Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

1.VLT Survey Telescope, which recently captured image of IC 4701 emission nebula, is in which country?

[A] Australia
[B] Chile
[C] Italy
[D] USA

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [Chile] Notes:
The VLT Survey Telescope (VST) is located at the Paranal Observatory in the Atacama Desert of northern Chile and is adjacent to the four Very Large Telescope (VLT) Unit Telescopes.
It is the world’s largest telescope specifically designed to survey the sky in visible light. The program is a collaboration between the Italy’s OAC and the European Southern Observatory (ESO). The VLT Survey Telescope has recently captured the detailed image of IC 4701, an emission nebula found in the Sagittarius constellation.

2.What is the name of the form of artificial intelligence that can take actions using past data?

[A] Generative AI
[B] Reformative AI
[C] Memory AI
[D] Storage AI

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Generative AI] Notes:
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is a form of artificial intelligence that can that can be used to create content or take action using past data.
One of the famous examples of generative AI is the ChatGPT. It creates new content including a text, an image, even computer code based on that training, instead of simply categorizing or identifying data like other AI.

3.AxEMU (Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit) is a newly developed spacesuit for which space agency?

[A] ISRO
[B] NASA
[C] ESA
[D] JAXA

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [NASA] Notes:
AxEMU (Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit) is a newly developed spacesuit for NASA’s upcoming Artemis missions.
It was developed by Axiom Space, a private company based out of Houston. The spacesuit builds on NASA’s spacesuit prototype developments with latest technology, enhanced mobility, and added protection from hazards at the Moon.

4.Spring Equinox, the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, usually begins in which month?

[A] September
[B] March
[C] June
[D] December

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [March] Notes:
Spring Equinox, also known as vernal equinox, is the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. It began on March 20 this year.
The equinox is also called the spring equinox in the northern hemisphere and the autumn equinox in the southern hemisphere.

5.Which country announced that it would provide Ukraine with armour-piercing rounds containing depleted uranium?

[A] USA
[B] UK
[C] India
[D] Australia

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [UK] Notes:
Depleted uranium is the by-product obtained during the creation of enriched uranium, which is used in nuclear weapons and nuclear reactors.
The British government recently announced that it would provide Ukraine with armour-piercing rounds containing depleted uranium.

6.Which country’s researchers have taken pictures of ‘Upward Lightning’ phenomenon?

[A] India
[B] USA
[C] Israel
[D] Brazil

Show Answer

Correct Answer: D [Brazil] Notes:
Upward lightning or upward flashes is the event involving the development of the self-initiated lightning streak from a tall object to travel upward toward an overlying electrified storm cloud.
Brazilian researchers have taken pictures of this phenomenon recently.

7.‘Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S)’ is associated with which association?

[A] ASEAN
[B] G-20
[C] EU
[D] ISA

Show Answer

Correct Answer: C [EU] Notes:
Copernicus is the Earth observation component of the European Union Space Programme. Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) is one of the six thematic services provided by the Copernicus Programme.
According to C3S, March 2023 witnessed variations on several meteorological fronts.

8.As per the World Health Organization (WHO), which country reported its death from H3N8 bird flu?

[A] China
[B] India
[C] Bangladesh
[D] South Korea

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [China] Notes:
China has reported the first death from H3N8 bird flu, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Chinese woman was the first person to die from a type of bird flu that is rare in humans, but the strain does not appear to spread between people.

9.Which space agency has released the image of Crab Nebula?

[A] ISRO
[B] European Space Agency
[C] Roscosmos
[D] NASA

Show Answer

Correct Answer: D [NASA] Notes:
Crab Nebula is a supernova remnant and pulsar wind nebula found in the Taurus constellation, which is located 6500 light-years from Earth.
Its image which was captured using Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) spacecraft was released by NASA. Using the IXPE, Scientists have mapped the iconic Crab Nebula’s magnetic field in greater detail than ever before.

10.Which telescope captured the ‘Cassiopeia A’ supernova remnant?

[A] Hubble
[B] James Webb
[C] Spitzer
[D] Chandra

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [James Webb] Notes:
Cassiopeia A is a supernova remnant situated in Cassiopeia constellation. It was nicknamed the Green Monster in honour of Fenway Park in Boston.
The remnants of this supernova was captured with high detail by the James Webb Space Telescope.

11.Spheroidal carbonaceous particle is a component of?

[A] Fly Ash
[B] Saw Dust
[C] Dry Ice
[D] Common Salt

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Fly Ash] Notes:
Spheroidal carbonaceous particle (SCP) is a component of fly ash and is a by-product of industrial high-temperature combustion of coal and fuel-oil.
Recently, researchers from British Antarctic Survey and the University College London, for the first time identified SCP in an Antarctic ice core. The sample dated back to 1936, indicating physical markers of fossil fuel combustion have been trapped in ice layers for decades.

12.What is the name of the oscillations that are amplitude-modulated structured narrow-band signals?

[A] Geomagnetic Pc1 pearl oscillations
[B] Geomagnetic Pc1 gold oscillations
[C] Geomagnetic Pc1 silver oscillations
[D] Geomagnetic Pc1 diamond oscillations

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Geomagnetic Pc1 pearl oscillations] Notes:
Recently, NTPC Ltd. and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) signed a Supplementary Joint Venture Agreement to collaborate on the development of Nuclear Power Projects.
The initial plan for the JV company is to focus on two projects, Chutka Madhya Pradesh Atomic Power Project 2×700 MW and Mahi Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Power Project 4×700 MW, which are part of the fleet mode nuclear projects.

13.Which company has launched ‘Watsonx’ AI and data platform?

[A] IBM
[B] Microsoft
[C] Google
[D] Apple

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [IBM] Notes:
The IBM has launched Watsonx – an AI and data platform capable of enabling countries to integrate artificial intelligence in their business.
It can be used for automatically generating codes using natural language and deploy AI models for tasks such as chemical creation and climate change modelling.

14.The latest human genome, called ‘Pangenome’, is made using data from how many people?

[A] 4
[B] 7
[C] 47
[D] 74

Show Answer

Correct Answer: C [47] Notes:
The latest human genome, called pangenome, has been assembled using data from 47 people from Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas.
It offers a more accurate representation of human genetic diversity than the existing reference genome. This new pangenome will help researchers refine their understanding of the link between genes and diseases, and could ultimately help address health disparities.

15.XPoSat, India’s first polarimetry mission, is being built by which institution?

[A] HAL
[B] DRDO
[C] ISRO
[D] BARC

Show Answer

Correct Answer: C [ISRO] Notes:
XPoSat (X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite) is India’s first polarimetry mission. It is currently being built by ISRO and Raman Research Institute.
According to ISRO, “XPoSat will study various dynamics of bright astronomical X-ray sources in extreme conditions” and will carry two payloads. It is only the world’s second polarimetry mission to study various dynamics of bright astronomical X-ray sources in extreme conditions.

16.The black box period of human development is limited to how many days?

[A] 14 days
[B] 30 days
[C] 45 days
[D] 60 days

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [14 days] Notes:
Researchers have successfully generated artificial human embryos utilizing stem cells. This process bypasses the conventional requirement for eggs and sperm in the embryonic formation process.
Model embryos, which resemble those in the earliest stages of human development, could provide a crucial window on the impact of genetic disorders and the biological causes of recurrent miscarriage. The primary objective of this work is to shed light on the “black box” period of human development, which is limited to 14 days under current regulations.

17.Which company has developed ‘Omicron-specific mRNA-based Booster vaccine’?

[A] Gennova
[B] Bharat Biotech
[C] Serum Institute
[D] Dr Reddy’s Labs

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Gennova] Notes:
The Omicron-specific mRNA-based Booster vaccine, developed by Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd., has received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the office of the Drug Control General of India (DCGI). This is a result of the support provided by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) under the Mission COVID Suraksha initiative.

18.Which company introduced ‘Perspectives’ tab feature, which allows users to explore diverse viewpoints on a particular topic?

[A] Google
[B] Microsoft
[C] Apple
[D] Samsung

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Google] Notes:
Google, owned by Alphabet, introduced the ‘Perspectives’ tab feature, which allows users to explore diverse viewpoints on a particular topic. By selecting the filter, users can access a range of content such as videos from platforms like TikTok and YouTube, written posts from discussion boards and social media, and more, as explained in a blog post by Google.

19.Naegleria fowleri, which was seen in the news, affects which part of the body?

[A] Lungs
[B] Brain
[C] Liver
[D] Intestine

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Correct Answer: B [Brain] Notes:
A teenager in Kerala recently died after he contracted a rare brain-eating amoeba called Naegleria fowleri while swimming in a stream near his house.
Naegleria fowleri is a rare but extremely dangerous organism that can cause a fatal brain infection called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).

20.What is the name of the region situated at the boundary of space, located around 50 to 400 miles above the Earth’s surface?

[A] Ionosphere
[B] Stratosphere
[C] Chromosphere
[D] Exosphere

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Ionosphere] Notes:
The ionosphere is a region situated at the boundary of space, located around 50 to 400 miles above the Earth’s surface.
SpaceX launched 15 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit atop a Falcon 9 rocket, which is said to have resulted in a temporary disruption in the Earth’s ionosphere, as per NASA.

21.The meteor-like streaks falling on the Sun’s surface are called as?

[A] Solar Comets
[B] Solar Shooting stars
[C] Solar Streaks
[D] Solar Photons

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [Solar Shooting stars] Notes:
Solar shooting stars are meteor-like streaks falling on the Sun’s surface. They were observed by the researchers by utilizing the European Space Agency’s Solar Orbiter spacecraft.
This observation marks the first time the impacts of Solar shooting stars have been spotted.

22.What is the peculiarity of the LTT9779b exo-planet recently discovered?

[A] It is the most reflective planet
[B] It is the farthest planet
[C] It is the biggest planet
[D] It is the heaviest planet

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [It is the most reflective planet] Notes:
A peculiar planet named LTT9779b has been identified by astronomers. This Neptune-sized body, located over 260 light-years away from Earth, reflects 80% of the light from its host star.
Notably, it is the first exoplanet found to exhibit a similar brightness level to Venus. The ultra-hot exoplanet, acts like a cosmic mirror because it is covered by reflective clouds of metal.

23.James Webb Space Telescope is associated with which space agency?

[A] ISRO
[B] ESA
[C] NASA
[D] JAXA

Show Answer

Correct Answer: C [NASA] Notes:
NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope completes its first year of science on July 12. The space agency will commemorate this anniversary by releasing a new science image in a live stream.NASA unveiled a brand-new Webb science image on July 12, showcasing the birth of a star in the Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex.

24.Which institution suggested the creation of ‘Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority of India’?

[A] DoT
[B] NASSCOM
[C] TRAI
[D] NITI Aayog

Show Answer

Correct Answer: C [TRAI] Notes:
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) suggested the creation of an independent statutory body called the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority of India (AIDAI), which would function as both a regulator and advisory body for all AI-related matters.
It also recommended that the administrative responsibility for AI should be placed under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

25.India’s NSIL is scheduled to launch PSLV-C56 mission, with the primary payload of which country?

[A] UAE
[B] Singapore
[C] Australia
[D] Finland

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [Singapore] Notes:
New Space India Ltd (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), revealed their second consecutive commercial space mission, named PSLV-C56, which is scheduled to launch on 31 July.
The mission’s primary payload is the DS-SAR satellite from Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), intended for satellite imaging applications by Singaporean government agencies.

26.Micron is set to establish India’s first semiconductor plant in which state?

[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Gujarat
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Uttar Pradesh

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [Gujarat] Notes:
Micron reaffirmed its commitment to establish India’s first semiconductor plant in Gujarat, creating 5,000 direct jobs and addressing demand from domestic and international markets.
The project entails a total investment of USD 2.75 billion. The first Made in India’ chip should be ready by December 2024.

27.Which state/UT inaugurated India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) school?

[A] Telangana
[B] Kerala
[C] Karnataka
[D] Punjab

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [Kerala] Notes:
President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) school called as Santhigiri Vidyabhavan in Kerala’s capital city, Thiruvananthapuram.
The AI school is a result of a collaboration between iLearning Engines (ILE) USA and Vedhik eSchool.

28.Arrobot, which has developed Unmanned Guided Vehicle (UGV) for the Indian armed forces, is from which city?

[A] New Delhi
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Mumbai
[D] Bengaluru

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [Hyderabad] Notes:
A start-up from Hyderabad, Arrobot, has developed an Unmanned Guided Vehicle (UGV) for the armed forces.
The vehicle helps them in logistics, surveillance and reconnaissance in difficult terrain and environments. It can carry up to 200 kgs on top, and tug up to 600 kgs with a 30-degree view, and do multiple other functions with additional attachments.

29.Scientists at IISER have pinpointed a Circular RNA virus known as?

[A] ciTRAN
[B] ciRNA
[C] ciHIV
[D] ciReplica

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [ciTRAN] Notes:
Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Bhopal have pinpointed a Circular RNA virus known as ciTRAN, the function of which in HIV-1 virus replication has been a mystery.
Additionally, they have created a molecule capable of impeding viral transcription. Circular RNA is crucial for gene expression regulation and various biological functions, and its impact on HIV-1 replication remains largely unexplored, as explained by the researchers.

30.Which institution recently revealed ‘Antimatter’s Response to Gravity’?

[A] European Center for Nuclear Research (CERN)
[B] Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS)
[C] Harvard University
[D] Max Planck Society

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [European Center for Nuclear Research (CERN)] Notes:
Researchers at the European Center for Nuclear Research (CERN) conducted an experiment with antimatter, demonstrating that it responds to gravity by falling, consistent with the behavior of ordinary matter, aligning with Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity.
Despite the expected equal production of matter and antimatter during the Big Bang, very little antimatter exists, and the two are incompatible, leading to annihilation upon contact.

31.What is the name of China’s cutting-edge ocean drilling vessel designed to penetrate the Earth’s crust and reach the mantle for the first time in human history?

[A] Mengxiang
[B] Tianqi
[C] Shuijing
[D] Yueliang

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Mengxiang] Notes:
China has introduced a revolutionary new ocean drilling vessel called the ‘Mengxiang’, designed to penetrate the Earth’s crust and reach the mantle for the first time in human history. If successful, the Mengxiang’s planned drilling to breach the Mohorovicic discontinuity (Moho) over 7,000 metres beneath the ocean floor would open the door to unprecedented scientific exploration and discovery within the planet. Crafted through collaboration between China’s Geological Survey and over 150 institutes, the Mengxiang is an enormous, specially-equipped ship capable of withstanding extreme conditions.

32.Who are the target users of recently launched ERNET India’s newly developed integrated web portal?

[A] Exporters
[B] Artists
[C] Education Institutions
[D] Defence Personnel

Show Answer

Correct Answer: C [Education Institutions ] Notes:
S Krishnan, the Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), inaugurated ERNET India’s newly developed integrated web portal designed for educational institutes in India. This event took place at the head office of ERNET India in New Delhi on January 4, 2024. The portal aims to provide various services, including domain registration, DNS, Website as a Service (WaaS), and Learning Management as a Service (LMaaS), leveraging open-source software and emerging technologies like AI/ML. ERNET India, functioning under MeitY, serves as the exclusive domain registrar for educational and research institutes in India and offers a range of other technological services.

33.Which organizations were involved in the development of the humanoid robot ALOHA?

[A] NASA and MIT
[B] Google DeepMind and Stanford University
[C] Boston Dynamics and Harvard University
[D] SpaceX and Caltech

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [Google DeepMind and Stanford University] Notes:
The humanoid robot ALOHA was developed through a collaborative effort by researchers at Google DeepMind and Stanford University. This innovative robot is designed for bimanual teleoperation and is capable of performing a range of tasks autonomously and through user-controlled operations. ALOHA’s development represents a significant advancement in the field of robotics, showcasing the capabilities of combining machine learning algorithms with practical robotic applications. The open-source nature of ALOHA’s hardware and software further emphasizes the commitment of Google DeepMind and Stanford University to contribute to the broader field of robotics research and development.

34.Which IIT has recently developed a ‘Work4Food’ solution to guarantee minimum wages for food delivery workers?

[A] IIT Bombay
[B] IIT Madras
[C] IIT Kanpur
[D] IIT Delhi

Show Answer

Correct Answer: D [IIT Delhi ] Notes:
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has developed a ‘Work4Food’ solution that guarantees minimum wages for food delivery workers. The solution was developed by a research team from IIT Delhi comprising Abhijnan Chakraborty, Sayan Ranu, Amitabha Bagchi and PhD scholar Anjali. Professor Chakraborty from the Computer Science and Engineering Department, IIT Delhi said that this solution is an order assignment algorithm to ensure each delivery person earns more than the minimum wage.

35.Which organization has initiated the first-in-human vaccine trials for the deadly Nipah virus?

[A] University of Oxford
[B] World Health Organization
[C] Bharat Biotech
[D] Gamaleya Research Institute

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [University of Oxford] Notes:
The University of Oxford initiates the first-in-human clinical trial for the ChAdOx1 NipahB vaccine against the lethal Nipah virus. The trial, led by the Oxford Vaccine Group and funded by CEPI, involves 51 participants aged 18-55. Nipah virus, fatal in 75% of cases, has caused outbreaks in South-East Asia, including a recent one in Kerala, India (September 2023). The virus, carried by fruit bats, may transmit through contact with infected animals or person-to-person contact.

36.Which organization developed the second-generation distress alert transmitter for fishermen?

[A] India Meteorological Department
[B] Ministry of Earth Sciences
[C] DRDO
[D] ISRO

Show Answer

Correct Answer: D [ISRO] Notes:
ISRO has developed a second-generation Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT) that enhances safety for fishermen at sea. Operational since 2010, over 20,000 DATs are in use. The technology allows fishermen to send emergency messages with real-time acknowledgments through satellite communication. The DAT-SG, an improved version, utilizes advanced capabilities and features. Messages decoded at the Indian Mission Control Centre help Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centres locate distressed boats for timely Search and Rescue operations, reassuring fishermen of impending assistance.

37.Chang’e 6 mission, recently seen in the news, is associated with which country?

[A] China
[B] India
[C] Russia
[D] UK

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [China] Notes:
The China National Space Administration (CNSA) confirmed that the Chang’e 6 sample return mission is scheduled to land on the Moon in the first half of 2024. This mission, aiming to collect lunar samples from the south pole, will contribute valuable data to understand the Moon’s geology. Marking the first attempt to retrieve samples from the far side of the Moon, Chang’e 6 plans to bring back up to two kilograms of lunar samples and involves collaboration with international partners like the European Space Agency (ESA) and the French space agency CNES. The mission includes a lander, rover, and contributions from various countries, emphasizing global scientific cooperation.

38.Which one of the following describes FiloBot, recently mentioned in the news?

[A] A bot which gives information about cyclones
[B] An Artificial Intelligence tool to identify fake news
[C] A New innovative plant-inspired robot
[D] An Artificial Intelligence tool to identify fake news

Show Answer

Correct Answer: C [A New innovative plant-inspired robot] Notes:
A new innovative plant-inspired robot, FiloBot, has emerged, climbing structures akin to vines without pre-programmed movements. It extends using 3D printing filament, mirroring creeper growth. Employing plant behaviors like phototropism, FiloBot dynamically adjusts its trajectory based on moving light intensity. Successful tests highlight adaptability, envisioning robots navigating dynamic environments and self-building infrastructure.

39.Magnetometer boom, which was seen in the news, is associated with which mission?

[A] Chandrayaan 3
[B] Aditya-L1
[C] Gaganyaan
[D] NISAR

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [Aditya-L1] Notes:
ISRO announced the successful deployment of the 6-meter magnetometer boom on the Aditya-L1 satellite at Lagrange point L-1, after being stowed for 132 days since launch. The boom carries two advanced fluxgate magnetometer sensors, measuring interplanetary magnetic fields in space. Placed at three and six meters from the spacecraft, this minimizes spacecraft-generated magnetic field impact, ensuring accurate measurements. The dual-sensor setup aids in precise estimation of influences, enhancing scientific data collection.

40.Western Equine Encephalitis virus, recently seen in the news, is transmitted to humans through which one of the following?

[A] Through direct contact with infected individuals
[B] Consumption of contaminated food or water
[C] Airborne transmission
[D] Mosquito bites

Show Answer

Correct Answer: D [Mosquito bites] Notes:
Argentina’s International Health Regulations National Focal Point reported a human case of Western Equine Encephalitis Virus (WEEV) infection to the World Health Organization. WEEV, a mosquito-borne virus with an 11.5 kb RNA genome, is a recombinant of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus and Sindbis-like virus. Mosquitoes transmit it, with passerine birds as reservoirs and equine species as intermediate hosts. While often asymptomatic, severe cases may result in neurological symptoms, requiring symptomatic care due to the absence of specific antiviral treatment.

41.Chang’e 6 mission, recently seen in the news, is associated with which country?

[A] China
[B] India
[C] Russia
[D] UK

Show Answer

42.What is Alpenglow, recently seen in the news?

[A] A new type of mountain
[B] A natural phenomenon involving the illumination of mountain slopes by the sun
[C] An environmental organization
[D] A rare flower discovered in mountain regions

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [A natural phenomenon involving the illumination of mountain slopes by the sun] Notes:
Astronaut Lora O’Hara on the International Space Station captured Alpenglow near the Hindu Kush. This natural phenomenon occurs during sunrise or sunset, casting rosy, reddish, or orange hues on mountain slopes. Alpenglow’s colors vary due to the sun’s angle and atmospheric conditions. Vibrancy depends on sun location, light angle, clouds, humidity, and particulates. The phenomenon rapid changes make it a captivating spectacle during the twilight hours.

43.Recently, which institute developed a first-for-India Earth System Model to improve climate forecasts and predict climate impacts?

[A] National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting
[B] Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology
[C] Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi
[D] Cochin University of Science and Technology

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology] Notes:
The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology is pioneering India’s Earth System Model, an open-source software merging atmosphere, ocean, land, ice, and biosphere interactions. It utilizes numerical weather prediction and data assimilation for precise climate change forecasts. Collaborating with the Centre for Climate Change Research, the project aims to enhance climate forecasts, support long-term studies, and predict impacts. Funded with ₹192.28 crores under the Monsoon Convection, Clouds and Climate Change scheme, the model is anticipated to conclude by 2025.

44.What is ‘Alaskapox’, recently seen in the news?

[A] Bacterial Infection
[B] DNA virus
[C] Fungus
[D] Helminths

Show Answer

Correct Answer: B [DNA virus] Notes:
An Alaskan man recently became the first to die from Alaskapox, an orthopox virus discovered in 2015. It is DNA virus belonging to the same genus as smallpox, monkeypox, and cowpox, it primarily affects small mammals. Symptoms include skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle pain, with mild illnesses usually resolving in a few weeks. While human-to-human transmission hasn’t been observed, orthopoxviruses can spread through direct contact with lesions. Immunocompromised individuals may face a higher risk of severe illness.

45.What is the primary objective of the SWATI Portal, recently seen in the news?

[A] Creating a single online portal representing Indian Women and Girls in STEMM
[B] To develop a new technology for women in science
[C] To provide financial support to women entrepreneurs
[D] Improving the lives of senior citizens

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Creating a single online portal representing Indian Women and Girls in STEMM ] Notes:
The Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India launched the “Science for Women-A Technology & Innovation (SWATI)” Portal, focused on showcasing Indian women and girls in STEMM fields. The portal, a first-of-its-kind in India, is developed by the National Institute of Plant Genome Research. SWATI aims to address gender-gap challenges in policy making by serving as a comprehensive interactive database. It includes sections for Icons, Faculty, and various organizations, fostering inclusivity and enabling long-term research on equality and diversity in Indian science.

46.High Powered Microwave (HPM) Weapons, which was seen in the news, is unveiled by which country?

[A] China
[B] Russia
[C] India
[D] Israel

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [China] Notes:
Chinese scientists have revealed a groundbreaking High-Power Microwave (HPM) weapon using Stirling engines. Stirling engines, functioning on external combustion principles, convert thermal energy into mechanical energy. HPM weapons, a subtype of Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs), use electromagnetic systems to convert energy and focus it on targets, causing physical damage. Capable of generating electromagnetic beams across radio and microwave frequencies, these weapons can potentially disrupt or damage targeted electronic systems.

47.What is OpenAI Sora, recently seen in the news?

[A] AI model that can convert a text prompt into audio
[B] AI model that create multiple shots within a single generated video
[C] AI model that can convert a text prompt into video
[D] AI model that can convert a video into audio

Show Answer

Correct Answer: C [AI model that can convert a text prompt into video] Notes:
OpenAI has introduced Sora, a cutting-edge generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) model capable of transforming text prompts into high-quality videos up to a minute in length. GenAI utilizes machine learning to produce content by learning patterns from training data. Sora maintains visual excellence and follows user prompts, showcasing the potential of AI in creative content generation.

48.Which among the following best describes about Rhodamine B, recently seen in news?

[A] Toxic and carcinogenic chemical used in various industries for dyeing and coloring
[B] Protein found in the flower Rhododendron, used in treating joint pain
[C] Recently developed vaccine against arthritis
[D] Water molecules on the surface of asteroids

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Toxic and carcinogenic chemical used in various industries for dyeing and coloring] Notes:
Tamil Nadu has banned the sale and production of cotton candy due to the presence of Rhodamine B, a chemical used in various industries for dyeing and coloring. Despite appearing green in powdered form, it turns pink when added to water. Rhodamine B, also used in incense and match sticks, is highly toxic and carcinogenic even in small quantities. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has prohibited its usage in food products.

49.Guinea worm disease, recently seen in the news, is caused by which one of the following agents?

[A] Bacteria
[B] Virus
[C] Parasite
[D] Fungus

Show Answer

Correct Answer: C [Parasite] Notes:
The world is on the verge of eradicating Guinea worm disease, a neglected tropical disease caused by the Dracunculus medinensis parasite. According to the World Health Organization, cases dropped to 14 in 2021, 13 in 2022, and just 6 in 2023. The disease is contracted by consuming water contaminated with Guinea worm larvae, leading to painful blisters. Currently, there is no drug treatment or vaccine for Guinea worm disease.

50.Recently, Prime Minister of India launched the country’s first indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel in which state?

[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Kerala
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Karnataka

Show Answer

Correct Answer: A [Tamil Nadu] Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched India’s inaugural indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi under the Harit Nauka initiative. This project, a gift from Tamil Nadu to Kashi, signifies India’s commitment to innovative green energy solutions. Hydrogen fuel cells, pivotal in transportation, material handling, stationary, portable, and emergency backup power, play a crucial role in India’s push for sustainable and cost-effective alternate fuels.

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