UPSC General Science MCQs – 04

If a tropical rain forest is removed, it does not regenerate quickly as compared to a tropical deciduous forest. This is because [UPSC 2011 (CS-P)]

In the structure of planet. Earth, below the mantle, the core is mainly made up of which one of the following? [UPSC 2009(CS-P)]

Indiscriminate disposal of used fluorescent electric lamps causes mercury pollution in the environment. Why is mercury used in the manufacture of these lamps? [UPSC 2010 (CS-P)]

Microbial fuel cells are considered a source of sustainable energy. Why? 
1. They use living organisms as catalysts to generate electricity from certain substrates.
2. They use a variety of inorganic materials as substrates.
3. They can be installed in waste water treatment plants to cleanse water and produce electricity.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2011 (CS-P)]

Radioactivity is measured by [UPSC 2008]

Regular intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended in the diet since they are a good source of antioxidants. How do antioxidants help a person maintain health and promote longevity?[UPSC 2011 (CS-P)]

Satellites used for telecommunication relay are kept in a geostationary orbit. A satellite is said to be in such an orbit when:
1. The orbit is geosynchronous.
2. The orbit is circular.
3. The orbit lies in the plane of the Earth’s equator.
4. The orbit is at an altitude of 22,236 km.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: [UPSC 2011 (CS-P)]

Some species of plants are insectivorous. Why? [UPSC 2010 (CS-P)]

The “Red Data Books” published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resource (IUCN) contain lists of
1. Endemic plant and animal species present in the biodiversity hotspots.
2. Threatened plant and animal species.
3. Protected sites for conservation of nature and natural resources in various countries.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: [UPSC 2011 (CS-P)]

The 2004 Tsunami made people realize that mangroves can serve as a reliable safety hedge against coastal calamities. How do mangroves function as a safety hedge? [UPSC 2011 (CS-P)]