ANS:C - Either I or II is strong

Explanation: The control of pollution, on one hand, seems to be impossible because of the ever-growing needs and the disconcern of the people but, on the other hand, the control is possible by a joint effort. So, either of the arguments will hold strong.

ANS:D - All of the above.

No answer description is available.

ANS:A -

No answer description is available. 

ANS:A - 1

No answer description is available.

ANS:A - prompt

No answer description is available.

ANS:C - crystallise out at low temperature.

Waxes present in petroleum products typically crystallize out at low temperatures. Here's why:

1. Nature of Waxes: Waxes are high-molecular-weight hydrocarbons that solidify at relatively high temperatures compared to other components in petroleum products. They are composed mainly of long-chain saturated hydrocarbons.
2. Crystallization: When the temperature of a petroleum product containing waxes decreases, these waxes tend to crystallize out of the liquid phase. This phenomenon is due to their molecular structure and the intermolecular forces that promote solidification under specific temperature conditions.
3. Separation and Solubility: Waxes are generally not soluble in the liquid phase of petroleum products at typical operating temperatures. While they can be separated by processes like solvent extraction or filtration, distillation is typically not effective for separating waxes due to their high boiling points and tendency to solidify rather than vaporize.
4. Effect on Viscosity: The presence of waxes in petroleum products, especially at higher temperatures, can contribute to increased viscosity. However, at lower temperatures, their crystallization can lead to a decrease in fluidity and flow characteristics, affecting product handling and performance.

ANS:B - USA

The USA regained the top spot as India’s trade partner in 2021.

ANS:B - DRDO

The contract to build a research vessel was awarded to Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) by the Department of Ocean Development (DOD), now part of the Ministry of Earth Sciences in India. This contract is part of the Indian government's initiative to enhance its marine research capabilities and strengthen its scientific exploration of oceanic environments. The research vessel, designed to support various scientific missions, will be equipped with advanced technology and instrumentation to conduct oceanographic studies, marine biology research, and environmental monitoring. GRSE, a prominent shipbuilding company in India, is tasked with constructing this vessel to meet the specialized requirements outlined by the DOD. The project reflects India's commitment to advancing its marine research infrastructure and promoting scientific innovation in the field of oceanography. By awarding this contract, the DOD aims to bolster India's capacity for exploring and understanding its vast marine resources, contributing to both national and global scientific knowledge.

ANS:A - Peru

NPCI International and the Central Bank of Brazil are partnering to introduce Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments in South America. This collaboration marks a significant step in expanding the reach of India’s digital payment system to the South American region. UPI, developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), is a highly successful and widely adopted payment system in India, known for its ease of use and efficiency in facilitating real-time transactions. The partnership aims to integrate UPI with Brazil’s payment infrastructure, enabling seamless and interoperable digital payments between the two countries. This initiative not only fosters cross-border financial inclusion but also enhances economic connectivity and trade opportunities. By leveraging UPI’s robust technology and Brazil’s growing digital payment ecosystem, the partnership seeks to introduce a state-of-the-art payment solution to Brazilian consumers and businesses, contributing to the modernization of payment systems in South America. This move is also expected to set a precedent for further international expansion of UPI, showcasing its potential as a global digital payment solution.

ANS:C - 12

As of now, 21 countries have signed the Zero Debris Charter to address the critical issue of space debris. This international initiative aims to promote and enhance space sustainability by encouraging signatory countries to adopt measures that prevent the creation of new space debris and mitigate the risks associated with existing debris. The charter emphasizes the importance of responsible behavior in space activities, including the design, operation, and end-of-life disposal of space objects. By signing the Zero Debris Charter, these countries commit to implementing best practices and standards for space debris mitigation, sharing knowledge and technologies, and collaborating on efforts to ensure the long-term usability and safety of outer space. The charter reflects a growing global consensus on the need to address space debris, which poses significant challenges to space operations, satellite missions, and the overall health of the space environment. The initiative is a key step towards safeguarding the future of space exploration and ensuring that space remains a sustainable and accessible domain for all nations.