Aashank Singh

23BA097
Section A
Semester -2

Q.1) Write a short note on the ecological pyramid of numbers.

The pyramid of numbers is a graphical representation that depicts the number of

organisms present in each trophic level of an ecosystem. The key characteristics of
this pyramid include:
1. The number of producers is higher than the consumers in other trophic levels.
2. The number of individuals decreases from the bottom to the top of the
pyramid.
3. The total living organisms in each trophic level are known as the standing crop.
4. Normally the pyramid is upright, but inverted pyramids and mixed/spindle-
shaped pyramids can also occur, depending on the ecosystem.
Q.2) Penicillin is an antibiotic derived from a fungus give examples of other
such drugs Derived or obtained from the natural world.

Some of such drugs are

1. Morphine: Derived from the opium poppy, used as a powerful pain
reliever.
2. Codeine: Derived from the opium poppy, used as a pain reliever and
cough suppressant.
3. Streptomycin is a drug made from bacteria and was found in the 1950s
4. Aspirin is a naturally occurring drug which is derived form plants

Q.3) Explain how studying EVS can help tackle India’s environment-related
problems.

Studying Environmental Studies (EVS) can be instrumental in tackling India's

environmental problems in the following ways:

1. Developing awareness and sensitivity towards the interdependence of

economic, social, and ecological aspects, fostering a sense of
responsibility towards environmental protection.
 2. Providing comprehensive understanding of environmental issues and the
principles governing ecological systems, equipping individuals with the
knowledge to identify and analyze problems.
3. Cultivating values, attitudes, and motivation to actively participate in
environmental improvement and conservation initiatives.
4. Imparting problem-solving skills to devise sustainable solutions for
challenges like pollution, resource depletion, and ecosystem
degradation.
5. Enabling active engagement in environmental efforts at all levels, leads
to the development of new behaviours and a sense of ownership.
6. Informing policy and decision-making with expertise to integrate
environmental considerations into development strategies.
7.
Overall, EVS education empowers individuals and communities to tackle India's
pressing environmental challenges.

Q.4) Write down key points about the negative impacts of mining activities.

Key Impacts:
1. Deforestation and Loss of Vegetation: Mining, particularly open-pit
mining, and dam construction lead to the clearing and submergence of
large tracts of forests and natural habitats.
2. Pollution: Mining causes air, water, and soil pollution from harmful gases,
mine waste, and toxic materials. Dams also contribute to air pollution
during construction and methane emissions from submerged vegetation.
3. Land Degradation and Water Depletion: Mining depletes surface and
groundwater resources, leading to land degradation and desertification.
4. Ecosystem and Biodiversity Loss: Habitat destruction and fragmentation
from these activities severely impact local flora and fauna, leading to a
decline in biodiversity.
5. Displacement of Indigenous Communities: Large-scale mining projects
often displace vulnerable local and indigenous populations without
proper rehabilitation and compensation.
6. Health and Social Issues: Mine workers face occupational health risks,
while nearby communities suffer from pollution-related health problems.
These projects also attract in-migration, causing social instability and
resource conflicts.