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
51
Which mineral is required for the synthesis of hemoglobin but can be toxic in high doses, especially to children?
Answer:
Iron
Iron is essential, but iron poisoning is a leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in children. Excessive iron causes oxidative damage and organ failure.
52
Which vitamin is crucial for 'Calcium' and 'Phosphorus' homeostasis?
Answer:
Vitamin D
Vitamin D regulates the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood by promoting their absorption in the gut and reabsorption in the kidneys, which is vital for bone mineralization.
53
Which of the following describes 'Marasmus'?
Answer:
Severe wasting due to total calorie and protein deficiency
Marasmus is 'general starvation.' Unlike Kwashiorkor, it is characterized by an emaciated appearance, as the body has used up all its fat stores and muscle tissue for energy.
54
The 'Paleo Diet' encourages the consumption of which of the following?
Answer:
Lean meats and nuts
The Paleo diet is based on the presumed diet of Paleolithic humans. It focuses on whole foods that could be hunted or gathered, excluding dairy, grains, and legumes which became common after the agricultural revolution.
55
Which food has a 'perfect' score of 100 on the Biological Value (BV) scale for protein quality?
Answer:
Egg whites
Biological Value measures how efficiently the body uses protein. Whole eggs/egg whites have long been the gold standard (BV of 100) because their amino acid profile matches human needs almost perfectly.
56
What is the primary electrolyte lost in large amounts through sweat?
Answer:
Sodium
Sweat is primarily composed of water and sodium chloride. During heavy exercise or heat exposure, replacing lost sodium is critical to prevent cramping and maintain fluid balance.
57
Which vitamin deficiency is associated with 'Burning Feet Syndrome'?
Answer:
Pantothenic Acid (B5)
Pantothenic acid is involved in the synthesis of Coenzyme A. While rare, its deficiency can cause neurological symptoms like paresthesia and a burning sensation in the feet.
58
Which fatty acid is an 'essential' nutrient, meaning the body cannot make it?
Answer:
Linoleic acid (Omega-6)
Linoleic acid (Omega-6) and Alpha-linolenic acid (Omega-3) are the two essential fatty acids. They must be obtained from the diet because humans lack the enzymes to insert double bonds in certain positions.
59
What is the 'Thermic Effect of Food' (TEF)?
Answer:
The energy required to digest, absorb, and process nutrients
TEF accounts for about 10% of total daily energy expenditure. Protein has the highest thermic effect, meaning it requires more energy to process than fats or carbohydrates.
60
Which component of food provides no calories but is essential for bowel regularity?
Answer:
Insoluble fiber
Insoluble fiber, like that found in wheat bran and vegetables, does not dissolve in water. It adds bulk to the stool and speeds up the passage of food through the digestive system.