EG Science

7
CBSE
Science
Prepare • Practice • Perform
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Preface
Exam Guru Science-VII is based on the latest curriculum guidelines specified by the CBSE. It
will certainly prove to be a torch-bearer for those who toil hard to achieve their goal.
Salient Features of the Book:
●● The whole book is well designed to aim at total and easy learning. This will not only build
their morale but confidence too.
●● Each chapter is subdivided into pictorial flow chart representation, important points to
remember, different topics supplied with relevant and solved questions.
●● Flow charts on the onset of a chapter help in quick grasping of the concepts at a glance.
●● All topicwise exercises incorporates VSA-1/2/3 and LA for indepth practice and learning.
●● Most of the important questions from NCERT Text Book and NCERT Exemplar are included.
●● HOTS and Value Based Questions have been given to assess student’s understanding
beyond the text and its application in real world.
●● ‘Did you know?’ added for additional general scientific knowledge related to each chapter.
●● Enrichment Activities added for subject enrichment knowledge.
●● Periodic Tests, Half-Yearly Tests and Yearly Examination Tests are provided at the end of
the book.
●● Chapterwise Worksheets are provided at the end of each chapter prepare the student from
examination point of view.
Suggestions for further improvement of the book, pointing out printing errors/mistakes which
might have crept in, in spite of all efforts, will be thankfully received and incorporated in the
next edition.
CBSE Circular No.: Acad-14/2017 Dated: 21/03/2017
Scholastic Area: The assessment structure and examination for classes VI to VIII have been prepared in
view of the provisions of RTE-Act 2009 and comprises of two terms i.e. Term-1 and 2 as explained below:
Subjects Term-1 (100 marks) Term-2 (100 marks)
(1st half of the session) (2nd half of the session)
20 marks Periodic Assessment + 80 20 marks Periodic Assessment + 80 marks for
marks for Half Yearly Exam Half Yearly Exam
Language - 1 PA 20 Marks Half Yearly PA 20 Marks Yearly Exam
• Periodic Test Exam • Periodic Test • Written exam for 80 marks
Language - 2 • Written exam
10 marks with 10 marks with with syllabus coverage as
Language - 3 syllabus covered for 80 marks syllabus covered below:
till announcement with syllabus till announcement Class VI: 10% of 1st term
Mathematics of test dates by covered till of test dates by covering significant topics +
school announcement school entire syllabus of 2nd term
Science • Note Book of Half Yearly • Note Book Class VII: 20% of 1st term
Submission 5 exam dates by Submission 5 covering significant topics +
Social school
Science marks at term marks at term end entire syllabus of 2nd term
end • Sub Enrichment Class VIII: 30% of 1st term
Any other • S ub Enrichment 5 marks at term covering significant topics +
Subjects 5 marks at term end end entire syllabus of 2nd term
(iii)
Contents
1. Nutrition in Plants................................................................................. 5
2. Nutrition in Animals............................................................................ 17
3. Fibre to Fabric..................................................................................... 29
4. Heat..................................................................................................... 38
5. Acids, Bases and Salts........................................................................ 53
6. Physical and Chemical Changes.......................................................... 66
7. Weather, Climate and Adaptations of Animals to Climate................... 76
8. Winds, Storms and Cyclones............................................................... 83
9. Soil.................................................................................................... 100
10. Respiration in Organisms.................................................................. 110
11. Transportation in Animals and Plants............................................... 121
12. Reproduction in Plants...................................................................... 134
13. Motion and Time............................................................................... 144
14. Electric Current and Its Effects......................................................... 156
15. Light.................................................................................................. 171
16. Water: A Precious Resource............................................................... 185
17. Forests: Our Lifeline.......................................................................... 197
18. Wastewater Story.............................................................................. 206
Chapterwise Enrichment Activities.................................................217-254
Term–1
• Periodic Tests (1 & 2)�� 255-256
• Half Yearly Tests (1 & 2)�� 257-260
Term–2
• Periodic Tests (1 & 2)..............................................................261-262
• Yearly Examination Tests (1 & 2)�� 263-268
• Chapterwise Worksheets.................................................................269-304
(iv)
1 Nutrition in Plants
Topics Covered
1.1 Nutrition and its Modes 1.2 Autotrophic Nutrition
1.3 Heterotrophic Nutrition and its Types
Flow Chart
NUTRITION OF PLANTS
Autotrophic Depend on plants Heterotrophic

for food
Plants Animals
by the process
Photosynthesis • Parasites – Cuscuta
• Insectivores – Pitcher plant
Carbon dioxide + Water • Saprotrophs – Fungi
Sunlight • Symbiosis – Lichens and Rhizobium
Chlorophyll
Glucose + Oxygen
5
Important Points to Remember
• All organisms take food and utilize it to get energy for growth, maintenance and
various life processes.
• Based on the mode of getting food, organisms are classified as autotrophs and
heterotrophs.
• Autotrophs prepare their own food using simple inorganic materials like
carbon dioxide and water.
• Chlorophyll and sunlight are the essential requirements for photosynthesis.
• Carbohydrates and oxygen are the products of photosynthesis.
• Heterotrophs depend on autotrophs directly or indirectly for food.
• Parasitic, saprophytic, insectivorous and symbiotic are the different modes of
heterotrophic nutrition in plants.
• Plants like Cuscuta are parasites as they take nutrition from the host plant.
• Fungi derive nutrition from dead and decaying organic matter. They are
saprotrophs.
• Symbiotic relationship between Rhizobium and legumes helps in replenishing
the soil of its lost nitrogen.
1.1 Nutrition and its Modes

Nutrition is the mode of taking in food by the organism and its utilization by the
body.
Nutrients are the components of food necessary for our body. Nutrients serve
different functions. They:
– Enable us to build our bodies.
– Help us grow.
– Help repair damaged parts.
– Provide energy to carry out life processes.
Nutrition is of two types – autotrophic and heterotrophic.
Autotrophs ( Auto- Self, Trophos – Nutrition) are the organisms that can make
their own food from simple non – living substances. For example, green plants.
Heterotrophs ( Heteros – Other, Trophos – Nutrition) are the organisms that
directly or indirectly depend on green plants for nutrition. For example, all
animals.
Exercise 1.1
I. Very Short Answer Type Questions (1 Mark)
1. Fill in the blanks:
(a) ____________ is the intake of food and its utilization by the body.
(b) The two modes of nutrition are _____________ and _____________.
(c) ______________ are autotrophs.
6 Science–7
(d) Generally all ________________ are heterotrophs.
(e) ____________ are the components of food necessary for our body.
II. Short Answer Type Questions (2 Marks)
2. List any four uses of nutrients in our body.
3. Define nutrients and nutrition.
4. Explain, “Heterotrophs depend on autotrophs directly or indirectly for food.”
5. Are all animals heterotrophs?
6. State the main difference between autotrophs and heterotrophs.
Answers
1. (a) Nutrition 4. Heterotrophs cannot prepare their
(b) Autotrophic, heterotrophic own food, they either depend on plants
(c) Green plants (herbivores) directly or indirectly as
(d) Animals carnivores for food.
(e) Nutrients 5. All animals are heterotrophic in nature.
An exception is Euglena, a protozoan,
2. Four uses of nutrients are:
that has chlorophyll and can therefore
(i) Enable us to build our bodies. photosynthesize.
(ii) Help us to grow. 6.
(iii) Help repair damaged parts.
Autotrophs Heterotrophs
(iv) Provide energy to carry out life
processes. These organisms These organisms
prepare their own depend on autotrophs
3. Nutrients are the components of food food. directly or indirectly
necessary for our body. for food.
Nutrition is the mode of taking in food E.g. green plants. E.g. generally all
by the organism and its utilization by animals
the body.
1.2 Autotrophic Nutrition
• Leaves are the food factories of plants. They are green in colour as they contain
chlorophyll.
• Sun is the ultimate source of energy for all living organisms.
• Plants use carbon dioxide and water in the presence of sunlight and chlorophyll
to make food by photosynthesis (photo – light, synthesis – to make). Food is
made in the form of carbohydrate (sugar) and is stored in the form of starch.
Oxygen is also released in this process.
• Water and minerals present in the soil are absorbed by roots and transported
to leaves by vessels that form a continuous passage. Carbon dioxide is taken
in through tiny pores generally present on the lower surface of the leaves
(stomata).
Photosynthesis is important for life as:
• Survival of all living organisms directly or indirectly depends on food made by
plants.
Nutrition in Plants 7
Photosynthesis
• Oxygen, which is essential for survival of all living organisms is released during
this process.
• Photosynthesis is the process by which plants make their own food using
carbon dioxide and water from the environment in the presence of sunlight and
chlorophyll. Carbohydrates and oxygen are the products. It is the only process
by which solar energy trapped by plants is converted into chemical energy of
food and hence it is a unique process.
Chlorophyll
Carbon dioxide + water æææææ→ glucose + oxygen
Sunlight
Stomata (sing. stoma) are tiny pores generally present on the underside of leaves.
They carry gaseous exchange and transpiration. A pair of guard cells surround
stomata and control its opening and closing.
Stoma open Stoma closed
Activity: To show that sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis and that food is
stored in the form of starch in leaves.
Method:
• Take two potted plants of the same kind.
8 Science–7
• Keep one of them in dark for three days and another one in sunlight.
• Pluck a leaf from each one of them and boil them in spirit heated over a water
bath.
• Wash the leaves with water and put a drop of iodine solution on both of them.
• Record your observations.
• Now keep the plant (that was earlier kept in dark ) in sunlight for a few hours
and perform the iodine test on its leaf again.
Observation
• The leaf of the plant kept in sunlight shows blue-black colour with iodine
solution while the leaf of the plant kept in the dark does not show this colour
change. This is because starch is made in the leaf kept in sunlight but not in
the leaf kept in the dark.
• When the plant kept in the dark was shifted to sunlight, the leaf showed
blue‑black colour with iodine solution confirming the presence of starch.
Result
Sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis and leaves make food in the form of
starch.
Sun Small beaker

Green leaf
Spirit
Water
Water bath
(Big beaker)
Potted plant Potted plant
(having (having
green leaves) green leaves)
Burner
Plant kept in sunlight Plant kept in dark Leaves boiled in spirit
Dropper Dropper
Blue-black No blue-black
colour produced colour produced
(Starch present) (No starch present)
Leaf from plant Leaf from plant

kept in sunlight kept in dark
Sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis
• Leaves other than green also have chlorophyll and they photosynthesize.
• The slimy green patches on the surface of ponds and other stagnant water
bodies are called algae. Since they have chlorophyll, they photosynthesize.
• Plants make food in the form of carbohydrates that are made up of carbon,
hydrogen and oxygen. These elements can also be used to make proteins and
fats.
• Plants need nitrogen to make proteins that they get from fertilizers or by the
action of nitrogen fixing bacteria.
Exercise 1.2
(a) _____________ is the green pigment found in the leaves.
(b) Food is stored in plants in the form of _____________.
(c) The exchange of gases in plants takes place through tiny pores called
_____________.
(d) When iodine is added to starch, it becomes _____________ in colour.
(e) The ultimate source of energy for all our needs is the _____________.
(f ) _____________ cells control the opening and closing of stomata.
(g) ‘Photo’ in the term photosynthesis refers to _____________.
(h) The site of photosynthesis in green plants are the _____________.
(i) Raw materials required for photosynthesis are _____________ and
_____________.
(j) _____________ is used to extract chlorophyll from the leaf in the given
activity.
II. Short Answer Type Questions-I (2 Marks)
2. State the functions of stomata.
3. Write the word equation for manufacture of food in green plants.
4. What are the raw materials and the products of photosynthesis?
5. Do leaves other than green also photosynthesize? How?
6. What are the slimy green patches on the surface of ponds? Are they capable
of photosynthesis?
7. Which elements make up carbohydrates? Which other components of food
can be made from these elements?
8. Besides the elements mentioned above, which other element is needed by
plants to make proteins. How do plants get it?
III. Short Answer Type Questions-II (3 Marks)
9. What are stomata? Where are they normally found? What controls their
opening and closing?
10 Science–7
10. Why is photosynthesis a unique process?
11. Why is photosynthesis essential for life?
12. How do raw materials for photosynthesis enter the plant?
13. Draw and label open stoma.
14. Draw a diagram showing photosynthesis.
IV. Long Answer Type Questions (5 Marks)
15. Write an activity to show that sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis.
Answers
1. (a) Chlorophyll 9. Stomata (sing. Stoma) are tiny pores
(b) Starch generally present on the underside of
(c) Stomata leaves. A pair of guard cells surround
(d) blue – black stomata and control its opening and
closing.
(e) Sun
10. It is a unique process as it is the only
(f ) Guard
process by which solar energy trapped
(g) Light
by plants is converted into chemical
(h) Leaves energy of food.
(i) Carbon dioxide, water 11. Photosynthesis is important for life as
(j) Spirit
(a) Survival of all living organisms directly
2. They carry gaseous exchange and or indirectly depends on food made by
transpiration. plants.
3. Carbon dioxide + water (b) Oxygen, which is essential for survival
Chlorophyll
æææææ→ glucose + oxygen of all living organisms, is released
Sunlight during this process.
4. Carbon dioxide and water are the raw 12. Water and minerals present in the soil
materials. Carbohydrates and oxygen are absorbed by roots and transported
are the products. to leaves by vessels that form a
5. Yes, leaves other than green also continuous passage. Carbon dioxide is
photosynthesize. They also have taken in through tiny pores generally
chlorophyll which is masked by other present on the lower surface of the
pigments. leaves (stomata).
6. The slimy green patches on the surface
Guard cells
of ponds and other stagnant water (swollen/turgid)
bodies are called algae. Since they have
chlorophyll, they photosynthesize. Cell wall
7. Carbohydrates are made up of carbon, Chlorophyll

hydrogen and oxygen. These elements Chloroplast
can also be used to make proteins and 13.
Vacuole
fats.
8. Besides other elements, plants need Stomatal pore
nitrogen to make proteins that they Nucleus
get from fertilizers or by the action of

Stoma open
nitrogen fixing bacteria.
Oxygen
released into the atmosphere
Sun
Light energy Chlorophyll

14. trapped from Sun Light
Carbon dioxide
Glucose formed
Soil Water Minerals
Photosynthesis
15. Activity: To show that sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis and that food is stored
in the form of starch in leaves.
Method:
• Take two potted plants of the same kind.
• Keep one of them in dark for three days and another one in sunlight.
• Pluck a leaf from each one of them and boil them in spirit heated over a water
bath.
• Wash the leaves with water and put a drop of iodine solution on both of them.
• Record your observations.
• Now keep the plant (that was earlier kept in dark) in sunlight for a few hours and
perform the iodine test on its leaf again.
Observation
• The leaf of the plant kept in sunlight shows blue-black colour with iodine solution
while the leaf of the plant kept in the dark does not show this colour change. This
is because starch is made in the leaf kept in sunlight but not in the leaf kept in the
dark.
• When the plant kept in the dark was shifted to sunlight, the leaf showed blue‑black
colour with iodine solution confirming the presence of starch.
Result
Sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis and leaves make food in the form of
starch.
12 Science–7
Sun Small beaker
Green leaf
Spirit
Water
Water bath
(Big beaker)
Potted plant Potted plant
(having (having
green leaves) green leaves)
Burner
Plant kept in sunlight Plant kept in dark Leaves boiled in spirit
Dropper Dropper
Blue-black No blue-black
colour produced colour produced
(Starch present) (No starch present)
Leaf from plant Leaf from plant

kept in sunlight kept in dark
Sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis
1.3 Heterotrophic Nutrition and its Types

Based on the method of obtaining food, heterotrophic plants are classified as:
parasitic, insectivorous, saprotrophic and symbiotic.
Parasites are the organisms that live in or on other living organisms (host) and
obtain their nutrition from them. For example, cuscuta.
Insectivorous plants like pitcher plant trap insects to meet their nitrogen
requirement. They are green in colour. The pitcher like structure in pitcher plant
is the modified part of leaf. The apex of the leaf forms a lid which can open and
close the mouth of a pitcher. Inside the pitcher, there are hair which are directed
downwards. When an insect lands in the pitcher, the lid closes and the trapped
insect gets entangled in the hair. The insect is digested by the digestive juices
secreted in the pitcher.
Saprotrophs are the organisms that derive their nutrition from dead and decaying
organic matter. Eg fungi like bread mould, mushroom. Saprotrophs secrete

digestive juices on the dead and decaying matter and convert it into a solution.
They, then absorb nutrients from it.
Pitcher plant (insectivorous) showing lid and pitcher
Symbiosis is an association where two organisms live together and share shelter
and nutrients.
For example,
1. Lichens are a symbiotic association between an alga and a fungus. The alga
provides food to the fungus that it prepares by photosynthesis while the
fungus provides shelter, water and minerals to the alga.
2. Rhizobium lives in the root nodules of leguminous plants. It receives shelter
and nutrition from the plant and in return it converts nitrogen from the
atmosphere into soluble form and provides it to the plant.
Exercise 1.3
(a) _________________ is an insectivorous plant.
(b) Bacteria called _________________ fix nitrogen for leguminous plants.
(c) _________________ associations are always give and take type of relations.
(d) _________________ element is fixed by Rhizobium.
(e) _________________ is the non – photosynthetic part of the lichen.
(f ) Saprophytes are _________________ in colour.
(g) Some _________________ plants are also heterotrophic in nature.
2. Pitcher plant and Venus flytrap are green plants that photosynthesize. Why
do they trap insects?
3. Explain symbiosis in lichens.
4. How does an insectivorous plant absorb nutrients from the insect trapped
by it?
5. Why are nitrogenous fertilizers not added to soil in which leguminous plants
are grown?
14 Science–7
6. What are saprotrophs? How does a saprotroph digest its food?
7. How would you test the presence of starch in leaves? (NCERT)
8. Distinguish between a parasite and a saprotroph. (NCERT)
9. Give a brief description of photosynthesis in green plants. (NCERT)
10. Show with the help of a sketch that plants are the ultimate source of food.
(NCERT)
11. Potato and ginger are both underground parts that store food. Where is food
prepared in these plants? (NCERT Exemplar)
12. Wheat dough left in the open, after a few days, starts to emit a foul smell and
becomes unfit for use. Give reason. (NCERT Exemplar)
13. Nitrogen is essential for plant growth. But farmers who cultivate pulses do
not apply nitrogenous fertilizers during cultivation. Why? (NCERT Exemplar)
Answers
1. (a) Pitcher plant (b) Rhizobium. to soil in which leguminous plants are
(c) Symbiotic (d) Nitrogen grown.
(e) Fungus (f ) non-green 6. Saprotrophs are the organisms that
(g) green derive their nutrition from dead and
2. Insectivorous plants like pitcher plant, decaying organic matter. For example,
Venus flytrap trap insects to meet their fungi like bread mould, mushroom.
nitrogen requirement as they grow in Saprotrophs secrete digestive juices
soil that lacks nitrogen. on the dead and decaying matter and
3. Lichens are a symbiotic association convert it into a solution. They, then
between an alga and a fungus. The absorb nutrients from it.
alga provides food to the fungus that 7. The presence of starch in leaves can be
it prepares by photosynthesis while tested by Iodine test. When we remove
the fungus provides shelter, water and chlorophyll from leaf by boiling it in
minerals to the alga. alcohol and then put 2 drops of iodine
4. Insectivorous plants like pitcher plant solution, its colour changes to blue and
trap insects. The pitcher-like structure indicates the presence of starch.
in pitcher plant is the modified part of
8. Parasite Saprotrophs
leaf. The apex of the leaf forms a lid
which can open and close the mouth (i) Parasite feeds (i) They feed
of pitcher. Inside the pitcher, there are on a living on dead and
hair which are directed downwards. organism. decaying
When an insect lands in the pitcher, organism.
the lid closes and the trapped insect (ii) The organism (ii) They do not
gets entangled in the hair. The insect is on which feed on a living
digested by the digestive juices secreted it feeds is organism.
in the pitcher. called host.
5. Rhizobium, a bacterium that can fix
atmospheric nitrogen, lives in the (iii) A parasite (iii) They secrete
takes ready- digestive juices
root nodules of leguminous plants. It
made food on the matter
receives shelter and nutrition from the
from the they live and
plant and in return it converts nitrogen organism convert it into
from the atmosphere into soluble on which it a solution and
form and provides it to the plant. So, feeds. then absorb it.
nitrogenous fertilizers are not added

9. The green plants have chlorophyll in 11. In both the plants, the shoot system
the leaves. These leaves use CO2 and and leaves lies above ground where the
water to make food in the presence of entire process of photosynthesis takes
sunlight. place and the final food is transported
Sunlight to the underground parts for storage.
Carbon dioxide + Water
12. The unused wheat dough if left in
Carbohydrate (glucose) + Oxygen
open for a day or two will get spoiled
During photosynthesis oxygen is
by the microbes causing fermentation.
released.
It breaks down the carbohydrates and
generates foul smell. Due to spoilage
they may develop greyish white patches
on the surface.
13. These leguminous plants possess
10. certain bacteria like rhizobium at their
root nodules that converts atmospheric
nitrogen into ammonia that can be
absorbed by plants and enhances the
soil fertility.
Did You Know?

1. Rafflesia, a parasitic plant, has the biggest and the heaviest flower.
2. Some plants like Mistletoe are partial parasites. They can make their own
food but depend on other plant for water and minerals.
3. Euglena has the ability to be autotrophic in the presence of light as it has
chlorophyll and heterotrophic in the absence of light.
4. Plants have the maximum rate of photosynthesis in red light.
5. Some bacteria are capable of driving food manufacturing process by energy
derived from chemical reactions (chemosynthetic bacteria).
VALUE BASED QUESTION

1. Instead of using chemical fertilizers, a farmer prefers to replenish his farm
soil using natural methods. Can you name one of them. List two values
shown by the farmer.
Answer
1. Crop Rotation. Environment friendly, knowledgable.

16 Science–7
2 Nutrition in Animals
Topics Covered
2.1 Nutrition: Nutrition in Unicellular Organisms
2.2 Nutrition in Humans
2.3 Nutrition in Ruminating Animals
Flow Chart
NUTRITION
Unicellular Human Ruminating

organisms Beings Animals
Amoeba by Alimentary Rumination

pseudopodia Canal
Grass Swallowed
Mouth • Oesophagus Rumen

• Stomach
• Small intestine Cud
Tongue Teeth • Large intestine
• Rectum Mouth
Taste Buds • Incisors – 4+4 • Anus
• Canines – 2+2 Chewed
• Bitter • Pre molars – 4+4
• Sour • Molars – 6+6
• Salty
• Sweet
17
• Nutrition in animals involves ingestion, digestion, absorption, assimilation and
egestion.
• Modes of feeding differ in different organisms.
• Amoeba ingests food with the help of pseudopodia (false feet) and ingests it in
food vacuole.
• Human digestive system is highly complex.
• It consists of buccal cavity, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large
intestine ending in rectum and anus.
• Salivary glands, liver and pancreas play a very important role in the process.
• An adult human has 32 permanent teeth – incisors, canines, molars and
pre‑molars.
• Digestion begins in the mouth and continues in the stomach and the small
intestine. Digested food is absorbed in the small intestine.
• Semi-solid waste in the form of faeces is expelled through anus.
• Ruminants digest their food in two steps.
2.1 Nutrition: Nutrition in Unicellular Organisms

Nutrition
• Animal nutrition includes nutrient requirement, mode of intake of food and its
utilization by the body.
• Nutrition in animals involves ingestion, digestion, absorption, assimilation and
egestion.
Ingestion is taking in of food. Various animals use different organs for ingestion.
The breakdown of complex components of food into simpler substances is called
digestion.
Absorption is the process by which food in soluble form passes into the body
fluid like blood and is transported to different parts of the body.
Assimilation involves utilizing the absorbed nutrients for energy, growth and
development.
Egestion is the process of removal of undigested waste .
• Animals get their food in different ways. For example, bees and humming birds
suck the nectar of plants, infants of mammals feed on mother’s milk, python
swallows animals they prey upon, some aquatic animals filter tiny particles
floating nearby and feed upon them.
Nutrition in Unicellular Organisms
Amoeba is a microscopic, single celled organism found in pond water. It has
a cell membrane, dense nucleus and many small vacuoles in its cytoplasm. It
constantly changes its shape and position. It pushes out one or more temporary,
finger- like projections called pseudopodia or false feet for movement and capture
of food.
18 Science–7
Amoeba
• Amoeba which feeds on bacteria, microscopic algae and small unicellular
organisms. It uses any part of its body to capture food. When it senses food
in its surroundings, it extends pseudopodia or false feet in that direction and
moves towards it.
• It engulfs the food particle and forms a food vacuole which contains digestive
juices to break down the food into simpler form. When the food is digested, the
unwanted waste is released through the body surface.
• Gradually the digested food is absorbed. The absorbed substances are used for
growth, maintenance and multiplication.
Nutrition in Amoeba (Unicellular Organism)
Exercise 2.1
(a) ____________ help Amoeba to capture food and to move.
(b) Digestion of food takes place in ____________ in Amoeba.
(c) Break down of food into simple, soluble form is ____________.

(d) A python ____________ its prey.
(e) Undigested waste is expelled through the general ____________ in Amoeba.
Nutrition in Animals 19
2. Differentiate between ingestion and egestion.
3. List the functions of pseudopodia.
6. Draw and label an Amoeba.
4. In steps, explain nutrition in amoeba.
5. Diagramatically represent nutrition in Amoeba.
Answers
1. (a) Pseudopodia (b) Food vacuole 5.
(c) Digestion (d) Swallows
(e) Body surface
2. Ingestion is taking in of food whereas
egestion is the process of removal of
undigested waste.
3. Pseudopodia helps in movement and
capture of food.
4. (i) When it senses food in its
surroundings, Amoeba extends
pseudopodia or false feet in that
direction.
(ii) It engulfs the food particle and 6.
forms a food vacuole which contains
digestive juices to break down the
food into simpler form.
(iii) When the food is digested, the
unwanted waste is released through
the body surface.
(iv) Gradually the digested food is
absorbed. The absorbed substances
are used for growth, maintenance
and multiplication.
2.2 Nutrition in Humans
• The human digestive tract is also called alimentary canal.
• The digestive tract and associated glands like salivary glands, liver and pancreas
make up the digestive system.
• The human alimentary canal consists of mouth, oesophagus, stomach, small
intestine, large intestine ending in rectum and anus.
• Different types of teeth in humans are incisors, canines, premolars and
molars.
20 Science–7
Human digestive system

Different types of teeth and their arrangement
Different types of teeth with their function
Teeth No. in upper jaw No. in lower jaw Function
Incisors 4 4 Cutting, biting
Canines 2 2 Tearing, piercing
Pre molars 4 4 Crushing, grinding
Molars 6 6 Crushing, grinding
• Starch of food gets broken down into sugar in mouth by the action of saliva. It
also makes the food soft and moist.
Activity to show the action of saliva on starch
Method: Take two test tubes A and B. In test tube ‘A’
put a teaspoonful of boiled rice. In test tube ‘B’ put
a teaspoonful of boiled rice after chewing it for 3-5
minutes. Add 3-4 ml of water in both the test tubes.
Now pour 2-3 drops of iodine solution in each test tube
and observe.
Observation: In test tube A, the colour of the contents
change to blue black while such a colour change is not
observed in test tube B. Boiled rice contains starch that
gives blue black colour with iodine solution in test tube
A. In test tube B, saliva acts on boiled rice breaking down starch into sugar and
sugar does not give blue black colour with iodine solution.
Tongue has taste buds to taste food. It mixes food with saliva and helps in
swallowing. It also helps in talking.
• The food is pushed down the oesophagus (food pipe)
and in fact the alimentary canal by the rhythmic
contraction and relaxation of the muscles of its walls
(peristalsis).
Stomach is a thick walled bag, shaped like a flattened
U. It is the widest part of the alimentary canal. It
receives food from the oesophagus at one end and
opens into the small intestine at the other. The inner
lining of stomach secretes:
(a) Mucus to protect the inner lining of stomach from
excessive action of acid,
Regions of the tongue for
(b) Hydrochloric acid to kill bacteria that enter with different tastes
food and to make the medium of stomach acidic
for action of digestive juice and
(c) Digestive juice to break down proteins into simple substances.
Liver, the largest gland in our body, secretes bile that is stored in gall bladder.
Bile plays an important role in digestion of fats.
Pancreas is located just below the stomach and secretes pancreatic juice that
acts on carbohydrates, fats and proteins and changes them into simpler forms.
22 Science–7
Small intestine is highly coiled and 7.5 m long. It receives secretions from the
liver and the pancreas. Besides, its wall also secretes intestinal juice.
• The complete breakdown of food takes place in the small intestine where
carbohydrates are broken down into simple sugars, fats into fatty acids and
glycerol and proteins into amino acids.
• Adsorption of digested food takes place in the small intestine. Finger like
outgrowths called villi, on the inner wall of small intestine, increase the surface
area for absorption of digested food. They also have a rich supply of blood
vessels for transport of digested food to different parts of the body.
• Absorption of water and salts from the undigested food takes place in the large
intestine which is about 1.5m long. The remaining waste passes into rectum
and is stored there as semi-solid faeces. It is finally removed through anus.
This is called egestion.
Exercise 2.2
(a) Saliva converts _______________ into sugar.
(b) Teeth that have common function are _______________ and _______________.
(c) _______________ secretes bile which is stored in _______________.
(d) _______________ absorbs water and minerals from the digested food.
(e) _______________ have the function of cutting and biting the food.
(f ) Food moves down the alimentary canal with the help of muscular
movement called _______________.
(g) Absorption of food is facilitated due to the presence of _______________ in
the small intestine.
(h) The length of small intestine is _______________.
(i) Solid waste is excreted in the form of _______________.
(j) Liver is the _______________ gland in the human body while _______________
is the second largest gland.
(k) _______________ teeth will be especially developed in carnivores.
(l) Maximum digestion of food takes place in the _______________.
2. Draw the taste map.
3. How is stomach protected from the action of acid released by it?
4. Differentiate between milk teeth and permanent teeth.
5. List the functions of tongue.
6. State the function of bile and pancreatic juice.
7. Which food do you think will take longer to be digested – sugar or fat?
8. Digestion needs the help of two more systems in our body to obtain energy
from food. Name them.

9. Name the four types of teeth in humans, their number in each jaw and their
function.
10. Name the end products of digestion.
11. How is small intestine designed for absorption of digested food?
12. Show with the help of an activity, the effect of saliva on starch.
Answers
1. (a) Starch 3. The inner lining of stomach secretes
(b) Premolars, Molars mucus to protect the inner lining of
(c) Liver, gall bladder stomach from excessive action of acid.
(d) Large intestine 4. Milk teeth are 20 in number and fall
(e) Incisors by the age of around 8 years whereas
(f ) Peristalsis permanent teeth are 32 in number and
(g) Villi work for life, if taken care of.
(h) 7.5 m 5. Tongue mixes food with saliva and
(i) Faeces helps in swallowing.
(j) Largest, pancreas It also helps in talking.
(k) Canines 6. Bile plays an important role in
(l) Small intestine digestion of fats. Pancreatic juice acts
on carbohydrates, fats and proteins
and changes them into simpler forms.
2.
7. Sugar is the simplest form of
carbohydrate so can be directly oxidised
to release energy. The digestion of fat
into fatty acids and glycerol will take a
longer time.
8. Respiratory and circulatory system.
9. Different types of teeth with their
function
Taste Map
Teeth No. in upper jaw No. in lower jaw Function
Incisors 4 4 Cutting , biting
Canines 2 2 Tearing , piercing
Pre molars 4 4 Crushing , grinding
Molars 6 6 Crushing , grinding
24 Science–7
10. Carbohydrates are broken down into while such a colour change is not
simple sugars, fats into fatty acids and observed in test tube B. Boiled rice
glycerol and proteins into amino acids. contains starch that gives blue-black
11. Finger like outgrowths called villi, colour with iodine solution in test tube
on the inner wall of small intestine, A. In test tube B, saliva acts on boiled
increase the surface area for absorption rice breaking down starch into sugar
of digested food. They also have a rich and sugar does not give blue-black
supply of blood vessels for transport of colour with iodine solution.
digested food to different parts of the
body.
12. Method: Take two test tubes A and B. In
test tube ‘A’ put a teaspoonful of boiled
rice. In test tube ‘B’ put a teaspoonful
of boiled rice after chewing it for 3-5
minutes. Add 3-4 ml of water in both
the test tubes. Now pour 2-3 drops of
iodine solution in each test tube and
observe.
Observation: In test tube A, the colour
of the contents change to blue black,
2.3 Nutrition in Ruminating Animals

Grass eating animals called ruminants quickly swallow grass and store it in
rumen. Here grass is partially digested and forms a cud. Later, the cud returns
back to the mouth in small lumps and the animal chews it. This process is called
rumination.
Digestive system of Ruminant

Grass is rich in carbohydrate called cellulose. Ruminants have a large sac
like structure called caecum present between the small intestine and the large

intestine. The cellulose of the food is digested here by the action of certain bacteria.
Humans donot have these bacteria to digest cellulose.
Exercise 2.3
(a) Grass eating animals are called _________________.
(b) They quickly swallow the grass and store it in a part of stomach called
_________________.
(c) The partially digested food that is again chewed by ruminants is called
_________________.
(d) Grass contains carbohydrate _________________.
(e) Ruminants contain a structure called _________________ that is capable of
digesting cellulose.
2. Name the carbohydrate found in grass. Are humans capable of digesting it?
3. What is cud? What is rumination?
4. Can we survive only on raw, leafy vegetables? Discuss.
5. Draw and label the digestive system of a ruminant.
6. How can ruminants digest cellulose?
7. What are villi? What is their location and function? (NCERT)
8. Name a type of carbohydrate that can be digested by ruminants but not by
humans. Give reason. (NCERT)
9. Where is bile produced? Which component of food does it help to digest?
(NCERT)
10. Write one similarity and one difference between nutrition in Amoeba and
human beings. (NCERT)
11. Can we survive on raw, leafy vegetables? Discuss. (NCERT)
12. You are blindfolded and asked to identify the drinks provided in two glasses.
You could identify one of them as lime juice and second one as bitter gourd
juice. How could you do it inspite of being blindfolded? (NCERT Exemplar)
13. ‘A’ got her gall bladder removed surgically as she was diagnosed with stones
in her gall bladder. After the surgery, she faced problems in digestion of
certain food items when consumed in bulk. Can you tell which type of food
items would they be and why? (NCERT Exemplar)
14. Boojho and Paheli were eating their food hurriedly so that they could go out
and play. Suddenly Boojho started coughing violently. Think of reasons why
he was coughing. (NCERT Exemplar)
26 Science–7
Answers
1. (a) Ruminants. (b) Rumen the small intestine and large intestine.
(c) Cud (d) Cellulose The cellulose of the food is digested by
(e) Caecum the action of certain bacteria which are
2. Cellulose. No, humans cannot digest not present in humans.
cellulose as they lack bacteria that 9. Bile is produced in liver. The bile juice
break it down. is stored in sac called the gall bladder.
3. The partially digested food that is It helps in the digestion of fats.
chewed again by ruminants is called 10. Similarity: The digestive juices in
cud. This process of cud returning to the amoeba are secreted into food vacuole
mouth in small lumps and its chewing and in human beings the digestive
by the animal is called rumination. juices are secreted in stomach and
4. No, humans cannot survive only on small intestine. Then the juices convert
raw, leafy vegetables as they do not complex food into simpler soluble and
have the bacteria to digest cellulose. absorbable substances.
Hence, they cannot use it as a source
Difference: Amoeba captures the food
of energy.
with the help of pseudopodia and engulf
5.
it. In human beings food is taken by
the mouth.
11. We know that the animals, fungi,
bacteria, non-green plants and human
being do not have the ability to make
their own food. They depend upon
autotrophs for their food directly
or indirectly. The green plant (leafy
vegetables/grass) trap solar energy
and make their own food in the form
of glucose. So, we can say that leafy
vegetables and grass can provide
sufficient energy to help us survive.
But, we cannot survive only on raw,
ready vegetables since they have
Digestive system of Ruminant
cellulose and humans are not able to
6. Ruminants have a large sac-like digest cellulose.
structure called caecum present 12. With the help of different types of taste
between the small intestine and the buds present in the tongue which helps
large intestine. The cellulose of the food to detect different tastes of food.
is digested here by the action of certain 13. She would face problem in digesting
bacteria. fats because it is digested by the juice
7. The finger-like projections in the inner released by a sac called the gall bladder
walls of the small intestine is called present in the liver of the body.
villi. These are found in small intestine. 14. The flap like valve, epiglottis that
Function: The villi increase the surface closes the passage of windpipe remains
area for absorption of the digested food. open. While eating hurriedly, talking
8. Cellulose is the carbohydrate that can or laughing while eating the food

be digested by ruminants. Ruminants may enter the wind pipe. At that time
have large sac like structure between coughing helps to clear it.
Did You Know?
1. Small intestine is smaller in diameter but longer in length than large
intestine.
2. During digestion, vitamins and minerals do not need to be broken down.
They can be used as it is.
3. Carnivores have a shorter small intestine than herbivores as they do not
need to digest cellulose.
4. Peristalsis takes place all along the alimentary canal.
5. The walls of small intestine secrete an intestinal juice called succus
entericus that completes the process of digestion.
VALUE BASED QUESTION

1. Reena always advises her friends and family to consume food leisurely. State
any two reasons for her action. What values are shown by her?
Answer
1. This helps in better chewing and thus properly. Also it prevents accidental
digestion. When the food is digested entry of food in the windpipe.
properly, the nutrients are absorbed Knowledgable, careful.

28 Science–7
3 Fibre to Fabric
Topics Covered
3.1 Fibre: Natural and Artificial; Animal Fibre: Wool
3.2 Silk and Sericulture
Flow Chart
FIBRE
Obtained from Plants Obtained from Animals
• Cotton
• Jute Wool Silk
Obtained from
Obtained
rearing &
from
breeding of
processing
Processed & boiling
Sheep
into wool
Steps
Larvae Pupa Cocoon
Shearing
Scouring Eggs Adult Moth Silk Moth Boiled
Sorting
Silk Weaving Thrown Throwns Raw Rearing Larva
Combing Cloth Silk Silk Dies
Dyeing
Spinning
29
• A material which is in the form of continuous strands is called fibre.
• Fibres obtained from plants or animals are called natural fibres, e.g. cotton, wool,
silk, etc.
• Fibres made in laboratory or factory are called artificial or synthetic fibres, e.g.
nylon, rayon, acrylic, etc.
• Wool is obtained from hairs of sheep, camel, yak and some other animals.
• For obtaining good quality wool, parents of sheep are carefully selected to
give birth to sheep which only have soft hair. This process is called selective
breeding.
• Wool is a poor conductor of heat. It traps body heat and thus keeps us warm.
Wool is a fire retardant. Due to this, it is used in upholstery in aircrafts.
• Sheep are reared in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand,
Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat.
• Removal of hair from animal’s skin is called shearing. Sheep are usually
sheared during the hot weather.
• The shaved hair is washed in tanks to remove grease, dust and dirt. Now-a-
days, scouring is done in machines.
• Workers involved in sorting of wool are at risk of getting infected with a
bacterium called anthrax. This disease is called sorter’s disease.
• Silk is obtained from cocoon of silk moth. Silk was first discovered in China.
Silk is very popular because of its fine quality and lustre.
• Mulberry silk moth is the most common silk moth. Tassar silk, mulberry silk,
eri silk, mooga silk, kosa silk, etc. are the types of silk.
• Rearing of silk moths to obtain silk is called sericulture.
• Cocoons are kept in boiling water for some time. This helps in separating the
silk fibre. Silk is then rolled onto a spool. This process is called reeling.
3.1 Fibre: Natural and Artificial; Animal Fibre: Wool

Fibres: Fibres are long, strong and flexible thread–like structures which are used
to make fabrics. They are classified as natural fibres and artificial fibres.
Natural Fibres: Fibres obtained from nature i.e. plants and animals. Example:
Cotton and Jute are obtained from plants, while wool and silk are obtained from
animals.
Animal Fibre: Wool and silk are animal fibres. They are made up of proteins.
Wool is obtained from fur (hair) of sheep, Angora goat, cashmere goat, yak, rabbit,
camel, llama and alpaca.
Silk is obtained from cocoons or silk worms.
Wool: Wool is present as a thick coat of hair on the body of wool-yielding animals.
Air gets trapped in the spaces between the wool fibres and does not allow the
body heat to escape as it is a bad conductor of heat. Hence woollen clothes keeps
us warm in winter.
30 Science–7
Characteristics of wool:
• It has high tensile strength.
• It has high elasticity.
• It is light weight and can absorb large amount of water.
• It can be easily dyed.
Rearing and Breeding of Sheep
Rearing of Sheep: It means to look after the sheep by providing them food,
shelter and health care.
Breeding is done to obtain animals of desired characteristics.
Selective Breeding: The two individuals of desired characteristics are selected as
parents and made to cross (reproduce) to obtain new breed which has desirable
characteristics of both the parents. This process is called selective breeding. With
this process certain high yield breeds of sheep have been raised. Some of the
breeds are lohi, Rampur bushair, Nali, Bakharwal etc.
Processing of Fibres into Wool
Shearing: The process of removing hair from the body of a sheep is called shearing.
This is done in summers, so that they do not feel the heat.
Scouring: The process of washing the fleece of sheep to remove dust, dirt, sweat,
grease etc. is called scouring.
Sorting: The process of separating the long fine quality fleece from the remaining
inferior quality or broken pieces is called sorting.
Combing: The process of removing the burrs (tiny knots) from the fleece is called
combing. The fibres are straightened by combing.
(a) Shearing a sheep (b) Scouring in tanks

(c) Scouring by machines (d) Rolling into yarn
Fibre to Fabric 31
Dyeing: The natural fleece of sheep is black, brown or white in colour. The fibres
obtained after combing are dyed in various colours.
Spinning: The straightened fibres are spun or twisted together to make yarns.
Exercise 3.1
1. Name two fibres obtained from animals.
2. Which type of wool is common in Tibet and Ladakh?
3. State the term used for
(a) Removing hair of sheep _____________
(b) Washing of sheep’s fleece to remove dust _____________
(c) Separating sheep’s fleece into fibres of different qualities _____________
4. What are burrs?
5. Give one word for the following:
(a) The process of removing fleece from a sheep. _______________
(b) The process of removing dirt, dust or grease from the sheared hair
_______________
(c) Animal fibres are made up of _______________
(d) Looking after the sheep by providing them food, shelter _______________
(e) The process of spinning or twisting straightened fibres to make yarn
6. Fill in the blanks: _______________
(a) Wool is the_______________ on the body of animals.
(b) An example of good quality wool is _______________.
(c) Sheep are _______________ and eat _______________ leaves.
(d) Lohi and Nali are breeds of _______________.
(e) The process of selecting parents for obtaining desired characters in their
offsprings is called _______________.
7. Name any four breeds of sheep found in India.
8. Give two characteristics of wool.
9. What is meant by ‘selective breeding’?
10. What is meant by ‘scouring’?
11. Why are woollen clothes warm in winters?
III. Short Answer Type Questions–II (3 Marks)
12. What is meant by the following term:
(a) Shearing of sheep (b) Combing of wool
13. How does the hair of certain animals help in keeping their bodies warm?
14. Removal of sheep’s hair is called shearing. Shearing is done in early summers
and not in winters.
(a) Why is shearing done in summers?
(b) Which value does this act show?
32 Science–7
15. Distinguish between shearing and reeling.
16. Why does shearing not hurt the sheep?
17. For the given breeds of sheep, mention the quality of wool obtained from
them and state where they are found:
(a) Lohi (b) Nali
(c) Bakharwal (d) Marwari
18. Describe the steps involved in the processing of fibre into the wool.
Answers
1. Wool and silk (b) T he process of removing the burrs
2. Angora (tiny knots) from the fleece is called
3. (a) shearing, (b) scouring, (c) sorting combing. The fibres are straightened
4. Tiny knots formed on the fleece. by combing.
5. (a) Shearing (b) Scouring 13. The hair of certain animals present
(c) Proteins (d) Rearing as thick fur has an ability to trap the
(e) Spinning air from the atmosphere and form
6. (a) hair (b) Angora an insulating layer of air to prevent
(c) herbivores, grass (d) sheep the body’s internal heat produced by
(e) selective breeding the metabolic activity and hence help
7. Lohi, Rampur bushair, Nali, Bakharwal the animals to keep warm in extreme
(Any four). climate conditions.
8. Two characteristics of wool are: 14. (a) Shearing is done in summers to
(i) It has high tensile strength. prevent them from feeling hot
(ii) It has high elasticity. and heated in high temperature
(iii) It is light weight and can absorb large of summers. In winter, shearing
amount of water. cannot be processed as the thick fur
(iv) It can be easily dyed. (Any two) help them to keep their body warm
9. When two individuals of desired in extreme climatic conditions and
characteristics are selected as parents help them to survive.
and made to cross (reproduce) to (b) This act shows affection and care
obtain new breed which has desirable towards animals.
characteristics of both the parents. This 15. Shearing Reeling
process is called selective breeding.
Removal of hair Taking out threads
10. Scouring is a process of washing the
from the body of a from the cocoon.
fleece of sheep to remove dust, dirt, sheep
sweat, grease etc.
Used for making of Used for making of
11. Air gets trapped in the spaces between
wool. silk.
the wool fibres and does not allow
the body heat to escape as it is a bad 16. Shearing does not hurt the sheep as
conductor of heat. Hence woollen the uppermost layer of skin from where
clothes keeps us warm in winters. the sheep hair are fleeced is dead. The
12. (a) The process of removing hair hair of the sheep grow again.
from the body of a sheep is called 17. (a) L
ohi: Good quality wool found in
shearing. This is done in summers, Rajasthan, Punjab.
so that they do not feel the heat. (b) N ali: Carpet wool found in Rajasthan,
Haryana, Punjab.
Fibre to Fabric 33

(c) B akharwal: Wool for shawls found remaining inferior quality or broken
in Jammu and Kashmir. pieces is called sorting.
(d) M arwari: Coarse Wool found in Combing: The process of removing
Gujarat. the burrs (tiny knots) from the fleece
18. Shearing: The process of removing is called combing. The fibres are
hair from the body of a sheep is called straightened by combing.
shearing. This is done in summers, so Dyeing: The natural fleece of sheep is
that they do not feel the heat. black, brown or white in colour. The
Scouring: The process of washing the fibres obtained after combing are dyed
fleece of sheep to remove dust, dirt, in various colours.
sweat, grease etc. is called scouring. Spinning: The straightened fibres
Sorting: The process of separating are spun or twisted together to make
the long fine quality fleece from the yarns.
3.2 Silk and Sericulture

Silk is a fine, strong, soft and shiny fibre obtained from silk worms. It is an
animal protein and gives a smell of burning hair.
Sericulture: The rearing of silk worms for obtaining silk is called ‘sericulture’.
China has the highest silk production.
Life-Cycle of a Silk Moth
• Eggs: The female silk moth lays pale yellow eggs on the leaves of a mulberry
tree.
• Larvae (Caterpillars): The eggs hatch in two weeks time to form worm-like
larvae called caterpillars or silk worms. They feed on the mulberry tree leaves
and grow bigger in size.
Life history of silk moth.

• Silkworm enters the next stage i.e. pupa. Each silk worm begins to spin a
cocoon by moving its head. It secretes liquid silk which solidifies when comes
34 Science–7
in contact with air and becomes silk fibre. The silky covering spun by the silk
worm for its protection is called a cocoon.
• The cocoon then splits up to form an adult silk moth.
Rearing of Silkworm
It means to look after the silkworms by providing them proper food and shelter.
In a silk farm, female silk moths are kept in separate linen bags. They lay 200‑500
eggs at a time. The eggs are kept in a perforated cardboard boxes on bamboo
trays. The eggs are warmed to a suitable temperature for the larvae to hatch from
the eggs. A perforated sheet with chopped mulberry leaves are spread over it, and
the larvae are left to feed on these leaves. Their size increase enormously. After
a month when the silkworms stop eating they are moved to a tiny chamber of
bamboo in the trays to spin cocoons. During the period of spinning their cocoons,
silk worms are transformed into pupae.
From Cocoon to Silk
Boiling: The cocoons are first boiled in hot water to kill the larvae inside. The hot
water softens the silk gum, sericin, so as to allow the unwinding of silk fibre as
one continuous thread.
Reeling: The process of taking out threads from the cocoon is called reeling the
silk. This in done by special machines. The fibres of the cocoon are too fine and
delicate to handle, therefore 3-10 filaments are reeled together to yield a strong
thread called raw silk. The damaged or waste cocoons are used to produce an
inferior quality of silk called spun silk.
Throwing: The raw silk is twisted to produce throw silk. This is called throwing.
This prevent the silk from splitting into individual fibres.
Dyeing: Thrown silk is then dyed for making coloured fabrics. These dyed silk
fibres are then spun into silk threads which are woven into silk cloth by weavers.
Exercise 3.2
1. Name a natural fibre obtained from insects.
2. Name the tree whose leaves provide food for the silk worms.
3. Which stage comes early in the life cycle of a silk-moth?
4. Which of the following actually make the silk fibre – Larvae, pupa, adult silk
moth?
5. What is a cocoon?
6. How many eggs can a female silk moth lay?
7. Which property of silk makes it attractive?
8. Why is it important for the larvae to hatch when mulberry trees bear a fresh
crop of leaves?
9. Give One Word for the Following:
(a) Fibres obtained from silk worm. _______________
(b) The silky covering spun by the silkworm for its protection _______________.
Fibre to Fabric 35

(c) Eggs hatch to form worm-like larvae _______________.
(d) Taking care of silk worms by providing them proper food and shelter
_______________.
(e) The process of taking out threads from the cocoon _______________.
10. Fill in the Blanks:
(a) The rearing of silkworms for obtaining silk is called _______________.
(b) The raw silk is twisted to produce _______________.
(c) Silk is obtained from the _______________ of a silk moth.
(d) Silk fibres are made up of a _______________.
(e) Silk worms secrete fibres made up of _______________.
11. Why are the cocoons boiled in hot water?
12. What is sericulture?
13. What treatment is given to cocoons to separate out the threads?
14. What is spun silk?
15. What is “thrown silk”?
16. Explain the steps involved in the production of silk from silk cocoon.
17. Draw a well-labelled diagram of life-cycle of moth.
Answers
1. Silk 2. Mulberry leaves to handle, therefore, 3-10 filaments are
3. Larvae 4. Pupa reeled together to yield a strong thread
5. The silky covering spun by the silk called raw silk. The damaged or waste
worm for its protection is called cocoon. cocoons are used to produce an inferior
6. 200-300 eggs 7. Its shine. quality of silk called spun silk.
8. Larvae grow in size by eating mulberry 14. The damaged or waste cocoons are
leaves. used to produce an inferior quality of
9. (a) silk fibres (b) cocoon silk called spun silk.
(c) caterpillar (d) rearing 15. When the raw silk is twisted to produce
(e) reeling throw silk. This is called throwing. This
10. (a) sericulture (b) spun silk prevent the silk from splitting into
(c) cocoon (d) seretin individual fibres.
(e) sericin
16. Boiling: The cocoons are first boiled in
11. To kill the larvae so that it does not
develop further into an adult silk moth. hot water to kill the larvae inside. The
hot water softens the silk gum, sericin,
12. The rearing of silk worms for obtaining
so as to allow the unwinding of silk
silk is called ‘sericulture’. China has
fibre as one continuous thread.
the highest silk production.
13. The process of taking out threads from Reeling: The process of taking out threads
the cocoon is called reeling the silk. from the cocoon is called reeling the silk.
This is done by special machines. The This in done by special machines. The fibres
fibres of the cocoon are fine and delicate of the cocoon are too fine and delicate to
36 Science–7
handle, therefore 3-10 filaments are reeled This prevent the silk from splitting into
together to yield a strong thread called raw individual fibres.
silk. The damaged or waste cocoons are Dyeing: Thrown silk is then dyed for
used to produce an inferior quality of silk making coloured fabrics. These dyed
called spun silk. silk fibres are then spun into silk
Throwing: The raw silk is twisted to threads which are woven into silk cloth
produce throw silk. This is called throwing. by weavers.
17.
Life history of silk moth.
HOTS & VALUE BASED QUESTION

1. If we burn silk fibre, it gives a smell of burning hair. Why? [HOTS]
2. Sanjana wants to buy a silk saree for her mother. But her mother discourages
her, since silk is obtained by killing silkworms.
(a) How is silk obtained?
(b) What values are possessed by Sanjana’s mother? (VBQ)
Answers
1. Because it is a protein. on these leaves. Their size increase
2. (a) In a silk farm, female silk moths enormously in size. After a month,
are kept in separate linen bags. the silkworms stop eating and are
They lay 200‑500 eggs at a time. moved to a tiny chamber of bamboo
The eggs are kept in a perforated in the tray to spin cocoons. During
cardboard boxes on bamboo trays. this period of spinning its cocoon,
The eggs are warmed to a suitable a silk worm is transformed into a
temperature for the larvae to hatch pupa.
from eggs. A perforated sheet with (b) Gentle, kind, animal loving

chopped mulberry leaves are spread
over it, and the larvae are left to feed 
Fibre to Fabric 37
4 Heat
Topics Covered
4.1 Heat : Effects; Expansion and Measurement
4.2 Transfer of Heat
Flow Chart
HEAT
Effects Measurement Transfer
•T hermal Thermometer Through Without Medium

Expansion Medium
• Chemical Change •C linical Radiation
• Change of State Thermometer
• Change in • Laboratory
Temperature Thermometer Absorption Applications
Power
Solids
Nature of Colour of
the surface the object
Conduction
•L ight and
Liquids Gases
Good Bad dark
Conductor Conductor coloured
Convection clothes
• Bottom of
Examples Applications Examples Applications cooking
Applications
utensils
• Silver •C ooking • Paper • Insulating • Electric
• Wood Handles • Ventilators
• Iron Utensils room
• Leather • False/Fall • Chimneys
• Copper • Wiring heaters
• Cloths Ceilings • Room Heaters
• Aluminium • Electrical
Appliances • Bricks • Woollen • Sea Breeze
• Brass • Mud Garments • Land Breeze
• Stainless • Rubber • Igloos
Steel • Plastic
38
• Heat is a form of energy.
• The measurement of degree of hotness of an object is called temperature.
• A device which is used for measuring temperature is called thermometer.
• Thermometer which is used for measuring the body temperature is called
clinical thermometer. The range of clinical thermometer is from 35°C to 42°C.
• The range of a laboratory thermometer is usually between – 10°C to 110°C.
This range has been made by keeping in mind the freezing point (0°C) and
boiling point (100°C) of water.
• Heat is transferred from hotter region to colder region. There are three methods
of transfer of heat, viz. conduction, convection and radiation.
• Transfer of heat through solids usually happens through conduction. Heat is
transferred from hotter end of a solid to the colder end. In conduction, heat is
transferred from one particle of a solid to the next particle and so on.
• Transfer of heat through liquids and gases usually happens through convection.
In this mode, heat is transferred by movement of particles.
• When heat is transferred in the form of wave, it is called radiation. Radiation is
responsible for transfer of heat in the absence of a medium.
• When heat falls on a black body, it absorbs most of the heat. A negligible
amount of heat is radiated back from a black body. Thus, a black body quickly
becomes warm.
• When heat falls on a white body, it absorbs little amount of heat and most of
the heat is radiated back.
4.1 Heat : Effects; Expansion and Measurement

Heat
It is a form of energy, which causes the sensation of ‘hotness’ and ‘coldness’.
Unit: The S.I. unit of heat is Joules. It is also measured in calories.
1 Kilo Joule = 1000 Joules
1 Kilo Calorie = 1000 Calorie
1 Calorie = 4.184 Joules
Effects of Heat
• Heat causes expansion in solids, liquids and gases.
• Heat causes change in temperature.
• Heat causes change of state.
• Heat brings about a chemical change.
Expansion by Heat
Expansion in Solids: In solids, the particles are very tightly packed, there
is maximum intermolecular forces of attraction and minimum intermolecular
spaces. The molecules vibrate only about their mean position.
Heat 39
When a solid is heated, the movement of these molecules increases which
increases the average distance between the molecules. Thus, the space occupied
by the molecules increases.
Expansion in Liquids: The molecules are less closely packed with each other as
compared to molecules in solids. Thus, the space between the molecules in liquids
is more. As the molecules are some distance away from each other, the force of
attraction is not so strong. On heating the vibration of these molecules increase
which increases the average distance between them. This leads to increase in
the volume of liquids. These vibration are more in liquids as compared to solids.
Thus, the liquids expand more than solids on heating.
Expansion in Gases: Since, the molecules in gases are very far from one another,
the spaces between the molecules is maximum. Hence, the force of attraction
between gas molecules is almost negligible. The gas molecules have the maximum
freedom to move around independently.
On heating a gas, the vibrations of these molecules increase and also the average
distance between the molecules increases. Hence the expansion is much more in
case of gases than in liquids or solids.
Measurement of Heat
Temperature: The degree of ‘hotness’ or ‘coldness’ of an object on some chosen
scale is called its temperature.
Unit of Temperature: The S.I. unit of temperature is Kelvin (K). Other units of
temperature are degree Celsius (°C) and degree Fahrenheit (°F).
Thermometer
The temperature of a body is measured using a device called thermometer. Thermo
is a latin word that means heat. It works on the principle of expansion of liquids
on heating.
• A thermometer has two standard markings on it known as the fixed points of
temperature which always remain the same.
• The lower fixed point is the temperature at which ice melts at the sea-level. The
upper fixed point is the temperature at which pure water boils at the sea-level.
• The three scales used for measurement of temperature are:
– Celsius scale
– Fahrenheit scale
– Kelvin scale
Celsius scale Fahrenheit scale Kelvin scale
Lower fixed point 0°C 32°F 273 K
Higher fixed point 100°C 212°F 373 K
Relationship between Celsius and Fahrenheit scale
C F − 32
=
100 180
where ‘C’ = Temperature in Celsius scale.
‘F’ = Temperature in Fahrenheit scale.
40 Science–7
Upper Upper
fixed point fixed point
100°C 212°F 373 K Water
boils
100 180 100

Celsius Fahrenheit Kelvins
degrees degrees
0.00°C 32°F 273 K Water

Lower Lower freezes
fixed point fixed point
–273°C –459°F 0K Absolute

zero
Bulb filled Bulb filled
with mercury with mercury
Celsius Fahrenheit Kelvin
Thermometer with three scales for measuring temperature
Types of Thermometer
• Laboratory Thermometer: A laboratory thermometer is used in laboratories for
measuring temperature while performing experiments.
• Clinical Thermometer: The laboratory thermometer cannot be used to measure
the human body temperature because as soon as the thermometer is taken out
of the mouth the mercury level falls due to its contact with air. So it can give
a wrong reading. Hence a clinical thermometer is used in which the mercury
level does not fall even when its bulb is removed from the mouth.
How to Use a Clinical Thermometer
• Wash the thermometer before use with an antiseptic solution, and dry it.
• Hold the thermometer firmly and give it a few jerks to bring the level of mercury
below 35°C.
• Place the bulb of the thermometer under the tongue for about 1-2 minutes.
• Take it out and read the mercury level of the thermometer by holding it
horizontally in the line of sight.
Precautions to be taken While Reading a Thermometer
• It should be washed before and after use.
• Read the thermometer by holding it horizontally so as to keep the level of
mercury along the line of sight.
• Handle the thermometer with care. If it hits against some hard object, it can
break.
• Don’t hold the thermometer from the bulb side while reading it.
Heat 41
Exercise 4.1
(a) It is a form of energy which causes sensation of hotness and coldness.
_______________
(b) One effect of heat. _______________
(c) S.I. unit of heat. _______________
(d) The degree of “hotness” or “coldness” of an object is _______________
(NCERT)
(e) S.I. unit of temperature is _______________
(a) Temperature of an object is measured by _______________.
(b) The range of a clinical thermometer is from _______________ to
_______________.
(c) In celsius scale, the lower fixed point is _______________.
(d) Temperature of boiling water cannot be measured by a _______________
thermometer. (NCERT)
(e) Temperature in laboratory is measured in degree _______________.
(f ) The normal temperature of human body is _______________. (NCERT)
3. Define temperature. Name the device which is used to measure temperature.
4. Mention two precautions to be taken before using a clinical thermometer.
5. What is the range of a laboratory thermometer?
6. Why must we wash a clinical thermometer with an antiseptic before and
after use?
7. Why does one need to shake the clinical thermometer to bring down the
mercury level?
8. Why has digital thermometer become more popular than mercury
thermometer?
9. State three differences between clinical and laboratory thermometers.
10. (a) Convert 25°C into Fahrenheit scale.
(b) Convert 100°C into Kelvin scale.
(c) Convert 100°F into Celsius scale.
11. What happens when a gas is heated?
12. Which of the thermometers, A or B, will show a greater rise in temperature?
Give reason for your answer. (NCERT Exemplar)
42 Science–7
B
13. To keep her soup warm Paheli wrapped the container in which it was kept
with a woollen cloth. Can she apply the same method to keep a glass of cold
drink cool? Give reason for your answer. (NCERT Exemplar)
14. In a mercury thermometer, the level of mercury rises when its bulb comes
in contact with a hot object. What is the reason for this rise in the level of
mercury? (NCERT Exemplar)
15. With the help of an activity, show the thermal expansion in gases.
16. Why are gaps left between two section of the rail tracks?
17. Explain thermal expansion in solids with the help of an example.
18. Explain why a clinical thermometer cannot be used to measure high
temperature?
19. Explain the anomalous behaviour of water by giving examples.
20. Why do electric wires sag in summers?
Answers
1. (a) heat energy 6. To prevent infection.
(b) Change in temperature 7. The mercury level should be below the
(c) Joules (J) normal human body temperature i.e.
(d) Temperature (e) Kelvin 37°C.
2. (a) Thermometer (b) 35°C to 42°C 8. Digital thermometer does not contain
(c) 0°C mercury. It is very difficult to dispose off
(d) Clinical thermometer a broken mercury thermometer since
mercury is a very toxic substance.
(e) Celsius (f ) 37°C
3. The degree of hotness or coldness of an Chemical Laboratory
object on some chosen scale is called 9. Thermometer Thermometer
its temperature.
It has a very short It has a large
Thermometer is a device which is used temperature range temperature
to measure temperature. (35°C to 42°C) range (–10°C to
4. (i) Thermometer should be washed 110°C)
before and after use.
(ii) The thermometer should be read by It has a kink in the There is no kink.
holding it horizontally so as to keep tube to prevent
the level of mercury along the line of mercury from
sight. flowing back.
5. Range of a laboratory thermometer is It is more accurate. It is less accurate.
–10°C to 110°C.
Heat 43
0. (a)
1 C= 25°C in between the woollen fibres. The
F= ? trapped air prevents the flow of heat
C F − 32 from surroundings to get inside the
= woollen layers and vice versa. This way
100 180
it prevents the soup from getting cool
25 F − 32 down or getting the glass of cold drink
=
100 180 warm respectively.
14. The level of mercury rises in a mercury
or 180 = 4(F – 32)
thermometer when its bulb comes
or 180 = 4F – 128 in contact with a hot object because
4F = 180 + 128 mercury readily expands or contracts
408 at even a minor change in temperature.
F= = 102°F 15. Aim: To show thermal expansion in
4
(b) C = 100 gases.
K=? Things needed: A metallic can, a
K = 100 + 273 = 373 K balloon, a piece of thread, boiling water
and a water bath.
(c) F = 100
C=? Balloon
C 100 − 32 Boiling water
=
100 180 Metallic can
68 × 100 340 Water

C= = = 38.1°C bath
180 9
11. The molecules in gases are very far (a) Before Heating (b) After Heating
from one another, the spaces between Thermal expansion in gases
the molecules is maximum. Therefore, Method:
the force of attraction between gas (i) Fix a balloon at the neck of a can
molecules is almost negligible. with the help of thread.
On heating a gas, the vibrations of (ii) Place it in water bath containing
these molecules increase and also the boiling water.
average distance between the molecules
Observation: The balloon inflates bigger
increases. Hence the expansion is
in size as the air inside it expands on
most in case of gases than in liquids or
heating.
solids.
Conclusion: The gases expand on
12. Thermometer B will show greater rise in
heating and their expansion is very
temperature. The air gets heated up by
large as compared to solids and liquids.
the process of convection. The air near
the source of heat gets heated and rises 16. During summers, iron expands. To
up. The cold air from the sides slides allow expansion, space is left between
to occupy the space. In this way the the two sections of the rail tracks.
air above the source of heat gets hot 17. Aim: To demonstrate thermal expansion
whereas the air around the source is in solids.
cold. Therefore thermometer just above Things needed: An apparatus consisting
the flame will be heated to a greater of a metal ring and a metal ball, bunsen
extent. burner.
13. Yes, Paheli can apply the same method Method: (i) Initially, the ball passes
because the layers of wool being a through a ring attached to a stand at
poor conductor of heat traps the air room temperature.
44 Science–7
(ii) H eat the ball using a Bunsen (ii) T he cooled ball passes easily through
burner for a few minutes and then the ring as it resumes its initial
try to pass the same ball through size.
the ring. Conclusion: Solids (ball) expands on
(iii) Leave the ball for some time and heating and contracts on cooling.
allow it to cool down. Again, try to 18. Clinical thermometer has been
pass the ball. designed to measure only human body
temperature which varies over a short
range. If it is used to measure high
Metal ball temperature it will break and cause
does not Ring expansion in mercury which is harmful
pass
through and toxic.
the ring Metal ball 19. Water shows unusual behaviour when
passes
through cooled from 4°C to 0°C or heated from
the ring 0°C to 4°C. It expands instead of
contracting. Similarly when water is
(a) (b) heated from 0°C to 4°C, it contracts
Thermal expansion in solids instead of expanding. Thus water at
Observations: (i) The heated ball does
0°C is lighter than water at 4°C.
not pass through the ring as its size 20. Electric wires expands due to heat in
increases. summer and get sagged.
4.2 Transfer of Heat
The flow of heat from a body at a higher temperature to another body or to
another part of the same body at a lower temperature is called transfer of heat.
There are three distinct ways in which transfer of heat takes place.
Conduction
It is a process of transfer of heat in a body from hotter end to the colder end
without any actual movement of the molecules of the material.
Conditions required for the conduction of heat
• The two bodies should be in contact with each other.
• The two bodies should have different temperature.
Good and Bad Conductors of Heat
Materials which allow heat to pass through them quickly are called good conductors
of heat. For example – silver, copper, aluminium, iron, brass, stainless steel etc.
Materials which do not allow heat to pass through them easily are called poor or
bad conductors of heat. For example – Paper, wood, leather, cloth, bricks, mud,
rubber, plastics etc.
Uses of good conductors of heat: Cooking utensils are usually made of metals

(copper and aluminium) and alloys (brass and stainless steel) because they are
good conductors of heat.
Heat 45
Uses of bad conductors of heat
• Insulating handles: Appliances like cooking pan, pressure cooker, electric iron
and electric kettle are provided with wooden or bakelite handles, because these
materials are bad conductors of heat. Hence, the heat from the hot appliances
does not flow into our hands. As a result, we can hold the appliances by their
handles even when they are hot.
• False/Fall ceilings: False ceiling, generally made of plaster of paris, asbestos or
wooden plyboards, provide a layer of air between the two ceilings which keep the
rooms warm during winter and cool during summers. Since the air is between
the two ceilings is a bad conductor of heat, it prevents the transmission of heat
from either sides.
• Woollen garments: In winters, woollen clothes are used. Wool is a bad conductor
of heat. Moreover, the air gets trapped in between the wool fibres. Air is also
a bad conductor of heat. Moreover, the air gets trapped in between the wool
fibres. Air is also a bad conductor of heat. Both air and wool prevent the flow
of heat from our body to the cool surroundings. They also prevent the cool air
from reaching our body. So, we feel warm.
• Igloos: Eskimos make double-walled house called igloos using blocks of ice
(snow). Air enclosed in between the double walls prevent the transmission of
heat generated within the igloo and hence, it keeps them warm.
Convection
Most of the liquids and gases are bad conductors of heat. Therefore they cannot
be heated by conduction. Liquids and gases are heated by another process of
heat-transfer called convection.
The process of transfer of heat in a liquid or a gas by the actual movement of the
particles of the liquid or gas is called convection.
Practical Application of Convection Current
• Ventilators: Rooms are provided with ventilators and exhaust fan near the top
of side walls. The air we breathe out is warmer and hence lighter than the air
around us. It moves up in the room and escapes through the ventilators or
exhaust fan. The fresh air enters the room through the windows and doors.
It is cooler and takes the place of the warm air rising upwards and thus, a
convection current is set up.
• Chimneys: Hot air rise up and escape through chimneys.
• Room heaters: They are placed at ground level for effective heating. The warm
air from other areas rushes in to fill its space. The cool air is again heated up
by the heater setting up a convection current. Soon, all the air inside the room
becomes warm.
Convection in Nature
Sea-Breeze: Land absorbs heat faster than the sea. During day time, the land
heats up more quickly than sea-water. Thus, the air above the land surface,
being heated expands and rises up. The cooler air above the sea surface blows
towards the land to take its place. This flow of cool air from the sea towards the
land is called “Sea Breeze”.
46 Science–7
Sea Breeze
Land-Breeze: At night, the land cools more quickly than the sea water. Thus, the
air above the sea being warmer, rises up and cooler air from above the land surface
blows towards the sea to take its place. This sets up the convection current. The
cool air from the land moves towards the sea. This is called the “land breeze”.
Land Breeze
Radiation
It is a process of transfer of heat from a hot body to a cold body without affecting
the medium. Hence, it requires no medium. It is the fastest mode of heat transfer.
For example, we receive heat from the sun by radiation. Most of the space between
the sun and the earth is vacuum.
Absorption of radiant heat: Light, which is a form of radiant energy also travels
at a great speed in all directions from the body emitting it. It does not need a
material medium. When light falls on a body, it is partly absorbed and partly
reflected. The absorbing power or reflecting power of any substance depends
upon.
• Nature of its surface
• Colour of the object
Applications of Radiations
• White-coloured clothes absorb less heat and keep us cool. Therefore they are

preferred in summer, whereas dark-coloured clothes absorb more heat and
keep us warm. Therefore they are preferred during winter.
Heat 47
• Bottom of cooking utensils are painted black and sides are sparkling bright.
This is because they can absorb more heat from the bottom and radiate less
heat from the sides.
• The electric room heater have curved polished metal reflector behind the
heating element. Since the polished surface reflects back the heat radiation
falling on it, thus keeps the person warm sitting in front of it.
Exercise 4.2
(a) The transfer of heat that takes between sun and earth is through.
_______________
(b) Land breeze is an example of _______________
(c) A stainless spoon gets heated by the process of _______________
(d) Materials which allow heat to pass through them quickly
are _______________
(e) Materials which do not allow heat to pass through them easily are
_______________
(a) No medium is required for transfer of heat by the process
of _______________. (NCERT)
(b) A cold steel spoon is dipped in a cup of hot milk. It transfers heat to its
other end by the process of _______________. (NCERT)
(c) Clothes of _______________ colours absorb heat better than clothes of light
colours. (NCERT)
(d) Conduction of heat takes place only in _______________.
(e) Pressure cookers are provided with _______________ handles.
3. What do you mean by “transfer of heat”?
4. What are the different ways in which heat can be transferred?
5. List any two conditions required for conduction of heat to take place.
6. State the direction of flow of heat.
7. How do hollow bricks in the house reduce the effect of heat or cold outside?
8. Why are double glass window panes used in cold countries?
9. A blanket keep us warm in winters but prevents ice from melting. Why?
10. Why are ice slabs covered with gunny bags?
48 Science–7
11. Differentiate between convection and radiation.
12. Outer walls of houses in hot countries are painted in white colour. Why?
13. Give reasons for the following:
(a) Cooking intensils are made of metals.
(b) Pressure cooker is provided with bakelite hands.
(c) Air conditioning buildings have double-walled windows.
(d) False ceilings keep the room warm during winter.
(e) Asbestos sheets are preferred over iron sheets for roofing.
14. A person has a white shirt and a black shirt. Which shirt will make him more
comfortable in (a) winters (b) summers? Give reasons for your answer.
15. The fire fighting suits are always bright and shiny. Why?
16. While constructing a house in coastal area, in which direction should the
windows preferably face and why?
17. A circular metal loop is heated at a point O. Q
(NCERT Exemplar) P
(a) In which direction would heat flow in the R
O
loop?
(b) In which order the pins at points P, Q and R
fixed with the help of wax fall if points O, P,
Q and R are equidistant from each other?
18. Observe the picture as given in the following
figure. Water is being boiled in a pan of wide
base.
(a) Which position P or T will feel warmer?

(b) Fill up the boxes P, T to indicate the mode of flow of heat to the hand.
19. Look at the figure below.
The length of wire PQ in case of A is equal to the diameter of the semi circle

formed by air CDE in case B. One pin is attached to each wire with the help
of wax. Which pin will fall first? Explain.
Heat 49
D
P Q C E
A B
20. Draw the diagram:
(a) Blowing of sea-breeze. (b) Blowing of land breeze.
When do they take place?
Answers
1. (a) Radiation (b) Convection not allow the heat flow from outside
(c) Conduction to enter into ice. The air filled in the
(d) Good conductors interspaces of a gunny bag, being a bad
(e) Poor conductors conductor of heat, further checks the
2. (a) Radiation (b) Conduction transmission of heat from outside and
(c) dark (d) solids prevents the ice from melting.
(e) bakelite 10. The air filled in the interspace of a
3. The flow of heat from a body at a higher gunny bag, being a bad conductor of
temperature to another body or to heat, further checks the transmission
another part of the same body at a lower of heat from outside and prevents the
temperature is called transfer of heat. ice from melting.
4. By conduction, convection, radiation. 11. Convection Radiation
5. Conditions required for the conduction
It takes place with It takes place
of heat
the actual movement by means of
(i) The two bodies should be in contact
of particles of the heat rays.
with each other.
liquid or gas itself.
(ii) The two bodies should have different
temperature. It requires a medium. It requires no
6. Heat flows from hot body to cold body. medium.
7. Hollow bricks contain air inside the For example: Land For example:
space which reduces the effect of heat breeze and Sea breeze Heat received
or cold outside. from Sun.
8. The air entrapped between the two 12. House painted white absorb less heat
window glass panes prevent the from the sun and keep it cool during
transmission of heat from inside and summers.
the cool air from outside which keeps 13. (a) Metals are good conductors of heat
the room warm. and are malleable and ductile and
9. The air gets trapped between the wool can be moulded in any shape.
fibres. Air being bad conductor of heat, (b) Bakelite is a poor conductor and is
it prevents the flow of heat from inside resistance to heat. Hence it will not
the blanket to the cool surroundings. get hot while cooling.
It also prevents the cool air to reach (c) So that cool air does not flow out of
inside the blanket. Similarly, it does the surroundings.
50 Science–7
(d) F alse ceiling, generally made of in case A due to the fact that straight
plaster of paris, asbestos or wooden path is always the shortest path.
plyboards, provide a layer of air 20. (a) Land absorbs heat faster than the
between the two ceilings which keep sea. During day time, the land
the rooms warm during winter and heats up more quickly than sea-
cool during summers. Since the air water. Thus, the air above the land
is between the two ceilings is a bad surface being heated expands and
conductor of heat, it prevents the rises up. The cooler air above the
transmission of heat from either sea surface blows towards the land
sides. to take its place. This cool air from
(e) F alse ceiling, generally made of the sea towards the land is called
asbestos is a bad conductor of heat “Sea Breeze”.
and provide a layer of air between
the two ceilings which keep the
rooms warm during winter and
cool during summers. Since the air
is between the two ceilings is a bad
conductor of heat, it prevents the
transmission of heat from either
sides.
14. (a) In winters, dark coloured shirt will
be preferred as it absorbs heat.
(b) In summer, light colored shirt is
preferred as it absorbs less heat. In Sea Breeze
fact it also reflects heat making us
comfortable.
15. So that they can reflect heat radiations.
16. The windows of the houses in coastal
areas are made to face the sea to receive
the cool sea breeze.
17. (a) The heat will flow in both the
direction from O to R and O to P.
(b) Initially the pins at position R and
P will fall followed by the pin at
position Q.
18. (a) Position P will get warmer. Land Breeze
(b) P – convection, T – Radiation (b) Land loses heat faster than the sea. At
19. The pin on the wire in case A will fall first night, the land cools more quickly than
than in case B as heat will travel fast the sea.
Did You Know?

1. In 1714, Gabriel Fahrenheit invented the first mercury thermometer.
2. Mercury thermometers need utmost care. Mercury is a toxic substance and is very
difficult to dispose of, if a thermometer breaks. Nowadays, digital thermometers
are used which do not use mercury.

3. An alcohol thermometer is cheaper, less harmful and can measure even lower
temperature. However, it cannot measure temperature above 78°C.
Heat 51
HOTS & VALUE BASED QUESTIONS
1. Why is mercury used in thermometers? (HOTS)
2. Sunil tries to measure his body temperature using a laboratory thermometer.
Would he be successful? (HOTS)
3. Why is it advised not to fill air into cycle tyres very tightly during summer?
(HOTS)
4. How do two or more thin blankets help to keep off cold away as compared to
one thick blanket? (HOTS)
5. Two metal balls A and B (of same size and weight) at temperature of 50°C
and 40°C respectively are kept in contact. In which direction will heat flow?
How and why? (HOTS)
6. Ventilators are made in the upper part of the rooms. Why? (HOTS)
7. Why do birds puff up their feathers in winters? (HOTS)
8. On a biting cold winter day, two friends Rahul and Varun were coming back
from playing in the evenings. They saw an old man shivering with cold on a
pavement. They collected twigs and papers and lit a fire. The old man felt better.
(a) What values do you notice in Rahul and Varun?
(b) What made the old man better?
(c) What are the different modes of transfer of heat and through which mode
they made the old man receive heat? (VBQ)
9. Nitika’s neighbour Mrs. Sharma is an old lady and lives alone. She doesn’t
keep well. Nitika takes some hot vegetable soup in a thermo-flask for her.
(a) Why does Nitika use a thermo-flask?
(b) What values does Nitika have? (VBQ)
Answers
1. Mercury offers resistance to heat and is The air we breathe out is warmer and
liquid at room temperature and can be lighter than the air around us. It moves
easily filled into the capillary tube of the up in the room and escapes through the
thermometer. ventilators or exhaust fan. The fresh
2. No, the moment the thermometer is taken cool air enters the room through the
out of the mouth, the temperature falls. windows and doors and takes the place
3. During summer, expansion in gases of the warm air rising upwards and
takes place due to heat and the cycle thus, a convection current is set up.
tyre may burst. 7. So that heat from the body does not flow
4. There is air entrapped between two thin out.
blankets which prevents the flow of 8. (a) Raul and Varun are caring, loving
transmission of heat from the body to and sensitive.
the cool surroundings and vice versa. (b) Heat received from the fire produced
5. Heat will flow from metal ball A with by burning twigs and paper.
higher temperature 50°C to metal ball (c) Conduction, Convection, Radiation.
B with lower temperature 40°C because In this case it is radiation.
heat flows from a higher temperature to 9. A thermoflask is a special type of vessel
a lower temperature till it maintains an which keep hot liquid ‘hot’ and cold
equilibrium. This is also called thermal liquid ‘cold’ for a long time. It is made in
equilibrium. such a way that it reduces the loss (or
6. Rooms are provided with ventilators and gain) of heat, by conduction, convection,
exhaust fan near the top of side walls. and radiation to the minimum level.

52 Science–7
5 Acids, Bases and Salts
Topics Covered
5.1 Acids and Bases: Properties, Types and Uses
5.2 Neutralisation Reaction and Its Uses
5.3 Indicators and Their Types
Flow Chart
SUBSTANCES
Reacts
Acids Bases Indicators
Properties Uses Properties Types Uses
1. S our in Hydrochloric acid: 1. Bitter Alkalies

taste Leather tanning 2. Soapy
Nitric acid: Sodium Hydroxide:
2. Soluble in 3. Turns red
Extraction of Metal Soap and Medicines
water litmus
Sulphuric acid: Ammonium
3. Conduct blue
Textile and paper Hydroxide: Dyes
electricity 4. Conduct
industry and Ink Remover
4. Turns blue electricity
Calcium Hydroxide:
litmus red 5. Corrosive White washing
5. Corrosive
Neutralisation
Types
Relation
Natural Artificial
Uses
Natural Human Amount • Turmeric
made of Water • Litmus
Indigestion Ant or Bee • China Rose
Organic Mineral sting
acid Dilute Methyl orange
acid
Soil Factory
Concentrated waste Phenolpthalein
53
• Acids are substances that taste sour and turn blue litmus paper into red.
• Bases are substances that taste bitter, feel soapy on touch and turn red litmus
paper into blue.
• Some special substances are used to test if a given substance is an acid or
base. Such special substances are called indicators or ‘Acid Base Indicators’.
Indicators change colour in the presence of an acid or a base.
• Litmus is the most commonly used indicator in laboratories. Litmus is extracted
from lichen.
• Turmeric solution or turmeric paper can be used as an indicator. Natural
colour of turmeric is yellow. It becomes dark red in basic solution. It remains
yellow in acidic solution.
• Extract from China rose flower can also be used as an indicator. It has light
pink colour. It becomes magenta (dark pink) in acidic solution and becomes
green in basic solution.
• The reaction between an acid and a base is called neutralization reaction. Salt
and water are formed after neutralization reaction. Heat is evolved during this
reaction.
• Excess secretion of hydrochloric acid in stomach causes hyperacidity. Taking
an alkaline solution provides relief from hyperacidity.
• Ant’s sting contains formic acid. Rubbing moist baking soda or calamine
(contains zinc carbonate) provides relief from ant sting.
• Factory wastes often contain acidic substances. High acid content can kill
plants and animals living in a water body. To prevent this, factory waste is first
treated with a base and then released into a water body.
• Carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide dissolve in rain water
and form carbonic acid, sulphuric acid and nitric acid respectively. Presence of
acids in rain water makes acid rain.
5.1 Acids and Bases: Properties, Types and Uses

Acids: Substances which are sour in taste are called acids. Acids are of two
types: Organic acids and mineral acids.
Organic Acids: Acids which are found in plants and animals. Example: Citric
acid, Lactic acid, Acetic acid, Oxalic acid etc.
Mineral Acids: Acids which are prepared from the minerals of the earth are
called mineral acids. They are human-made and are also called laboratory acids.
Example: Sulphuric acid (H2SO4), Hydrochloric acid (HCl), Nitric acid (HNO3).
Concentrated Acids: An acid which has a high concentration of acid and very
less amount of water.
Dilute Acids: An acid which has a very high concentration of water and less
amount of acid.
54 Science–7
Properties of Acids:
• Acids are sour in taste.
• They are soluble in water.
• All acidic solutions conduct electricity.
• They turn blue litmus red.
• They are corrosive in nature.
• Most of the acids react with metals to form hydrogen gas and their respective
salts. For example,
Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2
• Most of the acids react with metal carbonates to form their respective salts,
water and carbon dioxide. For example,
Na2CO3 + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + CO2 + H2O
Uses of Acids
• Hydrochloric Acid: Used in manufacturing of chemicals, tanning of leather,
dyeing, aqua regia.
• Nitric Acid: Used in manufacturing of fertilisers, aqua regia, extraction of
metals.
• Sulphuric Acid: Used in manufacturing of fertilisers, plasters, textiles, paper
and leather industry.
Bases
Substances which are bitter in taste and have soapy touch are known as bases.
Example: Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH), Potassium Hydroxide (KOH), Calcium
Hydroxide (Ca(OH)2).
Properties of Bases
• Bases generally have bitter taste.
• They are soapy to touch.
• They turn red litmus blue.
• They are corrosive in nature.
• They conduct electricity.
Uses of Bases
• Sodium Hydroxide: Used in manufacture of soaps, paper, rayon, textiles,
medicines and in industrial chemicals.
• Ammonium Hydroxide: Used in manufacture of fertilizers, plastics, dyes and
in ink remover.
• Calcium Hydroxide: Used in white washing of buildings.
Exercise 5.1
(a) The substance which turns blue litmus red is _______________.
(b) Milk of Magnesia contains _______________.
Acids, Bases and Salts 55

(c) Manure is added, when the soil is too _______________.
(d) Mineral acids are _______________ in nature.
(e) _______________ is used in the manufacture of fertilizers.
(f ) Bases which are soluble in water are called _______________.
(a) Substance which is sour to taste and turns blue litmus solution red.
_______________
(b) Substance which is soapy to touch and turns red litmus solution blue.
_______________
(c) Acids which are naturally present in plants and animals._______________
(d) Acids which are prepared from the minerals found on the earth’s surface.
_______________
(e) Acid which is called “King of Chemicals”. _______________
(f ) Acid present in every cell of our body.__________
3. Which acid is present in spinach?
4. Which among the following taste sour, bitter and sweet: salt, lemon juice,
curd, baking soda, common salt, sugar, Amla.
5. Name one organic acid and one mineral acid.
6. Name a strong and a weak base.
7. Name the acid produced in our stomach.
8. Why do curd, lemon juice and tamarind taste sour?
9. Name the acid found in citrus fruits.
10. Name the acid found in curd.
11. Which acid is present in an ant’s sting?
12. Which acid is present in curd?
13. Give uses each of (a) Sodium Hydroxide, (b) Sulphuric Acid.
14. What happens in the stomach when a very spicy food is eaten?
15. Why is an antacid tablet taken when you suffer from acidity?
16. What happens when an acid reacts with a metal?
17. Coffee is bitter in taste. Is it an acid or a base. Why?
18. Ammonia is found in many household products such as window cleaners. It
turns red litmus blue. What is its nature? (NCERT)
19. Name the source from which litmus solution is obtained. What is the use of
this solution? (NCERT)
20. Acids are not stored in metallic containers. Why?
21. What happens when aerated drink is put on blue litmus paper?
22. Is the distilled water acidic/basic/neutral? How would you verify it? (NCERT)
56 Science–7
23. Distinguish between acids and bases. (NCERT)
24. What are acids? List two characteristics of acid. Name some acids found in
fruits.
25. What are bases? Give two characteristics of bases? Give two important uses
of bases.
Answers
1. (a) Acid 16. When an acid reacts with a metal, salt
(b) Magnesium Hydroxide and hydrogen gas is produced.
(c) Alkaline (d) Acidic HCl + Zn → ZnCl2 + H2 ≠
(e) Sodium Hydroxide (f ) Alkalies Acid + Metal → Salt + gas
2. (a) Acid (b) Base 17. It is a base, since bases taste bitter.
18. It is a base as it turn red litmus blue.
(c) Organic acids (d) Mineral acids
19. Source – Lichen plant.
(e) Sulphuric acid (f ) DNA It determines the nature of the solution.
3. Oxalic acid If blue litmus turns red, the solution
4. Lemon juice Sour is acidic, if red litmus turns blue it is
Curd Sour basic in nature.
Baking soda Bitter 20. Acids react with metal containers to

Common salt Salty form salts and hydrogen gas which
Sugar Sweet makes it toxic.
Amla Bitter 21. Aerated drink turns blue litmus paper
5. Organic acid – Citric acid red, since it contains carbonic acid.
Mineral acid – Hydrochloric acid 22. Distilled water is neutral as it does not
6. Strong base – Sodium hydroxide show any colour change with litmus
Weak base – Ammonium hydroxide solution.(Litmus Test)
23.
7. Hydrochloric acid
8. They all contain acids. Acids Bases
9. Citric acid • Sour in taste • Bitter in taste
10. Lactic acid • Turn red litmus •T urn blue litmus
11. Methanoic acid blue red
12. Lactic acid • pH value is 0 to 7 • pH value is 7 to 14
13. (a) S
odium Hydroxide: Used in elease H+ when
•R •R elease OH– ions
manufacture of soaps, paper, rayon, mixed in water when mixed in
textiles, medicines and in industrial water
chemicals. •C orrosive in • Soapy to touch
(b) Sulphuric Acid: Used in nature.
manufacturing of fertilisers, • Most acids are •M
ost of the bases
plasters, textiles, paper and leather soluble in water are insoluble in
industry. water
14.
Spicy food causes indigestion. 24. Substances which are sour in taste

Our stomach produces excessive are called acids. Acids are of two type:
hydrochloric acid which causes acidity. Organic acids and mineral acids.
15.
Antacids are mild bases which Two characteristics of acids are:
neutralise the effect of acid. Example: (i) Acids are sour in taste.
Milk of magnesia. (ii) Acids are soluble in water.

Some acids found in fruits are: (ii) They are corrosive in nature.
(i) Citrus fruits – Citric acid Two important uses of bases are:
(ii) Apples – Malic acid (i) Sodium Hydroxide: Used in
(iii) Grapes – Tartaric acid manufacture of soaps, paper, rayon,
25. Substances which are bitter in taste
textiles, medicines and in industrial
and have soapy touch are known as chemicals.
bases. (ii) Ammonium Hydroxide: Used in
Two characteristics of bases are: manufacture of fertilizers, plastics,
(i) Bases turn red litmus blue. dyes, ink remover.
5.2 Neutralisation Reaction and Its Uses

A reaction in which an acid reacts with a base
to form salt and water is called neutralisation
reaction. Some heat is always evolved in this Base
reaction.
Acid + Base → Salt + Water + Heat
HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O + ∆
Neutralisation in Everyday Life (Uses)
Initial
Indigestion: The intake of spicy food produces Acid + Indicator colour
a large amount of hydrochloric acid which changed
leads to acidity in the stomach. This is called

Process of Neutralisation
indigestion. The intake of weak base like milk
of magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide) helps to neutralise the effect of excessive
acid and provides relief to the person suffering from indigestion.
Soil treatment: Plants do not grow well when the soil is either too acidic or basic.
• Excessive use of chemical fertiliser makes the soil acidic. Acidic soil can be
treated with bases such as quick lime (calcium oxide). These bases neutralise
the excess acids present in the soil and hence the soil becomes neutral.
• The decaying organic matter (compost) is added to the soil when it is too basic.
Manure release acids which neutralise the basic nature of the soil.
• Ant’s and Bee’s Sting: When an ant or a bee sting they inject formic acid into
the skin of the person which causes painful burning and swelling. This can be
neutralised by rubbing a mild base like baking soda on the stinging area of the
skin.
• Factory wastes: The waste substances discharged by the factories are acidic.
If they are directly discharged, the aquatic life will get extinct. So the factory
wastes should be neutralised i.e. treated with a base before discharging into
the rivers.
Exercise 5.2
(a) Reaction in which an acid reacts with a base to form salt and water.
_______________
58 Science–7
(b) Intake of spicy food leads to acidity in the stomach. _______________
(c) A base which helps to neutralise the excess acid present in the stomach.
_______________
(d) An example of antacid. _______________
(e) Acidic soil can be treated with _______________
(a) The decaying organic matter added to the soil when it is too basic
_______________ .
(b) Milk of magnesia contains _______________ hydroxide.
(c) The effect of the sting of a bee can be neutralised by rubbing _____________
over it.
(d) Waste substances discharged by factories contain _______________ .
(e) Rain containing excess of acids is called _______________ .
II. Short Answer Type Questions–I (2 Marks)
3. What is a neutralisation reaction?
4. What happens when an acid reacts with a base? Write a word equation.
5. What are antacids? Give an example.
6. What should be added to the soil if it is too basic?
7. Which acid is injected when an ant or a bee bites a person?
8. Why should factory wastes be treated before discharging it into water bodies?
9. Why is calamine solution applied on the skin when an ant bites?
10. A farmer was unhappy because of his low crop yield. He discussed the
problem with an agricultural scientist and realised that the soil of his field
was either too acidic or too basic. What remedy would you suggest the farmer
to neutralise the soil? (NCERT Exemplar)
11. You are provided with four test tubes containing sugar solution, baking soda
solution, tamarind solution, salt solution. Write down an activity to find the
nature (acidic/basic/neutral) of each solution. (NCERT Exemplar)
12. While playing in a park, a child was stung by a wasp. Some elders suggested
applying paste of baking soda and then lemon juice as remedy. Which do
you think is appropriate remedy and why? (NCERT Exemplar)
13. Paheli is suffering from indigestion due to acidity. Is it advisable to give her
orange juice in this situation and why? (NCERT Exemplar)
14. (a) How does a soil become too acidic in nature?
(b) What should be added in the soil when it is (i) too acidic, (ii) too basic.
15. Solution A (orange juice) is mixed with solution B (milk of magnesia). A
reaction occurs between the two solutions.
(a) Name the type of reaction.

(b) Name the acid and the base in the reaction.
(c) Give one application of this reaction.
16. What happens when a bee stings a person? What remedy should be given to
the person to ease off the pain?
17. With the help of an activity, show that a reaction between an acid and a base
is a neutralisation reaction. (NCERT)
Answers
1. (a) Neutralisation (b) Indigestion (calcium hydroxide). Whereas excessive
(c) Milk of magnesia basicity of soil is neutralised by using
(d) Milk of magnesia organic matter which neutralises the
(e) Quicklime basicity of soil by releasing acids.
2. (a) Manure (b) Magnesium 11. The nature of the solutions can be

identified by using litmus paper. If blue
(c) Base (d) Acids
litmus changes to red the solution is
(e) Acid rain acidic. If red litmus changes to blue the
3. A reaction in which an acid reacts with solution is basic. If there is no change
a base to form salt and water is called in colour of the litmus paper then the
neutralisation reaction. Some heat is solution is neutral.
always evolved in this reaction. 12. Wasp bite injects acid into the child’s
Acid + Base → Salt + Water + Heat body. The effect of the injected acid
HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O + ∆. can be nullified by applying base to the
4. Salt and water are formed with injected area. Therefore it is advisable
evolution of heat. This is a to apply baking soda (base) to the
neutralisation reaction affected area.
Acid + Base → Salt + Water + Heat 13. Paheli is suffering from acidity due to
5. Antacids are bases which neutralise increase in the amount of hydrochloric
the excess acid present in the stomach acid present in the stomach. It is not
thereby reducing acidity. For example: at all advisable to offer orange juice to
Milk of Magnesia. such a patient as it is acidic too. In case
6. Added manure release acids which of acidity, the patients must be offered
neutralise the basic nature of the soil. with a base which can neutralise the
7. Formic acid is injected by a bee sting acid and convert it to salt and water.
which causes pain, irritation and 14. (a) By the addition of manure.
swelling. (b) (i) Addition of a base when it is too
8. Because factory wastes are acidic and acidic.
cause severe damage to aquatic life in (ii) Addition of manure when it is too
water-bodies. basic.
9. Calamine is a base, while an ant bite is 15. (a) Neutralisation Reaction
an acid, so it will neutralise the effect of (b) Orange juice – acid,
acid. Milk of magnesia – base
10. Excessive acidity or basicity of the soil (c) Use for neutralising the effect of
is not at all suitable for proper plant bees’ sting.
growth. Excessive acidity of soil can 16. A bee sting contains formic acid which
be neutralised by using bases like when injected by the sting causes
quicklime (calcium oxide) or slaked lime pain and irritation. The best remedy
60 Science–7
is to apply a paste of a base (milk of 5 mL of add phenolphthalein
magnesium) over it. dilute sodium
hydroxide
17. Aim: To show that a reaction between add dilute
an acid and a base is a neutralisation hydrochloric acid Pink
Colourless
reaction. colour
solution
Things needed: Dilute sodium
hydroxide solution, dilute hydrochloric add dilute sodium hydroxide
acid, phenolphthalein indicator, a test
tube and a dropper. (ii) After addition of some drops of
Method: hydrochloric acid, pink colour
(i) Take about 5 mL of dilute sodium disappears due to neutralisation of
hydroxide solution in a test tube. Add sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric
2 drops of phenolphthalein indicator to acid.
it. (iii) Solution turns pink again on addition
(ii) Now, add dilute hydrochloric acid drop of a drop of sodium hydroxide.
by drop using a dropper (stir the test (iv) On repeating the addition of dilute
tube gently after adding each drop). sodium hydroxide and dilute
(iii) Continue adding dilute hydrochloric hydrochloric acid one after the other,
acid drop by drop while stirring till the we observe the appearance and
pink colour disappears. disappearance of pink colour. On
touching the test tube immediately
(iv) Now, add a drop of dilute sodium
after the neutralisation reaction, we
hydroxide and shake the test tube to
find that the test tube becomes hot due
mix the solution.
to heat evolved during the reaction.
(v) Now again, add a drop of dilute acid
Discussion: When the solution is
and shake the test tube to.
basic because of dilute sodium
Observation:
hydroxide solution, phenolphthalein
gives pink colour. On the addition
of dilute hydrochloric acid solution,
it neutralises the alkaline nature of
dilute sodium hydroxide. An extra
drop of dilute hydrochloric acid makes
the solution acidic. This makes the
phenolphthalein colourless. On the
other hand, the addition of dilute
sodium hydroxide neutralises the effect
of dilute hydrochloric acid, making
the solution basic again. So, the pink
Neutralisation reaction colour appears again.
(i) The solution of sodium hydroxide in Conclusion: Acids react with bases and
the test tube turns pink on addition of neutralise their effect.
phenolphthalein.
5.3 Indicators and Its Types

Indicators are substances which show different colours in acidic and basic
medium. They are used to test whether a substance is acidic or basic in nature.
These indicators are known as acid-base indicators.

Types of Indicators
Natural Indicators: Turmeric, litmus, china rose petals, red cabbage juice etc.
• Litmus as an indicator: It is a dye extracted from lichens plant. It is mauve
(purple) in distilled water.
In acidic solution, it turns red.
In basic solution it turns red litmus blue.
• Turmeric as an indicator: It is a natural indicator.
In basic solution, the yellow turmeric turns red.
In acidic solution, no change in colour.
In neutral solution, no change in colour.
Hence, it is called a base indicator.
• China Rose indicator: It is a natural indicator prepared from the petals of China
Rose flower. It is a pink colour extract.
In Acidic solution, the pink colour changes to magenta.
In Basic solution, the pink colour changes to light green.
Artificial Indicators: Phenolpthalein, methyl orange.
• Phenolphthalein: It is an organic dye synthetically prepared by dissolving
phenolphthalein dye in alcohol. It is a colourless solution.
In basic solution, it changes to pink.
In acidic solution, no change in colour is observed.
In neutral solution, it remains colourless.
• Methyl Orange: It is a synthetic indicator.
In neutral solution, it is orange.
In acidic solution, it turns red.
In basic solution, it turns yellow.
Exercise 5.3
1. Write the colour changes when we use the indicator litmus paper, on (a) soap,
(b) vinegar.
2. Define a neutral substance. Give an example.
3. What happens when turmeric powder is added to a basic solution?
4. What colour change occurs when a few drops of methyl orange is added to
(a) window cleaner, (b) vinegar.
(a) Substances that have no effect on indicators. _______________
(b) Substances used to test the nature of a substance. _______________
(c) An example of a natural indicator. _______________
(d) An example of a synthetic indicator. _______________
62 Science–7
(a) _______________ and _______________ are produced during neutralisation.
(b) _______________ indicator is yellow in basic solution.
(c) _______________ gives magenta colour in acidic solutions.
7. When dilute sulphuric acid is added to lime water, will the reaction mixture
be hot or cool?
8. How will you test whether a given solution is acidic, basic or neutral with a
turmeric indicator?
9. While playing in a park, a child was stung by a “wasp”. Some suggested
for applying a paste of baking soda and others suggested lemon juice as a
remedy. Which remedy do you think is appropriate? (NCERT)
10. Why does a pink colour appear upon gradually adding sodium hydroxide to
a solution of acid having 2-3 drops of phenolphthalein?
11. With the help of an activity, determine the nature of the given solution (basic,
acidic or neutral) using litmus paper.
Answers
1. (a) Soap – red litmus turns blue effect as a wasp sting is alkaline in
(b) Vinegar – blue litmus turns red nature.
2. Substances which show no effect 10. Phenolphthalein is an indicator and

with indicators are called neutral turns pink with a basic solution
substances. For example: common (sodium hydroxide).
salt, sugar. 11. Aim: To determine the nature of the
3. It turns red given solutions (basic, acidic or neutral)
4. (a) yellow (b) red using litmus paper.
5. (a) Neutral substances Things needed: Red litmus paper strips,
(b) indicators (c) Litmus blue litmus paper strips, a dropper,
(d) Phenolpthalein test tubes, water, lemon juice, aerated
6. (a) Salt, Water (b) Methyl orange drink, common salt solution, sugar
solution, washing soda solution, lime
(c) China Rose Indicator
water, shampoo solution, baking soda
7. The mixture of dilute sulphuric acid
solution, hydrochloric acid solution
and lime water will become hot since
and nitric acid solution.
it is an exothermic reaction and heat is
evolved. Method: Put a drop of lemon juice on a
8. Turmeric indicator shows no effect strip of (i) blue litmus paper and (ii) red
with acidic solution and distilled water litmus paper with the help of a dropper.
(neutral), while it gives reddish brown Perform the same activity with the given
colour with basic solution. solutions and record your observations
9. Lemon juice is added to neutralise the as given below in the table.

Observation:

Change in colour of the litmus paper and nature of the given solution
S.No. Test solutions Effect on red litmus Effect on blue litmus Inference
paper paper
1. Lemon juice No change in colour Changes to red colour Acidic solution
2. Aerated drink No change in colour Changes to red colour Acidic solution
3. Common salt solution No change in colour No change in colour Neutral solution
4. Sugar solution No change in colour No change in colour Neutral solution
5. Washing soda solution Changes to blue colour No change in colour Basic solution
6. Lime water Changes to blue colour No change in colour Basic solution
7. Shampoo solution No change in colour Changes to red colour Acidic solution
8. Baking soda solution Changes to blue colour No change in colour Basic solution
9. Hydrochloric acid No change in colour Changes to red colour Acidic solution
solution
10 Nitric acid solution No change in colour Changes to red colour Acidic solution
Conclusion: Acidic substances turn blue litmus red and basic solutions turn red

litmus blue.
Did You Know?

1. Microorganisms cannot survive in acidic environment. So, vinegar (acetic
acid) is added to packaged food like sauces, ketchups, pickles to preserve
them.
2. Turmeric is used in making curry in food. A yellow turmeric stain on a
white shirt turns red when it is washed with soap. This is because soap
solution is basic in nature which changes the yellow colour to red.
3. Rain containing excess of acids is called acid rain. Sulphur dioxide, Nitrogen
dioxide, Carbon dioxide are released into the air as pollutants during the
burning of various type of fuels used in factories and homes.

1. If you get turmeric stain on your clothes while eating food and try to wash it
with soap, the stain becomes red. Why? (HOTS)
2. Why do farmers need to treat the soil of their fields with slaked lime before
sowing the seeds? (HOTS)
3. Three liquids are given to you. One is hydrochloric acid, another is sodium
hydroxide and third is a sugar solution. How will you identify them? You
have China rose as an indicator to use. (HOTS)
4. A recent news in TV’s and newspapers stirred up the entire nation, where a
college going girl was attacked with acid and developed severe burn injuries
leading to deformity of her face. Sunita, a class 9 student, understanding
64 Science–7
the need of the hour, gathered few of her friends and started spreading
awareness, and many joined her in this rare good cause:
(a) Which qualities does Sunita possess?
(b) List the characteristics of acids. (VBQ)
5. Annie is playing in her garden with her friend Ishrat. Suddenly, a bee bites
Ishrat. Annie immediately brings baking soda and rubs it on the sting area.
(a) Why does Annie apply baking soda?
(b) What value can you learn from Annie? (VBQ)
Answers
1. Turmeric is a base indicator which (iv) They turn blue litmus red.
turns red when it reacts with soap (v) They are corrosive in nature.
solution. (vi) Most of the acids react with metals to
2. The soil is rich with manure which is form hydrogen gas and their respective
acidic, so slaked lime (base) is added salts. For example,
to neutralise the effect before sowing Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2
seeds. (vii) Most of the acids react with metal
3. China Rose gives green colour with carbonates to form their respective
Sodium hydroxide. salts, water and carbon dioxide.
Magenta colour with hydrochloric acid. Example
It has no effect on sugar solution. Na2CO3 + H2CO3
4. Sunita is kind, intelligent and → Na2SO4 + CO2 + H2O
compassionate. 5. (a) Baking soda is basic, while a bee
Properties of Acids: sting is acidic. To neutralise the
(i) Acids are sour in taste. effect, baking soda is applied.
(ii) They are soluble in water. (b) Annie is kind, caring and has a good
(iii) All acidic solutions conduct electricity. bent of scientific knowledge.


6 Physical and Chemical Changes
Topics Covered
6.1 Physical Change and Its Characteristics; Crystallisation
6.2 Chemical Change: Characteristics, Chemical Reaction, Types and Rusting of Iron
Flow Chart
CHANGES IN SUBSTANCES
Physical Change Chemical Example Rusting

Change of Iron
Characteristics Example:
Crystallisation Characteristics Chemical
Change in Reaction
physical
Crystals
properties
Types
No new
substance Combination Reactants Products
formed
Decomposition
No overall
change in
energy Displacement
Reversible Double
and Displacement
temporary
New Permanent Change in Physical and

substances and energy Chemical
are formed Irreversible property changes
66
• A change in which there is a change in physical properties of a substance is
called physical change. No new substance is formed in a physical change.
Physical changes are generally reversible.
• A change in which the chemical properties of a substance are changed is called
a chemical change. One or more new substances are formed in a chemical
change. Chemical changes are generally irreversible.
• A chemical change may be accompanied by heat, light, sound, change in smell,
change in colour, evolution of gas, etc.
• When magnesium ribbon burns, it produces dazzling white light. In this
reaction, magnesium combines with oxygen to form magnesium oxide.
• When iron articles are left in the open, a brown layer develops on them. This
brown layer is called rust. Formation of rust is called rusting.
• Rusting eats away the iron gradually. This process is called corrosion. The iron
article becomes weak and useless due to rusting.
• Rusting can be prevented by painting, greasing, oiling and galvanization.
• When iron nail is dipped in copper sulphate solution, iron displaces copper
which is evident by blue colour of solution changing to green.
• Crystallization is a physical change. Pure crystals of a salt are obtained by
crystallization. Common salt from sea water is prepared through crystallization.
6.1 Physical Change and Its Characteristics; Crystallisation

Changes: We observe many changes around us – at home, school, parks and in
many other places.
Example: Ice melts on heating, iron rusts in moist air, milk changes into curd,
ripening of fruits etc. These changes are broadly classified into physical and
chemical changes.
Physical Change: A change in which only the physical properties of any substance
get changed and no new substance is formed is called a physical change.
Example: Folding of paper, melting of ice, freezing of water, stretching of a rubber
band, formation of clouds, magnetising a piece of iron, hammering of metals to
form thin sheets etc.
Characteristics of Physical Change
• Only physical properties like size, shape, colour and state change.
• No new substance is formed.
• Chemical composition of a substance remains the same.
• No overall change in energy takes place.
Crystallization: It is a process of obtaining pure solid crystals having definite
geometrical shape by slowly cooling its hot saturated solution. Example: Obtaining
common salt from sea water.
By crystallisation, pure crystals can be obtained from impure crystals.
Physical and Chemical Changes 67

Exercise 6.1
1. What kind of change is
(a) Formation of clouds
(b) Stretching of a rubber band.
2. What kind of change is
(a) Burning of magnesium metal.
(b) Melting of wax
3. Give an example of a change which can be reversed.
4. Give an example of a change which is permanent.
5. Give an example of a physical change.
6. Give an example of a change which is both physical as well as chemical
change.
7. Give an example of chemical change in which heat, light, sound and
unpleasant gases are produced.
(a) Cutting of paper is a _______________
(b) Change which can be reversed _______________
(c) Change which cannot be reversed _______________
(d) Reaction in which one substance decomposes with two or more sulphur
substances._______________
(e) A change in which no new substance is formed _______________
(a) An example of physical change _______________.
(b) A physical change is _______________.
(c) An example of chemical change _______________.
(d) During a chemical change, a _______________ substance is formed.
(e) A chemical change is a _______________ change.
10. Why is burning of magnesium ribbon considered a chemical change?
11. What happens when magnesium ribbon is burnt in air?
12. What happens when water is heated in a closed vessel?
13. Why is melting of ice considered a physical change?
14. Why does a slice of apple get a brown colour if kept in air for a long time?
15. How can it be shown that setting of curd is a chemical change? (NCERT)
16. Explain why cutting of wood and burning of wood are said to be two different
types of changes? (NCERT)
68 Science–7
17. When baking soda is mixed with lemon juice, bubbles are formed with
evolution of a gas. What type of change is it? Explain. (NCERT)
18. Distinguish between a physical and chemical change.
19. Explain the changes occurring in burning of candle. (NCERT)
20. Give two changes that are harmful. Explain why you consider them harmful.
How can you prevent them?
Answers
1. (a) physical change (b) physical change back to original milk. Therefore it is a
2. (a) chemical change (b) physical change chemical change where new substance
3. Melting of wax is formed with different taste, smell
4. Rusting of iron and other chemical properties.
5. Tearing of a paper 16. Cutting of wood is a physical change

6. Burning of a candle which is irreversible, as no new
7. Bursting of crackers. substance is formed. There is no
evolution of heat and light.
8. (a) Physical change
(b) Physical change (c) Chemical On the other hand, burning of wood is
(d) Chemical Reaction (e) Physical change a chemical change, as a new substance
9. (a) Boiling of water (b) reversible is formed, there is evolution of heat
(c) Rusting of iron (d) new and light.
(e) permanent change 17. It is a chemical change, as a chemical
10. (i) A new substance is formed reaction occurs between baking soda
(Magnesium oxide) and lemon juice. Carbon dioxide gas is
(ii) Evolution of heat and light is evolved.
observed Baking Soda + Lemon juice
11.
Magnesium ribbon burns with a Æ Salt + Water + Carbon dioxide
brilliant white dazzling light in air to A new product is formed by the
produce a powdery ash of magnesium combination of these two which explain
oxide. us the chemical changes around us.
12. When water is heated in a covered
18. Physical change Chemical change
vessel, steam is formed at the surface The composition A new substance
of the water which when rises form of the substance is formed.
water droplets on the innerside of the remain unchanged
lid of a container. i.e. no new
substance is formed.
13. As no new substance is formed. There
is a change in state from solid to liquid It is reversible. It is irreversible.
and again from liquid to solid. Since the It is a temporary It is a permanent
change in temporary and reversible, it change. change.
is a physical change. The physical The chemical
14. An apple is rich in iron. Iron present in properties change composition
the slice of apple reacts with moist air while the chemical changes as new
to form iron oxide which is brown in composition remain substance is
the same. formed.
colour.
15. In setting of curd, milk changes to a new 19.
Burning of candle involves both
substance, curd, which cannot change physical and chemical change.

Melting of wax is a physical change in change, in which heat and light,
which the wax melts on heating and along with unpleasant gases
solidifies on cooling. are produced which cause air
Burning of the wick of candle involves pollution.
chemical change in which heat and light (ii) Rancidity of food is a type of chemical
is evolved along with carbon dioxide change in which there is a change in
and water vapour. taste and odour which leads to spoilage
20. (i)
Bursting of crackers is a chemical of food and food poisoning, if eaten.
6.2 Chemical Change: Characteristics, Chemical Reaction,

Types and Rusting of Iron
Chemical Change: A change in which one or more new substance is formed with
entirely different composition is called a chemical change.
Examples of Chemical Change: Formation of copper sulphate crystals, Burning
of Magnesium Ribbon, Explosion of fire-crackers, Cutting of fruits, Digestion of
food, Burning of fuels, Rusting of iron etc.
Characteristics of a Chemical Change
(a) One or more new substance is formed.
(b) It is permanent and cannot be reversed by simple physical methods.
(c) Change of energy takes place.
(d) Both the physical and chemical properties of a substance are changed.
Chemical Reaction
A chemical change is also called a chemical reaction. It is a process by which one
or more substances transform into the new substances having entirely different
properties from the original substances.
Reactants: The substances which react with each other to form new substances
are called reactants.
Products: The new substances formed in a chemical reaction are called products.
Types of Chemical Reaction
Combination Reaction: A reaction in which two or more reactants combine to
form a single product is called a combination reaction. Example:
C + O2 → CO2
Carbon Oxygen Carbon dioxide
Decomposition Reaction: A reaction in which a single reactant decomposes into
two or more simpler substances is known as decomposition reaction. Example:
CaCO3 → CaO + CO2
Limestone Calcium oxide Carbon dioxide
Displacement Reaction: A reaction in which a more reactive element
displaces a less reactive element from its salt solution is called displacement
reaction.
70 Science–7
Example:
Fe + CuSO4 → FeSO4 + Cu
Iron Copper sulphate Iron sulphate Copper
(blue) (green)
Double Displacement Reaction: A reaction in which exchange of ions takes
place between the reactants to form new products is called double displacement
reaction. Example:
BaCl2 + Na2SO4 → BaSO4 + 2NaCl
Barium chloride Sodium sulphate Barium sulphate Sodium chloride
Rusting of Iron: Iron objects when kept in moist air for a few days, get covered
with a brown flaky substance called rust. This process is called rusting of iron.
It is a chemical change because iron reacts with oxygen and moisture to form a
new substance (rust). Example:
4Fe + 3O2 + 2xH2O → 2Fe2O3.xH2O
Conditions necessary for rusting of iron:
1. Presence of oxygen
2. Presence of water vapour (moisture)
Effects of Rusting: Iron is the cheapest and most easily available metal. When
exposed to moist air, a layer of rust falls off from the surface of a rusted iron
object. The continuous rusting makes the iron objects weak and ultimately
useless. Rusting causes a great deal of loss and damage.
Prevention of Rusting:
Galvanisation: Depositing a layer of a metal like chromium molten on a metal.
The iron pipes used in homes to carry water are galvanised to prevent rusting.
• Coating the iron surface with paint or grease.
• Converting iron into stainless steel or alloying – Molten iron is mixed with
a fixed amount of carbon, manganese, chromium and nickel. On cooling, it
forms an alloy called stainless steel.
Exercise 6.2
1. What is rust? What is the formula of rust?
2. How can we prevent rusting of iron? Write any two ways.
3. What is crystallisation?
4. How does the painting of an iron gate prevent it from rusting?
5. What are the essential condition for rusting of iron?
6. Name any three salts present in sea water.
(a) A brown flaky substance formed on iron articles when exposed to moist
air._______________
(b) Rusting of iron can be prevented by _______________
(c) Coating a layer of molten zinc on an object. _______________
(d) Pure crystals can be obtained from their saturated solution.
_______________

(a) A process in which a chemical change occurs is called _______________.
(b) A homogeneous mixture of two or more element in a definite composition
is called _______________.
(c) A process of obtaining pure crystals of a substance from its saturated
solution _______________.
(d) A process by which the surface of iron articles is coated with metals which
are not attacked by moisture _______________.
(e) A process in which iron articles are coated with a layer of molten zinc is
called _______________.
9. Rusting of an iron object is faster in coastal areas than in desert area. Explain
why?(NCERT)
10. Give reason for the following:
(a) Lime water turns milky on passing carbon dioxide through it.
(b) Bubbles are produced when acetic acid is added to a solution of sodium
hydrogen carbonate. (NCERT Exemplar)
11. Give an example of a chemical reaction for each of the following situation:
(a) A change of colour is observed.
(b) A gas is evolved.
(c) Sound is produced. (NCERT Exemplar)
12. Write word equation for the following:
(a) Formation of rust
(b) Iron displaces copper from its copper sulphate solution
13. What happens when magnesium oxide is dissolved in water? Write the
chemical reaction.
14. How is salt extracted from sea water?
15. Explain how painting of an iron gate prevents it from rusting. (NCERT)
16. What is galvanisation? Why is it done on metals which corrode easily?
17. A student took a solution of copper sulphate in a beaker and put a clean iron
nail into it and left it for about an hour.
(a) What changes do you expect?
(b) Are these changes chemical in nature?
(c) Write a word equation for the chemical change if any. (NCERT Exemplar)
18. If you leave a piece of iron in the open for a few days, it acquires a film of
brownish substance, called rust.
(a) Do you think rust is different from iron?
72 Science–7
(b) Can you change rust back into iron by some simple methods?
(c) Do you think formation of rust from iron is a chemical change?
(d) Give two examples of a similar type of change. (NCERT Exemplar)
19. Describe how crystals of copper sulphate are prepared.
Answers
1. Rust is a brown flaky substance formed are due to evolution of gas which is
on the iron articles when exposed to carbon dioxide since it turns lime
moist air. water milky.
Formula – Fe2O3.xH2O NaHCO3 + CH3COOH
2. (i)
Galvanisation – coating the object → CH3COONa + H2O + CO2≠
with molten zinc. 11. (a) A solution of NaOH is added to HCl
(ii) By painting, coating, oiling, greasing which contains phenolphthalein. A
the objects. pink colour is obtained.
(b) Reaction of sodium hydrogen carbonate
3. Crystallization is a method to obtain
with hydrochloric acid liberates
crystals of a pure substance by slowly
carbon dioxide gas.
cooling its hot saturated solution. For
NaHCO3 + HCl → NaCl + H2O + CO2≠
example, salt is obtained from sea
(c) Bursting of crackers.
water by this process.
12. (a) 2Fe + O2 + H2O → Fe2O3.H2O
4. Painting of iron prevent the iron gate Rust
to get exposed to moist air and get Iron + Oxygen + Water → Rust
oxidised. (b) Iron + Copper sulphate
5. Air, Water/Moisture → Iron sulphate + Copper
6. Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Hydrogen Fe + CuSO4 → FeSO4 + Cu
Carbonate, Magnesium Chloride. 13. Magnesium hydroxide is formed
7. (a) Rust (b) Galvanisation MgO + H2O → Mg(OH)2 + H2
(c) Galvanisation (d) Crystallisation 14. Along coastal areas, large and shallow
8. (a) Chemical reaction pits are dug and sea water is collected
(b) Alloy (c) Crystallisation in them. The heat of the sun evaporates
(d) Electroplating (e) Galvanisation the water. Since water has a limited
9. For rusting, the presence of both oxygen capacity for holding the dissolved salts,
and water or water vapour is must. In some of the salt crystallise out. These
coastal region the content of moisture crystals are collected, redissolved
in air is high, whereas in desert region in water and filtered to remove the
the content of moisture in air in low. impurities. The clear solution is again
Thus, rusting happens faster in coastal evaporated to get the salt.
region. 15.
Painting is a preventive measure
10. (a) Lime water is Calcium hydroxide. It against rusting. It forms a layer over
reacts with Carbon dioxide to form the iron gate and protects it from
Calcium carbonate (milky). getting rusted.
Ca(OH)2 + CO2 → CaCO3 + H2O 16. The process of depositing a thin layer
Lime water Calcium of zinc metal on iron objects is called
carbonate (milky) galvanisation. It is done to prevent the
(b) When acetic acid is treated with metals from getting corroded.
sodium hydrogen carbonate, the 17. (a) The blue colour of copper sulphate
products formed are carbon dioxide, changes to light green due to the
sodium acetate and water. Bubbles formation of iron sulphate and a

reddish brown layer is formed on (f ) Filter the solution.
iron nails.
Dilute Glass
Fe + CuSO4 → FeSO4 + Cu sulphuric rod
(b) Yes, the change is a chemical change acid
Copper
since new products are formed – Iron sulphate
sulphate and copper.

Heated
(c) Iron + Copper sulphate → solution
Iron sulphate + Copper Water
18. (a) Rust is hydrated form of Iron. It is

Iron hydroxide. Adding copper
sulphate powder
(b) No, it is a chemical change and cannot Bunsen
be reversed. burner
(c) Yes, it is a chemical change. Crystal of
Heating the solution CuSO4
(d) Making of curd from milk and burning of water and Dil H2SO4
of fuels.
19. (a) Take a cup full of water in a beaker.
Copper
(b) Add few drops of dilute sulphuric acid. sulphate
(c) Heat the water.
(d) Add copper sulphate powder slowly Crystals
while stirring it continuously.

(e) Continue adding copper sulphate Formation of crystals of Separating crystal
powder till no more powder can be copper sulphate by funnel
dissolved. Process to obtain crystal of copper sulphate
Did You Know?

1. The iron pillar standing near Qutub Minar in Delhi was built more than
1600 years ago.
2. It has not rusted till date and tells us something about the advancement of
India in metal technology long back 1600 years ago.

1. Suzane took a piece of paper and then folds it into a paper airplane. She
throws it at her little brother. He is a naughty boy and responds by ripping
up the paper. Which of the following is an example of a physical change? Give
reason for your answer.
(a) Ripping up the paper.
(b) Folding the paper into an airplane. (HOTS)
2. The gas we use in kitchen is LPG. In the cylinder, it exists as a liquid. When
it comes out from the cylinder, it becomes a gas, then it burns. Mention the
changes taking place. (HOTS)
74 Science–7
3. What happens when baking soda is treated with vinegar? Give chemical
equation. (HOTS)
4. Three days when it rained continuously, Akash covered his bicycle with a
polythene sheet, whereas his friends just did not bother to do the same to
their cycles! Few days later Akash’s friends noticed that their cycles had
some brown powdery patches on it where Akash’s seemed to be new.
(a) What quality did Akash exhibit by covering his bicycle?
(b) Which metal is used in making a bicycle? What happened to Akash’s
friend’s bicycle? Why did the metal develop reddish-brown patches?
(VBQ)
5. Write the chemical name and chemical formula of the following:
(a) Lime Water (b) Milk of Magnesia
(c) Rust (c) Blue Vitriol
(e) Baking soda (HOTS)
Answers
1. (a) Ripping up the paper – Physical 4. (a) Scientific awareness and logical
change. reasoning.
(b) Folding up the paper to make an (b) Iron
aeroplane – Physical change. Cycles got rusted i.e. develop reddish
There is no heat or light evolved, no brown patches.
new substance is formed. Hence it is a The cycles got rusted by rain water.
physical change.
5. Substances Chemical Chemical
2. When LPG is stored in cylinder, it Name Formula
undergoes physical change since it Lime water Calcium Ca(OH)2
is liquefied to be stored in cylinder hydroxide
and when it escapes out it again get Milk of Magnesium Mg(OH)2
converted into gaseous form, which is Magnesia hydroxide
a physical change. When the gas stove
Rust Ferric Fe2O3.
is switched on and lighted, it gives out
hydroxide xH2P
heat and light. Then it is a chemical
change. Blue vitriol Copper CuSO4.
sulphate 5H2O
3. When baking soda is treated with
vinegar, it liberates carbon dioxide gas. Baking soda Sodium NaHCO3
hydrogen
NaHCO3 + CH3COOH → carbonate
CH3COONa + H2O + CO2≠


7 Weather, Climate and Adaptations of
Animals to Climate
Topics Covered
7.1 Weather and Climate
7.2 Climatic Adaptations of Animals: Polar Region and Tropical Rain Forests
Flow Chart
WEATHER
Elements Prediction Climate
• Temperature Meteorology Adaptation of

• Humidity and Department Animals
Rainfall
by
• Speed and In
Direction of Meteorologists
Wind
Cold climate Hot and Wet

Climate
Polar
Regions Tropical
Rain forests
• Polar bear
• Monkey
• Penguins
• Lion-tailed
• Migratory birds
macaque
• Red-eyed tree
frog
• Toucan
• Big cats
• Elephants
76
• The day-to-day condition of atmosphere at a place with respect to temperature,
humidity, rainfall, wind speed, etc. is called weather at that place.
• Temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speed, etc. are the elements of weather.
• Weather report is prepared by the Meteorological Department of the Government.
This department collects data on temperature, wind, etc. and makes weather
report.
• The instrument for measuring the rainfall is called rain gauge. It is composed
of a cylinder with a funnel on top. Rainwater passes through the funnel and
gets collected in the cylinder.
• The average weather pattern of a place for a long period is called climate of that
place. Weather pattern of more than 20 years is taken into account to define
the climate at a place.
• Animals living in a particular climate must have certain features in order to
survive in that climate. Such features are called adaptations.
• The climate of the polar region is extremely cold. During winters, the temperature
can be as low as –37° C. The polar regions are covered with snow throughout
the year.
• Adaptations in polar bear are: white fur, two layers of fur, thick layer of fat
under skin, wide and large paws, a good sense of smell, etc.
• Adaptations in penguin are: white body, thick skin, layer of fat under skin,
forelimb as flipper, habit of making huddle, etc.
• Many other birds also live in the polar regions. They migrate to warm climate
to escape the harsh months of winter.
• In tropical rainforests, temperature never falls below 15° C and maximum
temperature can reach 40° C. Days and nights are almost equal in length. This
region receives plenty of rainfall.
• Some animals which are found in the tropical rainforests are: monkeys, apes,
gorillas, tigers, elephants, leopards, lizards, snakes, birds and insects.
• Because of thick forest, conditions are ideal for animals in the tropical rainforest.
However, there is intense competition for food. Most of the adaptations in these
animals are for ensuring that the animals get plenty of food.
7.1 Weather and Climate

The day-to-day condition of the atmosphere at a place with regards to factors
like temperature, humidity, rainfall, speed and direction of wind etc., is called
the weather at that place. These factors are called elements of the weather. All
changes in the weather are caused by the sun.
Cloudy Sunny Rainy Partly Windy Stormy Snowing Temperature

cloudy
Weather, Climate and Adaptations of Animals to Climate 77

Elements of Weather
Temperature
The maximum temperature of the day generally occurs in the afternoon while the
minimum temperature occurs generally in the early morning. The maximum and
minimum temperatures are measured by special thermometers called maximum
and minimum thermometers.
Humidity and Rainfall
Air has the capacity to hold a certain
amount of water in it which increases
with increase in temperature. The amount
of water vapour present in the air is called
humidity.
It is measured using a hygrometer. The
ratio of the amount of water vapour in
the air at a particular temperature to the
maximum amount of water vapour the
air can hold at that temperature is called
relative humidity. Greater the humidity,
more are the chances of rainfall. Rainfall
is measured by an instrument called the
rain gauge.
Speed and direction of wind
Wind blow due to uneven heating of the earth’s surface. During summers, wind
blow from hot desert of Rajasthan towards plains making them hot while in
winters they blow from the mountains to the plains making them cold.
Predicting Weather: The weather prediction is done by the meteorological
department. The scientists who study and predict weather are called
meteorologists.
Climate
The average weather pattern of a place taken over a long period of time, say 25
years is called the climate of that place.
Factors that Affects Climate
Climate of a place depends on several factors like latitude (distance from the
equator), altitude ( height above sea level), distance from the sea, wind, humidity etc.
A few examples to show what the weather pattern of a place tells us about its
climate
• North east India receives rain for a major part of the year. So,we say that the
climate of northeast India is wet.
• It is warm and humid throughout the year in Chennai. So, its climate is warm
and humid.
• The climate in Kerala is hot and wet.
78 Science–7
• The weather pattern tells us that it is generally cold in the mountains for most
part of the year. So, we say that the climate of mountainous areas of north
India is cold although it might be moderately hot and wet for a part of the year.
• In the desert region in Rajasthan, it is hot for most parts of the year. It does
become cold in winter, which does not last for long. There is very little rainfall.
This hot and dry climate is typical.
Exercise 7.1
(a) All changes in weather take place due to the _________________.
(b) The scientists who study weather are called _________________.
(c) The climate of north east India is _________________ as it receives rain for
a major part of the year.
(d) _________________ refers to the distance of a place from equator while
_________________ refers to its height above sea level.
(e) Rainfall is measured by using a _________________.
2. Compare humidity and relative humidity.
3. What is the relation between rainfall and humidity?
4. What type of climate is found in Rajasthan?
5. State two differences between weather and climate.
6. List any four elements of weather.
7. When do maximum and minimum temperatures occur during the day? How
are they measured?
Answers
1. (a) Sun (b) meteorologists This hot and dry climate is typical of
(c) wet desert areas.
(d) latitude, altitude (e) rain gauge 5. Weather Climate
2. The amount of water vapour present
It is the hour to It is the average
in the air is called humidity. The ratio hour, day to day weather pattern of
of the amount of water vapour in the change in the a place seen over a
air at a particular temperature to the atmosphere. long period of time.
maximum amount of water vapour the It changes daily. It does not change
air can hold at a particular temperature frequently.
is called relative humidity.
Temperature, Climate of a place
3. Greater the humidity, more are the humidity, depends on several
chances of rainfall and vice–versa. rainfall, speed factors like latitude,
4. In the desert region like Rajasthan, it and direction altitude, distance
is hot for most parts of the year. It does of wind etc. are from the sea, wind,
become cold in winter, which does not the elements of humidity etc.
last for long. There is very little rainfall. weather.

6. Temperature, humidity, rainfall, speed generally in the early morning. The
and direction of wind. maximum and minimum temperatures
7. The maximum temperature of the day are measured by a special thermometer
generally occurs in the afternoon while called maximum and minimum
the minimum temperature occurs thermometers.
7.2 Climatic Adaptations of Animals: Polar Region and

Tropical Rainforests
Climate has a profound effect on lifestyle of all life forms. The adjustments or
changes in the behavior, functioning and structure of an organism to suit its
environment are known as adaptations.
Adaptations to Cold Climate
Polar Region: Polar region has extremely cold climatic conditions. It is covered
with snow for most part of the year. To combat such extreme conditions, animals
exhibit special adaptive features.
Polar Bear
• Its body has two thick layers of fur (that traps air) and a layer of fat (blubber)
under its skin that provide excellent insulation.
• Its wide and large paws help it in swimming and walking on snow.
• While swimming underwater, it can close its nostrils for long durations.
• It has white fur which camouflages it with white snow and makes it difficult to
be seen both by its predator and prey.
• It has a very strong sense of smell that helps it to locate and catch its prey.
Penguin
• It has have a dense cover of feathers that blocks cold water from
reaching the skin.
• The layer of fat under its skin provides insulation against cold.
• It huddles together with other penguins when it is very cold to
keep themselves warm.
• It has streamlined body and webbed feet that help it in swimming.
Migratory Birds A Penguin
Birds use their feathers for protection against cold but this is
not enough for the extreme cold climate of polar region. So, they
migrate to warmer regions during winters. In India, migratory
birds are seen in Bharatpur and Sultanpur bird sanctuaries.
They go back to Siberia in the polar region after winter is over.
For example: pelicans, flamingoes, cranes etc.
Migration is the mass movement of animals over thousands of
kilometers to escape the harsh, unfavourable climate of their
Migratory Birds
native country.
80 Science–7
Adaptations to Hot and Wet Climates
Tropical Rainforests
• Tropical regions are located near the equator.
They have a hot and wet climate. Because of
the warm climate, constant supply of water
and availability of wide variety of food, tropical
rainforests support a wide variety of animal
and plant life. But their large number also Polar Bears
means intense competition for food and shelter.
Many animals in rainforests are adapted for living on trees. Trees give them
shelter, hiding places from predators and also supply them with food.
Monkeys use their hands, feet and tail to swing from branch to branch.
The lion-tailed macaque (also called beard ape) gets all its food from trees.
The red-eyed tree frog
(i) It has sticky pads on its feet that help it to climb trees.
(ii) Its red, bulging eyes scares away predators. It is nocturnal in habit.
Toucan: It feeds on nuts and fruits. It has a big, strong and sharp beak to reach
fruits on branches that are otherwise too weak to support its weight.
Big Cats: Lions and tigers have thick skin and sensitive hearing. They also exhibit
camouflage which help it to hunt for its prey.
Elephant: It has a strong sense of smell as it uses its trunk as nose.
(i) Its tusks are modified teeth that it uses to tear the barks of trees.
(ii) Large ears of elephant not only help it to hear very soft sounds but also help
to keep it cool in the hot and humid climate of the rainforest.
Lion-tailed Macaque Toucan Red-eyed Tree Frog Big Cat
Exercise 7.2
(a) ________________ host a wide variety of plants and animals.
(b) In winters, birds of polar region ________________ to warmer regions.
(c) Fur helps in keeping an animal warm by trapping ________________.

(d) Polar bear has a thick layer of fat under its skin called ________________.
(e) Penguins normally ________________ together to conserve heat.

2. Why do tropical rainforests inhabit a vast variety of plants and animals?
3. What is migration? Give examples of birds that migrate.
4. Give reasons:
(a) Polar bear has white fur. (b) Big cats exhibit camouflage.
(c) Toucan feeds on nuts.
5. List two adaptations in each of the following animals that help them to
survive in their respective habitats.
(a) Penguins (b) Elephants
(c) Red–eyed tree frog
Answers
1. (a) Tropical rainforests (b) Big cats exhibit camouflage to hide and
(b) migrate (c) Air hunt for their prey.
(d) blubber (e) huddle (c) Toucan feeds on nuts as it has a big,
strong and sharp beak to crack open
2. Tropical regions have a hot and
the hard shell of nuts.
wet climate. Because of the warm
5. (a) (i) It has a dense cover of feathers
climate, constant supply of water and
that blocks cold water from
availability of wide variety of food,
reaching the skin.
tropical rainforests support a wide
(ii) The layer of fat under its skin
variety of animal and plant life.
provides insulation against cold.
3. Migration is the mass movement of (b) (i) Its tusks are modified teeth that it
animals over thousands of kilometers to uses to tear the barks of trees.
escape the harsh, unfavourable climate (ii) Large ears of elephant not only help
of their native country. For example, it to hear very soft sounds but also
pelicans, flamingoes, cranes etc. help to keep it cool in the hot and
4. (a) Polar bear has white fur to humid climate of the rainforest.
camouflage it with white snow and (c) (i) It has sticky pads on its feet that
makes it difficult to be seen both by help it to climb trees.
its predator and prey. (ii) Its red, bulging eyes scares away
predators. It is nocturnal in habit.
Did You Know?
1. The maximum rainfall ever recorded in one year is 25.4 meters (1000 inches) in
Carbonylic, India.
2. Clouds can be categorized into a variety of types; these include cumulus, stratus
and cirrus etc.
3. United States of America experiences more tornadoes than any other nation due
to its unique geographical location.
4. In the northern hemisphere, the longest day is usually 21st June and the shortest
day is usually 22 December.
5. Cloudy nights are warmer than clear nights.

82 Science–7
8 Winds, Storms and Cyclones
Topics Covered
8.1 Atmosphere and Wind Currents
8.2 Disasters and Threat Caused by Wind Currents
Flow Chart
AIR
Properties Wind
Currents
• Exerts Pressure
• Expands on Heating
• Contracts on Cooling Generation Disasters and
• Warm Air is Lighter Threats
than Cold Air
• High Speed Winds
are accompanied by
reduced Air Pressure Thunderstorm Tornado Cyclone
By uneven
heating between
Equator and Poles Land and
of the Earth Water
• North-East Trade Wind • Summer Winds

• South-East Trade Wind • Winter Winds
Cause Preventive
Measure
Severe loss
of Life and
Property Safety Advanced
Measure Technology
83
• Moving air is called wind.
• Air exerts pressure. High speed winds are accompanied by low air pressure. Air
moves from a region of high pressure to a region of low pressure. Air expands
on heating. Warm air is lighter than cold air and hence warm air rises up.
• Wind currents are generated due to uneven heating on earth.
• When the air near equator becomes warm it rises up. Colder air, from up to 30°
latitude on either side of the equator, moves towards equator. Similarly, colder
air from the poles moves towards 60° latitudes. Thus, wind currents are created
over the surface of earth.
• Monsoon winds blow from ocean surface towards land. Wind from ocean brings
moisture and causes rain. Monsoon winds bring plenty of rains.
• Thunderstorms are very common in hot, humid tropical areas like India. The
rising temperatures result in upward rising winds. These winds carry water
droplets upwards. The water droplets freeze and fall down as rains. The swift
movements of falling water and rising air create lightning and sound. This is
called thunderstorm.
• Cyclone is a system of very low pressure wind in the centre surrounded by high
pressure winds moving around the centre. The centre of cyclone is called the
‘eye’.
• Cyclones are very powerful and can cause large scale destruction. A cyclone
pushes water to the shore. The water waves produced by cyclone are so powerful
that they can wash away a person.
• A cyclone is known as ‘hurricane’ in the American continent. It is known as
‘typhoon’ in Japan and Philippines.
• A tornado is a funnel-shaped cloud which continues from the ground to the
sky. Tornadoes are not common in our country.
• Due to advanced technologies in telecommunications, it is now possible to give
cyclone warning well in time.
8.1 Atmosphere and Wind Currents
The layer of air surrounding the earth is called atmosphere.
Atmospheric Pressure
The pressure exerted by the air present in the atmosphere is called atmospheric
pressure.
Properties
Air Exerts Pressure: Air exerts pressure due to its own weight. For example:
• It is easier to ride a bicycle in the direction of wind because the wind exerts a
pressure on the rider in the same direction in which the bicycle is moving and
makes the bicycle move faster. On the other hand, it is difficult to ride a bicycle
against the direction of wind, because the wind exerts a pressure on the rider
in the opposite direction.
• It is easier to row the sail boat in the direction of wind.
84 Science–7
Air Expands on Heating and Contracts on Cooling: When air expands on
heating, its volume increases and it occupies a bigger space. When air is cooled,
its volume decreases and it occupies a smaller space. Thus, air contracts on
cooling.
Warm Air is Lighter Than Cold Air: When volume of air increases and the
mass remains the same, the density decreases. Hence hot air is lighter (lower
density) than cold air (higher density). So hot air rises upwards. A low pressure
area is created in the region from where air rises. Conversely, we can say cold
air is heavier (higher density) than hot air (lower density). So, cold air sinks
downwards. A high pressure is created in the region where the air sinks.
High Speed Winds are Accompanied by Reduced Air Pressure: Moving air is
called wind. Air moves from the region of high air pressure to the region of low air
pressure in the atmosphere. For examples:
• When the wind speed is very high, the roofs of the huts or the tin sheet roofs
of the godowns are blown off. This is because when the high speed winds blow
over the roofs, the air pressure above the roofs is reduced. Thus, the higher air
pressure below the roofs exerts a larger force to lift up the roof which can be
blown away by the fast winds.
• The wings of an aeroplane are designed in such a way that the air above them
moves faster than the air below them. When the aeroplane runs on the runway
in order to take off, the air above the wings move faster, the air pressure
becomes very small. The resultant push or lift, makes the plane fly. Birds also
fly in the same way.
Generation of Wind Current
In nature, there are several situations where warm air rises at a place and the
air pressure at that place gets lowered. The cool air from the surrounding areas
rushes in to fill its place. This sets up convection in air also known as convection
currents in air.
The greater the difference in air pressure, the faster the air moves. The differences
in air pressure created in nature are due to the uneven heating of the earth in the
region. It takes place in two situations:
• Unequal heating between the equator and poles of the earth.
• Unequal heating of land and ocean water.
Between the Equator and Poles of the Earth
The region close to the equator receives direct rays of the sun. It is the hottest
part of the earth. The air above the equatorial region gets heated and becomes
warm. The warm air (being lighter) rises, creating an area of low air pressure.
This makes cooler, denser air from the tropical belts (30°) blow towards the
equator to take the place of warm rising air. These permanent winds are called
the north‑east and south-east trade winds. The hot air that rises from the
equator gets cooled and becomes heavy. It comes down near the 30°N and 30°S
latitudes.
Winds, Storms and Cyclones 85

North Pole
Polar
Polar front
Prevailing
westerlies
Tropical Belt
NE Trade winds
Equatorial
Equator
SE Trade winds
Tropical Belt
Prevailing
westerlies
Polar
Polar
South Pole
Wind Currents formation due to
uneven heating at the equator and poles
Heating of Land and Water

In summers, land near the Earth’s equator heats up faster than the water in
oceans. So most of the time, the temperature of land is higher than that of water in
oceans. The air over the land gets heated and rises, creating a low pressure area.
This causes the cooler winds to blow in from the oceans towards the land. The
winds blowing from the oceans towards the land in summers are called summer
winds.
On the other hand, in winters, the wind blows from the land towards the ocean.
Thus, during winters, land cools down much faster than the water in oceans
(water retains heat much longer). So, the temperature of water in the sea is higher
than that of land. The air over the water gets heated and rises, creating a low
pressure area. The cooler wind from the land (being at higher pressure) rushes
towards the ocean. These winds are called the winter monsoon winds.
Exercise 8.1
(a) Air expand on _______________
(b) The instrument used to measure wind speed _______________
(c) Compared to cold air, hot air has lower _______________
86 Science–7
(d) High speed winds are accompanied by _______________
(e) Winds moving from 30°N to 30°S are called _______________
(a) Air exerts _______________ on the kite to fly higher.
(b) Wind is _______________ air. (NCERT)
(c) Winds are generated due to _______________ heating of the earth. (NCERT)
(d) Near the earth’s surface _______________ air rises up whereas
_______________ air comes down. (NCERT)
(e) Air moves from a region of _______________ pressure to a region of
_______________ pressure. (NCERT)
3. Define wind.
4. Which region of the earth gets
(a) Maximum heat from the sun
(b) Minimum heat from the sun
5. Name an instrument used to measure wind direction.
6. What name is given to the winds which blow off from the Indian ocean during
summer?
7. Name the direction from which monsoon winds blow into our country during
summer.
8. Why are holes made in hanging banners and hoardings? (NCERT)
9. Give reasons for the following:
(a) Air filled in a bicycle tube keeps it light.
(b) We have to fill air into a football to inflate it.
(c) Leaves of trees, flags and banners flutter when the wind is blowing.
10. Why does smoke always rise up?
11. Name the two situations, where the uneven heating of the earth can take
place.
12. When strong and high speed wind blows, an umbrella held upright at times
gets upturned. Why? (NCERT Exemplar)
13. Why are exhaust fan fitted on the walls near the ceiling of a kitchen?
14. Show with the help of an activity, that air exerts pressure.
15. How will you show that air expands on heating and contracts on cooling?
16. Explain with the help of an activity that hot air is lighter than cold air.
17. With the help of an activity, show that high speed winds are accompanied by
reduced air pressure.

Answers
1. (a) heating (b) Anemometer 14. Aim: To show that air around us exerts
(c) density pressure.
(d) reduced air pressure
(e) north-east trade winds
2. (a) pressure (b) moving
(c) uneven (d) hot, cold
(e) high, low
3. Moving air is called wind. Air pressure Steam Air pressure
4. (a) Region close to the equator. (Atmospheric pressure (Atmospheric
pressure) pressure)
(b) Region closer to the poles.
5. Anemometer
6. Summer Monsoon winds. Water Tin can
7. West to East – Monsoon winds blows

from Arabian sea to Bay of Bengal.
Burner
8. The high air pressure below the
hoarding will lift it up. Holes are
manually made in hanging banners (a) The outside ‘air pressure’ on tin
can is balanced by the ‘steam pressure’
and hoardings so that high speed wind from inside. So, tin can does not get crushed
may pass through them easily without
damaging them or bringing them down
with its huge force or pressure.
9. (a) When air is filled into a bicycle with Cold water
a pump, the tube gets inflated and Cork
makes the bicycle tyres feel hard.
This proves that air exerts pressure.
Air pressure
(b) Air has volume, and it exerts (Atmospheric
pressure. Thus football gets inflated pressure) No
when air is filled in it. steam Air pressure
pressure (Atmospheric
(c) It is due to the pressure exerted by pressure)
moving air or wind.
(b) The ‘air pressure’ acting from outside
10. Smoke is made up of hot air. Since crushes the tin can because there is no steam
warm air to lighter then cold air, pressure from inside to balance it
therefore smoke contained in warm air Activity to show the existence of air
always rises up. pressure (or atmospheric pressure)
11. (i) Due to uneven heating between the around us
equator and poles on the earth.
(ii) Uneven heating of land and water of Material needed: Tin can, water,

oceans. burner, cork, match stick.
12. When strong and high speed wind Method: Take a tin can and put some

blows, an umbrella held upright suffers water in it. Heat the tin can by using a
low pressure caused by the high speed burner to boil the water so that steam
wind and the umbrella turns. is formed. This steam expels all the air
13. The exhaust fan fitted at greater height from inside the tin can so that when
expels the hot air more efficiently, water is boiling, there is no air inside
which it rises up. the can; the whole can is filled with
88 Science–7
steam. A tight cork is now fitted on the (ii) Take some hot water in a beaker.
mouth of the tin can and heating is Place the boiling tube (having a
stopped. Now pour cold water from a rubber balloon fixed to its neck) in
tap on the hot tin can. the hot water for some time.
Observations: On pouring cold water, (iii) Take some ice cold water in another
the tin collapses inwards as if large beaker and place the tube with the
force acting on it from outside has balloon for 2-3 minutes
crushed it. Observation and discussion:
Explanation: (i) When the boiling tube with the
(i) When the water is boiling, steam balloon fixed to its neck is kept in
is formed in the tin can which has hot water, the balloon gets inflated
pressure. The steam pressure acting (figure b). This is because the air
from inside the tin can balances the present in the boiling tube gets
air pressure (or atmospheric pressure) heated, expands and its volume
acting on all the sides of the tin can increases.
from outside and hence the tin can (ii) When the boiling tube with an
does not get crushed. inflated balloon fixed to its neck is
(ii) When a tight cork is put on the mouth kept in ice cold water, the balloon
of the tin can containing steam and gets deflated (Fig c). This is due to
then cold water is poured over it, then the reason that the air present in the
the hot steam inside the tin can gets boiling tube gets cooled, contracts
cooled, condenses and forms water and its volume decreases.
and water vapour at very low pressure.
Inflated
Thus, on cooling, the pressure inside Balloon Deflated
the tin can decreases too much and it Sticking Balloon
Balloon
cannot balance the large air pressure tape
(or atmospheric pressure) acting on
the tin can from outside, So, the large Boiling Expanded
tube
air pressure ( or atmospheric pressure) Air
Air
outside the tin can crushes the tin can

inwards. The crushing of tin can having Ice cold
very low pressure inside it shows water
Beaker
the existence of a large air pressure Hot
around it. water
Conclusion: Air around us exerts (a) (b) (c)

Balloon tied over Boiling tube Boiling tube
pressure. the neck of immersed in immersed in
15. Aim: To show that air expands on the boiling tube hot water ice-cold water
heating and contracts on cooling. Air expands on heating
Things needed: A boiling tube, an and contracts on cooling
uninflated balloon, two beakers, hot Conclusion: Air expands on heating
water, a sticking tape and ice cold water. and contracts on cooling.
Method: 16. Aim: To show that hot air is lighter than
(i) Take an empty boiling tube (it cold air.
contains air which cannot be seen). Things needed: Two paper bags or
Stretch the mouth of an uninflated paper cups, wooden stick, threads,
balloon and fit it tightly over the candle, match stick.

neck of the boiling tube with the Method: Take two paper bags (or paper
help of a sticking tape [Figure (a)]. cups) of exactly the same size. Hang

the two paper bags in the inverted that it has become lighter than the
position (with their open faces points right side. This observation can be
downwards) on the two sides of a light explained as follows:
wooden stick with the help of short (ii) When a burning candle is placed
length threads (see figure a). Tie a piece below the left side paper bag, the air
of thread in the middle of the stick. above the candle flame gets heated.
The other end of this thread is tied to The hot air, being lighter, rises up
a hook in the roof of a verandah. The and fills the left side paper bag (by
wooden stick with two paper bags tied
displacing the heavier, cold air from
to its two ends will hang like a common
it.) Since the left side paper bag now
beam balance. Initially, the wooden
contains hot air (which is lighter
stick is perfectly horizontal showing
than cold air present in right side
that the two paper bags contain an
equal mass of the same air (cold air) paper bag), therefore, the left end of
(See figure a). wooden stick becomes lighter and
moves up (figure b).
Hook Light Conclusion: Hot air is lighter than cold
Thread wooden stick air.
17. Aim: To show that high speed winds are
accompanied by reduced air pressure.
Things needed: Two balloons of equal
Inverted Cold
size, a stick, thread and water.
Cold
air
paper air Method:
bag
(i) Take two balloons of equal size. Fill
(a)
a little water in both the balloons
to make them slightly heavier and
Up
more stable.
(ii) Inflate both the balloons by filling
Down air into them and tie their mouths
properly with strong threads. Hang
Hot air
the two inflated balloon about 10 cm
apart on a stick with the help of the
threads tied to their mouths.
Hot air Cold
rising up air Stick
10 cm
Burning
candle
(to heat air)
(b)
Hot air is lighter (than cold air)

and rises up
Put a burning candle below the open
mouth of the left side paper bag Blowing air
Inflated ballons
moving towards
(see figure b). low pressure area
Observation: When air (or wind) is blown
(i) After some time, the left side of in the space between the two balloons,
the wooden stick goes up showing they come closer.
90 Science–7
(iii) Now, blow air (or wind) hard in the through the gap in between the
gap between the two balloons, from balloons, the pressure of air falls in
your mouth. the gap. The air pressure on the side
Observation: of the balloon pushes them towards
(i) The two balloons come closer. each other.
(ii) When the high speed air moves Conclusion: High speed winds are

accompanied by reduced air pressure.
8.2 Disasters and Threat Caused by Wind Currents

Thunderstorm
A violent storm with thunder and lightning is called thunderstorm. It develops in
hot humid tropical areas like India very frequently.
Conditions necessary for thunderstorm
• Moisture
• Unstacked air mass
• A lifting force.
Formation of Thunderstorm
• The sun heats the surface of the earth. The hot surface of the earth heats
the air in contact with it. The warm air (being lighter) rises up creating a low
pressure area and cool air rushes in to take its place in the form of strong winds.
• If the air carries enough moisture, moisture condenses and when it comes in
contact with colder air it forms clouds and pour down.
• The swift movement of the falling water along with the rising air create lightning
and sound, causing thunderstorm.
Hazards
• A thunderstorm is always accompanied by lighting. Lightning is a giant electric
spark. A bolt of lightning travels at a very high speed. It can heat the air around
it to a temperature which is more than four times the temperature of the sun.
This makes lightning very dangerous. It causes great damage.
• It uproot trees, electric poles, blow away temporary and thatched roofs.
• Heavy rains which occur along with thunderstorm cause flash floods and water
logging in low lying area.
Precautions to be taken During a Thunderstorm
• Never sit near a window.
• Do not take shelter under an umbrella with a metallic end.
• It is safer to be under shrubs or a collection of trees of uniform height.
• During lightning avoid contact with water and metallic objects.
• Do not take shelter in a high rise building as they are likely to be struck by
lightning.
Tornado
A tornado is a violent, dangerous, rotating column of winds having appearance
of a deck, funnel-shaped cloud extending from the sky to the ground. The funnel

of the tornado sucks dust, debris and everything (even people) near its base and
throws them out near the top. A violent tornado can travel at a speed of about
300 km/h. Most of the tornadoes are weak.
A funnel
shaped
cloud

A deck-funnel shaped cloud – Tornado
Precautions to be Taken During Tornado
• Take shelter in a room situated deep inside or underground having no windows.
These rooms are called tornado shelters.
• Shut down windows and take shelter under a table where debris cannot reach.
• Bow down on knees protecting head and neck using arms.
Cyclone
The word ‘cyclone’ in derived from the Greek word ‘kyklon’ meaning the coils of
a snake. A cyclone is a huge revolving storm caused by very high speed winds
blowing around a central area of low pressure zone over the ocean.
Factors Causing Cyclone
• Wind speed
• Wind direction
• Temperature
• Humidity
Formation of Cyclone
The formation of a cyclone is a very complex process.
• When the sun heats the surface of ocean water. The warm water, in turn heat
the air above it. This causes a low pressure on a vast area of the ocean. Due to
the low pressure, the moist air from the ocean surface begins to rise rapidly.
This creates a strong upward wind that rotates rapidly.
• As the warm and moist air (containing a lot of water vapour) rises high up in
the atmosphere it gets cooled and the water vapour present in it condenses to
form clouds (called thunder clouds). When water vapour condenses, heat is
released.
• The chain of events ends with the formation of a very low pressure system
around it. The weather condition consisting of a system of high speed winds
revolving around a central area of very low pressure is called cyclone.
92 Science–7
Out flow
Rising air
Sinking air
Direction
in which Stream flow
cyclone is
moving
Eye
Gales gradually Hurricane winds Gales gradually

increasing decreasing
Formation of a Cyclone
• Once a cyclone is formed it begins to move over the surface of ocean.
• The following chart will help you to understand the phenomena that leads to
the formation of clouds, falling of rain and reaction of storms and cyclones.
Difference of temperature between two regions
Ø
Sets convection in air
Ø
Warm air rises, creating a low-pressure area
Ø
Cool air converges to the low-pressure area
Ø
Warm air rises, cools and the water vapour condenses to form clouds
Ø
The bigger water drops in the cloud fall to the ground as rain, hail or snow
Ø
Falling water droplets and rising air move vigorously to produce thunderstorm
Ø
Under certain weather condition, storms may develop into cyclones
Destruction caused by Cyclone

• Cyclone causes great damage to houses, electric poles, industries, schools,
hospitals, vehicles, crop etc. resulting in a great loss of properties.

• The fast-moving flood water of the sea brought in by a cyclone destroys roads,
railway track and crops. Uproots trees, reduces soil fertility, drowns human
beings and animals causing a great loss of life.
Effective Safety Measures Against Cyclone
An effective safety measures should be taken by the government for the people
living in cyclone-prone coastal areas to prevent cyclone-related disaster.
• An efficient cyclone forecast and warning service must be established.
• There should be a rapid communication of warnings to the concerned
government agencies, the ports, fishermen, ship and to the general public
living in coastal areas through radio, television, newspaper and other means.
• Government vehicles (buses and trucks) should be kept ready to evacuate
people likely to be affected by cyclone and should be moved fast to safer places
(like cyclone shelter).
Precautions to be Taken After the Cyclone Hit the Area
• Do not drink water that could be contaminated by floods (to avoid water borne
diseases). Drink only clean water which has been stored for emergencies.
• Do not touch wet electric switches and fallen electric power lines.
• Do not pressurize the rescue force by making undue demands.
• Cooperate and help your neighbours and friends.
Action to be Taken by the People Before Cyclone Hits Their Area
• People should not ignore the warnings issued by the meteorological department
through T.V, radio or newspapers.
• They should make necessary arrangements to shift the essential household
goods, domestic animals, vehicles etc to safer places.
• Avoid driving on roads through standing water as it may have damaged the
roads.
• Store enough drinking water, food, clothing, blankets and first aid kits.
Advanced Technology for Cyclone Forecasting and Warning
The Indian Meteorological Centre in now using advanced technology by making
use of satellites and radars for cyclone farecasting and warnings. Cyclone
warnings are given through a variety of communication media such as radio,
television, newspapers and police wireless network.
The cyclone warnings are given in two stages.
1. The first stage warnings known as ‘Cyclone alert’ on Cyclone is issued
48 hours in advance of any expected storm or cyclone.
2. The second stage warning known as ‘Cyclone warning’ is issued 24 hours
in advance. This give sufficient time to people to evacuate the cyclone prone
area. The message of ‘cyclone warning’ is broadcasted every hour or half an
hour when a cyclone is near the coast.
Several national and international organisations have cooperated to monitor the
cyclone related disasters.
94 Science–7
Exercise 8.2
(a) Storm accompanied by thunder and lighting is called
_______________
(b) The region of low pressure inside the cyclone is called _______________
(c) Another name for cyclone in Japan _______________
(d) Place in India vulnerable to cyclone _______________
(e) A huge revolving storm caused by very high speed winds blowing around
a central area of low pressure zone _______________
(a) One of the factors responsible for the development of a cyclone is
_______________.
(b) High speed winds accompanying a cyclone can damage _______________.
(c) A violent tornado can travel at a speed of about _______________.
(d) An effective safety measure to warn against cyclone is a _______________
forecast and _______________ service.
(e) _______________ is issued 24 hours in advance.
3. What is a tornado?
4. What is a cyclone?
5. What is a thunderstorm? Name two important characteristics of
thunderstorm.
6. How does a thunderstorm become a cyclone?
7. State any three precautions to be taken in case of a thunderstorm.
8. State three precautions to be taken in a cyclone hit area.
9. How will you help your neighbours in case cyclone approaches your
village/town? (NCERT)
10. Why is it advisable not to shut all the doors and windows during a storm?
(NCERT Exemplar)
11. A flat in Mumbai with a balcony facing the sea has some clothes hung on
a clothes line in the balcony. Towards which direction the clothes will be
blown in the afternoon? Explain. (NCERT Exemplar)
12. Suggest some precautions to be taken to prevent the roof of a tin sheet from
flying away during a fierce wind storm. (NCERT Exemplar)
13. Describe an activity to demonstrate that warm air is lighter than cool air.
(NCERT Exemplar)

14. The picture in figure shows tree line along the
sea coast on an island near the equator. As Sea
shown, the tree tops are permanently bent in one
direction. Are the trees bent towards the sea or
away from it? Explain. (NCERT Exemplar)
15. Mention the hazards of thunderstorm.
16. Describe the damage caused by a tornado. What Land
precaution should be taken for protection from a

tornado?
17. How is cyclone formed? Name the factor which help in the development of a
cyclone?
18. How has advanced technology helped in protection from cyclones?
19. What advance planning should be done by people living in cyclone prone
coastal areas? (NCERT)
Answers
1. (a) Thunderstorms Two important characteristics of
(b) Eye of the cyclone thunderstorm are:
(c) Typhoons (i) It is always accompanied by
(d) Coastal areas lightning.
(e) Cyclone (ii) It causes great damage.
2. (a) Wind speed 6. The formation of a cyclone is a very
(b) houses, electric poles complex process.
(c) 300 km/h When the sun heats the surface of
(d) cyclone forecast and cyclone warning ocean water. The warm water, in turn
(e) cyclone alert heat the air above it. This causes a low
pressure on a vast area of the ocean.
3. A tornado is a violent dangerous,
Due to the low pressure, the moist air
rotating column of winds having
from the ocean surface begins to rise
appearance of a deck, funnel-shaped
rapidly. This creates a strong upward
cloud extending from the sky to the
wind that rotates spirally.
ground. The funnel of the tornado
As the warm and moist air (containing
sucks dust, debris and everything (even
a lot of water vapour) rises high up in
people) near its base and throws them
the atmosphere it gets cooled and the
out near the top. A violent tornado can
water vapour present in it condenses
travel at a speed of about 300 km/h.
to form clouds (called thunder clouds).
Most of the tornadoes are weak.
When water vapour condenses, heat is
4. The word ’cyclone’ in derived from the released.
Greek word ‘kyclon’ meaning the coils The chain of events ends with the
of a snake. A cyclone in a huge revolving formation of a very low pressure system
stone cause by very high speed winds around it. The weather condition
blowing around a central area of low consisting of a system of high speed
pressure zone over the ocean. wind and revolving around a central
5. A violent storm with thunder and area of very low pressure is called a
lightning is called thunderstorm. It cyclone.
develops in hot humid tropical areas Once a cyclone is formed it begin to
very frequently like India. move over the surface of ocean.
96 Science–7
7. The three precautions to be taken in balloon rises up due to the burning of
case of thunderstorm are: the fuel just below the balloon which
(i) Never sit near a window. heats up the air inside the balloon and
(ii) Do not take shelter under an makes it rise up. As soon as the fuel
umbrella with a metallic end. cools down, the balloon comes down
(iii) It is safer to be under shrubs or a and is carefully landed on the ground.
collection of trees of uniform height. 14. In the day time wind blows from sea
8. The three precautions to be taken after to land which makes the trees bend
the cyclone hits the area are: towards the land.
(i) Do not drink water that could be 15. (i) A thunderstorm is always
contaminated by floods (to avoid accompanied by lighting. Lightning
water borne disease). Drink only is a giant electric spark. A bolt of
clear water which have been stored lightning travels at a very high
for emergencies. speed. It can heat the air around
it to a temperature which is more
(ii) Do not touch wet electric switches
than four times the temperature of
and fallen electric power lines.
the sun. This makes lightning very
(iii) Do not pressure the rescue force by dangerous. It causes great damage.
making undue demands.
(ii) It uproot trees and electric poles and
9. Action to be taken by the people before blow among temporary and thatched
cyclone hits their area roofs.
(i) People should not ignore the warnings (iii) Heavy rains which occur along with
issued by the meteorological thunderstorm cause flash floods
department through T.V, radio or and water logging in low lying area.
newspapers.
16. A tornado is a violent, dangerous,
(ii) They should make necessary rotating column of winds having
arrangements to shift the essential appearance of a deck, funnel-shaped
household goods, domestic animals, cloud extending from the sky to the
vehicles etc to safer places. ground. The funnel of the tornado
(iii) Avoid driving on roads through sucks dust, debris and everything (even
standing water as it may have people) near its base and throws them
damaged the roads. out near the top. A violent tornado can
(iv) Store enough drinking water, food, travel at a speed of about 300 km/h.
clothing, blankets and first aid kits. Most of the tornadoes are weak.
10. It is advisable not to shut all the doors Precautions:
and windows during a storm in order (i) Take shelter in a room situated deep
to avoid the roof of house getting blown inside or underground having no
away due to the low pressure created windows. These rooms are called
by heavy wind. tornado shelters.
11. The clothes will blow towards the house (ii) Shut down windows and take shelter
because during day time, sea breeze under a table where debris cannot
blows from sea towards the land. reach.
12. Flying away of roof of a tin sheet during (iii) Bow down on knees protecting head
a fierce wind storm can be avoided by and neck using arms.
putting heavy stones on it or screwing 17. Factors which help in the development
them tight. of Cyclone are:
13. This can be proved by taking the (i) Wind speed (ii) Wind direction
example of hot air balloon. The hot air (iii) Temperature (iv) Humidity

18. The Indian Meteorological Centre is warning’ is broadcasted every hour
now using advanced technology by or half an hour when a cyclone is
making use of satellites and radars near the coast.
for cyclone forecasting and warnings. Several national and international
Cyclone warnings are given through a organisations have cooperated to
variety of communication media such monitor the cyclone related disasters.
as radio, television, newspapers and 19. (i) People should not ignore the warnings
police wireless network. issued by the meteorological
The cyclone warnings are given in two department through T.V, radio or
stages. newspapers.
(i) The first stage warnings known as (ii) They should make necessary
‘Cyclone alert’ on Cyclone is issued arrangements to shift the essential
48 hours in advance of any expected household goods, domestic animals,
storm or cyclone. vehicles etc to safer places.
(ii) The second stage warning known as (iii) Avoid driving on roads through
‘Cyclone warning’ is issued 24 hours standing water as it may have
in advance. This give sufficient time damaged the roads.
to people to evacuate the cyclone
(iv) Store enough drinking water, food,
prone area. The message of ‘cyclone
clothing, blankets and first aid kits.
Did You Know?

1. Anemometer: The speed of wind is measured in km/hr. The direction of
the wind at a place is found by using instrument called wind vane.
2. A bolt of lightning travels at a speed of more than 400,000 km/hr can
heat the air around it to a temperature which is more than four times the
temperature of the surface of the sun. That is why lightning is so dangerous.

1. Explain how the wings of an aeroplane are designed to help the aircraft to
take off? (HOTS)
2. How is tornado different from cyclone? (HOTS)
3. What is the role of satellites and radars in preventing destruction caused by
a cyclone? (HOTS)
4. Radhika is a member of disaster management society. She lives in a small
beach-side corner. She is taking a walk in the beach. Suddenly she hears a
warning that a cyclone is going to hit their town in 48 hours. She immediately
organises her disaster management team.
(a) What should be her immediate steps to save her town?
(b) What values do you learn from Radhika? (VBQ)
98 Science–7
Answers
1. The wings of an aeroplane are designed high speed winds blowing around a
in such a way that the air above them central area of low pressure zone over
moves faster than the air below them. the ocean.
When the aeroplane runs on the runway 3. With the help of satellites and radars,
in order to take off, the air above the a cyclone alert is now issued 48 hours
wings moves faster, the air pressure in advance of any expected storm and
becomes very small as compared to the a cyclone warning is issued 24 hours in
pressure below the wings. advance.
2. Tornado: A tornado is a violent, 4. (a) Immediate steps taken by Radhika
dangerous, rotating column of to save her town from cyclone are:
winds having appearance of a deck, (i) She would make necessary
funnel‑shaped cloud extending from arrangements to shift the essential
the sky to the ground. The funnel of household goods, domestic animals,
the tornado sucks dust, debris and vehicles etc to the safer places.
everything (even people) near its base
(iii) She would advice people not to drive
and throws them out near the top. A
on roads through standing water as
violent tornado can travel at a speed of
it may have damaged the roads.
about 300 km/h. Most of the tornadoes
are weak. (iv) She would store enough drinking
water, food, clothing, blankets and
Cyclone: The word ’cyclone’ in derived
first aid kits to help people of her
from the Greek word ‘kyklon’ meaning
town.
the coils of a snake. A cyclone in a
huge revolving storm cause by very (b) Scientific awareness and scientific bent
of mind.


9 Soil
Topics Covered
9.1 Soil: Profile, Composition and Pollution
9.2 Soil: Types, Properties and Crops
Flow Chart
SOIL
Importance Soil profile Properties Crops
•S upport plant Rate of percolation =

growth Composition Volume of water percolation
• Home for many
organisms Time taken
• Rock particles
• Resource for
• Minerals
agriculture
• Water
• Recharge
• Humus
groundwater
• Plant roots
• Earthworms
• Living organisms •W heat and gram –
like bacteria etc. Clayey and loamy
• Paddy – clay
• Pulses – loamy
• Cotton – sandy loam
Horizon Types
• horizon/top soil
A • Sandy soil Pollution
• B horizon/middle layer • Clayey soil
• C horizon • loamy soil Causes:
• Bedrock • Polythene bags
• Plastics
• Chemicals
• Pesticides
• Other substances
100
• Soil is an important natural resource.
• It is made up of minerals, rock particles, humus, air, water and living organisms
like microbes and insects.
• Soil is formed by weathering of rocks due to agents such as sun, wind, water
etc.
• Soil has the following layers – A-horizon, B-horizon, C-horizon and bed rock.
• Soil can be classified as sandy, loamy and clayey depending on its particle size.
• Some important properties of soil are – rate of percolation, water holding
capacity and moisture content.
• The type of soil and the climatic factors of a region determine the type of crops
that can be best grown in that region.
• Soil can be eroded by wind, water and deforestation.
• Soil can be polluted by harmful chemicals such as insecticides, pesticides and
fertilisers.
• Soil can be preserved by afforestation.
9.1 Soil: Profile, Composition and Pollution

Soil
It is formed by the breaking down of rocks into fine particles by the action of
wind, water and climate by the process called weathering.
• It is composed of distinct layers.
• The nature of soil depends upon the rocks from which it has been formed and
type of vegetation that grow on it.
Importance of Soil
• It supports plant growth by holding the roots of the plants firmly and supplying
them water and nutrients.
• It is a home for many organisms.
• It is an essential resource for agriculture.
• It absorbs rainwater and thus recharges groundwater.
Soil Profile
A vertical section through different layers of soil. Each layer of soil differs in feel
(texture),color, depth and chemical composition. These layers are referred to as
horizon.
The different soil horizons
• A-horizon / top soil: Uppermost layer, dark in colour, rich in humus, has less
minerals, is soft, porous and can retain more water. It provides shelter for
Soil 101
many living organisms such as worms, beetles, moles etc. The roots of small
plants are embedded entirely in the top soil.
• Humus: The rotting dead organic matter in the soil that makes it fertile.
• Erosion: The removal of top soil by wind, water etc.
• B-horizon/middle layer: Has less humus but more minerals, is harder and
more compact as compared to top soil.
• C-horizon: It contains the weathered parent material. It has small lumps of
rocks with cracks and crevices.
• Bedrock is hard and is difficult to dig with a spade.
Composition of Soil
Soil is a mixture of rock particles, minerals, water, humus, living organisms like
bacteria, plant roots and earthworms etc.
Soil Pollution
There is a demand to ban polythene bags and plastics as they pollute soil. They
also kill the organisms present in the soil. Besides polythene bags and plastics,
chemicals, pesticides and other waste products also pollute soil. To prevent soil
pollution, plastics, polythene bags, pesticides should be banned. Waste products
and chemicals should be treated before they are released into soil.
Exercise 9.1
(a) Breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces by natural forces is called
________________.
102 Science–7
(b) The layer of soil that contains large rock pieces is called _______________.
(c) Soil is made up of several distinct layers called ________________.
(d) _______________ is the dead organic matter found in soil.
(e) A-horizon is also called ________________.

2. Why should plastics and polythene be banned?
3. On what factors does nature of soil depend?
4. Differentiate between A- horizon and B- horizon.
5. What is soil made up of?

6. What is soil profile? Draw a diagram showing soil profile.
7. Draw a diagram showing composition of soil.
8. Why is soil important?
Answers
1. (a) weathering 5. Soil is a mixture of rock particles,
minerals, water, humus, living
(b) bedrock
organisms like bacteria, plant roots
(c) Horizons and earthworms etc.
(d) humus 6. Soil Profile is a vertical section through
different layers of soil.
(e) topsoil
2. Polythene bags and plastics should
be banned as they pollute soil. They
also kill the organisms present in
the soil.
3. Nature of any soil depends upon the
rocks from which it has been formed
and the type of vegetation that grows
on it.
4.
A-horizon B-horizon
Has more humus Has less humus and more
and less minerals minerals.
Is soft, porous Is soft, porous and retains
and retains more more water.
water.

Soil 103
8. Soil is important because:
7.
(i) It supports plant growth by holding the
roots of the plants firmly and supplying
them water and nutrients.
(ii) It is a home for many organisms.
(iii) It is an essential resource for
agriculture.
(iv) It absorbs rainwater and thus recharges
groundwater.
9.2 Soil: Types, Properties and Crops

Types of Soil
On the basis of proportion of particles of various sizes, soil is classified as:
• Sandy soil contains greater proportion of large particles. They cannot fit closely
together and there are large spaces between them which are filled with air.
Water can drain quickly through the spaces between the sand particles so
sandy soil tends to be light, well aerated and rather dry.
• Clayey soil has large proportion of fine particles. Its particles being much
smaller pack tightly together leaving little space for air. Water can be held in
the tiny gaps between the particles of clay, so clayey soil is heavy, wet and less
aerated. Clayey soil is used for making pots, toys and statues as it is soft. Its
particles bind together and can be easily moulded into different shapes.
• Loamy soil has same proportion of fine and large particles. It is a mixture of
sand, clay and silt (has particle size in between those of sand and clay). It is
considered suitable for plant growth because:
– It has humus that supports plant growth.
– It has the right water holding capacity for the growth of plants.
Feature Sandy soil Clayey soil

Particle size Particles are large in size Particles are much smaller in size
Air spaces Particles have large spaces in Particles are tightly packed leaving
between them filled with air little space for air.
Water retention Least water retention capacity High water retention capacity
Rate of High rate of percolation of water Very low rate of percolation of water
percolation
104 Science–7
Properties of Soil
Rate of percolation is calculated by the formula
• Rate of percolation (ml/min) = Volume of water percolated (ml)/time taken
(min)
Activity:
• Soil has moisture in it
Material Required: Stand, test tube, soil sample and a burner.
Method: Take a boiling tube. Put two spoons full of soil sample in it. Heat it on
a flame and observe.
Observation: On heating, water in the soil evaporates, moves up and condenses
on the cooler inner walls of the upper part of the boiling tube.
Conclusion: Soil has moisture in it.
• On a hot summer day, the soil appears to shimmer as the water vapour coming
out of the soil reflects the sunlight.
• Soil is affected by wind, rainfall, temperature, light and humidity. These are
some important climatic factors that affect soil profile and bring changes in the
soil structure.
Setup to prove that soil has moisture in it
Soil and Crops

Clayey and loamy soil are good for growing wheat and gram as they retain water,
are rich in humus and therefore are fertile. For paddy, soil rich in clay and
organic matter and having good water retention are ideal. For pulses, loamy soil

that drains water is required. For cotton, sandy- loam or loam, which drains water
easily and can hold plenty of air are more suitable.
Soil 105
Exercise 9.2
(a) ______________ soil cannot retain much water.
(b) ______________ is a major cause of soil erosion.
(c) ______________ soil has the smallest sized particles.
(d) Water logging cannot take place in ______________ soil.
(e) For cotton, ______________ is the best soil.
2. Why does the soil appear to shimmer on a hot summer day?
3. List some important climatic factors that affect soil profile and bring changes
in soil structure.
4. Why is loamy soil considered best for plant growth?
5. Why is clayey soil suitable for making pots, statues, toys etc?
6. How is the rate of percolation calculated?
7. Write an activity to show that soil contains moisture. Draw the labelled
diagram also.
8. Differentiate between clayey soil and sandy soil.
9. Why does sandy soil tends to be well aerated, light and rather dry?
10. Explain how soil is formed? (NCERT)
11. How is clayey soil useful for crops? (NCERT)
12. List the differences between clayey soil and sandy soil. (NCERT)
13. Sketch the cross section of soil and label the various layers. (NCERT)
14. How can a farmer convert acidic soil to neutral soil? (NCERT Exemplar)
15. Is it a good practice to remove grass and small plants that are growing in an
open, unused field? Give reasons to support your answer. (NCERT Exemplar)
16. Unscramble the words related to soil.
SUHUM, MOAL, ZOINORH, GINRHETWEA (NCERT Exemplar)
Answers
1. (a) Sandy (b) Deforestation 4. Loamy soil is considered suitable for
(c) Clayey (d) Sandy plant growth because:
(e) sandy-loam (i) It has humus that supports plant
2. The water vapour coming out of the soil growth.
reflects the sunlight on hot summer (ii) It has the right water holding capacity
days and appears to shimmer. for the growth of plants.
3. Soil is affected by wind, rainfall, 5. Clayey soil is soft and its binding
temperature, light and humidity. particles can be easily moulded into
different shapes.
106 Science–7
6. Rate of percolation is calculated by the
formula given below
Rate of percolation (ml/min) = volume
of water percolated (ml)/ time taken
(min)
7. Material Required: Stand, test tube, soil
sample and a burner.
Method: Take a boiling tube. Put two
spoons full of soil sample in it. Heat it
on a flame and observe.
Observation: On heating, water in
the soil evaporates, moves up and
condenses on the cooler inner walls of
the upper part of the boiling tube.
Conclusion: Soil has moisture in it.
8.
Feature Sandy soil Clayey soil
Particle size Particles are large in size Particles are much smaller in size
Air spaces Particles have large spaces in Particles are tightly packed leaving
between them filled with air little space for air.
Water retention Least water retention capacity High water retention capacity
Rate of High rate of percolation of water Very low rate of percolation of water
percolation
9. Sand particles are quite large which above processes. This gives the
cannot fit closely together and occupies soil enough energy in the form of
large spaces between them which are organic matter.
filled with air. Water can drain quickly 11. Clayey soil has good water retaining
through the spaces between the sand capacity. It is rich in humus and is very
particles so sandy soil tends to be light, fertile. This is the reason why this soil is
well aerated and rather dry. useful for growing crops like wheat and
10. (i) The big and heavy rocks are broken rice.
into smaller pieces and come on the 12. Clayey soil Sandy soil
surface of the earth.
(ii) Soil is formed by breaking down of (i) Proportion of (i) Proportion of
rocks by the action of wind, water fine particles big particles
and climate. This process is called is more than is more than
weathering. big particles. fine particles.
( iii) The smaller particles of the rocks (ii) It has less (ii) It has more
obtained due to weathering get percolation percolation
further decomposed on long rate of water. rate of water.
exposure to air and moisture. (iii) It has good (iii) It has poor
(iv) Finally the decomposed parts

water holding water holding
of dead plants and animals get capacity. capacity.
mixed up with soil formed by
Soil 107
13. 14. Excessive acidity of soil can be
neutralised using bases like quick lime
(calcium oxide) or slaked lime (calcium
hydroxide) which will neutralise the
acid to salt and water.
15. No, it is not at all a good practice to
remove grass and small plants that
are growing in an open, unused field
because plants cover the surface of the
soil and their roots helps to bind the soil
particles and hold them in place. They
also play a crucial role by preventing
soil erosion during strong winds and
rains which results in protection of the
top soil.
16. (a) Humus
(b) Loam
(c) Horizon
(d) Weathering
Did You Know?

1. There are more microorganisms in a handful of soil than there are people
on the earth.
2. It takes 500 years to produce just under an inch of topsoil, this is the most
productive layer of soil.
3. One gram (1 gm) of soil has 5,000 different types of bacteria.
4. Approximately 10% of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions are stored in
soil
5. Soil consists of 45% minerals, 25% water, 25% air and 5% organic matter
6. The amount of sand, clay and silt is what gives different soil types their
various textures. Most soils are a mixture of all three.
7. Soil has 6 layers called horizons O, A, E, B, C and R.

1. Why is soil erosion relatively less in dense forests as compared to open, barren fields?
(HOTS)
2. Water logged soils are not good for plant growth. Why? (HOTS)
3. Raman always advises his neighbours to plant more trees? Why? List any two values
shown by him. (VBQ)
4. We should conserve rainwater. Why? What values are depicted if we undertake this
practice? (VBQ)
108 Science–7
Answers
1. Roots of plants bind the soil particles Knowledgable, scientific attitude,
and hold them in place. This prevents environment conscious
soil erosion. 4. Quantity of water available on earth for
2. Soil holds both water and air. If soil is use is limited. Rainwater can be used
water logged, it does not hold sufficient for a number of household activities.
oxygen for roots to breathe. This affects Knowledge, scientific attitude,
both root and plant growth. environment conscious.
3. Trees not only purify the atmosphere
by adding oxygen to it but also provide
us with food. 
Soil 109
10 Respiration in Organisms
Topics Covered
10.1 Respiration: Steps and Types
10.2 Human Respiratory System: Mechanism of Breathing and Exchange of Gases in Other Living
Organisms
Flow Chart
RESPIRATION IN ORGANISMS
Steps Types Animals
Atmospheric
Oxygen Aerobic Anaerobic Human
Respiratory
System
Breathing
Reaches all
Air passage Mechanism Model
cells
of Breathing
Nasal cavity
Energy + CO2
Inhalation Exhalation
Pharynx
• Cockroach – Spiracles
Trachea • Earthworm – Skin
• Frog – Skin and Lungs
Bronchi • Fish – Gills
• Plants – Stomata and root hair
Bronchioles
Alveoli
110
• Respiration is the process of break down of digested food to release energy in
the cells of a living organism.
• It can be aerobic (with the use of oxygen) or anaerobic (without the use of
oxygen).
• In humans, the major organs for respiration are nostrils, nasal cavity, trachea,
bronchi and lungs.
• Exchange of gases takes place in the alveoli (in the lungs) which are surrounded
by blood vessels.
• Blood takes oxygen to the cells where cellular respiration occurs. The carbon
dioxide released passes into the blood and then into the alveoli in lungs from
where it is exhaled out.
• In plants, exchange of gases occurs through stomata, lenticels and root hair.
• Exchange of gases in animals occurs through diffusion through the cell
membrane or the outer surface of the body, through spiracles, gills or lungs.
• Exhaled air has a higher % age of carbon dioxide and less oxygen as compared
to inhaled air.
10.1 Respiration: Steps and Types

Respiration
Respiration is a fundamental and vital process in living organisms that releases
energy from digested food.
It consists of two main processes – Breathing/external respiration and
Internal/cellular respiration.
Steps in Respiration:
Oxygen present in the atmosphere → oxygen enters the body → it reaches all the
cells through blood + food → energy + carbon dioxide released.
Breathing (External Respiration) Internal Respiration
1. It is a physical process involving intake It is a biochemical process where
of oxygen rich air and removal of carbon digested food/glucose is broken down to
dioxide rich air. carbon dioxide and water.
2. Energy is not released in this process. Energy is released in this process.
3. It occurs outside the cells. It occurs within the cells.
Types of Respiration
Respiration is of two types based on the utilization of oxygen.
Aerobic respiration (with the use of oxygen)
Glucose → carbon dioxide + water + energy.
Anaerobic respiration (without the use of oxygen)
Glucose → alcohol + carbon dioxide + energy.
Respiration in Organisms 111

Aerobic respiration Anaerobic respiration
1. It takes place in the presence of oxygen. It takes place in the absence of oxygen.
2. Glucose breaks down into carbon Glucose breaks down into alcohol and
dioxide and water. carbon dioxide.
3. More energy is released as compared to It releases less energy as compared to
anaerobic respiration. aerobic respiration.
4. Example – plants and animals Example –yeast, some bacteria.
What happens in our muscles during heavy exercise?

During heavy exercise, the demand for energy is high but the supply of oxygen to
produce energy is limited. So, to fulfill the demand for energy, our muscles start
respiring anaerobically.
Glucose (lack of oxygen) → lactic acid + energy
Partial break down of glucose produces lactic acid. Accumulation of lactic causes
muscle cramps. We get relief from cramps after a hot water bath or a massage.
These improve blood circulation. As a result, the supply of oxygen to the muscle
cells increases which results in complete break down of lactic acid into carbon
dioxide and water.
Exercise 10.1
(a) _____________ is the process of release of energy by break down of food.
(b) Taking in air and giving out carbon dioxide is _____________ or
_______________.
(c) Respiration without the use of oxygen is called ________________________.
(d) Cramps are caused due to accumulation of ________________ in the
muscles.
(e) Yeast is used in wine and beer-making industry as it produces ____________.
2. Why do living organisms need energy? From where do they get it and how?
3. Does anaerobic respiration occur in human body also? If yes, under which
circumstances?
4. State one similarity and one difference between combustion and cellular
respiration.
5. Differentiate between
(a) Aerobic and anaerobic respiration
(b) Breathing and respiration
6. Why do we get muscular cramps after heavy exercise?
112 Science–7
Answers
1. (a) Respiration 3. Yes, when there is lack of oxygen in the
(b) breathing or external respiration muscles.
(c) anaerobic respiration 4. Both combustion and cellular
(d) lactic acid respiration are involved in the release
(e) alcohol of energy.
2. Living organisms need energy to carry Cellular respiration takes place in
out various life processes, for growth, living organisms while combustion
repair etc. They get this energy by takes place in the outer environment.
oxidation of food. 5. (a)
Aerobic respiration Anaerobic respiration

1. It takes place in the presence of oxygen. It takes place in the absence of oxygen.
2. Glucose breaks down into carbon Glucose breaks down into alcohol and
dioxide and water. carbon dioxide.
3. More energy is released as compared to It releases less energy as compared to
anaerobic respiration. aerobic respiration.
4. Example – plants and animals Example –yeast, some bacteria.
(b)
Breathing Respiration
1. It is a physical process involving intake It is a biochemical process where
of oxygen rich air and removal of carbon digested food/glucose is broken down to
dioxide rich air. carbon dioxide and water.
2. Energy is not released in this process. Energy is released in this process.
3. It occurs outside the cells. It occurs within the cells.
6. During heavy exercise, the demand Glucose (lack of oxygen)

for energy is high but the supply of → lactic acid + energy
oxygen to produce energy is limited. Partial break down of glucose produces
So, to fulfill the demand for energy, our lactic acid. Accumulation of lactic acid
muscles start respiring anaerobically. causes muscle cramps.
10.2 Human Respiratory System: Mechanism of Breathing and

Exchange of Gases in Other Living Organisms
Inhalation: Taking in oxygen-rich air into the body.
Exhalation: Giving out carbon dioxide-rich air from the body.
Whenever a person needs extra energy, he/she breathes faster. As a result more
oxygen is supplied to our cells. This speeds up the break down of food and more
energy is released.

Breathing rate: The number of times a person breathes in a minute.
A breath: Means one inhalation and one exhalation.
Human Respiratory System

Air passage in the respiratory system
Nasal cavity→Pharynx→Trachea→Bronchi→Bronchioles→Alveoli
Mechanism of Breathing
Inhalation
During inhalation, ribs move up and outwards and the diaphragm (a large,
muscular sheet present at the floor of the chest cavity) moves down. This
movement increases space in the chest cavity and air rushes into the lungs and
they get filled with air.
Exhalation
During exhalation, ribs move down and inwards while the diaphragm moves up
to its former position. This reduces the size of the chest cavity and air is pushed
out of the lungs.
114 Science–7
Model of respiratory system
Model to show mechanism of breathing
What do we breathe out?

Material required: Text tube, freshly prepared
lime water and plastic straw.
Method: Take a glass test tube. Pour some freshly
prepared lime water in it. Insert a plastic straw
in it in such a way that it dips in lime water.
Now blow gently through the straw a few times.
Observation: We see that lime water turns milky.
The exhaled carbon dioxide reacts with it lime
water to form calcium carbonate that gives milky
color to the mixture.
Conclusion: The exhaled air/breathe out air is carbon dioxide.
Inhaled Air Exhaled Air
Has 21 % of oxygen and 0.04% of carbon Has 16.4% of oxygen and 4.4% of carbon
dioxide. dioxide.
Is at room temperature. Is at body temperature
Breathing in Other Animals

Organism Exchange of gases
Cockroach Through tiny openings called spiracles.
Earthworm Through moist and slimy skin.
Frog Through lungs and moist and slippery skin
Fish Through gills

Plants Through stomata in leaves and root hair in the roots.

Breathing organs of different organisms
Exercise 10.2
(a) When we exhale, the ribs move ______________.
(b) Main organ of respiration in humans is ______________.
(c) Amoeba and earthworm take in oxygen from their surroundings by
______________ process.
(d) Bronchi branch out further into _____________.
(e) The size of chest cavity ____________ during exhalation.
(f ) The amount of nitrogen in inhaled and exhaled air remains ________.
(g) _____________ forms the floor of the chest cavity.
(h) _____________ is the site for exchange of gases in lungs.
(i) _______________ in blood helps to transport oxygen to all the parts of the
body.
(j) _____________ is a flap like structure that closes windpipe when we swallow
food.
116 Science–7
2. In the activity showing that carbon dioxide is exhaled during breathing, why
does lime water turn milky?
3. In the model depicting human respiratory system, which parts are represented
by the Y shaped tube, the bell jar, balloons and the rubber sheet.
4. How does a frog survive on land as well as in water?
5. Why should we not over-water potted plants?
6. Define a breath and breathing rate.
7. Label the parts marked A,B,C, D and E in the given diagram.

8. Why do we yawn when we feel sleepy or drowsy?
9. Why do mountaineers carry oxygen cylinders with them while climbing
mountains?
10. Justify the statement that composition of inhaled and exhaled air is not same.
11. When does a person breathe faster?
12. List the similarities and differences between aerobic and anaerobic
respiration.(NCERT)
13. Why do we sneeze when we inhale a lot of dust –laden air? (NCERT)
14. Why do mountaineers carry oxygen cylinders with them? (NCERT)
15. Name (NCERT)
(a) Air tubes of insects.
(b) Skeletal structures surrounding the chest cavity.
(c) The opening through which we inhale.
(d) An anaerobe

16. Whenever we feel drowsy or sleepy, we start yawning. Does this help us in
anyway?

17. Insects and leaves of plants have pores through which they exchange gases
with the atmosphere. Can you write two points of difference between them
with respect to their position and number.
18. Which gas present in air is essential for aerobic respiration? What is its role
in the process?
19. Pick the odd one out.
(a) Cockroach, grasshopper, snail, ant
(b) Lizard, cow, earthworm, snake
(c) Crocodile, whale, dolphin, fish
(d) Snake, tadpole, crow, goat
Answers
1. (a) Down and inwards 9. At higher altitudes, air gets thinner
(b) lungs (c) diffusion and the amount of oxygen available
(d) bronchioles (e) reduces for breathing becomes less. Therefore
(f ) the same (g) diaphragm mountaineers carry oxygen cylinders
with them while climbing mountains to
(h) alveoli (i) haemoglobin
compensate for this scarcity.
(j) epiglottis
10. Exhaled air has a higher percentage

2. The exhaled air contain carbon dioxide of carbon dioxide and less oxygen
which reacts with lime water to form as compared to inhaled air due
calcium carbonate that gives milky to consumption of oxygen during
color to the mixture. respiration and release of carbon
4. Frogs have soft and moist skin supplied dioxide.
with blood capillaries. When they are 11. A person breathes faster to get extra

in water, they exchange gases through energy. As a result more oxygen is
skin by diffusion. On land, they breathe supplied to our cells which speeds
through lungs. up the break down of food and more
3. Y-shaped tube – trachea and bronchi energy is released.
bell jar – chest cavity
12. Differences:
balloons – lungs
Aerobic Respiration Anaerobic Respiration
rubber sheet – diaphragm
1. It occurs in 1. It occurs in
5. We should not over-water potted plants
the presence of the absence of
as water replaces the air in the roots
oxygen. oxygen.
and the roots cannot breathe.
2. Large amount 2. Small amount
6. Breathing rate is the number of times a
of energy is of energy is
person breathes in a minute.
released. released.
A breath means one inhalation and one
3. Food molecules 3. Food molecules
exhalation.
are broken down are broken down
7. A-trachea, B-bronchus, C-bronchioles, into water and into ethyl alcohol
D-lungs, E–diaphragm carbon dioxide. and carbon
8. We yawn when the amount of oxygen dioxide.
in our body reduces which leads to
decreased energy levels. When we open Similarities: Both aerobic and
our mouth, we try to take in more air to anaerobic respiration produce energy
compensate for this deficiency. and give out carbon dioxide.
118 Science–7
13. Sometimes dust particles, pollen etc. (ii) Spiracles lead to a wide network of
pass nasal hair and irritate the lining trachea for gas exchange which is
of the nasal cavity. Then we sneeze absent in leaves.
as we want to get rid of the unwanted (iii) Spiracles are fewer in number as
particles like dust, pollen etc. from our compared to stomata.
body. It allows only clean and dust free 18. Oxygen present in air is responsible for
air to enter our body. aerobic respiration. The oxygen plays
14. The amount of air available to a person a pivotal role in the survival of living
is less than that available on the beings by breaking down the food and
ground. releasing energy.
15. (i) Trachea (ii) Ribs 19. (a) Snail, as it does not breathe through
(iii) Nostrils (iv) Yeast trachea.
16. When we feel drowsy or sleepy, the (b) Earthworm, because unlike others
rate of breathing slows down which earthworm breathes through its skin
decreases the amount of oxygen in the and does not have lungs.
lungs. This results in yawning as it (c) Fish, because unlike others most fishes
brings extra oxygen into the lungs and breathe through their gills and do not
keeps us awake. have lungs.
17. (i) Spiracles are present on the sides (d) Tadpole, because unlike others, tadpole
of insects’ body whereas stomata breathes through gills and does not
are present on the lower surface of have lungs.
leaves.
Did You Know?

1. Plants photosynthesize as well as respire during daytime.
2. Opening for both food pipe and wind pipe is common. We cannot swallow
when we breathe and vice versa.
3. Yeast, a unicellular fungus, is an anaerobe.
4. Each lung has about 300 alveoli.
5. The right lung is slightly larger than the left.
6. The highest recorded “sneeze speed” is 165 km per hour.
7. The surface area of the lungs is roughly of the same size as of tennis court.

1. Why does an athlete breathe faster and deeper than usual after finishing the
race? (HOTS)
2. Observe the figure given and answer the questions that follow. (HOTS)
(a) Which of the following figures indicates the process of inhalation and
which the process of exhalation?
(b) Label the arrows w.r.t
(i) movement of air
(ii) movement of diaphragm
(iii) movement of ribs

A B
3. Sameera requests her father all the time not to smoke. Why? What values
are shown by her? (VBQ)
Answers
1. Increased intake of oxygen leads to breakdown of lactic acid produced as a result of
anaerobic respiration in muscles thus preventing muscular cramps.
2. (a) A – Inhalation, B – Exhalation
Air is drawn in Air forced out
Ribs move back
Ribs move out
(b)
Diaphragm Diaphragm
moves down moves back
Fig. (A) Fig. (B)
3. Smoking damages lungs. It is related to cancer. Concern, empathy, environment
consciousness.

120 Science–7
11 Transportation in Animals and Plants
Topics Covered
11.1 Transportation of Substances in Plants
11.2 Transportation in Humans
11.3 Excretion in Animals and Humans
Flow Chart
TRANSPORTATION
Plants Animals Humans
Vascular System
Circulatory Excretory
system system
Xylem Phloem
Transportation Translocation Heart Blood Blood

of water and of food vessels
mineral •R ed blood
• Arteries cells
• Veins • White blood
• Capillaries cells
• Platelets
Circulation Excretion
• Amoeba-Diffusion • Amoeba-Diffusion • Two kidneys

• Hydra • Hydra Body • Ureter
Water • Urinary bladder
• Sponges • Sponges surface
• Fish – Dissolve in • Urethra
water • Urinary opening
• Birds
Uric
• Reptiles
acid
• Insects
121
• In living organisms, food, oxygen and waste products etc. have to be transported
from one part of the body to the other.
• Plants have a transport system consisting of xylem (water and minerals) and
phloem (food).
• In humans , the transport of materials takes place through blood.
• Blood is pumped by heart and circulated to all the parts of the body through
the blood vessels.
• Blood consists of liquid plasma and the three types of blood cells, red blood
cells, white blood cells and platelets floating in it.
• There are three types of blood vessels that transport blood – arteries, veins and
capillaries.
• Human heart has four chambers – upper two are atria/auricles and the lower
two are called ventricles.
• Contraction of muscles of the heart makes a heartbeat. This is felt as a throbbing
in the artery near the wrist and is known as pulse.
• Excretion refers to the removal of metabolic wastes from the body.
• Excretion in humans occurs through lungs, skin and kidneys.
• Kidneys filter wastes from the blood which is excreted from the body in the
form of urine.
11.1 Transportation of Substances in Plants

Transport of Substances in Plants
Vascular System helps plants to carry water, minerals, food or wastes from one
part to another to perform various functions. It is made of long pipe like tubes,
which are of two types:
XYLEM: Conducts water and dissolved minerals absorbed by the roots to the
leaves through stem.
PHLOEM: Translocates food from manufactured by the leaves to all the parts of
the plant.
• A tissue is a group of cells that performs a special function in an organism. The
vascular tissue for transport of water and minerals in plants is xylem while for
transport of products of photosynthesis is phloem.
• Both xylem and phloem are arranges in compact structures called vascular
bundles.
Xylem Phloem
Generally made up of dead cells. Generally made up of living cells.
Transports water and minerals in upward Transports food in both upward and
direction only. downward direction.
122 Science–7
Transportation of Water and Minerals
• Roots of plants have tiny outgrowths called root hair through which water
and dissolved mineral salts enter. The root hair increase the surface area for
absorption of water and mineral salts. Water is absorbed by the roots from the
soil by a process called osmosis.
• Osmosis is a process of passage of water over short distances from an area
where it is more to an area where it is less across a cell membrane.
• The root cells continuously absorb water and mineral salts from soil. Some of
the excess water absorbed by roots is lost as water vapour through stomata in
the leaves by transpiration. This generates a suction pull which takes water to
great heights in tall trees. Transpiration also cools the plant.
• If the rate of loss of water by a plant is more than the rate of absorption of
water, the plant wilts (drooping of flowers, leaves, stem).
• Water in xylem moves in upward direction only.
Activity 1.1: Take a large potato and peel off its outer skin. Cut one of its ends
to make the base flat. Now make a deep and hollow cavity on the opposite side.
Fill half of the cavity with sugar solution and mark the level by inserting a pin
in the wall of the potato. Put the potato into a dish containing a small amount
of water. Make sure that the level of water is below the level of the pin. Allow the
apparatus to stand for a few hours. An increase in the level of sugar solution
is observed. The water get inside the potato through the cells. For very short
distances water can move from one cell to another. In the same way water
reaches xylem vessels of the root from the soil.
Potato
Sugar
solution
Pin
Water
Transportation of water through cells
Root hair
(a) (b)

Xylem vessels
Transport of water and minerals in
(a) a section of root, (b) a tree
Transportation in Animals and Plants 123

Translocation of Food cells of phloem placed one on top of
• Food prepared by leaves is the other forming long tubes. The
transported to all the parts of the contents of phloem can move in
plant in the form of a solution through both upward as well as downwards
a process known as translocation. direction.
Translocation takes place through
Exercise 11.1
(a) Water is absorbed by the roots from the soil by a process called
__________.
(b) Movement of water in xylem is __________ while in phloem, it is
__________.
(c) The two component of vascular bundle are __________ and __________.
(d) __________ is the loss of water in the form of vapour through stomata in
the leaves.
(e) Transport of food through phloem is referred to as __________.
2. Define tissue. Name the tissue responsible for conduction of water and
minerals in plants.
3. What are root hair? How do they help in absorption of water?
4. List any two advantages of transpiration.
5. When does a plant wilt?
6. What are stomata? Give two functions of stomata. (NCERT)
7. How does transpiration help in upward movement of water?
8. How does water move up in tall plants? (NCERT Exemplar)
Answers
1. (a) osmosis and dissolved mineral salts enter. The
(b) unidirectional, bidirectional. root hair increases the surface area for
(c) xylem, phloem (d) transpiration absorption of water and mineral salts.
(e) translocation 4. The two advantages of transpiration
are:
2. A tissue is a group of cells that performs
(i) The excess water absorbed by roots
a special function in an organism. The
is lost as water vapour through
vascular tissue for transport of water
transpiration.
and minerals in plants is xylem.
(ii) Transpiration generates a suction
3. Roots of plants have tiny outgrowths pull which takes water to great
called root hair through which water heights in tall trees.
124 Science–7
5. A plant wilts when the rate of loss of pull which helps in absorption of
water by a plant is more than the rate water from the roots.
of absorption of water. 7. The root cells continuously absorb
6. The small openings or pores on water and mineral salts from soil.
the lower surface of the leaves. are Some of the excess water absorbed by
called stomata. These openings are roots is lost as water vapour through
surrounded by guard cells. stomata in the leaves by transpiration.
Two Functions of stomata are: This generates a suction pull which
(i) It helps in the transpiration of water, takes water to great heights in tall
i.e., the loss of excess water from the trees.
plant. 8. Transpiration creates a suction pull
(ii) Loss of water from the stomata that draws water up in tall plants.
creates an upward pull, i.e., suction
11.2 Transportation in Humans
Circulatory System
Substances are transported in our body by circulatory system. The human
circulatory system consists of:
• Heart – A highly muscular structure located in the chest cavity.
• Blood Vessels – Arteries, veins and capillaries.
• Blood – A fluid connective tissue that circulates through this system.
Blood
It is a fluid connective tissue. Its fluid part is plasma. Plasma consists of different
suspended cells:
• Red blood cells (RBC) – contain a red pigment called haemoglobin that gives red
color to blood. This pigment binds with oxygen and transports it to all the cells
of the body.
• White blood cells (WBC) – protect us by fighting against disease causing germs.
• Platelets – help in blood clotting at the site of injury.
Functions of Blood
• It carries oxygen from lungs to all the parts of the body and carbon dioxide to
lungs.
• It transports digested food to all parts of the body.
• It helps to maintain a constant body temperature.
• It also transports waste to the kidneys for excretion.
Blood Vessels
These are of three types – arteries, veins and capillaries.
Arteries Veins
Carry blood away from the heart. Carry blood towards the heart.
Carry oxygen rich blood except Carry carbon dioxide rich blood except
pulmonary artery. pulmonary vein.
Are deep seated in the skin. Are superficial, close to the surface of skin.
Are narrow with thick wall. Are wider with thin wall.
Capillaries are extremely thin vessels that connect arteries with veins. Oxygen,
digested food, carbon dioxide and other wastes can be exchanged between the
blood and the surrounding cells through thin walls of capillaries.

Heart
Heart is an organ that beats continuously to act as a pump for transport of blood.
It is located in the chest cavity with its lower tip slightly tilted towards the left. It
is roughly the size of our fist.
Heart has four chambers, upper two chambers are called atria while the lower
ones are called ventricles. The partition between the chambers help to avoid
mixing up of blood rich in oxygen with the blood rich in carbon dioxide.
The left side of the heart receives oxygen rich blood from lungs and sends it to
each part of the body while the right side receives carbon dioxide rich blood from
all parts of the body and sends it to the lungs for purification.
Aorta
Vena cava
Pulmonary Ear piece
from upper body
arteries
Pulmonary
veins
Right atrium
Left
atrium
Vena cava
from lower body
Tube
Right
ventricle
Left
Septum ventricle
(dividing wall)
Chest piece
Sectional view of the human heart Stethoscope
126 Science–7
Heartbeat: The rhythmic contraction followed by relaxation of the muscles of the
heart constitutes a heartbeat. The doctor can feel the heartbeat with the help of
a stethoscope. The stethoscope amplifies the heartbeat.
Pulse: The throbbing of an artery due to pressure of blood flow.
Circulation in lower organisms
Transportation of materials in unicellular organisms like Amoeba takes place by
diffusion. Animals like Hydra and sponges do not possess a circulatory system.
These organisms get their food and oxygen from the water which enters their
bobies and the same water carries back waste materials and carbon dioxide when
it moves out.
Exercise 11.2
(a) Transportation of materials in unicellular organisms takes place by
______________.
(b) Simple multicellular organisms like sponges do not possess a
_______________ .
(c) The thinnest blood vessels in our body are the ________________.
(d) ______________ are responsible for formation of a blood clot.
(e) We can listen to our heartbeat using a ______________.
(f ) The colour of blood is red due to the pigment ______________.
(g) The upper two chambers of the heart are __________ while the lower ones
are ___________.
(h) The liquid part of blood is ___________.
(i) Each heartbeat is felt as a throb in the arteries called _________.
(j) The blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart are ___________.

2. What is the relationship between rate of heartbeat and pulse rate?
3. What is the significance of capillaries in our circulatory system?

4. Name the cells that you will observe in a drop of blood seen under the
microscope. State their functions also.
5. What does circulatory system consist of? What is the function of each part?
6. Look carefully at the section of heart and answer.
(a) the partition between chambers
(b) the largest artery

(c) the largest vein
(d) only artery to carry deoxygenated blood
(e) only vein to carry oxygenated blood

(f ) the side of the heart through which oxygenated blood moves.
(g) the side of the heart through which deoxygenated blood moves.
(h) the chambers with thicker walls.
7. What are the components of blood? (NCERT)
8. What makes the blood looks red? (NCERT)
9. Describe the function of heart. (NCERT)
10. Which special feature of the human heart does not allow mixing of oxygen
rich blood with carbon dioxide rich blood? (NCERT Exemplar)
11. Observe the given figure and answer the questions that follow
A
B
(a) Name the instrument.

(b) Label the parts A, B and C. (NCERT Exemplar)
128 Science–7
Answers
1. (a) Diffusion artery, pulmonary vein, left side, right
(b) Circulatory system side, ventricles.
(c) Capillaries (d) Platelets 7. There are four components of blood:
(e) Stethoscope (f ) Haemoglobin (i) Plasma is a liquid part of blood
(g) Atria, ventricles (h) Plasma which is yellowish in colour and
(i) Pulse (j) Veins contain 90% water. It contains food,
2. Each heartbeat generates one pulse enzymes, wastes and proteins etc.
in the arteries and the pulse rate per (ii) Red blood cells are disc shaped
minute indicates the rate of heart beat. cells containing red coloured
3. Capillaries are extremely thin vessels pigment called haemoglobin in it.
that connect arteries with veins. Haemoglobin helps in transportation
Oxygen, digested food, carbon dioxide of oxygen.
and other wastes can be exchanged (iii) White blood cells are the fighting
between the blood and the surrounding cells which protect us against
cells through thin walls of capillaries. bacteria and foreign materials
4. Red blood cells (RBC) – contain a red causing infections.
pigment called haemoglobin that gives (iv) Platelets help in clotting of the blood.
red color to the blood. This pigment 8. A red pigment called haemoglobin gives
binds with oxygen and transports it to the blood its red colour. This pigment
all the cells of the body. helps in carrying oxygen to various
White blood cells (WBC) – protect us by parts of the body by blood.
fighting against disease causing germs. 9. Heart pumps blood throughout the
Platelets – help in blood clotting at the body by circulatory system. It supplies
site of injury. oxygen and nutrient to the tissues
5. The human circulatory system consists and removes carbon-dioxide and other
of: waste from the body.
(i) Heart – a highly muscular structure 10. The partition of Heart into four
located in the chest cavity. chambers does not allow mixing of
(ii) Blood vessels – Arteries, veins and oxygen rich blood with carbon dioxide
capillaries. rich blood.
(iii) Blood – a fluid connective tissue that 11. (a) Stethoscope
circulates through this system. (b) A – Ear pieces, B – Tube,
6. Septum, aorta, vena cava, pulmonary C – Diaphragm.
11.3 Excretion in Animals and Humans

Excretion
• During life sustaining activities, a lot of metabolic wastes like carbon dioxide,
urea, salts, water etc. are produced. Accumulation of these wastes beyond a
particular limit is harmful for the body. Excretory organs remove these wastes.
• The removal of metabolic wastes produced in the cells of living organisms is
called excretion.
Excretion in Animals
• In lower animals such as Amoeba, Hydra, sponges etc,there are no special
excretory organs. Waste products are excreted through diffusion by general
body surface.

• In aquatic animals like fish, cellular waste like ammonia directly dissolves in
water.
• Some land animals like birds, reptiles and insects excrete nitrogenous wastes
in the form of uric acid.
• Other mammals living on land excrete urea as the major nitrogenous waste.
Human Excretory System
• Human excretory system consists of two kidneys,
Nephrons are the tiny filtering units of kidneys.
Each kidney contains millions of nephrons. Kidney
The waste present in the blood is filtered by the
capillaries which are the part of each nephron.
When blood reaches the two kidneys, it contains
both useful and harmful substances. The useful
Ureter
substances are absorbed back into the blood and
this clean blood continues back its circulation. The
waste substances dissolved in water are removed
as urine. Urinary bladder
• The urine passes from the kidneys into the urinary
bladder through tube – like ureters. Urine is stored Urethra
in the urinary bladder and is passed out through

Urinary opening
the urinary opening at the end of a muscular tube
Human excretory system
called urethra.
• An adult human normally passes about 1-1.8 L of urine in a day.
• Urine consists of 95% water, 2.5% urea and 2.5% other wastes.
• An examination of urine gives us important information about the functioning
of the body. Therefore, many a times, a doctor recommends a urine analysis to
diagnose a disease. For example, presence of sugar in urine indicates that the
person may be suffering from diabetes (a disease in which sugar levels in the
body increase beyond normal value), presence of blood in urine is an indication
of damaged kidneys (may be due to injury or infection)
• In case of damage to kidneys, wastes start accumulating in the blood. In order
to survive, one’s blood is periodically filtered by a technique called dialysis.
Exercise 11.3
(a) The main excretory product in human beings is ______________.
(b) Sweat contains water and ______________.
(c) Water reaches great heights in the trees because of suction pull caused
by ______________.
(d) The excretory substance in fishes is ______________.
(e) Urine consists of _______ water, _______ urea and _______ other wastes.
130 Science–7
2. Define the term excretion.
3. Name the main excretory organs.
4. What is urine?
5. What is the composition of urine?
6. Which parts of our body form excretory system?
7. What is sweat?

8. Why is it necessary to excrete waste products? (NCERT)
9. Draw a diagram of the human excretory system and label the various parts.
(NCERT)
10. Explain the excretion in fishes, birds, lizards and snakes.
11. What is dialysis?
III. Long Answer Type Questions-II (4 Marks)
12. Explain the excretory system in human beings.
13. Boojho’s uncle was hospitalised and put on dialysis after a server infection
on both of his kidneys?
(a) What is dialysis?
(b) When does it become necessary to take such a treatment?
(NCERT Exemplar)
14. Name the process and the organ which helps in removing the following
wastes from the body.
(a) Carbon dioxide (b) Undigested food
(c) Urine (d) Sweat (NCERT Exemplar)
Answers
1. (a) urea (b) salts 7. The mixture of water and salts is called
(c) transpiration (d) Ammonia sweat.
(e) 95%, 2.5%, 2.5% 8. Certain waste and toxic products are
2. The process of removal of wastes formed during functioning of body
produced in the cells of the living cells. The waste products like urea etc.
organisms is called excretion.
are toxic. When these toxic materials
3. Kidneys are the main excretory organ.
4. The mixture of various wastes with are not removed from the body, they get
water is called urine. mixed with blood and can damage the
5. Urine consists of 95% water, 2.5% urea cells of body. It is necessary to remove
and 2.5% other wastes. such poisonous waste materials from
6. Kidneys, ureter, urinary bladder and our body.
urethra form excretory system.

9. of waste using artificial kidneys is
called dialysis.
12. The waste which is present in the blood
has to be removed from the body. A
system to filter the waste is required.
This is done by the blood capillaries in
the kidneys. When blood reaches the
two kidneys, it contains both useful
and harmful substances. The useful
substances are absorbed back into the
blood after filtration in kidneys. The
waste dissolved in water are removed
as urine. From the kidneys the urine
goes into urinary bladder through
tubes called ureters. It is stored in
the bladder and is passed out through
10. The way of removal of waste products the muscular tube called urethra. The
from the body of animals depends kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and
urethra form the excretory system.
on availability of water. Aquatic
(Figure refer answer No. 9)
animals like fishes excrete cell waste
13. (a) Dialysis is the process of periodical
(ammonia) in gaseous form which
filtration of blood through an
directly dissolves into water. Some
artificial kidney.
land animals like birds, lizards, snakes
(b) In case of kidney failure the kidney
excrete a semi-solid white coloured
stops working due to an infection or
compound called uric acid.
injury and the waste products start
11. Sometimes a person’s kidneys may stop
accumulating in the blood. Then
working due to infection or injury. As a
dialysis is used to purity the blood
result of kidney failure, waste products
artificially.
start accumulating in the blood. Such
14. (a) Exhalation-lungs
persons cannot survive unless their
(b) Egestion-large intestines and anus
blood is filtered periodically through an
(c) Excretion-kidneys
artificial kidney. The process of removal
(d) Perspiration-sweat glands
Did You Know?

1. Capillaries are tiny, averaging about 3 microns (1/3000 inch) in diameter.
Red blood cells are about the same size as the capillaries through which
they travel, so these cells must move in single-fine lines.
132 Science–7
2. Across the animal kingdom, heart rate is inversely related to body size: In
general, the bigger the animal, the slower its resting heart rate. An adult
human has an average resting heart rate of about 75 beats per minute, the
same rate as an adult sheep. But a blue whale’s heart is about the size of
a compact car, and only beats five times per minute.
3. Unlike most other cells in our body, red blood cells have no nuclei. Lacking
this large internal structure, each red blood cell has more room to carry
the oxygen for the body needs. But without a nucleus, the cells cannot
divide or synthesize new cellular components.
After circulating within the body for about 120 days, a red blood cell will
die from aging or damage. Bone marrow constantly manufactures new red
blood cells to replace those that perish.
4. The oxygen-rich blood that flows through the arteries and capillaries
is bright red. After giving up its oxygen to the bodily tissues, the blood
becomes dark red as it races back to the heart through the veins. Although
veins may sometimes look blue through the skin, it’s not because the
blood is blue. The blood of most mollusks and some arthropods lack the
haemoglobin that gives human blood its redness, and instead contains the
protein hemocyanin. This makes these animals blood turn dark blue when
oxygenated.
5. In a single day, the blood passes through the kidneys for up to 300 times.
6. Humans urine can help plants grow because it contains urea, which
provides plants with nitrogen.
7. Both the kidneys are usually equal in size, but the right kidney sits a bit
lower as compared to the left kidney
8. Humans do not feel the urge to pee unless their bladder contains more
than 300 mm of urine.

1. What will happen if there are no platelets in the blood? (HOTS)
2. Veins have valves to allow blood to flow in one direction only. Arteries do not
have valves. Yet the blood flows in one direction only. Explain why?(HOTS)
3. Hari donated a kidney to her mother as both her kidneys had stopped
functioning due to an infection.
(a) Why is functioning of kidney essential?
(b) What values are shown by him? (VBQ)
Answers
1. In the absence of platelets, blood clots will not be formed at the site of injury as a
result even a minor injury may prove fatal.
2. Arteries have thick elastic walls and blood flow in arteries is rapid and under high
pressure.
3. (a) Kidneys remove waste from blood and purifies it.
(b) Care, concern, empathy.


12 Reproduction in Plants
Topics Covered
12.1 Reproduction and Its Types
12.2 Sexual Reproduction
Flow Chart
REPRODUCTION IN PLANT
Sexual Asexual
Reproduction Reproduction
Flower
Budding Spore Fragmentation
Formation
Reproductive Types Yeast Spirogyra
part Fungus
Unisexual Bisexual
Vegetative
Propagation
• Corn • Mustard
• Papaya • Rose
• Cucumber • Petunia
Male Female Stem Root Leaves

Stamens Pistill
• Potato •S weet • Bryophyllum
• Anther • Stigma • Onion Potato
• Filament • Ovary • Rose • Dahlia
• Style • Cactus
• Sugarcane
Pollination
Cross Self
Fertilization Seed Seed Dispersal Agents of Dispersal
134
• Reproduction is the process of producing new individuals of the same kind.
• Asexual reproduction involves only one parent. Vegetative propagation,
budding, fragmentation and spore formation are different modes of asexual
reproduction.
• Several artificial methods have been developed for vegetative propagation.
• Sexual reproduction involves two parents – one male that produces the male
gamete and the other female that produces the female gamete or the egg cell.
The process of fusion of the male and the female gamete to form the zygote is
called fertilization.
• Flowers are the reproductive organs. Pollination is followed by fertilization.
• After fertilization, ovules change into seeds and ovary changes into fruit.
• A seed can be dispersed by various agents like wind, water, animals and
explosion.
• A seed germinates into a new plant when it gets favourable conditions.
12.1 Reproduction and Its Types

Reproduction
Reproduction is the ability of organisms to produce more of its own kind. It is
grouped under two categories:
Sexual Reproduction
The type of reproduction in which new plants are obtained from seeds. It involves
formation and fusion of gametes.
Roots, stems and leaves are the vegetative parts of the plant while flower is the
reproductive part of the plant.
Asexual Reproduction
In this mode of reproduction, a single parent produces offspring without the
production of seeds.
Some modes of asexual reproduction are:
Vegetative Propagation
In this method, new plants are produced from body parts of parent plant like
root, stem and leaf. Since reproduction is through vegetative parts, it is known
as vegetative propagation. Example:
• Through stem – potato, onion, rose, cactus, sugarcane.
• Through root – sweet potato, dahlia.
• Through leaves – Bryophyllum.
Advantages of Vegetative propagation
• New plants can be grown quickly as using plant parts takes lesser time than
waiting for seeds to grow.
• Plants grown by this method bear flowers and fruits earlier than those obtained
from seeds.
Reproduction in Plants 135

• Plants produced are exact copies of parents.
• Plants grown by this generally need less attention than plants grown by seeds.
• Many fruit plants and ornamental plants like bananas, rose, orchids etc are
grown by this method.
• As vegetative propagation has many advantages, several methods have been
developed to do it artificially. Some of the commonly used methods are cutting,
grafting, layering etc.
Budding
In unicellular organisms like yeast, a small bulb-like projection is formed on
the parent body. This projection is called a bud which grows in size and forms
an adult organism. From this bud another bud can arise forming a chain of
buds. When these are well grown, they detach from the parent body forming new
individuals. This whole process is termed as budding.
Chain of buds
Yeast cell Developing bud New bud with Budding produces

its nucleus chain of cells
Reproduction in yeast by budding
136 Science–7
Spore Formation
Lower plants such as mosses, ferns, moulds etc. generally reproduce by the
method of spore formation. Spores are small, spherical, single – celled ,asexual
reproductive bodies covered by a hard protective coat to withstand unfavourable
environmental conditions such as high temperature, low humidity, scarcity of
water etc. Spores, being very light and small, are carried to distant places by air.
They germinate and give rise to new individuals under favourable conditions.
Fragmentation
A few lower plants like algae, break up into two or more fragments after a certain
period of growth. Each of these fragments grows into a new, adult individual.
Example: Spirogyra.
Exercise 12.1
(a) Young ones of their own kind are produced by _________________.
(b) ____________ is the reproductive part of a plant.
(c) Ferns and mosses reproduce through _________________.
(d) _________________ reproduces by budding.
(e) _________________ is an example of reproduction through fragmentation.

2. Name the vegetative parts and the reproductive part of a plant.

3. What is the significance of reproduction?
4. How does vegetative propagation takes place in Bryophyllum?
5. Fungus, moss and fern reproduce by a common method of asexual
reproduction. Name the method. (NCERT EXEMPLAR)
6. What are the advantages of vegetative propagation?
7. What are spores? How can they survive for a long time? When does a spore
germinate?
8. Explain the mode of reproduction in yeast diagrammatically.
9. How is sexual reproduction different from asexual reproduction?
Answers
1. (a) reproduction than waiting for seeds to grow.
(b) flower (c) spore formation (b) Plants grown by this method bear
(d) yeast (e) spirogyra flowers and fruits earlier than those
2. Vegetative parts – root, stem and leaves obtained from seeds.
Reproductive part – flower (c) Plants produced are exact copies of
3. It is a life process through which living parents
organisms produce more of their own (d) Plants grown by this generally need
kind for continuation of a particular less attention than plants grown by
species on earth and also to provide seeds.
stability to its population. 7. Spores are small, spherical,
4. The leaf of Bryophyllum has many single‑celled, asexual reproductive
buds in its margin which develop into bodies covered by a hard protective
tiny plantlets. These plantlets fall on coat to withstand unfavourable
the soil and grow into new plants. environmental conditions such as
5. Spore formation high temperature, low humidity,
6. Advantages of vegetative propagation scarcity of water etc. They germinate
are: and give rise to new individuals under
(a) New plants can be grown quickly as favourable conditions of temperature,
using plant parts takes lesser time water, nutrition etc.
Chain of buds
8.
Yeast cell Developing bud New bud with Budding produces

its nucleus chain of cells
Reproduction in yeast by budding
9. Sexual Reproduction Asexual Reproduction

•T wo parents are involved •O nly one parent is involved
• Progeny shows variations • Progeny ( next generation) is an exact copy of
the parent
•G
amete formation takes place • Gamete formation does not take place
138 Science–7
12.2 Sexual Reproduction
In sexual reproduction two parents, a male and a female, are required which
produce special cells called gametes.
Flower
Flower is the reproductive part of the plant. The stamens are the male reproductive
part and the pistil is the female reproductive part.
Petal
Anther Stigma
Filament Style
Ovary
Ovule
Receptacle Sepal
Peduncle (flower stalk)

Structure of a flower
Stamen
It consists of a stalk called filament . On top of the filament is the anther which
contains powdery substance called pollen grains. Pollen grains contain the male
gamete in them.
Pistil
It consists of stigma, style and ovary. Ovary contains a number of ovules. The
female gamete or egg is formed in the ovule.
Stigma
Style
Pistil
Ovule
Ovary
Structure of a pistil
The flower which contains either only pistil or only stamens is called unisexual
flower. Example: corn, papaya, cucumber.

• A flower that contain both stamens and pistil is called a bisexual flower.
Example: mustard, rose, petunia.

Pollination
The transfer of pollen grains from the anther to the stigma is called pollination.
It is of two types:
Self-pollination
If the pollen lands on the stigma of the same flower, it is called self-pollination.
Cross-pollination
If the pollen lands on the stigma of another flower of the same plant or that of a
different plant of the same kind, it is called cross-pollination.
Since pollen grains are light, they can be carried away by wind, water, insects etc.
Pollen grains have a tough protective coat which protects them from drying up.
Type of pollination
• Petals of flowers are fragment and colourful as they have to attract insects for
pollination.
Fertilization
The fusion of the male gamete and female gamete to form a zygote is called
fertilization. The zygote develops into the embryo.
• After fertilization, the ovary grows into a fruit and the other parts of the flower
fall off. The fruit is the ripened ovary. The ovules develop into seeds. The seed
contains an embryo enclosed in a protective seed coat.
• Some fruits are fleshy and juicy such as mango, apple, orange. Some fruits are
hard like almonds, walnuts etc
Seed Dispersal
Scattering of seeds away from the parent plant is called seed dispersal. Its
advantages are:
(a) It prevents competition between plants and its seedlings for sunlight, water
and minerals.
140 Science–7
(b) It enables plants to invade new habitats.
(c) It prevents overcrowding.
Agents of Seed Dispersal
Wind: Seeds of drumstick and maple have wings attached to them, seeds of
cotton, dandelion have hair around them, grass seeds are light in weight.
Water: Lotus fruit is spongy and light in weight, coconut seed has a thick fibrous
coat.
Animals: Spiny and hooked seeds of Xanthium, Urena.
Some seeds are dispersed when the fruit bursts with a sudden jerk. Example:
balsam, pea.
Exercise 12.2
(a) ______________ part of the flower changes into fruit.
(b) Seeds with wings are dispersed by ______________.
(c) Egg cell is present in the ______________ in the flower.
(d) Fusion product of male and female gamete is called ______________.
(e) Complete flowers have _____________male and female reproductive
organs.
2. List the post fertilization changes that take place in a flower.
3. Differentiate between
(a) Self pollination and cross pollination
(b) Unisexual flower and bisexual flower
4. When does a seed start germinating?
II. Short Answer Type Questions-II (3 Marks)
5. Why is seed dispersal necessary?
6. Name the male and the female reproductive part of a flower. Draw their
diagram.
Or
Sketch the reproductive parts of a flower. (NCERT)
7. State the main difference between sexual and asexual reproduction. (NCERT)
8. Describe the various ways by which seeds are dispersed. (NCERT)
9. Explain the difference between self-pollination and cross-pollination.
(NCERT)
10. Coconut is a large and heavy fruit. How is it adapted for dispersal by water?
(NCERT EXEMPLAR)
11. Pick the odd one out from the following and give reason for it.
Sugarcane, Potato, Rice and Rose (NCERT EXEMPLAR)

Answers
1. (a) Ovary (b) wind (c) ovule 5. Seed dispersal is necessary because
(d) zygote (e) both (i) It prevents competition between plants
2. After fertilization, the ovary grows into and its seedlings for sunlight, water
a fruit and the other parts of the flower and minerals.
fall off. The fruit is the ripened ovary. (ii) It enables plants to invade new habitats.
The ovules develop into seeds.
3. (a) (iii) It prevents overcrowding.
6. Stamen, Pistil are the male and female
Self-pollination Cross-pollination
reproductive part of a flower.
If the pollen lands If the pollen lands
on the stigma of on the stigma of
the same flower, it another flower of
is called the same plant or
self- pollination. that of a different
plant of the same
kind, it is called
cross- pollination.
(b) Unisexual Flower Bisexual flower Stigma
The flower which The flowers that
contains either contain both Style
only pistil or only stamens and pistil
Pistil
stamens is called is called a bisexual
unisexual flower. flowers. Example: Ovule
Example: corn, mustard, rose, Ovary
papaya, cucumber. petunia.
4. A seed starts germinating when it gets Structure of a pistil
appropriate warmth, moisture and air.
7. Asexual reproduction Sexual reproduction

(a) Only one parent plant is involved. (a) Both male and female parents are
involved.
(b) Occurs in unisexual plants. (b) Occurs in bisexual plants.
(c) Occurs in lower plants. (c) Occurs in higher plants.
(d) Reproductive organs are not (d) Fully developed reproductive parts are
present. present.
(e) In most of the methods the original (e) Original parents remain alive after
parent disappears. process of reproduction.
(f) Process like gamete formation or (f) Fertilization of gametes give rises to
fertilization is not seen. zygote.
(g) Characteristics of only one parent is (g) Characteristics of both parents are
inherited. inherited.
(h) No need of seeds. (h) Seeds are used to get new plants
from a flower.
142 Science–7
8. Following are the ways by which the 9. Self-Pollination Cross-Pollination
seeds are dispersed:
(i) Some light seeds like that of madar, • Pollen grains are • Pollen grains are
transferred to the carried to stigma of
which are hairy, dry and small are
stigma of the same another flower.
carried away by the wind to different flower.
places.
(ii) Spiny seeds and fruits like that of
• Occurs in bisexual • Occurs in bisexual
plants having anther flowers having anther
xanthium and urena, stick to the and stigma maturing and stigma maturing
clothes of passers-by and animals. at same time. at different times.
These seeds are carried away by
• It takes place in • It takes place in
these agents to different places. plants like wheat, plants like ladyfinger,
(iii) In some plants having heavy seeds peas etc. tomato, brinjal etc.
like that of coconut, water acts as
the dispersing agent. 10. Coconut It has spongy fibres that help
(iv) Some seeds are dispersed when the it to float on water.
fruits burst like, in case of balsam 11. Rice, it does not reproduce by vegetative
and castor. propagation.
Did You Know?

1. Avocados and pumpkins are fruits, not vegetables, because they bear the
plants’ seeds.
2. Saffron, used as a flavouring in Mediterranean cooking, is harvested from the
stigmas of a type of flower.
3. All parts of the oleander, a beautiful Mediterranean-native flowering shrub,
are poisonous.
4. Angiosperm is the scientific term used for flowering plants. Non flowering
plants like pines, ferns, junipers etc are called gymnosperms.
5. A sunflower looks like one large flower, but each head is composed of hundreds
of tiny flowers called florets, which ripen to become the seeds.

1. When a bread is kept outside for a few days during rainy season, a white
cottony growth is observed on them.
(a) What is this growth called?
(b) How does it occur? (HOTS)
2. Why are flowers brightly coloured and scented? (HOTS)
3. Is self-pollination possible in papaya plant? Why/why not? (HOTS)
4. ‘A’ practices vegetative propagation for growing ROSE.
(a) What are the advantages of this technique?
(b) List two values depicted by ‘A’. (VBQ)
Answers
1. (a) Bread mould, 3. No, Papaya it is a unisexual flower.
(b) It develops from spores present in 4. (a) The plant grows faster, bears flowers
the air. earlier.
2. Flowers are brightly coloured to attract (b) Scientific knowledge and attitude.
insects for pollination. 

13 Motion and Time
Topics Covered
13.1 Measurement of Time: Ancient Times, Modern World and Latest Trends
13.2 Motion : Types; Speed and Distance – Time Graph
Flow Chart
MOTION
Periodic Uniform Non-uniform Speed

Motion Motion Motion
Simple Pendulum Distance

Curved Line
Time Graph
Term Parallel to
Straight Line
related time axis
Object at Rest
Amplitude Frequency Time Period
144
• When an object changes its position with change in time, it is said to be in
motion.
• When the object moves on a straight path, it is called rectilinear motion.
• When the object moves on a circular or curved path, it is called curvilinear
motion or circular motion.
• When the motion of an object is repeated many times, it is called periodic
motion.
• Distance covered by an object in unit time is called speed.
• When an object moves at constant speed, this is called uniform motion.
Uniform motion is only possible in rectilinear motion.
• When an object moves at varying speeds, this is called non-uniform motion.
• The time taken by the earth to complete one revolution around the sun is
called one year.
• All modern clocks use periodic motion in something to measure time.
Pendulum clock was the first clock which worked on this principle. This works
on the motion of a simple pendulum.
• A simple pendulum is composed of a metallic bob which is suspended to a
rigid support with a thread which has negligible weight. The to and fro motion
of the pendulum is an example of periodic motion.
• When a pendulum moves from one extreme to another and comes back to the
first extreme, it completes one oscillation.
• The time taken to complete one oscillation is called time period. It is written in
second.
• Pendulum clocks were soon replaced by mechanical clocks. Now-a-days,
quartz clocks have replaced mechanical clocks in a big way; because quartz
clocks are more accurate.
• The SI unit of time is second. But other units are also used as per convenience.
• The SI unit of speed is metre per second (m/s). But kilometre per hour (km/h)
is frequently used in day to day life; for the sake of convenience.
13.1 Measurement of Time : Ancient Time, Modern World and

Latest Trends
Ancient Time
In ancient times, people did not have clocks or watches for knowing time. But
they knew the importance of time. Our ancestors used some natural events which
repeated regularly after definite intervals of time, to measure time.
• The time taken between one sunrise to the next sunrise was called a ‘day’.
• The time taken between one new moon to the next new moon was called a
month.
• The time taken by the earth to complete one revolution of the sun was called
a ‘year’.
Motion and Time 145

Devices Used in Ancient Time – Sundial, Sand Clock, Water Clock
Measurement of Time in Modern World: Clocks and watches are the most
common time measuring devices used in today’s world. These clocks use the
principle of periodic motion for measuring time. One of the most common device
which shows periodic motion is
Simple Pendulum: It consists of a small metal ball (bob) suspended by a long
thread from a rigid support, such that the bob is free to swing back and forth. The
motion of pendulum was first studied by Galileo.
Terms Related to Simple Pendulum
1. Length of the pendulum: The length of the string (thread) from the point of
suspension to the centre of the bob is called length of the pendulum. It is
represented as ‘l’.
Simple Pendulum
2. Mean position: The position of the bob at rest.
3. Extreme position: The position where the bob is at the maximum distance
from the mean position.
4. Oscillation: One complete to and fro motion of the bob about its mean
position for e.g. in the above figure, the motion of the bob from A to B, then
from B to C and back to A is called one oscillation.
5. Amplitude: The maximum displacement of the bob from its mean position on
either side is called amplitude of the pendulum. Example – AB or AC is the
amplitude.
6. Time period: The time taken by the bob of a pendulum to complete one
oscillation is called the time period.
7. Frequency: The number of oscillation made by a pendulum in one second is
called its frequency.
Frequency (f ) = [(1/Time period (T)]
Latest Trends in Measurement of Time
These days, most of us use quartz clocks and watches. Quartz has a unique
property of oscillating when subjected to a small amount of electric current. For
measuring short intervals of time, a stopwatch is used.
146 Science–7
Unit of time: The standard unit of measuring time is second and is written as ‘s’.
The larger units of time are minutes and hours, written as ‘min’ and ‘h’. Some
units and their conversions are:
60 sec = 1 min
60 min = 1 hours
24 hours = 1 day
30 days = 1 month
12 month = 1 year
10 year = 1 decade
100 years = 1 century
1000 years = 1 millennium
Exercise 13.1
(a) An example of device for measuring time in ancient times ____________ .
(b) The position of the bob at rest ____________ .
(c) The maximum distance from the mean position of the bob of the pendulum
____________ .
(d) The number of oscillations made by a pendulum in one second is called
____________ .
(a) The time taken between one sunrise to the next sunrise was called
____________ .
(b) The time taken by the bob of the pendulum to complete one oscillation is
called ____________ .
(c) An example of clock of modern time ____________ .
(d) The time period of a pendulum depends upon ____________ of the
pendulum.
3. Define oscillation.
4. Name the watch which should be used accurately to measure short intervals
of time.
5. Define time period.
6. Give two example of periodic changes used to measure time.
7. A simple pendulum takes 32 s to complete 20 oscillations. What is the time
period of the pendulum? (NCERT)
Motion and Time 147

8. Draw and label a simple pendulum showing one oscillation.
9. Define the following terms related with the simple pendulum.
(a) Length of the pendulum.
(b) Oscillation of the pendulum.
(c) Amplitude of the pendulum.
(d) Time period of the pendulum.
10. With the help of an activity, determine the time period of a pendulum.
11. Find the time period of a simple pendulum of length 25 cm which completes
32 oscillations in 4 seconds.
Answers
1. (a) sundial (b) mean position, (b) Oscillation: One complete to and fro
(c) amplitude (d) frequency motion of the bob about its mean
2. (a) day (b) time period position is called one oscillation.
(c) quartz clock (d) amplitude (c) Amplitude: The maximum
3. One complete to and fro motion of the displacement of the bob from its
bob about its mean position is called mean position on either side in
one oscillation. called amplitude of the pendulum.
4. Stop watch. (d) Time period: The time taken by the
5. The time taken by the bob of a bob of a pendulum to complete one
pendulum to complete one oscillation oscillation is called the time period.
is called the time period. 10. Things needed: A metal ball (bob), a
6. Simple pendulum, Sundial string of length one metre, an iron
7. (a) time = 32 s. stand and a stopwatch.
No. of oscillation = 20.
Method:
∴ Time period = (32/20) = 1.6 s
8. (i) Set up a simple pendulum as shown
in figure with a string or thread of
length nearby one metre, carrying
the bob at lower end and tied at its
upper end from a rigid support (like
iron stand).
(ii) Switch off the nearby fans.
(iii) Let the bob of the pendulum come
to rest at its mean position. Mark
the position of the bob on the floor
below it.
(iv) To set the pendulum in motion, hold
the bob gently and move it slightly to
one side.
9. (a) L
ength of the pendulum: The length of
(v) Now, release the bob from its
the string (thread) from the point of
displaced position gently. Do not
suspension to the centre of the bob
push the bob while releasing it.
is called length of the pendulum. It
Ensure that the bob does not spin
is represented as ‘l’.
on its axis while oscillating.
148 Science–7
(vi) Start the stopwatch when the bob Calculations:
is at one of the extreme position. Time taken for 20 oscillations
Keep on counting the number of = t seconds.
oscillations made by the pendulum
∴ Time taken for 1 oscillation
bob.
= (t/20)
(vii) Measure the time which pendulum
bob takes to make 20 complete Observation: The time period of the
oscillations. Repeat the same activity pendulum remains the same until the
by pulling the bob to a greater or length of the pendulum is changed.
a lesser distance from the mean Conclusion:
position, by changing the length of (i) The time period of pendulum does
the pendulum. not depend upon displacement of
S pendulum from its mean position and
mass of the bob.
(ii) The time period of pendulum only
depends upon the length of the simple
pendulum.
11. l = 25 cm
T=?
No. of oscillations = 32
In 4 seconds, no. of oscillations = 32
In 1 second, no. of oscillation
= (32/4) = 8
∴ Frequency (n) = 8
A C Now, n × T = 1
8 × T = 1
B
Motion of a simple pendulum T = (1/8)
13.2 Motion : Types; Speed and Distance – Time Graph

Motion
Motion occurs when an object changes its position. It is relative i.e. with respect
to the observer.
Types of Motions
• Translatory motion: It is that motion in which all the particles move through
the same distance in the same time.
• Rectilinear motion: The body moves in a straight line. For example, moving car
along a straight road.
• Curvilinear motion: The body moves along a curved line. For example, bird
flying in the sky.
• Rotatory motion: It is a motion in which a body moves about a fixed axis without
changing its position. For example, wheels of a moving car.
• Oscillatory motion/Periodic motion: A motion in which a body moves to and fro
about its mean position. For example, motion of a swing.
Motion and Time 149

• Uniform motion: A body is said to have uniform motion when it travels equal
distances in equal intervals of time. For example, A body moving with uniform
speed is said to be in uniform motion.
• Non-uniform motion: A body is said to have non-uniform motion when it travels
unequal distances in equal intervals of time. For example, A train approaching
a station.
Speed
It is defined as the distance travelled by a body in unit time. It is a scalar quantity.
Mathematically, speed = (Distance/Time)
• Speed of moving bodies can be compared in two ways:
(i) By comparing the distance travelled in a fixed time.
(ii) By comparing the time taken to travel fixed distance.
• Speed is generally expressed as:
(i) km/h, (ii) m/s
• To describe high speed, time is usually taken in seconds. For example,
(i) Speed of sound is 340 m/s
(ii) Light has a speed of 3,00,000 km/s
Speedometer: It is an instrument that is fitted on the dashboard of a car, buses
and other vehicles. It records the speed directly in km/h.
Odometer: It is an instrument which shows the distance travelled by the vehicle
in kilometers.
Distance – Time graph
A distance-time graph shows how the distance travelled by a moving object
changes with time.
Object is at rest
d
Distance
Distance
Distance
d
ee
ee
sp
sp
rm
rm
Straight line
fo
ifo
ni
un
U
Curved line
-
on
N
Time Time Time

Different form of motion
Exercise 13.2
(a) An instrument used to measure speed directly in km/hr. ____________
(b) An instrument used to measure distance. ____________
(c) The SI unit of speed is ____________ .
150 Science–7
(d) The distance travelled by a body in unit time is ____________ .
(e) If a body moves along a curved line, it is said to have ____________ motion.
(a) An aircraft flying at a constant speed in a straight path is an example of
____________ motion.
(b) The blades of a moving fan show ____________ motion.
(c) When the strings of a violin are plucked, it shows ____________ motion.
(d) ____________ is the change in motion with respect to the observer.
(e) The wheels of a car show ____________ as well as ____________ motion.
3. The distance between two station is 240 km. A train takes 4 hours to cover
this distance calculate the speed of the train. (NCERT)
4. Following figure shows the distance – time graph for the motion of two
vehicles A and B. Which one of them is moving faster? (NCERT)
5. Which of the following distance – time graph shows a truck moving with
speed which is not constant?
6. The odometer of a car reads 57321.0 km when the clock shows the time
8:30 A.M. What is the distance moved by the car, if at 8:50 A.M., the odometer
reading has changed to 57336.0 k.m.? Calculate the speed of car in km/min
during this time. Express the speed in km/hr also. (NCERT)
7. Name the instrument used to measure speed and distance.
Motion and Time 151

8. Show the slope of distance – time graph for.
(a) A car moving with a constant speed.
(b) A car parked on road side. (NCERT)
9. Salma takes 15 minutes from her house to reach her school on a bicycle. If
the bicycle has a speed of 2 m/s, calculate the distance between her house
and school. (NCERT)
10. Difference between
(a) Slow and fast motion.
(b) Periodic and non-periodic motion.
11. Calculate the speed, of a car that travels a distance of 120 km in 3 hrs?
12. What can you say about the speeds of the two objects A and B from the
figures given below?
(a) (b)
13. Find the time taken by a boy, walking at 4 m/s to cover a distance of 30 m.
14. From the given graph, answer the following questions:
(a) What is the speed of the car from 0 to 5 sec?

(b) What is the speed of the car between 5 sec to 8 sec?
(c) What is the speed of car from 8 sec to 10 sec?
15. Plot a distance time graph of the top of the second hand of a clock by
selecting 4 points on X-axis and Y-axis respectively. The circumference
of the circle biased by the second hand is 64 cm. (NCERT Exemplar)
152 Science–7
Hint:

Time x
distance y
16. Distance between Bholu’s and Golu’s house is 9 km. Bholu has to attend
Golu’s birthday party at 7 ‘O’clock. He started from his house at 6 ‘O’clock
on his bicycle and covered a distance of 6 km in 40 min. At that point, he met
Chintu and he spoke to him for 5 minutes and reached Golu’s birthday party
at 7 ‘O’clock. With what speed did he cover the second part of his journey?
Calculate the average speed for the entire journey. (NCERT Exemplar)
Answers
1. (a) speedometer (b) odometer (b)
(c) metre/sec (d) speed
(e) curvilinear motion.
2. (a) Rectilinear motion
(b) Circular and translatory motion Object at rest
Distance
(c) Vibratory motion
(d) Speed
(e) Circular, rectilinear
3. Distance = 240 km
Time = 4 hours Time
Speed = (Distance/Time) 9. Time = 15 minute = 15 × 60 = 900 s.
= 240/4 = 60 km/hr Speed = 2 m/s
4. Greater the slope, faster is the speed. A
Distance = ?
is travelling faster than B.
∴ Speed = (Distance/Time)
5. Figure A – Speed is constant
Figure B – Object is at rest 2 = (Distance/900)
6. Time 8:30 A.M. – 57321.0 km Distance = 900 × 2 = 1800 m.
Time 8: 50 A.M. – 57336.0 km 10. (a)
20 Minutes – 00015 km Slow Motion Fast Motion
Speed = (15/20) = 0.75 km/min (i) M
otion which Motion which occurs
60 minute = 1 hr occurs very slowly rapidly is called fast
20 minute = (20/60) = (1/3) is called slow motion.
Speed in km/hr = 15 ∏ (1/3) motion.
= 15 × 3 = 45 km/hr (ii) D
istance travelled Distance travelled in
7. Speed: Speedometer in long intervals of very short interval of
Distance: Odometer time. time.
8. (a) (iii) M
otion of the earth A car travelling 100
around the sun. km/hr.
(b)
d
Periodic Motion Non-periodic Motion

ee
Distance
sp
nt
sta
A motion which A motion which does

on
C
repeats itself after not repeat itself after

equal interval of time. equal interval of time.
Time
Motion and Time 153

1. Speed = ?
1 (c) 8–10 sec = Speed is uniform
Distance = 120 km (retardation)
Time = 3 hrs 15. Time x 15 30 45 60
∴ Speed = (Distance/Time)
= (120/3) = 40 km/hr Distance y 16 32 48 64
12. (i) Object A is at rest 16. He started at 6 ‘O’clock travelled for
(ii) Object B is at rest 40 min i.e. at 6:40 he travelled 6 km
13. Speed = 4 m/s out of 9 km. There he waited for 5 min
Unit = ? and again started i.e. he resumed his
Distance = 30 m journey at 6:45, therefore he travelled
∴ Speed = (Distance/Time) remaining 3 km in 15 min.
or Time = (Distance/Speed) Time = 15 min = 0.25 hr.
or Time = (30/4) = 7.5 sec Distance = 3 km
14. (a) 0–5 sec = Speed is uniform Speed = (3/0.25) = 12 km/hr
(accelerating)
Average speed = (9/1) km/hr
(b) 5–8 sec = Speed is constant
= 9 km/hr
Did You Know?

1. Italian scientist Galileo Galilei was the first one to make the use of
pendulum. Once Galileo was sitting in a Cathedral (church) at
Pisa (Italy). There, he saw a chandelier hanging from the
ceiling with a long chain swinging slowly. There was no
watch or clock at that time to measure time. So, Galileo
timed the oscillations by counting the beats of his pulse. On
careful observation, he found that while the oscillations of
the chandelier gradually slowed down, the time taken by
one oscillation still remained the same. In other words, a Galileo Galilei
pendulum of a given length always takes the same time to
complete one oscillation. This observation led to the
development of pendulum clocks.
2. The Maharaja of Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh II, built the biggest sundial in the
world called ‘Samrat Yantra’ in the year 1728. The sundial is a part of the
observatory called Jantar Mantar built at Jaipur. It is the largest and are
extremely accurate sunclock that determine local time within 2 sec.
3. Motion: Falcon is the fastest organism on the earth which can fly at a speed
of 300 km/hr. Cheetah is the fastest land animal on the earth with 112
km/hr of speed.

1. In today’s world, which one is the most accurate clock? (HOTS)
2. In the given graph what is shown by A and B ? (HOTS)
154 Science–7
3. A car travels along a circular track at a constant speed of 100 km/hr. What
type of motion does it represent? Define it. (HOTS)
4. One of the meters on the dash board of a car shows km/h. What is the name
of the device and what physical quantity does, it show? (HOTS)
5. Priya invites all her friends to her birthday party which is to begin at 6 p.m.
Everyone reaches on time except Vandana. She reaches at 8 p.m. They could
not start the function on time.
(a) Which principle is used for measuring time in clocks and watches?
(b) What values are possessed by Vandana? (VBQ)
Answers
1. Digital clock. changing its position. For example,
2. A – Uniform motion wheels of a moving car.
B – Non-uniform motion 4. Speedometer: It shows the speed with
3. Speed = 100 km/hr which the car is moving.
Rotatory motion: It is a motion in which 5. (a) Periodic motion
a body moves about a fixed axis without (b) She does not know the value of time.

Motion and Time 155

14 Electric Current and Its Effects
Topics Covered
14.1 Electricity : Sources and Electric Circuits
14.2 Effects of Electric Current
Flow Chart
ELECTRIC CURRENT
Sources Type of circuit Effects Causes
Electric cell Over

Short
Open Closed Circuit Loading
Circuit Circuit
Electric battery
Heating Chemical
Effect Effect
Electric Electric
Fuse Bulb
Magnetic
Effect
Electromagnet Solenoid
156
• The flow of electric charge is called electric current.
• An electric circuit is shown by a simple diagram which is called circuit diagram.
• Electric components are shown by some standard symbols in an electric circuit.
These symbols are simple to make.
• A device which produces electric current (usually because of chemical reaction)
is called electric cell. An electric cell has two terminals; positive and negative.
• A combination of more than one cell is called a battery.
• Electric switch is a device which is used for making a circuit open or closed.
• When electric current is not flowing through a circuit, it is called an open
circuit.
• When electric current is flowing through a circuit, it is called a closed circuit.
• When electric current passes through a conductor the temperature of the
conductor rises. This is called heating effect of electric current.
• Electric bulb has a filament which glows due to heating. This filament is made
of tungsten because tungsten has very high melting point.
• Electric iron and heater too work on heating effect of electric current. In a
heater, you will find a highly coiled wire. This is called element of the heater.
• Electric fuse is a safety device which prevents damage to electric circuit and
electric appliances; in case of short circuit or overload.
• Now-a-days, electric fuse is being replaced by MCBs in most of the wirings.
MCB is automatic and hence is more convenient than electric fuse.
• When electric current flows through a conductor, a magnetic field is created
around it. This is called magnetic effect of electric current.
• An electromagnet can be made by wrapping wires around a core of iron. When
electric current is passed through the coiled wire, it behaves like a magnet.
14.1 Electricity : Sources and Electric Circuits

Electricity is an important source of energy. Actually, electricity provides a form
of energy called electrical energy. It is controllable and convenient form of energy.
Electricity is used for lighting tubes and bulbs, operating fans and all electrical
appliances.
Sources of Electric Current

Electric components: The components in an electric circuit are called elements
of an electric circuit. These are cells, bulbs, wires, switch etc.
Electric Current and Its Effects 157

Electric cell: It is a common source of electric current to run a
number of devices in everyday life. Example: Torch, transistors, + CELL –
walkman, TV remotes etc. work with the help of electric cells.
Each electric cell has a positive and a negative terminal.
Electric battery: The combination of two or more cells
is called a battery. In a battery, electric cells can be
connected in series or parallel.
+ – + – + –
(i) Battery cells are connected in series: The negative Series
Series
terminal is connected to positive terminal of the next cell.
For example, storage cells.
(ii) Battery cells are connected in parallel: All the
negative terminal are connected together with the + –
help of wires. For example, Storage cells.
Electric circuit: The flow of electrons is called electric + –
current. The path along which the electric current
can flow is called an electric circuit. An electric circuit + –
generally consists of the following components: Parallel
Parallel
158 Science–7
• Source of electric current
• Conducting wire
• Electrical appliance
• A switch
Circuit Diagram: A diagram which shows the arrangement of various electrical
components in an electric circuit with the help of their symbols is called a circuit
diagram.
(a) Closed switch (b) Open switch,

circuit diagram circuit diagram
Exercise 14.1
(a) Two or more cells are combined together to draw an electric current
____________ .
(b) Cells which are connected one after another are in ____________ .
(c) Flow of electrons is called ____________ .
(d) The path along which the electric current can flow is called ____________ .
(e) An electric circuit can be represented by using ____________ .
(a) Metals home ____________ resistance.
(b) ____________ have high resistance.
(c) No electric current flows in a ____________ circuit.
(d) Ordinary cells used in torches are ____________.
(e) When negative terminals of all the cells are connected together, the cells
are connected in ____________.
3. What are the components of an electrical circuit?
4. Draw the symbols for the following electrical component.
(i) Switch in ‘OFF’ position
(ii) Battery
(iii) Glowing of bulb
(iv) Electric cell

5. Draw the circuit diagram to represent the circuit shown below. (NCERT)
6. Figure below shows four cells fixed on a board. Draw lines to indicate how
you will connect their terminal with wires to make a battery of four cells.
(NCERT)
+ – – +
– + + –
7. Define electrical energy.

8. Define electric current.
9. What are the two basic requirements for an electric current to flow?
10. Draw a simple electric circuit when the following components are given:
(i) Battery (ii) Bulb
(iii) Open switch (iv) Connecting wires
11. Unscramble the following words:
(i) TBTAYER (ii) SFEU
(iii) HTRCO (iv) HICWTS (NCERT Exemplar)
12. Five bulbs are connected in an electrical circuit. Suggest a method of
determining whether the bulbs are connected in series or in parallel.
13. What precautions should be taken while using electrical gadgets/appliances?
(NCERT Exemplar)
14. The bulb in the circuit shown in figure does not glow. Can you identify the
problem? Make necessary changes in the circuit to make bulb glow. (NCERT)
15. With the help of an activity, show that electricity flows in a closed circuit and
stops in an open circuit.
160 Science–7
Answers
1. (a) Battery (b) series to flow in the other branches and the
(c) electric current other bulbs will continue to glow.
(d) electric circuit 13. (i) We should never touch a lighted
(e) symbols electric bulb connected to the mains
2. (a) low (b) plastics at it will be very hot.
(c) open (d) not chargeable (ii) We should never leave the switch in
ON position.
(e) parallel
3. The elements in an electric circuit are
called components of an electric circuit.
They are cells, bulbs, wires, switch etc. 14.
4. (i) (ii)
15. Things needed: A cell, a switch, some
(iii) (iv) pieces of copper wire, a bulb and a
bulb holder.
Method:
5. (i) The positive terminal of the cell is
connected to one end of the switch with
a piece of copper wire.
(ii) The other end of the switch is connected
+ – – + to one end of the bulb holder with
another piece of copper wire.
6.
– + + –
7. (a) Electricity provides a form of energy

called electrical energy. It is a
controllable and convenient form of
energy. It is used for lighting tubes
and bulbs, operating fans and
electrical appliances. (a) When the switch is in ‘ON’ position
8. The flow of electrons is called electric (or closed), the circuit is complete and
current. current flows in it. The bulb lights up.
9. A source (cell or battery), conducting
wire, a bulb, switch (key).
10. bulb does not glow.
1. (i) Battery,
1 (ii) Fuse
(iii) Torch, (iv) Switch (b) When the switch is in ‘OFF’ position
12. Bulbs if connected in parallel give (or open), the circuit gets broken and

equal brightness. If one of the bulb is no current flows in it. The bulb does
removed, electric current continues not light up.

(iii) The negative terminal of the cell is connecting wire and the bulb. Due to
connected to the other end of the bulb this, the circuit is complete and hence,
holder with a copper wire. the current flows in this circuit and
Case I: When the switch is in ‘ON’ the bulb glows. In other words, electric
position (or closed), the bulb glows current flows in a closed circuit.
brightly as shown in Fig. (a). In this Case II: When the switch is in ‘OFF’

case, a continuous path is provided to position (or open), you notice that the
the electric current through the cell, the bulb stops glowing.
14.2 Effects of Electric Current

An electric current can produce three effects.
• Heating effect
• Magnetic effect
• Chemical effect
Heating Effect of Electric Current
When an electric current passes through a high resistance wire (nichrome wire),
the electrical energy is converted into heat energy which heats up the resistance
wire. This is called the heating effect of current.
Factors on which Heating Effect Depends
• Resistance of material: The amount of heat produced by an electric current
depends on resistance. Higher the resistance of the material, greater is the
heat produced.
• Magnitude of current passing through it: Greater the magnitude of current,
greater will be the heat produced in it.
Applications of Heating Effect of Current
Electric Heating Appliances
The electric heating appliances such as electric room heater, electric iron, electric
kettle, immersion rod etc. work on the principle of heating effect of current.
All electric heating appliances contain coil of a high resistance wire called ‘heating
element’ which is made of nichrome alloy. When electric current is passed through
an electric heating appliance, a large amount of heat is produced in the element
due to which it becomes red hot. The heat produced is then put to the desired
use.
Electric Bulb
The electric bulb (or electric lamp) is used for producing light and works on the
principle of heating effect of current. It has a very thin, high resistance filament
of tungsten metal. When electric current passes through tungsten filament, it
gets heated to a very high temperature, becomes white hot and starts glowing
(emitting light). An electric bulb also gives out heat which leads to its wastage.
Nowadays, CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lamps) are used for producing light they
do not work on the principle of heating effect of current.
162 Science–7
Electric Fuse
An electric fuse is a safety device which breaks the electric circuit when there
is an excessive flow of current in the circuit. Hence, preventing damage to the
electrical appliances and possible electric fire.
An electric fuse works on the principle of heating effect of current.
• A fuse consists of a piece of thin wire (alloy of tin and copper) having a low
melting point.
• When excessive current (beyond a safe value) flows in a household circuit,
the thin wire gets too much heated, melts and breaks the circuit immediately.
The current stops flowing in the circuit and thus damage to various electrical
appliances is prevented.
Cause of Excessive Flow of Current
An extremely large current can flow in the household circuits under two
circumstances.
(i) Short-circuit
(ii) Over-loading
Short-circuit: A sudden flow of very large current due to direct contact of a wire
and a neutral wire is called short-circuit. It may lead to electric fire.
Over-loading: The overheating of electrical wiring in any circuit due to the flow of
large current through it when large number of high rating appliances are operated
at the same time is called overloading of the electric circuit. This also may lead
to electric fire.
Magnetic Effect of Electric Current
When electric current passes through a wire, the current carrying wire behaves
like a magnet by producing a magnetic field around it. This is called the magnetic
effect of current.
Solenoid: The cylindrical coil of wire is called a solenoid. When a current passes
through the solenoid, it behaves as a bar magnet.
Electromagnet: When we insert a soft iron rod inside the solenoid, we observe
the deflection of compass needle is even more than that of the coil alone. This
is because when a soft iron rod is placed inside, it also becomes a magnet. The

combination of coil and soft iron rod creates a stronger magnet than the coil
alone.

A magnet produced by passing an electric current through a coil of insulated wire
wounded around a soft iron rod is called an electromagnet.
Strength of an Electromagnet: It can be increased by
• Increasing the number of turns in the coil.
• Increasing the current passing through the coil.
Advantages of Electromagnets Over Permanent Magnets
• The magnetism of an electromagnet can be “switched on” or “switched off” as
desired, which is not possible with a permanent magnet.
• An electromagnet can be made strong by increasing the number of turns in the
coil and by increasing the amount of current passing through the coil. On the
other hand, a permanent magnet cannot be made stronger.
Uses of Electromagnet
• Electromagnets are used in motors that drive fans, mixers, washing machines
etc.
• Cranes with strong electromagnets are used to lift heavy loads like big machines,
steel girders.
• Electromagnets are used to separate magnetic materials like iron, steel objects
from a heap of junk metal shop.
• They are used by doctors to remove tiny iron particles from the eyes of a person.
• They are used in electric bells, telegraphs, telephones, land speakers etc.
Electric Bell
It works on the magnetic effect of current. It has an electromagnet in it.
Construction of an Electric Bell
The electric bell has a U-shaped electromagnet. A small iron bar armature is held
in front of the poles. The lower end of the armature is attached to the flat opening
and the spring is itself fixed to a metal bracket. The upper end of the armature
has a hammer attached to it. A contact screw which just touches the armature at
point E. A metal going is fixed near the hammer. the electromagnet is connected
to a battery, a push button switch and the armature in a circuit.
Working
• When we press the switch, the electric current passes through the coil of the
electromagnet and it gets magnetised. The electromagnet attracts the armature
towards itself and the hammer attached to it strike the gong and produces a
sound.
• When the armature moves towards the magnet, its contact with the contact
screw is broken at point E. Due to this, the electric circuit breaks and no
current flows in the electromagnet coil. The electromagnet loses it magnetism
and the armature is no longer attracted by it. The spring brings back the
armature to its original position and the hammer moves away from the gong.
• As soon as the armature comes back and touches the contact screw, the
circuit is complete and current starts flowing in the electromagnet coil again.
The process of “make and break” of the electric circuit occurs when we press
164 Science–7
the switch. Thus the hammer switches the gong rapidly producing almost
continuous sound and we say that the bell is ringing.
An electric bell
Exercise 14.2
(a) Metals have resistance ____________ .
(b) Electric bulb works on the principle of ____________ .
(c) Electric bulb’s filament is made up of ____________ .
(d) Scientist who discovered magnetic effect of current ____________ .
(e) A device based on the use of electromagnet ____________ .
(a) The device used to prevent the flow of excess current is ____________.
(NCERT)
(b) A magnet produced by passing an electric current through a coil of
insulating wire wound around a soft iron is called ____________.
(c) The flow of electrons in an electric circuit is called ____________.
(d) The safety device based on the heating effect of electric current is called a
____________. (NCERT)
(e) When current is switched ‘on’ of a room heater,it ____________. (NCERT)
3. Name the materials used for making:

(a) filament of an electric bulb.
(b) heating element of an electric heater.

4. Name any four electrical appliances in which the heating effect of electric
current is utilised.
5. Name the three effects produced by an electric current.
6. Why does a fluorescent tube not generate heat?
7. Give one property that a fuse wire should have.
8. Why are CFL’s preferred over electric bulbs? (NCERT Exemplar)
9. What are the factors on which heating effect of current depends?
10. Discuss the following
(i) short-circuit (ii) over loading
11. What do you mean by magnetic effect of current?
12. What is an electric fuse? What are the characteristics of electric fuse?
13. Can we use the same fuse in a geyser and a TV set. Explain.
(NCERT Exemplar)
14. Why do we cover plug pin holes which are within the reach of children with
cellotape or a plastic cover when not in use. (NCERT Exemplar)
15. Why does the bulb in the circuit given below in Fig. (a) not glow?
Draw the circuit with required change. (Application-based)

16. What is a solenoid? Draw a diagram with a solenoid connected in a circuit.
How can you increase the strength of a solenoid?
17. What is an electromagnet? Give four uses of an electromagnet.
18. Draw a well labelled diagram of an electric bell and explain its working.
19. With the help of an activity, show the magnetic effect of current.
(NCERT Exemplar)
20. Paheli took a wire of
length 10 cm. Boojho
took a wire of 5 cm
of the same material
and thickness. Both
of them connected the
wires as shown in the
circuit given in figure. The current flowing in both the circuits is the same.
(a) Will the heat produced in both the cases be equal? Explain.
(b) Will the heat produced be the same if the wires taken by them are of equal
lengths but of different thickness? Explain.
166 Science–7
Answers
1. (a) high time is called overloading of the
(b) heating effect of current electric circuit. This also may lead
(c) Tungsten to electric fire.
(d) Hans Christian Oersted 11. When electric current passes through a
wire, the current carrying wire behaves
(e) electric bell
like a magnet by producing a magnetic
2. (a) electric fuse (b) solenoid
field around it. This is called the
(c) electric current (d) electric fuse magnetic effect of current.
(e) glows 12. An electric fuse is a safety device which
3. (a) Tungsten breaks the electric circuit when there
(b) Nichrome wires is an excessive flow of current in the
4. Electric room heater, electric iron, circuit. Hence, preventing damage to
electric kettle, electric oven. the electrical appliances and possible
5. Magnetic effect, heating effect, chemical electric fire.
effect. It should have a low melting point.
6. They do not work on the principle of 13. No, same fuse cannot be used in a
heating effect of current. They do not geyser, and a TV set because both
have filaments. of them require different amount of
7. A fuse should be made of thin wire current and the fuse to be used will be
having a low melting point. of different ratings.
14. Plastic is a poor conductor of heat
8. (a) CFL’s do not waste electricity by
and electricity. Children may put their
producing heat. Hence they are very
fingers into the socket and therefore the
power-efficient.
sockets are covered with a plastic cover
(b) Initially, they were expensive to
or cellotape to prevent electric shocks.
buy, but their running cost is much
15. The circuit is not correct, since current
lower because they consume less
conventionally flows from +ve to –ve.
electricity.
The correct circuit diagram is:
9. (i) Resistance of material: The amount
of heat produced by an electric
current depends on resistance.
Higher the resistance of the material,
greater is the heat produced. – +
(ii) Magnitude of current passed through 16. The cylindrical coil of wire is called
it: Greater the magnitude of current, a solenoid. When a current passes
greater will be the heat produced through the solenoid, it behaves as a
in it. bar magnet.
10. (a) Short-circuit: A sudden flow of very Make a solenoid by winding 25-30
large current due to direct contact turns of an insulated copper wire
of a wire and neutral wire is called around a pen. Remove the pen and
short-circuit. It may lead to electric insulation from the ends of solenoid.
fire. Connect the two ends of the solenoid
(b) Over-loading: The overheating of to a cell through a switch as shown in
electrical wiring in any circuit due figure. Place the compass needle near
to the flow of large current through the solenoid and switch on the current.
it when large number of high rating The deflection is greater with the coil or
appliances are operated at the same solenoid than with single wire.

When the armature moves towards the
magnet, its contact with the contact
screw is broken at point E. Due to
this, the electric circuit breaks and no
current flows in the electromagnet coil.
The electromagnet loses it magnetism
17. A magnet produced by passing an and the armature is no longer
electric current through a coil of attracted by it. The spring brings back
insulated wire wounded around a soft the armature to its original position
iron rod is called an electromagnet. and the hammer moves away from
Uses of Electromagnet the gong.
• Electromagnets are used in motors that As soon as the armature comes back
drive fans, mixers, washing machines and touches the contact screw, the
etc. circuit is complete and current starts
• Cranes with strong electromagnets flowing in the electromagnet coil again.
are used to lift heavy loads like big
The process of “make and break” of the
machines and steel girders.
electric circuit occurs when we press
• Electromagnets are used to separate
the switch. Thus the hammer switches
magnetic materials like iron, steel
the gong rapidly producing almost
objects from a heap of junk metal shop.
• They are used by doctors to remove tiny continuous sound and we say that the
iron particles from the eyes of a person. bell is ringing.
18. 19. Things needed: A piece of insulated
copper wire with bare ends, a cell,
a switch, connecting wires and a
magnetic compass.
Method:
(a) Connect a thick, insulated copper wire
AB to a cell through a switch by using
connecting wires such that the copper
wire AB is in the north-south direction.
A compass is placed under the
wire AB.
An electric bell
When we press the switch, the electric
current passes through the coil of the
electromagnet and it gets magnetised.
The electromagnet attracts the
armature towards itself and the (i) Here, no current is flowing in wire AB,
hammer attached to it strike the gong so the compass needle is in its usual
and produces a sound. north-south position.
168 Science–7
(b) When the current is passed through
the wire, the needle gets deflected from
its original north-south direction and
points in another direction.
(c) The magnetic compass needle comes
back to its original north-south
direction when switch is open again.
Conclusion: The deflection of compass
needle shows that the current-carrying
wire behaves like a magnet and
produces a magnetic field around it.
The current-carrying wire, like other
(ii) Now, current is flowing in the wire AB, so the
magnets, attracts or repels other
compass needle gets deflected (or moves).
magnets such as compass needle.
(b) Close the switch so that an electric
20. (a) No, the amount of heat produced
current passes through the wire AB.
in both the cases will not be
(c) Now, open the switch so that the
equal because the amount of heat
current stops flowing in the wire AB.
produced in a wire depends upon
Observation: the length of that wire.
(a) When no current is flowing in the wire
(b) No, because the amount of heat
AB, then the needle of compass is
produced in the wire also depends
parallel to the wire AB and points in its
upon the thickness of that wire.
usual north-south direction.
Did You Know?

1. What are MCB’s? Miniature circuit breaker are increasingly being used
in place of fuses. These are switches which automatically turn off when
current in a circuit exceeds the safe limit. When the ‘fault’ in the circuit
has been set right, MCB can be reset in the ‘ON’ position and the circuit is
once again complete.
2. Magnetic Gripper in Robots: Robots use magnetic grippers as an end
effector for grasping the iron objects. There are two types of magnetic
grippers one with an electromagnet and the other with permanent magnets.
Bulb Fuse wire
glows
Normal electric
current flows
The bulb Fuse wire melts

is safe
Large electric
current flows
Circuit breaks

MCB Magnetic Gripper Fuse

1. What source of electricity would you select to supply power to each of the
following:
(i) Watches (ii) Torches (iii) Artificial satellites (HOTS)
2. Explain the following with the help of a neatly labelled circuit diagram.
(i) Connection in series (ii) Connection in parallel (HOTS)
3. Can you use a copper wire to make the filament of an electric bulb. Justify?
(HOTS)
4. Why does an open electric circuit not make any appliance work? (HOTS)
5. Which materials produce heat energy when current is passed through them
and why? (HOTS)
6. Ram and Neeraj are alone at home. Ram is watching TV while Neeraj is
playing with his toy. The battery in his toy gets discharged. He decides to
change it and connects the plug to the same socket to which the TV is
connected. The table fan in their room is also connected to that socket.
Suddenly, after a few seconds, Ram sees a heavy spark near the socket. He
immediately puts off the main switch and calls his neighbours for help.
(a) What do you think is the reason for heavy spark in the socket?
(b) What do you learn from Ram’s behaviour? (VBQ)
Answers
1. (i) Ordinary cell, (ii) battery (iii) Solar cells. All the negative terminal are connected
2. (a) Connection in series together with the help of wires. For
The negative example: Storage cells.
terminal is 3. The metal should have a high melting
connected to point so that it gets heated to a very
positive terminal of high temperature and become white
the next cell. For hot and start glowing.
example, storage cells. Series
4. Because an open circuit prevents the
The brightness of the bulb decreases passage of electric current. Hence no
when connected in series. current flows in an open circuit.
(b) Connection in parallel
5. Materials having high resistance
produce more heat energy when
current is passed through them. Also
greater the magnitude of current
passed through a given wire, greater
will be the heat produced in it.
6. (a) It is due to over loading and different
ratings of current in the same
socket.
(b) Ram is intelligent, alert and has a
scientific bent of mind.
Parallel 
170 Science–7
15 Light
Topics Covered
15.1 Light : Reflection, Its Laws and Types of Images
15.2 Spherical Mirror : Types and Important Terms
15.3 Spherical Lens : Types and Dispersion of Light
Flow Chart
LIGHT
Propagation Phenomenon Mirrors Lens
Rectilinear Concave
Reflection Dispersion Convex
Lens Lens
Prism
Laws Types of
Images VIBGYOR
Real Virtual
Plane Spherical
Concave Convex
Mirror Mirror
171
• Light is a kind of energy which gives us the sense of vision. Light travels in a
straight line.
• When light falls on a shiny surface, direction of light is changed. This is called
reflection of light.
• When the image can be obtained on screen, it is called real image. Real image
is always formed in front of the mirror.
• When the image cannot be obtained on screen, it is called virtual image. Virtual
image is always formed behind the mirror.
• A mirror with a flat reflecting surface is called a plane mirror. In a plane mirror,
image is erect, laterally inverted, of the same size as object and virtual.
• In a plane mirror, the right side of the object appears to be on the left side in
image and its opposite is also true. This phenomenon is called lateral inversion.
• When the reflecting surface of a mirror is part of a big sphere, it is called
spherical mirror. There are two types of spherical mirrors, viz. concave mirror
and convex mirror.
• In concave mirror, image is real, inverted and smaller than object in most of
the cases.
• In convex mirror, image is virtual, erect and smaller than object.
• A lens is a piece of transparent material (usually glass) in which at least one
surface is a part of a sphere.
• In convex lens, image is real, inverted and smaller than object in most of the
cases.
• In concave lens, image is virtual, erect and smaller than object.
• The sunlight usually appears white but it is composed of many colours. There
are seven colours in the white light and they are: violet, indigo, blue, green,
yellow, orange and red; in short VIBGYOR.
• When sunlight passes through a prism, it segregates into its component
colours. We can get a colourful band of light on the other side of the prism.
15.1 Light : Reflection, Its Laws and Types of Images

Light is a form of energy. It enables us to see the world around us. When light falls
on any object, the object reflects the sunlight falling on it in all directions. When
the sunlight reflected by the object enters our eyes, we are able to see the object.
Thus, light enables us to see the object from which it comes after reflection.
Rectilinear Propagation of Light
When we try to observe a lighted candle first through a straight tube and then
through a bent tube, it is observed that the lighted candle can be seen through a
straight tube only, but not through a bent tube. This shows that light travels in
a straight line.
172 Science–7
(a) (b)
Looking at a candle through a straight and a bent pipe
Reflection of Light
When light falls on a polished surface, it is
bounced back. The process of sending back of
light ray when it fall on the surface of an object
is called reflection of light.
• The ray of light which falls on the smooth
surface (mirror) is called incident ray.
• The ray of light which is sent back by the
surface of an object is called reflected ray. The
perpendicular line is called the normal ray.
• The angle between the incident ray and the
normal is called the angle of incidence (i).
• The angle between the reflected ray and the normal is called the angle of
reflection (r).
Laws of Reflection of Light
(i) The incident ray, the normal and the reflected ray all lie in the same plane.
(ii) The angle of reflection is always equal to the angle of incidence, –i = –r.
Types of Images
Real image: The image which can be obtained on a screen is called a real image.
• It is always inverted.
• It is formed on the same side of the mirror where the object is placed.
E.g. images formed on a cinema screen.
Virtual image: The image which cannot be obtained on a screen is called a virtual
image.
• It is always erect (upright).
• It is formed behind the mirror.
E.g. Our image formed by a plane mirror.
Characteristics of a image formed by a Plane Mirror
(i) The image formed is of the same size as the object.
(ii) It is virtual and erect.

(iii) It is formed at the same distance from the mirror as the object.
Image Distance = Object Distance
Light 173
Uses of Plane Mirror
(i) For personal grooming.
(ii) Decoration and architecture.
(iii) Periscopes for signalling.
(iv) In kaleidoscopes to see dangerous bends.
(v) Cameras
Exercise 15.1
(a) It is a form of energy which produces the sensation of sight in our eyes
____________ .
(b) The ‘bouncing back’ of light when falls on a smooth polished surface is
____________ .
(c) A mirror made by polishing one side of a plane glass surface is
____________ .
(d) An image which can be obtained on a screen is called a ____________ .
(NCERT)
(e) An image that cannot be obtained on a screen is called a ____________ .
2. Fill in the blanks: (NCERT)
(a) Light travels along ____________ line.
(b) The ray of light that fall on the smooth surface (mirror) is called
____________.
(c) The angle between the incident ray and the normal is called
____________.
(d) The angle of reflection is ____________ to the angle of incidence.
(e) Real image is always ____________.
3. A girl is standing 5 m away in front of a plane mirror. What is the distance
between her and her image?
4. What do you mean by “rectilinear propagation of light”?
5. What kind of image is formed when a candle is placed in front of the plane
mirror?
6. Do you obtain the image of the candle when a vertical screen is placed behind
the mirror?
7. What is “lateral inversion”?
8. An man stands in front of a plane mirror and sees his image. What is the
type of image formed?
9. State the characteristics of the image formed by a plane mirror.
10. We can see the light of a candle flame through a straight tube but not through
a bent tube. Why?
11. Why is the word ‘AMBULANCE’ written in inverted form in the emergency
medical vans. Explain the phenomenon.
174 Science–7
12. Distinguish between real and virtual image.
13. What do you mean by reflection of light?
14. State the laws of reflection of light.
15. Show with the help of an activity that light gets reflected by a plane mirror.
16. Show with the help of an activity that light travels in a straight line.
Answers
1. (a) light 12. Real Image Virtual Image
(b) reflection of light (c) plane mirror • Can be obtained •C annot be
(d) real image (e) virtual image on a screen. obtained on a
2. (a) straight (b) incident ray • Inverted screen.
• Formed at the • Erect
(c) angle of incidence
same side of the • Formed behind
(d) equal (e) inverted mirror where the mirror.
3. Same distance = 5 m object is placed.
4. The phenomenon that light travels in 13. When light falls on a polished surface,
a straight line is called the rectilinear it is bounced back. The process of
propagation of light. sending back of the light rays which
5. Image formed is virtual, of same size fall on the surface of an object is called
as the object and is formed at same reflection of light.
14. (i)
The incident ray, the normal and
distance as the object.
the reflected ray all lie in the same
6. No, since it is a virtual image. plane.
7. The phenomenon of apparent change (ii) The angle of reflection is always
of right and left sides by a plane mirror equal to the angle of incidence,
is called lateral inversion. –i = –r.
15. Light gets reflected from a plane mirror
8. The man’s image formed is of same size
Things needed: A torch, a chart
and at a same distance as the object paper, a pair of scissors, thermocol, a
from the mirror. dark coloured sheet and a plane mirror.
9. The image formed by a plane mirror is Method:
of the same size as the object, virtual (a) Cut the chart paper to make three
and erect. It is obtained at the same slits in it.
distance from the mirror as the object (b) Take a torch and cover its glass with
i.e. image distance = object distance. a chart paper which has three slits
as shown in figure.
10. Light travels in a straight line. (c) Spread a dark-coloured sheet of
11. This is due to lateral inversion, the
paper on the thermocol. Now, fix
phenomenon of apparent change of a plane mirror strip by pressing it
right and left sides by a plane mirror, on the thermocol sheet in inclined
so that the other riders on the road position as shown in figure.
(d) Focus the light of the torch in such
can know that an ambulance is behind
a way that its light is seen along the
them and allow it to move ahead for chart paper on the thermocol sheet.
any medical emergency. Now, adjust its position so that the
Light 175
light from the torch strikes the plane at the lighted candle through the
mirror at an angle. This light is plastic tube. Now, bend the plastic
called incident light. tube and try to look at the lighted
Observation: candle again.
(a)
The plane mirror changes the
direction of the three rays of light
falling on it.
Reflection of light from a mirror

(b) The three reflected rays are parallel
to each other and make the same Light travels in a straight line
angle with the mirror surface as the Observation:
incident light rays. (a) The lighted candle is seen clearly
Conclusion: Light gets reflected by a through the straight plastic tube.
plane mirror. It continues to travel in a
straight line path even after reflection. (b) The lighted candle could not be seen
16. Aim: Light travels in straight line. through the bent tube.
Things needed: Candle, matchstick, Conclusion: Light only travels in a
a straight plastic tube, a bent plastic straight line and hence the lighted
tube. candle can only be seen through a
Method: Light the candle and keep it straight bent plastic tube and not
on a table. Take a plastic tube. Look through a bent tube.
15.2 Spherical Mirror : Types and Important Terms

Smooth polished curved surface can act as
mirrors. Such mirrors are called curved mirror
or spherical mirrors.
Types of Spherical Mirrors
Concave mirror: A spherical mirror whose
reflecting surface is curved inwards is called
concave mirror. Here, the reflection of light
takes place at bent-in surface of the mirror.
Convex mirror: A spherical mirror whose
reflecting surface is curved outwards is called Concave mirror Convex mirror
convex mirror. Here the reflection of light takes
place at bulging-out surface of the mirror.
Terms related to spherical mirrors
• Centre of curvature: The centre of the sphere of which the spherical mirror is a
part is called the centre of curvature. It is denoted by ‘C’.
176 Science–7
• Pole: The centre of the reflecting surface of a spherical mirror is called the pole.
It is denoted by ‘P’.
• Principal axis: The imaginary line passing through the centre of curvature (C)
and the pole (P) of a spherical mirror is called principal axis of the mirror. It is
denoted by PQ.
Parallel rays Parallel rays

Principal
Principal axis
axis F P Pole Pole P
Q Q
C Focus F C
Centre of Focus Centre of
Curvature Curvature
Focal
Focal
length
length
Concave Mirror Convex Mirror
• Principal focus: It is a point on the principal axis when parallel rays after
reflection meet or appear to meet. It is denoted by ‘F’. The principal focus of a
concave mirror is real and lies in front of the mirror while the principal focus
of a convex mirror is virtual and lies behind the mirror.
• Focal length: The distance between the pole (P) and focus (F) of a spherical
mirror is called its focal length. It is denoted by (f ).
Uses of Concave Mirror
• It is used as shaving mirror to see enlarged image of face.
• It is used as reflectors of torches, head lights of vehicles to get a strong straight
beam of light.
• It is used by dentist to see enlarged image of teeth.
• Doctors use this type of mirror to produce a beam of light for examining body
parts like eyes, ears, nose and throat.
Use of Convex Mirror
• It is used as rear-view mirror or side view mirror in cars, scooters etc.
• It is also used as vigilance mirrors in big shops and stores.
Difference between Plane Mirror, Concave and Convex Mirrors by Image
Formation
Plane Mirror Concave Mirror Convex Mirror
Image is erect, of the same The image is erect, The image is erect,
size as that of the object, magnified and becomes diminished and remains
does not change its size inverted on moving away erect on moving away
and nature on moving the from the mirror. from the mirror.
mirror closer or away from
the face.
Light 177
Exercise 15.2
(a) Mirror used as rear-view mirror in automobiles ____________ .
(b) A spherical mirror whose reflecting surface is curved inwards is called a
____________ .
(c) The centre of the reflecting surface of a spherical mirror is called its
____________ .
(d) Doctors use concave mirrors to produce ____________ beam of light.
(e) A convex mirror has ____________ focus.
(a) Image formed by a ____________ is always virtual, erect and magnified.
(b) Image formed by a convex ____________ is always virtual and smaller in
size.(NCERT)
(c) The inner surface of a steel spoon acts as a ____________ mirror.
(NCERT Exemplar)
(d) The outer surface of a flat steel plate acts as a ____________ mirror.
(NCERT Exemplar)
(e) The inner surface of reflector of a torch acts as a ____________ mirror.
(NCERT Exemplar)
3. A mirror forms virtual, erect and diminished size. Identify the mirror.
4. A mirror can form real as well as virtual image. Identify the mirror.
5. Convex mirror is used in vehicles as rear-view mirror. Why?
6. A shopkeeper wanted to fix a mirror which will give a maximum view of his
shop. What type of mirror should he use? Explain. (NCERT Exemplar)
7. Distinguish between concave and convex mirror.
8. The concave reflecting surface of a torch got rusted. What effect would this
have on the beam of light from the torch? (NCERT Exemplar)
9. Suppose we wish to obtain the real image of a distant tree. Explain two
possible ways in which we can do it.
10. How will you distinguish between a plane mirror and a concave mirror?
11. What type of mirror is used in
(a) shaving mirror (b) projector (c) telescope
12. We are given three mirrors – a plane mirror, a convex mirror and a concave
one. How can we identify each by looking at the image of our face in them
from a close position?
OR
You are given three mirrors of different types. How will you identify each one
of them? (NCERT Exemplar)
178 Science–7
13. With the help of an activity, study the nature, size and position of image
formed by a concave mirror when the object is placed at a distant position.
Answers
1. (a) convex mirror (b) concave mirror 12.
(c) centre of curvature Plane Mirror Concave Mirror Convex Mirror
(d) parallel beam (e) virtual Face Image The image The image
2. (a) convex (b) mirror is erect, of of the face of the face
(c) concave (d) convex the same is erect, is erect,
size as magnified diminished
(e) concave
that of the and becomes and remains
3. Convex mirror 4. Concave mirror object, does inverted on erect on
5. Image formed by a convex mirror is not change moving away moving away
erect, virtual and smaller in size. its size and from the from the
nature on mirror. mirror.
6. A Shopkeeper should use convex mirror moving
because it forms images of smaller size the mirror
and he would be able to view a larger closer or
area. away from
7. the face.
Concave Mirror Convex Mirror 13. Aim: To study the nature, size and
The image is erect, The image is erect,
position of image formed by a concave
diminished, magnified diminished and mirror.
and becomes inverted remains erect on Things needed: A concave mirror (of
on moving away from moving away from focal length 20 cm), a stand, a table, a
the mirror. the mirror. metre scale, a white cardboard sheet, a
candle and matchsticks.
8. Rusting of the concave reflecting
Method:
surface of a torch will make light
diffused with lower intensity. (a) Take a concave mirror of focal length
20 cm, fix it on a stand and keep it
9. Real image of a distant tree can be
on a table.
achieved by using a concave mirror or
a convex lens and a screen because (b) Place a metre scale along the
both of them produce real, inverted concave mirror such that the zero
and large image of the object. end of it corresponds to the position
of a concave mirror.
10.
(c) Place a lighted candle (as object) at a
Plane Mirror Concave Mirror distance of 90 cm (or more) in front
Image is erect, of The image is erect, of the concave mirror to make it a far
the same size as magnified and becomes off object (or distant object).
that of the object, inverted on moving (d) Make a screen by pasting a piece of
does not change its away from the mirror. white paper on a cardboard sheet.
size and nature on
Place the screen in front of the
moving the mirror
closer or away from
concave mirror in such a way that
the face. it does not obstruct the path of light
rays coming from the candle flame
11. (a) concave, (b) concave, (c) convex and falling on the mirror. Move the
Light 179
screen towards or away from the off, the image formed is at the focus (F),
concave mirror until a sharp image real, highly diminished and inverted.
of the candle flame is produced on
the screen as shown in the figure.
Observation: Since, the image of a
candle flame can be obtained on a
screen, therefore, the image is real.
When the image of candle flame is
looked at it is found to be upside down,
i.e., the image is inverted. When the
size of flame in candle and its image
Setup to show the nature, size and position
are compared it is observed that the
of an image formed by a concave mirror
image is very small. So, the image is
highly diminished. Repeat this activity for the other
Conclusion: From the above activity it positions of the object to find position,
is concluded that when the object is far nature and size of the image formed by
a concave mirror.
5.3 Spherical Lens : Types and Dispersion of Light

A lens is a piece of any transparent material (glass)
bound by two curved surfaces.
Types of Lens:
• Convex lens: The lens which is thicker in the middle
and thinner at the edges is called convex lens.
• Concave lens: The lens which is thinner in the middle
Convex lens Concave lens
and thicker at the edges is called a concave lens.
Uses of convex lens
• It is used as a magnifying glass. They are used as a reading glass to read very
small font print of a book.
• Convex lenses are used in making spectacles, cameras, microscopes etc.
Uses of concave lens
• They are used in making spectacles for those who cannot see distant objects
clearly.
• They are also used in Galileo telescopes.
Difference between a convex lens and concave lens
Convex lens Concave lens
(a)
It is thicker in the middle and (a) It is thinner in the middle and
thinner at the edges. thicker at the edges.
(b) It is a converging lens. (b) It is a diverging lens.
(c) It has a real focus. (c) It has a virtual focus.
(d) T
he image formed may be real/ (d) The image formed is always virtual,
virtual, enlarged/small or equal to erect and smaller than the size of
the size of an object. an object.
180 Science–7
Dispersion of Light
When white light is passed through a glass prism, it splits into seven colours.
This process is called dispersion of light.
A rainbow is formed by the dispersion of sunlight by tiny water drops in the air.
When white light from the sun passes through these large number of spherical
transparent water drops, it gets dispersed and forms a continuous band of
colours. This band of colours (spectrum) is called rainbow. It is always formed in
the direction opposite to that of the sun. Seven colours are Violet, Indigo, Blue,
Green, Yellow, Orange and Red written as VIBGYOR.
A prism splits sunlight into seven colours
Exercise 15.3
(a) Lens which is thicker in the middle and thinner at the edge ____________ .
(b) Lens which is thinner in the middle and thicker at the edge is
____________ .
(c) The centre of the lens ____________ .
(d) Lens used as magnifying glass ____________.
(e) The band of seven colours seen in the sky during rain ____________.
(a) A concave lens always produces a ____________, ____________ and
____________ image.
(b) The distance between the optical centre and the principal focus of a lens
is called its ____________.
(c) The splitting of white light into seven colours is called ____________ of
light.
(d) A ____________ lens always forms erect, virtual and smaller image than
the object.
(e) A ____________ lens is used in making telescopes.

3. A man was finding it very difficult to read very small print of a book. What
type of lens should be used by him to read conveniently?
Light 181
4. What type of image is formed by a concave lens?
5. What type of image is formed by a convex lens, when the object is far away
from the lens?
6. What do you mean by ‘dispersion of light’?
7. Name the scientist who proved that ‘white light is made of seven colours’.
8. What do you mean by ‘spectrum’?
9. What did Newton demonstrate with the help of Newton’s disc?
10. Boojho made light from a laser torch to fall on a prism. Will he be able to
observe a band of seven colours? Explain with a reason.
(NCERT Exemplar)
11. Observe the figures carefully and then answer. (NCERT Exemplar)
(a) What is the nature of lens A and B?

(b) Give one use of each lens A and B.
12. State the correct sequence (1-7) of colours in the spectrum formed by the
prism A and B. (NCERT Exemplar)
1
2
3
4
5 1
6 2
7 3
4
5
6
7
A B
13. An erect and enlarged image of an object is formed on the screen. Explain
how this can be possible? (NCERT Exemplar)
14. It was observed that when the distance between an object and a lens decrease,
the size of the image increases. What is the nature of the lens? If you keep
on decreasing the distance between the object and the lens, will you still be
able to obtain the image on the screen? Explain.
15. With the help of an activity, show that seven colours combine to form white
light.
16. With the help of an activity, show that white light consists of seven colours.
182 Science–7
Answers
1. (a) convex lens object is placed too close to a convex
(b) concave lens (c) optical centre lens, then the image formed is virtual
(d) convex lens (e) Rainbow which cannot be obtained on a screen.
2. (a) virtual, erect and diminished 15. Aim: To show that seven colours
(b) focal length (c) dispersion combine to form white light.
(d) concave (e) convex lens Things needed: A circular cardboard
3. Convex lens disc, seven colour paints and a refill of
4. Virtual, erect and diminished image. a ball pen.
5. Real, inverted, diminished Method:
6. When white light is passed through a (a) Take a circular cardboard disc of
glass prism, it splits into seven colours. about 10 cm diameter. Divide this
This process is called dispersion of light. disc into seven equal segments.
7. Newton Paint the seven colours of white
8. The band of seven colours dispersed by light [violet, indigo, blue, green,
white light is called spectrum. yellow, orange, red (VIBGYOR)] on
9. White light is composed of seven these segments. This disc painted
colours. with seven colours of the spectrum
is called Newton’s disc.
10. No, light from laser torch falling on a
prism cannot produce a band of seven (b) Fix the disc loosely on the tip of a
colours because laser torch produce refill of a ball pen (ensuring that the
light of only one colour and it is not a disc rotates freely).
white light. (c) Now, rotate the disc quickly in
11. Lens A is convex and lens B is concave. daylight.
Uses of convex lens: It is used as a
magnifying glass. They are used as a
reading glass to read very small font
print of a book.
Uses of concave lens: They are used
in making spectacles for those who
cannot see distant objects clearly.
12. Prism A Prism B
A disc with Disc appears white
1 Æ Red ¨ 7 seven colours on rotating
2 Æ Orange ¨ 6 Observation: It is seen that all the seven
3 Æ Yellow ¨ 5 colours mix together due to which the
4 Æ Green ¨ 4 Newton’s disc appears to be white.
5 Æ Blue ¨ 3 Conclusion: Mixing of seven colours of
the spectrum gives white colour.
6 Æ Indigo ¨ 2
16. Aim: To show that white light consists
7 Æ Violet ¨ 1 of seven colours.
13.
This is possible if the object is
Things needed: A prism, a white screen
positioned upside down between F and
2F of the lens. or a white paper.
14. If the size of image increases with
Method:
decrease in distance between the (a) Allow a narrow beam of sunlight to
object and the mirror, then the lens enter a dark room through a small
is a convex lens. No, by decreasing hole in a window.
the distance between the object and (b) Place a prism in the path of the light

the lens we will not be able to obtain rays such that they fall on one face
the image on the screen because if the of the prism.
Light 183
face of the prism fall on a white sheet
of paper or a white screen.
Observation: A band of seven colours is
formed on the white screen. The seven
colours are seen in the following order:
Violet (V), Indigo (I), Blue (B), Green
(G), Yellow (Y), Orange (O) and Red (R)
(VIBGYOR).
A glass prism splits white light into seven colours Conclusion: White light consists of
(c) Let the light coming out of the other seven colours.
Did You Know?

1. The lens in our eye is convex by nature. When light rays pass through, it
focuses them on to the retina. Thus, the image formed on the retina is real
and inverted. This message is sent to the brain by optic nerves in the form
of electrical signals. Then the brain studies the message and we see an
erect image of the object.
2. Sir Issaac Newton, contributed in the field of optics – which includes
dispersion of light.

1. Concave mirror is used in headlight of cars. Why? (HOTS)
2. The side mirror of a scooter got broken. The mechanic replaced it with a
plane mirror. Mention any inconvenience that the driver of the scooter will
face while using it. (HOTS)
3. If you are given two lens to read a dictionary which lens would you use?
(HOTS)
4. Write down the English alphabet in which the image formed in a plane mirror
appears to be the same as the alphabet. Give reasons. (HOTS)
5. Nitika’s grandmother is not able to see distance objects properly. Nitika
takes her to the nearby eye specialist.
(i) Which type of lens would be suggested by doctor for Nitika’s grandmother?
(ii) What values are possessed by Nitika? (VBQ)
Answers
1. To get a strong straight beam of light. 3. Convex lens 4. ‘S’
2. Image will be of same size and cannot 5. (i) Convex lens
be seen. A convex mirror has to be used (ii) Gentle, kind, compassionate and
since the image will be erect, virtual has a scientific bent of mind.
and smaller in size. 
184 Science–7
16 Water: A Precious Resource
Topics Covered
16.1 Water: Water Cycle, Availability, Forms, Sources, Depletion of Water Table
16.2 Water Management
Flow Chart
WATER
Importance Availability Forms Sources
•S ustenance of 71% on earth Ground

life-humans, surface water
animals and Ø
plants 97.5% sea & +
• Irrigation, Oceans
hydroelectricity, 1.7% Ice caps & Sources Resources Uses
cooking, glaciers
washing etc. Ø • ain water
R • Infiltration • Wells
0.8% Fresh • Rivers • Aquifers • Hand
water • Lakes Pumps
• Ponds • Household
• Water table • Agriculture
Solid Liquid Gases • Industrial
Water table
• Snow • Oceans • Water depletion
• Ice • Lakes • Vapour
• Rivers
Water Crisis Factors Water
Method Management
Effect Population
• ainwater harvesting
R
• Reuse of water • Increase in Industries
•N on- • Revival of Bawris Agricultural
availability • Drip-irrigation • Deforestation activities
of food and • Construction of dams • Scarcity of Rainfall
oxygen • Prevention of wastage
• Less rainfall of water
185
• Water is essential for the existence of life.
• Some important life processes such as digestion, distribution of nutrients and
excretion require water.
• It helps in maintaining the temperature of the body by sweating.
• It is required for daily routine activities such as drinking, cooking and cleaning
utensils.
• It is also useful in generation of electricity, navigation and irrigation.
• For several plants and animals, water acts as a habitat.
• Water helps in germination of seeds and growth of plants. Water is required
by plants during the process of photosynthesis. It also helps in transport of
minerals and nutrients from the soil to the different parts of the plant.
16.1 Water: Water Cycle, Availability, Forms, Sources,

Depletion of Water Table
Water Cycle
The continuous circulation of water from the earth’s surface and water bodies as
water vapour to the atmosphere and from the atmosphere to the earth’s surface
as rain, hail and snow is called the water cycle in nature.
Water Cycle
186 Science–7
Availability of Water in Nature
• About 71% of the earth’s surface is covered with water. Therefore, our earth is
also called a watery planet.
• Almost 97.5% of the water available on the earth’s surface is contained in
seas and oceans. This water is salty which cannot be consumed directly and
therefore is unfit for human consumption. Of the remaining 2.5%, a major
portion (1.7%) is found in the frozen form as ice caps on the top of the mountains
and in glaciers.
• Only 0.8% fresh water is available as river water. Lake water and ground water
is also fit for the use of human beings.
Forms of Water
Water can be found in all the three forms at any given time on the earth.
• Solid form of water – Snow and Ice.
• Liquid form of water – Oceans, lakes, rivers and even underground water.
• Gaseous form of water – Water vapour is present in the air around us.
Sources of Water
Groundwater: The water present below the surface of the earth is called ground
water.
Source of groundwater: Rain water and water from rivers, lakes, ponds seep
through the soil and fill the empty spaces and cracks below the ground. After
saturating the soil, this water then moves downwards and get collected above
impervious rocks/rocks which do not allow water to pass through them. This
water collected below is called groundwater.
• Infiltration: The process of seeping of water into the ground is called infiltration.
• Water table: Upper limit of groundwater is called water table, which may also
be defined as the minimum depth in the soil where all the pore spaces are filled
with water.
• Aquifers: The huge reservoirs of water inside the earth, formed by the collection
of groundwater between the layers of hard rocks below the water table are
known as aquifers.
Uses of groundwater
• Groundwater has been utilised by digging wells deep till it reaches the water
table.
• Manually operated hand-pumps or power operated tube-wells are also used to
pump out the groundwater.
• The ground water is used for household (domestic), agricultural and industrial
purposes. It provides moisture to the soil which helps in proper growth of
plants.
Water: A Precious Resource 187

Groundwater and Water Table
Depletion of Water-Table
The gradual and continuous lowering of water table is known as depletion of
water table. It goes down if the groundwater is being used at a faster rate than it
is being renewed by the natural processes.
Factors Responsible for the Depletion of Water Table
• Increase in population: To meet the needs of an ever-increasing human
population more houses, offices, schools, shops, roads are being constructed
reducing the open space for seepage of rain water into the ground. Secondly,
boring is done to draw more and more of ground water.
• Increase in industries: The number of industries is increasing continuously
which draw a huge quantity of water from the ground leading to depletion of
water table.
• Increase in agricultural activities: With increase in population, the demand for
food has increased manifold. A majority of farmers depend on rainwater to
grow crops but due to unpredictable rainfall, they depend more on irrigation
methods. Farmers use large quantity of groundwater by digging deep tube
wells to cultivate crops.
• Deforestation: Cutting down a large number of trees at a place is called
deforestation. This is done for construction of houses, offices, schools, road
etc. thereby reducing effective area for seepage of water.
• Scarcity of rainfall: Some regions receive excessive rains while some areas
receive very little rainfall. Excessive rain causes floods, whereas the absence
of rain result in droughts. When the rainfall is less than the average rainfall, it
is called ‘scarcity rainfall’. When there is scarcity rainfall, more groundwater is
drawn out to meet the required needs leading to depletion of water table.
188 Science–7
Exercise 16.1
1. By which natural process water on the earth has been maintained?
2. What do you mean by water table?
3. Define aquifer.
4. Name the main source of natural water.
5. When is the ‘World Water Day’ celebrated? Why is it celebrated?
6. What is the percentage of water fit for human consumption?
(a) World Water Day is celebrated on _______________
(b) A situation where there is fall in availability of usable water is
_______________
(c) A process of collecting rainwater from roofs and street corners and storing
it for later use is _______________
(d) A step-up well in which the rainwater is collected and stored.
_______________ (NCERT)
(e) The water bearing layer of the earth is _______________
(f ) The process of water seepage into the ground is called _______________
(NCERT)
(a) _______________ causes decrease in the water table.
(b) _______________ is a universal solvent.
(c) Passing chlorine gas through water is called _______________.
(d) Water gets circulated between the earth and atmosphere by _____________.
(e) Three forms of water are ______________, ______________ and ______________.
(NCERT)
9. Name the three forms of water.
10. Why is earth called a watery planet?
11. What do you mean by water cycle?
12. Define infiltration.
13. What are ‘aquifer’?
14. How is spring formed?
15. What are the uses of ground water?
16. What do you mean by ‘depletion of water table’?
17. How is water table formed?
18. How is ground water recharged? (NCERT)
VI. Long Answer Type Questions (5 Marks)
19. What are the factors responsible for the depletion of water table? (NCERT)

20. What is ground water? What are the sources of water which are fed by ground
water? (NCERT Exemplar)
21. Water is very precious for all the living beings. What will happen in future if
we do not save water now? (NCERT Exemplar)
Answers
1. Water cycle 14. Sometimes at some places water comes
2. Water table is defined as the minimum out from the ground in the form of
depth in the soil where all the pore natural springs, due to high pressure
spaces are filled with water. inside the earth.
3. The huge reservoirs of water inside 15. The groundwater is used for household
the earth, formed by the collection of (domestic), agricultural and industrial
ground water between the layers of purposes which is obtained by digging
hard rocks below the water table are wells and manually operated/power
known as aquifers. operated hand pumps. It also provides
4. Lakes, ponds, springs moisture to the soil which helps in
5. 22nd March, to create awareness proper growth of plants.
towards the importance of conserving 16. The gradual and continuous lowering
water. of water table is known as depletion of
6. 0.8% water table. It goes down if the ground
7. (a) 22nd March (b) Water crisis water is being used at a faster rate
(c) Rainwater harvesting than it is being renewed by the natural
(d) Bawris processes.
(e) Water table (f ) infiltration 17. Rainwater and water from rivers, lakes,
8. (a) Water Crisis (b) Water ponds seep through the soil and fill
the empty spaces and cracks below
(c) Chlorination (d) Water cycle
the ground. After saturating the soil,
(e) Solid, liquid and gas
this water then moves downwards and
9. Solid (snow), liquid (water), gaseous get collected above impervious rocks/
(water vapour) rocks which do not allow water to pass
10. About 71% of the earth’s surface is through them. This water collected
covered with water. Hence, earth is below is called groundwater and this
also called a watery planet. upper limit of groundwater is called
11. The continuous circulation of water water table which may also be defined
from the earth’s surface and water as the minimum depth in the soil
bodies as water vapour to the where all the pore spaces are filled with
atmosphere and from the atmosphere water.
to the earth’s surface as rain, hail and
18. Rainwater and water from other
snow is called the water cycle in nature.
sources such as rivers and ponds seeps
12. The process of seeping of water into the
through the soil and fills the empty
ground is called infiltration.
spaces and cracks deep below the
13. The huge reservoirs of water inside ground. The process of seeping of water
the earth, formed by the collection of into the ground is called infiltration.
ground water between the layers of The ground water thus gets recharged
hard rocks below the water table are
by this process.
known as aquifers.
190 Science–7
19. Factors Responsible for the Depletion 20. The moisture present in the soil points
of Water Table are: toward the presence of water particles
(i) Increase in population means houses, between the spaces present within the
offices, schools, shops, roads to be particles of soil and rocks. The upper
constructed thereby reducing the open bound of this layer is termed as water
space for seepage of rain water into the table. The water found below the water
ground. table is termed as groundwater. It
(ii) Increase in industries draw a huge serves as a source for water to the well,
quantity of water from the ground lake, pond, spring, hand pump, etc.
leading to depletion of water table. are the sources of water fed by ground
(iii) Increase in agricultural activities use water.
large quantity of groundwater by 21. Water is known as the most precious
digging deep tube wells to cultivate element to sustain life. It is the primitive
crops for meeting the increased demand element for life. In the absence of water,
of food. living beings cannot survive. There
(iv) Deforestation for construction of will be no water to drink, no food to
houses, offices, schools, road etc. has eat as water is essentially required for
reduces effective area for seepage of the production of food by plants. The
water. industries producing the things for our
daily use will not be able to ease our life.
(v) Scarcity of rainfall leads to more
drawing of ground water to met the The marine ecosystem will be
required needs leading to depletion of misbalanced. In short, life without
water table. water will be impossible.
16.2 Water Management
• Every year, 22nd March is celebrated as the World Water Day. We celebrate this
day to create awareness of the importance of conserving water. The amount of
water recommended by the United Nations for drinking, washing, cooking and
maintaining proper hygiene is a minimum of 50 litres per person per day.
Water Crisis
• It is defined as the situation where there is fall in the availability of usable
water such that there is insufficient water to satisfy normal requirements. It is
also known as “water scarcity”.
• The scarcity of water can be overcome by the proper management of available
water which helps in the conservation of water and minimising its wastage.
Different Methods of Water Management
Rainwater Harvesting: The process of collecting rainwater from roofs and street
corners and storing it for later use is called rainwater harvesting. In this method,
water is collected in percolation pits and recharge wells so as to recharge ground
water. This is an ideal solution to water problem in areas with inadequate water
resources.
Advantage of Rainwater Harvesting
– It reduces the run off loss of rainwater.
– Availability of water supply for irrigation and other purposes is also maintained
in dry months.

– It reduces flood and topsoil erosion.
– It reduces strain on other modes of water supply.
– It increases the availability of clean water.
• Prevention of Wastage of Water: It can be prevented by closing taps when not
in use, timely repairing any leakage from pipes etc.
• Reuse of Water: The treated waste water can be used for watering lawns and
gardens, washing vehicles and floors of building and for construction purposes.
• Revival of Bawris: Bawri is a step-well in which the rain water is collected and
stored. It provides water to the people during drought periods.
• Drip-Irrigation: Drip irrigation is a technique of watering plants by making use
of a system of narrow pipes or tubes with small holes which deliver the water
drop by drop directly around the roots. Thus, wastage of water is avoided.
• Construction of Dams: An artificial wall built across a river which allows the
water to collect behind it in a reservoir is known as dam.
Effects of Water Scarcity
• Non-availability of food: Plants cannot carry out the process of photosynthesis
without water.
• Non-availability of oxygen: Without photosynthesis no oxygen will be available
to animals and humans for breathing.
• Less rainfall: Trees and green plants release a lot of water vapour into the
atmosphere through transportation.
Exercise 16.2
1. What do you mean by ‘water scarcity’?
2. What is Rainwater harvesting?
3. What is the main reason that have led to acute shortage of water all over the
world?
4. Write any one method adopted to minimise wastage of water.
5. What will be the effect on a plant if it is not watered for few days?
(a) Step-well is also called _______________
(b) According to UN, the amount of water that can be used by a person per
day is _______________
(c) A term used for water crisis is _______________
(d) Collecting rainwater on roofs and storing it for later use is called
_______________
(a) _______________ helps in the conservation of water and minimising its
wastage.
(b) An artificial wall built across a river which allows water to collect behind
it is called a _______________.
192 Science–7
(c) _______________ is a technique of watering plants by making use of a
system of narrow pipes with small holes.
(d) One effect of water scarcity is _______________.
8. What do you mean by “Water Crisis”?
9. How can proper management of available water overcomes water scarcity?
10. State two advantages of rainwater harvesting.
11. What do you mean by drip irrigation?
12. Write any two ways you can adopt to minimize wastage of water.
13. Identify the method shown below of watering crops and state its advantage.
14. Label and name four processes involved in the water cycle shown below.
15. Complete the given table.

Form of Water Formed by which Process Source from Nature
1. Liquid

2. Solid
3. Gas

16. What do you mean by ‘Water scarcity’? What are its effects?
17. What do you mean by ‘Water management’? What are the steps involved in it?
18. What do you mean by rainwater harvesting? What are its advantages?
Answers
1. Water scarcity is defined as the 10. Two advantages of rainwater harvesting
situation where there is fall in the are:
availability of usable water such that (i) It reduces the run off loss of rainwater.
there is insufficient water to satisfy
(ii) It reduces flood and topsoil erosion.
normal requirements.
11. Drip irrigation is a technique of
2. The process of collecting rainwater
from roofs and street corners and watering plants by making use of a
storing it for later use is called rainwater system of narrow pipes or tubes with
harvesting. small holes which deliver the water
3. Increase in population all over the drop by drop directly around the roots.
world. 12. Two ways to prevent/minimize wastage
4. Prevention of wastage of water can be of water are:
prevented by closing taps when not in (i) Reuse of Water: The treated waste
use, timely repairing any leakage from water can be used for watering lawns
pipes etc. and gardens, washing vehicles and
5. The plants will die and will convert into floors of building and for construction
humus. purposes.
6. (a) Bawri (ii) Revival of Bawris: Bawri is a step-well
(b) 50 litres per day in which the rain water is collected and
(c) Water scarcity stored. It provides water to the people
(d) Rainwater harvesting during drought periods.
7. (a) Water management 13. Drip irrigation is a technique of
(b) Dam watering plants by making use of a
system of narrow pipes or tubes with
(c) Drip irrigation
small holes which deliver the water
(d) Non-availability of food
drop by drop directly around the roots.
8. Water crisis is defined as the situation Thus, wastage of water is avoided.
where there is fall in the availability
14. Evaporation, Transpiration,
of usable water such that there is
Condensation, Infiltration.
insufficient water to satisfy normal
15.
requirements. It is also known as water
scarcity. Form Process Source
9. Proper management of water helps in of by which from the
the conservation of water and minimise Water Formed nature
its wastage. Some of the steps which can 1. Liquid Condensation Rain
be taken for the proper management of Snow on
water are given below: 2. Solid Freezing
mountains
(i) Rainwater harvesting 3. Gas Evaporation Clouds
(ii) Prevention of wastage of water
194 Science–7
16. Water scarcity is defined as the (ii) Reuse of water
situation where there is fall in the (iii) Prevention of wastage of water
availability of usable water such that (iv) Revival of Bawris
there is insufficient water to satisfy
(v) Drip-irrigation
normal requirements.
(vi) Construction of Dams
Effects of water scarcity are:
18. The process of collecting rainwater from
(i) Non-availability of food: Plants cannot
roofs and street corners and storing it for
carry out the process of photosynthesis
later use is called rainwater harvesting.
without water.
In this method, water is collected in
(ii) Non-availability of oxygen: Without percolation pits and recharge wells so
photosynthesis, no oxygen will be as to recharge ground water. This is
available to animals and humans for an ideal solution to water problem in
breathing. areas with inadequate water resources.
(iii) Less rainfall: Trees and green plants Its advantages are:
release a lot of water vapour into the
(i) It can be raised by rainwater harvesting.
atmosphere through transportation.
(ii) It reduces the run-off loss of rainwater.
17. Water management is the management
of water resources such as rain water (iii) Availability of water supply for irrigation
harvesting, developing of Bawris, and other purposes is also maintained
practicing drip irrigation etc. and in dry months.
effective and optimal use of available (iv) It reduces flood and topsoil erosion.
water. (v) It reduces strain on other modes of
Steps involved in water management water supply.
are: (vi) It increases the availability of clean
(i) Rain water harvesting water.
Did You Know?

1. Most of the ancient civilisations flourished in the plains of rivers because
water was easily available for various purposes.
2. Getting clean water, money out of sewage: The Indian Agricultural
Research Institute has successfully installed a purification system for their
homes in Pusa, Delhi that can clean 2.2 million litres of domestic sewage
daily using almost zero thermal power. The water (free from chemicals)
can be used for gardening and irrigation. The system is based on nature’s
ways. The dirty water is collected and flown through an array of wetland
plants with capacity to absorb chemicals such as lead and mercury
upto 1,000 parts per million (ppm). Apart from assured agricultural
income, the wetland plants can be harvested for a revenue of `18 lakh
annually.

1. What happens to the water tables during (a) heavy rainfall (b) drought.
(HOTS)
2. Why are we left with only tiny fraction of water for use even though about
75% of the earth surface is covered with water? (HOTS)
3. Reema’s father was getting his new house constructed. Reema insisted that
her father should install a rainwater harvesting system. Her father objected
and said it will prove to be too expensive.
(a) What do you think who is right, Reema or her father? Give a reason for
your answer.
(b) What are the values exhibited by Reema? (VBQ)
4. My sister is in habit of keeping the tap open while brushing her teeth. She
loves to bathe under the shower. According to me her way of handling the
most precious source of water is absolutely wrong.
(a) Do you agree with me or not?
(b) What changes in the above situation can be done to conserve water.
(VBQ)
Answers
1. (a) It increases Only 0.8% fresh water is available as
(b) It decreases river water.
2. About 71% of the earth’s surface is 3. (a) Reema is right. Rain water
covered with water. Therefore, our harvesting is a very innovative
earth is also called a watery planet. system of conserving rain water.
Almost 97.5% of the water available (b) Scientific bent of mind, logical.
on the earth’s surface is contained in 4. (a) Yes absolutely, water is an important
seas and oceans. This water is salty natural resource, which should be
which cannot be consumed directly used judiciously.
and therefore is unfit for human (b) Tap should be closed while brushing
consumption. Of the remaining 2.5%, the teeth. Instead of shower, one can
a major portion (1.7%) is found in the use a bucket of water to bathe.
frozen form as ice caps on the top of the 
mountain and in glaciers.
196 Science–7
17 Forests: Our Lifeline
Topics Covered
17.1 Forests – An Ecosystem
17.2 Importance of Forest and Forest Conservation
Flow Chart
FORESTS
(An Ecosystem)
Composition Flow of Importance Forest

Energy Conservation
• Flora (Plants) • Regulates % of O2 and CO2
• Funa (Animals) • Prevent Soil Erosion •A fforestation
• Maintain Water Cycle • Avoiding
• Recharges the Ground Water Overgrazing
of Cattles
• Control Noise Pollution
• Checking
• Provide Economical Useful Products
Forest Fires
• Home for Plants and Animals
Food Chain Depletion
Causes Effects
• Increased Population
• Urbanization
• Industrialization
Food Web • Deforestation
• Increased in Earth’s
Temperature
• No Oxygen, Food and
Shelter
• Occurrence of Floods
• Environment and Life
Endangered
197
• A large area of land covered with trees and other woody vegetation is called
forest. Forests are habitat for a large number of animals and birds.
• Branchy part of a tree above the stem is known as crown.
• Crowns of tall trees together appear like the roof of a forest. This is called the
canopy in the forest.
• Trees of different heights create different layers in the forest. These layers are
called understorey. Giant and tall trees constitute the top layer. Shrubs and
tall grasses constitute the second layer and herbs make the lowest layer in a
forest.
• Types of trees and plants vary according to the climate. Hence, different types
of trees and plants are found in different forests.
• Types of animals also differ in different forests. A particular forest can provide
shelter and food to certain types of animals only.
• The relationship between prey and predator can be represented as a chain.
This is called food chain. Following is an example of a simple food chain:
Grass → Insects → Frog → Snake à Eagle
• In a forest, all food chains are interlinked. The interlinking of food chains
creates a complex web. This is called food web.
• Forests do not allow rainwater to drain away quickly. This helps in two ways.
This prevents floods and also helps in recharging the groundwater.
• Trees hold the topsoil in place and prevent it from getting washed away by
rains or blown away by wind. Thus, forests help in preventing soil erosion.
• Deforestation reduced water table, increases level of carbon dioxide in
atmosphere, global warming, soil erosion, flash floods and drought.
17.1 Forest – An Ecosystem

Forest is a natural ecosystem having a rich variety of flora (plants) and fauna
(animals).
• The type of plants found in different forests vary , depending on the climatic
conditions of the region in which it is found.
Common terms associated with forests.
Crown: The branchy part of the tree above the stem.
Canopy: Branches of tall trees form a roof over other plants in the forests called
canopy.
Understoreys: Trees have crowns of different shapes and sizes that create
different horizontal layers in the forest called understoreys. For example, giant
198 Science–7
trees constitute the top layer followed by shrubs and tall grasses, herbs forming
the lowest layer.
Canopy and understorey in a forest
Humus: The dead and decaying plant and animal matter that makes soil fertile.
Decomposers: The microorganisms that convert dead plants and animals to
humus. For example, bacteria, fungi. This humus is absorbed by plants from soil
and used by plants to make food to be taken in by animals. Thus, they play a very
important role in recycling of nutrients.
Scavengers: Animals that consume dead animals left over by carnivores. For
example, Jackals, hyenas, vultures.
Producers (Autotrophs): All green plants that make their own food.
Consumers (Heterotrophs): All animals that are directly or indirectly dependent
on plants for nutrition are consumers. Grass eating animals called herbivores
are primary consumers while the animals that eat herbivores are carnivores or
secondary consumers. Omnivores consume both plants and animals.
Flow of Energy
• Animals and plants are linked together by food. The ultimate source of energy
is the sun as green plants trap sunlight for photosynthesis. The energy gets
passed on from sun to producers and then to consumers. When plants and
animals die, decomposers break down their dead bodies and return the
nutrients back to soil.
• The number of species in an ecosystem is maintained. If there is disturbance
even at a single step, the balance gets disturbed. Eg. If frogs become extinct,
grasshoppers would increase in number and there would be shortage of grass.

So, the herbivores would starve to death. This in turn will impact carnivores
and the whole food chain will get disturbed.
Forests: Our Lifeline 199

Food Chain
The sequence showing who eats whom in an ecosystem is called a food chain. For
examples, Grass → deer → lion. (a forest food chain)
Grass → grasshopper → frog → snake → eagle. ( a grassland foodchain)
Food Chain
Food Web
A large number of inter connected food chains form a food web.
• A forest is a dynamic, self sustaining entity. Its living components are in constant
interaction with the non-living or physical environment. The interaction
amongst various organisms in the forest is depicted in the form of food chains.
When living organisms die, the soil gets replenished with nutrients by the
action of decomposers. They are reused by plants and the process continues.
Food Web
200 Science–7
Exercise 17.1
(a) The cover of branches of tall trees in a forest form the ______________.
(b) ______________ feed on other animals.
(c) A ______________ is made up of several interconnected food chains.
(d) Living things and the environment together form the ______________.
(e) Primary consumers are directly dependent on ______________ for food.
(f ) Forests are a natural ______________ for a wide variety of plants and
animals.
2. Name any one living and one non – living component of a forest.
3. State any two differences between food chain and food web.
4. Name a scavenger and a multicellular decomposer.
5. Why is it dark inside a forest?
6. What happens if there is disturbance at even a single step of a food chain?
7. Why is a forest referred to as a dynamic, self sustaining entity?
8. Paheli wrote a food chain in the following way: (NCERT Exemplar)
Frog → eagle → insects → grass → snake
The chain is not in correct order. Help her to write it correctly.
Answers
1. (a) Canopy (b) carnivores balance gets disturbed. Eg. If frogs
(c) food web (d) ecosystem become extinct, grasshoppers would
(e) green plants (f ) habitat increase in number and there would
2. Non living – soil, water, air, rocks etc be shortage of grass. So, the herbivores
Living – Plants, animals, would starve to death. This in turn will
microorganisms impact carnivores and the whole food
chain will get disturbed.
3. Food chain Food web 7. A forest is a dynamic, self sustaining
Unidirectional Multidirectional entity. Its living components are
in constant interaction with the
Less stable More stable
non‑living or physical environment. The
4. Vulture, mushroom. interaction amongst various organisms
5. In a forest, branches of tall trees form in the forest is depicted in the form of
a roof over other plants called canopy. food chains. When living organisms die,
This roof does not allow sunlight to the soil gets replenished with nutrients
penetrate. Thus, the inside of a forest by the action of decomposers. They
appears dark. are reused by plants and the process
6. If there is disturbance even at a single continues.
step of the food chain, the ecological 8. Grass→insects→Frog→snake→eagle

17.2 Importance of Forests and Forest Conservation
Forests are a very important natural resource because:
• They regulate the percentage of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the atmosphere.
Plants in forests take up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen
during photosynthesis which all the living organisms use for respiration. Since
they maintain the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere,
they are referred to as green lungs.
• Roots of the plants bind soil and thus prevent soil erosion.
• Plants carry out transpiration and add a lot of water vapour to the atmosphere.
This brings about rainfall thus maintaining water cycle and cooling the
environment.
• Rain that falls is absorbed by soil. This water percolates down and increases
the water table of the ground water.
• Since forests absorb noise, they control noise pollution.
• Forests provide us a large variety of economically useful products like timber,
wood pulp, gum, resin, latex, essential oils, medicinal plants for our use.
• They are a home for a wide variety of plants and animals. Some animals found
in forests are – Boar, bison, jackals, porcupine, elephants etc.
Some trees found in forests are – Sal, teak, sheesham, neem, fig, amla, bamboo,
kachnar etc.
Inter–dependence Amongst Living Things
Animals living in forests depend on plants for oxygen, food , shelter and safety
while the plants depend on animals for pollination, seed and fruit dispersal.
Plants also use carbon dioxide released by animals for photosynthesis. Remains
of dead bodies of animals are converted to humus by microbes that provides
nutrition to plants.
202 Science–7
Depletion of Forests
Increasing population and consequent urbanization and industrialization have
led to clearing away of forests on a large scale (deforestation).This can have severe
consequences:
• If forests disappear, the amount of carbon dioxide in air will increase resulting
in the increase of earth’s temperature.
• In the absence of trees and plants, animals will not get oxygen, food and shelter.
• In the absence of trees, the soil will not hold water which will lead to floods.
• Deforestation will endanger our life and environment.
Forest Conservation
Since forests have great ecological and economical significance, we should
preserve them.
• Afforestation (planting trees over a large region where deforestation has been
done) should be carried out.
• Overgrazing by cattle should be avoided.
• Checking forest fires so that they don’t spread out of control.
Exercise 17.2
(a) In the absence of plants, heavy rainfall would lead to _______________.
(b) _______________ is the practice of renewing forests by planting small
plants.
(c) _______________ by animals leads to deforestation.
(d) _______________ and _______________ are examples of animals found in a
forest.
(e) Plants and animals are _______________.

2. List a few products obtained from forests.
3. If the forests are cut for construction purposes, water table goes down. Why?

4. Mention any two ways in which plants and animals are interdependent.
5. Mention three uses of forests.
6. Why are forests called green lungs?
7. What are decomposers? Name any two of them. (NCERT)
8. List five products we get from forests. (NCERT)

9. Explain the role of forest in maintaining the balance between oxygen and
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. (NCERT)
10. Micro – organisms act upon dead plants to produce
(i) sand (ii) mushrooms
(iii) humus (iv) wood (NCERT)
11. Deforestation may lead to floods. Why? (NCERT Exemplar)
Answers
1. (a) soil erosion Plants in forest take in carbon‑dioxide
(b) afforestation from the atmosphere and release
(c) overgrazing oxygen during the process of
(d) Boar, bison photosynthesis which all living beings
use for respiration. Therefore forests
(e) interdependent
are called ‘Green Lungs’.
2. Timber, wood pulp, gum, resin, latex,
7. Decomposers are the organisms which
essential oils, medicinal plants etc.
feed on the dead bodies of plants
3. Construction makes use of huge
and animals. They clean the forests,
quantities of ground water leading to its
decaying dead bodies and replenishing
depletion. Moreover, reduction in open
the nutrients back to the forest soil,
space would also lead to decreased
e.g., beetles and grubs.
seepage of water into the ground thus
8. (i) We get medicines from forests.
further lowering water table.
(ii) We get gum from forests.
4. Animals living in forests depend on
plants for oxygen, food , shelter and (iii) We get wood which is used for many
safety while the plants depend on purposes like making furniture,
animals for pollination, seed and fruit paper etc.
dispersal. Plants also use carbon (iv) We get food for animals from forests.
dioxide released by animals for (v) We get sealing wax from forests.
photosynthesis. Remains of dead 9. Plants release oxygen in the atmos-
bodies of animals are converted to phere during the process of
humus by microbes that provides photosynthesis. This oxygen is inhaled
nutrition to plants. by the animals for respiration. During
5. Three uses of forest are: respiration, they release carbon-
(i) They provide shelter and food to a dioxide which is absorbed by plants. In
variety of plants and animals. this way the oxygen and carbon dioxide
(ii) Forests absorb noise, they control cycle goes on. Since forests contain a
noise pollution. large number of plants, they help much
in this cycle and maintain balance in
(iii) Forests provide us a large variety of
nature.
economically useful products like
timber, wood pulp, gum, resin, latex, 10. (iii) Humus
essential oils, medicinal plants for 11. Roots of plants hold soil and prevent
our use. its erosion. Deforestation promotes
6. Forest maintain the balance of oxygen erosion. Rainwater takes soil away and
and carbon-dioxide in the atmosphere. it gets deposited in water bodied raising
the level of water thus causing floods.
204 Science–7
Did You Know?
1. The distribution of forests is governed by the amount of rainfall in a
particular area.
2. Rainforests are a habitat for maximum varieties of plants and animals.
3. Orangutans are the largest mammals that dwell on trees.
4. The tallest tree in the world is the redwood called Hyperion while the largest
tree in the world by volume is a giant sequoia called General Sherman.
5. The Taiga region in the north is considered to be the world’s largest forest.

1. Paheli while moving in a forest observed that there was no noise pollution,
though lots of heavy vehicles were passing from the nearby highway. Explain
why? (HOTS)
2. We are often advised to plant more trees and not to cut the existing ones.
Why? What values are shown by a person who practices tree conservation.
(VBQ)
Answers
1. Forests absorb noise.
2. Our life is dependent on plants or trees. Trees provide us with all the essential
elements for survival such as oxygen, food, shelter etc. without which life is not
possible to live.
Concern for environment, earth and future generations.


18 Wastewater Story
Topics Covered
18.1 Wastewater: Sewage, Treatment Plant and Housekeeping Practices
18.2 Sanitation and Diseases
Flow Chart
WASTEWATER
Sewage Wastewater Sanitation at

Treatment Plant Public Places
Primary
Secondary
Tertiary
Types Contaminants Effects
Domestic Sewage • Organic Impurities Spread diseases

• Inorganic waste
Commercial Sewage Water pollution
• Nutrients
• Microbes
Industrial Sewage Eutrophication
Rain Water
Alternative for
Disposal
Septic Tank Biogas Vermicomposting toilets
206
• The water which comes from toilets, sinks, showers, and laundaries is called
wastewater.
• Clean water is a basic need of human beings.
• On 22nd March 2005, the UN General Assembly proclaimed the period from
2005 – 2015 as the International Decade for Action on Clean Water.
• The wastewater released by homes, offices, hotels, hospitals and factories is
called sewage.
• Contaminated water from sewerage is taken to Wastewater Treatment Plants
(WWTP). Treatment of wastewater involves physical, chemical and biological
processes which remove physical, chemical and biological impurities from
wastewater.
• We should contact the concerned authorities to address the problem of open
drains. Open drains can be a breeding ground of mosquitoes. They can also
spread many microbes which cause diseases.
• Cooking oil and fat should not be thrown in the drain. They clog the drain. In
open drains, fat and oil clog the soil pores. It disturbs the natural filtration of
water which otherwise happens through soil.
• Chemicals like paints, solvents, pesticides, insecticides, etc. should not be
thrown in drains. They kill the microbes which otherwise help purification of
the water.
• Used tea leaves, solid food items, cotton, napkins, etc. should not be thrown in
the drains. They choke the drain.
• Plastic bags also choke the drains and hence they should not be disposed off
in drains.
• Sanitation involves maintaining overall cleanliness in our homes and at public
places. Sanitation helps in preventing communicable diseases.
• Open defecation creates all around filth and is a catalyst for spreading many
disease like cholera, diarrhoea, typhoid, jaundice, etc.
• Septic tanks, composting pits and chemical toilets provide onsite disposal of
human excreta. People should be helped and encouraged to make toilets in
their homes.
• The government is doing good work in this regard. Swaccha Bharat Abhiyan
has been launched to increase awareness about the need of toilet.
• Sulabh International is an NGO which has worked in management of human
waste and has been managing many toilet complexes at public places.
• Public places are usually overcrowded and hence sanitation is even more
important at these places.
• Sanitation workers do their job in cleaning up the public places.
• We should also contribute towards maintaining sanitation at public places.
• We should throw trash only in garbage bins at public places.
• One should not urinate in the open and should use urinals for the purpose.
• One should spit only in spittoons or in garbage bins.
Wastewater Story 207

18.1 Wastewater: Sewage; Treatment Plant; House-Keeping
Practices
Wastewater
Water when used for bathing, washing clothes, flushing toilets, industrial use
etc., it becomes dirty and unfit for other uses and is called wastewater.
Sewage
It is the wastewater which is carried away in sewers.
Sewer: An underground water pipe which carries away dirty water.
Types of Sewage
Domestic Sewage: Wastewater obtained from kitchen sink, wash basin,
bathroom, faeces from the toilet and produced at home.
Commercial Sewage: Wastewater released by shops, offices, schools, hospitals
and by commercial establishments.
Industrial Sewage: Wastewater released by industries which contains poisonous
chemicals.
Rain Water: As rainwater flows on the ground, it picks up various contaminants
including soil particles, organic compounds, heavy metals, animal wastes, oil
and grease.
Contaminants Present in Sewage
1. Organic impurities Human faeces, animal waste, oil, urea, pesticides, fruit and
vegetable waste.
2. Inorganic waste Nitrates, phosphate, metals.
3. Nutrients Nitrogen and phosphorous.
4. Microbes Disease causing bacteria, fungi etc.
Harmful Effects of Sewage

Spreading of Diseases: In villages and slums, there is no proper drainage system to
dispose wastewater. Dirty wastewater overflows and gets stagnant which results
in foul odour. This stagnant water acts as a breeding ground for mosquitoes
and flies which cause infectious diseases like diarrhoea, cholera, jaundice and
dysentery.
Water Pollution: Discharge of untreated sewage into water bodies is one of the
main sources of water pollution. Drinking water contaminated with sewage can
cause many disease to the human population.
Eutrophication: The process of depletion of dissolved oxygen from the water bodies
due to excessive growth of algae is called eutrophication. Further, death of algae
reduces the amount of oxygen in the water since microorganism use oxygen for
the decomposition of dead algae. The aquatic animals also die of suffocation due
to lesser amount of dissolved oxygen.
208 Science–7
Sewerage: Sewerage is an underground network of interconnected pipes called
sewers that transport or carry sewage from the place where it is produced to
treatment plants where it is processed.
If there is any leakage or blockage in the underground sewer pipeline, the sanitary
worker can go down through a manhole.
Manhole: It is provided at every 50 metres to 60 metres distance in the road above
the underground sewer pipeline.
Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP)
In a wastewater-treatment plant, the pollutants from the sewage are made
harmless and then disposed safely in the water bodies.
Wastewater treatment plant (or sewage treatment plant)
Septic tank
Wastewater treatment plant consists of three stages:
1. Primary Treatment

2. Secondary Treatment
3. Tertiary Treatment

Primary Treatment: It consists of the following steps:
(a) Screening: The sewage entering the sewage treatment plant is first passed
through bar screens which remove the large object like rags, sticks, cans and
plastic packets from the sewage. The solid waste are disposed into landfill.
(b) Grit and sand removal: The sewage after passing through the bar screen
is passed through a grit and sand removal tank, where the speed of the
remaining wastewater is slowed down to allow sand, grit and pebbles to
settle down.
(c) Primary sedimentation: The sewage is then passed through sedimentation
tank called a clarifier and allowed to stand for 10 -12 hours. Most of the
suspended solids settle down in the form of primary sludge.
The primary sludge is then removed with a scrapper and shifted into a larger
tank called digester tank. The organic matter in the sludge is decomposed by
anaerobic bacteria to produce biogas. Water obtained after removal of sludge
and floating impurities is called clarified water.
Secondary Treatment: It is designed to degrade the biological contents of the
sewage in the form of human waste, food waste, soaps and detergents. It consists
of the following steps.
(a) Aeration: The clarified water is passed into aeration tank. The clarified water
contains aerobic bacteria in it. Compressed air is bubbled through the
clarified water in the aeration tank to provide oxygen to help aerobic bacteria
to grow rapidly in the water which decomposes most of the organic matter
still present in the sewage into harmless substances.
(b) Secondary sedimentation: The treated clarified water from the aeration
tank is taken into secondary sedimentary tank where it is allowed to stand
for several hours and to produce an activated sludge at the bottom. Some
of the activated sludge is added back to the aeration tank to increase the
population of aerobic bacteria. The remaining activated sludge is sent to the
digester tank for production of biogas.
Tertiary Treatment: It has a very low level of organic material and suspended
matter. It is disinfected with chemical like chlorine and ozone before it is discharged
into water-bodies or ground.
Best House-Keeping Practices
1. Cooking oil and fats should not be thrown down the drain as they can harden
and block the pipes. In an open drain, the fats block the soil pores reducing
its effectiveness in filtering water. We should throw oil and fats in the dustbin.
2. Chemical like paints, solvents, insecticides, motor oil and medicines should
not be thrown down the drain as it may kill the useful microbes that help to
decompose the wastes present in the sewage and purify water.
3. Used tea leaves, solid food remains, soft toys, cotton etc. should not be
thrown down the drain as they choke the drain and do not allow free flow of
oxygen to the useful microbes in the drain which decompose the wastes. So,
all solid waste should be thrown in the dustbin.
210 Science–7
Exercise 18.1
(a) Wastewater which is carried away in sewers is called _______________.
(b) The wastewater from kitchen sink, wash basin, bathroom, shower etc. is
called _______________.
(c) The impurities present in waste water are called _______________.
(d) _______________ is an underground network of interconnected pipes which
carry the sewage from the place it is produced to sewage treatment plant.
(e) A _______________ is covered vertical hole in the ground, pavement above
the underground sewer pipeline.
2. Name the chemicals used to disinfect water before it is discharged into a sea.
3. Name the gas produced in the digester tank.
4. What do you mean by ‘clarifier’?
5. What is “clarified water”?
6. Name any two diseases caused due to stagnant sewage.
7. How is any leakage or a blockage in an underground sewer pipeline detected
and repaired?
8. Why does the speed of incoming wastewater slow down in grit and sand
removal tank?
9. What do you mean by sewerage?
10. What is sewage treatment plant?
11. Explain the term ‘Activated Sludge’.
12. Explain the term ‘eutrophication’.
13. What is the difference between ‘sewers’ and ‘sewerage’?
III. Long Answer Type Questions (5 Marks)
14. A mixture (X) in water contains suspended solid organic impurities, inorganic
impurities (A), nutrients (B), disease-causing bacteria and other microbes.
Give names for X, A and B. (NCERT Exemplar)
15. Mention some types of contaminants present in the sewage.
16. What are the different types of sewage? Explain.
17. What are the harmful effects of sewage?
18. State the steps involved in the treatment of wastewater in wastewater
treatment plant?
Answers
1. (a) Sewage 2. Chlorine and Ozone.
(b) Domestic sewage (c) Contaminants 3. Biogas
(d) Sewerage (e) Manhole 4. Sedimentation tank is called a clarifier.

5. Water obtained after renewal of sludge 16. Domestic Sewage: Wastewater obtained
and floating impurities is called clarified from kitchen sink, wash basin,
water. bathroom, faeces from the toilet and
6. Diarrhoea, Cholera produced at home.
7. Through the manhole which are Commercial Sewage: Wastewater
created at a distance of 50 m to 60 m released by shops, offices, schools,
in the roads. hospitals and by establishments.
8. To allow sand, pebbles, grit to settle Industrial Sewage: Wastewater
down. released by industries which contains
9. Sewerage is an underground network poisonous chemicals.
of interconnected pipes called sewers Rain Water: As rain water flows
that transport or carry sewage from the on the ground, it picks up various
place where it is produced to treatment contaminants including soil particles,
plant where it is processed. organic compounds, heavy metals,
10. It is a water-treatment plant where the animal wastes, oil and grease.
pollutants from the sewage are made 17. Harmful effects of sewage are:
harmless and then disposed safely in (i) Spreading of Diseases: The stagnant
the water bodies.
water acts as a breeding ground for
11. The treated clarified water from the mosquitoes and flies which cause
aeration tank is taken into secondary infectious diseases like diarrhoea,
sedimentary tank where it is allowed cholera, jaundice and dysentery.
to stand for several hours and settles
(ii) Water Pollution: Drinking water
down at the bottom as activated sludge.
contaminated with sewage can cause
12. The process of depletion of dissolved
many disease to the human population.
oxygen from the water bodies due to
(iii) Eutrophication: Death of algae reduces
excessive growth of algae is called
eutrophication. the amount of oxygen in the water
since microorganism use oxygen for
13. Sewers are the underground pipes
the decomposition of dead algae. The
that takes the wastewater from
aquatic animals also die of suffocation
home to the treatment plant whereas
sewerage is the underground network due to lesser amount of dissolved
of interconnected pipes. oxygen.
14. (X) – Sewage 18. Wastewater treatment plant consists of
three stages:
(A) – Nitrates, Phosphates, Metal
(i) Primary Treatment
(B) – Phosphorous and Nitrogen
15. Some contaminants present in sewage (ii) Secondary Treatment
are: (iii) Tertiary Treatment
Primary Treatment: It consists of the
Organic Human faeces, animal waste,
impurities oil, urea, pesticides, fruit and following steps:
vegetable waste. (i) Screening: The sewage is passed
Inorganic Nitrates, phosphate, metals.
through bar screens to remove all
waste solid waste.
(ii) Grit and sand removal: The speed of
Nutrients Nitrogen and phosphorous.
the removing wastewater is slowed
Microbes Disease cause bacteria, fungi down to allow sand, grit and pebbles
etc. to settle down.
212 Science–7
(iii) Primary sedimentation: The sewage present in the sewage into harmless
is passed through a clarifier and substances.
allowed to stand for 10-12 hours. (ii) Secondary sedimentation: The
The primary sludge is removed treated clarified water is allowed
with a scrapper and shifted into to stand for several hours and to
a larger tank called digester tank. produce an activated sludge at the
The organic matter in the sludge is bottom. Some of the activated sludge
decomposed by anaerobic bacteria is added back to the aeration tank
to produce electricity. to increase the population of aerobic
Secondary Treatment: It consists of the bacteria. The remaining activated
following steps. sludge is sent to the digester tank
(i) Aeration: The clarified water for production of biogas.
is passed into aeration tank. Tertiary Treatment: It has a very low
Compressed air is bubbled through level of organic material and suspended
the clarified water to provide oxygen matter. It is disinfected with chemical
to let aerobic bacteria to grow rapidly like chlorine and ozone before it
in the water which decomposes is discharged into water-bodies or
most of the organic matter still ground.
18.2 Sanitation and Diseases

Poor sanitation and contaminated drinking water are the causes of a large number
of diseases. Many villages do not have safe disposal of human excreta due to which
a very large number of our people defecate in the open fields, near railway tracks,
dry river bed and sometimes directly in water. Therefore “untreated sewage is
a health hazard”. It may cause water pollution. Drinking water contaminated
with human excreta causes a large number of water borne diseases like cholera,
typhoid, polio, meningitis.
Septic Tanks: Many villages are still not connected to a common sewage treatment
plant. At such places a septic tank is used to treat household sewage. A large
concrete tank is built under the ground with inlet and outlet pipes attached to it.
The inlet pipes carries the household sewage to the tank. The solid matter from
the sewage settles at the bottom of the tank. The anaerobic bacteria present in
the tank decomposes most of the solid organic matter. The excess water flows out
through the outlet pipe into the soil.
Biogas Plant: The excreta from the toilet flows through covered drains into a
biogas plant where biogas is produced which is used as a fuel.
Vermi Composting: A toilet in which human excreta is treated by microbes and
worms which is found to be a novel, low water–use toilet for safe processing of
human excreta. It completely converts human excreta to compost.
Sanitation at Public Places
It is the responsibility of every citizen and municipality of the area to maintain
sanitation at public places. We too can contribute in maintaining sanitation at
public places.

(a) We should not throw rubbish like food wastes, plastic water bottles in public
places; instead we should put them in dustbin or carry back to home.
(b) We should never urinate on the roadsides.
(c) We should cover the open drains.
Exercise 18.2
1. Name the two factors which are responsible for spreading of large number of
diseases.
2. Name the disease caused due to contamination of drinking water with human
excreta.
3. What is the main use of a septic tank?
4. Which bacteria decomposes most of the solid waste matter present in the
sewage?
5. Give an example of low cost onsite sewage disposal system.
(a) Adopting good _______________ practices should be our way of life.
(b) A large concrete tank is built under the ground with inlet and outlet pipes
attached to it is called _______________.
(c) The _______________ bacteria present in the tank decomposes most of the
solid organic matter present in the sewage.
(d) A toilet in which human excreta is treated by earthworms is called
_______________.
(e) Untreated human excreta is a _______________ hazard.
7. What is a septic tank? What is its use?
8. What are vermicomposting toilets?
9. Why do fishes die due to excessive water pollution?
10. Name two alternative arrangements for sewage disposal where there is no
sewerage system? (NCERT Exemplar)
11. A man travelling in a train threw an empty packet of food on the platform.
Do you think this is a proper waste disposal method? (NCERT Exemplar)
12. What practices should be followed to maintain sanitation at public places?
13. What is a Biogas plant? What is its use?
IV. Long Answer Type Question (5 Marks)
14. Suggest some ways to minimize waste and pollutants at their source, taking
your home as an example. (NCERT Exemplar)
214 Science–7
Answers
1. Poor sanitation and contaminated 11. No, this is not a good habit. Wastes
drinking water must be disposed off in dustbin.
2. Cholera Improper disposal of wastes will get
3. To dispose off the human excreta and into drains and choke them. Even the
convert it with a useful product like animals can swallow it improperly.
biogas, which is used as fuel in villages. 12. (i) We should not scatter rubbish like
4. Anaerobic Bacteria. food wastes, plastic water bottles
5. Septic Tank/Biogas Plant instead put them in dustbin or carry
back at home.
6. (a) sanitation (b) septic tank
(ii) We should never urinate on the
(c) anaerobic
roadsides.
(d) vermicomposting (e) health
(iii) We should cover the open drains.
7. Septic tank converts the household
13. The excreta from the toilet flows
sewage or sewage from hospitals or
through covered drains into a biogas
isolated buildings to produce biogas.
plant where biogas is produced which
8. Vermicomposing is a toilet in which is used as a fuel.
human excreta is treated by microbes
14. (i) Biodegradable & non-biodegradable
and worms which is found to be a novel,
wastes should be disposed off
low water–use toilet for safe processing
separately.
of human excreta. It completely
converts it to compost. (ii) Instead of throwing used tea leaves,
solid food remains etc in sewage, throw
9. Discharge of untreated sewage like
them in the dustbin.
industrial sewage, commercial sewage
produce toxic chemicals which kill the (iii) Avoid throwing chemicals including
fishes in ponds, lakes, rivers etc. medicines, paints, insecticides etc. in
the drain because they increase the
10. (a) Septic tank, (b) Biogas plant
amount of sewage.
Did You Know?

Eucalyptus trees absorb all surplus wastewater rapidly and release pure water
into the atmosphere. Hence we should plant “Eucalyptus trees all along sewage
points.

1. Why should cooking oil and fats not be thrown down the drain? (HOTS)
2. Why should chemicals like paints, solvent, insecticides, motor oil and
medicines not be thrown down the drain? (HOTS)
3. Used tea leaves, solid food remain, soft toys should not be thrown down the
drain. Why? (HOTS)
4. Ravi sees a man falling into manhole. He shouts for help and gets the man
out of it safely.
(a) Where are manholes provided and at what distance?
(b) What values are possessed by Ravi?
(c) Why are open drains a concern? (VBQ)

Answers
1. Cooking oil and fats should not be thrown down the drain as they choke
thrown down the drain as they can the drain and do not allow free flow of
harden and block the pipes. In an open oxygen to the useful microbes in the
drain, the fats block the soil pores drain which decompose the wastes. So,
reducing its effectiveness in filtering all solid waste should be thrown in the
water. We should throw oil and fats in dustbin.
the dustbin. 4. (a) To detect any leakage or blockage in
2. Chemical like paints, solvents, the underground pipes (sewers).
insecticides, motor oil and medicines (b) Ravi is alert, vigilant, helpful.
should not be thrown down the drain (c) Open drains are a concern as these
as it may kill the useful microbes that lead to breeding of flies, mosquitoes
help to decompose the wastes present thus spreading of diseases. They
in the sewage and purify water. create unhygienic and poor sanitary
3. Used tea leaves, solid food remains, condition all around.
soft toys, cotton etc. should not be 
216 Science–7
ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES
1. Nutrition in Plants
Aim
To study the saprotrophic mode of nutrition in growing fungus.
Materials Required
A piece of bread, water, microscope or magnifying glass.
Theory
The mode of nutrition in which organisms take nutrients from dead and decaying
matter is called saprotrophic nutrition and the plants are called saprotrophs,
e.g. fungi grows on bread piece, pickles, leather, clothes, etc. that are left in hot
and humid weather.
Procedure
(i) Take a piece of bread and moisten
it with water.
(ii) Leave it in a moist, warm place
for 2-3 days.
(iii) Observe the bread piece under a
microscope or a magnifying glass. Growing fungus on the bread piece
Observations
Some white, green or brown fluffy patches on the bread piece are seen. This is
a kind of fungi called mould, growing on the bread piece. Under a microscope
the cotton-like threads are observed on the piece of bread.
Conclusion
Cotton like threads on the piece of bread reflects the saprotrophic mode of
nutrition in growing fungus.
Precaution
Do not taste/eat spoiled bread piece. Sun
4
Learning with Fun 3
A. Observe the figure and answer the
following questions:
1. This figure is showing the process
2
called ........... .
2. Arrow 1 represents absorption of
........... and ........... by roots.
3. A b s o r p t i o n o f c a r b o n d i o x i d e i s
represented by arrow number ........... .
1
217
4. Release of oxygen is represented by arrow number ........... .
5. Arrow number 4 represents ........... energy.
B. Crossword Puzzle:
Across
1. A plant pigment that absorbs sunlight.
6. The process by which plants use the energy in sunlight to produce sugar.
7. Organisms that use saprotrophic mode of nutrition.
9. A plant that does not have chlorophyll.
10. Gas produced in photosynthesis.
Down
2. Plants and animals that are dependent on others for their nutrition.
3. They are known as food factories of plants.
4. Pores present on the surface of leaves.
5. Ultimate source of energy for all living organisms.
8. An insectivorous plant (2 words).
1 2 3
4 5
7 8
10
218 Science–7
2. Nutrition in Animals
Aim
To show that saliva breaks down starch into sugar.
Materials Required
Two test tubes, dropper, boiled rice, distilled water and iodine solution.
Theory
Saliva is a digestive juice produced by salivary glands. Saliva contains the enzyme
salivary amylase which breaks the starch in the boiled rice into sugar. Sugar
does not give iodine test.
Procedure
(i) Take two test tubes and label
them as ‘A’ and ‘B’.
(ii) Put a teaspoonful of boiled
rice in test tube ‘A’.
Dropper
(iii) Chew well one teaspoonful
of boiled rice for 4-5 minutes
and transfer the chewed Iodine
boiled rice in test tube ‘B’. solution
(iv) A d d a b o u t 8 - 1 0 m l o f Distilled
distilled water in both the water Boiled and
test tubes and shake them Boiled rice chewed
properly. rice
(v) Now pour 2-3 drops of iodine A B

solution to each test tube by Effect of saliva on starch
a dropper and observe the
change in colour.
Observations
(i) The mixture in test tube ‘A’ turns blue-black.
(ii) The mixture in test tube ‘B’ remains unchanged.
Conclusion
There is change only in the colour in test tube ‘B’ because saliva changes
starch into a reducing sugar, i.e. glucose.
Precautions
(i) Wash the test tubes carefully.

(ii) Try to add saliva in test tube ‘B’ by chewing the boiled rice for 4-5 minutes.
Enrichment Activities 219

Learning with Fun
A. Label the figure of the human digestive system.
3
2
4 6
5 7
10
B. Match the following:

Column I Column II
1. (a) Incisor, in human set, 8 in number and
called biting teeth.
2. (b) Canine, in human set, 4 in number and

called tearing teeth.
3. (c) Premolar, in human set, 8 in number.
4. (d) Molar, in human set, 12 in number.
220 Science–7
C. Solve the crossword puzzle:
Across
1. Cream-coloured digestive gland.
4. Organ that tastes food.
5. Last part of alimentary canal. 1 2
R
7. Stored in gall bladder. 3
10. Finger like outgrowth in small 4

O
5 6
intestine.
I
13. A kind of taste. 7 8 9
L
14. Kills bacteria in stomach.
Down 10
L
2. Feeds with the help of pseudopodia. 11 12
3. Bile juice mainly useful in digestion 13

U
of substance.
14
I
6. The number of molars in one jaw
of man.
8. Secretes bile juice.
9. Watery secretion in mouth.
11. A ruminant.
12. Form of food restfully chewed by
ruminant.
3. Fibre to Fabric
Aim
To study the characteristics of cotton, silk, wool and nylon fibres.
Materials Required
Candle, fibres (cotton, silk, wool and nylon fibres) matchbox and a pair of tongs.
Theory
Fibres produced by the plants contain cellulose while the fibres derived from
animals are made of protein molecules. Synthetic fibre like nylon is a polymer.
Procedure
(i) Burn a candle using a matchbox.
(ii) Hold one end of the thread of different fibres one by one with a pair of
tongs.
(iii) Introduce the fibre thread into the candle flame.

Silk thread curls
away from flame On burning polyester
thread formed beads
Flame test of silk fibre
Observations
S. No. Type of fibre Observation
1. Cotton Burn with odour of burning paper. It does not melt/
shrink by flame.
2. Silk Burn with odour of charred meat/skin. It shrinks by
flame.
3. Wool Burn with odour of burning hair. It shrinks, burns but
does not melt.
4. Nylon Burn with odour similar to burning of plastics. It
shrinks and burns. Residue left after burning forms a
hard bead.
Conclusion
Different type of fibres have different characteristic properties.
Precaution
Perform this experiment in the presence of your teacher.
4. Heat
Aim
To show that black bodies are better heat absorbers than the white bodies.
Materials Required
Two tin cans, white paint, black paint, two thermometers, water and an iron
stand with clamp.
Theory
Dark-coloured objects absorb radiation better than the light-coloured objects.
Black body is a perfect absorber of heat and light.
222 Science–7
Procedure
(i) Take two identical cans. Paint the outer surface of one can with black paint
and another with white paint.
(ii) Pour 200 mL water in each can.
(iii) Insert a laboratory thermometer in each can and hang it on the stand as
shown.
(iv) Place the cans in the sun for about an hour.
(v) Read the temperature of water in both the cans.
100 110 °C
100 110 °C
Laboratory
90
90
thermometer
80
80
70
70
60
60
50
50
40
40
30
30
20
20
Can painted Can
10
10
white painted
0
0
black
200 mL
water
Measuring temperature of cans with white and black surface
Observations
S. No. Temperature (in °C)
1. Water in white painted can _60_°C
2. Water in black painted can _60.4_°C
Water in the black can is found to be warmer than that in the white can.
Conclusion
Black bodies are better heat absorbers than the white bodies.
Precautions
(i) The bulb of thermometer should not touch the bottom or side walls of the
beaker.

(ii) Note the temperature carefully.

Learning with Fun
A. Identify the conductors and insulators in the given items, which are
placed in a beaker.
Spoon Pencil
(Steel) Pen
Scale
(Plastic) Conductors
Tap-water
Compass
Insulators
B. In this word grid on ‘Heat’ the letters of the terms are arranged in
several different ways—horizontally, vertically, upside down, diagonally,
etc. Identify the terms, the clues for which are provided.
1. Scale measuring the temperature in °C.
2. Mode of heat transfer from the hotter end to the colder end.
E S O R E Z E E T C N Z S R
E R C E L S I U S S C A L E
O R D R O E O Z E I O O I N
B N E U O M R A Z O N L T R
E A R T R T B C E A D C B U
N Z M A E R C I D U U R M T
R R E R E M N U N T C E E V
T O B E O T O A D E T B O E
S R Z P R R M M C N I S U E
E E C M A B E C R V O U O T
A Z T E M Z D D V E N C E E
N O I T C E V N O C H U R O
E N O I T A I D A R E T D C
M A B N E I N S U L A T O R
224 Science–7
3. Aluminium is an example of.
4. Mode of heat transfer in fluids and gases.
5. Poor conductors.
6. Cool air moves from the sea towards the land.
7. Mode of heat transfer does not require any medium.
8. Degree of measure of hotness of body.
9. A device used to measure the temperature.
10. Cool air moves from the land towards the sea.
5. Acids, Bases and Salts

Aim
To show the process of neutralisation.
Materials Required
Dilute hydrochloric acid, dilute sodium hydroxide solution, phenolphthalein
indicator, test tubes, dropper and test-tube stand.
Theory
The reaction between an acid and a base is known as neutralisation. Salt and
water are produced during neutralisation process with the evolution of heat.
Acid + Base Æ Salt + Water (Heat is evolved)
Example: Hydrochloric acid (HCl) + Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
Ø
Sodium chloride (NaCl) + Water (H2O)
Procedure
(i) Take 5 mL of dil. hydrochloric acid solution in a clean test tube.
(ii) Add 1-2 drops of phenolphthalein indicator to it using a dropper.
(iii) Note down the colour change, if any.
Phenolphthalein
Sodium Hydrochloric
indicator
hydroxide acid
5 mL of dilute Dil. HCl + Sodium hydroxide +

hydrochloric Phenolphthalein Dil. HCl +
acid solution Phenolphthalein
solution
No change Pink colour Pink colour
in colour appears disappears
To study the process of neutralisation

(iv) Now, take 10 mL of dilute sodium hydroxide solution in another test tube.
(v) Using a dropper, start adding sodium hydroxide solution to the test tube
containing acid and indicator solution dropwise, till a pink colour just
appears.
(vi) Using another dropper, start adding hydrochloric solution to the pink
coloured solution dropwise and observe the colour change.
Observations
(i) On addition of phenolphthalein indicator, colour of dilute hydrochloric acid
solution does not change.
(ii) On addition of nearly 5 mL of sodium hydroxide solution to the mixture of
acid and indicator, the colour of the mixture changes to pink.
(iii) On addition of hydrochloric acid solution to the pink solution, the pink colour
disappears gradually.
Conclusion
(i) Phenolphthalein indicator gives pink colour with basic solution and remains
colourless in acidic solution.
(ii) On addition of base to an acid, acid is neutralised by base and vice versa.
It is indicated by colour change of indicator.
Precautions
(i) Handle hydrochloric acid solution carefully.
(ii) Use different droppers for different solutions.
Learning with Fun

A. According to their nature give proper place to each substance given
below:
Curd, Common salt, Vinegar, Soap, Lime water, Lemon juice, Grapes,
Shampoo, Sugar
1. Acidic substances
2. Basic substances
3. Neutral substances
226 Science–7
B. Crossword Puzzle:
Down
1
1. Milk of magnesia (2 words)
2. Lime water (2 words)
5. Nature of solution which
does not change the colour
of either red or blue litmus
6. Acid injected in the body 2
3
when ant bites (2 words)
7. Indicator that turns acidic
solutions to dark pink and 4
basic solutions to green (2 5
words) 6
Across 7
3. Medicines used to relieve

8
indigestion
4. A natural dye extracted
from lichens 9
8. A process in which salt

and water are produced by
chemical reaction between
an acid and a base
9. Acid found in curd (2 words)
6. Physical and Chemical Changes

Aim
To study the reaction between vinegar and baking soda.
Materials Required
A teaspoon, two test tubes, vinegar, lime water, two iron stands with clamp,
delivery tube and a cork.
Theory
Chemical reaction between vinegar and baking soda produces carbon dioxide
gas, which turns lime water milky.
Carbon dioxide + Lime water —→ Calcium Carbonate + Water.

Procedure
(i) Take 10 mL of vinegar in a test tube and clamp it.
(ii) In another test tube take 5-10 mL of lime water and clamp it on other
stand.
(iii) Add a pinch (about 2.0 g) of baking soda (sodium hydrogen carbonate) into
the test tube containing vinegar.
(iv) Put the cork in the mouth of the test tube immediately and pass the evolved
gas through the lime water by delivery tube.
(v) Observe the changes in the test tubes.
Delivery tube
Gas evolved
Clamp
Vinegar Lime water
turns milky
Baking soda
(sodium hydrogen Iron
carbonate) stand
Reaction between vinegar and baking soda
Observations
(i) On addition of baking soda to vinegar, bubbles of a colourless gas with
hissing sound comes out.
(ii) On pa ssing the evolved gas lime water turns milky.
Conclusion
In chemical reaction of vinegar and baking soda, carbon dioxide gas is evolved
which turns lime water milky.
Precautions
(i) Carbon dioxide gas should be passed only for a short time, otherwise the
milky colour disappears due to the formation of soluble calcium hydrogen
carbonate.
(ii) Cork must be placed on the test tube immediately.
228 Science–7
Learning with Fun
A. Use your knowledge of physical and chemical changes to identify
atleast one way to change each substance listed below physically and
chemically.
Substance Physical change Chemical change
Paper
Milk
Candle
Apple
Iron nail
B. Classify each of the following changes as physical or chemical change.
S.No. Properties/changes Type of change

(Physical/Chemical)
1. Digestion of food.
2. Getting a hair cut.
3. Tarnishing silver.
4. Tearing a piece of aluminium foil.
5. A hot glass cracking when placed in cold
water.
6. Fogging a mirror with your breath.
7. Breaking a bone.
8. Moth balls gradually vaporise in a closet.
9. Autumn leaves changing colour.

10. Photosynthesis.

7. Weather, Climate and Adaptations of Animals to Climate
Aim
To study the weather reports of the last one week.
Materials Required
Newspapers of the last one week, chart paper, note-book, pencil and glue (Fevicol).
Theory
Weather of a place is the day-to-day condition of the atmosphere at that place
with respect to the temperature, rainfall, humidity, wind speed, etc. The weather
of a place changes day after day and week after week. It can be studied by
elements of weather like temperature, humidity and rainfall.
Procedure
(i) Cut out the weather reports for the last one week from a newspaper.
(ii) Paste all the weather reports cut-outs on a chart paper.
WEATHER REPORT
[Temperature, Humidity and Rainfall]
WEATHER 01.09.20XX WEATHER 02.09.20XX

Temperature Temperature
Max. 23.5°C Min. 12.2°C Max. 23.6°C Min. 12.4°C
Humidity Humidity
Max. 82% Min. 50% Max. 80% Min. 46%

Humidity Humidity
Max. 82% Min. 45% Max. 89% Min. 66%

Humidity Humidity
Max. 78% Min. 48% Max. 80% Min. 48%
WEATHER 07.09.20XX
Temperature
Max. 24.4°C Min. 13.1°C
Humidity
Max. 82% Min. 49%

Observations
Temperature Relative humidity Rainfall
Date
Maximum Minimum Maximum Minimum (in mm)
01.09.20XX 23.5°C 12.2°C 82% 50% —
02.09.20XX 23.6°C 12.4°C 80% 46% —
230 Science–7
03.09.20XX 23.8°C 12.5°C 82% 45% —
04.09.20XX 24.0°C 12.6°C 89% 66% —
05.09.20XX 23.6°C 12.5°C 78% 48% —
06.09.20XX 24.2°C 13.0°C 80% 48% —
07.09.20XX 24.4°C 13.1°C 82% 49% —
Conclusion
(i) Maximum and minimum temperature and humidity are not same for all
the days.
(ii) Maximum temperature (24.4°C) was on 07.09.20XX, whereas the minimum
temperature (12.2°C) was on 01.09.20XX.
(iii) Humidity (89%) was maximum on 04.09.20XX, whereas the humidity (45%)
was minimum on 03.09.20XX.
Precaution
Reading should be taken carefully from the newspapers.
Learning with Fun
The school wall you see in the picture has a number of bricks missing.
Choose from the bricks on the ground such that you get the complete
message written on the wall.
1 2
Tro al Rain fore
3 reg
Hot Cli ion
4
Found in As in
India
5 6
and hts are
alm ost equ al

7
Major typ es of mals
8
liv ing are ap ,
9 , 10
liza gori ,
birds and ins ects .
sts mate
Day
nig
sam pic
ani
es rds
llas

8. Winds, Storms and Cyclones
Aim
To show that hot air is lighter than cold air.
Materials Required
Two empty paper bags of equal size, wooden stick, candle, thread and matchbox.
Theory
On heating air expands and occupies more space, so it becomes lighter. The
lighter hot air rises up and displaces the heavier cold air.
Procedure
(i) Take two empty paper bags (or empty paper cups) of exactly similar size. Hang
the paper bags in the inverted position on the two ends of a wooden stick with
the help of short threads.
(ii) Tie a piece of thread in the middle of the wooden stick. The other end of
this thread is tied to a hook. Initially the wooden stick remains perfectly
horizontal.
(iii) Put a burning candle below the open mouth of the left side paper bag
as shown in the figure and observe the wooden stick as well as paper
bags.
Rigid surface
Rigid surface Light wooden
Thread stick
Hot
air
Cold Inverted Cold Cold

air air Hot air air
paper rising up
bags Burning
candle
(a) (to heat air) (b)
Hot air is lighter (than cold air) and rises up
Observation
The left side paper bag goes up. It shows that paper bag of left side becomes
lighter than the right side.
Conclusion
Warm air (hot air) is lighter than cold air.
232 Science–7
Precautions
(i) Take a light wooden stick.
(ii) Handle the burning candle carefully.
Learning with Fun
Complete the crossword puzzle on the basis of clues:
Across 1 2 3 4
1. A violent storm with thunder and 5

lightning.
5. The moving air. 6
6. The instrument used to find wind 7 8

direction [2 words].
7. Arabic word from which ‘monsoon’
is derived.
10. A cyclone in Japan and Philippines.
Down 9
2. A cyclone in the American continent. 10
3. The centre of a cyclone.
4. State of India which was hit by a

cyclone on 18 October, 1999.
8. The instrument used to measure the
wind speed.
9. A dark funnel-shaped cloud that
reaches the ground from the sky.
9. Soil
Aim
To exhibit presence of water in soil.
Materials Required
A weighing balance, sample of soil, Bunsen burner, iron stand, clamp and
boiling tube.

Theory
Soil is a mixture of rock particles and humus. Soil contains water. The amount
of water which percolate through a given sample of soil per unit time is called
percolation rate of water.
Procedure
(i) Take a soil sample and remove stones from it.
(ii) Weigh the soil sample.
(iii) Now put the soil sample in a boiling tube.
(iv) Clamp the boiling tube on iron stand. Heat the boiling tube on Bunsen
burner.
(v) After sometime when water droplets are observed near the cooler inner
walls of boiling tube then cool the soil and weigh it again.
Water droplets
Clamp
Boiling tube
Iron stand
Soil sample
Bunsen
burner
To exhibit presence of water in soil
Observations
(i) On heating the soil, water droplets are observed on the cooler inner walls
of the boiling tube.
(ii) The weight of soil after heating is less than its weight before heating.
Conclusion
Soil contains water.
Precaution
Heating should be performed carefully in the presence of your teacher.
234 Science–7
Learning with Fun
A. Play Sudoku
Fill the missing parts of soil into the empty boxes. There must be a
complete set of the six parts of soil in each row and column.

B. Fill in the blank boxes.
1. Soil with greater proportion of big particles.
2. Soil with greater proportion of fine particles.
3. Soil with highest percolation rate.
4. Soil with almost equal amount of large and fine particles.
5. Soil with highest water holding capacity.

C. Label different layers of soil in the following diagram.
1.
2.
3.

4.
5.

10. Respiration in Organisms
Aim
To show that exhaled air contains carbon dioxide (CO2).
Materials Required
Plastic or glass bottle, cork borer, lime water and plastic straw.
Theory
During breathing, intake of air is called inhalation and expulsion of air is called
exhalation. Exhaled air contains 4.4% carbon dioxide (CO2) along with water
vapour, so this exhaled air turns lime water milky.
Ca(OH)2 + CO2 ——→ CaCO3 + H2O

Calcium Carbon Calcium Water
hydroxide dioxide carbonate
(lime water) (milky)
Procedure
(i) Take a clean plastic or glass bottle
and make a hole in its lid with the Straw
help of a cork borer.
(ii) Pour some freshly prepared lime water
in the bottle and fix the lid on the Exhaled
air
bottle.
(iii) Insert a plastic straw through the
lid in such a way that it dips in lime
Lid
water.
(iv) Blow the exhaled air into the lime
water for sometime and observe the
colour of the lime water. Lime water
turns milky
Observation
Plastic bottle
The lime water turns milky by blowing the Carbon dioxide is produced during respiration
exhaled air.
Conclusion
Exhaled air contains carbon dioxide (CO2) gas.
Precautions
(i) Only freshly prepared lime water should be used.
(ii) Air should be exhaled gently in sufficient amount.
236 Science–7
Learning with Fun
A. Label the following figure of human respiratory system.
2
4
3
5
B. The following figures show the various activities carried out by a

person during a normal day. Assign numbers to the pictures in order
of increasing rate of breathing, according to your experience.
Watching T.V. Playing carrom Running
Sleeping Reading Walking

11. Transportation in Animals and Plants
Aim
To measure the pulse rate and heartbeat.
Materials Required
Stethoscope and stopwatch (or digital watch).
Theory
Human body contains two types of blood vessels – arteries and veins. Due to the
blood flowing in the arteries, the phenomenon of throbbing movements called
pulse occurs. The number of beats per minute is called the pulse rate. A normal
person usually has a pulse rate between 72-80 beats per minute.
Procedure
(A) For measuring pulse rate:
(i) Place the middle and index finger of your right hand on the inner side
of your left wrist and press it gently.
(ii) You will feel some throbbing movements which is known as pulse.
(iii) To measure the pulse rate, count the number of throbbings that take
place in one minute.
(iv) Now run for 5 minutes and measure the pulse rate similarly.
(v) Now, find out the pulse rate of your friends under rest and after running.
(vi) Record the pulse rate of your own and your friends in the observation
table.

Measuring the pulse rate
(B) For measuring heartbeat rate:
(i) Take a stethoscope and place the chest piece of the stethoscope on your
chest [left side near the heart].
(ii) Count the thumping sounds (heartbeats) for one minute.
(iii) Now run for 5 minutes and again count the heartbeat similarly.
(iv) Now, find the heartbeat of your friends under rest and after running.
(v) Record the heartbeat of your own and your friends in the observation
table.
238 Science–7
Observation Table
Pulse rate Heartbeat
Name of the
S.No. In rest After In rest After
student
position running position running
1. X 72/min 85/min 72/min 85/min
2. Y ................ ................ ................ ................
3. Z ................ ................ ..................... ................
Conclusion
Pulse rate during rest = ...................
Heartbeat during rest = ...................
Pulse rate after running = ...................
Heatbeat after running = ...................
[Note: If the observation is different, write accordingly.]
Precautions
(i) The pulse rate/heartbeat should be counted only when the person is in
the state of complete rest.
(ii) The pulse rate/heartbeat should be counted carefully and follow the time
strictly.
Learning with Fun
A. Label the following figure of human heart.
1 2
5
6
7
8


B. Given below is a word maze. Find eight words related to “transportation
in animals and plants”. You can go upward, downward and even
diagonally upward and downward.
l l u x y m w b
a r t e r y o l
m e o l h p v o
s u x y l e m o
a s m w i u o d
l s o n o s h r
p i e a e n l v
e t a e w s e r
12. Reproduction in Plants

Aim
To study natural methods of vegetative propogation as in ginger rhizome.
Materials Required
Earthen pot, soil, ginger and water.
Theory
In vegetative propagation, the new plants are produced from vegetative parts of
the plant like root, stem or leaves. It is a type of asexual reproduction.
Procedure
(i) Take an earthen pot and fill it with soil.
(ii) Take a piece of ginger and sow it in the soil.
(iii) Water it regularly and observe the ginger after
some days.
Observations
Leaflets and roots start developing from the bud.
Conclusion
New plants are produced from the stem of the
ginger.
Precautions Rhizome (ginger)
(i) Soil should not have too much water.
(ii) The soil in which sowing is done must be properly loosened so that the baby
plant grows well.
240 Science–7
Learning with Fun
Use the given terms related to “Reproduction in plants” in column-I to
label the figures given in column-II.
Column-I Column-II
1. Filament
(i)
2. Seed
2(ii)
3. Yeast 3(iii)
4. Anther (iv)
5. Bud (v)
(vi)
6. Eyes
7. Wing
(vii)
8. Stigma (viii)

13. Motion and Time
Aim
To measure the average speed of a moving ball.
Materials Required
Chalk powder, ball and stopwatch.
Theory
Speed is the distance moved by an object in a unit time.
Total distance covered
Speed =
Total time taken
Procedure
(i) Draw a straight line [4–5 m long] on the
ground with chalk powder. Mark points A, A
2m
B
1m
C
1m
D
B, C, and D according to the figure. Average speed of a moving ball
(ii) Ask one of your friends to stand 2–4 m away
from the experiment area to note down the time taken by the ball to cover
the distance.
(iii) Roll the ball gently along the line and start the stopwatch at the same time.
This is called zero time.
(iv) Ask your friend to stop the stopwatch as soon as the ball reaches point B.
(v) Similarly repeat the activity and record the time taken by the ball to reach
point C from point B and point D from point C.
Observation Table
Distance travelled Distance travelled

S. No. Time taken Speed (v) =
by the ball Time taken
..........
1. A to B (2 m) .......... s v1 = = .......... m/s
..........
..........
2. B to C (1 m) .......... s v2 = = .......... m/s
..........
..........
3. C to D (1 m) .......... s v3 = = .......... m/s
..........
v1 + v2 + v3
Average speed of the ball = = ......... m/s.
3
242 Science–7
Conclusion
The average speed of the ball is ......... m/s.
Precautions
(i) Stop the stopwatch as soon as the ball reaches the points B, C, and D.
(ii) Make sure that the ball moves along the straight line.
Learning with Fun
A. Suppose that you run along three different paths from location A
to location B. Along which path(s) would your distance travelled be
different than your displacement?

B. Observe the diagram below. A person starts at A, walks along the
bold path and finishes at B. Each square is 1 km along its edge. The
person walks a distance of (1) ......... km. If he travels with a speed of
4 km/hr total time taken in journey is (2) ......... hours.

C. The graph below shows Donovan Bailey’s split times for his 100-metre
record breaking run in the Atlanta Olympics in 1996.

1. At what point did he experience his greatest average speed for a 10 metre
interval? Calculate this speed in m/s.
2. What was his average speed in m/s for the overall race?
14. Electric Current and Its Effects

Aim
To prepare an electromagnet.
Materials Required
A 10-15 cm long iron nail, insulated copper wire, cell, switch and a few pins.
Theory
The current carrying coil of an insulated wire wrapped around a piece of iron is
called an electromagnet. An electromagnet is a temporary magnet. Its magnetism
lasts only when the current passes through its coil.
Coil of insulated
copper wire Iron
nail
Pins
Cell
+ –
Switch
(ON) Cardboard box
Electromagnet
Procedure
(i) Take a 10-15 cm long iron nail.
(ii) Wind an insulated copper wire around it to form a tight coil.
(iii) Connect the free ends of the wire to the terminals of a cell through a switch,
as shown in the figure.
(iv) Turn the switch ON and bring some pins near one end of the nail. Observe
the pins carefully.
(v) Now switch OFF the current and observe the pins.
Observation
As the switch is turned ON the pins stick to the end of the nail. When the switch
is turned OFF pins fall down from the nail.
244 Science–7
Conclusion
An electromagnet is prepared by passing electric current through the coil of an
insulated wire.
Precautions
(i) Only insulated copper wire should be used.
(ii) Current should be allowed to pass only for a few seconds.
Learning with Fun
A. The table given below contains words that have been chopped in halves.
Find the pieces that fit together and write them in the answer area
given below.
sip se tch ent cuit pass
ng fu mag dry fila con
elec mag swi tric ric com
po be kilo curr ll byte
go bat aa tery tch pess
rom yt net perk ment cir

1. ______________________________
2. ______________________________
3. ______________________________
4. ______________________________
5. ______________________________
6. ______________________________
7. ______________________________
8. ______________________________
9. ______________________________
10. ______________________________

B. Can you label these symbols?
1. ______________________________
2. ______________________________
3. ______________________________
C. Look at the following circuits. Can you work out how many of each
component is in each circuit?
1. There are 2. There are
3. There are 4. There are
15. Light
Aim
To demonstrate that sunlight is made up of seven colours.
Materials Required
A prism and a white screen or a white paper.
Theory
Sunlight is made up of seven colours namely red, orange, yellow, green,
blue, indigo and violet. These constituent colours can be seen when a beam
of sunlight is passed through a prism.
246 Science–7
Procedure
(i) Allow a narrow beam of sunlight to enter a dark room through a small hole
in a window.
(ii) Take a glass prism and place the prism on the path of the light rays so
that it falls on one face of the prism.
(iii) The light coming out of the prism falls on a white screen or on a white
paper sheet.
P
White screen
S
R Red
P
B O Orange
light E
o f white Y Yellow
C
am ht)
A be lb lig G Green
A g h t or bu B Blue
T
li
(sun R
I Indigo
U
V Violet
M
Q Glass prism R
A glass prism splits white light into seven colours
Observation
The beam of light splits into a band of seven colours (red, orange, yellow, green,
blue, indigo and violet).
Conclusion
Sunlight is made up of seven colours.
Precaution
The distance between the prism and the cardboard should be adjusted properly
to get the full spectrum of the seven constituent colours.
Learning with Fun
A. Depict what will happen when parallel light rays passes through each
of the following?
1. Type of lens used
2. Type of lens used

B. Match the items given in Column I with one or more items of Column II.
Column I Column II
1. A Convex mirror (a) A magnifying glass.
2. A Convex lens (b) Can form image of objects spread over a large
area.
3. A Concave mirror (c) Used by dentists.
4. A Concave lens (d) The image is always inverted and magnified.
5. A Plane mirror (e) The image is erect and of the same size as
the object
(f) The image is erect and smaller in size than
the object.
16. Water: A Precious Resource

Aim
To study the effect of water scarcity on plants.
Materials Required
Two alike healthy potted plants, mug, water and marker pen.
Theory
Water is essential for all living organisms. Life is not possible without water. If
plants are not watered for a few days, they wilt and ultimately dry up.
Procedure
(i) Take two alike healthy potted plants.
(ii) Put these plants at a place where
there is proper availability of sunlight
and fresh air.
(iii) Mark them ‘A’ and ‘B’ by a marker
pen.
(iv) Plant ‘A’ is watered regularly whereas
the plant ‘B’ is left without being
Plant A Plant B
watered. Effect of water scarcity on plants
(v) Observe the plants after a few days.
Observations
(i) Plant ‘A’ that was watered regularly remained healthy and also showed
growth.
(ii) Plant ‘B’ that was not watered wilted and ultimately dried up.
248 Science–7
Conclusion
Water is necessary for plants. Due to scarcity of water, plants get wilted and
ultimately dried-up.
Precaution
Plants should be kept at a place where there is proper availability of sunlight and
fresh air.
Learning with Fun

A. The figure given below shows the processes involved in the water cycle.
They are labelled by numbers. Match these numbers with the processes
given in the jumbled form.
1. rudgon rawet
4
3 2. atooniaervp
7
3. acestoonnnid
5
4. duclos
2
5. tspratniaoinr
6
6. aitfinlronit
1
7. ntciepirtaipo
B. Match the label to the definition.

A – Evaporation 1. A change of phase from a liquid to a gas.
2. The process by which surface water enters the

B – Transpiration
soil.
C – Condensation 3. The loss of water from plants and vegetation.
D – Precipitation 4. A change of state from a gas to liquid.
5. The name given to condensed water vapour

E – Infiltration falling from the sky. Mostly occurs as rain,
snow or hail.
17. Forests: Our Lifeline

Aim
To verify the fact that decaying organic matter is always moist and warm.
Materials Required
Vegetable wastes, dry leaves, water, mug and khurpi.
Theory
Decaying leaves, fruits, seeds, twigs, food materials, dead organisms, etc. are
called decaying organic matters. This organic matter is moist and warm.
Procedure
(i) Dig a small pit with the help of a khurpi.
(ii) Put vegetable wastes, dry leaves, etc. in this pit and cover it with soil. Pour
some water over it.
(iii) After 3-4 days, the upper layer of soil is removed and the decaying organic
matter is observed.
Observation
Decaying organic matter present in the pit feels moist and warm.
Conclusion
Decaying organic matter is always moist and warm.
Precaution
The khurpi should be handled carefully.
250 Science–7
Learning with Fun
In the figure given below, the artist has forgotten to put the labels and
directions on the arrows. Mark the directions on the arrows and label the
diagram using the following labels: Clouds, rain, atmosphere, carbon dioxide,
oxygen, plants, animals, soil, roots, water table.
Carbon dioxide
Oxygen
18. Wastewater Story

Aim
To demonstrate the cleaning process of the wastewater.
Materials Required
A large glass jar, water, grass pieces, orange peels, detergent, colour or ink,
four test tubes, marker pen, aerator (stirrer or mixer), funnel, filter paper, iron
stand, beaker and chlorine tablet.
Theory
Wastewater is the used dirty water. It is treated in sewage treatment plant.

Treatment of wastewater removes physical, chemical and biological matters that
contaminate the wastewater.

Procedure
(i) Take a large glass jar and fill it upto 3/4th with tap water.
(ii) Add some dirty organic matter such as grass pieces or orange peels, a small
amount of detergent and a few drops of an ink or any colour.
(iii) Cap the glass jar, shake it well and let the mixture stand in the sun for
2-3 days.
(iv) After two days, shake the mixture and pour a small sample into test tube.
Label this test tube as Sample–A [Before treatment].
Record the colour, transparency and smell of water sample–A in an
observation table.
Funnel
Cone
Filter paper First fold Second fold Cone

Folding of filter paper
(v) Use an aerator to bubble air through the sample in glass jar. [If you do not
have an aerator, use a mechanical stirrer or a mixer. You may have to stir
it several times.]
(vi) Next day pour a small sample to a test tube and label the test tube as
Sample–B [After aeration].
Record the colour, transparency and smell of water sample–B in the
observation table.
(vii) Fold a piece of filter paper to form a cone. Wet the filter paper cone with
water and then insert the cone in a funnel.
(viii) The funnel is mounted on a stand and layers of sand, fine gravel and finally
medium gravel is placed in the cone.
(ix) Pour the remaining aerated liquid in the funnel and collect the filtrate in
a beaker. If the filtrate is not clear, repeat filtration until a clear filtrate is
obtained.
(x) Pour a small amount of the filtered water into a test tube and label it as
Sample–C [Filtered].
Record the colour, transparency and smell of water sample–C in the
observation table.
(xi) Transfer about 5 mL of the filtered sample in a test tube and add a small
piece of chlorine tablet. Shake it well to dissolve the tablet. Label this test
tube as Sample–D [Chlorinated].
252 Science–7
Filter
paper cone
Funnel
Fine gravel and sand

filter paper
Beaker
Filtered
clean water
Filtration of water sample
Record the colour, transparency and smell of water sample–D in the

observation table.
Observation Table
Sample State of water Colour Transparency Smell
A Before treatment Greyish Opaque Foul smell
B After aeration Greyish Opaque Unpleasant smell
C After filtration Colourless Transparent No smell (odourless)

D After chlorinaiton Colourless Transparent No smell, except
that of chlorine
Conclusion
Wastewater can be purified by scientific treatment.
Precautions
(i) Do not taste wastewater. Just smell it.
(ii) Filtration should be done slowly.

Learning with Fun
A. Solve the following crossword puzzle with the clues given below.
Across 1 2 3
2. A hole, usually with a cover,
through which a person can
enter a sewer or drain.
4 5
6. A pipe carrying sewage.
8. Dissolved and suspended 6
impurities in sewage.
9. Solid matter produced by 7
sewage treatment.
8
10. A chemical used to disinfect
water.
Down
1. Used water.
9
3. Bacteria that causes
decomposition of sludge. 10
4. Gas produced from

decomposition of sludge by
bacteria.
5. A word related to hygiene.
7. Water fit for drinking.
B. Word-puzzle: Find out eight words related to wastewater in the maze

given below.
S A E R A T I O N
L E R E T A W E D
U R W D R A I N V
D A M A N H O L E
G I Z P G S Q U L
E N R E W E S W B
254 Science–7
Term-I
Periodic Test-1 Maximum Marks: 20
Based on Chapters
Physics Biology
1. Heat 2. Winds, storms and Cyclones 1. Nutrition in Plants
Chemistry 2. Nutrition in Animals
1. Acids, Bases and salts 3. Fibre to Fabric
SECTION-A
1. Fill in the blanks. (½ + ½ = 1)
(a) The usual range of a laboratory thermometer is from __________to __________
(b) __________ is degree of hotness or coldness of a body.
2. Why is mercury used in thermometers? (2)
3. Explain the structure of a cyclone. (3)
4. State whether True (T) or False (F). (½ + ½ = 1)
(a) Woollen clothes keep us warm during winter.
(b) Normal temperature of human body is 37°F.
SECTION-B
5. Give one word for the following. (½ + ½ = 1)
(a) Substance which is soapy to touch and turns red litmus paper blue_________
(a) Acid which is called “king of Chemicals”__________
6. Name the acid found in (½ + ½ = 1)
(i) Curd (ii) Spinach
7. What step should be taken if a person is suffering from indigestion due to acidity ?
Why? (2)
8. Annie is playing in her garden with her friend. Suddenly a bee stings her friend.
Annie immediately bring baking soda and rubs it on the sting area. (3)
(a) Why does Annie apply baking soda ?
(b) What values are possessed by Annie ?
SECTION-C
9. (a) Which part of the plant gets carbon dioxide from air for photosynthesis?
(i) Root hair (ii) Stomata (iii) Leaf veins (iv) Sepals
(b) We can get silk from:
(i) Cocoons (ii) Moth (iii) Pupa (iv) Eggs (½ + ½ = 1)
10. What is shearing? (1)
11. What are villi? What is their location and function? (2)
12. Distinguish between parasite and saprotroph. (2)
Test Papers 255

Term-I
Based on Chapters
Physics Biology
1. Heat 2. Winds, storms and Cyclones 1. Nutrition in Plants
Chemistry 2. Nutrition in Animals
1. Acids, Bases and salts 3. Fibre to Fabric
SECTION-A
1. Convert 25°C into Fahrenheit scale. (1)
2. A blanket keeps us warm in winters but prevents ice from melting. Why? (1)
3. Two metals balls A and B (of same size and weight) at temperature of 50°C and
40°C respectively are kept in contact. In which direction will heat flow? Explain.(2)
4. Draw the diagram of blowing of sea-Breeze. When does it take place? (3)
SECTION-B
5. Give one word for the following: (1 + 1 = 2)
(a) Substance used to test the nature of a substance _________
(b) Gives Magenta colour is acidic solution _________
6. Why do farmers need to treat the soil of their fields, with slaked lime before sowing
their seeds? (2)
7. Distinguish between acids and bases. (3)
SECTION-C
8. (a) The plant that traps and feeds on insects is (½ + ½ = 1)
(i) Cuscuta (ii) China rose (iii) Pitcher plant (iv) Rose
(b) Fat is completely digested in
(i) Stomach (ii) Liver (iii) Small intestine (iv) Large intestine
9. Name the type of carbohydrate that can be digested by ruminants but not by
humans. Give reason. (2)
10. How would you test the presence of starch in leaves? (2)
11. What is cocoon? (1)
256 Science–7
Half Yearly Examination Test Paper-1
Maximum Marks: 80
Based on Chapters
Physics Biology
1. Winds, Storms and Cyclones 1. Nutrition in Plants 2. Nutrition in Animals
2. Heat 3. Fibre to Fabric
Chemistry 4. Weather, Climate and Adaptation of Animal
1. Physical and Chemical Change to Climate
2. Acids, Bases and Salts 5. Soil
SECTION-A
1. Fill in the blanks (1 × 5 = 5)
(a) One litre of water at 30° C is mixed with one litre of water at 50°C. The temperature
of the mixture will be between __________
(b) The fastest mode of heat transfer is __________
(c) The mode of heat transfer that does not require a medium is __________
(d) Permanent winds blowing towards the equator are called __________
(e) A __________ is always accompanied by lightning.
2. In a mercury thermometer, the level of mercury rises when its bulb comes in contact
with a hot object. What is the reason for this rise in the level of mercury? (1)
3. What would happen if high speed winds blow over the roofs of building? Give reason
to justify your answer? (2)
4. Write any two differences between conduction and convection. (2)
5. Suggest any two experiences that make you think that air exerts pressure. (2)
6. Why is it advised not to hold the thermometer by its bulb while reading it? Write one
precaution that we must use while handling chemical thermometer. (2)
7. Give reason for the following (2)
(a) In hot climatic region, outer walls of the buildings are painted white.
(b) A chemical thermometer has a range of 35°C to 45°C only.
8. While constructing a house in coastal area in which direction should the windows
preferably face and why? (3)
9. Write down any three precaution you will take, if you are staying in cyclone hit area.
(3)
10. (a) Draw a labelled diagram to show transfer of heat by conduction. (3)
(b) What is a sea breeze? How is it set up? (2)
SECTION-B
11. Give one word for the following. (1 × 5 = 5)
(a) Grounding of wheat grain change its size. It is a __________ change.
(b) Turmeric turns __________ in basic solution.
(c) Phenolphthalein is a __________ indicator.
(d) Only change of__________ takes place during melting of ice.
(e) Crystallization is an example of__________ change.
12. Why is explosion of crackers considered a chemical change? (1)
13. How is rust different from iron? Explain how painting of an iron gate prevents it
from rusting? (1)
14. A student burnt a metal W found in the form of ribbon. The ribbon burnt with a
dazzling flame & a white power Y is formed. The white powder Y is dissolved in water
Test Papers 257

to get a new substance Z which is basic in nature. Write the chemical equation
involved in obtaining the products Y, X and Z. (2)
OR
Jai was very fond of collecting coins of different metals. One day, he observed that the
colour of silver and copper coins had changed. Explain reason for his observation.
15. How is the burning of candle a physical as well as chemical change? (2)
16. Explain the following:
(a) Lime water turns milky on passing carbon dioxide gas into it.
(b) Bubbles are produced when acetic acid in added to a solution of sodium hydrogen
carbonate (3)
17. Why should factory wastes be neutralised before discharging them into water bodies?
(2)
18. How will you test whether a given solution is acidic, basic or neutral with turmeric
indicator? (3)
19. Describe how crystals of copper sulphate are prepared. (3)
20. A student took a solution of copper sulphate in a beaker and put an iron nail in it
and left it for about an hour. (3)
(a) What changes do you observe?
(b) Are these changes chemical in nature?
(c) Write a word equation for the chemical change, if any.
SECTION-C
21. Which of the following is not an animal fibre (1)
(a) Wool (b) Silk (c) Jute (d) Pashmina
22. Which part of India has hot and wet climate ? (1)
(a) Kerela (b) Nagaland (c) Rajasthan (d) Kashmir
23. Pitcher plant traps insects because it
(a) Is a heterotroph (c) Does not have chlorophyll
(b) Grows in soil that lacks nitrogen (d) Has a digestive system like humans (1)
24. What do you understand by the term weathering? (2)
25. Draw a diagram showing open stoma and label any two parts. (2)
26. Differentiate between weather and climate. (2)
27. Give reasons (2)
(a) Sandy soil tends to be dry. (b) Loam is best suited for plant growth.
28. Mention any two adaptations in elephant that makes them well adapted for tropical
rainforests. (3)
29. Define digestion. Name two glands associated with digestion, where food does not
enter. Name the secretion of one of these glands and its function. (3)
30. Complete the following blanks with suitable answers.
A pile of _________ is used for obtaining silk fibres. They are either kept under the
sun or ___________ or exposed to _________.The silk fibres ____________. The
process of ______________________ for use as silk is called ________ the silk. (3)
31. What are mutually beneficial associations also known as? Why are such
associations of great significance to the farmer? (3)
32. (a) Name the carbohydrate present in grass and where is it digested in ruminants?
(b) Draw and label the digestive system of a ruminant. (4 labels) (5)
258 Science–7
Half Yearly Examination Test Paper-2
Maximum Marks: 80
Based on Chapters
Physics Biology
1. Winds, Storms and Cyclones 1. Nutrition in Plants 2. Nutrition in Animals
2. Heat 3. Fibre to Fabric
Chemistry 4. Weather, Climate and Adaptation of Animal
1. Physical and Chemical Change to Climate
2. Acids, Bases and Salts 5. Soil
SECTION-A
1. Fill in the blanks (5)
(a) The range of a laboratory thermometer in from __________ to__________
(b) The heat flows from a body at from __________ to__________ .
(c) Materials which do not allow heat to pass through them easily are called __________.
(d) __________ wind speed in accompanied by __________ air pressure.
(e) __________ heating on the earth is the main cause of wind movement.
2. What is Tornado? (1)
3. What is the role of satellites and radars in preventing destruction caused by a
cyclone? (2)
4. Explain, why holes are made in hanging banners and hoardings? (2)
5. Winds blow from areas of 0°–30° latitudes to the equator. Why? (2)
6. Write any two differences between conduction and insulator. (2)
7. Why do electric wires sag in summers? (2)
8. Why does one need to shake the thermometer and bring down the mercury level in
a electrical thermometer? (3)
9. (a) A metal spoon is generally placed in a glass before pouring tea. Why?
(b) Outer walls of houses in hot countries are painted in white colour. Why? (5)
10. (a) What is a sea breeze?
(b) With the help of a neat labelled diagram, explain the formation of land breeze.
(5)
SECTION-B
(a) When an acid reacts with a base, it form___________ and ___________.
(b) Solutions of substances that show different colour in acidic, basic and neutral
solution are called___________
(c) The chemical name of baking Soda is ___________ .
(d) A change in which new substances are formed are called ___________ .
(e) Setting of curd is a ___________ change.
12. Explain why rusting of iron object is faster in coastal areas than in deserts? (1)
13. Explain why burning of wood and cutting of wood is considered as two different
types of changes? (2)
14. When baking soda is mixed with lemon juice, bubbles are formed with the evolution
of a gas. What type of change is it? Explain (2)
Test Papers 259

15. Write the colour change when we use litmus paper with: (2)
(a) Soap solution (b) Vinegar
16. What is indigestion and how is it cured? (2)
17. Coffee is bitter in taste. What is it— acid or base and why? (2)
18. Name the acids present in:
(a) Tomato (b) Ant bite (c) Tamarind (3)
19. How are crystals of Copper Sulphate formed? (3)
20. (a) What is rusting? What are the conditions necessary for rusting?
(b) Write any two measures to prevent rusting from taking place. (2)
SECTION-C
21. Which of the following is not an animal fibre? (1)
(a) Wool (b) Silk (c) Jute (d) Pashmina
21. The removal of top layer of soil by wind and water is called (1)
(a) Corrosion (b) Erosion (c) Effusion (d) Diffusion
22. The animal with sticky pads on its feet that help it to climb trees is (1)
(a) Toucan (b) Red eyed frog (c) Reindeer (d) Siberian crane
23. Millions of tiny outgrowths on the inner surface of small intestine are (1)
(a) Capillaries (b) Buds (c) Villi (d) Veins
24. What are the scientists who study weather called? (1)
25. What are saprotrophs? Give example (2)
26. Name the four types of teeth found in humans. (2)
27. In an experiment to calculate the rate of percolation of water, a student observed
that it took 30 minutes for 150 ml of water to percolate through the soil. Calculate
the rate of percolation of water. (2)
28. State two features of polar bear that help it to survive in extremely cold conditions.
(2)
29. Complete the sequence associated with processing of wool
Rearing→______→ ______→______ →Removing burrs→_____→_______. (3)
30. In the experiment to show that light is necessary for photosynthesis: (3)
(a) Why is the plant kept in dark for 2-3 days?
(b) Why is the leaf boiled in alcohol?
(c) Which chemical is used to test the presence of starch in the leaf?
31. Write the method and draw the labelled diagram to show that soil has moisture.(3)
32. Discuss the process of nutrition in Amoeba in detail. (5)
260 Science–7
Term-II
Based on Chapters
Physics Biology
1. Motion and Time 1. Respiration in Organisms
Chemistry 2. Transportation in Animals and Plants
1. Water: A Precious Resource 3. Reproduction in Plants
SECTION-A
1. Give one word for the following. (1)
(a) The time taken by a simple pendulum to complete one oscillation is called its
___________.
(b) The unit of speed is ___________.
2. State whether True (T) or False (F). (1)
(a) The basic unit of time is second.
(b) The object moving along a straight line keeps changing its speed, its motion is
called uniform.
3. What is motion? (2)
4. Write importance of distance-time graph. (3)
SECTION-B
5. Choose the correct answer: (1)
(a) Water is found in:
(i) Solid form (ii) Liquid form (iii) Gaseous form (iv) In all the forms
(b) International year of freshwater is:
(i) 2002 (ii) 2003 (iii) 2004 (iv) 2005
6. Name the process which maintains the amount of water on earth. (1)
7. What is harvesting of rainwater? (2)
8. Justify that water is most essential for the life of living organisms. (3)
SECTION-C
9. Choose the correct answer: (1)
The cellular aerobic respiration takes place in:
(a) Nucleus (b) Cytoplasm (c) Mitochondria (d) Chloroplast
10. Why is it necessary to excrete waste products? (2)
11. Sketch the reproductive parts of a flower. (3)
Test Papers 261

Term-II
Based on Chapters
Physics Biology
1. Motion and Time 1. Respiration in Organisms
Chemistry 2. Transportation in Animals and Plants
1. Water: A Precious Resource 3. Reproduction in Plants
SECTION-A
1. Give one word for the following. (1)
(a) Time period of a simple pendulum depends upon _____________.
(b) The relation between speed and displacement is ____________.
2. In the given graph, what is shows by A and B (1)
B
Distance (cms)
Time (sec)
3. Explain uniform and non-uniform motion. (2)
4. A car travels along a circular track at a constant speed of 100 km/hr. What type of
motion does it represent? Define it. (3)
SECTION-B
5. State whether True (T) or False (F). (1)
(a) Water from rivers is the only source for irrigation in the fields.
(b) Rain is the ultimate source of water.
6. Define the process infiltration. (1)
7. What are the ways to stop water leakage at individual level? (2)
8. What are the various reasons for depletion of water table? Name them. How does
increasing population affect the water table? (3)
SECTION-C
9. What is vegetative propagation? (1)
10. List the similarities and differences between aerobic and anaerobic respiration. (2)
11. What is pollination? Explain various types of pollination. (3)
262 Science–7
Yearly Examination Test Paper-1
Maximum Marks: 80
Based on Chapters
Physics Biology
1. Motion and Time 1. Forests: Our Lifeline
2. Electric Current and its Effects 2. Respiration in Plants
3. Light 3. Reproduction in Plants
4. Heat 4. Transportation in Animals and Plants
Chemistry 5. Weather, Climate and Adaptations of Animals
1. Wastewater Story to Climate
2. Physical and Chemical Change
SECTION-A
(a) If a car is running at a constant speed of 60 km/h, it will cover __________ in a
quarter hour.
(b) Electric bulb’s filament is made up of__________ wire.
(c) The cylindrical coil of a wire is called__________ .
(d) The image which can be obtained on a screen is called __________ .
(e) __________ are used as shaving mirrors.
2. Define temperature. Name the device which is used to measure temperature. (1)
3. Why is an electric fuse required in all electrical appliances? (2)
4. Draw the symbols of (a) cell (b) closed switch. (2)
5. What is magnetic effect of current? Name the electrical devices where magnetic
effect of current is used. (2)
6. Show the shape of distance-time graph for the motion in the following cases. (2)
(i) A car moving with a constant speed.
(ii) A car parked on the road side.
7. Observe the figures carefully (2)
A B

The given figure show the path of light through lenses of two different types
represented by rectangular boxes A and B. What is the nature of lenses A and B?
Test Papers 263

8. (a) Name the device that splits sunlight into seven colours.
(b) Name the colours in the band in order from 7 to 1.
(c) Which natural phenomenon in based upon the splitting of seven colours? (3)
OR
Define an electromagnet. Also write any two uses of the devices.
9. Rekha takes 15 minutes from her house to reach the school on a bicycle. If the
bicycle has a speed of 2 m/s. Calculate the distance between her school and the
house. (3)
10. (a) Distinguish between real and virtual image
(b) Write an activity to show that seven colours gets mixed up to give white light.
Draw the diagram. (3)
SECTION-B
11. Fill in the blanks: (1 × 5 = 5)
(a) ____________ is a step-well in which the rainwater is collected and stored.
(b) The process of seeping of water into the ground is called ________
(c) A ____________ is covered hole in he ground above the sewer lines.
(d) The treated water can be recycled and reused for growing ________
(e) Clarified water is cleared after removal of ________
12. Name the gas we use in the kitchen. What is its physical state? (1)
13. What do you understand by the term ‘sewerage’? (1)
14. Differentiate between physical and chemical change. (2)
15. How is rust different from iron? Explain how painting of an iron prevents it from
rusting? (2)
16. A student burnt a metal W found in the form of ribbon. The ribbon burnt with a
dazzling flame and a white powdery ‘Y’ is formed. The white power ‘Y’ is dissolved in
water to get a new substances ‘Z’ which is basic in nature. (2)
(a) Name the metal ‘W’ and ‘Y’.
(b) What type of change is it?
17. State the importance of the following: (2)
(a) Bar screens in a wastewater treatment plant.
(b) Chlorination of treated water.
18. (a) Why should chemicals not be released in the drains?
(b) Name and describe an alternative arrangement for sewage disposal where there
is no sewerage system. (1 + 2 = 3)
19. A mixture (x) in water contains suspended solids, organic impurities, inorganic
impurities (a) nutrients (b) disease causing bacteria and other microbes. Give name
for (x), (a) and (b). (3)
20. (a) What is sludge? How is it treated and used?
(b) Explain why aerobic bacteria are used in sewage treatment plants? (3 + 2 = 5)
SECTION-C
21. Sudha observed that a pond with clear water quickly filled up green algae. By which
method of reproduction did the algae spread so quickly? (1)
(a) Budding (b) Fragmentation (c) Spore formation (d) both (a) and (b)
264 Science–7
22. Blood vessels that connect arteries and veins are (1)
(a) Capillaries (b) Heart (c) Valves (d) Ureters
23. The ‘eye’ of the potato plant is what (1)
(a) The root is to any plant (c) The anther is to stamen
(b) The ovule is to ovary (d) The bud is to Bryophyllum leaf
24. Unscramble the following terms associated with sexual reproduction in plants.
LLIIOOATNNP, YMORBE (1)
25. Name (1 + 1 = 2)
(a) The vascular tissue responsible for transport of water in plants.
(b) The process that generates a force to pull water up through the plant body.
26. What is pulse? (1)
27. Rohit lives in a metropolitan city while Chhotu lives in a remote village surrounded
by a forest. The weather conditions are quite pleasant in the village as compared to
the city.
(a) How does the presence of a forest affect the climate of village?
(b) Mention any one measure to be adopted by Rohit to make his immediate
environment better. (2)
28. Why are forests called the green lungs? (3)
29. List two similarities between respiration and combustion. (3)
30. Give reasons
(a) We breathe faster when we need extra energy.
(b) During inhalation, ribs move up and outwards and diaphragm moves down.
(c) Yeast is an anaerobe. (3)
31. When crushed boiled rice is put in a test tube and a few drops of iodine solution are
added to it, a blue- black colour shows the presence of A in rice. If however boiled
rice is chewed thoroughly and then the same test performed, blue black colour does
not appear. This shows that saliva converts A into B that doesn’t change colour with
iodine solution.
(a) Identify A and B.
(b) Discuss the role of saliva in digestion of food. (3)
32. Draw and label the human excretory system. (3)
33. (a) What is seed dispersal? How is it beneficial for plants? (3 + 2 = 5)
(b) Give examples for the following
(i) A plant that reproduces through its leaves.
(ii) A plant that disperses its seeds through wind.
(iii) A spore producing plant.
(iv) A bisexual flower.
OR
(a) What is vegetative propagation? What are its advantages?
(b) Define fertilization. What is the product of fertilization known as?
Test Papers 265

Yearly Examination Test Paper-2
Maximum Marks: 80
Based on Chapters
Physics Biology
1. Motion and Time 1. Forests: Our Lifeline
2. Electric Current and its Effects 2. Respiration in Plants
3. Light 3. Reproduction in Plants
4. Heat 4. Transportation in Animals and Plants
Chemistry 5. Weather, Climate and Adaptations of Animals
1. Wastewater Story to Climate
2. Physical and Chemical Change
SECTION-A
(a) The thermometer that measures our body temperature is called __________
(b) When electric current is passed through a wire, it gets __________ . This is called
__________ effect of current.
(c) __________ is a current carrying coil of an insulated wire wrapped around a piece
of iron.
(d) The image which cannot be obtained on a screen is called__________ .
(e) In a plane mirror, the image is always __________ and __________ .
2. Why are double glass window panes used in cold countries? (2)
3. Name any two components of an electric circuit and draw their symbols. (2)
4. Why does a compass needle get deflected from its N-S position when electric current
is passed through it? (2)
5. Draw a closed electric circuit that consists of 40W bulb, a switch, a battery of four
cells and connecting wires. (2)
6. A car moves with a speed of 40km/hr in 15 min, and with a speed of 60km/hr for
next 15 min. What is the total distance travelled? (2)
7. Which type of mirror is used in vehicles as rear view mirror. Why? (2)
8. Rahul is standing at a distance of 1/2m in front of a plane mirror. What will the
distance between.
(a) His image and the mirror.
(b) Rahul and his image.
(c) What is the nature of his image? (3)
9. Explain the heating effect of electric current. State two applications. (3)
OR
State the important factors on which heating effect of electric current depends.
10. (a) O
ne of the meters on the dash board of a car show km/h. What is the name of
the device and what physical quantity does it show? (2 + 3 = 5)
(b) From the given graph, answer the following questions:
(i) What is the speed of the car from 0 to 5 sec.?
(ii) What is the speed of the car from 5 to 8 sec.?
(iii) What is the speed of the car from 8 to 10 sec.?
266 Science–7
20
D 15
10
0 2 4 6 8 10
T
SECTION-B
(a) Setting of curd is a __________ change.
(b) Some substances can be obtained in pure state from their solution by __________
(c) Wastewater released by houses is called __________ .
(d) Dried __________ is used as manure.
(d) The rain water which can be used to recharge the ground water is called _______.
12. Give an example to show that when there is a change in colour it is a chemical
change. (1)
13. What is galvanisation? Why is it done on metals which corrode easily? (2)
14. Burning of a candle involves both physical and chemical change. Explain. (2)
15. What is drip irrigation? Give one advantage (2)
16. Define the terms (a) aquifer (b) infiltration. (3)
17. What is portable water? Mention two ways of making water portable. (2)
18. What is septic tank? Where is it used? (3)
19. Mention three ways of how you can control the sewage generated from your home. (3)
20. (a) What is activated sludge? (3)
(b) What happen to the sludge generated from wastewater treatment plant.
SECTION-C
21. Which of the following is not true about the spores produced by fungi? (1)
(a) Spores are covered by a hard protective coat.
(b) Spores can withstand high temperature and low humidity.
(c) Spores are formed by fusion of gametes.
(d) Spores are very light and can be carried over to long distances by air.
22. In a tall tree, the force responsible for pulling water and minerals from the soil is (1)
(a) Gravitational force (c) Suction force
(b) Transportation force (d) Conduction force
23. Aquatic animals like fish excrete their wastes in gaseous form as (1)
(a) Oxygen (b) Hydrogen (c) Ammonia (d) Nitrogen
Test Papers 267

24. ____________ is the reproductive part of the plant. (1)
25. Give reason - Seeds of drumstick and maple are dispersed by wind. (1)
26. What is the term used for the branchy part of the tree above the stem? (1)
27. State one point of difference between a food chain and a food web. (2)
28. The figure given below depicts the transfer of pollen grains to stigma. What is this
process termed as? Identify its types. (2)
1 2
29. Rohini’s father was a chain smoker. She persistently advised him to quit smoking.
(a) State any two harmful effects of smoking.
(b) List any two qualities shown by Rohini. (2)
30. Observe the diagram carefully and label the parts marked A,B,C,D,E and F. (3)
F
31. State three differences between aerobic and anaerobic respiration. (3)
32. When we put food in our mouth, teeth cut, chew and grind it. The glands X secrete
a watery liquid Y that digest component Z present in food partially. Identify X, Y
and Z. (3)
33. (a) Define vegetative propagation. List any two of its advantages. A
(b) Name a plant that reproduces through

(i) its leaves B
(ii) its roots
(iii) budding
(iv) fragmentation
(c) Identify and define the process taking place in the diagram C
shown below. Name the parts marked A and B.
(d) After this process, what does C develop into? (4 + 1 = 5)
268 Science–7
WORKSHEET-1
Name: Grade:
Class: Section: Roll No.: Maximum Marks.: Teacher’s Sign
[Based on — Nutrition in Plants]
A. Fill in the Blanks. (3×1=3)

1. Green plants take energy from …………………
2. Food is made in …………….of plants.
3. ................gas is formed after photosynthesis.
B. State True or False. (3×1=3)

1. Manure provides all the raw materials for photosynthesis.
2. Carbon dioxide is one of the raw materials for photosynthesis.
3. Food is stored in the form of starch in plants
C. Multiple Choice Questions. (2×1=2)

1. Which of the following is an example of insectivorous plant?
(a) Cuscuta (b) Venus fly trap
(c) Dahlia (d) Lichen
2. Which of the following is an example of parasitic plant?
(a) Cuscuta (b) Lichen
(c) Mushroom (d) Yeast
D. Given answer in one word: (5×1=5)

1. Sunlight is trapped by which pigment in plants?
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2. What is the mode of nutrition in fungi?
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3. What is the chemical formula of carbohydrate?
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4. Food is stored in which part of a carrot plant?
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5. Chloroplast is usually found in which part of a plant?

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269
E. Answer the following in about 50 words: (2×2=4)
1. Define photosynthesis. Write the equation involved in photosynthesis.

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2. What do you understand by symbiosis? What are the roles of fungus and alga in
lichen?

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F. Answer the following in about 100 words: (3)
1. What is nitrogen fixation? Why does a plant need the help of bacteria in nitrogen
fixation?

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270
WORKSHEET-2
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Nutrition in Animals]

1. Animals show ……………….mode of nutrition.
2. Digestion happens ……………..the body of amoeba.
3. …………………teeth are meant for cutting the food.

1. Monkey is an omnivorous animal.
2. No digestion happens in stomach.
3. Fungi show digestion before ingestion.

1. Pseudopodia are found in which organism?
(a) Amoeba (b) Bacteria
(c) Virus (d) Yeast
2. Absorption of food happens in which part of the digestive system?
(a) Large intestine (b) Stomach
(c) Small intestine (d) Oesophagus

1. Which type of tooth is used for coarse grinding of food?
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2. Taste receptors are found on which organ in the human digestive system?
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3. Which digestive juice is made in liver?
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4. Which hormone is secreted by pancreas?
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5. Name the structure in small intestine which absorbs food?

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271
1. What happens to food when it enters the stomach?

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2. Write the major nutrients and their functions.

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1. What happens in diarrhoea? What should we do to prevent dehydration in
diarrhoea?

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272
WORKSHEET-3
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Fibre to Fabric]

1. Silk is obtained from ………………of silk moth.
2. Bakharwal is a breed of …………………..
3. Tasar is a variety of ……………………

1. Silk is obtained from many types of butterflies.
2. Woolen cloths are comfortable in winter.
3. Sorter’s disease can happen to people involved in sericulture.

1. Which of the following is not a use of wool?
(a) Winter dresses (b) Gunny sacks
(c) Carpet (d) Upholstery
2. Angora is a breed of which animal?
(a) Sheep (b) Goat
(c) Yak (d) Rabbit

1. Shearing is related to which natural fibre?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. Which type of shawl is made from hair of angora?
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3. What is the natural colour of wool?
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4. Name the town in Punjab which is famous for woolen garments industry.
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5. Which town in Uttar Pradesh is famous for silk sarees?

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273
1. What is the benefit of selective breeding of sheep?

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2. What are burrs? Why do workers remove burrs from wool?

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1. What do you understand by occupational hazard? Which occupational hazard is
associated with processing of wool? How can a worker be saved from this problem?

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274
WORKSHEET-4
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Heat]

1. ……………shows the degree of heat.
2. Heat is a type of …………………
3. Thermometer is a device to measure ………………..

1. Heat always moves from high to low temperature.
2. Water is a good conductor of heat.
3. Asbestos is a bad conductor of heat.

1. The body of thermometer is made of which material?
(a) Mercury (b) Glass
(c) Steel (d) Carbon
2. Which of the following metals readily expands or contracts with change in
temperature?
(a) Mercury (b) Steel
(c) Copper (d) Gold

1. What is the normal temperature of human body?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. What is the boiling point of water?
..................................................................................................................................................
3. What is the freezing point of water?
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4. Which structure in a clinical thermometer prevents the mercury level from falling?
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5. What is the range of laboratory thermometer?

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275
1. Why is mercury filled in thermometer?

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2. What is a kink? It is found in which type of thermometer? What is its function?

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1. Explain the various methods of transfer of heat.

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276
WORKSHEET-5
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Acids, Bases and Salts]

1. Sodium hydroxide is an example of ……………………
2. Calcium chloride is an example of …………………….
3. H2SO4 is an example of ………………….

1. Acid always tastes sour.
2. Some bases may taste sour.
3. Salts do not taste sour.

1. Which of the following is not a natural indicator?
(a) Litmus (b) Turmeric extract
(c) Methyl orange (d) China rose extract
2. Which acid is present in guava?
(a) Citric acid (b) Oxalic acid
(c) Tartaric acid (d) Formic acid

1. Which acid is present in tomato?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. What is the common name of sodium chloride?
..................................................................................................................................................
3. What is the common name of acetic acid?
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4. Which substance is formed after reaction between an acid and a base?
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5. Name the colours in which litmus paper is available.

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277
1. Write a brief note on acid rain.

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2. Which substance is present in Milk of Magnesia? How does it provide relief from
hyperacidity?

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1. Write five uses of acid in our day to day life.

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278
WORKSHEET-6
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Physical and Chemical Changes]

1. ……………ribbon burns with dazzling white flame.
2. Formation of clouds is a ………………change.
3. Growth of a tree is a ……………change.

1. Chemical change is also known as chemical reaction.
2. Growth in some organisms is a reversible change.
3. Burning of anything is an irreversible change.

1. Which of the following is an example of physical change?
(a) Dissolution of salt in water (b) Ripening of fruit
(c) Germination of seed (d) Growth of a baby
2. Crystallization is applied while making which of the following?
(a) Vinegar (b)
Ice
(c) Salt (d)
Baking soda

1. What is the name of brown layer which is formed over iron?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. Write the chemical formula of magnesium oxide.
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3. Write the chemical formula of iron oxide.
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4. Boiling of water is which type of change?
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5. Cooking of chapatti is which type of change?

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279
1. How does galvanization prevent rusting of iron?

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2. How can you say that melting of candle and burning of candle are different types of
change?

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1. Write the different stages in making earthen utensils. Mention the particular type of
change during each process.

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280
WORKSHEET-7
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Weather, Climate and Adaptations of Animals to Climate]

1. Thick fur of polar bear provides insulation against …………….temperature.
2. In a rainforest, there is intense competition for ……………
3. Monsoon winds bring ………………in India.

1. Both weather and climate are long term phenomena.
2. Temperature is one of the elements of weather.
3. Tiger’s stripes help in camouflage.

1. What is the favourite food for polar bear?
(a) Fish (b) Moss
(c) Small mammals (d) Fruits
2. Which of the following is a characteristic bird of the Amazon Rainforest?
(a) Parrot (b) Toucan
(c) Crow (d) Crane
1. Which instrument is used for measuring minimum and maximum temperature in a
day?
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2. How is the climate in Kashmir?
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3. How is the climate in Cochin?
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4. Name the animal which has sticky feet, has no tail and lives on tree tops.
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5. Which animal shows the best ability to camouflage?

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281
1. Which are the various elements of weather?

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2. Why does a polar bear need to move slowly and need to take rest too often?

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1. Discuss the various adaptations in an elephant.

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282
WORKSHEET-8
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Winds, Storms and Cyclones]

1. Smoke always goes ………………
2. ………………….of earth causes wind movements.
3. Moving ……………….is called wind.

1. Small tree is much safer than a tall tree during thunderstorm.
2. An umbrella can save from lightning.
3. Cyclones are highly devastating but typhoon is not.

1. Which part of the earth gets the least amount of sunshine?
(a) Equator (b) Tropics
(c) Arctic circle (d) Poles
2. Which of the following cities is unlikely to be affected by cyclone?
(a) New Delhi (b)
Kolkata
(c) Puri (d)
Cochin
1. What is the latitude of the tropics?
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2. Name any two cities of India where we can witness land breeze and sea breeze.
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3. Name a country where cyclone is known as typhoon.
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4. What is the name for the centre of cyclone?
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5. Which factor is responsible for maintaining the shape of an inflatable toy?

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283
1. Which factors contribute towards formation of cyclone?

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2. Why does the smoke from incense stick always rise up?

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1. Explain the formation of cyclone.

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284
WORKSHEET-9
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Soil]

1. Soil is formed from ……………..
2. Sand particles are ……………..than clay particles.
3. It takes ………………of years for the formation of soil.

1. Soil can be termed as non-renewable resource.
2. Topsoil is composed of medium sized particles.
3. Bedrock is so hard that it cannot be dug with spade.

1. Which of the following is made of soil?
(a) Terracotta (b) Ivory
(c) Gemstone (d) Baking powder
2. Which of the following can result in soil erosion?
(a) Deforestation (b)
Flood
(c) Storms (d)
All of these
1. Which part of the soil is composed of organic matter?
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2. Humus is of which colour?
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3. Which type of soil has the least capacity to retain water?
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4. Which type of soil has the best capacity to retain water?
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5. Which type of soil has equal amounts of sand and clay?

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285
1. Write the different layers in soil profile; starting from top to bottom.

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2. What is the difference between clayey soil and sandy soil?

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1. Suggest the necessary measures to prevent soil erosion.

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286
WORKSHEET-10
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Respiration in Organisms]

1. Respiration is carried out to produce ……………………..
2. ………………..gas is evolved at the end of respiration.
3. Lactic acid is produced at the end of ……………….respiration.

1. Aerobic respiration need not be the norm in all organisms.
2. All microorganisms show anaerobic respiration.
3. Anaerobic respiration can also be seen in human beings.

1. Which of the following is produced by fermentation?
(a) Vinegar (b) Chapatti
(c) Chocolate (d) Candies
2. Which of the following cells in human body show anaerobic respiration?
(a) Nerve cells (b) Muscle cells
(c) Red Blood Cells (d)
White Blood Cells
1. Which is the most common substance utilized for respiration?
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2. Name the alcohol which is produced after anaerobic respiration.
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3. Write the chemical equation of aerobic respiration.
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4. Write the chemical equation of anaerobic respiration in muscle cells.
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5. Write the chemical equation of anaerobic respiration which produces alcohol.

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287
1. Why does our breathing rate slow down when we are sleeping?

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2. What is fermentation? Make a list of five products which are made through
fermentation.

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1. Explain the respiratory organs in fish and cockroach.

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288
WORKSHEET-11
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Transportation in Animals and Plants]

1. Plants take minerals from ……………..
2. ………………mixes with blood when blood goes to lungs.
3. ………………………..is a pigment which imparts red colour to blood.

1. None of the arteries carries deoxygenated blood.
2. None of the veins carries oxygenated blood.
3. Blood is sent to the lungs for removing carbon dioxide.

1. Oxygenated blood first arrives in which chamber of the heart?
(a) Right auricle (b) Right ventricle
(c) Left auricle (d) Left ventricle
2. Which of the following is responsible for clotting of blood?
(a) RBCs (b)
WBCs
(c) Plasma (d)
Platelet
1. What is the function of phloem?
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2. What is the function of WBCs?
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3. Almost 95% of blood is composed of which component?
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4. Name the device used for measuring blood pressure.
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5. Which component of blood carries oxygen?

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289
1. What do you understand by heart beat?

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2. What is the difference between ureotelic and uricotelic?

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1. Write different functions of blood.

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290
WORKSHEET-12
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Reproduction in Plants]

1. A sugarcane plant shows …………….propagation.
2. New plants can be produced from …………….of a rose plant.
3. New plants can be produced from …………….of a rice plant.

1. Banana fruits do not produce seeds.
2. Wheat can be grown from stem cuttings.
3. Anthers are the male gametes.

1. Which of the following plants does not produce seeds?
(a) Rice (b) Wheat
(c) Ginger (d) Mango
2. How many seed leaves (cotyledons) are found in a gram seed?
(a) One (b)
Two
(c) Three (d)
Four
1. Name an organism which reproduces through budding.
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2. Which is the reproductive part of a plant?
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3. After pollination, the pollen grains land on which part of carpel?
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4. Which group of animals is the most important pollinators?
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5. Ovary changes into which structure once it matures after fertilization?

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291
1. What is the need for dispersal of seeds?

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2. How do human beings help in dispersal of seeds?

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1. Explains the events which happen after fertilization in plants.

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292
WORKSHEET-13
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Motion and Time]

1. ………………….motion is not possible in real life.
2. A honey bee and a butterfly show …………..motion.
3. Soldiers in a march past show …………….motion.

1. Non-uniform motion is not possible in real life.
2. A pendulum shows oscillation.
3. A calendar is a time-measuring device.

1. A train travels 300 km in five hours. What is the speed of train in km per hour?
(a) 50 (b) 60
(c) 70 (d) 100
2. A car is moving at a speed of 45 km per hour. How much time will it take to cover a
distance of 180 km?
(a) 1 hour (b)
2 hour
(c) 3 hour (d)
4 hour
1. Galileo’s invention led to development of which type of clock?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. What is the purpose of sundial?
..................................................................................................................................................
3. Which type of motion is shown by a see-saw?
..................................................................................................................................................
4. Which type of motion is shown by a spinning top?
..................................................................................................................................................
5. What is the SI unit of distance?

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293
1. What is the relation between actual speed and average speed in case of non-uniform
motion?

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2. How does a sand clock work? What is the drawback of sand clock?

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1. What is the difference between uniform and non-uniform motion? Draw graphs to
show uniform and non-uniform motion.

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294
WORKSHEET-14
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Electric Current and Its Effects]

1. LED consumes ……………..electricity than electric bulb.
2. CFL consumes …………….electricity than bulb.
3. MCB and …………………work for the same purpose.

1. Short circuit can be harmful for electronic items.
2. Electric switch is a safety device.
3. Current flows only through open circuit.

1. The coil of electric heater is usually made of which of the following?
(a) Copper (b) Nichrome
(c) Silver (d) Tungsten
2. The filament of a bulb is made of which material?
(a) Copper (b)
Nichrome
(c) Silver (d)
Tungsten
1. Which device works as source of electric current?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. Which device is used for closing and opening an electric circuit?
..................................................................................................................................................
3. How many terminals are there in an electric bulb?
..................................................................................................................................................
4. How much volt is produced by a cell of a torch?
..................................................................................................................................................
5. Electric kettle works on which principle?

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295
1. Write a brief note on battery.

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2. Briefly explain magnetic effect of electric current.

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1. Explain the structure of a torch.

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296
WORKSHEET-15
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Light]

1. A ………………..mirror is also called converging mirror.
2. A …………………mirror is also called diverging mirror.
3. Virtual image cannot be obtained on …………………….

1. Light always travels in a straight line.
2. Image is always formed behind the mirror.
3. A convex mirror always makes virtual image.

1. A candle is at a distance of 50 cm from a plane mirror. What is the distance between
the candle and its image in the mirror?
(a) 50 cm (b) 100 cm
(c) 25 cm (d) 75 cm
2. Which of the following is used as magnifying glass?
(a) Concave mirror (b)
Convex mirror
(c) Convex lens (d)
Concave lens
1. Real images are formed by which type of mirror?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. Real images are formed by which type of lens?
..................................................................................................................................................
3. Which type of lens always makes virtual image?
..................................................................................................................................................
4. Image is always smaller than object in case of which type of mirror?
..................................................................................................................................................
5. Image is always of the same size as object in case of which type of mirror?

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297
1. Why is a convex lens also called converging lens?

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2. Why is a convex mirror also called diverging mirror?

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1. What are the uses of concave mirror and convex mirror?

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298
WORKSHEET-16
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Water: A Precious Resource]

1. ………………..is the gaseous form of water.
2. …………….is the solid form of water.
3. …………………of water creates a cooling effect.

1. Water is a renewable resource.
2. River is the main source of drinking water for us.
3. Distilled water is purest form of water.

1. Which of the following is present in drinking water?
(a) Salt (b) Sugar
(c) Vitamins (d) Chlorine
2. Salt content would be highest in water from which of the following sources?
(a) Pond (b)
River
(c) Lake (d)
Ocean
1. What is the chemical formula of water?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. How much our body weight is composed of water?
..................................................................................................................................................
3. Which natural disaster is caused by deficient rains?
..................................................................................................................................................
4. Which natural calamity is caused by excess rains?
..................................................................................................................................................
5. The process of formation water from ice is known by which name?

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299
1. A person caught in the mid of an ocean is likely to die. Do you agree with this
statement? Give reasons for your answer.

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2. How is increase in population affecting the availability of water?

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1. How does the principle of three Rs help in conservation of water?

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300
WORKSHEET-17
Name: Grade:
[Based on — Forests: Our Lifeline]

1. Trees release ………………during photosynthesis.
2. Firewood and kendu leaves are examples of …………….produce.
3. Air, water and soil are examples of ……………..components of ecosystem.

1. Forests are very useful for tribes but not for the urban people.
2. A vulture plays the role of scavenger in forest.
3. Deforestation is good for the health of forests.

1. Which of the following is an example of decomposer?
(a) Vulture (b) Eagle
(c) Mushroom (d) Honey bee
2. Which of the following cycle begins with photosynthesis?
(a) Carbon cycle (b)
Oxygen cycle
(c) Nitrogen cycle (d)
Hydrogen cycle
1. The top leafy part of a tree is known by which name?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. What is the main source of energy in a forest?
..................................................................................................................................................
3. Which type of organisms play the role of producer in a forest?
..................................................................................................................................................
4. Which forest produce is used in paint and dye industry?
..................................................................................................................................................
5. Which forest produce is used as fuel by tribal people?

..................................................................................................................................................
301
1. What is the importance of abiotic factors?

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2. Deforestation can result in increased cases of flood. Why?

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1. What is the importance of forests for us?

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302
WORKSHEET-18
Name: Grade:
[Based on — The Wastewater Story]

1. Manhole is meant for checking the ……………..line.
2. …………….tank is used for disposing human excreta.
3. Chlorine is frequently used for …………….of water.

1. Sewage water can be reused after suitable treatment.
2. All organic waste should be thrown in the sewage.
3. Oil and fat can choke the drainage.

1. Process of composting can be hastened with the help of which of the following?
(a) Snail (b) Earthworm
(c) Crow (d) Frog
2. Which of the following trees are beneficial is planted along sewage tanks?
(a) Mango (b)
Coconut
(c) Eucalyptus (d)
Guava
1. Which term is used for liquid waste from a factory?
..................................................................................................................................................
2. Network of sewers is known by which name?
..................................................................................................................................................
3. What is the name for cleanliness drive launched by the government?
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4. Which insect is the carrier of dengue?
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5. Sulabh International is which type of organization?

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303
1. List some organic contaminants in sewage.

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2. Which gas is produced after treatment of sludge? What are the uses of this gas?

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1. What do you understand by sanitation? What are the disadvantages of poor
sanitation at public places?

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304

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Full Marks Pvt Ltd

4238 A, 1-Ansari Road, Daryaganj, New Delhi-110002

Autotrophic Depend on plants Heterotrophic

1.1 Nutrition and its Modes

Stoma open Stoma closed

Sun Small beaker

Plant kept in sunlight Plant kept in dark Leaves boiled in spirit

Leaf from plant Leaf from plant

7. Carbohydrates are made up of carbon, Chlorophyll

Light energy Chlorophyll

Soil Water Minerals

Plant kept in sunlight Plant kept in dark Leaves boiled in spirit

Leaf from plant Leaf from plant

1.3 Heterotrophic Nutrition and its Types

Nutrition in Plants 15

Did You Know?

VALUE BASED QUESTION

Unicellular Human Ruminating

Amoeba by Alimentary Rumination

Mouth • Oesophagus Rumen

2.1 Nutrition: Nutrition in Unicellular Organisms

Nutrition in Amoeba (Unicellular Organism)

Nutrition in Animals 23

Teeth No. in upper jaw No. in lower jaw Function

Incisors 4 4 Cutting , biting

Canines 2 2 Tearing , piercing

Pre molars 4 4 Crushing , grinding

Molars 6 6 Crushing , grinding

2.3 Nutrition in Ruminating Animals

Digestive system of Ruminant

VALUE BASED QUESTION

Obtained from Plants Obtained from Animals

Scouring Eggs Adult Moth Silk Moth Boiled

3.1 Fibre: Natural and Artificial; Animal Fibre: Wool

(a) Shearing a sheep (b) Scouring in tanks

Fibre to Fabric 33

3.2 Silk and Sericulture

Life history of silk moth.

Fibre to Fabric 35

Life history of silk moth.

HOTS & VALUE BASED QUESTION

Effects Measurement Transfer

•T  hermal Thermometer Through Without Medium

4.1 Heat : Effects; Expansion and Measurement

100 180 100

0.00°C 32°F 273 K Water

–273°C –459°F 0K Absolute

68 × 100 340 Water

(a) Which position P or T will feel warmer?

Did You Know?

Properties Uses Properties Types Uses

1. S our in Hydrochloric acid: 1. Bitter Alkalies

5.1 Acids and Bases: Properties, Types and Uses

Acids, Bases and Salts 55

Acids, Bases and Salts 57

5.2 Neutralisation Reaction and Its Uses

leads to acidity in the stomach. This is called

Acids, Bases and Salts 59

•T hermal Thermometer Through Without Medium

1. S our in Hydrochloric acid: 1. Bitter Alkalies

6.2 Chemical Change: Characteristics, Chemical Reaction,

18. (a) Rust is hydrated form of Iron. It is

7.2 Climatic Adaptations of Animals: Polar Region and

•S upport plant Rate of percolation =

10.2 Human Respiratory System: Mechanism of Breathing and