Find all important questions and answers from Board of Secondary Education Assam (SEBA) Class 10 Social Science Part Geography Chapter 1 (Economic Geography: Subject Matter and Resources) here. Boost your exam preparation with clear and easy explanations—no guide needed!

The Board of Secondary Education, Assam (SEBA), has been officially renamed as the Assam State School Education Board (ASSEB) Division 1. This change is part of the Assam State School Education Board Act, 2024, aimed at unifying and improving school education in the state.
Board
ASSEB Div I
Class
10/HSLC
Subject
SS II Geography
Chapter
Chapter I (EG)
Content
Questions and Answers
Exercise
Page No : 14 - 15
Q1. What is Economic Geography? What is its main subject matter? Mention the important branches of Economic Geography.
Answer: Economic Geography is a branch of human geography that studies the relationship between human economic activities and geographical factors. It focuses on how physical environment influences production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.
The main subject matter includes agriculture, industry, trade, transport, resources, and services.
Now in case of important branches of Economic Geography, these branches are:
i) Agricultural Geography
ii) Industrial Geography
III) Transport Geography
iv) Resource Geography
v) Trade Geography
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Q2. Write in brief about the scope of Economic Geography.
Answer: The scope of Economic Geography is vast as it studies the spatial distribution of economic activities and how people utilize natural resources to meet their needs. It includes the study of:
i) Land use and agriculture
ii) Location of industries
III) Trade and commerce
iv) Resource availability and management
v) Transportation and communication
vi) It also helps in economic planning and policy-vii) making by analyzing the relationship between viii) economic activities and the environment.
Q3. What do you mean by economic activities of man? What are such economic activities?
Answer: Economic activities of man refer to all those activities which are undertaken to earn a livelihood or income. These are the activities that produce goods and services for human needs.
The major types of economic activities are:
i) Primary Activities (e.g., agriculture, fishing, mining)
ii) Secondary Activities (e.g., manufacturing, construction)
III) Tertiary Activities (e.g., trade, transport, banking)
iv) Quaternary Activities (e.g., research, information technology)
Q4. Write briefly about the subject matter of the important branches of Economic Geography.
Answer: Economic Geography is a major branch of Geography that studies the relationship between human economic activities and the environment. Its main branches and their subject matters are as follows:
1. Agricultural Geography: It studies the distribution and production of crops, types of farming, land use patterns, and the influence of physical and socio-economic factors on agriculture. It also analyses how agriculture affects the economy of a region.
2. Industrial Geography: This branch deals with the location, distribution, and development of industries. It examines the factors that influence industrial location such as raw materials, labour, market, transportation, and power supply.
3. Transport Geography: It focuses on the modes, routes, and networks of transportation and their role in the movement of goods and people. It also explores how transport affects trade, communication, and regional development.
4. Trade and Commerce Geography: This branch studies the flow of goods and services across regions, trade routes, market centres, import-export patterns, and the role of international trade in economic development.
5. Resource Geography: It deals with the types, distribution, availability, and utilization of natural and man-made resources. It also studies resource conservation and their sustainable use for economic planning.
Each of these branches helps us understand how human beings use natural and other resources for economic purposes and how geography influences economic decisions.
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Q5. Why 'Resource Geography' is known as an important branch of Economic Geography?
Answer: Resource Geography is considered an important branch of Economic Geography because it deals with the study of natural and man-made resources, which are the foundation of all economic activities. Resources like land, water, minerals, forests, and energy sources are essential for agriculture, industry, trade, and transport. Resource Geography helps in understanding the distribution, availability, use, and conservation of these resources.
It also explains the relationship between resources and human development, guiding how resources can be used efficiently and sustainably for economic growth. Since the availability and management of resources directly affect a country's economy, planning, and development, Resource Geography plays a crucial role in economic decision-making, making it a vital part of Economic Geography.
Q6. What is meant by "Resources"? Mention it's main characteristics
Answer: Resources are the things that fulfill human needs and have utility or usefulness. They are the materials or elements found in the environment—either natural or man-made—which can be used by humans for various purposes such as food, shelter, development, and economic activities. For example: water, land, minerals, forests, and machines are all considered resources.
The Main Characteristics of of resources are mentioned below each with their examples :
1. Utility: A resource must have usefulness or utility to be considered valuable.
2. Accessibility: It should be accessible to human beings for use.
3. Functionality: A resource must serve some function or purpose in human life.
4. Dynamic Nature: The value and importance of a resource may change over time and usage, depending on need, technology, and society.
5. Human Dependence: Resources gain their value when humans identify and utilize them to fulfill their needs.
Thus, resources are essential for survival and development and are a key focus area in Geography and Economic studies.
Q7. 'Resource is Dynamic' – Explain.
Answer: The phrase "Resource is Dynamic" means that the status and value of a resource can change over time depending on human needs, technology, and knowledge. What may not be considered a resource today might become valuable in the future due to scientific advancement. For example, uranium was not a resource until the discovery of nuclear energy. Thus, resources are not fixed; their utility and importance evolve with time, making them dynamic in nature.
Q8. Briefly discuss about the necessities of resources with examples.
Answer: Resources are essential for human survival and development. They fulfill basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, and energy. Without resources, no economic or social development can occur.
For examples:
i) Water is needed for drinking, agriculture, and industries.
ii) Forest resources provide timber, fuel, and habitat for wildlife.
III) 9Minerals like iron and coal are used in industries for production.
Resources also help generate employment, raise the standard of living, and drive technological advancement.
Hence, their availability and proper utilization are crucial.
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Q9. Write in brief about the relationship between resource and man.
Answer: Man and resources are interdependent. Nature provides resources, but their use and value depend on human knowledge, skill, and technology. A substance becomes a resource only when humans find it useful.
Example: Crude oil was not useful until humans invented ways to extract and refine it.
Humans explore, utilize, and sometimes overuse resources. Thus, responsible management is necessary to maintain balance.
Q10. Briefly discuss about the relationship between resource and science-technology.
Answer: Science and technology have a close relationship with resources. They help in the identification, development, and efficient utilization of natural resources. Scientific knowledge helps us understand the nature and limitations of resources, while technology provides the tools and methods for their proper use.
For example, the invention of solar panels allows us to convert sunlight—a natural resource—into electricity. This shows how technology transforms a naturally available resource into a usable form. Similarly, advanced machinery helps in the extraction of minerals and fuels from deep within the earth.
Therefore, science and technology not only enhance the value of resources but also promote sustainable usage by reducing waste and improving efficiency.
Q11. Write about classification of resources with examples.
Answer: Resources can be classified into different categories based on various factors:
(a) On the basis of origin:
i) Biotic Resources: These are derived from living organisms. Example: Forests, animals.
ii) Abiotic Resources: These come from non-living things. Example: Minerals, water, air.
(b) On the basis of exhaustibility:
i) Renewable Resources: These can be naturally replenished over time. Example: Solar energy, wind.
ii) Non-renewable Resources: These are available in limited quantities and cannot be quickly replaced. Example: Coal, petroleum.
(c) On the basis of ownership:
i) Individual Resources: Owned by individuals.
ii) Community Resources: Shared by a community.
III) National Resources: Belong to a nation.
iv) International Resources: Managed globally (like ocean water beyond national boundaries).
(d) On the basis of development:
i) Potential Resources: Present in nature but not yet used (e.g., untapped wind energy).
ii) Actual Resources: Already identified and used (e.g., iron ore in mines).
Q12. What is meant by natural resource? Write briefly with examples.
Answer: Natural resources are materials or substances that occur naturally in the environment and are useful to humans. These resources are obtained without human intervention and include both living and non-living things.
Examples of natural resources are forests, rivers, minerals, sunlight, air, and water. These resources provide raw materials for survival and development, such as wood from forests, water for drinking and irrigation, and minerals for industries.
Q13. What is man-made resource? Write in brief about its use with examples.
Answer: Man-made resources are those created by humans using natural resources and technology. These resources are developed to fulfill human needs and improve living standards.
Examples include buildings, roads, machines, tools, and bridges. They are used in transportation, communication, industry, and daily life, helping in economic growth and development.
Q14. What are the differences between renewable and non-renewable resources? Discuss briefly with examples.
Answer: Renewable resources are those that regenerate naturally and are available continuously if used wisely. Non-renewable resources, however, exist in fixed quantities and cannot be replaced once depleted, as they take millions of years to form.
For example, sunlight and wind are renewable—freely available and never exhausted. On the other hand, coal and petroleum are non-renewable—limited in supply and once used, they cannot be quickly replaced. Hence, renewable resources are more sustainable, while non-renewable ones need conservation.
Q15. What is meant by 'Conservation of Resources'? What is its necessity?
Answer: Conservation of Resources means careful and planned use of resources to prevent their wastage and ensure availability for future generations.
The necessity of conservation of resources can be summarized as follows:
i) To prevent the depletion of valuable resources
ii) To maintain ecological balance and protect the environment
III) To ensure sustainable development for present and future generations
iv) To preserve resources for the use of future generations
Q16. Write in brief about the methods of resource conservation.
Answer: Resource conservation is done by reducing use, reusing materials, and recycling waste. Planting more trees (afforestation) helps protect forests and soil. Using energy-efficient devices saves energy and resources. Creating public awareness encourages people to conserve resources. Governments also enforce laws to prevent overuse and protect resources.
Q17. Write in brief about the organizations associated with resource conservation and their role.
Answer: Important organizations working for resource conservation include:
i) IUCN: Protects endangered species and biodiversity worldwide.
ii) UNEP: Promotes environmental protection and sustainable development globally.
III) WWF: Works to conserve wildlife and natural habitats.
iv) Forest Departments: Manage and protect forests at national and state levels.
These organizations create awareness, enforce laws, and carry out conservation projects to save natural resources.
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Q18. Write short notes :
(a) Resource: A resource is anything available in the environment which is useful to humans and satisfies their needs. It includes both natural and man-made items. Resources gain value through utility and human effort. Their availability depends on time, technology, and need.
(b) Human Resources: Human resources refer to the population with knowledge, skills, and abilities used for production and development. Trained, educated, and healthy people contribute to national growth. They are essential for utilizing natural resources effectively and are considered the most valuable asset of any country.
(c) Wealth: Wealth is the portion of resources that has ownership and economic value. It includes properties, goods, money, and services that can be exchanged or used to fulfill needs. Only those resources that have utility and market value are considered as wealth.
(d) Renewable Resources: Renewable resources are naturally replenished over time through natural processes. Examples include sunlight, wind, water, and forests. If used wisely, they do not get exhausted. These resources are eco-friendly and play a vital role in sustainable development and environmental balance.
(e) Personal Resources: Personal resources are the properties and assets owned by individuals for personal use. Examples include house, land, vehicle, and savings. These resources are controlled by individuals and are used to meet personal needs and improve living standards.
(f) National Resources: National resources are owned collectively by the citizens of a country and managed by the government. Examples include rivers, forests, roads, railways, and minerals. These are used for public welfare, development, and contribute to the nation's economy and infrastructure.
(g) Biotic Resources: Biotic resources are derived from living organisms like plants, animals, and humans. Examples include forests, fish, and livestock. These resources are renewable and play an essential role in agriculture, industry, and daily human life.
(h) Resource Conservation: Resource conservation means using resources wisely, efficiently, and sustainably to ensure their availability for future generations. It includes preventing wastage, recycling, and managing natural and man-made resources through proper planning and eco-friendly methods.
(i) Resource Recycling: Resource recycling is the process of converting waste materials into reusable materials. It helps reduce environmental pollution, saves energy, and conserves natural resources. Examples include recycling paper, plastic, glass, and metals. It supports sustainable development.
(j) IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): IUCN is a global organization that works for nature conservation and sustainable resource use. It monitors endangered species, supports conservation policies, and promotes environmental awareness. Its Red Data Book lists threatened and endangered species globally.
Q19. Write the difference between :
(a) Resource and Wealth.
Answer: The difference between Resource and Wealth can be understood as follows:
i) Resource is any material useful to humans, whereas wealth is resources that have economic value and ownership.
ii) Resources may be free and unused, but wealth is always quantified and has market price.
(b) Economic Geography and Resource Geography.
Answer: The difference between Economic Geography and Resource Geography can be understood as follows:
i) Economic Geography focuses on human economic activities like farming and industry, while Resource Geography focuses on the types and distribution of resources.
ii) Economic Geography studies production and trade patterns, whereas Resource Geography studies resource availability and management.
(c) Resource and Neutral Stuff.
Answer: The difference between Resource and Neutral Stuff can be understood as follows:
i) Resources are materials currently useful and utilized by humans, but neutral stuff exists in nature without recognized use.
ii) Resources have economic or practical value, whereas neutral stuff has no current value or application.
(d) Biotic and Abiotic Resource.
Answer: The difference between Biotic and Abiotic Resource can be understood as follows:
i) Biotic resources come from living organisms like plants and animals, while abiotic resources come from non-living sources such as minerals and water.
ii) Biotic resources depend on life processes, whereas abiotic resources are physical and chemical substances.
(e) Renewable and Non-Renewable Resource.
Answer: The difference between Renewable and Non-Renewable Resource can be understood as follows:
i) Renewable resources can be naturally replenished over time like sunlight and forests, but non-renewable resources cannot be replaced once depleted like coal and oil.
ii) Renewable resources are sustainable if managed properly, whereas non-renewable resources are finite and exhaustible.
(f) Personal Resource and National Resource.
Answer: The difference between Personal Resource and National Resource can be understood as follows:
i) Personal resources are owned and used by individuals like a bicycle or personal land, whereas national resources are owned by the whole country such as rivers, forests, and minerals.
ii) Personal resources are limited in scale, but national resources affect the economy and environment of the entire nation.
(g) Man-made Resource and Human Resource.
Answer: The difference between Man-made Resource and Human Resource can be understood as follows:
i) Man-made resources are physical objects created by humans such as machines and buildings, while human resources refer to people’s skills, knowledge, and labor.
ii) Man-made resources are tangible and used in production, whereas human resources provide the labor force and intellectual capacity.
(h) Recycling of Resource and Innovation.
Answer: The difference between Recycling of Resource and Innovation can be understood as follows:
i) Recycling involves reusing existing materials to reduce waste, like recycling paper, whereas innovation involves creating new ideas or technologies such as solar power.
ii) Recycling conserves existing resources, while innovation seeks new methods or products for improvement.
Q20. Choose the correct answer:
(a) Which of the following is a man-made resource?
1. Rivers 2. Air 3. Irrigation Canal 4. Forest
(b) Which one of the following is an abiotic resource?
1. Air 2. Mineral Oil 3. Animals 4. Fungus
(c) Which one of the following is a non-renewable resource?
1. Air 2. Water 3. Crops 4. Coal
(d) Which one of the following animals is about to be extinct?
1. One-horned Rhino 2. Pygmy Hog 3. Giraffe 4. Gayal (Mithun)
(e) The organization IUCN is under which of the following organizations?
1. UNESCO 2. UNO 3. WWF 4. UNEP