What are the natural resources? Explain its different forms.

The sources used directly or indirectly by humans to fulfill their needs are known as natural resources. They are obtained from nature to be used directly or indirectly.

The natural resources are classified in three categories:

● On the basis of development and use

1. Real resources: They are limited in nature. We know how they are formed and quantity present in nature. e.g. : quantity of mineral oil in western Asia

2. Potential resources: Their quantity present in nature is uncountable. They are used less today but will be used in future. e.g. : windmills

● On the basis of origin or source of obtaining

1. Biotic resources : It includes the living beings like animals, insects, plants, human beings etc.

2. Abiotic resources : It includes the non-living things like water, air, light etc.

● On the basis of storage and distribution

1. Universal resources : They are present everywhere and easily available. e.g. air

2. Local resources : They are available only at particular places. Thus, they are known as local resources. e.g. : ores of copper and iron