UPSC Current Affairs Quiz: April 23, 2025
April 23, 2025 April 23, 2025
1. Consider the following potential advantages of the Mk-II(A) Laser-DEW system over conventional kinetic and missile-based weapons:
- Minimal collateral damage
- Elimination of dependence on expensive ammunition
- Capacity to engage multiple targets simultaneously
- Enhanced lethality through high-energy microwaves
Which of the above statements is / are correct?
[A] Only 1 and 2
[B] 1, 2 and 3
[C] 1, 3 and 4
[D] All of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [1, 2 and 3]
Notes:
The DEW system minimizes collateral damage and lowers ammo costs, making 1 and 2 correct. It does have the capability to handle multiple drone threats simultaneously, making 3 correct. However, the current system uses laser beams and high-energy microwaves are being developed separately, making 4 incorrect.
2. Consider the following:
- Assertion (A): Fruit fly larvae can reorient their movement in response to electric fields.
- Reason (R): A neuron located on the head of the larva activates when the electric field is behind the larva, triggering reorientation.
Which of the following is correct?
[A] Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
[B] Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
[C] A is true, but R is false
[D] A is false, but R is true
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A]
Notes:
The larva’s reorientation is triggered by a head neuron’s response to the direction of the electric field. This validates both the assertion and the reason in the question, making option 1 the correct choice.
3. Consider the following assertions and reasons:
- BatEchoMon is expected to revolutionize bat research and ecological monitoring in India.
- It is the first international system that combines ultrasonic recording and real-time classification into a single modular device.
Which of the following is correct?
[A] Both 1 and 2 are true, and 2 is the correct explanation of 1
[B] Both 1 and 2 are true, but 2 is not the correct explanation of 1
[C] 1 is true, but 2 is false
[D] 1 is false, but 2 is true
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Both 1 and 2 are true, but 2 is not the correct explanation of 1]
Notes:
The first statement is true as BatEchoMon can possibly transform bat research and ecological monitoring in India by automating the detection and species analysis. The second statement is also true but it does not necessarily explain the first. While the device is unique globally in combining ultrasonic recording and real-time classification into a modular device, its impact on revolutionizing bat research isn’t due to this reason alone. Rather, it is due to the capabilities it offers that automation of detection and species analysis becomes possible.
4. Consider the following features of ESA’s Biomass mission:
- Ability to create 3D images of forests from canopy to root level.
- Use of short-wave radar to enhance penetration of dense forest canopies.
- Capability to generate terrain models even in regions covered with thick vegetation.
Which of the above features are associated with the Biomass mission?
[A] 1 and 2 only
[B] 1 and 3 only
[C] 2 and 3 only
[D] All of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [1 and 3 only]
Notes:
The statement 1 is correct. The mission aims to generate 3D images of forests, from the top of the canopy down to the root zones. The statement 3 is correct. It will generate digital terrain models even for areas covered with thick vegetation, due to its P-band radar. However, statement 2 is incorrect. The satellite uses long-wave (P-band) radar, not short-wave. Longer wavelengths penetrate better, making them suitable for dense forests.
5. Consider the following challenges in treating signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC):
- SRCC spreads quickly to the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity).
- SRCC is resistant to immunotherapy treatments.
- SRCC is rarely diagnosed at advanced stages.
Which of the above statements is / are correct?
[A] Only 1
[B] 1 and 2 only
[C] 2 and 3 only
[D] 1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Only 1]
Notes:
Statement 1 is correct. One of the biggest challenges in treating SRCC is its tendency to spread quickly to the peritoneum, making it difficult to treat. However, Statement 2 is incorrect because the resistance of SRCC to immunotherapy is not particularly highlighted. Lastly, Statement 3 is incorrect since SRCC is often diagnosed at advanced stages, complicating the treatment procedure.
The above questions are part of Daily UPSC 20 Current Affairs MCQs Series in GKToday Android Application. This series can be subscribed in the app only for user friendly test with detailed answers and explanations.
Download Now
