Correct Option
The correct option is (a).
Explanation
Natural resources are materials or substances occurring in nature which can be exploited for economic gain. They are classified based on their origin, exhaustibility, and stage of development. The fundamental definition emphasizes their derivation from nature and their utility to humans.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Natural resources are defined as resources that are drawn from Nature and used without much modification. Examples include the air we breathe, the water in rivers and lakes, and the soil.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: While natural resources are derived from nature, not all of them are considered "free gifts" in the absolute sense. Standard geographical texts clarify that many of these resources are free gifts of nature and can be used directly, but not all. Some resources require significant effort, cost, and processing to be utilized.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The statement that tools and technology are "never" required is factually wrong. While some resources like air or sunlight can be used directly, others, such as minerals, petroleum, and ores, require advanced tools and technology to be extracted and processed in order to be used in the best possible way.
Key Takeaway
Natural Resources are obtained from nature and used with minimal modification; however, technology is often essential to transform specific resources (like minerals) into useful forms, and not all resources are accessible as free gifts.