UPSC Prelims · GS Paper 1 · Science & Technology
Science & Technology: Prelims PYQs with answers
145 questions from 2013 to 2026, newest first. The 2026 answers are not yet final: UPSC releases its official key after the final result.
Q1Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to genetic medicine is/are correct?
- 1. Genetic medicines correct/compensate 1. for the faulty genes responsible for disease.
- 2. Engineered viruses and lipid nanoparticles are used as carriers of the genetic medicine.
- 3. Genetic medicines alter the entire DNA sequence.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 2 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q2Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to GenomeIndia Project is/are correct?
- 1. It is a part of the Human Genome Project.
- 2. The project is funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India.
- 3. Its primary aim is to build a catalogue of genetic diversity of the Indian population.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 2 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q3Prelims 2026
Consider the following statements about Mission Sudarshan Chakra of India:
- 1. It aims to enhance India’s air defence, ballistic missile defence and aerial offensive capabilities.
- 2. This Mission is being designed to enhance rapid, precise, and powerful defence responses, reinforcing India’s strategic autonomy.
- 3. One of the aims of this Mission is to cover all public places of India by an expanded nationwide security shield by 2035.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1 only
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q4Prelims 2026
Which of the following items of defence hardware is/are manufactured in India?
- 1. Su-30 MKI Fighter Jets
- 2. T-90 MK-III Tanks
- 3. Akula Class Submarine
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 and 2
- (b) 1 and 3
- (c) 1 only
- (d) 2 only
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q5Prelims 2026
The Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS) recently introduced a national standard to test and assess bomb disposal system. Which of the following statements with regard to this system is/are correct?
- 1. The new standard is known as IS 19445: 2025.
- 2. It will improve interoperability of equipment across agencies.
- 3. It was developed by TBRL, DRDO in collaboration with the 30th Central Scientific Research Institute, Russia.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 2 only
- (d) 1 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q6Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to stealth technology is/are correct?
- 1. Stealth objects have a very small radar cross-section and are coated with Radar Absorbing Material.
- 2. Stealth objects can be detected using specific frequencies.
- 3. Stealth objects are coated with metamaterials to increase the scattering of electromagnetic radiation.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 2 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q7Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to drone swarms is/are correct?
- 1. They use Terahertz band of frequency to communicate with the command centre.
- 2. Individual drones in the swarm can communicate with other drones in the swarm.
- 3. GPS Spoofing is a commonly used technique to counter drone swarm attack.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 2 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q8Prelims 2026
Consider the following statements with regard to involvement of private entities in India’s space programme:
- 1. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACE) is autonomous agency formed to facilitate participation of private entities. an
- 2. Agnikul Cosmos launched the world’s first flight using 3D-printed rocket engine.
- 3. Skyroot Aerospace has developed liquid fuel for GSLV.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 2 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q9Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements about DHRUV64 is/are correct?
- 1. It is the third chip fabricated under the DIR-V Programme with an overall aim to enable the creation of microprocessors for India.
- 2. It is India’s first homegrown 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2 · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q10Prelims 2026
Which one of the following pairs of semiconductor plants in India and their locations is not correctly matched?
- (a) CG Power and Industrial Solutions Pvt. Ltd. in partnership with Renesas Electronics and STARS Microelectronics: Gujarat
- (b) Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt. Ltd.: Assam
- (c) HCL-Foxconn Joint Venture India Chip Ltd.: Madhya Pradesh
- (d) SicSem Pvt. Ltd.: Odisha
Show answer
Answer: (c) HCL-Foxconn Joint Venture India Chip Ltd.: Madhya Pradesh · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q11Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to India’s indigenous new high resolution weather model, the ‘Bharat Forecast System,’ is/are correct?
- 1. Its objective is to generate forecasts at the Panchayats cluster level.
- 2. It was developed by IIT Delhi.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q12Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements regarding the features of blockchain technology are correct?
- 1. Records stored in the database may be made visible to relevant stakeholders without risk of alteration.
- 2. Copies of the entire database are stored on multiple computers on a network, syncing within seconds.
- 3. Consortium blockchain is a blend of public and private blockchains allowing selective data access.
- 4. Mathematical algorithms make it impossible to change or delete any data once recorded and accepted.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 and 3
- (b) 2 and 4 only
- (c) 1, 2 and 4
- (d) 1 and 4 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 4 · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q13Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to Large Language Models (LLMs) used in machine learning is/are correct?
- 1. LLMs assign probabilities to the next possible words and then pick the one with the highest probability.
- 2. LLMS process data through mathematical optimization to minimise prediction errors.
- 3. LLMs produce unbiased outputs.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q14Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to the National Quantum Mission (NQM) is/are correct?
- 1. It aims at developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits.
- 2. Its implementation includes setting up of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in academic and national R&D institutes across India.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2 · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q15Prelims 2026
Which of the following statements with regard to Green Hydrogen is/are correct?
- 1. It is decarbonized hydrogen obtained from natural gas reforming combined with carbon capture and storage (CCS).
- 2. It is produced using electrolysis of water with electricity generated by renewable energy.
- 3. National Green Hydrogen Mission of India aims for abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 2 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only · UPSC's official 2026 key is not yet released.
Q16Prelims 2025
With reference to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), consider the following statements:
- I. All types of UAVs can do vertical Landing.
- II. All types of UAVs can do automated hovering.
- III. All types of UAVs can use battery only as a source of power supply.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All the three
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (d) None
Q17Prelims 2025
What is the common characteristic of the chemical substances generally known as CL-20, HMX and LLM-105, which are sometimes talked about in media
- (a) These are alternatives to hydro-fluorocarbon refrigerants
- (b) These are explosives in military weapons
- (c) These are high-energy fuels for cruise missiles
- (d) These are propulsion fuels for rocket
Show answer
Answer: (b) These are explosives in military weapons
Q18Prelims 2025
Consider the following statements:
- Statement I: Activated carbon is a good and an attractive tool to remove pollutants from effluent streams and to remediate contaminants from various industries.
- Statement II: Activated carbon exhibits a large surface area and a strong potential for adsorbing heavy metals.
- Statement III: Activated carbon can be easily synthesized from environmental wastes with high carbon content.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- (a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
- (b) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct but only one of them explains Statement I
- (c) Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
- (d) Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct
Show answer
Answer: (a) Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
Q19Prelims 2025
GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?
- I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
- II. It will allow more uniform and high quality air traffic management.
- III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) I, II and III
- (b) II and III only
- (c) I only
- (d) I and II only
Show answer
Answer: (d) I and II only
Q20Prelims 2025
Consider the following space missions:
- I. Axiom-4
- II. SpaDeX
- III. Gaganyaan
How many of the space missions given above encourage and support micro-gravity research?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All the three
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (b) Only two
Q21Prelims 2025
Consider the following statements:
- I. It is expected that Majorana 1 chip will enable quantum computing.
- II. Majorana 1 chip has been introduced by Amazon Web Services (AWS).
- III. Deep learning is a subset of machine learning.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) I and II only
- (b) II and III only
- (c) I and III only
- (d) I, II and III
Show answer
Answer: (c) I and III only
Q22Prelims 2025
Consider the following types of vehicles:
- I. Full battery electric vehicles
- II. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
- III. Fuel cell-electric hybrid vehicles
How many of the above are considered as alternative powertrain vehicles?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All the three
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (c) All the three
Q23Prelims 2025
In the context of electric vehicle batteries, consider the following elements:
- I. Cobalt
- II. Graphite
- III. Lithium
- IV. Nickel
How many of the above usually make up battery cathodes?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) Only three
- (d) All the four
Show answer
Answer: (c) Only three
Q24Prelims 2025
Consider the following:
- I. Cigarette butts
- II. Eyeglass lenses
- III. Car tyres
How many of them contain plastic?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All the three
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (c) All the three
Q25Prelims 2025
Consider the following substances:
- I. Ethanol
- II. Nitroglycerine
- III. Urea Coal gasification technology can be used in the production of how many of them?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All the three
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (b) Only two
Q26Prelims 2025
Consider the following statements:
- Statement I: Some rare earth elements are used in the manufacture of flat television screens and computer monitors.
- Statement II: Some rare earth elements have phosphorescent properties
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
- (b) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct but Statement II does not explain Statement I
- (c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is not correct
- (d) Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct
Show answer
Answer: (a) Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
Q27Prelims 2025
Artificial way of causing rainfall to reduce air pollution makes use of
- (a) silver iodide and potassium iodide
- (b) silver nitrate and potassium iodide
- (c) silver iodide and potassium nitrate
- (d) silver nitrate and potassium chloride
Show answer
Answer: (a) silver iodide and potassium iodide
Q28Prelims 2025
With reference to monoclonal antibodies, often mentioned in news, consider the following statements:
- I. They are man-made proteins.
- II. They stimulate immunological function due to their ability to bind to specific antigens.
- III. They are used in treating viral infections like that of Nipah virus.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) I and II only
- (b) II and III only
- (c) I and III only
- (d) I, II and III
Show answer
Answer: (d) I, II and III
Q29Prelims 2025
Consider the following statements:
- I. No virus can survive in ocean waters.
- II. No virus can infect bacteria.
- III. No virus can change the cellular transcriptional activity in host cells.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All the three
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (d) None
Q30Prelims 2025
With reference to ‘Direct Air Capture’ an emerging technology, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- I. It can be used as a way of carbon sequestration.
- II. It can be a valuable approach for plastic production and in food processing.
- III. In aviation, it can be a source of carbon for combining with hydrogen to create low-carbon fuel.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) I and II only
- (b) III only
- (c) I, II and III
- (d) None of the above statements is correct
Show answer
Answer: (c) I, II and III
Q31Prelims 2025
Consider the following statements:
- I. Indian Railways have prepared a National Rail Plan (NRP) to create a ‘future ready’ railway system by 2028.
- II. ‘Kavach’ is an Automatic Train Protection system developed in collaboration with Germany.
- III. ‘Kavach’ system consists of RFID tags fitted on track in station section.
Which of the statements given above are not correct?
- (a) I and II only
- (b) II and III only
- (c) I and III only
- (d) I, II and III
Show answer
Answer: (a) I and II only
Q32Prelims 2024
“Membrane Bioreactors” are often discussed in the context of:
- (a) Assisted reproductive technologies
- (b) Drug delivery nanotechnologies
- (c) Vaccine production technologies
- (d) Wastewater treatment technologies
Show answer
Answer: (d) Wastewater treatment technologies
Q33Prelims 2024
Which of the following statements about Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 are-correct?
- 1. This was a joint military Exercise between India and Bangladesh.
- 2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
- 3. Joint response during counter-terroriam operations was a goal of this operation.
- 4. The Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.
Select the answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- (b) 1, 2 and 4
- (c) 1, 3 and 4
- (d) 2, 3 and 4
Show answer
Answer: (d) 2, 3 and 4
Q34Prelims 2024
Consider the following aircraft:
- 1. Rafael
- 2. MiG-29
- 3. Tejas MK-1
How many of the above are considered fifth Generation fighter aircraft?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All three
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (d) None
Q35Prelims 2024
Consider the following statements:
- Statement-I: Giant stars live much longer than dwarf stars.
- Statement-II: Compared to dwarf stars, giant stars have a greater rate of nuclear reactions.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement- II explains Statement-1
- (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement- II does not explain Statement-I
- (c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect
- (d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is correct
Show answer
Answer: (d) Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is correct
Q36Prelims 2024
Which one of the following words/phrases is most appropriately used to denote “an interoperable network of 3D Virtual worlds that can be accessed simultaneously by millions of users, who can exert property rights over virtual items”?
- (a) Big data analytics
- (b) Cryptography
- (c) Metaverse
- (d) Virtual matrix
Show answer
Answer: (c) Metaverse
Q37Prelims 2024
Consider the following activities:
- 1. Identification of narcotics on passengers at airports or in aircraft
- 2. Monitoring of precipitation
- 3. Tracking the migration of animals In how many of the above activities can the radars be used?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All three
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (b) Only two
Q38Prelims 2024
Consider the following materials:
- 1. Agricultural residues
- 2. Corn grain
- 3. Wastewater treatment sludge
- 4. Wood mill waste
Which of the above can be used as feedstock for producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 and 4 only
- (c) 1, 2, 3 and 4
- (d) 1, 3 and 4 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Q39Prelims 2024
With reference to radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), consider the following statements:
- 1. RTGs are miniature fission reactors.
- 2. RTGs are used for powering the onboard systems of spacecraft.
- 3. RTGs can use Plutonium-238, which is a by-product of weapons development.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Q40Prelims 2024
Which one of the following is the exhaust pipe emission from Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles, powered by hydrogen?
- (a) Hydrogen peroxide
- (b) Hydronium
- (c) Oxygen
- (d) Water vapour
Show answer
Answer: (d) Water vapour
Q41Prelims 2024
Recently, the term”pumped-storage hydropower” is actually and appropriately discussed in the context of which one of the following?
- (a) Irrigation of terraced crop fields
- (b) Lift irrigation of cereal crops
- (c) Long duration energy storage
- (d) Rainwater harvesting system
Show answer
Answer: (c) Long duration energy storage
Q42Prelims 2024
Consider the following:
- 1. Battery storage
- 2. Biomass generators
- 3. Fuel cells
- 4. Rooftop solar photovoltaic units
How many of the above are considered “Distributed Energy Resources”?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) Only three
- (d) All four
Show answer
Answer: (d) All four
Q43Prelims 2024
In which of the following are hydrogels used?
- 1. Controlled drug delivery in patients
- 2. Mobile air-conditioning systems
- 3. Preparation of industrial lubricants
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
Q44Prelims 2024
Which one of the following is synthesised in the human body that dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow?
- (a) Nitric oxide
- (b) Nitrous oxide
- (c) Nitrogen dioxide
- (d) Nitrogen pentoxide
Show answer
Answer: (a) Nitric oxide
Q45Prelims 2023
‘Aerial metagenomics’ best refers to which one of the following situations?
- (a) Collecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one go
- (b) Understanding the genetic makeup of avian species of a habitat
- (c) Using air-borne devices to collect blood samples from moving animals
- (d) Sending drones to inaccessible areas to collect plant and animal samples from land surfaces and water bodies
Show answer
Answer: (a) Collecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one go
Q46Prelims 2023
‘Microsatellite DNA’ is used in the case of which one of the following?
- (a) Studying the evolutionary relationships among various species of fauna
- (b) Stimulating ‘stem cells’ to transform into diverse functional tissues
- (c) Promoting clonal propagation of horticultural plants
- (d) Assessing the efficacy of drugs by conducting series of drug trials in a population
Show answer
Answer: (a) Studying the evolutionary relationships among various species of fauna
Q47Prelims 2023
Consider the following statements:
- 1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their fights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.
- 2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q48Prelims 2023
Consider the following pairs:
Objects in space Description 1. Cepheids Giant clouds of dust and gas in space 2. Nebulae Stars which brighten and dim periodically 3. Pulsars Neutron stars that are formed when massive stars run out of fuel and collapse How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All three
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (a) Only one
Q49Prelims 2023
Which one of the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System?
- (a) Australia
- (b) Canada
- (c) Israel
- (d) Japan
Show answer
Answer: (d) Japan
Q50Prelims 2022
In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements:
- 1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
- 2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using a vector based platform.
- 3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen based vaccine.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Q51Prelims 2022
Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?
- (a) They protect the body from environmental allergens.
- (b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.
- (c) They act as immunosuppressants in the body.
- (d) They protect the body from diseases caused by pathogens.
Show answer
Answer: (d) They protect the body from diseases caused by pathogens.
Q52Prelims 2022
Consider the following statements:
DNA Barcoding can be a tool to:
- 1. assess the age of a plant or animal.
- 2. distinguish among species that look alike.
- 3. identify undesirable animal or plant materials in processed foods.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1 and 2
- (d) 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 2 and 3
Q53Prelims 2022
Consider the following statements:
- 1. Biofilms can form on medical implants within human tissues.
- 2. Biofilms can form on food and food processing surfaces.
- 3. Biofilms can exhibit antibiotic resistance.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q54Prelims 2022
Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the “Fractional Orbital Bombardment System” often talked about in the media?
- (a) A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space.
- (b) A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions.
- (c) A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.
- (d) A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same speed and places a probe on its surface.
Show answer
Answer: (c) A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.
Q55Prelims 2022
Consider the following communication technologies:
- 1. Closed-circuit Television
- 2. Radio Frequency Identification
- 3. Wireless Local Area Network
Which of the above are considered Short-Range devices/ technologies?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q56Prelims 2022
With reference to Web 3.0, consider the following statements:
- 1. Web 3.0 technology enables people to control their own data.
- 2. In the Web 3.0 world, there can be blockchain based social networks.
- 3. Web 3.0 is operated by users collectively rather than a corporation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q57Prelims 2022
With reference to “Software as a Service (SaaS)”, consider the following statements:
- 1. SaaS buyers can customise the user interface and can change data fields.
- 2. SaaS users can access their data through their mobile devices.
- 3. Outlook, Hotmail and Yahoo! Mail are forms of SaaS.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q58Prelims 2022
Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?
- (a) Cloud Services
- (b) Quantum Computing
- (c) Visible Light Communication Technologies
- (d) Wireless Communication Technologies
Show answer
Answer: (b) Quantum Computing
Q59Prelims 2022
Consider the following:
- 1. Aarogya Setu
- 2. CoWIN
- 3. DigiLocker
- 4. DIKSHA
Which of the above are built on top of open-source digital platforms?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
- (c) 1, 3 and 4 only
- (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Q60Prelims 2022
Consider the following statements in respect of probiotics:
- 1. Probiotics are made of both bacteria and yeast.
- 2. The organisms in probiotics are found in foods we ingest but they do not naturally occur in our gut.
- 3. Probiotics help in the digestion of milk sugars.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 1 and 3
- (d) 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3
Q61Prelims 2022
Consider the following statements:
- 1. Other than those made by humans, nanoparticles do not exist in nature.
- 2. Nanoparticles of some metallic oxides are used in the manufacture of some cosmetics.
- 3. Nanoparticles of some commercial products which enter the environment are unsafe for humans.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1 and 2
- (d) 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 2 and 3
Q62Prelims 2021
With reference to recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant Vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements:
- 1. Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines.
- 2. Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Q63Prelims 2021
In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements:
- 1. Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondrial replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of the egg.
- 2. A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from mother and not from father.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Q64Prelims 2021
Consider the following:
- 1. Bacteria
- 2. Fungi
- 3. Virus
Which of the above can be cultured in artificial/synthetic medium?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Q65Prelims 2021
The term ‘ACE2’ is talked about in the context of
- (a) genes introduced in the genetically modified plants
- (b) development of India’s own satellite navigation system
- (c) radio collars for wildlife tracking
- (d) spread of viral diseases
Show answer
Answer: (d) spread of viral diseases
Q66Prelims 2021
Consider the following statements:
- 1. Adenoviruses have single-stranded DNA genomes whereas retroviruses have double-stranded DNA genomes.
- 2. Common cold is sometimes caused by an adenovirus whereas AIDS is caused by a retrovirus.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 only
Q67Prelims 2021
Bollgard I and Bollgard II technologies are mentioned in the context of
- (a) clonal propagation of crop plants
- (b) developing genetically modified crop plants
- (c) production of plant growth substances
- (d) production of biofertilizers
Show answer
Answer: (b) developing genetically modified crop plants
Q68Prelims 2021
Which one of the following is a reason why astronomical distances are measured in light-years?
- (a) Distances among stellar bodies do not change
- (b) Gravity of stellar bodies does not change.
- (c) Light always travels in a straight line.
- (d) Speed of light is always same.
Show answer
Answer: (d) Speed of light is always same.
Q69Prelims 2021
In a pressure cooker, the temperature at which the food is cooked depends mainly upon which of the following?
- 1. Area of the hole in the lid
- 2. Temperature of the flame
- 3. Weight of the lid
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Q70Prelims 2021
With reference to street-lighting, how do sodium lamps differ from LED lamps?
- 1. Sodium lamps produce light in 360 degrees but it is not so in the case of LED lamps.
- 2. As street-lights, sodium lamps have a longer lifespan than LED lamps.
- 3. The spectrum of visible light from sodium lamps is almost monochromatic while LED lamps offer significant colour advantages in street-lighting.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 3 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Q71Prelims 2021
Water can dissolve more substances than any other liquid because
- (a) it is dipolar in nature
- (b) it is a good conductor of heat
- (c) it has high value of specific heat
- (d) it is an oxide of hydrogen
Show answer
Answer: (a) it is dipolar in nature
Q72Prelims 2021
Bisphenol A (BPA), a cause of concern, is a structural/key component in the manufacture of which of the following kinds of plastics?
- (a) Low-density polyethylene
- (b) Polycarbonate
- (c) Polyethylene terephthalate
- (d) Polyvinyl chloride
Show answer
Answer: (b) Polycarbonate
Q73Prelims 2021
‘Triclosan’, consider harmful when exposed to high levels for a long time, is most likely present in which of the following?
- (a) Food preservatives
- (b) Fruit-ripening substances
- (c) Reused plastic containers
- (d) Toiletries
Show answer
Answer: (d) Toiletries
Q74Prelims 2020
With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?
- 1. Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units.
- 2. Create meaningful short stories and songs.
- 3. Disease diagnosis.
- 4. Text-to-speech conversion.
- 5. Wireless transmission of electrical energy.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
- (b) 1, 3, and 4 only
- (c) 2, 4, and 5 only
- (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Show answer
Answer: (b) 1, 3, and 4 only
Q75Prelims 2020
What is the importance of using Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in India?
- 1. These vaccines are effective against pneumonia as well as meningitis and sepsis.
- 2. Dependence on antibiotics that are not effective against drug-resistant bacteria can be reduced.
- 3. These vaccines have no side effects and cause no allergic reactions.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only
Q76Prelims 2020
Consider the following statements:
- 1. Genetic changes can be introduced in the cells that produce eggs or sperms of a prospective parent.
- 2. A person’s genome can be edited before birth at the early embryonic stage.
- 3. Human induced pluripotent stem cells can be injected into the embryo of a pig.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 2 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q77Prelims 2020
In the context of recent advances in human reproductive technology, ‘Pronuclear Transfer” is used for
- (a) Fertilization of egg in vitro by the donor sperm
- (b) Genetic modification of sperm producing cells
- (c) Development of stem cells into functional embryos
- (d) Prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring
Show answer
Answer: (d) Prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring
Q78Prelims 2020
The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometers long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to
- (a) Voyager-2
- (b) New Horizons
- (c) LISA Pathfinder
- (d) Evolved LISA
Show answer
Answer: (d) Evolved LISA
Q79Prelims 2020
In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of
- (a) Digital security infrastructure
- (b) Food security infrastructure
- (c) Health care and education infrastructure
- (d) Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure
Show answer
Answer: (a) Digital security infrastructure
Q80Prelims 2020
With reference to visible light communication (VLC) technology, which of the following statements are correct?
- 1. VLC uses electromagnetic spectrum wavelengths 375 to 780nm
- 2. VLC is known as long-range optical wireless communication.
- 3. VLC can transmit large amounts of data faster than Bluetooth
- 4. VLC has no electromagnetic interference
Select the correct answer using the code given below
- (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
- (b) 1, 2 and 4 only
- (c) 1, 3 and 4 only
- (d) 2, 3 and 4 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1, 3 and 4 only
Q81Prelims 2020
With reference to the current trends in the cultivation of sugarcane in India, consider the following statements:
- 1. A substantial saving in seed material is when ‘bud chip settlings’ are raised in a nursery and transplanted in the main field.
- 2. When direct planting of seeds is done, the germination percentage is better with single-budded sets as compared to sets with many buds.
- 3. If bad weather conditions prevail when seeds are directly planted, single-budded setts have better survival as compared to large sets.
- 4. Sugarcane can be cultivated using settlings prepared from tissue culture.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1 and 4 only
- (d) 2, 3 and 4 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 4 only
Q82Prelims 2020
Which of the following statements are correct regarding the general difference between plant and animal cells?
- 1. Plant cells have cellulose cell walls whilst animal cells do not.
- 2. Plant cells do not have plasma membranes unlike animal cells which do.
- 3. Mature plant cell has one large vacuole whilst an animal cell has many small vacuoles.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Q83Prelims 2020
With reference to solar water pumps, consider the following statements:
- 1. Solar power can be used for running surface pumps and not for submersible pumps,
- 2. Solar power can be used for running centrifugal pumps and not the ones with piston.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q84Prelims 2020
With reference to the carbon nanotubes, consider the following statement:
- 1. They can be used as the carriers of drugs and antigens in the human body.
- 2. They can be made into artificial blood capillaries for an injured part of the human body.
- 3. They can be used in biochemical sensors.
- 4. Carbon nanotubes are biodegradable.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
- (c) 1, 3 and 4 only
- (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1, 3 and 4 only
Q85Prelims 2020
Consider the following activities:
- 1. Spraying pesticides on a crop field
- 2. Inspecting the craters of active volcanoes
- 3. Collecting breath samples from spouting whales for DNA analysis
At the present level of technology, which of the above activities can be successfully carried out by using drones?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q86Prelims 2019
The word ‘Denisovan’ is sometimes mentioned in media in reference to:
- (a) fossil of a kind of dinosaur.
- (b) an early human species.
- (c) a cave system found in North-East India.
- (d) a geological period in the history of the Indian subcontinent.
Show answer
Answer: (b) an early human species.
Q87Prelims 2019
What is the Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in the news?
- (a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing.
- (b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients.
- (c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant.
- (d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in generally modified crops.
Show answer
Answer: (a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing.
Q88Prelims 2019
RNA interference (RNAi) technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?
- 1. It is used in developing gene silencing therapies.
- 2. It can be used in developing therapies for the treatment of cancer.
- 3. It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.
- 4. It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to virtual pathogens.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1, 2 and 4 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1 and 4 only
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only
Q89Prelims 2019
With reference to the recent developments in science, which one of the following statements is not correct?
- (a) Functional chromosomes can be created by joining segments of DNA taken from cells of different species.
- (b) Pieces of artificial functional DNA can be created in laboratories.
- (c) A piece of DNA taken out from an animal cell can be made to replicate outside a living cell in a laboratory.
- (d) Cells taken out from plants and animals can be made to undergo cell division in laboratory petri dishes.
Show answer
Answer: (a) Functional chromosomes can be created by joining segments of DNA taken from cells of different species.
Q90Prelims 2019
For the measurement/estimation of which of the following are satellite images and remote sensing data is used?
- 1. Chlorophyll content in the vegetation of a specific location.
- 2. Greenhouse gas emission from rice paddies of a specific location.
- 3. Land surface temperature of a specific location.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q91Prelims 2019
Recently, scientists observed the merger of giant ‘blackholes’ billions of light-years away from the Earth. What is the significance of this observation?
- (a) ‘Higgs boson particles’ were detected.
- (b) ‘Gravitational waves’ were detected.
- (c) Possibility of intergalactic space travel through ‘wormhole’ was confirmed.
- (d) It enabled scientists to understand ‘singularity’.
Show answer
Answer: (b) ‘Gravitational waves’ were detected.
Q92Prelims 2019
In the context of wearable technology, which of the following tasks is/are accomplished by wearable devices?
- 1. Location identification of a person.
- 2. Sleep monitoring of a person.
- 3. Assisting the hearing-impaired person.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q93Prelims 2019
Consider the following statements about a digital signature:
- 1. An electronic record that identifies the certifying authority issuing it.
- 2. Used to serve as a proof of identity of an individual to access information from a server on the Internet.
- 3. An electronic method of signing an electronic document and ensuring that the original content is unchanged.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 3 only
Q94Prelims 2019
In the context of digital technologies for entertainment, consider the following statements:
- 1. In Augmented Reality (AR), a simulated environment is created, and the physical world is completely shut out.
- 2. In Virtual Reality (VR), images generated from the computer are projected onto real life objects or surroundings.
- 3. AR allows individuals to be present in the world and improves the experience using the camera of a smart-phone or PC.
- 4. VR closes the world, and transposes an individual, providing a complete immersion experience.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 and 4 only
- (c) 1, 2 and 3 only
- (d) 4 only
Show answer
Answer: (b) 3 and 4 only
Q95Prelims 2019
With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference/differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?
- 1. LTE is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE is commonly marketed as advanced 3G.
- 2. LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q96Prelims 2019
Which of the following statements is not correct?
- (a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.
- (b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.
- (c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.
- (d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.
Show answer
Answer: (b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.
Q97Prelims 2019
Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multidrug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
- 1. Genetic predisposition of some people.
- 2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases.
- 3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming.
- 4. Multiple chronic diseases in some people.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1, 3 and 4 only
- (d) 2, 3 and 4 only
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Q98Prelims 2018
"3D printing" has applications in which of the following?
- 1. Preparation of confectionery items
- 2. Manufacture of bionic ears
- 3. Automotive industry
- 4. Reconstructive surgeries
- 5. Data processing technologies
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1, 3 and 4 only
- (b) 2, 3 and 5 only
- (c) 1 and 4 only
- (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Q99Prelims 2018
Consider the following pairs:
Terms sometimes seen in news Context/Topic 1. Belle II experiment Artificial Intelligence 2. Blockchain technology Digital/Cryptocurrency 3. CRISPR-Cas9 Particle Physics Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
- (a) 1 and 3 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 only
Q100Prelims 2018
With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements:
- 1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest-resistance to a wide variety of pests.
- 2. GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridization.
- 3. GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 and 3 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 only
Q101Prelims 2018
In which of the following areas, can GPS technology be used?
- 1. Mobile phone operations
- 2. Banking operations
- 3. Controlling the power grids
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q102Prelims 2018
Consider the following phenomena:
- 1. Light is affected by gravity.
- 2. The Universe is constantly expanding.
- 3. Matter warps its surrounding space-time.
Which of the above is/are the predictions/predictions of Albert Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in the media?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q103Prelims 2018
With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:
- 1. PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
- 2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
- 3. GSLV Mk III is a four-staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages l using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 2 only
- (d) 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
Q104Prelims 2018
With reference to the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consider the following statements:
- 1. IRNSS has three satellites in geostationary and four satellites in geosynchronous orbits.
- 2. IRNSS covers the entire India and about 5500 sq. km beyond its borders.
- 3. India will have its own satellite navigation system with full global coverage by the middle of 2021.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
Q105Prelims 2018
When the alarm of your smartphone rings in the morning, you wake up and tap it to stop the alarm which causes your geyser to be switched on automatically. The smart mirror in your bathroom shows the day's weather and also indicates the level of water in your overhead tank. After you take some groceries from your refrigerator for making breakfast, it recognizes the shortage of stock in it and places an order for the supply of fresh grocery items. When you step out of your house and lock the door, all lights, fans, geysers and AC machines get switched off automatically. On your way to the office, your car warns you about traffic congestion ahead and suggests an alternative route, and if you are late for a meeting, it sends a- message to your office accordingly.
In the context of emerging communication technologies, which one of the following terms best applies to the above scenario?
- (a) Border Gateway Protocol
- (b) Internet of Things
- (c) Internet Protocol
- (d) Virtual Private Network
Show answer
Answer: (b) Internet of Things
Q106Prelims 2018
Consider the following:
- 1. Birds
- 2. Dust blowing
- 3. Rain
- 4. Wind blowing
Which of the above spread plant diseases?
- (a) 1 and 3 only
- (b) 3 and 4 only
- (c) 1, 2 and 4 only
- (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Q107Prelims 2017
Consider the following pairs:
Commonly used/consumed materials Unwanted or controversial chemicals likely to be found in them 1. Lipstick Lead 2. Soft drinks Brominated vegetable oils 3. Chinese fast food Monosodium glutamate Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q108Prelims 2017
Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) are used to create digital displays in many devices. What is/are the advantage of OLED displays over Liquid Crystal displays?
- 1. OLED displays can be fabricated on flexible plastic substrates.
- 2. Roll-up displays embedded in clothing can be made using OLEDs.
- 3. Transparent displays are possible using OLEDs.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- (a) 1 and 3 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 1, 2 and 3
- (d) None of the above statements is correct
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 3
Q109Prelims 2017
What is the application of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology?
- (a) Production of bio larvicides
- (b) Manufacture of biodegradable plastics
- (c) Reproductive cloning of animals
- (d) Production of organisms free of diseases
Show answer
Answer: (c) Reproductive cloning of animals
Q110Prelims 2017
With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of ‘genome sequencing', often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future?
- 1. Genome sequencing can be used to identify genetic markers for disease resistance and drought tolerance in various crop plants.
- 2. This technique helps in reducing the time required to develop new varieties of crop plants.
- 3. It can be used to decipher the host-pathogen relationships in crops.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q111Prelims 2016
In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to
- (a) A range of enzymes used in genome editing
- (b) The full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
- (c) The description of the mechanism of gene expression
- (d) A mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells
Show answer
Answer: (b) The full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
Q112Prelims 2016
With reference to ‘AstroSat’, the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. Other than the USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space.
- 2. AstroSat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in an orbit at 1650 km above the surface of the Earth.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q113Prelims 2016
Consider the following statements:
The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO
- 1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
- 2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
- 3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Q114Prelims 2016
With reference to ‘LiFi’, recently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. It uses light as the medium for high-speed data transmission.
- 2. It is wireless technology and is several times faster than ‘WiFi’.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Q115Prelims 2016
India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India?
- (a) It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation
- (b) It can attain a global role in satellite navigation
- (c) It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation
- (d) It can build fusion reactors for power generation
Show answer
Answer: (d) It can build fusion reactors for power generation
Q116Prelims 2016
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
Viruses can infect
- 1. bacteria
- 2. fungi
- 3. plants
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q117Prelims 2015
With reference to the use of nanotechnology in the health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology.
- 2. Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Q118Prelims 2015
In which of the following activities are Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites used?
- 1. Assessment of crop productivity
- 2. Locating groundwater resources
- 3. Mineral exploration
- 4. Telecommunications
- 5. Traffic studies
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
- (b) 4 and 5 only
- (c) 1 and 2 only
- (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
Q119Prelims 2015
The term ‘Goldilocks Zone’ is often seen in the news in the context of
- (a) the limits of habitable zone above the surface of the Earth
- (b) regions inside the Earth-like planets in outer space
- (c) search for the Earth-like planets in outer space
- (d) search for meteorites containing precious metals
Show answer
Answer: (c) search for the Earth-like planets in outer space
Q120Prelims 2015
In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:
- 1. It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
- 2. It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter.
- 3. It is buried deep in the ice.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3 only
Q121Prelims 2015
With reference to ‘Near Field Communication (NFC) Technology’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. It is a contactless communication technology that uses electromagnetic radio fields.
- 2. NFC is designed for use by devices which can be at distance of even a metre from each other.
- 3. NFC can use encryption when sending sensitive information.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Q122Prelims 2015
With reference to ‘fuel cells’ in which hydrogen-rich fuel and oxygen are used to generate electricity. Consider the following statements:
- 1. If pure hydrogen is used as a fuel, the fuel cell emits heat and water as by-products.
- 2. Fuel cells can be used for powering buildings and not for small devices like laptop computers.
- 3. Fuel cells produce electricity in the form of Alternating Current (AC).
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
Q123Prelims 2014
Consider the following techniques/phenomena:
- 1. Budding and grafting in fruit plants
- 2. Cytoplasmic male sterility
- 3. Gene silencing
Which of the above is/are used to create transgenic crops?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Q124Prelims 2014
With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. It is a surface-to-surface missile.
- 2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.
- 3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
Q125Prelims 2014
Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched?
Spacecraft Purpose 1. Cassini-Huygens Orbiting the Venus and transmitting data to the Earth 2. Messenger Mapping and investigating the Mercury 3. Voyager 1 and 2 Exploring the outer solar system Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Q126Prelims 2014
In addition to fingerprint scanning, which of the following can be used in the biometric identification of a person?
- 1. Iris scanning
- 2. Retinal scanning
- 3. Voice recognition
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q127Prelims 2014
With reference to technology for solar power production, consider the following statements:
- 1. 'Photovoltaics' is a technology that generates electricity by direct conversion of light into electricity, while 'Solar Thermal' is a technology that utilises the Sun's rays to generate heat which is further used in the electricity generation process.
- 2. Photovoltaics generates Alternating Current (AC), while Solar Thermal generates Direct Current (DC).
- 3. India has a manufacturing base for Solar Thermal Technology but not for photovoltaics.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1, 2 and 3
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
Q128Prelims 2014
Which of the following is/are the example/examples of chemical change?
- 1. Crystallization of sodium chloride
- 2. Melting of ice
- 3. Souring of milk
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1, 2 and 3
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (b) 3 only
Q129Prelims 2014
Consider the following diseases
- 1. Diphtheria
- 2. Chickenpox
- 3. Smallpox
Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1, 2 and 3
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (b) 3 only
Q130Prelims 2014
Consider the following statements:
- 1. Maize can be used for the production of starch.
- 2. Oil extracted from maize can be a feedstock for biodiesel.
- 3. Alcoholic beverages can be produced by using maize.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q131Prelims 2014
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding vegetative propagation of plants?
- 1. Vegetative propagation produces a clonal population.
- 2. Vegetative propagation helps in eliminating the virus.
- 3. Vegetative propagation can be practised most of the year.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only
Q132Prelims 2014
Consider the following pairs:
Vitamin Deficiency Disease 1. Vitamin C Scurvy 2. Vitamin D Rickets 3. Vitamin E Night blindness Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1, 2 and 3
- (d) None
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Q133Prelims 2014
Lichens, which are capable of initiating ecological succession even on a bare rock, are actually a symbiotic association of
- (a) algae and bacteria
- (b) algae and fungi
- (c) bacteria and fungi
- (d) fungi and mosses
Show answer
Answer: (b) algae and fungi
Q134Prelims 2013
The efforts to detect the existence of Higgs boson particles have become frequent news in the recent past. What is /are the importance/importance of discovering this particle?
- 1. It will enable us to understand why elementary particles have mass.
- 2. It will enable us in the near future to develop the technology to transfer matter from one point to another without traversing the physical space between them.
- 3. It will enable us to create better fuels for nuclear fission.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
Q135Prelims 2013
Mycorrhizal biotechnology has been used in rehabilitating degraded sites because mycorrhiza enables the plants to
- 1. Resist drought and increase the absorptive area
- 2. Tolerate extremes of pH
- 3. Resist disease infestation
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q136Prelims 2013
Recombinant DNA technology (Genetic Engineering) allows genes to be transferred
- 1. across different species of plants
- 2. from animals to plants
- 3. from microorganisms to higher organisms
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q137Prelims 2013
Ball bearings are used in bicycles, cars, etc. because
- (a) The actual area of contact between the wheel and axle is increased
- (b) The effective area of contact between the wheel and axle is increased
- (c) The effective area of contact between the wheel and axle is reduced
- (d) None of the statements is correct
Show answer
Answer: (c) The effective area of contact between the wheel and axle is reduced
Q138Prelims 2013
Consider the following phenomena:
- 1. Size of the sun at dusk
- 2. Colour of the sun at dawn
- 3. Moon being visible at dawn
- 4. Twinkle of stars in the sky
- 5. Polestar being visible in the sky
Which of the above are optical illusions?
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- (b) 3, 4 and 5
- (c) 1, 2 and 4
- (d) 2, 3 and 5
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 4
Q139Prelims 2013
Rainbow is produced when sunlight falls on drops of rain.
Which of the following physical phenomena are responsible for this?
- 1. Dispersion
- 2. Refraction
- 3. Internal reflection
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Q140Prelims 2013
The known forces of nature can be divided into four classes, viz., gravity, electromagnetism, weak nuclear force and strong nuclear force. With reference to them, which one of the following statements is not correct?
- (a) Gravity is the strongest of the four
- (b) Electromagnetism act only on particles with an electric charge
- (c) Weak nuclear force causes radioactivity
- (d) Strong nuclear force holds protons and neutrons inside the nucleus of an atom
Show answer
Answer: (a) Gravity is the strongest of the four
Q141Prelims 2013
Fruits stored in a cold chamber exhibit longer storage life because
- (a) exposure to sunlight is prevented
- (b) concentration dioxide in the is increased of carbon environment
- (c) rate of respiration is decreased
- (d) there is an increase in humidity
Show answer
Answer: (c) rate of respiration is decreased
Q142Prelims 2013
Many transplanted seedlings do not grow because
- (a) the new soil does not contain favourable minerals
- (b) most of the root hairs grip the new soil too hard
- (c) most of the root hairs are lost during transplantation
- (d) leaves get damaged during transplantation
Show answer
Answer: (c) most of the root hairs are lost during transplantation
Q143Prelims 2013
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1. Viruses lack enzymes necessary for the generation of energy.
- 2. Viruses can be cultured in any synthetic medium.
- 3. Viruses are transmitted from one organism to another by biological vectors only.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 only
Q144Prelims 2013
Which of the following diseases can be transmitted from one person to another through tattooing?
- 1. Chikungunya
- 2. Hepatitis B
- 3. HIV-AIDS
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Q145Prelims 2013
Consider the following minerals
- 1. Calcium
- 2. Iron
- 3. Sodium
Which of the minerals given above is/are required by the human body for the contraction of muscles?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3