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Locating Places on the Earth – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Locating Places on the Earth

Study Materials

6th

6th - Social Studies (SST)

Locating Places on the Earth

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Overview of the Chapter

This chapter introduces students to the fundamental concepts of locating places on Earth using geographical tools such as latitudes, longitudes, and the grid system. It explains how these tools help in identifying exact positions on the Earth's surface and their significance in navigation and mapping.

Key Concepts

Latitudes

Latitudes are imaginary horizontal lines that run parallel to the Equator, measured in degrees north or south of it. The Equator is at 0° latitude, while the poles are at 90°N and 90°S.

Longitudes

Longitudes are imaginary vertical lines that run from the North Pole to the South Pole, measured in degrees east or west of the Prime Meridian (0° longitude). The International Date Line is at 180° longitude.

Grid System

The grid system is formed by the intersection of latitudes and longitudes, creating a network of lines that helps in pinpointing any location on Earth using coordinates (latitude and longitude).

Important Points

  • The Earth is divided into two hemispheres by the Equator: Northern and Southern.
  • The Prime Meridian divides the Earth into Eastern and Western Hemispheres.
  • The Torrid Zone lies between the Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) and the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5°S).
  • The Frigid Zones are located near the poles, between the Arctic Circle (66.5°N) and the North Pole, and the Antarctic Circle (66.5°S) and the South Pole.
  • The Temperate Zones lie between the Torrid and Frigid Zones.

Applications

Understanding latitudes and longitudes is essential for navigation, weather forecasting, and mapping. It also helps in identifying time zones and calculating local time differences.

Summary

This chapter provides a foundational understanding of how places are located on Earth using the grid system of latitudes and longitudes. It highlights the importance of these concepts in geography and everyday life.

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:
What is the Equator?
Answer:

The imaginary line dividing Earth into Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Question 2:
Name the prime meridian.
Answer:

0° longitude passing through Greenwich.

Question 3:
Which hemisphere has the Tropic of Cancer?
Answer:

Northern Hemisphere.

Question 4:
What is the latitude of the North Pole?
Answer:

90° North.

Question 5:
How many time zones are there in the world?
Answer:

24 time zones.

Question 6:
What is the local time at a place based on?
Answer:

Sun's position overhead.

Question 7:
Which continent lies entirely in the Southern Hemisphere?
Answer:

Australia.

Question 8:
Name the parallels of latitude at 23.5° North and South.
Answer:

Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn.

Question 9:
What is the longitude of the International Date Line?
Answer:

180° East/West.

Question 10:
Which ocean is located at 0° latitude and 0° longitude?
Answer:

Atlantic Ocean.

Question 11:
What is the grid on a map used for?
Answer:

Locating places using coordinates.

Question 12:
Name the five major circles of latitude.
Answer:

Equator, Tropics, Arctic, Antarctic Circles.

Question 13:
Which country has the most time zones?
Answer:

France.

Question 14:
What is the significance of the Arctic Circle?
Answer:

Marks the northernmost polar day/night.

Question 15:
What is the Prime Meridian?
Answer:

The Prime Meridian is the 0° longitude line that passes through Greenwich, England. It divides the Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.

Question 16:
Name the two types of lines used to locate places on Earth.
Answer:

The two types of lines are latitudes (parallel circles) and longitudes (meridians).

Question 17:
What is the significance of the Tropic of Cancer?
Answer:

The Tropic of Cancer is located at 23.5°N latitude. It marks the northernmost point where the Sun appears directly overhead at noon.

Question 18:
Which latitude divides the Earth into two equal halves?
Answer:

The Equator (0° latitude) divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Question 19:
What is the purpose of the International Date Line?
Answer:

The International Date Line (roughly 180° longitude) helps adjust the calendar date when crossing it, ensuring consistent timekeeping globally.

Question 20:
How many time zones are there in the world?
Answer:

There are 24 time zones, each roughly covering 15° of longitude, corresponding to one hour of time difference.

Question 21:
What is the Arctic Circle?
Answer:

The Arctic Circle is at 66.5°N latitude, marking the region where the Sun does not set during the summer solstice.

Question 22:
Why are longitudes not parallel like latitudes?
Answer:

Longitudes converge at the poles because they are semicircles connecting the North and South Poles, unlike latitudes which are parallel circles.

Question 23:
What is the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)?
Answer:

Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is the time at the Prime Meridian (0° longitude), used as a reference for global time zones.

Question 24:
Name the latitude that passes through India.
Answer:

The Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) passes through India, dividing it into tropical and subtropical regions.

Question 25:
What is the difference between local time and standard time?
Answer:

Local time is based on the Sun's position at a specific longitude, while standard time is the uniform time adopted for a country or region.

Question 26:
How does the Earth's rotation affect time zones?
Answer:

The Earth rotates 360° in 24 hours, creating 15° per hour time zones to synchronize clocks globally.

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:
What are the two main points of reference used to locate places on Earth?
Answer:

The two main points of reference are the North Pole and the South Pole. These help in determining directions and positions using latitude and longitude.

Question 2:
Define latitude in simple terms.
Answer:

Latitude refers to the angular distance of a place north or south of the Equator, measured in degrees. It helps in identifying how far a location is from the Equator.

Question 3:
What is the significance of the Prime Meridian?
Answer:

The Prime Meridian (0° longitude) is the reference line for measuring longitude. It passes through Greenwich, England, and divides the Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.

Question 4:
Name the five major circles of latitude.
Answer:
  • Equator (0°)
  • Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N)
  • Tropic of Capricorn (23.5°S)
  • Arctic Circle (66.5°N)
  • Antarctic Circle (66.5°S)
Question 5:
How does the International Date Line affect time zones?
Answer:

The International Date Line (roughly 180° longitude) marks where the date changes by one day when crossed. Traveling west across it adds a day, while traveling east subtracts a day.

Question 6:
What is the purpose of time zones?
Answer:

Time zones divide the Earth into 24 sections, each representing one hour. They ensure that the time reflects the position of the Sun, making noon the middle of the day everywhere.

Question 7:
Why is the Equator considered the hottest part of the Earth?
Answer:

The Equator receives direct sunlight year-round due to its position at 0° latitude. This results in higher temperatures compared to other regions.

Question 8:
What are coordinates in geography?
Answer:

Coordinates are a pair of numbers (latitude and longitude) that pinpoint an exact location on Earth. For example, Delhi is at 28.7°N, 77.1°E.

Question 9:
How do parallels of latitude differ from meridians of longitude?
Answer:
  • Parallels of latitude run parallel to the Equator and measure distance north/south.
  • Meridians of longitude run from pole to pole and measure distance east/west.
Question 10:
What is the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)?
Answer:

Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is the time at the Prime Meridian (0° longitude). It serves as a global time standard for coordinating time zones worldwide.

Question 11:
Explain why the Earth is divided into hemispheres.
Answer:

The Earth is divided into hemispheres (Northern, Southern, Eastern, Western) to simplify navigation and study. The Equator splits it into north/south, while the Prime Meridian divides it into east/west.

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 latitude and longitude lines used for in locating places on Earth?
Answer:

Latitude and longitude lines form a grid system to locate any place on Earth accurately. Latitude lines run parallel to the Equator and measure distances north or south of it. Longitude lines run from the North Pole to the South Pole and measure distances east or west of the Prime Meridian. Together, they provide exact coordinates like an address for any location.

Question 2:
Explain the significance of the Equator and the Prime Meridian.
Answer:

The Equator is the 0° latitude line, dividing Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. It helps in understanding climate zones, as regions near it are generally warmer. The Prime Meridian is the 0° longitude line, passing through Greenwich, England, dividing Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. These reference lines are essential for navigation and timekeeping.

Question 3:
How do time zones work, and why are they necessary?
Answer:

Time zones are regions of the Earth that share the same standard time. They are necessary because:

  • Earth rotates 15° per hour, causing sunlight to reach different longitudes at different times.
  • Without time zones, noon would occur at different times in nearby places, creating confusion.
  • They help in organizing travel, communication, and global activities uniformly.

Question 4:
What is the difference between local time and standard time?
Answer:

Local time is based on the Sun's position at a specific longitude, varying slightly between nearby places. Standard time is the uniform time adopted for a whole time zone, ignoring minor longitudinal differences. For example, India follows Indian Standard Time (IST), which is based on 82.5°E longitude, even though local times differ across the country.

Question 5:
Describe how the International Date Line affects time and date calculations.
Answer:

The International Date Line is an imaginary line near 180° longitude. Crossing it changes the date:

  • Traveling eastward subtracts a day.
  • Traveling westward adds a day.
This ensures consistency in global datekeeping, preventing confusion in international travel and communication. It mostly follows the Pacific Ocean to avoid splitting land regions.

Question 6:
Why are parallels of latitude circles while meridians of longitude are semi-circles?
Answer:

Parallels of latitude are circles because they run parallel to the Equator, maintaining equal distances from it. Meridians of longitude are semi-circles because they converge at the poles, connecting the North and South Poles. This difference arises due to Earth's spherical shape, making latitude lines parallel and longitude lines meet at the poles.

Question 7:
What are the latitude and longitude lines? How do they help in locating places on Earth?
Answer:

Latitude lines are imaginary horizontal circles parallel to the Equator, measuring distance north or south of it. Longitude lines are vertical semicircles connecting the North and South Poles, measuring distance east or west of the Prime Meridian.

They help in locating places by forming a grid system.
1. Latitude gives the position north or south.
2. Longitude gives the position east or west.
Together, they provide exact coordinates (like an address) for any place on Earth.

Question 8:
What is the difference between local time and standard time? Why is standard time important?
Answer:

Local time is based on the Sun's position at a specific place, varying as longitude changes. Standard time is the uniform time adopted for a country or region, usually based on a central meridian.

Standard time is important because:
1. It avoids confusion in timekeeping across regions.
2. It helps in scheduling transport, communication, and daily activities uniformly.
3. It ensures coordination in a country with multiple longitudes.

Question 9:
How do heat zones of the Earth influence climate? Name the three major heat zones.
Answer:

Heat zones are regions classified based on temperature due to the Earth's curvature and sunlight distribution. They influence climate by determining temperature patterns, vegetation, and lifestyles.

The three major heat zones are:
1. Torrid Zone (between Tropics): Hot and humid.
2. Temperate Zone (between Tropics and Polar Circles): Moderate climate.
3. Frigid Zone (Polar Regions): Extremely cold.

Question 10:
Describe the role of parallels of latitude and meridians of longitude in map-making.
Answer:

Parallels of latitude help in marking distances north or south of the Equator, ensuring accurate placement of locations vertically on maps.

Meridians of longitude help in marking distances east or west of the Prime Meridian, ensuring accurate placement horizontally.

Together, they create a grid system for precise map-making, navigation, and measuring distances.

Question 11:
Why is the International Date Line important? What happens when you cross it?
Answer:

The International Date Line (roughly 180° longitude) is important because it marks the change of calendar date. Crossing it adjusts the date by one day:

  • Traveling eastward subtracts a day.
  • Traveling westward adds a day.

It prevents confusion in global timekeeping and ensures consistency in dates across the world.

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 how latitude and longitude help us locate places on Earth. Give examples from NCERT.
Answer:

Historical Context
We studied that latitude and longitude form a grid system to pinpoint locations. Ancient sailors used stars for navigation, but today, coordinates make it precise.

Key Developments

  • Latitude measures distance north/south of the Equator (e.g., Delhi at 28.7°N).
  • Longitude measures east/west from the Prime Meridian (e.g., Mumbai at 72.8°E).
  • Our textbook shows how Chennai (13°N, 80°E) is located using this grid.

Current Relevance
GPS devices use these coordinates, helping us navigate cities or track weather.

Question 2:
Describe the significance of the Equator and Prime Meridian with NCERT examples.
Answer:

Historical Context
The Equator (0° latitude) divides Earth into hemispheres, while the Prime Meridian (0° longitude) sets time zones.

Key Developments

  • Countries near the Equator, like Brazil, have tropical climates.
  • London lies on the Prime Meridian, as shown in our NCERT map.
  • India’s standard time (IST) is based on 82.5°E, not 0°.

Socio-economic Impact
These lines help in trade and travel, like flights crossing time zones.

Question 3:
How do heat zones of the Earth vary with latitude? Use NCERT references.
Answer:

Historical Context
We learned that Earth has three heat zones: Torrid, Temperate, and Frigid, based on sunlight angle.

Key Developments

  • Torrid Zone (0°-23.5°): NCERT mentions Kerala’s hot climate.
  • Temperate Zone (23.5°-66.5°): Delhi’s moderate winters.
  • Frigid Zone (66.5°-90°): Polar regions with ice, like Antarctica.

Current Relevance
Climate change is altering these zones, affecting crops and wildlife.

Question 4:
Compare the time differences caused by longitude with Indian and global examples.
Answer:

Historical Context
Earth rotates 360° in 24 hours, so each 15° longitude equals 1 hour time difference.

Key Developments

  • India uses 82.5°E for IST, but Gujarat (70°E) and Arunachal (97°E) have sunrises 2 hours apart.
  • New York (75°W) is 10.5 hours behind IST.
  • NCERT shows how sailors adjusted clocks for travel.

Socio-economic Impact
Global meetings require time zone calculations.

Question 5:
Why are parallels of latitude important for climate studies? Cite NCERT cases.
Answer:

Historical Context
Parallels of latitude are circles parallel to the Equator, influencing temperature and seasons.

Key Developments

  • Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) passes through India, causing hot summers (NCERT example: Rajasthan deserts).
  • Arctic Circle (66.5°N) has 6 months of darkness.
  • Equatorial regions get direct sunlight year-round.

Current Relevance
Scientists use these to predict monsoons or droughts.

Question 6:
Explain how latitude and longitude help us locate places on Earth. Give examples from our textbook.
Answer:
Historical Context

We studied that ancient sailors used stars to navigate, but latitude and longitude provide exact locations.

Key Developments
  • Latitude measures distance north/south of the Equator (e.g., Delhi at 28°N).
  • Longitude measures east/west from Prime Meridian (e.g., Mumbai at 72°E).
  • Our textbook shows how these lines form a grid like in GPS maps.
Current Relevance

Today, apps like Google Maps use these coordinates to find places instantly.

Question 7:
Describe the importance of the Equator and Prime Meridian in geography with NCERT examples.
Answer:
Historical Context

The Equator (0° latitude) divides Earth into hemispheres, while the Prime Meridian (0° longitude) sets time zones.

Key Developments
  • Countries near the Equator (e.g., Brazil) have tropical climates.
  • London on the Prime Meridian sets Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
  • Our textbook mentions how India’s IST is 5.5 hours ahead of GMT.
Current Relevance

These lines help in weather forecasting and global communication networks.

Question 8:
How do heat zones of the Earth influence human life? Use examples from different continents.
Answer:
Historical Context

We learned that Earth’s tilt creates three heat zones: Torrid, Temperate, and Frigid.

Key Developments
  • Torrid Zone (e.g., Amazon rainforest) has dense forests due to heat.
  • Temperate Zone (e.g., Europe) supports agriculture like wheat farming.
  • Frigid Zone (e.g., Antarctica) has ice caps and polar animals.
Current Relevance

Climate change is altering these zones, affecting crops and wildlife.

Question 9:
Explain the role of parallels of latitude and meridians of longitude with real-world applications.
Answer:
Historical Context

Parallels (e.g., Tropic of Cancer) and meridians (e.g., 90°E) were drawn to simplify navigation.

Key Developments
  • Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) passes through India, marking summer solstice.
  • Meridians help calculate time differences (e.g., New York at 74°W is 10.5 hours behind IST).
  • Our textbook shows how these lines aid in map-making.
Current Relevance

They are vital for flight routes and satellite tracking.

Question 10:
Compare the geographical significance of the North Pole and South Pole using NCERT examples.
Answer:
Historical Context

Both poles are icy, but the North Pole is an ocean, while the South Pole is land (Antarctica).

Key Developments
  • North Pole: Home to polar bears (textbook example).
  • South Pole: Penguins thrive here, as shown in our maps.
  • Scientists study climate change at both poles.
Current Relevance

Melting ice here raises global sea levels, affecting coastal cities.

Question 11:
Explain the significance of latitude and longitude in locating places on the Earth. How do these imaginary lines help us identify any location accurately?
Answer:

Latitude and longitude are imaginary lines that form a grid system to locate any place on Earth precisely. Latitude measures how far a place is north or south of the Equator, while longitude measures how far a place is east or west of the Prime Meridian.

Here’s why they are important:

  • Exact Location: Together, latitude and longitude provide coordinates (like an address) for any place on Earth.
  • Navigation: Sailors, pilots, and GPS devices use these lines to find directions accurately.
  • Time Zones: Longitude helps determine time zones, as the Earth rotates 360° in 24 hours (15° per hour).

For example, Delhi is located at approximately 28.6° N latitude and 77.2° E longitude. Without these lines, it would be difficult to locate places or measure distances correctly.

Question 12:
Describe the major heat zones of the Earth and explain how latitude influences their formation. Support your answer with a diagram (mention key features).
Answer:

The Earth is divided into three major heat zones based on the amount of sunlight they receive due to their latitude:

  • Torrid Zone (Tropical): Lies between the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° N) and Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° S). This zone receives direct sunlight year-round, making it the hottest.
  • Temperate Zones: Located between the Tropics and the Arctic/Antarctic Circles (66.5° N/S). These zones experience moderate temperatures as sunlight falls slantingly.
  • Frigid Zones (Polar): Found beyond the Arctic and Antarctic Circles. They receive very slanting sunlight, making them extremely cold.

How latitude affects heat zones:
Since the Earth is spherical, sunlight strikes the Equator directly (high heat), while near the Poles, it spreads over a larger area (low heat). A simple diagram would show:
1. The Equator (center) with vertical sunlight.
2. The Poles with slanting, spread-out sunlight.
3. Labels for all three zones.

Thus, latitude determines temperature variations across the Earth.

Question 13:
Explain the significance of latitude and longitude in locating places on the Earth. How do these imaginary lines help us identify any place accurately?
Answer:

Latitude and longitude are imaginary lines that form a grid system to locate any place on the Earth precisely. Latitude lines run horizontally and measure distances north or south of the Equator, while longitude lines run vertically and measure distances east or west of the Prime Meridian.

Here’s how they help:

  • Latitude helps determine a place's climate, as regions near the Equator are hotter, while those near the poles are colder.
  • Longitude helps calculate time zones, as each 15° represents a one-hour difference.

Together, they provide exact coordinates (like an address) for any location, making navigation, mapping, and global communication easier. For example, Delhi’s coordinates are approximately 28.6°N (latitude) and 77.2°E (longitude).

Question 14:
Describe the major heat zones of the Earth and explain how they are determined by latitude. How do these zones affect human life and activities?
Answer:

The Earth is divided into three major heat zones based on latitude:

  • Torrid Zone (between Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn): Receives direct sunlight, making it hot year-round.
  • Temperate Zones (between Tropics and Polar Circles): Experience moderate temperatures with distinct seasons.
  • Frigid Zones (near the Poles): Very cold due to slanting sunlight.

These zones affect human life in many ways:

  • People in the Torrid Zone wear light clothes and grow tropical crops like bananas.
  • In the Temperate Zones, farming includes wheat and apples, and people adapt to seasonal changes.
  • The Frigid Zones have fewer inhabitants, but some communities rely on fishing and hunting.

Understanding these zones helps us plan agriculture, clothing, and housing according to the climate.

Question 15:
Explain the significance of latitude and longitude in locating places on the Earth. How do these imaginary lines help us identify any place accurately? Provide examples.
Answer:

Latitude and longitude are imaginary lines that form a grid system to locate any place on Earth precisely. Latitude measures how far a place is north or south of the Equator, while longitude measures how far a place is east or west of the Prime Meridian.

These lines help us because:

  • Latitude helps determine climate zones (e.g., tropical, temperate).
  • Longitude helps calculate time differences between places.

For example, Delhi is located at approximately 28.6°N latitude and 77.2°E longitude. Without these coordinates, finding exact locations would be difficult. Maps, GPS, and navigation systems rely on this grid system for accuracy.

Question 16:
Explain the significance of latitude and longitude in locating places on the Earth. How do they help in identifying any place accurately?
Answer:

Latitude and longitude are imaginary lines that form a grid system to locate any place on Earth precisely. Latitude measures how far a place is north or south of the Equator (0°), while longitude measures how far a place is east or west of the Prime Meridian (0°).

Here’s how they help in accurate identification:

  • Latitude helps determine climate zones (e.g., tropical, temperate) as it affects sunlight intensity.
  • Longitude helps calculate time zones since Earth rotates 360° in 24 hours (15° per hour).
  • Together, they provide exact coordinates (e.g., Delhi: 28.6°N, 77.2°E), making navigation easier for ships, planes, and GPS.

Without these lines, locating places would be vague and unreliable. Maps, weather tracking, and global communication rely on this grid system.

Question 17:
Describe the major heat zones of the Earth and explain how they are determined by latitude. Support your answer with a diagram (mention key labels).
Answer:

The Earth is divided into three major heat zones based on latitude and sunlight distribution:

  • Torrid Zone (Tropical): Between Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) and Tropic of Capricorn (23.5°S). Receives direct sunlight year-round, making it the hottest.
  • Temperate Zones: Between Tropics and Arctic/Antarctic Circles (66.5°N/S). Moderate temperatures due to slanting sunlight.
  • Frigid Zones (Polar): Beyond Arctic/Antarctic Circles. Extremely cold as sunlight is indirect or absent for months.

These zones are determined by latitude because:
1. Nearer to the Equator (0°), sunlight is direct and intense.
2. Towards poles (90°N/S), sunlight spreads over a larger area, reducing heat.
3. Earth’s tilt causes seasonal changes in sunlight angle.

Diagram labels (imaginary):
- Equator (0°)
- Tropics (23.5°N/S)
- Polar Circles (66.5°N/S)
- Arrows showing sunlight angles.

Question 18:
Explain the importance of latitude and longitude in locating places on the Earth. How do these imaginary lines help us in navigation and mapping?
Answer:

Latitude and longitude are imaginary lines that form a grid system to locate any place on Earth accurately. Latitude measures how far north or south a place is from the Equator, while longitude measures how far east or west it is from the Prime Meridian.

These lines help in navigation because:

  • They provide exact coordinates, like an address for any location.
  • Pilots and sailors use them to chart routes across oceans and skies.
  • Maps and GPS systems rely on them to pinpoint destinations.

For example, knowing that Delhi is at 28.7°N latitude and 77.1°E longitude helps travelers locate it precisely. Without these lines, it would be difficult to describe locations accurately or create reliable maps.

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:
Latitude and longitude help locate places on Earth. How do these lines work, and why are they important? Give examples from NCERT.
Answer:
Case Context

We studied that latitude (horizontal) and longitude (vertical) lines form a grid to locate places.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Equator (0° latitude) divides Earth into hemispheres.
  • Prime Meridian (0° longitude) passes through Greenwich.
Current Relevance

GPS uses these lines. Examples: Delhi (28.7°N, 77.1°E), Mumbai (19.1°N, 72.9°E).

Question 2:
Explain how time zones are determined using longitude. Use examples from NCERT and real life.
Answer:
Case Context

Earth rotates 360° in 24 hours, so each time zone covers 15° longitude.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • India uses IST (82.5°E), one time zone for the whole country.
  • USA has multiple zones (e.g., PST, EST).
Current Relevance

Flights use time zones. Examples: London (GMT), Tokyo (GMT+9).

Question 3:
Why is the Equator significant? Compare it with the Tropic of Cancer using NCERT examples.
Answer:
Case Context

The Equator (0° latitude) is the hottest region, while the Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) marks the northern limit of the Sun’s direct rays.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Amazon rainforest lies near the Equator.
  • India’s Udaipur is near the Tropic of Cancer.
Current Relevance

Climate studies use these lines. Examples: Kenya (Equator), Jaipur (Tropic of Cancer).

Question 4:
How do parallels of latitude differ from meridians of longitude? Use NCERT and real-world examples.
Answer:
Case Context

Parallels are circles parallel to the Equator, while meridians meet at the poles.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Arctic Circle (66.5°N) is a parallel.
  • 180° longitude is the International Date Line.
Current Relevance

Navigation uses both. Examples: Sydney (33.9°S, 151.2°E), New York (40.7°N, 74°W).

Question 5:
Riya is planning a trip to the Equator. She wants to know how the latitude and longitude help locate places. Explain with examples from our textbook.
Answer:
Case Context

Riya is curious about how coordinates work. We studied that latitude (horizontal lines) and longitude (vertical lines) form a grid to locate places.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Example 1: The Equator (0° latitude) divides Earth into hemispheres.
  • Example 2: Delhi is at 28.7°N, 77.1°E.
  • Example 3: The Prime Meridian (0° longitude) passes through Greenwich.
Current Relevance

GPS uses these coordinates for navigation, like finding Riya's trip route.

Question 6:
Aarav noticed that time zones change as he travels. How does the Earth's rotation affect this? Use examples from NCERT.
Answer:
Case Context

Aarav observed time differences. We learned Earth rotates 360° in 24 hours, creating time zones (15° apart).

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Example 1: India uses IST (82.5°E), one zone for the whole country.
  • Example 2: New York (UTC-5) is 10.5 hours behind India.
  • Example 3: Russia has 11 time zones due to its vast width.
Current Relevance

Flights and online meetings rely on time zones for coordination.

Question 7:
Priya saw a globe and wondered why it’s better than maps for understanding Earth. Compare both using textbook examples.
Answer:
Case Context

Priya compared globes and maps. We studied globes show accurate shapes/distance, while maps distort them.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Example 1: Globes display correct continent sizes (Africa > Greenland).
  • Example 2: Political maps show borders, like India’s states.
  • Example 3: Thematic maps highlight features, like rainfall patterns.
Current Relevance

Google Earth uses 3D globe views for realistic navigation.

Question 8:
The International Date Line confused Aditya during his flight. Explain its purpose with NCERT examples.
Answer:
Case Context

Aditya crossed the International Date Line (IDL). We learned it’s at 180° longitude, marking calendar day changes.

Historical/Geographical Analysis
  • Example 1: Flying west across IDL gains a day (e.g., Tokyo to Hawaii).
  • Example 2: It avoids land, bending around Pacific islands.
  • Example 3: IDL helps sailors adjust logs, as in our textbook.
Current Relevance

Airlines schedule flights considering IDL to prevent date confusion.

Question 9:
While studying latitude and longitude, Riya noticed that the Prime Meridian passes through Greenwich. Case Context: How do these lines help us locate places? Historical/Geographical Analysis: Name two countries through which the Equator passes. Current Relevance: Why is GPS dependent on these lines?
Answer:
Case Context:

Latitude and longitude form a grid to pinpoint any location on Earth. Our textbook shows how the Prime Meridian (0° longitude) and Equator (0° latitude) are reference lines.

Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Brazil and Indonesia lie on the Equator.
  • Greenwich was chosen for the Prime Meridian in 1884.
Current Relevance:

GPS uses these coordinates for navigation, like finding routes on maps.

Question 10:
Aarav read about time zones and wondered why India has one standard time. Case Context: How does Earth’s rotation affect time? Historical/Geographical Analysis: List two countries with multiple time zones. Current Relevance: How do airlines use time zones for schedules?
Answer:
Case Context:

Earth rotates 15° per hour, creating 24 time zones. We studied how India uses 82.5°E for Indian Standard Time (IST).

Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Russia spans 11 time zones.
  • USA has 6 time zones (e.g., PST, EST).
Current Relevance:

Airlines adjust flight times to avoid confusion, like Delhi-New York flights.

Question 11:
During a trip, Maya saw a sign showing altitude in meters. Case Context: How is height measured from sea level? Historical/Geographical Analysis: Compare the altitude of the Himalayas and the Thar Desert. Current Relevance: Why do mountaineers check altitude?
Answer:
Case Context:

Altitude is the height above sea level. Our textbook shows Mount Everest (8,848m) as the highest point.

Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Himalayas: Average 6,000m.
  • Thar Desert: Below 200m.
Current Relevance:

Mountaineers monitor altitude to avoid sickness due to low oxygen.

Question 12:
A news report mentioned a place at 45°N, 90°W. Case Context: How do coordinates help in emergencies? Historical/Geographical Analysis: Identify the continent at 20°S, 140°E. Current Relevance: How did coordinates aid in the 2023 Turkey earthquake rescue?
Answer:
Case Context:

Coordinates give exact locations for rescue teams. We learned how 45°N, 90°W is in North America.

Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • 20°S, 140°E is in Australia.
  • Example: 0°, 0° is in the Atlantic Ocean.
Current Relevance:

In 2023, Turkey’s earthquake zone was mapped using coordinates for aid delivery.

Question 13:

Rahul is planning a trip to visit the Equator and wants to understand its significance. Help him by answering the following:

  • What is the Equator, and how does it help in locating places on Earth?
  • Name one country through which the Equator passes and describe its climatic conditions.
Answer:

The Equator is an imaginary horizontal line (0° latitude) that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. It helps in locating places because:

1. It serves as a reference point for measuring latitude (distance north or south of the Equator).
2. Places near the Equator receive direct sunlight year-round, making them generally warmer.

One country through which the Equator passes is Ecuador. Its climatic conditions include:

- Tropical climate with high temperatures and heavy rainfall.
- Dense rainforests like the Amazon due to consistent warmth and moisture.

Question 14:

Priya noticed that her friend in Canada experiences longer nights in December while she enjoys shorter nights in India. Based on this:

  • Explain the role of latitude in causing this difference.
  • How does the Earth's tilt affect the duration of day and night?
Answer:

Latitude plays a key role because:

1. India is closer to the Equator (lower latitude), so day and night durations are more balanced.
2. Canada is at a higher latitude (nearer to the Arctic Circle), where winters have longer nights due to the Earth's tilt.

The Earth's tilt (23.5°) causes seasons and affects day/night duration:

- In December, the Northern Hemisphere (e.g., Canada) tilts away from the Sun, reducing sunlight hours.
- The Southern Hemisphere tilts toward the Sun, but India's proximity to the Equator minimizes this effect.

Question 15:

Rahul is planning a trip to visit his grandparents who live near the Tropic of Cancer. He wants to locate their town on a globe using latitude and longitude. Help him by answering the following:

  • What is the Tropic of Cancer, and what is its latitude?
  • How can Rahul use parallels of latitude and meridians of longitude to find the exact location?
Answer:

The Tropic of Cancer is an imaginary line located at approximately 23.5° North latitude. It marks the northernmost point where the Sun appears directly overhead at noon during the June solstice.

To locate his grandparents' town, Rahul should follow these steps:
1. Identify the latitude by finding the Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) on the globe.
2. Use the longitude (given or estimated) to pinpoint the exact location along the meridians (vertical lines).
3. The intersection of the latitude and longitude lines will give the precise spot.

For example, if the town is at 23.5°N, 77°E, Rahul can trace 23.5°N from the Equator and then move eastward along the longitude line to 77°E.

Question 16:

Priya is studying the Earth's grid system and wonders how the Prime Meridian and International Date Line help in locating places. Answer the following:

  • Why is the Prime Meridian considered the starting point (0° longitude)?
  • How does crossing the International Date Line affect time and date?
Answer:

The Prime Meridian (0° longitude) is the reference line for measuring east-west positions on Earth. It passes through Greenwich, London, and was chosen internationally for consistency in maps and navigation.

The International Date Line (roughly 180° longitude) is where the date changes:
1. Moving westward across the line increases the date by one day.
2. Moving eastward decreases the date by one day.

For example, if Priya flies from Tokyo to Hawaii and crosses the line on Monday, she will land on Sunday! This helps maintain global timekeeping accuracy.

Question 17:
Riya is planning a family trip to the Equator. She wants to understand how her location will be identified on the Earth. Explain the concepts of latitude and longitude to help her locate the Equator accurately. Also, mention why these lines are important for navigation.
Answer:

Latitude and longitude are imaginary lines used to locate places on the Earth. Latitude lines run horizontally and measure distance north or south of the Equator (0° latitude). The Equator divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Longitude lines run vertically and measure distance east or west of the Prime Meridian (0° longitude).


To locate the Equator, Riya should know it lies at 0° latitude. These lines are crucial for navigation because:

  • They provide exact coordinates for any place on Earth.
  • They help in creating maps and GPS systems.
  • They assist in understanding time zones (based on longitude).
Question 18:
A group of students is using a globe to locate the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Explain what these lines represent, their latitudes, and their significance in determining climate zones on Earth.
Answer:

The Tropic of Cancer (23.5° N) and the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° S) are special lines of latitude that mark the farthest points where the Sun appears directly overhead at noon. These lines are important because:

  • They define the boundaries of the Tropical Zone, which receives direct sunlight year-round, making it the hottest region.
  • The area between them is called the Torrid Zone, known for warm climates.
  • Beyond these lines, sunlight is less direct, creating temperate and polar zones.

For example, India lies partly in the Tropical Zone due to the Tropic of Cancer passing through it, resulting in hot weather in many regions.

Question 19:
Riya is planning a trip to visit her grandparents who live near the Tropic of Cancer. She wants to understand how this imaginary line helps in locating places on Earth. Explain the significance of the Tropic of Cancer and how it is used to determine the location of a place.
Answer:

The Tropic of Cancer is an important imaginary line located at approximately 23.5° North latitude. It plays a key role in locating places on Earth because:

  • It marks the northernmost point where the Sun appears directly overhead at noon (during the June solstice).
  • It divides the Earth into the Torrid Zone (between the Tropics) and the Subtropical Zone.
  • Places near the Tropic of Cancer experience hot climates due to direct sunlight.

To determine a location, we use latitude (distance north or south of the Equator) and longitude (distance east or west of the Prime Meridian). The Tropic of Cancer helps identify regions with specific climatic conditions and geographical features.

Question 20:
A group of students is using a globe to locate their city, which lies close to the Prime Meridian. Explain how the Prime Meridian helps in finding exact positions on Earth and describe its relationship with the International Date Line.
Answer:

The Prime Meridian (0° longitude) is a reference line that helps locate places on Earth by dividing it into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Here’s how it works:

  • It serves as the starting point for measuring longitude (east or west).
  • Places east of the Prime Meridian have east longitude, while those west have west longitude.

The International Date Line (roughly 180° longitude) is directly opposite the Prime Meridian and marks where the date changes. When crossing it:
- Moving eastward subtracts a day.
- Moving westward adds a day.

Together, these lines help in navigation, timekeeping, and global coordination.

Question 21:
Rahul is planning a trip to the Equator and wants to understand its significance. Explain the following to him:
(a) What is the Equator and how does it help in locating places on Earth?
(b) Why is the climate near the Equator generally hot throughout the year?
Answer:

(a) The Equator is an imaginary horizontal line that divides the Earth into the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. It is located at 0° latitude and serves as a reference point for measuring distances north or south of it. By using the Equator along with longitude lines, we can pinpoint any location on Earth using coordinates.

(b) The climate near the Equator is hot because this region receives direct sunlight throughout the year. The Sun's rays fall almost vertically here, leading to higher temperatures. Additionally, the Equator experiences minimal seasonal variation, keeping the climate consistently warm.

Question 22:
Priya noticed that her city is marked at 23.5°N latitude on a globe. Help her understand:
(a) What special line of latitude is this, and what is its significance?
(b) How does this latitude affect the duration of day and night in her city during summers and winters?
Answer:

(a) The 23.5°N latitude is called the Tropic of Cancer. It is one of the five major circles of latitude and marks the northernmost point where the Sun appears directly overhead at noon (during the June Solstice). This line is crucial for understanding Earth's tilt and its impact on seasons.

(b) During summers (around June), the Sun is directly over the Tropic of Cancer, resulting in longer days and shorter nights in Priya's city. In winters (around December), the Sun is over the Tropic of Capricorn, causing shorter days and longer nights due to the Earth's axial tilt.

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