Q1.

Consider the following statements regarding the Information and Communication

Technology (ICT):

1. Quantum dot display uses tiny semiconductor nanocrystals, to produce more accurate and
vibrant colours than traditional displays.
2. Micro Light-Emitting Diode (LEDs) Display uses use inorganic materials instead of
organic ones.
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

Answer: c
Explanation

 Statement 1 is correct: Quantum Dot Display: It is a type of LCD that uses tiny
semiconductor nanocrystals, known as quantum dots, to produce more accurate and
vibrant colours than traditional LCDs.
 Quantum dots are excited by the blue light from the display panel to emit pure red, green,
and blue light, which reduces light losses and colour crosstalk in colour filters, improving
display brightness and colour gamut.
 They present a favourable alternative to super-premium Organic LED displays
(OLEDs), but usually at less cost, and with none of the technical issues and limitations
that OLED introduces.
 Statement 2 is correct: Micro LED Display: This type of display uses microscopic
LEDs that can emit light individually to create an image.
 These are similar to OLED displays, but they use inorganic materials instead of organic
ones.
 These are still in development, and they are expected to offer better brightness,
efficiency, and durability than OLED displays.

Q2. Consider the following statements:

1. Curing Blindness
2. Mind-writing for Non-Verbal Individuals
3. Paralysis Treatment

Which of the statements given above is/are the application of Brain-Computer Interface (BCI)?
 (a) 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1,2, and 3

Answer: d
Explanation

 Statement 1 is correct: Brain-Computer Interfaces- Brain-computer interfaces (BCI)

are devices that create a direct communication pathway between a brain’s electrical
activity and an external output like a computer or a robotic limb. BCI is a neuro-
technological intervention with its origin in 1970 at UCLA.
 Curing Blindness- BCIs hold significant importance in curing blindness cases where the
visual cortex of the brain is intact.
 Statement 2 is correct: ‘Mind writing’ for Non-Verbal Individuals- The Brain-
computer Interfaces can be used by individuals who suffer from amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis, speech paralysis to communicate their thoughts.
 Statement 3 is correct: Restoration of Mobility and Motor Functions- This will
enable them to perform basic functions like controlling their movements with their
thoughts using mobile devices. This BCI Technology can be expanded to restore limb
function or memory functions. For Ex– Neuralink Implant for Paralysis Treatment.

Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Space technology:

1. Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) enables the efficient transport of heavy payloads from
low Earth orbit (LEO) only.
2. Lagrange points, allow for orbits that are much, much farther away and do not orbit Earth
directly.
3. Cryogenic propellants such as hydrogen, oxygen, or methane, that are liquid at room
temperature.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 2 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1 and 3 only

Answer: a
Explanation

 Statement 1 is incorrect: As NASA plans to explore the unknown across the solar
system, including the Moon and Mars, we also seek to shorten the time required to
 develop and apply innovative technologies that increase the nation’s capabilities in space,
enable future missions and support a variety of commercial spaceflight activities.
 NASA’s Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) project is developing critical technologies to
extend the distance and duration of ambitious new exploration and science missions
carried out by NASA and its partners. The project aims to demonstrate key
technologies necessary for robotic and human exploration-class transportation systems as
well as highly efficient orbit transfer capabilities for commercial space operations and
science missions.
 Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP): Using advanced SEP technologies is an essential part
of future missions into deep space with larger payloads.
o It can reduce the mass of a satellite, which could offer significant cost savings.
o It enables the efficient transport of heavy payloads from low Earth orbit
(LEO) to higher orbits.
 Statement 2 is correct: Lagrange points, or L-points, allow for orbits that are much,
much farther away (over a million kilometres) and do not orbit Earth directly.
 These are specific points far out in space where the gravitational fields of Earth and the
Sun combine in such a way that spacecraft that orbit them remain stable and can thus be
‘anchored’ relative to Earth.
 If a spacecraft was launched to other points in space very distant from Earth, they would
naturally fall into an orbit around the Sun, and those spacecrafts would soon end up far
from Earth, making communication difficult. Instead, spacecraft launched to these special
L-points stay fixed, and remain close to Earth with minimal effort without going into a
different orbit.
 Statement 3 is incorrect: Cryogenic propellants are a subset of liquid propellant.
 Cryogenic just refers to materials kept at very low temperatures. Cryogenic propellants
are those such as hydrogen, oxygen, or methane, that are gases at room temperature, but
liquify when very cold. You can put more mass of liquid in a tank than gas, and
rockets need to carry a lot of fuel to get anywhere.
 The most common non-cryogenic liquid propellants (also known as "storable
propellants", because they can be stored for long periods without active refrigeration) are
fuels in the hydrazine family (MMH, UDMH, or a mix), used with oxidizers like
nitrogen tetroxide.
 These are unpleasantly toxic, but they are convenient to use because the propellants are
hypergolic, meaning they ignite as soon as they mix, and the rocket can remain fueled for
long periods of time, which is convenient for military missiles.

Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the nanotechnology:

1. Nanospheres and Nanoclusters are Zero-Dimensional nanomaterials.

2. Polymers and Lipids are inorganic nanomaterials.
3. Nanomaterials are solely occurred in artificial way.

How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one
 (b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

Answer: a
Explanation:

 Statement 1 is correct: Dimensionality: Nanomaterials can be classified as Zero-

Dimensional Nanomaterials (0D), One-Dimensional Nanomaterials (1D), Two-
Dimensional Nanomaterials (2D), and Three-Dimensional Nanomaterials (3D). As
the dimensionality decreases, the surface-to-volume ratio increases.
 0D: All dimensions (x, y, z) are less than 100 nm, e.g. nanospheres and nanoclusters.
 1D: Two dimensions (x, y) are nanoscale, while the third dimension (z) is larger,
e.g. nanofibres, nanotubes, and nanowires.
 2D: One dimension (x) is nanoscale, and the other two are larger, e.g. nanofilms,
nanolayers, and nanocoatings.
 3D: None of the dimensions are confined to the nanoscale, but they contain nanoscale
elements, e.g. bundles of nanowires and multi-nanolayered structures.
 Statement 2 is incorrect: Composition: Based on composition of materials
nanomaterials can be classified as organic/dendrimers, inorganic, carbon-based, and
composite.
 Organic/Dendrimers: Composed of organic molecules like polymers, lipids, or
proteins, with dendrimers being a specific type of highly branched organic structure.
 Inorganic/ Metal based: Nanomaterials made from non-carbon elements like metals,
metal oxides, or other inorganic compounds
 Carbon-based: Primarily composed of carbon atoms, such as carbon
nanotubes, graphene, or fullerenes, fall under this category.
 Composite: Made by combining different types of nanomaterials, like embedding
inorganic nanoparticles within an organic polymer matrix, creating a composite
structure with unique properties.
 Statement 3 is incorrect: Nanomaterials: Nanomaterials are majorly classified by
their origin, dimensionality, and composition.
 Origin: Can be classified into natural and artificial based on their origin.
 Natural: Nanomaterials that occur naturally, such as those found in the Earth's crust or
in biological systems.
 Artificial: Nanomaterials that are manufactured by humans to have specific properties.

Q5. Consider the following statements regarding the Defence and warfare:

Statement I: Swarm technology allows drones, satellites and spacecraft to work together in a
coordinated.
Statement II: It takes inspiration from social insects like ants and bees.

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 not correct
(d) Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct

Answer: a
Explanation:

 Statement I is incorrect: Technological Transformation: Emerging technologies

like Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, and swarm technologies are reshaping warfare
and defence strategies.
 Swarm technology allows drones, satellites, or spacecraft to work together in
a coordinated way using decentralised control, automation, and self-organisation.
 Psychological Warfare: Manipulating, disrupting, or controlling information to
influence public opinion, deceive, or disrupt the decision-making processes of
governments.
 Statement II is correct: Swarm intelligence refers to the collective behavior observed
in decentralized, self-organized systems. In the context of unmanned technologies like
drones or robots, it deals with large numbers of simple agents that together accomplish
complex tasks. Each of the agents follows simple rules but through their interactions, the
swarm exhibits emergent intelligence beyond the abilities of the individual parts.
 Potential applications include surveillance and combat. Drone swarms take inspiration
from social insects like ants and bees, leveraging swarm intelligence to create a powerful
collective entity out of many simple agents.

Q6. Consider the following statements:

1. Retail and hospitality

2. Space exploration including landing on surface of Jupiter
3. Navigation and information services.

How many of the statements given above is/are application of robots?

(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer: b
Explanation

 Statement 1 and 3 is correct: Applications of Robotics

 Robotics finds applications in various fields, and its versatility allows it to be used in
numerous industries.
 Manufacturing and assembly: Robots are widely used in automotive assembly lines for
welding, painting, pick-and-place tasks, and quality control.
 Healthcare: Robots aid surgeons in surgeries, ensuring faster recovery. Robotic
exoskeletons assist rehabilitation and help patients regain mobility post-injury.
Telemedicine robots enable remote consultations, crucial in areas with limited medical
access.

o For example: Toyota's healthcare assistants are an example of robots aiding in

walking rehabilitation.
 Logistics: Warehouse robots manage inventory, sorting, and packaging, optimising
efficiency. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) navigate warehouses, enhancing
productivity.
 Agriculture: Agricultural robots assist in planting, harvesting, and monitoring crops,
promoting precision farming. Autonomous tractors aid in planting and harvesting, while
agricultural drones survey fields for crop health assessment.
 Retail and hospitality: Robotics enhance customer experience by automating inventory
processes, providing wayfinding services, and assisting with baggage or parking valet
services in the retail and hospitality sectors.
 Education: Robots facilitate hands-on learning experiences and engage students in
STEM subjects.
o For example:Softbank Robotics developed the Nao model for the L2TOR
European research project, teaching young children a second language.
 Space exploration: Robotics technology is essential to space exploration because it
allows for the exploration of asteroids, moons, and other planets.
o Rovers like NASA's Curiosity explore planetary surfaces, collecting data and
samples. But it cannot land on surface of Jupiter because it is a gaseous planet and
strong gravitational force. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.
 Defence and security: Military and security applications feature bomb disposal robots,
surveillance drones, and unmanned vehicles for reconnaissance in hazardous zones.
 Smart cities: Robotics enhance urban safety and efficiency.
o Humanoid robots offer navigation and information services.
o AMRs deliver goods and conduct routine security patrols.
o Robotics expedite building construction by conducting site surveys and collecting
building modelling data.
Q8. With reference to Space technology, the terms “PLOONET” pertain to:

(a) Celestial objects, which are orphaned planets that have escaped the bonds of their Solar
systems.
(b) Celestial objects, which are orphaned asteroids that have escaped the bonds of their
asteroid belt.
(c) Celestial objects, which are orphaned moons that have escaped the bonds of their
planetary parents.
(d) Celestial objects, which are orphaned star that have escaped the bonds of their parent
galaxy.

Answer: c
Explanation

PLOONET

 Celestial objects, which are orphaned moons that have escaped the bonds of their
planetary parents.
 The researchers explain that the angular momentum between the planet and its moon
results in the moon escaping the gravitational pull of its parent planet.
 A new study finds that Earth’s own Moon is slowly spiralling away from the planet; it
may also end up as a ploonet in some 5 billion years.
 Tidally detached exomoons, also known as orphaned exomoons or ploonets, are
hypothetical exoplanets that were formerly exomoons of another planet, before being
ejected from their orbits around their parent planets by tidal forces during planetary
migration, and becoming planets in their own right.
 As of 2024, no tidally detached moons have yet been definitively detected, but they are
believed to be likely to exist around other stars, and potentially detectable
by photometric methods. Researchers at Columbia University have suggested that a
disrupting detached exomoon may be causing the unusual fluctuations in brightness
exhibited by Tabby's Star.

Q9. With reference to ‘new emerging technology’, the terms ‘MXenes’ pertain to:

(a) Two-dimensional layered ceramic materials derived from a bulk crystal.

(b) A new class of Benzene.
(c) New medicine for cancer that derived from seaweeds.
(d) NASA developed a non-liquid propulsion system for rockets.

Answer: a
Explanation
 MXenes: These are two-dimensional layered ceramic materials derived from a bulk
crystal known as MAX.
o MXenes demonstrate excellent conductivity, volumetric capacitance, and
potential uses in energy storage, optoelectronics, and medicine.
 MXene is a new class of graphene like two-dimensional transition metal carbon
(nitrogen) compounds obtained by selectively etching specific atomic layers from
multiple layered carbon (nitrogen) compounds.
 In materials science, MXenes are a class of two-dimensional inorganic compounds
along with MBenes, that consist of atomically thin layers of transition metal carbides,
nitrides, or carbonitrides. MXenes accept a variety of hydrophilic terminations. The
first MXene was reported in 2011 at Drexel University's College of Engineering.

Q10. Consider the following statements regarding the basic science:

Statement I: Toothpastes containing fluoride are effective at preventing tooth decay.

Statement II: Fluorosis is a disease caused by ingestion or inhalation of Fluoride in excess.

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 not correct
(d) Statement I is not correct but Statement II is correct

Answer: b
Explanation:

 Statement I is correct: Toothpaste is a paste or gel dentifrice used with a toothbrush to

clean and maintain the aesthetics and health of teeth. Toothpaste is used to promote oral
hygiene: it is an abrasive that aids in removing dental plaque and food from the teeth,
assists in suppressing halitosis, and delivers active ingredients (most commonly fluoride)
to help prevent tooth decay (dental caries) and gum disease (gingivitis).
 Toothpastes containing fluoride are effective at preventing tooth decay. Toothpastes
may also help to control and remove plaque build-up, promoting healthy gums. A 2016
systematic review indicated that using toothpaste when brushing the teeth does not
 necessarily impact the level of plaque removal. However, the active ingredients in
toothpastes are able to prevent dental diseases with regular use.
 Statement II is correct: The pooled concentration of fluoride in India is around 2.37
mg/L with 95% confident interval (1.46–3.28 mg/L) which is higher than WHO and
national standards limit of 1.5 mg/L. 2) The meta-analysis of data suggests that in rural
parts of the country, fluoride concentration is 1.85 times higher than urban areas.
 Fluorosis is a disease caused by ingestion / inhalation of Fluoride in excess, which the
human body is unable to tolerate. While Fluoride, in recommended doses, has been
proved to have beneficial effects on skeletal and dental health, its toxicity at greater than
the recommended dosage, has been widely reported.

Q11. With reference to Space technology, the terms ‘Kessler Syndrome’ pertain to:

(a) A chain reaction that if one satellite produces debris that hits another satellite.
(b) One asteroid hit the planet and a chain reaction starts in entire solar system.
(c) An uncontrolled nuclear fusion reaction in star that create alternative cycle of dark and
light spots on surface of that star.
(d) When space field expand and sink near the strong black hole.

Answer: a
Explanation

 Kessler's Syndrome is a global phenomenon characterized by the presence of tens of

millions of debris pieces of various sizes that disrupt satellite operations. This article
delves into the potential outcomes of a Kessler's Syndrome occurrence and its
implications on satellite operations.
 Any intelligent civilization which becomes spacefaring could eventually extinguish any
safe orbits via Kessler syndrome, trapping itself within its home planet. Such a result
could happen even with robust space pollution controls, as a lone malicious actor on a
planet could cause a Kessler syndrome scenario.
 Kessler Syndrome: is a possible effect that if one satellite produces debris that hits
another satellite, this will create a chain reaction that will obliterate every orbiting object
in low earth orbit (LEO), and thus creating a thick cloud of white dots travelling at high
speed.

Q12. Consider the following statements regarding the nuclear technology:

1. Neutrons from Californium (Cf-252) are utilised to serve the treatment of brain and
cervical cancers.
2. Nuclear Energy provide power without trace of pollutants like nitrogen oxide, sulphur
dioxide, particulate matter and mercury.
 3. Thorium can be found in India but traces of Uranium cannot be found in any part of
India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1 and 3 only

Answer: c
Explanation

 Statement 1 is correct: Californium is a silvery-white metal that tarnishes gradually

when exposed to air at room temperature.
 It is so soft and malleable that it can be sliced with a razor blade and its spectral
lines have been detected in supernova.
 Chemical symbol of Californium is Cf and the atomic number is 98.
 Created in 1950 at Berkeley, it is a powerful neutron emitter.
 It is utilized in portable metal detectors to identify gold and silver ores, locate water
and oil layers in wells, and detect metal fatigue and stress in airplanes.
 Neutrons from Californium (Cf-252) are utilised to serve the treatment of brain
and cervical cancers when radiation therapy proves futile.
 Highly radioactive and extremely costly, Californium is priced at approximately Rs 17
crore per gram in the international market (one of the most expensive substances in the
world).
 Statement 2 is correct: Nuclear protects our air. Nitrogen oxide, sulphur
dioxide, particulate matter and mercury: all things you don’t want in the air you
breathe. Nuclear energy provides power 24/7 without a trace of those pollutants.
 Nuclear boosts international development. Nuclear energy helps developing nations
meet sustainable development goals.
 Nuclear power electric vehicles. Electrified transportation promises to reduce carbon
emissions. When powered by carbon-free nuclear energy, electric vehicles can reach their
full potential.
 Statement 3 is incorrect: The first uranium deposit in India was found in 1951
at Jaduguda, in the Singhbhum Thrust Belt (Jharkhand).
 Operating mines: Jaduguda Mine, Bhatin Mine, Narwapahar Mine, and Turamdih Mine.
 Additionally, a number of uranium occurrences have been discovered in Andhra
Pradesh's Cuddapah basin.
 In the Mahadek basin of Meghalaya, sandstone-type uranium deposits like Domiasiat,
Wahkhyn, and Mawsynram are found.
 Other areas in Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Chhattisgarh hold promise for developing
into some major deposits.
  Monazite sands on India's east and west coasts, as well as in some areas
of Bihar, contain thorium.
o On the Kerala coast, however, there is a much higher concentration of monazite
sand. Monazite sands have been estimated to contain more than 15,200 tonnes of
uranium.
 The main producing states: Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Kerala.

Q13. With reference to Software 2.0, consider the following statements:

1. Software 2.0 can study data and upgrade their operation without human input.
2. Open AI's ChatGPT, GitHub's Copilot and Amazon's Code Whisperer are based on
software 2.0.
3. No human is involved in writing this code.
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
Answer: d
Explanation

 Statement 1 is correct: Software 2.0 is an expression employed to designate

programming that uses ML algorithms and neural networks to build autonomous systems
that can study data and upgrade their operation without human input.
 Statement 2 is correct: An area of significant advancement is in the use of Software 2.0-
based models like Open AI's ChatGPT, GitHub's Copilot, Amazon's Code Whisperer
and others as AI programming assistants. IEEE notes that "hand-coding software
programs will increasingly be like hand-knitting sweaters."
 Statement 3 is correct: Software 2.0 is written in much more abstract, human unfriendly
language, such as the weights of a neural network. No human is involved in writing this
code because there are a lot of weights (typical networks might have millions), and
coding directly in weights is kind of hard.

Q14. Consider the following statements:

wearable technology can be use as:
1. clothing that come fitted with solar cells to charge devices.
2. filter out unwanted noises and automatically adapt to provide the best performance in the
user's current environment
3. Smart jewelry
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 2
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: d
Explanation

 Statement 1 is correct: Smart clothing. This type of clothing comes with built-in
technology that can perform a variety of tasks including fitness or health monitoring,
interacting with phones and other devices and changing fabric characteristics to suit the
user's preference, activity or environment. As an example, in 2014, clothing manufacturer
Tommy Hilfiger launched clothing that came fitted with solar cells to charge devices.
 Statement 2 is correct: AI hearing aids. AI hearing aids can filter out unwanted noises
and automatically adapt to provide the best performance in the user's current environment
and for their individual hearing needs. Such devices, sometimes referred to as hearables,
can also incorporate capabilities such as fitness tracking, audio streaming and translation.
 Statement 3 is correct: Smart jewelry. This can include smart rings, wristbands and
watches. Smaller wearable devices typically work with a smartphone app for display and
interaction

Q15. Consider the following statements:

1. Electroencephalography
2. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
3. Neuralink
4. Electrocorticography
Which of the statements given above is/are Non-Invasive Brain–Computer Interface (BCI)?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 3 and 4 only

Answer: a
Explanation
 Statement 1 and 2 are correct: Types of BCIs:
o Non-Invasive: In it, sensors are placed on the scalp to measure the electrical
potentials produced by the brain.
 E.g. Electroencephalography (EEG), Functional Magnetic Resonance
Imaging (fMRI) etc.
o Semi-invasive: The electrodes are placed on the exposed surface of the brain.
 E.g. Electrocorticography (ECoG) which is the process of recording
electrical activity in the brain by placing electrodes in direct contact with
the cerebral cortex or surface of the brain. Hence, Statement 4 is
incorrect
o Invasive: Chips/Sensors are placed directly into the cortex, measuring the activity
of a single neuron. Hence, Statement 3 is incorrect.
 E.g. Neuralink’s Implant.