Grade 10: Nature and Enviroment

 

UNIT 6: NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ).      [1 mark each]

1.    Who proposed the term ecosystem?

a) Charles Darwin              b) A.G. Tansley                 c) Haeckel                   d) F. Clement

2.    Which of the following is correct about climate change?

a)    Climate change is a regular process, it occurs naturally.

b)    Climate change is a result of human activities.

c)    Climate change is nothing but just an imagination.

d)    Climate change is a natural process but it is triggered by human activities as well.

3.    Which of the following is the effect of climate change?

a) volcanic eruption           b) industrialization   c) loss of biodiversity   d) irregular rainfall

4.    Which of the following activities contribute the most carbon emission globally?

a) Agriculture                    b) Transport            c) Forestry        d) Energy supply

5.    What is NAPA stand for?

a)    National adaption plan for action

b)    National application programme of adaptation

c)    National adaptation plan of action

d)    Nepal adaptation plan for action

6.    When was Kyoto protocol declared?

a) 1992 AD             b) 1995 AD             c) 1997 AD             d) 1999 AD

7.    In terms of efficiency, the most potent greenhouse gas is ………….

a) NO₂                               b) CH₄                               c) CO₂                        d) CFC

8.    Why are rhino poached?

a) for their eyes                  b) for their nails                 c) for their skin            d) for their horns

9.    Which part of Bojho is used as medicine?

a) rhizome                         b) leaf           c) root                     d) fruit

10. a

 

Answers: 1(b), 2(d), 3(d), 4(d), 5(c), 6 (c), 7(c), 8(d), 9(a)

Very Short Question Answer [ 1 mark each]

1.    What is ecosystem?

An ecosystem can be defined as a self-sustaining structural and functional unit of the biosphere consisting of a community of living organisms and physical environment.

2.    Define climate.

Climate is the atmospheric phenomenon over a long period of time.

3.    What is climate change?

Climate change refers to the variation in the earth global climate or regional climate over time.

4.    What is global warming?

The average rise in temperature of the earth’s lower layer of atmosphere including sea and ocean.

5.    What do you mean by green house gases?

Greenhouse gases are gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat and contribute to the greenhouse effect. These gases include carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N2O), and fluorinated gases.

6.    What is greenhouse effect?

The greenhouse effect is a process of increasing global temperature of the earth surface due to the trapping of infra-radiation of solar heat by greenhouse gases in the earth atmosphere.

7.    Define adaptation of climate change.

Adaptation of climate change refers to the process of adjustment to actual or expected climate and its effects.

8.    Define mitigation of climate change.

Mitigation of climate change are the actions to limit the emission of green house gases in the atmosphere.

9.    What are medicinal plants?

Medicinal plants are those plants that contain substances in one or more of their organs which can be used for therapeutic purposes or as precursors for the synthesis of useful drugs.

10. Mention any one suggestion to preserve endangered animals. (SEE 2081, LP)

One suggestion to preserve endangered animals is to protect their natural habitats by establishing wildlife reserves and national parks.

11. Write an example of endangered species of Nepal.

One horned rhino is an example of endangered species.

12. Write an example of medicinal plant of Nepal.

Jatamasi is an example of medicinal plant of Nepal.

13. Name any two protected species of reptiles in Nepal.

Python molurus and Gavialis gangeticus are the two protected species of reptiles in Nepal.

Short Answer Questions: [2 marks each]

1.    What are the causes of climate change?

The causes of climate change are as follows:

a)    Natural causes: It includes change in solar radiation, change in earth’s orbit, axial and precession, tectonic movement, volcanic eruption, etc.

b)    Anthropogenic causes: It includes industrialization, over use of fossil fuels, deforestation, use of chemical fertilizers and modernization.

2.    Write the differences between weather and climate.

The differences between weather and climate are:

Weather	Climate
1.    Weather refers to the change in atmospheric condition over a short period of time.	1.    Climate refers to the long term pattern of weather condition over years, decades and centuries.
2.    Weather is a short tem fluctuation in temperature, pressure, humidity, etc.	2.    Climate is the average weather condition.
3.    Weather condition may vary significantly with a small area.	3.    Climate encompasses a broader region.
4.    Weather forecast is based on prediction.	4.    It is based on analysis of weather condition.

 

3.    Differentiate between global warming and climate change.

The differences between global warming and climate change are as follows:

Global warming	Climate Change
1.    Global warming is a long term increase in earth’s temperature.	1.    Climate change is a long term change in earth’s climatic condition.
2.    Global warming includes rise in temperature.	2.    Climate change includes rise or fall in temperature.
3.    It causes melting of ice and snow and rise in level of water in sea and ocean.	3.    Climate change may cause melting or freezing of ice and snow.

 

4.    Change in the rain pattern is the main effect of climate change. Why?

Current status of climate change rising temperatures which intensifies the Earth’s water cycle, increasing evaporation. Increased evaporation resulting in more frequent and intense storms, but may also contribute to drying over some land areas. As a result, storm-affected areas are likely to experience increases in precipitation and flooding, while areas located far from storm tracks are likely to experience less precipitation and increased risk of drought. It is likely that in a warmer climate heavy rainfall can increase and be produced by fewer more intense events. This could lead to longer dry spells and a higher risk of floods. Thus, change in rain pattern is the main effect of climate change.

5.    Climate change is the main cause of extinction of animals, why?

Climate change is considered as the significant contributing factor of extinction of animals. As the climate change occur there is change in temperature, precipitation, rise and fall in sea level, melting of ice and snow, draught, flood, etc. These changes bring the loss of habitat, migration and extinction due to limited option for the survival.

6.    Greenhouse gases causes global warming, why?

Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), and certain industrial gases, have the ability to absorb and re-emit infrared radiation. This process allows them to trap heat energy and prevent it from escaping into space. The presence of green house gases in the atmosphere maintain optimum temperature but due to the high increment in the atmosphere due to industrialization, urbanization and excessive emission of greenhouse gases causes rise in temperature of the earth leading to global warming. Thus, greenhouse gases cause global warming.

7.    Write a short note on Titepati.

Titepati (Mugwort) is a widely available medicinal plant in Nepal known for its natural preservative, pesticide, and therapeutic properties1.

• Its extracts and oils act as natural food preservatives that inhibit microbial growth and serve as an organic pesticide against agricultural pests.
• Dried Titepati is traditionally used by farmers as litter or bedding material for livestock to maintain farm hygiene and control insects.
• It is used in Ayurvedic preparations, cosmetic products, perfumes, and herbal remedies for skin conditions.

8.    Red panda and swamp deer are endangered animals. Give reason.

Red pandas and swamp deer are classified as endangered species due to several factors:

• Rapid deforestation, urban expansion, and human encroachment have fragmented their natural habitats and wetlands.
• Illegal hunting and trade for the Red Panda's fur and the Swamp Deer's antlers and hide have severely depleted their populations.

9.    Neem is very useful medicinal plant. Why?

Neem is considered an exceptionally valuable medicinal plant because:

• Neem leaves and oil possess strong antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral qualities that help treat skin infections, scabies, and wounds.
• Neem oil is used as a natural preservative and safe eco-friendly insecticide to protect agricultural crops without soil or water pollution.

10. Tulsi is called life supporting herb, Why?

Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum or Holy Basil) is called a life-supporting herb because:

·      It contains potent antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that boost immunity and treat common ailments like coughs, cold, fever, and throat infections when boiled in water.

·      Daily consumption helps stimulate appetite, improve digestion, and reduce physical stress.

11. Medicinal plant are highly useful for human beings.

Medicinal plants are vital to human health and well-being for several reasons:

• They provide accessible and affordable healthcare solutions with minimal side effects compared to synthetic drugs78.
• Herbs like Asuro, Gurjo, and Ghod tapre form the basis of Ayurvedic treatments and modern medicine for conditions like respiratory ailments, diabetes, and skin disorders.
• They serve as natural food preservatives and non-toxic bio-pesticides, reducing reliance on harmful industrial chemicals12.

12. We should conserve wild animals. Why?

Wild animal conservation is critical because:

• Every animal species plays a distinct role in maintaining balanced food webs and ecosystem stability.

Conserving wildlife prevents the irreversible loss of rare species, protects genetic diversity, and supports eco-tourism and scientific research.

13. Deforestation is one of the cause of climate change. Justify.

Deforestation directly drives global climate change through the following mechanisms:

1.    Green plants absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) during photosynthesis to produce food. Trees naturally act as carbon sinks.

2.    Deforestation reduces the number of trees available to filter CO₂, causing an abnormal accumulation of CO₂ gas in the atmosphere.

3.    CO₂ is a major greenhouse gas that traps solar radiation reflected from the Earth's surface.

4.    Excess CO₂ leads to global warming, erratic weather cycles, and climate change.

 

Very long Answer Questions:

1.     What are the evidences of climate change?

The evidences of climate change are:

a)    There is clear evidence of increasing global temperatures over the past century.

b)    Ice caps, glaciers, and ice sheets around the world have been melting at an accelerated rate.

c)    As the Earth's temperature warms, the expansion of seawater and the melting of land-based ice contribute to rising sea levels.

d)    Increased carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from human activities are being absorbed by the oceans, causing a chemical reaction that leads to ocean acidification.

e)    Climate change has been linked to more frequent and intense extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, heavy rainfall, hurricanes, and wildfires.

f)     Climate change affects ecosystems and species distribution. Many plant and animal species are experiencing changes in their ranges, migration patterns, timing of life cycles, and interactions with other species.

g)    Climate change influences rainfall patterns, resulting in changes in the frequency, intensity, and distribution of precipitation. Some regions experience more frequent and severe droughts, while others face increased rainfall and flooding.

h)    Atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide have increased dramatically since the Industrial Revolution, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels. 

Very long Answer Questions:

1.     What are the evidences of climate change?

The evidences of climate change are:

a)    There is clear evidence of increasing global temperatures over the past century.

b)    Ice caps, glaciers, and ice sheets around the world have been melting at an accelerated rate.

c)    As the Earth's temperature warms, the expansion of seawater and the melting of land-based ice contribute to rising sea levels.

d)    Increased carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from human activities are being absorbed by the oceans, causing a chemical reaction that leads to ocean acidification.

e)    Climate change has been linked to more frequent and intense extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, heavy rainfall, hurricanes, and wildfires.

f)     Climate change affects ecosystems and species distribution. Many plant and animal species are experiencing changes in their ranges, migration patterns, timing of life cycles, and interactions with other species.

g)    Climate change influences rainfall patterns, resulting in changes in the frequency, intensity, and distribution of precipitation. Some regions experience more frequent and severe droughts, while others face increased rainfall and flooding.

h)    Atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide have increased dramatically since the Industrial Revolution, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels.

2.     Top of FormWhat are the causes of climate change? Explain any two of them.

The causes of climate change are:

Climate change is primarily driven by human activities that abnormally increase the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, intensifying the natural greenhouse effect and raising Earth's average global temperature.

The primary causes of climate change include: Increase in greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, burning of fossil fuels, rapid industrialization and air pollution

Two of the causes are explained below:

1. Excessive Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The Earth's atmosphere naturally contains greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) methane (CH₄) nitrous oxide (N₂O), and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which help retain some solar warmth to support life. However, industrial operations, pollution, and unsustainable human activities release vast quantities of these gases into the air. This excess layer of greenhouse gases traps the solar radiation reflected from the Earth's surface and prevents heat rays from escaping into space. As a result, global temperatures rise abnormally, causing climate change.

2. Deforestation: Forests act as major natural carbon sinks. Green plants continuously absorb carbon dioxide gas from the atmosphere during photosynthesis to manufacture carbohydrates. Large-scale deforestation, drastically reduces the planet's capacity to absorb CO₂. Consequently, carbon dioxide accumulates excessively in the atmosphere, strengthening the greenhouse effect and accelerating global warming.

3.     aWhat are national efforts against climate change?

Nepal has been actively performing the activities related to climate change management ever since it became a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1994. The national efforts made by Nepal to combat climate change are:

a)    Climate change council 2009

b)    Multi-stakeholder Climate Change Initiatives Coordination Committee 2010

c)    National Climate change policy 2011

d)    Forest conservation and REED+.

e)    National communication report

f)     Climate Change Adaptation Strategy Program 2004

g)    National adaptation program

h)    Local Adaptation plan for Action 2011 AD

4.     Mention the measures or management of climate change.

The measures or management of climate change are:

a)    Deforestation should be discouraged and afforestation in barren land should be encouraged.

b)    Water resources should be conserved and well managed.

c)    Dependency on fossil fuel should be minimized by adapting alternative sources of energy.

d)    Environmental pollution should be minimized by proper management of industrial gases.

e)    Over use of chemical fertilizers and insecticides should be discourage by using compost or green manure and natural insecticides.

f)     Unmanaged development work should be controlled.

g)    The use of chloroflurocarbons should be banned.

5.     Describe the international efforts made for the adaptation and mitigation of climate change in short.

International efforts made for the adaption and mitigation of climate change includes various agreements, initiatives and frameworks. Some of the international efforts for the adaptation and mitigation of climate change are mentioned below:

a)    Earth Summit I (1992): It was held in Rio de Jenerio of Brazil by United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC). The conference mainly focused on global warming, forest protection, biodiversity conservation, Agenda 21 and Rio declaration.

b)    Kyoto Protocol (1997): The Kyoto Protocol, aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It introduced binding emission reduction targets for developed countries and established mechanisms such as emissions trading and clean development projects.

c)    Earth Summit II (1997): It was held in New York in June 1997 AD. The primary objective of Earth Summit II was to secure renewed political commitment for sustainable development and to assess progress made since the original Earth Summit. The conference focused on two main themes: (1) a green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication, and (2) the institutional framework for sustainable development.

d)    Inter government panel of climate change (IPCC): It was established in 2007. It is an organization of scientists of different countries who research, analyse and suggest the measure of mitigation and adaptation of climate change.

e)    Paris Agreement 2015: Under the UNFCCC, the Paris Agreement is a landmark international treaty that aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. It sets out commitments for both mitigation and adaptation, with each participating country submitting their own nationally determined contributions (NDCs).

6.     How do human activities cause climate change? Explain in brief.

Human activities cause climate change by increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The greenhouses gases increases because of the burning of fossil fuels in industries and vehicles, uses of chilling agents such as CFCs, excessive use of methane gas, burning of agricultural waste, forest fire, industrial smoke and waste, excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, nuclear tests and war, use of explosives in various construction sectors, deforestation, etc. These activities are in increasing trend due to rapid increase in population throughout the world.

7.     How are seas and oceans affected by climate change?

Climate change is significantly impacting the world's seas and oceans in a variety of ways:

a)      As the climate warms ice and snow covered area starts  melting, accelerating the raise in level of sea water. This leads to increased coastal flooding and erosion, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems.

b)     Over 90% of the excess heat trapped by increased greenhouse gases is stored in the oceans. This warming causes damage to coral reefs and alters patterns of ocean circulation. It also leads to more severe storms and hurricanes.

c)      Increased carbon dioxide emissions leads to more being absorbed by the oceans, causing acidity to rise.

d)     Warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen, and combined with fertilizer runoff, this can create growing “dead zones” where oxygen is too low to support sea life.

e)     As waters warm, many fish and marine species are migrating toward cooler waters near the poles. This disrupts ecosystems, alters fishing yields, and impacts economies.

 

8.     Mention any five endangered animals of terai region with the cause of extinction.

Five Endangered Animals of the Terai Region and Their Causes of Extinction are:

1.     One-horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis):

Causes of extinction: Illegal poaching for its valuable horn, destruction of natural grassland habitats, and human-wildlife conflict.

2.     Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris)

3.     Causes: Poaching for illegal trade of skin and bones, habitat fragmentation, and reduction of natural prey species.

4.     Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus)

5.     Causes: Habitat loss due to human settlement, obstruction of traditional migratory corridors, and retaliation killing during human-elephant conflicts.

6.     Swamp Deer (Rucervus duvaucelii / Barasingha)

Causes: Drainage and reclamation of wetland habitats, illegal hunting, and competition with domestic livestock for grazing.

7.     Gharial Crocodile (Garialis gangeticus)

Causes: Water pollution, destruction of riverbank nesting sites due to illegal sand mining, dam construction, and getting trapped in fishing nets.

9.     How can endangered animals be conserved? Write the methods of conservation.

Endangered animals can be conserved by protecting their natural habitats, enforcing strict legal protections, and managing breeding programs. Conservation methods are categorized into two main approaches:

A. In-situ Conservation (On-site / Natural Habitat)

·       Establishment of Protected Areas: Setting up National Parks, Wildlife Reserves, and Conservation Areas (e.g., Chitwan National Park, Bardiya National Park) to safeguard animals in their native environment.

·       Habitat Management & Corridor Protection: Restoring forest cover, protecting wetlands, and constructing ecological corridors to allow safe migration between habitats.

·       Anti-poaching Measures: Enforcing strict wildlife protection laws and deploying specialized anti-poaching patrols.

B. Ex-situ Conservation (Off-site / Controlled Environment)

·       Breeding Centers & Zoos: Establishing specialized captive breeding facilities (e.g., Gharial Breeding Center in Kasara, Vulture Conservation Center) and zoos to increase endangered populations before reintroducing them into the wild.

·       Gene and Seed Banks: Preserving genetic material (sperm, eggs, embryos) of rare species for future research and artificial propagation.

·       Awareness & Community Participation: Conducting awareness programs and involving local communities in eco-tourism and wildlife stewardship.

10.  Make a list of endangered species of Nepal.

List of Endangered Species of Nepal of Nepal are:

·       Endangered Mammals: Royal Bengal Tiger, One-horned Rhinoceros, Red Panda, Asian Elephant, Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Ganges River Dolphin, Musk Deer.

·       Endangered Birds: Danphe (Himalayan Monal / Lophophorus), Great Hornbill, Bengal Florican, White-rumped Vulture.

·       Endangered Reptiles: Gharial Crocodile, Asian Rock Python.

·       Endangered Flora / Medicinal Plants: Yarshagumba, Panchaule, Lauth Salla (Taxus baccata), Jatamansi.

11.  Write the importance of medicinal plants.

The importance of medicinal plants are:

a)     Provide safe, accessible, and affordable treatments for everyday health conditions (e.g., colds, digestive issues, skin infections) with fewer side effects than synthetic drugs.

b)    Serve as essential active ingredients for traditional Ayurvedic remedies and modern pharmaceutical medicines.

c)     Offer natural bio-pesticides, organic fertilizers, and non-toxic food preservatives (e.g., Neem oil, Titepati extracts), reducing environmental pollution.

d)    Provide sustainable livelihoods and income generation for rural and mountain communities through responsible harvesting, cultivation, and trade.

12.  Write down the use/application of following medicinal plants.

a) Neem          b) ghodtapre              c) Tumeric     d) Heart-leaved moonseeds

Uses and Applications of the given Medicinal Plants are:

a) Neem (Azadirachta indica):

o   Strong antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties used to treat skin infections, acne, eczema, and scabies.

b) Ghodtapre (Centella asiatica / Asiatic Pennywort):

o   Acts as a neuroprotective tonic that enhances memory power, concentration, and cognitive function. Used to treat common colds, skin inflammation, and blood pressure issues.

c) Turmeric (Curcuma longa):

o   Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic compound used for healing wounds and joint pain. Used for treating respiratory ailments, purifying blood, and as a natural yellow food dye.

d) Heart-leaved Moonseed (Tinospora cordifolia / Gurjo):

o   High in antioxidants; acts as an effective immune system booster to fight off viral and bacterial infections. Helps manage diabetes, chronic fever, indigestion, and gout.

 

13.  Write the medicinal use of the given plants.

a) Tulsi            b) Yarshagumba                     c) Asuro                      d) Bojho

a) Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum):

o   Boiled in water with ginger or honey to treat upper respiratory tract infections, asthma, coughs, and fever. Acts as an adaptogen to lower stress levels and boost natural killer cell immunity.

b) Yarshagumba (Ophiocordyceps sinensis / Caterpillar Fungus):

o   Taken as a premium energy booster and general tonic to relieve chronic fatigue and boost stamina. Used in traditional medicine to support kidney, liver, and cardiovascular functions.

c) Asuro (Justicia adhatoda / Malabar Nut):

o   Contains the alkaloid vasicine, which acts as a bronchodilator to clear phlegm and widen airways. Used to cure bronchitis, chronic cough, asthma, and tuberculosis symptoms.

d) Bojho (Acorus calamus / Sweet Flag):

o   The aromatic rhizome (root) is chewed or taken as powder to treat throat pain, hoarseness of voice, and speech disorders. Relieves stomach cramps, indigestion, and acts as a natural insect repellent.

 

14.  Study the given figure and answer the following questions.

a) b)

i. What is shown in fig (a) and (b)?

Figure (a) shows melting of glacier and ice in polar region due to global warming and Figure (b) shows Cracked, dry land showing drought and desertification due to global warming and climate change.

ii. Write down the major cause of the effect shown in fig.(a).

The main cause is the increase in greenhouse gases (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O) in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, raising Earth’s temperature and causing ice to melt.

iii. Write down the methods to reduce the effect shown in figure(b).

The following methods can be helpful to reduce the effect of global warming.

·       planting more trees to retain soil moisture.

·       rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation.

·       solar, wind, hydro instead of fossil fuels.

·       Reduce deforestation and overgrazing.

·       Adopt sustainable farming practices to prevent soil degradation.

 

15.  The rate of melting of ice in polar region is increasing day by day. Describe its cause and suggest measures to reduce this type of change.

The rapid melting of polar and glacial ice is primarily caused by global warming resulting from the enhanced greenhouse effect. Human activities such as industrialization, deforestation, and the excessive burning of fossil fuels release large quantities of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and chlorofluorocarbons into the atmosphere. These gases trap reflected solar radiation and prevent heat from escaping into space, causing an abnormal rise in Earth's average global temperature and accelerating the melting of glaciers and polar ice caps.

• Measures to Reduce Ice Melting:
1. Decrease the consumption of coal and petroleum products and strictly regulate or ban harmful gases like chlorofluorocarbons.
2. Switch to clean, alternative energy sources such as hydroelectricity, solar power, and wind energy to minimize carbon emissions.
3. Plant more trees on a large scale so they can absorb excess atmospheric carbon dioxide through photosynthesis.
4. Adopt energy-efficient technologies in industries and daily transportation to curb overall emissions.

16.  Write down the effects of climate change on agriculture and water resources.

Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture and Water Resources

• Effects on Agriculture:
1. Unpredictable weather shifts, extreme heat, and prolonged droughts directly reduce crop yields.
2. Alterations in the natural water cycle cause irregular rainfall patterns, flash floods, or extended dry spells, disrupting seasonal sowing and harvesting schedules.
3. Rising global temperatures contribute to soil erosion, reduced soil moisture, loss of fertility, and desertification.
• Effects on Water Resources:
1. Changes in temperature disrupt natural precipitation, evaporation, and condensation processes.
2. Rapid melting of Himalayan glaciers and snowpacks creates short-term flooding risks followed by long-term drying of snow-fed rivers.
3. Erratic monsoon cycles lead to severe shortages of fresh drinking and irrigation water in many regions.
4. Heavy flooding and runoff contaminate freshwater lakes and river systems with pollutants, impacting aquatic life.

17.  Write in brief about the impact on human settlement and physical facilities due to climate change.

 Impact of Climate Change on Human Settlement and Physical Facilities

• Impact on Human Settlement:
1. Accelerated melting of polar ice causes sea levels to rise, leading to the flooding, erosion, and potential sinking of coastal settlements.
2. Communities in vulnerable mountain regions and river basins are forced to relocate due to frequent landslides, flash floods, and severe droughts.
3. Warmer temperatures and changing water availability expand the spread of vector-borne and waterborne diseases within human communities.
• Impact on Physical Facilities:
1. Extreme weather events—such as floods, heavy rainfall, and landslides—destroy roads, bridges, hydropower plants, electricity networks, and water distribution systems.
2. Inundation from rising sea levels and river overflows causes severe structural damage to residential homes, schools, and commercial facilities.
3. Recurring damage to physical facilities forces local authorities and governments to divert significant financial resources toward emergency repairs and rebuilding efforts.