A.
1. a. 2. d. 3. d. 4. b. 5. c.
B.
1. tropical, Africa
2. Libyan, highest
3. Bedouins, Tuaregs, Berbirs
4. Ladakh
5. Yak
C.
1. F 2. F 3. T 4. F 5. T
D.
1. e. 2. d. 3. a. 4. b. 5. c
E. Short Answer Type Questions
1. What is the climate of the Sahara Desert?
The Sahara Desert has an extremely hot and dry climate. Days are very hot, while nights can become very cold. Rainfall is very little and irregular, and strong dusty winds are common.
2. What are the different names of the hot, dry and dusty winds that blow in the Sahara Desert?
The hot and dusty winds blowing in the Sahara Desert are known by different names such as Sirocco, Khamsin, and Harmattan in different regions.
3. Why has the Sahara region recently gained economic importance?
The Sahara region has gained economic importance because valuable minerals and resources such as petroleum, natural gas, iron, and uranium have been discovered there.
4. What is the meaning of the word Ladakh? Where is it located?
The word Ladakh means “Land of High Passes.” It is located in the northern part of India in the state of Ladakh, between the Karakoram Range and the Himalayas.
5. What kind of climate is found in Ladakh?
Ladakh has an extremely cold and dry climate. Winters are very cold with heavy snowfall, while summers are short and cool. Rainfall is very low.
F. Long Answer Type Questions
1. What factors are responsible for extreme weather in Ladakh?
Ladakh experiences extreme weather due to its high altitude, which causes low air pressure and cold temperatures. It lies in a rain-shadow area, so it receives very little rainfall.
The region is surrounded by high mountains that block moisture-laden winds. Clear skies also cause strong heating during the day and rapid cooling at night, leading to large temperature differences.
2. What economic activities make Ladakh commercially viable?
The people of Ladakh practise agriculture in summer, growing crops such as barley and vegetables. Animal rearing, especially of yaks and sheep, is also important.
Tourism is a major source of income. Handicrafts, wool products, and trade with nearby regions also contribute to the economy.
3. What wildlife is found in Ladakh and how is it different from Sahara wildlife?
Ladakh has animals adapted to cold climates, such as snow leopard, wild goat, yak, and Tibetan antelope.
In contrast, the Sahara Desert has animals adapted to hot conditions, such as camels, desert foxes, and reptiles. Thus, wildlife differs according to climate.
4. How do people in the Sahara Desert lead a sustainable life?
People in the Sahara practise nomadic herding, trading, and oasis farming. They rear animals like camels, goats, and sheep and move from place to place in search of water and pasture.
Modern transport and mining activities have also provided employment, helping people maintain their livelihood.
5. How are people of the Sahara Desert affected by modernisation?
Modernisation has brought roads, transport, education, and medical facilities to desert regions. Many people now work in mining and oil industries instead of traditional occupations.
However, traditional nomadic lifestyles are gradually decreasing due to these changes.
G. Distinguish Between
1. Natural Vegetation of Sahara Desert and Ladakh
| Sahara Desert | Ladakh |
|---|---|
| Sparse vegetation like cactus and thorny bushes. | Grass and small shrubs in summer. |
| Plants grow near oases. | Vegetation grows only in warmer months. |
2. Economic Activities of Sahara Desert and Ladakh
| Sahara Desert | Ladakh |
|---|---|
| Animal herding, oasis farming, mining. | Agriculture, tourism, animal rearing. |
3. Climate of Sahara Desert and Ladakh
| Sahara Desert | Ladakh |
|---|---|
| Extremely hot and dry. | Extremely cold and dry. |
H. Give Reasons
1. The Bedouins and Tuaregs depend on animals.
Animals provide milk, meat, wool, and transport, which are essential for their survival.
2. The Bedouins and Tuaregs wear loose and light cotton clothes.
Loose clothes protect them from heat and allow air to circulate, keeping the body cool.
3. Mining is an important occupation in the Sahara Desert.
The region contains valuable minerals and oil resources, providing employment to many people.
4. Tourism in summer is the main livelihood in Ladakh.
During summer, tourists visit Ladakh for its scenic beauty and adventure tourism, providing income to local people.