Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Science notes: Class 8 Final Exams

SOUND

Introduction to waves
• The sound is produced by vibrating objects.
• They travel from one place to another in the form of waves. Hence, the name sound
waves.

Sound Properties

Introduction to sound waves

– Sound needs a medium to propagate. The matter or material through which sounds
propagates is called a medium.
– Sound cannot travel in a vacuum. The moon does not have an atmosphere. Hence, you
can hear on the moon.

Sounds by Humans

How do humans produce sound?

• The sound produced in the voice box is called the larynx, located at the upper end of
the windpipe.
• 2 vocal cords get stretched across in the voice box. Has a slit through which air is
forced out by the lungs.
• Muscles attached to vocal cords make them tight or loose.

Hearing

Human ear
• Outer ear = pinna: collects sound from the surroundings.
• Sound passes through a tube called an auditory canal.
• Eardrum (tympanic membrane) → vibrates when the sound incident.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

• Vibrations are sent to the inner ear, and from there, it goes to the brain as signals via
the auditory nerve.

Amplitude, Time Period and

Frequency

Amplitude, frequency and time

period of vibrations

• The magnitude of disturbance in

the medium on either side of the
mean value is called
as Amplitude(A). Larger the
amplitude, the louder the sound.
• The number of oscillations per
second is called frequency. Expressed in Hertz (Hz).
• Time taken for one complete oscillation to travel across a point. T = 1/f. (Seconds)

Loudness and Pitch

• Volume or loudness of a sound depends on the amplitude. The force with which an
object is made to vibrate gives the loudness.
• The number of oscillations per unit time. Directly proportional to frequency.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Audible and inaudible sounds

• Audible range = 20Hz to 20kHz known as the Sonic range.
• Below 20 Hz (inaudible) → infrasonic range
• Above 20 kHz (inaudible) → Ultrasonic range

Noise Pollution

Noise and music– Sounds with the same pitch and loudness can be distinguished based on
the quality. Music is pleasant to the ears, while noise is not.

– Unpleasant sounds are called noise.

Noise pollution and measures to control it

– Presence of excessive unwanted noise in our surroundings is called noise pollution.
– Can cause hearing impairment, sleeplessness and also hypertension.
– Must be minimised by reducing noisy operations and honking in residential areas. Planting
trees along roads also cuts down the noise.

What are Transverse waves?

Transverse wave is where the motion in all points on a wave oscillates along paths at right
angles to the direction of the wave’s advance.
Q2
What is the definition of Amplitude?
The definition of amplitude refers to the length and width of waves, such as sound waves, as
they move or vibrate.
Q3
What are some ways to control Noise pollution?
1. Turn off unnecessary appliances 2. Use earplugs 3. Follow limits of noise level
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Definitions:
The loudness of Sound: Larger the amplitude of vibration, louder is the sound.
Noise: Unpleasant sounds are called noise.
Oscillation motion: The to and fro motion of an object is called oscillation motion.
Pitch of the Sound: Higher the frequency of vibration, the higher is the pitch, or shrill of the
sound.
Shrillness: The frequency determines the shrillness or pitch of a sound. If the frequency of
vibration is higher we can say that sound is shrill.
Time Period: The time taken by a pendulum to complete one oscillation is called the time
period.
Vibration: The to and fro or back and forth motion of an object is termed as vibration.
Voice Box: Upper end of the windpipe, below the hard part on the throat is called the voice
box.
Windpipe: It is the passage for the inlet and outlet of air in the lungs.

Fill in the blanks with suitable words.

Time taken by an object to complete one oscillation is called __Time Period_____

Loudness is determined by the _Amplitude_______ of vibration.
The unit of frequency is __Hertz (Hz)______
Unwanted sound is called ___Noise____
The shrillness of a sound is determined by the __Frequency____ of vibration.

Q1. A pendulum oscillates 40 times in 4 seconds. Find its time period and frequency.
No. of oscillation = 40
Total time is taken = 4 seconds

Q2. The sound from a mosquito is produced when it vibrates its wings at an average rate
of 500 vibrations per second. What is the time period of the vibration?
Number of vibrations per second = 500
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Q3. Sketch larynx and explain its function in your own words.
Larynx is also known as voice box. It is at the upper end of the windpipe. Two vocal cords
are stretched across the voice box or larynx in such a way that it leaves a narrow slit
between them for passage of air.
When lung force air through the slit, the vocal cords vibrate, producing sound. Muscles
attached to the vocal cords can make the cords tight or loose.

When the vocal cords are tight and thin, the type or quality of voice is different from that
when they are loose and thick.

Q4. Lightning and thunder take place in the sky at the same time and at the same distance
from us. Lightning is seen earlier and thunder is heard later. Can you explain why?

The speed of light is more than that of the speed of sound. Thus, due to more speed of light
it reaches us before sound. So, lightning is seen earlier and thunder is heard later.

Q5. Take a metal plate (or a shallow pan). Hang it at a convenient place in such a way that
it does not touch any wall. Now strike it with a stick (Fig. 13.1). Touch the plate or pan
gently with your finger. Do you feel the vibrations? Again strike the plate with the stick
and hold it tightly with your hands immediately after striking. Do you still hear the sound?
Touch the plate after it stops producing sound. Can you feel vibrations now?
Solution:
When we touch the pan gently with our finger after striking we feel the vibration. When we
hold the pan tightly after striking it, we do not hear the sound. When the pan stops
producing sound it also stops vibrating. Thus, we can conclude that vibrating body produces
sound.

Q6. Jake a rubber band. Put it around the, longer side of a pencil box Insert two pencils
between the box and the stretched rubber. Now, pluck the rubber band somewhere in the
middle. Do you hear any sound? Does the band vibrate?
Yes, we hear the sound on plucking the rubber band. Also, we find that the band is vibrating.
Thus, all vibrating bodies produce sound.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Q7. Take a metal dish. Pour water in it. Strike it at its edge with a spoon. Do you hear a
sound? Again strike the dish and then touch it. Can you feel the dish vibrating? Strike the
dish again. Look at the surface of water. Do you see any waves there? Now hold the dish.
What change do you observe on the surface of water? Can you explain the change? Is
there a hint to connect sound with the vibrations of a body?

On striking the metal dish we hear sound and on touching it we feel the dish vibrating.
Striking the dish with water we see circular wave are produced. Thus vibrating object
produces sound.

Q8. Take a hollow coconut shell and make a musical instrument ektara. You can also make
it with the help of an earthen pot. Play this instrument and identify its vibrating part.
We observed that the vibrating part of the musical instrument ektara is stretched string.

Q9. Take 6-8 bowls or tumblers. Fill them with water upto different levels, increasing
gradually from one end to the other. Now take a pencil and strike the bowls gently. Strike
all of them in succession. You will hear pleasant sounds. This is your Jaltarang

We can hear a pleasant sound. This is due to different levels of water in the bowls.
Thus, we find that shorter the length of the vibrating air column, higher is the pitch of the
sound produced.

Q10.Take two rubber strips of the same size. Place these two pieces one above the other
and stretch them tight. Now blow air through the gap between them. As the air blows
through the stretched rubber strips, a sound is produced. You can also take a piece of
paper with a narrow slit and hold it between your fingers as shown in. Now blow through
the slit and listen to the sound.

This activity shows that vocal cords also produce sound in a similar manner when they
vibrate.

Q11. Take a metal or glass tumbler. Make sure that it is dry. Place a cell phone in it. Ask
your friend to give a ring on this cell phone from another cell phone. Listen to the ring
carefully.
Now, surround the rim of the tumbler with your hands (Fig. 13.7). Put your mouth on the
opening between your hands. Indicate to your friend to give a ring again. Listen to the ring
while sucking air from the tumbler. Does the sound become fainter as you suck air?
Remove the tumbler from your mouth. Does the sound become loud again?

We observed that sound becomes fainter than earlier when we try to suck air. But when we
remove tumbler from our mouth the sound again becomes loud. Thus, sound needs a
medium to travel.

Q1. Why do we hear the sound of the horn of an approaching car before the car reaches us
?

This happens because the speed of sound is much greater than the speed of the car.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

2. The sound from a mosquito is produced when it vibrates its wings at an average rate of
500 vibrations per second. What is the time period of the vibration ? [NCERT]
Time taken for 500 vibrations = 1 second
Time taken for 1 vibration = 1/500 second.
∴ Time period = 1/500 second.

3. How do plants help in reducing noise pollution ?

Plants absorb sound and so help us in minimizing noise pollution.

4. How can we control the sources of noise pollution ?

We can control noise pollution by designing and installing silencing devices in machines.

5. How can a hearing impaired child communicate ?

A hearing impaired child can communicate effectively by using sign language.

6. If the amplitude increases 3 times, by how much will the loudness increase ?

If the amplitude increases three times, the loudness will increase by a factor of 9.

7. The frequency of a given sound is 1.5 kHz. How many vibrations is it completing in one
second ?

Frequency = No. of vibrations/time

∴ No. of vibrations = Frequency x time = 1.5 x 1000 x 1 = 1500 vibrations

7. Which characteristic of a vibrating body determines loudness pitch of the sound produced
by it ?

Amplitude and Frequency.

8. Why do we not hear echoes in our ordinary surroundings ?

We do not hear echoes in our ordinary surroundings because the distance to hear echo
should be more than 17 m.

9. We cannot hear the sound of the exploding meteors in the sky, though we can see
them. Why ?

Sound cannot travel through vacuum. In space there is vacuum. Light can travel through
vacuum, so we can see the exploding meteor but cannot hear the explosion.

10. We can hear the supersonic jet planes flying. How ?

Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

The supersonic jet planes fly in the air. Since sound can travel through air, we can hear then
flying.
11. When does a thud become music ?
When thuds are repeated at’regular intervals, it becomes music, e.g., beating of drums or
wood.
12. What is the function of eusfachian tube in human ear ?
The vibrations of the spoken words reach our ears through eustachian tubes.

13. In our body which part of the ear receives sound waves ?
What may happen if the eardrum is absent from our ear ?

Pinna helps in receiving sound waves.

If the eardrum is absent we would not be able to hear.

14. Can a hearing impaired child speak ? If not why ?

A child having hearing impairment can not speak because if he is able to hear, he will leam
to speak.

15. Give an example each of:

stringed instrument – violin, veena, guitar, ektara

percussion instrument – drum, dholak
wind instrument – flute, saxaphone
striking instrument – jaltarang,

16. How is the pressure variation in a sound wave amplified in human ear ?

The pressure variation in a sound wave causes vibrations in the eardrum. These vibrations
are amplified several times by the three bones. (The hammer, anvil and stirrup).

17. How is that you can hear a friend talking in another room without seeing him ?

Sound can travel in all directions and around comers. Light cannot travel around comers.
Therefore, we can hear a friend talking in another room but cannot see him.

18. List sources of noise pollution in your surroundings.

The major sources of noise pollution are sounds of vehicles, explosions, machines,
loudspeakers.

Reproduction in Animals
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

1. A tadpole develops into an adult frog by the process of: metamorphosis

Butterfly, mosquito also metamorphize

1. Describe the process of fertilisation in human beings.

Answer:
In the process of fertilisation, sperms come in contact with an ova (egg). One of the sperms
may fuse with the egg. The nuclei of the sperm and the egg fuse to form a single nucleus
resulting in the formation of a fertilised egg called zygote. In human being, the fertilisation
takes place inside the female body, known as internal fertilisation.

Indicate whether the following statements are True (T) or False (F).

1. Oviparous animals give birth to young ones. - F

2. Each sperm is a single cell. - T
3. External fertilisation takes place in frog. - T
4. A new human individual develops from a cell called gamete. - F
5. Egg laid after fertilisation is made up of a single cell. - T
6. Amoeba reproduces by budding. - F
7. Fertilisation is necessary even in asexual reproduction. - F
8. Binary fission is a method of asexual reproduction. - T
9. A zygote is formed as a result of fertilisation. - T
10. An embryo is made up of a single cell. – F

2. Define asexual reproduction. Describe two methods of asexual reproduction in animals.

The mode of reproduction in which only a single parent is involved is called asexual
reproduction. In this type of reproduction, sex cells (gametes) are not produced and no
fusion of gametes takes place for the reproduction of zygote or offsprings. Asexual
reproduction takes place in Amoeba, Hydra, yeast, starfish, sponges, etc.
There are mainly two methods of asexual reproduction:

(i) Binary fission: In binary fission, a single parent cell is divided into two equal individual
cells as in Amoeba. It divides into two by division of their bodies, each of them gets one
nucleus and develops into separate individual. The figure given below shows how binary
fission occurs in Amoeba.
(ii) Budding: In budding, the organism develops a bulge called bud which further develops
into an adult organism and separates itself from the parent body to lead an independent life.
This type of reproduction is shown in Hydra

3. In which female reproductive organ does the embryo get embedded? - Uterus

4. What is metamorphosis? Give examples.

The transformation of larva into an adult involving sudden and abrupt changes in the body
of an animal during the life cycle of an invertebrate or amphibian is called metamorphosis.
Example, frog and butterfly.

5. Differentiate between internal fertilisation and external fertilisation.

Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Answer: IN SCHOOL NOTE

6. Explain the importance of reproduction in organisms.

Reproduction is a vital phenomenon on this planet earth which is essential for existence and
continuity of life and species on it, generation after generation.

(c) The number of nuclei present in a zygote is: ONE

7. What is metamorphosis? Give examples.

The transformation of larva into an adult involving sudden and abrupt changes in the body
of an animal during the life cycle of an invertebrate or amphibian is called metamorphosis.
Example, frog and butterfly.

8. In which female reproductive organ does the embryo get embedded ?

Embedding of the embryo takes place in the wall of the uterus.

9. Name the male reproductive organs.

The male reproductive organs are a pair of testis, sperm ducts and a penis.

10. Name the organ producing the male gametes.

Testis produce the male gametes

11. What are sperms ?

The male gametes produced by the testis are known as sperms.

12. Give the structure of sperm.

A sperm has a head, a middle piece and a tail.

13. Is the sperm a single cell ?

Yes, the sperm is a single cell with all the cell components.

14. Name the female reproductive organs.

The female reproductive organs are a pair of ovaries, oviducts and the uterus.

15. Is the egg single cell ?

Yes, the egg is also a single cell.

16. What type of fertilisation takes place in humans and dogs ?

Internal fertilisation.

17. What type of fertilisation takes place in fish?

External fertilisation.

18. What is an embryo ?

The zygote d=ivides repeatedly to form an embryo.

19. What is a foetus?

Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

The stage of the embryo in which all the body parts are identifiable is called a foetus.

20. When does the mother give birth to the young one ?
When the development of the foetus is complete, the mother gives birth to the young one.

21. How much time does the embryo of hen take to develop into a chick?
About three weeks.

22. What name is given to animals which give birth to young ones ?
Viviparous animals.

23. What name is given to animals which lay their eggs ?

Oviparous animals.

24. Do you think metamorphosis takes place in humans ?

No, in humans the body parts similar to the adults are present from the time of the birth.

25. Define budding.

Budding is the type of asexual reproduction in which new individuals develop from the buds.

Extra Questions given by school:

13. Name the technique which is used to help a woman with blocked oviducts to have a
baby.
A woman with blocked fallopian tubes can't give birth to a baby naturally because the ovum
has to travel through the fallopian tube to meet the sperm for fertilization. So an artificial
method is implemented for this which is called as in-vitro fertilization. where an egg is
fertilized by sperm outside the body in a laboratory, and the fertilized egg (embryo) is then
implanted directly into the uterus, bypassing the blocked tubes completely.

12. What is cloning? Who cloned Dolly the sheep?

The production of an exact copy of a cell, a part of the animal or the complete animal
through asexual reproduction is called cloning.
Ian Wilmut and Keith Campbell, along with their colleagues at the Roslin Institute in
Edinburgh, Scotland, cloned Dolly the sheep.

Two animals that contain the same gene pool are called genetically identical. A clone is
genetically identical to the parent organism.

7. Name the parent sheep of which dolly was a clone.

Dolly was born on July 5, 1996. She was cloned from a Finn Dorset sheep and a Scottish
Blackface sheep.

6. The female gamete is known as an ovum or egg cell in humans.

4. A fertilized egg is called a zygote. It's the first stage in the development of an embryo,
which eventually becomes a fetus.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

3. asexual

Reaching the age of Adolescence:

1. What noticeable changes begin in humans during adolescence?
2. Do girls and boys grow at the same rate?
3. Name female hormones.
4. What is menopause?
5. What are chromosomes?
6. What is the name of the hormone produced by the pancreas?
7. Which endocrine gland produces the growth hormone?
8. What is the meaning of metamorphosis?
9. What is the most important change marked by puberty?
The age at which boys and girls become capable of reproduction is called puberty.
10. Explain the developments of sex organs in men and female.
11. What happens when egg gets fertilized?
12. Name the virus that causes AIDS. What are the medium throught which this virus is
transmitted?
13. Explain the sex determination of a baby in humans.
14. What do you understand by adam’s apple?
The protruding part of the throat in males is called Adam’s apple.

Question 2.
Name the hormone in female that is produced by ovaries and helps in development
of mammary glands.
Answer:
Estrogen

Question 3.
Whose height grow faster initially—boys or girls?

Puberty educational books

Answer:
Girls

Question 4.
Name a gland which transports secretions through ducts.
Answer:
Sweat glands/salivary glands/ oil gland (any one).
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 5.
What is puberty?
Answer:
The age at which boys and girls become capable of reproduction.

Question 6.
What are hormones?
Answer:
The chemical substances produced by endocrine glands are called hormones.

Question 7.
How long is a woman’s reproductive life lasts?
Answer:

Growth hormone supplements

Menarche to menopause.

Question 8.
Name the female hormone.
Answer:
Estrogen

Question 9.
Which gland is called master gland?
Answer:
Pituitary gland

Question 10.
What is a balanced diet?
Answer:
The meal that includes all nutrients is called a balanced diet.

Question 11.
What is menstruation?
Answer:
Extrusion of uterus lining and blood along with the unfertilised egg from the vagina is
called menstruation.

Question 12.
What is menarche?
Answer:
The first menstrual flow begins at puberty and is termed as menarche.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 13.
What is menopause?
Answer:
Stoppage of menstruation is called menopause.

Question 14.
What causes goitre?
Answer:
Deficiency of thyroxine hormone.

Question 15.
Which gland secretes thyroxine?
Answer:
Thyroid gland

Question 16.
What are chromosomes?
Answer:
The thread-like structures in the nucleus are called chromosomes.

Question 17.
How many chromosomes are present in human cell?
Answer:
23 pairs or 46 chromosomes.

Question 18.
How many sex chromosomes are there in human cell?
Answer:
Two, i.e., one pair.

Question 19.
Which hormone is necessary for normal growth of a person?
Answer:
Growth hormone.

Question 20.
Which gland secretes insulin?
Answer:
Pancreas

Question 21.
What causes diabetes?
Answer:
Deficiency of insulin.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 22.
Name the chromosome present in a female.
Answer:
X chromosome

Question 23.
Name the chromosome present in a male.
Answer:
X and Y chromosomes

Question 24.
Which chromosome does the unfertilised egg contain?
Answer:
X chromosome

Question 25.
Which hormone balances the proportion of salts in the blood?
Answer:
Adrenaline

Question 26.
What decides the sex of an unborn child?
Answer:
Sex chromosome of father.

Question 27.
Name the glands other than the pituitary gland.
Answer:
Thyroid, pancreas and adrenals.

Question 28.
When does the puberty ends?
Answer:
uberty ends when an adolescent reaches reproductive maturity.

Question 29.
Do the boys and girls undergo same physical changes at puberty?
Answer:
No

Question 30.
Why do we need to have a balanced diet?
Answer:
To keep the body healthy.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

1. What is meant by adolescence?

Answer:
Growing up is a natural process. The period of life, when the body undergoes several
changes leading to reproductive maturity, is cabled adolescence. The adolescence
period is 11 to 19 years of age.

2. What is puberty?
Answer:
The period during which adolescent boys and girls attain sexual maturity and
become capable of reproduction is called puberty. Puberty age of female is 10 to 12
years while male puberty age is 12 to 14 years.

3. What is vital change which marks puberty in boys and girls?

Answer:
During puberty, the human body undergoes several changes, but the most important
changes which marks puberty is that boys and girls become capable of
reproduction.

4. Why do boys have a hoarse voice at puberty?

Answer:
The voice box or larynx begins to grow at the onset of puberty. This growing voice
box in boys can be seen as a protruding part of the throat called Adam’s apple. This
leads to voice becoming hoarse.

5. How does the body shape change at puberty?

Answer:
Body shape changes differently in boys and girls at puberty. Boys have broader
shoulders and wider chests. Their muscles grow more prominently than girls. In girls,
the region below the waist becomes wider.

6. Why is adolescence also called teenage?

Answer:
Adolescence period is generally 11 to 19 years of age. Because the period covers the
teens, i.e., 13 to 19 years of age, adolescents are also called teenagers.

7. Why do many young people have acne and pimples during adolescence?
Answer:
During puberty the secretion of sweat glands and sebaceous glands (oil glands)
increases. It develops acne and pimples on the face of young boys and girls.

8. Why are endocrine glands also called ductless glands?

Answer:
Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the blood stream. So, they are
termed as ductless glands. For example, pituitary, thyroid, pancreas, etc. (ptp)
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

9. What are secondary sexual characters?

Answer:
At puberty, in girls, breasts begin to develop, the region below the waist become
wider, voice become shriller. Boys begin to grow facial hair, i.e., moustache and
beard. Boys also develop hair on their chest, the muscles of the body grow more
prominently, develop larger voice box which can be seen as a protruding part of the
throat called Adam’s apple. In both boys and girls, hair grows under the arms and in
the pubic region. As these features distinguish the male from the female they are
called secondary sexual characters.

10. Explain the development of sex organs in male and female.

Answer:
The male and the female sex organs develop completely at puberty. Male sex organ
like testes and penis develop completely. The testes begin to produce the male
gametes or sperm. Similarly in girls the ovaries enlarge and egg begins to mature.
Ovaries start releasing matured eggs or ovum.

11. Why do changes occur in human body at puberty?

Answer:
The changes in human body at puberty occur due to release of hormones by
different types of glands. Hormones are chemical substances secreted from
endocrine glands or endocrine system. Male hormone or testosterone are
responsible for changes in male whereas female hormone or estrogen are
responsible for changes in female.

12. What is a pituitary gland?

Answer:
Different types of hormones are secreted by different types of glands. The product
of all these hormones is under the control of another hormone secreted from an
endocrine gland called pituitary gland.

13. How do hormones work in human body?

Answer:
Endocrine glands release hormones into the blood stream to reach a particular body
part called target site. The target responds to the hormone. There are many
endocrine glands or ductless glands in the body.

14. What are sex hormones? How do they work in the human body?
Answer:
Sex hormones help boys and girls develop sex organs to enable them for
reproduction. These hormones lead them to reproductive maturity.

In girls, estrogen makes the breasts develop. Milk secreting glands or mammary
glands develop inside the breasts. Ovaries begin to produce eggs. In boys,
testosterone is released by testes. Testes begin to release sperms. Changes in boys
is also seen due to this hormone.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

15. What is menstruation?

Answer:
At puberty, in girls the ovaries get enlarged and start producing eggs (ovum). One
egg matures and is released by one of the ovaries once in about 28 to 30 days.
During this period, the wall of the uterus becomes thick so as to receive the egg. If
the egg is fertilised then it begins to develop and results in pregnancy. If this egg is
not fertilised, the released egg and thickened lining of the uterus along with its blood
vessels are shed off causing bleeding in female which is called menstruation. It
occurs once in about 28 to 30 days.

16. What are the changes in female at the onset of puberty?

Answer:
There are several changes in females at the onset of puberty. They are:

• growth of hair in armpit and pubic region.

• development of breasts and mammary glands.
• ovaries get enlarged and begin producing eggs.
• menstruation cycle starts; and
• increased activity of sweat and sebaceous glands.

17. Explain the terms menarche and menopause.

Answer:
The first menstrual flow begins at puberty and is termed as menarche.
At 45 to 50 years of age, the menstrual cycle stops. Stoppage of menstruation is
called menopause.

18. What happens when the egg is fertilised?

Answer:
When the egg is fertilised, it begins to divide and then gets embedded in the uterus
for further development. Finally the fertilised egg develops into a foetus.

19. What are the changes in males at puberty?

Answer:
There are various changes in males at puberty. They are:

• sudden increase in height.

• growth of hair at different parts of body like face, armpit and pubic region,
development of moustache and beard.
• development of Adam’s apple in throat, voice becomes hoarse.
• shoulders become broader and chest wider.
• growth of size of reproductive organs like penis, testes begin to produce
sperms, etc.

20. What do you mean by reproductive health?

Answer:
The physical and mental well being of an individual is regarded as an individual’s
health. To keep the body healthy, every human being, at any age, needs to have a
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

balanced diet. The person must also observe personal hygiene and undertake
adequate physical exercise. (BD, PH, PE)

Thus, reproductive health refers to the diseases, disorders and conditions that affect
the functioning of the male and female reproductive system during all stages of life.

21. What is the role of hormones in completing the life history of insects and frogs?
Answer:
Hormones play an important role in the completion of life cycle of insects and frogs.
Metamorphosis in insects is controlled by insect hormones. In a frog, it is controlled
by thyroxine, the hormone produced by thyroid gland. Thyroxine production requires
the presence of iodine in water. Water in which iodine is not, present, the tadpoles
cannot become adult.

22. Which hormone is released by pancreas? What is its function?

Answer:
Insulin is released by pancreatic gland. It regulates sugar metabolism. If insulin is
deficient in the body, sugar level becomes high in blood causing diabetes.

1. What changes occur in human at puberty?

Answer:
There are various changes in human at puberty. They are as follows:

• Change in height: During puberty, there is sudden increase in height in boys

and girls. Initially, girls grow faster in height than in boys. But both reach their
maximum height at the age of 18 years.
• Change in voice: Boys develop larger voice box or larynx to form protruding
part of throat called Adam’s apple making their voice hoarse, girls have high
pitched voice.
• Change in body shape: In boys, shoulders broaden and muscles grow more
prominently than in girls. In girls the region below the waist becomes wider.
• Secretion of sweat and sebaceous glands (oil glands) in both boys and girls
increases and acne or pimples grow on faces of many youths.
• Development of sex organs: In males, testes and penis develop completely.
Testes begin producing sperms. In girls, ovaries are enlarged and begin to
produce eggs. Both boys and girls reach reproductive maturity.
• In girls, menstruation or periods starts.
• All human beings attain mental, intellectual and emotional maturity at puberty.
• Facial hair like moustache and beard are grown in boys. Hair are grown in
armpit and pubic region in both boys and girls. Breasts are developed in girls.
These characters are called secondary sexual characters as they distinguish a
male from a female.

2. Explain the reproductive phase of life in humans.

Boys and girls become capable of reproduction at puberty because their testes and
ovaries begin to release gametes, i.e., sperms and ova respectively. In girls,
reproductive phase of life begins at puberty from 10 to 12 years of age and generally
lasts till the age of 45 to 50 years and ends with menopause
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

The ova begin to mature with the onset of puberty. The ovum matures and is
released by one of the ovaries once in 28 to 30 days.

During this period, the wall of the uterus becomes thick so as to receive the egg, in
case it is fertilised and begins to develop. This results in pregnancy.
If fertilisation does not occur, the released egg, and the thickened lining of the uterus
along with its blood vessels are shed off. This causes menstruation. It occurs once
in about 28 to 30 days. The first menstrual flow begin at puberty and is termed as
menarche.

In male, the reproductive phase begins at puberty at the ages 14-15 and lasts as
long as he is healthy.

3.Mention different types of glands, their functions and hormones secreted by

them.
Answer:
There are different types of glands in our body and they secrete different types of
hormones which control groftoth, behaviour, development and reproduction. The
following table shows different types of glands, hormones secreted by them and
their functions:

4. Explain sex determination in human.

Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Sex determination of a baby is done at the time of fertilisation when a male gametes
fuse with a female gamete. It depends on male partner whether the baby will be a
male child or female child. The chances of child to be male or female actually
depend on the chromsomes present in the fertilised eggs or ova. There are 23 pairs
of chromosomes in the nuclei of all human beings out of which two are sex
chromosomes named X and Y. A male has one X and one Y chromosome and a
female has two X chromosomes. The gametes (egg and sperm) have only one set of
chromosomes. The unfetilised egg always has one X chromosome. But sperms are
of two kinds. One kind has an X chromosome, and the other kind has a Y
chromosome.

When a sperm containing X chromosome fertilises the egg, the zygote would have
two X chromosomes and develop into a female child. If the sperm contributes a Y
chromosome to the egg (ovum) at fertilisation, the zygote would develop into a male
child. Fig. 10.5 shows sex determination in humans.

5. Explain the term reproductive health. What should we do to maintain

reproductive health?
The state of physical, mental and social well being of an individual is regarded as an
individual’s health. A healthy person is free from disease, tension and anxiety.
Reproductive health refers to a state of physical, mental and social well-being in all
matters relating to the reproductive system, at all stages of life. We should take
following measures to maintain reproductive health:

• To have a balanced diet: As far as practicable, we should have a balanced diet,

i.e., a diet contain¬
ing proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates, fats and minerals. We can have our food
which contain these nutrients.
• To take physical exercise: We should take physical exercise like morning walk,
running, etc., daily.
• To maintain personal hygiene: We should maintain personal hygiene to stay fit
and healthy. We should wash our body especially pubic region, armpit, etc.,
properly.
• Avoid harmful drugs: We should avoid taking harmful drugs and alcohol.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 1.
One day Seema’s uncle visited her place. Seema prepared dinner for him. When she
was about to put rock salt on the salad, her uncle interrupted her and asked to put
iodised salt instead of rock salt. He also advised her to prefer iodised salt instead
of rock salt. Why do you think Seema’s uncle advised her to have iodised salt
instead of rock salt?
Answer:
Deficiency of iodine causes goitre disease in our body. This is why Seema’s uncle
advised her to have iodised salt.

Question 2.
It is said that height of a child depends upon the genes inherited from the parents.
Are there factors other than genes that causes variation in height?
Answer:
Other factors like nutrition, release of growth hormones, exercises, diseases, etc.,
also have impact on the height of a growing child.

Question 3.
Is a woman responsible for the birth of a girl child? Explain.
Answer:
No, because a woman has eggs of only X chromosomes but a male has sperms of
both X and Y chromosomes. It is the type of male chromosome (X or Y) which fuses
with the egg and determine the sex of the foetus, i.e., whether it will be male (XY) or
female (XX) child.

4. John and Radha were classmates since childhood. When Radha became eleven
years old, she developed a little swelling on her neck. She visited the doctor who
started medication for her. After a few years, John also developed a slight protrusion
on his throat. He got worried and went to the doctor. But, the doctor assured him
that it was a normal feature in boys while they are growing up. Can you think of any
reasons for the difference in diagnoses?
Answer:
The swelling on the neck of Radha may be because of insufficient production of
thyroxine which results in goitre. However slight protrusion in John’s throat may be
due to enlargement of voice box, also known as Adam’s apple, in adolescent boys.

1. Salma had a very soft and smooth skin during her childhood. As she entered
adolescence, she developed pimples on her face, her body became taller compared
to her face. She got worried of all of the sudden changes. Her mother explained that
all these changes are normal and advised her to wash her face at regular intervals.

• Why Salma’s mother advised Salma to wash her face at regular intervals?
• What is the reason for appearance of pimples on her face?
• Why Salma experienced disproportionate growth of the body?
• What values do we get from this?

Answer:
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

• Regular face wash keeps the face clean and dry and helps to reduce the
pimples.
• During adolescence, secretion of sweat glands and sebaceous glands
increases leading to formation of acne and pimples.
• During adolescence, all parts of the body do not grow at the same rate.
Sometimes the arms and legs or hands and feet of adolescents look oversized
and out of proportion with the body.
• We must be self-aware, must take proper care and diet during the growing
period, not get worried or lose our self-esteem.

1. Find out from your elder relatives about their awareness of the legal status of early
marriage. You yourself may get information on it from your teacher, parents, a doctor
or the internet. Write a two minute speech explaining why early marriage is not good
for the couple.
Answer:
Our law does not permit the marriages of girls below 18 years of age and the boys
below 21 years.
Biologically also, it is not good for both boys and girls. Early marriages are not good
for the couple due, to following reasons:

• Girls below the age of 18 are not biologically mature enough to produce a baby.
• Boys also are not mature enough to take such a major responsibility to look
after their child properly
• and it creates many hurdles in the socio-economic development, education,
maintaining livelihood, etc., of both the boys and girls. .
• The newly born babies also have to suffer many problems regarding their
proper care, etc.

2. Collect newspaper cuttings and information in magazines about HIV/AIDS. Write a

one page article of 15 to 20 sentences on HIV/AIDS.
Answer:
Introduction: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a spectrum of
conditions caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It may
also be referred to as HIV disease or HIV infection. Following initial infection, a
person may experience a brief period of influenza-like illness. This is typically
followed by a prolonged period without symptoms. As the infection progresses, it
interferes more and more with the immune system, making the person much more
susceptible to common infections, like tuberculosis, as well as opportunistic
infections and tumors that do not usually affect people who have working immune
systems. The late symptoms of the infection are referred to as AIDS. This stage is
often complicated by an infection of the lung known as pneumocystis pneumonia,
severe weight loss, skin lesions, or other AIDS-defining conditions.

Transmission: HIV is transmitted primarily via unprotected sex, contaminated blood

transfusions,- hypodermic needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy,
delivery, or breastfeeding. Some bodily fluids, such as saliva and tears, do not
transmit HIV.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Prevention: Common methods of HIV/AIDS prevention include encouraging and

practicing safe sex, needle-exchange programs, and treating those who are infected.
There is no cure or vaccine; however, antiretroviral treatment can slow the course of
the disease and may lead to a near-normal life expectancy.

I.Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Choose the correct option.
Question 1.
The adolescence period is
(a) 14 – 20 years
(b) 10 – 18 years
(c) 11 – 19 years
(d) none of these

Question 2.
Larynx is called
(a) music box
(b) voice box
(c) respiratory organ
(d) sound box

Question 3.
Most adolescents attain their maximum height around the age of
(a) 22 – 25 years
(b) 13-15 years
(c) 11 – 12 years
(d) 18 – 19 years

Question 4.
Initially girls grow
(a) slower than boys
(b) faster than boys
(c) both of these
(d) none of these

Question 5.
Puberty age in females is
(a) 10 – 12 years
(b) 12 – 14 years
(c) 8-10 years
(d) 5-6 years

Question 6.
Puberty age in males is
(a) 12 – 14 years
(b) 13 – 15 years
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

(c) 10 – 12 years
(d) 18 -20 years

Question 7.
Thyroxine hormone is produced by
(a) adrenal gland
(b) testes
(c) pituitary gland
(d) thyroid gland

Question 8.
The male hormone is called
(a) estrogen
(b) testosterone
(c) thyroxine
(d) insulin

Question 9.
The female hormone is called
(a) estrogen
(b) testosterone
(c) adrenaline
(d) none of these

Question 10.
Menstruation occurs once in about
(a) 28 to 30 days
(b) 25 to 30 days
(c) 45 to 50 days
(d) none of these

Question 11.
The number of chromosomes present in human cell are
(a) 25 pairs
(b) 22 pairs
(c) 23 pairs
(d) none of these

Question 12.
The number of sex chromosomes are
(a) three
(b) two
(c) four
(d) none of these
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 13.
The age of menopause stage is
(a) 45 to 50 years
(b) 40 to 45 years
(c) 50 to 55 years
(d) none of these

Question 14.
The unfertilised egg always has __________ chromosome
(a) X
(b) Y
(c) XY
(d) XX

Question 15.
A female has
(a) XY chromosomes
(b) YY chromosomes
(c) XX chromosomes
(d) none of these

Question 16.
The gametes have only
(a) one set of chromosomes
(b) two sets of chromosomes
(c) three sets of chromosomes
(d) none of these

Question 17.
Which of the following is male gonads?
(a) Moustache
(b) Chest
(c) Testes
(d) Hair

Question 18.
Production of thyroxine requires
(a) magnesium
(b) iodine
(c) sodium
(d) bromine

Question 19.
Which of the following determines the sex of the baby?
(a) Chromosomes
(b) Chloroplast
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

(c) Hormones
(d) Pituitary gland

Question 20.
Pancreas is responsible for maintaining
(a) blood pressure
(b) fat metabolism
(c) blood glucose level
(d) electrolyte balance
Answer:

II. Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with suitable word/s.
1. ___Adolesence________ means to grow into maturity.
2. Children gain height during ___puberty________.
3. The boys and girls passing through the adolescence period are called or
_______adolescence, teenagers ____.
4. During puberty, a change in voice takes place due to the increase in the size of
_voice box__________ or ____lyrnax_______.
5. The stage when the menstrual cycle stops is called __menopause_________.
6. The ___ pituitary__ gland helps in controlling the production of both testosterone
and estrogen hormones.
7. Diabetes is caused due to the deficiency of ___ insulin ___ in the body.
8. __ Goitre ___ is caused due to deficiency of thyroxine hormone.
9. Endocrine glands are also called __ ductless___ glands.
10. __ Testes ___ secrets male sex hormones.
11. __ Ovary _ secrets female sex hormones.
12. Sex of the unborn child depends on whether the ___zygote___ has __XY____ or
____XX__ chromosomes.
13. Metamorphosis in insects is controlled by __insect_ hormone.
14. Metamorphosis in frog is controlled by __ thyroxine _ hormone.
15. If the water in which tadpoles are growing does not contain sufficient __iodine_,
the tadpoles cannot become adults.
16. In females, the uterine wall thickens to receive the __ zygote __.
17. Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the __blood stream_________ for
transportation to the target site.
18. ____ Adrenaline_______ helps the body to adjust and fight the stress.
19. The development of a caterpillar to an adult butterfly is termed as __
metamorphosis____.
20. The first menstrual flow begins at ___puberty________ and is termed as
____menarche_______.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

III. Match the following

Match the items given in column I suitably with those given in column II.

IV, True or False

State whether the given statements are true or false.
1. The age of adolescence is 15 to 20 years. – F 10 – 19 years
2. The female puberty starts at the age of 12 to 14 years. – F 8 – 13 YEARS
3. Boys have enlarged and well developed Adam’s apple. - T
4. Insulin is secreted by pituitary gland. – F PANCREAS
5. The chemical substances secreted by endocrine glands are called hormones. - T
6. Estrogen is female hormone. - T
7. Testosterone is male hormone. - T
8. There are 23 pairs of chromosomes in the nuclei of human cell. - T
9. Menstruation stops in men permanently around the age of 45 to 50 years. – F
10. The estrogen hormone develops deeper voice in males at puberty. – F
11. The sex of an unborn child is determined after a foetus is formed. - F
12. Initially girls grow faster than boys. T
13. Thyroxine hormone is released by thyroid gland. T
14. Diabetes is caused due to the deficiency of adrenaline hormone. - F
15. Menstrual cycle in women is controlled by enzyme.- F HORMONE
16. Growth hormones are secreted by pituitary glands. - T
17. Metamorphosis in insects are controlled by growth hormone. - F
18. Menstruation occurs once in about 28 to 30 days.- T
19. There are 3 sex chromosomes present in the nuclei of human being. – F 2
20. A male has two X chromosomes. – F XY
21. The gametes have only one set of chromosomes. - T
22. The unfertilised egg has two X chromosomes. – F IT HAS 1 X CHROMOSOME
23. At puberty, the voice box or the larynx begins to grow. - T
24. When the zygote has one X and one Y chromosome, a male child is developed. -
T
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

25. Menopause is the stage when menstruation starts. – F ENDS

NATURAL PHENOMENA

Select the correct option in Questions 1 and 2.

Question 1.
Which of the following cannot be changed easily by friction?
(a) A plastic scale
(b) A copper rod
(c) An inflated balloon
(d) A woollen cloth
Answer:
(b) A copper rod

Question 2.
When a glass rod is rubbed with a piece of silk cloth the rod
(a) and the cloth both acquire a positive charge.
(b) becomes positively charged while the cloth has a negative charge.
(c) and the cloth both acquire a negative charge.
(d) becomes negatively charged while the cloth has a positive charge
Answer:
(b) becomes positively charged while the cloth has a negative charge.

Question 3.
Write T against true and F against false in the following statements.
(a) Like charges attract each other.
(b) A charged glass rod attracts a charged plastic straw.
(c) Lightning conductor cannot protect a building from lightning.
(d) Earthquakes can be predicted in advance.
Answer:
(a) False
(b) True
(c) False
(d) False

Question 4.
Sometimes, a crackling sound is heard while taking off a sweater during winters.
Explain.
Answer:
The electric discharge takes place between the body and the sweater due to friction.
At the time of electric discharge some energy is released. In this case energy is
released in the form of crackling sound.

Question 5.
Explain why a charged body loses its charge if we touch it with our hand.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Human body is a conductor of electricity. When a charged body is touched with

hand, our body conducts its charges to the earth. Hence, by this way charged body
loses its charge.

Question 6.
Name the scale on which the destructive energy of an earthquake is measured. An
earthquake measures 3 on this scale. Would it be recorded by a seismograph? Is it
likely to cause much damage?
Solution:
The destructive energy of an earthquake is measured on a scale called the Richter
Scale.
Yes, it would be recorded by seismograph because this scale has the readings from
1 to 10. No it is not likely to cause much damage as earthquakes of magnitude
higher than 5 is considered destructive in nature.

Question 7.
Suggest three measures to protect ourselves from lightning.
(i) Do not use TV or cable phone during lightning.
(ii) Stay indoor or under covered area.
(iii) Don’t take bath during lightning.

Question 8.
Explain why a charged balloon is repelled by another charged balloon whereas an
uncharged balloon is attracted by another charged balloon?
Answer:
A charged balloon is repelled by another charged balloon because both carry same
type of charges. On the other hand, an uncharged balloon is attracted by another
charged balloon as they have opposite charges. We know that same charges repel
and opposite charges attract each other.

Question 9.
Describe with the help of a diagram an instrument which can be used to detect a
charged body.
Answer:
Electroscope is a device which is used to detect the charge on a body. It works on
the principle that like charges repel each other while unlike charges attract each
other. It consists of a metal rod with thin metal strip or leaf attached to it at the
bottom.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

At the top, the metal rod enters in a metallic cup or disc. The bottom of the rod and
the metal leaf are enclosed in a glass box for protection. When the disc of the
electroscope is touched with a charged ebonite or glass rod, the metal leaves open
out or diverge.
The extent of divergence depends upon the amount of charge on the electroscope.
When the metal strips repel each other proves that the body is charged because
repulsion is the sure test to detect that body is charged or not through an
electroscope.

Question 10.
List three states in India where earthquakes are more likely to strike.
Answer:
Kashmir, Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Question 11.
Suppose you are outside your home and an earthquake strikes. What precaution
would you take to protect yourself?
Answer:
We will take the following precautions to protect ourselves:
(i) Move to open space. Find a clean spot away from buildings, trees and overhead
power lines. Drop to the ground.
(ii) If we are in a car or a bus, will not come out. Drive slowly to a clear spot and
remain in it till the earthquake stops.

Question 12.
The weather department has predicted that a thunderstorm is likely to occur on a
certain day. Suppose you have to go out on that day. Would you carry an umbrella?
Explain.
Answer:
No, it is not advisable to carry an umbrella at all. Its metallic objects are more prone
to lightning stroke. So an umbrella increases the risk.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Activity 1 (NCERT Textbook, Page 185)

Jake a used ballpen refill and rub it vigorously with a piece of polythene. Bring it
close to small pieces of paper. Take care not to touch the rubbed end of the refill
with your hand or with a metallic object. Repeat the activity with small pieces of dry
leaf, husk and mustard seeds. Record your observations.
Solution:
When we rub ballpen refill with polythene, it acquires a small electric charge. On
bringing the charged ballpen refill close to small pieces of paper, the bits of paper
are attracted to it. A charged plastic refill can attract bits of paper.

Activity 2. (NCERT Textbook, Page 185)

Collect the objects and the materials listed in Table 15.1. Try to charge each by
rubbing with the materials mentioned in the Table. Record your findings. You can
add more items to the Table.
Solution:

Through this activity, it can be concluded that certain objects acquire charge on
being rubbed with certain materials. An object possessing charge will attract bits of
paper.

Activity 3 (NCERT Textbook, Page 186)

(a) Inflate two balloons. Hang them in such a way that they do not touch each other
(Fig. 15.1). Rub both the balloons with a woollen cloth and release them. What do
you observe?
Now let us repeat this activity with the used pen refills. Rub one refill with polythene.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Place it carefully in a glass tumbler using the tumbler as a stand (Fig. 15.2).

Rub the other refill also with polythene. Bring it close to the charged refill. Be careful
not to touch the charged end with your hand. Is there any effect on the refill in the
tumbler? Do the two attract each other, or repel each other?
In this activity we have brought close together the charged objects that were made
of the same material. What happens if two charged objects made of different
materials are brought close to each other? Let’s find out.
(b) Rub a refill and place it gently in a glass tumbler as before (Fig. 15.3). Bring an
inflated charged balloon near the refill and observe.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Solution:
(a) (i) We observed that balloons repelled each other in the first case. Thus, like
charges repel each other.
(ii) In second case, a charged refill repelled another charged refill due to presence of
like charges on them.
(b) A charged balloon attracted a charged refill because balloon had charges
opposite to that on a refill. Thus, opposite charges attract each other.

Activity 4 (NCERT Textbook, Page 187)

Jake an empty jam bottle. Take a piece of cardboard slightly bigger in size than the
mouth of the bottle. Pierce a hole in it so that a metal paper clip can be inserted.
Open out the paper clip as shown in Fig. 15.4. Cut two strips of aluminium foil about
4 cm × 1 cm each. Hang them on the paper clip as shown. Insert the paper clip in the
cardboard lid so that it is perpendicular to it (Fig. 15.4). Charge a refill and touch it
with the end of the paper clip. Observe what happens. Is there any effect on the foil
strips? Do they repel each other or attract each other? Now, touch other charged
bodies with the end of the paper clip. Do foil strips behave in the same way in all
cases? Can this apparatus be used to detect whether a body is charged or not? Can
you explain why the foil strips repel each other?

Solution:
We observed that aluminium foil strips received the same charge from the charged
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

refill through the metal paper clip as it is good conductor of electricity. The strips
carrying similar charges repelled each other and they became wide open. Such a
device which can be used to test the charge on an object is called electroscope.
When we touch the metal paper clip with other charged bodies, the foil strips behave
in the same way in all cases. Thus, we find that electrical charges can be transferred
from a charged object to another through a metal conductor.

Activity 5 (NCERT Textbook, Page 191)

Ask your parents about the huge damage to life and property caused by these
earthquakes. Collect a few pictures showing the damage caused by these
earthquakes from newspapers and magazines of those days. Prepare a short report
on the suffering of the people during and after the earthquakes.

Report:
An earthquake is a sudden shaking or trembling of the earth which lasts for a short
time. It is one of the most dreaded and devastating natural calamities. It causes a
huge loss and destruction of our life and property. Some of the damaging effects of
an earthquake are as follows:

• It brings destruction of buildings, dams, railway tracks, roads, etc.

• There is an outbreak of fire due to breaking of electrical power or gas
lines.
• It ruptures groundwater pipe disrupting the water supply system.
• Landslides and tsunami occurs respectively in hilly and coastal areas.
• There is bursting of sewer pipes releasing sewage water.
• Communication is completely cut off and the areas gets 5 disconnected
from the rest of the world.
• An earthquake also causes floods.

Activity 6 (NCERT Textbook, Page 192)

Take an outline map of the world. Locate the eastern coast and Andaman and
Nicobar Islands in India. Mark other countries around the Indian Ocean which could
have suffered damage. Collect accounts of the devastation caused by the tsunami in
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

India from your parents, or other elders in the family or in the neighbourhood.

Solution:
(i) An outline map of the world locating the eastern coast and Andaman and the
Nicobar Islands in India. Other countries around the Indian Ocean have been marked
in the map given which could have suffered damage.
(ii) Accounts of the devastation caused by the tsunami in India—A major tsunami
occurred in the Indian ocean on
26th December, 2004. At 8.38 a.m. quake of 6.1 magnitude was felt in Andamans. At
9.00 a.m. as it nears the Chennai coast, the tsunami slowed down but rose higher.
This affected India’s South-East coast, predominantly in the state of Tamil Nadu as
well as the territories of Andaman and Nicobar Island. Thousands of people died,
and the coastal area devastated completely. Many fishing communities were ruined
by the tsunami, most notably the fishing town of Nagapattinam. In fact, it was one of
the most devastating natural calamaties, people have ever witnessed.

Question 1.
Why do two charge bodies attract or repel ? [NCT2008]
Answer:
When the two bodies have the same charges, they repel each other and when the
two bodies have different charges they attract each other.

Question 2.
Write the one name of method by which object can be charged. [NCT2008]
Answer:
Object can be charged by conduction.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 3.
Which of the following cannot be charged easily by friction ? [NCERT]

• A plastic scale.
• A copper rod.
• An inflated balloon.
• A woollen cloth.

Answer:
A copper rod.

Question 4.
When a glass rod is rubbed with a piece of silk cloth the rod [NCERT]

• and the cloth both acquire positive charge.

• becomes positively charged while the cloth has a negative charge.
• and the cloth both acquire negative charge.
• becomes negatively charged while the cloth has a positive charge

Answer:
becomes positively charged while the cloth has a negative charge.

Question 5.
Tick T for true and F for false in the following statements : [NCERT]

1. Like charges attract each other. (T/F)

2. A charged glass rod attract a charged plastic straw. (T/F)
3. Lightning conductor cannot protect a building from lightning. (T/F)
4. Earthquakes can be predicated in advance. (T/F)

Answer:

1. F
2. T
3. F
4. F

Question 6.
Sometimes, a crackling sound is heard while taking off a sweater during winters.
Explain. [NCERT]
Answer:
This crackling sound is heared because due to friction between the hair and sweater
the sweater gets charged.

Question 7.
What is meant by earthing ?
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Answer:
The process of transfer of charges from a charged object to the earth is called
earthing.

Question 8.
When does a body become discharged ?
Answer:
When a body looses its charges, it is said to be discharged.

Question 9.
What is an earthquake ? [NCT 2011]
Answer:
An earthquake is a sudden shaking or trembling of the earth.

Question 10.
What causes an earthquake ?
Answer:
The tremors of the earthquake are caused by the disturbance deep down inside the
uppermost layer of the earth called crust.

Question 11.
What are seismic waves ?
Answer:
The tremors produce waves on the surface of earth known as seismic waves.

Question 12.
Give the other name for weak zones.
Answer:
Seismic or fault zones.

Question 13.
Is the Electric Eel really electric ?
Answer:
Yes, the Electric Eel found in South America emits electric discharge.

Question 14.
How does the Electric Eel use the electric discharge ?
Answer:
Electric Eel uses electric discharges to give shock to its prey, discourage enemies
and send signal to other Eels.

Question 15.
Name the scientist who first established the relationship between lightning and
spark.
Answer:
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

In 1752, Benjamin Franklin, an American scientist, established that lightning and

spark from amber were the same thing.

Question 16.
Why did it take 2000 years to establish the similarity between lightning and spark ?
Answer:
It took 2000 years because scientific discoveries are a result of hard work by many
people.

Question 17.
What type of charge is present on the earth ?
Answer:
The earth has both positive and negative charges.

Question 18.
What is meant by a ‘discharged’ body ?
Answer:
The body from which the charge has been earthed loses the charge on it. Such a
body is known as a ‘discharged’ body.

Question 1.
Explain why a charged body loses its charge if we touch it with our hand. [NCERT]
Answer:
When we touch a charged body with our hand, the body is earthed. This causes the
charges flow to the earth and the body looses the charge.

Question 2.
List three states in India where earthquakes are more likely to strike. [NCERT]
Answer:
Three states in India where earthquakes can occur are Gujarat, Rajasthan and
Jammu & Kashmir.

Question 3.
The weather department has predicted that a thunderstorm is likely to occur on a
certain day. Suppose you have to go out on that day. Would you carry an umbrella ?
Explain. [NCERT]
Answer:
No, I would not carry an umbrella. The charges produced during a thunderstrom can
flow through the umbrella and harm us.

Question 4.
When a charged plastic straw is brought near a charged plastic straw, there is
repulsion between them. What type of charge exists between them ?
Answer:
The charge on both the plastic straw are same, since like charges repel each other.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 5.
When a charged balloon is brought near a charged refill, there is attraction between
the two. What type of charge exists between the two ?
Answer:
The charge on the balloon and a refill are different, because unlike charges attract
each other.

Question 6.
Why is the charging by rubbing known as static electricity ?
Answer:
Charging by rubbing is known as static electricity because the charges do not move.

Question 7.
Give the difference between static electricity and electric current ?
Answer:
In static electricity, the charges do not move. In electric current, there is flow of
charges.

Question 8.
When is lightning seen ?
Answer:
When the negative charges from the clouds and the positive charges on the ground
meet huge amount of energy is produced as bright light and sound. This is seen as
lightning.

Question 9.
Is the car safe during thunderstorm ?
Answer:
Yes, the car is safe during thunderstorm with windows and doors of the vehicle shut.

Question 10.
Can we use telephone during a thunderstorm ?
Answer:
No, it is not safe to use a telephone during thunderstorm, as lightning can strike
through telephone cords.

Question 11.
Do the car tyres protect us from lightning ?
Answer:
No, the car tyres do not protect us from lightning, but the metal case of the car
protects us.

Question 12.
Choose the correct option :
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

A charged plastic comb (B) is brought near another similar charged and suspended
plastic comb (A). Then comb A

• remains unaffected
• moves towards comb B
• moves away from comb B
• starts oscillating

Answer:
moves away from comb B.

Question 13.
During lightning we have an electric discharge

• only between two opposite charged clouds

• only between a charged cloud and the ground
• either between two oppositely charged clouds or a charged cloud and
ground.
• neither between two oppositely charged clouds nor between a charged
cloud and ground.

Answer:
either between two oppositely charged clouds or a charged cloud and ground.

Question 14.
What is the effect of

1. a charged object
2. an uncharged object on small bits of paper ?

Answer:

1. a charged object will attract bits of paper.

2. an uncharged object will have no effect on bits of paper.

Question 1.
Name the scale on which the destructive energy of an earthquake is measured. An
earthquake measures 3 on this scale. Would it be recorded by a seismograph ? Is it
likely to cause much damage ? [NCERT]
Answer:
The destructive energy of the earthquake can be measured on the Richter scale. Yes,
an earthquake measuring 3 would be recorded by the seismograph. This earthquake
would not cause much damage.

Question 2.
Suggest three measures to protect ourselves from lightning. [NCT 2011, NCERT]
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Answer:
We can protect ourselves from lightning by

• switching off and disconnecting all heavy electrical appliances.

• Not bathing under running tap water.
• Not standing near metallic poles.

Question 3.
Explain why a charged balloon is repelled by another charged balloon whereas an
uncharged balloon is attracted by another charged balloon ? [NCERT]
Answer:
A charged balloon has the same charge as another charged balloon, so there is
repulsion between them because like charges repel each other. On the other hand,
an uncharged body always attracts a charged body. Therefore, an uncharged balloon
is attracted by a charged balloon.

Question 4.
Apart from disturbance inside the earth, what are the other reasons of earthquake ?
Answer:
Earthquakes can also occur due to underground nuclear explosion, or when a
volcano erupts, or when a meteor hits the earth.

Question 5.
What are weak zones ?
Answer:
Since earthquakes are caused by the movements of plates, the boundaries of the
plates are weak zones where earthquakes are most likely to occur.

Question 6.
What useful changes are caused by earthquakes ?
Answer:
Earthquakes can also cause new islands, coral breaches and fresh water springs to
emerge due to upheaval.

Question 7.
Name the weak zones in India ?
Answer:
The weak zones in India are Kashmir, Western and Central Himalayas, the whole of
North¬East, Rann ofKutch, Rajasthan and the Indo-Gangetic Plane. Some areas of
South India also fall in the danger zone.

Question 8.
Explain the working of seismograph.
Answer:
The seismograph consists of a vibrating rod which starts vibrating when tremors
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

occur. A pen is attached to the vibrating rod that records the seismic waves on a
paper which moves under it.

Question 9.
In highly seismic areas, which material should be used for construction of houses ?
Answer:
In highly seismic areas, the use of mud or timber is better than any heavy
construction material. The roofs should be made as light as possible so that if the
house falls, it does not cause much damage.

Question 10.
To make the house quake safe, what precautions should be taken ?
Answer:
To make the house quake safe, it is better if the cupboards and shelves are fixed to
the walls, so that they donot fall easily. Clocks, photo-frames, water heaters should
be hung carefully.

Question 11.
How are positive and negative charges produced during a thunderstorm ?
Answer:
Clouds are very small droplets of water in the form of vapour. A patch of cloud
develops an electric charge on it by friction. The upper layers of cloud get positively
charged and the lower layers of cloud get negatively charged.

Question 12.
How is electric discharge fatal for human beings ?
Answer:
The process of electric discharge can occur between two clouds, between clouds
and the earth, even between the clouds and the human body. Such lightning strokes
can be fatal.

Question 13.
A glass rod is rubbed against a silk cloth and an ebonite rod is rubbed against a
piece of flannel. List the pairs which have

1. similar
2. dissimilar charges on them.

Answer:

1. Glass rod and flannel (similar charge i.e., positive); Silk and ebonite
(both negative)
2. Glass rod and ebonite rod.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 14.
A charged drinking plastic straw is brought near another similar suspended straw
that is

1. also similarly charged ‘

2. uncharged.
Explain what would happen in each case and why?

Answer:

1. The suspended straw is repelled from it because of similar charge.

2. The uncharged plastic straw is attracted towards it because the charged
object applies a force on it.

Question 15.
Is it important to have a good contact between the lower end of lightning conductor
and the earth ? If so, why ?
Answer:
It is important to have a good contact between the lower end of lightning conductor
and earth so that the lightning charged flow deep down into the earth and not
through the structure.

Question 16.
When and where major earthquakes have taken place in India ?
Answer:
On 26th January 2001 in Bhuj and on 8th October 2005 in Uri and Tangdhar major
earthquakes had taken place.

Question 17.
A charged object is found to lose its charges when touched by hand. Explain why ?
Answer:
A charged object loses its charges when touched by hand because the charges flow
to the earth through the human body. This is known as earthing.

Question 18.
Is lightning useful ? How ?
Answer:
Lightning is useful in many ways :

• Lightning is effective in the formation of ozone in nature.

• Lightning played an important role in the origin and evoluation of life on
earth.
• Due to high discharge of electric charge through air nitrogen contributes
with oxygen to form nitrate oxide and nitrogen dioxide gases.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 19.
What is Tsunami ? Explain.
Answer:
Tsunami is a Japanese name for tidal waves. They are large waves that are
generated when the sea floor is deformed by seismic activity. A Tsunami can be 10
to 20 metres high when it hits the shore and a series of waves come at short
intervals.

Question 20.
How will you make an electroscope if the gold leaf electroscope is not at hand ?
Answer:
Take a metallic bar on a stand. Take a strip of cellophane paper and fold it half.
Hang it from the metallic bar. This will work like a gold leaf electroscope.

Question 21.
Why the gold leaves in an electroscope :

1. diverge when touched charge glass rod.

2. fold back when touched with hands.
3. fold back when touched with a charged ebonite rod ?

Answer:

1. Gold leaves diverge when touched with a charged glass rod because
they both acquire similar charge.
2. Gold leaves fold back when touched with hands because the charged is
‘earthed’.
3. When touched with charged ebonite rod, the charges are neutralized, so
the leaves fold back.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 22.

1. What will you observe in Figure-I ?

2. What will you observe in Figure-II ?
3. What conclusion will you draw ?

Answer:

1. In the figure-I the thermocole ball will be attracted to the glass rod.
2. In the figure-II the thermocole ball will be repelled due to similar charge.
3. The conclusion we draw is that attraction between two bodies is not a
sure test of the presence of charge on a body. Repulsion is a sure that
of charge on a body.

Question 23.
Is it true that a charged object always attracts an uncharged object but it may or may
not attract another charged object ?
Answer:
Yes, an uncharged object is always attracted by a charged object. It will only attract
another charged object, if the charge on it is opposite. If the charge on the other
body is same, there will be repulsion.

NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Science Chapter 15 – 5

Mark Questions and Answers
Question 1.
Suppose you are outside your home and an earthquake strikes. What precaution
would you take to protect yourself ? [NCERT]
Answer:
If you are outdoors and an earthquake strikes, we should some precautions take to
protect ourself:

1. Leave your building and more to open areas.

2. Keep away from high rise buildings.
3. Keep away from trees,, signboards, electric poles.
4. If you are in a vehicle, remain inside it.
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 2.
Describe with the help of a diagram an instrument which can be used to detect a
charged body. [NCERT]
Answer:

An electroscope is an apparatus to test an electric charge.

Conclusion: An electroscope has a brass rod passing through a tight fitting cork in a
glass bottle. A pair of thin gold leaves are attached to the lower end of the brass rod.
To protect the gold leaves from external electric charge the lower half of the bottle is
lined with tin foil which is ‘earthed’ by connecting it to the table. This kind of
electroscope is called a gold leaf electroscope.
Working: When a charged rod is touched to the metal disc, the charge is transferred
to the gold leaves and they diverge.

Question 3.
What steps should be taken to protect yourself in case of an earthquake, if you are at
home ?
Answer:
If you are at home :

• Do not stand near windows.

• Lie in bed.
• Do not stand near heavy objects that may fall on you.
• Stay under a table till the earthquake stops.

Question 4.
During a thunderstorm which places are safe ?
Answer:
During a thunderstorm, a house or building is the safest place. If you are travelling by
car or by bus, you are safe inside with windows and doors of the vehicle shut.

Question 5.
During a thunderstorm, which places are unsafe if you are outside ?
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Answer:
If you are outside :

• Open vehicles, like motor bike, tractor are not safe.

• Carrying umbrella is not a good idea.
• Stay away from poles or other metal objects.
• Do not lie on the ground.

Question 6.
If your friend is struck by lightning, how will you help him ?
Answer:
A lightning victim carries no electrical charge and cannot electrocute us. You can
give first aid by performing mouth to mouth breathing.

Question 7.
Name the device used to secure tall buildings from lightning. Explain its construction
and working.
Answer:
Lightning rod is a device used to secure tall buildings from the effect of lightning.

A metallic rod taller than the height of the building to be protected is installed in the
walls of the building during its construction. One end of the rod is kept out in the air
and the other is fixed in the ground. This provides easy route for transfer of electric
discharge to the ground.

Question 8.

1. Why do dry hair stand on when combed with a plastic comb ?

2. What kind of charge is acquired by ebonite when rubbed with fur ?
3. What kind of charge is acquired by fur when it is rubbed over ebonite ?
4. What type of charge is borne on clouds facing the earth ?
5. Is dry air a conductor or an insulator ?

Answer:
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

1. Dry hair stand when combed with a plastic comb because they get
charged.
2. When rubbed with fur ebonite gets a negative charge.
3. When fur is rubbe^ with ebonite, fur acquires positive charge.
4. Normally, the layers of cloud facing the earth get negatively charged.
5. Dry air is a bad conductor (or insulator) of electricity.

Question 9.

1. Name the agency responsible for making quake proof houses ?

2. What are seismic zones ?
3. Give some suggestions how the houses should be made in seismic
zones.

Answer:

1. The technique to develop quake proof houses has been developed by

Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee.
2. The seismic zones are those areas which are prone to earthquakes.
They are the areas lying on the boundaries of the plates.
3. (i) The houses in seismic zones should be symmetrical.
(ii) The foundation of the building should be deep.
(iii) Roofs should be of light material and the fixtures should be light.

NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Science Chapter 15 –

MCQs
Question 1.
Like charges when brought near each other then they
(a) repel
(b) attract
(c) sometimes attract and sometimes repel
(d) have no effect
Answer:
(a)

Question 2.
A device used to test the charge on an object is called
(a) ammeter
(b) electroscope
(c) seismograph
(d) none of these
Answer:
(b)
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25

Question 3.
A major earthquake occurred on 8th October 2005 in
(a) Gujarat
(b) Delhi
(c) Haryana
(d) North Kashmir
Answer:
(d)

Question 4.
A sudden shaking of the earth lasting for a very short time is known as □
(a) lightning
(b) thunder
(c) earthquake
(d) Tsunami
Answer:
(c)

Question 5.
A major Tsunami occurred in the Indian Ocean on
(a) 26th December 2001
(b) 26th December 2002
(c) 26th December 2003
(d) 26th December 2004
Answer:
(d)

Question 6.
Instrument used to find the source of seismic waves is known as
(a) seismometer
(b) voltammeter
(c) galvanometer
(d) ammeter
Answer:
(a)

Question 7.
Richter scale is used to measure the magnitude of
(a) lightning
(b) charges
(c) earthquake
(d) rainfall
Answer:
(c)
Class 8 FINAL EXAMS 2024-25