DESERT CLASS 7

1. What is the main reason for the extreme temperature fluctuations in the Sahara Desert?

a) High humidity

b) Clear skies

c) Presence of oases

d) Sandstorms

Answer: b) Clear skies

2. Which animal is known for its ability to withstand the harsh conditions of the cold desert of Ladakh?

a) Camel

b) Yak

c) Chiru

d) Crocodile

Answer: b) Yak

3. What is the primary reason for Ladakh's low rainfall?

a) Rain shadow effect of the Himalayas

b) High altitude

c) Cold climate

d) Presence of glaciers

Answer: a) Rain shadow effect of the Himalayas

*Short Answer Questions*

1. Describe the characteristics of the Sahara Desert.

Answer: The Sahara Desert is a hot desert with extreme temperature fluctuations, clear skies, and rapid evaporation. The sand and bare rocks heat up rapidly during the day, and the heat escapes quickly at night, leading to near-freezing temperatures.

2. What is an oasis, and how is it formed?

Answer: An oasis is a fertile spot in the desert where underground water reaches the surface. It is formed when depressions in the sand reach underground water, allowing plants to grow and people to settle.

*Long Answer Questions*

1. Compare and contrast the hot desert of Sahara and the cold desert of Ladakh.

Answer: The Sahara Desert is a hot desert located in North Africa, characterized by extreme heat, clear skies, and rapid evaporation. In contrast, Ladakh is a cold desert located in the Great Himalayas, characterized by high altitude, extreme cold, and low rainfall. While both deserts have adapted flora and fauna, the people living in these deserts have unique cultural practices and ways of life.

2. Discuss the importance of conservation efforts in desert regions, using the example of the Chiru and Shahtoosh.

Answer: The Chiru is an endangered species found in the cold desert of Ladakh, hunted for its wool, known as Shahtoosh. The hunting of Chiru for its wool highlights the delicate balance between human economy and wildlife conservation in desert regions. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect the Chiru and its habitat, and to promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities.