Science and Technology — UPSC Prelims Previous Year Questions
All 120 UPSC Prelims Science and Technology questions asked across 10 exam years, each with the correct answer, a detailed explanation and the source it was drawn from.
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2025
In the context of electric vehicle batteries, consider the following elements:
I. Cobalt
II. Graphite
III. Lithium
IV. Nickel
How many of the above usually make up battery cathodes?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)Only three
- (d)All the four
Consider the following pairs:
Plant – Description
I. Cassava : Woody shrub
II. Ginger : Herb with pseudostem
III. Malabar spinach : Herbaceous climber
IV. Mint : Annual shrub
V. Papaya : Woody shrub
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
- (a)Only two
- (b)Only three
- (c)Only four
- (d)All the five
With reference to India's defence, consider the following pairs:
Aircraft type – Description
I. Dornier-228 : Maritime patrol aircraft
II. IL-76 : Supersonic combat aircraft
III. C-17 Globemaster III : Military transport aircraft
How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All the three
- (d)None
Consider the following space missions:
I. Axiom-4
II. SpaDeX
III. Gaganyaan
How many of the space missions given above encourage and support micro-gravity research?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All the three
- (d)None
Consider the following statements:
Statement I:
Some rare earth elements are used in the manufacture of flat television screens and computer monitors.
Statement II:
Some rare earth elements have phosphorescent properties.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- (a)Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
- (b)Both Statement I and Statement II are correct but Statement II does not explain Statement I
- (c)Statement I is correct but Statement II is not correct
- (d)Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct
With reference to monoclonal antibodies, often mentioned in news, consider the following statements:
I. They are man-made proteins.
II. They stimulate immunological function due to their ability to bind to specific antigens.
III. They are used in treating viral infections like that of Nipah virus.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)I and II only
- (b)II and III only
- (c)I and III only
- (d)I, II and III
Consider the following types of vehicles:
I. Full battery electric vehicles
II. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
III. Fuel cell electric hybrid vehicles
How many of the above are considered as alternative (powertrain) vehicles?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All the three
- (d)None
GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?
I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
II. It will allow more uniform and high quality air traffic management.
III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a)I, II and III
- (b)II and III only
- (c)I only
- (d)I and II only
With reference to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), consider the following statements:
I. All types of UAVs can do vertical landing.
II. All types of UAVs can do automated hovering.
III. All types of UAVs can use battery only as a source of power supply.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All the three
- (d)None
Consider the following statements:
I. It is expected that Majorana 1 chip will enable quantum computing.
II. Majorana 1 chip has been introduced by Amazon Web Services (AWS).
III. Deep learning is a subset of machine learning.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)I and II only
- (b)II and III only
- (c)I and III only
- (d)I, II and III
Consider the following statements regarding AI Action Summit held in Grand Palais, Paris in February 2025:
I. Co-chaired with India, the event builds on the advances made at the Bletchley Park Summit held in 2023 and the Seoul Summit held in 2024.
II. Along with other countries, US and UK also signed the declaration on inclusive and sustainable AI.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)I only
- (b)II only
- (c)Both I and II
- (d)Neither I nor II
Consider the following statements:
I. No virus can survive in ocean waters.
II. No virus can infect bacteria.
III. No virus can change the cellular transcriptional activity in host cells.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All the three
- (d)None
What is the common characteristic of the chemical substances generally known as CL-20, HMX and LLM-105, which are sometimes talked about in media?
- (a)These are alternatives to hydro-fluorocarbon refrigerants
- (b)These are explosives in military weapons
- (c)These are high-energy fuels for cruise missiles
- (d)These are fuels for rocket propulsion
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2024
Which one of the following is the exhaust pipe emission from Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles, powered by hydrogen ?
- (a)Hydrogen peroxide
- (b)Hydronium
- (c)Oxygen
- (d)Water vapour
Consider the following statements :
Statement-I : Giant stars live much longer than dwarf stars.
Statement-II : Compared to dwarf stars, giant stars have a greater rate of nuclear reactions.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?
- (a)Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
- (b)Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
- (c)Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
- (d)Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-IT
Consider the following activities :
1. Identification of narcotics on passengers at airports or in aircraft
2.Monitoring of precipitation
3.Tracking the migration of animals
In how many of the above activities can the radars be used ?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All three
- (d)None
With reference to radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), consider the following statements :
1. RTGs are miniature fission reactors.
2. RTGs are used for powering the onboard systems of spacecrafts.
3. RTGs can use Plutonium-238, which is a by-product of weapons development.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1,2 and 3
The organisms "Cicada, Froghopper and Pondskater" are :
- (a)Birds
- (b)Fish
- (c)Insects
- (d)Reptiles
Which one of the following is synthesised in human body that dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow ?
- (a)Nitric oxide
- (b)Nitrous oxide
- (c)Nitrogen dioxide
- (d)Nitrogen pentoxide
Which one of the following words/phrases is most appropriately used to denote "an interoperable network of 3D virtual worlds that can be accessed simultaneously by millions of users, who can exert property rights over virtual items" ?
- (a)Big data analytics
- (b)Cryptography
- (c)Metaverse
- (d)Virtual matrix
Consider the following aircraft:
1. Rafael
2. MiG-29
3. Tejas MK-1
How many above considered fifth generation fighter aircraft?
- (a)Only 1
- (b)Only 2
- (c)All Three
- (d)None
In which of the following are hydrogels used ?
1. Controlled drug delivery in patients
2. Mobile air-conditioning systems
3. Preparation of industrial lubricants
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- (a)1 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1,2 and 3
Consider the following plants :
1. Groundnut
2. Horse-gram
3. Soybean
How many of the above belong to the pea family ?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All three
- (d)None
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2023
With reference to the role of biofilters in Recirculating Aquaculture System, consider the following statements:
1. Biofilters provide waste treatment by removing uneaten fish feed.
2. Biofilters convert ammonia present in fish waste to nitrate.
3. Biofilters increase phosphorus as a nutrient for fish in water.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All three
- (d)None
Consider the following statements:
1. Some mushrooms have medicinal properties.
2. Some mushrooms have psycho- active properties.
3. Some mushrooms have insecticidal properties.
4. Some mushrooms have biolumi- nescent properties.
How many of the above statements are correct?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)Only three
- (d)All four
28: Consider the following statements:
- (a)Some microorganisms can grow in environments with temperatures above the boiling point of water.
- (b)Some microorganisms can grow in environments with temperatures below the freezing point of water.
- (c)Some microorganisms can grow in highly acidic environments with a pH below 3. How many of the above statements are correct?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All three
- (d)None
Consider the following statements:
1. Carbon fibers are used in the manufacture of components used in automobiles and aircraft2. Carbon fibres once used cannot be recycled.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
Consider the following actions:
1. Detection of car crashes/collisions which results in the deployment of airbags almost instantaneously. hal Exam
2. Detection of accidental free fall of a laptop towards the ground which results in the immediate turning off of the hard drive
3. Detection of the tilt of the smartphone which results in the rotation of the display between portrait and landscape mode.
In how many of the above actions is the function of the accelerometer required?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All three
- (d)None
Wolbachia method' is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?
- (a)Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
- (b)Converting crop residues into packing material
- (c)Producing biodegradable plastics
- (d)Producing biochar from thermo- chemical conversion of biomass.
Aerial metagenomics best refers to which one of the following situations?
- (a)Collecting DNA samples from the air in a habitat at one go
- (b)Understanding the genetic makeup of avian species of a habitat
- (c)Using air-borne devices to collect blood samples from moving animals
- (d)Sending drones to inaccessible areas to collect plant and animal samples from land surfaces and water bodies
‘Microsatellite DNA' is used in the case of which one of the following?
- (a)Studying the evolutionary relationships among species of fauna in various
- (b)Stimulating tem ‘stem cells to transform into diverse functional tissues
- (c)Promoting clonal propagation of horticultural plants
- (d)Assessing the efficacy of drugs by conducting a series of drug trials in a population
Consider the following statements:
Statement-1: India, despite having uranium deposits, depends on coal for most of its electricity production.
Statement-II: Uranium, enriched to the extent of at least 60%, is required for the production of electricity.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- (a)Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
- (b)Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
- (c)Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
- (d)Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
With reference to green hydrogen, consider the following statements:
1. It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion.
2. It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation.
3. It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All three
- (d)None
Which one of the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System?
- (a)Australia
- (b)Canad
- (c)Israel
- (d)Japan
Consider the following statements:
1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
Consider the following pairs:
Objects in Space
Description
1. Cepheids
Giant clouds of dust and gas in space and son
2. Nebulae
Stars that brighten and dim periodically
3. Pulsars
Neutron stars that are formed when massive stars, run out of fuel and collapse
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
- (a)Only one
- (b)Only two
- (c)All three
- (d)None
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2022
Consider the following :
1. Aarogya Setu2. CoWIN3. DigiLocker4. DIKSHA
Which of the above are built on top of open-source digital platforms?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2, 3, and 4 only
- (c)1, 3, and 4 only
- (d)1, 2, 3 and 4
With reference to Web
3.0, consider the following statements:
1. Web
3.0 technology enables people to control their own data.
2. In the Web
3.0 world, there can be blockchain-based social networks.
3. Web
3.0 is operated by users collectively rather than a corporation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
With reference to "Software as a Service (SaaS)", consider the following statements:
1. SaaS buyers can customize the user interface and can change data fields.
2. SaaS users can access their data through their mobile devices.
3. Outlook, Hotmail, and Yahoo! Mail are forms of SaaS.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the "Fractional Orbital Bombardment System" often talked about in media?
- (a)A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space.
- (b)A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions.
- (c)A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.
- (d)A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same speed and places a probe on its surface.
Which one of the following is the context in which the term "qubit" is mentioned?
- (a)Cloud Services
- (b)Quantum Computing
- (c)Visible Light Communication Technologies
- (d)Wireless Communication Technologies
Consider the following statements:
1. Biofilms can form on medical implants within human tissues.
2. Biofilms can form on food and food processing surfaces.
3. Biofilms can exhibit antibiotic resistance.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Consider the following statements in respect of probiotics:
1. Probiotics are made of both bacteria and yeast.
2. The organisms in probiotics are found in foods we ingest but they do not naturally occur in our gut.
3. Probiotics help in the digestion of milk sugars.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)1 and 3
- (d)2 and 3
In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements:
1. The Serum Institute of India produced a COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using an mRNA platform.
2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using a vector-based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Consider the following communication technologies:
1. Closed-circuit Television2. Radio Frequency Identification3. Wireless Local Area Network
Which of the above are considered Short Range devices/technologies?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?
1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur in equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a)1, 2, 4 and 5 only
- (b)2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only
- (c)1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only
- (d)1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7
With reference to Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), consider the following statements:
1. They enable the digital representation of physical assets.
2. They are unique cryptographic tokens that exist on a blockchain.
3. They can be traded or exchanged at equivalency and therefore can be used as a medium of commercial transactions.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)I, 2 and 3
With reference to polyethylene terephthalate, the use of which is so widespread in our daily lives, consider the following statements:
1. Its fibers can be blended with wool and cotton fibers to reinforce their properties.
2. Containers made of it can be used to store any alcoholic beverage.
3. Bottles made of it can be recycled into other products.
4. Articles made of it can be easily disposed of by incineration without causing greenhouse gas emissions.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)1 and 3
- (b)2 and 4
- (c)1 and 4
- (d)2 and 3
Which of the following are nitrogen-fixing plants?
1. Alfalfa2. Amaranth3. Chickpea
4. Clover
5. Purslane (Kulfa)
6. Spinach
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a)1, 3, and 4 only
- (b)1, 3, 5, and 6 only
- (c)2, 4, 5, and 6 only
- (d)1, 2, 4, 5 and 6
Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?
- (a)They protect the environmental allergens.
- (b)They alleviate the body's pain and inflammation.
- (c)They act as immunosuppressants in the body.
- (d)They protect the body from the diseases caused by pathogens.
Consider the following statements:
1. Other than those made by humans, nanoparticles do not exist in nature.
2. Nanoparticles of some metallic oxides are used in the manufacture of some cosmetics.
3. Nanoparticles of some commercial products which enter the environment are unsafe for humans.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2
- (d)2 and 3
Consider the following statements:DNA Barcoding can be a tool to:
1. assess the age of a plant or animal.
2. distinguish among species that look alike.
3. identify the undesirable animal or plant materials in processed foods.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2
- (d)2 and 3
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2021
Water can dissolve more substances than any other liquid because
- (a)it is dipolar in nature
- (b)it is a good conductor of heat
- (c)it has a high value of specific heat
- (d)it is an oxide of hydrogen
With reference to street lighting, how do sodium lamps differ from LED lamps?
(1) Sodium Lamps produce light in 360 degrees but it is not so in the case of LED lamps.
(2) As street lights, sodium lamps have a longer lifespan than LED lamps.
(3) The spectrum of visible light from sodium lamps is almost monochromatic while LED lamps offer significant color advantages in street lighting.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- (a)3 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
The term ‘ACE2' is talked about in the context of
- (a)genes introduced in the genetically modified plants
- (b)development of India's own satellite navigation system
- (c)radio collars for wildlife tracking
- (d)spread of viral diseases
‘Triclosan', considered harmful when exposed to high levels for a long time, is most likely present in which of the following?
- (a)Food preservatives
- (b)Fruit-ripening substances
- (c)Reused plastic containers
- (d)Toiletries
Which one of the following is a reason why astronomical distances are measured in light-years?
- (a)Distances among stellar bodies do not change
- (b)Gravity of stellar bodies does not change
- (c)Light always travels in a straight line
- (d)Speed of light is always the same.
With reference to recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant Vector Vaccines', consider the following statements: (1) Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines (2) Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements: (1) Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondrial replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of the egg. (2) A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from the mother and not from the father.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
Bollgard I and Bollgard II technologies are mentioned in the context of
- (a)Clonal propagation of crop plants
- (b)Developing genetically modified crop plants
- (c)Production of plant growth substances
- (d)Production of bio-fertilizers
In a pressure cooker, the temperature at which the food is cooked depends mainly upon which of the following?(1) Area of the hole in the lid (2) Temperature of the flame (3) Weight of the lid
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Consider the following: (1) Bacteria (2) Fungi (3) Virus
Which of the above can be cultured in an artificial/synthetic medium?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Consider the following statements: (1) Adenoviruses have single-stranded DNA genomes whereas retroviruses have double-stranded DNA genomes. (2) Common cold is sometimes caused by an adenovirus whereas AIDS is caused by a retrovirus.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2020
In India, The term "Public Key Infrastructure" is used in the context of?
- (a)Digital security infrastructure
- (b)Food security infrastructure
- (c)Health care and education infrastructure
- (d)Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure
Which of the following statements are correct regarding the general difference between plant cells and animal cells?
Plant cells have cellulose cell walls whilst animal cells do not.
Plant cells do not have plasma membrane unlike animals cells which do
Mature plant cell has one large vacuole whilst animal cell has many small vacuoles
Select the correct answer using the given code below-
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Q5 What is the importance of using pneumococcal conjugate vaccines in India?
These vaccines are effective against pneumonia as well as meningitis and sepsis.
Dependence on antibiotics that are not effective against drug-resistant bacteria can be reduced.
These vaccines have no side effects and cause no allergic reactions
Select the correct answer using the given code below-
- (a)1 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
With the present state of development Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?
Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units
Create meaningful short stories and songs
Disease diagnosis
Text to speech conversation
Wireless transmission of electrical energy
Select the correct answer using the given code below-
- (a)1, 2, 3 and 5 only
- (b)1, 3 and 4 only
- (c)2, 4 and 5 only
- (d)1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
With reference to the "Visible Light Communication" technology, Which of the following statements are correct?
VLC uses electromagnetic spectrum wavelengths 375 to 780 nm
VLC is known as long range optical wireless communication
VLC can transmit large amounts of data faster than bluetooth
VLC has no electromagnetic interference
Select the correct answer using the given code below-
- (a)1, 2 and 3 only
- (b)1, 2 and 4 only
- (c)1, 3 and 4 only
- (d)2, 3 and 4 only
With reference to the Blockchain Technology, consider the following statements:
It is a public ledger that everyone can inspect, which no single user controls
The structure and design of blockchain is such that all the data in it are about cryptocurrency only
Applications that depend on the basic features of blockchain can be developed without anybody's permission
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)2 only
- (d)1 and 3 only
In the context of the recent advances in human reproductive technology, Pronuclear transfer technology is used for:
- (a)Fertilization of egg into vitro by the donor sperm
- (b)Genetic modification of sperm producing cells
- (c)Development of stem cells into functional embryos
- (d)Prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring
With reference to solar water pumps, consider the following statements:
1. Solar power can be used for running surface pumps and not for submersible pumps.
2. Solar power can be used for running centrifugal pumps and not the ones with piston.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
With reference to the carbon nanotubes, consider the following statements:
They can be used as carriers of drugs and antigens in the human body.
They can be made into artificial blood capillaries for an injured part of human body.
They can be used in biochemical sensors.
Carbon nanotubes are biodegradable
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2, 3 and 4 only
- (c)1, 3 and 4 only
- (d)1, 2, 3, and 4
Consider the following activities :
Spraying pesticides on a crop field
Inspecting the craters of an active volcano
Collecting breath samples from spouting whales for DNA analysis
At the present level of technology, which of the above activities can be successfully carried out using drones?
- (a)1 and 2
- (b)2 and 3
- (c)1 and 3
- (d)1, 2 and 3
The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of equilateral triangle that has sides one million km long, with lasers shining between the craft." the experiment in the question refers to?
- (a)Voyager-2
- (b)New horizons
- (c)LISA pathfinder
- (d)Evolved LISA
In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under "IAEA Safeguards" while others are not?
- (a)Some use Uranium and others use thorium.
- (b)Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies.
- (c)Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic enterprises.
- (d)Some are State- owned and others are privately-owned.
Consider the following statements:
Genetic changes can be introduc ed in the cells that produce eggs or sperms of a prospective parent
A person's genome can be edited before birth at the early embryonic stage
Human induced pluripotent stem cells can be injected into the embryo of a pig.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)2 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2019
Q3
7. Consider the following statements:
1. According to the Indian Patents Act, a biological process to create a seed can be patented in India.
2. In India, there is no Intellectual Property Appellate Board.
3. Plant varieties are not eligible to be patented in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 and 3 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Q4
1. In the context of digital technologies for entertainment, consider the following statements:
1. In Augmented Reality (AR), a simulated environment is created and the physical world is completely shut out.
2. In Virtual Reality (VR), images generated from a computer are projected onto real-life objects or surroundings.
3. AR allows individuals to be present in the world and improves the experience using the camera of a smartphone or PC.
4. VR closes the world, and transposes an individual, providing a complete immersion experience.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)3 and 4
- (c)1, 2 and 3
- (d)4 only
The word ‘Denisovan' is sometimes mentioned in media in reference to
- (a)fossils of a kind of dinosaurs
- (b)an early human species
- (c)a cave system found in North-East India.
- (d)a geological period in the history of the Indian subcontinent
With reference to the recent developments in science, which one of the following statements is not correct?
- (a)Functional chromosomes can be created by joining segments of DNA taken from cells of different species.
- (b)Pieces of artificial functional DNA can be created in Laboratories.
- (c)A piece of DNA taken out from an animal cell can be made to replicate outside a living cell in a laboratory.
- (d)Cells taken out from plants and animals can be made to undergo cell division in laboratory Petri dishes.
Q4
4. Consider the following statements:A digital signature is1. an electronic record that identifies the certifying authority issuing it2. used to serve as a proof of identity of an individual to access information or server on the Internet.
3. an electronic method of signing an electronic document and ensuring that the original content is unchanged
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Q4
5. In the context of wearable technology, which of the following tasks is/are accomplished by wearable devices?
1. Location identification of a person2. Sleep monitoring of a person3. Assisting the hearing impaired person
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Q9
2. For the measurement/estimation of which of the following are satellite images/remote sensing data used?
1. Chlorophyll content in the vegetation of a specific location2. Greenhouse gas emissions from rice paddies of a specific location3. Land surface temperatures of a specific location
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Q4
6. ‘RNA interference (RNAi)' technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?
1. It is used in developing gene-silencing therapies.
2. It can be used in developing therapies for the treatment of cancer.
3. It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.
4. It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to viral pathogens.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a)1, 2 and 4
- (b)2 and 3
- (c)1 and 3
- (d)1 and 4 only
Recently, scientists observed the merger of giant ‘black holes' billions of light-years away from the Earth. What is the significance of this observation?
- (a)‘Higgs boson particles' were detected.
- (b)‘Gravitational waves' were detected.(e) Possibility of intergalactic space travel through ‘wormhole' was confirmed.
- (d)It enabled the scientists to understand ‘singularity'.
Q4
8. Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
1. Genetic predisposition of some people2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming4. Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a)1 and 2
- (b)2 and 3 only(e) 1, 3 and 4
- (d)2, 3 and 4
What is the Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in news?
- (a)A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing
- (b)A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients
- (c)A gene that makes plants pest-resistant
- (d)A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops
Which one of the following statements is not correct?
- (a)Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.
- (b)Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.
- (c)Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.
- (d)Some of those infected with Hepatitis Band C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.
With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference/differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?1. LTE ‘is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE are commonly marketed as advanced 3G.2. LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2018
What is "Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)", sometimes seen in the news ?
- (a)An Israeli radar system
- (b)India's indigenous anti-missile programme
- (c)An American anti-missile system
- (d)A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea
"3D printing" has applications in which of the following ?
- Preparation of confectionery items
- Manufacture of bionic ears
- Automotive industry
- Reconstructive surgeries
- Data processing technologies
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- (a)1,3 and 4 only
- (b)2,3 and 5 only
- (c)1 and 4 only
- (d)1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
With reference to India's satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements :
- PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
- Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
- GSLV Mk III is a four-staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 and 3
- (c)1 and 2
- (d)3 only
Consider the following :
1. Birds
2. Dust blowing
3. Rain
4. Wind blowing
Which of the above spread plant diseases ?
- (a)1 and 3 only
- (b)3 and 4 only
- (c)1, 2 and 4 only
- (d)1,2,3 and 4
In which of the following areas can GPS technology be used ?
1. Mobile phone operations
2. Banking operations
3. Controlling the power grids
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1,2 and 3
The identity platform 'Aadhaar' provides open "Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)". What does it imply?
- It can be integrated into any electronic device.
- Online authentication using iris is possible.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
The terms WannaCry, Petya and EternalBlue' sometimes mentioned in the news recently are related to
- (a)Exoplanets
- (b)Cryptocurrency
- (c)Cyber attacks
- (d)Mini satellites
With reference to the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consider the following statements :
- IRNSS has three satellites in geostationary and four satellites in geosynchronous orbits.
- IRNSS covers entire India and about 5500 sq. km beyond its borders.
- India will have its own satellite navigation system with full global coverage by the middle of 2019.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)None
Consider the following phenomena :
- Light is affected by gravity.
- The Universe is constantly expanding.
- Matter warps its surrounding space-time.
Which of the above is/are the prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in media ?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements :
- GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest-resistance to a wide variety of pests.
- GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridization.
- GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.
Which of the statements given above is/are corréct ?
- (a)1 and 3 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Consider the following pairs : Terms sometimes seen in news Context / Topic
Belle II experiment - Artificial Intelligence
Blockchain technology - Digital/ Cryptocurrency
CRISPR - Cas9 - Particle Physics
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched ?
- (a)1 and 3 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
When the alarm of your smartphone rings in the morning, you wake up and tap it to stop the alarm which causes your geyser to be switched on automatically. The smart mirror in your bathroom shows the day's weather and also indicates the level of water in your overhead tank. After you take some groceries from your refrigerator for making breakfast, it recognises the shortage of stock in it and places an order for the supply of fresh grocery items. When you step out of your house and lock the door, all lights, fans, geysers and AC machines get switched off automatically. On your way to office, your car warns you about traffic congestion ahead and suggests an alternative route, and if you are late for a meeting, it sends a message to your office accordingly.
In the context of emerging communication technologies, which one of the following terms best applies to the above scenario?
- (a)Border Gateway Protocol
- (b)Internet of Things
- (c)Internet Protocol
- (d)Virtual Private Network
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2017
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Smart India Hackathon 2017?
- It is a centrally sponsored scheme for developing every city of our country into Smart Cities in a decade.
- It is an initiative to identify new digital technology innovations for solving the many problems faced by our country.
- It is a programme aimed at making all the financial transactions in our country completely digital in a decade.
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- (a)1 and 3 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
The terms 'Event Horizon', 'Singularity', 'String Theory' and 'Standard Model' are sometimes seen in the news in the context of
- (a)Observation and understanding of the Universe
- (b)Study of the solar and the lunar eclipses
- (c)Placing satellites in the orbit of the Earth
- (d)Origin and evolution of living organisms on the Earth
With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of 'genome sequencing', often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future ?
Genome sequencing can be used to identify genetic markers for disease resistance and drought tolerance in various crop plants.
This technique helps in reducing the time required to develop new varieties of crop plants.
It can be used to decipher the host-pathogen relationships in crops.
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
What is the application of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology ?
- (a)Production of biolarvicides
- (b)Manufacture of biodegradable plastics
- (c)Reproductive cloning of animals
- (d)Production of organisms free of diseases
In India, it is legally mandatory for which of the following to report on cyber security incidents ?
- Service providers
- Data centres
- Body corporate
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- (a)1 only
- (b)1 and 2 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)1,2 and 3
What is the purpose of 'evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA)' project?
- (a)To detect neutrinos
- (b)To detect gravitational waves To detect the effectiveness of missile defence system
- (d)To study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems
Consider the following statements :
- In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by the same mosquito that transmits dengue.
- Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
Consider the following pairs : Commonly used / consumed materials Unwanted or controversial chemicals likely to be found in them
- Lipstick - Lead
- Soft drinks - Brominated vegetable oils
- Chinese fast food - Monosodiug glutamate
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched ?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) are used to create digital display in many devices.
What are the advantages of OLED displays over Liquid Crystal displays ?
- OLED displays can be fabricated on flexible plastic substrates.
- Roll-up displays embedded in clothing can be made using OLEDs.
- Transparent displays are possible using OLEDs.
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- (a)1 and 3 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)1,2 and 3
- (d)None of the above statements is correct
Science and Technology questions from UPSC Prelims 2016
Which of the following statements about the Mangalyaan launched by ISRO are correct?
- is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission
- made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
- made India the. only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
With reference to 'Astrosat', the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- Other than USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space.
- Astrosat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in an orbit at 1650 km above the surface of the Earth.
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome', sometimes seen in the news, refers to:
- (a)a range of enzymes used in genome editing
- (b)the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
- (c)the description of the mechanism of gene expression
- (d)a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells
Which one of the following is the best description of 'INS Astradharini', that was in the news recently?
- (a)Amphibious warfare ship
- (b)Nuclear-powered submarine
- (c)Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
- (d)Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
What is 'Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)', recently in the news?
- (a)Electric plane tested by NASA
- (b)Solar-powered two-seater aircraft designed by Japan
- (c)Space observatory launched by China
- (d)Reusable rocket designed by ISRO
'Project Loon', sometimes seen in the news, is related to:
- (a)waste management technology
- (b)wireless communication technology
- (c)solar power production technology
- (d)water conservation technology
Which of the following statements is/are correct? Viruses can infect:
- bacteria
- fungi
- plants
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
With reference to ‘Bitcoins', sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- Bitcoins are tracked by the Central Banks of the countries.
- Anyone with a Bitcoin address can send and receive Bitcoins from anyone else with a Bitcoin address.
- Online payments can be sent without either side knowing the identity of the other.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)2 and 3 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
With reference to ‘LiFi', recently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- It uses light as the medium for high-speed data transmission.
- It is a wireless technology and is several times faster than "WiFi".
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)Both 1 and 2
- (d)Neither 1 nor 2
India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor'. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India?
- (a)It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation.
- (b)It can attain a global role in satellite navigation.
- (c)It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation.
- (d)It can build fusion reactors for power generation.