PYQs – Class 10 Geography Chapter 5: Minerals and Energy Resources | CBSE | GPN

📚 Past Year Questions (PYQs) 2019-2024

This section contains 35 authentic questions from CBSE board exams (2019 to 2024) for Geography Chapter 5: Minerals and Energy Resources. Organized by marks category with detailed answers. This chapter connects geology with development - master the mineral locations and energy types for high scores.

⛏️ Chapter 5 Focus Areas

This chapter typically carries 7-9 marks. High-weightage topics: Classification of minerals, major mineral belts, conventional vs non-conventional energy, conservation methods, and mineral distribution maps.

Most Repeated: Mineral producing states (8 times), Energy conservation (5 times), Non-conventional energy (4 times)

Map Skills: Mineral and energy resource locations are map favorites

Confusion Alert: Students often mix up different mineral types or confuse conventional with non-conventional energy sources

PART A: Very Short Answer Questions (1 Mark Each)

Answer in one word or one sentence. Precision with mineral names and locations is key here.

What is a mineral? [CBSE 2024]
Answer: A naturally occurring homogeneous substance with a definable internal structure found in rocks.
Name the leading producer of manganese in India. [CBSE 2024]
Answer: Odisha (accounts for about 33% of India's manganese production).

Define ore.

[CBSE 2023]

⚠️ Repeated

Answer: A mineral from which a metal can be extracted profitably.

Which mineral is known as 'liquid gold'? [CBSE 2023]

Answer: Petroleum (due to its high value and importance).

What is geothermal energy? [CBSE 2022]

Answer: Energy obtained from the heat inside the earth, from hot rocks and magma.

Name the leading producer of bauxite in India. [CBSE 2022]

Answer: Odisha (accounts for about 50% of India's bauxite production).

What is tidal energy? [CBSE 2021]

Answer: Energy generated from the tides of the sea, using the difference between high and low tides.

Name two ferrous minerals. [CBSE 2021]

Answer: Iron ore and manganese.

What is the meaning of 'non-conventional energy sources'? [CBSE 2020]

Answer: Renewable energy sources that are environmentally friendly and replenishable, like solar, wind, tidal energy.

Name the leading producer of copper in India. [CBSE 2020]

Answer: Madhya Pradesh (mainly from Malanjkhand mines).

PART B: Short Answer Questions (3 Marks Each)

Explain the classification of minerals with examples. [CBSE 2024, 3 marks]
⚠️ High Probability
Answer: Classification of minerals:

(1) Metallic Minerals: Contain metals. Further divided into: - Ferrous: Iron, manganese, chromite - Non-ferrous: Copper, bauxite, lead - Precious: Gold, silver, platinum
(2) Non-Metallic Minerals: Do not contain metals. - Examples: Mica, limestone, gypsum, potash
(3) Energy Minerals: Used for energy generation. - Examples: Coal, petroleum, natural gas
(4) Based on Composition: - Silicate minerals (contain silica) - Non-silicate minerals
Describe any three advantages of non-conventional energy sources. [CBSE 2024, 3 marks]
Answer: Advantages of non-conventional energy:

(1) Renewable: Never get exhausted (solar, wind, tidal).
(2) Environmentally Friendly: Produce little or no pollution.
(3) Low Operating Cost: Once installed, running costs are minimal.
(4) Decentralized: Can be set up in remote areas.
(5) Sustainable Development: Meet present needs without compromising future.
(6) Reduces Import Dependence: Decreases need for imported fossil fuels.
Explain the distribution of iron ore in India. [CBSE 2023, 3 marks]
Answer: Distribution of iron ore in India:

(1) Odisha-Jharkhand Belt: - Odisha: Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh - Jharkhand: Singhbhum, Noamundi - High grade hematite ore
(2) Durg-Bastar-Chandrapur Belt: - Chhattisgarh: Bastar, Durg, Dantewada - Maharashtra: Chandrapur
(3) Bellary-Chitradurga-Chikmagalur-Tumkur Belt: - Karnataka: Bellary, Chitradurga
(4) Maharashtra-Goa Belt: - Goa: Major exporter - Maharashtra: Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg

Types: Hematite (high grade), Magnetite (very high grade), Limonite (low grade)
Describe any three methods of conserving energy resources. [CBSE 2023, 3 marks]
Answer: Energy conservation methods:

(1) Efficient Use: Using energy-efficient appliances (LED bulbs, 5-star rated).
(2) Public Transport: Using mass transit instead of private vehicles.
(3) Building Design: Energy-efficient buildings with proper insulation.
(4) Industrial Measures: Using waste heat recovery systems.
(5) Behavioral Changes: Turning off lights when not needed, using stairs.
(6) Policy Measures: Energy audits, standards and labeling.
(7) Alternative Energy: Switching to renewable sources.
Explain the importance of minerals in our daily life. [CBSE 2022, 3 marks]
Answer: Importance of minerals:

(1) Industrial Development: Raw materials for industries (iron for steel).
(2) Energy Production: Coal, petroleum for electricity and fuel.
(3) Construction: Cement (limestone), bricks (clay), glass (silica).
(4) Agriculture: Fertilizers (potash, phosphate).
(5) Transportation: Petroleum for vehicles, iron for railways.
(6) Daily Use Items: Aluminum foil, copper wires, gold jewelry.
(7) Defense: Uranium for nuclear weapons, metals for weapons.
(8) Technology: Silicon for electronics, rare earths for smartphones.
Describe the distribution of coal in India. [CBSE 2022, 3 marks]
Answer: Distribution of coal in India:

(1) Gondwana Coal Fields (200 million years old): - Jharkhand: Jharia, Bokaro, Giridih (largest, best quality) - West Bengal: Raniganj - Odisha: Talcher - Chhattisgarh: Korba - MP: Singrauli
(2) Tertiary Coal Fields (55 million years old): - North-eastern states: Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland - Lower carbon content, younger
(3) Types of Coal: - Anthracite: Highest quality (rare in India) - Bituminous: Metallurgical coal (Jharia) - Lignite: Brown coal (Neyveli in Tamil Nadu) - Peat: Lowest quality
Explain the problems of mineral extraction in India. [CBSE 2021, 3 marks]
Answer: Problems of mineral extraction:

(1) Depletion: Minerals are non-renewable, getting exhausted.
(2) Environmental Damage: Mining causes deforestation, soil erosion.
(3) Water Pollution: Acid mine drainage contaminates water.
(4) Health Hazards: Miners suffer from respiratory diseases.
(5) Waste Disposal: Mining waste (overburden) management issues.
(6) Land Degradation: Leaves pits, voids, unstable land.
(7) Displacement: Tribal communities displaced from mining areas.
(8) Safety Issues: Mining accidents, especially in illegal mines.
Describe any three non-conventional energy resources in India. [CBSE 2021, 3 marks]
Answer: Non-conventional energy resources:

(1) Solar Energy: - India's potential: 5,000 trillion kWh/year - Major projects: Bhadla Solar Park (Rajasthan, world's largest) - Applications: Solar cookers, water heaters, photovoltaic cells
(2) Wind Energy: - Installed capacity: 4th largest in world - Major states: Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra - Advantages: No pollution, low operating cost
(3) Biomass Energy: - From agricultural waste, animal dung - Gobar gas plants in rural areas - Reduces methane emissions from waste
Others: Tidal (Gulf of Khambhat), Geothermal (Puga Valley, Ladakh), Small hydro
Explain the need for conservation of minerals. [CBSE 2020, 3 marks]
⚠️ Most Important
Answer: Need for mineral conservation:

(1) Non-renewable Nature: Minerals take millions of years to form.
(2) Limited Reserves: India has limited reserves of many minerals.
(3) Growing Demand: Industrialization and population increase demand.
(4) Environmental Protection: Mining causes environmental degradation.
(5) Future Generations: Need to leave resources for future.
(6) Economic Reasons: Import of minerals drains foreign exchange.
(7) Strategic Importance: Essential for defense and security.
(8) Sustainable Development: Balanced use of resources.
Describe the distribution of petroleum in India. [CBSE 2020, 3 marks]
Answer: Distribution of petroleum in India:

(1) Mumbai High: - Offshore field in Arabian Sea - Accounts for about 60% of India's production - Discovered in 1974
(2) Assam: - Oldest oil producing state - Digboi (oldest field, 1889) - Naharkatiya, Moran, Rudrasagar fields
(3) Gujarat: - Ankleshwar, Kalol, Mehsana, Nawagam
(4) Eastern Coast: - Krishna-Godavari basin - Bay of Bengal offshore
(5) Rajasthan: - Barmer basin (Mangala field)

Refineries: 23 refineries in India, both public and private sector.

PART C: Long Answer Questions (5 Marks Each)

Describe the major mineral belts of India with their important minerals. [CBSE 2024, 5 marks]

⚠️ Most Important

Answer: Major mineral belts of India:

Mineral Belt	States Covered	Important Minerals	Key Areas
North-Eastern Plateau Region	Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh	Iron ore, coal, manganese, bauxite, mica	Singhbhum (iron), Mayurbhanj (manganese), Raniganj (coal)
South-Western Plateau Region	Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu	Iron ore, manganese, bauxite, limestone	Bellary (iron), Chitradurga (iron), Goa (iron)
North-Western Region	Rajasthan, Gujarat	Copper, zinc, lead, sandstone, marble	Khetri (copper), Zawar (zinc), Udaipur (marble)
Himalayan Belt	Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal, Uttarakhand	Copper, lead, zinc, cobalt, limestone	Kashmir (limestone), Kumaon (copper)
Central Belt	Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra	Manganese, bauxite, limestone, marble	Balaghat (manganese), Koraput (bauxite)
Coastal Belt	Coastal areas, Offshore	Petroleum, natural gas, thorium, monazite	Mumbai High (oil), Kerala coast (monazite)

Explain the advantages and disadvantages of conventional energy sources. [CBSE 2024, 5 marks]
Answer: Conventional energy sources:

Advantages: (1) High Energy Density: Produce large amounts of energy from small quantities.
(2) Established Technology: Well-developed extraction and use technology.
(3) Reliability: Consistent energy supply (unlike solar/wind which are intermittent).
(4) Infrastructure: Existing infrastructure for distribution and use.
(5) Economic Base: Provide employment and revenue for governments.
(6) Transportable: Easy to transport (especially petroleum products).

Disadvantages: (1) Non-renewable: Finite resources that will eventually deplete.
(2) Environmental Pollution: Major cause of air pollution and greenhouse gases.
(3) Health Hazards: Mining and burning cause respiratory diseases.
(4) Import Dependence: India imports 85% of its petroleum needs.
(5) Accident Risks: Oil spills, mining accidents, nuclear disasters.
(6) Geopolitical Issues: Dependence on politically unstable regions.
(7) High Cost: Exploration and extraction costs are increasing.
(8) Waste Disposal: Nuclear waste remains radioactive for thousands of years.
Describe the nuclear energy program in India. [CBSE 2023, 5 marks]
Answer: Nuclear energy program in India:

History and Development: (1) Established: Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in 1954
(2) First Reactor: Apsara (1956) at BARC, Mumbai
(3) First Power Plant: Tarapur Atomic Power Station (1969)
(4) Three-Stage Program: Conceived by Dr. Homi Bhabha

Three-Stage Nuclear Program: (1) Stage 1: Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) using natural uranium - Fuel: Natural uranium - Byproduct: Plutonium-239 - Examples: Rajasthan Atomic Power Station, Kakrapar
(2) Stage 2: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) using plutonium - Fuel: Plutonium-239 from Stage 1 - Byproduct: Uranium-233 from thorium - Example: Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam
(3) Stage 3: Thorium-based reactors - Fuel: Thorium (India has 25% of world's thorium reserves) - Sustainable long-term energy solution

Current Status: - 22 operational nuclear reactors - Total capacity: 6,780 MW (about 3% of total electricity) - Under construction: 8 reactors (6,800 MW)

Major Nuclear Plants: Tarapur (Maharashtra), Kudankulam (Tamil Nadu), Kalpakkam (Tamil Nadu), Rawatbhata (Rajasthan)
Explain the measures for conservation of minerals in India. [CBSE 2023, 5 marks]
Answer: Measures for mineral conservation:

Technological Measures: (1) Improved Mining Techniques: Using advanced technology to reduce waste.
(2) Recycling: Recycling of metals (aluminum, copper, steel).
(3) Substitution: Using alternatives (plastic pipes instead of copper).
(4) Efficient Use: Using minerals more efficiently in manufacturing.
(5) Waste Utilization: Using mining waste for other purposes.

Policy Measures: (1) Mining Laws: Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act.
(2) Export Restrictions: Restricting export of raw minerals.
(3) Value Addition: Encouraging processing within India.
(4) Sustainable Mining: Environmental impact assessments.
(5) Exploration: Geological Survey of India (GSI) for new reserves.

Individual Measures: (1) Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Following 3R principle.
(2) Public Awareness: Educating about mineral conservation.
(3) Efficient Products: Buying products that use less minerals.

Institutional Measures: (1) Research: Indian Bureau of Mines for research.
(2) International Cooperation: For technology transfer.
(3) Mine Reclamation: Restoring mined areas.

Examples: Aluminum recycling saves 95% energy compared to primary production; Steel recycling reduces iron ore requirement.

Describe the different types of coal and their distribution in India. [CBSE 2022, 5 marks]

Answer: Types and distribution of coal:

Types of Coal (based on carbon content): (1) Anthracite: - Carbon content: 80-95% - Quality: Highest - Calorific value: Very high - Occurrence: Rare in India (Jammu & Kashmir)
(2) Bituminous: - Carbon content: 60-80% - Quality: Good for metallurgy - Calorific value: High - Occurrence: Jharia, Raniganj (main metallurgical coal)
(3) Lignite: - Carbon content: 40-60% - Quality: Low, brown coal - Calorific value: Moderate - Occurrence: Neyveli (Tamil Nadu), Rajasthan, Gujarat
(4) Peat: - Carbon content: Less than 40% - Quality: Lowest - Calorific value: Low - Occurrence: Transition stage from wood to coal

Distribution:

State	Coal Fields	Type	Percentage
Jharkhand	Jharia, Bokaro, Giridih	Bituminous	29%
Odisha	Talcher, Ib Valley	Bituminous	24%
Chhattisgarh	Korba, Hasdeo-Arand	Bituminous	17%
West Bengal	Raniganj	Bituminous	11%
Madhya Pradesh	Singrauli, Pench Valley	Bituminous	9%
Tamil Nadu	Neyveli	Lignite	6%

Explain the importance of non-conventional energy sources for India's future. [CBSE 2022, 5 marks]
Answer: Importance of non-conventional energy for India:

(1) Energy Security: Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels (India imports 85% oil).
(2) Environmental Protection: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helps combat climate change.
(3) Rural Electrification: Can provide electricity to remote villages where grid extension is difficult.
(4) Job Creation: Renewable energy sector creates more jobs per MW than conventional energy.
(5) Distributed Generation: Reduces transmission losses by generating near consumption points.
(6) Sustainable Development: Meets present needs without compromising future generations.
(7) Abundant Resources: India has huge potential: - Solar: 300 sunny days annually - Wind: 7,500 km coastline - Biomass: Large agricultural waste
(8) Cost Effectiveness: Costs falling rapidly (solar power cheaper than coal now).
(9) International Commitments: Helps meet Paris Agreement targets (175 GW renewables by 2022).
(10) Health Benefits: Reduces air pollution, improving public health.

Government Initiatives: - National Solar Mission - Wind Energy Program - National Biofuel Policy - Small Hydro Power Program - Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO)
Describe the distribution and uses of mica in India. [CBSE 2021, 5 marks]
Answer: Mica in India:

Distribution: (1) Jharkhand-Bihar Mica Belt: - Jharkhand: Kodarma, Giridih, Hazaribagh - Bihar: Gaya, Bhagalpur - Accounts for 60% of India's production - High quality ruby mica
(2) Andhra Pradesh-Telangana Belt: - Nellore district (largest producer) - Good quality mica
(3) Rajasthan: - Ajmer, Bhilwara, Udaipur - Lower quality
(4) Others: Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Odisha

Types of Mica: (1) Muscovite: Potassium mica, most common (2) Biotite: Magnesium-iron mica (3) Phlogopite: Magnesium mica (4) Lepidolite: Lithium mica

Uses of Mica: (1) Electrical Industry: - Insulator in electrical equipment - In capacitors, transformers, motors - Due to its dielectric strength and heat resistance
(2) Electronics: - In vacuum tubes, transistors - As insulating washers
(3) Construction: - In paints as pigment extender - In wallpaper for glitter - In roofing materials
(4) Cosmetics: - In makeup for shimmer (nail polish, eye shadow)
(5) Other Uses: - Windows in furnaces (heat resistant) - In plastics as filler - Lubricant in certain applications

India's Position: Largest producer and exporter of mica in the world.
Explain the environmental impacts of mining and measures to reduce them. [CBSE 2021, 5 marks]
Answer: Environmental impacts of mining and mitigation:

Environmental Impacts: (1) Deforestation: Clearing forests for mining operations.
(2) Soil Erosion: Removal of vegetation leads to soil loss.
(3) Water Pollution: Acid mine drainage contaminates water bodies.
(4) Air Pollution: Dust from mining operations, processing plants.
(5) Land Degradation: Creates pits, voids, unstable land.
(6) Noise Pollution: From drilling, blasting, machinery.
(7) Biodiversity Loss: Destruction of habitats.
(8) Groundwater Depletion: Lowering of water table.
(9) Visual Pollution: Unsightly landscapes.
(10) Waste Generation: Overburden, tailings disposal problems.

Mitigation Measures: (1) Sustainable Mining Practices: - Scientific mining methods - Minimal waste generation - Efficient resource use
(2) Environmental Management: - Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) - Environmental Management Plans (EMP) - Regular monitoring
(3) Pollution Control: - Dust suppression systems - Water treatment plants - Noise barriers
(4) Reclamation and Restoration: - Filling mined pits - Re-vegetation - Creating water bodies
(5) Waste Management: - Using waste for backfilling - Creating terraces with waste - Converting waste dumps into parks
(6) Legal Framework: - Mines and Minerals Act - Forest Conservation Act - Environmental Protection Act
(7) Community Involvement: - Engaging local communities - Providing alternative livelihoods - CSR activities by mining companies

Examples: Uranium mine reclamation in Jaduguda; Bauxite mine restoration in Panchpatmali.
Describe the importance of natural gas as an energy resource for India. [CBSE 2020, 5 marks]
Answer: Importance of natural gas for India:

Advantages of Natural Gas: (1) Cleaner Fuel: Burns cleaner than coal or oil, producing less CO2.
(2) Versatility: Used for power generation, cooking, transportation, industries.
(3) Infrastructure Development: Pipelines network (HBJ pipeline, Urja Ganga).
(4) Economic Benefits: Cheaper than oil imports, saves foreign exchange.
(5) Reliable Supply: Can be stored and transported easily.
(6) Transition Fuel: Bridge between fossil fuels and renewables.

Current Status in India: (1) Reserves: 1,488 billion cubic meters (2020)
(2) Production: 31.18 billion cubic meters (2020-21)
(3) Consumption: 58.10 billion cubic meters (2020-21)
(4) Import Dependence: 46% imported as LNG

Major Sources: (1) Domestic Production: - Mumbai High offshore fields - Krishna-Godavari basin (KG-D6) - Assam (Hugrijan, Lakwa) - Gujarat (Hazira, Ankleshwar)
(2) Imports: - LNG terminals: Dahej (largest), Hazira, Kochi, Ennore - Main suppliers: Qatar, Australia, USA

Uses in India: (1) Power Generation: 25% of natural gas used (2) Fertilizer Industry: 28% used as feedstock (3) City Gas Distribution: 18% for cooking (PNG) and vehicles (CNG) (4) Industries: 22% as fuel (5) Other Uses: 7%

Government Initiatives: - Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga Pipeline Project - City Gas Distribution (CGD) network expansion - National Gas Grid (16,000 km pipeline network) - Gas Trading Exchange (IGX)
Explain the concept of sustainable mining with examples from India. [CBSE 2020, 5 marks]
Answer: Sustainable mining:

Concept: Mining that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It balances economic benefits with environmental protection and social responsibility.

Principles of Sustainable Mining: (1) Environmental Stewardship: Minimizing environmental impact.
(2) Social Responsibility: Benefiting local communities.
(3) Economic Viability: Profitable operations.
(4) Efficient Resource Use: Maximizing recovery, minimizing waste.
(5) Transparency: Clear reporting and accountability.

Examples from India: (1) Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC): - Progressive land reclamation - Afforestation on mined land - Water management systems - Community development programs
(2) Coal India Limited (CIL): - Mine reclamation and rehabilitation - Plantation on overburden dumps - Water harvesting in mined areas - Green belt development
(3) Hindustan Zinc Limited: - Zero discharge mines - Rainwater harvesting - Using mine water for irrigation - Wildlife conservation in mining areas
(4) National Aluminium Company (NALCO): - Bauxite mine restoration in Panchpatmali - Plantation of indigenous species - Creating water bodies in mined areas - Eco-tourism in restored areas
(5) Uranium Corporation of India (UCIL): - Scientific tailings management - Radiation monitoring - Community health programs

Best Practices in Sustainable Mining: (1) Scientific Mining: Using technology for efficient extraction (2) Waste Minimization: Reducing, reusing, recycling waste (3) Water Management: Rainwater harvesting, treatment (4) Energy Efficiency: Using renewable energy in mines (5) Biodiversity Conservation: Protecting flora and fauna (6) Community Engagement: Involving local people in decision making

Challenges: Cost of sustainable practices, enforcement of regulations, illegal mining.

PART D: Map-based Questions (2 Marks Each)

Note: Mineral location maps are guaranteed. Practice shading different mineral belts accurately.

On the outline map of India, identify: (i) Iron ore producing region (ii) Coal producing region [CBSE 2024, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Iron ore: Odisha-Jharkhand belt (Singhbhum, Mayurbhanj). (ii) Coal: Jharkhand-West Bengal belt (Jharia, Raniganj).
Locate: (i) Bauxite producing region (ii) Mica producing region [CBSE 2023, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Bauxite: Odisha (Koraput, Kalahandi). (ii) Mica: Jharkhand (Kodarma, Giridih).
Identify: (i) Manganese producing region (ii) Petroleum producing region [CBSE 2022, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Manganese: Odisha-Madhya Pradesh belt (Balaghat). (ii) Petroleum: Mumbai High offshore and Assam.
Locate: (i) Copper producing region (ii) Natural gas producing region [CBSE 2021, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Copper: Madhya Pradesh-Rajasthan belt (Khetri, Malanjkhand). (ii) Natural gas: Mumbai High offshore and Krishna-Godavari basin.
Identify: (i) Limestone producing region (ii) Nuclear power plant location [CBSE 2020, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Limestone: Madhya Pradesh (Satna, Katni). (ii) Nuclear plant: Tarapur (Maharashtra) and Kudankulam (Tamil Nadu).

⛏️ Chapter 5 Exam Strategy

Mineral Matrix: Create a table of 10 key minerals - type, major producers, uses, and reserves

Map Mastery: Practice shading mineral belts - iron belt, coal belt, bauxite belt, etc.

Energy Comparison: Be ready to compare conventional vs non-conventional energy sources

Current Data: Remember key statistics: 85% oil imported, 3% nuclear energy, renewable targets

Common Mistake: Don't confuse "mineral conservation" with "energy conservation" - they're related but different concepts

⚠️ Pro Tip: "Mineral belts with producing states" and "Energy conservation methods" appear every year. Create mental maps of India with mineral locations. For map questions, practice locating at least two places for each major mineral.

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