2023 Science and tech

Q1. With reference to coal-based thermal power plants in India, consider the following
statements:
1. None of them uses seawater.
2. None of them is set up in water-stressed district.
3. None of them is privately owned.

How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

Answer: (d) None

Explanation:
1. Seawater Usage in Coal-Based Thermal Power Plants:
• Incorrect (Statement 1): The statement is inaccurate. Coal-based thermal
power plants in India often utilize seawater for various functions, primarily for
cooling purposes. Seawater is a common source of cooling water for power
plants located near the coast. However, it’s essential to note that not all
power plants use seawater; some rely on freshwater sources. Hence, this
statement is incorrect.
2. Location in Water-Stressed Districts:
• Incorrect (Statement 2): The statement is incorrect. According to reports, a
significant percentage (approximately 40%) of the country’s thermal power
plants are situated in areas facing high water stress. This becomes a critical
 issue since these plants heavily depend on water for their cooling processes.
Water scarcity has already started to impact electricity generation in such
regions, contradicting the statement.
3. Ownership of Thermal Power Plants:
• Incorrect (Statement 3): The statement is inaccurate. India’s power generation
landscape includes both privately and publicly owned coal-fired thermal
power plants. Private corporations have made substantial investments in the
power industry, and some of the largest thermal power producers, like Adani
Power Limited, are privately owned. Therefore, the claim that none of the
plants is privately owned is incorrect.

Target Extra
Singareni Thermal Power Plant (STPP) in Telangana achieves a milestone as the first
public sector coal-based power station in the South and the pioneering State PSU in the
country to adopt a flu gas desulphurization (FGD) plant.

Key Facts on FGD Plant:

About:
• The FGD plant processes sulphur and other gases (nitrogen oxides) from coal-
fired power generation.
• Removes Sulphur Dioxide from flue gas, minimizing environmental impact.
Types of FGD Systems:
• Wet FGD systems employ a liquid absorbent.
• Spray Dry Absorbers (SDA) use a semi-dry approach with a mix of water and
sorbent.
• Circulating Dry Scrubbers (CDS) come in dry or semi-dry variations.
• Dry Sorbent Injection (DSI) introduces dry sorbent directly into the furnace or
ductwork.
Ministry Guidelines:
• The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) mandates
FGD plant installation deadlines.
• Non-retiring plants must comply by December-end 2026, while retiring plants
have until December-end 2027.
• Exemption possible for plants retiring by December-end 2027 upon seeking
approval from the Central Pollution Control Board and Central Electricity
Authority.

Major Thermal Plants in India:

 1. Vindhyachal Thermal Power Station – India’s Largest:
• Situated in Singrauli district, Madhya Pradesh, Vindhyachal Thermal Power
Station stands as India’s largest and the 9th largest globally among coal-fired
thermal power stations.
• National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) owns and operates this colossal
4,760MW coal-fired power station.
• Leveraging water from Singrauli thermal power station’s discharge canal
enhances its operational efficiency.
2. Mundra Thermal Power Station – Second in Size:
• Located in Shiracha, Kutch district, Gujarat, Mundra Thermal Power Station
secures its place as India’s second-largest thermal power plant.
• A coal-based thermal plant, it boasts a substantial power generating capacity
of 4,620MW.
• Notably, it’s the world’s first supercritical thermal project registered as a Clean
Development Mechanism (CDM) project under the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
3. Sasan Ultra Mega Power Plant – Power Generation Giant:
• Reliance Power Limited owns the Sasan Ultra Mega Power Plant, representing
the largest integrated power generation facility in India.
• Combining a coal mine project with a 3,960MW power plant and a coal mining
capacity of 20 MT per year, it stands as a colossal energy hub.
• Located in the Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh, it proudly claims the title
of the 4th largest electricity generation power plant in India and is one of the
prestigious Ultra Mega Power Plants recognized by the Ministry of Power.

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sector-thermal-plant-in-south-to-have-fgd-facility/article66535952.ece
Q2. ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the
following?
(a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
(b) Converting crop residues into packing material
(c) Producing biodegradable plastics
(d) Producing biochar from thermo-chemical conversion of biomass

Answer: (a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes

Explanation:
The ‘Wolbachia method’ is associated with controlling the spread of viral diseases by
mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

Nature of Wolbachia:
• Wolbachia is a type of natural bacteria found in up to 60% of insect species,
including certain mosquitoes.
• It’s important to note that Wolbachia bacteria do not cause harm to people,
animals, or other organisms.
Objective - Controlling Mosquito-Borne Viral Diseases:
• Scientists have explored Wolbachia for its potential in controlling mosquitoes that
act as vectors for human viruses.
• The focus is on mosquitoes like Aedes aegypti, known for transmitting diseases
such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever.
World Mosquito Program’s Wolbachia Method:
• The Wolbachia method, implemented by the World Mosquito Program (WMP),
involves releasing male and female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes carrying Wolbachia
into the environment.
• These released mosquitoes breed with the wild mosquito population, gradually
increasing the percentage of mosquitoes with Wolbachia over time.
• Mosquitoes with Wolbachia exhibit a reduced ability to transmit viruses to
humans, lowering the risk of outbreaks for diseases like Zika, dengue,
chikungunya, and yellow fever.
Mechanism of Action:
• Wolbachia competes with viruses within the mosquitoes, making it more
challenging for the viruses to replicate.
• As a result, mosquitoes carrying Wolbachia are less likely to spread viruses from
person to person.

Target Extra:
Advantages of Wolbachia:
1. Virus Resistance:
• Flies and mosquitoes carrying Wolbachia exhibit enhanced resistance to RNA
viruses like West Nile virus, Chickungunya virus, cricket paralysis virus, flock
house virus, and Norovirus.
2. Green Island Production in Leafminers:
• Wolbachia benefits leafminers, insects consuming leaf tissues in their larval
stage, by aiding in the production of green islands on yellowing leaves. This
facilitates larval growth into adult forms.
 3. Iron Metabolism Support:
• Wolbachia plays a role in iron metabolism within certain insect species,
showcasing its diverse influence on host physiology.
4. Insecticide Resistance in Household Mosquitoes:
• Presence of Wolbachia in household mosquitoes contributes to their
resilience against insecticides, potentially impacting vector control efforts.
5. Induction of Fecundity:
• Wolbachia induces fecundity, a fertility-related selection, providing a fitness
advantage by increasing the number of offspring for some of its host
organisms.

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dengue-7602556/
Q3. Consider the following activities :
1. Spreading finely ground basalt rock on farmlands extensively
2. Increasing the alkalinity of oceans by adding lime
3. Capturing carbon dioxide released by various industries and pumping it into
abandoned subterranean mines in the form of carbonated waters
How many of the above activities are often considered and discussed for carbon capture
and sequestration?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

Answer: (c) All three

Explanation:
Carbon Sequestration Overview:
• Definition: Carbon sequestration involves the removal of carbon dioxide (CO2)
from the atmosphere, followed by its storage in various forms, preventing it
from contributing to climate change.
• Objective: Mitigating global warming by capturing and storing CO2 generated
from human activities.
1. Spreading finely ground basalt rock on farmlands extensively:
• Purpose: Ground basalt captures CO2 from the atmosphere and soil pore
spaces.
• Mechanism: Enhances natural weathering of minerals, promoting the
formation of stable carbonates.
• Additional Benefits: Raises soil pH, reduces ocean acidification, and provides
essential nutrients.
 • Carbon Capture: One tonne of basalt captures 0.153–0.165 tonne CO2.
• Conclusion: Ground basalt application is an effective method for both carbon
capture and soil enhancement.
2. Increasing the alkalinity of oceans by adding lime:
• Purpose: Enhances the alkalinity of oceans to facilitate carbon absorption.
• Mechanism: Dissolving lime or alkaline minerals in seawater.
• Objective: Increases the ocean’s capacity to absorb CO2 and combats ocean
acidification.
• Carbon Sequestration: Addresses ocean acidification and promotes long-term
carbon storage.
• Conclusion: Lime addition is a strategy for ocean-based carbon sequestration.
3. Capturing carbon dioxide released by various industries and pumping it into
abandoned subterranean mines in the form of carbonated waters:
• Process: Separating CO2 from industrial emissions, compressing, and storing
underground.
• Objective: Long-term storage of captured CO2 to prevent atmospheric release.
• Storage Locations: Deep saline formations, depleted oil and gas reservoirs, or
the deep ocean.
• Conclusion: Carbon capture and storage (CCS) addresses industrial emissions
and contributes to carbon sequestration.

Target Extra:
NITI Aayog’s CCUS Policy Framework:
• Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) is crucial for decarbonizing CO2
emissions from high-polluting sectors like steel, cement, oil, gas, petrochemicals,
chemicals, and fertilizers.
• This technology plays a pivotal role in India’s goal to halve CO2 emissions by 2050.
Objectives of CCUS Policy Framework:
• The CCUS policy framework aims to establish a practical framework for expediting
research and development in carbon capture, utilization, and storage within India.
• It is integral to fostering sustainable development and growth, especially for the
production of clean products and energy, contributing to the vision of an
Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Role in Key Sectors and Employment Generation:
• CCUS is instrumental in supporting sunrise sectors like coal gasification and the
emerging hydrogen economy in India.
• Anticipates significant employment generation, estimating that achieving 750
mtpa of carbon capture by 2050 could create 8-10 million employment
opportunities on a full-time equivalent (FTE) basis in a phased manner.
Policy Recommendations and Implementation:
• NITI Aayog suggests a near-term focus on carbon credits or incentive-based CCUS
policies to stimulate and nurture the sector in India through tax and cash credits.
• Recognising India as the third-largest emitter of CO2 globally (about 2.6
gigatonnes per annum), CCUS is deemed essential for the country to meet its
Decarbonization Goals.
Emission Reduction Commitments:
• At COP 26 in Glasgow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a
comprehensive strategy, including achieving net zero by 2070, to mitigate climate
change.
• The Indian government is committed to reducing CO2 emissions by 50 percent by
2050, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

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congress-research-needed-to-ensure-carbon-capture-tech-is-efficient-experts-say-
86983

Q4. ‘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-bome 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
Answer: (a) Collecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one go

Explanation:
Metagenomics:
• Definition: Aerial metagenomics involves studying the genetic material (DNA or
RNA) present in the air, specifically focusing on microorganisms suspended in the
atmosphere.
• Methodology: It includes the collection and analysis of genetic material from
airborne particles or aerosols present in different environments.
Aerial Metagenomics:
• Definition: Aerial metagenomics narrows its focus to genetic material present in
the air.
• Objective: Study microbial communities in air samples from various
environments, including outdoor and indoor air.
Key Characteristics of Aerial Metagenomics:
• Collection Method: Involves the collection of DNA or RNA from microorganisms
suspended in the atmosphere.
• Sample Source: Airborne particles or aerosols in outdoor and indoor air.
• Microbial Communities: Focuses on characterizing the genetic diversity of
microbial communities in the air.

Target Extra:
Applications of Metagenomics:
1. Microbial Community Dynamics:
• Longitudinal metagenome studies unveil changes in microbial communities in
response to environmental perturbations or human interventions.
2. Biodiversity Studies:
• Metagenomics enables the exploration of microorganism diversity in various
ecosystems, including oceans, soil, freshwater, and extreme environments like
hot springs.
3. Human Microbiome Research:
• Revolutionising our understanding of the human gut microbiome,
metagenomics reveals insights into digestion, metabolism, and overall health.
4. Bioremediation and Environmental Cleanup:
• Identifying microorganisms capable of degrading pollutants and toxic
compounds through metagenomics aids in harnessing them for
bioremediation purposes.
5. Drug Discovery and Biotechnology:
 • Uncovering novel genes and pathways involved in bioactive compound
production, metagenomics contributes to the discovery of new drugs and
therapeutic agents.
6. Agriculture and Plant-Microbe Interactions:
• Exploring microbial communities in agricultural soils through metagenomics
helps optimize nutrient cycling and improve crop productivity.
Q5. ‘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

Answer: (a) Studying the evolutionary relationships among various species of fauna

Explanation:
Micro-satellite DNA Overview:
• Definition: Microsatellite DNA, also known as short tandem repeats (STRs) or
simple sequence repeats (SSRs), refers to short DNA sequences with repeated
units.
• Application: Microsatellites are utilized in genetic analysis, particularly in
molecular genetics and genomics.
• Structure: These sequences have tandem repeats, and the number of
repetitions can vary among individuals.
• Genetic Variation: Microsatellites exhibit high variability, making them
valuable markers for genetic studies.
• Application in Studying Evolutionary Relationships: Microsatellites are
instrumental in studying genetic structure, population dynamics, and
evolutionary relationships among species.
 • Population Genetics: Valuable in population genetics, conservation genetics,
and phylogenetic research.

Target Extra:
Uses of Microsatellite DNA:
1. DNA Fingerprinting:
• Microsatellite DNA facilitates the creation of unique DNA fingerprints for
individuals, serving purposes such as forensic identification and paternity testing.
2. Genetic Mapping:
• Employed for mapping gene locations in the genome, microsatellite DNA aids in
identifying genes associated with diseases or specific traits through genetic
mapping.
3. Population Genetics:
• Microsatellite DNA is utilized to study the genetic diversity within populations.
This insight helps understand population evolution and identify populations at
risk of extinction.
4. Conservation Genetics:
• In conservation efforts, microsatellite DNA is employed to study the genetic
diversity of endangered species. This information informs the development of
effective conservation strategies for these species.
5. Analysis of Genetic Structure and Evolutionary Relationships:
• Researchers utilize microsatellite DNA to analyze genetic structure, population
dynamics, and evolutionary relationships among various animal species.
6. Significance in Research:
• Microsatellite markers play a crucial role in population genetics, conservation
genetics, and phylogenetic research, providing valuable insights into the genetic
makeup and relationships between different species.
Q6. Consider the following statements :
 1. Carbon fibres are used in the manufacture of components used in automobiles
and aircraftes.
2. Carbon fibres once used cannot be recycled.
Which of the statements give above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a) 1 only

Explanation:
Carbon Fibre:
• Definition: Carbon fiber consists of carbon atoms bonded together, forming a
strong, stiff, and lightweight material.
• Characteristics: Carbon fibers exhibit physical strength, dimensional stability,
electrical conductivity, and more, making them versatile for various applications.

Explanation:
1. Application in Automobiles and Aircraft:
• Usage: Carbon fibers are extensively used in manufacturing components for
automobiles and aircraft.
• Properties: Their physical strength, specific toughness, and light weight make
them suitable for aerospace and automotive applications.
2. Recycling of Carbon Fibers:
• Recycling Possibility: While the statement implies carbon fibers cannot be
recycled, the reality is different.
• Recycling Techniques: Various technologies, including pyrolysis and solvolysis, are
employed for recycling carbon fiber waste.
• Environmental Impact: Recycling addresses the environmental impact of carbon
fiber production and consumption.

Target Extra:
India’s Historic Rocket Launch with Vikram-S:

1. Development by Skyroot Aerospace:

• Vikram-S, India’s first privately developed rocket, is crafted by Hyderabad-
based Skyroot Aerospace.
 2. Mission ‘Prarambh’ - Skyroot’s Maiden Venture:
• Skyroot’s inaugural mission, aptly named ‘Prarambh’ (the beginning), marks a
historic milestone as the first private space company in India to launch a
rocket into space.
3. Suborbital Spaceflight Details:
• The launch is a suborbital spaceflight, reaching approximately 100km above
Earth’s surface.
• Suborbital flights, vital for testing space missions, precede final commercial
missions and operate at a lower altitude than orbital flights.
4. Customer Payloads and Significance:
• Three customer payloads will be carried to the intended orbit during the
suborbital spaceflight.
• Notably, among these payloads is a 2.5kg satellite from Space Kidz India, a
space startup involving students from India, the US, and Indonesia.
5. Skyroot’s Collaboration with ISRO:
• Skyroot Aerospace, a two-time national award winner, is the first startup to
sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ISRO for rocket
development.
6. Vikram Series Features:
• The Vikram series, named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the founder of India’s
space program, consists of all-carbon-fiber structures.
• Capable of launching up to 800 kg payloads to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), the
series is designed for the small satellite market, offering cost-effectiveness and
multi-orbit insertion capabilities.

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manufacturing-plant/article66262252.ece
Q7. Consider the following actions :
1. Detection of car crash/collision which results in the deployment of airbags almost
instantaneously.
2. Detection of accidental free fall of a laptop towards the ground which results in
the immediate turning off of the hard drive
3. Detection of the tit of smartphone which results in the rotation of display
between portrait and landscape mode
In how many of the above action is the function of accelerometer required?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

Answer: (c) All three

Explanation:

Functions of Accelerometer:
• Accelerometers measure the vibration or acceleration of motion in a structure,
utilizing the piezoelectric effect to convert mechanical force into an electrical
current.
1. Car Crash Detection (Statement 1):
• Accelerometers in car crash detection systems measure g-force accelerations
during a crash.
• In the event of a crash, the accelerometer (crash sensor) signals the airbag control
unit.
• The control unit triggers the inflation device, producing nitrogen gas to deploy the
airbags for occupant protection.
2. Laptop Hard Drive Protection (Statement 2):
• Accelerometers in laptops serve a protective role for hard drives.
• If the laptop experiences a sudden free fall, the accelerometer detects the motion
change.
• This prompts an immediate action: turning off the hard drive to prevent damage.
3. Smartphone Orientation (Statement 3):
• Smartphones utilize accelerometers to detect acceleration, vibration, and tilt
along the three axes.
• Apps use this sensor to determine the phone’s orientation, distinguishing
between portrait and landscape modes.
 • The accelerometer identifies if the phone screen is facing upward or downward,
enhancing user experience.

Target Extra:
Gravitational Acceleration in Physics:

1. Definition and Context:

• Gravitational acceleration refers to the acceleration of an object in free fall within
a vacuum, unaffected by drag.
• This acceleration results from the exclusive force of gravitational attraction,
leading to a steady gain in speed.
2. Uniform Acceleration in Vacuum:
• All bodies experience the same rate of acceleration in a vacuum, regardless of
their masses or compositions.
• The study of these rates is termed gravimetry in physics.
3. Earth’s Surface Gravity:
• The magnitude of Earth’s gravity at a fixed point on the surface is influenced by
the combined effects of gravitation and the centrifugal force due to Earth’s
rotation.
• The free fall acceleration varies from 9.764 to 9.834 m/s² (32.03 to 32.26 ft/s²) at
different points on Earth’s surface, depending on factors like altitude, latitude,
and longitude.
4. Standard Value and Gravity Anomalies:
• A conventional standard value for gravitational acceleration is precisely defined as
9.80665 m/s² (about 32.1740 ft/s²).
• Locations deviating significantly from this standard value are identified as gravity
anomalies, showcasing variations in gravitational forces.
5. Considerations and Exclusions:
• The discussed values focus solely on gravitational effects and do not consider
additional factors like buoyancy or drag.
• Gravitational acceleration remains consistent in a vacuum, providing a
foundational understanding of free fall dynamics.
Q8. With reference to the role of biofilters in Recirculating Aquaculture System, consider
the following statements :
1. Biofilters provide waste treatment by removing uneaten fish feed.
2. Biofilters convert ammonia present in fish waste to nitrate.
3. Biofilters increase phosphorus as nutrient for fish in water.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

Answer: (b) Only two

Explanation:
Role of Biofilters in Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS):

1. Biofilters and Waste Treatment:

• Biofilters play a crucial role in waste treatment by removing uneaten fish feed.
• Uneaten feed, if not managed, can contribute to water pollution and affect water
quality in aquaculture systems.
2. Ammonia Conversion to Nitrate:
• RAS biofilters are designed to control ammonia levels resulting from fish protein
breakdown.
• Nitrifying bacteria in the biofilter convert ammonia to nitrite and then to nitrate.
• Nitrate is a less toxic form of nitrogen, enhancing water quality for fish.
3. Phosphorus Concentration:
• Biofilters in RAS focus on nitrogenous waste removal and do not increase
phosphorus as a nutrient for fish.
• Phosphorus reduction is essential to prevent eutrophication and maintain
balanced water conditions.

Target Extra:
Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS):

• Introduction:
 o RAS involves recycling and reusing water in aquaculture after mechanical and
biological filtration.
o Suitable for high-density fish culture, optimizing land area and water usage.

• Operational Mechanism:

o Fish are reared in indoor/outdoor tanks within a controlled environment.

o Water is filtered and cleaned through mechanical and biological filters,
circulating back to fish culture tanks.
o Only 10% of the total water volume is replaced daily, making it a sustainable
water management system.

• Management Focus:

o Efficient RAS management relies on factors like feed quantity and quality, as
well as the type of filtration used.
o Various filter designs aim to remove metabolic wastes, excess nutrients, and
solids, ensuring optimal water quality for aquatic organisms.

• Backyard Recirculation Aquaculture Systems (BRAS):

o Proposed to encourage small-scale fish farmers and entrepreneurs in areas

with limited land and water resources.

Advantages of RAS:

• Extended Durability:
o Enhances the longevity of tanks and equipment.
• Reduced Dependency:
o Low reliance on antibiotics and therapeutants, resulting in higher quality fish.
• Operational Cost Reduction:
o Decreases direct costs related to feed, predator control, and parasites.
• Environmental Benefits:
o Potentially prevents the release of parasites into recipient waters.
• Risk Reduction:
o Minimizes risks associated with climate, diseases, and parasites.
• Flexibility and Proximity:
o Enables flexible farming locations, even in urban areas close to markets.
• Species Diversity:
 o Allows for the production of various species regardless of temperature
requirements.
• Enhanced Feed Management:
o Enables continuous monitoring of feeding for 24 hours, optimizing feed
management.
• Reduced Stress Exposure:
o Decreases stock exposure to stress factors like adverse weather, temperature
variations, pollution, and predation.
• Secure Production:
o Facilitates secure production of non-endemic species.
• Resource Efficiency:
o Judicial use of water and land areas, promoting sustainability.

Disadvantages of RAS:

• Power Dependency:
o Requires a constant and uninterrupted power supply; backup is essential in
case of power failures.
• High Initial Capital Cost:
o The initial setup cost is comparatively high compared to traditional pond and
raceway systems.

Species Suitable for RAS:

• Baramundi, Cobia, Silver Pompano, Tilapia, Pearl spot, Pangasius, Rainbow Trout
(especially in hilly/cold water regions).
Q9. Consider the following pairs :

Objects in space Description

Giant clouds of
1. Cepheids dust and gas in
space

Stars which
2. Nebulae brighten and dim
periodically

Neutron stars
that are formed
3. Pulsars 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

Answer: (a) Only one

Explanation:

1. Incorrect. Cepheids:
• Cepheids, also known as Cepheid Variables, are stars exhibiting periodic
brightening and dimming.
• This behavior allows them to serve as cosmic yardsticks for measuring
astronomical distances.
• Correctly Matched.

2. Incorrect. Nebulae:
• A nebula refers to a vast cloud of dust and gas in space.
 • Some nebulae originate from material ejected by dying stars (supernova
explosions).
• Other nebulae represent regions where new stars are beginning to form.

3. Correct. Pulsars:
• Pulsars are rotating neutron stars observed to have pulses of radiation at very
regular intervals, ranging from milliseconds to seconds.
• They are the crushed cores of massive stars that ran out of fuel, collapsed under
their own weight, and exploded as supernovae.

Target Extra:
James Webb Space Telescope: Unveiling Cosmic Secrets

• International Collaboration:
o A collaborative effort involving NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), and
the Canadian Space Agency.
o Successfully launched in December 2021.
• Orbital Location:
o Positioned at the Sun-Earth L2 Lagrange point, approximately 1.5 million km
beyond Earth’s orbit.
o Lagrange points represent locations where gravitational forces between two
large bodies, like Earth and the Sun, cancel each other out.
• Lagrange Point Significance:
o Named after mathematician Joseph-Louis Lagrange, these points in the Earth-
Sun system offer stability with minimal external energy requirements.
o Ideal for positioning instruments, providing a relatively stable environment.
• Infrared Space Telescope:
o The largest and most powerful infrared space telescope ever constructed.
o Serves as the successor to the Hubble Telescope.
• Time Travel Capability:
o Can observe galaxies so distant that their light has traveled billions of years,
allowing a glimpse into cosmic history just after the Big Bang.
• Objectives:
o Examines every cosmic phase, from the Big Bang to the formation of galaxies,
stars, planets, and the evolution of our Solar System.
• Four Thematic Goals:
o First Theme:
o Looks back around 13.5 billion years to witness the birth of the first stars and
galaxies.
 o Second Theme:
o Compares the earliest galaxies to present-day spirals, unraveling the assembly
of galaxies over billions of years.
o Third Theme:
o Investigates regions where stars and planetary systems are currently being
born.
o Fourth Theme:
o Observes the atmospheres of extrasolar planets, seeking potential building
blocks of life beyond our solar system.

Q10. Which one of the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System?
(a) Australia
(b) Canada
(c) Israel
(d) Japan

Answer: (d) Japan

Explanation:
Japan’s Satellite Navigation System: Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS)

Japan is the country that has developed and operates its own Satellite Navigation
System, known as the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS).

1. Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS)

 • QZSS is a satellite navigation system designed to complement and enhance the
existing Global Positioning System (GPS).
• It focuses on providing more accurate and reliable positioning, navigation, and
timing information within Japan and surrounding regions.
• QZSS improves the availability and accuracy of satellite positioning in urban
environments, mountainous terrain, and other challenging locations.
• It enhances the performance of GPS-based services, especially in areas with
obstructed views of the sky.

2. Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)

• The term “Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)” refers to any satellite
constellation providing positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services on a
global or regional basis.
• QZSS, although regional, contributes to the broader GNSS landscape by extending
coverage and reliability in its designated areas.

Target Extra
Satellite Navigation Systems: Navigating the Global Landscape

Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS):

• Refers to any satellite constellation offering positioning, navigation, and timing
(PNT) services globally or regionally.
• Major GNSS Systems: Four global systems:
o GPS (US), GLONASS (Russia), Galileo (EU), BeiDou (China).
• Two regional systems:
o QZSS (Japan) and IRNSS or NavIC (India).

1. Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS):

• Owned by the Government of Japan, operated by QZS System Service Inc. (QSS).
• Complements GPS, enhances coverage in East Asia and Oceania.
• Officially launched services in 2018, aims for 7 operational satellites by 2023.

2. Global Positioning System (GPS):

• The earliest and widely used GNSS system globally.
• Began operating in 1978, accessible to the public since 1994.
• Consists of a 24-satellite navigation system.

3. GLONASS (GLObal Navigation Satellite System):

 • Russia’s global navigation satellite system.
• Second alternate system with global coverage and precision.
• Operated by the Russian Aerospace Defence Forces.

4. Galileo:
• Constructed by the European Space Agency for the European Union.
• Commercially and civilian accessible global navigation system.
• Significant impact with 26 satellites in orbit and over two billion operational
receivers.

5. BeiDou:
• China’s satellite navigation system.
• Comprises 35 satellites providing continuous precise data transmission.
• Signals travel from satellite to Earth’s ground stations and then to receivers.

6. IRNSS (NavIC):
• Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) or NavIC.
• Launched and operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
• Enhances regional navigation capabilities for India.
Q11. Consider the following statements :
1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights,
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

Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation:
1. Incorrect. Ballistic Missiles and Cruise Missiles:
• Ballistic Missiles: These missiles are rocket-powered during their initial (boost)
phase of flight. After this phase, they follow a parabolic trajectory, relying on
gravity to reach their target. They are not jet-propelled throughout their flight.
• Cruise Missiles: Cruise missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds
throughout their entire flight. They maintain sustained flight, often at low
altitudes, using jet engines.
2. Incorrect. Agni-V and BrahMos:
• Agni-V: Agni-V is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) developed by
India. It is a ballistic missile with a range of over 5,000 km, designed for long-
range strikes.
• BrahMos: BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India
and Russia. It can be launched from land, sea, and air platforms.

Target Extra:
Ballistic Missiles:

• Definition and Characteristics:

o A ballistic missile adheres to a ballistic trajectory, delivering warheads to a
predetermined target.
o Its trajectory is solely determined by initial velocity, gravity, air resistance, and
Earth’s motion.
• Trajectory Details:
o Follows a ballistic trajectory with no active propulsion during its flight.
 o Key factors influencing the trajectory include initial velocity, gravity, air
resistance, and the Coriolis Force.
o Shorter-range ballistic missiles remain within Earth’s atmosphere, while
intercontinental ones spend most of their flight beyond the atmosphere.
• Types Based on Range:
o Short-range ballistic missile (SRBM): 300 km to 1,000 km.
o Medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM): 1,000 km to 3,500 km.
o Intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM or LRBM): 3,500 km to 5,500 km.
o Intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM): 5,500 km and beyond.
Cruise Missiles:

• Definition and Characteristics:

o A cruise missile is a guided missile designed for terrestrial targets with pre-set
targets.
o Remains in the atmosphere throughout its flight.
• Flight Characteristics:
o Flies at a nearly constant speed throughout the majority of its flight path.
o Capable of delivering a large, precise warhead over long distances.
• Modern Features:
o Modern cruise missiles are self-navigating and can travel at supersonic or high
subsonic speeds.
o Operate on a non-ballistic, extremely low-altitude trajectory.
• Types Based on Speed:
o Hypersonic (Mach 5): Travel at least five times the speed of sound (e.g.,
BrahMos-II).
o Supersonic (Mach 2-3): Faster than the speed of sound (e.g., BrahMos).
o Subsonic (Mach 0.8): Travel slower than the speed of sound (e.g., Nirbhay).