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Chapter 4 · Class 9 Social Studies

Drainage (Geography) — Important Questions

47 questions With answers CBSE format

SUMMARY: The chapter "Drainage" in Class 9 Geography focuses on the river systems of India, their significance, and the patterns of drainage they form across the country.
KEY TOPICS: Himalayan rivers, Peninsular rivers, river systems, drainage patterns, Ganga river basin, Brahmaputra river basin, Indus river system, Godavari river, Narmada river, river pollution.

Q1 1 Mark

Which of the following rivers is part of the Himalayan river system?

AGodavari
BGanga
CNarmada
DKrishna
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Correct answer: Option 2 — Ganga
Q2 1 Mark

The Brahmaputra river flows through which of the following states in India?

AMaharashtra
BAssam
CGujarat
DRajasthan
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Correct answer: Option 2 — Assam
Q3 1 Mark

What is the primary drainage pattern formed by the Indus river system?

ARadial
BDendritic
CTrellis
DRectangular
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Correct answer: Option 2 — Dendritic
Q4 1 Mark

Which river is known as the 'Sorrow of Bihar'?

ABrahmaputra
BGanga
CKosi
DYamuna
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Correct answer: Option 3 — Kosi
Q5 1 Mark

The Narmada river flows in which direction?

ANorth to South
BEast to West
CSouth to North
DWest to East
Check answerHide answer
Correct answer: Option 2 — East to West
Q6 1 Mark

Which of the following rivers is NOT a Peninsular river?

AKrishna
BGanga
CGodavari
DCauvery
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Correct answer: Option 2 — Ganga
Q7 1 Mark

What is the significance of the Ganga river basin?

AIt is the largest river basin in India.
BIt is a major source of irrigation and drinking water.
CIt has the highest biodiversity.
DIt is the longest river basin in the world.
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Correct answer: Option 2 — It is a major source of irrigation and drinking water.
Q8 1 Mark

Which drainage pattern is characterized by rivers that flow in a parallel manner?

ADendritic
BTrellis
CRadial
DParallel
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Correct answer: Option 4 — Parallel
Q9 1 Mark

Which river is primarily associated with the state of Maharashtra?

ANarmada
BGodavari
CBrahmaputra
DYamuna
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Correct answer: Option 2 — Godavari
Q10 1 Mark

The term 'river pollution' primarily refers to which of the following?

AThe increase of aquatic life in rivers.
BThe contamination of rivers by harmful substances.
CThe natural sedimentation process in rivers.
DThe seasonal flooding of rivers.
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Correct answer: Option 2 — The contamination of rivers by harmful substances.
Q11 1 Mark

Which of the following rivers is known for its unique 'raging' flow during monsoons?

AGanga
BBrahmaputra
CNarmada
DKrishna
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Correct answer: Option 2 — Brahmaputra
Q12 1 Mark

The drainage pattern of the Godavari river is primarily classified as which type?

ADendritic
BTrellis
CRadial
DAnnular
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Correct answer: Option 1 — Dendritic
Q13 1 Mark

Which river system is the largest in terms of area in India?

AIndus river system
BBrahmaputra river system
CGanga river system
DGodavari river system
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Correct answer: Option 3 — Ganga river system
Q14 1 Mark

The term 'drainage basin' refers to which of the following?

AThe area drained by a river and its tributaries.
BThe area where water is stored in lakes.
CThe area of land that is completely dry.
DThe area where rivers meet the ocean.
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Correct answer: Option 1 — The area drained by a river and its tributaries.
Q15 1 Mark

Which of the following rivers is known for its 'rift valley' formation?

ANarmada
BGanga
CBrahmaputra
DGodavari
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Correct answer: Option 1 — Narmada
Q16 3 Marks

What are the main characteristics of the Himalayan rivers?

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Himalayan rivers are characterized by their origin in the Himalayan mountain ranges, their perennial flow due to melting glaciers, and their tendency to form deep gorges and valleys. They are also known for their high energy and erosive power, which shapes the landscape significantly.
Q17 3 Marks

Name the three major river systems of India and briefly describe one of them.

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The three major river systems of India are the Indus River System, the Ganga River System, and the Brahmaputra River System. The Ganga River System is one of the largest and most significant, flowing through northern India and providing water for millions, supporting agriculture and cultural practices.
Q18 3 Marks

What is the significance of the Ganga river basin for the Indian economy?

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The Ganga river basin is significant for the Indian economy as it supports agriculture, provides water for drinking and irrigation, and is a vital source for hydroelectric power. Additionally, it is a cultural and religious hub, attracting tourism and pilgrimage.
Q19 3 Marks

Describe the drainage pattern of the Indus River System.

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The Indus River System exhibits a dendritic drainage pattern, where rivers branch out like the limbs of a tree. This pattern is influenced by the geological structure and topography of the region, allowing for efficient water drainage across the landscape.
Q20 3 Marks

What are the main tributaries of the Brahmaputra River?

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The main tributaries of the Brahmaputra River include the Teesta, Dhansiri, and Subansiri rivers. These tributaries contribute to the river's flow and play a crucial role in the drainage system of the northeastern region of India.
Q21 3 Marks

Explain the concept of river pollution and its impact on river systems in India.

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River pollution refers to the contamination of rivers due to industrial waste, sewage, and agricultural runoff. This pollution adversely affects aquatic life, disrupts ecosystems, and poses health risks to communities relying on these rivers for water.
Q22 3 Marks

What distinguishes Peninsular rivers from Himalayan rivers?

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Peninsular rivers are generally non-perennial, flowing only during the monsoon season, and have a shorter length compared to Himalayan rivers. They originate from the Western Ghats and flow towards the east or west, forming a variety of drainage patterns, such as radial and trellis.
Q23 3 Marks

Identify two major rivers of the Peninsular region and describe their significance.

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Two major rivers of the Peninsular region are the Godavari and Narmada rivers. The Godavari is significant for its extensive basin that supports agriculture and irrigation, while the Narmada is known for its unique east-west flow and hydroelectric projects, contributing to energy generation.
Q24 3 Marks

Discuss the role of the Narmada river in the irrigation system of India.

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The Narmada river plays a crucial role in the irrigation system of India by providing water for agricultural activities in its basin. The river supports various irrigation projects, enhancing agricultural productivity in the regions it flows through, particularly in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat.
Q25 3 Marks

How do drainage patterns affect the geography of a region?

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Drainage patterns influence the geography of a region by determining the flow of water, shaping landforms, and affecting soil erosion and deposition. Different patterns, such as dendritic or trellis, can indicate the underlying geology and impact land use and agriculture.
Q26 6 Marks

Explain the significance of the Ganga river basin in terms of its geographical and cultural importance in India.

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The Ganga river basin is one of the most significant river basins in India, both geographically and culturally. Geographically, it covers a vast area across several states, providing fertile plains that support agriculture, which is the backbone of the Indian economy. Culturally, the Ganga is considered sacred by millions of Hindus, and it plays a crucial role in various religious practices and festivals. The river is also a source of livelihood for many communities along its banks, making it vital for both ecological balance and human sustenance.
Q27 6 Marks

Describe the main features of the Indus river system and its importance to the regions it flows through.

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The Indus river system is one of the longest river systems in the world, originating in Tibet and flowing through India and Pakistan. It consists of several tributaries, including the Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. The river system is crucial for irrigation, supporting agriculture in the arid regions of Punjab and Sindh. Additionally, it has historical significance, being the cradle of the Indus Valley Civilization. The river also provides water resources for domestic and industrial use, making it essential for the socio-economic development of the region.
Q28 6 Marks

Compare and contrast the Himalayan rivers and Peninsular rivers in terms of their origin, characteristics, and drainage patterns.

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Himalayan rivers, such as the Ganga and Brahmaputra, originate from the glaciers in the Himalayas and are characterized by a perennial flow due to the melting snow. They usually have a steep gradient, leading to a fast flow and the formation of deep valleys. In contrast, Peninsular rivers like the Godavari and Narmada originate from the Western Ghats and have a more seasonal flow, often drying up in summer. Their drainage patterns are generally dendritic, while Himalayan rivers exhibit a more complex pattern due to their geological features. Both river systems play vital roles in the ecology and economy of their respective regions.
Q29 6 Marks

Discuss the environmental issues related to river pollution in India and its impact on the river systems.

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River pollution in India poses significant environmental challenges, primarily due to industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and urban sewage. Major rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna are heavily polluted, affecting aquatic life and the health of communities relying on these water sources. The pollution disrupts the ecosystem, leading to a decline in biodiversity and the deterioration of water quality. Additionally, it hampers recreational activities and tourism, impacting local economies. Efforts to clean and conserve these rivers are crucial for sustainable development and ecological balance.
Q30 6 Marks

Explain the drainage pattern of the Brahmaputra river basin and its significance to the northeast region of India.

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The Brahmaputra river basin exhibits a unique drainage pattern characterized by its meandering course and wide floodplains. Originating in Tibet, it flows through Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and into Bangladesh. The basin is significant for the northeast region of India as it supports rich biodiversity and provides fertile land for agriculture. The river also plays a crucial role in the socio-economic development of the region, facilitating trade and transportation. Additionally, the basin is prone to flooding, which impacts local communities, necessitating effective management strategies.
Q31 6 Marks

What are the major tributaries of the Godavari river, and how do they contribute to the river's significance in the Deccan Plateau?

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The Godavari river, one of the longest rivers in India, has several major tributaries, including the Manjira, Pranhita, and Penganga. These tributaries contribute significantly to the river's flow, especially during the monsoon season, enhancing irrigation in the Deccan Plateau. The Godavari basin is crucial for agriculture, supporting crops like rice, cotton, and sugarcane. Additionally, the river is vital for drinking water supply and hydroelectric power generation, making it an essential resource for the development of the region.
Q32 1 Mark

Assertion (A): The Ganga river basin is one of the largest river basins in India.

Reason (R): The Ganga river basin covers an area of about 1,086,000 square kilometers.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q33 1 Mark

Assertion (A): The Brahmaputra river is a Himalayan river.

Reason (R): Himalayan rivers originate from the snow-capped mountains and flow downwards.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q34 1 Mark

Assertion (A): The Narmada river flows from east to west in India.

Reason (R): The Narmada river is one of the major rivers that flows through the Peninsular region.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q35 1 Mark

Assertion (A): Peninsular rivers are generally seasonal in nature.

Reason (R): Peninsular rivers receive water mainly from rainfall and have a variable flow.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q36 1 Mark

Assertion (A): The Indus river system is primarily located in the southern part of India.

Reason (R): The Indus river system flows through northern India and parts of Pakistan.

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Correct answer: Option 4 — A is false, but R is true.
Q37 1 Mark

Assertion (A): River pollution is a significant issue affecting the Ganga river.

Reason (R): The Ganga river is one of the most polluted rivers in India due to industrial waste and sewage.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q38 1 Mark

Assertion (A): The Godavari river is the longest river in Peninsular India.

Reason (R): The Godavari river flows for about 1,465 kilometers, making it the longest in the region.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q39 1 Mark

Assertion (A): All Himalayan rivers are perennial.

Reason (R): Himalayan rivers have a continuous flow throughout the year due to glacial melt.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q40 1 Mark

Statement 1: The Ganga river basin is one of the largest river basins in India.

Statement 2: The Brahmaputra river flows entirely within Indian territory.

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Correct answer: Option 2 — Only Statement 1 is true.
Q41 1 Mark

Statement 1: The Indus river system primarily flows through the states of Punjab and Haryana.

Statement 2: The Narmada river is a west-flowing river in India.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both statements are true.
Q42 1 Mark

Statement 1: Himalayan rivers are characterized by their perennial flow.

Statement 2: Peninsular rivers are typically seasonal and depend on monsoon rains.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both statements are true.
Q43 1 Mark

Statement 1: The Godavari river is the longest river in Peninsular India.

Statement 2: The drainage pattern of the Ganga river is dendritic.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both statements are true.
Q44 1 Mark

Statement 1: River pollution in India is a significant environmental issue.

Statement 2: The Indus river system includes the Beas and Ravi rivers.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both statements are true.
Q45 1 Mark

Statement 1: The Narmada river flows through a rift valley.

Statement 2: The Brahmaputra river basin is known for its extensive floodplains.

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Correct answer: Option 1 — Both statements are true.
Q46 1 Mark

Statement 1: The drainage pattern of the Godavari river is radial.

Statement 2: The Himalayan rivers originate from the snow-capped mountains.

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Correct answer: Option 3 — Only Statement 2 is true.
Q47 1 Mark

Statement 1: The Ganga river basin supports a large population due to its fertile plains.

Statement 2: Peninsular rivers have a higher discharge compared to Himalayan rivers.

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Correct answer: Option 2 — Only Statement 1 is true.

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