Science Class 6 Notes Chapter 11 Nature’s Treasures Curiosity

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.

Natural Resources:

Definition: we get heat and light from the Sun, water from rivers, and food from plants and animals. These resources which we get from nature are called natural resources

Types:

Human-Made Resources:

Definition: We also use natural resources to make many useful things for our convenience. For example, electric bulbs, furniture, solar panels, bicycles, etc., make our lives comfortable. All such resources created by human beings are called humanmade resources.
Characteristics:
- Require human effort and technology for their creation.
- Depend on natural resources as raw materials.

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.