By reviewing Class 8 Social Science Notes Kerala Syllabus Chapter 10 Europe on the World Map Important Questions, students can improve their conceptual understanding.
Europe on the World Map Extra Questions and Answers Class 8 Social Science Chapter 10 Kerala Syllabus
Europe on the World Map Class 8 Important Questions
Question 1.
Who is the famous Malayalam writer who wrote the book ‘Innathe Europe’?
a. M. T. Vasudevan Nair
b. O. V. Vijayan
c. S. K. Pottekkatt
d. Vaikom Muhammed Basheer
Answer:
c. S. K. Pottekkatt
Question 2.
Which major ocean is located to the west of the continent of Europe?
a. Indian Ocean
b. Atlantic Ocean
c. Pacific Ocean
d. Arctic Ocean
Answer:
b. Atlantic Ocean
Question 3.
How many square kilometers is the approximate area of Europe?
a. 95,50,000 square kilometers
b. 1,15,00,000 square kilometers
c. 85,00,000 square kilometers
d. 1,03,55,000 square kilometers
Answer:
d. 1,03,55,000 square kilometers
Question 4.
Which continent is located to the east of Europe?
a. Africa
b. Asia
c. North America
d. Australia
Answer:
b. Asia
Question 5.
Which index is prepared by the United Nations to assess the development of the countries of the world?
a. Human Development Index
b. Happiness Index ,
c. Gender Equality Index
d. Poverty Index
Answer:
a. Human Development Index
Question 6.
What are the two main human factors that are attributed to the success of the Finnish people?
a. Natural resources and agricultural prosperity
b. Political stability and foreign aid
c. Low education and unemployment
d. Willpower and hard work
Answer:
d. Willpower and hard work
Question 7.
In which year was S. K. Pottekkat’s book ‘Innathe Europe’ published?
a. 1947
b. 1955
c. 1962
d. 1970
Answer:
b. 1955
Question 8.
Which ocean lies to the north of Europe?
a. Aleutian Sea
b. Indian Ocean
c. Pacific Ocean
d. Arctic Ocean
Answer:
d. Arctic Ocean
Question 9.
Assertion (A) Finland is very ahead in the happiness index and the human development index.
Reason (R) The Finnish people have the willpower and hard work to overcome the adverse climate and terrain and lead towards development.
a. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. And R is the correct explanation of A.
b. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. But R is not the correct explanation of A.
c. Assertion (A) is true, reason (R) is false.
d. Assertion (A) is false, reason (R) is true.
Answer:
a. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. And R is the correct explanation of A.
Question 10.
Assertion (A) The countries of Europe can be a model for the world in terms of development.
Reason (R) These countries have only excellent natural resources and a favourable climate for development.
a. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. And R is the correct explanation of A.
b. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. But R is not the correct explanation of A.
c. Assertion (A) is true, reason (R) is false.
d. Assertion (A) is false, reason (R) is true.
Answer:
c. Assertion (A) is true, reason (R) is false.
Question 11.
Assertion(A): The Human Development Index (HDI) is a standard for measuring the development of countries in the world.
Reason (R): The HDI is prepared by the United Nations.
a. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. And R is the correct explanation of A.
b. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. But R is not the correct explanation of A.
c. Assertion (A) is true, reason (R) is false.
d. Assertion (A) is false, reason (R) is true.
Answer:
b. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. But R is not the correct explanation of A.
Question 12.
Assertion (A): Many countries with better climate, geography and natural resources lag behind Finland in the happiness index.
Reason (R): The development and happiness of a country are largely determined by the willpower and hard work of its people.
a. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. And R is the correct explanation of A.
b. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. But R is not the correct explanation of A.
c. Assertion (A) is true, reason (R) is false.
d. Assertion (A) is false, reason (R) is true.
Answer:
a. Assertion (A) and reason (R) are both true. And R is the correct explanation of A
Question 13.
Match the following by analyzing the borders of Europe.
| A | B |
| 1. North | (a) Mediterranean Sea |
| 2. East | (b) Atlantic Ocean |
| 3. West | (c) Asia |
| 4. South | (d) Arctic Ocean |
A. 1-(a), 2-(d), 3-(c), 4-(b)
B. 1 -(c), 2-(b), 3-(a), 4-(d)
C. 1-(d), 2-(c), 3-(b), 4-(a)
D. 1-(b), 2-(a), 3-(d), 4-(c)
Answer:
C. 1-(d), 2-(c), 3-(b), 4-(a)
Question 14.
Match the following
| A | B |
| 1. S.K Pottekkat | (a) World Development Index |
| 2. Dimension of Europe | (b) Published in 1955 |
| 3. HDI | (c) 1,03,55,000 Square Kilometer |
| 4. Innathe Europe | (d) Malavalam Travel Writer |
A. 1-(a), 2-(d), 3-(c), 4-(b)
B. 1-(d), 2-(a), 3-(b), 4-(c)
C. 1-(d), 2-(c), 3-(a), 4-(b)
D. 1-(c), 2-(b), 3-(d), 4-(a)
Answer:
C. 1-(d), 2-(c), 3-(a), 4-(b)
Question 15.
State the four main boundaries (direction and area bounded) of the continent of Europe.
Answer:
- North: Arctic Ocean
- West: Atlantic Ocean
- South: Mediterranean Sea
- East: Asia
Question 16.
Which international organisation prepares the Human Development Index (HDI)? What is the main objective of this index?
Answer:
- Organisation: United Nations
- Objective: The main objective is to provide a standard for assessing and comparing the development level of countries in the world by including human factors such as education and health, beyond economic factors
Question 17.
What is the area of Europe? What is its location compared to the world’s area?
Answer:
The area of Europe is approximately 1,03,55,000 square kilometres. Compared to the world’s landmass, Europe is one of the smaller continents (7% of the world’s area).
Question 18.
“Finland’s development achievements became a model for the world.” Elucidate the statement.
Answer:
Despite having a favourable climate and no natural resources, Finland has managed to overcome adverse climate and terrain to reach a high level of development (Happiness Index, HDI). This achievement makes Finland a model for the world.
Question 19.
Happiness Index and Human Development Index (HDI) – How do European countries rank in both these indices?
Answer:
European countries (such as Finland) consistently rank well in both these indices, including in the top ten. This indicates a better standard of living and development for their people.
Question 20.
What is Eurasia?
Answer:
Eurasia is a vast landmass that includes Asia and Europe. Europe is considered the western extension of Asia.
Question 21.
What are the major boundaries that separate Europe from Asia?
Answer:
The major natural boundaries that separate Europe from Asia are:
- Ural Mountains
- Black Sea
- Caspian Sea
Question 22.
“The area of Europe (1,03,55,000 sq km)”. What does it indicate?
Answer:
The area of Europe is small compared to other continents. This area indicates:
- Europe is one of the smallest continents in the world.
- In a small land area, high population density and urbanization are likely to occur.
- This area reminds us of the importance of overcoming geographical limitations with human capacity.
Question 23.
How do the Arctic Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean, which border Europe, affect European countries?
Answer:
- Arctic Ocean (north): Causes severe cold and harsh weather in northern European countries. This makes life difficult and requires hard work.
- Atlantic Ocean (west): Provides Europe with a vast coastline. It facilitates commercial shipping and fishing. In addition, factors such as the North Atlantic Current help moderate the climate in Western Europe.
Question 24.
How do Europe and Asia share an eastern border? What is the geographical significance of this region?
Answer:
Asia is located to the east of Europe, and together they form a large landmass called Eurasia. They share a continental border. This border (mainly the Ural Mountains and the Ural River) serves as a geographical and cultural transition zone. This border has a significant influence on the politics and trade of the eastern European countries.
Question 25.
Explain that ‘willpower and hard work’ are the basis of development using the example of Finland.
Answer:
Countries like Finland have an adverse climate and geography. However, their high ranking in development indices proves that development does not depend solely on natural resources or favourable conditions.
- Strong Willpower: The determination of the people to face challenges and achieve their goals.
- Hard Work: The hard work they put in to make this determination a reality.
The message is that these two human factors are the real capital that leads a country to success.
Question 26.
What is the historical and geographical role of the Mediterranean Sea on the southern border of Europe?
Answer:
- Geographical: It provides the countries of southern Europe with a mild Mediterranean climate. This is favourable for shipping and agriculture.
- Historical: The Mediterranean region was the cradle of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. This sea was a major trade route connecting Europe, North Africa, and Asia. It played a crucial role in the cultural and political growth of Europe.
Question 27.
Considering the location of Europe on the world map, can Europe be described as a ‘peninsula of peninsulas’? Why?
Answer:
Yes.
- Borders of Europe: Europe is surrounded by oceans on three sides (the Arctic in the north, the Atlantic in the west, Mediterranean in the south). Therefore, it is like a large peninsula of the Asian continent.
- Peninsulas: Within it, there are many smaller peninsulas, such as Italy, the Iberian Peninsula, Scandinavian Peninsula.
- Therefore, Europe can be described as a peninsula of peninsulas.
Question 28.
What are the underlying factors that have led European countries to rank high in indices, including the Human Development Index (HDI)?
Answer:
- Importance of education and health: Good public health systems and universal education.
- Social security schemes: A strong social safety net that ensures the well-being of citizens.
- Transparent and efficient governance: A less corrupt and efficient governance system.
- Citizen participation: The role played by the people in nation-building through high willpower and hard work.
Question 29.
What is the relationship between the Human Development Index (HDI) and the World Happiness Index?
Answer:
Relationship: Both provide a comprehensive picture of a country’s progress. Generally, countries that rank high on the HDI also rank high on the Happiness Index.
- Difference: The HDI focuses primarily on development (health, education, income). The Happiness Index measures people’s self-esteem and life satisfaction (Subjective Well-being).
- Finland Example: Finland’s high ranking suggests that basic development (HDI) and people’s subjective well-being (happiness) go hand in hand.
Question 30.
What are the major Geographical divisions of Europe?
Answer:
Geographical Features
Europe has a diverse topography. The topography of Europe can be classified as follows:
- North Western Highlands
- Central Uplands
- North European Plains
- Alpine Mountain system
Question 31.
Explain the features of north western Highlands.
Answer:
North Western Highlands
- The high hills found in the North Western regions of Europe and the Scandinavian Plateau spread across Norway, Sweden, and Finland are the speciality of the North Western Highlands.
- Scandinavia is a popular destination for travellers with its snow-capped mountains, glaciers, fast-flowing rivers, beautiful forests, and lakes. Round-topped and gently sloping hills, formed as a result of long¬term glaciation and weathering, are found in many places.
- Fjords, which are found on the Scandinavian coast, are another feature of this region.
FJORDS
‘IT’ shaped valleys are valleys formed in a ‘U’ shape by the process of glacial erosion. Fjords are glacial valleys formed in this way on the coasts of high latitudes. Planktons grow abundantly in fjords where warm and cold-water currents meet. These areas are rich in fish as they come to feed on the planktons. Therefore, the Scandinavian region is famous for fishing.
Question 32.
Analyse the statement that “development is based on willpower and hard work rather than natural resources, using the example of Finland”.
Answer:
Land Of Happiness
- Finland topped the United Nations World Happiness Index in 2024. This is the seventh consecutive time that Finland has achieved this feat.
- Countries such as Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland which experience Scandinavian topography and Arctic climate, are all in the top ten of the World Happiness Index, behind Finland.
In addition, these countries also ranked highly on the Human Development Index prepared by the United Nations to assess the development of countries in the world. Many countries with favourable climate, topography, and natural resources are behind Finland in the happiness index. The will and hard work of the Finnish people to overcome adverse climate and topography and leap towards development can be set as an example to the world.
How Is The Happiness Index Prepared?
The happiness index is prepared based on six factors: Per Capita Income, social support, healthy life. expectancy, freedom, generosity, and corruption.
Question 33.
What is the relevance of assessing the level of development of countries in the world using the Human Development Index (HDI)?
Answer:
HDI provides a comprehensive view of development, which is its relevance.
1. Multidimensional measure: Measures three main dimensions: income (economic status), life expectancy (health), and educational attainment (knowledge).
2. Beyond economic values: Evaluates how that growth is reflected in people’s lives, rather than just looking at economic growth (such as GDP).
3. Policy significance: It encourages countries to pay more attention to health and education in their development policies. A low HDI rank helps the government of that country shift its focus to citizen welfare.
Question 34.
“The four main borders of the European continent influence the lifestyle and culture of European countries.” Elucidate the statement.
Answer:
- North (Arctic Ocean): Due to the harsh cold, the people of Northern Europe became less dependent on nature and more focused on technology and social security systems.
- West (Atlantic Ocean): The Atlantic Ocean opened the door to new worlds for Europe. This led to colonisation and large-scale trade, and helped European culture spread around the world.
- South (Mediterranean Sea): The Mediterranean region maintained a temperate climate. This encouraged agriculture, ports, and shipping since ancient times, and laid the foundation for Western culture.
- East (Asia): Sharing a border with the Asian continent has led to cultural exchange and often political conflicts in Eastern Europe.
Question 35.
Write a note on the Alpine Mountain ranges.
Answer:
Alpine Mountain System
- The Alpine Mountain System is a series of fold mountains with parallel ranges located south of the Central Uplands.
- These mountain ranges extend from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Caspian Sea in the east. The main Alpine Mountain ranges are the Alps, the Caucasus, and the Carpathians.
- Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus Mountains is the highest peak in Europe.
FOLD MOUNTAINS: The lithosphere, the outermost layer of the Earth composed of the crust, and the upper part of the mantle, is generally solid. The lithosphere is made up of irregularly shaped plates. These plates are several thousand kilometers wide and have an average thickness of 100 kilometres. Fold Mountains are mountains formed by the folding of rock layers at plate boundaries where plates collide with each other. Example: The Himalayas.
Question 36.
Explain the formation and characteristics of the North European Plains.
Answer:
North European Plains
- The North European Plains are located south of the North Western Highlands. It is also known as the Great European Plain.
- This plain extends from the Ural Mountains in the east to the Atlantic Ocean in the west. The plain has a fairly flat topography with small hills here and there.
- The North European Plain, which is very suitable for agriculture, was formed as a result of glacial deposits and by the alluvium deposits of the major rivers of Europe, the Volga, the Don, and the Dnieper.
- The Volga is the longest river in Europe. The steppes are the most widespread grassland in the North European Plain.
Glaciation And Weathering
Glaciers are moving mass of ice. As a result of their movement, different landforms are created and the surface is changed. This process is called glaciation. Weathering is the physical, chemical, or biological decomposition or disintegration of rocks on the Earth’s surface.
Question 37.
What are the factors that influence the climate of Europe? How do they contribute to the temperate climate in the south and west?
Answer:
The main factors that influence the climate of Europe are:
1. Latitude
2. Topography
3. Proximity to the Sea
- The southern and western parts of Europe experience a temperate climate mainly due to the influence of the ocean.
- However, the northern and eastern parts experience a dry winter climate due to the high latitude and the influence of mountains.
Question 38.
Describe the four major geographical divisions of Europe and give examples of each.
Answer:
North Western Highlands
- The high hills found in the North Western regions of Europe and the Scandinavian Plateau spread across Norway, Sweden, and Finland are the speciality of the North Western Highlands.
- Scandinavia is a popular destination for travellers with its snow-capped mountains, glaciers, fast-flowing rivers, beautiful forests, and lakes. Round-topped and gently sloping hills, formed as a result of long¬term glaciation and weathering, are found in many places.
- Fjords, which are found on the Scandinavian coast, are another feature of this region.
FJORDS
‘IT shaped valleys are valleys formed in a ‘U’ shape by the process of glacial erosion. Fjords are glacial valleys formed in this way on the coasts of high latitudes. Planktons grow abundantly in fjords where warm and cold-water currents meet. These areas are rich in fish as they come to feed on the planktons. Therefore, the Scandinavian region is famous for fishing.
North European Plains
- The North European Plains are located south of the North Western Highlands. It is also known as the Great European Plain.
- This plain extends from the Ural Mountains in the east to the Atlantic Ocean in the west. The plain has a fairly flat topography with small hills here and there.
- The North European Plain, which is very suitable for agriculture, was formed as a result of glacial deposits and by the alluvium deposits of the major rivers of Europe, the Volga, the Don, and the Dnieper.
- The Volga is the longest river in Europe. The steppes are the most widespread grassland in the North European Plain.
Glaciation And Weathering
Glaciers are moving mass of ice. As a result of their movement, different landforms are created and the
surface is changed. This process is called glaciation. Weathering is the physical, chemical, or biological
decomposition or disintegration of rocks on the Earth’s surface.
Central Uplands
- The Central Uplands are located to the south of the North European Plain.
- This area of land, filled with small hills, valleys, and plateaus, stretches from Ireland in the west to Russia in the east. The Rhine and Rhone rivers enrich this area with water.
The different landforms that make up the Central Uplands are listed below:
| MAJOR LANDFORMS OF THE CENTRAL UPLANDS | |
| Landforms | Country |
| Rhine Valley, Vosges Mountains, Jura Mountains, Central Massif Plateau | France |
| Ardennes Mountains | Belgium |
| Black Forest Mountains, Harz Mountains | Germany |
| Maseta Plateau | Spain |
| Bohemian Plateau | Czech Republic |
Alpine Mountain System
- The Alpine Mountain System is a series of fold mountains with parallel ranges located south of the Central Uplands.
- These mountain ranges extend from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Caspian Sea in the east. The main Alpine Mountain ranges are the Alps, the Caucasus, and the Carpathians.
- Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus Mountains is the highest peak in Europe.
FOLD MOUNTAINS: The lithosphere, the outermost layer of the Earth composed of the crust, and the upper part of the mantle, is generally solid. The lithosphere is made up of irregularly shaped plates. These plates are several thousand kilometers wide and have an average thickness of 100 kilometres. Fold Mountains are mountains formed by the folding of rock layers at plate boundaries where plates collide with each other. Example: The Himalayas.
Question 39.
Based on Finland’s development model, comprehensively assess whether favorable geographical conditions are essential for development.
Answer:
Favourable geographical conditions are helpful for development, but not essential.
- Importance of favourable conditions (limited): Good weather may be helpful for agriculture and abundant natural resources for industries in the beginning.
- Importance of the Finnish model (survival): Finland breaks this argument.
- Adversity: Finland had unfavourable conditions, including severe cold and limited light.
- Secret of success: It turned these challenges into opportunities with willpower and hard work. Excellent education and social security systems strengthened this willpower.
- Finland proves that the basis of development is not material resources, but human resources (Human Capital). Therefore, more important than favourable conditions are people’s knowledge, skills, and efforts.
Question 40.
Write a note on the Arctic and Sub-Arctic climate region.
Answer:
ARCTIC/TUNDRA CLIMATE
- Arctic parts of Europe experience a tundra climate. The Arctic/Tundra climate is characterised by short, cold summers and long, harsh winters.
- While summer temperature rises to 10°C, winter temperatures drop from -25°C to -40°C.
- There is no sunlight here for 5 to 6 months in winter.
Long nights, harsh winters, and precipitation in the form of ice prevent the growth of plants. Due to this, only shrubs, lichens, and mosses that can withstand the cold generally grow in this climate. The lack of vegetation in the tundra climate also affects the animal life here. Only a few animals such as wolf, reindeer, polar bear, and Arctic hare with thick fur that can survive the cold, can be seen here.
SUBARCTIC/TAIGA CLIMATE
- The Taiga climate is experienced in the subarctic regions that lie south of the tundra region.
Although the short summers are mild and warm, winters are as harsh as those in the Arctic climate. - Temperature is below 0°C for five to seven months of the year.
- Precipitation in the taiga climate is generally in the form of snow. The main vegetation of the taiga climate is evergreen forests with coniferous trees. The main trees are pine and cedar. Lynx, ermine, and silver fox are the prominent animals in the region.
Question 41.
How agriculture, fishing and industry influence the life of people?
Answer:
Agriculture
Regional diversity exists in agriculture, intensive farming, extensive farming, and mixed farming
Fishing
Fishing is a major occupation in the countries of Norway, Denmark, and Poland, which are bordered by the North Sea, the North Atlantic Ocean, and the Arctic Ocean. Cod, herring, salmon, halibut, and sea trout are abundant in these areas.
Great Fisher Bank
The Great Fisher Bank and Dogger Bank, on the coast of Denmark and Norway, are the most abundant fishing areas in Europe. In addition to these, the Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea, and the inland lakes support a thriving fishing industry.
Industry
The Industrial Revolution led Europe to development. Europe’s iron and steel industry, textile industry, and manufacturing sector gained world attention.
Automobile Manufacturing Industry in Europe: European countries are at the forefront of vehicle manufacturing. Many companies that built fighter planes, trucks, and tankers for their country’s military during the world wars later turned to the automotive sector. Audi, Ferrari, Bugatti, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Rolls-Royce, Scania, Volvo, and Porsche are all European automobile companies that have admirers all over the world.
Question 42.
Write a note on the Important cities of Europe.
Answer:
celebrations, Germany’s Oktoberfest, Spain’s La Tomatina, Bullfighting, the Netherlands’ King’s Day Carnival, and the Venice Carnival are some of the notable festivals.
- Famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and London Bridge, as well as cities that are famous for art, culture, and history, are major tourist attractions in Europe. Important Cities
- Paris: Paris is the most visited tourist place in Europe every year. Located on the banks of the Seine River, Paris is the capital of France. The Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum attract tourists to this city.
- London: Located on the banks of the Thames River, London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom.
- Berlin: Berlin is the capital and largest city of Germany. This city is located on the banks of the Spree River.
- Moscow: Moscow is the capital of Russia. It is the largest city in Europe, located on the banks of the Moskva River.
- Rome: Rome, the capital of Italy, is located on the banks of the Tiber River. Many monuments of the Roman Empire and Christianity are located here. The Colosseum in Rome is one of the ancient wonders of the world. In addition to these, Madrid, Athens, Amsterdam, Vienna, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Dublin are other major cities in Europe.
Land of a Thousand lakes
- The northern European country of Finland is often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Lakes.
Although it is often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, Finland is actually home to more than 100,000 lakes, numerous rivers, and vast wetlands. - The Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland lie to the south of Finland, and the Gulf of Bothnia lies to the southwest. The landscape, climate, and culture here attract many tourists.