snt, ca and iyb compilation-iasbaba.compressed (1).pdf

8/15/2019 SnT, CA and IYB Compilation-IASbaba.compressed (1).pdf

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S&T, Current Affairs and India Year Book

1. Recently, ISRO has announced to provide navigational support to Indian Railways

through GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) system. Consider the following

regarding GAGAN

1. It is an indigenous navigational guide system on the lines of GPS system jointlydeveloped by ISRO and DRDO

2. Apart from Communication and navigation, One essential component of the GAGAN

project is the study of the ionospheric behaviour over the Indian region

Select the correct codes

1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution: 2

Explanation:

GAGAN is a joint project of ISRO and Airport Authority of India not DRDO. One essential

component of the GAGAN project is the study of the ionospheric behavior over the Indian

region. This has been specially taken up in view of the rather uncertain nature of the

behaviour of the ionosphere in the region. The study will lead to the optimization of the

algorithms for the ionospheric corrections in the region.

To study the ionospheric behaviour more effectively over entire Indian airspace, Indian

universities and R&D labs, which are involved in the development of regional based

ionotropic model for GAGAN, have suggested nine more TEC stations


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2. Consider the following statements regarding two of the orthodox Schools of Hindu

Philosophy, YOGA and SAMKHYA

1. Samkhya, among the six orthodox schools of Hindu Philosophy is closely related to

Yoga.

2. The first use of the root of word ‘YOGA’ is found in Rig Veda but its modern meaning

is not relevant to Vedic description.

3. Along with Hinduism Yoga is also practiced in Buddhism, Jainism and Tantra

Philosophy.

Choose the correct code

1. 1 and 2

2. 2 and 3

3. 1, 2 and 3

4. 1 and 3

Solution: 3

Explanation: 21st June is celebrated as International Yoga Day. Hence a question on Yoga isexpected this year.

Samkhya or Sankhya is one of the six orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy. It is described

as the rationalist school of Indian philosophy. It is most related to the Yoga school

of Hinduism, and its rationalism was influential on other schools of Indian philosophies.

he first use of the root of word "yoga" is in hymn 5.81.1 of the Rig Veda, a dedication to

rising Sun-god in the morning (Savitri), where it has been interpreted as "yoke" or "yogically

control".

Rigveda, however, does not describe yoga with the same meaning or context as in modern

times. Early references to practices that later became part of yoga are made in

Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, the earliest Hindu Upanishad.

Yoga is practiced in all the mentioned philosophies.


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3. ‘Ideally, under a global warming scenario the land temperature should increase greatly

in the hot summers and serve as a strong monsoon driver’. But in Indian subcontinent the

opposite is happening and it is one of the causes of low rainfall in Monsoon season. What

can be possible reasons for low rainfall in India subcontinent?

1. A strong warming of Indian Ocean that reverses the Land-Sea Thermal Gradient.

2. Increase in land-sea temperature difference due to suppressed warming over the

Indian land mass because of increased aerosol levels.

3. A warming Indian Ocean has resulted in surplus rains over the ocean at the cost of

the monsoon rains over land, simultaneously drying the Indian subcontinent.


1. 1 and 2

2. 2 and 3

3. 1 and 3

4. All

Solution: 3

Explanation:

The land has been cooling and the ocean warming and the monsoon has shown a decreasing

trend during the past century.

The summer monsoon has been showing a weakening trend over the past century with

decreasing rainfall over large regions of the Indian subcontinent. The monsoon occurs

because the land heats up much more than the ocean and the warm air over the land rises

and results in low pressure. This causes the rain-bearing winds from the relatively cooler

ocean to blow on to the land and cause rainfall. That is, it is the strong thermal contrast

between land and ocean that results in a strong monsoon.

Ideally, under a global warming scenario the land temperature should increase greatly in the

hot summers and serve as a strong monsoon driver. But, in the case of the Indian

subcontinent, over the past century, that has not been the case.

Quite a few other studies indicate that the monsoon rainfall is weakening over the South

Asian region during the past half century (since 1950s). Some of these studies suggest that

though the extreme rainfall events have increased over some regions, the frequency ofmoderate-to-heavy rainfall events has decreased over the subcontinent.


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The reduction in land-sea temperature contrast is attributed mostly to a strong warming in

the Indian Ocean on a multi-decadal scale with the latest reason being climate change under

a global warming scenario.

The surface warming in the Indian Ocean, especially in the western regions has reached

values of up to 1.2 degrees C during the past century, much larger than the warming trends

in other tropical oceans. The decrease in the land-sea thermal contrast surface temperature

trends (1901-2012) is also visible in the upper atmosphere, as the warming trends in the

ocean surface are transferred to the atmosphere above through convective processes.

Apart from the ocean warming, a part of the decrease in land-sea temperature difference is

also due to suppressed warming over the Indian land mass, possibly due to increased

aerosol levels. Aerosols in the atmosphere reflect the sun’s heat back into space and cause a

cooling effect.

The warming Indian Ocean also plays a role in weakening the monsoon circulation.

Increased warming in the ocean enhances the large-scale upward motion of warm moist air

over the equatorial ocean. This enhanced upward motion over the ocean is compensated by

subsidence of dry air over the subcontinent, inhibiting convection and rainfall over theIndian landmass. This means that a warming Indian Ocean has resulted in surplus rains over

the ocean at the cost of the monsoon rains over land, simultaneously drying the Indian

subcontinent.

4. Consider the following statements regarding Rock Cut architecture (caves) of Badami

1. It is the oldest Rock Cut Architecture of India after Barabar Caves of Bihar and Ajanta

Caves of Maharashtra

2. The caves incorporates two faiths i.e Hinduism and Buddhism only

3. Jainism faith is also found in the rock cut caves of Badami


1. 1 and 2

2. Only 2

3. Only 1

4. Only 3


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Solution: 4

Explanation:

While India is home to over 1,500 rock-cut works of architecture with the earliest one being

the Barabar caves in Bihar (3rd century BC) and later additions such as Ajanta (2nd century

BC) and Ellora in Maharashtra, the rock-cut shrines of Badami in Bagalkote district of

Karnataka remain as a symbol of Chalukyan architecture (6th to 8th century AD) beginning

from the regime of Pulikesin-I (543-566 AD).

The fourth cave is Jaina which is constructed lastly among all the caves. It is only jain

monument of early chalukya period in badami town and it was made in late 6th-7th century.

Cave 5 is a natural cave of small dimensions with a Buddha statue carved inside.

Rest Caves, 1, 2 and 3 are devoted to Hindu deities.

Source: Friday Review-The Hindu

http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/badami-rockcut-shrines-in-karnatakas-

bagalkote-district-unique-synthesis-of-styles/article7180698.ece

5. Consider the following statements with respect to LEGUMES

1. Legumes have an ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere

2. Legumes help in increasing soil fertility

3. Legumes are highly nutritive but also contain anti-nutrients that are harmful


1. 1 and 22. 2 and 3

3. 1, 2 and 3

4. Only 1

Solution: 3

Explanation

The legume family consists of plants that produce a pod with seeds inside. Common edible

legumes include lentils, peas, chickpeas, beans, soybeans and peanuts.

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Cultivation of all the crops including cereals and regular vegetables will get benefitted if the

legume vegetables are grown once a season.

Apart from fixing atmospheric nitrogen, the legume vegetables also help in increasing the

organic content of the soil as they produce huge quantum of foliage that gets added into

the soil. In addition to this, they also enhance the water-holding capacity of soil, he points

out. They have a positive impact on human health too as these protein-rich legume

vegetables can help fight protein and energy-deficiency induced malnutrition.

They also contain so-called anti-nutrients like Phytic Acid, Lectins and Saponins which are

substances that can interfere with digestion and the absorption of other nutrients.

6. ‘Bhama Kalapam,’ ‘Parvathi Parinayam’ and ‘Bhakta Prahlada’ are related to which of

the dance forms

1. Kathakali

2. Kuchipudi

3. Bharatnatyam

4. Odissi

Solution: 2

Explanation: Taken from Friday Review

http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/guru-vedantam-radhesyam-presents-

kuchipudi-yakshaganas/article7329312.ece

7. Indian ranks third in World Doping Report published by WADA. Consider the following

statements w.r.t Doping-

1. Blood doping is the practice of boosting the number of white blood cells in the

bloodstream in order to enhance athletic performance.

2. PerflouroCarbons (PFCs) are chiefly used as Blood substitutes for Blood doping

agents.

3. Gene doping is the therapeutic use of cells, genes, genetic elements, or of the

modulation of gene expression, having the capacity to improve athletic

performance.

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1. 1 and 2

2. Only 1

3. 2 and 3

4. 1, 2 and 3

Solution: 1

Explanation: First two statements are correct. Gene doping is defined by the World Anti-

Doping Agency as "the non-therapeutic use of cells, genes, genetic elements, or of the

modulation of gene expression, having the capacity to improve athletic performance.

8. ‘Recently Indian Government has given nod for the disinvestment of NTPC and IOC’.

Consider the following statements with respect to National Investment Fund created

under disinvestment policy-

1. It is maintained outside Consolidated Fund of India

2. The utilization of funds is done only for the funding of social sector scheme.3. NIF funds can be utilized for the Recapitalization of public sector banks and

investment in Indian Railways towards capital expenditure

Which is/are the correct codes?

1. 1 and 2

2. Only 2 and 3

3. Only 1

4. 1 and 3

Solution: 1 and 3

Explanation: Importance of this question

This question was made considering economy in current affairs. Last week, May 2015,

Government has given nod for 5% disinvestment in NTPC and 10% in IOC. National

Investment Fund that was created under Disinvestment Policy of India got restructured in

2013. Now its utilization is not limited to social sector schemes but also for recapitalizationof PSU’s, investment in Indian Railways and RRB’s/NABARD etc.


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To know more- http://www.divest.nic.in/Nat_inves_fund.asp

9. Consider the statements with respect to warm blooded and cold blooded animals

1. A cold-blooded animal can convert much more of its food into body mass compared

with a warm-blooded animal.

2. Warm blooded animals require much less energy than cold blooded to survive.

3. Cold blooded animals have stronger immune system than warm blooded due to

capacity to regulate their body temperature


1. Only 1

2. 2 and 33. 1 and 3

4. All

Solution: Only 1

Explanation: Why is this question important?

Recently, World’s first fully warm-blooded fish named Opah or moonfish was discovered.

UPSC in general never asks primary or secondary issues, like it will never ask the name ofthe fish or so? But it dissects the issue at a tertiary level and checks on the broader issue.

This question is framed taking the above into consideration.

Only a small amount of the food that a warm-blooded animal eats is converted into body

mass. The rest is used to fuel a constant body temperature. A cold-blooded animal can

convert much more of its food into body mass compared with a warm-blooded animal.

Being cold-blooded, however, also has its advantages. Cold-blooded animals require much

less energy to survive than warm-blooded animals do. Mammals and birds require much

more food and energy than do cold-blooded animals of the same weight. This is because in

warm-blooded animals, the heat loss from their bodies is proportional to the surface area of

their bodies, while the heat created by their bodies is proportional to their mass.

Another disadvantage to being warm-blooded is that warm-blooded bodies provide a nice

warm environment for viruses, bacteria and parasites to live in. Mammals and birds tend to

have more problems with these infections than do reptiles, whose constantly changing body

temperatures make life more difficult for these invaders. However, an advantage of this is

that mammals and birds have developed a stronger immune system than cold-blooded

animals.

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10. National Green Tribunal has banned the burning of garbage around Delhi-Near Capital

Region recently. Some of the pollutants contained in the smoke from open burning of

garbage can include:

1. Dioxins

2. Furans

3. Arsenic

4. Mercury

5. PCBs

6. Lead

Choose the correct options

1. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

2. 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6

3. 1, 3 and 5

4. All

Solution: All

Explanation: Carbon monoxide, Nitrogen oxides, Sulphur oxides, Hydrochloric acid are also

released but most of you know about these. The most important aspect of this question is

to make you aware about –“Dioxin”. UPSC may be interested in Dioxin. Dioxins are

classified as persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic pollutants (PBTs). Check previous

year’s papers and look for UPSC’s love towards such questions.

PBTs are highly toxic, long-lasting substances that can build up in the food chain to levels

that are harmful to human and ecosystem health. Persistent means they remain in the

environment for extended periods of time. Bioaccumulative means their concentration

levels increase as they move up the food chain. As a consequence, animals at the top of the

food chain (such as humans) tend to have the highest dioxin concentrations in their bodies.

Dioxins are potent toxicants with the potential to produce a broad spectrum of adverse

effects in humans. Dioxins can alter the fundamental growth and development of cells in

ways that have the potential to lead to many kinds of impacts.


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11. Consider the following statements with respect to Permanent Account Number

(PAN)?

1. Unlike the Aadhaar Number and Driving License, it is issued to foreign nationals.

2. It is accepted as Proof for Indian Citizenship

Choose the correct code/s

1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution: None

Explanation: Recently government has made PAN mandatory for private firms seeking

central excise registration.

Now, focus on the broad issue. A foreign national is entitled to get Aadhar, DL and PAN. So,

first statement is wrong. Also, PAN is not a proof for citizenship rather it is just for financial

transaction.

12. Iodine-125 has significant applications in medicines. Consider the following statements

1. It is used in treatment of cancer

2. It can be used for treating retinoblastoma, a rare form of eye cancer

3. It is produced from nuclear reaction using Xenon

Identify the correct statements

1. 1 and 2

2. Only 23. 1,2 and3

4. 1 and 3

Solution: 3

Explanation: BARC-made ‘BARC I-125 Ocu-Prosta seed’ is an ideal choice to treat

retinoblastoma and uveal tract melanoma, two forms of rare eye cancers. UPSC has asked

many questions from the achievements of Indian Institutes like ISRO, BARC, TIFR etc. Also,

under development of Science and Technology, this issue is important.


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Iodine-125 is a radioisotope of iodine which has uses in biological assays, nuclear

medicine imaging and in radiation therapy as brachytherapy to treat prostate

cancer and brain tumors. BARC scientists produce Iodine 125 in a batch process by

irradiating 4 gramme of xenon-124 gas in the Dhruva reactor for a period of 15 days. Xenon

-125 produced by the neutron interaction decays into I-125.

13. Aditya-1 is a spacecraft, whose mission is to study the ‘Sun’. It will study?

1. Sun’s corona

2. Sun’s photosphere

3. Sun’s chromospheres

Select the correct code

1. 1 only

2. 1 and 3

3. 2 only

4. All

Solution: 1

https://directory.eoportal.org/web/eoportal/satellite-missions/a/aditya-1

14. With reference to ‘Phyto-chemicals’, consider the following

1. These are chemical compounds, naturally occurring in plants and animals.

2. They posses antioxidant and hormone like activity.

3. They can be found in apples, tea and carrot

4. They have potential to treat cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes etc


1. 1,2 and 3

2. 1,2 and 4

3. 2,3 and 4

4. 1,2,3 and 4

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Solution: 3

Explanation: Phyto-chemicals are found only in Plants.

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/efeatures.aspx

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phytochemical

15. Which of the following international agreement is/are related to ‘Engineering’?

1. Washington Accord

2. Sydney Accord

3. Dublin Accord


1. 1 and 2

2. 2 and 3

3. Only 14. 1, 2 and 3

Solution: 4

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/india-becomes-permanent-member-of-

washington-accord/article6112160.ece

http://www.ieagreements.org/dublin/

http://www.ieagreements.org/sydney/

16. With reference to Light Water Reactor, consider the following

1. Pressurized water reactor and Boiling water reactor is a subtype of LWR

2. The fuel used is of liquid form of Uranium-235

3. Normal water is used as coolant and moderator

Correct statement is/are

1. 1 and 2

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2. Ony 1

3. Only 2

4. 1 and 3

Solution: 4

Explanation: Uranium used is solid in the form of pellets not liquid

17. Bollgard technology is associated with which crop?

1. Cotton

2. Wheat

3. Rice

4. Pulse

Solution- Cotton

18. ‘Globally, Preterm Birth (PTB) is the single largest cause of neonatal deaths’. Consider

the following statements wrt PTB

1. A birth that takes place before the mother has been pregnant for 7 months

construes a preterm birth.

2. India has the highest number of PTB worldwide.

3. Major reason of PTB is the lack of healthcare facilities in the country.

Identify the incorrect statement/s

1. Only 3

2. 1, 2 and 3

3. 1 and 3

4. 1 and 2

Solution: 3

Explanation:

Globally, Preterm Birth (PTB) is the single largest cause of neonatal deaths. A birth that

takes place before the mother has been pregnant for at least 37 weeks construes a preterm

birth. In India, among the total 27 million babies born annually, 3.6 million babies are born


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preterm, and over 300,000 of these preterm babies die each year because of associated

complications. India, with its highest number of PTBs and the highest number of preterm

deaths worldwide, contributes 25% of the overall global preterm related deaths. The effects

of PTB extend beyond the early infancy with substantial long-term consequences in late

childhood and adult life.

A major reason for our inability to significantly reduce the burden of preterm birth is that

the causes of preterm birth are not fully understood. Preterm birth is likely caused by a

combination of physical, environmental and biological factors. Biological factors appear to

be the predominant causes that predispose a woman to deliver babies preterm.

19. With ref erence to Indian livestock, what are ‘Gramapriya and Vanaraja’?

1. A breed of Chicken

2. A breed of Goat

3. Gramapriya is a breed of Chicken and Vanaraja is a breed of Goat

4. None

Solution: 1

20. Consider the following ‘Deserts’ of the world

1. Namib

2. Colorado Plateau

3. Kalahari

4. Atacama

5. Great Victoria

6. Patagonian

Which can be categorized in cold desert?

1. 1,2,3, 5 and 6

2. 2, 3 ,5 and 6

3. 1,2,4,5 and 6

4. 1, 2 ,4 and 6

Solution: 4

The cold Deserts are-

Namib


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Colorado Plateau

Atacama

Patagonian

21. Consider the following with respect to fundamental forces on Earth

1. The range of Gravitational and Electromagnetic Force are almost equal in nature.

2. Gravitational Force is a strong force as compared to Weak Nuclear force.

Select the correct statement/s

1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution: (1)

Explanation:

Range of Gravitational Force- Infinite

Range of Electromagnetic Force- Infinite

Strength of Gravitational Force- 10^-36

Strength of Weak Nuclear Force- 10^-13

22. Consider the following statements

1. Law of Gravitation at the Moon is One-Sixth that at the Earth.

2. Acceleration due to gravity is the same both on the Moon and the Earth.


1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution: (4)

Explanation:


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The laws of nature are the same everywhere in the universe. The acceleration due to

gravity at the moon is one-sixth that at the earth, but the law of gravitation is the same

both on the moon and the earth.)

23. It is said that Ancient Indian science had contributed significantly in various aspects of

scientific advancement. Consider the following with respect to the development of

science in Ancient India

1. The difference between Wave and Current was fully understood in Ancient Indian

science.

2. Ancient scientists were able to distinguish between various types of rotational,

translational and vibrational motions.

Select the correct code/s

1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution: (3)

Explanation:

Ideas on Motion in Ancient Indian Science: Ancient Indian thinkers had arrived at an elaborate

system of ideas on motion. Force, the cause of motion, was thought to be of different kinds:

force due to continuous pressure (nodan), as the force of wind on a sailing vessel; impact

(abhighat), as when a potter’s rod strikes the wheel; persistent tendency (sanskara) to move

in a straight line (vega) or restoration of shape in an elastic body; transmitted force by a

string, rod, etc. The notion of (vega) in the Vaisesika theory of motion perhaps comes

closest to the concept of inertia. Vega, the tendency to move in a straight line, was thought

to be opposed by contact with objects including atmosphere, a parallel to the ideas of

friction and air resistance. It was correctly summarised that the different kinds of motion

(translational, rotational and vibrational) of an extended body arise from only the

translational motion of its constituent particles. A falling leaf in the wind may have

downward motion as a whole (patan) and also rotational and vibrational motion (bhraman,

spandan), but each particle of the leaf at an instant only has a definite (small) displacement.

There was considerable focus in Indian thought on measurement of motion and units of

length and time. It was known that the position of a particle in space can be indicated by

distance measured along three axes. Bhaskara (1150 A.D) had introduced the concept of

‘instantaneous motion’ (tatkaliki gati), which anticipated the modern notion ofinstantaneous velocity using Differential Calculus. The difference between a wave and a


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current (of water) was clearly understood; a current is a motion of particles of water under

gravity and fluidity while a wave results from the transmission of vibrations of water

particles

24. Amongst the following, the examples of ‘Contact Forces’ are

1. Electromagnetic Force

2. Gravitational Force

3. Frictional Force

4. Air resistance

5. Viscous Force


1. 1,3,4 and 5

2. 1, 2 and 3

3. 3, 4 and 5

4. 1, 2, 4 and 5

Solution: (3)

Explanation:

Contact force is the force in which an object comes in contact with another object. Contact

forces are also direct forces. Contact forces are a something that pull on it. Contact forces

are ubiquitous and are responsible for most visible interactions between macroscopic

collections of matter. The most common instances of this include friction, normal force,

and tension

A non-contact force is a force applied to an object by another body that is not in direct

contact with it. The most familiar example of a non-contact force is weight. All four known

fundamental interactions are non-contact forces. Contact forces arise also when solids are

in contact with fluids. For example, for a solid immersed in a fluid, there is an upward

bouyant force equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. The viscous force, air resistance,

etc are also examples of contact forces


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25. Carbohydrates are vital source of energy for any living organism. Consider the

following with respect to various types of energy resources in plants and animals.

1. Glycogens are solely coming from animals, specifically made by the liver and the

muscles, while the starch solely comes from the green plants and staple foods like

potatoes and cassavas.

2. Cellulose occurs exclusively in plants and it is the most abundant organic substance

in plant kingdom.

3. Human store glucose as Starch as well as Gycogens coming from plants and animalsrespectively.

Select the correct code/s

1. 1 and 2

2. 1 and 3

3. Only 3

4. 1, 2 and 3

Solution: (1)

Explanation:

Starch is the main storage polysaccharide of plants. It is the most important dietary source

for human beings. High content of starch is found in cereals, roots, tubers and some

vegetables.

Cellulose occurs exclusively in plants and it is the most abundant organic substance in plant

kingdom. It is a predominant constituent of cell wall of plant cells. The carbohydrates are

stored in animal body as glycogen. It is also known as animal starch.

Glycogen is the body's storage form of starch, though it is technically glucose. To

understand this, you must understand that starch is a plant's storage form of glucose.

However, as humans, we store the same glucose as glycogen. Our body is equipped to

contain excess glucose molecules as glycogen rather than starch.

26. Biodiesel can be produced from among the following-

1. Jatropa

2. Pongamia Pinnata


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3. Sunflower

4. Rape Seeds


1. 1 and 2

2. 1, 2 and 4

3. Only 1

4. All

Solution: (4)

Explanation:

Pongamia Pinnata is a viable non-toxic alternative to jatropha for making biodiesel. Being a

legume, it fixes nitrogen into the soil and is often used as a windbreak between fields on

farms. Bio Diesel fuel can be produced from oilseed plants such as rape seeds, sunflower,

canola and or JATROPHA CURCAS.

27. Recently India applied for membership of Missile Technology Control Regime.

Consider the following statements with respect to MTCR

1. MTCR is a binding treaty between member nations to limit the proliferation of

missiles and missile technology.

2. The activities of the MTCR are consistent with the UN’s non-proliferation and export

control efforts.


1. Only 1

2. Only 23. Both

4. None

Solution: (2)

Explanation: MTCR is not a treaty itself. The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) is

an informal and voluntary partnership between 34 countries to prevent

the proliferation of missile and unmanned aerial vehicle technology capable of carrying a

500 kg payload for at least 300 km.


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While there is no formal linkage, the activities of the MTCR are consistent with the UN’s

non-proliferation and export control efforts. For example, applying the MTCR Guidelines

and Annex on a national basis helps countries to meet their export control obligations under

UN Security Council Resolution 1540.

28. Consider the following regarding BRAHMOS Missile jointly developed by India and

Russia

1. Its range of 290km is governed by Missile technology Control Regime (MTCR) of which

Russia is a member.

2. Its only disadvantage is its surface to surface variant.

3. It works on the principle of ‘Fire and Forget’.


1. 1 and 2

2. 2 and 3

3. 1 and 3

4. All

Solution: (3)

Explanation: Brahmos is a supersonic cruise missile.

MTCR controls the proliferation of missile and unmanned aerial vehicle technology capable

of carrying a 500 kg payload for at least 300 km. Since India is not a member of MTCR and

Russia is, therefore the joint development could not cross the limit of 300 Km and hence the

missile’s range is 290 km

Brahmos can be launched from Submarines, Ships, Land and Air. So, it can be surface to

surface, Submarine to Air and under development Air to Air. Hence second statement is

wrong.

29. Recently Lead (Pb) was making news due to its contamination in Maggie. Consider the

following statements with respect to Lead

1. High concentration of Pb leads to Dyslexia.


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2. One if its major uses is in the glass of computer and television screens, where it shields

the viewer from radiation.


1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution: (3)

Explanation:

Lead is a major constituent of the lead-acid battery used extensively in car batteries. It is

used as a coloring element in ceramic glazes, as projectiles, in some candles to threat the

wick. It is the traditional base metal for organ pipes, and it is used as electrodes in the

process of electrolysis. One if its major uses is in the glass of computer and television

screens, where it shields the viewer from radiation. Other uses are in sheeting, cables,

solders, lead crystal glassware, ammunitions, bearings and as weight in sport equipment.

Once taken into the body, lead distributes throughout the body in the blood and is

accumulated in the bones. Depending on the level of exposure, lead can adversely affect

the nervous system, kidney function, immune system, reproductive and developmental

systems and the cardiovascular system. Lead exposure also affects the oxygen carrying

capacity of the blood. The lead effects most commonly encountered in current populations

are neurological effects in children and cardiovascular effects (e.g., high blood pressure and

heart disease) in adults. Infants and young children are especially sensitive to even low

levels of lead, which may contribute to behavioural problems, learning deficits and loweredIQ.

30. The class of compound known as Biocides are used by Archaeologists in the

preservation and reconstruction of archaeological sites. However, it has variety of other

applications like

1. Antibiotics

2. Pesticides

3. Antifouling Products

4. Anticancer Agent

5. Antifungal


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1. 1, 2, 3 and 5

2. 2,3,4 and 5

3. 2, 3, and 4

4. All of the above

Solution: 1

Explanation: A biocide is a chemical substance or microorganism which can deter, render

harmless, or exert a controlling effect on any harmful organism by chemical or biological

means. Biocides are commonly used in medicine, agriculture, forestry, and industry.

A biocide can be:

A pesticide- this includes fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, algicides and rodenticides etc

An antimicrobial- this includes germicides, antibiotics, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and

antifouling products etc.

31. Consider the following w.r.t Mangroves Forest

1. The Pichavaram mangroves in Tamil Nadu is India's largest Mangrove Forest

2. Asia has the largest concentration of the world’s mangroves except Middle East


1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both4. None

Solution- 4

Explanation-

According to Forest Survey Report, 2013, West Bengal has almost half of the mangroves

cover of India. Oman, near Muscat, supports large areas of mangroves, in particular at

Shinas, Qurm Park and Mahout Island. In Arabic, mangrove trees are known as qurm, thus

the mangrove area in Oman is known as Qurm Park.


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32. The term micro-satellite is associated with which of the following?

1. Genetics

2. Space Technology


1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution- 3

Explanation- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miniaturized_satellite#Microsatellite

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsatellite

33. “Global-warming potential (GWP) is a relative measure of how much heat

a greenhouse gas traps in the atmosphere”. Consider the statements on which GWP

depends

1. the absorption of infrared radiation by a given species

2. the spectral location of its absorbing wavelengths

3. the atmospheric lifetime of the species

Identify the correct statement/s

1. 1 and 2

2. Only 3

3. 1 and 3

4. 1,2 and 3

Solution- 4

Explanation- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global-warming_potential

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miniaturized_satellite#Microsatellitehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miniaturized_satellite#Microsatellitehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miniaturized_satellite#Microsatellitehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsatellitehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsatellitehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global-warming_potentialhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global-warming_potentialhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global-warming_potentialhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global-warming_potentialhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsatellitehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miniaturized_satellite#Microsatellite


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http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/india-needs-clear-policy-on-ozone-

gases/article6205565.ece

34. With reference to “Sankirtana”, consider the following

1. Ritual singing, drumming and dancing of Manipur

2. It encompasses an array of arts performed to mark religious occasions and various

stages in the life of the Vaishnav people of Manipur plains.

3. It is practiced at the centre of a temple, where performers narrate the lives and

deeds of Krishna through songs and dance

4. It is inscribed on the Representative List of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

of Humanity

Incorrect statement is/are

1. 1 and 2

2. 1, 2 and 33. All

4. None

Solution- 4

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-newdelhi/manipuri-sankirtana-

inscribed-on-unescos-intangible-heritage-list/article5435312.ece

35. With reference to ‘System of Rice Intensification’, consider the following

1. It originated in USA

2. It’s a water intensive methodology

3. It is a patented methodology and India has access to it.

Correct statement is/ are

1. 1,2 and 3

2. 2 and 3

3. Only 1

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/india-needs-clear-policy-on-ozone-gases/article6205565.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/india-needs-clear-policy-on-ozone-gases/article6205565.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/india-needs-clear-policy-on-ozone-gases/article6205565.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-newdelhi/manipuri-sankirtana-inscribed-on-unescos-intangible-heritage-list/article5435312.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-newdelhi/manipuri-sankirtana-inscribed-on-unescos-intangible-heritage-list/article5435312.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-newdelhi/manipuri-sankirtana-inscribed-on-unescos-intangible-heritage-list/article5435312.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-newdelhi/manipuri-sankirtana-inscribed-on-unescos-intangible-heritage-list/article5435312.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-newdelhi/manipuri-sankirtana-inscribed-on-unescos-intangible-heritage-list/article5435312.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/india-needs-clear-policy-on-ozone-gases/article6205565.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/india-needs-clear-policy-on-ozone-gases/article6205565.ece


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4. None

Solution- 4

Explanation- Originated in Medagascar not USA. It helps in saving water. Not a patent

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/more-rice-from-less-water/article6183223.ece

36. As per Indian culture, the word ‘Kolam’ is associated with

1. Art of Rangoli in southern parts of the country 2. A type of tribe

3. Art of Weaving of people of ancient origin

Correct statement(s)

1. Only 1

2. 1 and 2

3. Only 3

4. None

Solution- 2

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/kolam-women-dish-out-

knowledge-on-traditional-food/article6318693.ece

37.“Albedo is the percentage of incoming radiation reflected off a surface”. Consider the

following statements

1. The more radiation reflected the more Global warming that occurs.

2. Polar ice has highest albedo.

Incorrect statement(s)

1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution- 1

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/more-rice-from-less-water/article6183223.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/more-rice-from-less-water/article6183223.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/kolam-women-dish-out-knowledge-on-traditional-food/article6318693.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/kolam-women-dish-out-knowledge-on-traditional-food/article6318693.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/kolam-women-dish-out-knowledge-on-traditional-food/article6318693.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/kolam-women-dish-out-knowledge-on-traditional-food/article6318693.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/kolam-women-dish-out-knowledge-on-traditional-food/article6318693.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/more-rice-from-less-water/article6183223.ece


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http://www.ecocem.ie/environmental,albedo.htm

http://www.eoearth.org/view/article/149954/

38. Tropical cyclones occur in –

1. tropics only2. tropics and sub tropics only

3. subtropics only

4. tropic, subtropics and extra-tropics

Solution- 4

In addition to tropical cyclones, there are two other classes of cyclones within the spectrum

of cyclone types. These kinds of cyclones, known as extratropical cyclones and subtropical

cyclones, can be stages a tropical cyclone passes through during its formation or

dissipation. An extratropical cyclone is a storm that derives energy from horizontal

temperature differences, which are typical in higher latitudes. A tropical cyclone can

become extratropical as it moves toward higher latitudes if its energy source changes from

heat released by condensation to differences in temperature between air masses; although

not as frequently, an extratropical cyclone can transform into a subtropical storm, and from

there into a tropical cyclone. From space, extratropical storms have a characteristic

"comma-shaped" cloud pattern. Extratropical cyclones can also be dangerous when their

low-pressure centres cause powerful winds and high seas

39. When water droplets freeze on ice crystals, process known as

1. Bergeron process 2. Snowflakes process

3. Ice Shelves process

4. Water crystallization

Solution- 1

http://www.ecocem.ie/environmental,albedo.htmhttp://www.ecocem.ie/environmental,albedo.htmhttp://www.eoearth.org/view/article/149954/http://www.eoearth.org/view/article/149954/http://www.eoearth.org/view/article/149954/http://www.ecocem.ie/environmental,albedo.htm


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40. Which of followings are rift valley-

1. Lake Tanganayika

2. Gulf of Aden

3. Lake Baikal

4. Black Sea


1. 2 and 3

2. 1, 3 and 4

3. 2 and 4

4. 1 and 3

Solution- 4

Many of the world's largest lakes are located in rift valleys. Lake Baikal in Siberia, a World

Heritage Site, lies in an active rift valley. Baikal is both the deepest lake in the world and,

with 20% of all of the liquid freshwater on earth, has the greatest volume. Lake Tanganyika,

second by both measures, is in the Albertine Rift, the westernmost arm of the active East

African Rift. Lake Superior in North America, the largest freshwater lake by area, lies in the

ancient and dormant Midcontinent Rift. The largest subglacial lake, Lake Vostok, may also lie

in an ancient rift valley.

41. Below are the statements that differentiate the types of diabetes. If you notice your

friend is a diabetic, then how will you differentiate if he/she is type 1 or type 2?

1. Your friend is having the most common type of diabetes.

2. His/Her familiar background shows strong hereditary reasons for being diabetic.


1. Your friend is suffering from Type 2 diabetes


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2. Your friends is suffering from Type 1 diabetes

3. Both

4. None

Solution- 1

Both are the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 is the most common form of diabetes

mainly found in adults and constituting 90-95% as compared to type 1. Genetically both

type 1 and type 2 can be found but type 2 has strong genetic correlation than type 1

42. Arrange the following countries from West to East (Horizontally) along Mediterranean

Sea

1. Tunisia2. Egypt

3. Jordan

4. Syria


1. 1-2-3-4

2. 2-4-3-1

3. 3-4-2-1

4.

1-2-4-3

Solution- 1

Check the Map


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43. A geographical indication (GI) is a name or sign used on certain products which

corresponds to a specific geographical location or origin. Match the following Indian GI

correctly

1. Bidriware- Kerala

2. Chanderi Fabric- Madhya Pradesh

3. Nirmal Paintings- Telangana

4. Kaipad Rice- Karnataka


1. 1, 2, 3 and 4

2. 1, 3 and 4

3. 2 and 3

4. 1 and 4

Solution- 3

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Geographical_Indications_in_India

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Geographical_Indications_in_Indiahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Geographical_Indications_in_Indiahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Geographical_Indications_in_India


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44. Consider the following regarding ‘Uranium Enrichment’

1. Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) has lower than 30% concentration of Uranium-235 that is a

weapons grade.2. Highly enriched Uranium (HEU) has more than 30% concentration of Uranium-235 and used

in nuclear reactors and research.

3. Uranium in natural condition is found as U-235 but unless processed through ‘enrichment’,

cannot be used for civilian or weapons-grade technologies.


1. 1 and 2

2. 2 and 3

3. 1, 2 and 3

4. None

Solution- 4

Natural Uranium is 99 % U-238 isotope. LEU has lower than 20% concentration of U-235- used in

civilian purpose/nuclear reactors. HEU – more than 20 % of U-235, used for weapons-grade.

45. Amongst the following that is/are not a ‘STAR-

1. Pulsar

2. Supernova

3. Quasars

4. Pluto


1. 1, 2 and 3

2. 2, 3 and 4

3. 1, 3 and 4

4. All

Solution- 2

Only Pulsar is a star.


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45. ‘Recently NASA has solved the mystery of formation of Quasars’. Consider the following

statements in its reference

1. Quasars are the brightest object in the universe.

2. They exhibit similar properties as galaxies.

Select the wrong statement/s

1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution- 4

http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/nasas-hubble-finds-formative-years-of-

quasars/article7336606.ece

46. Recently RBI announced ‘Strategic Debt Restructuring (SDR) Scheme’. It is-

1. To allow flexible norms for lenders to pay debt.

2. To allow lenders only Public and Private Banks to convert their loans into equity

stake

3. To allow banks and non-banking lending institutions to convert their loans into

equity stake


1. 1 and 3

2. 2 and 3

3. Only 2

4. Only 3

Solution- 4

http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/nasas-hubble-finds-formative-years-of-quasars/article7336606.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/nasas-hubble-finds-formative-years-of-quasars/article7336606.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/nasas-hubble-finds-formative-years-of-quasars/article7336606.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/nasas-hubble-finds-formative-years-of-quasars/article7336606.ecehttp://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/nasas-hubble-finds-formative-years-of-quasars/article7336606.ece


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The banking regulator RBI issued new norms for Strategic Debt Conversion (SDR) which will

give lenders the right to convert their outstanding loans into a majority equity stake if the

borrower fails to meet conditions stipulated under the restructuring package.

http://www.indiafilings.com/learn/rbi-strategic-debt-restructuring-scheme/

47. ‘Indian Banks are witnessing rising NPA’s (Non-Performing Assets) due to the

slowdown in the Indian economy and high interest costs’. What are the tools issued by

RBI to tackle rising NPA?

1. Asset Reconstruction Companies

2. SARFESI Act3. Joint Lenders Forum

4. KYC norm

Select the correct code-

1. 1, 2 and 4

2. 2, 3 and 4

3. 1 and 4

4. All

Solution- 4

All are steps towards controlling NPA.

http://www.indiafilings.com/learn/rbi-strategic-debt-restructuring-scheme/

48. Consider the following statements with respect to Solar Wind and Earth Wind-

1. The solar wind is very strong compared to the wind on Earth

2. The solar wind is very weak compared to the wind on Earth, though it is much, much

faster than Earth wind.


1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

http://www.indiafilings.com/learn/rbi-strategic-debt-restructuring-scheme/http://www.indiafilings.com/learn/rbi-strategic-debt-restructuring-scheme/http://www.indiafilings.com/learn/rbi-strategic-debt-restructuring-scheme/http://www.indiafilings.com/learn/rbi-strategic-debt-restructuring-scheme/http://www.indiafilings.com/learn/rbi-strategic-debt-restructuring-scheme/http://www.indiafilings.com/learn/rbi-strategic-debt-restructuring-scheme/


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4. None

Solution- 2

Explanation- The solar wind is very weak compared to the wind on Earth, though it is much,

much faster. When we measure solar wind speeds, we typically get speeds of 1-2 million

miles per hour. They end up being weaker because there is very little of it. Solar wind

density is usually about 100 particles per cubic inch. Thus, a typical pressure from the solar

wind is measure in nanopascals whereas at the Earth’s surface, the atmospheric pressure is

100 kilopascals, and surface winds are about 100 pascals. Since solar wind is measured in

nanopascals it is approximately 1000 million times weaker than winds here on Earth.

49. Recently Solar Storms were in news. Consider the statements with respect to Solar

Storms-

1. They are very harmful for Humans and other living organisms on Earth.

2. They can affect communication technologies like GPS and radio communications.

3. They can also affect Power Grids and Electrical units.

Select the wrong statement/s

1. 1 and 2

2. Only 1

3. Only 2

4. Only 3

Solution- 1

Explanation- Solar storms are not dangerous to humans on Earth’s surface. These storms

are awesome to contemplate, but they cannot harm our human bodies as long as we remain

on the surface of Earth, where we’re protected by Earth’s blanket of atmosphere.

Remember, there’s every reason to believe that storms on the sun have been happening for

billions of years, since the sun and Earth came to be. If that’s so, then all life on Earth

evolved under their influence.


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What is the danger of a solar storm in space? Very high-energy particles, such as those

carried by CMEs, can cause radiation poisoning to humans and other mammals. They would

be dangerous to unshielded astronauts, say, astronauts travelling to the moon. Large doses

could be fatal.

Still, solar storms – and their effects – are no problem for us on Earth’s surface. Earth’s

atmosphere and magnetosphere protect our human bodies from the effects of solar flares.

On the other hand solar storms can be dangerous to our technologies. When a coronal mass

ejection, or CME, strikes Earth’s atmosphere, it causes a temporary disturbance of the

Earth’s magnetic field. The storm on the sun causes a type of storm on the Earth, known as

a geomagnetic storm. They have the potential to affect power grids, and have been known

to black out entire cities, even entire regions.

50. Amongst the following that can be put in the category of ‘Social insects’?

1. Honeybee

2. Wasp

3. Termites

4. Bumblebees


1. 1, 2 and 3

2. 1, 3 and 4

3. 1, 2, 3 and 4

4. 1, 2 and 4

Solution- 4

Explanation- All are social insects. Bumblebees were recently in news. India is home to 48 of

the 250 known species of bumblebees. It was revealed by the book Indian Bumblebees

released in April 2015.

51. Consider the following statements with reference to ‘Tornados and Hurricane’

1. Tornados are more destructive than Hurricanes under the same circumstance


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2. Both rotate clockwise in Southern Hemisphere and counter-clock wise in northern

Hemisphere.

3. While Hurricanes occurs mostly in warm areas Tornados occurs at places where cold

and warm fronts converges.


1. 1 and 2

2. 2 and 3

3. 1 and 3

4. Only 3

Solution- 2

Explanation- First statement is wrong. Although Tornados are more frequent than

Hurricanes but cause less damage as compared to Hurricane. The simple reason is the long

lasting nature of Hurricane- few days to weeks. While Tornados lasts for minutes to hours.

Rest statements are true.

Read here- http://www.diffen.com/difference/Hurricane_vs_Tornado

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/Weather/story?id=99457

52. Which of the following can be the easiest way to predict the upcoming Earthquake?

1. Huge release of Methane gas

2. Release of Radon gas

3. Release of carbon dioxide

4. None

Solution- 2

Explanation- Uranium is found in low-levels in all rocks and soil. Radon is a gaseous

radioactive decay product of uranium. As the uranium undergoes radioactive decay,

radioactive radon is generated andtrapped in the rocks that contain the uranium.

The earthquake theory involving radon suggests that prior to the actual quake, there is

some subterranean movement where rocks are crushed, soil is un-compacted and the

trapped radon is released producing a pre-quake spike in radon concentration.

http://www.diffen.com/difference/Hurricane_vs_Tornadohttp://www.diffen.com/difference/Hurricane_vs_Tornadohttp://abcnews.go.com/Technology/Weather/story?id=99457http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/Weather/story?id=99457http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/Weather/story?id=99457http://www.diffen.com/difference/Hurricane_vs_Tornado


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So radon presents the following attributes:

it is present in all rocks and soil

if a rock is broken or if soil is disturbed, radon will be released

it is gaseous and air currents / thermal gradients will carry it up to the earth's surface

producing a detectable plume

it is radioactive, this makes detecting small amounts or small changes in radon

concentration relatively routine due to well-developed and very sensitive methods

for detecting and accurately measuring radioactivity.

Radon has a very short radioactive half-life, a bit under 4 days. Being a gas and

having a short half-life is very useful in terms of measuring radon emissions. If a

radon emission spike occurs, the gas will dissipate quickly and after about 10 half-

lives (40 days) normal background levels of radioactivity will return

53. Consider the following bills passed by Parliament in recent times

1. Finance Bill 2015

2. National Judicial Appointments Commission Bill, 2014

3. Insurance laws (Amendment) bill, 2015

4. Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill, 2015

Select the bills passed through ‘Voice Vote’?

1. 2 and 4

2. 1 and 4

3. 1, 2, 3 and 4

4. None

Solution- 3

Explanation-

A voice vote is used in Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and state assemblies to vote for

certain resolutions. It is used when there is a wide agreement on issues and in some

cases where the house is not in order. It was used during the formation of Telangana

state, in forming the 29th state of India.

On 14 August 2014, Rajya Sabha passed National Judicial Appointments Commission

Bill, 2014 by a voice vote.


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On 12 November 2014, BJP won majority in Maharshtra vidhan Sabha using voice

vote which was questioned by opposition parties like Shivsena and INC.

On 12 March 2015, the parliament passed the Insurance laws (Amendment) bill,

2015. Earlier it was passed in Lok Sabha on4th March 2015 and then passed by the

Rajya Sabha on 12 March 2015 by voice note. It proposes to increase FDI limit inlocal insurers from earlier 26% to 49% now.

On 30 April, 2015, the Lok Sabha passed the Finance Bill for 2015 by a voice vote.

The Lok Sabha on 3 March 2015 passed the Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill, 2015 by

voice vote. The Bill seeks to amend the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and replace the

ordinance promulgated in this regard. Earlier, bill was not able to pass in the winter

session of Parliament 2014, so the ordinance was promulgated in January 2015 .

54. Suppose you hold license in Mining sector in India. Consider the following

statement/s

1. Mining leases can be granted to you up to 50 years except for atomic minerals.

2. Seeing your productive performance, Central government may permit you to acquire

one or more licences or leases covering additional area.


1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both4. None

Solution- 4

Explanation- Recently, Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 2015 was passed.

So a tricky questions to check your concepts

Read this- Maximum area for mining: Under the Act, a person could acquire one mining

lease for a maximum area of 10 sq km. However, for the development of any mineral, the

central government could permit the person to acquire one or more licenses or leases

covering additional area. The Bill amends this provision to allow the central government to

increase the area limits for mining, instead of providing additional leases.

Lease period: Under the Act, a mining lease was granted for a maximum of 30 years and a

minimum of 20 years and could be renewed for a period not exceeding 20 years. Under the

Bill, the lease period for coal and lignite remains unchanged. For all minerals other than

coal, lignite and atomic minerals, mining leases shall be granted for a period of 50 years.

All mining leases granted for such minerals before the Bill, shall be valid for 50 years. On


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expiry of the lease, instead of being renewed, the leases shall be put up for auction, as

specified in the Act.

55. Which among the following are called ‘Notified Minerals’?

1. Bauxite

2. Iron ore

3. Coal

4. Uranium

5. Limestone

6. Manganese ore

Select the correct ones

1. 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

2. 1, 2, 5 and 6

3. 2, 3, 4 and 5

4. 3, 4, 5 and 6

Solution- 2

Explanation- Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Bill adds a new Fourth

Schedule to the Act. It includes bauxite, iron ore, limestone and manganese ore and are

defined as notified minerals. The central government may, by notification, amend this

Schedule.

56. Consider the following statements w.r.t Enforcement Directorate

1. It looks after investigation cases related to Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999

and Prevention of Money Laundering Act, PMLA

2. It falls under Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure3. ED can arrest the offenders in relation to PMLA offence


1. 1 and 2

2. 2 and 3

3. 1 and 3

4. All

Solution- 3


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Explanation- ED is in news for quite a long time. Prepare about it. It is part of Department of

Revenue not Expenditure.

57. Which of the following treaties are related to Nuclear Weapons?

1. Antarctica Treaty

2. Seabed Treaty

3. START

4. NPT

5. SORT


1. 1, 4, 5

2. 3, 4 and 5

3. 1, 2,3,4 and 5

4. 2, 3 and 4

Solution- 3

The Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) was signed between the US and Soviet Union

in July 1991. In summary, START I limited the number of heavy bombers (the large aircraft

able to carry heavier bombs including nuclear ones), intercontinental ballistic missiles

(ICBMs), and submarine launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), to 1,600 in total. These delivery

systems were then limited to deploying no more than 6,000 nuclear warheads in all.

The Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty (SORT) or Moscow Treaty entered into force in

June 2003 to limit the numbers of operationally deployed nuclear warheads by the US and

Russia to 1,700-2,200 apiece.

Antarctica Treaty

In June 1961 the Antarctica Treaty established the use of this continent as only for peaceful

purposes and it must be free from nuclear weapons deployment and testing.

Seabed Treaty

The Seabed Treaty entered into force in May 1972 with the purpose of forbidding the sitting

of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction on the seabed or ocean floor

over 12 miles away from any coastal zone.


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58. Which of the following should be your first choice for the treatment of ‘Hyperacidity’?

1. Antacids

2. Antihistamines

3. Histamines

4. Analgesics

Solution- 2

Histamines produce hyperacidity. So, antihistamines should be used. NCERT

59. If you visit a water treatment plant in your area, you will witness the processesfollowed in water purification. Select the correct order in which water purification works-

1. Flocculation

2. Coagulation

3. Sedimentation

4. Disinfection

Correct order-

1. 1-2-3-42. 2-1-3-4

3. 2-3-4-1

4. 1-3-4-2

Solution- 2

Coagulation-Flocculation-Sedimentation-Disinfection- Read the basics here

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_purification#Coagulation_and_flocculation

60. Our food contains number of additives like sweeteners, antioxidants, flavours, fat

emulsifiers and preservatives. Which of the following also add nutritive value to our food?

1. Antioxidants

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_purification#Coagulation_and_flocculationhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_purification#Coagulation_and_flocculationhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_purification#Coagulation_and_flocculation


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2. Preservatives

3. Sweeteners

4. Fat emulsifiers


1. 1, 3, and 4

2. 1, 2, 3 and 4

3. 2, 3, and 4

4. None

Solution- 4

Explanation- They do not have nutritive values.

61. Artificial sweeteners like Aspartame or Saccharines are 100 times sweeter than Sugar

despite it is recommended for a Diabetic person, why?

1. Artificial sweeteners have less effect on insulin secretion

2. Artificial sweeteners do not add to calorie intake

3. Artificial sweeteners easily digested and excreted while sugar is energy rich and

affect digestive system


1. Only 12. 2 and 3

3. Only 2

4. All

Solution- 3

Explanation- Diabetic people need to control their calorie intake and hence artificial

sweeteners like Aspartame or Saccharine is vital for them.

62. Consider the following statements regarding Vitamins

1. If you are eating eggs regularly, the concentration of Vitamin B-2 and Vitamin D is

increasing.

2. Intake of excess green leafy vegetables will enhance the concentration of Vitamin C,

K and B-1


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enters our body the first thing they will do is to replace Fe or Co and form bond with

carbonyls. This is serious as Carbon-monoxide is poisonous. Oxygen cannot replace the

metals in haemoglobin but carbon monoxide can easily do so.

65. Ice is less dense than water is a well know fact. What if it would have been denser

than water?

1. Lakes and oceans would freeze from the bottom up, almost certainly preventing the

kind of chemistry that makes life possible.

2. Increasing pressure would raise the freezing point of water. The deep oceans would

be permanently frozen.

3. A very large part of the planets Oxygen is produced by plankton in the ocean and this

could be severely disrupted.


1. 1 and 2

2. 2 and 3

3. 1, 2 and 3

4. Only 2

Solution- 3

Explanation- All of the above is correct. When the density of ice will be more (hypothetical)

above changes are obvious. With more dense ice, it will not float above the water andbottom up freezing will happen. With more pressure deep down the ocean and further

increase due to depth, will make deep oceans to freeze forever. The dense ice will not allow

diffusion to take place and hence availability of oxygen will be less, as it is a gas and need

gaseous media to diffuse. Hence, plankton’s life will be at threat.

66. What are the components of Photochemical Smog?

1. Nitric oxide, Ozone and PAN (peroxyacetyl nitrate)

2. Nitric oxide, Ozone, aldehyde and PAN (peroxyacetyl nitrate)

3. Nitric oxide, Ozone, aldehyde, acrolein and PAN (peroxyacetyl nitrate)

4. Nitric oxide, Ozone, formaldehyde, acrolein and PAN (peroxyacetyl nitrate)

Solution- 4

Explanation- Direct Question-NCERT class 11th

67. Which among the following can be used as bleaching agents?


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1. Mix of liquefied carbon dioxide and a detergent

2. Chloroethene

3. Hydrogen peroxide

4. Sodium hypochlorite


1. 1, 2, 3 and 4

2. 2, 3 and 4

3. 1, 3 and 4

4. 3 and 4

Solution- 1

Explanation- All of them can be used. But now adays chloroethene is not used because of

contamination of chloro compounds. Sodium hypochlorite is the most common bleaching

agent.

68. A GM or transgenic crop is a plant that has a novel combination of genetic material obtained

through the use of modern biotechnology. Consider the following regarding GM crops

1. India has the third largest area planted under genetically modified (GM) crops after US and Brazil.

2. The first generation of GM crops resulted into increased nutritional and/or industrial traits.

3. The second generation GM crops will feature increased nutritional and/or industrial traits like Rice

enriched with iron, vitamin A and E, and lysine and Potatoes with higher starch content, and inulin


1. 1 and 2

2. 2 and 3

3. Only 1

4. Only 3

Solution- 4

India has the fourth largest area planted under genetically modified (GM) crops, according to the

International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA)

In the developed world, there is clear evidence that the use of GM crops has resulted in significantbenefits. These include:


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1. Higher crop yields

2. Reduced farm costs

3. Increased farm profit

4. Improvement in health and the environment

These “first generation” crops have proven their ability to lower farm-level production costs.

Now, research is focused on “second-generation” GM crops that will feature increased nutritional

and/or industrial traits. These crops will have more direct benefits to consumers. Examples include:

1. Rice enriched with iron, vitamin A and E, and lysine

2. Potatoes with higher starch content, and inulin

3. Edible vaccines in maize, banana and potatoes4. Maize varieties with low phytic acid and increased essential amino acids

5. Healthier oils from soybean and canola

6. Allergen-free nuts

69. Recently India has successfully launched a ‘Canister -Based’ nuclear capable AGNI-V missile.

Consider the following regarding this

1. An advantage of canister based system is, it can be used for the launch of any missile irrespective

of its size.

2. AGNI-V is the first missile to be tested on Canister based launch system.


1. Only 12. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution- 4

A canister for a missile serves a duel function which provides an environmental container and a

launching tube. A canister launch system can be either hot launch, where the missile ignites in the

cell, or cold launch, where the missile is expelled by gas produced by a gas generator which is notpart of the missile itself, and then the missile ignites. In case of hot launches the problem is the heat


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produced by the missile at the time of launch. The hot launch is better for small missiles as the

ejection part itself will be done by using missiles own engine.

So it depends on the size of missile – the feasibility of the system utilized for the ejection.

The Shaurya missile is a canister launched hypersonic surface-to-surface tactical missile developedby the Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for use by the Indian Armed

Forces.

70. Consider the following statements with reference to Multiple Independently targetable Re-

entry Vehincle (MIRV)

1. India possesses MIRV technology along with Russia, USA China, France and Brazil.

2. It is a ballistic missile payload containing several warheads, each capable of being aimed to hit oneof a group of targets.


1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution- 2

India is working on the development of MIRV technology. But right now there is no fully tested

version of MIRV in any of Indian missiles. Only France, China, US, Russia and Brazil possesses this

technology.

71. To bring prosperity and tranquility in north-eastern region of India what actions or plans you

think is/are good from given below

1. Shift from voluminous crops to high value horticulture crops.

2. More strict laws to counter insurgency.

3. Policy to give boost to bamboo based handicraft industries.

4. Laying down of rail tracks to increase connectivity among north-eastern cities.



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1. 1, 2, 3 only

2. 1, 3 only

3. All of the above

4. None

SOLUTION: 2

North-east region has rough terrain so possibility of laying down tracks wouldn’t be nice idea to

execute. It has been established by facts in history that peace was brought by negotiation rather

strict laws. Strict laws have yielded an atmosphere of animosity.

72. What are the important commercial crops produced in Malabar region from given below:

1. Coffee and tea

2. Tobacco

3. Betelnut

4. Rubber

5. Cashewnut


1. 1, 2, 3 only

2. 1, 3. 5 only

3. All of the above4. 1, 3, 4, 5 only

SOLUTION: 4

India year book page no. 6 Tobacco is mainly produced in Guntur and Prakasham district of Andhra

Pradesh and Kheda district of Gujrat.

73. According to world biogeographic classification. India represents which two major realms

1. Palearctic and Indo-Malayan

2. Palearctic and Neo-arctic

3. Neo-arctic and Indo-Malayan


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1. Only 1

2. 1 and 2

3. Only 3

4. None

SOLUTION: 1

India year book page no. 6

74. Consider the statements below:

1. Central tribal belt is dominated by Proto-Australoid racial strain.

2. Hills of southern India is inhabited by tribal of Negritoes racial strain.

3. Negritoes racial strain is confined to islands of Andaman and Nicobar only.


1. 1, 2 only

2. 1, 3 only

3. 3 only

4. None

SOLUTION: 1

Read about puliyans, uralis living in southern hills . They are of negritoes racial strain

75. National symbols hold a revered position among Indians. It is/was maintained and protected

by

1. Non-statutory instructions

2. Statutes

3. Constitutional references


1. 1, 2 only

2. 2, 3 only3. 3 only


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4. All of the above

SOLUTION: 4

Fundamental duties say about paying respect to national symbols. There are various legislation

pieces like the flag code of India 2002 which were legislated to seek compliance to standards fromcitizens.

India year book chapter no. 2

76. “Give It Up” campaign will have positive impact on

1. Health of rural India.

2. Environment.

3. Revenue of Local bodies.4. Comforts of rural women.


1. 1 only

2. 1, 3 only

3. 1, 2, 4 only

4. All of the above

SOLUTION: 3

77. Major initiatives envisaged to make ‘Digital India” campaign a success include

1. Communication infrastructure and services

2. Products like digital lockers, e-sign and e-hospital/ORS etc.

3. Portals and apps

4. Opening of research institutions

5. Important Policies initiatives.


1. 1, 2. 3only

2. 1, 2. 3. 5 only3. 3 only


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4. All of the above

Solution: 4

78. Union cabinet proposed amendment to the Prevention of corruption act 1988. Proposed

amendments include

1. Punishment for both bribe giver and bribe taker.

2. Enhances punishment terms.

3. Non-monetary gratification is covered in the definition of gratification in the PCA 1988.


1. 1, 2 only

2. 1, 3 only

3.

3 only

4. All of the above

SOLUTION:4

79. Socio-demographic changes at source that are result of rural to urban migration in India.

1. Low sex-ratio.

2. Population pyramid will shrink at its base in years to come.

3. Feminization of workforce.


1. 1, 2 only

2. 2, 3 only

3. 3 only

4. All of the above

SOLUTION: 2

Rural to urban migration mainly constitutes of male so sex ratio goes down. Even migration brings

down fertility rate so in future population pyramid will shrink.


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80. Recently ISRO PSLV-C23 placed satellites of foreign countries, these countries include

1. France

2. Germany

3. Italy

4. Malaysia


1. 1, 2 only

2. 1, 3 only

3. 1, 2, 3 only

4. All of the above

Solution: 1

Countries include France Germany Singapore and Canada

81. Recently launched Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation (PRAGATI) platform

will give boost to the concept of

1, Cooperative federalism

2, Good Governance

3, Gender inclusiveness


1. 1, 2 only

2. 2, 3 only

3. 1, 3 only

4. All of the above

Solution: 1

It is a platform aimed at addressing grievances of common man. It has been rolled out to ensure

Good Governance. It will develop a special apparatus in which states and Centre both contribute. No

special mention has been made regarding gender inclusiveness but it will surely give women a voicebut not a priority basis.


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82. Consider the statements regarding mitochondrial Donation Technique:

1. It involves addition of healthy mitochondria from donor women to an egg from other

women with defective mitochondria.2. This technique prevents new born babies from heart failure and blindness only.

3. There are two different procedures used in mitochondrial donation technique –(a) Maternal

Spindle Transfer (b) Pronuclear Transfer technique


1. 1 only

2. 1, 2 only

3. 1, 3 only

4. All of the above

Solution: 3

It prevents new born babies from brain damage, muscle wasting, heart failure and blindness due to

defective mitochondria.

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/threeparent-babies-

what-is-mitochondrial-donation-and-what-are-the-techniques-involved-10021567.html

83. Recently a cyclonic storm named Ashobaa was in news. Consider the statements

1. It was developed over east central Bay of Bengal.

2. It was named by Srilanka as there is a system of naming storms developed in Northern India

Ocean On rotational basis..

3. It caused flood in eastern Oman.


1. 2 only

2. 1, 2 only


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3. 2, 3 only

4. All of the above

Solution: 3

It was developed over east central Arabian Sea.

84. Consider the statements

1. Cryogenic engine provides more thrust with each kg of propellant it uses.

2. Cryogenic engine uses liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen at very low temperature

3. Engine need low mass flow rate of both oxidizer and fuel to avoid explosion in combustion

chamber.


1. 2 only

2. 1, 2 only

3. 2, 3 only

4. All of the above

Solution: 2

Engine need high mass flow rate of both oxidizer and fuel to generate a sufficient thrust.

Independent regulators are there to check thrust control.

85. Consider the following statements with reference to hot and cold water

1. Cold water freezes faster than hot water

2. This phenomenon or effect is known as Mpemba Effect.


1. Only 1

2. Only 2

3. Both

4. None

Solution- None

http//www.iflscience.c

snt, ca and iyb compilation-iasbaba.compressed (1).pdf

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