General Knowledge MCQs
Topic Notes: General Knowledge
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
81
How many squares are on a standard chessboard?
Answer:
A chessboard is an 8×8 grid, giving 64 squares. Boards alternate light and dark squares for orientation. The count excludes theoretical counting of sub-squares used in some math puzzles.
82
Which is Australia’s largest city by population?
Answer:
Greater Sydney edges Melbourne by population in most standard references (they are very close). It’s the capital of New South Wales and a major global hub. Perth is much smaller.
83
In U.S. politics, who is colloquially nicknamed “the Veep”?
Answer:
“Veep” is a long-standing nickname for the Vice President of the United States. The term popularized beyond politics via the HBO satire *Veep*. The office presides over the Senate.
84
Gatun Lake is part of which canal system?
Answer:
Gatun Lake is an artificial lake formed by Gatun Dam to raise ships across Panama’s isthmus. Locks lift vessels from sea level into the lake and back down. It’s central to the canal’s operation.
85
Which river flows through the Sea of Galilee?
Answer:
The Jordan flows from the Hula Valley into the Sea of Galilee and continues south to the Dead Sea. It is historically and religiously significant. The Nile is in Africa, not the Levant.
86
In which sport is the term “hook check” commonly used?
Answer:
A hook check uses the stick blade to disrupt an opponent’s puck control from behind or the side. Done improperly, it can become a hooking penalty. It’s a classic defensive move.
87
What is the name of the large salty lake between Israel and Jordan?
Answer:
The Dead Sea lies at the lowest exposed point on Earth’s land surface. Its hypersalinity allows effortless floating. Mineral extraction and therapeutic tourism are major economic uses.
88
In 1976, Israeli commandos stormed a hijacked plane at which Ugandan airport?
Answer:
Operation Entebbe (also “Thunderbolt”) rescued over 100 hostages held at Entebbe Airport. The raid is famed for its speed, intelligence work, and precision. It’s a staple modern-history question.
89
What is the world’s largest living mammal?
Answer:
Adult blue whales can exceed 150 tons and 30 meters, dwarfing all land mammals. Despite their size, they feed mainly on tiny krill. Sharks are fish, not mammals.
90
Who was the Greek goddess associated with both war and wisdom?
Answer:
In Greek mythology, Athena embodies strategic warfare, wisdom, and crafts. She is distinct from Ares, who represents chaotic, brutal war. Athens was named in her honor after the olive-tree contest with Poseidon.