Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly introduce the Himalayas as the highest mountain range. Mention their geological activity and vulnerability to landslides. 2. Causes of Landslides Geological Composition Explain tectonic plate movements and their impact. Fact: The 2015 Nepal earthquake (magnitude 7.8) caused significant landslides (Source: ...
Formation of Soil: Working Instructions Soil creation might be the most scientific artistic process involving the following factors and steps. 1. Weathering: 1.1. Physical Weathering – This involves the wearing out or breaking of rocks by external forces such as extremes of heat sun or cold water icRead more
Formation of Soil: Working Instructions
Soil creation might be the most scientific artistic process involving the following factors and steps.
1. Weathering:
1.1. Physical Weathering – This involves the wearing out or breaking of rocks by external forces such as extremes of heat sun or cold water ice or even wind
1.2. Chemical Weathering: In these weathering types, the molecular structures of rock minerals dissolved in water, air and other substances convert to simpler structures
1.3. Biological Weathering: This is the weathering process that is influenced by the action of living organisms like plants, animals and even microorganisms in performing both physical and chemical weathering.
2. Accumulation of Organic Material:
Plant and animal remains are incorporated at the surface.
Organic matter is transformed by the action of microorganisms producing a dark, rich, hummus material.
3. Leaching
Water penetrates the soil and carries the dissolved materials further into the soil profile.
This can leach nutrients from the upper part, but actually enriches the lower part.
4. Illuviation
Carriage of dissolved material by water and subsequent deposition in the lower levels of soil.
This process is responsible for the layering of soil profiles.
5. Development of Soil Profile
6. Development of Soil Profile
As years go by, distinct stratification of soils occurs and these include the following,
O Horizon – Tthese are areas mainly vegetated which contain soil composition made up of dead plants and animals decomposing and recycling
A Horizon – This is the thin upper crust, the top layer of soil ordure comprising of both organic and inorganic constituents.
B Horizon – This refers to the subsoil, a layer that is rich in minerals only.
C Horizon: This is the raw, unweathered deposit that is the immediate precursor of soil.
R Horizon: Refers to weathered rock or the soil parent material which has not weathered.
6. Time:
This process of soil formation occurs over thousands of years.
Climate, topography, and living organisms can all affect the rate at which soil is formed. Grasping the sequence of events enables one to comprehend the complexity that is involved in the processes of soil formation and supporting life.
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Model Answer Introduction The Himalayas, the highest mountain range in the world, are not only home to nine of the ten tallest peaks but also one of the most geologically active regions. This activity makes it highly susceptible to landslides, which can cause devastating damage to life, property, anRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Himalayas, the highest mountain range in the world, are not only home to nine of the ten tallest peaks but also one of the most geologically active regions. This activity makes it highly susceptible to landslides, which can cause devastating damage to life, property, and infrastructure.
Causes of Landslides in the Himalayas
Geological Composition
The tectonic plate movements in the region contribute significantly to geological instability. For instance, the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, with a magnitude of 7.8, resulted from such movements and led to extensive destruction.
Topography
The steep terrain and high elevations of the Himalayas inherently increase landslide risks. A tragic example occurred in 2017 in Himachal Pradesh, India, where a massive landslide buried two buses, causing over 50 fatalities due to the region’s perilous slopes.
Climate Change
Climate change exacerbates the situation by altering rainfall patterns and melting glaciers. The 2018 Sikkim landslide, which resulted in multiple fatalities, underscores the link between changing climate conditions and increased landslide occurrences.
Measures of Mitigation
Early Warning Systems
Implementing early warning systems utilizing remote sensing and real-time monitoring can provide critical alerts and facilitate timely evacuations.
Landslide Zoning
Mapping high-risk areas and restricting human activities in these zones can significantly mitigate risks.
Afforestation
Planting trees and vegetation can help stabilize soil and reduce erosion, thereby lowering the likelihood of landslides.
Slope Stabilization
Techniques such as terracing, retaining walls, and effective drainage systems can enhance slope stability and prevent material loss.
Building Codes
Developing stringent building codes that consider local geological conditions can ensure that infrastructure withstands potential landslides.
Conclusion
Landslides pose a substantial threat in the Himalayan region, necessitating a collaborative approach among governments, communities, and scientists to implement effective risk reduction strategies.
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