UPSC Essentials Daily Quiz: Science and Technology MCQs for Week 145
Are you gearing up for the UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2026? This subject-wise quiz on Science and Technology helps you revise key static topics and assess your preparation level. Today's edition covers fascinating areas like atomic clocks, nuclear energy, and space discoveries.
Question 1: Understanding Modern Atomic Clocks
Consider the following statements:
- Modern atomic clocks use clouds of cold atoms as ticking references.
- The atoms are nearly motionless, so their internal rhythms can be measured with incredible precision.
Which one of the following is correct regarding these statements?
- (a) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct, and Statement 2 explains Statement 1.
- (b) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct, but Statement 2 does not explain Statement 1.
- (c) Statement 1 is correct, but Statement 2 is incorrect.
- (d) Statement 1 is incorrect, but Statement 2 is correct.
Relevance: Atomic clocks rely on precise atomic transitions in cold, nearly stationary atoms—an application of quantum physics. UPSC often tests such modern technologies with scientific principles.
Explanation: Cold atoms play a crucial role in advanced timekeeping. Modern atomic clocks indeed employ clouds of cold atoms as reference points. Since these atoms move very little, scientists measure their internal vibrations with extreme accuracy. Today's best atomic clocks would not lose a second over billions of years. These devices power GPS systems, synchronize the internet, and help test physical laws over time. Cold atoms also enable ultra-sensitive gravity sensors for detecting underground structures and monitoring volcanoes.
Both statements are correct, and Statement 2 provides the correct explanation for Statement 1. Therefore, option (a) is the right answer.
Question 2: Identifying β-amyloid
The term 'β-amyloid' refers to:
- (a) A neurotransmitter involved in synaptic plasticity
- (b) A lipid molecule essential for myelin sheath formation
- (c) A hormone regulating glucose metabolism in the brain
- (d) A waste protein linked to Alzheimer's disease
Relevance: UPSC Prelims frequently tests basic biological concepts connected to current health issues in the news.
Explanation: Recent studies on monkeys suggest that low-frequency sounds might help the brain remove harmful proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. Experiments showed increased levels of β-amyloid in cerebrospinal fluid when exposed to a constant 40 Hz hum. This indicates more efficient elimination of this toxic substance. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, these findings hint at sound stimulation as a potential non-invasive treatment. β-amyloid is a waste protein that forms plaques around neurons as we age, disrupting brain cell communication and leading to cognitive decline.
β-amyloid is a waste protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. Hence, option (d) is correct.
Question 3: Analyzing the PSLV-C62 Mission
With reference to the PSLV-C62 mission, consider these statements:
- The mission failed due to an anomaly in the first stage.
- The mission carried 16 satellites, all from foreign countries.
Which of the statements above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Relevance: This question tests awareness of ISRO missions in current affairs, focusing on launch failures and payload details—a common UPSC theme in space and technology.
Explanation: ISRO's first launch of the year on January 12 did not succeed. The PSLV-C62 mission, carrying 16 satellites with seven from foreign countries, failed to reach its intended orbit. This marks the second consecutive failure for this long-serving launch vehicle. The anomaly occurred during the PS3 (third stage), not the first stage, where pressure drops in the combustion chamber reduced acceleration. Thus, statement 1 is incorrect. Since only seven satellites were foreign, statement 2 is also incorrect.
Neither statement is correct, making option (d) the right choice.
Question 4: Facts About Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant
With reference to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP), consider these statements:
- It resulted from an intergovernmental agreement between France and India in 1988.
- It is the single largest nuclear power station in India.
- The Kudankulam complex hosts 1,000 MW water-water energetic reactors.
How many of these statements are correct?
- (a) Only one
- (b) Only two
- (c) All three
- (d) None
Relevance: This question links nuclear infrastructure with international cooperation, testing knowledge of reactor types and capacity—a frequent UPSC topic in Science & Technology and Energy.
Explanation: A recent contract award to Indian firms for control systems at Kudankulam reactors highlights growing indigenisation. The KNPP originated from a 1988 agreement between India and the erstwhile Soviet Union, not France, so statement 1 is wrong. It is indeed India's largest nuclear power station, with six units planned for 6,000 MW total capacity, making statement 2 correct. The complex features Russian-designed 1,000 MW water-water energetic reactors (VVER), so statement 3 is accurate.
Statements 2 and 3 are correct, giving us two right answers. Option (b) is correct.
Question 5: Defining Rogue Planets
The term 'rogue planets' refers to:
- (a) Planets orbiting two stars simultaneously
- (b) Planets located beyond the Kuiper Belt
- (c) Planets with highly eccentric orbits around their parent stars
- (d) Free-floating planets that do not orbit any star
Relevance: Rogue planets often appear in astronomy discoveries by agencies like NASA, making them relevant for current affairs in UPSC Prelims Science & Technology.
Explanation: Astronomers recently confirmed a rare free-floating planet about 10,000 light-years away, comparable in size to Saturn. This object, detected through its own light emission challenges, represents a clear example of a rogue planet. Unlike typical planets that orbit stars, rogue planets drift independently through space. Previous hints of such objects were hard to verify due to minimal light emission, but this case allowed precise distance and mass measurements.
Rogue planets are free-floating and do not orbit any star. Thus, option (d) is correct.
Use this quiz to reinforce your Science and Technology knowledge for UPSC Prelims 2026. Regular practice with such MCQs can significantly boost your revision efforts and confidence.
