Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Start with an introduction to Uttarakhand’s urbanization. Mention the growing urban population (over 30% as per Census 2011) and its implications. Briefly highlight the lack of planning and regulation in this urban growth, setting the stage for discussing ...
Model Answer Metamorphism is the process through which rocks undergo changes in mineral composition, texture, and structure due to various factors: Heat: Elevated temperatures, often resulting from the Earth’s internal heat or proximity to molten magma, cause minerals to recrystallize. Heat drives mRead more
Model Answer
Metamorphism is the process through which rocks undergo changes in mineral composition, texture, and structure due to various factors:
- Heat: Elevated temperatures, often resulting from the Earth’s internal heat or proximity to molten magma, cause minerals to recrystallize. Heat drives metamorphic reactions, changing the mineral structure and creating new minerals.
- Pressure: High-pressure conditions arise from deep burial or tectonic forces such as the movement of tectonic plates. Pressure compacts minerals and leads to the formation of new minerals or textures, such as foliation.
- Fluids: Chemically active fluids, such as groundwater or hydrothermal fluids, facilitate mineral reactions and the exchange of ions, leading to changes in the rock’s chemical composition.
- Time: Metamorphism is a slow process that takes place over long periods. The longer a rock is subjected to heat, pressure, and fluids, the more pronounced the changes.
- Rock Composition: The mineral content of the original rock (protolith) influences the type of metamorphic rock that forms. Different parent rocks produce distinct metamorphic products.
Significance of Metamorphic Rocks
Metamorphic rocks play a crucial role in understanding Earth’s geology and have significant economic and industrial value:
- Geological Significance:
- Geological History: Metamorphic rocks provide insights into past tectonic events, helping geologists reconstruct Earth’s history.
- Tectonic Processes: These rocks are often formed at plate boundaries, aiding the study of plate tectonics.
- Climate History: Some metamorphic rocks, like eclogite, can indicate past climate conditions.
- Economic Significance:
- Mineral Resources: Metamorphic rocks like talc schist and graphite schist are sources of valuable minerals.
- Construction Materials: Rocks like gneiss, quartzite, and marble are used in building and infrastructure.
- Industrial Uses: Graphite is used in high-temperature applications, and quartzite is vital for glass manufacturing.
- Beauty Aids: Steatite (talc) is used in products like talcum powder.
Model Answer Uttarakhand, a rapidly urbanizing Himalayan state, faces several threats due to unplanned urban growth, especially in its mountainous regions. Urbanization in Uttarakhand has increased significantly, with over 30% of the population residing in urban areas as per the 2011 Census. HoweverRead more
Model Answer
Uttarakhand, a rapidly urbanizing Himalayan state, faces several threats due to unplanned urban growth, especially in its mountainous regions. Urbanization in Uttarakhand has increased significantly, with over 30% of the population residing in urban areas as per the 2011 Census. However, this growth is largely unregulated, which leads to the following risks:
1. Geological Threats
Unplanned urbanization has shifted construction from stable areas to geologically vulnerable zones, such as higher elevations and floodplains. Towns like Nainital, Mussoorie, and Joshimath are particularly susceptible to natural disasters due to their location in geologically unstable regions. This uncontrolled urban growth increases the risk of landslides and other geological hazards.
2. Geohydrological Hazards
Lack of proper planning has led to urban sprawl in areas prone to landslides, flooding, and other water-related risks. Cities like Srinagar and Bageshwar, situated on floodplains of the Himalayan rivers, are especially vulnerable to flooding and land mass movement. The increasing construction in these areas worsens the impact of geohydrological hazards.
3. Ecosystem Disruption
Unplanned urban growth has drastically altered the land use in Uttarakhand, causing a disruption of ecosystem services. Overdevelopment, especially in urban centers, has led to a reduction in groundwater recharge, damaging underground water resources and affecting the region’s hydrological processes. This damage further impacts local biodiversity and the natural water supply.
4. Increasing Inequality
Rapid urban expansion has led to the growth of slums in ecologically sensitive areas, including fragile slopes, water channels, and drainage areas. This increases the vulnerability of marginalized populations to environmental risks. Slum residents in these areas face inadequate infrastructure and heightened exposure to natural disasters.
Conclusion
To mitigate these risks, it is essential to implement an urban land-use policy, conduct environmental impact assessments, and incorporate disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation strategies into urban planning. Sustainable urbanization is critical for the long-term resilience of Uttarakhand’s mountainous regions.
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