Science Class 6 Notes Chapter 11 Nature’s Treasures Curiosity

Notes For All Chapters – Science Curiosity Class 6

Introduction to Nature’s Treasures:

• Ajji introduces Bhoomi and Surya to the natural treasures around her village, including fresh air, fertile soil, sunlight, and biodiversity (variety of plants and animals).
• These treasures are essential for life on Earth, as they provide resources for survival and comfort.

Air:

Importance of Air:

• • Air contains oxygen which is crucial for survival. Humans and most living beings need oxygen for performing bodily functions.
  • Activity: Breathing exercises to observe the significance of oxygen.
  • Composition of Air: 78% Nitrogen, 21% Oxygen, and 1% Argon, carbon dioxide, and other gases.
  • Wind: Moving air is called wind, which can be fast (storm) or slow (breeze). Wind energy is used in windmills to generate electricity.

Water:

Uses of Water:

• • Water is used for drinking, cooking, farming, and industrial purposes.
  • Sources of Water: Oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, and underground water. Most of Earth’s water is saline, making freshwater limited and precious.

Water Conservation:

• • Importance of using water efficiently, reducing wastage, and preventing water pollution.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater for future use. It is practiced in stepwells in Rajasthan (Bawadi) and Gujarat (Vav).

Water Pollution: Causes include trash dumping and industrial waste, which make water unfit for consumption.

Energy from the Sun:

• The Sun is the main source of energy on Earth.
• Uses:
  • Helps plants prepare food (photosynthesis).
  • Used for drying clothes and food (e.g., drying chilies).
  • Solar energy can be captured using solar panels for electricity, cooking, and heating.
• Renewable Energy: Solar energy is renewable and eco-friendly.

Forests:

• Forests are home to a variety of plants, animals, and insects.
• Importance of Forests:
  • They provide food and shelter for animals.
  • They help in soil conservation by preventing erosion.
  • Forest cover has been decreasing due to deforestation.
  • Conservation Efforts: Van Mahotsav (Forest Festival) promotes tree planting and forest conservation. The Chipko movement, where people hugged trees to prevent them from being cut, is a famous example of forest protection.

Soil, Rocks, and Minerals:

• Soil Formation: Soil is formed by the breakdown of rocks over thousands of years.
• Types of Soil: Different soils are good for different purposes, such as agriculture or building materials.
• Rocks and Minerals:
  • Rocks are used in construction and tools.
  • Minerals like gold, copper, and iron are important for making electronics and vehicles.
• Soil Conservation:
  • Soil is a precious resource that supports biodiversity and plant life.

Fossil Fuels:

• Fossil fuels (petroleum, natural gas, coal) are formed from the remains of ancient organisms.
• Usage: Fossil fuels are used for transportation, electricity generation, and domestic purposes.
• Non-renewable: These resources are limited and take millions of years to form, making their conservation crucial.
• Pollution: Burning fossil fuels causes air pollution by releasing smoke and carbon dioxide.

Activities for Awareness:

• Water and Air Conservation: Use water responsibly and avoid polluting air and water.
• Tree Plantation: Plant trees to increase green cover and combat deforestation.
• Survey: Conduct a survey to learn about vehicle fuel types in the neighborhood.