Class 10 Biology Chapter 14
Pollution
Important Questions

Here, you'll find important questions related to Chapter 14 Pollution For ICSE Class 10 Biology. These questions have been crafted to assist students in their preparation for the ICSE Class 10 Biology Examination in 2023–24. By practising various question types, students can clarify their doubts, enhance their exam readiness, boost their confidence, and refine their problem-solving skills

Introduction

Pollution is an ever-growing concern in the modern world, posing significant threats to our environment, health, and well-being. It encompasses the introduction of harmful or toxic substances into the natural environment, leading to detrimental effects on air, water, soil, and all living organisms. In the study of biology, understanding pollution and its impact on ecosystems is crucial for students, forming an integral part of the Class 10 ICSE curriculum.In this exploration, we will delve into the multifaceted issue of pollution, examining its various types, causes, and consequences. Additionally, we will emphasise the importance of addressing important questions for Class 10 ICSE biology related to pollution. These questions play a vital role in equipping students with the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to comprehend the grave challenges posed by pollution and the urgent need for sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

What is Pollution?

Pollution refers to the introduction of harmful or undesirable substances into the natural environment, which can have detrimental effects on the environment, human health, and the well-being of other living organisms. These substances, known as pollutants, can be in the form of chemicals, physical agents, or biological contaminants, and they disrupt the natural balance and quality of air, water, and soil.
Key aspects of pollution include:

• Air Pollution: This type of pollution involves the release of pollutants into the atmosphere. Common air pollutants include particulate matter (tiny particles in the air), gases such as carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, as well as volatile organic compounds. Sources of air pollution include industrial emissions, transportation, and the burning of fossil fuels.
• Water Pollution: Water pollution occurs when contaminants are introduced into water bodies like rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater. Sources of water pollution include industrial discharge, sewage, agricultural runoff, and improper disposal of hazardous materials. Water pollutants can include chemicals, heavy metals, pathogens, and nutrients that lead to algal blooms.
• Soil Pollution: Soil pollution refers to the contamination of the soil with hazardous substances, often as a result of industrial activities, improper waste disposal, or the use of pesticides and fertilisers. Contaminants can affect soil quality, harm plant life, and may even enter the food chain.
• Noise Pollution: Noise pollution is the excessive or disturbing noise that disrupts the natural acoustic environment. It can originate from various sources, including traffic, industrial machinery, and human activities, and has adverse effects on human health and wildlife.
• Light Pollution: Light pollution occurs when artificial light sources, such as streetlights and buildings, interfere with natural nighttime darkness. It can disrupt ecosystems, harm nocturnal animals, and have negative health effects on humans.

Pollution poses serious threats to the environment and human health, contributing to climate change, habitat destruction, and various health problems, including respiratory diseases and waterborne illnesses. It is a global issue that requires concerted efforts in the form of environmental regulations, sustainable practices, and public awareness to mitigate its impacts and protect the planet for future generations. Understanding pollution is a vital component of biology education, and addressing important questions related to pollution for Class 10 ICSE biology is crucial for building awareness and promoting responsible environmental stewardship.

Class 10 Biology Pollution Important Questions and Answers

Q1. Maximum permissible smoke density in diesel vehicles is :

Options

(a) 75 HSU 
(b) 65 HSU 
(c) 50 HSU 
(d) 45 HSU

Ans. (b) 65 HSU 
Explanation:
Maximum permissible smoke density in diesel vehicles is 65 HSU.

Q2. Deforestation is one of the sources of pollution because :

Options

(a) It increases the oxygen levels produced 
(b) It decreases the oxygen levels produced 
(c) It causes fertilisers to wash away in the water 
(d) None of the above

Ans. (b)
Explanation:
Plants release oxygen in the air, hence, deforestation reduces trees which reduces oxygen levels of the air. Ultimately, CO₂ and other gases will increase and cause pollution.

Q3. Define Pollution.

Explanation:
Pollution may be defined as “an undesirable change in the physical, chemical or biological characteristics of the air, water and land that can be harmful for health, survival or activities of human or other living organisms.

Q4. What are the adverse effects of oil spill ?

Explanation:
Replacement of coal by the oil fuel has increased the problem of pollution. The presence of oil in a water course is undesirable since it creates aesthetic problems. It has a tendency to spread over the surface of water due to which diffusion of oxygen into water is inhibited and re-aeration of water is affected.

Q5. Give a description about Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

Explanation:
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is a national level campaign that aims to clean the streets, roads and infrastructure throughout the length and breadth of the country. This campaign was officially launched on 2 October, 2014 at Raj Ghat, New Delhi, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The campaign aims to achieve the vision of a ‘Clean India’ by 2 October, 2019. The major objective of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is to spread the awareness of cleanliness and the importance of it.The concept of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is to provide basic sanitation facilities like toilets, solid and liquid waste disposal systems, village cleanliness, and safe and adequate drinking water supply to every person.

ICSE Class 10 Biology Chapter wise Important Questions

Conclusion

Pollution stands as one of the most pressing challenges of our time, with far-reaching consequences for our planet and all life it harbours.oswal.io offers a valuable resource in the form of a comprehensive collection of questions, aiding students in their preparation and deeper understanding of this crucial aspect of biology. By utilising such resources, students can empower themselves with the knowledge and awareness needed to address and mitigate the detrimental effects of pollution, ensuring a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 : What is the major cause of air pollution?

Ans: The main cause of air pollution is the burning of fossil fuels. Harmful gases like sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide etc. are released into the atmosphere due to incomplete combustion of fossil fuels which pollutes the air.

Q2 : What is acid rain? Name the gases responsible for acid rain.

Ans:  Acid rain is the precipitation of acid in the form of rain. The harmful gases like nitrogen oxides and sulphur oxides are released into the atmosphere by burning of fossil fuels. These pollutants react with the rainwater and fall as acid rain.

Q3 : What is a biological pollutant?

Ans: Biological pollutants are mostly allergens that can cause hay fever, asthma, and other harmful allergic diseases.

Q4 : What are Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM)?

Ans:  Air pollution causes fumes, dust, mist, and smoke, which are called suspended particulate matter or SPM. It causes many respiratory problems and damages the lungs.

Q5 : What are the pollutants that cause water pollution?

Ans: Water pollution can be caused by several pathogens, inorganic compounds, organic material, and macroscopic pollutants. Apart from these, point sources and nonpoint sources are also considered on the list of water pollution.