Chapter 14

Natural Resources

Introduction

Life on Earth is possible because of the presence of these three major sources. A zone where the lithosphere, the atmosphere and the hydrosphere intersect and the life sustains is called the Biosphere.
The biosphere can be divided into two parts:

The biosphere can be divided into two parts:

•    Abiotic Components – The non-living things such as air, water and land
•    Biotic Components – The living things such as plants and animals

Resource – A Resource is a stock or supply of something useful. Resources can be manmade or Natural.
Natural Resources – A Resource which exists in nature is called a Natural Resource. It is not produced by any human being; rather it is available in nature itself. Human beings and other animals depend upon these resources for their existence.
Natural Resources present on Earth:
•    Air – The atmosphere which contains different gases such as Oxygen, Nitrogen and carbon dioxide which are required for the survival of life on earth.
•    Water – The hydrosphere which covers almost 75% of the Earth surface. It is a home to an abundance of animals and plants and is also required for the survival of life on earth.
•    Land – The upper crust of the earth is called Lithosphere where different kinds of soils are found which are necessary for the growth of plants and are a home to several vitamins and minerals.