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Important Questions Class 6 Science Chapter 16

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An Overview of Important Questions Class 6 Science Chapter 16

Have you ever thought about where all the waste from our homes and schools goes? In Important Questions Class 6 Science Chapter 16, you’ll learn all about garbage, waste control, and why it is important to recycle and care for the environment. This chapter makes you think about simple steps you can take every day to keep your surroundings clean and green.


The helpful questions from Vedantu will guide you through composting, recycling, managing plastics, and much more. If you want a quick look at your Class 6 Science syllabus, you can check it out here: Class 6 Science Syllabus. Plus, if you want more practice for other chapters, you can find them with these Class 6 Science Important Questions.


With clear answers and extra questions, this page makes exam revision easier and helps you score better by building a strong understanding of waste management. Let’s make learning fun and useful for daily life!


Study Important Questions for Class 6 Science Chapter 16 – Garbage In, Garbage Out

Very Short Answer Questions: 1 Mark


1. State whether true or false. If false, correct the statement.

  1. The useful products are called garbage. 

  2. We generate garbage only in the cities. 

  3. Some kinds of wastes can be broken down to make compost. 

  4. Vermicomposting is the use of earthworm to form compost from plastic waste. 

  5. All wastes should be dumped in a landfill. 

  6. Paper and plastic should not be recycled. 

  7. Plastic can be recycled. 

  8. Dry leaves should not be burnt as they release toxic substances. 

  9. Plastic can be burnt without harming the air. 

  10. Papier Mache is a paste made from clay and soil. 

  11. We should use less material so that we generate less garbage. 

  12. Generating more garbage will make it difficult to dispose of them. 

  13. Plastic can be easily decomposed. 

  14. Vegetable peels can be easily decomposed. 

  15. During composting powdered egg shells should be added.


Ans:

  1. False. The waste material is called garbage. 

  2. False. We generate garbage in our daily lives irrespective of where we live. 

  3. True.

  4. False. Vermicomposting is the use of earthworms to form compost from food waste. 

  5. False. Wastes that cannot be recycled or composted alone should be dumped in a landfill. 

  6. False. Paper and plastic should be recycled. 

  7. True. 

  8. True. 

  9. False. Burning of plastic releases toxic fumes in the air which is dangerous to humans.

  10. False. Papier Mache is a pasty substance made of clay, paper and some rice husk. 

  11. True. 

  12. True. 

  13. False. Plastic does not decompose easily. 

  14. True. 

  15. True.


Short Answer Questions: 3 Marks


2. How can you reuse old paper articles for a birthday party?

Ans: Old paper can be repurposed in a variety of ways, particularly for a birthday celebration.

  1. Make paper bags out of old newspapers to store candy, gifts, and other delights.

  2. For the party, paper can be used to make paper hats.

  3. You can colour paper and use it to wrap gifts and treats.

  4. Paper may be used to make papier mache, which can be used to create intriguing items such as masks, wands, and crowns, among other things.


3. Why should you carry a cloth bag with you when you go shopping?

Ans: Cloth bags are both environmentally friendly and reusable. We use less plastic in the form of carry bags when we use cloth bags while shopping. Plastic is a non-biodegradable material whereas cloth is biodegradable. The more plastic bags we use the more garbage we make and the more difficult it is for them to recycle. Plastic decomposition emits hazardous compounds into the environment. As a result, we should utilise cloth bags to avoid the hazardous side effects of plastic use and disposal.


4. Why should you not burn dry leaves?

Ans: When dried leaves are burned, toxic gas pollutants are released. This pollutes the air and harms the health of humans, animals, and plants. Instead of burning dry leaves we should compost them to produce manure that can be used to nourish agricultural soil.


5. Why should you segregate waste into different dustbins?

Ans: The separation of garbage into distinct bins guarantees that biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes are not mixed together. Biodegradable wastes will be composted, while non-biodegradable wastes will be recycled. Landfills will only be used for items that cannot be recycled or composted. In the absence of segregation, all wastes will collect in landfills, though composting or recycling would be a better option. Hence, waste separation at the source of production is essential.


6. Why should you consume fewer items in your daily life?

Ans: Consumption of fewer things results in less waste generation. Less garbage output means less strain on landfills and composting facilities. A reduction in waste generation also leads to better waste management. Therefore, by reducing waste output, we can save time and money on composting and recycling. As a result, waste management becomes more efficient.


Long Answer Questions: 5 Marks


7. Explain the construction and working of a landfill.

Ans: A landfill is an area of barren ground that is empty and flat. A landfill is a location where solid waste and garbage are disposed of. The materials that can be recycled and composted are separated from the waste before it is dumped in a landfill. The remaining  waste is then scattered out around the dump site. These wastes are covered with a layer of dirt. By dumping more debris and then covering it with dirt, the process is repeated. When the landfill is filled, the site is turned into a playgrounds, park, or other public space. For the next 20 years or so, no buildings are built on the landfills.


8. What is composting? How can we do vermicomposting?

Ans: The process of breaking down organic biodegradable substances into manure and compost is known as composting. 

Vermicomposting is the process of composting with red worms. To begin, we dig a shallow trench or use a box. A heavy layer of sand lines the inside of the box or pit. Above this layer of sand, a layer of dried cow dung leaves are spread out. Then, fill the pit or sand-lined box with vegetable and other food wastes. Add another layer of sand and a few drops of water, being careful not to overdo it. The red worms should now be added to the pit or box. Vegetable waste can now be thrown into the pit. In around 3-4 weeks, the red worms will break down these vegetable wastes into compost. Along with the food wastes, powdered egg shells or seashells can be added. 


9. How can we recycle paper?

Ans: The following are some ways to recycle paper:

  1. Old paper is shredded into little pieces and tossed into a tub.

  2. Fill the tub with water and leave it there for a day to soak and submerge the paper.

  3. A thick paste is made by pounding the paper.

  4. The thick paste is then applied to a wire mesh that has been attached to a frame.

  5. Using patting, make the paste as thick as feasible.

  6. Remove any excess water.

  7. The paste layer is gently removed from the frame and laid out in the sun on a newspaper.

  8. To create attractive patterns, colour, dried leaves, and other materials can be added.

The paper that has been recycled can be reused for various different purposes.


10. What measures can we adopt to minimise waste generation and improve waste management?

Ans: We can take the following steps:

  1. Reduce the usage of plastic and reuse those objects.

  2. Use a cloth or jute bag for shopping

  3. Do not keep food in a plastic bag.

  4. Properly dispose of the plastic bags.

  5. Do not use plastic bags to dispose of trash.

  6. Composting using vermicomposting

  7. Make use of both sides of a piece of paper.

  8. Reuse and recycle paper.

  9. Persuade friends and family to use similar techniques.

 

Benefits of Important Questions from Vedantu for Class 6 Science Chapter 16 - Garbage In, Garbage Out

As we dive into the captivating realm of waste management in Class 6 Science Chapter 16 - "Garbage In, Garbage Out," Vedantu's Important Questions become invaluable companions, paving the way for effective learning and exam preparation.


1. Focus on Key Topics:

Vedantu's Important Questions spotlight crucial waste management topics, facilitating efficient and focused study sessions for class 6 students.


2. Preparation for Exams and Anxiety Reduction:

Tailored for exam readiness, these questions alleviate anxiety by providing a structured approach to preparing for assessments related to waste management.


3. Reinforces Understanding of Fundamental Concepts:

Through targeted questions, Vedantu reinforces the understanding of fundamental waste management concepts, ensuring a solid grasp of key ideas.


4. Effective Time Management:

The questions teach effective time management, guiding students to allocate their study time efficiently for the "Garbage In, Garbage Out" chapter.


5. Enables Self-Assessment and Progress Tracking:

Vedantu's Important Questions empower self-assessment, allowing students to track their progress and identify areas for improvement in waste management knowledge.


6. Strategic Approach for Higher Scores:

With a strategic selection of questions, Vedantu's resource becomes a valuable tool for achieving higher scores in examinations related to waste management.


7. Covers a Wide Range of Topics:

Comprehensive in scope, the Important Questions cover a wide array of waste management topics, ensuring a thorough understanding of the Garbage In, Garbage Out chapter.


8. Supports Exam Preparation and Boosts Confidence:

Aligned with exam requirements, Vedantu's Important Questions provide robust support for exam preparation, fostering confidence and readiness among class 6 students.


Vedantu's Important Questions for Class 6 Science Chapter 16 offer a tailored approach, making the exploration of waste management both insightful and rewarding for young learners.


Important Related Links for CBSE 6 Science

Conclusion

Garbage In, Garbage Out is an integral part of Class 6 Science and plays a crucial role from an examination perspective. The important questions for Class 6 Science, as discussed by NCERT, cover a wide range of topics within the subject. They also provide a concise guide to critical points and details related to the topic.


A solid understanding of each section of Class 6 Science is fundamental as it forms the basis for higher-level studies. However, this section primarily focuses on important questions within the context of Class 6 Science.

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FAQs on Important Questions Class 6 Science Chapter 16

1. What are the most effective methods to reduce the amount of garbage we generate daily, as discussed in Class 6 Science Chapter 16?

To effectively reduce garbage, students should focus on the principle of the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle). For exams in 2025-26, important points to mention include:

  • Reduce: Minimise the purchase of items with excessive packaging. Avoid using single-use items like plastic cutlery and bags.

  • Reuse: Use glass jars or plastic containers for storage instead of throwing them away. Write on both sides of a paper sheet.

  • Recycle: Segregate waste into biodegradable and non-biodegradable so that materials like paper, some plastics, and glass can be sent for recycling.

2. For a 5-mark question, compare compost and chemical fertilisers. Why is compost considered a better alternative?

Compost is considered a better alternative to chemical fertilisers for several important reasons:

  • Environmental Impact: Compost is eco-friendly and made from biodegradable organic waste, whereas chemical fertilisers are factory-made and can cause soil and water pollution.

  • Soil Health: Compost improves soil texture, water retention capacity, and provides essential humus. Chemical fertilisers can harm beneficial soil microbes and degrade soil quality over time.

  • Cost and Accessibility: Compost can be made at home with kitchen waste at almost no cost. Chemical fertilisers need to be purchased.

  • Safety: Compost is natural and safe, while chemical fertilisers can leave harmful residues in crops.

3. What is vermicomposting, and what is the specific role of redworms in this process?

Vermicomposting is a method of preparing compost with the help of a specific type of earthworm, most commonly redworms. The role of redworms is crucial because they consume the organic waste (like vegetable peels and fruit waste) and digest it. Their excreta, known as worm castings, are very rich in nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which makes the resulting compost a high-quality, natural fertiliser.

4. How does modern packaging contribute significantly to the problem of increasing garbage?

Modern packaging significantly increases garbage because it often uses materials that are difficult to dispose of. Key contributing factors include:

  • Multi-layered Packaging: Items are often wrapped in multiple layers of plastic, foil, and cardboard, most of which cannot be reused or recycled easily.

  • Non-Biodegradable Materials: A large portion of packaging is made from plastic, which is non-biodegradable and persists in the environment for hundreds of years, filling up landfills.

  • Single-Use Design: Most packaging is designed for one-time use and is thrown away immediately, adding to the volume of daily garbage.

5. If you are provided with a green and a blue dustbin for waste segregation, how would you correctly dispose of kitchen waste and old plastic toys?

This is a practical application question based on the concept of waste segregation. As per the standard colour code for municipal bins in India:

  • The green dustbin is for biodegradable waste. Therefore, all kitchen waste such as vegetable peels, leftover food, and tea leaves should be put in the green dustbin. This waste can be turned into compost.

  • The blue dustbin is for non-biodegradable or recyclable dry waste. Therefore, old plastic toys should be put in the blue dustbin. This waste cannot be composted and needs to be sent for recycling.

6. Why is burning dry leaves and other plant-based garbage a harmful practice? What is the scientifically recommended method for its disposal?

Burning dry leaves and plant waste is a harmful practice because it releases large amounts of smoke and toxic gases into the atmosphere. This causes severe air pollution, which can lead to respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis. The scientifically recommended and beneficial method for disposing of this type of waste is composting. By putting this organic material in a compost pit, it decomposes naturally and turns into nutrient-rich manure that can be used to improve soil fertility, thus recycling the nutrients back into the ecosystem.

7. What are the long-term consequences for a landfill site if it is exclusively filled with non-biodegradable waste like plastic bags and glass?

If a landfill is filled only with non-biodegradable waste, several serious long-term consequences would arise:

  • The waste would not decompose or break down. Plastic and glass items would remain in the ground for hundreds or thousands of years, occupying valuable land space indefinitely.

  • Over time, rainwater can seep through the waste and pick up harmful chemicals from plastics. This polluted water, called leachate, can contaminate groundwater and nearby water bodies.

  • The land becomes completely unusable for agriculture or construction for a very long time.

8. List three important reasons why plastics are often considered a 'bane' for the environment, making this a frequently asked exam question.

Plastics are considered a bane for the environment for the following three key reasons:

  1. They are Non-Biodegradable: Plastics do not decompose naturally. They break down into smaller microplastics that pollute soil, oceans, and waterways for centuries.

  2. Harm to Wildlife: Animals often mistake plastic bags or fragments for food. Ingesting plastic can cause choking, internal injuries, and death to both land and marine animals.

  3. Toxicity on Burning: When plastic waste is burned, it releases poisonous fumes and toxic gases into the air, causing severe air pollution and health hazards for humans and animals.

9. How does the chapter title 'Garbage In, Garbage Out' explain the core principle of waste management?

The title 'Garbage In, Garbage Out' perfectly summarises the core problem of waste. It implies that what we put into our environment as 'garbage' (the input) is what we get back as a problem in our environment (the output), like landfills and pollution. The principle of waste management, particularly Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, is the solution to this problem. By changing the 'input'—by reducing what we throw away and converting waste into useful things through recycling—we can change the 'output' from a harmful problem to a manageable, or even beneficial, resource.