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
221
Plankton are:
Answer:
re:
Phytoplankton (plants) and zooplankton (animals) drift with currents. They form the base of aquatic food webs. Benthos are bottom dwellers, not plankton.
---
222
A **lotic** habitat is:
Answer:
Running water habitat
Lotic ecosystems are characterized by flow, influencing oxygenation and substrate. Organisms are adapted to currents. Examples: streams, rivers.
---
223
A **lentic** habitat is:
Answer:
Standing or still water habitat
Lentic systems include ponds and lakes; lotic systems are streams and rivers (running water). The distinction guides ecological dynamics and organisms present.
---
224
Edge species are:
Answer:
re:
Ecotones (transition zones) show edge effects, supporting species adapted to boundary conditions. These species exploit mixed resources and conditions. They often increase local diversity.
---
225
Symbiosis is:
Answer:
Association between members of two species
Symbiosis includes mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism—close interspecific relationships. Intraspecific associations are not termed symbiosis. The term emphasizes ecological interactions.
---
226
Pedology is the study of:
Answer:
Soil
Pedology focuses on soil formation, classification, and mapping. It underpins agriculture, ecology, and land management. It differs from edaphology, which emphasizes soil’s influence on living things.
---
227
Exxon Valdez refers to:
Answer:
An oil tanker that spilled oil off Alaska in 1989
The Exxon Valdez spill released millions of liters of crude oil, devastating marine life. It spurred reforms in tanker design and spill response. It remains a landmark environmental disaster.
---
228
Fly ash is:
Answer:
Waste from coal-based thermal power plants
Fly ash is a fine particulate captured from flue gases after coal combustion. It’s reused in cement and construction but can pollute if unmanaged. Proper containment is essential.
---
229
“Black lung” refers to:
Answer:
Occupational hazard to miners
Coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (“black lung”) results from inhaling coal dust, leading to lung damage. Prevention requires dust control and protective measures. It’s a classic industrial disease.
---
230
What is **ex-situ** conservation?
Answer:
onservation?
Ex-situ includes seed banks, zoos, botanical gardens, and captive breeding. In-situ protects species within their natural ecosystems. Both approaches are complementary.
---