Online Self Test
Learn & Practice Quizzes & Challenges Competitive Exams
 

Means of Transport – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

Previous ChapterNext Chapter
Previous Chapter Next Chapter
Means of Transport

Study Materials

5th

5th - Social Studies (SST)

Means of Transport

Jump to Question Sets

Overview of the Chapter

This chapter explores the different means of transport used by people to travel from one place to another and to carry goods. It covers various modes of transport, their importance, and how they have evolved over time.

Land Transport

Land transport includes vehicles that move on roads, railways, and other land surfaces. Examples of land transport are:

  • Buses, cars, and bicycles
  • Trains and trams
  • Bullock carts and rickshaws
Land transport is the most commonly used means of transport for short distances.

Water Transport

Water transport involves the movement of people and goods through rivers, lakes, seas, and oceans. Examples include:

  • Boats and ships
  • Ferries and submarines
Water transport is often used for carrying heavy goods over long distances.

Air Transport

Air transport is the fastest means of transport and is used for long-distance travel. Examples include:

  • Aeroplanes and helicopters
  • Hot air balloons
Air transport is essential for quick travel and emergency services.

Importance of Transport

Transport plays a crucial role in connecting people, places, and goods. It helps in:

  • Trade and commerce
  • Tourism and travel
  • Emergency services like ambulances and fire brigades

Evolution of Transport

Transport has evolved from simple methods like walking and animal-drawn carts to advanced vehicles like bullet trains and aeroplanes. This evolution has made travel faster and more efficient.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
Name the fastest means of transport for long distances.
Answer:

The fastest means of transport for long distances is air transport, which includes airplanes and helicopters.

Question 2:
What is the primary advantage of using water transport?
Answer:

The primary advantage of water transport is that it is cost-effective for carrying heavy and bulky goods over long distances.

Question 3:
Which means of transport is commonly used in hilly areas?
Answer:

In hilly areas, ropeways and cable cars are commonly used due to the difficult terrain.

Question 4:
Name one modern means of transport that reduces traffic congestion in cities.
Answer:

One modern means of transport that reduces traffic congestion is the metro rail, as it carries many passengers at once.

Question 5:
What is the main purpose of public transport?
Answer:

The main purpose of public transport is to provide affordable and efficient travel options for a large number of people.

Question 6:
Which means of transport is environment-friendly and promotes health?
Answer:

Cycling and walking are environment-friendly means of transport that also promote health.

Question 7:
Name the oldest means of transport used by humans.
Answer:

The oldest means of transport used by humans is walking, followed by animals like horses and bullocks.

Question 8:
What is the role of pipelines in transport?
Answer:

Pipelines are used to transport liquids and gases, such as water, oil, and natural gas, over long distances.

Question 9:
Why are roads important for transport?
Answer:

Roads are important because they connect remote areas, allow flexible travel, and support various vehicles like cars, buses, and trucks.

Question 10:
Name one disadvantage of air transport.
Answer:

One disadvantage of air transport is that it is expensive compared to other means like rail or road.

Question 11:
Which means of transport is suitable for transporting perishable goods quickly?
Answer:

Air transport is suitable for transporting perishable goods quickly due to its speed.

Question 12:
What is the significance of rail transport in India?
Answer:

Rail transport is significant in India because it is affordable, connects major cities, and transports large numbers of passengers and goods.

Question 13:
Name the fastest means of transport for long distances.
Answer:

The fastest means of transport for long distances is air transport, which includes airplanes and helicopters.

Question 14:
What is the primary advantage of water transport?
Answer:

The primary advantage of water transport is that it is cost-effective for carrying heavy and bulky goods over long distances.

Question 15:
Which means of transport is commonly used for short distances in cities?
Answer:

Road transport, such as buses, cars, and bicycles, is commonly used for short distances in cities.

Question 16:
Why are pipelines used as a means of transport?
Answer:

Pipelines are used to transport liquids like water, oil, and gas over long distances safely and efficiently.

Question 17:
What is the role of railways in transport?
Answer:

Railways play a key role in transporting large numbers of passengers and heavy goods across long distances quickly and efficiently.

Question 18:
Which means of transport is environmentally friendly?
Answer:

Cycling and walking are environmentally friendly means of transport as they do not cause pollution.

Question 19:
What is the purpose of cable transport?
Answer:

Cable transport, like ropeways and cable cars, is used to transport people and goods in hilly or mountainous areas where roads are difficult to build.

Question 20:
Name one ancient means of transport still used today.
Answer:

One ancient means of transport still used today is bullock carts, especially in rural areas.

Question 21:
Why is road transport flexible?
Answer:

Road transport is flexible because it can reach remote areas and provides door-to-door service.

Question 22:
What is the main use of ships in transport?
Answer:

The main use of ships is to transport heavy cargo and passengers across oceans and seas.

Question 23:
How does public transport help reduce traffic?
Answer:

Public transport, like buses and trains, helps reduce traffic by carrying many people in one vehicle, decreasing the number of individual cars on the road.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
Name two ancient means of transport used in India.
Answer:

The two ancient means of transport used in India are bullock carts and palanquins. Bullock carts were used to carry goods, while palanquins were used to transport people, especially royalty.

Question 2:
What is the main advantage of air transport over other means?
Answer:

The main advantage of air transport is its speed. It is the fastest way to travel long distances, saving time compared to road or rail transport.

Question 3:
Why are waterways important for trade?
Answer:

Waterways are important for trade because they allow the transportation of heavy and bulky goods at a lower cost compared to other means. Ships can carry large quantities of goods across oceans and rivers.

Question 4:
Name two modern means of transport used in cities.
Answer:

Two modern means of transport used in cities are metro trains and electric buses. These are eco-friendly and help reduce traffic congestion.

Question 5:
How does public transport help the environment?
Answer:

Public transport helps the environment by reducing the number of vehicles on the road, which lowers air pollution and fuel consumption. It also decreases traffic congestion.

Question 6:
What is the purpose of submarines as a means of transport?
Answer:

Submarines are used for underwater exploration and military purposes. They can travel deep underwater, making them unique compared to other water transport.

Question 7:
Why are railways considered a safe mode of transport?
Answer:

Railways are considered safe because they operate on fixed tracks, reducing the risk of accidents. They also have strict safety measures like signals and trained staff.

Question 8:
Name one disadvantage of using road transport.
Answer:

One disadvantage of road transport is traffic congestion, especially in cities, which can cause delays and increase travel time.

Question 9:
What is the main advantage of air transport?
Answer:

The main advantage of air transport is that it is the fastest mode of transport. It connects distant places in a short time, making it ideal for emergencies and long-distance travel.

Question 10:
What is the role of transportation in our daily lives?
Answer:

Transportation helps us travel from one place to another, delivers goods, and connects people. It is essential for education, healthcare, business, and communication, making life easier and faster.

Question 11:
How do roads help in transportation?
Answer:

Roads provide a network for vehicles like cars, buses, and trucks to move easily. They connect villages, towns, and cities, ensuring smooth transport of people and goods.

Question 12:
What is the difference between public and private transport?
Answer:

Public transport, like buses and trains, is available for everyone to use by paying a fare. Private transport, like cars and bikes, is owned by individuals for personal use.

Question 13:
Why is rail transport suitable for long distances?
Answer:

Rail transport is suitable for long distances because it is fuel-efficient, carries large numbers of passengers and goods, and operates on a fixed schedule, making it reliable.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
What are the three main types of means of transport? Explain each briefly.
Answer:

The three main types of means of transport are:

  • Land transport: Includes vehicles like cars, buses, and trains that move on roads or railways.
  • Water transport: Includes ships, boats, and ferries that travel across rivers, lakes, or oceans.
  • Air transport: Includes airplanes and helicopters that fly in the sky, covering long distances quickly.

Each type serves different purposes based on distance, speed, and terrain.

Question 2:
Why is air transport considered the fastest means of transport?
Answer:

Air transport is the fastest because airplanes fly at high speeds and travel directly through the air without obstacles like traffic or rough terrain.
They can cover long distances in a few hours, which would take days or weeks by land or water.
For example, a flight from Delhi to Mumbai takes about 2 hours, while a train journey takes over 15 hours.

Question 3:
How does water transport help in trade? Give an example.
Answer:

Water transport is crucial for trade because it allows heavy and bulky goods like oil, grains, and machinery to be transported cheaply over long distances.
For example, ships carry large quantities of goods between countries, such as India exporting spices to Europe or importing electronics from China.
Ports like Mumbai and Chennai play a key role in this trade.

Question 4:
What are the advantages of using public transport like buses and trains?
Answer:

The advantages of public transport include:

  • It is cheaper than private vehicles, saving money for passengers.
  • It reduces traffic congestion and pollution by carrying many people at once.
  • It is safer and more reliable for daily commuting, especially in cities.

For example, the Delhi Metro helps thousands of people travel efficiently every day.

Question 5:
Name two modern means of transport and explain how they make travel easier.
Answer:

Two modern means of transport are:

  • Bullet trains: These high-speed trains, like Japan's Shinkansen, reduce travel time significantly compared to regular trains.
  • Electric vehicles (EVs): Cars and buses powered by electricity are eco-friendly and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Both innovations make travel faster, cleaner, and more efficient.

Question 6:
How do means of transport help in emergencies? Give an example.
Answer:

Means of transport play a vital role in emergencies by delivering help quickly.
For example, ambulances rush patients to hospitals, helicopters rescue people from flood-affected areas, and trucks deliver food and supplies during disasters.
Without these, saving lives and providing aid would be much harder.

Question 7:
Why are railways considered an important means of transport in India?
Answer:

Railways are important in India because:

  • They connect distant places quickly and affordably.
  • They carry large numbers of passengers and heavy goods.
  • They help in trade and tourism across the country.

Railways also reduce road traffic and pollution, making them eco-friendly.

Question 8:
How does water transport benefit trade and commerce?
Answer:

Water transport benefits trade and commerce by:

  • Allowing the movement of heavy goods like oil and machinery at low cost.
  • Connecting countries through ports for international trade.
  • Being fuel-efficient compared to other transport methods.

Ships and boats help in transporting bulk goods over long distances easily.

Question 9:
What are the advantages of using air transport?
Answer:

The advantages of air transport include:

  • Speed: It is the fastest way to travel long distances.
  • Accessibility: It connects remote areas where other transport is limited.
  • Emergency use: Helps in medical emergencies and disaster relief.

Air transport is ideal for urgent deliveries and international travel.

Question 10:
Explain how public transport helps reduce traffic congestion.
Answer:

Public transport reduces traffic congestion by:

  • Carrying many people in one vehicle, like buses or metros.
  • Decreasing the number of private cars on the road.
  • Promoting shared travel, which saves fuel and space.

It also lowers pollution and makes cities cleaner and less crowded.

Question 11:
What role do roadways play in daily life?
Answer:

Roadways play a crucial role in daily life because:

  • They provide door-to-door connectivity for people and goods.
  • They are flexible and can reach rural and urban areas easily.
  • They support small vehicles like bicycles, autos, and trucks.

Roads are essential for short-distance travel and local business activities.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Explain the importance of means of transport in our daily life with examples.
Answer:

Means of transport play a crucial role in connecting people, goods, and services across different places. They make our lives easier and help in the development of the country. Here are some key points explaining their importance:

  • Connecting People: Transport helps people travel from one place to another for work, education, or leisure. For example, buses and trains allow students to reach school daily.
  • Trade and Economy: Goods like vegetables, clothes, and electronics are transported from factories to markets using trucks, ships, or airplanes, boosting the economy.
  • Emergency Services: Ambulances and fire engines use roads to reach people quickly during emergencies, saving lives.
  • Tourism: Tourists use airplanes, ships, and cars to visit different places, helping local businesses grow.

Without transport, daily life would be difficult as movement and trade would slow down significantly.

Question 2:
Compare and contrast roadways and waterways as means of transport. Mention their advantages and disadvantages.
Answer:

Roadways and waterways are two important means of transport, each with unique features. Below is a comparison:

  • Roadways:
    Advantages:
    • They are flexible and can reach remote areas where other transport cannot.
    • They are faster for short distances.
    • Easy to build and maintain compared to railways or airways.
    Disadvantages:
    • Traffic jams can cause delays.
    • They cause pollution due to vehicle emissions.
    • Not suitable for heavy or bulky goods over long distances.
  • Waterways:
    Advantages:
    • Cheapest mode for transporting heavy goods like oil, coal, and machinery.
    • Environmentally friendly as they produce less pollution.
    • Suitable for international trade via ships.
    Disadvantages:
    • Slow compared to other transport modes.
    • Limited to areas near rivers, seas, or oceans.
    • Affected by weather conditions like storms.

While roadways are more common for daily use, waterways are essential for large-scale trade.

Question 3:
Explain the importance of means of transport in our daily life with suitable examples.
Answer:

Means of transport play a crucial role in connecting people, places, and goods, making our lives easier and more efficient. Here’s why they are important:

  • Connectivity: Transport helps people travel from one place to another, whether for work, education, or leisure. For example, buses and trains allow students to reach school daily.
  • Trade and Economy: Goods like vegetables, clothes, and electronics are transported via trucks, ships, and airplanes, ensuring availability everywhere. Without transport, markets would struggle to function.
  • Emergency Services: Ambulances and fire engines rely on fast transport to save lives during emergencies.
  • Tourism: Trains, airplanes, and ships enable people to explore new places, boosting the economy and cultural exchange.

In summary, transport is the backbone of modern life, ensuring smooth movement and development.

Question 4:
Explain the importance of means of transport in our daily life with examples. How do they help in the development of a country?
Answer:

Means of transport play a crucial role in our daily lives by helping us move from one place to another easily and quickly. They also transport goods, making trade and commerce possible. For example, buses and trains help people travel to work or school, while trucks and ships carry food, clothes, and other products to different places.

Transportation is vital for a country's development because:

  • It connects cities and villages, allowing people to access education, healthcare, and jobs.
  • It supports trade by moving goods locally and internationally, boosting the economy.
  • It helps during emergencies, like transporting medical supplies or relief materials during disasters.

Without efficient transport, businesses would struggle, and people would face difficulties in their daily activities.

Question 5:
Compare and contrast road transport and rail transport. Mention their advantages and disadvantages.
Answer:

Road transport and rail transport are two important means of transportation, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Road Transport:

  • Advantages: Flexible, reaches remote areas, cheaper for short distances, and easy to access (e.g., buses, cars).
  • Disadvantages: Traffic jams, high fuel costs, and pollution. Not suitable for heavy goods over long distances.

Rail Transport:

  • Advantages: Faster for long distances, carries heavy goods (like coal, grains), and is more fuel-efficient.
  • Disadvantages: Limited to tracks, expensive to build, and not available in all areas.

While road transport is better for short trips and flexibility, rail transport is more efficient for bulk goods and long-distance travel. Both are essential for a well-connected transport system.

Question 6:
Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of road transport and rail transport.
Answer:

Road transport and rail transport are two important means of transportation, each with its own benefits and limitations:

  • Road Transport:
    Advantages:
    • Reaches remote areas where railways cannot.
    • Flexible for short distances and door-to-door delivery.
    • Cheaper for small loads.
    Disadvantages:
    • Causes traffic jams and pollution.
    • Not suitable for heavy or bulky goods.
    • Higher risk of accidents.
  • Rail Transport:
    Advantages:
    • Faster for long distances.
    • Can carry heavy goods like coal and machinery.
    • More fuel-efficient and eco-friendly than roads.
    Disadvantages:
    • Limited to fixed routes (railway tracks).
    • Expensive to build and maintain.
    • Not suitable for last-mile connectivity.

While roads are better for short distances and flexibility, railways excel in long-distance and bulk transportation. Both are essential for a balanced transport system.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
Rahul's family is planning a trip from Delhi to Mumbai. They are considering different means of transport. Compare the advantages of traveling by train and airplane for this journey.
Answer:

Traveling by train and airplane both have their own advantages for a trip from Delhi to Mumbai.

  • Train: Trains are cost-effective and allow passengers to enjoy scenic views during the journey. They also have more space for luggage and provide comfortable seating options like sleeper coaches for overnight travel.
  • Airplane: Air travel is the fastest option, reducing travel time significantly. It is ideal for those who need to reach Mumbai quickly. Airplanes also offer in-flight services like meals and entertainment.

Choosing between the two depends on factors like budget, time, and comfort preferences.

Question 2:
In a coastal village, fishermen use boats as their primary means of transport. Explain why boats are essential for their livelihood and daily activities.
Answer:

Boats are crucial for fishermen in coastal villages because:

  • They enable fishermen to travel into the sea to catch fish, which is their main source of income.
  • Boats are used to transport fish to nearby markets or towns for sale.
  • They also help in carrying essential supplies like nets, tools, and food for long fishing trips.

Without boats, fishermen would struggle to sustain their livelihood and support their families.

Question 3:
A school is organizing a field trip to a historical monument located 50 km away. The teacher asks students to suggest the most suitable means of transport and justify their choice.
Answer:

The most suitable means of transport for the field trip would be a school bus. Here's why:

  • A school bus can accommodate all students and teachers in one vehicle, ensuring safety and supervision.
  • It is cost-effective compared to hiring multiple cars or other transport options.
  • The bus can make stops if needed, and students can travel together, making the journey enjoyable.

Using a school bus is practical, safe, and economical for such group trips.

Question 4:
Rahul's family is planning a trip from Delhi to Mumbai. They want to reach quickly and comfortably. Suggest the best means of transport for them and explain why it is suitable. Also, mention one disadvantage of this mode.
Answer:

The best means of transport for Rahul's family would be air travel because it is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel long distances like Delhi to Mumbai.

Advantages:

  • It saves time as the flight takes only about 2 hours.
  • It provides comfort with amenities like seats, meals, and entertainment.
Disadvantage:
  • It is more expensive compared to trains or buses.

Question 5:
Priya's village is located in a hilly area with no proper roads. The villagers face difficulty in transporting goods to the nearby town. Suggest the most suitable means of transport for them and justify your answer with two reasons.
Answer:

The most suitable means of transport for Priya's village would be animals like mules or donkeys.

Reasons:

  • They can easily navigate through rough and hilly terrains where vehicles cannot go.
  • They are cost-effective and do not require fuel or maintenance like motor vehicles.

This method is eco-friendly and has been used for centuries in hilly regions.

Question 6:
The government is planning to build a new metro rail in your city. Explain two benefits of the metro rail for the people and the environment.
Answer:

The metro rail will bring several benefits:

For People:

  • It reduces travel time as it avoids traffic jams on roads.
  • It is affordable and provides a comfortable commuting option.
For Environment:
  • It reduces air pollution as it runs on electricity, unlike vehicles that emit smoke.
  • It decreases noise pollution compared to buses and cars.

Metro rails are a sustainable and efficient means of transport for crowded cities.

Question 7:
Rahul's family is planning a trip from Delhi to Mumbai. They are considering different means of transport. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of air travel and rail travel for their journey.
Answer:

Air travel is the fastest way to reach Mumbai from Delhi, taking only about 2 hours. It is comfortable and saves time, but it is expensive and not suitable for those who fear flying. Additionally, airports are often located far from city centers.

Rail travel, on the other hand, is cheaper and allows passengers to enjoy scenic views. However, it takes much longer (around 16-20 hours) and may not be as comfortable for long journeys. Trains also have more stops, which can delay the trip.

For Rahul's family, if they prioritize speed and comfort, air travel is better. But if they want to save money and enjoy the journey, rail travel is a good option.

Question 8:
Priya lives in a village where there are no proper roads. Her school is 5 km away. Explain how the lack of transport infrastructure affects her daily life and suggest one solution to improve her commute.
Answer:

The lack of proper roads in Priya's village makes her daily commute to school very difficult. She might have to walk long distances, which is tiring and time-consuming. During rainy seasons, muddy paths become slippery, making it unsafe. This can lead to irregular attendance and affect her studies.

One solution is to introduce cycle rickshaws or shared auto-rickshaws for students. These are affordable and can navigate narrow village paths. The local government could also build kutcha roads (gravel roads) to improve connectivity. This would make Priya's commute safer and faster.

Question 9:
The government is promoting electric buses in cities to reduce pollution. Describe how electric buses help the environment and why they are better than traditional diesel buses.
Answer:

Electric buses help the environment by producing zero tailpipe emissions, which means they do not release harmful gases like carbon dioxide or nitrogen oxides. This reduces air pollution and helps fight climate change. They are also quieter, reducing noise pollution in cities.

Compared to diesel buses, electric buses are more energy-efficient and cheaper to maintain in the long run. Diesel buses burn fossil fuels, which contribute to smog and health problems like asthma. Electric buses use renewable energy sources, making them a cleaner and more sustainable option.

By switching to electric buses, cities can become greener and healthier for everyone.

Question 10:
Rahul lives in a village where there are no proper roads. His father uses a bullock cart to transport goods to the nearby town.

(a) Name the means of transport used by Rahul's father.
(b) Why is this means of transport suitable for Rahul's village?
(c) Suggest one modern means of transport that could improve connectivity in Rahul's village and explain why.
Answer:

(a) Rahul's father uses a bullock cart, which is a traditional means of transport.

(b) This means of transport is suitable because:

  • Villages often have uneven or muddy paths where modern vehicles cannot travel easily.
  • Bullock carts are cost-effective and do not require fuel or complex maintenance.
  • They are ideal for transporting heavy goods over short distances.

(c) A tractor could improve connectivity because:

  • It can travel on rough terrains and muddy roads.
  • It can carry heavier loads compared to a bullock cart.
  • It saves time and increases efficiency in transporting goods.

Question 11:
Priya's family is planning a trip from Delhi to Mumbai. They are considering different means of transport.

(a) List two modern means of transport they can use for this journey.
(b) Compare the advantages of traveling by train versus airplane for this distance.
(c) Which option would be more eco-friendly and why?
Answer:

(a) Two modern means of transport they can use are:

  • Train (e.g., Rajdhani Express)
  • Airplane (e.g., domestic flight)

(b) Comparison:

  • Train: More affordable, allows sightseeing, no baggage restrictions, but slower.
  • Airplane: Faster, saves time, comfortable for long distances, but expensive and has baggage limits.

(c) The train is more eco-friendly because:

  • It consumes less fuel per passenger compared to airplanes.
  • It produces lower carbon emissions, reducing air pollution.
  • Trains are more energy-efficient for mass transportation.

Question 12:
In a coastal town, fishermen use boats to catch fish and transport them to the market.

(a) Name the means of transport used by the fishermen.
(b) Why is this means of transport essential for their livelihood?
(c) How does water transport benefit trade in coastal areas?
Answer:

(a) The fishermen use boats, which are a type of water transport.

(b) This means of transport is essential because:

  • Boats allow fishermen to reach deeper waters where fish are abundant.
  • They help in transporting large quantities of fish quickly to markets.
  • Boats are the most practical way to navigate coastal and riverine areas.

(c) Water transport benefits trade in coastal areas by:

  • Enabling the movement of goods like fish, coconuts, and spices to other regions.
  • Reducing transportation costs compared to road or air transport for bulk goods.
  • Connecting remote coastal villages to larger markets, boosting the local economy.

Chat on WhatsApp