NCERT Notes: Grade 8 Social Science - Geography - Chapter 3: Mineral and Power Resources

Introduction

Minerals and power resources are the backbone of industrial and economic development. Chapter 3 of the NCERT Grade 8 Social Science textbook delves into the vast world of these resources, shedding light on their types, uses, distribution, and the importance of conserving them.

Minerals

Minerals are naturally occurring substances that have a definite chemical composition. They are indispensable for various industrial processes and the manufacturing of numerous products we use daily.

Types of Minerals:

• Metallic Minerals: Minerals that can be melted to obtain new products. Examples include iron, bauxite, manganese.
  • Ferrous: Contain iron, e.g., iron ore, manganese.
  • Non-ferrous: Do not contain iron, e.g., bauxite.
• Non-Metallic Minerals: Do not yield new products on melting. Examples include limestone, mica, coal.

Distribution:

• Asia is rich in mineral deposits and contributes a significant chunk of the world’s mineral production.
• Africa is known for its gold and diamond reserves.
• Europe is the leading producer of iron-ore in the world.

Power Resources

Power resources are harnessed to produce energy. They are crucial for industrial operations, transportation, and domestic use.

Types:

• Conventional: Traditional sources of energy that have been in use for many years.
  • Coal: Predominantly used for generating electricity and as a fuel in industries.
  • Petroleum: Used as a motor fuel, aviation fuel, and for manufacturing petrochemicals.
  • Natural Gas: Used in power generation and as domestic fuel.
  • Hydropower: Energy derived from falling water.
• Non-Conventional: New and renewable sources of energy.
  • Solar Energy: Harnessed from the sun.
  • Wind Energy: Derived from wind by using windmills or wind turbines.
  • Nuclear Energy: Obtained from radioactive materials.
  • Tidal Energy: Generated from tides.
  • Geothermal Energy: Obtained from the heat of the earth.

Conservation:

• Switching to renewable sources.
• Adopting energy-efficient appliances.
• Reducing energy wastage.

Importance of Conservation

The rampant extraction and overuse of mineral and power resources can lead to their exhaustion. Conservation ensures their longevity and a sustainable future.

Conservation Methods:

• Technological advancement: Allows for efficient extraction, reducing wastage.
• Recycling: Produces less waste and reduces the need for raw materials.
• Switching to alternative resources: Reduces dependence on one resource.
• Regulated extraction: Prevents over-exploitation.

Conclusion

Mineral and power resources, as detailed in the NCERT Grade 8 Social Science textbook, play an instrumental role in shaping the world’s economies and lifestyles. They not only fuel industries but also light up our homes, power our vehicles, and are integral to various products we use. As we continue to harness these resources, the onus is on us to ensure their judicious use and conservation. Embracing sustainable practices and technologies is the path forward to a balanced coexistence with our planet’s bounteous resources.

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Reference: NCERT Grade 8 Social Science - Geography - Chapter 3: Mineral and Power Resources