THEORY EXAMINATION (SEM–IV) 2016-17 ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

Course: B.Tech (Semester IV)
Subject Code: EAS205
Subject Title: Environment and Ecology
Exam Type: Theory Examination
Duration: 3 Hours
Maximum Marks: 100

The paper tests students’ conceptual understanding of ecosystems, biodiversity, environmental pollution, conservation, and sustainability — with a mix of short definitions, descriptive questions, and applied environmental case studies.

SECTION – A (Short Questions – 10 × 2 = 20 Marks)

This section checks definitions and conceptual clarity. Topics include:

Eutrophication – nutrient enrichment of water bodies leading to algal bloom and oxygen depletion.

Synergism process – interaction of two or more factors producing a combined effect greater than their separate effects.

In situ vs. Ex situ conservation – protecting species within their natural habitat vs. outside it (e.g., national parks vs. zoos).

Blue Baby Syndrome – caused by nitrate-contaminated water reducing oxygen in infants’ blood.

Point vs. Non-point sources of pollution – direct discharge sources (factories) vs. diffuse sources (runoff).

Biomagnification – increasing concentration of toxins up the food chain.

Migration – movement of species between habitats (e.g., birds migrating seasonally).

Bioindicators – species indicating ecosystem health (e.g., lichens show air purity).

Upright ecological pyramid – energy pyramid, always upright due to energy loss at each trophic level.

Decomposers – organisms breaking down organic matter (e.g., fungi, bacteria).

Birth rate and death rate – key demographic measures.

Food chain – linear sequence of energy transfer between organisms.

SECTION – B (Descriptive – 5 × 10 = 50 Marks)

Students must attempt any five questions.

Structure of an ecosystem:

Biotic and abiotic components.

Producers, consumers, and decomposers.

Functions such as energy flow, nutrient cycling, and ecological balance.

Water-borne and water-induced diseases:

Cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, fluorosis, and arsenicosis — their causes and prevention.

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972:

Objectives, schedules, protected areas, and penalties for poaching or illegal trade.

Alternative Energy Resources:

Renewable: solar, wind, hydro, geothermal.

Non-renewable: coal, oil, natural gas.

Need for sustainable energy transitions.

Biodiversity Hotspots:

Concept introduced by Norman Myers.

Two major Indian hotspots: Eastern Himalayas and Western Ghats.

Landslides:

Causes (rainfall, deforestation, earthquakes), types (rotational, translational), consequences, and preventive measures.

Waterlogging and Salination:

Impact on soil fertility and agriculture; prevention through proper drainage and crop rotation.

Solid Waste Management:

Types (domestic, industrial, hazardous, e-waste).

Methods: landfilling, incineration, composting, recycling.

SECTION – C (Analytical / Long Questions – 2 × 15 = 30 Marks)

Students must attempt any two.

Sustainable Development:

Meeting present needs without compromising future generations.

Discussion on why true sustainability remains difficult (overpopulation, consumption, inequality).

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA):

Definition, principles, and objectives.

Sequential stages: screening → scoping → impact prediction → mitigation → reporting → public consultation → monitoring.

Water Pollution:

Sources (industrial effluents, sewage, agricultural runoff).

Effects (eutrophication, toxicity, disease).

Water treatment processes: sedimentation, filtration, chlorination, aeration.

Layout of a water treatment plant showing key stages.

Key Themes Across the Paper

Summary

The EAS205 paper evaluates not only theoretical knowledge but also environmental awareness and problem-solving skills. It encourages students to connect ecology with real-world issues — such as pollution control, renewable energy, and sustainable development.

To perform well, students should:

Understand key definitions and ecological processes.

Write structured, point-based answers with examples.

Focus on interconnections — e.g., how biodiversity, pollution, and sustainability are linked.