Our Home Earth A Unique Life Sustaining Planet Class 8 Short Question Answer

Our Home Earth A Unique Life Sustaining Planet Class 8 Short Question Answer

Our Home Earth A Unique Life Sustaining Planet Class 8 Short Question Answer

Question 1.

What is the habitable zone, and why is it important for life on Earth?

Answer:

The habitable zone, or 'Goldilocks zone', is the range of distances from the Sun where conditions allow water to remain in liquid form, which is essential for the development and sustenance of life.

Question 2.

Why is Earth often referred to as the 'Blue Planet'?

Answer:

Earth is called the 'Blue Planet' because its surface is predominantly covered by water, which gives it a blue appearance when viewed from space.

Question 3.

What role does Earth's atmosphere play in sustaining life?

Answer:

Earth's atmosphere provides essential gases, such as oxygen for breathing, and protects living organisms from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays through the ozone layer.

Question 4.

How does the size of Earth contribute to its ability to support life?

Answer:

Earth's size allows it to maintain a sufficient gravitational pull to hold onto its atmosphere, which is crucial for sustaining life.

Question 5.

What potential problems could arise if Earth's magnetic field suddenly disappeared

Answer:

If Earth's magnetic field disappeared, life could face increased exposure to harmful solar and cosmic radiation, which could damage living cells and disrupt ecosystems.

Question 6.

What are two factors, besides distance from the Sun, that make Earth habitable?

Answer:

Besides distance from the Sun, Earth's nearly circular orbit and appropriate size to support a stable atmosphere are crucial factors that contribute to its habitability.

Question 7.

Why do scientists believe that Mars may have supported life in the past?

Answer:

Scientists think Mars may have supported life in the past because evidence suggests it had liquid water, possibly in the form of lakes. The presence of water is a key factor in the potential for life to exist.

Question 8.

How does the size of Earth affect its habitability?

Answer:

The size of Earth is critical because it influences the planet's gravity, atmosphere, and ability to retain liquid water. If Earth were too small, it might not hold an atmosphere, while a much larger Earth could have extreme pressures and temperatures that would be inhospitable to life.