Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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Scientists discovered that metal lumps, called polymetallic nodules, on the dark seabed produce oxygen. Dark oxygen is created without sunlight or photosynthesis, which was previously thought to be the only way oxygen is produced. The oxygen comes from electrochemical activity in the nodules, not plants. Polymetallic nodules, made of metals like manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, and lithium, split H2O molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. This discovery challenges previous understanding and opens up new avenues for studying deep ocean processes and oxygen production at extreme depths.

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IIT-Madras researchers have extracted silicon carbide (SiC) from simulated moon soil, aiding future lunar habitat construction. Silicon carbide (SiC), also called carborundum, is a synthetic crystalline compound of silicon and carbon. It is extremely hard, has high thermal conductivity, and offers excellent resistance to wear, oxidation, and chemical reactions.

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South Africa’s MeerKAT telescope discovered a new giant radio galaxy (GRG) named ‘Inkathazo,’ meaning ‘trouble’ in Xhosa and Zulu. The galaxy spans 3.3 million light-years, 32 times the size of the Milky Way, and is 1.44 billion light-years from Earth. GRGs are massive structures that emit jets of hot plasma powered by supermassive black holes. These jets glow at radio frequencies and stretch millions of light-years into space. Once considered rare, GRGs are now being discovered frequently due to advanced radio telescopes like MeerKAT in South Africa’s Northern Cape.

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Australian researchers created the first-ever kangaroo embryos using in vitro fertilisation (IVF). This was achieved through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a technique used in human fertility treatments. Scientists from the University of Queensland used ICSI to create eastern grey kangaroo embryos by injecting a single sperm into a mature egg. Over 20 embryos have been successfully produced. The sperm and egg were collected from recently deceased kangaroos in wildlife hospitals. This breakthrough aims to help conserve endangered marsupials like koalas, Tasmanian devils, and wombats, addressing Australia’s high mammal extinction rate.

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Engineers in Japan activated Reimei, the world’s first hybrid quantum supercomputer. It features a 20-qubit quantum processor integrated into Fugaku, the world’s sixth-fastest supercomputer. Unlike most quantum computers, Reimei uses trapped-ion qubits, which isolate charged atoms in an electromagnetic ion trap and use lasers for precise control. This hybrid system aims to handle complex calculations beyond traditional supercomputers. It is expected to advance research in physics and chemistry.

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Uganda and WHO confirmed an outbreak of Sudan Virus Disease (SVD). It is a viral hemorrhagic fever, related to Ebola, caused by the Sudan virus (SUDV). It was first identified in Sudan in 1976. It exists in animal reservoirs in the region. It has a high fatality rate and spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms start with fever, fatigue, and sore throat, followed by vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and bleeding. There are no approved treatments or vaccines, but early supportive care improves survival chances.

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Measles, a highly contagious virus, is resurging in the U.S., especially in Texas, due to low vaccination rates and international travel. It is an airborne disease caused by a paramyxovirus, spreading through direct contact and the air. The virus infects the respiratory tract and can cause severe complications and death. Symptoms start with high fever for 4-7 days, followed by cough, runny nose, red eyes, and white spots in the mouth. A rash appears on the face and neck, then spreads to the whole body, lasting around five to six days before fading.

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ISRO has developed a 10-tonne vertical propellant mixer for solid motors, making India’s space sector more self-reliant. It is the world’s largest solid propellant mixing equipment, designed by Satish Dhawan Space Centre with Central Manufacturing Technology Institute. The mixer enhances productivity, quality, and efficiency in heavy solid motor production. It weighs around 150 tonnes and measures 5.4m in length, 3.3m in breadth, and 8.7m in height. It features hydrostatic-driven agitators and remote operation via PLC-based SCADA control. Solid propulsion is crucial for India’s space transportation, requiring precise mixing of hazardous ingredients.

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China’s Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) reactor set a world record by sustaining plasma for 1,066 seconds at 100 million degrees Celsius. EAST is crucial for advancing nuclear fusion research, aiming to provide clean, sustainable energy. It is a superconducting tokamak, a donut-shaped reactor developed by China for controlled nuclear fusion. EAST is the only tokamak in the world using both toroidal and poloidal magnetic fields for plasma confinement.

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Researchers found that bacterial cellulose can be used as a bandage to help plants heal and regenerate faster. It is a natural polymer produced by certain bacteria. It has unique properties that make it effective for plant wound care. Bacterial cellulose bandages offer a sustainable alternative to chemical treatments. This method supports healthier plant growth and eco-friendly farming. It enhances plant healing, leading to better crop yields and resilience. This breakthrough integrates biotechnology into agriculture, promoting sustainable farming and food security.