UPSC Current Affairs Quiz: December 27, 2024
December 30, 2024 December 31, 2024
test
Test
1. With reference to ancient organisms and their survival strategies, consider the following statements:
- Archaea are a group of microorganisms that can survive in extreme conditions, such as hot volcanic pools.
- Thermophiles, a subset of archaea, thrive in temperatures above 45℃ and are used in industrial applications.
- Halophiles are archaea that live in highly saline environments, such as salt lakes and salt mines.
How many of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] All three
[D] None
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [All three]
Notes:- Archaea are a group of microorganisms that can survive in extreme conditions, such as hot volcanic pools: Correct. Archaea are known for thriving in extreme environments, including high-temperature areas.
- Thermophiles, a subset of archaea, thrive in temperatures above 45℃ and are used in industrial applications: Correct. They are utilized in biotechnology for processes requiring high temperatures.
- Halophiles are archaea that live in highly saline environments, such as salt lakes and salt mines: Correct. They are adapted to survive in environments with high salt concentrations.
Thus, all the statements are correct.
2. Consider the following pairs:
| 5G Technology | Key Feature |
| Network Slicing | Allows multiple virtual networks to be created on a single physical network |
| VoNR | Voice over New Radio, enabling voice calls over 5G networks |
| mMTC | Massive Machine Type Communication, supporting a large number of IoT devices |
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
[A] Only one pair
[B] Only two pairs
[C] All three pairs
[D] None of the pairs
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [All three pairs]
Notes:- Network Slicing: This feature indeed allows multiple virtual networks to be created on a single physical network, optimizing resource usage and enhancing service delivery.
- VoNR: This is correct as it refers to enabling voice calls over 5G networks, providing better quality and lower latency compared to previous technologies.
- mMTC: This is also accurate as it supports massive connectivity for IoT devices, allowing a large number of devices to communicate over the network efficiently.
Thus, all three pairs are correct.
3. With reference to scientific research methods, consider the following statements:
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is used for amplifying DNA sequences.
- CRISPR technology is primarily used for protein synthesis.
- Gel electrophoresis separates DNA fragments based on size.
- Mass spectrometry is utilized for determining the structure of proteins.
How many of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] All three
[D] None
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Only two]
Notes:- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is used for amplifying DNA sequences: This is correct. PCR is a widely used technique for making multiple copies of a specific DNA segment.
- CRISPR technology is primarily used for protein synthesis: This is incorrect. CRISPR is primarily a gene-editing technology that allows for precise modifications in DNA.
- Gel electrophoresis separates DNA fragments based on size: This is correct. Gel electrophoresis is a technique used to separate charged molecules like DNA based on their size.
- Mass spectrometry is utilized for determining the structure of proteins: This is correct. Mass spectrometry is a powerful technique for analyzing the mass and structure of proteins.
Thus, two statements are correct.
4. Which of the following countries are known for being the top two producers of scientific research output globally?
[A] United States and China
[B] Germany and Japan
[C] United Kingdom and Canada
[D] France and Australia
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [United States and China]
Notes:
The United States and China are the leading contributors to global scientific research output, with the U.S. historically dominating in terms of the number of publications and citations, while China has rapidly increased its output over the past two decades, often surpassing the U.S. in total publications in recent years.
5. Consider the following:
- Credit Card
- Loan
- Mortgage
Which of the above is/are typically considered secured forms of borrowing?
[A] Only 1 & 2
[B] Only 2 & 3
[C] 1, 2 & 3
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Only 2 & 3]
Notes:
A loan is a general term for borrowed money, often secured by collateral. A mortgage specifically refers to a loan secured by real estate. Credit cards are typically unsecured, relying on the borrower’s creditworthiness rather than collateral. Mortgages involve property, while loans can be secured or unsecured. Credit cards usually have higher interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
