Science Question and Answers

LIGHT-REFLECTION AND REFRACTION

Questions Page: 168

1. Define the principal focus of a concave mirror.

Answer-

Light rays that are parallel to the principal axis of a concave mirror converge at a
specific point on its principal axis after reflecting from the mirror. This point is
called the principal focus of the concave mirror.

2. The radius of curvature of a spherical mirror is 20 cm. What is its focal length?

Answer-

Radius of curvature (R) = 20 cm

Radius of curvature of the spherical mirror = 2 × Focal length (f)

R = 2f

f= R/2 = 20 / 2 = 10

Therefore, the focal length of the spherical mirror is 10 cm.

3. Name the mirror that can give an erect and enlarged image of an object.

Answer-

The mirror that can give an erect and enlarged image of an object is a Concave
Mirror.

4. Why do we prefer a convex mirror as a rear-view mirror in vehicles?

Answer-

A convex mirror is preferred as a rear-view mirror in cars and vehicles as it gives a

wider field of view, which helps the driver see most of the traffic behind him.
Convex mirrors always form an erect, virtual, and diminished image of the objects
placed in front of it.

Page No: 171

1. Find the focal length of a convex mirror whose radius of curvature is 32 cm.
Answer-

Radius of curvature (R) = 32 cm

Radius of curvature = 2 × Focal length (f)

R= 2f

f = R/2 = 32/2 = 16

Therefore, the focal length of the given convex mirror is 16 cm.

2. A concave mirror produces three times magnified (enlarged) real image of an

object placed at 10 cm in front of it. Where is the image located?

Answer-

Magnification produced by a spherical mirror:

Object distance (u) = – 10 cm

v = 3 × (- 10) = – 30 cm

Therefore, the negative sign indicates that an inverted image is formed in front of
the given concave mirror at a distance of 30 cm.

Page No: 176

1. A ray of light travelling in air enters obliquely into water. Does the light ray
bend towards the normal or away from the normal? Why?

Answer-

The light ray bends towards the normal. When a light ray enters from an optically
rarer medium (which has a low refractive index) to an optically denser medium
(which has a high refractive index), its speed slows down and bends towards the
normal. As water is optically denser than air, a ray of light entering from air into
water will bend towards the normal.

2. Light enters from air to glass, having a refractive index 1.50. What is the speed
of light in the glass? The speed of light in vacuum is 3 x 108 ms-1.

Answer-

Refractive index of a medium (nm) = Speed of light in vacuum/Speed of light in

the medium

Speed of light in vacuum (c) = 3 × 108 m/s

Refractive index of glass (ng) = 1.50

Speed of light in the glass (v) = Speed of light in vacuum/ Refractive index of glass

= c/ng

=3 × 108/1.50 = 2x 108 ms-1.

3. Find out, from the table, the medium having the highest optical density. Also,
find the medium with the lowest optical density.

Material Refractive index Material medium Refractive

index
medium

Air 1.0003 Canada Balsam 1.53

Ice 1.31 – –

Water 1.33 Rock salt 1.54

Alcohol 1.36 – –

Kerosene 1.44 Carbon disulphide 1.63

Fused 1.46 Dense 1.65

quartz flint glass

Turpentine oil 1.47 Ruby 1.71

 Benzene 1.50 Sapphire 1.77

Crown 1.52 Diamond 2.42

glass

Answer-

Lowest optical density = Air

Highest optical density = Diamond

The optical density of a medium is directly related to its refractive index. A medium
with the highest refractive index will have the highest optical density and vice-
versa.

It can be observed from the table that air and diamond, respectively have the
lowest and highest refractive index. Hence, air has the lowest optical density and
diamond has the highest optical density.

4. You are given kerosene, turpentine and water. In which of these does the light
travel fastest? Use the information given in the table.

Material Refractive index Material medium Refractive

index
medium

Air 1.0003 Canada Balsam 1.53

Ice 1.31 – –

Water 1.33 Rock salt 1.54

Alcohol 1.36 – –

Kerosene 1.44 Carbon disulphide 1.63

Fused 1.46 Dense 1.65

quartz flint glass

Turpentine oil 1.47 Ruby 1.71

 Benzene 1.50 Sapphire 1.77

Crown 1.52 Diamond 2.42

glass

Answer-

Light travels faster in water as compared to kerosene & turpentine, as the

refractive index of water is lower than that of kerosene and turpentine. The speed
of light is inversely proportional to the refractive index.

5. The refractive index of diamond is 2.42. What is the meaning of this

statement?

Answer-

A diamond has a refractive index of 2.42, which means that the speed of light in a
diamond will reduce by a factor of 2.42 as compared to its speed in the air.

In other words, the speed of light in a diamond is 1/2.42 times the speed of light in a
vacuum.

Page No: 184

1. Define 1 dioptre of power of a lens.

Answer-

Dioptre is the SI unit of power of lens is denoted by the letter D. 1 dioptre can be
defined as the power of a lens of focal length 1 metre.

2. A convex lens forms a real and inverted image of a needle at a distance of 50

cm from it. Where is the needle placed in front of the convex lens if the image is
equal to the size of the object? Also, find the power of the lens.

Answer-

The position of the image should be at 2F since the image is real and the same
size.

It is given that the image of the needle is formed at a distance of 50 cm from the
convex lens. Therefore, the needle is placed in front of the lens at a distance of 50
cm.

Object distance (u) = – 50 cm

Image distance, (v) = 50 cm

Focal length = f

According to the lens formula,

3. Find the power of a concave lens of focal length 2 m.

Answer-

The focal length of the concave lens (f) = 2 m

Power of lens (P) = 1/f = 1/ (-2) = -0.5D

Page No: 185

Exercise

1. Which one of the following materials cannot be used to make a lens?

(a) Water

(b) Glass

(c) Plastic

(d) Clay

Answer –

(d) Clay cannot be used to make a lens because if the lens is made up of clay, the
light rays cannot pass through it

2. The image formed by a concave mirror is observed to be virtual, erect and

larger than the object. Where should be the position of the object?

(a) Between the principal focus and the centre of curvature

(b) At the centre of curvature

(c) Beyond the centre of curvature

(d) Between the pole of the mirror and its principal focus.

Answer-

(d) The position of the object should be between the pole of the mirror and its
principal focus.

3. Where should an object be placed in front of a convex lens to get a real image
of the size of the object?

(a) At the principal focus of the lens

(b) At twice the focal length

(c) At infinity

(d) Between the optical centre of the lens and its principal focus.

Answer –

(b) The object should be placed at twice the focal length

4. A spherical mirror and a thin spherical lens have a focal length of -15 cm. The
mirror and the lens are likely to be

(a) both concave

(b) both convex

(c) the mirror is concave, and the lens is convex

(d) the mirror is convex, but the lens is concave

Answer –

(a) Both are likely to be concave.

Page No: 186

5. No matter how far you stand from a mirror, your image appears erect. The
mirror is likely to be

(a) plane

(b) concave
(c) convex

(d) either plane or convex

Answer –

(d) The mirrors are likely to be either plane or convex

6. Which of the following lenses would you prefer to use while reading small
letters found in a dictionary?

(a) A convex lens of focal length 50 cm

(b) A concave lens of focal length 50 cm

(c) A convex lens of focal length 5 cm

(d) A concave lens of focal length 5 cm

Answer –

(c) A convex lens of focal length 5 cm can be used while reading small letters
found in a dictionary

7. We wish to obtain an erect image of an object, using a concave mirror of focal

length 15 cm. What should be the range of distance of the object from the mirror?
What is the nature of the image? Is the image larger or smaller than the object?
Draw a ray diagram to show the image formation in this case.

Answer-

Range of the distance of the object = 0 to 15 cm from the pole of the mirror.

Nature of the image = virtual, erect, and larger than the object.

8. Name the type of mirror used in the following situations.

(a) Headlights of a car

(b) Side/rear-view mirror of a vehicle

(c) Solar furnace

Support your answer with a reason.

Answer-
(a) Concave Mirror: Concave mirrors can produce a powerful parallel beam of
light when the light source is placed at their principal focus.

(b) Convex Mirror: Because of its largest field of view.

(c) Concave Mirror: Because it concentrates the parallel rays of the sun at a
principal focus.

9. One-half of a convex lens is covered with black paper. Will this lens produce a
complete image of the object? Verify your answer experimentally. Explain your
observations.

Answer-

Yes, it will produce a complete image of the object, as shown in the figure. This can
be verified experimentally by observing the image of a distant object, like a tree on
a screen, when the lower half of the lens is covered with black paper. However, the
intensity or brightness of the image will reduce.

10. An object 5 cm in length is held 25 cm away from a converging lens of focal

length 10 cm. Draw the ray diagram and find the position, size and nature of the
image formed.

Answer-

Height of the object, h0 = 5 cm

Distance of the object from converging lens, u = -25 cm

Focal length of a converging lens, f = 10 cm

Using the lens formula,

Thus, the image is inverted and formed at a distance of 16.7 cm behind the lens
and measures 3.3 cm. The ray diagram is shown below.
11. A concave lens of focal length 15 cm forms an image 10 cm from the lens. How
far is the object placed from the lens? Draw the ray diagram.

Answer-

Focal length of concave lens (OF1), f = – 15 cm

Image distance, v= – 10 cm

According to the lens formula,

The negative value of u indicates that the object is placed 30 cm in front of the
lens. This is shown in the following ray diagram.
12. An object is placed at a distance of 10 cm from a convex mirror of focal length
15 cm. Find the position and nature of the image.

Answer-

Focal length of convex mirror (f) = +15 cm

Object distance (u) = – 10 cm

According to the mirror formula,

The image is located at a distance of 6 cm from the mirror on the other side of the
mirror.

The positive and a value of less than 1 magnification indicates that the image
formed is virtual, erect, and diminished.

13. The magnification produced by a plane mirror is +1. What does this mean?

Answer-
The positive sign means an image formed by a plane mirror is virtual and erect.
Since the magnification is 1, it means that the size of the image is equal to the size
of the object.

14. An object 5 cm is placed at a distance of 20 cm in front of a convex mirror of

radius of curvature 30 cm. Find the position, nature and size of the image.

Answer-

Object distance (u) = – 20 cm

Object height (h) = 5 cm

Radius of curvature (R) = 30 cm

Radius of curvature = 2 × Focal length

R = 2f

f = 15 cm

According to the mirror formula,

The positive value of image height indicates that the image formed is erect.

Hence, the image formed is erect, virtual, and smaller in size.

15. An object of size 7.0 cm is placed at 27 cm in front of a concave mirror of focal
length 18 cm. At what distance from the mirror should a screen be placed so that
a sharply focused image can be obtained? Find the size and nature of the image.

Answer-

Object distance (u) = – 27 cm

Object height (h) = 7 cm

Focal length (f) = – 18 cm

According to the mirror formula,

The negative value of image height indicates that the image formed is inverted.

16. Find the focal length of a lens of power -2.0 D. What type of lens is this?

Answer-

Power of lens (P) = 1/f

P = -2D

f = -1/2 = -0.5 m

A concave lens has a negative focal length. Therefore, it is a concave lens.

17. A doctor has prescribed a corrective lens of power +1.5 D. Find the focal length
of the lens. Is the prescribed lens diverging or converging?
Answer-

Power of lens (P) = 1/f

P = 1.5D

f = 1/1.5 = 10/15 = 0.66 m

A convex lens has a positive focal length. Therefore, it is a convex lens or a

converging lens.

CHEMICAL REACTIONS AND EQUATIONS

In-text questions set 1 Page number – 6

1. Why should a magnesium ribbon be cleaned before burning in the air?

Solution:

Magnesium ribbon should be cleaned before burning in air because Magnesium

metal reacts with the atmospheric oxygen and forms Magnesium Oxide (MgO)
layer which is a very stable compound. In order to prevent further reactions with
Oxygen, it is therefore necessary to clean the ribbon by to remove the layer of MgO.

2. Write a balanced equation for the following chemical reactions.

i) Hydrogen + Chloride —-> Hydrogen chloride

ii) Barium chloride + Aluminium sulphate —-> Barium sulphate + Aluminium

chloride

iii) Sodium + Water —-> Sodium hydroxide + Hydrogen

Solution:

i) H2 + Cl2 → 2HCl

ii) 3BaCl2 + Al2(SO4)3 →3BaSO4 + 2AlCl3

iii) 2Na + 2H2O → 2NaOH + H2

3. Write a balanced chemical equation with state symbols for the following
reactions

i) Solutions of Barium chloride and Sodium sulphate in water react to give

insoluble Barium sulphate and solution of Sodium chloride.
ii) Sodium hydroxide solution in water reacts with the hydrochloric acid solution
to produce Sodium chloride solution and water.

Solution:

i) BaCl2 + Na2SO4 → BaSO4 + 2NaCl

ii) NaOH + HCl → NaCl + H2O

In-text questions set 2 Page number – 10

1. A solution of a substance, ‘X,’ is used for whitewashing.

(i) Name the substance ‘X’ and write its formula.

(ii) Write the reaction of the substance ‘X’ named in (i) above with water.

Solution:

i) The substance ‘X’ which is used in whitewashing is quick lime or Calcium

Oxide and its formula is CaO.

ii) CaO + H2O → Ca(OH)2

2. Why is the amount of gas collected in one of the test tubes in Activity 1.7 double
the amount collected in the other? Name this gas.

Solution:

In activity 1.7, gas collected in one of the test tubes is double of the amount
collected in the other because water gets hydrolysed to release H 2 and O2 gas.
Here, after electrolysis two molecules of Hydrogen and one molecule of oxygen
gas are released; hence, the amount of Hydrogen collected would be double than
that of oxygen.

In-text questions set 3 Page number – 13

1. Why does the colour of copper sulphate solution change when an iron nail is
dipped in it?

Solution:

When an iron nail is dipped in the copper sulphate solution, iron displaces copper
from the copper sulphate because iron is more reactive than copper. Therefore,
the colour of the copper sulphate solution changes. The reaction is

Fe + CuSO4 → FeSO4 + Cu
2. Give an example of a double displacement reaction other than the one given
in Activity 1.10.

Solution:

Reaction Between silver nitrate (AgNO3) and Sodium chloride (NaCl) is an example
of a double displacement reaction. During the reaction, negative and positive ions
trade positions as a result of the formation of white silver chloride precipitate. The
chemical reaction is given below.

Ag+ + NO3– + Na+ + Cl– → AgCl + Na+ + NO3–

3. Identify the substances that are oxidised and that are reduced in the following
equation.

i) 4Na(s) + O2(g) → 2Na2O(s)

ii) CuO(s) + H2(g) → Cu(s) + H2O(l)

Solution:

The Sodium (Na) in the first equation is getting oxidized with the addition of
Oxygen (O2), and the Copper (Cu) in the second equation is reduced due to the
addition of Hydrogen (H2).

Exercise Questions Page number – 14-16

1. Which of the statements about the reaction below are incorrect?

2PbO(s) + C(s) → 2Pb(s) + CO2(g)

(a) Lead is getting reduced

(b) Carbon Dioxide is getting oxidised

(c) Carbon is getting oxidised

(d) Lead oxide is getting reduced

(i) (a) and (b)

(ii) (a) and (c)

(iii) (a), (b) and (c)

(iv) all the above

Solution:
(i) (a) and (b)

Explanation: (a) Because Oxygen is being removed and (b) Because the removed
oxygen from Lead is added to the elemental Carbon.

2. Fe2O3 + 2Al → Al2O3 + 2Fe

The above reaction is an example of a

1. Combination reaction
2. Double displacement reaction
3. Decomposition reaction
4. Displacement reaction
Solution:

The answer is 4. Displacement reaction.

Explanation: The Oxygen from the Ferrous oxide is getting displaced to the
Aluminium metal to form Aluminium Oxide. In this reaction, Aluminum is a more
reactive metal than Fe. Therefore, Al will displace Fe from its oxide. This type of
chemical reaction, called displacement reaction, is in which one of the elements
displaces another. Here, less reactive metal is displaced by more reactive metal.
Since one-time displacement is occurring, it is called a single displacement
reaction.

3. What happens when dilute hydrochloric acid is added to iron fillings? Tick the
correct answer.

1. Hydrogen gas and Iron chloride are produced.

2. Chlorine gas and Iron hydroxide are produced.
3. No reaction takes place.
4. Iron salt and water are produced.
Solution:

1. Hydrogen gas and Iron chloride are produced.

Explanation: The Chlorine from Hydrogen chloride is displaced by the Iron fillings to
undergo the following reaction.

2HCl + Fe → FeCl2 + H2

4. What is a balanced chemical equation? Why should a chemical equation be

balanced?
Solution:

A balanced equation is the one in which number of different atoms on both the
reactant and product sides are equal. Balancing chemical equations is necessary
for the reaction should obey The Law of Conservation of mass. Balancing the
chemical equation has no defined method and is purely a trial-and-error attempt.

5. Translate the following statements into chemical equations and balance

them.

(a) Hydrogen gas combines with nitrogen to form ammonia.

(b) Hydrogen sulphide gas burns in the air to give water and sulphur dioxide.

(c) Barium chloride reacts with aluminium sulphate to give Aluminium chloride
and a precipitate of barium sulphate.

(d) Potassium metal reacts with water to give potassium hydroxide and
Hydrogen gas.

Solution:

(a) Unbalanced: H2 + N2 → NH3

Balanced: 3H2 + N2 → 2NH3

(b) Unbalanced: H2S + O2 → H2O + SO2

Balanced: 2H2S + 3O2 → 2H2O + 2SO2

(c) Unbalanced:

BaCl2 + Al2(SO4)3 → AlCl3 + BaSO4

Balanced: 3BaCl2 + Al2(SO4)3 → 2AlCl3 + 3BaSO4

(d) Unbalanced: K + H2O → KOH + H2

Balanced: 2K + 2H2O → 2KOH + H2

6. Balance the following chemical equations.

(a) HNO3 + Ca(OH)2 → Ca(NO3)2 + H2O

(b) NaOH + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + H2O

(c) NaCl + AgNO3 → AgCl + NaNO3

(d) BaCl2 + H2SO4 → BaSO4 + HCl

Solution:

(a) 2HNO3 + Ca(OH)2 → Ca(NO3)2 + 2H2O

(b) 2NaOH + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + 2H2O

(c) NaCl + AgNO3 → AgCl + NaNO3

(d) BaCl2 + H2SO4 → BaSO4 + 2HCl

7. Write the balanced chemical equation for the following reactions.

Calcium hydroxide + Carbon dioxide —-> Calcium carbonate + Water

Zinc + Silver nitrate —-> Zinc nitrate + Silver

Aluminium + Copper chloride —-> Aluminium chloride + Copper

Barium chloride + Potassium sulphate —-> Barium sulphate + Potassium

chloride

Solution:

2Ca(OH)2 + 2CO2 → 2CaCO3 + 2H2O

Zn + 2AgNO3 → Zn(NO3)2 + 2Ag

2Al + 3CuCl2 → 2AlCl3 + 3Cu

BaCl2 + K2SO4 → BaSO4 + 2KCl

8. Write a balanced chemical equation for the following and identify the type of
reaction of each case.

KBr + BaI2 → KI + BaBr2

ZnCO3 → ZnO + CO2

H2 + Cl → HCl

Mg + HCl → MgCl2 + H2

Solution:

2KBr + BaI2 → 2KI + BaBr2 (Double Displacement Reaction)

ZnCO3 → ZnO + CO2 (Decomposition Reaction)

H2 + Cl → 2HCl (Combination Reaction)

Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2 (Displacement Reaction)

9. What is meant by exothermic and endothermic reactions? Give examples.

Solution:

An endothermic reaction occurs when energy is absorbed from the surroundings

in the form of heat (For example, Photosynthesis, melting of ice, evaporation).
Conversely, an exothermic reaction is one in which energy is released from the
system into the surroundings (Examples: Explosions, concrete setting, nuclear
fission and fusion).

10. Why is respiration considered to be an exothermic reaction?

Solution:

For the survival of life, we require energy. We obtain this energy from the food we
eat. The food molecules, through the process of digestion, is broken down into
simpler molecule like glucose. These substances come in contact with the Oxygen
present in our body cells to form Carbon dioxide and water along with a certain
amount of energy (Respiration process). Since the energy is in the form of heat
(that maintains our body temperature), respiration is considered to be an
exothermic reaction. The reaction taking place is:

C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + Energy

11. Why are decomposition reactions called the opposite of Combination

reactions? Write equations for decomposition reactions.

Solution:

Combination reaction is said to be the reaction between two or more molecules to

form a larger molecule; whereas the decomposition reaction is defined as the
splitting of larger molecules into two or more smaller molecules. This essentially
explains that the decomposition reaction is the opposite of the combination
reaction.

In most cases, the decomposition reaction is endothermic since the heat from the
surrounding or induced heat is used to break the bonds of the larger molecule. A
few examples of decomposition reactions are

ZnCO3 → ZnO + CO2

CaCO3 + Energy → CaO + CO2

2HgO → 2Hg + O2

12. Write one equation each for decomposition reactions in which energy is
supplied in the form of heat, light or electricity.

Solution:

(a) Thermal decomposition reaction (Thermolysis)

Decomposition of potassium chlorate: When heated strongly, potassium chlorate

decomposes into potassium chloride and oxygen. This reaction is used for the
preparation of oxygen.

2KClO3 + Heat → 2KCl + 3O2

(b) Electrolytic decomposition reaction (Electrolysis)

Decomposition of sodium chloride: On passing electricity through molten sodium

chloride, it decomposes into sodium and chlorine.

(c) Photodecomposition reaction (Photolysis)

Decomposition of hydrogen peroxide: In the presence of light, hydrogen peroxide

decomposes into water and oxygen.

13. What is the difference between displacement and double displacement

reactions? Write relevant equations for the above.

Solution:

A displacement reaction is one when a more reactive substance displaces a less

reactive one from its salt solution, whereas a double displacement reaction is one
where a mutual exchange of ions happens between two compounds.

In a displacement reaction, only a single displacement takes place, whereas in the

double displacement reaction, as the name suggests, two displacement takes
place between the molecules.

Example:
Displacement reaction

Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2

Double displacement reaction

2KBr + BaI2 → 2KI + BaBr2

14. In the refining of Silver, the recovery of silver from Silver nitrate solution
involves displacement reaction by Copper metal. Write down the reaction
involved.

Solution:

Cu(s) + 2AgNO3(aq) → Cu(NO3)2(aq) + 2Ag(s)

15. What do you mean by a precipitation reaction? Explain by giving examples.

Solution:

When two solutions containing soluble salts are combined, a double displacement
reaction takes place in which the ions are exchanged between the compounds.
When one of such compounds formed is in solid form (that is insoluble in aqua),
then it settles down at the bottom of the container. This solid is known as the
precipitate and the respective reaction is termed as the precipitation reaction. A
few examples of precipitation reactions are

CdSO4(aq) + K2S(aq) → CdS(s) + K2SO4(aq)

2NaOH(aq) + MgCl2(aq) → 2NaCl(aq) + Mg(OH)2(s)

16. Explain the following in terms of the gain of oxygen with two examples each.

(a) Oxidation

(b) Reduction

Solution:

(a) In a chemical reaction, when the oxygen is added to the element to form its
respective oxide it is the element being oxidised. Example:

4Na(s) + O2(g) → 2Na2O(s)

H2S + O2 → H2O + SO2

(b) In a chemical reaction, when the oxygen is removed from the compound, then
it is said to be reduced. Example:
CuO(s) + H2(g) → Cu(s) + H2O(l)

2HgO → 2Hg + O2

17. A shiny brown coloured element ‘X’ on heating in the air becomes black in
colour. Name the element ‘X’ and the black-coloured compound formed.

Solution:

The shiny brown-coloured element is Copper metal (Cu). When the metal is
heated in air, it reacts with atmospheric oxygen to form copper oxide. Hence, the
black-coloured compound is copper oxide.

2Cu(s) + O2(g) → 2CuO(s)

18) Why do we apply paint on iron articles?

Solution:

Iron articles are painted to prevent them from rusting. When left unpainted, the
metal surface comes in contact with the atmospheric oxygen and in the presence
of moisture it from Iron(III) oxide. But if painted, the surface does not come in
contact with moisture and air, thus prevents Rusting.

19) Oil and Fat containing food items are flushed with Nitrogen. Why?

Solution:

The main purpose of flushing Nitrogen into food packets that contain oil and fat
items is to prevent Rancidity which occurs when the oil or fat reacts with the
oxygen letting out an unpleasant smell and taste. Therefore, by flushing Nitrogen,
an unreactive surrounding is created, thus preventing rancidity.

20) Explain the following terms with one example each.

(a) Corrosion

(b) Rancidity

Solution:

(a) Corrosion is a process where a refined metal is oxidised by atmospheric

oxygen to form a more stable compound, such as oxides. The metal gradually
degrades during the corrosion process. Rusting of iron is a good example of
corrosion where the iron is converted to Iron oxide. Millions of dollars are spent
annually in preventing rusting from bridges and other monuments.
(b) The condition produced by the aerial oxidation of the oil and fat present in the
food material that produces an unpleasant taste and smell. The rancidity is
retarded when the food is kept inside the refrigerator since the low temperature
does not promote the oxidation reaction.

LIFE PROCESSES
Questions Page Number 95

1. Why is diffusion insufficient to meet the oxygen requirements of multicellular

organisms like humans?

Solution:

Multi-cellular organisms like humans have very big bodies and require a lot of
oxygen to diffuse into the body quickly in order to meet the oxygen requirement.
Diffusion is a slow process which will take a lot of time to circulate oxygen to all the
body cells. Because of its slow nature, diffusion is insufficient to meet the oxygen
requirements of multicellular organisms like humans.

2. What criteria do we use to decide whether something is alive?

Solution:

Walking, breathing, growth and other visible changes can be used to determine
whether something is alive or dead. However, some living things will have changes
that are not visible to our eye; Hence, the presence of the life process is a
fundamental criterion to decide whether something is alive.

3. What are outside raw materials used for by an organism?

Solution:

The outside raw material is used by organisms for food and oxygen. Raw materials’
requirement varies on the complexity of the organism and the environment it is
living.

4. What processes would you consider essential for maintaining life?

Solution:
Life processes such as respiration, digestion, excretion, circulation and
transportation are essential for maintaining life.

Questions Page Number 101

1. What are the differences between autotrophic nutrition and heterotrophic

nutrition?

Solution:

Autotrophic Nutrition Heterotrophic Nutrition

Organism prepares its own food An organism that does not prepare its
and is not dependent on any own food and is dependent on other
other organism. organisms for food.

Food is prepared from CO2, Food cannot be prepared from CO2,

water, and sunlight. water, or sunlight.

Chlorophyll is required for food Chlorophyll is not required for food

preparation. preparation.

Green plants and certain All animals and fungi, most bacteria,
bacteria have autotrophic have heterotrophic modes of nutrition.
modes of nutrition.

2. Where do plants get each of the raw materials required for photosynthesis?

Solution:

Plants require the following raw material for photosynthesis:

1. CO2 is obtained from the atmosphere through stomata

2. Water is absorbed by plant roots from the soil.
3. Sunlight is an essential raw material for photosynthesis
4. Nutrients are obtained by soil by plant roots
3. What is the role of the acid in our stomach?
Solution:

HCl present in the stomach dissolves food particles and creates an acidic
medium. In an acidic environment, protein-digesting enzymes, pepsinogen, are
converted into pepsin. HCl in the stomach also acts as a protective barrier against
many disease-causing pathogens.

4. What is the function of digestive enzymes?

Solution:

Digestive enzymes break complex food molecules into simpler ones. This will make
the food absorption process easy and effective. Absorbed food is transported to all
parts of the body by the blood.

5. How is the small intestine designed to absorb digested food?

Solution:

The small intestine has small projections called microvilli, which increase the
surface volume, making the absorption more effective. Within the villi, there are
numerous blood vessels that absorb digested food and carry it to the
bloodstream. Blood transports food to each part of our body.

Questions Page Number 105

1. What advantage over an aquatic organism does a terrestrial organism have

with regard to obtaining oxygen for respiration?

Solution:

Terrestrial organisms breathe by using atmospheric oxygen, whereas aquatic

organisms take oxygen dissolved in water. The oxygen level is high in the
atmosphere when compared to oxygen in the water. Hence, terrestrial organisms
need not breathe fast to obtain organisms, whereas aquatic organisms need to
breathe faster to get the required oxygen.

2. What are the different ways in which glucose is oxidised to provide energy in
various organisms?

Solution:

In the cytoplasm, Glucose is first broken down into two 3 carbon compounds
called pyruvate by the process known as Glycolysis. Further breakdown takes
place in different organisms by different processes.
3. How are oxygen and carbon dioxide transported in human beings?

Solution:

Oxygen and Carbon dioxide are transported in human beings via the bloodstream.
Oxygen is carried to the cells, whereas carbon dioxide is carried away from the
cells. The exchange of gases takes place between the alveoli of the lungs and the
surrounding blood capillaries. Oxygen is absorbed by the blood capillaries from
the lungs’ alveoli by diffusion, while carbon dioxide is absorbed by the lungs’ alveoli
from the blood capillaries by diffusion.

4. How are the lungs designed in human beings to maximise the area for the
exchange of gases?

Solution:

• The lungs are an important part of the body. The passage inside the lungs
divides into smaller and smaller tubes, which finally terminate in balloon-like
structures called alveoli.
• The alveoli provide a surface where the exchange of gases can take place.
The walls of the alveoli usually contain an extensive network of blood vessels.
We know that when we breathe in, we lift our ribs, flatten our diaphragm and
the chest cavity becomes larger.
• Because of this action, the air is sucked into the lungs and fills up the
expanded alveoli.
• The blood brings the essential carbon dioxide from the rest of the body and
supplies it to the alveoli; the oxygen in the alveolar air is taken up by the
blood in the alveolar blood vessels to be transported to all other cells of the
body. During the normal breathing cycle, when air is taken in and let out, the
lungs always contain a residual volume of air so that there is sufficient time
for oxygen to be absorbed and carbon dioxide to be released.
Questions Page Number 110
1. What are the components of the transport system in human beings? What are
the functions of these components?

Solution:

The heart, blood and blood vessels are the main components of the transport
system in human beings.

Functions of these components

Heart

The heart pumps oxygenated blood throughout the body. It receives

deoxygenated blood from the various body parts and sends impure blood to the
lungs for oxygenation.

Blood

Blood transports oxygen, nutrients, CO2, and nitrogenous wastes.

Blood vessels

Blood vessels, arteries and veins carry blood to all parts of the body.

2. Why is it necessary to separate oxygenated and deoxygenated blood in

mammals and birds?

Solution:

Mammals and birds are warm-blooded animals which keep their body
temperature constant irrespective of the environment they live. This process
requires a lot of oxygen for more cellular respiration so that warm-blooded
animals produce more energy to balance their body temperature. Hence, it is very
important for warm-blooded animals to separate oxygenated and deoxygenated
blood to keep their circulatory system efficient.

3. What are the components of the transport system in highly organised plants?

Solution:

There are two types of conducting tissues in highly organised plants that carry out
the transport system 1) Xylem 2) Phloem. Xylem conduct water and minerals from
roots to the rest of the plant parts. Similarly, Phloem transports food materials from
the leaf to other parts of the plant.

4. How are water and minerals transported in plants?

Solution:

Xylem parts of the tracheids and vessels of roots, stems and leaves are
interconnected to form a continuous system of water-conducting channels that
reaches all parts of the plant. Transpiration creates a suction pressure which
forces water into the xylem cells of roots. After this, there will be a steady
movement of water from the root xylem to all parts of the plant connected through
conducting interconnected water-conducting channels.

5. How is food transported in plants?

Solution:

Food is transported in plants by a special organ called the phloem. Phloem

transports food materials from leaves to different parts of a plant. Transportation
of food in phloem is achieved by the expenditure of energy from ATP. This
increases osmotic pressure in the tissue, causing water to move. This pressure
moves material in the Phloem to the tissues with less pressure. This helps in the
transportation of food materials as per the needs. Example, Sucrose

Questions Page Number 112

1. Describe the structure and functioning of nephrons.

Solution:

Nephrons are the filtration units of the kidney, which are large in numbers. Some
substances in the initial filtrate, such as glucose, amino acids, salts and a major
amount of water, are selectively re-absorbed as the urine flows along the tube.

The main components of Nephrons are

Glomerulus

Bowman’s Capsule

Long Renal Tube

Structure of Nephron
Functioning of Nephron

• The blood enters the kidney through the renal artery, which branches into
many capillaries associated with the glomerulus.
• The water and solute are transferred to the nephron at Bowman’s capsule.
• In the proximal tubule, substances such as amino acids, glucose, and salts
are selectively reabsorbed, and unwanted molecules are added to the urine.
• The filtrate then moves down into the loop of Henle, where more water is
absorbed. From here, the filtrate moves upwards into the distal tubule and
finally to the collecting duct. The collecting duct collects urine from many
nephrons.
• The urine formed in each kidney enters a long tube called the ureter. From
the ureter, it gets transported to the urinary bladder and then into the
urethra.
2. What are the methods used by plants to get rid of excretory products?

Solution:

Plants can get rid of excess water by transpiration.

For other wastes, plants use the fact that many of their tissues consist of dead cells
and that they can even lose some parts, such as leaves. Many plant waste
products are stored in cellular vacuoles. Waste products may be stored in leaves
that fall off.

Other waste products are stored as resins and gums, especially in old xylem.
Plants also excrete some waste substances into the soil around them.

3. How is the amount of urine produced regulated?

Solution:

The amount of urine produced depends on the amount of excess water and
dissolved waste present in the body. Other factors may be the environment and
the ADH hormone, which regulates the production of urine.

Questions Page Number 113

1. The kidneys in human beings are a part of the system for

(a) nutrition

(b) respiration
(c) excretion

(d) transportation

Solution:

The answer is (c) excretion

The excretory system of human beings (Fig. 6.13) includes a pair of kidneys, a pair
of ureters, a urinary bladder and a urethra. Kidneys are located in the abdomen,
one on either side of the backbone. Urine produced in the kidneys passes through
the ureters into the urinary bladder, where it is stored until it is released through the
urethra.

2. The xylem in plants is responsible for

(a) transport of water

(b) transport of food

(c) transport of amino acids

(d) transport of oxygen

Solution:

In plants, the Xylem is responsible for the transport of water. Hence, the answer is
(a)

3. The autotrophic mode of nutrition requires

(a) carbon dioxide and water

(b) chlorophyll

(c) sunlight

(d) all of the above

Solution:

The autotrophic mode of nutrition requires carbon dioxide, water, chlorophyll and
sunlight from the preparation of food. Hence, the answer is (d) all of the above.

4. The breakdown of pyruvate to give carbon dioxide, water, and energy takes
place in

(a) cytoplasm.
(b) mitochondria

(c) chloroplast

(d) nucleus

Solution:

The breakdown of pyruvate to give carbon dioxide, water and energy take place in
mitochondria. Hence, the answer is (b) mitochondria

5. How are fats digested in our bodies? Where does this process take place?

Solution:

• The small intestine is the place for the complete digestion of carbohydrates,
fats and proteins. It receives the secretions of the liver and pancreas for this
purpose.
• The food coming from the stomach is usually acidic in nature, and it has to
be made alkaline so that pancreatic enzymes can act on it. Bile juice
produced in the liver accomplishes this process.
• Fats are usually present in the intestine in the form of larger globules, which
makes it difficult for enzymes to act on them. The bile salts help in breaking
down larger globules into smaller globules. The pancreas helps in secreting
pancreatic juice, which contains enzymes like trypsin for digesting proteins
and lipase for breaking down emulsified fats.
• The walls of the small intestine contain glands, which secrete intestinal juice.
The enzymes present in it finally convert the proteins to amino acids,
complex carbohydrates into glucose and finally, fats into fatty acids and
glycerol.
6. What is the role of saliva in the digestion of food?

Solution:

The food we intake is complex in nature; if it is to be absorbed from the alimentary

canal, then it has to be broken into smaller molecules. This process is mainly done
with the help of biological catalysts called enzymes. The saliva contains an
enzyme called salivary amylase that breaks down starch, which is a complex
molecule to give sugar. The food is mixed thoroughly with saliva and moved
around the mouth while chewing the muscular tongue. Hence, saliva plays a
pivotal role in the digestion and absorption of food.
7. What are the necessary conditions for autotrophic nutrition, and what are its
byproducts?

Solution:

• The energy and carbon requirements of the autotrophic organism are

obtained by the process of photosynthesis.
• It is defined as the process by which autotrophs take in substances from the
outside surroundings and convert them into stored forms of energy.
• This substance is taken in the form of carbon dioxide and water, which are
converted into carbohydrates in the presence of sunlight and chlorophyll.
• The main purpose of carbohydrates is to provide energy to the plant. The
carbohydrates are not utilised immediately, but they are stored in the form of
starch, which serves as an internal energy reserve.
• The stored energy can be used as and when required by the plant.
8. What are the differences between aerobic and anaerobic respiration? Name
some organisms that use the anaerobic mode of respiration.

Solution:

Aerobic respiration

• The process takes place in the presence of free oxygen.

• The products of aerobic respiration are CO2, water and energy.
• The first step of aerobic respiration (glycolysis) takes place in the cytoplasm,
while the next step takes place in mitochondria.
• The process of aerobic respiration takes place in all higher organisms.
• In this process, complete oxidation of glucose takes place.
Anaerobic respiration

• The process takes place in the absence of free oxygen.

• The products of anaerobic respiration are ethyl alcohol, CO2 and a little
energy.
• Even in anaerobic respiration, the first step takes place in the cytoplasm,
while the next step takes place in mitochondria.
• In this process, the glucose molecules are incompletely broken down.
• The process of anaerobic respiration takes place in lower organisms like
yeast, some species of bacteria and parasites like tapeworms.
9. How are the alveoli designed to maximise the exchange of gases?
Solution:

• The lung is an important part of the body. The passage inside the lungs
divides into smaller and smaller tubes, which finally terminate in balloon-like
structures called alveoli.
• The alveoli provide a surface where the exchange of gases can take place.
The walls of the alveoli usually contain an extensive network of blood vessels.
We know that when we breathe in, we lift our ribs, flatten our diaphragm and
the chest cavity becomes larger.
• Because of this action, the air is sucked into the lungs and fills up the
expanded alveoli.
• The blood brings the essential carbon dioxide from the rest of the body and
supplies it to the alveoli; the oxygen in the alveolar air is taken up by the
blood in the alveolar blood vessels to be transported to all other cells of the
body. During the normal breathing cycle, when air is taken in and let out, the
lungs always contain a residual volume of air so that there is sufficient time
for oxygen to be absorbed and carbon dioxide to be released.
10. What would be the consequences of a deficiency of haemoglobin in our
bodies?

Solution:

Haemoglobin is a protein responsible for the transportation of oxygen to the body

cells for cellular respiration. A deficiency of Haemoglobin can affect the oxygen-
carrying capacity of RBCs. This lead to a lack of oxygen in our body cells.
Haemoglobin deficiency leads to a disease called anaemia.

11. Describe the double circulation of blood in human beings. Why is it

necessary?

Solution:

Double circulation means, in a single cycle, blood goes twice in the heart. The
process helps in separating oxygenated and deoxygenated blood to maintain a
constant body temperature.

The double circulatory system of blood includes

• Pulmonary circulation
• Systemic circulation.
Pulmonary circulation
The right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood into the lungs, where it is
oxygenated. The oxygenated blood is brought back to the left atrium, and from
there, it is pumped into the left ventricle. Finally, blood goes into the aorta for
systemic circulation.

Systemic circulation

The oxygenated blood is pumped to various parts of the body from the left
ventricle. The deoxygenated blood from different parts of the body passes through
the vena cava to reach the right atrium. The right atrium transfers the blood into
the right ventricle.

826
12. What are the differences between the transport of materials in the xylem and
phloem?

Solution:

Transport of Materials in Xylem Transport of Materials in Phloem

Xylem tissue helps in the transport of Phloem tissue helps in the transport
water and minerals. of food.

Water is transported upwards from Food is transported in both upward

roots to all other plant parts. and downward directions.

291
13. Compare the functioning of alveoli in the lungs and nephrons in the kidneys
with respect to their structure and functioning.

Solution:

Alveoli Nephrons

Structure Structure
(i) Alveoli are tiny balloon-like
structures present inside the
lungs.
(ii) The walls of the alveoli are
one cell thick, and it contains an
extensive network of blood
capillaries.
Function
(i) The exchange of O2 and
CO2 takes place between the
blood of the capillaries that
surround the alveoli and the
gases present in the alveoli.
(ii) Alveoli are the site of gaseous
exchange.
(i) Nephrons are tubular structures
present inside the kidneys.
(ii) Nephrons are made of glomerulus,
Bowman’s capsule, and a long renal
tube.
Function
(i) The blood enters the kidneys
through the renal artery. The blood is
entered here, and the nitrogenous
waste in the form of urine is collected
by the collecting duct.
(ii) Nephrons are the basic filtration
unit.