Water Resources — Class 10 Social Science NCERT Solutions (Free)

Free step-by-step NCERT solutions for Class 10 Social Science chapter "Water Resources" — 6 important questions with detailed answers for CBSE board exam preparation.

TL;DR: Free step-by-step NCERT solutions for Class 10 Social Science chapter "Water Resources" — 6 important questions with detailed answers for CBSE board e…

By Syllab.in · Updated Jun 17, 2026

Key Questions Covered:

Why are water resources considered precious and what percentage of Earth's wa…
What are the major sources of freshwater and how are they being depleted?
What are traditional and modern water harvesting methods?
What are the causes and effects of water pollution?
How can the problem of interstate water disputes be resolved?
What role can individuals play in water conservation?

Solutions Summary:

Question	Status
Why are water resources considered precious and what perc…	✓ Solved
What are the major sources of freshwater and how are they…	✓ Solved
What are traditional and modern water harvesting methods?	✓ Solved
What are the causes and effects of water pollution?	✓ Solved
How can the problem of interstate water disputes be resol…	✓ Solved
What role can individuals play in water conservation?	✓ Solved

Showing 6 of 6 questions

Q1: Why are water resources considered precious and what percentage of Earth's water is usable?

Water is essential for life and all human activities. Although water covers about 71% of Earth's surface, only 2.5% is freshwater, and of that, only 0.3% is accessible for human use. Most freshwater is frozen in ice caps or stored underground. Given limited availability and increasing demand, water is a precious resource facing serious depletion.

Q2: What are the major sources of freshwater and how are they being depleted?

Major sources include rivers, lakes, groundwater, and glaciers. Groundwater is being depleted faster than it is replenished due to overuse in agriculture and industry. Rivers are being dammed and diverted, affecting ecosystems and downstream communities. Glaciers are melting due to climate change. Pollution further reduces usable freshwater. Many regions face water scarcity affecting food and energy security.

Q3: What are traditional and modern water harvesting methods?

Traditional methods include check dams, tanks, and step wells used for centuries in India. Modern methods include rainwater harvesting systems, borewell recharge, and terrace cultivation. These methods capture and store rainwater, reduce runoff, and increase groundwater recharge. Effective water harvesting can address water scarcity and improve agricultural productivity in dry regions.

Q4: What are the causes and effects of water pollution?

Water pollution results from industrial waste, agricultural chemicals, urban sewage, and mining activities. Pollutants include toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and plastic. Pollution makes water unsuitable for drinking and farming. It harms aquatic ecosystems and public health. Eutrophication (excessive nutrient loading) causes algal blooms that deplete oxygen, killing aquatic life.

Q5: How can the problem of interstate water disputes be resolved?

Interstate water disputes arise when rivers flow across state boundaries. Solutions include fair water-sharing agreements negotiated between states and supported by the central government. Tribunals established by law (like the Krishna Waters Disputes Tribunal) resolve disagreements. Integrated basin management and cooperative approach can ensure fair distribution while protecting ecosystems.

Q6: What role can individuals play in water conservation?

Individuals can conserve water by reducing household consumption, fixing leaks, harvesting rainwater, and using water-efficient fixtures. Supporting policies that protect water resources and promote sustainable agriculture helps. Raising awareness about water scarcity and responsible consumption contributes to collective action. Individual choices multiplied across millions create significant impact on water conservation.

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