General Science/Everyday Science MCQs
Topic Notes: General Science/Everyday Science
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
91
Which of the following describes a 'cation'?
Answer:
A positively charged ion
A cation is formed when an atom loses electrons (negative charge), resulting in more protons than electrons and a net positive charge.
92
Which microorganism causes 'Oral Thrush', a condition where white patches appear on the tongue and mouth?
Answer:
A fungus (yeast) called Candida
Oral thrush is a yeast infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans. While Candida is normally present in the mouth in small amounts, it can overgrow if the immune system is weakened or if the balance of 'good' bacteria is disrupted by antibiotics.
93
Which of these is a protozoan disease transmitted by the bite of a sandfly?
Answer:
Leishmaniasis
Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies and can cause skin ulcers or affect internal organs.
94
Which of the following is a bacterial disease that often enters the body through deep cuts or wounds, leading to muscle stiffness?
Answer:
Tetanus
Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which is commonly found in soil and manure. When it enters a wound, it produces a toxin that affects the nervous system, causing painful muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck (lockjaw).
95
Which of the following is an example of an 'airborne' disease?
Answer:
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can also spread through contact with the fluid from the blisters, but the airborne route is a major pathway.
96
Which state of matter is the most compressible?
Answer:
Gas
Gases are highly compressible because their particles are separated by large distances. Applying pressure reduces the empty space between these particles, significantly decreasing the volume.
97
Which of the following describes the transmission of 'Chickenpox'?
Answer:
Direct contact with the blisters or inhalation of airborne droplets
Chickenpox (Varicella) is highly contagious. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and also by direct contact with the fluid that leaks from the itchy, fluid-filled blisters (rash).
98
What is the primary way 'Polio' is transmitted?
Answer:
Through the fecal-oral route (contaminated food or water)
The poliovirus is mainly spread through the fecal-oral route. This often happens in areas with poor sanitation where the virus from the feces of an infected person contaminates the water supply or food eaten by others.
99
Which of the following describes the 'Excited State' of an atom?
Answer:
When an electron has moved to a higher energy level
An atom enters an excited state when it absorbs energy, causing an electron to move from its ground state (lowest energy level) to a higher, less stable energy level.
100
Which of the following is a key preventive measure against waterborne diseases like Typhoid and Dysentery?
Answer:
Boiling or treating drinking water
Since waterborne pathogens are ingested, ensuring that drinking water is free from contamination is the most effective prevention. Boiling water kills most bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, making it safe for consumption.