General Science Question Answers Chapter 9 Disaster Management Class 8 Maharashtra Board

Question Answers For All Chapters – General Science Class 8

Exercise

1. Answer the following in your own words:

(a) Explain the relation between continuous rains and landslides. Give reasons.

• Continuous rains loosen the soil and increase its weight due to water absorption.
• Water enters the cracks in rocks, causing them to break.
• The soil and rocks slide down hills, blocking roads, damaging buildings, and changing river paths.

(b) Prepare a chart showing ‘Do’s’ and ‘Don’ts’ at the time of an earthquake.

(c) What are the specifications of an earthquake-proof building?

• The foundation should be separated from the ground to absorb shocks.
• Buildings should be made using light and flexible materials.
• Use of strong columns and reinforced concrete improves safety.
• Buildings should follow IS 1893 and IS 13920 codes for earthquake-resistant construction.

(d) Explain the effects of landslides.

• Floods occur as rivers get blocked or change paths.
• Trees, buildings, and rocks slide down, causing loss of life and property.
• Roads and railways get blocked, affecting transport.
• Crops and forests are destroyed, harming the ecosystem.

(e) Is there any relation between dams and earthquakes? Explain.

• Yes, large dams create pressure on the Earth’s crust, which may cause earthquakes.
• Water stored in dams seeps into the ground, loosening rocks and causing tremors.
• Reservoir-Induced Seismicity (RIS) occurs when water fills reservoirs and increases stress on rocks.

2. Give Scientific Reasons:

(a) It is safer to find shelter under things like a bed or table during an earthquake.

• A table or bed provides protection from falling objects and debris.
• It reduces the risk of injuries from ceiling collapse.

(b) In monsoon, don’t take shelter near hillsides.

• Hillsides become unstable due to heavy rainfall, leading to landslides.
• Large rocks and mud can fall suddenly, causing danger.

(c) Don’t use lifts at the time of an earthquake.

• Power failure can trap people inside lifts.
• Staircases are safer as they do not collapse easily.

(d) The foundation of an earthquake-proof building is separated from other land.

• A separate foundation absorbs earthquake shocks, reducing damage.
• It prevents the entire building from shaking violently.

3. If a crowd gathers at the place of an earthquake, what would be the difficulties in relief work?

• Traffic jams delay ambulances and rescue teams.
• Shortage of food, water, and medical supplies due to overcrowding.
• Panic and confusion make it hard to evacuate injured people.
• Increased risk of aftershocks causing further damage.

4. Make a list of the institutes and organizations that provide help for disaster management.

• NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) – Handles rescue operations during floods, earthquakes, and landslides.
• IMD (Indian Meteorological Department) – Predicts weather conditions and earthquakes.
• WHO (World Health Organization) – Provides medical support after disasters.
• Red Cross Society – Supplies food, water, and first aid to disaster-affected people.

5. Make a survey of your school according to the plan of disaster management and write the pointwise information.

• Total number of students and staff in school.
• Location of fire extinguishers and first aid kits.
• Emergency exits and open spaces for evacuation.
• Contact details of nearby hospitals and police stations.
• Plan for earthquake and fire safety drills.

6. Are there any possible places of landslides in your area? Collect information from experts.

• Hilly areas and places near rivers are prone to landslides.
• Deforestation and road construction make the land weak.
• Experts suggest planting trees and reducing soil erosion to prevent landslides.

7. With the help of the following picture, explain your role in disaster management.

• Helping injured people by providing first aid.
• Informing rescue teams about missing persons.
• Distributing food and water to affected people.
• Following safety guidelines and spreading awareness.