnaces
are replaced with controlled basic oxygen furnaces or electric furnaces.
(b) In petroleum refineries, loss of hydrocarbon vapours from storage tanks due to
evaporation, temperature changes or displacement during filling etc. can be reduced by
designing the storage tanks with floating roof covers.
(c) Pressurising the storage tanks in the above case can also give similar results.
(iv) Maintenance of Equipment:

An appreciable amount of pollution is caused due to poor maintenance of the equipment
which includes the leakage around ducts, pipes, valves and pumps etc. Emission of pollutants
due to negligence can be minimised by a routine check-up of the seals and gaskets.
(b) Pollution Control Equipment:

Sometimes pollution control at source is not possible by preventing the emission of
pollutants. Then it becomes necessary to install pollution control equipment to remove the
gaseous pollutants from the main gas stream.
The pollutants are present in high concentration at the source and as their distance from the
source increases they become diluted by diffusing with environmental air.
Pollution control equipment’s are generally classified into two types:

(a) Control devices for particulate contaminants.
(b) Control devices for gaseous contaminants.
INCLUDEPICTURE "http://cdn.yourarticlelibrary.com/wp-
content/uploads/2014/02/clip_image002_thumb295.jpg" \* MERGEFORMATINET
In the present book only the control devices for particulate contaminants are dealt with.
Control Devices for Particulate Contaminants:

(1) Gravitational Settling Chamber:
25
For removal of particles exceeding 50 µm in size from polluted gas streams, gravitational
settling chambers (Fig 5.1) are put to use.
Fig: Gravitational Settling Chamber
This device consists of huge rectangular chambers. The gas stream polluted with particulates
is allowed to enter from one end. The horizontal velocity of the gas stream is kept low (less
than 0.3 m/s) in order to give sufficient time for the particles to settle by gravity.
The particulates having higher density obey Stoke’s law and settle at the bottom of the
chamber from where they are removed ultimately. The several horizontal shelves or trays
improve the collection efficiency by shortening the settling path of the particles.
(2) Cyclone Separators (Reverse flow Cyclone):

Instead of gravitational force, centrifugal force is utilized by cyclone separators, to separate
the particulate matter from the polluted gas. Centrifugal force, several times greater than
gravitational force, can be generated by a spinning gas stream and this quality makes cyclone
separators more effective in removing much smaller particulates than can possibly be
removed by gravitational settling chambers.
A simple cyclone separator consists of a cylinder with a conical base. A tangential inlet
discharging near the top and an outlet for discharging the particulates is present at the base of
the cone.
26
Fig: Cyclone Separator
Mechanism of Action:
The dust laden gas enters tangentially, receives a rotating motion and generates a centrifugal
force due to which the particulates are thrown to the cyclone walls as the gas spirals upwards
inside the cone (i.e. flow reverses to form an inner vortex which leaves flow through the
outlet). The particulates slide down the .walls of the cone and are discharged from the outlet.
(3) Fabric Filters (Bag house Filters): (May-June 2012) (4)

In a fabric filter system, a stream of the polluted gas is made to pass through a fabric that
filters out the particulate pollutant and allows the clear gas to pass through. The particulate
matter is left in the form of a thin dust mat on the insides of the bag. This dust mat acts as a
filtering medium for further removal of particulates increasing the efficiency of the filter bag
to sieve more sub-micron particles (0.5 µm).
A typical filter (Fig 5.3) is a tubular bag which is closed at the upper end and has a hopper
attached at the lower end to collect the particles when they are dislodged from the fabric.
Many such bags are hung in a baghouse. For efficient filtration and a longer life the filter
bags must be cleaned occasionally by a mechanical shaker to prevent too many particulate
layers from building up on the inside surfaces of the bag.
27
Fig: Fabric Filter (Bag House Filter)
(4) Electrostatic Precipitators: (May-June 2012) (4)

The electrostatic precipitator (Fig. 5.4) works on the principle of electrostatic precipitation
i.e. electrically charged particulates present in the polluted gas are separated from the gas
stream under the influence of the electrical field.
A typical wire and pipe precipitator consists of:

(a) A positively charged collecting surface (grounded).
(b) A high voltage (50 KV) discharge electrode wire.
(c) Insulator to suspend the electrode wire from the top.
(d) A weight at the bottom of the electrode wire to keep the wire in position
. INCLUDEPICTURE "http://cdn.yourarticlelibrary.com/wp-
Fig: Electrostatic Precipitator

Mechanism of Action:
The polluted gas enters from the bottom, flows upwards (i.e. between the high voltage wire
and grounded collecting surface). The high voltage in the wire ionises the gas. The negative
28
ions migrate towards the grounded surface and pass on their negative charge to the dust
particles also. Then these negatively charged dust particles are electrostatically drawn
towards the positively charged collector surface, where they finally get deposited.
The collecting surface is rapped or vibrated to periodically remove the collected dust-
particles so that the thickness of the dust layer deposited does not exceed 6 mm, otherwise
the electrical attraction becomes weak and efficiency of the electrostatic precipitator gets
reduced.
As the electrostatic precipitation has 99 + percent efficiency and can be operated at high
temperatures (600°C) and pressure at less power requirement, therefore, it is economical and
simple to operate compared to other devices.
(5) Wet Collectors (Scrubbers):

In wet collectors or scrubbers, the particulate contaminants are removed from the polluted
gas stream by incorporating the particulates into liquid droplets.
Common wet scrubbers are:
(i) Spray Tower

(ii) Venturi Scrubber
(iii) Cyclone Scrubber
(i) Spray Tower:

Water is introduced into a spray tower (Fig. 5.5.) by means of a spray nozzle (i.e. there is
downward flow of water). As the polluted gas flows upwards, the particulates (size
exceeding 10 µm) present collide with the water droplets being sprayed downward from the
spray nozzles. Under the influence of gravitational force, the liquid droplets containing the
particulates settle to the bottom of the spray tower.
29
Fig: Spray Tower
(ii) Venturi Scrubber:

Submicron particulates (size 0.5 to 5 µn) associated with smoke and fumes are very
effectively removed by the highly efficient Venturi Scrubbers. As shown in Fig 5.6 a Venturi
Scrubber has a Venturi shaped throat section. The polluted gas passes downwards through
the throat at the velocity of 60 to 180 m/sec.
A coarse water stream is injected upwards into the throat where it gets atomised (i.e. breaks
the water into droplets) due to the impact of high velocity of the gas. The liquid droplets
collide with the particulates in the polluted gas stream.
The particles get entrained in the droplets and fall down to be removed later on. Venturi
Scrubbers can also remove soluble gaseous contaminants. Due to the atomisation of water
there is proper contact between the liquid and the gas increasing the efficiency of the Venturi
Scrubber (their power cost is high because of the high inlet gas velocity).
30
Fig: Venturi Scrubber

To separate the droplets carrying the particulate matter from the gas stream, this gas-liquid
mixture in the Venturi Scrubber is then directed into a separation device such as a cyclone
separator.
(iii) Cyclone Scrubber:

The dry cyclone chamber can be converted into a wet cyclone scrubber by inserting high
pressure spray nozzles at various places within the dry chamber (Fig. 5.7).
Fig: Cyclone Scrubber

The high pressure spray nozzles generate a fine spray that intercepts the small particles in the
polluted gas. The centrifugal force throws these particles towards the wall from where they
are drained downwards to the bottom of the scrubber.
(d) Diffusion of Pollutants in Air:
Dilution of the contaminants in the atmosphere is another approach to the control of air
pollution. If the pollution source releases only a small quantity of the contaminants then
31
pollution is not noticeable as these pollutants easily diffuse into the atmosphere but if the
quantity of air contaminants is beyond the limited capacity of the environment to absorb the
contaminants then pollution is caused.
However, dilution of the contaminants in the atmosphere can be accomplished through

the use of tall stacks which penetrate the upper atmospheric layers and disperse the
contaminants so that the ground level pollution is greatly reduced. The height of the stacks is
usually kept 2 to 21/2 times the height of nearby structures.
Dilution of pollutants in air depend on atmospheric temperature, speed and direction of the
wind. The disadvantage of the method is that it is a short term contact measure which in
reality brings about highly undesirable long range effects.
This is so because dilution only dilutes the contaminants to levels at which their harmful
effects are less noticeable near their original source whereas at a considerable distance from
the source these very contaminants eventually come down in some form or another.
(d) Vegetation:
Plants contribute towards controlling air-pollution by utilizing carbon dioxide and releasing
oxygen in the process of photosynthesis. This purifies the air (removal of gaseous pollutant
—CO2) for the respiration of men and animals.
Gaseous pollutants like carbon monoxide are fixed by some plants, namely, Coleus Blumeri,
Ficus variegata and Phascolus Vulgaris. Species of Pinus, Quercus, Pyrus, Juniperus and
Vitis depollute the air by metabolising nitrogen oxides. Plenty of trees should be planted
especially around those areas which are declared as high-risk areas of pollution.
(e) Zoning:
This method of controlling air pollution can be adopted at the planning stages of the city.
Zoning advocates setting aside of separate areas for industries so that they are far removed
from the residential areas. The heavy industries should not be located too close to each other.
New industries, as far as possible, should be established away from larger cities (this will also
keep a check on increasing concentration of urban population in a few larger cities only) and the
locational decisions of large industries should be guided by regional planning. The industrial
estate of Bangalore is divided into three zones namely light, medium and large industries. In
Bangalore and Delhi very large industries are not permitted.
3. Describe the role of an individual in the prevention of pollution. (Nov-Dec 2015) &
(Nov-Dec 2014) (Nov-Dec 2011) (8)
Introduction: Pollution prevention means using processes, practices, materials, products

or energy that avoid or minimize creation of pollutants and waste or environmental
disturbances and reduce risk to human health of the environment.
Individual in prevention of pollution: Each individual should change his or her lifestyle
in such a way as to reduce environmental pollution.
 Adopt and popularize renewable energy sources

 Promote reuse, reduce and recycling products
 Use natural fertilizers than chemical fertilizers
32
 Use natural gas than coal
 Use of eco-friendly products
 Use CFC refrigerators
 Do not use plastic cups
 Decrease the use of automobiles, for short distance use bicycle or go on foot
 Use rechargeable batteries. Rechargeable batteries will reduce metal pollution
 Use less hazardous chemicals whenever necessary
 Reduce garbage by recycling and reuse
 Do not put paints, oil or other harmful chemicals into the drain or ground water.
 Plant more trees
 When building a home, save many trees
 Reduce Deforestation
4. Write Short notes on Nuclear Hazards (Nov-Dec 2015), (Nov-Dec 2012) (8)
The main radiation hazard in the environment comes from ultra-violet, visible, cosmic rays
and microwave radiation which produce genetic mutations in man.
Radiation is the emission of rays and particles from source. The source of solar radiation is
the sun that of ionising radiation is the group of radioactive elements.
Forms of Radiation
 Ionising Radiation
 Non-Ionising Radiation
Sources of radioactivity
 Natural sources
Cosmic rays from outer space
Radioactive Radon-222
Soil, rocks, air, water & food
 Anthropogenic (manmade) sources

Nuclear power plants
Nuclear accidents
X-rays
Diagnostic kits
Test laboratories
Effects of Radioactive Pollution
Damages at Molecular Level

 Enzymes
 DNA, RNA etc.., through ionization
 Cross linkages within and between two affected molecules
Damages at Sub-Cellular Level
 Cell Membranes-Nuclei
 Chromosomes- Fragmentation, Mitochondria..,
Damages to tissues and Organs
 Central Nervous System
33
 Loss of Sight
 Inactivation of Bone Marrow – Blood caner, Ulceration of Intestinal Tract
Damages to an Individual and whole population
 Death or Shortening of life
Control of nuclear / radioactive pollution
 Sitting of nuclear power plant should be carefully done after studying long term and short
term effects
 Proper disposal of wastes from laboratory involving the use of radioisotopes should be
done
 Leakage of radioactive elements from reactors and laboratories, processing or using them
should be totally checked
 Workers should wear protective garments
 Use of high chimneys and ventilations at working place
 Wet drilling may be employed along with underground drainage in nuclear mines
 Use of radioisotopes may be carried udder a jet of soil or water instead of power or
gaseous form
 Nuclear devices should never be exploded in air
5. What are the effects of improper Municipal Solid waste management? State the
measures recommended for proper management of solid waste. (April-May 2015), (May-
June 2014), (May-June 2013), (Nov-Dec 2012) (16)
Rapid population growth and urbanization in developing countries have led to
generations of enormous quantities of solid wastes and consequential environmental
degradation. Depending upon the nature, solid wastes can be broadly classified into three
types.
(i) Urban (or) Municipal wastes. – Food waste, waste paper, cloth, glass
bottles, polythene bags, etc.
(ii) Industrial wastes. – Radioactive wastes, fly ash, organic wastes, scrap
metals, plastic, oil, paints etc.
(iii) Hazardous waste. – Biological wastes, smelters, petroleum refineries etc.
EFFECTS OF SOLID WASTE

(i) Improper disposal of municipal solid wastes produces foul smell and
breeds various types of insects which spoil the land value.
(ii) Toxic metals and hazardous wastes affect the soil characteristics and
productivity of soil when they are dumped on the soil.
(iii) Toxic substances may percolate into the ground and contaminate the
ground water.
(iv) Burning of industrial and domestic wastes is harmful to human beings.
PROCESS OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
34
Solid waste management includes the following techniques,
(i) Solid waste generation
(ii) Collection of waste – collection of wastes from various
(iii) Transportation- to transfer the collected wastes to the destination point
(iv) Storage – to store the collected wastes meanwhile time of the disposal
(v) Segregation of wastes – separation of wastes based on their nature
(vi) Disposal methods – Landfill, Incineration, Composting.
Methods of disposal of solid waste

Landfill
Solid wastes are placed in sanitary landfill system in alternate layers of 80 cm
thick refuse, covered with selected earth fill of 20 cm thickness. After two or three years, solid
waste volume shrinks by 25 – 30 % and the land is used for parks, roads and small buildings.
(i) Structure is built either into the ground
(ii) Isolated from surrounding environment
(iii) When landfill is full, it is covered with clay, sand, gravel and top soil to prevent
seepage of water
(iv) It is simple and economical and segregation is not required.
(v) Since land is available away from town, transportation cost is heavy and it causes
fire hazard due to the formation of methane in wet weather.
(vi) The land filled areas will be the sources of mosquitoes and flies and hence
insecticides and pesticides are to be applied at regular intervals.
(vii) Modern municipal solid waste landfills now have many safeguards to deal with
the disposal of hazardous waste
(viii) The major problem is that a landfill has a limited life and with increasing volumes
of wastes, new landfill sites have to be found
Advantages:
 Simple and Economical
 Natural resources are returned to soil and recycled
Incineration
The municipal solid wastes are burnt in a furnace called incinerator. The
combustible substances such as rubbish, garbage, dead organisms and the non-combustible
matter such as glass, porcelain, metals are separated before feeding to incinerator. The non-
combustible materials can be left out for recycling and reuse.
(i) It is a burning plants capable of burning a large amount of materials at high
temperature
(ii) It is more suitable if the waste contains more hazardous materials and organic
content
(iii) Suitable to treat hazardous wastes and hospital wastes
35
(iv) Incineration is a hygienic way of disposing solid waste and is more suitable if the
waste contains more hazardous material and organic content.
(v) It is a thermal process and is very effective for detoxification of all combustible
pathogens.
(vi) Its capital and operating cost is high and needs skilled personnel.
(vii) Formation of smoke dust and ashes needs further disposal due to which air
pollution may be caused
(viii) It is better to remove batteries containing heavy metals and plastic containing
chlorine before burning the material
(ix) Burning garbage can produce steam and this can be directly used for generating
electricity
Advantages:
 Requires very little space
 Wastes can be recycled
 Safest method
Disadvantages:
 Costliest method and Need skilled personnel
Composting
The separated compostable waste is dumped in underground earthen trenches in
layers of 1.5 m and is finally covered with earth of about 20 cm and left over for
decomposition. Sometimes certain microorganisms such as actinomycets are introduced for
active decomposition. Within 2 to 3 days biological action starts, the organic matters are
being destroyed by actinomycets and lot of heat is liberated increasing the temperature of
compost by about 75° C and finally the refuse is converted to powdery brown coloured
odourless mass known as humus which can be used as a fertilizer.
(i) Bulk organic waste is converted into fertilizing manure by biological action.
(ii) The process involving both the separation and bacterial conversion of the organic
solid waste is composting
(iii) A good quality nutrient rich and environmental friendly manure is formed which
improves the soil condition and fertility
(iv) The prepared compost was supplied to nurseries, kitchen, gardens and
horticulture department
Advantages:
 Possibility of recycling
 Large quantity of industrial solid wastes can also be treated by this method
Disadvantages:
Non-Combustible wastes can be separated
5. What is Earth quake? Enumerate its effects. What are the measures to be taken to
mitigate their disasters? (May – June 2014), (Nov-Dec 2013) (16)
36
An earthquake is a sudden vibration caused on the earth’s surface due to
the sudden release of tremendous amount of energy stored in the rocks under the earth’s
crust. A focus of an earthquake is the point of initial movement. Epicenter is the point on the
surface directly above the focus.
Causes of earthquake
(i) Movements of tectonic plates due to volcanic eruptions, dams.
(ii) Underground nuclear testing
(iii) Decrease of underground water level.
Effects of earthquakes
(i) Shaking and sometimes a permanent vertical or horizontal displacement of the
ground
(ii) It may cause landslides which damage the settlements and transport systems.
(iii) It collapses houses and other structures due to poor construction.
(iv) Kills thousands of people depending on their severity.
(v) Severe earthquake results in deformation of ground surface.
(vi) Rockslides, flooding by sinking of land
(vii) It generates water wave called Tsunami and also tidal waves that travel fast as
950km/hr
Measure of Earth quake-Richter scale:

Magnitude of earthquake is a measure of amount of energy released in the earthquake.
Earthquake is recorded by seismograph.
Less than 4-insignificant, 4-4.9-minor, 5-5.9-damaging, 6-6.9-destructive, 7-7.9-major,
above 8- great
Solution for Earthquakes:
 Quality of construction
 Building design should have adequate strength
 Building bye-laws should be adhered to make buildings earthquake resistant
 Lighter material should be used for building houses in hilly areas
 Good harbor and ports should be created in coastal area
Precautionary measures:
 People should come out of their homes and stay in the open till the tremors subside
 People already out of home should stay away from the building electric poles, trees
and any tall objects that have chances of falling down.
 After the earth quake relief camp by the Government or other social groups should be
conducted for the affected people.
6. Explain the sources, effects and control measures of Thermal pollution. (Nov-Dec
2013), (May-June 2012) (8)
Pollution due to heat which changes the physical and chemical properties of the water that
37
affects man, animals and the aquatic system.
Sources of thermal pollution
1. Industrial waste water

Industries generating electricity like coal powered and nuclear power plants need huge
amount of cooling water for removing heat. Industries like textile, paper and pulp release
heat in water to lesser extent. The discharged water will have higher temperature of 6 to 9˚ C.
than the receiving water. The waste water of an industrial plant can be classified as,
 Heavily contaminated waste
 Low contaminated waste
 Waste water of colloidal type
2. Nuclear power plant

Nuclear explosion, nuclear experiments discharged large amount of heat with toxic radio
nuclides in to receiving water sources. A leakage of radiation from nuclear power plant raises
the temperature water bodies.
3. Domestic sewages
The domestic sewage which contains high BOD, COD and low dissolved oxygen when
discharged in to rivers or other water without treatment, it raises the temperature of water
bodies.
4. Hydroelectric power
An electric power industry with cooling arrangements also causes thermal pollution in
receiving water bodies.
5. Coal fired power plants

These constitute the major sources of thermal pollution. Their condenser coil are cooled with
water from nearby lake or other water body discharge hot water back in to the stream. This
increases the temperature by 15˚C. This decreases the dissolved oxygen and killing the
aquatic life.
Effects of thermal pollution
 Reduction in dissolved oxygen--- as the temperature of water increases, concentration of

dissolved oxygen decreases.
 Increase in toxicity--- Increase in temperature increases the toxicity of the poison present in
water. Ex: a rise of 10˚ C doubles the toxic effect of KCN. A rise of 80˚ C triples toxic effects
of orthoxylene causing massive death of fish.
 Change in water properties-- rise in temperature changes physical and chemical properties of
water. Ex: Food shortage for fishes; Change in temperature alters the seasonal variation in
type and abundance of lower organisms. Thus fish may lack right food at right time.
 Interference with reproduction--- In fishes the activities like nest building, hatching,
migration and reproduction depend upon optimum temperature. Change in temperature
affects the above process.
38
 Direct mortality / Effect of marine life--- The increase in the temperature exhausts the
microorganisms and shortens their life span. Above a particular temperature a fish die due to
the failure in respiratory and nervous system.
 Changes in metabolic rate--- Fishes show a marked rise in basal rate of metabolism with
temperature to lethal point. The respiratory rate, oxygen demand, food intake and swimming
speed in fishes increases.
Control of Thermal pollution: The following methods can be used to control thermal
pollution and they are;
1. Cooling towers: Cooling towers transfers some of the heat from hot water to the
surrounding atmosphere by the process of evaporation. Cooling towers are used to
remove the recovered waste heat.
Types of cooling towers:
Wet cooling Towers: Hot water coming from the reactor is allowed to spray over baffles
Cool air with high velocity is passed from the sides which takes away the heat and cools
water. Large amount of water is lost due to evaporation.
Dry cooling tower: Hot water is allowed to flow in long spiral pipes. With the help of fan
cool air is possible over these hot pipes thereby cooling water.
2. Cooling Ponds: Water from condenser is stored in ponds. Natural evaporation cools the
water. Heated effluents on the surface of water in cooling points maximize dissipation of
heat to the atmosphere and minimize water area and volume. Thus warm water wedge
acts like cooling points.
3. Spray Ponds: The water from the condenser is allowed to pass in to the ponds through
sprayers. Water is sprayed through nozzles as fine droplets. Heat from the fine droplets
gets dissipated to the atmosphere.
4. Artificial lakes: The heated effluents from the thermal power industries are discharged
in to the artificial lakes at one end while cool water is transferred back from the other
end. Heat is evaporated through dissipation in this method.
7. Define Air pollution. What are the sources and its effects of air pollution? Explain
the approach to control Air pollution. (April –May 2015), (May-June 2013) (16)
AIRPOLLUTION
The presence of one or more contaminants like dust, smoke, mist and odour in the
atmosphere which are injurious to human beings, plants and animals.
Sources of pollution
There are two sources that cause air pollution.
(i) Natural sources – Volcanic eruptions, forest fire, biological decay
(ii) Man – made activities – Thermal power plants, vehicular emissions, etc.
Depending upon the origin of pollutants present in the environment, they are classified as
(i) Primary pollutants
39
(ii) Secondary pollutants
 Primary pollutants are emitted directly into the atmosphere in harmful form
Examples – CO, NO2, SO2 etc.
 Some of the primary pollutants may react with one another in the presence of air
components and produce secondary components.
Examples – HNO3, H2SO4 etc.
Common air pollutants

Some of the common air pollutants are listed and described below.
(i) Carbon Monoxide (CO)
(ii) Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
(iii) Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)
(iv) Suspended particulate matter (SPM)
(v) Photochemical Smog
(vi) Lead (Pb)
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
 It is a colourless, odourless and poisonous gas
 It is formed during the incompletion of carbon containing fuels
Health Effects:
 CO reacts with red blood cells and reduces the oxygen carrying capacity.
 It increases the global warming.
 At high levels it causes coma and death.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
 It is reddish brown irritating gas that causes photochemical smog.
 It can be converted into nitric acid
HNO3
NO2 Moisture
+
Health Effects:
 It causes lung irritation and damage.
 Acid deposition of HNO3 can corrode metals, stone on buildings, statues,
and monuments.
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)
 It is colourless irritating gas.
 Burning of sulphur containing fuel produces sulphur Dioxide.
 SO2 is a major component of acid deposition.
Health Effects:
 Acid deposition can damage tress, soils and aquatic life in lakes.
 It reduces visibility and causes breathing problem to human beings.
Suspended particulate matter (SPM)
 It includes variety of particles and droplets. They can suspended in atmosphere
for short periods to long periods.
40

Burning of coal, agriculture, unpaved roads and construction are the important
sources of SPM
Health Effects:
 It causes nose and throat irritation, lung damage, asthma and cancer.
 It reduces visibility and leads to acid deposition.
Photochemical Smog
 This has brownish smoke like appearance
 Its mainly due to chemical reactions among nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbon
by sunlight.
Health Effects:
 It can cause breathing problem, cough, eye nose and throat irritation,
heart diseases
 Reduces resistance to colds and pneumonia.
Lead (Pb)

Paint, smelters, lead manufacture, storage batteries and leaded petrol are
sources of lead to atmosphere
Health Effects:
 It causes nervous system damage and mental retardation especially in
children.
Control measures of air pollution
The air pollution can be reduced by control of contaminants and effective method
through preventive or control technologies.
Source control
(i) Use only unleaded petrol.
(ii) Plant more trees along the streets to remove particulate matters, carbon monoxide
and to absorb noise.
(iii) Encouraging mass transport system and people to walk or to use cycles.
(iv) Industries and waste disposal sites should be situated outside the city.
(v) Use fuels which have low sulphur and ash content.
Control measures in industrial centers

(i) The emission rates should be restricted to permissible levels by each and every
industry.
(ii) Incorporation of air pollution control equipments in the design of the plant layout
must be made mandatory.
(iii) Continuous monitoring of the atmosphere for the pollutants should be carried out
to know the emission levels.
8. Define Flood. What are the causes of flood? What are the measures to be taken to
mitigate flood disaster? (May-June 2013) (8)
Whenever the magnitude of water flow exceeds the carrying capacity of the channel within
its banks, the excess of water over flows on the surroundings causes floods.
Causes of floods
41
(i) Heavy rain, rainfall during cyclone causes floods.
(ii) Reduction in the carrying capacity of the channels due to accumulation of
sediments causes floods.
(iii) Sudden and excess release of impounded water behind dams.
(iv) Clearing of forests for agriculture has also increases the severity of floods.
Effects of floods
(i) Floods cause heavy suffering to people living in low lying areas.
(ii) It damages standing crops and livestock.
(iii) Floods causes a great economic loss and widespread diseases.
Flood management
(i) Encroachment of flood ways should be banned.
(ii) River networking also reduce flood.
(iii) Flood forecasts and flood warning are also given by the central water
commission.
(iv) Diverting excess water through channels to the areas where water is not
sufficient.
9. What is noise? What are the sources and effects of noise? How noise pollution is
controlled? Suggest suitable steps. (Nov-Dec 2014), (May-June 2012) (Nov-Dec 2011) (8)
Noise pollution is defined as, “The unwanted, unpleasant or disagreeable sound that
causes discomfort for all living beings
DECIBEL
The sound intensity is measured in decibel (dB), which is one tenth of the longest unit
Bel. One dB is equal to the faintest sound, a human ear can hear. The decibel scale is
logarithmic that’s why each tenfold increase is represented by 10 dB.
Sources (causes) of Noise
Generally noise is categorized as,
(i) Industrial noise
(ii) Transport noise
(iii) Neighborhood noise
 Industrial noise, particularly from mechanical saws and pneumatic drill is
unbearable and is a nuisance to public
 Transport noise includes road traffic noise, rail traffic noise and air craft noise
 Neighborhood noise includes disturbance from household gadgets and
community. The common noise makers are musical instruments, TV, loud
speakers etc.
Effects of noise pollution

(i) Noise pollution causes contraction of blood vessels, makes the skin pale,
leads to excessive secretion of adrenalin hormone into blood stream which is
responsible for blood pressure.
42
(ii) It causes muscles to contract leading to nervous breakdown, tension etc.,
(iii) It affects efficiency and behavior.
(iv) It may cause damage to heart, brain kidneys, liver and may also produce
emotional disturbance.
(v) It may leads to loss of hearing.
Control measures of noise pollution

 Source control – It include source modification such as acoustic treatment to
machine surface, design changes, limiting the operational timings and so on.
 Transmission path intervention – This may include a sound insulating enclosure,
construction of a noise barrier or provision of sound absorbing materials along the
path.
 Receptor control - It refers the protection of the receiver by altering the work
schedule or provision of personal protection devices such as ear plugs for
operating noisy machinery.
 Oiling – Proper oiling will reduce the noise from the machines.
 Planting trees around houses can also act as effective noise barriers.
 Selection of machinery- Noise (8 -10db) should be reduced as near the source as
possible so that acoustical treatment is less expensive and a large no of people are
protected from the noise
 Design of Doors and Windows- The sound travels through very thin cracks
between the door and wall. Excellent sound insulation is obtained by constructing
glazed window with double or triple panes of glass
 Treatment of floors, floorings and ceilings- Sound absorbing material like felt,
acoustical tiles, perforated plywood, specially made porous material are available
and can be fixed on walls, floors and ceilings to have reduction in noise
 Variation Damping – Reduce vibration. A layer of damping material in the form
of resilient pads made of rubber, cork, and plastic may be adopted for high
frequency vibration
10. Explain the different stages municipal sewage treatment. (8)
As well as getting safe, clean and reliable water to you, we also have to take it away once
you have used it. So, when you empty the bath, flush the toilet or use your washing machine,
it’s our job to make sure that all that used water - now called ‘sewage’ or ‘wastewater’ - is
put safely back into rivers. In some areas we collect the rainwater that runs off roofs, roads
and pavements in a separate system, called a surface water sewer. Surface water goes straight
into a river, which is why you must not pour any waste water into surface water drains.
However, in some areas, including central London, surface water and sewage are mixed
together, before being treated at our sewage works.
43
Taking the wastewater away
When you flush the toilet or empty the sink, the wastewater goes down the drain
and into a pipe, which takes it to a larger sewer pipe under the road. The sewer then
joins our network of other sewers and takes the wastewater to a sewage treatment works
- sometimes it needs to be pumped there.
At the sewage works we put the wastewater through several cleaning processes so
that it can be put back safely into rivers.
Screening
 The first stage of cleaning the wastewater is to remove large objects that may
block or damage equipment, or be unsightly if allowed back into the river. This
includes items that should never have been put down the drain in the first place -
such as nappies, face wipes, sanitary items and cotton buds - but often can be
things like bricks, bottles and rags!
 The wastewater often contains a lot of grit that gets washed into the sewer, so we
have special equipment to remove this as well.
Primary treatment
 The wastewater still contains organic solid matter - or human waste. The next
stage is to separate this from the water, and to do this, we put the wastewater into
large settlement tanks, which causes the solids to sink to the bottom of the tank.
We call these settled solids ‘sludge’.
 In a circular tank, large arms, or scrapers, slowly move around the tank and push
the sludge towards the centre where it is then pumped away for further treatment.
Did you know? We use the sludge to generate renewable energy which on
average saves us £15m per year in electricity costs. At our sewage works in
Didcot, the sludge is used to generate renewable gas that supplies up to 200
homes in the area - a UK first.
44
 The water passes over a wall near the top of the tank and is taken to the next stage
of the treatment process.
Secondary treatment
 Although the visible bits of sludge have been removed, we have to ensure that the
smaller and sometimes invisible nasty bugs are also taken out.
 At our larger sewage treatment works, the wastewater is put into rectangular
tanks called ‘aeration lanes’, where air is pumped into the wastewater. This
encourages the good bacteria to break down the nasty bugs by eating them. The
more they eat, the more they grow and multiply until all the nasty bugs have
gone.
Final treatment
 The treated wastewater is then passed through a final settlement tank, where the
good bacteria sink to the bottom. This forms more sludge - some of it is recycled
back to the ‘secondary treatment’ stage, and the rest goes to ‘sludge treatment’.
The now clean water passes over a wall near the top of the tank.
 Sometimes additional treatment is needed if the river that the treated wastewater
will be returned to is particularly sensitive.
 The treated wastewater is slowly filtered through a bed of sand, which acts as a
filter and catches any remaining particles.
Sludge treatment
The sludge we collect at the start of the process is then treated and put to
good use. Most of it is recycled to agricultural land for farmers to use as fertiliser,
but we also use it to generate energy. We do this in three ways:
1. Combined heat and power - this process treats the sludge using a
process called ‘anaerobic digestion’. This is where the sludge is heated to
encourage the bacteria to eat it. This creates biogas that we then burn to create
heat, which in turn creates electricity.
2. Gas to grid - we can also clean the biogas to a higher standard (known
as biomethane) so that we can put it into the national gas grid to power homes,
businesses and schools.
3. Thermal destruction - this process involves drying the sludge into
blocks called ‘cake’, which are then burned to generate heat. We capture this heat
and turn it into electricity
Back to the river
 Now the wastewater is clean, it can be returned to local rivers and

streams. In some areas, the water we put back into the river is very
important as it helps to keep them healthy.
 The quality of the cleaned wastewater is strictly regulated by the
Environment Agency, and we test it to make sure that it meets high-
quality standards.
45
 The quality of the cleaned wastewater is strictly regulated by the
Environment Agency, and we test it to make sure that it meets high-
quality standards.
11. Explain clearly the stages of solid waste management. (8)
The solid waste management process is divided into quite a few different stages. The
solid waste is generated, processed, stored, transferred, collected, recycled and then finally
disposed. These stages are described below.
Stages of Solid Waste Management Description

Process
Source / Generation of Waste Exploitation of natural resources,

manufacturing of products, use of products, and
material become worthless and is discarded
On-site processing and storage primary Processing (includes separation of waste
collection of Waste components and resource/ energy recovery) and
storage at or near the point of generation.
Communal storage of Waste Picking up of waste from sources by external
bodies (common in industrialized countries)
and transfer station or closely located disposal
sites, or collection of waste by micro-
enterprises.
Transfer station Common in low-income countries (for all
categories of waste), storage at communal bins,
containers or designated places for picking up
of solid waste by external organizations.
Secondary collection of Waste Transfer of waste from small collection
vehicles to large haulage vehicles.
Recycling, processing, resources recovery Picking up of waste from secondary storage site
and transport to final disposal site.
Disposal of Waste Treatment plant is usually the final stage of
solid waste management.
12. How can the solid waste be managed (May-June 2012) (8)
Solid waste management contains three steps
1. Reduce
2. Reuse
3. Recycle
Reduce:
 Manufacturing processes can be modified to reduce or eliminate waste
production
46
 Reduce in the use of raw materials
Reuse:
 Some products which are waste to the particular industry can be valuable
input for another
 Oil containers which have discarded after use can be reused
 Rubber rings can be made from the discarded cycle tubes, which reduces the
waste generation during manufacturing of rubber bands
 Cow dung is useful for the manufacture of Bio-gas for domestic purposes
 Vegetable and fruits waste are useful for collecting seeds for vegetables and
fruits
Recycle:
Reprocessing discarded materials into new useful products
 Old aluminum cans and glass bottles are melted and recast into new cans and
bottles
 Preparation of fuel pellets from kitchen waste
 Preparation of automobiles and construction materials from steel cans
 The above process saves money, energy, raw materials and reduce pollution
13. Explain various disaster management measures during cyclone, floods, earthquake and
landslides. (Apr –May 2010) (16)
Disaster
Disaster is a geological process and is defined as an event, in which a society or a sub-
division of a society undergoes severe danger and causes loss of its members and physical
property.
Types of Disaster
Based on origin disaster is grouped into two types.
1. Natural Disaster
2. Man – made Disaster
Natural Disaster
It refers to those disasters that are generated by natural phenomena.
Example. Cyclones, Floods, Earthquakes
Man – made Disasters
It usually refers to the disasters resulting from man – made hazards.
Examples. Accidents, Fire etc.
The followings are some important disasters
(i) Floods
(ii) Cyclones
(iii) Landslides
(iv) Earthquakes
(v) Tsunami
Floods
Whenever the magnitude of water flow exceeds the carrying capacity of the channel
within its banks, the excess of water over flows on the surroundings causes floods.
47
Causes of floods
(v) Heavy rain, rainfall during cyclone causes floods.
(vi) Reduction in the carrying capacity of the channels due to accumulation of
sediments causes floods.
(vii) Sudden and excess release of impounded water behind dams.
(viii) Clearing of forests for agriculture has also increases the severity of floods.
Effects of floods
(iv) Floods cause heavy suffering to people living in low lying areas.
(v) It damages standing crops and livestock.
(vi) Floods causes a great economic loss and widespread diseases.
Flood management
(v) Encroachment of flood ways should be banned.
(vi) River networking also reduce flood.
(vii) Flood forecasts and flood warning are also given by the central water
commission.
(viii) Diverting excess water through channels to the areas where water is not
sufficient.
Cyclone
Cyclone is metrological phenomena, intense depressing forming over the open
oceans and moving towards the land. The cyclones are the most powerful, destructive,
dangerous atmospheric storms on the earth.
Effects of cyclone
(i) It damages crops, road, transport, communications, livestock and human life.
(ii) Slow down the developmental activities of the area.
Cyclone management
(i) Satellite images are caused by meteorological departments for forecasting the
weather conditions, which reveal the strength and intensity of the storm.
(ii) Radar system is used to detect the cyclone and is being used for cyclone warning.
(iii) The effects can be minimized by planting more trees on the coastal belt,
construction of dams and wind breaks.
Landslides
The movement of earthy materials like coherent rock, mud, soil and debris from
higher region to lower region due to gravitational pull is called landslides.
Causes of landslide
(i) Earthquake, vibrations and cyclone create landslides
(ii) Movement of heavy vehicles on the unstable sloppy regions create
landslides.
48
(iii) Underground mining activities may lead to landslides.
(iv) Erosion in the hilly tract due to run-off water during rainy period also
leads to landslides.
Effects of landslides
(i) Landslides block the roads and diverts the passage.
(ii) Erosion of soil increases
(iii) Damage the house, crop yield, live stock etc.
Landslide management
(i) Unloading the upper parts of the slope.
(ii) Steepness of the slope can be reduced by developing benches.
(iii) Concrete support can be made at the base of the slope
(iv) Improving the cultivation in the sloppy region.
(v) Soil stabilization using some chemical is also effective in weak areas.
Earthquakes
An earthquake is a sudden vibration caused on the earth’s surface due to the sudden
release of tremendous amount of energy stored in the rocks under the earth’s crust.
Causes of earthquake
(iv) Movements of tectonic plates due to volcanic eruptions, dams.
(v) Underground nuclear testing
(vi) Decrease of underground water level.
Effects of earthquakes
(viii) It may cause landslides which damage the settlements and transport systems.
(ix) It collapses houses and other structures due to poor construction.
(x) Kills thousands of people depending on their severity.
(xi) Severe earthquake results in deformation of ground surface.
(xii) It generates Tsunami in sea floor.
Tsunami
Tsunami is Japanese word which means “harbor waves”. A tsunami is large waves that
are generated in a water body when the sea floor is deformed by seismic activity. This
activity displaces the overlying water in the ocean.
Causes of Tsunami
(i) Seismic activity like earthquakes, landslides, volcanic eruptions, explosions can
generate tsunami.
(ii) Deformation of the sea floor due to the movement of plates.
Effects of Tsunami
(i) Tsunami attacks mostly the coastlines, causing devastating property, damage and
loss of life.
(ii) It can kill lot of human beings, livestock etc.
(iii) Tsunami may also spread lot of water borne diseases
49
Tsunami management
Tsunami management is carried out by the following steps.
(i) Earthquakes under the water are monitored by sensors on the floor of the sea.
(ii) The sensors send the information of floating buoys on the surface, whenever
they detect any changes in pressure of the sea.
(iii) The information is then relayed to satellites, which passes it on to the earth
stations.
(iv) All member nations of the warning system are then warned of the danger
approaching..
(v) Finally the country make the people alert through the media to take all
necessary precautions.
UNIT III - NATURAL RESOURCES
PART-A
1. Define environment impact statement. ( GE 2021 – NOV 2009)

Environmental impact is nothing but the effect on the natural environment caused by
various human actions. It include two types,
(i) Indirect effects – pollution
(ii) Direct effects – Cut down trees
2. What are the effects of deforestation? (GE 2021 – APR 2010)

(i) Global warming
(ii) Soil erosion
(iii) Loss of biodiversity
(iv) Flood and landslides
(v) Loss of food grains
3. Suggest the damages caused by the use of fertilizer. (GE 2021 – APR 2010)
(i) Micronutrient imbalance
(ii) Blue Baby Syndrome ( Nitrate pollution)
(iii) Eutrophication
(iv) Loss of fertility of the land
4. What is over utilization of ground water resources? (CY 1201 – Nov 2009)
The rapid increase in population and industrial growth has increased the demand for
water resources. Due to increase of ground water usage, the annual extraction of ground
water is in far excess than the natural recharge. This phenomenon is called as over-
utilization of ground water.
5. What is water logging? What are its adverse effects? (CY 1201 – Nov 2009)
50
Water logging is the land where water stand for most of the year
Effects of water logging
(i) Pore-voids in the soil get filed with water and the soil – air gets depleted.
(ii) The roots of the plants do not get adequate air for respiration.
(iii) Mechanical strength of the soil decreases and crop yield falls.
6. Write down different types of energy sources. (CY 1201 – APR 2010)
Based on continual utility, natural resources can be classified into two types.
(i) Renewable energy resources
Renewable resources are natural resources which can be regenerated continuously
and are inexhaustible. They can be used again and again in an endless manner.
Examples: Wood, solar, wind energy
(ii) Non – Renewable energy sources
Non – renewable energy resources are natural resources which cannot be
regenerated once they are exhausted. They cannot be used again.
Example: Coal, petroleum, nuclear fuels.
7. Name some of natural impacts on environment.

Some of the natural impacts are
1. Earthquake
2. Tsunamis
3. Flood
4. Volcanic eruption
8. Name some of the anthropogenic impacts on environment.

1. London Smog
2. Mediterranean a dead sea
3. Nuclear explosions
4. Minamata disease
5. Bhopal disaster
6. Chernobyl disaster
7. Gulf war hazards
9. What is deforestation?
The destruction of forest resources by many natural or man-made activities is called
deforestation.
10. What is soil erosion?

The detachment and movement of topsoil by the action of wind and flowing water.
11. What do you mean by overgrazing?

Overgrazing is grazing by livestock or wildlife to the point where the grass cover is depleted,
leaving bare, unprotected patches of soil.
12. What is eutrophication?

The process by which body of water, commonly a lake or pond is enriched by nutrients
which leads to excessive plant growth and oxygen depletion.
51
13. What is land degradation?
Land degradation refers to loss of fertility or productive capacity of the soil.
14. What do you mean by desertification?

Desertification is a slow process of land degradation that leads to desert formation.
15. What are landslides?

Rapid down ward movement of a mass of rock, earth or artificial fill or plant debris on a
slope is called land slide.
16. What are renewable and non renewable energy resources?
Renewable energy resources are those natural resources which are in exhaustible and can
be used to produce energy again and again.
Non renewable energy resources are those natural resources which are exhaustible and
cannot be replaced once they are used.
17. What are the causes of deforestation? (May/June 2006, 2010)
 Mining Operations
 Development Projects
 Fuel Requirements
18. List out two uses of forest resources.

The uses of forest resources are:
1) Production of oxygen
2) Reducing global warming, soil conservation and pollution moderators.
19. What is meant by mining?

Mining is the process of extraction of metals from a mineral deposit.
20. List out the types of mining.

The types of mining are:
1) Surface mining
2) Underground mining
21. List out the uses of dams.

The uses of dams are:
1) To control flood and store flood water
2) Dams are built for generating electricity
22. What is upstream impact of dam construction?

The upstream impacts of dam construction are:
1) Displacement of tribal people
2) Loss of forests, flora and fauna
23. Enumerate the effects of mining for mineral resources on the environment. (GE6351-
MAY/JUNE 2016)
The effects of mining on the environment are:
1) Mining reduces the shape and size of the forest areas
2) Noise pollution
24. What is meant by water logging?
52
Water logging is the land where water stands or stagnates for most of the year.
25. What is meant by salinization?

Salinization is the process of accumulation of salts in the soil.
26. State any two problems due to the over exploitation of ground water.
The over exploitation of ground water are:
1) Decreases the level of ground water
2) Ground subsidence
3) Earthquakes and land slides
27. What is meant by an aquifer?

Aquifer is a layer of highly permeable rock containing water.
28. State the effects of ground water usage.
The effects of ground water usage are:
1) Intrusion of salt water
2) Lowering of water table
3) Drying up of wells
29. List out the types of minerals.

The types of minerals are:
1) Metallic minerals
2) Non Metallic minerals
30. State the uses of minerals.

The uses of minerals are:
1) Development of industrial plants and machinery
2) Making of alloys for various purposes
3) Generation of energy
31. List out any two methods of flood control.

The methods of flood control are:
1) Floods can be controlled by constructing dams and reservoirs
2) Encroachment of flood ways should be banned
32. State the types of drought.

The types of drought are:
1) Metrological drought
2) Hydrological drought
3) Agricultural drought
4) Socio-economic drought
33. What is meant by soil leaching technique?

Soil leaching technique is the process in which materials in the soil gradually dissolve
and are carried by water seeping through the soil.
34. State the environmental effects of extracting mineral resources.

The environmental effects of extracting mineral resources are:
1) Ground water contamination
53
2) Air, soil and water pollution
3) De-vegetation and subsidence of land
35. State the advantages and disadvantages of modern agriculture.

The advantages of modern agriculture are:
1) Good crop yield
2) High tech techniques
The disadvantages of modern agriculture are:
1) Micronutrient imbalance
2) Water logging
36. What is meant by under nutrition?

Under nutrition means due to poverty the people cannot buy their basic needs and they
receive less than 90% of these minimum dietary calories.
40. Distinguish between organic and synthetic fertilizers.

S. No Organic fertilizers Synthetic fertilizers
1 Natural fertilizers Man-made fertilizers
2 Eco friendly Non-Eco friendly
41. Differentiate between deforestation and forest degradation ( Nov. / Dec 2007)
Forest degradation Deforestation
Slow process Fast process
It can be recovered. It cannot be recovered
It is the process of deterioration of forest It is process of destruction of forest
material materials.
42. Suggest three damages caused by the use of fertilizers. ( May / June 2010)
 It will produce toxic pesticide vapour.
 It will produce new pests
43. What is desertification? ( Nov./ Dec 2005)

It is a progressive destruction or degradation of arid or semi arid lands to desert.
44. List out the applications of wind energy.

The applications of wind energy are:
1) It does not cause air pollution.
2) It is very cheap.
45. Define the term flood. (GE2021 – NOV/DEC 2015)

Whenever the magnitude of water flow exceeds the carrying capacity of the channel
within its banks, the excess of water over flows on the surroundings causes floods.
46. What are the effects of pesticides? (GE2021 – NOV/DEC 2015)

The effects of pesticides are:
1. Death of non-target organisms.
54
2. Producing new pests.
3. Bio-magnification
4. Risk of cancer
47. What are the reasons for land (soil) degradation? (GE6351-MAY/JUNE 2016)
1. The soil texture and structure are deteriorated.
2. Loss of soil fertility, due to loss of invaluable nutrients.
3. Increase in water logging, salinity, alkalinity and acidity problems.
4. Loss of economic social and biodiversity.
PART – B
1. Discuss the method of solid waste management by sanitary land filling and thermal
means.(GE2021 – Apr 2010)
or
Write short notes on land filling method for solid waste. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009)
or
Give a brief account of solid waste management. (CY 1201 – APR 2010)
Rapid population growth and urbanization in developing countries have led to

generations of enormous quantities of solid wastes and consequential environmental
degradation. Depending upon the nature, solid wastes can be broadly classified into three
types.
(iv) Urban (or) Municipal wastes. – Food waste, waste paper, cloth, glass
bottles, polythene bags, etc.
(v) Industrial wastes. – Radioactive wastes, fly ash, organic wastes, scrap
metals, plastic, oil, paints etc.
(vi) Hazardous waste. – Biological wastes, smelters, petroleum refineries etc.
Effects of Solid Waste
(v) Improper disposal of municipal solid wastes produces foul smell and
breeds various types of insects which spoil the land value.
(vi) Toxic metals and hazardous wastes affect the soil characteristics and
productivity of soil when they are dumped on the soil.
(vii) Toxic substances may percolate into the ground and contaminate the
ground water.
(viii) Burning of industrial and domestic wastes is harmful to human beings.
Process of Solid Waste Management

Solid waste management includes the following techniques,
(vii) Solid waste generation
(viii) Collection of waste – collection of wastes from various
(ix) Transportation- to transfer the collected wastes to the destination point
(x) Storage – to store the collected wastes meanwhile time of the disposal
(xi) Segregation of wastes – separation of wastes based on their nature
(xii) Disposal methods – Landfill, Incineration, Composting.
55
Methods of disposal of solid waste
Landfill
Solid wastes are placed in sanitary landfill system in alternate layers of 80 cm
thick refuse, covered with selected earth fill of 20 cm thickness. After two or three years, solid
waste volume shrinks by 25 – 30 % and the land is used for parks, roads and small buildings.
(ix) It is simple and economical and segregation is not required.
(x) Natural resources are returned to soil and recycled.
(xi) Since land is available away from town, transportation cost is heavy and it causes
fire hazard due to the formation of methane in wet weather.
(xii) The land filled areas will be the sources of mosquitoes and flies and hence
insecticides and pesticides are to be applied at regular intervals.
Incineration
The municipal solid wastes are burnt in a furnace called incinerator. The
combustible substances such as rubbish, garbage, dead organisms and the non combustible
matter such as glass, porcelain, metals are separated before feeding to incinerator. The non
combustible materials can be left out for recycling and reuse.
(x) Incineration is a hygienic way of disposing solid waste and is more suitable if the
waste contains more hazardous material and organic content.
(xi) It is a thermal process and is very effective for detoxification of all combustible
pathogens.
(xii) Its capital and operating cost is high and needs skilled personnel.
(xiii) Formation of smoke dust and ashes needs further disposal due to which air
pollution may be caused.
Composting
The separated compostable waste is dumped in underground earthen trenches in
layers of 1.5 m and is finally covered with earth of about 20 cm and left over for
decomposition. Sometimes certain microorganisms such as actinomycets are introduced for
active decomposition. Within 2 to 3 days biological action starts, the organic matters are
being destroyed by actinomycets and lot of heat is liberated increasing the temperature of
compost by about 75° C and finally the refuse is converted to powdery brown coloured
odourless mass known as humus which can be used as a fertilizer.
(v) Bulk organic waste is converted into fertilizing manure by biological action.
(vi) A number of industrial solid can also be treated by this method.
2. What are the effects of modern agriculture? (8) (GE6351 – MAY/JUNE 2016)
Effects of Modern agriculture

1. Problems in using fertilizer
a) Micronutrient imbalance
b) Blue Baby syndrome
c) Eutrophication
2. Problems in using Pesticides
56
a) First generation pesticides
b) Second generation pesticides
i) Death of non-target organisms
ii) Producing new pests
iii) Bio-magnification
iv) Risk of cancer
3. Water logging
4. Salinity
3. How is biogas produced? What are its advantages? (8) (GE6351 – MAY/JUNE 2016)
Definition-
Biogas typically refers to a mixture of different gases produced by the breakdown
of organic matter in the absence of oxygen. Biogas can be produced from raw materials
such as agricultural waste, manure, municipal waste, plant material, sewage, green
waste or food waste. Biogas is a renewable energy source and in many cases exerts a
very small carbon footprint.
Biogas Produced-
Biogas can be produced by anaerobic digestion with anaerobic organisms, which digest
material inside a closed system, or fermentation of biodegradable materials.
Biogas is primarily methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) and may have small
amounts of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), moisture and siloxanes. The
gases methane, hydrogen, and carbon monoxide (CO) can be combusted or oxidized with
oxygen. This energy release allows biogas to be used as a fuel; it can be used for any
heating purpose, such as cooking. It can also be used in a gas engine to convert the
energy in the gas into electricity and heat.
Applications
Biogas can be used for electricity production on sewage works, in a CHP gas engine,
where the waste heat from the engine is conveniently used for heating the digester;
cooking; space heating; water heating; and process heating. If compressed, it can replace
compressed natural gas for use in vehicles, where it can fuel an internal combustion
engine or fuel cells and is a much more effective displacer of carbon dioxide than the
normal use in on-site CHP plants.
1. Bio-gas upgrading
2. Gas-Grid injection
3. Transport
4. Explain bioconversion of pollutants with examples. (6) (GE6351 – MAY/JUNE 2016)
Bioconversion
It is the change of pollutants (wastes) into a source of energy by the action of micro-
organisms. It is the cheap and safe method.
Examples
1. Bioconversion of biomass into ethanol, methanol or methane.
2. Bioconversion of organic materials like plant, animal wastes into useful products.
57
3. Bioconversion of lignocellulosic wastes into reducing sugars.
Types of Bioconversion
1. Enzymatic hydrolysis
2. Synthesis gas fermentation
3. Composing
5. What are renewable and non-renewable energy resources? Why are non-renewable
energy resources preferred for energy utilization now-a-days? What are advantages
and disadvantages of harnessing non-renewable energy resources? (10) (GE6351 –
MAY/JUNE 2016)
Renewable Resources Non-Renewable Resources

Solar Nuclear power
Wind power Oil
Biomass Coal
Hydro-electric power Fossil fuel
• Fossil fuel is one of the Non-Renewable energy resources preferred for energy
utilization.
• Remains of dead plants and animals are changed into energy-rich fuels, called fossil
fuels.
Example) Coal, Petroleum, Gasoline, Natural gas, etc.
Advantages of Non-Renewable Resources

1) Its always seen that compared to renewable the non-renewable energy sources are
cheaper and easily available. The main factor which distinguishes a sought after fuel
from other is its accessibility and for all kinds non renewable energy sources the main
point of attraction is its affordability and accessibility.
2) Advantage of availability throughout the year unlike the renewable sources which are
either season bound rainfall, sunlight availability or commercial viability.
3) Most of the non-renewable energy sources have high energy output which is not
observed in renewable sources.
4) Another advantage of non-renewable sources is its compatibility and transport over a

long distance. It could be carried over a long distance without much hassle.
5) Storability is another big factor which works for non-renewable energy sources.
58
Disadvantages of Non-Renewable Resources
1) Once a non-renewable energy source is used up it cannot be replaced again.
2) These are highly polluting sources and increase the greenhouse gasses in environment.
3) The residual products these sources are responsible for all kinds of non-biodegradable
material accumulation.
4) The exposure to these sources has increased the level of pollution and increase in lung
pharyngeal diseases.
5) The rise in temperature due to greenhouse gas accumulation has in turn triggered the
ice cap melting and rise in sea level.
59
UNIT –IV SOCIAL ISSUES AND THE ENVIRONMENT
PART-A
1. What is acid rain? (GE 2021 – APR 2010)

The presence of SO2 and NO2 gases as pollutants in the atmosphere make the pH of
the rain water is further lowered. This type of precipitation of water is called rain (or) acid
deposition.
2. Give the effects of global warming. (GE 2021 – APR 2010)

(i) Due to Melting of glaciers, a 20 cm rise is expected in sea level by 2030.
(ii) As climate pattern shifts, rain fall is reduced and soils are dried out resulting in major
drought.
(iii) Many plants and animals will have adapting problems.
(iv) There would be increase in waterborne diseases, infectious diseases carried out by
mosquitoes and other diseases vectors.
3. Define the concept of sustainable development. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009)

Sustainable development is defined as, “meeting the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.
4. What do you understand by ozone layer depletion in the atmosphere? What are the
reasons for the formation of ozone hole in the atmosphere? (CY 1201 – NOV 2009)
Ozone hole refers to the thinning of stratospheric ozone layer. The rate of depletion is
measured in Dobson Unit (DU).The following gases are accumulated in the atmosphere and
are found to be instruments in ozone depletion
 Chloro Fluoro Carbon (CFC) – Comes from refrigerators, propellant in aerosol
spray cans, plastic blowing agent.
 Hydro Chloro Fluoro Carbon ( HCFC) – The sources are refrigerants, blowing
agents.
 Bromo Fluoro Carbons (BFC) – Released from Fire extinguishers.
5. What is Greenhouse effect?

The phenomenon whereby the earth's atmosphere traps solar radiation, caused by the
presence in the atmosphere of gases such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and methane that
allow incoming sunlight to pass through but absorb heat radiated back from the earth's
surface.
6. What are Greenhouse gases?
60
Any of the atmospheric gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect are called
Greenhouse gases.
These gases include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (NO2), and
water vapor.
7. What is global warming? (CY 1201 – APR 2010)

The increased inputs of CO2 and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere raise the
average global temperature of the atmosphere. This enhanced greenhouse effect is called
global warming.
8. What is ozone hole or ozone layer depletion?

Ozone hole is an area of the upper atmosphere where the ozone layer is absent or has become
unusually thin.
9. What is rain water harvesting?

Rainwater harvesting is a technology used for collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops,
the land surface or rock catchments.
10. What is watershed management?

Watershed management is the process of creating and implementing plans, programs, and
projects to sustain and enhance watershed functions.
11. What is environmental ethics?

Environmental ethics is the ethical relationship between human beings and the environment
in which they live.
12. Define water shed management. (GE2021 – NOV/DEC 2015)

Watershed management is an adaptive, comprehensive, integrated multi-resource
management planning process that seeks to balance healthy ecological, economic, and
cultural/social conditions within a watershed. Watershed management serves to integrate
planning for land and water; it takes into account both ground and surface water flow,
recognizing and planning for the interaction of water, plants, animals and human land use
found within the physical boundaries of a watershed.
13. What are the reasons for formation of acid rain? (GE2021 – NOV/DEC 2015)
Reasons for formation of Acid Rain
1. volcanic emissions
2. Decaying vegetation, wildfires and biological processes within the environment also
generate the acid rain forming gases.
3. Man-made sources like nuclear power plant, X-rays, etc.
14. Explain the term sustainability briefly. (GE6351 – MAY/JUNE 2016)

Sustainability is the ability to continue a defined behavior indefinitely.
For example: Environmental sustainability is the ability to maintain rates of renewable
resource harvest, pollution creation, and non-renewable resource depletion that can be
continued indefinitely.
61
15. State any two biomedical waste handling rules. (GE6351 – MAY/JUNE 2016)
Steps involved to manage biomedical wastes are:
1. Generation and Accumulation(Segregation)
2. Handling and Storage
3. Treatment and Disposal
PART – B
1. What is global warming? Explain the measures to prevent it. Also explain the effects
of global warming. (GE2021- APR 2010)
Or
Give a brief account of global warming. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009) (GE2021 – NOV/DEC 2015)
Global Warming-
The increased inputs of CO2 and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere
raise the average global temperature of the atmosphere. This enhanced greenhouse effect
is called global warming.
Effects of Global Warming

(i) Due to Melting of glaciers, a 20 cm rise is expected in sea level by 2030.
(ii) As climate pattern shifts, rain fall is reduced and soils are dried out resulting in
major drought.
(iii) It will dry up the surface water bodies.
(iv) It will reduce the ground water level.
(v) Many plants and animals will have adapting problems.
(vi) There would be increase in waterborne diseases, infectious diseases carried out by
mosquitoes and other diseases vectors.
Measures to Check Global Warming

 CO2 emission can be cut by reducing the use of fossil fuels.
 Utilize renewable resources such as wind, solar and hydropower.
 Plant more trees.
 Shift from coal to natural gas.
 Adopt sustainable agriculture.
 Stabilize population growth.
 Development of substitutes for CFC.
 Implementation of clean development mechanisms.
2. Explain the effects of nuclear accidents with two case studies. (GE2021- APR 2010)
Or
Write briefly on Bhopal disaster and Chernobyl disaster. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009)
Effects of Nuclear Accidents-

(i) Exposure of the brain and central nervous systems to high doses of radiation causes
delirium, convulsions and death within hours or days.
62
(ii) Acute radiation sickness is marked by vomiting; bleeding of the gums and in severe
cases, mouth ulcers.
(iii) Internal bleeding and blood vessel damage may show up as red spots on the skin.
(iv) Unborn children are vulnerable to brain damage or mental retardation, especially if
radiation occurs during formation of the central nervous system in early pregnancy
Case Studies
(I) Nuclear Holocaust In Japan
In 1945, two nuclear bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki cities in
Japan. This holocaust killed about 1, 00,000 people and totally destroyed the cities. This
explosion emitted forceful neutrons and gamma radiations. The radioactive Strontium –
90 liberated in the explosion resembles calcium and has the property of replacing
calcium in the bones. As a result large scale bone deformities occurred in the inhabitants
of these cities.
(II) Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster
On April 28th 1986, the world worst nuclear explosion occurred in one of the
reactors in Chernobyl power plant in Ukraine, Russia. This disaster was caused mainly
due to the poor reactor design and human error.
Chernobyl accident killed more than 80, 000 people and 3.5 million people have
suffered ill because of the accident. Nearly 1, 35, 000 people had to be evacuated at
around Chernobyl.
3. Bring out the various details of wasteland reclamation practices. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009)
Waste Land Reclamation (or) Development -

The land which is not in use is called waste land. The waste land is unproductive, unfit
for cultivation, grazing and other economic uses.
Waste lands can be divided into two types
 Uncultivable waste lands
 Cultivable waste lands
 The uncultivable lands like barren rocky areas, hilly slopes, sandy deserts etc., cannot
be brought under cultivation.
 The cultivable but not cultivated areas like degraded forest lands, water logged and saline
land can be brought under cultivation.
Causes of waste land formation
(i) Soil erosion, deforestation, overgrazing, water logging and salinity.
(ii) The increasing demand for fire – wood and excessive use of pesticides.
(iii) Developmental activities like construction of dams and power projects have
caused considerable damage to land due to water logging.
(iv) Over – exploitation of natural resources.
(v) By the sewage and industrial wastes.
(vi) Mining activities.
Methods for waste land reclamation

1. Drainage
63
Excess water is removed by artificial drainage. This process is used for water –
logged soil reclamation.
2. Leaching
Leaching is the process of removal of salt from the salt affected soil by applying
excess amount of water.
3. Application of Gypsum
Soil sodicity can be reduced with gypsum; calcium of gypsum replaces sodium
from the exchangeable sites.
4. Application of green – manures and biofertilizers.
Application of green manure is found to improve the saline soils.
5. Afforestation programme and social forestry programme will enhance the quality of
the land.
4. Discuss briefly on Environment (protection) Act, 1986. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009)
Or
Discuss the major ‘environmental Protection Rules, 1986’. What are the issues
involved in enforcement of environmental legislation? (CY 1201 – NOV 2009) (GE2021 –
NOV/DEC 2015)
Or
Explain in detail the various environmental protection acts and legislation. (CY 1201 –
APR 2010)
Important protection acts-

The government of India and state governments have implemented a number of
protection act,
(1) Environment (protection ) Act, 1972.
(2) Wildlife (protection) Act, 1972.
(3) Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
(4) Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
(5) Forest ( Conservation) Act, 1980
Wild Life Protection Act, 1972
The provisions of this act can be summed up as follows:
(i) It defines the wild-life related terminology.
(ii) It provides for the appointment of wildlife advisory Board, Wildlife warden, their
powers, duties etc.
(iii) Under the Act, comprehensive listing of endangered wild life species was done for
the first time and prohibition of hunting of the endangered species was mentioned.
(iv) Protection to some endangered plants like Bed dome cycad, Blue Vanda, Ladies
Slipper Orchid, Pitcher plant etc. is also provided under the Act.
(v) The Act provides for setting up of National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries etc.
(vi) The Act provides for the constitution of Central Zoo Authority.
(vii) There is provision for trade and commerce in some wildlife species with license for
sale, possession, transfer etc.
(viii) The Act imposes a ban on the trade or commerce in scheduled animals.
(ix) It provides for legal powers to officers and punishment to offenders.
(x) It provides for captive breeding program me for endangered species.
64
Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
(i) The State Government has been empowered under this Act to use the forests only for
forestry purposes. If at all it wants to use it in any other way, it has to take prior
approval of central Government, after which it can pass orders for declaring, some
part of reserve forest for non-forest purposes (e.g.mining) or for clearing some
naturally growing trees and replacing them by economically important trees
(reforestation).
(ii) It makes provision for conservation of all types of forests and for this purpose there is
an Advisory committee which recommends funding for it to the Central Government.
(iii) Any illegal non-forest activity within a forest area can be immediately stopped under
this Act.
1992 Amendment in the Forest Act

 In 1992, some amendment was made in the Act which made
provisions for allowing some non-forest activities in forests, without cutting trees or
limited cutting with prior approval of Central Government. These activities are
setting of transmission lines, seismic surveys, exploration, drilling and hydroelectric
projects. The last activity involved large scale destruction of forest, for which prior
approval of the Centre is necessary.
 Wildlife sanctuaries, National Parks etc. are totally prohibited for
any exploration or survey under this Act without prior approval of Central
Government even if no tree-felling is involved.
 Cultivation of tea, coffee, spices, rubber and plants which are
cash-crops, are included under non-forestry activity and not allowed in reserve
forests.
 Even cultivation of fruit-bearing trees, oil-yielding plants or plants
of medicinal value in forest area need to be first approved by the Central
Government. This is because newly introduced species in the forest area may cause
an imbalance in the ecology if the forest. If the species to be planted is a native
species, then no prior clearance is required.
 Tusser cultivation (a type silk-yielding insect) in forest areas by
tribal as a means of their live hood is treated as a forestry activity as along as it does
not involve some specific host tree and sent for analysis to some recognized lab. If
the samples do not conform to the prescribed water quality standards (crossing
maximum permissible limits), then ‘consent’ is refused to the unit.
 Every industry has to obtain consent from the Board (granted for a
fixed duration) by applying on a prescribed Proforma providing all technical details,
along with a prescribed fee following which analysis of the effluent is carried out.
 The Board suggests efficient methods for utilization, treatment and
disposal of trade effluents.
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
65
(i) The Act provides for prevention, control and abatement of air pollution.
(ii) In the Act, air pollution has been defined as the presence of any solid, liquid or
gaseous substance including noise) in the atmosphere in such concentration as may
be or tend to be harmful to human beings or any other living creatures or plants or
property or environment.
(iii) Noise pollution has been inserted as pollution in the Act in 1987.
(iv) Pollution control boards at the central or state level have the regulatory to implement
the Air Act. Just parallel to the function related to Water (Prevention and Control of
Pollution) Act, the boards perform similar functions related to improvement of air
quality. The boards have to check whether or not the industry strictly follows the
norms or standards laid down by the Board under section 17, regarding the discharge
of emission of any air pollutant. Based upon analysis report consent is granted or
refused to the industry.
(v) Just like the Water Act, the Air Act has provisions for defining the constitution,
Powers and function of Pollution Control Boards, funds, accounts, audit, penalties
and procedures.
(vi) Section 20 of the Act has provision for ensuring emission standard.
(vii) Standards from automobiles. Based upon it, the state government is empowered to
issue instructions to the authority in charge of registration of motor vehicles (under
Motor Vehicles Act, 1939) that is bound to comply with such instructions.
(viii) As per Section 19, in consultation with the State Pollution Control Board, the state as
“air pollution control area” and can prohibit the use of any fuel other than approved
fuel in the area causing air pollution. No person shall, without prior consent of State
Board operate or establish any industrial unit in the “air pollution control area”.
5. Explain the methods to conserve water with suitable example. (CY 1201 – APR 2010)
Water Conservation-
Water is as essential commodity without which no living system can survive and so
water has to be conserved.
It can be done by adopting following strategies.
 Decrease in run-off loses.
 Water is lost mainly due to run-off of the soil.
 It can be reduced by allowing the water to infiltrate into the soil.
 It is achieved by using contour civilization terrace cultivation, water spreading or
improved water storage system.
 Reducing evaporation losses this is seen in humid region.
 Some chemicals can be added to water which will minimize evaporation process.
 Storing water in soil.
 When the soil is left fallow in one season water can be made available for the crop grown
in the next season.
 Reduced in irrigation losses.
66
 Covered canals, irrigation during early morning or late evening sprinkling irrigation and
growing hybrid varieties will conserve water.
Reuse of Water -
 Treated waste water from industries can be used for gardens and washing.
 Preventing wastage of water. It is achieved by closing the tap leakages etc.
 Increasing in block pricing, consumer has to pay money for the amount of water
consumed.
Water conservation can be achieved in two ways
1. Rain water harvesting.
2. Water shed management.
Water Shed Management

It is defined as the land area from which water drains under gravity through the common
drainage channel. It is a delineated area with a user defined topographic boundary and one water
outlet.
Objectives
Some of the objectives of water shed management practices are as follows
 To make proper usage of land areas to store water.
 To carry out developmental activities like domestic water supply, irrigation, hydroelectric
power generation.
 To minimize risk of floods and droughts etc.
 To develop rural areas in its economy.
Water Harvesting
 Proper storage of water is done with provision for use in dry season in low rainfall
region
 It also helps in the modulation of floods.
6. Critically comment on acid rain and greenhouse effect. (CY 1201 – NOV 2009)
Acid Rain -
The presence of SO2 and NO2 gases as pollutants in the atmosphere make the pH of the
rain water is further lowered. This type of precipitation of water is called rain (or) acid
deposition.
The thermal power plants, industries and vehicles release nitrous oxide and sulphur
dioxide into atmosphere due to burning of coal and oil. When these gases react with
water vapour in the atmosphere, they form acids and descend on to earth’s acid rain
through rain water.
+
SOx H20 H2SO4
NOx + HNO3
H2O
67
Effects of acid rain
1. Acid rain affects nervous system, respiratory system and digestive system.
2. It also causes the premature death from heart and lung disorders such as asthma and
bronchitis.
3. Acid rain corrodes houses, monuments, statues, bridges and fences. It increases
maintenance cost.
4. Acid precipitation on terrestrial vegetation reduces rate of photosynthesis and growth
and increases sensitivity to drought and disease.
5. Black flies, mosquitoes, deer flies and the aquatic worms occur abundantly where
fishes are eliminated due to acid deposition.
Control measures
 Improvement in technologies and switching to clean combustion technologies
are highly essential in order to monitor the air pollution.
 Emissions of SO2 and NO2 from industries and power paints should be
reduced by using pollution control equipments.
 Coal with lower sulphur content is desirable to use in thermal plants.
Replacement of coal by natural gas would also reduce adverse effects of acid
rain.
 The real solution is to cut back on the use of fissile fuels by reducing our
dependency on motor vehicles and unnecessary utility of motor articles.
Greenhouse Effect
The greenhouse effect is the process by which radiation from a planet's atmosphere
warms the planet's surface to a temperature above what it would be without its
atmosphere.
7. What is green chemistry and what are its principles? Discuss the various
applications of green chemistry for achieving sustainable development. (GE6351 –
MAY/JUNE 2016)
Definition of green chemistry

Green chemistry is the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or
eliminate the use or generation of hazardous substances. Green chemistry applies across
the life cycle of a chemical product, including its design, manufacture, use, and ultimate
disposal. Green chemistry is also known as sustainable chemistry.
Green chemistry:
 Prevents pollution at the molecular level
 Is a philosophy that applies to all areas of chemistry, not a single discipline of
chemistry
 Applies innovative scientific solutions to real-world environmental problems
 Results in source reduction because it prevents the generation of pollution
 Reduces the negative impacts of chemical products and processes on human
health and the environment
 Lessens and sometimes eliminates hazard from existing products and processes
68
 Designs chemical products and processes to reduce their intrinsic hazards
Green chemistry's 12 principles

These principles demonstrate the breadth of the concept of green chemistry:
1. Prevent waste: Design chemical syntheses to prevent waste. Leave no waste to
treat or clean up.
2. Maximize atom economy: Design syntheses so that the final product contains the
maximum proportion of the starting materials. Waste few or no atoms.
3. Design less hazardous chemical syntheses: Design syntheses to use and generate
substances with little or no toxicity to either humans or the environment.
4. Design safer chemicals and products: Design chemical products that are fully
effective yet have little or no toxicity.
5. Use safer solvents and reaction conditions: Avoid using solvents, separation
agents, or other auxiliary chemicals. If you must use these chemicals, use safer ones.
6. Increase energy efficiency: Run chemical reactions at room temperature and
pressure whenever possible.
7. Use renewable feedstocks: Use starting materials (also known as feedstocks)
that are renewable rather than depletable. The source of renewable feedstocks is
often agricultural products or the wastes of other processes; the source of depletable
feed stocks is often fossil fuels (petroleum, natural gas, or coal) or mining
operations.
8. Avoid chemical derivatives: Avoid using blocking or protecting groups or any
temporary modifications if possible. Derivatives use additional reagents and
generate waste.
9. Use catalysts, not stoichiometric reagents: Minimize waste by using catalytic
reactions. Catalysts are effective in small amounts and can carry out a single
reaction many times. They are preferable to stoichiometric reagents, which are used
in excess and carry out a reaction only once.
10. Design chemicals and products to degrade after use: Design chemical
products to break down to innocuous substances after use so that they do not
accumulate in the environment.
11. Analyze in real time to prevent pollution: Include in-process, real-time
monitoring and control during syntheses to minimize or eliminate the formation of
byproducts.
12. Minimize the potential for accidents: Design chemicals and their physical
forms (solid, liquid, or gas) to minimize the potential for chemical accidents
including explosions, fires, and releases to the environment.
8. Discuss the recent approaches to achieve sustainable development. (12) (GE6351 –

MAY/JUNE 2016)
Sustainable development
Sustainable development is defined as, “meeting the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.
Aspects of Sustainable Development

The two essential aspects of sustainable development are
1. Intra generational equity and
2. Intergenerational equity.
a. Intra-generational equity
69
The concept of rich nations supporting the poor nations through its various expertise to
narrow down the economic gap between them is called as intra-generational equity.
b. Intergenerational equity
The concept of enabling the present and the future generations to enjoy the safe,
healthy and resourceful environment is called as intergenerational equity.
Methods Adopted To Attain Sustainable Development

Some of the methods that are adopted to attain sustainable development are as follows
1. Environmental Awareness
To create an environmental awareness, for ensuring people friendly approach
towards the planet earth.
2. Population control
Population growth should be controlled and population explosion to be avoided.
3. The 3 R Principle
It involves the principle of reuse, reduce and recycle so that earth’s resources will
be utilized in a minimum manner and pollution in all its form will be least.
4. Consumption of renewable resources
It should not exceed regeneration capacity
5. Development of appropriate technology
It should be locally adoptable, eco-friendly, resource efficient and culturally
suitable. This process makes use of local labor, less resources and produces
minimum waste.
9. Explain salient features of Water Act. (8) (GE6351 – MAY/JUNE 2016)
Water act, 1974

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was enacted in 1974 to provide for
the prevention and control of water pollution, and for the maintaining or restoring of
wholesomeness of water in the country. The Act was amended in 1988. The Water
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act was enacted in 1977, to provide for the
levy and collection of a cess on water consumed by persons operating and carrying on
certain types of industrial activities. This cess is collected with a view to augment the
resources of the Central Board and the State Boards for the prevention and control of
water pollution constituted under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act,
1974. The Act was last amended in 2003.
Objectives of this act:

1. To prevent and control water pollution
2. To maintain or restore the wholesomeness of water
3. To establish boards for the prevention and control of water pollution
4. To confer on and assign to the boards, the power and functions relating to the
above mentioned.
Salient features of this act:

-Establishment of central and state boards for pollution control
-Provision of joint boards for two or more states
-Prohibition of the use of streams and wells for the disposal of pollutants.
70
-Consent of pollution control board to open new outlets and discharges into streams
and wells.
10. Write an explanatory note on urban problems related to energy.(8) (GE2021 – NOV/DEC
2015)
Electrical energy gives mankind the needed luxury and comfort. Excessive amount of
electricity is consumed because of
 Development of science and technology.
 Population growth.
 Rapid industrialization, urbanization etc.
Applications of electrical energy in various fields

Some energy demanding activities that are carried out by human beings are
1. Commercial and residential lightening.
2. Using electrical gadgets.
3. Utilization of machineries in industries.
4. In the entertainment sector.
5. To increase the knowledge for which we make use of soft wares, internets, etc.
6. Making use of modern instrument to prevent and control pollution.
Solution for Urban Energy Problems

1. Utilization of public transport system instead of private one.
2. Energy consumption should be minimized.
3. Production capacity should be increased.
4. Energy efficient technology should be followed.
5. Using non-conventional energy resources.
6. Imposing strict laws, penalties and energy audit.
11. Write a short note on rain water harvesting. (8) (GE2021 – NOV/DEC 2015)
Rain Water Harvesting (RWH) is a simple low-cost technique that requires minimum
specific expertise or knowledge and offers many benefits. For drinking water purposes in
rural areas, the most common technique is small-scale rooftop rainwater harvesting:
rainwater is collected on the roof and transported with gutters to a storage reservoir,
where it provides water at the point of consumption (for rainwater harvesting for
agricultural use see also bunds, field trenches, planting pits, micro-basins, retention
basins, sand dams, conjunctive use, gully plug, controlled drainage or fog drip).
Collected rainwater can supplement other water sources when they become scarce or are
of low quality like brackish groundwater or polluted surface water in the rainy season. It
also provides a good alternative and replacement in times of drought or when the water
table drops and wells go dry. The technology is flexible and adaptable to a very wide
variety of conditions. It is used in the richest and the poorest societies, as well as in the
wettest and the driest regions on our planet.
71
Basic Design Principles
Each rainwater harvesting system consists of at least the following components (INFONET-
BIOVISION 2010):
1. Rainfall
2. A catchment area or roof surface to collect rainwater.
3. Delivery systems (gutters) to transport the water from the roof or collection
surface to the storage reservoir.
4. Storage reservoirs or tanks to store the water until it is used.
5. An extraction device (depending on
the location of the tank - may be a tap, rope and bucket, or a pump (HATUM & WORM
2006); or a infiltration device in the case the collected water is used for well
or groundwater recharge (see also surface orsubsurface artificial groundwater recharge)
Additionally there are a wide variety of systems available for treating water either before,
during and/or after storage (e.g. biosand filter, SODIS, chlorination; or in general HWTS)
72
UNIT –V HUMAN POPULATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT
PART – A
1. What is population growth?

Increase in the number of people with respect to time and area is called as population
growth.
2. Give the reasons for Population Growth.

1. Increase in the birth rate and decrease in the death rate
2. Availability of modern medical facilities
3. Influence of the culture of the people and
4. Poor implementation of family welfare schemes.
3. What are the effects Of Population Growth?

a. Over exploitation of natural resources
b. Increase in all forms of pollution
c. Leads to scarcity of land and food materials and affects the economical status of every
nation leading to poverty.
d. Increasing demand for food and natural resources
e. Inadequate housing and health services
f. Loss of agricultural lands
g. Unemployment and socio political unrest
4. Give the measures to check rapid growth of Population.

1. To create an awareness among people
2. To implement family welfare programs
3. To avoid early marriage among younger generation.
5. Give any two schemes of human health program initiated by Indian government on
effects of population growth. (GE 2021 – APR 2010)
1) The national family welfare programme (FWP) (1951)
2) National population policy (1986)
6. What are the advantages of family welfare program? (GE 2021 – APR 2010)
a. Advancing the age of marriage of girls to 20 years through intense public campaigns
and legislation.
b. Promoting the two child family norm.
c. Increasing female literacy rate.
d. Promotion of spacing methods.
7. Define – Immigration and Emigration (GE2021- NOV/ DEC 2009)

Immigration: Incoming people from another country or region to a particular area.
Emigration: Outgoing of people from particular area to another country or region.
8. What is value education? (GE2021 – NOV/DEC 2015)
73
Value education is an education which teaches:
· How to live life well?
· How to find happiness?
· How to make others happy?
· How to behave and communicate with others?
· How to manage all kinds of people as well as happenings?
· How to grow and succeed in the right manner?
9. Define population explosion. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009) (Or)

What do you understand by population explosion? (GE6351 - MAY 2016)
The unprecedented or abrupt increase in the growth of population with respect to time
and area is commonly called as population explosion.
A rapid increase in the size of a population caused by a sudden decrease in death rate or
an increase in birth rate is called population explosion.
10. What are the effects of population explosion? (GE 2021 – NOV 2009), (CY 1201 – NOV 2009)
Some of the effects of population growth are
a. Over exploitation of natural resources
b. Increase in all forms of pollution
c. Leads to scarcity of land and food materials and Affects the economic status of
every nation leading to poverty
11. What are the environmental factors that affect human health? (CY 1201 – NOV 2009)
There are various factors present in the environment which govern the health of an
individual. Some of the factors that are directly responsible are as follows:
a. Infectious organisms
b. Chemicals
c. Radiation
d. Noise
e. Diet
f. Settlement
12. Write the expansion for HIV and AIDS?

HIV - Human Immuno Deficiency Virus, a virus.
AIDS - Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome, a disease.
13. Mention two precautions to avoid AIDS. (GE2021 – NOV/DEC 2015)

1) Prevention of blood borne HIV transmission.
2) AIDS awareness programs should be encouraged.
3) Avoid indiscriminate sex and encourage the use of condoms and also avoid the use of
sharing razors, needles and syringes.
4) Counseling services should be provided.
14. What is doubling time?

The doubling time is the period of time required for a given population to double in size.
74
15. What are the objectives of family welfare programs? (HS 1201 – NOV/DEC 2013)
· To increase the female literacy rate.
· To enhance child survival through universal immunization.
· To reduce the birth rate
16. Mention any two family welfare programs adopted in India. (GE6351 - MAY 2016)
a. Family planning information, counseling and services to women for healthy
reproduction.
b. Education about safe delivery and post-delivery of the mother and the baby and
the treatment of women before pregnancy.
17. What do you mean by human rights?

Human rights are those basic rights which are essential for the development of human
personality such as right to life, liberty, property and security of an individual.
18. Name the fundamental rights of an Indian citizen.

 Right to equality
 Right to freedom of speech and activity
 Right against Exploitation
 Right to freedom of Religion
 Right to constitutional Remedies
 Cultural and Educational rights
19. What are the objectives of public awareness?

 Need to give awareness about severe resource depletion due to over population
 To create awareness about unemployment problems.
 Public should aware about the discharge of huge amount of hazardous wastes from
industries in need to produce more products to.
20. What are the objectives of environmental impact assessment (EIA).

EIA is defined as a formal process of predicting the environmental consequences of any
development projects. It is used to identify the environmental, social and economic
impacts of the project prior to decision making.
Objectives of EIA
c. To identify the main issues and problem of the parties.
d. To identify who is the party.
e. To identify what are the problems of the parties.
f. To identify why the problems are arise.
21. What is population density? ( GE2021 - NOV / DEC 2011)

It is expressed as the number of individuals of the population per unit area is defined as
population density.
22. What is meant by NIMBY syndrome?
75
NIMBY means Not In My Back Yard, which describes the opposition of residents to
the nearby location of something they consider undesirable, even if it is clearly a benefit
for many.
Ex: An incinerator, an ethanol plant, a nuclear power plant, a prison.
23. Define Infant mortality rate, replacement level?

 Infant mortality rate is the percentage of infants died out of those born in a year.
 Two parents bearing two children will be replaced by their offspring. But due to
infant mortality this replacement level is usually changed.
24. What do you mean Demographic transition?

It has been observed that couples from economically sound nations produce fewer
children so as to maintain high standard of living. This means that birth rate is low. The
death rate has also been reduced in those nations because of improved health care. As a
result, net population growth rate is low. This phenomenon is called demographic
transition.
PART – B
1. Explain the role of Information Technology on environment protection and human

health protection. (GE 2021 – APR 2010)
OR
Explain in detail the role of Information Technology in environmental engineering. (CY
1201 – APR 2010) (OR) Discuss the role of information technology in environment and
human health. (8) (GE2021- NOV/DEC 2015)
Role of IT in Health Sector -

The various aspects of utilizing IT in order to promote a healthy environment are as
follows
a. Remote sensing
b. World wide web
c. Database
a. Remote Sensing
A method of gathering information without coming in direct close contact with it is
called as remote sensing.
Geographical Information System

A technique of superimposing various thematic maps using digital data on a large
number of interrelated aspects is commonly called as geographical information system.
Applications of geographical information systems are
1. It provides valuable information regarding land and water management in the agricultural
sector.
2. It supports sustainable forest management
3. It enables people to make use of the land areas in an effective manner.
4. It aids quality water resource management.
76
b. World Wide Web (www)
It is the most easily accessible wealth of data available to human beings. It gives current
information on any topic with respect to environment
Some online learning centers are as follows

1. Multimedia digital content management
2. www.mhhe.com/environemntalscience
Applications of www
The various applications of World Wide Web are as follows:
1. The current and relevant information on the principles, applications and problems
associated with the environment are available.
2. Digital files of photos, power points, lecture presentations, animations, web exercises,
quiz, etc., are at the disposal of the one who accesses it.
c. Data Base
The collection of inter-related data on various subjects which is arranged systematically
and can be retrieved quickly is called as a data base.
Applications
The various applications of data base are as follows
1. The ministry of environment and forest provides information on various biotic
communities
2. National management information system provides information regarding
3. Environmental information system provides database on pollutioncontrol, environmental
management, biodiversity, etc.
Role of IT on Health
In today’s world information technology plays a vital deciding the health of the people.
Many health organizations turn to software packages for service oriented and effective working
of the health sector.
In health service three fields are concentrated and they are

1. Patient administration
2. Pathology and
3. Finance and accounting.
The ministry of environment and forest provides database on disease like malaria,
fluorosis, etc.
Applications
77
1. Data recording on birth and death rate, immunization and sanitation programmes are
maintained.
2. It supports physicians with facilities to monitor the health of people more effectively.
3. Outbreak of epidemic diseases can be informed easily.
4. It aids the assistance of experts who can be consulted from far off places.
5. With the help of central control system hospitals can be run effectively.
6. Drugs and its replacement can be administered effectively.
2. Describe briefly
(i) The factors that affect human population growth rate. (GE 2021 – NOV
2009)
(ii) Human rights. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009)
(iii) Value education. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009)
Discuss the factors influencing family size. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009)
Write a note on the various methods of family planning. (GE 2021 – NOV 2009)
Family Planning -
It is an essential feature of all families resulting in meaningful development of any
society.
In India the concept of family planning was introduced in the year 1952. For almost three
decades this program was unsuccessful. After 1978 the government came out with the proposal
of increasing the marriage age of women from 15 to 18 and that of men from 18 to 21. But this
proposal did not bring its fruit when 1981 census was presented. After this the nation spent more
money to change the social, educational and economic status of women. This led to social
security, political stabilization and proper awareness among women.
The state government under its health ministry supports the initiatives taken by the union
government at the center. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) sponsored by some
philanthropists get involved in educating the people about the various schemes introduced by the
government to promote family welfare programs.
Need For Family Planning

The main purpose of family planning is that
1. It allows couples to decide their family size and
2. It decides the time spacing of the couple’s offspring.
Methods Adopted to Promote Family Planning

Some of the methods that are normally adopted to promote family planning are as
follows
1. Counseling is provided for young couples
1. Young married women are introduced to birth control techniques like mechanical
barriers, physical barrier, drugs, etc.
2. More than hundred contraceptive methods are in trial
3. In some countries even abortion is encouraged to control child birth
78
4. WHO is involved in providing funds for developing and under developed nations to
encourage family planning
3. Explain the term Population Explosion. Enumerate its effect. (8) (GE6351- NOV/DEC 2015)
Definition-
The unprecedented or abrupt increase in the growth of population with respect to time
and area is commonly called as population explosion.
Population explosion -
 The rapid growth of the world's population over the past one hundred years results from a
difference between the rate of birth and the rate of death.
 The human population will increase by 1 billion people in the next decade. This is like
adding the whole population of China to the world's population.
 The growth in human population around the world affects all people through its impact
on the economy and environment.
 The current rate of population growth is now a significant burden to human well-being.
 Understanding the factors which affect population growth patterns can help us plan for
the future.
 The purpose of this unit is to examine some important factors about overpopulation. This
unit addresses:
(1) the definition of overpopulation
(2) the causes of rapid population growth
(3) the consequences of rapid population growth, and
(4)actions and strategies that can be developed to solve problems caused by
overpopulation.
 This unit consists of core knowledge about the causes and consequences of over-
population, lesson plans, teacher resources, student reading list, a list of speakers and
a bibliography.
 Although this unit is intended primarily for students in grades 5-8, teachers in both
elementary and high school can use this unit to explore key ideas and concepts about
the population explosion.
Reasons for Population Explosion

Some of the reasons that support the population explosion are as follows.
1. Lack of awareness among people
2. Developments of science and technology
3. Poor implementation of family welfare schemes and
4. Pressure of the society on the newly married couples.
Effects of Population Explosion

The various effects of population explosion are
1. Depletion of natural resources
2. Loss of precious ecosystems
3. Immense increase in all forms of pollution
4. Economic and food crisis
5. Unemployment
79
Control Measures Involved In Population Explosion
The measures that can be adopted to control population explosion are as follows
1. To create an awareness among people.
2. To encourage family planning programs
3. Discouraging adolescent wed locks
4. To eliminate social evils.
4. Describe the population growth and explain how it effects that nation’s growth? (CY 1201
– APR 2010)
Population growth –
Increase in the number of people with respect to time and area is called as population
growth.
The rapid growth of the global population for the past 100 years results from the difference
between the rate of birth and death. The general trend in the population growth is explained
graphically as shown in the following graph.
In 1980- The global population was about I billion people. It took Thom 130 years
(In 1930) to reach 2 billion. But the population reached to 4 billion within 45 years (In
1975). Now we have already crossed 6 billion and may have to reach about 10 billion by
2050 as per the World Bank calculations.
Causes of rapid population growth-

1. The rapid population growth is due to decrease in death rate and increase in birth rate .
2. The availability of antibiotics immunization, increased food production, clean water and air
decrease, the famine-Related deaths and infant mortality.
3. In agricultural based countries, children’s are required to help parents in the fields that is
why the population increases in the developing countries.
Problems of population growth

1. Increasing demand for food and natural resources
2. Inadequate housing and health services
3. Loss of agricultural lands
4. Unemployment and socio political unrest
5. Environmental pollution.
Reasons for Population Growth-

 Increase in the birth rate and decrease in the death rate
 Availability of modern medical facilities
 Influence of the culture of the people and
 Poor implementation of family welfare schemes.
Effects of Population Growth-

 Over exploitation of natural resources
 Increase in all forms of pollution
 Leads to scarcity of land and food materials and affects the economical status of every
nation leading to poverty.
 Increasing demand for food and natural resources
80
 Inadequate housing and health services
 Loss of agricultural lands
 Unemployment and socio political unrest
Measures to check rapid growth of Population

 To create an awareness among people
 To implement family welfare programs.
 To avoid early marriage among younger generation.
5. What is AIDS? How to prevent it? (GE 2021 – NOV 2009) (OR) What is AIDS? What are the
sources and mode of transmission of HIV infection? (8) ( GE 2021 – NOV/DEC 2015) (OR) What
is HIV? How is it caused? What are the preventive measures suggested? (8) (GE6351 –
MAY/JUNE 2016)
HIV / AIDS
AIDS is the abbreviated form for Acquired immuno Deficiency Syndrome caused by a virus
called HIV (Human Immune deficiency virus).
Many myths have been spread about AIDS and it is very important for every one to know
the facts about HIV and AIDS.
Origin of HIV / AIDS

AIDS was discovered in 1983.
Though sufficient knowledge has been gained about the disease, yet a definite Source of this
virus could not be identified. But the following theories have been suggested.
1. Through African Monkey
1. Most of the evidences have suggested that the AIDS has spread from Africa.
2.It has been believed that the HIV has transferred to humans from African monkey or
Chimpanzees.
2. Through Vaccine Programmes
(a) HIV has spread in Africa through HIV contaminated polio vaccine, prepared from monkey’s
kidney.
(b) It had spread through hepatitis B viral vaccine in Los Angels and New York.
(c) It had also spread through small pox vaccine programme of Africa.
World Scenario
Nearly 90% of the people who are infected with AIDS live in developing countries.
• 13% of world’s population live in Africa, almost all states of African countries were
affected by HIV.
• About 3 million people so far died due to HIV/AIDS in 2003. AIDS is rapidly spreading
in eastern Europe and Asia.
India ranks II in the world with 5.1 million HIV/AIDS affected people. The percentage is
lower than Thailand, Myanmar and South Africa.
Scenario in India
The largest number of infected cases have been found in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, followed
by Delhi, UP, Karnataka and Goa. In Tamil Nadu alone, till September 2003 a total of 24,667
cases of AIDS have been found out.
81
Factors influencing modes of Transmission of HIV
HIV is spreading due to the following activities:
1. HIV from infected person can pass to a normal person through blood contact, generally during
unprotected sex with infected person.
2. Using needles or syringes, contaminated with small quantities of blood from HIV positive
person, also transmit HIV to others.
3. HIV can also pass from infected mothers to their babies during pregnancy, delivery or breast
feeding.
4. Blood transfusion from the infected person, at the time of accidents or pregnancy also results
in HIV/AIDS.
Factors Not influencing transmission of HIV

HIV is not spreading by the following activities.
Tears, food and air, cough, handshake, mosquito, flies, insect bites, urine,, saliva during normal
kissing, sharing of utensils, clothes, toilet, bathroom etc.,
Functions of HIV in human body

AIDS itself does not kill humans. The death occur due to the attack by diseases because of
the weakening of immune system.
• White Blood cell (WBC), responsible in the formation of antibodies, are called T-helper
cells.
• T-helper cells are the key infection fighters in the immune system.
• The HIV enter into the human body and destroys the T-cells, as a result of which various
types of infection diseases occur.
• Even cancer can easily develop in the HIV infected persons.
Symptoms for HIV/AIDS

Many people infected with HIV. fatigue. During this semen and vaginal infection to
another have no symptoms, when they are first But some people get fever, headache, time, HIV
is present in large amounts in fluids and it is very easy to pass the person.
HIV is very active inside a person's body. The virus multiples and kills more and more T-
cellS of the immune system.
Consumption of alcohol increases the susceptibility infection and progress of AIDS.
Minor symptoms
I. Persistent cough for more than one month.
2. General skin disease.
3. Viral infection.
4. Fungus infection in mouth and throat.
5. Frequent fever, headache, fatigue
Major symptoms
1. Fever for more than one month.
2. Diarrhea for more than one month.
3. Cough & TB for more than 6 months.
82
4. Fall of hairs from the head.
5.10% of body weight get reduced within a short period.
Control And Preventive Measures of AIDS

Once a person is infected with HIV the person remain infected for life.
There is neither a cure nor a vaccine but can he prevented.
The basic approaches to control AIDS are
1. Education
Health education enables people to avoid indiscriminate sex and encourages the use of condoms.
One should avoid the use of sharing razors, needles and syringe.
2. Prevention of Blood borne HIV Transmission
People in high risk groups should not donate blood. Blood should be screened for HIV before
transmission and strict Sterilization practices should be followed in hospitals.
3. Primary Health Care
AIDS awareness programmes should be encouraged. Voluntary health agencies should
participate in large. Training Programmes to doctors and paramedical workers should be
conducted .
4. Counseling Services
Counseling services should be Provided either in person or through telephone.
5. Drug Treatment
Testing HIV positive does not mean the end.
• They can still stay healthy leading productive lives for many years.
• Seeking early medical care and staying active are very vital in managing HIV.
• The immune system has to be kept boosted by taking nutritious diet and maintaining a
stress-free mind.
Effects of HIV/AIDS on environment

1. Large number of death Occurs, which affect environment and natural resources.
2. Due to large number of deaths, there is loss of labor and level of production decreases.
3. More water is required for maintaining hygiene in AIDS affected locality.
4. The people affected by HIV, cannot perform work well due to lack of energy and frequent
fever and sweating.
6. What is the prime objective of value education? How can environmental education be
made value – based? (CY 1201 – NOV 2009)
Value Education -
The method adopted to analyze the behavior of a person and to provide proper directions
to develop their ethics is called as value education.
It teaches the difference between the right and the wrong and to be compassionate,
helpful, loving, generous and tolerant.
Objectives of Value Education

The objectives of value education are
1. To improve integral growth of human beings
2. To create sustainable lifestyle
83
3. To increase awareness about national history
4. To gain awareness about the importance of natural resources and ways of conserving it
5. To understand the interaction between the living and nonliving.
6. To create awareness about the cultural heritage, constitutional rights, national integration
and community development.
Aspects of Value Education

The various values that are inculcated as a result of imparting value education are
a. Social value
b. Cultural value
c. Individual value
d. Global value and
e. Spiritual value
a. Social Values
The social values involve joy, compassion, tolerance, service, truth, etc., associated with
life.
b. Cultural Values
The cultural values are concerned with the right and the wrong, good and the bad, truth
and falsehood and other behavior of mankind. It is reflected in the language, education, law, etc.
c. Individual Values
The individual values are associated with the personality and experiences which is
reflected in relationships and commitments.
d. Global Values
The global values are related with the bonds of harmony between nations.
e. Spiritual Values
The spirit values involve the idea of renaissance which transforms our consumer life.
Discipline, punctuality, contentment, etc., are part of it.
7. Write an explanatory note on human rights and family welfare. (8) (GE2021- NOV/DEC 2015)
Human rights
Human rights are the fundamental rights, which are possessed by all human beings
irrespective of their caste, nationality, sex and language.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UNDHR) by the UN was established in 1948. Some of
the main declarations of Human Rights, which are globally accepted are as follows.
1. Human right to freedom.
2. Human right to property.
3. Human right to freedom of religion.
4. Human right to culture and education.
84
5. Human right to constitutional remedies.
6. Human right to equality.
7. Human right against exploitation.
8. Human right to food and environment.
9. Human right to good health.
1. Human right to freedom

1. Every citizen has the freedom to express his views freely.
2. Citizens can assemble at any place to express their views.
3. They have freedom to form unions or associations.
4. They have freedom to build their houses where ever they like.
5. They have full right to start any profession.
2. Human right to property
Every human beings has the right to earn property.
3. Human right to freedom of religion
Every citizen has the freedom to choose their religion according to his wishes, All religions
are equal before the law.
4. Human right to culture and education
All the citizens have equal rights both in culture and education. The minority communities like
Christians, Muslims have their own rights to conserve the culture, language, and to establish
educational institutions of their own choice.
5. Human right to Constitutional remedies
If a citizen is denied any of these fundamental rights, he or she can go to the court for protection.
The court has the power to protect the basic rights of the citizens.
6. Human right to equality
All citizens are equal before the law. There is no any discrimination on grounds of religion,
caste, sex (or) place of birth. All are given equal opportunity for employment.
7. Human right against exploitation
Children should not be employed as labors.
Every citizen has the right to fight against exploitation.
8. Human right to food and environment
All human beings have the right to get sufficient healthy food, safe drinking water and healthy
environment.
9. Human right to good health
All human beings have the right to have very good physical and mental health.
Family Welfare
Family Welfare Programme was implemented by the Government of India as a voluntary

programme.
It is an integral part of overall national policy of growth covering human health, maternity,
family welfare, child care and women’s right.
Objectives of family welfare programming

Slowing down the population explosion by reducing the fertility.
Pressure on, the environment, due to over exploitation of natural resources, is reduced.
Population stabilization ratio

The ratio is derived by dividing crude birth rate by crude death rate.
85
Developed countries
The stabilization ratio of the developed countries is 1, which is more or less stabilized, indicating
zero population growth.
Developing countries
The stabilization ratio of the developing countries is nearing 3, which is expected to lower down
by 2025. Stabilization in developing countries is possible only through various family welfare
programmes.
Family Planning Programme

Family planning provides educational and clinical services that help couples to choose how
many children to have? and when to have them? Such programs vary from culture to culture, but
it provide information on birth spacing, birth control and health care for pregnant women and
infants.It also has reduced the number of legal and illegal abortions per year and decreased the
risk of death from pregnancy.
Objectives of Family Planning Programme

1. Reduce infant mortality rate to below 30 per 1000 infants.
2. Achieve 100% registration of births, deaths, marriage and pregnancy.
4. Encourage late marriages and later child-bearing.
4. Encouraging breast feeding. Enables to improve women’s health, education,
employment.
6. Making family planning available to all women, who wanted to choose the number of
children and the spacing of births.
7. Constrain the spread of AIDS / HIV.
8. Prevent and control of cornrnunicable diseases.
9. Promote vigorously the small family norms.
10. Making school education up to age 14 free and compulsory.
Fertility control methods (or) methods of family planning

(I) Traditional method
It includes some traditions like, taboos and folk medicine.
(II) Modern method
It includes some important birth control techniques like mechanical barriers,
surgical methods, chemical pills and physical barriers to implantation
More than 100 contraceptive methods are on trial.
Family Planning Programme in India

1. In 1952, India started the family Planning programme.
2. In l970’s Indian Government forced family planning campaign all Over the country.
3. In 1978, the government legally raised the minimum age of marriage for men from 18 to 21
years and for women 15 to 18 years.
4. In 1981, census report showed that there was no drop in Population. Since then funding
for family planning programme has been increased further.
8. Discuss women and child welfare programs practiced in India. What are the hurdles
encountered? (8) (GE6351 – MAY/JUNE 2016)
Women and child are usually soft, who suffer in a number of ways mainly because they are
weak, helpless and economically dependent.
86
Women Welfare
The main aim of women welfare is to improve the status of the women by providing
opportunities in education, employment and economic independence.
Need of Women Welfare

Generally women faces the following problems in the society. So there is an urgent need for
policy reforms and more stringent legislation, education and legal awareness among women
for checking injustice towards her.
1. Generally women suffer gender discrimination and devaluation at home, at
workplace, in matrimony, in public life and power.
2. High number of cases of dowry deaths, rape, domestic violence, criminal offences
and mental torture to Women.
3. The human rights of Women are violated, in the male dominated society.
4. Generally in policy making and decision making process, women are neglected.
Objectives of Women Welfare

To overcome the above problems, a sound national strategy is needed with the following
objectives.
1. To provide education.
2. To impart vocational training.
3. To generate awareness about the environment.
4. To improve the employment opportunities
5. To aware problems of population.
6. To restore the dignity, status, equality and respect for women.
Objectives of a National Commission for Women

A National Commission for Women has been created by Government of India, its main
objectives are:
(i) To examine constitutional and legal rights for women.
(ii) To review existing legislations.
(iii) To sensitize the enforcement and administrative machinery to women’s causes.
Environmental Degradation And Women Welfare

The developmental work not only affects the natural environment but also affects the traditional,
social, cultural and family life of women.
• After losing the forest Cover and getting rehabilitated from their native places, men
usually migrate to towns for some job while the women are left behind to look after their family
with little resources.
• Mining projects play with the life of rural Women.
• Men can still work in the mines or migrate to towns for same job after getting compensation
from the government.
• The displaced women are the worst affected as they do not get any compensation and
depend on the men for wages.
• Thus the issues related to their dignity and honors have not yet received any attention.
87
Various Organization towards Women Welfare:
1. The National Network for Women And Mining (NNWM) It is fighting for a “gender audit”
of India’s mining Companies
2. United Nations decade for Women
It witnessed several women welfare related
Issues on international agenda.
3. International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against
Women (CEDAW)
It has created an international standard for the protection and promotion of women’s human and
socio-economic upliftment.
4. Non-Government Organizations (NGO’) As Mahula Mandals
It creates awareness among women of remote villages to empower them, train them, educate
them and help them to become economically self-dependent
5. Ministry for Women And Child Development
It aims to work for the upliftment of women by family Planning, health care, education and
awareness.
Child Welfare
Children Occupy nearly 40% of total Population.
They are considered to be the assets of a society.
Of 21 million children born every year in India, 20 million children in our country are estimated
to be working as child labors in various hazardous industries like match industry, fire work
industry, pottery industry.
Reason for Child Labors

1. Poverty
Poverty is the main reason to force these children to work in unhealthy conditions.
2. Want of Money
Parents require money for their family, so they are in a position to send their children for work.
Various Organizations towards Child Welfare

1. UN Conventions on Rights of Child (or) International Law
It formulated a set of international standards and measures to promote and protect the well
being of children in our Society.
Rights of the Child

The international law defines right of the child to survival, Participation development and
protection.
(a) The right to survival
It emphasizes on good standards of living, good nutrition and health.
(b) The right to participation
It means freedom of thought and appropriate information to the child,
(c) The right to development
It ensures access to education, childhood care and Support, social security and recreation.
(d) The right to protection
It means freedom from exploitation in human treatment and neglect.
2. World summit on children

It had focused agenda for the wellbeing of the children targeted to be achieved in the beginning
of the new millennium.
88
3. Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD)
It concentrates on child’s health, education nutrition clean and safe drinking water, sanitation and
environment.
Environmental degradation and child welfare

Children are most affected due to environmental pollution. Water borne diseases are the biggest
threat to children. Around 6 million children are affected by these diseases in India. Even the
child growing in the mother’s womb, gets affected by environmental toxics.
Center for Science and Environment (CSE)

Its scientific report says, “children Consume more water, food and air than adults, and hence
more susceptible to any environmental Contamination” So, it is essential to keep the Cleaner
environment to our children for the better and healthy life.
9. Explain a note on EIA. (8) (GE6351 – MAY/JUNE 2016)

EIA is defined as a formal process of predicting the environmental consequences of any
development projects. It is used to identify the environment, social and economic impacts of the
projects prior to decision making.
Objectives of EIA:
1. To identify the main issues and problem of the parties
2. To identify who is the party
3. To identify what are the problems of the parties
4. To identify why are the problems arise.
Benefits of EIA:
1. Cost and time of the project is reduced
2. Performance of t he project is improved.
3. Waste treatment and cleaning expenses are minimized.
4. Usages of the resources are reduced.
5. Biodiversity is maintained
6. Human health is improved.
Processing of EIA or Key elements of EIA:

The key elements used in the process of EIA are:
1. Scoping
2. Screening
3. Identifying and evaluating alternatives
4. Mitigating measures dealing with uncertainty
5. Issuing environmental statements
1.Scoping: It is used to identify the key issues of the concern in the planning process at an
early stage. It is also used to aid site selections and identify any possible alternatives.
2. Screening: It is used to decide whether an EIA is required or not based on the information
collected.
3. Identifying and evaluating alternatives: It involves knowing alternative sites and
alternative techniques and their impacts.
4. Mitigating measures dealing with uncertainty: It reviews the action taken to prevent or
minimize the adverse effects of a project.
89
5. Issuing environmental statements: This is the final stage of EIA process. It reports the
findings of the EIA.
10. What are sparsely populated areas? Give examples and reasons for poor population
in those areas. (8) (GE6351 – MAY/JUNE 2016)
At present world population is 6 billion. Less developed countries have 80% population
The developed countries have only 20% population. Africa, Asia, South America have 80%
of world total population, But they have only 20 % of world land area.
Developed countries USA, Canada, Australia, the population increases at the rate of less than
1% per year. In less developed countries the population increases at the rate of higher than
1% per year.
Kenya is the fastest population growing country; now 20 million peoples are there. China
and India have above 1000 million people in year 2000. Europe and North America hold
14% of world population.
Variation of population based on age structure

Structure of population can be divided in to three classes
1. Pre- productive population (0-14 years)
2. Reproductive population (15-44 years)
3. Post Reproductive population (above 45 years)
1. Pyramid shaped variation of population

Examples India, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Nigeria. The pre – productive age group
population is more, indicated at the base of the pyramid. Post Reproductive population
(above 45 years) is less, indicated at the top of the pyramid Reproductive population (15-44
years) will enter soon, which increase the population growth.
2. Bell shaped variation of population

France, USA, UK, Canada Pre- productive population (0-14 years) and reproductive population
(15-44 years) are more or less equal. So the people entering in to the reproductive age group will
not change the population. Therefore the population growth is stable.
90
3. Urn shaped variation of population
Examples: Germany, Italy, Sweden, Japan
The pre – productive age group population is smaller than the reproductive age group
population .In the next 10 years , The number of people in the reproductive age group is
less than the before, resulting in the decrease in the population growth.
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101

Ge6351 Evs Q&a - 2016

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

You might also like

Ge6351 Evs Q&a - 2016

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Ge6351 Evs Q&a - 2016

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

GE6351 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

UNIT I ENVIRONMENT, ECOSYSTEMS AND BIODIVERSITY 12

UNIT II ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION 10

UNIT III NATURAL RESOURCES 10

From unsustainable to sustainable development – urban problems related to energy – water

UNIT V HUMAN POPULATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT 6

1. Gilbert M.Masters, “Introduction to Environmental Engineering and Science”, 2nd Edition,

1. R.K. Trivedi, “Handbook of Environmental Laws, Rules, Guidelines, Compliances and

1. Define Ecosystem. (or) what is an ecosystem? (Nov/ Dec 2013)

2. Enumerate some characteristics of an Ecosystem.

3. Classify the Ecosystem.

4. Name the types of consumers.

6. What is Nitrogen fixation?

8. What do you mean by Denitrification?

10. Define Ecological succession.

11. Define Primary and secondary succession

12. What is the structure & function of grassland ecosystem?

13. Give the characteristic features of desert ecosystem.

14. What is the structure & function of desert ecosystem?

15. What are the three steps involved in process of succession?

16. What are producers?

17. What are consumers?

18. What are decomposers?

19. Give the characteristic features of an Estuarine system.

20. What are the 4 kinds of diversity?

23. What is the significance of Biodiversity?

24. What is species & Genetic diversity?

25. What are the values of biodiversity?

26. What is In-situ conservation?

27. What do you understand by ,  &  diversity?

28. What steps can be taken to conserve biodiversity?

29. Define biodiversity. (Nov/Dec 2015)

30. Enumerate human activities which destroy biodiversity.

31. What do you understand by habitat loss?

32. What are the factors influencing habitat loss?

33. What is poaching?

34. What are the factors influencing poaching?

37. What are the hot spots of biodiversity?

39. Write any two objectives of Indian Forestry Policy

40. Define the term Environment with reference to ISO 14001.

41. What are gases present in the air?

42. Explain Biosphere.

2. Define environmental impact statement.

3. What are renewable and non-renewable energy sources? Give examples.

4. What are the three effects of deforestation?

5. Suggest three damages caused by the use of fertilizers.

1. Describe the types, characteristics features, structure and function of

Structure and functions of forest ecosystem:

Structure and function of pond ecosystem:

(b) Secondary Consumers (Primary Carnivores)

Stream and river ecosystem:

Structure and function of stream and river ecosystem:

Structure and function of ocean ecosystem:

VARIOUS THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY:

3. Define ecosystem. Give an account of the structure and functions of an ecosystem.

Nitrogen (N2) constitute 78% volume of air.

Secondary succession: It involves the establishment of biotic communities in an area,

Reason for Man-wild conflicts: