Question 1

In zoology and chemistry, formic acid occurs naturally as a defensive secretion and is abundantly produced by which of the following organisms?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Formic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid and its common name is derived from the Latin word for ant. It is naturally produced by certain insects and is involved in defence and communication. This question checks whether you can recall which insect is most famously associated with formic acid production in nature. Given Data / Assumptions: Formic acid has a strong, pungent odour and can cause irritation. The name formic is related historically to ants. Several insect groups are listed as options, but only one is closely linked with formic acid. We assume basic school level knowledge of natural sources of simple acids. Concept / Approach: The name formic acid comes from formica, the Latin word for ant. Many species of ants, especially red ants, secrete formic acid as a defence mechanism against predators or when disturbed. They can spray or inject this acid through their stings or glands, causing a burning sensation. White ants, which are termites, do not typically use formic acid as their main defensive chemical. Cockroaches and mosquitoes also have different chemical secretions and are not famous for producing formic acid. Therefore, the correct answer is red ants. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that the word formic is historically linked with ants. Step 2: Recall that red ants are known to possess formic acid in their defensive secretions. Step 3: Compare with white ants, which are termites with a different biology and chemistry. Step 4: Note that cockroaches and mosquitoes are not commonly described as major natural sources of formic acid. Step 5: Conclude that red ants are the organisms most strongly associated with natural formic acid production. Verification / Alternative check: Chemistry and biology references often mention that formic acid was first isolated by distilling bodies of ants. Descriptions of ant venom and defensive sprays also list formic acid as a major component, especially in many red ant species. The etymology of the term reinforces this connection, since scientists chose the name to reflect the ant origin. These facts strongly support red ants as the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a, white ants, refers to termites, which primarily use other chemicals and structural defences rather than formic acid as their main weapon. Option b, cockroaches, can produce odorous secretions but are not recognised as significant producers of formic acid. Option d, mosquitoes, are important disease vectors due to their bites but do not inject formic acid as a defensive chemical. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may mix up ants and termites because both can live in social colonies and infest houses, leading them to pick white ants by mistake. Others might guess mosquitoes because they cause irritation after biting, but that irritation comes from saliva proteins, not formic acid. Focusing on the historical origin of the name formic acid is a good way to remember that red ants are the classic natural source. Final Answer: Formic acid is produced in significant amounts by Red ants.

Question 2

In plant anatomy, a potato tuber that we commonly eat is botanically classified as which part of the plant?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Many plant parts used as food are modified forms of basic organs such as roots, stems, leaves and fruits. Correctly identifying the nature of these structures is important in botany. Potato is a very common food crop, and students often wonder whether it is a root or something else. This question asks you to classify the potato tuber according to standard botanical definitions. Given Data / Assumptions: Potato plants grow underground tubers that store starch. These tubers can sprout new plants from eyes on their surface. Roots, stems and fruits have characteristic features in structure and origin. We focus on the familiar potato tuber, not on seeds or fruits of other plants. Concept / Approach: A potato tuber is a swollen underground part of the stem. It bears nodes, which appear as eyes, and each eye can give rise to a new shoot. This clearly indicates that the tuber is a modified stem, not a root. True roots do not usually bear such buds at nodes and do not have the typical stem characteristics seen in potato. Buds are small embryonic shoots, not large storage bodies, and fruits are mature ovaries containing seeds, which is not the case for the potato tuber. Therefore, the correct classification is stem, specifically an underground stem tuber. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Observe that potato tubers have small eyes from which new shoots can grow. Step 2: Recall that nodes and internodes are features of stems, and buds arise from nodes. Step 3: Understand that potato tubers are swollen regions of an underground stem, specialised for storage of starch. Step 4: Recognise that roots do not usually show nodes and buds in this way, and fruits are seed bearing structures. Step 5: Conclude that the botanical classification of a potato tuber is a modified stem. Verification / Alternative check: Botany textbooks classify potatoes under underground stem modifications along with structures such as rhizomes and bulbs. Diagrams show tubers connected to the parent plant by stolons, which are stem like runners. Experiments where potato pieces with eyes are planted in soil result in new plants emerging from those eyes, confirming the presence of stem buds. These observations firmly support the view that potato is a stem tuber rather than a root or fruit. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a, root, may seem attractive because potatoes grow underground, but they lack the typical root cap and do not function primarily in water absorption. Option c, bud, is incorrect because a bud is a small embryonic shoot, not the entire swollen storage organ. Option d, fruit, is wrong because fruits are ripened ovaries containing seeds, and the potato tuber does not fit this description. Common Pitfalls: Many learners assume that any underground plant part must be a root, which is not always true. Onions, for example, are modified stems in the form of bulbs, and ginger is a rhizome. Confusion also arises because sweet potato is a tuberous root, not a stem, whereas the ordinary potato is a stem tuber. Carefully checking for nodes, buds and structural origin helps distinguish between stem and root modifications. Final Answer: A potato tuber is botanically a modified Stem.

Question 3

In the Earths atmosphere, harmful ultraviolet radiation in the stratosphere is mainly absorbed by which gas, thereby protecting living organisms?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The stratosphere contains a layer of gas that plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing most of the Suns harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding which gas is responsible for this protective effect is important in environmental science and general knowledge. This question focuses on identifying the gas that forms the ozone layer and shields living organisms from excessive ultraviolet radiation. Given Data / Assumptions: The stratosphere lies above the troposphere in the atmosphere. A specific gas forms a concentration region known as the ozone layer. Ultraviolet radiation can damage DNA and cause health problems such as skin cancer. We assume a basic knowledge of atmospheric composition. Concept / Approach: Ozone is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms and is represented as O3. In the stratosphere, ozone molecules absorb high energy ultraviolet B and ultraviolet C radiation from the Sun. This absorption prevents most of the harmful radiation from reaching the Earths surface. Normal diatomic oxygen, O2, does absorb some ultraviolet radiation but not as effectively in the dangerous wavelengths. Sulphur dioxide and argon are present in much smaller amounts and do not form a protective layer against ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, the gas responsible for this function is ozone. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the ozone layer is located in the stratosphere. Step 2: Understand that this layer is rich in ozone molecules, O3. Step 3: Recognise that ozone strongly absorbs high energy ultraviolet radiation, especially ultraviolet B and ultraviolet C. Step 4: Compare with other gases like oxygen, sulphur dioxide and argon, which do not provide the same level of ultraviolet protection as a distinct layer. Step 5: Conclude that ozone is the gas responsible for absorbing ultraviolet radiation in the stratosphere. Verification / Alternative check: Environmental science resources describe the ozone layer in the stratosphere as a vital shield that protects living organisms on land and in shallow water from damaging ultraviolet radiation. Data showing ozone depletion and the appearance of an ozone hole over polar regions are linked with increases in ultraviolet radiation at the surface and related health risks. These discussions consistently identify ozone, O3, as the key absorbing gas in this context. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a, sulphur dioxide, is a pollutant gas mainly produced by burning fossil fuels and volcanoes and is associated with acid rain rather than ultraviolet absorption. Option c, oxygen, does absorb some ultraviolet radiation at higher altitudes, but the specific and concentrated protective layer is formed by ozone, not by ordinary oxygen alone. Option d, argon, is an inert noble gas present in small amounts in the atmosphere and does not play a significant role in ultraviolet absorption. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse oxygen and ozone because both are forms of the same element. Another mistake is to think that any atmospheric gas can absorb ultraviolet radiation equally, which is not true. Remembering that the term ozone layer always refers to the protective ultraviolet absorbing region composed mainly of ozone helps avoid these errors. Final Answer: Ultraviolet radiation in the stratosphere is mainly absorbed by Ozone.

Question 4

Punica granatum is the scientific (binomial) name of which commonly known fruiting plant species?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Scientific names, or binomial names, help uniquely identify plant and animal species across languages and regions. Each name has a genus and a species part. Learning the scientific names of a few common plants is a standard expectation in biology. This question asks you to match the scientific name Punica granatum with the correct common name of the plant. Given Data / Assumptions: Punica is the genus name and granatum is the species name. The options include several different trees and fruit bearing plants. We assume basic exposure to common scientific names in school biology. The focus is on correctly associating Punica granatum with its common fruit. Concept / Approach: Punica granatum is the botanical name for the pomegranate plant, which produces the well known red, juicy, many seeded fruits. Custard apple, Gulmohar and Silver oak belong to different genera with different scientific names. The binomial nomenclature system uses Latin or Latinised words to avoid confusion from local names. By memorising a few important examples, such as Mangifera indica for mango and Punica granatum for pomegranate, students can answer such questions correctly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that Punica granatum is a commonly quoted scientific name in school syllabi. Step 2: Recall that Punica granatum refers to the pomegranate plant, known for its edible arils and tough rind. Step 3: Note that custard apple has a different scientific name, Annona squamosa. Step 4: Remember that Gulmohar and Silver oak are ornamental trees belonging to other genera. Step 5: Select pomegranate as the correct common name for Punica granatum. Verification / Alternative check: Botanical references and horticulture guides list Punica granatum as the pomegranate species. Descriptions include details about the plant habit, flowers and fruit structure, all associated with pomegranate. Fruit cultivation manuals also use this name when discussing varieties and growing conditions for pomegranate orchards. These consistent references confirm that Punica granatum corresponds to pomegranate and not to the other listed plants. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a, custard apple, is botanically known as Annona squamosa and therefore does not match Punica granatum. Option b, Gulmohar, is a flowering ornamental tree commonly identified as Delonix regia. Option c, Silver oak, is usually referred to as Grevillea robusta in scientific classification. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse scientific names because they may learn many at once. It is easy to mix up names that sound somewhat similar or to remember only the genus. A useful strategy is to create small associations, such as linking granatum with the many grains or seeds inside a pomegranate fruit. Regular revision of a short list of important scientific names also reduces confusion in exams. Final Answer: Punica granatum is the scientific name of the Pomegranate plant.

Question 5

Between a tiger and a monkey, at which taxonomic level in the standard hierarchy are they classified into different groups?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Taxonomy is the science of classifying living organisms into hierarchical categories such as kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus and species. Many animals share higher level categories but differ at lower levels. A tiger and a monkey are both mammals, yet they belong to different orders. This question tests whether you know at which level their classification first differs. Given Data / Assumptions: Tiger and monkey are both animals and vertebrates. The standard hierarchy is kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus and species. We assume commonly accepted scientific classification of mammals. The options include kingdom, phylum, order and class as possible levels of difference. Concept / Approach: Both tiger and monkey belong to the kingdom Animalia and the phylum Chordata, because they are animals with a notochord in development. They also belong to the class Mammalia, since they are warm blooded, have hair and produce milk to feed their young. However, at the order level, they differ. Tigers belong to the order Carnivora, which includes meat eating mammals like lions and leopards, whereas most monkeys belong to the order Primates, which includes monkeys, apes and humans. Therefore, the first level where they are placed into different groups is the order level. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: List the taxonomic ranks in order: kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, species. Step 2: Recognise that both tiger and monkey are animals, so they share the same kingdom, Animalia. Step 3: Recall that they are vertebrates and share the same phylum, Chordata. Step 4: Remember that they are mammals and share the same class, Mammalia. Step 5: Identify that their orders differ, with tiger in Carnivora and monkey in Primates, so order is the correct level where they differ. Verification / Alternative check: Classification charts in zoology texts list the complete taxonomy of representative animals. For a tiger, these charts show Animalia, Chordata, Mammalia, Carnivora and then further family and genus levels. For a monkey, they show Animalia, Chordata, Mammalia, Primates and corresponding lower levels. Comparing these tables confirms that the first point of difference in standard hierarchy is at order, not at kingdom, phylum or class. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a, kingdom, is the same for both animals, since both are placed in Animalia. Option b, phylum, is also shared, as both are chordates with a dorsal nerve cord and other vertebrate features. Option d, class, is the same because both tiger and monkey are mammals, so class Mammalia is common to both. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may guess class because they know that tigers and monkeys seem different at a glance, but visual difference does not automatically mean different class. Another frequent mistake is to overlook intermediate ranks and jump directly from kingdom to species in thinking. Carefully checking each rank in order and comparing known examples helps avoid such errors. Final Answer: Between a tiger and a monkey, the first taxonomic level at which they differ is the Order.

Question 6

Among the following fuels, which one causes the minimum environmental pollution at the point of use when it is burned as a fuel?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Different fuels release different combustion products when burned, and these products can affect air quality and the environment. Fossil fuels such as coal, diesel and kerosene emit gases and particulates that contribute to air pollution and climate change. Hydrogen, on the other hand, behaves differently when used in a clean system. This question checks whether you can identify the fuel that produces the least pollution at the point of use when burned. Given Data / Assumptions: Complete combustion of carbon containing fuels produces carbon dioxide and sometimes harmful pollutants. Incomplete combustion can produce carbon monoxide, unburned hydrocarbons and particulates. Hydrogen combustion in pure oxygen or air mainly produces water vapour. We focus on emissions at the point of use, not on production related emissions upstream. Concept / Approach: Coal, diesel and kerosene are hydrocarbon or carbon rich fuels. When they burn, they produce carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides (depending on sulphur content) and particulate matter. These emissions contribute to smog, acid rain and greenhouse effects. Hydrogen, when burned in air, reacts with oxygen to form water vapour and relatively small amounts of nitrogen oxides due to high temperatures, but no carbon based pollutants. Therefore, hydrogen as a fuel at the point of use causes minimal environmental pollution compared with traditional fossil fuels in the options. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Examine each fuel and recall its main combustion products. Step 2: Recognise that coal combustion releases carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, ash and soot, all significant pollutants. Step 3: Note that diesel and kerosene combustion also releases carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides and particulates from vehicle exhaust. Step 4: Recall that hydrogen combustion primarily produces water vapour and minimal carbon emissions because hydrogen does not contain carbon atoms. Step 5: Conclude that hydrogen causes the minimum environmental pollution at the point of use among the listed fuels. Verification / Alternative check: Engineering and environmental science literature often promotes hydrogen as a clean fuel for fuel cells and combustion engines, emphasising that water is the main emission. While there can be challenges related to hydrogen production and storage, the local emissions during use are much cleaner compared with fossil fuels. Reports on air quality and vehicle emissions consistently show that coal and petroleum based fuels contribute heavily to particulate pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, whereas hydrogen powered systems do not emit carbon dioxide directly at the tailpipe. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a, diesel, is a petroleum fuel that produces exhaust containing particulate matter, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, all of which harm air quality. Option b, kerosene, is also a hydrocarbon fuel that releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants when used in lamps or engines. Option d, coal, is among the dirtiest fuels, producing ash, soot, sulphur dioxide and heavy carbon dioxide emissions. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may think that a fuel used in household stoves or lamps, such as kerosene, is cleaner simply because they have seen it used in daily life. Others may not consider the fact that hydrogen lacks carbon and therefore cannot produce carbon dioxide when burned. It is important to differentiate between local exhaust emissions and the broader environmental impact of producing each fuel when judging pollution levels. Final Answer: Among the listed fuels, Hydrogen causes the minimum environmental pollution at the point of use when it is burned.

Question 7

In orbital mechanics, the minimum distance of a planet from the Sun during its elliptical orbit is known by which specific term?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Planets move around the Sun in elliptical orbits, so their distance from the Sun changes during one revolution. The points of minimum and maximum distance have special names. Knowing these terms is essential in astronomy and helps in understanding seasonal variations and orbital mechanics. This question asks for the name of the point where a planet is closest to the Sun in its orbit. Given Data / Assumptions: Planetary orbits around the Sun are elliptical, not perfectly circular. The Sun occupies one focus of the elliptical orbit. Two key points are defined: one for minimum distance and one for maximum distance. The options also include terms used for Earth Moon distances. Concept / Approach: The term perihelion comes from peri meaning near and helios meaning Sun. It denotes the point in the orbit of a planet where it is closest to the Sun. The opposite point, where the planet is farthest from the Sun, is called aphelion. Apogee and perigee are similar terms used for the distance between the Earth and the Moon or artificial satellites, with apogee as the farthest point from the Earth and perigee as the nearest. Therefore, for a planet orbiting the Sun, perihelion is the correct term for the minimum distance point. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that the question refers specifically to the distance between a planet and the Sun. Step 2: Recall that perihelion is the point where the planet is nearest to the Sun. Step 3: Remember that aphelion is the farthest point from the Sun for a planet. Step 4: Note that apogee and perigee are used in the context of orbits around the Earth, not orbits around the Sun. Step 5: Choose perihelion as the correct term for the minimum distance from the Sun in a planet orbit. Verification / Alternative check: Astronomy references and descriptive texts of planetary orbits consistently state that the Earth is at perihelion around early January and at aphelion around early July each year. Similar descriptions apply to other planets. On the other hand, satellite orbit descriptions around the Earth talk about perigee and apogee instead. This clear separation of terms supports the use of perihelion for the closest planet Sun distance. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option b, aphelion, is the point where the planet is farthest from the Sun, not the nearest. Option c, apogee, refers to the point farthest from the Earth in the orbit of the Moon or a satellite. Option d, perigee, refers to the point nearest to the Earth in the orbit of the Moon or a satellite, not to distances involving the Sun. Common Pitfalls: Because perihelion, aphelion, perigee and apogee sound similar, learners often mix them up. A helpful trick is to associate helion with the Sun and gee with the Earth, and to remember peri for near and apo for far. With these roots in mind, you can quickly pick perihelion as the closest distance to the Sun and aphelion as the farthest, while perigee and apogee are reserved for Earth related orbits. Final Answer: The minimum distance of a planet from the Sun in its orbit is called Perihelion.

Question 8

Among the following textile fibres, which one is a natural animal derived fibre rather than a man made or synthetic fibre?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Fibres used in textiles can be classified broadly into natural fibres and man made fibres. Natural fibres are obtained directly from plants or animals, whereas synthetic fibres are produced by chemical processes in factories. Understanding these categories is important in materials science and everyday knowledge of fabrics. This question asks you to identify the natural fibre among commonly used textile materials. Given Data / Assumptions: Silk is produced by silkworms, which are animals. Rayon is made from chemically processed cellulose and is often called semi synthetic. Nylon and polyester are fully synthetic petrochemical based fibres. We focus on whether the fibre source is directly natural or man made. Concept / Approach: Silk is a natural animal fibre produced by the larvae of certain moths, especially the mulberry silkworm. The fibre is spun into cocoons and harvested for weaving into cloth. Rayon is made by chemically treating cellulose from wood pulp, so it is considered a regenerated or semi synthetic fibre rather than entirely natural in its final form. Nylon and polyester are fully synthetic polymers made by chemical reactions from petroleum products. Therefore, among the given options, silk is the only natural fibre in the traditional sense. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that natural fibres include cotton, wool, silk, jute and similar materials. Step 2: Recognise that silk is obtained directly from silkworm cocoons and is classified as a natural animal fibre. Step 3: Understand that rayon is produced by chemically processing plant cellulose and is categorised as a man made regenerated fibre. Step 4: Note that nylon and polyester are synthetic fibres formed from petrochemicals and do not occur in nature. Step 5: Conclude that silk is the correct choice as the natural fibre. Verification / Alternative check: Textile and science textbooks list fibres under two headings: natural and man made. Under natural, they include cotton from plants and wool and silk from animals. Man made fibres include rayon as regenerated cellulose and synthetic fibres like nylon, polyester and acrylic, all produced in chemical factories. This classification appears consistently in educational material and confirms that silk is the natural fibre among the options. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option b, rayon, starts from natural cellulose but is heavily processed and classified as a man made fibre in standard school curricula. Option c, nylon, is a fully synthetic polymer invented by chemists and does not exist in nature. Option d, polyester, is another synthetic polymer widely used in fabrics and is produced from petrochemicals. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes believe that rayon must be natural because it originates from wood pulp, or they think that any fibre that feels like cotton or silk must be natural. Others may consider the softness or comfort of a fabric and use that as a guide. However, classification is based on the origin and manufacturing process rather than feel. Remembering the main examples in each category helps avoid confusion in such questions. Final Answer: Among the listed fibres, Silk is the natural animal derived fibre.

Question 9

Organisms use biological catalysts to break down complex substances into simpler ones during metabolic reactions. These biological catalysts are called what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Within cells, countless chemical reactions take place every second to maintain life. Many of these reactions would proceed extremely slowly without help. Biological catalysts speed up these reactions and allow complex molecules to be broken down or built up efficiently. Knowing the correct term for these catalysts is fundamental in biology and biochemistry. This question asks for the name of the bio catalysts that help break down complex substances into simpler ones. Given Data / Assumptions: Biological catalysts increase the rate of chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. They are usually proteins with specific active sites. Hormones and vitamins have regulatory roles but are not primarily catalysts. The question focuses on breaking down complex substances into simpler substances inside organisms. Concept / Approach: Enzymes are specialised proteins or, in some cases, RNA molecules that act as biological catalysts. They bind to specific substrates and lower the activation energy required for reactions. Digestive enzymes such as amylase, protease and lipase break down starch, proteins and fats into simpler molecules. Hormones are signalling molecules that regulate processes but do not catalyse reactions directly. Vitamins often serve as cofactors that assist enzymes but are not themselves catalysts in the strict sense. Therefore, the correct term for biological catalysts is enzymes. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the question specifies bio catalysts involved in breaking down complex substances. Step 2: Recall that enzymes are defined as biological catalysts that speed up biochemical reactions. Step 3: Consider hormones as chemical messengers that regulate activities but do not act directly as catalysts. Step 4: Recognise that vitamins are organic micronutrients that often act as coenzymes but are not the main catalysts. Step 5: Choose enzymes as the correct term for these bio catalysts. Verification / Alternative check: Biology and chemistry textbooks describe enzymes as central to metabolism, including digestion, respiration and synthesis of molecules. For example, salivary amylase catalyses the breakdown of starch to maltose, and pepsin in the stomach catalyses protein digestion. These reactions would proceed very slowly without enzymes. Hormones such as insulin and adrenaline are discussed in endocrine system chapters, while vitamins are discussed in nutrition, further emphasising the distinct roles of each group of compounds. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option b, hormones, are regulators and messengers in the body, not catalysts of chemical reactions. Option c, vitamins, are essential nutrients that often assist enzymes but do not act as the main catalytic proteins. Option d, no option is correct, is wrong because enzymes clearly fit the definition given in the question. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes mix up enzymes and hormones because both can be involved in digestion related processes. For instance, insulin affects glucose metabolism but does not directly catalyse a reaction in the same way an enzyme does. Another confusion is thinking that vitamins are catalysts because they are essential for metabolic reactions. In reality, vitamins help enzymes function but do not themselves perform the catalytic role in most cases. Final Answer: The bio catalysts that break down complex substances into simpler substances are called enzymes.

Question 10

In unit conversion for speed, 1 km/h (one kilometre per hour) is exactly equal to how many metres per second (m/s)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Speed can be expressed in different units depending on the context. In daily life, road speeds are often given in kilometres per hour, while in physics calculations, metres per second is a more convenient unit. Being able to convert between km/h and m/s quickly is a basic skill in physics and engineering. This question asks for the exact factor that converts 1 km/h into metres per second. Given Data / Assumptions: 1 kilometre equals 1000 metres. 1 hour equals 3600 seconds. We want to express the speed 1 kilometre per hour in the unit metres per second. No approximations are required beyond integer arithmetic. Concept / Approach: Conversion between km/h and m/s is based purely on unit relationships. To convert 1 km/h to m/s, we substitute 1 kilometre with 1000 metres and 1 hour with 3600 seconds. The speed value is then expressed as a fraction of 1000 metres divided by 3600 seconds. Simplifying this fraction gives the conversion factor. This factor is used frequently to convert any speed from km/h to m/s by multiplication. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Start with the given speed of 1 km/h. Step 2: Use the length conversion 1 km = 1000 m, so the numerator becomes 1000 m. Step 3: Use the time conversion 1 hour = 3600 s, so the denominator becomes 3600 s. Step 4: Write the speed as 1 km/h = 1000 m / 3600 s. Step 5: Simplify the fraction 1000 / 3600 by dividing both numerator and denominator by 200, giving 5 / 18. Step 6: Conclude that 1 km/h equals 5/18 m/s. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can reverse the conversion. Multiply 5/18 m/s by 3600 s to find the distance covered in one hour. First calculate 5/18 * 3600. Divide 3600 by 18 to get 200, then multiply 200 by 5 to get 1000 metres. Converting 1000 metres back to kilometres gives 1 kilometre. This confirms that a speed of 5/18 m/s corresponds exactly to 1 km/h, validating the conversion factor. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option b, 18/5, is the inverse of the correct factor and is used when converting from m/s to km/h, not the other way around. Option c, 5/16, does not match the precise ratio of 1000 to 3600 and would give an incorrect distance when converted back. Option d, 16/5, is also unrelated to the exact relationship between metres, kilometres, hours and seconds. Common Pitfalls: Students often remember that there is a factor involving 5 and 18 but mix up whether they should multiply or divide. A helpful rule is: to convert from km/h to m/s, multiply by 5/18, and to convert from m/s to km/h, multiply by 18/5. Another mistake is to approximate without doing the exact calculation, which can lead to minor errors that matter in precise numerical problems. Practising the step by step conversion a few times helps fix the correct factor in memory. Final Answer: 1 km/h is equal to 5/18 m/s.

Question 11

In human beings, which organ is considered the largest organ of the body by overall surface area?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The human body contains many different organs, and exam questions often ask which one is the largest. Some students confuse length, volume, and surface area, or focus only on internal organs. This question specifically checks whether you know that, in human beings, the largest organ of the body overall is the skin. Understanding why skin is regarded as an organ and how it compares to organs such as the liver or intestines is an important part of basic general science and human biology. Given Data / Assumptions: – The question is about human beings and normal healthy adults. – The word largest refers to overall organ size, considering surface area and mass in the full body context. – Options include organs that students commonly hear about as large or important: liver, small intestine, large intestine, and skin. – We assume standard textbook definitions used in school level biology and general knowledge exams. Concept / Approach: In biology, an organ is defined as a group of tissues that work together to perform specific functions. Skin fits this definition because it is made of different tissues, including epithelial tissue, connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and glands. Skin covers the entire external surface of the body and has a very large total area, roughly 1.5 to 2.0 square metres in an average adult. It also has significant mass. The liver is the largest internal organ by mass, but when we consider the entire body, skin is clearly larger by surface area and by total coverage. The small and large intestines are long tubular structures, but they are not considered the largest organ in this common general science sense. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the skin covers the entire external surface of the human body and acts as a protective barrier. Step 2: Remember that organ size for this general question is based mainly on surface area and overall mass in the whole body, not just length. Step 3: Note that the liver is indeed very large but only inside the abdomen, while skin extends everywhere over the outside of the body. Step 4: Conclude that skin, not the liver or any part of the intestine, is regarded as the largest organ of the human body in standard biology texts. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by recalling commonly memorised facts from biology and general knowledge books, which usually state, almost word for word, that the skin is the largest organ of the human body and that the liver is the largest internal organ. Medical and anatomy references support the same idea, giving average skin surface area and mass values that exceed those of any single internal organ. Therefore, the statement that skin is the largest organ is consistent with both exam oriented facts and scientific sources. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Liver: The liver is the largest internal organ and the largest gland, but it is still smaller in overall size than the total skin covering the body, so this option is not fully correct for this question. Small intestine: The small intestine is the longest part of the digestive tract, but it is not considered the largest organ of the body as a whole, so this option is misleading. Large intestine: The large intestine has a wider diameter than the small intestine but is shorter in length and is again not regarded as the largest organ, so this option is incorrect in the usual general science sense. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to think only about organs inside the body and to forget that skin is also classified as an organ. Some students answer liver because they remember the fact that the liver is the largest internal organ without noticing that the question does not limit itself to internal organs. Others may confuse the longest part of the digestive system with the largest organ and choose the small intestine. Careful reading of the question phrase largest organ in human beings helps avoid this confusion. Final Answer: The largest organ of the human body by overall surface area is the Skin.

Question 12

Delonix regia Rafin is the scientific botanical name of which commonly seen ornamental tree with bright red flowers?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Scientific names in binomial nomenclature are widely used to identify plants and animals with precision across languages and regions. Delonix regia Rafin is a well known botanical name often asked in general science and general knowledge exams. Learners commonly see this tree in cities and along roads, but may not remember its scientific name. This question checks whether you can connect the Latin name Delonix regia with the ornamental tree popularly known as Gulmohar, also called the flame of the forest because of its bright red or orange flowers. Given Data / Assumptions: – The scientific name given is Delonix regia Rafin. – The options list four common tree names: Tamarind, Gulmohar, Banyan, and Chiku (sapodilla). – We assume standard botany based binomial nomenclature where the first word is the genus and the second word is the species. – The task is to match the scientific name to the correct common name used in India and many other regions. Concept / Approach: Botanical nomenclature follows the binomial system introduced by Carl Linnaeus. Each plant species has a unique scientific name, usually italicised and written with the genus name starting with a capital letter and the species name in lower case. Delonix regia is the scientific name for the Gulmohar tree, a leguminous tree famous for its showy red and orange flowers and feathery leaves. It is planted along roadsides and in gardens as an ornamental shade tree in many tropical and subtropical regions. Tamarind (Tamarindus indica), banyan (Ficus benghalensis), and Chiku (Manilkara zapota) each have their own different scientific names that do not match Delonix regia. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Delonix regia is commonly associated with a large ornamental tree with vivid red flowers. Step 2: Connect this description with the popular Gulmohar tree, often seen lining roads and in public parks. Step 3: Remember the scientific names of other common trees: Tamarindus indica for tamarind, Ficus benghalensis for banyan, and Manilkara zapota for Chiku. Step 4: Conclude that only Gulmohar correctly matches the scientific name Delonix regia Rafin. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this match by consulting any standard botany text, a school biology book, or a reliable online flora database. All of these list Delonix regia as the accepted scientific name of the Gulmohar tree. Pictures in such references show the same fern like leaves and bright red flowers that you associate with Gulmohar in real life, which confirms the correctness of this mapping. The other options have widely known scientific names that differ clearly from Delonix regia, which reinforces the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Tamarind: The scientific name of tamarind is Tamarindus indica, not Delonix regia, so this option is incorrect. Banyan: Banyan trees are identified by the name Ficus benghalensis, which belongs to a different genus and family, so this option does not match the given scientific name. Chiku: Chiku or sapodilla has the scientific name Manilkara zapota and therefore cannot be associated with the genus Delonix, which makes this option wrong. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse Delonix regia with other ornamental or fruit trees because the Latin names may sound unfamiliar. Another frequent mistake is to choose a very common tree, such as banyan or mango, when they are unsure, without checking whether the scientific name really fits. To avoid such errors, it helps to memorise scientific names of a small set of very common plants systematically and to relate the name to a visual image of the plant. Recognising that Gulmohar is famous world wide under the name Delonix regia makes future questions of this type easier. Final Answer: Delonix regia Rafin is the scientific botanical name of the ornamental tree known as Gulmohar.

Question 13

Among the following, which one is correctly identified as a major group of leguminous crops grown for their protein rich seeds?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Leguminous crops are an important part of human diets and agricultural systems because they fix atmospheric nitrogen and provide plant based protein. This question asks you to identify which option best represents a leguminous crop group commonly eaten for its protein rich seeds. General science and agriculture questions often compare cereals, pulses, oilseeds, and other crop groups, so it is important to recognise which names refer to legumes and which do not. Given Data / Assumptions: – The focus is on leguminous crops, that is, plants belonging to the family Fabaceae or Leguminosae. – Options include Cereals, Pulses, Sesame, and Mucuna as possible names. – Pulses are commonly known examples of edible dry seeds of leguminous plants such as lentils and chickpea. – We assume the question wants the broad food crop category that is clearly leguminous in everyday usage. Concept / Approach: Leguminous crops are plants that bear seeds in pods and typically host nitrogen fixing bacteria in their root nodules. Many of them are consumed as pulses. Pulses are the dried seeds of legume crops such as peas, beans, chickpeas, and lentils. They are rich in protein and are staple foods in many countries, including India. Cereals on the other hand are grasses like wheat, rice, and maize, which mainly provide carbohydrates and are not legumes. Sesame is an oilseed crop that provides edible oil and is not typically referred to as a legume in general classifications. Mucuna is a genus that includes some leguminous species, but it is not the standard broad category used in food and exam questions. The correct general group name that clearly signals leguminous crops in this list is pulses. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that leguminous crops include peas, beans, chickpeas, and lentils, which are famous as plant protein sources. Step 2: Recognise that these crops are usually referred to collectively as pulses in food and nutrition discussions. Step 3: Notice that cereals are crops like wheat and rice which belong to the grass family and are not legumes. Step 4: Identify pulses as the only option that clearly names a broad group of leguminous food crops. Verification / Alternative check: A quick check in a school textbook on agriculture or nutrition will show separate headings for cereals, pulses, oilseeds, and other crop categories. Under pulses you will see many legume examples, all bearing pods and fixing nitrogen. Cereals will list non legume grasses, while oilseeds such as sesame are grouped elsewhere. This classification confirms that pulses are the standard term for leguminous food crops and are therefore the correct answer to this question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Cereals: These are non leguminous grasses like wheat and rice that are mainly carbohydrate sources, so they are not leguminous crops in the usual sense. Sesame: Sesame is an oilseed crop grown for its high oil content; it is not classified in the pulses group in basic agriculture classifications. Mucuna: Mucuna is the name of a genus that includes some legume species, but it is not the common broad food group name used in general science exams, so this option is not the best answer. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse the terms legume and pulse or think that any plant seed is a pulse. Another common error is to choose cereals because they are major crops, without noticing that the question specifically asks for leguminous crops. To avoid this, remember that legumes are pod bearing plants and that pulses are the dry edible seeds of these plants, usually highlighted in nutrition charts as a key protein source. This memory aid makes it easy to select pulses when you see a question about leguminous crops. Final Answer: The broad group name for protein rich leguminous crops grown for their dry seeds is Pulses.

Question 14

Which one of the following statements about the human vascular system and blood volume is NOT correct?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Questions about the vascular system often test factual knowledge of blood volume, blood cell life span, and general properties of blood as a connective tissue. This item asks you to identify the statement that is NOT correct. That means three statements should be reasonably accurate according to standard physiology, and one should contain an incorrect or misleading fact. Understanding normal blood volume and basic characteristics of blood is important for both general science and medical entrance preparation. Given Data / Assumptions: – The topic is the human vascular system and blood in a healthy adult. – Statements mention red blood cell life span, percentage of body weight formed by blood, description of blood as vascular connective tissue, and total blood volume in litres. – We assume average values used in standard textbooks, allowing for small variation but not large numerical errors. – The task is to find which one statement is factually incorrect or most inconsistent with accepted reference values. Concept / Approach: In an average adult, total blood volume is about 5 to 6 liters, which corresponds to roughly 7 to 8 percent of body weight. Red blood cells have a life span of about 120 days, and some books give a range around this value, such as 110 to 120 days, so a description of 115 to 120 days fits within a reasonable approximation. Blood is classified as a vascular connective tissue because it consists of cells suspended in a fluid matrix called plasma and circulates through vessels. Although blood itself is red and lymph is sometimes called a white connective tissue, the phrase highlighting white and red vascular connective tissue is conceptually acceptable as a reference to these fluid tissues. However, stating that there are about 6.8 liters of blood in an average healthy adult clearly exceeds the standard average, which is closer to 5 to 6 liters. That makes the statement about 6.8 liters the best choice as the incorrect one. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Remember that the average blood volume of a healthy adult is about 5 to 6 liters, not close to 7 liters. Step 2: Compare this to the statement, There are about 6.8 liters of blood in an average healthy adult, and see that it is outside the usual range. Step 3: Review that blood is about 7 to 8 percent of body weight, which matches common physiology facts, so that statement is acceptable. Step 4: Recall that red blood cell life span in humans is usually given as approximately 120 days, so a range of 115 to 120 days is a reasonable approximation. Step 5: Conclude that the clearly incorrect statement is the one giving total blood volume as about 6.8 liters in an average adult. Verification / Alternative check: If you consult any standard physiology or biology text, you will find tables listing normal blood volume as approximately 70 to 80 millilitres per kilogram of body weight. For a person weighing 70 kilograms, this gives about 4.9 to 5.6 liters of blood, which supports the typical 5 to 6 liter figure. Texts also describe blood forming around 7 to 8 percent of total body weight and confirm the approximate 120 day life span of red blood cells. This independent verification from reference values makes it clear that the statement claiming 6.8 liters as an average value is the one that does not match standard data. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Life span of a human red blood cell is about 115 to 120 days: This aligns well with the commonly cited life span of about 120 days, so it is essentially correct. The vascular system forms about 7 to 8 percent of total body weight: This reflects the usual estimate of blood volume as a percentage of body mass, so it is accurate for exam purposes. Blood is white or red vascular connective tissue: In basic classification, blood and lymph are grouped as vascular connective tissues, so this phrasing is acceptable even if simplified, and therefore not the incorrect statement targeted by the question. Common Pitfalls: Students often focus only on memorising single numbers and may not appreciate normal ranges. Some may assume that a larger number sounds more impressive and therefore more correct, leading them to accept 6.8 liters without checking it against the standard 5 to 6 liter reference. Others may be distracted by wording and think the phrase about white or red vascular connective tissue is wrong, without considering that blood and lymph are both fluid connective tissues. To avoid these mistakes, always compare numerical statements with typical textbook values and remember that exam questions often use slightly exaggerated numbers to create incorrect options. Final Answer: The incorrect statement about the human vascular system and blood volume is There are about 6.8 liters of blood in an average healthy adult.

Question 15

Which of the following technologies is commonly used specifically for the treatment of water pollution by removing dissolved impurities?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Environmental science questions often ask you to match different pollution control technologies to the type of pollution they treat, such as air, water, or solid waste. This question focuses on water pollution and asks which listed technology is used specifically for treating water by removing dissolved impurities. Recognising the correct method is essential for understanding how industries and municipalities purify drinking water and treat wastewater before discharge. Given Data / Assumptions: – The focus is on technologies related to pollution control and waste management. – Options include Windrow composting, Reverse osmosis, Bag house filter, and Venturi scrubber. – We assume standard textbook definitions where some technologies are used mainly for air pollution and solid waste, and others for water purification. – The target is the method that is well known for removing dissolved salts and contaminants from water. Concept / Approach: Reverse osmosis is a water treatment process in which water is forced through a semipermeable membrane under pressure. The membrane allows water molecules to pass while blocking many dissolved salts, organic molecules, and other impurities. This makes reverse osmosis a key technology for desalination, drinking water purification, and treatment of industrial effluents. Windrow composting is a method for managing solid organic waste by aerobic decomposition, not for treating water directly. A bag house filter is used to control particulate emissions in flue gases from industrial sources, so it is mainly an air pollution control device. A Venturi scrubber is also an air pollution control technology that removes particles and gases from industrial exhaust using a high velocity liquid spray. Among the given options, only reverse osmosis is primarily associated with water pollution control and water purification. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that reverse osmosis uses a semipermeable membrane to remove dissolved impurities from water, making it a water treatment method. Step 2: Note that windrow composting is used for solid waste management, especially for organic agricultural and municipal waste, not for cleaning water. Step 3: Remember that bag house filters and Venturi scrubbers are both related to air pollution control and industrial gas cleaning. Step 4: Conclude that reverse osmosis is the only option that directly describes a common water pollution treatment technology. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by checking environmental engineering or science textbooks, which usually include a section on water treatment and list reverse osmosis along with filtration, sedimentation, and chlorination. These sources describe reverse osmosis as an advanced technology for desalination and removal of dissolved contaminants. By contrast, solid waste management chapters discuss composting methods, and air pollution control chapters describe devices like bag filters and Venturi scrubbers. This distribution across topics confirms that reverse osmosis is the correct answer for water pollution treatment. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Windrow composting: This is a method of aerobic decomposition of organic solid waste in long heaps or windrows; it treats solid waste, not water pollution. Bag house filter: This device uses fabric filter bags to trap dust particles from industrial flue gases, so it controls air pollution rather than purifying water. Venturi scrubber: This equipment removes particles and some gases from exhaust streams using a constricted section and liquid spray, again focusing on air pollution control, not on treatment of dissolved substances in water. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes see the word filter or scrubber and assume that any such device must work for water. Another issue is confusing solid waste composting with general environmental cleanup and thinking that it applies to all pollution types. To avoid these errors, it helps to link each technology mentally to its main medium: reverse osmosis to water, bag house filter and Venturi scrubber to air, and windrow composting to solid waste. Building these clear associations makes these classification questions much easier to answer correctly. Final Answer: The technology that is specifically used for treating water pollution by removing dissolved impurities is Reverse osmosis.

Question 16

Which one of the following is NOT classified as a dwarf planet in the solar system?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Modern astronomy distinguishes between full sized planets, dwarf planets, and many smaller objects in the solar system. This question checks whether you can identify which of the listed bodies is not a dwarf planet. It is a common general science topic, especially after Pluto was reclassified from a planet to a dwarf planet by the International Astronomical Union. Knowing a few key examples from each category helps you answer such questions quickly. Given Data / Assumptions: – The options listed are Pluto, Mars, Eris, and Makemake. – Pluto, Eris, and Makemake are well known examples connected with dwarf planet discussions. – Mars is one of the classical planets studied in school astronomy. – We assume the current classification followed by the International Astronomical Union, where planets and dwarf planets have specific definitions based on orbit and ability to clear neighbourhood. Concept / Approach: A planet is a celestial body that orbits the Sun, has sufficient mass for its gravity to form a nearly round shape, and has cleared its orbital neighbourhood of other objects. A dwarf planet also orbits the Sun and is nearly round but has not cleared its neighbourhood. Pluto, Eris, and Makemake are all trans Neptunian objects in the Kuiper Belt and are officially classified as dwarf planets. Mars, on the other hand, is a terrestrial planet, similar to Earth and Venus, and has satisfied the criteria for a full sized planet. Therefore, among the listed options, Mars is not a dwarf planet; it is a regular planet in the solar system. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Pluto was once called the ninth planet but is now classified as a dwarf planet. Step 2: Remember that Eris and Makemake are Kuiper Belt objects officially grouped as dwarf planets. Step 3: Recognise that Mars is one of the four inner rocky planets, orbiting between Earth and Jupiter. Step 4: Identify Mars as the only option that is a full planet rather than a dwarf planet, making it the correct answer to this question. Verification / Alternative check: Any recent school level astronomy chart or a reliable space agency website will list eight major planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Dwarf planets are listed separately and typically include Pluto, Eris, Makemake, Haumea, and Ceres. Checking these lists confirms that Mars appears among the main planets and not among the dwarf planets, while Pluto, Eris, and Makemake are all in the dwarf planet category. This independent check from authoritative references supports the conclusion that Mars is not a dwarf planet. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Pluto: Officially classified as a dwarf planet since 2006 because it has not cleared its orbit of other Kuiper Belt objects, so it is not the answer to this question. Eris: Another large Kuiper Belt object recognised as a dwarf planet, similar in status to Pluto, so it is not the correct choice here. Makemake: Also a Kuiper Belt dwarf planet discovered in the early twenty first century, so this option is not correct for identifying a non dwarf planet. Common Pitfalls: Many people remember Pluto as the ninth planet from older textbooks and may mistakenly think that it is not a dwarf planet, especially if they are unaware of the reclassification. Others may simply pick a name that sounds unfamiliar, such as Makemake, assuming that the unfamiliar name must be the odd one out. To avoid these mistakes, it helps to memorise the current list of eight planets and remember that several objects beyond Neptune, including Pluto, Eris, Makemake, and Haumea, form the core group of known dwarf planets. Final Answer: The object that is not classified as a dwarf planet is the full sized planet Mars.

Question 17

Bambusa dendrocalmus is the scientific botanical name of which plant commonly used as a fast growing woody grass?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Many general science questions test your familiarity with scientific names of plants that you see in daily life. Bambusa dendrocalmus, although slightly misspelt compared to the more standard Dendrocalamus or Bambusa names, clearly refers to a bamboo species. Bamboo is an important plant used in construction, furniture, paper making, and many traditional crafts. The question asks you to connect this scientific name to the correct common plant name among the options provided. Given Data / Assumptions: – The scientific name given is Bambusa dendrocalmus, which belongs to the bamboo group. – The options list Bamboo, Pomegranate, Banyan, and Papaya, all of which are common plants. – We assume a basic understanding that different genera correspond to very different kinds of plants. – The task is to match the botanical name to the correct common English or Indian name. Concept / Approach: Bamboo belongs to the grass family Poaceae and is grouped under genera such as Bambusa and Dendrocalamus. These plants are characterised by hollow, jointed stems (culms), rapid growth, and woody strength, which makes them appear tree like even though they are technically grasses. Pomegranate is Punica granatum, a fruit bearing tree. Banyan is Ficus benghalensis, a large fig tree with aerial roots. Papaya is Carica papaya, a herbaceous tree that produces the papaya fruit. None of these other plants use the genus name Bambusa, so the only logical match is bamboo. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that the genus name Bambusa is strongly associated with bamboo species in botany. Step 2: Recall that bamboo is a fast growing woody grass used for building material and many household items. Step 3: Note that pomegranate, banyan, and papaya each have very different scientific names that do not contain Bambusa. Step 4: Conclude that Bambusa dendrocalmus must refer to a bamboo plant, so Bamboo is the correct option. Verification / Alternative check: If you consult a botany textbook or a horticulture guide, you will find that many cultivated bamboo species in South Asia are listed under the genera Bambusa and Dendrocalamus. These references often mention names like Bambusa bambos or Dendrocalamus strictus for common bamboos. Although the exact spelling in the question may blend these genus names, the presence of Bambusa clearly links the plant to bamboo. Checking the scientific names for pomegranate, banyan, and papaya will further confirm that none of them belong to the Bambusa genus, which verifies the correctness of the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Pomegranate: Its scientific name is Punica granatum, and it belongs to an entirely different family, so it is not related to Bambusa. Banyan: This tree is classified under the genus Ficus with the scientific name Ficus benghalensis, so it does not match the given botanical name. Papaya: Papaya is known scientifically as Carica papaya and is not part of the bamboo group or the Bambusa genus. Common Pitfalls: Some students may focus only on familiar sounding common names and guess randomly when they see a Latin name. Others may confuse bamboo with general trees because of its height and woody appearance, forgetting that it is actually a giant grass. To avoid these issues, try to associate certain Latin roots with plant types; for example, Bambusa almost always signals bamboo. Building a small personal list of scientific names for very common plants will make such questions easy marks in competitive exams. Final Answer: Bambusa dendrocalmus is the scientific botanical name of Bamboo.

Question 18

Acinonyx jubatus is the scientific zoological name of which fast running wild animal?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Zoological scientific names are used to uniquely identify animal species in a standard format across the world. Many general knowledge and biology questions ask you to match a Latin binomial name with its common animal name. Acinonyx jubatus is particularly famous because it refers to one of the fastest land animals on Earth. This question checks whether you can connect that scientific name with the correct common name among bear, cheetah, horse, and zebra. Given Data / Assumptions: – The scientific name given is Acinonyx jubatus. – The options list four different familiar animals: bear, cheetah, horse, and zebra. – We assume that you have seen or read about the major big cats and their scientific names in basic zoology. – The task is to identify which option correctly matches the binomial name Acinonyx jubatus. Concept / Approach: In binomial nomenclature, the first word is the genus and the second is the species. Acinonyx is a genus that includes the cheetah, which is known for its slender body and very high running speed. The full scientific name Acinonyx jubatus is reserved for the cheetah. Bears belong to the family Ursidae and have scientific names such as Ursus arctos for the brown bear. Horses are Equus caballus, and zebras belong to species like Equus quagga and Equus zebra. None of these genera are Acinonyx. Therefore the only correct match for Acinonyx jubatus among the options is the cheetah. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that cheetahs are often mentioned in textbooks as Acinonyx jubatus, highlighting their unique genus, Acinonyx. Step 2: Recognise that bears, horses, and zebras have completely different genera such as Ursus and Equus. Step 3: Match the genus Acinonyx with the big cat that is known primarily for extreme speed. Step 4: Conclude that Acinonyx jubatus is the scientific name of the cheetah. Verification / Alternative check: You can check any reliable zoology reference, wildlife field guide, or credible website about big cats. All of them will list Acinonyx jubatus as the scientific name of the cheetah. They may even contrast it with Panthera leo for lion, Panthera tigris for tiger, and Panthera pardus for leopard. None of the other animals listed in the options share this binomial name. This cross checking confirms that the correct answer is cheetah. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Bear: Bears are mammals from the family Ursidae, and common species have scientific names such as Ursus arctos or Ursus americanus, so they are not Acinonyx jubatus. Horse: The domestic horse is known as Equus caballus, belonging to a completely different genus and family from the cheetah, which makes this option incorrect. Zebra: Zebras are also Equus species, for example Equus quagga, and thus do not match the genus Acinonyx used only for the cheetah. Common Pitfalls: Some learners mix up the scientific names of large mammals, especially big cats, because they all have Latin names that may sound similar. A frequent error is to assume that any exotic sounding name like Acinonyx jubatus could belong to a zebra or another African animal without careful recall. To avoid this, it helps to memorise a short list of key scientific names together with a distinctive feature: for example, Acinonyx jubatus for the cheetah and its speed, Panthera leo for the lion and its mane, and Panthera tigris for the tiger and its stripes. Linking the name with a mental image makes recall much easier during exams. Final Answer: The scientific zoological name Acinonyx jubatus belongs to the fast running wild cat known as the Cheetah.

Question 19

Which of the following organic acids is present in the sting of red ants and responsible for the burning sensation?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: When a red ant stings, you feel a sharp burning and itching sensation on the skin. This reaction is caused by a chemical substance injected by the ant as a defensive mechanism. General science questions often ask which acid is responsible for this sensation. Knowing the names and sources of common organic acids, such as acetic acid in vinegar or citric acid in lemons, helps you answer such everyday application questions easily. Given Data / Assumptions: – The question focuses on red ants and the acid present in their sting. – Options list Malic acid, Formic acid, Tannic acid, and Oxalic acid. – We assume a basic understanding that different acids occur naturally in fruits, plants, and animal secretions. – The task is to identify which specific acid is characteristic of ant stings. Concept / Approach: Formic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid and is historically associated with ants. In fact, the word formic comes from the Latin word for ant, formica. Many ant species, including red ants, produce formic acid in their venom glands and inject it into the skin when they sting. This acid causes the burning sensation and mild inflammation at the sting site. Malic acid is commonly found in apples and some other fruits. Tannic acid occurs in tea and certain plant materials and is associated with astringency. Oxalic acid is present in plants like spinach and rhubarb and is also known for forming insoluble salts with calcium. None of these other acids are the typical primary component of ant venom. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the term formic acid historically comes from the study of ants and their chemical secretions. Step 2: Remember that red ant stings are specifically known to contain formic acid, which causes irritation and burning. Step 3: Recognise that malic acid and tannic acid are more associated with fruits and tea, not with animal stings. Step 4: Conclude that formic acid is the correct acid present in red ant stings. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this fact by consulting a chemistry or biology reference, which will often mention formic acid in sections about organic acids or animal venoms. Ant species, especially those in the Formicidae family, are noted for producing formic acid as a defense chemical. Historical chemistry experiments even obtained formic acid by distilling crushed ants. In contrast, discussions about malic, tannic, and oxalic acids focus on plant sources and do not connect them with ant stings. This pattern of evidence supports formic acid as the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Malic acid: This acid is found mainly in apples and some other fruits and is responsible for a sour taste, not for ant stings. Tannic acid: Commonly associated with tea, bark, and other plant materials, tannic acid is related to astringent taste and is not the active chemical in ant venom. Oxalic acid: Present in plants such as spinach and rhubarb, oxalic acid can form crystals with calcium but is not the primary irritant used by red ants in their stings. Common Pitfalls: A frequent error is to choose an acid that sounds more familiar, like malic or oxalic acid, without recalling the specific connection between ants and formic acid. Another problem is not paying attention to the origin of the word formic, which directly hints at ants. To avoid such mistakes, try to build simple associations: formic acid with ants, acetic acid with vinegar, citric acid with citrus fruits, and lactic acid with muscles and sour milk. These memory hooks make recall much easier during exams. Final Answer: The organic acid present in the sting of red ants that causes the burning sensation is Formic acid.

Question 20

Which of the following organisms is an example of a saprotroph that obtains nutrition from dead and decaying organic matter?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Living organisms can be classified by how they obtain food and energy. Some are autotrophs, like green plants, which make their own food. Others are heterotrophs, which depend on other organisms. Within heterotrophs, saprotrophs are a special group that feed on dead and decaying organic matter. This question asks you to identify which organism from the list is saprotrophic. Recognising this mode of nutrition is important in understanding nutrient cycling and decomposition in ecosystems. Given Data / Assumptions: – The concept tested is saprotrophic nutrition, where organisms digest dead organic matter outside their bodies and then absorb the nutrients. – Options include Mushroom, Man, Pigeon, and Algae. – We assume basic school level knowledge that fungi are saprotrophs and that most animals are not saprotrophs. – The task is to pick the organism that best fits the saprotrophic lifestyle in common examples. Concept / Approach: Saprotrophs (also called saprophytes in older texts) secrete digestive enzymes onto dead plant or animal material, break it down externally, and then absorb the simpler substances. Most fungi, including many mushrooms, follow this mode of nutrition. They grow on rotting wood, leaf litter, or dead organic matter and play a major role in decomposition. Man and pigeon are both animals that ingest food and digest it internally; they are heterotrophs but not saprotrophs. Algae are typically autotrophs that perform photosynthesis and do not mainly live on dead organic matter in the saprotrophic sense. Therefore, mushroom, which is a fungal fruiting body, is the correct example of a saprotroph among the options. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that saprotrophic organisms feed on dead and decaying organic matter using external digestion. Step 2: Identify fungi, especially mushrooms growing on rotting logs or soil rich in decaying material, as classic examples of saprotrophs. Step 3: Recognise that man and pigeon are animals that take in food and digest it inside the body, which is a different mode of nutrition. Step 4: Remember that most algae are photosynthetic autotrophs, using sunlight to make food rather than decomposing dead matter. Step 5: Conclude that mushroom is the correct saprotrophic organism in this list. Verification / Alternative check: School biology textbooks on nutrition in plants and animals usually mention that fungi, including mushrooms and bread mould, are saprotrophs. They are shown growing on stale bread, fallen leaves, or dead wood, and the text explains how they release enzymes to digest complex organic matter outside their bodies. The same chapters describe humans and birds as organisms that take in prepared food and digest it internally, and algae as photosynthetic producers. This consistent description across sources verifies that mushrooms exemplify saprotrophic nutrition. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Man: Humans are heterotrophs that ingest food and digest it internally in the digestive system; they are not saprotrophs because they do not feed on dead organic matter using external digestion in the ecological sense. Pigeon: Pigeons are birds that feed on grains and other food items and digest them internally; they are not decomposers and therefore are not saprotrophs. Algae: Most algae are autotrophic organisms that perform photosynthesis in aquatic environments; they are producers rather than decomposers, so this option does not fit the saprotroph definition. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to assume that any organism that sometimes eats dead material is saprotrophic, which is not correct. The key features of saprotrophs are external digestion and a primary ecological role in decomposition. Another pitfall is confusion between saprotrophs and parasites, which live on a living host. To avoid these errors, remember that mushrooms on a rotting log and mould on stale bread are textbook examples of saprotrophic fungi that break down dead matter and recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem. Final Answer: The organism that shows saprotrophic nutrition by feeding on dead and decaying organic matter is the Mushroom.

General Science Questions