Students can use Poorvi Book Class 8 Solutions Unit 5 Science and Curiosity Chapter 15 Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Questions and Answers as a quick reference guide.
Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Class 8 Questions and Answers
Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Class 8 Question Answer
NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 15 Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Question Answer
Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Question Answer – Let us do these activities before we read. (Page 233)
I. Work in pairs. What qualities do you associate with a scientist? Share your answers with your classmates and teacher. Complete the word web given below.
Answer:
II. Some pictures of women scientists are given below. What do you know about their work? Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
Answer:
1. Vanitha Muthayya: Vanitha
Muthayya was the project director of Chandrayaan-2, the second lunar exploration mission which crashed while attempting to land. Muthayya joined ISRO as a junior engineer and went on to become the first woman project director at ISRO. She also was the deputy project director for a number of satellites including the Cartosat-1, Oceansat-2, and Megha-Tropiques. She was also a part of the team that led Mangalyaan. In 2006, she received the Best Woman Scientist Award by the Astronomical Society of India.
2. Kalpana Chawla: Kalpana Chawla was the first Indian – American astronaut and first Indian woman in space. She first flew on Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997 as a mission specialist and primaiy robotic arm operator. In 2003, Kalpana Chawla was one of the seven crew members killed in the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.
3. Sunita Williams: Sunita Williams is an American astronaut and retired U.S. Navy officer renowned for her extensive spaceflight experience, including nine spacewalks totaling over 62 hours. She has participated in multiple International Space Station (ISS) missions, serving as a flight engineer and commander.
4. Nandini Harinath: Nandini Harinath, a rocket scientist, has worked in over 14 space missions and contributed to many projects in the last 20 years that she has worked at ISRO. She was the deputy operations director on the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), which successfully placed a spacecraft in orbit around Mars in 2014. She is currently working as the project manager and mission designer.
5. Ritu Karidhal: She is one of the senior scientists at ISRO and has been a key member of many major space missions. She has been the operations director for many missions. She helmed the Mars mission as the deputy director of the project. She has many accolades to her name, including the ISRO Young Scientist Award in 2007 presented by the former president of India, the late Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.
6. Kalpana Kalahasti: Kalpana Kalahasti is an Indian scientist and Electronics and Communication Engineer working in the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). She currently serves as the Associate Project director of the Chandrayaan-3 mission. Kalpana has been instrumental in the construction of various satellites of India and was involved in the Chandrayaan-2 mission.
Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Class 8 Question Answer – Let us Discuss (Page 237)
I. Arrange the following events from Bibha Chowdhuri’s life in the correct order of occurrence. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
1. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) honoured her legacy by renaming a star in the constellation Leo—HD 86081—as ‘Bibha’.
2. She became the first woman faculty member at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR).
3. Bibha Chowdhuri was born in pre-independent India.
4. The Government of India declared a chair professorship in Bibha’s name.
5. She joined the University of Manchester under the guidance of the celebrated Nobel Laureate, Patrick M.S. Blackett.
6. She was nominated for a Nobel Prize by Erwin Schrödinger.
Answer:
1. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) honoured her legacy by renaming a star in the constellation Leo—HD 86081—as ‘Bibha’. [5]
2. She became the first woman faculty member at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). [3]
3. Bibha Chowdhuri was born in pre-independent India. [1]
4. The Government of India declared a chair professorship in Bibha’s name. [6]
5. She joined the University of Manchester under the guidance of the celebrated Nobel Laureate, Patrick M.S. Blackett. [2]
6. She was nominated for a Nobel Prize by Erwin Schrödinger. [4]
Class 8 English Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Question Answer – Let us think and reflect (Pages 237 – 239)
1. In 1945, Bibha’s academic journey took her to the University of Manchester. Under the guidance of the celebrated Nobel Laureate, Patrick M.S. Blackett, she delved deeper into the field of cosmic rays. Her Ph.D. thesis on cosmic rays earned local recognition, with newspapers introducing her as ‘India’s New Woman Scientist—She has an eye for Cosmic Rays’.
(i) Why is the mention of Patrick M.S. Blackett, a Nobel Laureate, significant in this extract?
Answer:
It shows Bibha worked with a renowned scientist, establishing her credibility in a male-dominated field.
(ii) What can be inferred about the public perception of women scientists in the 1940s from the title given to her by the press ‘India’s New Woman Scientist’?
A. Women scientists were widely accepted and celebrated at that time.
B. The world was still doubtful about the capabilities of women scientists.
C. Women scientists were as common and renowned as men in the 1940s.
D. Women were not allowed to study sciences or pursue scientific careers.
Answer:
B. The world was still doubtful about the capabilities of women scientists.
(iii) In the phrase ‘celebrated Nobel Laureate,’ the word ‘celebrated’ refers to all of the following EXCEPT someone who is ___________
A. famous and highly respected
B. frequently seen in public
C. renowned for their achievements
D. well-regarded in their field
Answer:
B. frequently seen in public
(iv) Complete the following sentence suitably.
The phrase ‘She has an eye for Cosmic Rays’ suggests that ___________.
Answer:
she had exceptional skill in studying cosmic rays.
2. The journey from Bibha Chowdhuri’s era to today’s women scientists has been long and arduous, but it is also inspiring. The struggles Chowdhuri faced are a stark reminder of how far we’ve come—and how much further we have to go. But with every cosmic achievement— be it landing on the moon or reaching Mars— these women prove that the journey is well worth it.
Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on. Her story continues to inspire young women to pursue their passions, • break barriers, and leave their mark on the world. As the stars of Indian science shine brighter, Bibha Chowdhuri, the beacon “beam of light’, will always guide the way.
(i) What can be inferred about the challenges faced by women scientists today, as compared to Bibha Chowdhuri’s era?
A. Women scientists no longer face any barriers.
B. The challenges remain, but progress has been made.
C. The struggles have become more difficult over time.
D. The struggles are the same as they were for Chowdhuri.
Answer:
B. The challenges remain, but progress has been made.
(ii) The phrase ‘Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on’ suggests that ___________
Answer:
her influence continues to inspire future generations.
(iii) Why is Bibha Chowdhuri referred to as a ‘beacon’ and a ‘beam of light’ in the extract?
Answer:
Metaphor for her role in guiding and inspiring future generations of women scientists, just as light illuminates darkness.
(iv) State whether the following sentence is a fact or an opinion.
Bibha Chowdhuri was the beacon, the “beam of light’ whose story continues to inspire young women.
Answer:
Opinion. Reason: It interprets her impact subjectively (“beacon of light” is a symbolic judgment, not a measurable fact).
II. Answer the following questions.
Question 1.
Why is Bibha Chowdhuri considered a pioneer in the field of science?
Answer:
Bibha Chowdhuri is considered a pioneer in science because she was India’s first woman physicist who made significant contributions to cosmic ray research and particle physics during a time when women faced immense barriers in scientific fields. Her groundbreaking work on pi-mesons, a subatomic particle and her perseverance in a male- dominated profession paved the way for future generations of women scientists.
Question 2.
What does Bibha Chowdhuri’s nomination by Erwin Schrodinger tell us about her abilities?
Answer:
Bibha Chowdhuri’s nomination for a Nobel Prize by renowned physicist Erwin Schrodinger demonstrates that her scientific work was of exceptional quality and internationally recognised, despite the gender biases prevalent in her time. This nomination serves as strong validation of her remarkable abilities and contributions to physics.
Question 3.
Bibha Chowdhuri never worked for awards or recognition. Support this statement with evidence for the text.
Answer:
Bibha Chowdhuri didn’t work for awards or recognition by stating she “never received any awards during her lifetime” yet continued her research tirelessly. Her dedication to science despite lack of formal recognition shows her work was driven by genuine scientific curiosity rather than the pursuit of honours.
Question 4.
How does the renaming of a star as ‘Bibha’ serve as both a literal and symbolic recognition of her contributions to science?
Answer:
The renaming of star HD 86081 as ‘Bibha’ serves as literal recognition by permanently etching her name in astronomical records. Symbolically, it represents how she illuminated the path for women in science, much like a star provides light in darkness, with ‘Bibha’ meaning ‘beam of light’ being a particularly fitting tribute.
Question 5.
How do the roles of women in ISRO today reflect broader changes in societal attitudes towards women in STEM in India?
Answer:
The prominent roles of women in ISRO today, such as leading missions like Chandrayaan-3, reflect significant societal progress since Bibha Chowdhuri’s era when women scientists worked in isolation. Where Bibha was an exception in her time, today’s women scientists are recognised leaders, showing greater acceptance of women’s capabilities in STEM fields.
Question 6.
What is the writer’s purpose of highlighting the contributions of Bibha Chowdhuri and other modern women scientists?
Answer:
The writer highlights Bibha Chowdhuri’s contributions alongside modern women scientists to show both the historical struggles women faced in STEM and the progress made since then. This contrast aims to inspire readers by demonstrating how pioneers like Bibha paved the way for today’s achievements while acknowledging there is still work to be done for gender equality in science.
Question 7.
How might this text help shape people’s perception of the role of women in other traditionally male-dominated fields?
Answer:
This text helps reshape perceptions by showing that women like Bibha Chowdhuri have always had the capability to excel in male-dominated fields when given opportunities. Her story challenges stereotypes and demonstrates that gender barriers in any profession can be overcome through talent and determination, encouraging more inclusive attitudes across all fields.
Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Class 8 Questions and Answers – Let us learn (Pages 239-244)
I. Complete the crossword puzzle by filling in the antonyms from the clues given below in the table. You may refer to the text.
Answer:
II. Substitute the underlined phrase in the sentences with the suitable words from the box given below.
| physicist luminaries pioneers peers barriers persistence |
1. They are considered to be the first people to start the online markets.
2. A scientist who studies matter, energy, light, etc.
3. Most of my friends are my classmates and are my age.
4. We first welcomed all the famous and important people in folk song for the award ceremony.
5. My brother finally succeeded in his business because of his continuous efforts and determination.
6. We should remove all the things that block our way in achieving success.
Answer:
1. pioneers
2. physicist
3. peers
4. luminaries
5. persistence
6. barriers
III. The words ‘professorship’, ‘mentorship’, and ‘leadership’ are used in the text. These words are made by adding the suffix ‘-ship’ to the words ‘professor’, ‘mentor’ and ‘leader’. Similarly, we can make words by adding -ment and-hood to certain words.
Now, make words by adding suitable suffixes -ship, -ment, and -hood to the words given below. One example has been done for-you.
achieve + ment = achievement
1. member + _______________ = _________________
2. govern + _______________ = _________________
3. partner + _______________ = _________________
4. child + _______________ = _________________
5. citizen + _______________ = _________________
6. entertain + _______________ = _________________
7. brother + _______________ = _________________
8. agree + _______________ = _________________
Answer:
1. member + ship
2. govern + ment
3. partner + ship
4. child + hood
5. citizen + ship
6. entertain + ment
7. brother + hood
8. agree + ment
IV. The abbreviations—ISRO and STEM used in the text are called acronyms because they are read or pronounced as full words.
The grid given below has acronyms for the following. Circle the acronyms in the grid.
1. National Aeronautics and Space Administration
2. All India Institute of Medical Sciences
3. Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy
4. National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research
5. World Health Organisation
Answer:
|
GOLDEN GRAMMAR TIPS Clipping is the process of shortening a word while keeping its original meaning. It’s a form of word formation where longer words are “clipped” down to a simpler, more casual form. There are three main types of clipping in word formation: 1. Front Clipping (Aphaeresis)- The beginning of the word is removed.
2. Back Clipping (Apocope) – The end of the word is removed.
3. Middle Clipping (Syncope)- Both the beginning and end are retained, but the middle part is clipped. Examples:
There’s also a fourth type, called Complex Clipping, where a compound word is reduced. |
V. Read the following sentence from the text and the table that follows.
…, the foundation was laid by early pioneers like Bibha Chowdhuri…
| Subject | Verb | Object |
| The foundation | was laid | early pioneers line Bibha Chowdhuri |
Here the verb is expressed in passive form.
Verbs can be expressed in either active voice or passive voice.
When the subject performs the action, the sentence is said to be in active voice. On the other hand, when the subject receives the action, the sentence is in passive voice.
Generally, sentences written in active voice are considered effective.
However, passive voice is used when the
- action is more important than the doer,
A cure for the disease was discovered.
(The focus is on the discovery, not on who discovered it.) - doer of the action (agent) is obvious,
The national anthem is sung at the beginning of the event.
(It is clear that people sing it, so mentioning the doer is unnecessary.) - doer of the action is unknown.
The car was stolen last night.
(The identity of the thief is unknown.)
Now, complete the following news report with the passive form of verbs given in the box below. (Remember that the verb must agree with the subject.)
discover test measure publish record take
Last year, significant advancements in medical science 1. __________ in leading medical journals when a new vaccine for malaria 2. __________. The vaccine 3. __________ through several clinical trials and results 4. _________ in those journals. During the trials, blood samples 5. __________ regularly from participants to monitor their immune response. The amount of antibodies produced 6. __________ carefully to assess the effectiveness of the vaccine.
Answer:
Last year, significant advancements in medical science 1. were published in leading medical journals when a new vaccine for malaria 2. was discovered The vaccine 3. was tested through several clinical trials and results 4. were recorded in those journals. During the trials, blood samples 5. were taken regularly from participants to monitor their immune response. The amount of antibodies produced 6. was measured carefully to assess the effectiveness of the vaccine.
VI. Read the following report of an experiment. Rewrite the report using passive verbs wherever necessary.
I conducted an experiment to investigate the effects of light on plant growth. I placed various plants under different light conditions and measured their growth over several weeks. I recorded data daily to track the height of each plant. At the end of the experiment, I analysed the results and found that plants exposed to natural light grew significantly taller than those under artificial light. I concluded that sunlight plays a crucial role in plant development. I presented my findings to the class, highlighting the importance of light in enhancing photosynthesis and overall plant health.
You may begin like this.
An experiment was conducted…
Answer:
“An experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of light on plant growth. Various plants were placed under different light conditions, and their growth was measured over several weeks. Data was recorded daily to track the height of each plant. At the end of the experiment, the results were analysed, and it was found that plants exposed to natural light grew significantly taller than those under artificial light. It was concluded that sunlight plays a crucial role in plant development. The findings were presented to the class, highlighting the importance of light in enhancing photosynthesis and overall plant health.”
- Launch the spacecraft towards the Moon from Earth.
- Position the spacecraft to enter the Moon’s orbit.
- Adjust the spacecraft’s path for landing.
- Slow down the spacecraft as it nears the Moon’s surface.
- Release the rover to explore the surface and collect valuable data.
VII. Read the instructions given in the box on landing of Chandrayaan. Complete the passage by choosing the correct answer from the options given.
Chandrayaan’s landing mission involves several key steps. First, the spacecraft 1.________ towards the Moon from the Earth. Then, it 2. ________ to enter the Moon’s orbit. After reaching the Moon’s orbit, the spacecraft’s path 3. ________ for landing. Next, the spacecraft 4. ________ as it nears the Moon’s surface. Finally, the rover 5.________ to explore the surface and collect valuable data.
(i) A. slowed down
B. was slowed down
C. is slowed down
D. were slowed down
Answer:
D. were slowed down
(ii) A. is released
B. was positioned
C. is positioned
D. has positioned
Answer:
C. is positioned
(iii) A. adjusted
B. was adjusted
C. is adjusted
D. were adjusted
Answer:
C. is adjusted
(iv) A. slowed down
B. was slowed down
C. is slowed down
D. were slowed down
Answer:
C. is slowed down
(v) A. is released
B. has released
C. were released
D. was released
Answer:
A. is released
Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Question Answer Class 8 – Let us Listen (Page 244)
I. You will listen to a podcast about Artificial Intelligence. As you listen, answer the following questions by selecting the correct options. (Transcript for teacher on page 251)
1. What is one of the key benefits of AI in the healthcare sector?
(i) Helps doctors communicate faster with patients.
(ii) Provides personalised treatments and faster diagnoses.
(iii) Focuses on cosmetic surgeries to improve” appearance.
Answer:
(iii) Provides personalised treatments and faster diagnoses
2. How did AI play a crucial role during the global pandemic?
(i) AI robots monitored patient behaviour in hospitals.
(ii) AI assisted in speeding up the discovery of new medicines.
(iii) AI developed different types of vaccines by itself.
Answer:
(ii) AI assisted in speeding up the discoveiy of new medicines
3. What example was given regarding Al’s role in renewable energy?
(i) AI is optimising the placement of wind turbines and solar panels in cities.
(ii) AI is promoting alternative energy from wind turbines and solar panels.
(iii) Alis improving the performance of wind turbines and solar panels.
Answer:
(iii) AI is improving the performance of wind turbines and solar panels
4. What does AI offer to teachers in the field of education?
(i) Helps teachers assign grades more quickly.
(ii) Allows teachers to communicate better with students.
(iii) Helps teachers analyse student performance.
Answer:
(iii) Helps teachers analyse student performance
5. What is one of the user-friendly features that AI is enhancing for people with disabilities?
(i) Helps them find better jobs in the mainstream.
(ii) Improves speech recognition and voice command technologies.
(iii) Trains individuals to interact with robots.
Answer:
(ii) Improves speech recognition and voice command technologies
Class 8 English Chapter 15 Question Answer – Let us Speak (Pages 245-246)
I. Form a group of five. Conduct a panel discussion on the topic, ‘Evaluating the Impact of Mobile Phones- Beneficial or Harmful’. Each student will take on one of the following roles.
- Moderator (initiates and directs the flow of the discussion inviting the speakers to share their views on the subject; at the end sums up the points of discussion and thanks the members of the group)
- Principal (opposed to—focus on discipline in school)
- Teacher (in favour of—partially in favour, educational use with limitations)
- Parent (opposed to—concerned about health and social effects on children)
- Student (in favour of—highlighting the benefits like connectivity and learning)
You may use the cues given below and add your own ideas when speaking.
Answer:
Suggestive answer. (Panel Discussion: Evaluating the Impact of Mobile Phones – Beneficial or Harmful)
Moderator: “Today, we will discuss whether mobile phones are more beneficial or harmful. Let’s hear perspectives from our panelists.”
Panelists Response
1. Principal (Opposed): “Mobile phones disrupt classroom discipline, cause distractions, and expose students to cyber risks. Schools should ban them to maintain focus.”
2. Teacher (Partially in Favour): “Phones can aid learning if used responsibly for research and apps, but unrestricted use leads to misuse. We need controlled access.”
3. Parent (Opposed): “Excessive screen time harms children’s health (eye strain, sleep issues) and reduces face- to-face interactions. Parents control is essential.”
4. Student (In Favour): “Phones help us learn (educational apps), stay connected with family, and access emergency services. Banning them is impractical.” Moderator’s; “While phones offer educational benefits, their misuse affects health and discipline. Balanced use with guidelines is key. Thank you, panelists!”
NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 15 Question Answer – Let us Write (Page 246)
I. Your school recently hosted the Zonal Science Exhibition, in which teams of students from 25 schools participated enthusiastically. As the student editor, write a report on the exhibition to be published in your school magazine. Use the cues given below with your own ideas to compose this report.
|
GOLDEN WRITING TIPS Report writing is a structured way of docu-menting and presenting information, analysis, or findings on a specific topic. It is commonly used in academics, business, research, and official communications. Reports are typically written in a clear, formal style and follow a logical sequence to ensure clarity and professionalism. Key Features of Report Writing
For practice in Report Writing, refer to page 341 in the Writing Section under the topic “Report Writing. |
- Who was the organiser and who hosted the exhibition?
- When (date and time) and where was it held?
- Why was it held?
- Who participated?
- Who was the Chief Guest?
- What were the competitions held? For example: Science Quiz, Science Models, etc.
- What were the topics of models exhibited? Give details.
- Which team got the trophy for best exhibit?
- What were the observations of the Chief Guest and other visitors?
Points to remember:
1. Write the report in past tense, passive voice, and third person.
2. Follow proper format with a headline, reporter’s name, and three paragraphs.
Answer:
“Zonal Science Exhibition Sparks Innovation and Curiosity”
By: Shreyas Kapoor, Student Editor The annual Zonal Science Exhibition was hosted by NEW AGE Public School on 5th September, 2025 at the school auditorium. Organised by the District Education Office, the event was designed to foster scientific temper among students. Teams from 25 schools participated enthusiastically, showcasing innovative projects.
The Chief Guest, Dr Subramaniam Rao, a renowned scientist, inaugurated the exhibition. Competitions included a Science Quiz, Model Display, and Live Demonstrations. Topics ranged from renewable energy solutions to AI applications. The team from Golden Global School won the Best Exhibit trophy for their solar-powered irrigation model.
Visitors praised the creativity and practical relevance of the projects. In his address, the Chief Guest emphasised, “Such events nurture future scientists.” The exhibition concluded with a pledge to make science accessible to all.
Class 8th English Chapter 15 Bibha Chowdhuri: The Beam of Light that Lit the Path for Women in Indian Science Question Answer – Let us Explore (Pages 247-248)
I. In the recent times, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality are changing the way students learn. Let us know more about them.
- Augmented reality (AR) enhances a person’s environment by adding digital elements to what can be seen in real time, usually through a smartphone camera.
- Virtual reality (VR) offers a fully immersive experience, replacing the real world with a simulated one.
- Through AR and VR, the students can see and interact with things that they could not interact with in real life. This enables younger students to understand difficult ideas easily.
- To keep up with the times, NCERT has developed the e-Pathshala AR (Augmented Reality) App under the aegis of MHRD, Government of India.
- This App aims to enable students to go beyond textbooks and four walls of the classrooms and learn concepts by directly experimenting rather than only through reading and memorisation.
- This revolutionary effort will change most students from passive listeners to active learners.
- This effort is in line with the Prime Minister’s Digital India vision to empower varied sectors using technology and addressing the triple need of skill, scale, and speed.
Gear up for the new age education! https://ciet.ncert.gov.in/ar-vr
Answer:
To visit the site students may scan the QR Code.
II. The Government of India has come out with a new set of National Awards in the field of Science, Technology, and Innovation known as ‘Rashtriya
Vigyan Puraskar’.
The objective of the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) is to recognise the notable and inspiring contribution made by the scientists, technologists, and innovators individually or in teams in various fields of science, technology, and technology-led innovation.
1. Vigyan Ratna (VR) award will recognise lifetime achievements and contributions made in any field of science and technology.
2. Vigyan Shri (VS) award will recognise distinguished contributions in any field of science and technology.
3. Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB) award will recognise and encourage young scientists up to the age of 45 years, who have made an exceptional contribution in any field of science and technology.
4. Vigyan Team (VT) award to be given to a team comprising three or more scientists/researchers/innovators, who have made an exceptional contribution working in a team in any field of science and technology.
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1959262
Answer:
May scan the QR Code to learn more information.
III. A glimpse of women pioneers from different fields.
Source: https://www.indiascienceandtechnology.gov.in/sites/all/themes/vigyan/images/Women’s_Scientist_Brochure_Low_Res.pdf
Answer:
For more information students may scan the QR Code.
