Class 10 Geography MCQs help students check their understanding of important topics. These questions follow the NCERT syllabus and cover topics such as Resources and Development, Forest and Wildlife Resources, Water Resources, Agriculture, Minerals and Energy Resources, Manufacturing Industries, and Lifelines of National Economy. By practicing these MCQs, students can improve their knowledge, gain confidence, and prepare well for exams.
1. What is the main goal of resource planning?
a) To use resources recklessly
b) To maximize profits
c) To manage resources sustainably for long-term use
d) To conserve all resources
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Explanation: Resource planning helps us use natural resources wisely so they last for future generations. It ensures that we don’t waste or overuse them, helping both the environment and the economy in the long run.
2. Which of these is an example of a biotic resource?
a) Water
b) Minerals
c) Soil
d) Forest
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Explanation: Biotic resources are living or once-living things. Forests contain trees, plants, and animals, making them biotic. In contrast, soil, water, and minerals are abiotic (non-living) resources.
3. What is the main characteristic of laterite soil?
a) Rich in organic matter
b) Found only in deserts
c) Highly leached and acidic
d) High moisture retention
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Explanation: Laterite soil forms in places with heavy rain and high heat, which washes away nutrients. This makes it acidic and low in fertility, meaning farmers need to add fertilizers before growing crops.
4. What is “fallow land”?
a) Land permanently abandoned
b) Land left uncultivated for one or more years
c) Land used only for commercial farming
d) Land with dense vegetation
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Explanation: Fallow land is not used for farming for a period to help the soil regain nutrients. This method improves soil quality and makes it ready for future farming.
5. Which of the following is a characteristic of resource planning?
a) Overuse of resources
b) Ignoring environmental sustainability
c) Balancing the use of resources with development needs
d) Destruction of ecosystems
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Explanation: Resource planning ensures we use resources efficiently while protecting the environment. It balances economic growth and nature conservation, so resources don’t run out.
6. Which resource is used in the production of fossil fuels?
a) Sunlight
b) Forests
c) Biomass
d) Plants and animals
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Explanation: Fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas are made from the dead remains of plants and animals buried under the earth millions of years ago. Heat and pressure turned them into energy-rich fuels.
7. What is the main goal of sustainable development?
a) Achieving a balance between economic, social, and environmental needs
b) Increasing resource consumption
c) Depleting non-renewable resources
d) Economic growth at the cost of the environment
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Explanation: Sustainable development means meeting today’s needs without harming the future. It focuses on protecting the environment while ensuring economic and social progress.
8. What is net sown area?
a) Land left fallow for years
b) Land that cannot be used for farming
c) Land used for non-agricultural purposes
d) Total land cultivated at least once in an agricultural year
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Explanation: Net sown area is land used for farming at least once in a year. It does not include land left unused or used for buildings, roads, or industries.
9. What is “land degradation”?
a) Increase in soil fertility
b) Decline in the productive capacity of land
c) Expansion of forests
d) Improvement of soil quality
View Answer
Explanation: Land degradation happens when land becomes less fertile due to deforestation, overgrazing, pollution, or poor farming methods. This reduces the land’s ability to grow crops or support vegetation.
10. Which of the following is a protected species in India?
a) One-horned rhinoceros
b) Snow leopard
c) Tiger
d) All of the mentioned
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Explanation: India protects several endangered animals under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Species like tigers, one-horned rhinos, and snow leopards are given special conservation efforts to prevent their extinction.
11. Which type of forest is the most protected for conservation?
a) Community forests
b) Unclassed forests
c) Reserved forests
d) Protected forests
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Explanation: Reserved forests get the highest level of protection because they are rich in plants, animals, and natural resources. The government strictly controls activities like logging and hunting to preserve biodiversity.
12. Which of these animals is endangered in India?
a) Nilgai
b) Asiatic Lion
c) House Sparrow
d) Blackbuck
View Answer
Explanation: The Asiatic Lion, found mainly in Gujarat’s Gir Forest, is endangered because of habitat destruction and poaching. Conservation efforts have helped increase their numbers, but they still need protection.
13. What is a special feature of mangrove forests?
a) They survive in salty water
b) They are found in deserts
c) They grow in very cold regions
d) They do not support wildlife
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Explanation: Mangrove trees grow in salty coastal areas, where fresh and seawater mix. Their strong roots protect the shore from floods and erosion, and the forests are home to fish, crabs, and birds.
14. Which famous animal lives in the Sundarbans mangrove forests?
a) Indian Elephant
b) Asiatic Lion
c) Snow Leopard
d) Bengal Tiger
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Explanation: The Sundarbans, located in West Bengal, are home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. These tigers are strong swimmers and have adapted to living in marshy and swampy lands.
15. How does cutting down forests affect wildlife?
a) It makes ecosystems stronger
b) It leads to the loss of species and habitats
c) It increases the number of animals
d) It improves air quality
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Explanation: Deforestation destroys the natural homes of animals and plants, causing many species to die out. It also disrupts weather patterns and increases soil erosion.
16. Which wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh is connected to the Asiatic Lion project?
a) Bengal Tiger Reserve
b) Indian Elephant Sanctuary
c) Snow Leopard Park
d) Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary
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Explanation: Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary was selected as a new home for the Asiatic Lion, to reduce risks like diseases and overcrowding in Gir Forest.
17. Which tree is considered sacred by the Bishnoi community?
a) Khejri
b) Neem
c) Banyan
d) Sal
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Explanation: The Bishnoi people of Rajasthan protect the Khejri tree because it prevents desertification and helps wildlife survive. They have even sacrificed their lives to save these trees.
18. What is the main type of tree in Himalayan forests?
a) Mangrove species
b) Short bushes
c) Evergreen coniferous trees
d) Tropical deciduous trees
View Answer
Explanation: The Himalayan forests are full of tall evergreen coniferous trees like pine and fir, which can survive in snow and cold weather.
19. Which of these animals is found in high-altitude Himalayan regions?
a) Asiatic Lion
b) Snow Leopard
c) Bengal Tiger
d) Nilgai
View Answer
Explanation: The Snow Leopard lives in the cold mountains of the Himalayas. It has thick fur, strong legs, and sharp vision, making it an expert hunter in rocky, snowy areas.
20. Why does India still face water shortages despite having many water sources?
a) Excess rainfall
b) Low population
c) Unequal distribution
d) Too many rivers
View Answer
Explanation: Some regions get plenty of water, while others suffer from droughts. Poor water management, pollution, and overuse make the situation worse.
21. What is the main benefit of rainwater harvesting?
a) It reduces dependency on groundwater
b) It increases soil erosion
c) It reduces agricultural productivity
d) It consumes a lot of energy
View Answer
Explanation: Rainwater harvesting collects rainwater for future use, reducing the need to pump groundwater. This helps conserve water and is useful in drought-prone areas.
22. Which major multi-purpose project is built on the Mahanadi River?
a) Koyna Project
b) Hirakud Project
c) Nagarjuna Sagar Project
d) Bhakra Nangal Project
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Explanation: The Hirakud Project, located on the Mahanadi River in Odisha, is a multi-purpose dam used for flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation. It is one of India’s longest dams.
23. How does afforestation help in water conservation?
a) Reduces soil erosion and improves groundwater levels
b) Increases pollution in rivers
c) Lowers rainfall in surrounding areas
d) Raises urban water demand
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Explanation: Afforestation (planting trees) helps absorb rainwater, reducing soil erosion and allowing more water to soak into the ground, which recharges groundwater levels.
24. What is the main reason for inter-state river water disputes in India?
a) Overpopulation in river basins
b) Industrial pollution in rivers
c) Construction of roads and highways
d) Unequal distribution of water
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Explanation: Inter-state disputes arise because some states receive more water than others, leading to conflicts over water-sharing agreements. Rivers like the Cauvery, Krishna, and Yamuna have faced such issues.
25. Which dam is the tallest in India?
a) Tehri Dam
b) Hirakud Dam
c) Sardar Sarovar Dam
d) Bhakra Nangal Dam
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Explanation: The Tehri Dam, located on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand, is India’s tallest dam at 260 meters. It is a major source of hydroelectric power, irrigation, and drinking water.
26. Which of these is NOT a method of water conservation?
a) Drip irrigation
b) Rainwater harvesting
c) Deforestation
d) Building check dams
View Answer
Explanation: Deforestation removes trees that help store and regulate water, leading to less groundwater recharge, increased soil erosion, and water loss.
27. What is the key principle of sustainable water management?
a) Extracting all available groundwater
b) Using water responsibly to ensure future availability
c) Polluting rivers for industrial development
d) Ignoring traditional water-saving techniques
View Answer
Explanation: Sustainable water management means using water wisely so that future generations don’t face shortages. It includes practices like rainwater harvesting, recycling water, and preventing pollution.
28. Which of these is an example of commercial farming?
a) Plantation farming
b) Shifting agriculture
c) Subsistence farming
d) Terrace farming
View Answer
Explanation: Plantation farming is a large-scale commercial farming method where a single crop (like tea, coffee, or rubber) is grown for sale rather than for personal use.
29. Which of the following is NOT a rabi crop?
a) Wheat
b) Peas
c) Mustard
d) Paddy
View Answer
Explanation: Paddy (rice) is a kharif crop because it needs hot, humid conditions and plenty of rain. Rabi crops like wheat and mustard grow in the winter season.
30. Which of these is a major kharif crop in India?
a) Gram
b) Barley
c) Rice
d) Wheat
View Answer
Explanation: Rice is an important kharif crop that needs warm temperatures, heavy rainfall, and flooded fields to grow. It is mainly grown in West Bengal, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh.
31. What is jute commonly known as?
a) Raw fiber
b) Golden fiber
c) White fiber
d) Natural silk
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Explanation: Jute is called the “golden fiber” because of its golden-yellow color and high economic value. It is used to make sacks, ropes, and carpets, and is mainly grown in West Bengal and Assam.
32. Which Indian state is the largest producer of coffee?
a) Karnataka
b) Assam
c) Tamil Nadu
d) Kerala
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Explanation: Karnataka produces the most coffee in India, especially the Arabica and Robusta varieties. Other coffee-producing states include Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
33. What was the major objective of the Green Revolution?
a) Expand forest areas
b) Reduce agriculture-based employment
c) Increase food grain production using modern technology
d) Promote organic farming
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Explanation: The Green Revolution was introduced to boost food grain production, especially wheat and rice, by using high-yield variety (HYV) seeds, modern irrigation techniques, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides. It played a vital role in making India self-sufficient in food production and reducing the risk of famine.
34. What is the ideal temperature range for wheat cultivation?
a) Above 30°C
b) 15°C to 20°C
c) 10°C to 15°C
d) 21°C to 27°C
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Explanation: Wheat grows best in a cool climate with temperatures between 15°C and 20°C. It needs cold weather during growth and warm, dry conditions for ripening. This is why it is widely grown in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh during the winter season.
35. Which crop is India the largest producer and consumer of?
a) Maize
b) Wheat
c) Rice
d) Pulses
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Explanation: India is the largest producer and consumer of pulses, including chickpeas, lentils, and black gram. Pulses are a rich source of protein and are essential for vegetarian diets in India. Despite high production, India still imports pulses to meet demand.
36. Which of the following is an example of mixed cropping?
a) Growing maize and groundnut together
b) Growing sugarcane in a field
c) Growing only wheat
d) Growing wheat and rice together
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Explanation: Mixed cropping means growing two or more crops together in the same field to increase productivity and reduce crop failure risks. A good example is maize and groundnut, as they use different nutrients from the soil and help maintain soil fertility.
37. Which mineral is the hardest known natural substance?
a) Graphite
b) Diamond
c) Quartz
d) Talc
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Explanation: Diamond is the hardest natural mineral on Earth. It is used in jewelry, cutting tools, and industrial equipment because it can cut through almost any material. Diamonds are formed under high pressure and temperature deep inside the Earth.
38. Which mineral is formed by the decomposition of surface rocks?
a) Bauxite
b) Gold
c) Coal
d) Zinc
View Answer
Explanation: Bauxite is formed when surface rocks break down due to weathering, leaving behind a residue rich in aluminum oxide. It is the primary ore for aluminum production and is mainly found in Odisha, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
39. In which type of rock is coal found?
a) Igneous
b) Metamorphic
c) Volcanic
d) Sedimentary
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Explanation: Coal is found in sedimentary rocks, which are formed by the compression of plant remains over millions of years. This process transforms organic material into peat, lignite, and eventually hard coal. Major coal reserves in India are in Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha.
40. What is lignite?
a) A high-quality iron ore
b) A volcanic rock
c) A low-grade brown coal
d) A type of copper ore
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Explanation: Lignite is a low-quality, brown-colored coal with high moisture content and low energy output. It is mainly used for power generation. Large deposits of lignite are found in Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan.
41. Which region is known as the “storehouse of minerals” in India?
a) Western Ghats
b) Chota Nagpur Plateau
c) Eastern Coastal Plains
d) Thar Desert
View Answer
Explanation: The Chota Nagpur Plateau, spread across Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh, is known as India’s mineral storehouse. It has large reserves of coal, iron ore, manganese, mica, and other minerals, making it an important mining region.
42. Which of the following is NOT a primary use of bauxite?
a) Manufacturing of chemical products
b) Fertilizer production
c) Making cement
d) Aluminium production
View Answer
Explanation: Bauxite is the main ore used for producing aluminum. It is also used in chemical industries and refractory materials. However, it is not commonly used in cement production, which primarily depends on limestone.
43. Which of the following is a non-metallic mineral?
a) Iron ore
b) Mica
c) Copper
d) Zinc
View Answer
Explanation: Mica is a non-metallic mineral used in electrical appliances, cosmetics, and construction. It has heat-resistant and insulating properties, making it valuable in the electronics industry. India is one of the largest producers of mica, with deposits in Jharkhand, Bihar, and Rajasthan.
44. Why is manufacturing important for economic development?
a) It helps modernize agriculture
b) It increases foreign trade
c) It creates more jobs
d) All of the mentioned
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Explanation: Manufacturing plays a big role in economic growth. It modernizes farming by providing better tools and equipment, creates jobs in factories, and boosts exports, bringing more money into the country. A strong manufacturing sector leads to overall industrial and economic development.
45. Which industry is called the backbone of industrial growth?
a) Iron and steel
b) Cement
c) Textile
d) Paper
View Answer
Explanation: The iron and steel industry is the foundation of industrial growth because it supplies machinery, tools, and raw materials to many other industries like construction, automobiles, and engineering. Without steel, modern industries wouldn’t function efficiently.
46. Manufacturing industries belong to which economic sector?
a) Tertiary sector
b) Primary sector
c) Secondary sector
d) Quaternary sector
View Answer
Explanation: Manufacturing industries belong to the secondary sector, which processes raw materials into finished products. Examples include automobile production, textile factories, and steel plants.
47. Which industry uses raw materials like cotton, jute, and wool?
a) Iron and steel
b) Chemical
c) Automobile
d) Textile
View Answer
Explanation: The textile industry uses raw materials like cotton, jute, and wool to produce fabrics, clothes, and other textile products. India is one of the largest producers of cotton textiles in the world.
48. Which of the following is a mineral-based industry?
a) Cement industry
b) Iron and steel industry
c) Food processing industry
d) Cotton textile industry
View Answer
Explanation: A mineral-based industry uses minerals as raw materials. The iron and steel industry depends on minerals like iron ore and coal to produce steel, which is used in construction, transportation, and machinery.
49. What is the main purpose of transport?
a) To move goods and people
b) To increase distance between places
c) To entertain people
d) To slow down economic activity
View Answer
Explanation: Transport helps in the movement of goods and people from one place to another. It connects cities, boosts trade and tourism, and helps people travel easily.
50. Which is India’s longest railway tunnel?
a) Banihal Tunnel
b) Atal Tunnel
c) Pir Panjal Tunnel
d) Konkan Tunnel
View Answer
Explanation: The Atal Tunnel, located in Himachal Pradesh, is India’s longest highway tunnel (9.02 km). It connects Manali to Leh and provides all-weather access to the region.
51. Which of the following is NOT a mode of transport?
a) Air transport
b) Water transport
c) Land transport
d) Postal services
View Answer
Explanation: Transport refers to moving people or goods by land, water, or air. Postal services are a form of communication, not transport, as they deliver messages and packages rather than people or cargo.
52. What is a major benefit of tourism?
a) Creates jobs
b) Increases population
c) Causes deforestation
d) Uses up natural resources
View Answer
Explanation: Tourism creates jobs in hotels, transport, restaurants, and local businesses. It also helps boost the economy by bringing in money from visitors who spend on food, accommodation, and sightseeing.
53. What is included in telecommunication?
a) Postal services
b) Only Internet communication
c) Mobile phones, radio, and email
d) Railway announcements
View Answer
Explanation: Telecommunication includes mobile phones, radio, email, and television—anything that helps people communicate electronically over long distances. It plays a vital role in business, media, and daily life.
Class 10 Geography MCQs – Chapter-wise Practice
Explore the topics below to practice multiple-choice questions (MCQs) from each chapter of Class 10 Geography:
- Class 10 Geography Chapter 1 – Development of Resources
- Class 10 Geography Chapter 2 – Forest and Wildlife Resources
- Class 10 Geography Chapter 3 – Water Resources
- Class 10 Geography Chapter 4 – Agriculture
- Class 10 Geography Chapter 5 – Minerals and Energy Resources
- Class 10 Geography Chapter 6 – Manufacturing Industries
- Class 10 Geography Chapter 7 – Lifelines of National Economy
Why Should You Practice Class 10 Geography MCQs?
Practicing Class 10 Geography MCQs is a smart way to enhance your preparation for board exams and strengthen your understanding of key geographical concepts.
- Revises Key Concepts: MCQs help you quickly review crucial topics such as agriculture, resources and development, water resources, minerals, industries, and lifelines of the economy. Regular practice reinforces your learning.
- Improves Exam Skills: Solving MCQs frequently enhances your speed and accuracy, which is essential for managing time effectively during exams.
- Enhances Conceptual Clarity: Answering a variety of questions deepens your understanding of geographical patterns, processes, and their interconnections.
- Reduces Exam Stress: Continuous practice builds confidence and reduces anxiety, ensuring you feel well-prepared on exam day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Class 10 Geography MCQs
Q1. What are the key chapters to focus on for Class 10 Geography MCQs?
The key chapters in the NCERT Class 10 Geography syllabus include:
- Resources and Development
- Forest and Wildlife Resources
- Water Resources
- Agriculture
- Minerals and Energy Resources
- Manufacturing Industries
- Lifelines of National Economy
Q2. How do MCQs help in exam preparation?
MCQs assist in revising key geographical concepts, boosting speed in answering questions, improving time management, and helping identify weak areas that require additional focus during your study sessions.
Q3. Are Class 10 Geography MCQs based on the NCERT syllabus?
Yes, Class 10 Geography MCQs are strictly aligned with the NCERT syllabus, covering all essential topics from your curriculum.
Q4. How often should I practice Class 10 Geography MCQs?
It’s ideal to practice MCQs daily or at least several times a week to ensure regular revision, improve retention, and deepen your understanding of geographical concepts.
Q5. Can MCQs help with quick revision?
Yes, MCQs are an excellent tool for quick revision, as they allow you to quickly recall and assess your understanding of important facts and concepts.
Q6. Are Class 10 Geography MCQs useful for all types of exams?
Absolutely! Practicing MCQs is beneficial not only for school exams but also for competitive exams that include geography in their syllabus.
