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Environment Questions For Various Exams
Environment Questions For Various Exams
77. Why is the Varadero reef––off the shore of the city of Cartagena, recently in the news, important for
marine biologists?
(A) It is the first successful relocation of a coral colony by humans.
(B) It is the first such extensive coral reef to be found at the mouth of a river.
(C) It thrives in a highly polluted environment.
(D) None of the above.
78. In which among the following ways do plastics raise the risk of disease outbreaks on coral reefs?
(A) Plastic debris stress corals through blocking out light and oxygen, thereby giving pathogens a
chance to take hold.
(B) Pathogens in the ocean thrive on plastic surfaces, thereby increasing their numbers and the
vulnerability of corals with elevated levels of plastic pollution around reefs.
(C) Coral organisms get infected by sharp plastic fragments that cut them, following which the
disease spreads across the coral colony.
(D) All of the above.
79. In the azure waters of this sea grows what scientists consider to be the planet’s most unique coral,
one that can survive global warming, at least for now. The sea in question is
(A) Red Sea (B) Java Sea
(C) Azov Sea (D) Alboran Sea
80. Consider the following about the CORAL project of NASA.
1. It will evaluate the state of existing rainforests and their evolutionary future discounting for
climate change.
2. It will survey keystone species in the harshest climates of earth which are the edge of a goldilocks
zone.
3. It will assess the conditions of the major reefs of the world through remote-sensing.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 1 only
(C) 3 only (D) 2 and 3 only
81. What is/are the contribution(s) of coral reefs to an ecosystem?
1. They support fish production by providing them with food and shelter.
2. They control the concentration of carbon dioxide in the lower atmosphere and in the sea water.
3. They prevent the sea waves from going towards sea coasts.
4. They have the highest primary productivity amongst all ecosystems.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1,3 and 4 only (B) 1,2 and 3 only
(C) 2 and 4 only (D) 1,2,3and 4
82. Consider the following statements.
1. Coral reefs break the power of the waves during storms, cyclones, and tsunamis.
2. Coral reefs form the spawning and nursery grounds for several fish species.
3. Coral reefs are being used in the treatment of cancer.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1,2 and 3
83. The ocean/sea that has the most coral species is
(A) Pacific Ocean (B) Atlantic Ocean
(C) Indian Ocean (D) Mediterranean Sea
84. With reference to corals, consider the following statements.
1. Corals are marine vertebrate animals.
2. Each individual coral animal is a polyp.
3. Corals are not found at either of the poles of the earth.
4. All corals have a rock-like calcareous skeleton.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1, 3 and 4 only (b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1,2,3 and 4
85. When ocean temperatures get too hot, corals often experience ‘bleaching’ events. What does this
mean?
(A) Plants and animals living in the vicinity of corals die.
(B) Corals move towards cooler waters.
(C) The symbiotic nature of the relationship between a certain plant and an animal breaks down.
(D) Corals submerge themselves completely under water, starving themselves of sunlight and air to
breathe.
Environmental Pollution and Measures
Pollutants
86. Consider the following about fluorinated gases.
1. They are emitted through semiconductor manufacturing processes.
2. They have the least global warming potential of all gases.
3. These gases are a cause of concern as they cannot be destroyed by any known natural
processes.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) land 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
87. Which of the following pollutants is/are present in motor vehicle emission?
1. Carbon monoxide 2.Particulate matters
3. Hydrocarbons
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
88. With reference to ‘Nitrogen trifluoride’ (NF3), consider the following statements.
1.It is primarily produced in the manufacturing of semiconductors and liquid crystal display (LCD)
panels.
2.It is considered a potent contributor to climate change and is therefore mandated to be included in
national inventories under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
3. It is used as a replacement for PFCs and SF6 in the electronics industry.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 2 only (b) 3 only
(c) land2only (d) 1,2,and3
89. Which of the following is/are the sources of oxides of Sulphur?
1.Petroleum extraction
2.Paper manufacturing
3.Municipal waste incinerating
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) land 2 only (b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
90. Anthropogenic sources of mercury emission include
1. Coal-fired power plants
2. Mines engaged in gold production
3. Cement production
4. Manufacture of batteries
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1,2, and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1 only (d) 1,2,3, and 4
91. Which of the following metals is/are used in fireworks to produce desired colours?
1. Copper for blue colour 2.Iron for green colour
3.Sodium for yellow colour 4.Potassium for violet colour
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 2 and 4 only (b) 1,3, and 4 only
(c) land 4 only (d) 2 and 3 only
92. What are the sources that add nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere?
1. Bacteria living in soil
2. Reaction of ultraviolet radiation with ozone
3. Lightning stroke
Select the correct answer using the codes givenbelow.
(a) land 2 only (b) land 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
93. Consider the following statements.
Assertion (A): Brown carbon is emerging as a solution to trap increasing atmosphericcarbon.
Reason (R): Brown carbon reflects all the ultraviolet and visible light falling on it.
In the context of the above, which of these iscorrect?
(a) A is correct, and R is an appropriate explanation of A.
(b) A is correct, but R is not an appropriate explanation of A.
(c) A is correct, but R is incorrect.
(d) Both A and R are incorrect.
94. The Government of India has been heavily regulating tanneries situated near river streams due to the
pollutants emitted by such industries, which are
1. Anthracene 2. Chromium
3. Arsenic 4. Formaldehyde
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1,2, and 4 only (b) 2 and 3 only f
(c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1,2, 3, and 4
95. Consider the following statements about nitrogen pollution.
1. Since nitrates cannot penetrate deep into the soil they pollute only surface water and not
groundwater.
2. Nitrogen dioxide is a greenhouse gas.
3. Sewage and organic solid wastes form the second largest source of nitrogen pollution in India.
4. Nitrous oxide (N20) is 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide but isn’t as prevalent in the
atmosphere.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) land 2 only (b) 3 and 4 only
(c) 1,2, and 3 only (d) 2,3, and 4 only
96. The Regulation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls Order, 2016 bans import of equipment containing
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Why is there concern about the use of PCBs?
1. PCBs are persistent organic pollutants (POPs).
2. PCBs are highly inflammable and volatile.
3. PCBs are carcinogens. Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) land 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only (d) 1 and 3 only
97. Burning coal generates fly ash which contains several toxic pollutants.These include
1. Lead 2. Zinc
3. Arsenic 4. Plutonium
5. Cadmium
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1, 2, 3, and 5 only (b) 2, 3, and 5 only
(c) 1,4, and 5 only (d) 1,2, and 3 only
98. What is/are the differences between a primary pollutant and a secondary pollutant?
1. A primary pollutant is an air pollutant emitted directly from a source unlike a secondary pollutant.
2. A primary pollutant has a much shorter life in the atmosphere than a secondary pollutant.
3. A primary pollutant is characterized as less potent or harmful than a secondary pollutant.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 and 3 only
99. Which of the following is/are harmful environmental effects of nitrogen oxides?
1. They cause irritant red haze in the traffic and congested places.
2. They can damage plant leaves and retardthe rate of photosynthesis. Which of the above is/are
correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
100. Excess of nitrogen related compounds is harmful and may affect/cause
1. Blue baby syndrome 2. Textile fibres
3. Risk of acute respiratory diseases in children
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
Air Pollution
101. Which of the following is/are the sources of radioactive pollution?
1. Accidents in nuclear power plants and nuclear waste
2. Nuclear weapon testing and explosion
3. Radiation therapy and direct exposures to radiation for diagnostic purposes
4. Cosmic rays from space and terrestrial radiations from radio-nuclides present in earth’s
crust such as radium-224
(a) 1,2, and 3 only (b) 2,3, and 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2,3, and 4
102. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, for the period between 2011 and2015
1. Nearly a third of Indian cities have breached annual pollution limits mandated by it.
2. The level of PM2.5 particles in most cities is within the prescribed limits.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a)1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
103. Consider the following statements about fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
1. They are visible to the naked eye causing haze in the traffic.
2. Their levels are most likely to be elevated on days with little or no wind or air mixing.
3. They can bypass the nose and throat and can easily enter the circulatory system.
4. In particulate matter, the National Air Quality Index (AQI) monitors only PM10 particles.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1,3, and 4 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2,3, and 4 only (d) 1,2, and 4 only
104. Consider the following statements regarding black carbon.
1. It is formed through the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels.
2. Its particles absorb heat but are extremely short-lived in the atmosphere in comparison to carbon
dioxide.
3. If deposited on snow, it could accelerate the heating of snow.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1and2only (b) 2and3only
(c) 1 and3only (d) 1,2,and3
105. Open burning of coal can expose you to
1. Beryllium 2. Mercury
3. Sulfur dioxide 4. Nitrogen oxides
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) land 3 only (b) Z 3, and 4 only
(c) 1 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
106. The largest human source of carbon dioxide emissions is from
(a) Industrial manufacturing (b) Combustion of fossil fuels
(c) Agricultural fields (d) Clearing of forests
107. photochemical smog consists of a mixture of air pollutants which may include
1.Sulphur oxides 2.Tropospheric ozone
3. Volatile organic compounds 4.Peroxyacyl nitrates
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) land 2 only (b) 2, 3, and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and3only (d) land 4 only
108. Smog severity in a region is often aggravatedby
1. Stubble burning in neighboring agricultural areas.
2.Vehicular emissions.
3. Persistent cold weather conditions without sunlight.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only (d) 1,2, and 3
109. Photochemical smog generally forms in
(a)Cold and moist conditions (b)Warm, dry, and sunny climate
(c)Low lying mountain valleys (d)Regions where icefall is predominant
Fly Ash
110. Excessive generation of fly ash can lead to which of these harmful environmental effects?
1. It can result in leaching of toxic heavy metals in groundwater.
2. It contains crystalline silica which can cause silicosis.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
111. Which is the first state to release a policy on fly ash utilization?
(a) Telangana (b) Karnataka
(c) Maharashtra (d) Punjab
112. Fly ash is becoming a popular construction material. What is/are the environmental benefits of fly ash
utilization in concrete?
1.Reduction in the amount of coal combustion products that must be disposed in landfills.
2.Net reduction in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions when fly ash is used to partly replace or
displace manufactured cement.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
113. Fly ash is becoming a popular construction material. What is/are the environmental benefits of fly ash
utilization in concrete?
1.Reduction in the amount of coal combustion products that must be disposed in landfills.
2.Net reduction in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions when fly ash is used to partly replace or
displace manufactured cement.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
Marine Organism
Plankton
204. Consider the following statements.
1. Plankton are responsible for about half of earth’s oxygen.
2. Plankton are the only known organisms that always swim against the ocean current.
Which of the statements given above is/are true?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
205. Highest concentration of plankton is found at
(A) Tropics (B) Sub-tropics
(C) Higher temperate latitudes (D) Polar regions
Phyto-plankton
206. What is the role of plankton in the marine ecosystem?
1. Establishing the foundation of food web of marine ecosystem
2. Absorbing atmospheric carbon dioxide into the ocean
Which of the above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
207. Phytoplankton are generally found in upper layers of ocean water due to
1. Absence of nutrients in deep ocean water
2. Sunlight abundance in top layers
3. Calm top layers of water due to absence of mixing between top and bottom layers
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 3 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 only (D) 2 and 3 only
208. The reduction in population of phytoplankton may reduce
1. The amount of carbon dioxide drawn out of the atmosphere
2. Amount of carbon transferred to the deep ocean for long-term storage
3. Number of fishes in the sea
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, and 3
Seagrass
209. Seagrass is crucial for maintaining a balance in the marine ecosystem. Which of these conditions
promote the growth of seaweeds?
1. Shallow coastal waters with high temperature
2. Sandy ocean bottoms and clear water
3. Ocean water frequently disturbed by strong waves and currents
Select the correct answer using the codes given as follows.
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1 and 3 only
210. Which one of the following statements about seagrasses is incorrect?
(A) These are flowering plants.
(B) They grow in near-shore waters, and are found around every continent.
(C) Seagrass habitats are commercially important due to their great productivity.
(D) They are the main diet for dugongs.
Seaweed
211. Seaweeds are potential natural fertilizers because
1. They are rich in soil nutrients and amino acids
2. They are not susceptiable to coastal pollution as they are found only in deep water.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
212. Seaweeds can be used for which of the following purposes?
1. Production of agar-agar
2. Extraction of iodine
3. Generation of commercially important methane
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 2 only (B) 1 and 3 only
(C) 1 only (D) 1, 2, and 3
Climate Change
213. Which of the following is/are important causes of long-term climate change?
1. Increase or decrease in number of sunspots
2. Milankovitch oscillations
Which of the above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
214. Consider the following statements in the context of climate change.
1. The 20 warmest years on record have been in the past 22 years, with 2015-18 making up
the top four.
2. Together, China, the USA, and India account for nearly 40% of the global greenhouse gas
emissions today.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
215. Consider the following statements.
1. Climate justice compels us to understand the challenges faced by those people and
communities most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
2. Climate justice informs how we should act to combat climate change.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both1and 2 (D) None
216. Consider the following statements.
1. Climate justice focuses attention on people, rather than greenhouse gases.
2. Climate justice entails planning for evacuation of climate refugees due to rising seas.
3. Climate Justice is a moral argument.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
217. Consider the following statements in the context of climate change.
1. 2014 is the hottest year on record, followed by 2015 and then 2016.
2. The increase in temperature in India over the long-term average is more than NASA’s
corresponding global figure.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
Global Warming
218. Some of the longer-term results of global warming can be
1. Coastal flooding
2. Increased incidence of tropical diseases
3. Disappearance of some ecological niches
4. Disruption of drinking water supplies
5. Increased frequency of tropical storms
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1, 3, and 5 only (B) 2, 4, and 5 only
(C) 1, 3, and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5
Greenhouse Effect
219. A greenhouse is made up of glass. What is the property of this glass?
(A) It is transparent to incoming short wave solar radiation and opaque to outgoing long wave
radiatio
(B) It is opaque to incoming short wave solar radiation and transparent to outgoing long wave
radiation.
(C) It is transparent to incoming long wave solar radiation and opaque to outgoing short wave
radiatio
(D) It is opaque to incoming long wave solar radiation and transparent to outgoing short wave
radiation.
220. During winter the vehicles with closed doors and windows remain warmer than the temperature
outside. This may be due to
(A) Greenhouse effect
(B) Heat conduction by metallic frame of vehicle
(C) Ionizing radiation effect
(D) High pollution outside the vehicle
Greenhouse Gases
221. Consider the following statements.
1. Tetrafluoromethane is a potent greenhouse gas.
2. Sulphur hexafluoride is the shortest living greenhouse gas in the troposphere and
stratosphere.
3. Recommendations for the use of perfluoroalkanes are included in the Kyoto Protocol.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 (D) 1 and 3 only
222. As per some reports, the Fashion industry, especially the synthetic fibres, may use up a quarter of
the world’s carbon budget by 2050. Which of the following is/are the major gases released in the
production of these synthetic fibres?
1. N2O
2. CO2
3. HFCs
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 2 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 (D) 1 and 3 only
223. Which among the following greenhouse gases has the longest lifecycle in the atmosphere?
(A) Water vapour (B) Nitrous oxide
(C) Methane (D) Sulfur hexafluoride
224. Which one of the following is NOT a greenhouse gas generated from rice paddy fields?
(A) Nitrous oxide (B) Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
(C) Methane (D) Carbon dioxide
Global Warming Potential
225. Global warming potential (GWP) is a measure of how much energy the emissions of one tonne of a
gas will absorb over a given period of time, relative to the emissions of one tonne of
(A) Methane (B) Nitrous oxide
(C) Ozone (D) Carbon dioxide
226. The total direct radiative greenhouse effect of methane is smaller than that of carbon dioxide due to
1. Lower concentration of methane in the atmosphere as compared to CO2
2. Lower direct radiative effect of a fixed mass of methane as compared to CO2
Which of the above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
Ozone Depletion
227. The amount of incoming ultraviolet radiation reaching the terrestrial and marine ecosystems is
dependent on which of the following factors?
1. Cloud cover in troposphere
2. Depth of water column in water bodies
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None of these above
228. Ozone biosensors are able to record damage to marine life due to being exposed by
(A) Quartz crystals (B) Ultraviolet rays
(C) Metastatic cells (D) Floating nanoparticles
229. The amount of incoming ultraviolet radiation reaching the terrestrial and marine ecosystems is
dependent on which of the following factors?
1. Cloud cover in troposphere
2. Amount of aerosols scattered in the atmospheric layers
3. Depth of water column in water bodies
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
230. Which among the following statements is incorrect?
(A) The ozone molecule is harmful to air quality in the troposphere.
(B) The ozone is a secondary pollutant.
(C) Ozone is the main ingredient in smog.
(D) Emissions from industrial facilities and electric utilities are some of the major sources of
ground level ozone.
231. Which of the following chemicals is associated with the depletion of the ozone layer?
(A) Nitrogen dioxide (B) Methane
(C) Halons (D) Potassium hydroxide
232. How ultraviolet (UV) radiation is harmful to terrestrial life?
1. It accelerates ageing of skin in humans.
2. It can kill phytoplankton in large numbers.
3. Plant proteins are adversely affected by UV radiation.
4. It may lead to harmful mutation of plant cells.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 and 4 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 2, and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3, and 4
233. Peak ground-level ozone concentrations are measured usually in which part of the day?
(A) Early morning (B) Afternoon
(C) Late evening (D) Midnight
234. Consider the following statements.
1. The ozone hole is caused due to reaction of chlorine monoxide and diatomic oxygen.
2. The ozone hole is produced when chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are hit by ultraviolet light.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
Chapter 17
Impact of Climate Change – India
235. Consider the following statements.
Assertion (A): Low lying coastal areas may be permanently submerged under water due to global
warming.
Reason (R): Glaciers melt at higher temperature and heat causes water to expand in volume.
In the context of the above, which of these is correct?
(A) A is correct, and R is an appropriate explanation of A.
(B) A is correct, but R is not an appropriate explanation of A.
(C) A is correct, but R is incorrect.
(D) Both A and R are incorrect.
236. Melting permafrost would
1. Increase carbon content in the atmosphere
2. Raise sea levels
3. Reduce soil erosion at higher latitudes
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 only 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 2 only (D) 1 and 3 only
237. As global temperature increases
1. Increased frequency of extreme events like drought will reduce crop production
2. Pest attacks may increase on crops
3. Acidification of oceans will disturb the marine food chain
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, and 3
238. Oil extraction in the Arctic may lead to the release of
1. Black carbon
2. Methane
3. Carbon monoxide
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 2 and 3 only (B) 2 only
(C) 1 and 2 only (D) 1 only
Agriculture and Food Security
239. Which of the following correctly assesses the impact of climate change on agriculture and food
security?
1. Crop yield may be reduced in most tropical and sub-tropical regions due to decreased
water availability.
2. Insect or pest incidence may increase leading to greater crop losses.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
Mitigation Strategies
240. Which of the following will reduce global warming in the short-term?
(A) Increased rice cultivation
(B) Greater promotion of cattle breeding in developing countries
(C) Melting of permafrost in the Arctic region
(D) Major and sustained volcanic explosions
241. Global temperature potential is, most appropriately, a measure of
(A) The relative impact of different greenhouse gases on the earth’s warming
(B) The cyclical impact of increasing global temperatures and rising instances of forest fires on
earth’s warming
(C) The impact of countries not following through on commitments made by them to reduce
carbon emissions
(D) None of the above
242. In which one of the following declarations/ conferences did the’Polluter Pays Principle’first emerge
(though not explicitly)?
(A) United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, 1972
(B) ‘Our Common Future’ report, 1987
(C) Rio Earth Summit, 1992
(D) UN Conference on Earth and Development, 2002
243. Halting deforestation and increasing green cover is a cost-effective action that has a clear impact on
reduction of global GHG emissions. Why?
1. When forests are cleared or degraded, they can become a source of GHG emissions by
releasing the stored carbon in biomass or soil.
2. Farms such as rice fields soak atmospheric methane and reduce the overall stock of CO2 in
the atmosphere.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) None
Carbon Sequestration
244. Artificial carbon sequestration can be achieved using
1. Sub-surface saline aquifers
2. Aging oil fields
3. Urban forestry
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 2 and 3 only (B) 3 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 (D) 1 and 2 only
245. Which of these ecosystems would sequester most carbon for a given unit of area?
(A) Saltmarsh (B) Mature tropical forests
(C) Grassland (D) Bare soil
246. The ‘CarbFix’ project in Iceland, recently in the news, aims to
(A) Accelerate the pace of incorporation of carbon into organic compounds by living
organisms
(B) Capture and convert carbon dioxide into stone forever
(C) Utilize carbon dioxide captured from air for the purpose of enhanced oil recovery
(D) Accelerate a naturally occurring process of carbon mineralisation in surface peridotite rocks
247. Ocean acts as a large carbon sink on earth due to
(A) Its large geographical coverage
(B) Rich population of phytoplankton and seagrass
(C) Difference in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide between seawater and air
(D) All of the above
248. Highest ‘carbon content’, among the following, will be found in
(A) Tropical rainforests (B) Atmosphere
(C) Ice in Antarctica (D) Oceans
249. Which among the following regions functions as the most effective ‘carbon sink’ and is also known as
the lungs of the earth?
(A) Savanna (B) Sahara region in Africa
(C) Tropical rainforests (D) Antarctica
250. Carbon Capture Utilization Storage (CCUS) is the process of
(A) Capturing waste carbon dioxide from large point sources and reusing it
(B) Redistributing captured carbon from storage in the atmosphere to mitigate de-calcification
in marine sources
(C) Generating carbon certificates from carbon-intensive activities and issuing them based on the
carbon footprint associated with each such activity
(D) Destroying atmospheric CO2 by way of electrostatic precipitators and storing the residue in
specialized storages
Geo-engineering
251. Which of the following is/are geo-engineering approaches to tackling climate change?
1. Dumping iron solution into the oceans to encourage plankton to bloom
2. Injection of sulphate aerosols into the atmosphere
3. Thinning down cirrus clouds of the upper troposphere
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
UNFCCC
252. Which of the following fund(s) is/are associated with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC)?
1. Green Climate Fund (GCF)
2. Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF)
3. Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1,2, and 3
253. Consider the following about the GCF.
1. GCF focuses on funding mitigation projects in developed countries only.
2. The G-20 countries are not the party members of the GCF.
3. It supports countries in fulfilling their Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs).
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a)1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only (d) 1 and 3 only
254. Which of the following has been accredited by the GCF as a national implementing entity for
undertaking climate change related projects in India?
(a) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
(b) National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)
(c) National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change
(d) Asian Development Bank (ADB)
255. The GCF has been established by the
(a) World Bank
(b) United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity
(c) UNFCCC
(d) Bonn Convention
256. With reference to the Conference of Parties (COP), consider the following statements.
1. It is the supreme decision-making body of the UNFCCC.
2. All states that are parties to the convention are represented at the COP.
3. COP reviews the implementation of the convention and any other legal instruments that the COP
adopts.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
257. Consider the following funds under UNFCCC and their parent management.
1. SCCF: Global Environment Facility
2. Adaptation Fund (AF): Green Environment Facility
3. LDCF: Kyoto Protocol
Select the correctly matched pairs using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1 and 3 only
258. The GCF is a fund within the framework of the
(a) Convention on Biological Diversity
(b) UNFCCC
(c) Montreal Convention
(d) IUCN
259. With reference to the UNFCCC consider the following statements.
1. It is the parent treaty of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol.
2. The framework sets binding limits on greenhouse gas emissions for individual countries.
3. It contains no enforcement mechanisms.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) land 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
260. Parties to the UNFCCC are classified as Annex I, Annex II, and Annex B countries. Consider the following
about them.
1. Annex I countries are industrially developed countries.
2. Annex II countries are required to provide financial and technical support to developing countries
for climate change mitigation.
3. Annex B countries are the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) or developing island economies.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) land 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
261. In climate change negotiations, the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) is NOT
based on
(a) Historical emission responsibility of developed nations
(b) Need of sustainable development in developing countries
(c) Principle of equity in international affairs
(d) It is based on all of the above
262. With reference to climate change financing, the principle of CBDR evolved from the notion of
1. Nature as the common heritage of mankind
2. Equity in international law
3. Difference in economic and technical capacity of nations to tackle climatechange
4. Historical differences in the contributions of developed and developing states in creating
environmental problems
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1and4only (b) 1and2only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1,2, 3, and 4
KYOTO Protocol
263. Consider the following about the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).
1. CDM allows industrialized countries to buy Certified Emission Reduction (CER) and to invest in
emission reductions in developing economies.
2. ‘Additionally’ is ignored as an assessment factor for qualifying projects under CDM.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
264. Which of the following amendments added new emission reduction targets for Second Commitment Period
(2012-20) of Kyoto Protocol?
(a) Doha Amendment (b) Cancun Amendment
(c) Singapore Amendment (d) New Delhi Amendment
265. The targets for the First Commitment Period of the Kyoto Protocol cover emissions of the six main
greenhouse gases. It did NOT include which of these gases?
(a) Methane (CH4) (b) Nitrous oxide (N20)
(c) Sulphur hexafluoride(SF0) (d) Carbon Monoxide (CO)
266. Consider the following statements.
1. A CER is generated from aCDM project activity.
2. CERs can be purchased only from the country that generated the emissions reduction potential.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
267. Under Joint Implementation, countries with commitments are eligible to transfer and/or acquire emission
reduction units (ERUs) and use them to meet part of their emission reduction target. This has been
provided for under the
(a) Paris Climate Accord (b) Montreal Protocol
(c) Kyoto protocol
(d) Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (LRTAP)
REDD AND REDD+
268. Consider the following statements.
1. REDD+ is a mechanism jointly developed by the UNEP and the World Bank.
2. REDD+ incentivizes developing countries to keep their forest standing by offering result based
payments for actions to reduce or remove forest carbon emissions.
3. The World Resources Institute (WRI) established Global Forest Watch in 1997 as part of the Forest
Frontier Initiative.
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
269. Consider the following statements.
1. Wood is a major renewable energy resource.
2. REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) is a climate change
mitigation programme developed by the US Agency for International Development and India’s
Environment Ministry.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
270. The United Nations Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (or UN-
REDD Programme) is a collaborative programme of the
1. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
2. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
3. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
4. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) land2only (b) 3and4only
(c) 1 and 4 only (d) 1,3, and 4 only
Global Environment Facility_
271. TrendsEarth, a tool developed by the Conservation International and funded by the Global Environment
Facility (GEF), concerns which among the following issues?
(a) Land degradation (b) Species extinction
(c) Plastic pollution (d) Methane emissions
272. The Global Wildlife Programme aims to promote wildlife conservation and sustainable development by
(a) Protecting keystone species
(b) Accelerating national afforestation projects in Asia, Africa, and South America
(c) Combating illicit trafficking in wildlife
(d) Studying which wildlife species need to thrive
273. GEF serves as a financial mechanism for the following conventions/protocols
1. UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
2. Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
3. Minamata Convention on Mercury Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1,2, and 3 (d) 1 only
274. The Sustainable Land and Ecosystem Management (SLEM) Programme is a joint initiative of the
Government of India and the GEF. What is/are the objectives of SLEM?
1. To promote sustainable land management and use of biodiversity
2. To maintain the capacity of ecosystems to deliver goods and services while taking into account
climate change
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
275. The Union Government signed the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Grant Agreement of the World
Bank for Ecosystem Service Improvement Project. It has which of the following objectives?
1. Improve the livelihoods of forest dependent communities
2. Strengthen the institutional capacity of the community organizations and departments of forestry
to enhance forest ecosystem services
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
276. Consider the following statements.
1. The Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF) was established under the UNFCCC to finance projects
relating to adaptation, technology transfer, and capacity building.
2. Developed countries are contributing to the Fast-start Finance (FSF) as a step towards mobilizing
US$1 trillion per year from public and private sources by 2020.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
277. With reference to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), consider the following
statements.
1. It was created in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP).
2. The IPCC does not conduct its own research.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
278. Consider the following statements.
1. As per the recently released Special Report on Global Warming of 1.50C, India could annually
experience conditions like the 2015 heat wave if the average global temperature rises by more than
10C from the present.
2. The Paris Climate Pact calls for efforts to be pursued to limit the temperature increase to 1.50C
above pre-industrial levels.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
279. In order to limit global warming to 1.5°C, the Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C sets which
of the following targets?
1. By 2030 global emissions must decline by 45% from 2010 levels
2. By 2040 global net zero emissions must be achieved
3. By 2050 renewables must provide up to 85% of global electricity
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
280. With reference to key takeaways from the Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C released recently,
consider the following statements.
1. Limiting warming to 1.5°C brings a lot of benefits compared with limiting it to2°C.
2. Rapid and far-reaching changes must take place in energy generation, land use, cities and industry
to limit warming to 1.5°C
3. As opposed to previous approaches of IPCC’s study of warming, this report clearly links lifestyle
choices with warming.
Which of the statements given above is/arecorrect?
(a) land 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) land 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
281. The idea of an apparent pause In temperature rise between 1998 and 2014 had gained support in recent
years with even the IPCC In 2013 largely endorsing the findings. However, a number of studies in
recent times have found there has been no such pause. Which one of the following is the primary
reason cited by researchers for their contrarian conclusion?
(a) Better models have been developed in recent times to fill the gap in data of ocean temperatures
that was hitherto insufficiently measured from the Eastern Hemisphere.
(b) Global warming has taken the form of Increased glacial and ice melt in the past two decades,
acting as a veil for the rise in temperature.
(c) Ocean buoys used to measure sea temperatures, tend to report slightly cooler temperatures than
the older ship-based systems.
(d)Temperature measurements from the older ship-based systems continued to be utilized to develop
the ma\n global climate models, even as technologically advanced ocean buoys were deployed for
improved accuracy.
282. The IPCC is a scientific and intergovernmental body under the
(a) Auspices of the United Nations
(b) Conservation International NGO
(c) World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
(d) Climate division of IUCN
Miscellaneous
283. Consider the following statements regarding ‘Mobilize Your City Initiative!
1. It was launched as a part of COP 21 UNFCCC Paris Climate Conference.
2. It seeks to provide support to 100 cities worldwide in 3 years to engage in sustainable urban mobility
planning to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
3. India is one of the very first countries to benefit from this initiative.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 2 only (b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1only (d) 1,2, and 3
284. The C40 Cities group is an umbrella organization that coordinates the climate change activities of 96 major
urban centres around the world. Indian cities that are part of this network include
1. Mumbai
2. Bengaluru
3. Kolkata
4. Chennai
5. Delhi
6. Jaipur
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1,3,4, and 5 only (b) 2,4, and 6 only
(c) 1,2, 3,4, 5, and 6 (d) None of the above
285. As per IUCN, what are the defining characteristics of Indigenous and Community Conserved Areas (ICCAs)?
1. A community is closely connected to this well-defined ecosystem.
2. The area is untouched by human civilization other than the local indigenous communities.
3. The community is the major player in decision-making (governance) and implementation regarding
the management of the site.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) lonely
286. International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)
1. Is a non-profit organization
2. Provides hands-on assistance to animals
3. Campaigns to end commercial whaling
4. Was founded by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 and 4only (b) 2 and 3only
(c) 1,2,and3only (d) 2and4only
287. The Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM)is
1. A high-level global forum to share lessons learnt and best practices for the transition to a global
clean energy economy
2. An initiative of the World Trade Organization (WTO)
3. Financing Green Carbon Credits (GCC) allotted to the Least Developed Countries (LDCs)
4. The main implementing agency for the programs of the United Nations Environment Programme
(UNEP)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1,2, and 3only (b) 2and4only
(c) 1 only (d) 2,3, and 4only
288. The main foci of the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) are
1. Observing changes in the components of the Earth system
2. Developing and improving numerical models that are capable of simulating and assessing the
climate system
3. Investigating the sensitivity of the climate system to natural and human-induced forces
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 2and3only (b) 1 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
289. United Nations High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) was established as a result
of the mandate in
(a) Rio 20 Conference, 2012
(b) UN Conference on the Human Environment (Stockholm 1972)
(c) Convention on Biological Diversity (1992)
(d) Paris Conference, 2014
290. Which of the following issues are covered by the United Nations Convention on the Law of Seas
(UNCLOS)?
1. Laws and regulations of the coastal state relating to innocent passage
2. Sea lanes and traffic separation schemes in the territorial sea
3. Immunities of warships and other government ships operated for non-commercial purposes
4. Submarines and other underwater vehicles Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 and 4 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2,3, and 4
291. The first World Parliamentary Forum on Sustainable Development was hosted by
(a) UNEP
(b) World Economic Forum (WEP)
(c) Indonesian House of Representatives
(d) Senate of the United States of America
292. The objective of the National Carbonaceous Aerosols Programme (NCAP) is to
1. Prepare inventory of the carbonaceous aerosols including black carbon
2. Study the impact of aerosols on regional and global climate
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
293. The New Urban Agenda is an important outcome document agreed upon at the
(a) Paris Climate Conference, 2016 (b) Addis Ababa Climate Conference, 2014
(c) Habitat III Cities Conference, 2016
(d) United Nations Climate Change Conference, 2015
294. The blue label certification granted by the Marine Stewardship Council essentially depicts that the seafood
that is labelled blue is
(a) Seafood extracted in a sustainable and eco-friendly way
(b) Legally extracted from international waters
(c) The most exotic seafood available in the international market
(d) Safe for human consumption
295. The Restoration Opportunities Assessment Methodology (ROAM), produced by IUCN and the World
Resources Institute (WRI)
1. Provides a flexible and affordable frame work for countries to rapidly identify analyses areas th.it
.ire primed for forest lands ape restoration (FIR)
2. Gives a method for I nvlronment.il Impact Assessment (IIA) for developing countries that are parties
to the Convention or) Rio logical Diversity (CRD) only
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
296. Consider the following statements.
1. Circumarctic Environmental Observatories Network (CEON) is a network of terrestrial and freshwater
observation platforms, science experts, and network partners.
2. CEON promotes the collection and dissemination of environmental data from the Arctic.
3. CEON is located hundred feet underneath the thick layer of Arctic Sea.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) land 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
297. The Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) is a/an
(a) WingoftheUNEP
(b) Alliance of private organizations and think tanks that links developing countries with experts on
climate change
(c) Inter-governmental organization established at the Kigali Meet of the Conference of Parties (COP)
to the UNFCCC
(d) Non-governmental organization established bythelUCN
298. The initiative ‘Future Earth’ was launched in
(a) Cancun Declaration, 2016—to the Convention on Biological Diversity
(b) First Earth Summit
(c) Rio 20 Summit, 2012
(d) Bali Climate Change Conference, 2007
299. The ‘Transformative Carbon Asset Facility (TCAF)’that would help developing countries pay for
emission reductions, was launched by
(a) World Hank (b) UNFCCC
(c) WWI (d) UNEP
300. Consider the following statements.
1. Bio Carbon Fund Initiative for Sustainable Forest Landscapes, (ISFL) promotes reducing GHG
emissions from the land sector by helping tackle forest degradation.
2. The Carbon initiative for Development (Ci-Dev), managed by WWF, helps the world’s poorest
countries access carbon finance, mainly in the area of energy access.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
301. ‘Green Good Deeds’ campaign, recently in news, has been launched by
(a) WWF-lndia
(b) Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change
(c) Greenpeace India
(d) Conservation International - India Chapter
302. Operation IceBridge is a 2009-18 NASA mission that aims to
1. Monitor changes in polar ice from a satellite
2. Create physical underground networks for clutter-free movement on frozen surfaces
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
303. Consider the following statements.
1. Green Initiatives for Future Transport (GIFT) aims to develop and demonstrate hydro gen powered
IC engine and fuel cell based vehicles.
2. Green Initiative for Power Generation (GIP) envisages developing fusion reactors for supplying on
grid power to the metropolitan areas.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
304. The scope of World Climate Services Programme (WCSP) includes
1. Climate data and analysis
2. Climate adaptation and risk management
3. Climate mitigation finance
4. Climate monitoring and prediction Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) land2only (b) land4only
(c) 1,2, and 4 only (d) 1,3, and 4 only
305. The Global Carbon Project (GCP) seeks to
1. Quantify global carbon emissions and their causes
2. Sequester global carbon generation using geo-engineering
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
National Wildlife Action Plan_
306. The National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP) for 2017-31 adopts alandscape approachto conserve wildlife.
What does this approach mean?
1. Conserving all the wildlife rather than the areas where specific wildlife occurs
2. Focusing on conservation of wildlife by establishing smaller national parks and sanctuaries
3. Doing away with the system of reserved forests
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1,2, and 3
National Afforestation and Eco-Development
307. The main roles and functions of the National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board (NAEB)
include
1. Financing and overseeing the compensatory afforestation work
2. Rehabilitating and resettling communities displaced by deforestation for developmental works
3. Sponsoring research and extension of research findings to disseminate new technologies for the
regeneration and development of degraded forests
Select the correct answer using the codesgiven below.
(a) land 2 only (b) 3 only
(c) land 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only
CAMPA
308. Compensatory Afforestation Funds have been established only under the
(a) Public Account of each state
(b) Public Account of India and of each state
(c) Consolidated Fund of each state
(d) Consolidated Fund of India and of each state
309. Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) was established
(a) On the directions of the Supreme Court in 2009
(b) By a UNEP Project in India in 2012
(c) With India’s accession to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
(d) After the ratification of the Cartagena and Nagoya protocols
National Clean Energy Fund_
310. Consider the following about the ‘National Clean Energy Fund’ (NCEF).
1. It was constituted in the Public Account of India.
2. It invests in entrepreneurial ventures and innovative projects in the field of clean energy technology.
3. The fund does not receive any government assistance and is funded entirely from clean energy
cess.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1,2, and 3
311. With reference to the NCEF, consider the following statements.
1. The fund is designed as a non-lapsable fund under the Public Account of India.
2. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approves all the projects under the fund.
3. Any project or scheme relating to innovative methods to adopt clean energy technology and R&D
are eligible for funding under the NCEF.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only
National Green Tribunal_
312. Members of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) are chosen by a selection committee headed by
(a) Minister of Law and Justice
(b) Sitting judge of the Supreme Court of India
(c) Minister of Environment, Forests and Climate Change
(d) Cabinet Secretary
313. Matters related to which of the following acts can be adjudicated by the NGT?
1. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
2. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
3. Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
Miscellaneous
314. With reference to the ECOMARK Scheme, consider the following statements.
1. It is issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to products conforming to a set of standards
aimed at the least impact on the ecosystem.
2. An earthen pot has been chosen as the logo for the label.
3. The Central Pollution Control Board has become the member of Global Eco-label-ling Network
(GEN).
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1,2, and 3
315. With reference to the ‘National Nature Camps Programme’, consider the following statements.
1. It is an initiative of Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change.
2. It is aimed at creating greater awareness, understanding, and empathy of children with and for the
environment.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
316. Consider the following about The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).
1. It is the research arm of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change.
2. Oil zapper technology for bio-remediation of oily sludge and oil spills was developed byTERI.
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
317. Wildlife Trust of India is
1. Credited with recovering population of critically endangered species, translocation of species,
reduction of human-animal conflict, rescue, and rehabilitation of animals like elephants, tigers,
leopards, one-horned rhinos, and bears
2. A registered charity in India
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 2 only (d) None
318. Consider the following statements about PARIVESH.
1. It is an environmental single-window hub for environment, forest, and wildlife clearances.
2. The system has been designed, developed, and hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and
Climate Change.
3. Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearances are absent.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) land2only (b) 2and3 only
(c) land3only (d) 1,2,and3
319. Consider the following statements.
1. National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) is the implementation wing of the National Ganga Council
2. NMCG is a statutory authority.
3. NMCG is authorized to approve projects for cleaning Ganga.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 only (d) 2 and 3 only
320. National Water Development Agency (NWDA) carries out which of these functions?
1. Conducts detailed surveys and investigations of possible reservoir sites and interconnecting links
for peninsular rivers
2. Monitors, regulates, and controls water flows between inter-state river basin embankments
3. Assesses groundwater potential in the country and makes adequate arrangements for exploration
of groundwater
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
321. Consider the following about TERI.
1. It is a non-profit policy research organization.
2. It is an attached agency of the International Centre for Climate Governance (ICCG).
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None
322. Consider the following about the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) in India.
1. It is a not-for-profit public interest research and advocacy organization.
2. It provides grants to Central Universities for research in ecology and zoology.
3. It publishes ‘Down to Earth’ magazine on a regular basis.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1 and 2 only
323. Which of these environmental/survey related organizations was established after India’s Independence?
(a) Forest Survey of India (FSI) (b) Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
(c) Botanical Survey of India (BSI) (d) Geological Survey of India (GSI)
324. What are the primary functions of BSI?
1. Publication of national, state, and district floras
2. Survey and documentation of traditional knowledge and ethno-botany, associated with plants
3. In-situ conservation of critically threatened species in botanical gardens
4. Identification of threatened and red list species and species rich areas needing conservation
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1,2,and3only (b) 1,2,and4only
(c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1 and 3 only
325. The Long Term Ecological Observatories (LTEO) programme of the Ministry of Environment, Forests
and Climate Change
1. Aims to understand the biophysical and anthropogenic drivers of ecosystem change in the selected
biomes
2. Focuses on establishing international observatories linked through a common ecoentre to assess
the impact of climate change on global biodiversity
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None Consider the following statements.
1. To undertake, aid, promote, and coordinate forestry education, research and their applications.
2. To develop and maintain a national library and information centre for forestry and allied sciences.
3 To act as a clearing-house for research and general information related to forests and wildlife.
The above are the objectives of the
(a) ENVIS Portal of the MoEFCC
(b) Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE)
(c) Wildlife Institute of India (Wll)
(d) FSI
326. Facility for Low Carbon Technology Deployment (FLCTD) aims to promote innovation of low-carbon
technologies and its deployment in which of these sectors of the Indian economy?
(a) Agriculture
(b) Hospitality and Tourism
(c) Industrial and other related sectors
(d) Import-export
327. Conservation and management of wetlands in India is primarily vested with the
(a) Central Government
(b) State/UT government
(c) Local government
(d) Ramsar Convention-India Chapter
328. ECOLEX isa/an
(a) Information service on environmental law
(b) Global ecological patents system
(c) Newly developed phytosanitary standard of WTO
(d) International NGO that protects the rights of communities who are ecologically vulnerable
329. Consider the following statements.
1. The Oil and Gas Climate Initiative (OGCI) is an inter-governmental initiative as a part of the post-
Paris agenda.
2. OGCI is under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
3. OGCI serves as a platform to collaboratively advance technological solutions for meaningful action
on climate change.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 2 only (b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1,2, and 3
General Studies & Engineering Aptitude Answer Keys
330. Consider the following statements regarding the generation of biomass energy:
1. It is generated from organic material, plant or animal waste.
2. It is easily available.
3. Biomass boilers are less expensive than gas or oil boilers.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 1 and 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
331. Consider the following statements regarding solar energy:
1. To encourage the adoption of solar energy production, many State Governments and the
Centre have announced plans by way of buy back as well as subsidies for installation.
2. Land acquisition of several hectares is a bottleneck in implementing this programme.
3. Considerable R & D effort is needed to bring down the cost of P-V cells.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) 1 land 2 only (B) 1 land 3 only
(C) 1,2 and 3 (D) 2 and 3 only
332. Which one of the following statements is correct?
(A) The end product of fossil fuels is in the form of electrical energy.
(B) Watershed protection increases the rate of surface runoff of water.
(C) If timber is overharvested, the ecological functions of the forest are improved.
(D) Rivers change their course during floods and lots of fertile soils are lost to the sea.
333. Statement (I): Increased cloud cover will lead to warmer winters due to clouds reflecting more
intense solar energy.
Statement (II): Overcast cloud conditions result in decrease in the day-night temperature
difference.
(A) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true and Statement (II) is the
correct explanation of Statement (I)
(B) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true but Statement (II) is not the
correct explanation of Statement (I)
(C) Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false
(D) Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true
334. Consider the following statements regarding Insolation:
1. It is the solar radiation that reaches the Earth’s surface.
2. It is measured by the amount of solar energy received per square centimeter per minute.
3. It is the amount of solar energy absorbed by the stratosphere.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) 1, 2 and 3 (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 2 and 3 only
335. Statement (I): Green energy refers to one which does not harm the ecosystem of planet Earth.
Statement (II): All renewable energy is green energy.
(A) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true and Statement (II) is the correct
explanation of statement (I)
(B) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true but Statement (II) is not correct
explanation of Statement (I)
(C) Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false
(D) Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true
336. What are the limitations of solar energy?
1. Collecting solar energy over large areas and converting it to other forms that can be
convenient!, transported, stored and used in existing equipment is not economical.
2. Low density of solar energy as compared to coal, oil and gas.
3. Its major applications are photothermal conversion, solar water heating, green housing
technology’ and photo voltaic conversion.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 3 (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 2 and 3 only
337. What are the advantages of Biomass as a source of energy?
1. Its storage and transportation is possible
2. It is ecologically safe and is inoffensive
3. Can be developed with present man and material abilities
4. Low capital input required
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (B) 1, 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 3 and 4 only (D) 2, 3 and 4 only
338. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles produce which of the following as exhaust?
(A) NH3 (B) CH4
(C) H2O (D) H2O2
339. With reference to technologies for solar power production, consider the following statements:
1. Photovoltaics is a technology that generates electricity by direct conversion of light
into electricity.
2 Photovoltaics generates alternating current (AC), while Solar Thermal generates direct
current (DC).
3. India has manufacturing base for Solar Thermal technology, but not for Photovoltaics.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 (D) None of these
340. Consider the following statements regarding ‘biogas’:
1. This is a mixture of different gases which is formed after breakdown of an organic
compound.
2. This is produced by decomposition by fungi and algae in an open system where
sufficient oxygen supply is available.
3. This gas can be also compressed same like CNG and used for energy needs.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) All of the above
341. Both power and manure are provided by
(A) nuclear plants (B) biomass plants
(C) tidal plants (D) hydroelectric plants
342. Consider the following statements regarding solar panel:
1. It has high maintenance cost.
2. It has no moving parts.
3. It provides pollution free, noiseless energy.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
343. The value of Solar Constant is
(A) 140 Wm-2 (B) 1.4 Wm-2
(C) 1.4 kWm-2 (D) 1.4 MWm-2
344. The main constituent of CNG is
(A) Methane (B) Butane
(C) Ethane (D) Propane+Butane
345. Consider the following statements regarding REN 21:
1. REN 21 is the global multi-stakeholder network to assist governments and other
institutions regarding renewable energy policy.
2. It is an international non-profit association and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
346. Consider the following statements regarding renewable energy resources:
1. These are the sources which can be renewed by nature again and again.
2. These are the sources whose supply isn’t affected by rate of their consumption.
3. These sources are exhaustible
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) All of the above
347. Consider the following statements regarding hydro power:
1. An impoundment facility of hydro power plant generally uses a dam to store water in a
reservoir.
2. Run-of-river facility of hydro power plant captures the kinetic energy in rivers or
streams, without a large reservoir and sometimes without the use of dams.
3. Small hydro power (SHP) plant is defined as any hydro power project which has an
installed capacity of less than 50 MW.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
469. Consider the following statements regarding Green Public Procurement (GPP):
1. It is an effective means for public administrations to manage the balance
between cost effectiveness and sustainable development.
2. GPP is a voluntary instrument which has a key role to play in the European
Union’s efforts to become a more resource-efficient and circular economy.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
470. Consider the following statements regarding objectives of National Mission on Sustainable
Habitat:
1. To reduce energy demand by promoting alternative technologies and energy
conservation practices in both residential and commercial areas.
2. To encourage community involvement and dialogue for sustainable development.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
EES
471. As per Noise pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000 of India, the day time noise limit for a
residential zone expressed in dB (A) Leq is_____________
(a) 54 (b) 55 (c) 57
(d) 60
472. The permitted noise level in a silent zone during day time and night time are respectively:
(a) 65dB and 55dB (b) 55dB and 50dB
(c) 70dB and 60dB (d) 50dB and 40dB
473. The 20dB noise level is how many times more powerful than the 1dB noise level?
(a) 10 times (b) 20 times (c) 100 times
(d) 200 times
474. Biodiversity in India is governed through the following act
(a) The Biological Diversity Act, 1992
(b) The Biological Diversity Act, 2000
(c) The Biological Diversity Act, 2002
(d) The Biological Diversity Act, 2004
475. The Paris accords legally bound its signatories collectively to limit greenhouse gas emissions to keep
the temperature rise “well below| ……… degrees Celsius this century.
(a) 1.5 (b) 2 (c) 2.5
(d) 3
476. Paris Accord was agreed to in ________?
(a) 2010 (b) 2015 (c) 2017
(d) 2020
477. Which of the following expresses the meaning of Environment Management System?
(a) It is statutory need of the organisation
(b) It is obligation of the institute for environment
(c) It is a system and database
(d) None of these
478. Which of the following is related to Environment Management System?
(a) ISO 9000 (b) ISO 9001
(c) ISO 14000 (d) ISO 14001
479. Which of the following is NOT the stage of Environment Management System?
(a) Planning (b) Implementation
(c) Evaluation (d) Scheduling
480. Which of the following is not one of the basic elements of Environment Management System?
(a) Analysing its environmental impacts
(b) Reviewing the organization’s environmental goals
(c) Setting environmental objectives
(d) Penalising the organisations for their non commitments
481. The Biodiversity Act creates the following authority
(a) National Biodiversity Authority
(b) National Green Tribunal
(c) Indian Biodiversity Commission
(d) National Biodiversity Commission
482. What is CoP?
(a) Convergence of the Parties (b) Convergence of the People
(c) Conference of the People (d) Conference of the Parties
483. The body responsible for international environmental agreement is
(a) UNEP (b) UNSC (c) UNFCCC (d) UN
484. UNEP was established by
(a) Maurice Strong (b) Janathon Curie
(c) Marie Hard (d) Paul Strong
513. Which of the following is/are advantage(s) of most of the renewable energy sources?
1. Less polluting
2. Low waste disposal cost
3. Unreliable supply
4. Low running cost
Codes:
(a) 1 & 2 only (b) 2 & 4 only
(c) 1, 2 & 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 & 4
514. Choose the correct statement for Bioaugmentation and Bio-stimulation
(a) Bioaugmentation is the use of nutrients, electron acceptors etc to stimulate naturally occurring
microbial population whereas bio-stimulation is the process of adding microorganism to enhance bio-
stimulation process
(b) Bio-stimulation, in incorporation of oxygen through soil where as Bio-stimulation is in corporation
of microbes to enhance Bioaugmentation process
(c) Bioaugmentation is use of plants to remove metals in water while Bio-stimulation is addition of
base/acid in order to maintain a pH of 6.5-7.5
(d) Bioaugmentation is process of adding microbes to enhance bio degradation process and Bio-
stimulation is the process of adding nutrients electron accepter etc to stimulate naturally occurring
microbial population.
515. _______is the reduction of the environmental impact from the production and consumption of these
goods, from final raw material extraction to use and disposal.
(a) Waste hierarchy (b) Resource efficiency
(c) Polluter pays principle (d) Zero waste
516. Consider the following statements regarding the pollutants
1. Lead can lead to the Damage to brain and central nervous system, kidneys and brains, impaired
intelligence and interference with development of RBCs
2. Thermal power plants and industries are the major source of SO2 release into the atmosphere
3. SO2 can lead to Eye and throat irritation cough, allergies, impairs enzyme function in respiratory
system
4. Mercury can lead to Nervous disorders, insomnia, memory loss, gingivitis and Minamata disease
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
517. Which of the following is not the objective of Ministry of Environment, Forest and climate change?
(a) Ensuring the welfare of animals
(b) Afforestation and regeneration of degraded areas
(c) Prevention and control of pollution
(d) Prevention of volcanic eruptions
518. The concept of carbon credit originated from which one of the following?
(a) Earth Summit Rio de Janerio (b) Kyoto Protocol
(c) Montreal Protocol (d) G-8 Summit, Heiligendamm
519. Treeless terrestrial biome of cold climate is
(a) Taiga (b) Tundra
(c) Savanna (d) Plankton
520. The transition zone between two communities is known as
(a) Ecotone (b) Territory
(c) Ecosystem (d) Biome
521. The presence of diversity at the junction of territories of two different habitats is known as
(a) Edge effect (b) Junction effect
(c) Boarder effect (d) Side effect
522. Kyoto Protocol, held in 1997 at Japan’s historical city Kyoto, which of the following facts about Kyoto
Protocol are correct:-
(1) It sets legally binding targets related to climate change.
(2) During second commitment Period (2013-20), Parties committed to reduce GHG emissions by at
least 19% below 1990 levels.
(3) International Emissions Trading (Carbon trading) was proposed at Kyoto Meet only
(4) USA withdrew from Kyoto Protocol in 2012
(a) 1 & 2 (b) 2, 3 & 4 (c) 4 only (d) 1, 2 & 3
523. Pre-cursors to photochemical oxidants are:
(a) Nox, VOCs and sunlight (b) SO2, CO2 and sunlight
(c) H2S, CO and sunlight (d) SO2, NH3 and sunlight
524. Vienna convention took place in which year
(a) 1985 (b) 1972 (c) 1975 (d) 1995
525. The Government of India has set a target of 175 GW renewable power installed capacity by the end of
2022. Which of the following is the correct sequence in the descending order of contribution expected
from various sectors?
(a) Biomass powers, solar power, wind power
(b) Solar power, wind power, biomass power
(c) Wind power, solar power, biomass power
(d) Solar power, biomass power, wind power
526. Extinction of a species in a food chain is compensated by
(a) Food chain (b) Ecological pyramid
(c) Food web (d) None of these
527. Which of the following statements is incorrect?
(a) The Great Barrier Reef along the east coast of Australia can be categorized as a Biome
(b) In a comparative study of grassland ecosystem and pond ecosystem it may be observed that both
biotic and abiotic components are similar
(c) The term ecosystem was coined by A.G. TANSLEY
(d) None of the above
528. Which one of the following is one of the characteristics of a biological community?
(a) Stratification (b) Natality (c) Mortality (d) Sex ratio
529. Both power the manure are provided by
(a) Nuclear plants (b) Biomass plants
(c) Tidal plants (d) Hydroelectric plants
530. Sustainable Development Goals are to be achieved by
(a) 2025 (b) 2030 (c) 2035 (d) 2050
531. Consider the following statements regarding ‘biogas’:
1. This is a mixture of different gases which is formed after breakdown of organic compounds.
2. This gas can be compressed and used for energy needs.
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) 1 & 2 (d) None of these
532. Consider the following statements regarding objectives of National Mission on Sustainable Habitat:
1. Better urban planning and modal shift to public transport
2. Conservation through appropriate changes in legal and regulatory framework
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 & 2
(d) neither 1 nor 2
533. Which of the following is/are objectives of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA):
1. Conservation and sustainable use of natural resources
2. To assess the nature, intensity and duration of impact of proposed development projects
3. To promote social and cultural considerations in project design
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 & 2 (b) 2 only (c) 1 & 3 only (d) All of above
534. Assertion: Geothermal energy is heat energy generated inside the earth
Reasoning: Geothermal energy of earth’s crust originates from the original formation of the planet
and from radioactive decay of material.
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
535. Which of the following is main objective of creation of National Green Tribunal?
(a) To protect environment
(b) To ensure implementation of environmental laws
(c) To provide speedy justice to reduce burden of litigation in higher courts
(d) all of these
536. Who can be chairperson of National Green Tribunal?
(a) Sitting Judge of Supreme Court
(b) Sitting Chief Justice of Supreme court
(c) Retired Chief Justice of Supreme Court
(d) Retired Judge of Supreme Court
537. Which of the following statements is not true with regard to the Environment (Protection) Act?
(a) It is an enabling law
(b) It sets the standards for emission or discharge of environmental pollutants.
(c) It provides powers to the executive to frame various rules and regulations
(d) It authorizes the central government to protect and improve environmental quality.
538. Consider the following statements:
1. National Green Tribunal is a statutory body to undertake expeditious disposal of the cases pertaining
to environmental issues
2. All the members of the National Green Tribunal are chosen by the President in consultation with
the council of ministers.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) both 1 & 2 (d) neither 1 nor 2
539. With reference to two non-conventional energy sources called ‘coalbed methane’ and ‘shale gas’,
consider the following statements:
1. Coalbed methane is the pure methane gas extracted from coal seams, while shale gas is a mixture
of propane and butane only that can be extracted from fine-grained sedimentary rocks.
2. In India, abundant coalbed methane sources exist, but so far no shale gas sources have been found.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1only (b) 2 only
(c) both 1 & 2 (d) neither 1 nor 2
540. Algal bloom is an example of
(a) Ammensalism (b) Antagonism
(c) Synergism (d) Competition
541. What is a Geo-net
(a) A synthetic material used for drainage of liquids
(b) A synthetic material used for drainage of gases
(c) A ceramic material used for drainage of liquids
(d) A fibrous material used for drainage of liquids
542. Which of following subjects fall under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change?
(a) Bio-diversity Conservation including that of lakes and wetlands
(b) Environmental Health
(c) Green Skill Development Programme
(d) All of the above
543. Statement-1: Kyoto Protocol and Vienna Convention are both related to ozone depletion substances
(ODS)
Statement-2: Ozone depletion will affect human body by enhancing the chances of skin cancer.
Which of the above statement (s) is/are correct?
(a) Only S1 (b) Only S2
(c) Both S1 & S2 (d) None
544. Corals are useful to mankind in many ways, which of the following statement is incorrect?
(a) They are home to more than 25% of all known Marine species
(b) If corals are colourful, it means that there is a pollution problem
(c) Fisheries, tourism, medicines etc are benefits of corals to mankind
(d) They protect nearby shoreline area from erosion
545. The biomass available for consumption by the herbivores is called
(a) Net primary productivity (b) Secondary productivity
(c) Standing crop (d) Gross primary productivity
546. The greatest biomass of autotrophs in the world’s oceans is that of
(a) Benthic brown algae, coastal red algae and daphnids
(b) Benthic diatoms and marine viruses
(c) Sea grasses and slime moulds
(d) Free floating micro algae, cyanobacteria and nanoplanktons.
547. Energy storage at consumer level is called
(a) Gross primary productivity (b) Secondary productivity
(c) Net primary productivity (d) Net productivity
548. The ecological niche of population is a
(a) Geographical area that it covers (b) Place where it lives
(c) Set of conditions and resource it uses (d) None of the above
549. Which of the following is NOT correct related to Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)?
(a) It is multilateral treaty
(b) It entered into force in 1993
(c) It deals with sharing of benefits from genetic resources
(d) It has mentioned some sustainable developmental goals.
550. Ocean thermal energy conversion produces electricity using difference in
(a) Temperature (b) Sunlight
(c) Salinity (d) None of these
551. Consider the following statements about monitoring:
1. It ensures the fulfilment of all the commitments made in the approved Environmental Impact
Assessment.
2. It keeps track of changes that may happen in environment and communities because of the project.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) both 1 & 2 (d) neither 1 nor 2
552. Consider the following statements regarding International Solar Alliance (ISA):
1. It was launched at the Conference of Parties (CoP 21) in Paris, France.
2. It most of the members are the countries lying on or within the tropics.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 & 2 (d) None of these
553. A systematic process for evaluating the environmental implications of a proposed policy, plan or
programme and provides means for looking at cumulative effects and appropriately address them at
the earliest stage of decision making alongside economic and social considerations is known as
(a) Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) (b) EIA
(c) Policy assessment (d) None of the above
554. Biomass gasification is considered to be one of the sustainable solutions to the power crisis in India.
In this context, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Coconut shells, groundnut shells and rice husk can be used in biomass gasification.
2. The combustible gases generated from biomass gasification consist of hydrogen and CO2 only
3. The combustible gases generated from biomass gasification can be used for direct heat generation
but not in internal combustion engines.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1only (b) 2 & 3 only
(c) 1 & 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
555. How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?
1. The NGT has been established by act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of
the government.
2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the Higher
Courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells, and aims to improve the quality
of air in the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) both 1 & 2 (d) neither 1 nor 2
556. Which of the following statements is correct regarding Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), 1994?
(a) Responsibility of implementation of EIA notification lies with Ministry of Environment, Forests and
climate change
(b) EIA notification is applicable to all states and Union Territories
(c) Schedule 1 of the guidelines lists the projects requiring environmental clearances
(d) All of the above
557. Consider the following statements regarding Strategic Environment Assessment:
1. It takes place at earlier stages of decision-making cycle.
2. It considers limited number of feasible alternatives.
Which of the above statements is//are correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) both 1 & 2 (d) neither 1 nor 2
558. Which of the following is not the advantage of EIA?
(a) Reduced environmental damage (b) Improved project design
(c) Improved income to Environmental agencies (d) Environmentally sensitive decisions.
559. Deforestation generally reduces which one of the following natural phenomena
(a) Draught (b) Rainfall
(c) Soil erosion (d) Global warming
SOLUTIONS
1. The answer is (a).
Justification: Statement 1:Biosphere is that part of the earth where life can exist. A narrow layer
around the surface of the earth comprising atmosphere (air), hydrosphere (water), and lithosphere
(land), it is a highly integrated and interactive zone.
Statement 2: The energy required for the life within the biosphere usually comes from the sun. But
there are certain organisms such as chemosynthetic bacteria, which do not need sunlight for their
survival. Instead these organisms use inorganic molecules as a source of energy and convert them
into organic substances. They are found in regions where sunlight is not able to reach or penetrate
such as the deep sea and are generally considered inhospitable.
2. The answer is (c).
Justification: Ecotone is a zone of transition or boundary between two or more diverse ecosystems.
Examples of ecotones are mangrove forests, estuary grassland, river bank, marshes, etc.
Characteristics of ecotone
• It may be very narrow or quite wide, but not larger than a biome which is a much larger entity.
• It is a zone of tension because the conditions present here are intermediate to the adjacent biomes
or ecosystems.
• In this zone, there is progressive increase in the species composition of incoming community and a
simultaneous decrease in the species of the outgoing community.
• In a well-developed ecotone, there are certain organisms which are entirely different from those
found in the adjoining communities.
• Ecotones may display edge effect where the population density of some species is more in an ecotone
than its adjoining communities.
448.
Ans. (D)
The Montreal Protocol is an international environmental agreement with universal ratification to
protect the earth’s ozone layer y eliminating use of ozone depleting substances (ODS), which
would otherwise allow increased UV radiation to reach the earth, resulting in higher incidence of
skin cancer and eye cataracts, more- compromised immune systems, and negative
effects on watersheds, agricultural lands and forests.
The Montreal Protocol sets binding progressive phase out obligations for developed and
developing countries for all the major ozone depleting substances, including CFCs, halons and
less damaging transitional chemicals such as HCFCs.
449. Ans. (D)
• Global Warming Potential (GWP) is the ability of each greenhouse gas to trap
heat in the atmosphere relative to carbon dioxide (CO2) over a specified time
horizon.
• Often, greenhouse gas emissions are calculated in terms of how much CO2
would be required to produce a similar warming effect oven the chosen time
horizon. This is called the carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2eq) value and is
calculated by multiplying the amount of gas by its associated global warming
potential (GWP).
Among Greenhouse gases, Sulphur Hexafluoride has highest global warming
potential over given specified time.
450. Ans. (C)
• A carbon credit is a financial instrument that allows the holder, usually an
energy company, to emit one ton of carbon dioxide. Credits are awarded to
countries or groups that have reduced their greenhouse gases below their
emission quota.
• Carbon credits can be legally traded in the international market at their current
market price.
451. Ans. (C)
The Dobson Unit is the most common unit for measuring ozone concentration. One Dobson Unit
is the number of molecules of ozone that would be required to create a layer of pure ozone of
0.01 millimeters thick at the standard temperature and pressure.
452. Ans. (B)
Photosynthesis is a process used by plants in which energy from sunlight is used to c o n v e r t
carbon dioxide and water into molecules needed for growth. These molecules i n c l u d e
sugars, enzymes and chlorophyll. Light energy is absorbed by the green chemical
chlorophyll.
453. Ans. (A)
The first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol applies to the four greenhouse gases, viz.
carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, Sulphur hexafluoride, and two groups of gases, viz.
hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and perfluorocarbons (RFCs).
454. Ans. (B)
• Carbon sequestration describes long-term storage of carbon dioxide or other
forms of carbon to either mitigate or defer
global warming and avoid climate change.
• A carbon offset is a reduction in emissions of carbon dioxide or greenhouse
gases made in order to compensate it with renewable energy generation.
• Green carbon is the carbon stored in the plants and soil of natural ecosystems and
is a vital part of the global carbon cycle. It is basically the carbon removed by
photosynthesis and stored in the plants and soil of natural ecosystems and is a vital
part of the global carbon cycle.
• Blue carbon is generally refers as the carbon captured by the world’s oceans.
455. Ans. (B)
• Kigali Agreement is an amendment to the Montreal Protocol to eliminate planet-
warming HFC (hydrofluorocarbon) gases.
• The amendment will allow the use of ozone-saving Montreal Protocol to phase-
out HFCs, a set of 19 gases in the hydrofluorocarbon family that are used
extensively in the air-conditioning and refrigeration industry. HFCs are not
ozone-depleting but are thousands of times more dangerous than carbon dioxide
in causing global warming
• Developed nations will begin phasing down HFC gases by 2019, and developing
countries will follow suit by 2024.
456. Ans. (C)
457.
Ans. (D)
Environmental impact assessment (EIA) study is required for the new projects regarding
future impacts on the environmental components. It aims to achieve sustainable development
taking into care the resource conservation.
458. Ans. (A)
Environmental science is new and evolving branch of science. Therefore training is required to
have expertise in tackling the environmental issues especially in lower management.
459. Ans. (B)
460. Ans. (B)
EIA has been made mandatory under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986 for 29 categories of
developmental activities involving investments of Rs. 50 crores and above.
461.Ans. (C)
Assessment of international funding is not an objective of Environmental Impact Assessment.
462. Ans. (C)
• Screening is the determination of whether an EIA is needed or not, and is a
formal requirement under the EIA Regulations.
• Scoping is the process of determining the content and extent of matters that
should be covered in the environmental
information to be submitted to a competentauthorityorother
decision making body.
463. Ans. (D)
The evaluation of baseline data provides crucial information for the process of evaluating
and describing how the project could affect the biophysical and socio- economic environment.
464.
Ans. (D)
The Major Objectives of EIA are:
(i) to identify and describe elements of community and environment likely to be
affected by the proposed developments.
(ii) to identify and quantify any potential losses or damage to flora, fauna and
natural habitats.
(iii) to identify any negative impacts on sites of cultural heritage and to propose
measures to mitigate these impacts.
(iv) to identify the negative impacts and propose the provision of infrastructure or
mitigation measures so as to minimize pollution, environmental disturbance, etc.
(v) to identify, assesses and specify methods, measures and standards, to be
included in the detailed design, construction and operation of the proposed
developments which are necessary to mitigate these environmental impacts and
reducing them to acceptable levels.
(vi) to investigate the extent of side effects of proposed mitigation measures that
may lead to other forms of impacts.
465. Ans. (A)
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is the process by which environmental
considerations are required to be fully integrated into the preparation of Plans and Programmes
prior to their final adoption. The objectives of SEA are to provide for a high level of
protection of the environment and to promote sustainable development.
466. Ans. (C)
• The purpose of monitoring is to compare predicted and actual impacts,
particularly if the impacts are either very important or the scale of the impact
cannot be very accurately predicted. The
results of monitoring can be used to managetheenvironment,particularly
to highlight problems early so that action can be taken.
• The range of parameters requiring monitoring may be broad or narrow and will
be dictated by the ‘prediction and mitigation’ stage of the EIA.
467. Ans. (A)
• The Leopold matrix or simple matrix method is the best known matrix
methodology available for predicting the impact of a project on the
environment.
• It is a two dimensional matrix cross-referencing:
(a) the activities linked to the project that are supposed to have an impact on man
and the environment.
(b) the existing environmental and social conditions that could possibly be affected
by the project.
468. Ans. (C)
469. Ans. (A)
The final EIA report is referred to as an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
470.
Ans. (A)
471.
Ans. (C)
472.
Ans. (A)
473.
Ans. (D)
• Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a rating system
devised by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) to evaluate the
environmental performance of a building and encourage market transformation
towards sustainable design. These standards are backed by the Confederation of
Indian Industry and has been in use in India since 2001.
• Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) is India’s own rating
system jointly developed by TERI and the Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy, Government of India. GRIHA rating system consists of 34 criteria
categorised in four different sections. Some of them are site selection and site
planning, conservation and efficient utilization of resources, building operation
and maintenance, and innovation
474. Ans. (B)
• Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs.
• It is the organizing principle for meeting human development goals while at the
same time sustaining the ability of natural systems to provide the natural
resources and ecosystem services upon which the economy and society depend.
475. Ans. (C)
Green building is the practice of creating structures and using processes that are
environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s life-cycle from siting to
design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and deconstruction.
476. Ans. (C)
Green Public Procurement (GPP) is a process where public authorities seek to source g o o d s ,
services or works with a reduced environmental impact.
477. Ans. (C)
• The National Mission on Sustainable Habitat (NMSH) envisages a framework to
build urban resilience to climate change, by integrating adaptation and
mitigation aspects into the urban planning process.
• The National Mission for Sustainable Habitat which is a component of the
National Action Plan for Climate Change to broadly cover the following
aspects:
(i) Extension of the energy conservation building code - which addresses the design
of new and large commercial buildings to optimize their energy demand;
(ii) Better urban planning and modal shift to public transport - make long term
transport plans to facilitate the growth of medium and small cities in such a way that
ensures efficient and convenient public transport;
(iii) Recycling of material and urban waste management - a special areas of focus will be
development of technology for producing power form waste.
• The National Mission will include a major R&D programme, focusing on bio-chemical
conversion, waste water use, sewage utilization and recycling options wherever possible.
EES
478. Ans. (B)
As per Noise pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000 of India.
Area Code Area/zone Limits in dB Leq
Day time Night time
A Industrial 75 70
B Commercial area 65 55
C Residential area 55 45
D Silence Zone 50 40
479.
Ans. (D)
50dB and 40dB
480. Ans. (C)
Noise level:
P
L=20log10 rms
Where, Prmso
527.
Ans. (A)
An ecotone is a transition area between two biomes. It is where two communities meet and integrate.
It may be narrow or wide, and it may be local (the zone between a field and forest) or regional (the
transition between forest and grassland ecosystems). An ecotone may appear on the ground as a
gradual blending of the two communities across a broad area, or it may manifest itself as a sharp
boundary line.
528.
Ans. (A)
In ecology, edge effects are changes in population or community structures that occur at the boundary
of two or more habitats. Area with small habitat fragments exhibit especially pronounced edge effects
that may extend throughout the range. As the edge effects increase the boundary habitat allows for
greater biodiversity.
529.
Ans. (D)
`The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention
on Climate change (UNFCCC), which commits its parties by setting internationally binding emission
reduction targets.
The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in Kyoto. Japan, on 11 December 1997 and entered into force on 16
February 2005. Its first commitment period started in 2008 and ended in 2012. In the first period of
the Protocol (2008-12), participating countries committed to reduce their emissions by an average of
5% below 1990 levels.
During the second commitment period, Parties committed to reduce GHG emissions by at least 18
percent below 1990 levels in the eight- year period from 2013 to 2020; however, the composition of
Parties in the second commitment period is different from the first.
USA has not ratified Kyoto Protocol, Canada withdrew from Kyoto Protocol in 2012.
530.
Ans. (A)
Photochemical Oxidants
* The photochemical oxidants are secondary air pollutants formed by the action of sunlight on
nitrogen oxides and reactive hydrocarbons.
* Photochemical smog is formed in the atmosphere when pre-cursor pollutants including Nitrogen
Oxide (NOX) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) undergo reaction in sunlight to form smog, of
which ozone is the principal component.
Note:
The most important Secondary components produced by these atmospheric photochemical reactions
are ozone, sulphuric acid (H2SO4), Formaldehydes and peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN).
531.
Ans. (A)
The Vienna convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer is often called a framework convention
because it served as a framework for efforts to protect the globe’s ozone layer. The Vienna Convention
was adopted in 198 and entered into force on 22 September, 1988.
532.
Ans. (B)
Solar power, wind power, biomass power
533.
Ans. (C)
Food web is a network of food chains interconnected at various trophic levels, so as to form a number
of feeding alternatives amongst the different organisms of a biotic community. Therefore if the food
web exists and there is extinction of a species in a particular food chain, the damage will be prevented
since alternate source of food will be available.
534.
Ans. (B)
Biome is a very large ecosystem or collection of ecosystems with similar biotic and abiotic factors such
as an entire Rain forest with millions of animals and trees, with many different water bodies running
through them. The Great Barrier Reef along the east coast of Australia is not a continuous reef but
made up of over 2900 reefs and 900 islands. It is the largest reef structure in the world.
In a comparative study of grassland ecosystem and pond ecosystem it may be observed that both
biotic and abiotic components are different.
The term ecosystem was coined by the British ecologist A.G. TANSLEY in 1935. He used it to define a
unit that covers all organisms of a given area as well as their relationship to the inorganic environment.
535.
Ans. (C)
Stratification is the characteristic of biological community. Stratification is the vertical layering or the
phenomenon of having more than one stratum formed by different plants/organisms in the same
place.
536.
Ans. (B)
Biomass provides both power as well as manure which can be used in agricultural fields as source of
nutrients for plants.
537.
Ans. (B)
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) or Global Goals are a collection of 17 interlinked global
goals designed to be a “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all”.
The SDGs were set up in 2015 by the United Nations General Assembly (UN-GA) and are intended to
be achieved by the year 2030. They are included in UN-GA Resolution called the 2030 Agenda or what
is colloquially known as Agenda 2030. [2] The SDGs were developed in the Post-2015 Development
Agenda as the future global development framework to succeed the Millennium Development Goals
which ended in 2015.
538.
Ans. (C)
Biogas is produced from the decomposition of organic waste. When organic matter breaks down in an
anaerobic environment it release a mixture of gases, primarily methane and carbon dioxide.
539.
Ans. (C)
National Mission on Sustainable Habitat
The National Mission on Sustainable Habitat was approved by the Prime Minister’s Council for Climate
Change in June 2010. The Prime Minister released India’s first National Action Plan on Climate Change
(NAPCC) outlining existing and future policies and programs addressing climate mitigation. There are
eight National Missions under the National Action Plan, with the National Mission on Sustainable
Habitat being one of them.
The focus of these Missions is to promote understanding of climate change, its adaptation and
mitigation, energy efficiency and natural resource conservation.
Objectives of the Mission
The National Mission on Sustainable Habitat seeks to promote:
* Improvements in energy efficiency in buildings through extension of the energy conservation
building code – which addresses the design of new and large commercial buildings to optimize their
energy demand;
* Better urban planning and modal shift to public transport – make long term transport plans to
facilitate the growth of medium and small cities in such a way that ensures efficient and convenient
public transport;
* Improved management of solid and liquid waste, e.g. recycling of material and urban waste
management – with special focus on development of technology for producing power from waste;
* Improved ability of habitats to adapt to climate change by improving resilience of infrastructure,
community based disaster management, and measures for improving advance warning systems for
extreme weather events;
* Conservation through appropriate changes in legal and regulatory framework.
540.
Ans. (D)
EIA objectives can be categorized in to long term and short term.
The long term objectives include the following:
Conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, Protection and enhancement of the quality of
all life forms and Integration of environmental considerations in development planning processes.
The short-term objectives include the following:
To assess the nature, intensity and duration of impact of proposed development projects; To promote
local community and public participation in the EIA processes of a project; To promote social and
cultural considerations in project design; To provide a methodology for prevention and mitigation of
expected impacts due to the presence of a project.
541.
Ans. (A)
Geothermal energy is a type of renewable energy taken from the Earth’s core. It comes from heat
generated during the original formation of the planet and the radioactive decay of materials.
542.
Ans. (C)
To provide speedy justice & to reduce burden of litigation in higher courts.
543.
Ans. (C)
The Chairperson of the NGT is a retired Judge of the Supreme Court.
544.
Ans. (B)
It sets the standards for emission or discharge of environmental pollutants.
545.
Ans. (A)
Structure of NGT
The Tribunal comprises of the Chairperson, the Judicial Members and Expert Members. They Shall
hold office for term of five years and are not eligible for reappointment.
The Chairperson is appointed by the Central Government in consultation with Chief Justice of India
(CJI)
A Selection Committee shall be formed by central government to appoint the Judicial Members and
Expert Members.
There are to be least 10 and maximum 20 full time Judicial members and Expert Members in the
tribunal.
546.
Ans. (D)
547.
Ans. (A)
Ammensalism, here in this type of relationship one organism is harmed while other one is unaffected.
Algal bloom is rapid increase of algal population, which can lead to death of many species, but algae
do not get any benefit from this
548.
Ans. (A)
A synthetic material used for drainage of liquids
549.
Ans. (D)
All of the mentioned subjects fall within the scope of the Ministry of Environment. Forest and Climate
Change.
550.
Ans. (B)
Kyoto Protocol: It is an international treaty, which extends the 1992 United Nations framework
convention on climate change, whose main aim is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Vienna convention: Vienna convection is related to protection of the ozone layer. It is a multilateral
environmental agreement signed in 1985 that provided frameworks for international reductions in
the production of chlorofluorocarbons due to their contribution to the destruction of the ozone layer,
resulting in an increased threat of skin cancer.
551.
Ans. (B)
Coral Reef Facts
* Coral reef biomes are naturally colourful because of the algae. If the coral reef appears whit, this
means there is a pollution problem.
* Occupying less than one quarter of 1% of the marine environment, coral reefs are home to more
than 25% of all known marine fish species.
* Coral reef ecosystems support a variety of human needs. They are important for fisheries, tourism,
shoreline protection, and yield compounds that are important in the development of new medicines.
* Coral reefs form natural barriers that protect nearby shorelines form the eroding forces of the sea,
thereby protecting coastal dwellings, agriculture land and beaches.
552.
Ans. (A)
Net primary productivity is the weight of the organic matter stored by producers in a unit area/volume
per unit time. NPP is equal to the rate of the organic matter created by photosynthesis minus the rate
of respirations and other losses. Stored biomass is transferred from one trophic level to another
trophic level.
553. Ans. (D)
Micro algae and Phytoplankton are the dominant producers in the world’s oceans and therefore their
biomass is the greatest among all other autotrophs in the world’s oceans.
554. Ans. (B)
Secondary productivity is the rate of storage of organic matter by consumers per unit area per unit
time.
555. Ans. (C)
Ecological niche is a set of conditions and resources that are utilized by organisms most readily.
556.
Ans. (D)
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), known informally as the Biodiversity Convention, is a
multilateral treaty. The convention has three main goals:
* The conservation of biological diversity (or biodiversity)
* The sustainable use of its components
* The fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources.
Its objective is to develop national strategies for the conservation and sustainable use of biological
diversity. The convention was opened for signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janerio on 5 June
1992 and entered into force on 29 December 1993.
557. Ans. (A)
Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) is a process or technology for producing energy by
harnessing the temperature differences (thermal gradients) between ocean surface waters and deep
ocean waters.
558. Ans. (C)
Monitoring: Keeping up-to-date with the environmental impacts
The purpose of monitoring is to compare pre- and post-project conditions in the development site. It
also compares the predicted and actual impacts. This is especially important in key impacts like water
quality, air quality, soil fertility, endangered species, etc.
Monitoring is also a way to ensure that the development authorities follow the laws and regulations
set by the government regarding their project. It keeps the “cutting corners” habit of all development
authorities in check.
Accurate baseline data is critical for proper monitoring of the site.
The added bonus of monitoring is that if the EAC had somehow missed a possible impact by the
project, that will be identified during the monitoring process. This is quite conceivable. Considering
the multitude of effects that a single activity can have, it is quite possible that the team missed a few
of the impacts that could be caused.
It also allows the project proponents to alter their activities if they observe considerable environmental
damage. Prediction studies are completely theoretical; there is a high chance of error in them. By
observing results in real-time, appropriate corrections can be made.
Monitoring can be of different types_______
Impact/effect monitoring: This analyses the direct relationship between the environmental impact
and the effect it causes. It includes magnitude extent and intensity.
Baseline monitoring: This is one type of monitoring that is done before the commencement of the
project. Baseline monitoring gives us data that is to be included as pre-project status of the site. For
example, air quality baseline data monitoring requires the team to monitor the air at all strategic
locations on the site for 14 consecutive days prior to the commissioning of the work. This allows them
to obtain dust samples every 24 hours.
Mitigation monitoring: This is the monitoring of the effectiveness of the mitigation measures. It
assesses all mitigation measures, be it implementation, design, technology, etc.
Compliance monitoring: This is an all-encompassing monitoring method where we assess if the
predicted values are in compliance with the actual values. It could include mitigation monitoring and
impact/effect monitoring within it.
559.
Ans. (C)
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is an action-oriented, member-driven, collaborative platform for
increased deployment of solar energy technologies as a means for bringing energy access, ensuring
energy security, and driving energy transition in its member countries.
The ISA strives to develop and deploy cost-effective and transformational energy solutions powered
by the sun to help member countries develop low-carbon growth trajectories, with particular focus on
delivering impact in countries categorized as Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and the Small Island
Developing States (SIDS). Being a global platform, ISA’s partnerships with multilateral development
banks (MDBs), development financial institutions (DFIs), private and public sector organisations, civil
society and other international institutions is key to delivering the change its seeks to see in the world
going ahead.
The ISA was conceived as a joint effort by India and France to mobilize efforts against climae change
through deployment of solar energy solutions. It was conceptualized on the side-lines of the 21st
Conference of Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) held in Paris in 2015. With the amendment of its Framework Agreement in 2020, all
member states of the United Nations are now eligible to join the ISA. At present, 101 countries are
signatories to the ISA Framework Agreement, of which 80 countries have submitted the necessary
instruments of ratification to become full members of the ISA.
560.
Ans. (A)
A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is a systematic process for evaluating the environmental
implications of a proposed policy, plan or programme and provides means for looking at cumulative
effects and appropriately address them at the earliest stage of decision making alongside economic
and social considerations.
The SEA assesses the extent to which a given policy, plan or programme:
* provides an adequate response to environmental and climate change-related challenges;
* may adversely affect the environment and climate resilience, and
* offers opportunities to enhance the state of the environment and contribute the climate-resilient
and low-carbon development.
Ideally, an SEA should be integrated into the policy, plan or programme preparation process from its
early stages and the Government must have a high degree of ownership Public participation is also
essential for a successful SEA.
Compared with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), SEA provides recommendations at a
strategic level and allows a better control over interactions or cumulative effects. There is no single
approach to SEA, which can take different forms according to the specific needs.
561.
Ans. (A)
Biomass gasification means incomplete combustion of biomass resulting in production of combustible
gases consisting of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen ((H2) and traces of methane (CH4). This mixture is
called producer gas.
562.
Ans. (B)
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is a statutory body that was established in 2010 by the Nation Green Tribunal
Act.
It was set up to handle cases and speed up the cases related to environmental issues.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the statutory organization, was constituted in September 1974
under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. Hence statement 1 is not correct.
Further, CPCB was entrusted with the powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and control of pollution)
Act, 1981.
Principal Functions of the CPCB as spelled out in the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and
the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
563.
Ans. (D)
Environmental Impact Assessment
Introduction
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a process of evaluating the likely environmental impacts of a proposed
project or development, taking into account inter-related socio-economic, cultural and human-health
impacts, both beneficial and adverse.
UNEP defines Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as a tool used to identify the environmental, social and
economic impacts of a project prior to decision-making. It aims to predict environmental impacts at
an early stage in project planning and design, find ways and means to reduce adverse impacts, shape
projects to suit the local environment and present the predictions and options to decision-makers.
Environment Impact Assessment in Indi is statutorily backed by the Environment Protection Act, 1986 which
contains various provisions on EIA methodology and process.
History of EIA in India
The Indian experience with Environmental Impact Assessment began over 20 years back. It started in 1976-77
when the Planning Commission asked the Department of Science and Technology to examine the
river-valley projects from an environmental angle.
Till 1994, environmental clearance from the Central Government was an administrative decision and lacked
legislative support.
On 27 January 1994, the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests, under the Environmental (Protection) Act
1986, promulgated an EIA notification making Environmental Clearance (EC) mandatory for expansion
or modernisation of any activity or for setting up new projects listed in Schedule 1 of the notification.
The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) notified new EIA legislation in September
2006.
The notification makes it mandatory for various projects such as mining, thermal power plants, river valley,
infrastructure (road, highway, ports, harbours and airports) and industries including very small
electroplating or foundry units to get environment clearance.
However, unlike the EIA notification of 1994, the new legislation has put the onus of clearing projects on the
state government depending on the size/capacity of the project.
Salient Features of 2006 Amendments to EIA Notification
Environment Impact Assessment Notification of 2006 has decentralized the environmental clearance projects by
categorizing the developmental projects in two categories, i.e., Category A (national level appraisal)
and Category B (state level appraisal)
Category A projects are appraised at national level by Impact Assessment Agency (IAA) and the Expert Appraisal
Committee (EAC) and Category B projects are apprised at state level.
State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and State Level Expert Appraisal Committee
(SEAC) are constituted to provide clearance to Category B process.
After 2006 Amendment the EIA cycle comprises of four stages:
* Screening
* Scoping
* Public hearing
* Appraisal
Category A projects require mandatory environmental clearance and thus they do not undergo the screening
process.
Category B projects undergoes screening process and they are classified into two types.
* Category B1 projects (Mandatorily requires EIA).
* Category B2 projects (Do not require EIA)
Thus, Category A projects and Category B, projects undergo the complete EIA process whereas Category B2
projects are excluded from complete EIA process.
564.
Ans. (A)
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is the process by which environmental considerations
are required to be fully integrated into the preparation of Plans and Programmes prior to their final
adoption. The objectives of SEA are to provide for a high level of protection of the environment and
to promote sustainable development.
565.
Ans. (C)
Environmental assessment (EA) is the assessment of the environmental consequences (positive and
negative) of a plan, policy, program, or actual projects prior to the decision to move forward with the
proposed action. In this context, the term “environmental impact assessment” (EIA) is usually used
when applied to actual projects by individuals or companies.
The purpose of the assessment is to ensure that decision makers consider the environmental impacts
when deciding whether or not to proceed with a project.
According to a United Nations Environment Program the main advantages and benefits of EIA are:
Improved project design/siting
More informed decision-making
More environmentally sensitive decisions
Increased accountability and transparency during the development process
Improved integration of projects into their environmental and social setting
Reduced environmental damage
A positive contribution toward achieving sustainability.
566. Ans. (B)
Drought, soil erosion & Global warming are few phenomena which gets increased by deforestation
101. India’s first National Centre for Marine Biodiversity (NCMB) is located in which city?
(A) Bhavnagar (B) Jamnagar
(C) Mumbai (D) Puducherry
102. Which of the following animals can live for the longest duration without drinking water?
(A) Giraffe (B) Camel
(C) Kangaroo (D) Kangaroo rat
103. Which of the following is not an example of in-situ conservation strategy?
(A) Biosphere reserve (B) Botanical garden
(C) National Park (D) Sacred groves
104. When the World Biodiversity Day is observed?
(A) March, 22 (B) May, 22
(C) June, 23 (D) April, 16
105. When was ‘Project Tiger’ launched in India?
(A) 1968 (B) 1973
(C) 1984 (D) 1993
106. In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act,
1972, what does it imply?
(A) It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger.
(B) It no longer exists in the wild, a few individuals are under captive protection; and now it is
impossible to prevent its extinction.
(C) It is endemic to a particular region of India.
(D) Both (B) and (C) stated above are correct in this context.
107. The term ‘M-STrlPES’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of:
(A) Captive breeding of Wild Fauna
(B) Maintenance of Tiger Reserves
(C) Indigenous Satellite Navigation System
(D) Security of National Highways
108. If you want to see ghariaIs in their natural habitat, which one of the following is the best place to visit?
(A) Bhitarkanika Mangroves (B) Chambal River
(C) Pulicat Lake (D) Deeper Beel
109. According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals can not be hunted by
any person except under some provisions provided by law?
1. Gharial 2. Indian wild ass
3. Wild buffalo
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
110. Which one of the following does not pass through the Kaziranga National Park?
(A) The Brahmaputra river (B) The Diphlu river
(C) National Highway No. 37 (D) Railway track of Indian Railway
111. Which of the following are the necessary conditions for the growth of coral reefs?
1. Photic conditions
2. Clean and sediment free water
3. Sea salinity of 6%
4. Tropical sea water with temperature of 20°C to 21°C
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 4 only (B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
112. Gir National Park is famous for:
(A) Tiger (B) Lion
(C) Migratory birds (D) One-horn rhinoceros
113. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in November 2016, has constituted a four-
member team for conservation and management of which one of the following lakes?
(A) Dal Lake, Jammu and Kashmir (B) Damdama Lake, Haryana
(C) Loktak Lake, Manipur (D) Chilika Lake, Odisha
114. Which one of the following statements is correct?
(A) The end product of fossil fuels is in the form of electrical energy.
(B) Watershed protection increases the rate of surface run-off of water.
(C) If timber is over-harvested, the ecological functions of the forest are improved.
(D) Rivers change their course during floods and lots of fertile soils are lost to the sea.
115. Besides species diversity and ecosystem diversity, which of the following is included in the term
‘biodiversity’?
(A) Genetic diversity (B) Climatic diversity
(C) Cultural diversity (D) Lingual diversity
116. Which one of the following ecosystems has maximum plant bio-mass?
(A) Tropical deciduous forest (B) Tropical rainforest
(C) Temperate deciduous forest (D) Desert shrubs
117. Biodiversity has maximum danger from
(A) destruction of natural habitats and vegetation
(B) Improper agricultural operations
(C) Climate change
(D) Water pollution
118. Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular
butterfly as State Butterfly?
(A) Arunachal Pradesh (B) Himachal Pradesh
(C) Karnataka (D) Maharashtra
119. With reference to ‘Red Sanders’, sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements:
1. It is a tree species found in a part of South India.
2. It is one of the most important trees in the tropical rain forest areas of South India.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
120. What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?
1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.
2. It survives by grazing on mangroves.
3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated
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
121. Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains
a height of about 11 meters and has orange coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been
discovered?
(A) Andaman Islands (B) Anaimalai Forests
(C) Maikala Hills (D) Tropical rain forests of northeast
122. In which of the following regions of India are you most likely to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill’
in its natural habitat?
(A) Sand deserts of northwest India (B) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and
Kashmir
(C) Salt marshes of western Gujarat (D) Western Ghats
123. The Germplasm is required for the propagation of plants and animals. Germplasm is the: CDS Exam (I)
2016
1. Genetic resource
2. Seed or tissue for breeding
3. Egg and sperm repository
4. A germ cell’s determining zone
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 1, 2 and 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 2 and 4 only
124. With reference to Loktak lake, consider the following statements:
1. Loktak is a freshwater lake in north-eastern India.
2. Loktak lake carries floating islands that are made up of decaying masses of Vegetation, soil
and organic matter.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
125. The main reason for the decrease in biodiversity is
(A) habitat pollution (B) introduction of exotic species
(C) over exploitation (D) natural habitat destruction
126. With reference to biodiversity, which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. Species richness and high degree of endemism are important criteria for identifying
biodiversity hot spots.
2. Species diversity is highest in the tropics and decreases down the poles.
3. Biodiversity conservation may be in situ as well as ex situ.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 (D) 1 and 3 only
127. Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?
(A) Saltwater crocodile (B) Olive ridley turtle
(C) Gangetic dolphin (D) Gharial
128. With reference to ‘dugong’, a mammal found in India, which of the following statements is/are
correct?
1. It is a herbivorous marine animal.
2. It is found along the entire coast of India.
3. It is given legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 2 (B) 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 (D) 3 only
129. From which among the following pairs of species, a small quantity of fine quality wool is obtained in
India?
(A) Pashmina goats and Angora rabbits (B) Pashmina rabbits and Angora goats
(C) Pashmina rabbits and Angora sheep (D) Pashmina goats and Angora
sheep
130. Recently, there was a proposal to reintroduce an animal in India which became extinct in this country
several decades ago. Which one of the following is the animal in question?
(A) Cheetah (B) Clouded leopard
(C) Double-humped camel (D) Musk deer
131. Consider the following animals:
1. Jaguar
2. Salt water crocodile
3. Snow leopard
Which of the above is/are naturally found in India?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
132. Consider the following snakes:
1. Common Krait 2. Russell’s Viper
3. Rock Python
Which of the above is/are poisonous snakes?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
133. Consider the following:
1. Adjutant stork
2. Emperor penguin
3. Rattle snake
Which of the above is/are naturally found in India?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
134. Which one of the following fauna of India is an ape?
(A) Hoolock Gibbon (B) Golden Langur
(C) Lion-tailed Macaque (D) Slow Loris
135. The wild goat Ibex is found in:
(A) Coromandel coast (B) Himalayas
(C) Maikal hills (D) Thar desert
136. With reference to the wildlife of India, what is Dugong?
(A) It is a desert gazelle (B) It is a marine mammal
(C) It is migratory raptor (D) It is a saltwater crocodile
137. Which of the following species is the largest of the ‘toothed-whales’?
(A) Finback whale (B) Blue whale
(C) Sperm whale (D) Humpback whale
138. Which of the following countries has more than 30% of its total area under national parks?
(A) Israel (B) Bhutan
(C) Iceland (D) Gabon
139. Which of the following has been identified as a ‘biodiversity hot-spot’ in India?
(A) Sundarban (B) Western Ghats
(C) Manas (D) Cherapunji
140. Which of the following is not responsible for the increase in the biodiversity of an ecosystem?
(A) Productivity of the ecosystem (B) Intermediate-disturbance
(C) Age of the ecosystem (D) Less number of trophic levels
141. Which one of the following states launched in February 2015 a “dolphin-Census” in the coastal eco-
system and shorelines of the State?
(A) Gujarat (B) Karnataka
(C) West Bengal (D) Odisha
142. Which of the following have coral reefs?
1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
2. Gulf of Kachchh
3. Gulf of Mannar
4. Sunderbans
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
143. Consider the following:
1. Bats 2. Bears
3. Rodents
The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3
(D) Hibernation cannot be observed in any of the above
144. Other than poaching, what are the possible reasons for the decline in the population of Ganges River
Dolphins?
1. Construction of dams and barrages on rivers
2. Increase in the population of crocodiles in rivers
3. Getting trapped in fishing nets accidentally
4. Use of synthetic fertilizers and other agricultural chemicals in crop-fields in the vicinity of
rivers
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
145. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate change approved in principle a proposal for
Western Ghats Development prepared by K. Kasturirangan led panel. The panel has recommended a
ban on development activities in around 60,000 sq. km ecologically sensitive area spread over
(A) Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka
(B) Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu
(C) Odisha, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu
(D) Karnataka, Odisha, Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu
146. Which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. In june 2014, the World Heritage Committee has inscribed the Great Himalyan National
Par Conservation Area (GHNPCA) on the World Heritage List on the basis of UNESCO Guidelines.
2. The Great Himalyan National Park is located in Sikkim.
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
147. In which of the following States are the famous ‘Living Root Bridges’ found?
(A) Arunachal Pradesh (B) Himachal Pradesh
(C) Kerala (D) Meghalaya
148. The last stronghold of Indian Lions in their natural habitat is located in:
(A) Gujarat (B) Rajasthan
(C) Maharashtra (D) West Bengal
149. Which is biodiversity rich place in India?
(A) Western Ghat (B) Eastern Ghat
(C) Thar Desert (D) Bay of Bengal
150. Biodiversity means
(A) diverse kinds of plants and vegetation.
(B) diverse kinds of animals.
(C) diverse kinds of plants and animals in a particular area.
(D) diverse kinds of exotic plants and animals.
151. In which of the following States is lion-tailed macaque found in its natural habitat?
1. Tamil Nadu 2 Kerala
3. Karnataka 4. Andhra Pradesh
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 2 only
(C) 1, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
152. Consider the following animals:
1. Sea cow 2. Sea horse
3. Sea lion
Which of the above is/are mammal/mammals?
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
153. Consider the following:
1. Star tortoise 2. Monitor lizard
3. Pygmy hog 4. Spider monkey
Which of the above are naturally found in India?
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
154. Vultures which used to be very common in Indian countryside some years ago are rarely seen
nowadays. This is attributed to:
(A) the destruction of their nesting sites by new invasive species
(B) a drug used by cattle owners for treating their diseased cattle
(C) scarcity of food available to them
(D) a widespread, persistent and fatal disease among them.
155. What is the difference between the antelopes Oryx and Chiru?
(A) Oryx is adapted to live in hot and arid areas whereas Chiru is adapted to live in steppes
and semi-desert areas of cold high mountains
(B) Oryx is poached for its antlers whereas Chiru is poached for its musk
(C) Oryx exists in western India only whereas Chiru exists in north-east India only
(D) None of the statements (A), (B) and (C) given above is correct.
156. Government of India encourages the cultivation of ‘sea buckthorn’. What is the importance of this
plant?
1. It helps in controlling soil erosion and in preventing desertification.
2. It is a rich source of biodiesel.
3. It has nutritional value and is well-adapted to live in cold areas of high altitude.
4. Its timber is of great commercial value.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2, 3 and 4 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
157. The 2004 Tsunami made people realize that mangroves can serve as a reliable safety hedge against
coastal calamities. How do mangroves function as a safety hedge?
(A) The mangrove swamps separate the human settlements from the sea by a wide zone in
which people neither live nor venture out
(B) The mangroves provide both food and medicines which people are in need of after any
natural disaster
(C) The mangrove trees are tall with dense canopies and serve as an excellent shelter during a
cyclone or tsunami
(D) The mangrove trees do not get uprooted by storms and tides because of their extensive
root
158. Which one of the following is not a site for in-situ method of conservation of flora?
(A) Biosphere Reserve (B) Botanical Garden
(C) National Park (D) Wildlife Sanctuary
159. A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Indian animal species. The animal has no predators
in that area but its existence is threatened due to the destruction of its habitat. Which one of the
following could be that animal?
(A) Indian wild buffalo (B) Indian wild ass
(C) Indian wild boar (D) Indian gazelle
160. King Cobra is the only snake that makes its own nest. Why does it make its nest?
(A) It is snake-eater and the nest helps attract other snakes
(B) It is a viviparous snake and needs a nest to give birth to its offspring
(C) It is an oviparous snake and lays its eggs in the nest and guards the nest until they are
hatched
(D) It is large, cold blooded animal and needs a nest to hibernate in the cold season
161. Consider the following statements:
1. The Taxes tree naturally found in the Himalayas.
2. The Taxus tree is listed in the Red Data Book
3. A drug called “taxol” is obtained from Taxus tree is effective against Parkinson’s disease
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
162. Some species of plants are insectivorous. Why?
(A) Their growth in shady and dark places does not allow them to undertake sufficient
photosynthesis and thus they depend on insects for nutrition.
(B) They are adapted to grow in nitrogen deficient soils and thus depend on insects for
sufficient nitrogenous nutrition.
(C) They cannot synthesize certain vitamins themselves and depend on the insects digested by
them
(D) They have remained in that particular stage of evolution as living fossils, a link between
autotrophs and heterotrophs
163. Which feature of some species of blue-green algae helps promote them as bio-fertilizers?
(A) They convert atmospheric methane into ammonia which the crop plants can absorb
readily
(B) They induce the crop plants to produce the enzymes which help convert atmospheric
nitrogen to nitrates
(C) They have the mechanism to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the crop
plants can absorb readily
(D) They induce the roots of the crop plants to absorb the soil nitrates in larger
quantities
164. Consider the following statements:
1. Biodiversity hotspots are located only in tropical regions.
2. India has four biodiversity hotspots i.e., Eastern Himalayas, Western Himalayas, Western
Ghats and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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
165. Consider the following regions:
1. Eastern Himalayas
2. Eastern Mediterranean region
3. North-western Australia
Which of the above is/are Biodiversity Hotspot(s)?
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
166. The Panda belongs to the same family as that of:
(A) Bear (B) Cat
(C) Dog (D) Rabbit
167. The marine animal called dugong which is vulnerable to extinction is a/an
(A) Amphibian (B) Bony fish
(C) Shark (D) Mammal
168. Consider the following:
1. Camphor
2. Chicory
3. Vanilla
Which of the above is/are plant product(s)?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
169. In the context of Indian wild life, the flying fox is a:
(A) Bat (B) Kite
(C) Stock (D) Vulture
170. Which one of the following Union Ministries is implementing the Biodiesel Mission (as Nodal
Ministry)?
(A) Ministry of Agriculture
(B) Ministry of Science and Technology
(C) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
(D) Ministry of Rural Development
171. Which one of the following is not essentially a species of the Himalayan vegetation?
(A) Juniper (B) Mahogany
(C) Silver fir (D) Spruce
172. Consider the following statements:
1. Salt-water crocodile is found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
2. Shrew and tapir are found in the Western Ghats of the Malabar region.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
173. In which one of the following kinds of organisms is the phenomenon found wherein the female kills
the male after copulation?
(A) Dragonfly (B) Honeybee
(C) Spider (D) Pit viper
174. For which one of the following snakes is the diet mainly composed of other snakes?
(A) Krait (B) Russell’s viper
(C) Rattlesnake (D) King cobra
175. Which one of the following is an Insectivorous plant?
(A) Passion flower plant (B) Pitcher plant
(C) Night queen (D) Flame of the forest
176. Among the following, which one lays eggs and does not produce young ones directly?
(A) Crab (B) Dogfish
(C) Gambusia fish (D) Snail
177. Which one among the following has the maximum number of National Parks?
(A) Andaman and Nicobar Islands (B) Arunachal Pradesh
(C) Assam (D) Meghalaya
178. Among the following, which one is not an ape?
(A) Gibbon (B) Gorilla
(C) Langur (D) Orangutan
PRACTICE QUESTIONS:-
179. Consider the following statements:
1. The overall richness of species is concentrated in equatorial regions and tends to decrease
as one move from equatorial to the Polar Regions.
2. Biodiversity in land ecosystems generally increases with increasing altitude.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1nor 2
180. Consider the following statements:
1. Beta diversity is measured by counting the number of species in a particular ecosystem
2. Alpha diversity is the species diversity between two adjacent ecosystems.
Which of the statements (s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
181. To qualify as a biodiversity hotspot, a region must:
1. Have at least 1,500 vascular plants as endemics.
2. Have lost over 70% of the original habitat.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
182. What are the determining factors of biodiversity?
1. Geographic Isolation
2. Dominance of One Species
3. Availability of Ecological Niches
4. Habitat Stress
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 2, 3 and 4 only
(C) 1, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
183. With reference to Ortolan bunting, which of the following statement(s) is/are not correct?
1. It is endemic to the Eastern Ghats.
2. The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) red list of threatened species
has placed it in the “Endangered” category.
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
184. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct regarding Cartagena Protocol?
1. It protects biological diversity from the potential risks posed by living modified organisms
resulting from modern biotechnology.
2. It facilitates the exchange of information on living modified organisms between
contracting parties.
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
185. Match the following List I with List II:
List-I Species List-II Conservation Status
1. Rare species : Population is small and the location is
confined to limited areas.
2. Near Threatened : Species is widespread and abundant
3. Least Concern : Exhaustive survey have failed to record an
individual species.
Which of the pair(s) given above is/are correctly matched?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
186. Which of the following species is/are categorized as Critically Endangered?
1. North Atlantic Right Whale
2. European Hamster
3. Madame Berthe’s Mouse Lemur
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
187. Which of the following are the causes of decline of pollinators?
1. Habitat fragmentation
2. Industrial chemicals
3. Parasites
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 2 and 3 only (B) 1 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 2 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
188. Consider the following statements:
1. Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)
create the International Plant Protection Convention or IPPC in 1952.
2. TRAFFIC is a joint programme of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
189. With reference to Biological Diversity, consider the following statements:
1. The species richness is concentrated in equatorial regions and tends to decrease as one
move from equatorial to Polar Regions.
2. In marine ecosystems, species richness is much higher in continental shelves.
Which of the statement (s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
190. With reference to the Biodiversity Hotspots, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The concept of Biodiversity hotspot was put forth by Norman Myers.
2. To qualify as a Biodiversity hotspot a region has to have lost at least 70% of its original
habitat.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
191. Consider the following statements:
1. India accounts for approximately 2.4% of global biodiversity.
2. Western Himalayas is one of the hotspots identified in India.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1nor 2
192. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. India has 10 bio geographical provinces, 5 biome and 2 bioregion domains.
2. The floral diversity in India is concentrated only the 2 biodiversity hotspots, namely
Eastern Himalayas and Western Ghats.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
193. Which of the following is the correct order of species in India according to their number from lowest
to highest?
1. Angiosperms
2. Algae
3. Bryophytes
4. Fungi
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1-4-2-3 (B) 3-2-4-1
(C) 1-3-2-4 (D) 2-3-4-1
194. With reference to India-Rhino Vision (IRV) 2020, consider the following statements:
1. The objective of the programmes was to double the Rhino population by 2020.
2. Wild-to-wild translocations were an essential part of IRV 2020.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
195. With reference to Pygmy Hog, consider the following statements:
1. Pygmy Hog is used as an indicator for the management status of grassland habitats.
2. Pygmy Hogs are found only in the north-eastern state of Assam.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
196. With reference to Kondana soft-furred rat, consider the following statements:
1. Kondana Rat is an Endangered Species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
2. It is found only in India.
3. It is a nocturnal burrowing rodent.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 3 only
197. Consider the following statements:
1. Monotremes are egg laying mammals.
2. Monotremes are restricted to Australia and New Guinea.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
198. With reference to Siberian Crane, consider the following statements:
1 They are usually found in wetland areas and are migratory birds.
2. Keoladeo National Park is famous habitat of Siberian Crane.
3. They are placed under the critically endangered category in the International Union for
Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red list of birds.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 3 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
199. Consider the following statements:
1. Bonn Convention is an environmental treaty that provides a global platform for the
conservation and sustainable use of only migratory birds and their habitats.
2. World Migratory Bird Day is an awareness-raising campaign celebrated bi-annually.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
200. Fejervarya goemchi is a:
(A) Bacteria discovered in Nagaland
(B) A fruit species in Andaman island
(C) Newly discovered frog species in Western Ghats
(D) Newly discovered catfish in Andhra Pradesh
201. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct with reference to the Indus River Dolphin?
1. It is found only in the main channel of the Indus River.
2. It has been declared aquatic animal of Jammu and Kashmir.
3. It is listed Endangered in the IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species.
Select the correct answer using the code giving below:
(A) 3 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1 and 3 only
202. Consider the following statements with reference to the Golden langur;
1. It is declared as critically endangered by IUCN.
2. It is found in forests of Assam and Bhutan only.
3. Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary is India’s first wildlife sanctuary with Golden langur as the
primary species.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 3 only (B) 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) All of the above
203. Consider the following statements with reference to Cinereous Vulture:
1. India is home to nine species of vulture including Cinereous Vulture.
2. It is classified as Vulnerable under IUCN Red list.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
204. With reference to Mammals of India (MaOI) initiative, consider the following statements:
1. It is a repository which contains data on Mammals of India.
2. It is launched by the National Centre for Biological Science (NCBS), Bengaluru.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
205. Which of the following bird(s) is/are declared Critically Endangered as per IUCN Red List (Red Data
Book)?
1. The White-bellied Heron
2. The Bengal norican
3. Spoon Billed Sandpiper
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 3 only (B) 2 only
(C) 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
206. Which of the following statements best describes Invasive alien species?
1. Invasive alien species are the accidental/intentional entrants outside of their natural
geographical range.
2. These species can change the ecosystem.
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
207. With reference to the Himalayan Yew, which of the following statement(s) is/are not correct?
1. It is used for making anti-cancer drugs.
2. Taxol can only be extracted from its roots.
3. It is a critically endangered species.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) All of the above
208. Regarding the functions of Seagrass beds, consider the following statements:
1. Seagrass beds form an important nursery habitat.
2. These are considered as ‘biodiversity hotspots’.
3. Seagrass bed protects coasts and coastal communities from strong ocean storms.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 3 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 2 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
209. With reference to Seaweeds, consider the following statements:
1. Seaweeds are the organisms differentiated into roots, stems and leaves.
2. These marine plants are found only in the sub tidal zones of the sea.
3. Seaweed has a significant role in mitigating climate change.
Which of the statement(s) given above is /are correct?
(A) 1and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 3 only
210. Free swimming microscopic animals in an aquatic environment are referred to as:
(A) Plankton (B) Periphyton
(C) Benthos (D) Nekton
211. Which of the following statements are correct about mangrove sites?
1. Mangrove plants require mix of saline water and freshwater.
2. Mangrove plants require mudflats to enable it to grow and develop.
3. Mangrove plants are found in the inter-tidal zones of sheltered coasts.
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
212. Which of the following species of Rhinos is/are found in India?
1. Greater One-Horned Rhino 2. Javan
3. Sumatran 4. Black Rhino
5. White Rhino
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(A) 1, 2 and 5 only (B) 2, 3 and 4 only
(C) 1 only (D) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
213. Consider the following statements with respect to St. Petersburg Declaration on Tiger Conservation:
1. The resolution was adopted in 2010, by the leaders of 13 tiger range countries (TRCs).
2. Global Tiger Recovery Program aimed at doubling the number of wild tigers by the year
2022.
3. India is one of the tiger range countries as per the Global Tiger Recovery Program.
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
214. Which of the functional committees work under the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)?
1. Expert Committee on Normally Traded Commodities.
2. Expert Committee on Agro Biodiversity.
3. Expert Committee on Medicinal Plants.
4. Expert Committee to examine Biological Diversity Rules.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 4 only (B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 2, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
215. Which of the following is a tribe of herdsmen who live with the lions in the Gir forest in a ‘win-win’
situation and do not see the lions as a threat?
(A) Maldhari (B) Bakarwals
(C) Raikas (D) Bishnoi
216. Consider the following statements with reference to National Wildlife Action Plan:
1. There have been four National Wildlife Action Plans launched in India till date.
2. The last Wildlife Action Plan recognized the concerns relating to climate change impact on
wildlife for 2017-2031.
Which of the statement(s) given above Is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
217. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. The principal act of Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972 consists of six schedules for the
protection of wildlife.
2. Rhesus Macaque, Bengal Porcupine and Himalayan Brown Bear are listed in Schedule I.
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
218. With reference to National Board for Wildlife (NBWL). consider the following statements:
1. The NBWL is an executive body.
2. It serves as an apex body to review all wildlife related matters and its recommendations
are advisory in nature.
3. Approval of NBWL is mandatory for alteration of boundaries in national parks and
sanctuaries.
4. The Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is the chairman of the NBWL.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(A) 2 and 3 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 4 only (D) 1 and 3 only
219. Consider the following pairs:
(Schedule) (Fauna)
1. Schedule III : Hog deer
2. Schedule IV : Indian wild Dog
3. Schedule II : Long-tailed tree mouse
4. Schedule I : Black Buck
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
(A) 1 and 3 only (B) 1 and 4 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 2 and 4 only
220. Consider the following statements:
1. Brown Bear is a critically endangered animal found in India and Nepal.
2. Capped Langur is a vulnerable animal found in India and Bhutan only.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
221. Which one of the group of animals belongs to the category of Critically Endangered species?
(A) Indian Porcupine, Sambar, Hyena and Forest Owlet
(B) Malabar Civet, Bengal Florican, Hawksbill Turtle and Gharial
(C) Green Turtle, Urial, Kiang and Chiru
(D) Sloth Bear, Pygmy Hog, Mouse Deer and Markhor
222. Consider the following pairs:
List-1 List-Il
(Animals) (Category)
1. Fishing Cat : Vulnerable
2. Asiatic Golden Cat : Critically Endangered
3. Leopard Cat : Endangered
4. Marbled Cat : Near Threatened
(A) (B)
(C) (D)
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
(A) 1 and 4 only (B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 2, 3 and 4 only
223. Consider the following statements regarding the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB):
1. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) is a statutory body.
2. The Bureau has its headquarter in New Delhi.
3. It assists and advises the customs authorities in inspection of the consignments of flora
and fauna.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 2 only (D) All of the above
224. Consider the following fauna of India:
1. Hispid Hare
2. Golden Langur
3. Chinese Pangolin
Which of the above species is/are Vulnerable as per the IUCN Red list of threatened species?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 1, 2 and 3
(C) 2 only (D) None
225. With reference to Sea Cow, consider the following statements:
1. It is legally protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
2. India is not the signatory of Conservation of Migratory Species of wild animals (CMS) for
the conservation of Sea Cow.
3. It is an omnivorous marine animal.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1 only
226. Which among the following is not categorised as Vulnerable?
1. Binturong
2. Clouded Leopard
3. Four horned Antelope
4. Asiatic wild ass
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 2 only
(C) 3 and 4 only (D) 4 only
227. Consider the following statements regarding Joint Forest Management (JFM):
1. The primary and most significant basis for JFM is provided by the Wildlife Protection Act,
1972.
2. It is an approach wherein the state forest departments support local forest dwelling and
forest fringe communities to protect and manage forests.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
228. Arribada-unique mass nesting is related to which of the following?
(A) Olive ridley turtle (B) Red crowned roofed turtle
(C) Indian Roofed Turtle (D) Asian leaf turtle
229. With reference to Red Crowned Roofed Turtle, consider the following statements:
1. Red Crowned Roofed Turtle is endemic to India.
2. It inhabits shallow marine waters.
3. National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary in India is the only area with substantial
population of the species.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) All of the above
230. With reference to One Horned Rhino, consider the following statements:
1. It is the largest species of rhino in the world.
2. It is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
3. In India, it is mostly found in Odisha.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
231. Which of the following statements are correct regarding the Indian Star Tortoise?
1. The protection status of the Indian Star Tortoise has been upgraded to Appendix I of CITES.
2. It has been declared Vulnerable by IUCN.
3. This species has been placed in Schedule V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 3 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 2 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
232. Shailesh Nayak Committee Report is related to which of the following?
(A) Mangrove Restoration (B) Coastal Regulation zone
(C) Wildlife Protection (D) Wetland conservation
233. With reference to Mangrove Restoration, consider the following statements:
1. Mangrove restoration is a management strategy to compensate for degraded and lost
ecosystem goods and services.
2. Artificial Regeneration can help in the control of species composition and distribution.
3. Natural regeneration takes place from direct, freely falling and dispersed mangrove
propagules.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) All of the above
234. It is the practice of forestry in areas devoid of tree growth and other vegetation situated in places
away from the conventional forest areas. Which of the following forestry has been described in the
statement?
(A) Recreational forestry (B) Farm forestry
(C) Extension forestry (D) None of the above
235. World Wildlife Day is celebrated on which of the following day?
(A) 10 March (B) 4 March
(C) 3 March (D) 15 March
236. Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?
(A) Great Indian Bustard, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Asiatic Wild Ass
(B) Red Panda, Musk Deer, Lion-tailed Macaque, and Irrawaddy Dolphin
(C) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)
(D) Kashmir Stag, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal
237. Consider the following statements:
1. Arctic Tundra extends as a discontinuous belt in the northern hemisphere.
2. Alpine Tundra occurs at high mountains above the treeline.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
238. Consider the following statements:
1. Nature of soil, climate and local topography determine the distribution of trees and their
abundance.
2. Tropical Rainforest have been called the “world’s largest pharmacy”.
3. Tropical rainforest occurs in areas having high temperature and high humidity.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 (D) 1 and 3 only
239. Which of the following are not the ex-situ mode of conservation?
1. National Parks
2. Reserved Forests
3. Biosphere Reserves
4. Botanical Gardens
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 4 only (B) 1, 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
240. Consider the following statements regarding Neelakurinji flower:
1. Munnar is home to the highest concentration of neelakurinji plants in India.
2. It is a tropical plant species found in Asia and Australia.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
241. Which among the following pairs are correctly matched?
Place Name of Grassland
1. North America Steppes
2. Eurasia Prairies
3. South America Pampas
4. Africa Savanna
Code:
A B C D
(A) 3 4 1 2
(B) 3 1 4 2
(C) 2 1 4 3
(D) 2 4 1 3
305. Which set of the following biosphere reserves in India is included in the World Network of Biosphere
Reserves?
(A) Gulf of Mannar, Nokrek, Pachmarhi and Similipal
(B) Gulf of Mannar, Khangchendzonga, Nokrek and Seshachalam
(C) Nilgiri, Nokrek, Manas and Ranthambore
(D) Nilgiri, Nokrek, Pachmarhi and Seshachalam
306. Which of the following pairs is/are not correctly matched?
National Park/Wetland Confluence of Rivers
1. Blackbuck National Park - Parvalia and Alang rivers
2. Harike Wetland - Beas and Sutlej rivers
3. Bhitarkanika National Park - Gambhir and Banganga rivers
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
(A) 3 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
307. Consider the following statements about Bandipur Tiger Reserve:
1. It is located at the tri-junction area of states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra
Pradesh.
2. It is located between river Kabini in the north and Tungabhadra in the south.
3. The Bandipur tiger reserve has the single largest Asiatic Elephant population in the world.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only
(C) 3 only (D) 2 and 3 only
308. Consider the following statements with reference to Biosphere Reserves:
1. To be designated as a Biosphere Reserve site must contain an effectively protected and
minimally disturbed core area of value of nature conservation.
2. It focuses on conservation of some specific flagship species.
Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
309. Ghodazari Wildlife Sanctuary is located at:
(A) Uttar Pradesh (B) Himachal Pradesh
(C) Maharasthra (D) Gujarat
310. Consider the following statements about Nanda Devi National Park:
1. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. The national park is drained by rivers Bhagirathi and Mandakini.
3. The fauna of the national park includes Snow Leopard and Himalayan Musk Deer.
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
311. Which of the statement(s) given is/are correct about Periyar Tiger Reserve?
1. it is located in the southern region of Western Ghats.
2. Lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri Tahr and the great Malabar Hornbill are found in the reserve.
3. The reserve is home to three tribal groups namely Gonds, Marati and Naikd
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only
(C) 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
312. Consider the following statements:
1. Barasingha is found exclusively in Kanha Tiger Reserve.
2. Barasingha is the state animal of Madhya Pradesh.
3. Barasingha is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List.
Which of the statement (s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only
(C) 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
313. With reference to Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, consider the following statements:
1. The areas have been notified as an Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ).
2. The Thane Creek area is recognized as an “Important Bird Area”.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
4. Environmental Pollution
314. Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution?
1. Automobile exhaust
2. Tobacco smoke
3. Wood burning
4. Using varnished wooden furniture
5. Using products made of polyurethane
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 1, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
315. Consider the following statements:
1. Coal ash contains arsenic, lead and mercury.
2. Coal-fired power plants release sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen into the environment.
3. High ash content is observed in Indian coal.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
316. With reference to Eutrophication, which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. It decreases dissolved oxygen of water.
2. It is a phenomenon of nutrient enrichment of a water body.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
Cades:
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
317. Why is there a great concern about the microbeads that are released into environment?
(A) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.
(B) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children.
(C) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields.
(D) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.
318. Consider the following:
1. Carbon monoxide 2. Methane
3. Ozone 4. Sulphur dioxide
Which of the above are released into atmosphere due to the burning of crop/biomass residue?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2, 3 and 4 only
(C) 1 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
319. Which of the following statements is/are correct about the deposits of ‘methanehydrate’?
1. Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits.
2. Large deposits of ‘methanehydrate’ are found in Arctic Tundra and under the sea floor.
3. Methane in atmosphere oxidizes to carbon dioxide after a decade or two.
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
320. Consider the following statements:
1. Agricultural soils release nitrogen oxides into environment.
2. Cattle release ammonia into environment.
3. Poultry industry releases reactive nitrogen compounds into environment.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 3 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 2 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
321. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aims to reduce particulate matter (PM) in at least 102
cities of India by 20% - 30% by 2024. The base year for the comparison of concentration is:
(A) 2015 (B) 2016
(C) 2017 (D) 2018
322. Catalytic converter transforms waste gases from the engines of many cars into carbon dioxide,
nitrogen and water. The catalyst is made of:
(A) platinum and copper (B) molybdenum and copper
(C) platinum and rhodium (D) rhodium and molybdenum
323. Venturi scrubber, a device used to remove particulate matter from the atmosphere, works on the
principle of:
(A) Settling by gravitational force
(B) Removal by centrifugal force
(C) Removal by electrically charged particles
(D) Removal by atomized water vapour
324. Acid rain results when gaseous emissions of Sulfur oxides (SO×) and nitrogen oxides (NO×) interact
with water vapour and:
(A) Moonlight, and are chemically converted to strong acidic compounds such as sulfuric acid
(H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3)
(B) Sunlight, and are chemically converted to strong acidic compounds such as sulfuric acid
(H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3)
(C) Moonlight, and are chemically converted to weak acidic compounds such as sulfuric acid
(H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3)
(D) Sunlight, and are chemically converted to weak acidic compounds such as sulfuric acid
(H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3)
325. Which of the following is the well known example of bioindicator of air pollution?
(A) Lichens (B) Methyl Mercury
(C) Rose Plant (D) Sunflower
326. Smog is essentially caused by the atmospheric presence of
(A) Oxygen and ozone (B) Ozone and nitrogen
(C) Oxygen and nitrogen (D) Oxide of nitrogen and sulphur
327. The gas, which is emitted in the paddy fields and increases the earth’s temperature is
(A) Nitrogen (B) Carbon dioxide
(C) Carbon monoxide (D) Methane
328. Which of the following statements about India’s largest Charkha is/are true?
1. It was inaugurated in Noida.
2. It is made of used plastic waste.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
Codes:
(A) Only 1 (B) Only 2
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
329. Which of the following has/have shrunk immensely/dried up in the recent past due to human
activities?
1. Aral Sea 2. BlackSea
3. Lake Baikal
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3
(C) 2 only (D) 1 and 3
330. The term “sixth mass extinction/sixth extinction” is often mentioned in the news in the context of the
discussion of
(A) Widespread monoculture practices in agriculture and large-scale commercial farming with
indiscriminate use of chemicals in many parts of the world that may result in the loss of good
native ecosystems.
(B) Fears of a possible collision of a meteorite with the Earth in the near future in the manner
it happened 65 million years ago that caused the mass extinction of many species including
those of dinosaurs.
(C) Large scale cultivation of genetically modified crops in many parts of the world and
promoting their cultivation in other parts of the world which may cause the disappearance of g o o d
native crop plant sand the loss of food biodiversity.
(D) Mankind’s over-exploitation/misuse of natural resources, fragmentation/loss of natural
habitats, destruction of ecosystems, pollution and global climate change.
331. Which of the following is/are the possible consequence/s of heavy sand mining in river beds?
1. Decreased salinity in the river
2. Pollution of groundwater
3. Lowering of the water-table
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
332. With reference to agricultural soils, consider the following statements:
1. A high content of organic matter in soil drastically reduce sits water holding capacity.
2. Soil does not play any role in the Sulphur cycle.
3. Irrigation over a period of time can contribute to the salinization of some agricultural lands.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
333. The meaning of ‘Carbon Footprint’ is described by the amount of:
(A) Carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular
individual, organization or community.
(B) Greenhouse gases emitted by industries contributing to global warming.
(C) Carbon emissions released by the burning of jet fuel.
(D) Increase in the carbon content of the atmosphere due to the felling of trees.
334. Increased biological oxygen demand is an indication of:
1. Low microbial contamination.
2. Absence of microbial pollution.
3. High level of microbial contamination.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
335. Consider the following statements regarding depletion of the ozone layer:
1. Excessive release of chlorine and bromine in the environment from man-made
compounds, such as chlorofluorocarbons.
2. Occurrence of certain natural phenomena such as sunspots, and stratospheric winds.
3. Degradation of materials by ultraviolet radiation.
4. Major volcanic eruptions.
Which of the above can be categorized as causing ozone depletion?
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 1, 3 and 4 only
(C) 1, 2 and 4 only (D) 2, 3 and 4 only
336. Directions: The following item consist of two statements one labelled as ‘Statement (I)’ and the other
as ‘Statement (II)’. Examine these two statements carefully and select the answers to these items
using the codes given below:
(A) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true, and Statement (II) is the correct
explanation of Statement (I)
(B) Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true, but Statement (II) is not the
correct explanation of Statement (I)
(C) Statement (I) is true, but Statement (II) is false
(D) Statement (I) is false, but Statement (II) is true
Statement (I): Normally carbon dioxide is not considered an air pollutant.
Statement (II): Carbon dioxide is a constituent of atmospheric air.
337. Sanitary/municipal fills and waste heaps are unavoidably hazardous due to
1. Leachates
2. Emanating gases
3. Rodents and wandering animals
4. Automobile workshops that seem to have an affinity for such neighbourhoods
(A) 1 and 4 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 3 and 4 only
338. What is ‘Green House Effect’?
(A) Increase in global temperature
(B) Decrease in global temperature
(C) Increase in sea water temperature
(D) Increase in temperature of rivers and lakes
339. A powerful eye irritant in the smoke is
(A) Ozone (B) Sulphur dioxide
(C) Carbon dioxide (D) Peroxyacetyle nitrate
340. Which among the following is the secondary pollutant?
(A) Smog (B) Carbon dioxide
(C) Carbon monoxide (D) Fly ash
341. Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight causes the reaction that produces which of the following?
(A) CO (B) SO2
(C) O3 (D) Fluorides
342. Incinerators are used for which of the following?
(A) Burning wastes (B) Putting wastes into them
(C) For cutting green trees (D) For making fertilizers
343. Methane is emitted from which of the following?
(A) Paddy fields only (B) Termitary only
(C) Both from (A) and (B) (D) None of the above
344. Which pain killer given to cattle is responsible for near extinction of vultures in India?
(A) Ibuprofen (B) Acetaminophen
(C) Asprin (D) Diclofenac
345. Which of the following rivers of Uttar Pradesh has been declared a ‘Biological Disaster’ due to
environmental pollution?
(A) Yamuna (B) Gomti
(C) Sai (D) Tamsa
346. Which among the following is the secondary pollutant?
(A) Smog (B) Carbon dioxide
(C) Carbon mono-oxide (D) Fly ash
347. In the context of mitigating the impending global warming due to anthropogenic emissions of carbon
dioxide, which of the following can be the potential sites for carbon sequestration?
1. Abandoned and uneconomic coal seams
2. Depleted oil and gas reservoirs
3. Subterranean deep saline formations
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
348. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for
(A) Measuring oxygen levels in blood
(B) Computing oxygen levels in forest ecosystems
(C) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystems
(D) Assessing oxygen levels in high altitude regions
349. In the context of solving pollution problems, what is/ are the advantage/advantages of bioremediation
technique?
1. It is a technique for cleaning up pollution by enhancing the same biodegradation process t
at occurs in nature.
2. Any contaminant with heavy metals such as cadmium and lead can be readily and
completely treated bioremediation using microorganisms.
3. Genetic engineering can be used to create microorganisms specifically designed or
bioremediation.
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
350. Which one of the following statements about air pollution caused by diesel engines is correct?
(A) It produces large quantity of carbon monoxide at lower and high temperatures.
(B) It produces large quantity of nitrogen oxides at lower and high temperatures.
(C) It produces large quantity of carbon monoxide at lower temperature and nitrogen oxides
at high temperature.
(D) It produces large quantity of nitrogen oxides at lower temperature and carbon monoxide
at high temperature.
351. Which of the following diseases are caused by the consumption of water contaminated by mercury
and nitrate?
(A) Minamata disease and Osteoporosis
(B) Osteoporosis and Blue Baby Syndrome
(C) Minamata disease and Blue Baby Syndrome
(D) Osteoporosis and Minamata disease
352. Leakage of which one of the following gases had caused Bhopal Gas Tragedy in the year 1984?
(A) Methyl isocyanate
(B) Hexamethylene diisocyanate
(C) Isophorone diisocyanate
(D) Isothiocyanate
353. Which one of the following is a major effect of long-term consumption of drinking water containing
little (less than 0.5 ppm) or no fluoride?
(A) cavity of tooth (B) Erosion of a nail
(C) Deformation of bone (D) Mottling of tooth
354. Direction: The following item consists of two statements, Statement I and Statement II. Examine these
two statements carefully and select the correct answer using the code given below:
Code:
(A) Both the statements are individually true and I Statement II is the correct explanation of
Statement I
(B) Both the statements are individually true but Statement II is not the correct explanation of
Statement I
(C) Statement I is true but Statement II is false
(D) Statement I is false but Statement II is true
Statement I: Global warming signifies the rise in global surface temperature.
Statement II: The increase of concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere causes the rise in
global surface temperature
355. One carbon credit is accepted as equivalent to:
(A) 100 kg of carbon (B) 100 kg of carbon dioxide
(C) 1000 kg of carbon (D) 1000 kg of carbon dioxide
356. Which one of the following is not included in the National Air Quality Index?
(A) Sulphur (B) Nitrogen dioxide
(C) Lead (D) Methane
357. Which of the following statements about the Paris Agreement on Climate Change is/are correct?
1. The Agreement recognizes the developing countries’ right to development and their efforts
to harmonize development with the environment, while protecting the interests of the most
vulnerable.
2. The objective of the Agreement ensures that it is mitigation-centric.
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
358. The LEED and GRIHA:
1. Are green building rating systems.
2. Issue energy compliance certificate.
3. Refer to Global standards.
4. Are Indian standards under finalization.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 and 2 (B) 2 and 3
(C) 3 and 4 (D) 1 and 4
359. The UN Conference on Environment and Development, known as Rio Summit, led to the final
development of which international treaty?
(A) Kyoto Protocol
(B) World Environment Treaty
(C) Environment Treaty of the G8 Nations
(D) Universal Environment Treaty
360. Consider the following statements regarding SMOG:
1. SMOG was coined during the 1950’s to describe a mixture of smoke and fog experienced
in London.
2. The principal pollutants in London SMOG are particulates and sulphur compounds.
3. The London SMOG occurs generally early in the morning on cold wet winter days.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) 1, 2 and 3 (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 2 and 3 only
361. Consider the following tertiary treatment methods for treatment of wastewater:
1. Ion-exchange method
2. Reverse osmosis
3. Chemical oxidation method
4. Activated sludge process
Which of the above methods are correct?
(A) 1, 2 and 4 (B) 1, 3 and 4
(C) 2, 3 and 4 (D) 1, 2 and 3
362. Which industrial waste is commonly used in the construction industry?
(A) Fly ash (B) Slag
(C) Sludge (D) Red oxide
363. The Rotterdam Convention deals with:
(A) Reducing nuclear weapon stockpiles (B) Limiting the use of toxic chemicals
(C) Protecting the oceans (D) Banning of human clone
experiment
364. Consider the following statements concerning environmental pollution:
1. Nuclear explosions cause radioactive radiation
2. Earthquakes do not cause Tsunamis.
3. Acid rain is not a major environmental issue.
4. Air pollution has some impact on meteorology.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 (B) 2 and 3
(C) 3 and 4 (D) 1 and 4
365. Which one of the following is not correctly matched?
Green House Gas − Source
(A) Carbon dioxide − Thermal Power Stations
(B) Chloro fluoro carbon − Automobile
(C) Nitrous Oxide − Water logged Paddy fields
(D) Sulphur dioxide − Brick Kilns
366. Which of the following fuels would produce minimum environmental pollution?
(A) Hydrogen (B) Diesel
(C) Kerosene (D) Coal
367. Which one of the following is a cause of acid rains?
(A) Ozone (B) Ammonia
(C) Sulphur dioxide (D) Carbon monoxide
368. On which of the following can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?
1. Ceiling fans 2. Electric geysers
3. Tubular fluorescent lamps
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
369. In the cities of our country, which among the following atmospheric gases are normally considered in
calculating the value of Air Quality Index?
1. Carbon dioxide 2. Carbon monoxide
3. Nitrogen dioxide 4. Sulfur dioxide
5. Methane
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 2, 3 and 4 only
(C) 1, 4 and 5 only (D) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
370. Which of the following are the key features of ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)’?
1. River basin is the unit of planning and management.
2. It spear heads the river conservation efforts at the national level.
3. One of the Chief Ministers of the States through which the Ganga flows becomes the
Chairman of NGRBA on rotation basis.
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
371. Which of the following best describes/describe the aim of ‘Green India Mission’ of the Government
of India?
1. Incorporating environmental benefits and costs into the Union and State Budgets thereby
implementing the ‘green accounting’.
2. Launching the second green revolution to enhance agricultural output so as to ensure food
security to one and all in the future.
3. Restoring and enhancing forest cover and responding to climate change by acombination
of adaptation and mitigation measures.
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
372. The process of using microbes to treat areas of land or sea that have been contaminated by pesticides,
oil or solvents is known as:
(A) Eutrophication (B) Nitrification
(C) Ammonification (D) Bioremediation
373. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. Acid rain reacts with buildings made from limestone
2. Burning of sulphur containing coal can contribute to acid rain
3. Eutrophication is an effective measure to control pollution
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
374. Which one of the following is most sensitive to environmental change?
(A) Amphibian (B) Reptile
(C) Mammal (D) Insect
375. Which one of the following is associated with the issue of control and phase out of the use of ozone
depleting substances?
(A) Bretton Woods Conference (B) Doha Development Agenda
(C) Geneva II Conference (D) Montreal Protocol
376. The term ‘Bali Action Plan’, is sometimes seen in news in the context of:
(A) Global climate change (B) Global terrorism
(C) Global wildlife trafficking (D) World track
377. Fly ash’, which can be used in making bricks, is emitted from:
(A) Burning of agricultural waste. (B) Burning of municipal solid waste.
(C) Mining of aluminum and iron ores. (D) Thermal power plants.
378. Indiscriminate use of fertilizers have led to
(A) soil pollution (B) water pollution
(C) air pollution (D) All of the above
379. Which one of the following sectors is the largest contributor to carbon dioxide emissions from fuel
consumption in India?
(A) Electricity and heat production
(B) Transport
(C) Manufacturing industries and construction
(D) Others
380. With reference to ‘fly ash’ produced by the power plants using coal as fuel, which of the following
statements is/ are correct?
1. Fly ash can be used in the production of bricks for building construction.
2. Fly ash can be used as a replacement for some of the Portland cement contents of concrete.
3. Fly ash is made up of silicon dioxide and calcium oxide only, and does not contain any
toxic elements.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 2 (B) 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 (D) 3 only
381. What can be the impact of excessive/in appropriate use of nitrogenous fertilizers in agriculture?
1. Proliferation of nitrogen-fixing micro organisms in soil can occur.
2. Increase in the acidity of soil can take place.
3. Leaching of nitrate to the groundwater can occur.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 3 only (B) 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
382. Which one of the following is the most appropriate and correct practice from the point of view of a
healthy environment?
(A) Burning of plastic wastes to keep the environment clean
(B) Burning of dry and fallen leaves in a garden or field
(C) Treatment of domestic sewage before its release
(D) Use of chemical fertilizers in agricultural fields
383. Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists:
List I List II
A. Chlorofluorocarbon 1. Acid Rain
B. Sulphur dioxide 2. Depletion in Ozone layer in
Atmosphere
C. Lead Compound 3. Harmful for human nervous system
D. Carbon Dioxide 4. Topmost Contribution to greenhouse
gas effect
Code:
A B C D
(A) 4 3 1 2
(B) 4 1 3 2
(C) 2 1 3 4
(D) 2 3 1 4
384. Contribution of the manufacturing sector to environmental degradation primarily occurs during
1. Procurement and use of natural resources
2. Industrial processes and activities
3. Product use and disposal
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 2 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
385. Which of the following is not a gaseous air pollutant?
(A) Oxides of sulphur (B) Oxides of Nitrogen
(C) Hydrocarbon (D) Smoke
386. Mercury is emitted as a pollutant by
(A) Coal based power plants (B) Cold storage facilities
(C) Sugar, paper and jute mills (D) Wineries
387. Consider the following:
1. Solid waste treatment
2. Natural wetlands
3. Ruminant animals
Which of the above can cause methane emissions and thus can contribute to global warming?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 2 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
388. In the Earth’s atmosphere, which of the following have the property of absorbing the heat and
contribute to the warming of atmosphere?
1. Carbon monoxide 2. Oxygen
3. Soot 4. Water vapour
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 1, 3 and 4 only
(C) 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
389. With reference to refrigerants, consider the following statements:
1. Hydrofluorocarbons can be the alternatives to ozonedestroying chlorofluorocarbons in
refrigeration.
2. Hydrofluorocarbons do not have any global warming potential.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
390. The main pollutant in the smoke coming from cigarette is
(A) Carbon monoxide & Dioxicine (B) Carbon monoxide and Nicotine
(C) Carbon monoxide and Benzene (D) Dioxicine and Benzene
391. The problem of water pollution with Arsenic is maximum in
(A) Haryana (B) Rajasthan
(C) Madhya Pradesh (D) West Bengal
392. Which one among the following books is centred around ‘environment’?
(A) The Late, Great Planet Earth (B) Silent Spring
(C) Here I Stand (D) And Then One Day
393. The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should not exceed 2°C above pre-
industrial level. If the global temperature increases beyond 3°C above the pre-industrial level, what
can be its possible impact/impacts on the world?
1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source.
2. Widespread coral mortality will occur.
3. All the global wetlands will permanently disappear.
4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere in the world.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
394. There is some concern regarding the nanoparticles of some chemical elements that are used by the
industry in the manufacture of various products. Why?
1. They can accumulate in the environment, and contaminate water and soil.
2. They can enter the foodchains.
3. They can trigger the production of free radicals. 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
395. Which of the following are some important pollutants released by steel industry in India?
1. Oxides of sulphur 2. Oxides of nitrogen
3. Carbon monoxide 4. Carbon dioxide
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1, 3 and 4 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
396. Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and upholstery.
Why is there some concern about their use?
1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment.
2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals.
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
397. Arrange the following fuels in the decreasing order of air pollution caused by burning a kilogram of
each of them:
(A) CNG, Petrol, Diesel (B) Diesel, Petrol, CNG
(C) Petrol, Diesel, CNG (D) Diesel, CNG, Petrol
398. Pesticide Treadmill refers to:
(A) Increase in concentration of pesticides in the body of the organism
(B) Increase in doses of pesticides to prevent the resurgence of pests that were being controlled
(C) Development of resistance in plant due to excessive and prolonged use of pesticide
(D) Production of more synthetic pesticides
399. Which of the following ions present in low concentration in drinking water is essential for normal
growth of teeth but harmful to teeth in high concentration?
(A) Aluminium (B) Calcium
(C) Fluoride (D) Chloride
400. Which of the following lamps contains a poisonous gas and therefore should be disposed of safely?
(A) Compact fluorescent lamp (B) Light emitting diode
(C) Neon lamp (D) Halogen Lamp
401. Addition of Ethylene Dibromide to petrol
(A) Increases the octane level of fuel
(B) Helps elimination of lead oxide
(C) Removes the sulphur compound in petrol
(D) Serves as a substitute of tetraethyl lead
402. Which method of water purification does not kill microorganisms?
(A) Boiling (B) Filtration
(C) Chlorination (D) UV-irradiation
403. Nitric Oxide pollution can lead to all of the following except
(A) Leaf spotting in plants
(B) Bronchitis-related respiratory problems in humans
(C) Production of corrosive gases through photochemical reaction
(D) Silicosis in human
404. The gas which is released from landfills and dumpsites in urban areas is:
(A) Oxygen (B) Methane
(C) Nitrogen (D) Carbon dioxide
405. Which of the following are sources of methane, a greenhouse gas?
1. Domestic animals 2. Coal mining
3. Wetlands
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
406. ‘Green Mufler’ is related to
(A) Soil pollution (B) Air pollution
(C) Noise pollution (D) Water pollution
407. Biodegradable pollutant is
(A) Mercury (B) Sewage
(C) Plastic (D) Asbestos
408. Which one of the following is not a secondary pollutant?
(A) PAN (B) Smog
(C) Sulphur dioxide (D) Ozone
409. World Ozone day is celebrated on
(A) September, 16 (B) April, 21
(C) December, 25 (D) January, 30
410. Which of the following groups of plants can be used as indicators of SO2 pollution of air?
(A) Ferns (B) Mentha
(C) Lichens (D) Hornworts
411. Which one among the following industries is the maximum consumer of water in India?
(A) Engineering (B) Paper and pulp
(C) Textiles (D) Thermal power
412. Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal of old and used computers or their parts, which of the
following are released into the environment as e-waste?
1. Beryllium 2. Cadmium 3 .
Chromium
4. Heptachlor 5. Mercury 6. Lead
7. Plutonium
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only (B) 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 only
(C) 2, 4, 5 and 7 only (D) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7
413. Which of the following can be found as pollutants in the drinking water in some parts of India?
1. Arsenic 2. Sorbitol
3. Fluoride 4. Formaldehyde
5. Uranium
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 and 3 only (B) 2, 4 and 5 only
(C) 1, 3 and 5 only (D) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
414. Acid rain is caused by the pollution of environment by
(A) carbon dioxide and nitrogen (B) carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide
(C) ozone and carbon dioxide (D) nitrous oxide and sulphur
dioxide
415. The increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the air is slowly raising the temperature of the atmosphere,
because it absorbs
(A) the water vapour of the air and retains its heat
(B) the ultraviolet part of the solar radiation
(C) all the solar radiations
(D) the infrared part of the solar radiation
416. Consider the following agricultural practices:
1. Contour bunding
2. Relay cropping
3. Zero tillage
In the context of global climate change, which of the above helps/help in carbon sequestration/
storage in the soil?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 (D) None of them
417. The acidification of oceans is increasing. Why is this phenomenon a cause of concern?
1. The growth and survival of calcareous phytoplankton will be adversely affected.
2. The growth and survival of coral reefs will be adversely affected.
3. The survival of some animals that have phytoplanktonic larvae will be adversely affected.
4. The cloud seeding and formation of clouds will be adversely affected.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
418. Consider the following statements:
Chlorofluorocarbons, known as ozone-depleting substances, are used
1. in the production of plastic foams
2. in the production of tube less tyres
3. in cleaning certain electronic components
4. as pressurizing agents in aerosol cans
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 4 only
(C) 1, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
419. Lead, ingested or inhaled, is a health hazard. After the addition of lead to petrol has been banned,
what still are the sources of lead poisoning?
1. Smelting units
2. Pens and pencils
3. Paints
4. Hair oils and cosmetics
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 1 and 3 only
(C) 2 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
420. There is a concern over the increase in harmful algal blooms in the sea waters of India. What could be
the causative factors for this phenomenon?
1. Discharge of nutrients from the estuaries.
2. Run-off from the land during the monsoon.
3. Upwelling in the seas.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
421. Human activities in the recent past have caused the increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the
atmosphere, but a lot of it does not remain in the lower atmosphere because of
1. its escape into the outer stratosphere.
2. the photosynthesis by phytoplankton in the oceans.
3. the trapping of air in the polar ice caps.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 (B) 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 (D) 3 only
422. Consider the following:
1. Carbon dioxide 2. Oxides of Nitrogen
3. Oxides of Sulphur
Which of the above is/are the emission/emissions from coal combustion at thermal power plants?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
423. In the Union Budget 2011-12, a full exemption from the basic customs duty was extended to the bio-
based asphalt (bioasphalt). What is the importance of this material?
1. Unlike traditional asphalt, bio-asphalt is not based on fossil fuels.
2. Bioasphalt can be made from non-renewable resources.
3. Bioasphalt can be made from organic waste materials.
4. It is eco-friendly to use bioasphalt for surfacing of the road
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 1, 3 and 4 only
(C) 2 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
424. What are the possible limitations of India in mitigating the global warming at present and in the
immediate future?
1. Appropriate alternate technologies are not sufficiently available.
2. India cannot invest huge funds in research and development.
3. Many developed countries have already set up their polluting industries in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
425. Excessive release of the pollutant carbon monoxide (CO) into the air may produce a condition in
which oxygen supply in the human body decreases. What causes this condition?
(A) When inhaled into the human body, CO is converted into CO2
(B) The inhaled CO has much higher affinity for haemoglobin as compared to oxygen
(C) The inhaled CO destroys the chemical structure of haemoglobin
(D) The inhaled CO adversely affects the respiratory centre in the brain
426. Consider the following which can be found in the ambient atmosphere:
1. Soot
2. Sulphur hexafluoride
3. Water vapour
Which of the above contribute to the warming up of the atmosphere?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
427. Due to the irextensive rice cultivation, some regions may be contributing to global warming. To what
possible reason/reasons is this attributable?
1. The anaerobic conditions associated with rice cultivation cause the emission of methane.
2. When nitrogen-based fertilizers are used, nitrous oxide is emitted from the cultivated soil.
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
428. Indiscriminate disposal of used fluorescent electric lamps causes mercury pollution in the environment.
Why is mercury used in the manufacture of these lamps?
(A) a mercury coating on the inside of the lamp makes the light bright white
(B) When the lamp is switched on, the mercury in the lamp causes the emission of ultra-violet
radiations
(C) When the lamp is switched on, it is the mercury which converts the ultra-violet energy into
visible light
(D) None of the statement given above is correct about the use of mercury in the manufacture
of fluorescent lamps
429. Consider the following:
1. Oxides of Hydrogen
2. Oxides of Nitrogen
3. Oxides of Sulphur
Which of the above causes/cause acid rain?
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
430. In the middle of the year 2008 the Parliament of which one of the following countries became the first
in the world to enact a Climate Act by passing “The Climate Change Accountability Bill”?
(A) Australia (B) Canada
(C) Germany (D) Japan
431. Consider the following:
1. Rice fields 2. Coal mining
3. Domestic animals 4. Wetlands
Which of the above are sources of methane, a major greenhouse gas?
(A) 1 and 4 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
PRACTICE QUESTION
432. Which of the following statements are correct?
1. Ozone is found in the troposphere only.
2. Vehicles and industries are the major sources of ground level ozone emissions.
3. Ozone lowers our resistance to cold and pneumonia.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
433. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct regarding Suspended Particulate Matter?
1. Suspended Particulate Matter contain only solid particles.
2. Particulate Matter 2.5 poses greater risk to human health.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
434. Which of the following affects the level of air pollution?
1. Increasing traffic
2. Increase in population
3. Economic development
4. Industrialization
5. Mining
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1, 2 and 3 only (B) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
(C) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only (D) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
435. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. Ground-level ozone is formed through a reaction involving hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides
and sunlight.
2. Prevalence of heavy smog can result into increase of rickets.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
436. Which of the following are carcinogenic in nature?
1. Asbestos Dust
2. Tobacco
3. Radioactive pollutants
4. Coal Dust
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2, 3 and 4 only
(C) 1, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
437. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. Fly Ash consists of aluminium silicate and silicon dioxide only.
2. Fly Ash contains good pozzolanic properties.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
438. Which of the following is not a method to abate air pollution?
(A) Cyclone separator (B) Electrostatic Precipitator
(C) Arrester (D) Booms
439. With reference to Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC)-141b, consider the following statements:
1. It is mainly used as a blowing agent in the foammanufacturing industries.
2. India is the largest exporter of HCFC-141b in the world.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
440. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. Eutrophication reduces dissolved oxygen in water bodies.
2. Water having Dissolved Oxygen (DO) content below 8.0 mg may be considered highly
polluted.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
441. What do you mean by bioremediation?
(A) It is a method of adding essential vitamins and minerals to foods to increase their
nutritional value.
(B) It is the gradual accumulation of substances such as pesticides or other chemicals in an
organism.
(C) It is the use of microorganisms to degrade the environmental contaminants into less toxic
forms.
(D) It is any concentration of a toxin such as pesticides in the tissues of tolerant organisms at
successively higher levels in a food chain.
442. Consider the following statements:
1. Coliform bacteria acts as an indicator of water pollution.
2. Biochemical Oxygen Demand is the amount of dissolved oxygen used by microorganisms
in the biological process in water.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
443. Consider the following statements with reference to Fly ash:
1. “ASHTRACK” is a mobile-based application launched to track the monitoring of fly ash
generation.
2. It can increase crop yield.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
444. Which one of the following is not an example of externalities?
(A) Pollution of air by a cement factory
(B) Health hazard caused to the person due to smoking by himself/herself
(C) Smoke coming out of neighbours vehicle
(D) Increase in land price of adjacent plot due to construction of a road by the
government
445. With reference to the Bharat Stage Emission Standards, consider the following statements:
1. BS-VI fuel will bring down sulphur content by 20 times from the current BS-IV level.
2. The Bharat Stage (BS) regulations are based on the European emission standards.
3. The Central Pollution Control Board implements these standards.
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
446. Which one of the following gases is released mostly from landfills in urban areas?
(A) Nitrogen (B) Hydrogen
(C) Methane (D) Oxygen
447. If you take a sample of first rain water in a highly polluted city and subject it to a pH test, which of the
following results are you most likely to see?
(A) A low pH value (B) A high pH value
(C) Neutral pH value (D) None of the above
448. With reference to ‘Mosses’, consider the following statements:
1. Mosses act as a bioindicator and a low-cost way to monitor urban pollution.
2. Mosses respond to pollution by changing shape, density or disappearing, allowing
scientists to calculate atmospheric alterations.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
449. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct about the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)?
1. These are lipophilic in nature.
2. They are readily soluble in water.
3. Rotterdam Convention aims to eliminate the production and use of Persistent Organic
Pollutants (POPs).
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
450. Consider the following statements:
1. Insecticides and pesticides come under the classification of Quantitative pollutants.
2. Ozone is an example of primary pollutant.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
451. Consider the following statements with reference to National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
1. It aims to bring down the concentration of Carbon dioxide to World Health Organisation
recommended levels by 2024.
2. All the Metropolitan cities are included under this programme.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
452. The ‘CleanSeas’ campaign to fight against marine plastic litter is a campaign of which of the following
organizations?
(A) United Nations Environment Programme
(B) International Ocean Institute
(C) Indian Ocean Commission
(D) United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization
453. Consider the following statements about Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD):
1. It is the amount of dissolved oxygen required by microorganisms present in water to
stabilize inorganic content.
2. The agricultural run-off into the lakes increases its BOD.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
454. The terms ‘SWAS’, ‘SAFAL’ and ‘STAR- signify which of the following?
(A) Space observation Satellites launched by ISRO
(B) Genetically Modified crops developed by ICAR
(C) Less polluting firecrackers developed by CSIR
(D) None of these
455. Consider the following statements regarding Fly Ash:
1. It is produced as a by-product from coal based thermal power plant.
2. It chemically resembles cement.
3. It enhances water-holding capacity of the land.
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
456. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct regarding Acid Rain?
1. The major factors responsible for acid rain are oxides of sulphur and nitrogen.
2. It occurs only in industrial area.
3. It causes an imbalance in the micro-flora of the soil.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 2 and 3 only
457. Which of the following are the in-situ bioremediation techniques?
1. Biopiles 2. Bioaugmentation
3. Bioventing 4. Biosparging
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1, 2, 3, and 4 (B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 4 only (D) 2, 3 and 4 only
458. With reference to Color Coded Weather Warning by Indian Meteorological Department (IMD),
consider the following statements:
1. Yellow indicates severely bad weather spanning across several days.
2. Orange indicates significant risk to human life.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
459. Consider the following statements regarding the Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index
(CEPI):
1. It was carried out by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy.
2. Its aim was to identify polluted industrial clusters so that appropriate pollution mitigation
measures can be adopted.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
460. Acid rain affects the growth of the plant. It is due to:
(A) Plant growth is reduced due to the decrease in nutrients available in the soil.
(B) Plant growth is faster due to the increase in nutrients available in the soil.
(C) There is no impact on plant growth due to acid rain.
(D) None of the above
461. According to the World Quality Report- 2020, which of the following capital city was ranked at the first
position in terms of air pollution?
(A) New Delhi (B) Washington D.C.
(C) Doha (D) Dhaka
462. With reference to Clean Seas Campaign, consider the following statements:
1. It was launched by UN Environment Programme (UNEP) in India.
2. The campaign has targeted a time-line of five years (2017-2021).
3. The campaign aims to ban single use of plastic and microbeads.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 3 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 3 only
463. Consider the following pairs:
Material Type of acid rain impact
1. Metals Corrosion, tarnishing
2. Paper Embrittlement, discoloration
3. Rubber Cracking
Which of the pair(s) given above is/are correctly matched?
(A) 1 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
464. With reference to Coal Gasification, consider the following statements:
1. It is the process of converting coal into syngas.
2. The hydrogen obtained from coal gasification can be used for various purposes such as
powering a hydrogen economy.
3. India has set a target for coal gasification by 2025.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(A) 2 and 3 only (B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3
465. With reference to Particulate Matter 2.5, consider the following statements:
1. It is an endocrine disruptor and contributes to diabetes.
2. It is considered in the calculation of the National Air Quality Index.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
466. Consider the following statements about GOBAR-Dhan Scheme:
1. It is launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
2. The is implemented as a part of Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen and Urban).
Which of the statement(s)given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
467. Consider the following statements:
1. Blue hydrogen is produced using renewable energy and electrolysis to split water.
2. The by-product of Grey hydrogen is captured and stored.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 only (B) 2 only
(C) Both 1and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2
468. Stockholm Convention is best describes by which of the following statement?
(A) A global treaty on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure against for certain hazardous
Chemicals and Pesticides in international trade.
(B) A global treaty to protect human health and the environment from persistent organic
pollutants(POPs).
(C) An international treaty designed to protect Indian ocean from anthropogenic emissions
and releases of mercury and mercury compounds.
(D) It is an international treaty for fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the
use of genetic resources.
469. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. Carbon farming is the process involved in carbon capture and the long-term storage of
atmospheric carbon dioxide Carbon farming.
2. Carbon sequestration is the process of changing agricultural practices or adopting
agricultural methods that increase the amount of carbon stored in the soil and reduce the
greenhouse gases.
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
Solutions
Ecology Solution:
1. Ans. (A)
Sol.
□ The circulation of elements or nutrients from non-living to living and then back
to the non- living components of the ecosystem in a
circular
fashion is known as biogeochemical cycle. The movement of nutrient
elements through the various components of an ecosystem
is also known as nutrient
cycling.
□ Geologic processes, such as weathering, erosion, water drainage, and the subduction
of the continental plates, all play a role in the cycling of elements on Earth.
□ Biogeochemical cycles are of two types:
Gaseous Nutrient Cycle: Carbon cycle, Nitrogen cycle, Hydrological cycle, etc.
Sedimentary Nutrient Cycle: Sulphur cycle, Phosphorous cycle.
□
The reservoir for the gaseous type of nutrient cycle (e.g., nitrogen, carbon cycle)
exists in the atmosphere and for | the sedimentary
cycle (e.g., sulphur and phosphorus j cycle), the reservoir is located in Earth’s crust.
2. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ In ecology, succession is a directional non-seasonal cumulative change in the types
of plant species that occupy a given area through time. It involves the Processes of
colonization, establishment, and extinction, which act on the participating plant species.
□ Most successions contain a number of stages that can be recognized by the collection
of species that dominate at that point in the succession.
□ The entire sequence of communities that successively change in a given area are
called sere(s).The individual transitional communities are termed seral stages or seral
communities.
□ In the successive seral stages, there is a change in the diversity of species of
organisms, increase in the number of species and
organisms as well as an increase in the total biomass.
□ The sequence of seres for a given region is often fully predictable, both with respect
to the general types of population expected at each sere and to seral durations. On land,
for example, a climax stage (final stage) is often represented by a forest community. If
the original physical environment is sand then the sequence of seres includes: soil-
forming organisms (bacteria, lichens, mosses, fungi), annual grasses, perennial grasses,
shrubs, and trees.
3. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Ecoradicals are those who think that the ecosystem has a limited carrying
capacity which means how large a species population can
become before it overuses the resources available in the ecosystem.
□ Ecoradicals believe that human societies on earth are moving dangerously closer to
the limits of the planet s carrying capacity; they also think that there are no simp e
technological fixes that can take care of the problem. So, many ‘ecoradicals’ call for strict
population control and dramatic changes in modern lifestyles. Hence statements 1 and 2
are correct.
□ It also involved dramatic changes in economic and political organization.
They criticize such advice which calls for environment
protection within a framework of sustainable growth (the Brundtland Report).
Ecoradicals find that this is not at all sufficient. For some, real j sustainability
means abandoning industrial mass production and reverting to some form of
deindustrialized society. Behind such radical ideas lies a world view profoundly
different from the ‘modernist- anthropocentric’ view that is leading in western secular
thinking, i.e., ‘man is above nature’. The ecoradicals
saw the world in a very different way; it puts equal value on humans and nature
as part of one single biosystem and man has no right to exploit nature. Humans
have a duty to live in harmony with nature. Hence statement 3 is correct.
4. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Food chains and energy flow are the functional properties of ecosystems which make
them dynamic. The biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem are linked through
them.
□ Transfer of food energy from green plants (producers) through a series of organisms
with repeated eating and being eaten is called a food chain. For example, Grasses →
Grasshopper → Frog → Snake → Hawk/Eagle.
□ Each step in the food chain is called trophic level.
5. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Ecosystem is broadly classified into terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
The terrestrial ecosystem is the one which involves the land based community of or-
ganisms and their interactions with biotic and abiotic components. For example, forest,
grassland, desert, tundra etc.
The aquatic ecosystem includes pond, river, lake, wetland, estuary, ocean etc.
□ Limnetic zone is the layer of open water where photosynthesis can occur-
□ An estuary is a partially enclosed body of water, and its surrounding coastal habitats,
where salt water from the ocean typically mixes with fresh water from rivers or streams.
□ Prairies are enormous stretches of flat grassland with moderate temperatures, moderate
rainfall, and few trees. These temperate grasslands are found in North America.
□ Reefs are large underwater structures that are colonised by marine invertebrates called
coral. Coral reefs are the most diverse of all marine ecosystems.
6. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Nitrogen Fixation process involves conversion of gaseous nitrogen into ammonia, a
form in which it can be used by plants. Atmospheric nitrogen can be fixed by the following
three methods:
Atmospheric Fixation: Lightening, combustion and volcanic activity help in the fixa-
tion of nitrogen.
Industrial Fixation: At high temperature and high pressure, molecular nitrogen is bro-
ken into atomic nitrogen which then combines with hydrogen to form ammonia.
Bacterial Fixation: It is performed by symbiotic bacteria such as Rhizobium in the
root nodules of leguminous plants and Free living or symbiotic bacteria such as Nostoc,
Azotobacter and Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae) that can combine atmospheric or
dissolved nitrogen with hydrogen to form ammonia.
□ Blue-Green Algae are very important for the health and growth of many plants. They
are one of the few groups of organisms that can convert inert atmospheric nitrogen into
an organic form, such as nitrate or ammonia. It is these “fixed” forms of nitrogen which
plants need for their growth, and must obtain from the soil.
□ Cyanobacteria also form symbiotic relationships with many fungi, forming complex
symbiotic “organisms” known as lichens.
7. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Bioindicators are living organisms such as plants, plankton, animals, and microbes,
which are used to assess the health of the natural ecosystem in the environment. Some of
the examples include:
Lichens are powerful bioindicators of air quality.
Frogs are basically influenced by changes that take place in their freshwater and terres-
trial habitats.
Algal blooms are often used to indicate large increase of nitrates and phosphates in
lakes and rivers.
□ Lichens as Bioindicators
Lichens is a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungi. The fungus provides shel-
ter for the algae and the algae provides food for the fungi. Lichens do not have roots;
instead they receive all their nutrients from the atmosphere.
They are sensitive to atmospheric pollution such as nitrogen (N) because they receive
all their nutrients and water from wet and dry atmospheric deposition (fall out). Nitro-
gen deposition can increase the load of nutrients. Too much nitrogen can harm and kill
the algae s chlorophyll, which is used to produce sugars feeding it and the fungi.
Certain species of lichen are more tolerant of nitrogen than others. Scientists monitor
lichen communities. If an increase in nitrogen tolerant species in combination with a
decrease in nitrogen sensitive species occurs this may indicate an increase in atmo-
spheric nitrogen deposition.
Lichens are the “canaries in the coal mine” of nitrogen deposition. A shift in their spe-
cies composition and/ or their health exemplifies the potential beginning of ecosystem
decline due to nitrogen deposition.
8. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The Western Ghats are internationally recognized as a region of immense global
importance for the conservation of biological diversity, besides containing areas of high
geological, cultural and aesthetic values.
□ A chain of mountains running parallel to India’s western coast, approximately
30-50 km inland, the Ghats traverse the States of
Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat. It is interrupted by
Palghat Pass.
□ Older than the Great Himalayan mountain chain, the Western Ghats are home to four
tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forest ecoregions - the North Western Ghats moist
deciduous forests, North Western Ghats montane
rain forests, South Western Ghats moist deciduous forests, and South Western Ghats
montane rain forests.
□ These mountains act as a rain barrier during southwest monsoon, leading to ample
rainfall and source to 58 major rivers.
□ A significant characteristic of the Western Ghats is the exceptionally high level of
biological diversity and endemism. This mountain chain is recognized as one of the world’s
eight ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity along with Sri Lanka. It is also a UNESCO World
Heritage Site.
□ The forests of the Western Ghats include some of the best representatives of non
equatorial tropical evergreen forests in the world. At least 325 globally threatened (IUCN Red
Data List) species occur in the Western Ghats.
9. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The Deep Carbon Observatory (DCO) is a
global research program designed to transform understanding of carbon’s role in Earth. To
complement this research, the DCO’s infrastructure includes public engagement
and education, online and offline community support, innovative data management,
and novel instrumentation development. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ The Deep Carbon Observatory’s research considers the global carbon cycle beyond
Earth’s surface. It explores high-pressure and extreme temperature organic synthesis,
complex interactions between organic molecules and minerals, conducts field observations
of deep microbial ecosystems and of anomalies in petroleum geochemistry, and constructs
theoretical models of lower crust and upper mantle carbon sources and sinks. Hence,
statement 2 is correct.
□ Considerable amounts of life forms, including 70% of bacteria and archaea on
Earth, comprising up to 23 billion tonnes of carbon, live up to at least 4.8 km (3.0 mi)
deep underground, including 2.5 km (1.6 mi) below the seabed, according to a ten-year
Deep Carbon Observatory project.
10. Ans. (C)
Sol.
Vegetation Features
Epiphytes □ Climate: Equatorial
(A-2) □ An epiphyte grows on the surface of a plant and derives its moisture
and nutrients from the air, rain, water or from debris accumulating
around it.
Acacia □ Climate: Savanna
(B-4) □ Acacias are well adapted to deserts and tropical areas. Therefore,
they have a wide distribution and are native to Australia, South
Africa, the Southwestern United States, and South and Central
America.
□ Large, umbrella-shaped acacias of the African Savanna are often
used as a landmark.
Baobab □ Climate: Sahara
(C-3) □ Baobabs are deciduous trees ranging in height from 5 to 20 meters.
The African baobab, the oldest known angiosperm tree is known as
the “Tree of Life,”.
□ The species is found throughout the drier regions of Africa and
features a water-storing trunk.
Cedars (D-l) □ Climate: Mediterranean
□ Cedar, any of four species of ornamental and timber evergreen
conifers of the genus Cedrus (family Pinaceae), three native to
mountainous areas of the Mediterranean region and one to the
western Himalayas.
11. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Species diversity is higher at the equator than at the poles. In biological terms, this is
referred to as the latitudinal diversity gradient (LDG), in which the number of species increases
from the poles to the Equator.
□ Ecological factors commonly are used to account for this gradation. Higher temperatures,
greater climate predictability, and longer growing seasons all conspire to create a more
inviting habitat, permitting a greater diversity of species.
□ Tropical rainforests are the richest habitat of all, tropical grasslands exhibit more diversity
than temperate grasslands, and deserts in tropical or subtropical regions are populated by a
wider range of species than are temperate deserts.
\
12. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Coral reefs are large underwater structures composed of the skeletons of corals, which
are marine invertebrate animals. The coral species extract Calcium Carbonate from seawater to
create a hard, durable exoskeleton that protects their soft, sac-like bodies. Besides other
conditions, reef-building corals require warm ocean temperatures (20 to 28°C). Hence, most
of the coral reefs are found in tropical waters. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Reef-building corals are scattered throughout the tropical and subtropical Western Atlantic
and Indo-Pacific oceans, generally within 30°N and 30°S latitudes. More than three- quarters
of the world’s reef-building coral species can be found within the waters of “Coral Triangle”, the
area covering the reefs of Northern Australia, Indonesia, Philippines and Papua New Guinea
lending from Indonesia in the west to the Solomon Elands in the east, and the Philippines in
the north. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Coral reefs have much more animal phyla than those found in tropical rainforests. 32 of
the 34 recognized animal Phyla are found in coral reefs compared to 9 in tropical rainforests.
Hence, statement 3 is correct.
13.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Carbon Fertilization can be defined as increased rate of photosynthesis due to the large
amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere that has resulted from rising anthropogenic
emissions.
□ It is the artificial enrichment of the atmosphere of greenhouses with carbon dioxide, an
essential nutrient for plants and vegetables.
□ Due to the increased rate of photosynthesis, it improves production/growth level of plant,
both from a qualitative and from a quantitative point of view. It is particularly suitable for cold
climates and can be used for growing practically all types of vegetables (asparagus, c e l e r y ,
lettuce, tomatoes, aubergines etc.), greenhouse fruit (strawberries) and ornamental plants.
14.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ The word biome is a short form of biological home. It may be defined as a large natural
eco-system wherein we study the total assemblage of plant and animal communities.
□ Whereas, anthropogenic biome also known as Anthrome or Human Biomes, are the
globally significant ecological patterns created by sustained interactions between humans and
ecosystems, including urban, village, cropland, rangeland and semi natural anthrome.
□ The term was originated by Erle Ellis and Navin Ramankutty in 2007 in their paper-
Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment as a more comprehensive way to integrate humans
into global ecology.
15. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Food chain is the sequence of transfer of matter and energy in the form of food from
organism to organism.
□ A food chain starts with producers and ends with top carnivores. Among the above given
options, the correct sequence is grass that is eaten by goats which, in turn, is eaten by
human beings.
16.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ In an ecosystem the energy stored at the producer level is called primary productivity.
Energy stored at the consumer level is called secondary productivity.
□ Gross primary productivity (GPP) is the total amount of solar energy captured and stored
in the form of organic substances by the green plants.
□ Net primary productivity (NPP) is the amount of organic substances left in the plant after
its own metabolism i.e., NPP = GPP - Respiration.
□ Highest value of net primary productivity in terrestrial environments occurs in tropical
rainforests; the lowest occurs in deserts. While in aquatic environments, the highest NPP
occurs in estuaries, algal beds, and reefs.
17.
Ans. (A) Sol.
□ The functional characteristics of a species in its habitat are referred to as “niche” in that
common habitat. Hence, the niche is the set of biotic and abiotic conditions in which a
species is able to persist and maintain stable population sizes.
□ The term niche means the sum of all the activities and relationships of a species by which
it uses the resources in its habitat for its survival and reproduction
18.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Autecology, also known as Species Ecology, is
an approach in ecology that seeks to explain thedistributionandabundanceof
species by studying interactions of individual organisms with their environments.
□ Synecology, also known as Community Ecology, is the branch of ecology dealing with the
relations between natural communities and their environments.
□ Genecology is a branch of ecology, which studies genetic variation of species and
communities compared to their population distribution in a particular environment.
□ Ethology is the scientific study of animal behaviour, usually with a focus on behaviour
under natural conditions, and viewing behaviour as an evolutionarily adaptive trait.
19.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Ordinary Urea: It is a fertiliser used to provide Nitrogen to the soil, which is necessary for
the development of plants. Only 30-40% of Nitrogen present in the urea is utilised by crops. T h e
rest gets degraded. Ordinary urea gets converted to Ammonium Carbamate. Some of this
gets converted to Ammonia Gas in a process called ammonia volatilisation, while the rest of the
Ammonium Carbamate undergoes a chemical transformation and Nitrates are formed.
Some of these are absorbed by the plants. The rest is either leached into the underground water or
are denitrified to gaseous Nitrogen and Nitrous Oxide under anaerobic conditions (absence
of Oxygen).
□ Neem Coated Urea: Neem has properties that check nitrogen loss at each stage. It
slows down the process of nitrate formation and hence,
excess nitrate is not available for denitrification. Thus, it helps in countering the degradation of
soil and underground water and also any subsequent air pollution by slowing down the
rate of dissolution of urea in the soil.
20. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ An artificial ecosystem is a human made system of plants, animals, and people living in an
area together with their surroundings.
□ The zoos, aquariums and botanical gardens are examples of artificial ecosystems which are
maintained with the objective of conserving biodiversity.
□ Rice-field is an artificial ecosystem because the fields are grown by men/ women for
agricultural needs. They do not occur naturally. Modern agricultural practices with large-
scale intensive farming have significantly accelerated the homogenization of the paddy fi e l d
ecosystem.
21. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ A food chain refers to the order of events in an ecosystem, where one living organism eats
another organism, and later that organism is consumed by another larger organism. The fl o w
of nutrients and energy from one organism to another at different trophic levels forms a
food chain.
□ A food chain shows us how every living organism is dependent on other organisms for
survival. The food chain explains the path of energy flow inside an ecosystem.
□ Ina food chain, man is the primary consumer as he eats vegetables (herbivores) as well as
secondary consumer as he eats meats and fishes (carnivores).
22. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ An ecosystem can be visualized as a functional unit of nature, where living organisms
interact among themselves and also with the surrounding physical environment. It varies
greatly in size from a small pond to a large forest or a sea. The ecosystem is defined as a
community of organisms together with their living environment.
□ An ecosystem generally consists of biotic components (animals, plants, bacteria, etc.) and
abiotic components including minerals, climate, soil, water, sunlight, etc., linked through major
forces of the flow of energy and geochemical cycles within the ecosystem.
23. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Moist deciduous forests are found throughout India except in the western and the north-
western regions. The trees found here are tall with broad trunks and have firm roots which h o l d
them to the ground. Tall trees shed their leaves in the dry season and a layer of shorter trees
and shrubs grow under the canopy of tall trees
□ Dominant tree species are sal and teak, along with mango, bamboo, and rosewood.
24.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Mangrove forests only grow at tropical and subtropical latitudes near the equator because
they cannot withstand freezing temperatures. These trees grow in areas with low-oxygen soil,
where slow-moving waters allow fine sediments to accumulate.
□ They characteristically have prop roots or exposed supporting roots. Many species
characterize respiratory or knee roots. Such roots project above the mud and have small
openings (lenticels) through which air enters, passing through the soft spongy tissue to the roots
beneath the mud.
□ This tangle of roots allows the trees to handle the daily rise and fall of tides, which means
that most mangroves get flooded at least twice per day. The roots also slow the movement o f
tidal waters, causing sediments to settle out of the water and build up the muddy bottom.
□ Mangrove forests stabilize the coastline, reducing erosion from storm surges, currents,
waves, and tides. The intricate root system of mangroves also makes these forests attractive to
fish and other organisms seeking food and shelter from predators.
25.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ A lichen is not a single organism. Rather, it is a symbiosis between different organisms, a
fungus and an algae or cyanobacterium. Lichens are the first organisms to colonise a bare rock.
□ They have the ability to colonize a wide range of surfaces and can be found growing in
almost all parts of the terrestrial world, from the ice-free polar areas to the tropics, from
tropical rainforests to those desert areas free of mobile sand dunes.
□ The surfaces on which lichens grow vary from the natural (such as soil, rock, wood, bone)
to the man-made (for example, bitumen, concrete, glass, canvas, metal, etc.).
□ Referred to as the pioneer species, spores of lichen are spread onto a land of rocks. Then,
the rocks are broken down into smaller particles. Organic matter gradually accumulates,
favouring the growth of herbaceous plants like grasses, ferns and herbs.
26.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The Olive ridley turtles are the smallest and most abundant of all sea turtles found in
warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans.
□ Rushikulya river and Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary in Odisha are known for mass nesting
site (Arribada) of Olive Ridley turtles.
□ The species is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List, Appendix 1 in CITES, and
Schedule 1 in Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
27.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The food chain is defined as the relation between organisms of different trophic levels
which are connected to each other for food or energy. In a food chain the flow of energy or f o o d
is unidirectional and in a linear sequence.
□ First, plants capture solar energy and then, food is transferred from the producers to
decomposers.
□ Diatoms are single celled photosynthesizing algae found in seas and oceans.
□ Animals like crab, shrimps, lobsters, etc., are crustaceans and they eat diatoms.
□ Herrings are fish and they eat crustaceans.
□ Thus, Diatoms-Crustaceans-Herrings forms the correct food chain.
28.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Lichen is not a single organism. Rather, it is a symbiosis between different organisms - a
fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium. Cyanobacteria are sometimes referred to as ‘blue- green
algae’, though they are quite distinct from the algae.
□ Lichens are amongst the first organisms to colonize the barren surfaces (e.g., road cuttings,
rock outcrops and volcanic ash) and prepare these areas for later plants by trapping moisture and
windblown organic debris and then contributing to the organic deposits when t h e y
themselves die and decay.
29.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The Carbon cycle is a process in which Carbon travels from the atmosphere into organisms
and the Earth and then back into the atmosphere. In the atmosphere, Carbon is attached to
Oxygen and is present in the form | of a gas called Carbon Dioxide (CO2).
□ Volcanic eruptions besides discharging lava, rocks and volcanic ash; emits water vapour,
Carbon Dioxide, Sulphur Dioxide, Hydrogen Sulphide, Hydrochloric Acid’ Carbon Monoxid,e
etc. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ In the process of respiration in animals and plants, Carbon Dioxide is released. Hence, 2 is
correct.
□ In decay of organic matter, microorganisms (decomposers) act upon crop and animal
residue to produce CO2, water and nutrients. Hence, 4 is correct.
□ Through the process of photosynthesis, Carbon Dioxide from the air is used by the plants
to produce Oxygen and carbohydrates. Hence, 3 is not correct.
30.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Mangroves are the plant communities occurring in intertidal zones along the coasts of
tropical and subtropical countries.
□ Since, mangroves grow in marshy conditions, where soil is poor in nutrient and oxygen
content, they develop specialed roots called pneumatophores or breathing roots for the
purpose of breathing.
31. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The sequence in which organism feed on each other, forms a food chain and each step in
the food chain is called trophic level.
□ A food chain starts with producers and ends with top carnivores. Among the above given
options, the correct sequence of the food chain is Grasshoppers, Frogs, Snakes, Vultures
because grasshopper is eaten by frog, which is eaten by snake and which is the source of food
for vultures.
32. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ An ecosystem consists of a community of organisms and their physical environment
interacting as an ecological unit. It involves the interaction between both biotic factors (plants,
animals, and other organisms) and abiotic factors (include rocks, temperature, and humidity) in
a given area.
□ The biotic and abiotic components are considered to be linked through nutrient cycles and
energy flows.
□ It acts as a functional unit of nature and varies greatly in size from a small pond to a large
forest or a sea.
33. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Decomposition is the process by which dead organic matter are broken down into simpler
organic or inorganic matter such as carbon dioxide, water, simple sugars and mineral salts.
□ Fungi are major decomposers in ecosystems because they produce specific enzymes that
ensures dead plants and animals are broken down into smaller molecules that can be used by o ther
members of the ecosystem. Without fungi, decaying organic matter would accumulate in t h e
forest.
34. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ An ecosystem consists of a community of organisms and their physical environment
interacting as an ecological unit. It involves the interaction between both biotic factors (plants,
animals, and other organisms) and abiotic factors (include rocks, temperature, and humidity) in
a given area.
□ Oceans are the largest existing ecosystem on our planet. Covering 70% of the Earth’s
surface, producing half of the world’s oxygen and storing 50 times more carbon dioxide than our
atmosphere. It is home to more than 2 million estimated species and provides for a sixth of all
animal protein humans consume.
35. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Adaptations are special features that allow a plant or animal to live in a particular place or
habitat.
□ Leaf modification is also a special feature that allows a plant to inhibit water loss in desert
area. Some leaf modifications are as follows:
Hard and waxy coating on the leaf; hence, 1 is correct.
Compound leaves;
Small leaf size; hence, 2 is correct.
Hair or fur on leaves;
Spines or thorns. Hence, 3 is correct.
36. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Decomposers breakdown dead organic material into water, carbon dioxide, minerals and
other simple chemicals which can again be consumed by green plants.
□ Like herbivores and predators, decomposers are heterotrophic, meaning that they use
organic substrates to get their energy, carbon and nutrients for growth and development.
Viruses infect cells and use components of the host cell to make copies of themselves. They are not
decomposers. Hence, 1 is not correct.
The primary decomposers of litter in many ecosystems are fungi. Hence, 2 is correct.
Bacteria are other important decomposers apart from fungi. Hence, 3 is correct.
37. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Ecological Niche: It refers to the physical position and functional role of species within a
community. A species’ niche includes all of its interactions with the biotic and abiotic factors of its
environment. Biotic factors are living things, while abiotic factors are non-living things. It is
advantageous for a species to occupy a unique niche in an ecosystem because it reduces t h e
amount of competition for resources that species will encounter.
□ Ecotone: It is a transition zone of vegetation between different plant communities, such as
forest and grasslands, where two communities meet and integrate.
□ Habitat: It is a place or environment where a plant or animal naturally or normally lives
and grows.
□ Home Range: The home range of an animal is the area where it spends its time; it is
the region that encompasses all the resources which the
animal requires to survive and reproduce.
38. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Biofertilizers are products containing carrier based (solid or liquid) living microorganisms
which are agriculturally useful in terms of nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilisation or
nutrient mobilization to increase the productivity of soil or crop. Classification of biofertilizers based
on microorganism include:
Bacterial Biofertilizers: Rhizobium, Azospirilium, Azotobacter, Phosphobacteria, Nostoc, etc. Hence,
2 is correct.
Fungal Biofertilizers: Mycorrhiza, Penicillium sp, Aspergillus awamori.
Algal Biofertilizers: Blue Green Algae (BGA) and AzoIla.
Actinomycetes Biofertilizer: Frankia.
□ Agaricus is an edible fungus and is commonly known as mushroom. It is a saprophytic
fungus found growing on soil humus, decaying litter on forest floors, in the fields, lawns, wood
logs and manure piles. Hence, 1 is not correct.
□ Spirogyra is a large genus of freshwater green algae found in shallow ponds, ditches
and amongst vegetation at the edges of large lakes, generally growing free-floating. It is valued
for human consumption, and is known as an important source of natural bio-active compounds
for antibiotic, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic purposes. Hence, 3 is not
correct.
39. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Nitrogen is a naturally occurring element that is essential for growth and reproduction in
both plants and animals. It is found in amino acids that make up proteins in nucleic acids, that
comprise the hereditary material and life’s blueprint for all cells and in many other organic and
inorganic compounds.
□ Nitrogen also comprises about 78% of the Earth’s atmosphere.
□ Mammals, including humans, are the primary producers of urea. Because they secrete urea
as the primary nitrogenous waste product, they are called ureotelic animals. These wastes
add nitrogen to the soil. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ Coal combustion produces Oxides of Carbon (COx), Oxides of Sulphur (Sox), Oxides of
Nitrogen (NOx) and a variety of byproducts, including fly-ash, flue gas and scrubber sludge.
However, it does not directly add nitrogen to the soil. Hence, 2 is not correct.
□ When plants and animals die, the Nitrogen compounds in the organic matter re-
enter the soil where they are broken down by microorganisms,
known as decomposers. This decomposition produces Ammonia, which goes through the
nitrification process, i.e., nitrifying bacteria in the soil convert Ammonia into Nitrite (NO2) and
then into Nitrate (NO3). Hence, 3 is correct.
40. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Productivity is the rate of biomass production or the amount of food energy produced
or obtained or stored by a particular trophic level per unit area in a unit time. It can also be
defined as the energy accumulated in plants by photosynthesis. The unit of productivity is g m /
m2/ year or kcal/m2/year.
Primary Productivity is the productivity at the producer level. It can be termed as the amount of
organic matter produced by the plants from solar energy in a given area during a given period of time.
Secondary Productivity is the productivity at the consumer level. It reflects only the utilisation of food
for the production of consumer biomass. It can be referred to as the net rate of increase in biomass
of heterotrophs.
□ Of all the given ecosystems, mangrove ecosystem has highest productivity followed by
grassland, lakes, and oceans in decreasing order.
41. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ According to ‘National Wetland Inventory and Assessment’ report prepared by the Space
Applications Centre; Gujarat (34.74 hectares) leads in wetland area compared to other states
followed by Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Maharashtra. Hence, statement 1 is
correct.
□ The total area of inland wetlands is 69% of total wetlands while it is only 29% for coastal
wetlands. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
42. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Biopesticides are certain types of pesticides derived from natural materials such as
animals, plants, bacteria, and certain minerals. For example, canola oil and baking soda have
pesticidal applications and are considered biopesticides.
Bacterial pesticides are used to control pests, pathogens and weeds by a variety of mechanisms. They
might act as competitors or inducers of host resistance in plants or they work by inhibiting growth,
feeding, development or reproduction of a pest or pathogen. Hence, 1 is correct.
Fungal biopesticides can be used to control plant diseases as well as some pests and weeds. Fungi
are a diverse group of organisms and can be found in almost every environment on earth. Two of the
most common commercial biopesticides are Trichoderma species and Beauveri abassiana. Hence, 2
is correct.
Botanical pesticides are eco-chemicals isolated from parts of the plants such as leaves, roots, barks,
fruits, seeds or seed kernels. By nature, several higher plants have the ability to synthesize and
produce numerous secondary metabolites which will be unpalatable to insect pests. Azadirachta
indica commonly called as Neem is a most promising plant, used effectively and extensively for insect
pest management program. Hence, 3 is correct.
43.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The Carbon cycle is the process in which Carbon travels from the atmosphere into
organisms and the Earth and then back into the
atmosphere, where, Carbon is attached to Oxygen in a gas called Carbon Dioxide (CO2).
□ Through the process of photosynthesis, Carbon Dioxide from the air is used by the
plants to produce carbohydrates. Hence, 1 is not correct.
□ In the process of respiration in animals and plants, Carbon Dioxide is released. Similarly, in
the decay of organic matter, the CO2 is released. Hence, 2 and 3 are correct.
□ Volcanic eruptions besides discharging lava, rocks and volcanic ash; emit Water Vapour,
Carbon Dioxide, Sulphur Dioxide, Hydrogen Sulphide, Hydrochloric Acid, Carbon Monoxide e t c .
Hence, 4 is correct.
44. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Upwelling is the process through which cold and nutrient rich water from the bottom of
the ocean comes above the surface of the ocean by the action of the surface wind. It replaces
the warmer, usually nutrient depleted, surface water. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ This is related to Phytoplanktons and has nothing to do with the decomposer
microorganisms. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ The bottom dwelling organisms or benthos, are not brought to the surface due to
upwelling. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
□ The upwelling sites give rise to the great fishing grounds of the world because these areas
become rich in nutrients and have high biological productivity.
45. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Sequence of Evolutionary Stages: Single cellular -> Multi cellular -> Fishes -> Amphibians
-> Reptiles → Birds → Mammals.
Octopus (Molluscs) - Dolphins and Whales (Mammals)-Shark (Fish)
Pangolin (Mammal)-Tortoise (Reptile) - Hawk (Bird).
Salamander (Amphibian)-Python (Reptile) - Kangaroo (Mammal). This sequence follows the correct
sequence of evolutionary stages.
Frog (Amphibian)-Crab (Crustaceans)-Prawn (Crustaceans).
PRACTICE SOLUTION:
46.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Decomposers also known as Saprotrophs or detritivores, secretes digestive enzymes that
breakdowns the complex organic matters, dead and waste materials into simple, inorganic
materials like carbon dioxide, water and nutrients, which are subsequently absorbed by them.
□ Saprotrophs meet their energy and nutrient requirements by degrading dead organic
matter or detritus. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ The important steps in the process of decomposition are fragmentation, leaching,
catabolism, humification and mineralization. Detritivores
(e.g., earthworm) break down detritus into smaller particles. This process is called
fragmentation. They help in the decomposition of organic matter. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Decomposers, such as bacteria and fungi (mushrooms), feed on waste and dead matter,
converting it into inorganic chemicals that can be recycled as mineral nutrients for plants to u s e
again.
47. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Ecotone is a transition area between two adjacent ecological communities. It has the
conditions intermediate to the adjacent ecosystems due
to which ecotone is a zone of tension. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Sometimes the number of species and the population density of some of the species is
much greater in ecotone than either community known as the edge effect. Hence, statement 1 is
correct.
□ Organisms in this zone are known as edge species. In the terrestrial ecosystems edge effect
is especially applicable to birds. For example, the density of some birds is greater in the
mixed habitat of the ecotone between the forest and the desert. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.
48. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The functional characteristics of a species in its habitat are referred to as “niche”. Hence,
the niche is the set of biotic and abiotic conditions in which a species is able to persist and
maintain stable population sizes. It is a description of all the biological, physical and chemical
factors that a species needs to survive, stay healthy and reproduce.
□ The term niche means the sum of all the activities and relationships of a species by which
it uses the resources in its habitat for its survival and reproduction.
□ A niche is unique for a species while many species share the habitat. No two species in a
habitat can have the same niche. This is because if two species occupy the same niche, they
will compete with one another until one is displaced. For example, a large number of different
species of insects may be pests of the same plant but they can co-exist as they feed on different
parts of the same plant. Hence, statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is not correct.
49. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Ecosystems are of two major types i.e., terrestrial and aquatic. Terrestrial ecosystem can
be further classified into biomes. A biome is a plant and animal community that covers a
large geographical area. The boundaries of different biomes on land are determined mainly
by climate most important of which is temperature and precipitation. Hence, statement 1 is
correct.
□ A biome can be defined as the total assemblage of plant and animal species interacting
within specific conditions. These include rainfall, temperature, vegetation, animal life, humidity
and soil conditions. They are distinct from habitats, because any biome can comprise a variety
of habitats. Hence, no two biomes are alike. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Some of the major biomes of the world are forest, grassland, desert and tundra biomes.
However, aquatic ecosystems are not referred to as biome though they are divided into distinct
life zones such as fresh water ecosystem, marine ecosystem, estuaries, mangroves and coral
reef. The salinty, temperature, sunlight penetration are some of the factors which distinguishes
various aquatic ecosystems. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
50. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Complex network of inter-connected food chains is known as a food web. Food chain
denotes only one part of the food and energy flow, thus represents an isolated relationship which
rarely occurs in an ecosystem. However, food web provides all possible transfers of energy and
nutrients among the organisms in an ecosystem. Food webs are more realistic models of
energy flow through an ecosystem. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ The food web provides more than one alternative for food in an ecosystem unlike food
chain which provides only one food source and
therefore, the chance of survival is better in the food web. For example, the grass is the food source
for rabbit or goat. Similarly, a herbivore may be a food source for many different carnivores.
□ In food web, if any of the intermediate food chain is removed, the succeeding links of the
chain will be affected largely, however it will not affect the overall food web, as alternative f o o d
is available for most of the organisms, which increases their chance of survival. Hence,
statement 2 is correct.
□ Food availability and preferences of food of the organisms may shift seasonally. Hence,
statement 3 is correct.
51. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The pyramid of numbers depicts the relationship in terms of the number of producers,
herbivores and the carnivores at their successive trophic levels.
□ The pyramid of numbers does not take into account the fact that the size of organisms
being counted in each trophic level can vary. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ It is very difficult to count all the organisms in a pyramid ; of numbers so the pyramid of
numbers does not completely define the trophic structure for an ecosystem. Hence, statement 2
is not correct.
52. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Biogeochemical cycles are intricate processes that transfer, change and store chemicals in
the geosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. In its simplest form, cycling describes
the movement of elements through various forms and their return to their original state.
Biogeochemical cycles can be classed as gaseous and sedimentary.
□ Sedimentary cycles follow weathering of rocks and erosion of minerals along with its
circulation in the environment and back to earth crust. In this cycle, elements move from land
to water to sediment. The main reservoir for the sedimentary cycle is located in Earth’s crust. It
includes Sulphur cycle, Phosphorous cycle, Iron cycle, Calcium cycle and other earthbound
elements. Hence, 1 and 4 are correct.
□ In a gas cycle, elements move through the atmosphere and the main reservoirs are the
atmosphere and the ocean. It includes Carbon cycle, Nitrogen cycle, Hydrological cycle,
Oxygen cycle etc. Hence, 2 and 3 are not correct.
□ The function of the reservoir is to meet with the deficit which occurs due to imbalance in
the rate of inflow and outflow.
53. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Terrestrial ecology is the study of land-based ecosystems, their populations and
communities of plants, animals, and microbes, their
interactions with the atmosphere and with streams and groundwater, and their role in the
cycling of energy, water, and the major biogeochemical elements such as carbon and nitrogen.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Due to variations in topographic features of valleys, mountains and slopes, certain
differences occur. These differences are reflected in both
material and biotic diversities. Altitudinal and latitudinal variations cause shifts and
differences in the climatic patterns. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
54. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Brazzaville Declaration was signed to protect the Cuvette Centrale region in the Congo
Basin, the world’s largest tropical peatlands, from unregulated land use and prevent its drainage
and degradation.
□ The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Republic of Congo and Indonesia jointly
signed the Brazzaville Declaration that promotes better management and conservation of this
globally important carbon store. The Declaration was signed on the sidelines of the Third
Conference of Partners of the Global Peatlands Initiatives (GPI), that took place in Brazzaville,
Republic of Congo. Peatlands are wetlands that contain a mixture of decomposed organic
material, partially submerged in a aver of water, lacking oxygen. They are home to a variety of
species, but their high carbon content makes them uniquely vulnerable to incineration if they a r e
drained.
55. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The biodiversity is generally high in the case of wetlands compared to lakes. They support
high concentrations of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrate species.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Dominant producers in case of wetlands are Macrophytes such as cattails, hydrilla, water
hyacinth and duckweed, compared to lakes where phytoplankton are dominant. Hence,
statement 2 is correct.
56. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Albedo is the amount of light or radiation that a surface is able to reflect back. White
surfaces such as snow reflect the most and thus have the highest albedo while darker surfaces such
as concrete or granite have a low albedo.
□ Tundra is found in the higher latitudes where there is a lot of snow therefore it has the
highest albedo out of the given options.
□ Taiga is a sub arctic biome and has a lower albedo than Tundra.
□ Tropical deciduous forests shed their leaves at a same time so there is less absorption of
solar energy, required for photosynthesis, thus have higher albedo than tropical evergreen
forests.
□ Tropical evergreen forests have the lowest albedo out of the above options as they do not
shed their leaves at a same time, means they absorb relatively more solar energy as compared
to other given biomes.
□ So, the correct sequence of the following ecosystems in decreasing order of their albedo
value is as follows: Tundra > Taiga > Tropical deciduous > Tropical evergreen
57. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Allogenic Succession: It is caused by the abiotic components of an ecosystem. The
succession can be brought about in a number of ways,
such as volcanic eruptions; meteor or comet strike; flooding; drought; earthquakes and non-
anthropogenic climate change. For example, in Cornwall, England, observations on the estuary
of the Fai river suggest that the deposition of silt may be causing an allogenic succession
from salt marsh to woodland. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ Autogenic Succession: It is caused by the biotic components of an ecosystem. The plants
themselves (biotic components) cause succession to occur for instance light captured by the
leaves; production of detritus; water and nutrient uptake; nitrogen fixation, anthropogenic
climate change. These aspects lead to? gradual ecological change in a particular spot of land
known as a progression of inhabiting species. Autogenic succession can be viewed as a
secondary succession because of pre-existing plant life. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ Progressive Succession: It is a succession where the community becomes complex and
contains more species and biomass over time.
□ Retrogressive Succession: It is a succession where the community becomes simplistic and
contains fewer species and less biomass over time. Some retrogressive successions are
allogenic in nature. For example, the introduction of grazing animals results in degenerated
grasssland. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
58. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The term anthropogenic designates an effect or object resulting from human activity.
Human impact on the environment or anthropogenic impact on the environment includes changes
in the biophysical environments, ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources.
□ The impacts caused directly or indirectly by humans, include global warming,
environmental degradation (such as ocean acidification), mass
extinction and biodiversity loss, ecological crisis, and ecological collapse.
59. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Ecosystems arc capable of maintaining their state of equilibrium. They can regulate their
own species structure and functional processes. This capacity of ecosystem of self-regulation is
known as homeostasis. In ecology the term applies to the tendency for a biological system to resist
changes.
□ For example, in a pond ecosystem if the population of zooplankton increased, they would
consume large number of the phytoplankton and as a result soon phytoplankton would be of
short supply to them as food. As the number zooplankton is reduced because of starvation,
phytoplankton population start increasing, thus maintaining an equilibrium. Hence, statement 1
is correct.
□ Ina homeostatic system, negative feedback mechanism is responsible for maintaining
stability in an ecosystem. However, homeostatic capacity of ecosystems is not unlimited as well as
not everything in an ecosystem is always well regulated. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
60. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Regular supply of water on earth is maintained through its circulation in the atmosphere.
Precipitation of water vapour in the form of rain, snow, dew, hail etc. is the main source of water
in the environment. Water vapours present in the atmosphere, in turn, come from the water
bodies such as lakes, streams, oceans, ponds, moist earth as well as from living organisms.
□ Of the total water present on the earth, oceans have 97% and only 3% of total water is
available as fresh water.
□ Water on earth is classified into following three types:
Fresh water: It is inland water and its salt content is less than 5 ppt or 0.5%. Examples: lakes, pools,
ponds etc. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
O Marine water: It occurs in seas and oceans with salt content of more than 35 ppt or 3.5%.
O Brackish water: Its salt content is more than 5 ppt but less than 35 ppt. For example, estuaries,
salt marshes and salt lakes. A lot of underground water in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana and Punjab is
brackish. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
61. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Aquatic ecosystems refer to plant and animal communities occurring in water bodies.
□ Sunlight and oxygen are the most important limiting factors for aquatic ecosystems
whereas moisture and temperature for terrestrial ecosystems. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ On the basis of light penetration and plant distribution the aquatic ecosystems are divided
into two zones:
Photic Zone: Upper most layer of aquatic ecosystems upto which light penetrates. Both photosynthesis and
respiration activity take place in this zone. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Aphotic Zone: Lower layer of the aquatic ecosystems where light penetration and plant growth is restricted. Only
respiration takes place in this zone. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
62. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The Indo-Gangetic flood plain is the largest wetland system in India, extending from the
river Indus in the west to Brahmaputra in the east. This includes the wetlands of the Himalayan
terai and the Indo-Gangetic plains Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ An estuary is a place where a river or a stream opens ntot e sea. It is a partially enclosed
coastal area at the mouth of the river where Its fresh water carrying fertile silt and runoff from
the land mixes with the salty sea water. It represents an ecotone between freshwater and
marine ecosystem and shows a variation of salinity due to mixing of seawater with fresh water.
Hence statement 2 is correct.
□ Estuaries are very dynamic and productive ecosystems since the river flow, tidal range
and sediment distribution is continuously changing in them. Examples of estuaries are river
mouths, coastal bays, tidal marshes and lagoons.
63. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Eutrophication is a process when a water body becomes overly enriched with minerals
and nutrients which induce excessive growth of algae or algal bloom. This process also results
in oxygen depletion of the water body.
□ Eutrophication is of two types:
Natural Eutrophication: It occurs naturally over centuries as lakes get older and is filled in with
sediments and nutrients. It occurs when the flow of nutrients is on a seasonal basis.
Cultural Eutrophication: Human activities have accelerated the rate and extent of eutrophication
through both point-source discharges and non-point loadings of limiting nutrients, such as nitrogen
and phosphorus, into aquatic ecosystems with dramatic consequences for drinking water sources,
fisheries, and recreational water bodies. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Oligotrophic lakes have very low nutrient content, thus low productivity and clear water,
with drinking water quality. Mesotrophic lakes have moderate nutrient content and Eutrophic
lakes are highly nutrient rich. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
PRACTICE SOLUTION:-
179. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Biodiversity or “biological diversity,” generally refers to the variety and variability of life
on Earth. The number and variety of plants, animals and other organisms that exist is known a s
biodiversity.
□ Generally biodiversity is considered at three levels:
Genetic diversity: Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genes contained within species of plants,
animalsand micro-organisms. New genetic variation in individuals occurs by gene and chromosomal
mutation, and in organisms with sexual reproduction may be spread across the population by
recombination.
Species diversity: Diversity at the species level. It can be measured in the terms of species richness,
species abundance and taxonomic diversity.
Ecosystem diversity: Ecosystem diversity is the variety of habitats found in an area.
Ecosystem diversity can be described for a specific geographical region, or a political
entity such as a country or a state. Distinctive ecosystems include landscapes such as
forests, grasslands, deserts, mountains, etc., as well as aquatic ecosystems such as rivers,
lakes, and the sea. Ecosystems are most natural in wilderness areas.
□ The overall richness of species is concentrated in equatorial regions and tends to decrease
as one move from equatorial to the Polar Regions. In addition, biodiversity in land e c o s y s t e m s
generally decreases with increasing altitude. Hence, statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is
not correct.
180. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ The number and variety of plants, animals and other organisms that exist is known as
biodiversity.
□ Measurement of Biodiversity
Alpha Biodiversity: It is measured by counting the number of species in a particular ecosystem. It is
the diversity that exists within a community, which is also called local diversity. Hence, statement 2 is
not correct.
Beta Diversity: It is the species diversity between two adjacent ecosystems and is obtained by
comparing the number of species unique to ecosystems. It is the relative richness of different species
along a gradient from one habitat to another habitat within a community, which is mainly because of
variations in physical conditions of habitats. It gives a quantitative measure of the diversity of
communities that experience changing environments. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
Gamma Diversity: It refers to the total species richness over a large area or region.lt is a measure
of the overall diversity of the different ecosystems within a region. It is the product of a diversity of
component ecosystems and the diversity between component ecosystems.
181. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ A biodiversity hotspot is a region with a high level of endemic species that is under threat
from humans. The term hotspot was introduced in 1988 by Norman Myers.
□ To qualify as a biodiversity hotspot, a region must meet two strict criteria:
It must have at least 1,500 vascular plants as endemics that mean, it must have a high percentage
of plant life found nowhere else on the planet. A hotspot, in other words, is irreplaceable. Hence,
statement 1 is correct.
It must have lost over 70% of the original habitat. In other words, it must be threatened. Hence,
statement 2 is correct.
□ Around the world, 36 areas qualify as hotspots. They represent just 2.4% of the Earth’s
land surface, but they support more than half of the world’s plant species as endemics, i.e.,
species found nowhere else and nearly 43% of bird, mammal, reptile and amphibian species a s
endemics.
182. Ans. (D)
Sol. Factors Determining the Degree of Biodiversity
□ Habitat Stress: Diversity is low in habitats under any stress like harsh climate of pollution.
Hence, 4 is correct.
□ Geographic Isolation: Isolation can lead to special species located in that area only. If a
species on an island disappears due to random events, it cannot be easily replaced. Hence, 1
is correct.
□ Dominance of One Species: Dominance of one species doesn’t allow others to grow and
flourish. Hence, 2 is correct.
□ Availability of Ecological Niches: A complex community offers a variety of niches than a
simple species promotes greater diversity. Hence, 3 is correct.
□ Edge Effect: Ecotone (transition between one type ecosystem to another) regions have
great^ biodiversity.
□ Geological History: Old and stable ecosystems like Amazon forests have greater diversity as
they are more resistant to change.
183. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ “Ortolan bunting” is a bird which breeds from Mongolia to Europe and migrates to Africa
via the Middle East. In summers it moves to Western Europe and winters in Africa and
tropical areas. It is not endemic to Eastern Ghats of India. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) red list of threatened species h a s
placed it in the “Least Concern” category. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
184. Ans. (C)
Sol. On 29th January 2000, the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity adopted
a supplementary agreement to the Convention known as the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. It
entered into force on 11th September 2003. The Protocol:
□ Seeks to protect biological diversity from the potential risks posed by living modified
organisms resulting from modern biotechnology. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Establishes an advance informed agreement (AIA) procedure to ensure that countries
are provided with the information necessary to make informed decisions before agreeing to
the import of such organisms into their territory.
□ Contains reference to a precautionary approach and reaffirms the precaution language in
Principle 15 of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development.
□ Establishes a Biosafety Clearing-House to facilitate the exchange of information on living
modified organisms and to assist countries in the implementation of the Protocol. Hence,
statement 2 is correct.
185. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Rare Species (RS): Rare Species are those species whose population is small and the
location is confined to limited areas. The rare species, in times to come may become v u l n e r a b l e
and finally may be endangered. These species need to be provided special care and attention
in conservation programmes. Hence, pair 1 is correctly matched.
□ Near Threatened (NT): A species is near threatened when it has been evaluated against
the criteria but does not qualify for Critically Endangered or Vulnerable now, but is close to
qualifying for or is likely to qualify, for a threatened category in the near future. Hence, pair 2
is not correctly matched.
□ Least Concern (LC): A species is Least Concern when it has been evaluated against the
criteria and does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable or Near
Threatened. Widespread and abundant species are included in this category. Hence, pair 3 is
not correctly matched.
□ Extinct Species (EC): These are the species which are not found after exhaustive survey
and search of known or likely areas, where they occur. A species may be extinct from a local
area, region, country, continent or the entire world. In other words, a species is extinct when
there is no reasonable doubt that the last individual has died. A species is presumed as
extinct, when exhaustive survey has failed to record an individual species.
186. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Recent update (July 2020) shows that 33 lemur species are Critically Endangered, with
103 of the 107 surviving species threatened with extinction, mainly due to deforestation (for
shifting cultivation, fuel wood and charcoal) and hunting in Madagascar. Thirteen lemur
species have been pushed to higher threat categories as a result of intensifying human
pressures.
□ The North Atlantic Right Whale (Eubalaena glacialis) has been moved from Endangered to
Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ Climate change appears to be exacerbating the threats to North Atlantic Right Whales.
Warmer sea temperatures have likely pushed their main prey species further north during
summer, into the Gulf of St. Lawrence, where the whales are more exposed to accidental
encounters with ships and also at high risk of entanglement in crab-pot ropes.
□ The European Hamster (a Rodent), once abundant across Europe and Russia, is now listed
as Critically Endangered. If nothing changes, the species is expected to go extinct within t h e
next 30 years. Hence, 2 is correct.
□ Among those newly listed as Critically Endangered are Verreaux’s Sifaka (Propithecus
verreauxi) and Madame Berthe’s Mouse Lemur (Microcebus berthae), the smallest primate in the
world, both of which were previously listed as Endangered. Hence, 3 is correct.
187. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ At least one-third of the world’s agricultural crops depend upon pollination provided by
insects and other animals, and agricultural production throughout the world is threatened b y
declining populations of pollinators. The major contributors to this decline in pollinator
populations are:
Habitat fragmentation,
Agricultural and industrial chemicals,
Parasites and diseases,
Introduction of alien species.
Hence, 1,2 and 3 are correct.
□ The scope of the pollinator crisis is international both in the distribution of pollinators, the
crops they service and the threats to them. We need to take immediate international action t o
secure sustained pollinator services in agricultural ecosystems.
188. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) created the International Plant Protection
Convention or IPPC in 1952. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
This international treaty organization works to prevent the international spread of pests and plant
diseases. The maintenance of lists of plant pests, tracking of pest outbreaks, and coordination of
technical assistance between member nations are among its junction.
□ The TRAFFIC, the Wildlife Trade Monitoring Network, is a leading non-governmental
organisation working on wildlife trade in the context of both biodiversity conservation and
sustainable development. It is a joint program of World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the International
Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Hence, statement 2 is correct.
TRAFFIC works in co-operation with the Secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
It was established as a specialist group of the IUCN Species Survival Commission in 1976.
TRAFFIC focuses on leveraging resources, expertise and awareness of the latest globally urgent species
trade issues such as tiger parts, elephant ivory and rhino horn.
189. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Biodiversity or “biological diversity,” generally refers to the variety and variability of life
on Earth. The number and variety of plants, animals and other organisms that exist is known a s
biodiversity.
□ The 1992 United Nations Earth Summit defined “biological diversity” as “the variability
among living organisms from all sources, including, ‘inter alia’, terrestrial, marine, and other aquatic
ecosystems, and the ecological complexes of which they are part: this includes
diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems”.
□ Species diversity is not evenly distributed across the globe. The overall richness of species
is concentrated in equatorial regions and tends to decrease as one move from equatorial to the
Polar Regions. Hence statement 1 is correct.
□ In addition biodiversity in land ecosystems generally decreases with increasing altitude.
The other factors that influence biodiversity are the amount of rainfall and nutrient level in soil.
□ In marine ecosystems, species richness tends to be much higher in continental shelves.
Hence statement 2 is correct
190. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ A biodiversity hotspot is a region with a high level of endemic species that is under threat
from humans. The concept of Biodiversity hotspot was put forth by Norman Myers in 1988. Hence,
statement 1 is correct.
□ To qualify as a biodiversity hotspot, a region must meet two strict criteria:
O Species endemism: It must have at least 1,500 vascular plants as endemics, which is to
say, it must have a high percentage of plant life found nowhere else on the planet. A hotspot,
in other words, is irreplaceable.
° Degree of threat: It must have lost at least %70 of its original habitat. In other words, it
must be threatened. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Each biodiversity hotspot represents a remarkable umverse of extraordinary floral and
faunal endemicity struggling to survive in rapidly shrinking ecosystems
□ 36 biodiversity hotspots have been identified in the world. These hotspots are
characterized by posing exceptionally high biodiversity.
While hotspots are spread all over the world, the majority are forest areas and most of them are
located in the tropics.
□ The hottest hotspots: Some hotspots are much richer than others in terms of their numbers
of endemics.
□ The eight hottest hotspots of the world are:
Madagascar
Philippines
Sundaland
Brazil’s Atlantic Forest
Caribbean
Indo-Burma
Western Ghats/Sri Lanka
Eastern Arc and Coastal Forests of Tanzania/Kenya
191.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Biodiversity or “biological diversity,” generally refers to the variety and variability of life
on Earth. The number and variety of plants, animals and other organisms that exist is known a s
biodiversity. Biodiversity is unevenly distributed across the geographical regions of the earth.
Some regions of the world are very rich in biodiversity Such as “mega diversity zones” also
know as, “hot-spots’
□ India is one of 17 mega-biodiverse countries in the world. With only 2.4 percent of the
earth’s land area, it accounts for 7-8 percent of the global diversity. Home to 96,000 species o f
animals, 47,000 species of plants and nearly half the world’s aquatic plants, India’s management
of its natural resources is crucial for protecting globa1 biodiversity. Hence, statement 1 is not
correct.
□ Among the 36 hotspots of the world, 4 are found in Indian subcontinent namely Western
Ghats, Indo-Burma, Sundaland and eastern Himalayas. These areas of the country are exceptionally
rich in flowering plants reptiles, amphibians, butterflies and some species of mammals. Western
Himalayas is not a hotspot, but is rich biodiverse region. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
192.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ India has a total geographical area of about 329 million hectares with a coastline of over
7500 km. The ecological diversity of the country is enormous, ranging from sea level to t h e
highest mountainous ranges in the world; hot and arid conditions in the northwest to cold arid
conditions in the trans-Himalayan region; tropical wet evergreen forests in Northeast India and
the Western Ghats; mangroves of Sundarbans and fresh water aquatic to marine ecosystems.
□ India has 12 bio geographical provinces, 5 biomes and 3 bioregion domains. The country
supports a diverse array of habitats or ecosystems such as forests, grasslands, wetlands,
coastal, marine and desert and each with rich and unique floristic diversity. Hence, statement 1 is
not correct.
□ These biological attributes are further enhanced by the geographic location of the country
at the confluence of three major global biogeographic realms, viz. Indomalesian, Eurasian a n d
Afro-tropical, thus allowing the intermingling of floristic elements from these regions as well and
making it one of the 17 megadiversity countries in the world, recognized by the W o r l d
Conservation Monitoring Centre in 2000.
□ The floral diversity in India is majorly concentrated in the 4 biodiversity hotspots, out of
36 biodiversity hotspots recognized in the world, namely:
Eastern Himalayas,
Western Ghats (and Sri Lanka),
Northeast India and Andaman Islands (Indo-Burma) and
Nicobar Island (Sundaland)
Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ These floristically significant areas exhibit exceptional concentration of endemic species
and are also experiencing loss of habitat with higher occurrence of threatened plant species.
193.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Bryophytes: The less known group of plants, comprising about 2500 species, is the second
largest group of green plants in India, next only to the angiosperms. They usually inhabit
narrow ecological niches with preference for damp and shady conditions. The vast areas in
the Himalayas and Peninsular India with abundant precipitation and high humidity are richer
in bryophytes.
□ Algae: Represented by over 6500 species in ca. 666 genera, they are found growing in
a variety of habitats ranging from fresh water, marine, terrestrial and to soil. Of which 1924
species are endemic to the country.
□ Fungi: Fungi range from microscopic organisms to huge solid bodies. Approximately
14,500 species in 2300 genera are found in India.
□ Angiosperms: The largest group of green plants in India. The angiospermic flora of India
is further characterized by high endemism, which is next only to Australia. Recent estimate
accounts a total of 17926 species of angiosperms in the country.
194.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Launched in 2005, Indian Rhino Vision (IRV) 2020, was an ambitious effort to increase
the population of greater one-horned rhinos at least from 2,000 to 3,000 spread over seven
protected areas in the Indian state of Assam by the year 2020. Hence, statement 1 is not
correct.
□ Seven protected areas are Kaziranga, Pobitora, Orang National Park, Manas National Park,
Laokhowa wildlife sanctuary, Burachapori wildlife sanctuary and Dibru Saikhowa wildlife
sanctuary.
□ Wild-to-wild translocations were an essential part of IRV 2020 - moving rhinos from
densely populated parks like Kaziranga National Park to ones in need of more rhinos like Manas
National Park. Hence, statement 2 is correct’.
It is collaborative effort between various organisations, including the International Rhino
Foundation, Assam’s Forest Department, Bodoland Territorial Council, World Wide Fund - India,
and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
195.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Pygmy Hog (Porcula salvania) is world’s smallest wild pig. Due to a small wild population,
estimated less than 250 individuals, and a highly restricted range, the pygmy hog is c u r r e n t l y
listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
□ It is restricted to the reserve forest belts of the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary and the Barnadi
Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam, India. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ It was nearly wiped out; nonetheless, a watchful breeding programme in captivity and
security concerns were successful in conserving the Pygmy Hog population.
□ It is an indicator species (animals, plants or microorganisms used to monitor changes in
our environment) of the management status of grassland habitats Its presence reflects the health
of its primal habitat, the tall, wet grasslands of the region Current, It is protected by Schedule
I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Hence statement 1 is correct.
196.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Kondana soft-furred rat is a critically endangered (CR) species on the IUCN Red List of
Threatened Species, known from a single locality - Sinhgad in the northern Western Ghats, India.
Hence, statement 1 is not correct and statement 2 is correct.
□ The species has been reported to occur in tropical and subtropical dry deciduous forests
and tropical scrub. It is listed in the Schedule V (considered as vermin) of the Wildlife (Protection)
Act, 1972.
□ It is a nocturnal burrowing rodent. It sometimes builds nests also. Hence, statement 3 is
correct.
197.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Monotremes, a subdivision of mammals, are egg laying rather than giving birth to young
ones. There are only five living monotreme species, Duck-billed platypus and four species o f
Echidna. Hence, statement 1 Is correct.
□ Monotremes are restricted to Australia and New Guinea. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ From a neurobiological perspective, monotremes are quite intriguing because it is thought
that they may have retained features of brain organization that were present in the first mammals.
198.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Siberian Crane is a migratory and aquatic bird that uses wetlands for feeding, nesting,
roosting and other behavioral displays, where one can find shallow fresh water along with g o o d
visibility. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Birds has listed
Siberian crane as a Critically endangered species. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
□ Siberian Crane is now only found in one main population in East Asia, in addition to a few
birds still existing in the Western/Central population.
□ Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan is famous habitat of Siberian Crane. Hence, statement
2 is correct.
□ Habitat loss, especially due to changing hydrology caused by water diversions and
conversion of wetlands, hunting, trapping and poisoning, pollution, and environmental
contamination are the major threats to Siberian Crane.
199.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ A migratory species is one that cyclically and predictably crosses one or more national
jurisdictional boundaries due to factors like food, temperature, shelter, etc.
□ World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) is an awareness-raising campaign highlighting the
need for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats. It is an effective tool to help r a i s e
global awareness of the threats faced by migratory birds, their ecological importance, and the need
for international cooperation to conserve them.
□ The World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated bi-annually on the second Saturday in May
and in October. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) also known
as the Bonn Convention is an environmental treaty of the United Nations that provides a
global platform for the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial, aquatic and avian
migratory animals and their habitats. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
200.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Fejervarya goemchi is a new species of frog found in the highland plateaus of the Western
Ghats parts of Goa. The new species is named after the historical name of the state of Goa
where the species is discovered.
□ A combination of geographic distribution range, morphology and molecular methods has
been used by the scientists to describe the new species.
201.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Indus river dolphin also known as Bhulan is one of the only four river dolphin species and
subspecies in the world that are found in freshwater. Others include the Chinese river dolphin,
Ganges river dolphin and Amazon River dolphin.
□ Indus river dolphin is found in the main channel of the Indus River in Pakistan and in the
Beas River in India.
Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ The Punjab Government has declared the Indus River dolphin, as the state’s aquatic
animal. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ It is listed endangered in the IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species. Its international trade
is prohibited as it is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species (CITES). Hence, statement 3 is correct.
□ Indus dolphin like Ganges River dolphin are functionally blind and relies on echolocation
to navigate, communicate and hunt prey in muddy river water.
202.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei), found only in a few forest patches of Assam and
Bhutan, is placed among world’s 25 endangered primates. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Golden langurs can be most easily recognized by the color of their fur, after which they are
named.
□ It has been noted that their fur changes colors according to the seasons as well as
geography (region they live in). The color of the young also differs from adults in that they a r e
almost pure white.
□ They are highly dependent on trees, living in the upper canopy of forests. They are also
known as leaf monkeys.
□ Protection Status
IUCN List of Threatened Species: Endangered; hence, statement 1 is not correct.
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES): Appendix I
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 : Schedule I
□ Chakrashila is India’s first wildlife sanctuary with Golden langur as the primary species.
Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
□ Moreover, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
for the first time since its inception in 2005, has made the rare golden langur as its first non-
human beneficiary in a reserve forest in western Assam’s Bongaigaon district.
203.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Cinereous vulture is a dark brown and broad-winged species with a slightly wedge-shaped
tail. The bald head and neck are bluish gray, with a fluffy collar which is lighter in older bird.
□ Cinereous vulture (Aegypius monachus) migrates from the mountainous regions of
Europe and Asia to warmer places, including India.
□ India is home to nine species of vultures. Out of nine, three species (Red-headed vulture,
Slender billed vulture and Long billed vulture) are listed as critically endangered. Hence,
statement 1 is correct.
□ Cinereous vulture is classified as Near Threatened under the IUCN Red List. Hence,
statement 2 is not correct.
□ In many countries, this bird is called ‘monk vulture’, because of its upright standing neck
feathers that resemble the hood of a monk.
204.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Mammals of India (MaOI) is an online, peer- reviewed, freely-accessible portal launched
in 2018 by the scientists and researchers from the National Centre for Biological Sciences
(NCBS), Bengaluru. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ The portal has come up with a new citizen-science repository on Indian mammals. It will
make the basic information freely available to any mammal enthusiasts and will cater to t h e
research needs of the community. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
205.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ The White-bellied Heron
The White-bellied Heron (Ardea insignis) is a critically endangered bird endemic to South Asia. Hence, 1 correct.
Its range extends from eastern Nepal to north Myanmar through Bhutan and northeast India, Bangladesh.
□ The Bengal Florican
The Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis) is a critically endangered bustard found in the terai grasslands in
India. Hence, 2 is correct.
It is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act of India, 1972, which provides the species the highest
degree of protection in the country.
□ Spoon Billed Sandpiper
Spoon Billed Sandpiper (Calidris pygmaea) is a critically endangered species that stays in close proximity to wet
and muddy areas near or in water. Hence, 3 is correct.
It requires highly specialized breeding habitat, a constraint that has always kept its population scarce. India is
home to some of the last existing wintering grounds of this species.
206.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Invasive alien species are animals, plants, fungi and microorganisms introduced,
accidentally or intentionally, outside of their natural habitat. They reproduce rapidly, out-
compete native species for food, water and space, and are one of the main causes of global
biodiversity loss. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ They are often introduced as a result of the globalisation of economies through the
movement of people and goods.
□ These species can cause severe ecological effects on tb* environment, they invade. As they
lack natural predator in their new environments, it eventually leads to increa^ in their a b u n d a n c e
and spread.
□ These invasive species can have various impacts on the environment including:
Diseases,
Preying on native species,
Alteration of food chains, and
Change in ecosystems, for example, altering soil composition or creating habitats that encourage wildfires.
Hence, statement 2 is correct.
207.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The Himalayan Yew (Taxus wallichiana) is a medicinal plant (tree) found in various parts
of Himachal Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh. In India, this evergreen tree is found at altitudes
between 1800 and 3300 m above mean sea level.
□ It has been used by the native populations for treating common cold, cough, fever, and
pain. Its uses are described in Ayurveda and llnani medicine.
□ The bark, needles, twigs and roots of the tree are the prime source of ‘taxol’, a potent anti-
cancer drug. Moreover, it also possesses many other biological activities. Hence, statement 1
is correct and statement 2 is not correct.
□ Taxol is a highly substituted polyoxygenated cyclic diterpenoid characterized by the taxane
ring.
□ The species is under great threat due to illegal cutting and other anthropogenic pressures.
The Himalayan Yew , is endangered as per the IUCN status and is at the risk of extinction, i n
the Himalayas. In the last one decade, thousands of yew trees have dried up in various parts
of Himachal Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
208.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Seagrass beds are often called nursery habitats because the leafy underwater canopy
they create provides shelter for small invertebrates (like crabs and shrimp and other types of
crustaceans), small fish and juveniles of larger fish species. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ It is because of the wide variety of different species that live amongst the grasses that
seagrass beds often form important “biodiversity hotspots”. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ The dense root systems found on most seagrass beds secure the seabed, preventing soft
sediments from being washed onto coral reefs and other sensitive ecosystems and p r o v i d i n g
some protection to coasts and coastal communities from strong ocean storms. H e n c e ,
statement 3 is correct.
209.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ “Seaweed” is the common name for countless species of marine plants and algae that
grow in the ocean as well as in rivers, lakes, and other water bodies.
□ They are the primitive, marine non-flowering algae without root, stem and leaves that play
a major role in marine ecosystems. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ Seaweeds are found mostly in the intertidal region, in shallow and deep waters of the sea
and also in estuaries and backwaters. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ Large seaweeds form dense underwater forests known as kelp forests, which act as
underwater nurseries for fish, snails and sea urchins.
□ Seaweed has a significant role in mitigating climate change By afforesting 9% of the ocean
with seaweed, it is possible to sequester 53 billion tons of carbon dioxide annually. Hence, there
is a proposal termed as ocean a forestation’ for farming seaweed to remove carbon. H e n c e ,
statement 3 is correct.
□ Seaweed provides many benefits to land-dwellers, notably those of the human variety
including:
Seaweed is chock-full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and can be tasty.
Many seaweeds contain anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial agents.
Some also possess powerful cancer-fighting agents.
It is used as an ingredient in preparing toothpaste, cosmetics and paints.
210.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Plankton: An organism is considered plankton if it is carried by tides and currents, and
cannot swim well enough to move against these forces. Plankton are usually microscopic, o ften
less than one inch in length, but they also include larger species like some crustaceans and
jellyfish.
□ Periphyton: It is a complex mixture of autotrophic (algae, bacteria, phytoplankton) and
heterotrophic (microbes) microorganisms submerged in a matrix of organic detritus (waste o r
debris). It covers most submerged substrates, ranging from sand to macrophytes to rock.
□ Benthos: Animals that live on the sea floor are called benthos. Most of these animals lack
a backbone and are called invertebrates. Typical benthic invertebrates include sea
anemones, sponges, corals, sea stars, sea urchins, worms,
bivalves, crabs, and many more.
□ Nekton: Nekton refers to the actively swimming (free swimming) aquatic organisms in
a body of water. Nekton are heterotrophic and have a large size range, such as fish, squid,
octopus, sharks, and marine mammals.
211.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Mangroves are a special type of vegetation, found in the inter-tidal regions along the
coasts of tropical and subtropical countries (area where the ocean meets the land between high
and low tides), where freshwater and saltwater intermixes, in the bays, estuaries, creeks, a n d
lagoons. They are the salt-tolerant variety of plants, which can survive in harsh c o n d i ti o n s .
Hence, statements 1 and 3 are correct.
□ Mangroves grow in sheltered low lying coasts, estuaries, mudflats, tidal creek backwaters
(current less, coastal waters held back on land), marshes and lagoons.
□ Mudflats or tidal flats refer to land near a water body that is regularly flooded by tides
and is usually barren (without any vegetation). Mudflats and mangroves together constitute an
important ecosystem. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Mangrove forests perform multiple ecological functions such as production of woody
trees; provision of habitat, food, and spawning grounds for fin-fish and shellfish; provision of
habitat for birds and other valuable fauna; protection of coastlines and accretion of sediment to
form new land.
□ Mangrove forests are the warriors in the fight against climate change, as they have the
ability to store vast amounts of carbon.
212.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ There are five different species of rhinos including Black Rhino, White Rhino, Javan
Rhino, Greater One-horned rhino and Sumatran Rhino. Each one has different characteristics,
behaviours, and personalities.
□ There are three species of rhino in Asia—greater one-horned, Javan and Sumatran. Javan
and Sumatran Rhino are critically endangered but the greater one-horned (or Indian) rhino is
vulnerable.
□ Among the three species found in Asia, only the Greater One-Horned Rhino (Indian rhino)
is found in India, which is the largest of the rhino species. In India, these are mainly found in
Assam, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.
213.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ St. Petersburg Declaration was adopted In November 2010, by the leaders of 13 tiger
range countries (TRCs) assembled at an International Tiger Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ The resolution’s implementation mechanism is called the Global Tiger Recovery Program
(GTRP) whose overarching goal was to double the number of wild tigers from about 3,200 t o
more than 7,000 by 2022. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ The tiger range countries that are part of the GTRP are Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia,
China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Hence,
statement 3 is correct.
214.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) is a statutory body, established by the Central
Government in 2003 to implement India’s Biological Diversity Act (2002).
□ The NBA with its headquarters in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, delivers its mandate through a
structure that comprises the Authority, Secretariat, State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs), BMCs
(Biodiversity Management Committees) and Expert Committees.
□ Functional committees under National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) include:
Expert Committee on Agro Biodiversity.
Expert Committee on Normally Traded Commodities.
Expert Committee on Access and Benefit Sharing.
Expert Committee on Medicinal Plants.
Expert Committee to examine Biological Diversity Rules, user country measures under Nagoya Protocol and
develop sector specific guidelines on Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS). Hence, 1, 2, 3 and 4 are correct.
215.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Maldhari, a tribe of herdsmen have survived through the ages by having symbiotic
relationships with the lions in the Gir forest in a ‘win-win’ situation and they do not see the l i o n s
as a threat. These are religious pastoral communities living in Gir. Their settlements are called
“nesses”.
□ Raikas are tribes of Rajasthan region. One group of Raikas is known as camel herders and
another group known for rearing sheep and goat.
□ Bakarwals are mostly Muslim nomadic tribes living in the Pir Panjal and Himalayan
mountains of South Asia.
□ The Bishnoi tribe belong to Rajasthan. They are known for agricultural development and
resource conservation.
216.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ In order to have concerted approach to protection, conservation and management of
wildlife throughout the country, in 1982, a decision was taken to prepare a National W i l d l i f e
Action Plan. Accordingly, the first National Wildlife Action was adopted in 1983, which
outlined the strategies and action points for wildlife conservation. It was implemented from
1983 to 2001
□ The Plan was revised and a new Action Plan was put in place in for the period 2002-2016.
□ The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) announced
the third National Wildlife Action Plan for 2017-2031.
□ This Plan is unique as this is the first time India has recognized the concerns relating to
climate change impact on wildlife. Hence, statement 1 is not correct and statement 2 is
correct.
It also stressed on integrating actions that need to be taken for its mitigation and adaptation into
wildlife management planning processes.
Further, the Plan adopts a “landscape approach” in conservation of all wildlife that have an ecological
value to the ecosystem and to mankind irrespective of where they occur.
The Plan also gives special emphasis to recovery of threatened species and aquatic ecosystems. It also
emphasizes the importance of integrated management of coastal and marine ecosystems in India.
Under five themes, there are 103 conservation actions and 250 projects in the Action Plan.
217.
Ans. (A)
Sol. The Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972 consists of a six schedules list which gives different kind of
protection to wildlife. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
Schedule Animals
Schedule Tiger, lion, elephants, lion tailed macaque, one horned rhinoceros,
I great Indian bustard, narcondam hornbill, nicobarmegapode,
blackbuck, etc.
Schedule Rhesus macaque, dhole, Bengal porcupine, king cobra, flying squirrel
II Himalayan brown bear. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
Schedule Hyena, hog deer, goral, sponges, barking deer, etc.
III
Schedule Mongooses, vultures, etc.
IV
Schedule Animals that can be hunted are included in this Schedule. For example,
V Mice, rat, common crow, flying fox, etc.
Schedule It Includes list of plant species which cannot be cultivated; collection,
VI extraction, trade are prohibited. Red Vanda, Blue Vanda, Kuth,
Pitcher plant, bed domes cycad and ladies slipper orchid plants
are listed.
218.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) is a statutory organisation constituted under the
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ Theoretically, the board is “advisory” in nature and advises the Central Government on
framing policies and measures for conservation of wildlife in the country-Also, serves as a n
apex body to review all wildlife related matters. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ The NBWL has power to review all wildlife related matters and approve projects in an
around national parks and sanctuaries. No alternation of boundaries in national parks and
wildlife sanctuaries can be done without approval of the NBWL. Hence, statement 3 is
correct.
□ The NBWL is chaired by India’s Prime Minister and its vice-chairman is Minister of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Hence, statement 4 is not correct.
219.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is an Act of the Parliament of India enacted for
protection of plants and animal species. It has six schedules which give varying degree of
protection to the flora and fauna.
□ The correctly matched pairs are as follows:
Schedule Fauna
Schedule III Hog deer; hence, pair 1 is
correctly matched.
Schedule Long-tailed tree mouse; hence,
pair 2 is not correctly
matched.
Schedule II Indian wild Dog; hence, pair
3 is not correctly
matched.
Schedule I 5 Black Buck; hence, pair 4 is
correctly matched.
220.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Brown Bear is a least concerned animal found in India (Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal
Pradesh, Uttarakhand), Nepal, Pakistan and China. India has four species of bears i.e., Asiatic Black,
Sloth, Sun and Himalayan Brown Bear. All Indian Bear species are listed under Appendix I in
CITES and Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ Capped Langur is a vulnerable animal found in India (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam,
Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura), Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. It i s
listed under Appendix I in CITES and Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. H e n c e ,
statement 2 is not correct.
221.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ IUCN Status of the species
Critically Endangered: Malabar Civet, Bengal Florican, Hawksbill Turtle and Gharial.
Endangered: Forest Owlet, Green Turtle, Pygmy Hog, Mouse Deer
Vulnerable: Sambar, Urial, Sloth Bear
Least Concerned: Indian porcupine (Hystrix indica), Hyena, Kiang
Near Threatened: Chiru, Markhor
222.
Ans. (A)
Sol.
Species Protection Status
Fishing cat IUCN Red List: Vulnerable. Despite multiple threats,
the Fishing Cat was down listed to
“Vulnerable” from “Endangered” in the
IUCN Red List species assessment.
CITES: Appendix II
Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972:
Schedule I
Hence, pair 1 is correctly matched.
Asiatic IUCN Red List: Near Threatened
Golden cat CITES: Appendix I
Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972:
Schedule I
Hence, pair 2 is not correctly matched.
Leopard cat IUCN Red List: Least concern
CITES: Appendix II
Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972:
Schedule I
Hence, pair 3 is not correctly matched.
Marbled cat IUCN Red List: Near threatened
CITES: Appendix I
Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972:
Schedule I
Hence, pair 4 is correctly matched.
223.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is a statutory multidisciplinary body established by the
Government of India in 2007, under the Ministry of Environment and Forests, to combat
organized wildlife crime in the country. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ The Bureau has its headquarters in New Delhi. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ It is mandated to collect and collate intelligence related to organized wildlife crime
activities and to disseminate the same to the State and
other enforcement agencies for immediate action so as to apprehend the criminals.
□ It advises the Government of India on issues relating to wildlife crimes having national and
international ramifications, relevant policy and laws.
□ It also assists and advises the customs authorities in inspection of the consignments of
flora and fauna as per the provisions of the Wild Life Protection Act, Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
Flora (CITES) and Export Import (EXIM) Policy governing such an item. Hence, statement
3 is correct.
224.
Ans. (D)
Sol. Hispid Hare and Golden Langur are listed as Endangered species while Chinese Pangolin is listed as
Critically Endangered in the IUCN List. All three species are protected under Schedule I category of
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
225.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Dugong also called ‘Sea Cow’ is one of the four surviving species in the Order Sirenia and
it is the only existing species of herbivorous mammal that lives exclusively in the sea
including in India. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
□ They are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and are protected in India under
Schedule I of the Wild I Life Protection Act, 1972. Hence,
statement 1 is correct.
□ According to a 2013 survey report of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), there were only
about 200 dugongs in the Gulf of Mannar in Tamil Nadu, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands a n d
the Gulf of Kutch in Gujarat.
□ India has signed non-legally binding Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with CMS on
the conservation and management of Siberian Cranes (1998), Marine Turtles (2007), Dugongs
(2008) and Raptors (2016). Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ World Dugong Day is celebrated on 28th May, every year.
226.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Binturong, Clouded Leopard and Four horned Antelope are listed as Vulnerable in IUCN
Red list.
□ Asiatic wild ass is also called Indian Wild Ass, Ghor Khar or Ghud Khur. It
is predominantly found in the Little Rann of Kutch and its
surrounding areas in Gujarat. It is also found in southern Pakistan, Afghanistan, and
southeastern Iran. Its preferred environment is saline deserts like Rann of Kutch, arid grasslands and
shrublands. It is a species of ‘Near Threatened’ on the IUCN red list of threatened
animals.
227.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Joint Forest Management (JFM) is an approach and program initiated in the context of the
National Forest Policy of 1988 wherein state forest departments support local forest dwelling
and forest fringe communities to protect and manage forests and share the costs and
benefits from the forests with them. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Communities organize themselves into a JFM Committee to protect and manage nearby
forests, guided by locally prepared byelaws and micro plans. The key element in JFM is that
communities have the power to manage the use of forests by members and also exclude
nonmembers. Thus, involvement of communities in conservation of forests and wildlife is of
paramount interest.
□ The primary and most significant basis for JFM is provided by the National Forest Policy of
1988. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
228.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Olive ridley turtles are best known for their unique mass nesting called Arribada, where
thousands of females come together on the same beach to lay eggs. They lay eggs over a
period of five to seven days in conical nests.
□ The species is recognized as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red list. They are also protected
under CITES Appendix I and Schedule -1 of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
□ They are extensively poached for their meat, shell and leather, and their eggs. However,
the most severe threat they face is the accidental killing through entanglement in trawl nets a n d
gill nets due to uncontrolled fishing during their mating season around nesting beaches.
229.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Red Crowned Roofed Turtle is one of the 24 species endemic to India, is characterised
by the bright colours such as red, yellow, white and blue on the faces and necks of the males.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ It is a freshwater turtle species found in deep flowing rivers with terrestrial nesting sites, which
is native to India, Bangladesh and Nepal. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ Currently in India, the National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary is the only area with s u b s t a n ti a l
population of the species, but even this Protected Area and habitat is under threat. The threats
include:
Loss or degradation of habitat
Sand mining and growing of seasonal crops
Drowning by illegal fishing nets
Poaching and illegal trade
□ Conservation Status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN): Critically Endangered
Wildlife Protection Act (WPA): Schedule I
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES): Appendix
II
230.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The One Horned Rhino is the largest species of Rhino in the world found commonly in
India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and is protected under the Schedule I of the
Wildlife Protection Act. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ In India, it is found in the state of Assam with two thirds of its population concentrated
in Kaziranga National Park Other areas where it is found are Manas National Park, Pobitora
Reserve Forest, Orang National Park, Laokhovva Reserve Forest, etc. Hence, statement 3 is n o t
correct.
□ Assam has a considerable number of rhinos in four protected areas, i.e., Pobitora Wildlife
Reserve, Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park, Kaziranga National Park, and Manas National Pa r k .
About 2,400 of them are in the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR).
□ The five rhino range nations (India, Bhutan, Nepal, Indonesia and Malaysia) have signed
a declaration ‘The New Delhi Declaration on Asian Rhinos 2019’ for the conservation and
protection of the species.
231.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Indian Star Tortoise is a medium-sized tortoise endemic to the Indian subcontinent, more
specifically in the Central and Southern parts of India, in West Pakistan and in Sri Lanka.
□ The species faces two threats one is loss of habitat to agriculture another is illegal
harvesting for the pet trade. According to the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, 90% of the trade
of Star Tortoise occurs as part of the International pet market.
□ In the IUCN Red List, it has been placed in the Vulnerable category. Hence, statement 2 is
correct.
□ This species has received protection as a Schedule IV list species of the Wildlife
(Protection) Act 1972. This list is for species that are not endangered. It includes protected
species but the penalty for any violation is less compared to the Schedules I and II. Hence,
statement 3 is not correct.
□ India’s proposal to upgrade the protection status of Star Tortoise from Appendix II to
Appendix I was approved by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species o f
Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Hence, statement 1 is correct.
232.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Shailesh Nayak committee was constituted in June 2014, and it submitted its report in
January 2015
□ The committee recommended relaxation on the terms set up by the Coastal Regulation
Zone (CRZ) 2011 notification. The major objective behind the recommendations was to boost
tourism, port construction and real estate.
□ The committee suggested diluting the regulatory powers of the Central Government in
the coastal areas, except for those activities which require environmental clearances, all other
activity should fall under the ambit of state and local planning bodies.
□ Based on the recommendations of Shailesh Nayak committee, the suggestions were given b y
the coastal states and union territories, and the CRZ 2018 notifications were issued.
233.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Mangrove restoration is a management strategy to compensate for degraded and lost
ecosystem goods and services. It has the potential to increase the mangrove resource base,
provide employment to local populations, Protect fragile tropical coastlines and enhance
biodiversity and fisheries productivity. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Restoration Is recommended when an ecosystem has been altered to such an extent that it
can no longer selfcorrect and/or self-rencw.
□ Typology of Mangrove Restoration
Natural Regeneration
This approach uses natural occurring mangrove propagules (or seeds) to restock degraded sites. In this
case, regeneration is from direct, freely falling and dispersed mangrove propagules, where
species composition of the regenerated forest depends on the species types and combinations of
the adjacent forest from where propagules are dispersed. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
Important biological and physical factors that determine success for natural regeneration include forest
conditions, tides and soil stability.
Artificial Regeneration
Artificial regeneration entails direct planting of desired propagules and saplings (of less than 1.2 m high), and
rarely the use of small trees (of up to 6 m high) of chosen species at the designated restoration site.
Use of propagules and nursery-raised saplings is the most common method of mangrove restoration.
There are several advantages of using artificial regeneration, for example, the species composition and
distribution can be controlled, genetically improved stocks can be introduced and, pest infestation
can be controlled. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
234.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Agro forestry focuses on the wide range of trees grown on farms and other rural areas. It is
a collective name for land-use systems involving trees combined with crops and/or animals
on the same unit of land.
□ Types of Agro-forestry in non-forest areas:
Recreational forestry: It is also known as Aesthetic forestry which is defined as the practice of forestry with the
objective of developing or maintaining a forest of high scenic value (by raising flowering trees and
shrubs) for the urban and rural population.
Extension forestry: It is the practice of forestry in areas devoid of tree growth and other vegetation situated
in places away from the conventional forest areas with the object of increasing the area under tree
growth. For example, Mixed forestry, Shelter Belts, Linear Strip Plantations.
Farm forestry: It is defined as the practice of forestry in all its aspects in and the around the farms or village lands
integrated with other farm operations. All in all, it promotes commercial tree growing.
235.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ March 3 is chosen as World Wildlife Day as the Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was adopted on this date in 1973.
□ It was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2013.
236.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List is a critical indicator
of the health of the world’s biodiversity.
266.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary: It is located on the west bank of river Teesta in the
southern part of Darjeeling district in West Bengal.
□ Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary: It is situated in the state of Odisha. It was established
in the year 1985. The place receives a huge amount of rainfall every year due to its proximity to
the Bay of Bengal. The sanctuary is full of rich tropical forest, valleys, hills, water sources etc. It is
one of the elephant populated sanctuaries in India.
□ Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary: It is located in Madhya Pradesh in the biogeographical region
of the Deccan Peninsula and the Biotic Province of Central India. UNESCO designated it a
biosphere reserve in 2009.
□ Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary: It is situated in the eastern region of Uttar Pradesh.
The forest is named after the Chandraprabha River; meaning ‘The Luminescence of Moon’. A
variety of wild animals like Black Duck, Cheetal, Sambhar, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Porcupine and Indian
Gazelle, etc., are found here.
267.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Periyar National Park: It is a protected area located in the districts of Idukki and
Pathanamthitta in Kerala and was declared as a national park in 1982. Though the national park
is famous for elephants, species such as Gaur, Wild Pigs, Sambar, Barking Deer, rare l i o n - t a i l e d
macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, can also be spotted.
□ Rajaji National Park: It is located in the state of Uttarakhand and was declared as a national
park in 1983. The park is famous for elephants and for its conservation and habitat protection, a
Centrally Sponsored Scheme Project Elephant is going on. Along with elephants Cheetal, Barking
deer, Sambar deer, Wild Boar, antelopes such as the Nilgai, Goral etc., can also be seen in this park.
□ Manas National Park: It is located in the state of Assam and was declared as a National Park
in 1990. The park is is home to a great variety of wildlife, including many endangered species, such
as the tiger, pygmy hog, Indian rhinoceros and Indian elephant.
□ Dudhwa National Park: It is a protected area in Uttar Pradesh located on the India-Nepal
border. It stretches mainly across the Lakhimpur Kheri and Bahraich districts. Tigers, one-
horned rhinoceros and barasingha (swamp deer) are the major attractions of the Dudhwa
National Park.
268.
Ans. (B)
Sol. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park in Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is the first
national park in India. The park is also known as the place where Project Tiger was first launched in
1973.
269.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Bhiterkanika National Park is the core area of the Bhiterkanika Wildlife Sanctuary located
in the Kendrapara district in the state of Odisha. It was designated as national park in 1998 a n d
as a Ramsar site by the state of Odisha in 2002. The national park is home to saltwater
crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), Indian python, king cobra, black ibis, darters and many other
species of flora and fauna. It hosts a large number of mangrove species. | The national park
and wildlife sanctuary are inundated by the rivers Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra, Pathsala. i
Hence, pair 1 is correctly matched.
□ Desert National Park is located in the Thar Desert and is situated near to Jaisalmer,
Rajasthan. The major wildlife found in the park are chinkara, desert fox, blackbuck, Bengal fox,
spiny-tail lizard, sand fish, desert monitors, j chameleons, etc. The main.attraction of the national
park is the Great Indian Bustard which is an endangered bird species. Hence, pair 2 is correctly
matched.
□ Eravikulam National Park, located in Kerala, holds the largest viable population of the
endangered Nilgiri Tahr and is a famous habitat
of Neelakurinji, which blooms j once in 12years.ApartfromTahr,theparkis
an abode i of other little known fauna such as nilgiri marten (endemic), ruddy mongoose,
small clawed otter, dusky j striped squirrel etc.
□ Hoolock Gibbons are found in several states of North-East including Assam, Arunachal
Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura and Nagaland. They are also spotted
270.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ National Parks in India are declared by notification of the State Governments by reason of
their ecological, faunal, floral, geomorphological, or zoological association or importance. T h e
notification specifies the limits of the area notified as a National Park. Further, no alteration of
the boundaries of a National Park can be made except on a resolution passed by the Legislature of
the State. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Limited biotic interference like scientific research, tourism, photography, transaction of
lawful business, etc., are allowed in the Wildlife Sanctuary only after the permission of the Chief
Wildlife Warden. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
□ Biosphere reserves is sites established by countries and recognized under UNESCO’s Man
and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme to promote sustainable development based on local
community efforts and sound science. The purpose of the formation of the biosphere reserve is
to conserve in situ all forms of life, along with its support system, in its totality, so that it could
serve as a referral system for monitoring and evaluating changes in natural ecosystems. Hence,
statement 2 is not correct.
271.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on 2nd February. In 2021, the Ramsar
Convention on Wetlands would also complete its 50 years. The global treaty popularly
known as Ramsar Convention was adopted in 1971 and came into force in 1975 following
negotiations.
□ The main objective of the treaty is to promote and wise use of all wetlands through
regional action and international cooperation. Currently, the treaty has been accepted by
171 nations including India.
□ The treaty came into force on February 01, 1982 in India.
□ In 2020, five new sites have been added into the list taking the total Ramsar sites numbers
to 42 spreading over 10814.38 sq. km., area.
272.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is one of the most robust acts on wildlife protection. It
provides for the protection of wild animals, birds and plant species of the country. This
ensures the ecological and environmental security.
□ National Board for Wildlife (chaired by the Prime Minister) is a statutory Board
constituted officially in 2003 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The board is ‘advisory’ in
nature and can only advise the Government on policy making for conservation of wildlife.
Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ It is an important body because it serves as an apex body for the review of all wildlife-
related matters and for the approval of projects in and around national parks and sanctuaries.
□ The Standing Committee of NBWL approves all the projects falling within protected
wildlife areas or within 10 km., of them. It is chaired by the Minister of Environment Forest and
Climate Change. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
273.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ A protected area is a clearly defined geographical space, recognised, dedicated and
managed, through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long term conservation of
nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values.
□ India has systematically designated its Protected Areas in four legal categories — National
Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves under the
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
□ India has a network of 981 Protected Areas including 104 National Praks, 566 wildlife
Sanctuaries, 97 Conservation Reserves and 214 community Reserves covering a total of
1,71,921 km2 of geographical area of the country which is approximately 5.03%.
□ No alteration of boundaries of a Sanctuary/National Park can be made without the
recommendations of the National Board for Wildlife (constituted under the Wildlife P r o t e c ti o n
Act, 1972). There is a Standing Committee of the board which approves all the projects
falling within protected wildlife areas or within 10 km., of them. Hence, statement 1 i s
correct.
□ The Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 1991 provided for the inclusion of territorial
waters in areas to be declared as sanctuaries for the protection of off-shore marine flora a n d
fauna. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
274.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ National Parks are declared by State governments under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
for the protection and conservation of outstanding natural fauna, flora, geological f o r m a ti o n s
and natural scenic.
□ There are 104 existing national parks in India covering an area of 43,716 km2, which is
1.33% of the geographical area of the country (National Wildlife Database, December 2020).
□ Following activities are prohibited under the National Parks including:
Hunting, killing or capturing of fauna; hence, 1 is correct.
Deprivation of any wild animal of its habitat; hence, 2 is correct.
Destruction and collection of flora; hence, 5 is correct.
Use of weapons; hence, 3 is correct.
Grazing of any livestock; hence, 4 is correct.
□ No human activity is permitted inside the national park, except for the ones permitted
by the Chief Wildlife Warden of the state. It is the authority who shall control, manage and
maintain all sanctuaries and for that purpose, within the limits of any sanctuary.
275.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Protected areas are those in which human occupation or at least the exploitation
of resources is limited. There are several kinds of protected areas, which vary by level of
protection depending on the enabling laws of each country or the regulations of the international
organizations involved.
□ The term “protected area” also includes Marine Protected Areas, Conservation Reserves
and Community Reserves. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ A marine protected area (MPA) is essentially a space in the ocean where human
activities are more strictly regulated that the surrounding
waters, similar to park we have on land regulated than the surrounding waters e -i Strictly we
have on land.
□ Conservation reserves and community reserves in India are terms denoting protected areas
of India which typically act as buffer zones to or connectors and migration corridors between
established national parks wildlife sanctuaries and reserved and protected forests of India.
□ These protected area categories were first introducted in the Wildlife (Protection)
Amendment Act of 2002 which is the amendment to the
Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. These categories were added because of reduced protection in
and around existing or proposed protected areas due to private ownership of land, and land use.
Hence, statement 2 is correct.
276.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Sacred groves comprise of patches of forests or natural vegetation that are usually
dedicated to local folk deities or tree spirits. These spaces are protected by local communities
because of their religious beliefs and traditional rituals that run through several generations.
□ Sacred groves have been legally protected under ‘community reserves’ in the Wildlife
(Protection) Amendment Act, 2002. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ In India, there are over lakh sacred groves across different states called by different names
like Kaavu in Malayalam, Koyilkaadu in Tamil, Orans in Rajasthan, Devarakaadu in Karnataka,
and Sernas in Madhya Pradesh.
□ In general, no one is permitted to cut any tree or plant, kill animals and birds, or harm any
form of life in this area.
□ The Gond tribe of Central India prohibits the cutting of trees but allows fallen parts to be
used. The Garo and Khasi tribes of north-eastern India prohibit any human interference in the
sacred groves. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
277.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The MAB programme was launched in 1971 and is an intergovernmental scientific
programme that aims to establish a scientific basis for enhancing the relationship between
people and their environments. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ It combines the natural and social sciences, economics and education to improve human
livelihoods and the equitable sharing of benefits and safeguards natural and managed
ecosystems, thus promoting innovative approaches to economic development that are
socially and culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable.
□ The World Network of Biosphere Reserves of the MAB Programme consists of a dynamic
and interactive network of sites of excellence. It promotes North-South, South-South and
South-North-South collaboration and represents a unique tool for international cooperation
through the exchange of experiences and know-how, capacity-building and the promotion of b e s t
practices among Biosphere Reserves. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ It contributes to the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
through participatory dialogue; knowledge sharing; poverty reduction and human well-being
improvements; respect for cultural values and society’s ability to cope with change.
□ The World Network of Biosphere Reserves currently counts 714 sites in 129 countries all
over the world, including 21 transboundary sites.
278.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Biosphere reserves are ‘learning places for sustainable development’. These are
representative parts of natural and cultural landscapes extending over large areas of terrestrial or
coastal/marine ecosystems or a combination thereof and representative examples of
biogeographic zones/provinces.
□ They are sites for testing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and managing
changes and interactions between social and ecological systems, including conflict p r e v e n ti o n
and management of biodiversity. Each site promotes solutions reconciling the conservation of
biodiversity with its sustainable use.
□ Biosphere Reserves involve local communities and all interested stakeholders in planning
and management. They integrate three main functions including:
Conservation of biodiversity and cultural diversity;
Economic development that is socio-culturally and environmentally sustainable;
Logistic support, underpinning development through research, monitoring, education and training.
□ The idea of the biosphere reserve was initiated by UNESCO in 1974 under the Man and
the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, with the objective of obtaining international cooperation
for the conservation of the biospheres.
279.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Biodiversity Hotspots are the Earth’s most biologically rich, yet threatened terrestrial
regions. These are the regions with a high level of endemic species that is under threat from
humans.
□ The Concept of Biodiversity Hotspots began in 1988, when British ecologist Norman
Myers published a seminal paper identifying 10 tropical forest “hotspots.” These regions were
characterized both by high degree of plant endemism and habitat loss.
□ To qualify as a biodiversity hotspot, an area must meet two strict criteria:
The area should support at least 1500 endemic species (found nowhere else on the Earth) of vascular plants.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
It must have lost at least 70 percent of its primary native vegetation. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ Around the world, 36 areas qualify as biodiversity hotspots. They represent just 2.4% of
Earth’s land surface, but they support more than half of the world’s plant species as endemics,
i.e., species found no place else and nearly 43% of bird, mammal, reptile and amphibian
species as endemics.
280.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Chilika Lake is a brackish water lake and a shallow lagoon j with estuarine character
spread across the districts of Puri, Khurda and Ganjam in the state of Odisha in eastern India.
□ It is the largest lagoon in India and counted amongst the largest lagoons in the world. It
is the largest wintering ground for migratory waterfowl found anywhere on the Indian sub-
continent. A number of islands are present in the lagoon, prominent among which are
Krushnaprasad, Nalaban, Kalijai, Somolo and Birds Islands.
□ It is the hotspot of biodiversity in the country and some rare, vulnerable and endangered
species listed in the IUCN Red List of threatened Animals inhabit the Lake area for atleast p a r t
of their life cycle. The list of animals includes a number of rare, threatened and endangered
species including the Barakudia limbless skink.
□ Chilika lake has been designated as a “Ramsar Site”, i.e., a wetland of International
Importance due to its rich biodiversity.
□ It is an assemblage of marine, brackish and freshwater ecosystem, that support amazing
biodiversity. It is a home to highly endangered Irrawaddy dolphin.
□ The lake was included in the Montreux Record (Threatened list) in 1993 by Ramsar
Secretariat due to the change in the ecological character of the lake\ecosystem. Subsequently,
however, due to successful; restoration of the lake ecosystem by Chilika Development
Authority it was removed from the Montreux Record in 2002 (first site from Asia).
281.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Project Tiger was launched by the Government of India in the year 1973 to save the
endangered species of tiger in the country. It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Ministry
of Environment, Forests and Climate Change to provide central assistance to the tiger
States for tiger conservation in designated tiger reserves in India. The project is administered
by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
□ India has 70 percent of world’s tiger population and is tirelessly working with all 13 tiger
range countries towards nurturing the tiger.
□ According to the Tiger Census Report, 2019, the Tiger population has substantially
increased from 2,226 in 2014 to around 2,967 in 2019, wherein, Madhya Pradesh saw the
highest number of tigers (526) followed by Karnataka (524) and Uttarakhand (442).
□ The International Tiger Day celebrated on 29th July is an annual event marked to raise
awareness about tiger conservation.
4. Environmental Pollution
Solution:
314.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Benzene (C6H6) is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sweet odor. It evaporates quickly
when exposed to air. Benzene is formed from natural processes, such as volcanoes and forest
fires, but most of the exposure to benzene results from human activities.
□ The main sources of benzene in the environment includes automobile exhaust, industrial
sources, good buring and fuel evaporation from gasoline filling stations. Hence, 1 and 3 are
correct.
□ Benzene has been detected at high levels in indoor air. Although some of this exposure
might be from building materials (paints, adhesives, etc.), but most is from cigarette smoke.
Hence, 2, 4 and 5 are correct.
315.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Coal ash, also referred as coal combustion residuals or CCRs, is produced primarily from
the burning of coal in coal-fired power plants. It contains contaminants like mercury, cadmium and
arsenic. Without proper management, these contaminants can pollute waterways, ground
water, drinking water, and the air. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Coal based thermal power plants are major source of Sulphur dioxide and Nitrogen oxides
emissions. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ According to Coal India Limited, the ash content of coal produced in the country is
generally 25 to 45% whereas average ash content of imported coal varies from 10 to 20%.
Hence, statement 3 is correct.
316.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Eutrophication is when a water body becomes overly enriched with minerals and nutrients
which induce excessive growth of algae or algal bloom. This process also results in oxygen
depletion of the water body. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct.
□ Eutrophication is a leading cause of impairment of many freshwater and coastal marine
ecosystems in the world. Harmful algal blooms, dead zones, and fish kills are also the results of
eutrophication.
317.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Microbeads are small, solid, manufactured plastic particles that are less than 5mm and do
not degrade or dissolve in water.
□ Mainly made of polyethylene, microbeads can also be prepared from petrochemical
plastics such as polystyrene and polypropylene. They may be added to a range of products,
including rinse-off cosmetics, personal care and cleaning products.
□ Microbeads, because of their small size pass unfiltered through the sewage treatment
system and reach the water bodies. The untreated microbeads in thewater bodies are taken up by
the marine animals, thus producing toxicity and causing harm to the marine ecosystem.
□ In 2014, Netherland became the first country to ban cosmetics microbeads.
318.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Biomass is organic material that comes from plants and animals, and it is a renewable
source of energy. Biomass contains stored energy from the Sun. Plants absorb the Sun’s
energy in a process called photosynthesis. When biomass is burned, the chemical energy in
biomass is released as heat.
□ Crop residue and biomass burning (forest fires) is considered as a major source of Carbon
Dioxide (CO2 ), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Methane (CH4), volatile organic compounds (VOC), a n d
Nitrogen Oxides (NO×). Burning of paddy crop residue releases Suspended Particulate Matter, SO2
and NO2 in the atmosphere. Hence, 1, 2, 3 and 4 are correct.
319.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Methanehydrate is a crystalline solid that consists of a methane molecule surrounded by
a cage of interlocking water molecules. It is an “ice” that only occurs naturally in subsurface
deposits where temperature and pressure conditions are favorable for its formation.
□ Regions with suitable temperature and pressure conditions for the formation and stability
of methane hydrate- sediment and sedimentary rock units below the Arctic permafrost;
sedimentary deposits along continental margins; deep-water sediments of inland lakes and s e a s ;
and, under Antarctic ice. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Methane hydrates, the sensitive sediments, can rapidly dissociate with an increase in
temperature or a decrease in pressure. The dissociation produces free methane and water, which
can be triggered by global warming. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Methane is removed from the atmosphere in about 9 to 12-year period by oxidation
reaction where it is converted into Carbon dioxide. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
320.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ According to FAO, poultry manure releases considerable amounts of Nitrogen mainly in
form of Ammonia (NH3), Dinitrogen (N2), Nitrous Oxide (N2O) and Nitrate(NO3−). Hence,
statement 3 is correct.
□ According to FAO, major forms of pollution associated with intensive livestock production
include eutrophication of surface water, leaching of Nitrates and pathogens and release of
Ammonia, Methane and other gases into the air. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ A range of pollutant gases, and especially nitrogen compounds (NO2, NO, NH3, N2O) are
emitted to the atmosphere from agricultural activities, including fertilizer use, farm m a c h i n e r y
and livestock waste. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
321.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) was launched by the Ministry of Environment,
Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in 2019 to cut the concentration of coarse ( p a r ti c u l ate
matter of diameter 10 micrometer or less, or PM10) and fine particles (particulate matter of
diameter 2.5 micrometer or less, or PM2.5) by at least 20% -30% by 2024, with 2017 as the base
year for comparison of concentration.
□ The plan includes 102 non-attainment cities, across 23 states and Union territories, which
were identified by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on the basis of their ambient
air quality data between 2011 and 2015.
□ Non-attainment cities are those that have fallen short of the National Ambient Air
Quality Standards (NAAQS) for over five years.
322.
Ans. (C)
Sol. Catalytic converter is an exhaust emission control device made of platinum and rhodium which helps
in reduction of toxic gases and pollutants from the engines of cars into less toxic pollutants like carbon
dioxide, nitrogen and water by catalyzing a redox reaction.
323.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Venturi scrubber is a type of pollution control equipment that is used to remove
contaminated particles (primarily particulate matters) from gaseous exhaust streams. It works
on the principle of removal by atomized water vapour.
□ It is a part of the group of air pollution control technologies collectively referred to as wet
scrubbers and uses the energy from a high-velocity inlet gas stream to atomize the liquid being
used to scrub the gas stream.
324. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Acid rain results when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOX) are emitted into
the atmosphere, react with water, oxygen and other chemicals in the presence of sunlight to f o r m
sulfuric and nitric acids, which then falls to the ground in the form of wet or dry deposition.
□ As the pH level of the precipitation is less than 5.6, it can severely affect flora and fauna in
the region.
325. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ A bioindicator is a living organism that gives us an idea of the health of an ecosystem. It is
also known as the health indicator of the ecosystem.
□ Lichens are a complex life form, living in a symbiotic partnership between fungus and
alga. It can be used as air pollution indicator, especially of the concentration of sulphur
dioxide in the atmosphere.
□ They are sensitive to sulphur dioxide (SO2) and do not grow in polluted areas. Monitoring
population numbers of lichens might indicate damage to the ecosystem in which they live.
□ Lichens live on the surfaces such as trees, rocks, soil etc. Lichens do not have roots;
instead they receive all their nutrients from the atmosphere.
326. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Smog is a specific type of air pollution. It is a combination of harmful pollutants (often
appearing relatively low to the ground as a yellow-brown haze) that are introduced into the
atmosphere by both natural and human induced processes.
□ The term Smog is used to describe a mix of smoke and fog. It is majorly a composition
of sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbon vapours emitted by automobiles. The
smog causes a light brownish coloration of the atmosphere, reduced visibility, plant damage,
irritation of the eyes and respiratory distress.
327.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Wetland rice fields (Paddy fields) have been identified as a major source of atmospheric
methane. Although the potential for methane release from rice fields has long been noted, t h e
first comprehensive measurements of methane fluxes in rice fields were reported only i n
the early 1980s. As in a natural wetland, flooding a rice field cuts off the oxygen supply from
the atmosphere to the soil, which results in anaerobic fermentation of soil organic matter.
□ Methane is a major end product of anaerobic fermentation. It is released from submerged
soils to the atmosphere by diffusion and ebullition (the action of bubbling or boiling) and
through roots and stems of rice plants. Global estimates of emission rates of methane from
wetland rice fields range from 20 to 100 Tg/yr (IPCC 1992), which corresponds to 6-29% of the
total annual anthropogenic methane emission.
328. Ans.
Sol. □ A spinning wheel was inaugurated at Gautam Buddh Nagar, Noida by Union Government
and Noida Authority. The ‘charkha’, which symbolises Gandhi’s dream of Swadeshi (self
sufficiency and self reliance), measures 14 ft × 20 ft × 8ft and is made of 1,250 kg of used
plastic. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct.
□ It was inaugurated on Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary.
□ The gigantic spinning wheel is not only representative °t construction and beautification b u t
also represents Our commitment towards the plastic-free campaign. It has been recognised as
the largest made of used plastic Waste in the country by India Book of Records.
329.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Aral Sea: It lies between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. It has been shrinking steadily since
the 1960s after its tributaries were diverted by Soviet irrigation projects. By 2007, the lake h a d
declined to 10% of its original size and had split into four separate lakes. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ Black Sea: It is also known as Euxine Sea. It is one of the major water bodies and a famous
inland sea of the world. The countries sharing a border with the BlackSea include Romania,
Turkey, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Russia, and Georgia. There has been no dramatic shrinkage of the Black
Sea in the recent past. Hence, 2 is not correct.
□ Lake Baikal: Located in Siberian Russia, this UNESCO World Heritage site has not
undergone any dramatic shrinkage in the recent past. One of the most recognizable shifts
affecting Lake Baikal is the rapidly increasing number of Spirogyra, a diverse form of algae. Hence,
3 is not correct.
330. Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Sixth Mass Extinction/Sixth Extinction is the extinction | of a large number of species
within a relatively short j period of geological time, thought to be, due to factors such as a
catastrophic global event or widespread environmental change that occurs too rapidly for most
species toadapt.
□ Natural disasters have triggered at least five mass extinctions in the past 500 million years,
each of which wiped out between 50% and 90% of all species on the planet. The most
recent extinction occurred about 65 million years ago, when an asteroid ended the reign of
dinosaurs and opened new doors for mammals.
□ The recent studies reported that the sixth mass extinction of Earth’s wildlife is already
underway as there is killing of large ocean dwellers (like sharks, whales, giant clams, sea
turtles and tuna) in disproportionately greater numbers than smaller animals.
□ The striking difference between the previous mass extinctions and the anticipated sixth
mass extinction is the cause of its occurrence. It is anticipated that sixth mass extinction is d u e
to mankind’s over-exploitation/ misuse of natural resources, fragmentation/loss of n a t u r a l
habitats, and destruction of ecosystems, pollution and global climate change.
331. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Sand mining is the process of extracting sand from the river bed or from the coastal region.
□ Excessive sand mining results in pollution of river water by lowering the pH value of
water, mixing of various metal oxides, reduction of oxygen and thus, increasing the Biological
Oxygen Demand (BOD). Polluted river water causes pollution of groundwater. Hence, 2 i s
correct.
□ Due to increased metal oxides and their mixing in river water, the salinity of the water
increases. Hence, 1 is not correct.
□ Volume of water flow in the river is decreased, thus it results in lowering of the water
table. Hence, 3 is correct.
332. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The product of on-site biological decomposition (organic matter) affects the chemical
and physical properties of the soil and its overall health. Its composition and breakdown rate
affects the soil structure and porosity; the water infiltration rate and moisture holding
capacity of soils; the diversity and biological activity of soil organisms; and plant nutrient
availability. It helps in increasing the water holding capacity of the soil. Hence, statement 1 is not
correct.
□ Sulphur Cycle is a biogeochemical cycle, which contains both atmospheric and terrestrial
processes. Within the terrestrial portion, the cycle begins with the weathering of rocks,
releasing the stored Sulphur. The Sulphur, then comes into contact with air where it is c o n v e r t e d
into Sulphate (SO2−). The Sulphate is taken up by plants and microorganisms and is converted into
organic forms. Animals then consume these organic forms through the foods they eat, thereby
moving the Sulphur through the foodchain. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ Irrigation over a long period of time can lead to salinization because irrigated water
contains dissolved salts which get left behind when water evaporates. Over time, concentrations
of these salts can reach levels that make it more difficult for plants to take up water from t h e
soil. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
333. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ According to the World Health Organization (WHO) a carbon footprint is a measure of the
impact people’s activities have on the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) produced through t h e
burning of fossil fuels and is expressed as a weight of CO2 emissions produced in tonnes.
□ It may be applied to the actions of an individual, a family an event, an organization or even
an entire nation.
□ Its usual measurement is tonnes of CO2 emitted per year.
334. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) refers to the amount of Oxygen required by
microorganism to stabilize decomposable organic matter in one litre of polluted water.
□ Higher, the organic matter presence in the water body, higher will be the presence of a
large number of microorganisms and the lower the amount of dissolved oxygen available f o r
aquatic organisms. Thus, increased BOD suggests a high level of microbial contamination and is
a reliable gauge to check the organic pollution of the water body. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are
not correct and statement 3 is correct.
335. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The decrease in ozone concentration mainly in the stratosphere is referred to as the
depletion of the ozone layer. Ozone depleting substances include Chlorofluorocarbons
(CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFCs), carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform.
These compounds release chlorine or bromine when they are exposed to intense UV rays in t h e
stratosphere and contribute to ozone depletion. One chlorine atom can destroy over 1 0 0 , 0 0 0
ozone molecules before it is removed from the stratosphere. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Sunspots are areas that appear dark on the surface of the Sun (photosphere). They appear
dark because they are cooler than other parts of the Sun’s surface as they are formed at areas
where magnetic fields are particularly strong. The magnetic field lines near sunspots often tangle,
cross, and reorganize. This can cause a sudden explosion of energy called a solar flare that release
a lot of radiation into space, which can disrupt satellite and radio transmission on the Earth, and
more severe ones can cause ‘geomagnetic storms’ that can damage transformers in power grids.
□ Further, unusual solar activity can cause the ozone levels in the upper stratosphere to be
substantially depleted because solar storms carries energetic electrons and protons into the
Earth’s upper atmosphere, where they increase production of nitrogen oxides which depletes
ozone. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Very strong winds inside the polar stratospheric vortex, also increase the rate of
transportation of nitrogen gases further into the atmosphere which then attacks the ozone layer.
□ Ozone depletion increases the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that reaches Earth’s
surface, which causes photo-oxidative degradation that results in breaking of the polymer
chains, produces free radical and reduces the molecular weight, causing deterioration of
mechanical properties and leading to useless materials, after an unpredictable time. H o w e v e r ,
increase in UV radiation is the effect of Ozone depletion. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
□ Volcanic eruptions can actually impact the ozone layer if they’re strong enough; that is,
if they blast gases (such as sulfur dioxide) and volcanic particles so high that these particles
manage to reach the stratosphere. Produced by major volcanic eruptions, particles or aerosols
accelerate ozone destruction. The particles themselves do not directly destroy ozone but
they do provide a surface upon which chemical reactions can take place. This facilitates
chlorine-driven ozone depletion. Hence, statement 4 is correct.
336. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Air pollution refers to the release of pollutants ( Material or factors that cause adverse
effects on natural quality of the environment) into the air that are detrimental to human
health and the planet as a whole.
□ In the context of climate change, normally carbon dioxide is not considered as an air
pollutant rather, it is a greenhouse gas which, as its concentration increases in the atmosphere,
contributes to the warming of the planet. Further, carbon dioxide is also not covered under 12
pollutants classified by National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Hence, statement I
is true.
□ The gases in Earth’s atmosphere include:
Nitrogen — 78%
Oxygen — 21%
Argon — 0.93%
Carbon dioxide — 0.04%; hence, statement II is true.
Trace amounts of neon, helium, methane, krypton and hydrogen, as well as water
vapour.
Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true, but Statement (II) is not the correct
explanation of Statement (I).
337. Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The accumulation of garbage by spreading in layers and covering with ashes or dirt to a
depth sufficient to control rats, flies and odors are commonly referred to as sanitary/municipal
fills and waste heaps.
□ They are hazardous because of the following:
Leachates: Leachate is formed when rain water filters through wastes placed in a landfill. When this
liquid comes in contact with buried wastes, it leaches, or draws out, chemicals or constituents from
those wastes and contaminates groundwater. Hence, 1 is correct.
Release of harmful gases: Poisonous gases such as methane and sulphur dioxide are released which pollute the
air and are harmful to human health. Hence, 2 is correct.
□ Rodents and wandering animals: These do not make the sanitary/municipal fills hazardous.
Hence, 3 is not correct.
□ Automobile workshops that seem to have an affinity for such neighbourhoods: Due to the
least amount of pollution created by them, they have negligible effect on sanitary / m u n i c i p a l
fills. Hence, 4 is not correct.
338. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The greenhouse effect refers to the rise in the global average temperature of the earth.
□ The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth s surface. When the Sun’s
energy reaches the Earth’s atmosphere, some of it is reflected back to space and the rest is
absorbed and re-radiated by greenhouse gases.
□ Greenhouse gases include water vapour, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, ozone
and some artificial chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
□ Human activities - particularly burning fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas), agriculture
and land clearing-are increasing the concentrations of greenhouse gases. This is the e n h a n c e d
greenhouse effect, which is contributing to warming of the Earth.
339.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Peroxyacetyl Nitrates (PAN) is an important constituent of photochemical smog. It is also
a ubiquitous chemical present throughout the global troposphere. A unique property of
PAN is that it is very stable at cold temperatures and easily decomposes to release NOx at warm
temperatures.
□ in remote atmospheres, it can act as a carrier and a reservoir of NOx, which is necessary
for ozone (O3) formation. PANs are known to be eye irritants in the smoke (lachrymators),
phytotoxins, and bacterial mutagens. The most serious biological effects of PANs are of a
phytotoxic nature resulting in injury to plants and vegetation.
340. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Primary pollutants are those which are emitted directly into the atmosphere, like sulphur
dioxide, nitric oxides and carbon monoxide.
□ The pollutants that are not directly emitted from a source but form/result into a new
pollutant, when primary are known as secondary pollutants. Examples include ozone (O3),
sulphuric acid and nitric acid (components of acid rain), particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide ( NO 2 ,
peroxyacyl nitrates (PANs), smog etc.
341. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Ozone (O3) is a highly reactive gas composed of three oxygen atoms. It is both a natural and
a man-made product that occurs in the Earth’s upper atmosphere ozone molecule (the
stratosphere) and lover atmosphere (the troposphere)
□ Stratospheric ozone is formed naturally through the interaction of solar ultraviolet (UV)
radiation with molecular oxygen (O2).
□ Tropospheric or Ground-level or “bad” ozone is not emitted directly into the air, but is
created by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds
(VOC) in the presence of sunlight.
342. Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Incineration is a process of waste disposal that involves the combustion of organic
substances contained in waste materials. In this method, waste materials are burnt in huge
incinerators at high temperature. It converts waste material into ash, flue gas and heat.
□ Advantages of Incineration
The volume of waste is reduced by turning it into ashes. Incineration plants can reduce the mass of
waste from 95% to 96%.
The huge amount of unburnt waste is difficult in comparison to ashes disposal.
Incineration plants generate energy from waste that can be used to generate electricity or heat.
□ Disadvantages of Incineration
The installation of an incineration plant is an expensive process.
It produces harmful gases that pollute the atmosphere.
343. Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Wetland rice fields (Paddy fields) have been identified as a major source of atmospheric
methane. As in a natural wetland, flooding a rice field cuts off the oxygen supply from the
atmosphere to the soil, which results in anaerobic fermentation of soil organic matter.
□ Methane is a major end product of anaerobic fermentation. It is released from submerged
soils to the atmosphere by diffusion and ebullition (the action of bubbling or boiling) and
through roots and stems of rice plants. Global estimates of emission rates of methane from wetland
rice fields range from 20 to 100 Tg/yr (IPCC 1992), which corresponds to 6-29% of the total
annual anthropogenic methane emission.
□ Terrestrial arthropod-like termite contributes to the methane emission resulting from their
digestive system. Global emissions of methane due to termites are estimated to be between
20,00,000 and 2,20,00,000 metric tonnes per year.
344.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Vulture numbers saw a decline as much as 90% in some species in India since the 1990s in
one of the most drastic declines in bird populations in the world.
□ The cause of the decline was established as diclofenac, a veterinary nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drug (NSAID), which is used to treat pain and inflammatory diseases. Widespread
use of diclofenac in cattle was linked to the deaths of millions of vultures that ate carcasses
containing the drug.
□ The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change released the Action Plan for
Vulture Conservation, 2006 with the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) banning the veterinary
use of diclofenac in the same year.
345.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Gomti river has become the most polluted river in Uttar Pradesh. Monitoring by the state
pollution control board reveals that water is unfit for consumption.
□ The extent of pollution is such that the river’s biodiversity is being affected. A marine
species of molluscs, Solariella was found in the river. This is alarming, as Solariella is endemic to
coastal waters that ordinarily have high levels of pH (alkaline/polluted conditions).
□ The presence of Solariella was revealed during the first-ever bio-mapping of the river done
by the Geological Survey of India, Lucknow. In this context, Gomati river has been declared a
‘Biological Disaster’, due to environmental and biological consequences.
346.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Primary pollutants: The pollutants that directly cause air pollution or the pollutants that
are formed and emitted directly from particular sources. Examples are particulate matter,
carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and sulfur oxide.
□ Secondary pollutants: The pollutants formed by the intermingling and reaction of primary
pollutants are known as secondary pollutants. Examples are ozone and smog.
□ Smog is a specific type of air pollution. It is a combination of harmful pollutants (often
appearing relatively low to the ground as a yellow-brown haze) that are introduced into the
atmosphere by both natural and human induced processes.
The suspended particles like unburnt carbon particles and hydrocarbons mix with smoke and fog in the
atmosphere, especially in the cold weather to form smog which results in a lowered visibility.
Whereas, photochemical smog is produced when sunlight reacts with oxides of nitrogen and at least
one volatile organic compound (VOC) in the atmosphere.
347.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Carbon sequestration is the process of trapping CO2 from the atmosphere and then storing
it in leak proof containers. Geological formations like coal seams depleted oil and gas reserves,
subterranean deep saline formations, etc., offer a great capacity for Carbon sequestration.
Hence, 1 and 3 are correct.
□ Injection of CO2 in uneconomic or depleted hydrocarbon reserves can provide additional
benefits in terms of enhanced recovery of the traces left in the reservoirs and formation of coal
bed methane in coal seams. Hence, 2 is correct.
348.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is the amount of Dissolved Oxygen needed by aerobic
organisms to decompose organic material in a given sample of water at a certain temperature
over a particular time period.
□ BOD is one of the most common measures of pollutive organic material in water. BOD
indicates the amount of putrescible organic matter present in water. Therefore, a low BOD is an
indicator of good quality water, while a high BOD indicates polluted water.
□ Sewage and untreated water discharge results in the decrease in the amount of Dissolved
Oxygen as much of the available dissolved oxygen is consumed by aerobic bacteria in the
degradation process, robbing other aquatic organisms of the Oxygen they need to live.
349.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Bioremediation is a treatment process that uses naturally occurring microorganisms (yeast,
fungi, or bacteria) to break down, or degrade, hazardous substances into less toxic or non- t o x i c
substances.
□ The microorganisms break down the organic contaminants into harmless products-mainly
Carbon Dioxide and water. It is a cost effective, natural process applicable to many common
organic wastes. Many bioremediation techniques can be conducted on-site. Hence, 1 is
correct.
□ All contaminants cannot be easily treated by bioremediation using microorganisms. For
example, heavy metals such as Cadmium and Lead are not readily absorbed or captured by
microorganisms. Hence, 2 is not correct.
□ Genetic engineering can be used to create microorganisms designed for specific purposes
for bioremediation. For e.g. bacterium Deinococcusradiodurans (the most radioresistant
organism known) has been modified to consume and digest Toluene and ionic Mercury from
highly radioactive nuclear waste. Hence, 3 is correct.
350.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Diesel engines convert the chemical energy contained in the fuel into mechanical power.
Diesel fuel is injected under pressure into the engine cylinder where it mixes with air and
where the combustion occurs. The exhaust gases which are discharged from the engine
contain several constituents that are harmful to human health and to the environment.
□ Carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and aldehydes are generated in the exhaust as
the result of incomplete combustion of fuel or at lower temperature.
□ Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are generated from nitrogen and oxygen under the high pressure
and temperature conditions in the engine cylinder. NOx consist mostly of nitric oxide (NO) and
a small fraction of nitrogen dioxide (NO2).
□ Nitrogen dioxide is very toxic. NOx emissions are also a serious environmental concern
because of their role in the smog formation.
351.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Minamata disease, sometimes referred to as Chisso-Minamata disease, is a neurological
syndrome caused by severe mercury poisoning. Symptoms include ataxia, numbness in the hands
and feet, general muscle weakness, narrowing of the field of vision and damage to hearing and
speech.
□ Blue Baby Syndrome (methaemoglobinaemia) is caused by the decreased ability of blood
to carry vital oxygen around the body. One of the most common causes is nitrate in drinking
water.
352.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1984) was caused by the release of Methyl Isocyanate (CH3NCO or
C2H3NO) from the pesticide plant of Union Carbide (now Dow Chemicals), an MNC in B h o p a l
(Madhya Pradesh).
□ Methyl isocyanate is extremely toxic gas and if its concentration in the air touches 21ppm
(parts per million), it can cause death within minutes of inhaling the gas.
353.
Ans. (A)
Sol. Low fluoride concentration in drinking water (less than 0.5 ppm) could cause dental caries (tooth
decay or breakdown of teeth), lack of formation of dental enamel and reduced bone mineralization.
However, an overdose of fluoride leads to dental fluorosis also known as Mottling of tooth.
354.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Global warming is the unusually rapid increase in Earth’s average surface temperature over
the past century primarily due to the greenhouse gases released as people burn fossil fuels.
Hence, statement I is true.
□ Global warming occurs when carbon dioxide (CO2) and other air pollutants in the
atmosphere and absorb sunlight and solar radiation that have bounced off the earth’s
surface. Normally this radiation would escape into space, but these pollutants, which can l a s t
for years to centuries in the atmosphere, trap the heat and cause the planet to get hotter.
□ These heat-trapping pollutants specifically carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, water
vapor, and synthetic fluorinated gases are known as greenhouse Eases, and their impact is called
the greenhouse effect.
□ Increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases results in enhanced greenhouse effect,
which is contributing to warming of the Earth. Hence, statement II is true.
Both the statements are individually true and Statement II is the correct explanation of
Statement I.
355.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ A carbon credit is a generic term for any tradable certificate or permit representing
the right to emit one ton of carbon dioxide or another greenhouse gas with a carbon
dioxide equivalent to one ton of carbon dioxide. Each carbon credit represents 1000 kg of
atmospheric carbon dioxide which has been avoided or
captured.
□ Under Carbon Credits Trading mechanism countries that emit more carbon than the
quota allotted to them buy carbon credits from those that emit less. More carbon emitting
countries, by this way, try to keep the limit of carbon emission specified to them.
□ Carbon credits are traded on various exchanges across the world. Multi-Commodity
Exchange of India (MCX) launched futures trading in carbon credits in 2009. The principles
that support carbon credits are enshrined in the Kyoto Protocol.
356.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the National Air
Quality Index (AQI) under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. It is published every month by the
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) along with a numerical value and colour code which helps
in comparing air pollution level in cities.
□ There are six AQI categories, namely Good, Satisfactory, Moderately polluted, Poor, Very
Poor, and Severe. Each of these categories is decided based on ambient concentration
values of air pollutants and their likely health impacts (known as health breakpoints).
□ The measurement of air quality is based on eight pollutants, namely:
Particulate Matter (size less than 10 µm) or (PM10),
Particulate Matter (size less than 2.5 µm) or (PM2.5),
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2),
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2),
Carbon Monoxide (CO),
Ozone (O3),
Ammonia (NH3), and
Lead(Pb)
357.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty on climate change. It was
adopted by 196 Parties at COP 21 in Paris in 2015 and entered into force on 4th N o v e m b e r,
2016.
□ Its goal is to limit global warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius,
compared to preindustrial levels.
□ India ratified the Paris Agreement on 2nd October, 2016.
□ Some of major features of the Paris Agreement are as follows:
It acknowledges the development imperatives of developing countries.
The Agreement recognizes the developing countries’ right to development and their efforts to
harmonize development with environment, while protecting the interests of the most vulnerable.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
It follows bottom-up approach where countries by themselves submit their plans for climate action
known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs) keeping in mind the national interest.
The objective of the Agreement further ensures that it is not mitigation-centric and includes other
important elements such as adaptation, loss and damage, finance, technology, capacity building and
transparency faction and support. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
The Paris Agreement recognizes the importance of sustainable lifestyles and sustainable patterns of
consumption with developed countries taking the lead, and notes the importance of ‘ c l i m a t e
justice’ in its Preamble.
358.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ A green building is one which uses less water, optimizes energy efficiency, conserves
natural resources, generates less waste and provides healthier spaces for occupants.
□ The Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) is a national rating system
for green buildings that is adopted while designing and evaluating new buildings. It was
conceived by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and developed jointly with the
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
□ GRIHA attempts to minimize a building’s resource consumption, waste generation, and
overall ecological impact to within certain nationally acceptable limits/ benchmarks.
□ Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is an internationally recognized
green building certification system devised by the United States Green Building Council
(USGBC) to evaluate the environmental performance of a building and encourage market
transformation towards sustainable design.
□ It provides third-party verification that a building or community was designed and built
using strategies aimed at improving performance across all the metrics that matter most:
Energy savings, water efficiency, emissions reduction, improved indoor environments quality and
stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts.
□ The Indian Green Building Council has adapted LEED system and has launched LEED I n d i a
version for rating of new construction.
□ LEED is for all building types and all building phases including new construction, interior
fit outs, operations and maintenance and core and shell. Hence, 1, 2 are correct and 3, 4 are n o t
correct.
□ Some of the benefits of a green design to a building owner, user, and the society as a
whole are as follows:
Reduced energy consumption without sacrificing the comfort levels,
Reduced destruction of natural areas, habitats, and biodiversity, and reduced soil loss from erosion etc.
Reduced air and water pollution (with direct health benefits),
Reduced water consumption,
Limited waste generation due to recycling and reuse,
Reduced pollution loads,
Increased user productivity,
Enhanced image and marketability.
359.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), also known
as the ‘Earth Summit’, was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1992. It led to the final development
of the Kyoto Protocol that was adopted in Kyoto, Japan in 1997 and entered into force in 2005.
□ The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement linked to the UNFCCC, which commits
its parties by netting internationally binding emission reduction targets. It commits industrialized
countries to stabilize greenhouse emission based on principles of the convention.
□ It recognized that developed countries are principally responsible for the current high
levels of GHG emissions in the atmosphere as a result of more than 150 years of Industrial
activity.
□ The detailed rules for the implementation of the Protocol were adopted at COP-7 in
Marrakesh, in 2001 and are referred to as the Marrakesh Accords.
360.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The term smog was first coined during the 1950s when it was used to describe a mixture
of smoke and fog experienced in London in 1952. The smog covered the city of London for
five days, popularly known as Great Smog of London. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ The principal component of smog are sulphur oxides, smoke and particulate matter; other
components include nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds.
Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ The London SMOG occurs generally early in the morning on cold wet winter days, as under
high pressure during winters, wind speeds are low causing smoke and fog to stagnate.
Hence, statement 3 is correct.
361.
Ans. (D)
Sol. Tertiary treatment is the final cleaning process that improves wastewater quality before it is reused,
recycled or discharged to the environment.
Tertiary Treatment Features
methods for
wastewater
Ion-exchange method □ Ion-exchange also known as Demineralization, is a process by which
ions held on a porous, essentially insoluble solid are exchanged for
ions in solution that is brought in contact with it.
□ Both the contaminant and the exchanged substance must be
dissolved and have the same type of electrical charge (positive or
negative),
□ A typical example of ion exchange is a process called “water
softening aiming to reduce calcium and magnesium content.
The process is also efficient in removing toxic metals from water.
Hence, 1 is correct.
Reverse osmosis □ Reverse osmosis is the process that removes contaminants from
water by using pressure to force water molecules through
a semi
permeable membrane.
□ The process can be used to remove ions, mineral chemicals such
as lead, fluoride, chlorine, and other impurities from
drinking water.
Hence, 2 is correct.
Chemical oxidation □ Chemical oxidation involves adding or generating oxidants such
method as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), bleaching liquor
(NaOCI), chlorine dioxide
(CIO2), chlorine gas (Cl2), peroxy acetic acid (C2H4O3) and
pure oxygen (O2) in the wastewater.
□ In water and wastewater engineering, chemical oxidation serves
the purpose of converting putrescible pollutant
substances to innocuous or
stabilized products. Hence, 3 is correct.
Activated sludge □ Activated sludge process is a secondary treatment but not
process tertiary treatment.
□ The activated sludge process is the biological process that is used
to treat sewage and waste water commonly referred as
effluent.
□ The process uses bacteria in aerobic conditions to degrade the
biodegradable organics into carbon dioxide, water, and
other inorganic compounds. Hence, 4 is not correct.
362.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Fly Ash is a byproduct from burning of coal in electric power generating plants. It is called
fly ash because it is transported from the combustion chamber by exhaust gases.
□ It is collected from the exhaust gases by electrostatic precipitators or bag filters.
□ Fly ash includes substantial amounts of silicon dioxide (SiO2), aluminium oxide (Al2O3),
ferric oxide (Fe2O3) and calcium oxide (CaO).
□ Fly ash possesses good pozzolanic properties due to the presence of active and finely
divided silica, alumina and calcium oxide, which provide it with cement like qualities in
combination with lime rich material.
□ Thus, fly ash emitted by thermal power plants can be used for manufacturing bricks,
blocks, aggregates and cement production. It is also used as a landfill material.
363.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Rotterdam Convention was adopted in 1998 in Rotterdam, Netherlands and entered into
force on 24th February, 2004.
□ It covers toxic hazardous pesticides and industrial chemicals that have been banned or
severely restricted for health or environmental reasons by Parties and which have been
notified by Parties for inclusion in the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure.
□ The Convention creates legally binding obligations for the implementation of the Prior
Informed Consent (PIC) procedure.
□ The objective of the Convention is to contribute to the environmentally sound use of those
hazardous chemicals and facilitate information exchange about their characteristics.
364.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Besides other actions like shock and blast, nuclear explosions also generate high intensity
flux of radioactive radiations such as neutron and gamma radiation which are highly damaging to
living organism. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Most tsunamis are caused by large earthquakes on the seafloor when tectonic plates
move past each other suddenly. It causes sudden vertical displacements which disturbs the
ocean’s surface, displace water, and generate destructive tsunami waves. Hence, statement 2 is
not correct.
□ Acid rain, or acid deposition, is a broad term that includes any form of precipitation with
acidic components, such as sulfuric or nitric acid that fall to the ground from the
atmosphere in wet or dry forms.
Acid rain results when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are emitted into the atmosphere and
transported by wind and air currents. The SO2 and NOx react with water, oxygen and other chemicals
to form sulfuric and nitric acids. falling to the ground, disturbing the flora and fauna in the region.
Thus, it is a major environmental concern. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
□ Meteorological conditions such as high atmospheric pressure, low temperature, low humidity
and large diurnal amplitude have an important effect on the amount of pollution in the
atmosphere. Air movements influence the dispersion of air pollutants. If the air is calm and
pollutants cannot disperse, then the concentration pollutants will build up.
On the other hand, when strong, turbulent winds blow, pollutants disperse quickly, resulting in lower pollutant
concentrations. Another example can be of photochemical smog, which requires Sunlight. Thus, we
can say that Air pollution also has some impact on meteorology. Hence, statement 4 is correct.
365.
Ans. (B)
Sol.
Greenhouse Source
Gas
Carbon dioxide □ There are both natural and anthropogenic
sources of carbon dioxide emissions. Natural
sources include decomposition, ocean release
and respiration.
□ Whereas anthropogenic emission results from
burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural
gas in various industrial processes as well as from
thermal power stations.
Chlorofluorocarbon (CFCs) □ The most common emitters of CFCs are
refrigerants, air
conditioners, aircraft Halon (a chemical
compound
formerly used in firefighting) and aerosol
sprays.
Nitrous Oxide □ Nitrous oxide is emitted during agricultural, land
use, industrial activities, combustion
of fossil fuels, solid
waste, water-logged paddy fields as well
as during treatment
of a wastewater
Sulphur dioxide □ Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is primarily emitted from
fossil fuel
combustion at power plants, brick Kilns,
automobile
emission etc.
366.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Hydrogen is a clean fuel that, when consumed in a fuel cell, produces only water,
electricity, and heat. Due to their high efficiency and zero-or near zero-emissions operation, it
is seen as a green alternative to conventional fossil fuels.
□ Whereas conventional fuel such as diesel, kerosene and coal when go through combustion
produces harmful compounds/ pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur
dioxide, nitrogen oxide etc.
367.
Ans. (C)
Sol. Acid rain results when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are emitted into the atmosphere
react with water, oxygen and other chemicals in the presence of sunlight to form sulfuric and nitric
acids, which then falls to the ground in the form of wet or dry deposition.
368.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Energy labeling is one of the most cost-effective policy tools for improving energy
efficiency and lowering energy cost of appliances/equipment for the consumers.
□ Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under Ministry of Power provides Standards and
Labeling for electrical appliances.
□ The star rating is a measure of energy efficiency of an appliance.
□ Higher rating means lower the energy consumptions and thereby better saving. Usually,
a BEE Star Label can be found on heavy electrical home appliances like air conditioners,
refrigerators and washing machines, etc., with the number of stars it has got and an e s ti m a t e d
power consumption of the appliance in a year.
□ BEE has introduced a new star rating methodology for air conditioners manufactured and
sold in India starting 1st January, 2018. It is called Indian Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio
(ISEER), which is defined as the energy efficiency of cooling.
□ All the given appliances, namely, ceiling fans, electric geysers and tubular fluorescent
lamp carry Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label.
369.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ National Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool for effective communication of air quality status
to people in terms which are easy to understand. It transforms complex air quality data of
various pollutants into a single numbs (index value), nomenclature and colour.
□ There are six AQI categories, namely Good, Satisfactory Moderately Polluted, Poor, Very
Poor, and Severe.
□ It considers eight pollutants namely:
Carbon Monoxide (CO); hence, 2 is correct.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2); hence, 3 is correct.
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2); hence, 4 is correct.
Ozone (O3);
PM 2.5;
PM 10;
Ammonia.(NH3);
Lead (Pb)
□ Carbon dioxide is not included in National Air Quality Index (AQI). Hence, 1 is not correct.
370.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Central Government in exercise of the powers conferred under the Environment
(Protection) Act, 1986 in 2009 had set up ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority’ (NGRBA) as
an empowered planning, financing, monitoring and coordinating authority for the GangaRiver.
□ Prime Minister is the ex-officio Chairperson of the Authority, and it has as its members,
the concerned Union Ministers and the Chief Ministers of states through which Ganga flows,
viz., Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal, among others. Hence, 3 is
not correct.
□ Key Features
River basin is the unit of planning and management. This is an internationally accepted strategy for the integrated
management of rivers. Hence, 1 is correct.
NGRBA will spearhead river conservation efforts at the national level. Implementation will be by the State
Agencies and Urban Local Bodies. Hence, 2 is correct.
It will take into account the competing demands of water and will seek to ensure minimum ecological flows.
Solid Waste Treatment Plants will be made functional to minimize the pollution load up to discharge standard of
BOD of 30mg/litre requiring dilution to achieve river water quality of 3mg/litre.
The minimum ecological flows or the entire Ganga will be determined through modelling exercises.
NGRBA will take appropriate measures to regulate water abstraction for maintaining ecological flows in the
river.
371.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ National Mission for a Green India, also known as Green India Mission (GIM), is one of
the eight missions outlined under India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change. It was
launched in February, 2014.
□ Goals of Mission
To increase forest/tree cover to the extent of 5 million hectares (mha) and improve quality of forest/tree cover
on another 5 mha of forest/non- forest lands. Separate sub-targets exist for different forest types and
ecosystems (e.g., wetland, grassland, dense forest, etc.). Hence, 3 is correct.
Improvement in quality of forest cover and ecosystem services of forests/non-forests, including moderately
dense, open forests, degraded grassland and wetlands (5 mha).
Eco-restoration/afforestation of scrub, shifting cultivation areas, cold deserts, mangroves, ravines and abandoned
mining areas (1.8 mha) with separate sub-targets for each one of those.
Improvement in forest and tree cover in urban/ peri-urban lands (0.20 mha).
Improvement in forest and tree cover on marginal agricultural lands/fallows and other non-forest lands under
agro-forestry/social forestry (3 mha.)
To improve/enhance eco-system services like carbon sequestration and storage (in forests and other ecosystems),
hydrological services and biodiversity, along with provisioning services like fuel ,timber and non-timber
forest produces (minor forest produces or MFPs) etc., which are expected to from the treatment of
10 mha.
To increase forest-based livelihood income for about 3 million households in and around these forest areas; and
enhanced annual CO2 sequestration by 50 to 60 million tons by the year 2020.
Launching 2nd Green Revolution and incorporating green accounting in the Union and State budget are not the
objectives of Green India Mission. Hence, 1 and 2 are not correct.
372.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Bioremediation can be defined as any process that uses microorganisms (bacteria and
fungi) or their enzymes to remove and/or neutralize contaminants within the environment to
their original condition.
□ The process is used to treat land or sea which is contaminated by the agents such as
pesticides, oil or solvents. For example, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) has developed a
mixture of bacteria called Oilzapper and Oilivorous-S’ which degrades the pollutants of oil-
contaminated sites, leaving behind no harmful residues.
□ However, bioremediation may not provide a feasible strategy at sites with high
concentrations of chemicals that are toxic to most microorganisms. These chemicals include
metals such as cadmium or lead and salts such as sodium chloride.
373.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Acid rain, or acid deposition, is a broad term that includes any form of precipitation with
acidic components, such as sulfuric or nitric acid that fall to the ground from the atmosphere
in wet or dry forms. This can include rain, snow, fog, hail or even dust that is acidic.
□ When sulfurous, sulfuric, and nitric acids in polluted air and rain react with the calcite in
marble and limestone, the calcite dissolves. Roughened surfaces, removal of material and l o s s
of carved details are often visible in exposed areas of buildings and statues. Hence, statement 1 is
correct.
□ While burning fossil fuels such as coal to produce electricity, power plants release the
majority of sulfur dioxide and much of the nitrogen oxides. Additionally, nitrogen oxides
and sulfur dioxide are released into the air by the exhaust from cars, trucks and buses. These
pollutants contribute to acid rain. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Eutrophication is the enrichment of a standing water body with nutrients such as
phosphorus and nitrogen. It is characterized by excessive plant and algal growth due to the
increased availability of one or more limiting growth factors needed for photosynthesis such
as sunlight, carbon dioxide and nutrient fertilizers.
□ Eutrophication is the leading cause of impairment of many freshwater and coastal marine
ecosystems in the world. Harmful algal blooms, dead zones, and fish kills are the results of
eutrophication, which begins with the increased load of nutrients to estuaries and coastal
waters. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
374.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Amphibians are one of the most sensitive groups to change, whether that is caused by
habitat loss, invasive species, disease, trade or climate change. Nearly 33% of amphibian
species of the world are categorized as threatened on the Red List.
□ Amphibians are characterized by a rather permeable skin due to which they possess
sensitivity to environmental threats. Based on their complex life cycles and other traits,
amphibians are often recognized as indicators of ecosystem health.
□ Greater than 70% of the world’s amphibian species are in decline. There are two immediate
(proximate) causes of amphibian declines: death and decreased recruitment (reproductive failure).
Pathogens have caused death amongst the amphibians however, the success of the pathogens has
been due to environmental changes, atmospheric changes, habitat modifications and invasive
species. This relates the earth’s sixth mass extinction.
375.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ The Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer is an international
treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of ozone depleting
substances like chlorofluorocarbon (CFCs), Methyl Chloroform, CTC (Carbon Tetra Chloride)
halons and Methyl Bromide, etc.
□ The Montreal Protocol has led to the phase-out of 99% of ozone-depleting chemicals in
refrigerators, air conditioners and many other products.
376.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The Bah Road Map was adopted at the 13th Conference of the Parties and the 3rd Meeting
of the Parties in December, 2007 in Bali. The Road Map is a set of a forward-looking d e c i s i o n s
that represent the work that needs to be done under various negotiating “tracks’ that essent.ai
to reaching a secure climate future.
□ The Bali Road Map includes the Bali Action Plan, which charts the course for a new
negotiating process designed to tackle climate change.
□ The Bali Action Plan is a comprehensive process to enable the full, effective and sustained
implementation of the Convention through long-term cooperative action beyond 2012, in order
to reach an agreed outcome and adopt a decision. All Parties to the Convention were involved in
crafting the Bali Road Map.
□ The Bali Action Plan is divided into five main categories: shared vision, mitigation,
adaptation, technology and financing. The shared vision refers to a long-term vision for
action on climate change, including a long-term goal for emission reductions.
377.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Fly Ash: It is a byproduct from burning of coal in electric power generating plants. It is
called fly ash because it is transported from the combustion chamber by exhaust gases. It is
collected from the exhaust gases by electrostatic precipitators or bag filters.
□ Composition: Fly ash includes substantial amounts of silicon dioxide (SiO2), aluminium
oxide (Al2O3), ferric oxide (Fe2O3) and calcium oxide (CaO).
□ Properties:
Resemble Portland cement but is chemically different.
Exhibit cementitious properties.
□ Uses: It is used in concrete and cement products, road base, metal recovery, and mineral
filler among others.
378.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Fertilizer is defined as any organic or inorganic substance, natural or artificial supplying
one or more of the chemical elements/nutrients required for plant growth. They provide six
macronutrients such as Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca),
Magnesium (Mg), Sulphur (S) and eight micronutrients namely; Boron (B), Chlorine (Cl),
Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), etc., to the plants for well-balanced growth.
□ Farmers use fertilizers for crops that help them to grow better quality. But at the same
time, it is harmful as the runoff from fields to rivers and water bodies make the quality of t h e
water deteriorate. Precipitation leads to fertilizers making its way to the nearby water bodies.
□ Chemical fertilizers contain phosphates, nitrates that can contribute in enriching the water
bodies with nutrients thus causing eutrophication and water pollution.
379.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Major proportion of carbon dioxide emissions are because of combustion of fossil fuels
to produce the heat which is required to power steam turbines. This process is required for
electricity and heat generation.
□ Burning these fuels results in production of carbon dioxide, which is majorly responsible
for global warming.
380.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ ‘Fly ash’ is a byproduct of burning coal in electricity generating plant. It has some
commercial uses:
‘Fly ash’ can be used in production of bricks for building construction. Fly ash bricks are light in weight, have high
compressive strength and absorbs less heat. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
‘Fly ash’ can be used as a replacement for some of the cement contents of concrete. When mixed with lime and
water, fly ash forms a compound similar to Portland cement. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Composition of fly ash depends upon the composition of coal being burnt. It may contain
Beryllium, Arsenic, unburnt Carbon, Silicon Oxides, Dioxins, etc., which are toxic in nature a n d
are considered as environmental pollutant. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
381.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Nitrogen is an essential element for plant growth. However, due to excessive use of
nitrogenous fertilizers, nitrate concentration accumulates in the edible parts of leafy v e g e t a b l e s .
Consuming these crops can harm human health.
□ Negative impact of excessive use of nitrogenous fertilizers:
Increase in acidity of soil; Hence, 2 is correct.
Leaching of Nitrate into groundwater; Hence, 3 is correct.
□ Commercial Nitrogen fertilizers should be used to supplement and balance the available
Nitrogen supply in soil; however, if applied in excessive amounts, Nitrogen fertilizers may lower
crop quality much more quickly than large applications of the other fertilizerelements.
□ Proliferation of Nitrogen fixing bacteria is the positive outcome of judicious use of
nitrogenous fertilizer m agriculture. Hence, 1 is not correct.
382.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The burning of plastic wastes releases toxic gases, the use of chemical fertilizers causes
eutrophication and the burning of dry leaves releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants i n t o
the atmosphere. Thus, they all are harmful for the environment.
□ Hence, the only beneficial practice for a healthy environment is the treatment of domestic
sewage before it is released into the environment, thus, preventing water pollution and
eutrophication.
383.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Acid Rain (A-2): It refers to precipitation that is more acidic than the normal. Normally,
rain has a pH value between 5.0 and 5.5 which is slightly acidic. However, when rain c o m b i n e s
with sulphur dioxide or nitrogen oxides, produced from power plants and automobiles, the rain
becomes much more acidic. Typical acid rain has a pH value of 4.0.
□ Depletion in Ozone layer in Atmosphere (B-l): The decrease in ozone concentration mainly
in the stratosphere is referred to as the depletion of the ozone layer. Ozone depleting s u b s t a n c e s
include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), carbontetrachloride
and methyl chloroform. These compounds release chlorine or bromine when they are
exposed to intense UV light in the stratosphere and contribute to ozone depletion. One
chlorine atom can destroy over 100,000 ozone molecules before it is removed from the
stratosphere.
□ Harmful for human nervous system (C-3): Exposure to high amounts of lead can cause
gastrointestinal symptoms, severe damage to the brain and kidneys and may cause reproductive
effects.
□ Topmost Contribution to greenhouse gas effect (D-4): Gases that trap heat in the
atmosphere are called greenhouse gases. Carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulphur
hexafluoride, etc., are some of the greenhouse gases. Though carbon dioxide has relatively l o w
global warming potential, yet due to longer atmospheric life, it is considered as topmost
contributor to greenhouse effect.
384.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Raw material extraction and processing always make an impact on the environment as
they do in soil degradation, water shortages, biodiversity loss, damage to ecosystem functions
and global warming exacerbation. For example, excess use of ground water in leather industry
leads to decrease in water table of ground water and also it pollutes nearby water bodies f r o m
the surface runoff. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ Discharge of toxic chemicals used during industrial processes and activities further
pollutes soil, water bodies and nearby flora. For example, use of chromium and sulphide in
leather industries. Hence, 2 is correct.
□ Although product use and disposal causes a certain amount of pollution, it is not as such
caused by the manufacturing sector as it primarily occurs during and after the consumption of the
product by the final consumer and not the producer. Hence, 3 is not correct.
385.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ A hydrocarbon is an organic chemical compound composed exclusively of hydrogen and
carbon atoms. Hydrocarbons are naturally-occurring compounds and form the basis of crude
oil, natural gas, coal, and other important energy sources.
□ Hydrocarbons are highly combustible and produce carbon dioxide, water, and heat when
they are burned. Therefore, hydrocarbons are highly effective as a source of fuel.
□ One of the major cause of air pollution is due to automobiles that run on these
hydrocarbon- based fuel5 and due to incomplete combustion
releases harmful gaseous pollutant such as oxides of nitrogen and
sulphur, carbon monoxide etc.
□ Other options such as Oxides of Sulphur, Oxides of nitrogen and smoke are gaseous
pollutant.
386.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Mercury (Hg) is a global pollutant that affects human and ecosystem health.
□ Natural sources of mercury include volcanic eruptions and emissions from the ocean.
Anthropogenic (human-caused) emissions include mercury that is released from fuels or r a w
materials, or from uses in products or industrial processes.
□ Globally, artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is the largest source of
anthropogenic mercury emissions (37.7%), followed by stationary combustion of coal (21%) or Coal
based power plants-
□ Products like batteries, compact fluorescent lamps, switches and relays, soaps and
cosmetics, thermometers and blood pressure devices, dental fillings, which use mercury
amalgam, if not treated properly can cause severe health hazard.
□ The Minamata Convention on Mercury is an international treaty designed to protect
human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury and
mercury compounds.
387.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Solid waste treatment
At solid waste disposal sites (SWDS) the degradable organic carbon in waste is decomposed by bacteria under
anaerobic conditions into methane (CH4) and other compounds. The CH4 emissions from SWDS are
important contributors of global anthropogenic CH4 emissions. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ Natural wetlands
Emissions from wetlands and oceans are the major natural sources of methane. These account for 78% of natural
methane emissions.
The water-logged conditions of wetlands are perfect for microbes.
Part of wetland related emissions gets absorbed by methane-consuming microbes, but a large percentage
escapes into the atmosphere. Hence, 2 is correct.
□ Ruminant animals
Raising cattle and other ruminant animals, digestive processes of termites, etc., cause methane emissions.
Ruminant livestock are the primary producers of methane (CH4). They can produce 250 to 500 litres of methane
per day. Hence, 3 is correct.
388.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Greenhouse gases are those gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and warm the planet.
□ The main gases responsible for the greenhouse effect include carbon dioxide, methane,
nitrous oxide, and water vapor and fluorinated gases.
□ Carbon monoxide: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a clear, odourless gas and is a common air
pollutant. It is not considered as a primary greenhouse gas, due to its weak absorption of
terrestrial Infrared radiation. However, its presence affects the abundance of greenhouse gases
such as methane and carbon dioxide. Hence, 1 is not correct.
□ Oxygen: Oxygen is transparent to infrared radiation, thus cannot absorb heat and
contribute to the greenhouse effect. Hence, 2 is not correct.
□ Soot: Sometimes called as lampblack or black carbon soot is a fine black or brown powder
that can be slightly sticky and is a product of incomplete combustion. Soot warms the Earth, as
when deposited on snow and ice, it reduces the albedo of the surface i.e., the ability of the
surface to reflect solar radiation. Hence, 3 is correct.
□ Water vapour: The most abundant greenhouse gas overall, water vapor differs from other
greenhouse gases because changes in its atmospheric concentrations are linked not to human
activities directly but rather to the warming that results from the other greenhouse gases we emit.
Warmer air holds more water and since water vapor is a greenhouse gas, more water absorbs more
heat, inducing even greater warming and perpetuating a positive feedback loop. Hence, 4 is
correct.
389.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are entirely man-made a group of industrial chemicals
primarily used for cooling and refrigeration. HFCs are potent greenhouse gases that can be
hundreds to thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide (COJ in contributing to
climate change per unit of mass. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are not correct.
□ Ozone in the upper atmosphere (stratosphere) is destroyed by man-made compounds
such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and halons. By shielding the
earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV-B) rays generated from the sun, the stratospheric ozone l a y e r
makes life possible. Decreased concentration of stratospheric ozone leads to increased amounts of
UV-B (shorter wavelengths) reaching the earth’s surface.
□ The Kigali Amendment to phase down HFCs under the Montreal Protocol entered into
force in 2019. Under the amendment, countries commit to cut the production and consumption
of HFCs by more than 80% over the next 30 years to avoid more than 70 billion metric tons
of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions by 2050 and up to 0.5° C warming by the end of
the century. Solutions are available to replace high-global warming potential HFCs in many
sectors and reduce emissions.
390.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Cigarette smoke is a complex mixture of chemicals.
□ some smoke components, such as carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen cyanide (HCN),
and nitrogen oxides, are gases. Others, such as formaldehyde, acrolein, benzene, and certain
N- nitrosamines, are volatile chemicals contained in the liquid vapor portion of the smoke
aerosol.
□ The most abundant pollutants in the smoke coming from cigarettes are:
Carbon Monoxide: It is a poisonous gas with no smell or taste. Carbon monoxide (CO) prevents the blood system
from effectively carrying oxygen around the body, specifically to vital organs such as the heart and
brain. High doses of CO, therefore, can cause death from asphyxiation or lack of oxygen to the brain
and can cause death. The gas is toxic for babies in the womb, infants and individuals with heart or
lung disease.
Tar: It consists of several cancer-causing chemicals. When a smoker inhales cigarette smoke, 70% of the tar
remains in the lungs.
Benzene: It is used in gasoline/cigarettes and can cause blood cancer (leukemia).
Nicotine: It is not carcinogenic (having the potential to cause cancer). However, it is highly addictive. Nicotine is
an extremely fast-acting drug. Exposure to large amount can lead to vomiting, seizures, depression of
the CNS (central nervous system), and growth retardation.
391.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Arsenic contamination in groundwater is one of the most serious issues in the drinking
water scenario of India.
□ In India, the groundwater arsenic contamination was first surfaced from West Bengal in 1983.
□ Arsenic (As) is introduced into soil and groundwater during weathering of rocks and minerals
followed by subsequent leaching and runoff. It can also be introduced into soil and groundwater
from anthropogenic sources.
□ The states along the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna (GBM) river basin − Uttar Pradesh, B i h a r ,
Jharkhand, West Bengal and Assam are the worst affected by this human-amplified g e o g e n i c
occurrence.
□ According to data published by the National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) of the
Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS), 9.6 million people in West Bengal, 1.6 million in Assam, 1.2 million in
Bihar, 0.5 million in Uttar Pradesh and 0.013 million in Jharkhand are at immediate risk from
arsenic contamination in groundwater.
392.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ A non-fiction book ‘Silent Spring’ written by Rachel Carson became one of the most-
influential books in the modern environmental movement.
□ In this book, a woman took on the chemical industry and raised important questions about
humankind’s impact on nature.
□ Rachel Carson was an American biologist well known for her writings on environmental
pollution and the natural history of the sea.
393.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Temperature rise above 3°C would lead to rising sea levels and loss of plant species. The
Amazon rainforest, whose plants produce 10% of the world’s terrestrial photosynthesis, may
turn to savannah as drought and mega-fires would destroy the rain forest, turning trees back
into CO2 as they burn or rot and decompose.
□ The carbon released by the forest destruction will be joined by still more carbon from the
world s soils, together, boosting global temperatures by a further 1.5°C. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ Increase in global temperature will result in mass coral bleaching and further, addition
of CO2 into the ocean will reduce calcification rates and increase coral mortality. Hence, 2 is
correct.
□ Wetland habitat responses to climate change and the implications for restoration will be
realized differently on a regional and global level. Thus, it can be restored and will not d i s a p p e a r
permanently. Hence, 3 is not correct.
□ Climate change affects the ecosystem that provides food, and therefore our security of
food is linked to the security of those ecosystems. Rising carbon dioxide concentrations -could
increase production of some crops, such as rice, soybean and wheat due to increase in the
rate of photosynthesis. However, the changing climate would affect the length and quality of the
growing season. Thus, the cultivation of cereals would see difference in production rather than
being extinct. Hence, 4 is not correct.
394.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Nanoparticle emissions in the environment can either be directly or indirectly via a
technical system such as Waste Water Treatment Plants (WWTPs) or landfills. Indirect emissions are
likely to occur either via the effluent of WWTPs, application of biosolids to soil, or leachates from
landfills. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ Commercially manufactured polystyrene nanoparticles are transported through the
aquatic food chain from algae. Plastics do not degrade easily. In the marine environment, plastics
are usually broken down into smaller pieces by the Sun, waves, wind and microbial action.
These micro-and nano plastic particles in the water maybe ingested by filter-feeding marine
organism; such as barnacles, tube worms and sea-squirts. Hence 2 is correct.
□ Free radicals are unstable atoms or molecules with free outer electrons. Free radical
formation can be triggered by nanoparticles such as
fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, emission particles, which in turn could lead to
formation of so-called giant cells, resulting in the development of nodular new tissue
formation called granulomas and overtime can develop into mesothelioma (a type of cancer).
Hence, 3 is correct.
395.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Steel industry creates pollution as it uses coal and Iron ore whose combustion releases
various Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) compounds and oxides into the air.
□ In steel furnace, coke reacts with iron ore, releasing iron and generating major
environmental pollutants.
□ The pollutants released from steel producing units are:
Carbon Monoxide (CO); hence, 3 is correct.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2); hence, 4 is correct.
Oxides of Sulphur (SOx); hence, 1 is correct.
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx); hence, 2 is correct.
PM 2.5;
Waste Water;
Hazardous waste;
Solid waste
□ However, technological interventions in the form of air filters, water filters and other water
saving, power saving and closed container can reduce emissions.
396.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs) are mixtures of man-made chemicals that are added
to a wide variety of products, to make them less flammable. They are commonly used in
plastics, textiles and electrical/ electronic equipment.
□ The BFRs are highly resistant to degradation in natural environment. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ BFRs can be accumulated in humans and animals and alter liver enzymes, affect thyroid
levels, and are associated with developmental reproductive and neurotoxicity. Hence, 2 is
correct.
397.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Diesel: When diesel fuel is burned in engines, the emissions that result contributes to
air pollution that has serious human health and environmental effects. It produces greater
quantities of certain air pollutants such as sulphur and solid carbon particulates and is
considered as one of the largest contributors to environmental pollution. Burning of 1 kg/L o f
diesel can produce 2.66 kg/L of CO2.
□ Petrol: It is a mixture of volatile, flammable liquid hydrocarbons, and is derived from
crude petroleum. It is used as a fuel for internal-combustion engines and produces toxic gases
such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter and unburned hydrocarbons
which contribute to air pollution. Burning of 1L of Petrol/ gasoline, which contains about 0.63 kg
of carbon, can produce about 2.3 kg of CO2.
□ Compressed Natural Gas (CNG): Natural gas is an odorless, gaseous mixture of
hydrocarbons predominantly made up of methane (CH4).
Two forms of natural gas that are currently used in vehicles are compressed natural gas (CNG) and
liquefied natural gas (LNG). CNG is produced by compressing natural gas to less than 1% of
its volume at standard atmospheric pressure CNG fuel is safer than gasoline and diesel
because it is nontoxic and environment friendly.
398.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The pesticide treadmill is a term indicating a situation in which it becomes necessary for
a farmer to continue using pesticides regularly because they have become an indispensable
part of an agricultural cycle.
□ This can occur if pesticides are used on crops or animal herds such that other natural
remedies are no longer effective. The farmer then has no option but to use the pesticides year
after year in each agricultural cycle.
□ It can happen that the effective elimination of one target insect pest allows other insect
pests to thrive, resulting in the farmer having to use other insecticides to eliminate the new p e s t
problem. This can lead to more pests and the need for yet more insecticide types to deal with the
additional problems.
399.
Ans. (C)
Sol. Fluoride is a natural compound that protects teeth from cavities. It helps prevent cavities and decay
by coming in direct contact with the tooth enamel (the outside of the tooth). However, too much
fluoride (higher than 1.5-2 mg/L) ingested for longer durations can cause dental fluorosis.
400.
Ans. (A)
Sol. Compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) contains mercury and its disposal is a major environmental concern
because mercury is a neurotoxin. High levels of mercury intake can damage the brain, the reproductive
system, foetuses and cause behavioural problems.
401.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Ethylene bromide (C2H4Br2), also called ethylene dibromide or 1,2-dibromoethane, is
a colourless, sweet-smelling, non-inflammable, toxic liquid belonging to the family of
organohalogen compounds.
□ Ethylene bromide in conjunction with tetraethyl lead (an antiknock agent) is added as a
component of petrol or gasoline to avoid lead oxide deposit around the spark plugs and other
components. The resulting byproduct on combustion leads to the formation of volatile l e a d
bromide.
□ Ethylene bromide is toxic to humans and animals, causing severe irritation to the eyes and
skin and damage to the liver, kidneys and lungs.
402.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Filtration is a process where solid particles in a liquid or gaseous fluid are removed by
the use of filter medium that permits the fluid to pass through but retains the solid particles.
However, it does not kill or stop the microorganism’s ability to reproduce.
□ Boiling kills or inactivates viruses, bacteria, protozoa and other pathogens by using heat
to damage structural components and disrupt essential life processes for example, denatured
proteins.
□ Chlorination is a process of adding chlorine compound^ such as sodium hypochlorite to
water. Chlorine kills or inactivates all types of microorganisms such as protozoa bacteria and
viruses. The process is also used to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases such as cholera
dysentery and typhoid.
□ UV-irradiation also known as Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation is a disinfection method
that uses short wavelength ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate microorganisms by destroying
nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA, leaving them unable to perform vital cellular functions.
403.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) pollution occurs when nitrogen oxides are released as a gas into
the atmosphere during the high-temperature combustion of fossil fuels. These nitrogen
oxides consist mainly of two molecules, nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2).
□ Nitric Oxide pollution can lead to:
Leaf spotting in plants as higher concentration of Nitric Oxide hinders the rate of photosynthesis.
Bronchitis-related respiratory problems in humans as inhaling Nitric Oxide causes pulmonary irritant,
causing priming of lung macrophages and oxidative damage to lung epithelial cells. Even short-term
exposure can irritate the lungs of healthy people.
Production of corrosive gases through photochemical reaction as Nitric Oxide plays an important role in the
formation of Ozone and photochemical smog which increases the rate of corrosion in exposed metals,
Particulate matter and ozone in the smog reacts with the metal surface to form corrosion or rust.
□ Silicosis in human which is a chronic disease related to lungs is caused by inhalation of
silica dust over a successive period of time.
404.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Landfill gas (LFG) is a natural byproduct of the decomposition of organic material in
landfills. Methane and Carbon dioxide are the major gases that emit from landfills, which made
up to 90-98% of landfill gases.
□ LFG is composed of roughly 50% methane (the primary component of natural gas) and the
other 50% consists of majorly carbon dioxide (CO2) and small amounts of nitrogen, oxygen,
ammonia, sulfides, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and non-methane organic compounds
(NMOCs) such as trichloroethylene, benzene, and vinyl chloride.
405.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Methane is a naturally occurring gas which has global warming impact 25 times greater
than that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period.
□ Methane is emitted during the production of coal, natural gas and oil. It also results from
livestock and other agricultural practices, wetlands, land use and by the decay of organic waste
in municipal solid waste landfills. Hence, 1, 2 and 3 are correct.
406.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Green Mufler is a technique that involves planting of trees, usually in 4-5 rows, to reduce
the noise pollution. The trees planted act like a buffer and absorb the noise coming from
densely populated areas, roadsides, industrial areas, etc., thereby reducing noise pollution.
□ In addition, it also helps in reducing air pollution by acting as a sink for gaseous pollutants
like carbon dioxide and causing settling of particulate matter.
407.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Biodegradable pollutants are the pollutants which can be broken down into simpler,
harmless, substances in nature in due course of time by the actions of microorganisms,
naturally occurring agents such as water, oxygen, sunlight etc., further help or accelerate t h e
decomposition of biodegradable pollutants.
Biodegradable pollutants include domestic waste (waste food, animal products, leather, cloth, paper, wood etc.),
sewage which carries faecal matter, urine etc.
□ Non- biodegradable pollutants are those pollutants which cannot be broken down into
simpler, harmless products by the actions of natural agents such as microorganism, heat, water,
oxygen etc., and act as a pollutant.
Non-biodegradable wastes includes plastics, insecticides like DDT, synthetic fibres, metal, toxic chemicals like
mercury, arsenic, lead etc.
408.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Primary pollutants are those pollutants which persist in the environment in the same form
in which they are released into the environment. They are emitted directly from the source. F o r
example, Carbon Monoxide, Sulphur dioxide, Nitrogen Oxides, Hydrocarbons, Particulate matter,
plastic, DDT etc.
□ A secondary pollutant is not directly emitted as such, but forms when it reacts with the
primary pollutant. For example, Ozone, PAN, Smog etc.
Ozone: It is formed by the chemical reaction with the primary pollutant such as oxides of nitrogen (NOX ) and
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the presence of sunlight.
Peroxyacetil nitrates (PAN): It is formed by the photochemical reaction of hydrocarbons with nitrogen oxides in
the atmosphere.
Smog: The suspended particles like unburnt carbon particles and hydrocarbons mix with smoke and fog in
the atmosphere, especially in the cold weather to form smog which results in a lowered visibility.
Whereas, photochemical smog is produced when sunlight reacts with oxides of nitrogen and at least
one volatile organic compound (VOC) in the atmosphere.
409.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1994, proclaimed 16th September as
the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commemorating the date of
signing the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 1987.
□ The Vienna Convention and its Montreal Protocol in 2009 became the first treaties of the
United Nations to achieve universal ratification.
□ The Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer reached
agreement at their 28th Meeting of the Parties in 2016 at Kigali, Rwanda to phase-down
hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), a family of potent greenhouse gases by the late 2040s.
410.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ A bioindicators are living organisms such as plants, planktons, animals, and microbes,
which are utilized to screen the health of the natural ecosystem in the environment.
□ Lichens can be used as air pollution indicators, especially of the concentration of sulphur
dioxide in the atmosphere.
□ They are sensitive to sulphur dioxide (SO2) and do not grow in polluted areas. Since they
derive their water and essential nutrients mainly from the atmosphere rather than, from the s o i l ,
their presence indicates the absence of pollution in an area and vice-versa.
411.
Ans. (D)
Sol. As per the NITI Aayog’s report “Study of Assesment of Water Foot Prints of India’s Long term Energy
Scenarios” thermal power plants of India account for 87.8% of total industrial water consumption in
the country while Paper and pulp consumes 2.27%, Engineering 5% and Textiles 2%.
412.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Electronic waste (or e-Waste) includes electronics and other items that have reached
the end of their useful life, such as computers, laptops, TVs, DVD players, mobile phones,
mp3 players,etc.
□ Toxic chemicals in a computer system are Lead, Cadmium, Mercury, Beryllium,
Brominated Flame Retardants (BFR), Polyvinyl Chloride and Phosphorus compounds. T h e i r
improper handling and burning releases hydrocarbons and pollute waterbodies.
□ Metals contained in circuit boards are Cadmium, Antimony, Lead and Chromium. Mercury
is present in switches and lamps of many photocopiers, scanners, and fax machines. Lead c a n
also be found in monitors. Hence, 2, 3, 5 and 6 are correct.
□ Copper Beryllium alloy is used to provide “spring memory” that ensures continuous,
fatigue- free electrical connections, meaning higher processing speeds and better performance for
personal computers, routers, and the internet as well as radars, avionics, and defense system.
Hence, 1 is correct.
□ Plutonium is a highly reactive synthetic element of the actinide family which occurs in Uranium ores
and is used as a fuel in nuclear power plants because of its ability to undergo nuclear fission. About
15 isotopes of Plutonium are known to exist and all of these isotopes are radioactive. It is not
used in computers or their parts. Hence, 7 is not correct.
□ Heptachlor is an organochlorine (Cyclodiene) insecticide which was first isolated from
technical chlordane in 1946 and was used primarily by farmers to kill insects in seed grains and on
crops, as well as by exterminators and home owners to kill termites. Hence, 4 is not correct.
413.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Drinking water in some parts of India have contaminants like Arsenic and Fluoride.
□ The sources of Arsenic are run off from orchards. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ The sources of Fluoride are erosion of natural deposits, discharge from fertilizers and
Aluminium factories. Hence, 3 is correct.
□ The drinking water in some parts of India also contains traces of Uranium. The main
source of the Uranium contamination is natural, but human factors such as groundwater- table
decline and Nitrate pollution may exacerbate this problem. Hence, 5 is correct.
□ Some naturally occurring elements in drinking water are Lead, Arsenic, Mercury, Radium,
Chloride, Iron and Copper compounds. Most of these are not harmful when consumed in small
quantities. But when the consumption is higher than the prescribed amount, it could be harmful
and sometimes even fatal.
□ Water in India is contaminated with salinity, Arsenic, Fluoride, Iron, Nitrate, and heavy
metals.
□ sorbitol is a sugar alcohol found in fruits and plants with diuretic, laxative and cathartic
property. Unabsorbed Sorbitol retains water in the large intestine through osmotic pressure,
thereby stimulating peristalsis of the intestine and exerting its diuretic, laxative and cathartic
effect. In addition, Sorbitol has one-third fewer calories and 60 % the sweetening activity of
sucrose and is used as a sugar replacement in diabetes. Hence, 2 is not correct.
□ Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas used in making building materials and
many household products. Formaldehyde is quickly broken down in the air -generally within
hours. It dissolves easily in water, but does not last long there, either. Hence, 4 is not correct.
414.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Acid rain or acid deposition is a broad term that includes any form of precipitation with
acidic components, such as Sulphuric or Nitric Acid that fall to the ground from the atmosphere
in wetordry forms.
□ This can include rain, snow, fog, hail or even dust that is acidic or has a pH level below
that of normal rain (about pH of 5 to 5.5).
□ Volcanoes are the natural source of the Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) and Nitrous Oxide (NOX),
while a substantial amount of SO2 and NOX is released from fossil-fuel power plants, vehicles
and oil refineries.
□ Electric power generation accounts for two third of SO2 and one fourth of NOx release.
□ A chemical reaction happens when Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxides mix with water,
Oxygen and other chemicals in the air. They then become Sulphuric and Nitric Acids that m i x
with precipitation and fall to the ground.
415.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is an important heat-trappjnp (greenhouse) gas, which is released
through human activities such as deforestation and burning fossil fuels as well as natural
processes such as respiration and volcanic eruptions.
□ It has a long lifetime in Earth’s atmosphere. Carbon Dioxide strongly absorbs energy with a
wavelength of 15 µm (micrometers). This makes carbon dioxide a good absorber of wavelengths
falling in the infrared radiation region of the spectrum.
416.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Carbon sequestration refers to the process of removing carbon from the atmosphere and
depositing it in a reservoir. In simple language, carbon sequestration encompasses all forms of
carbon storage such as oceans, plants, soil and underground geologic formations.
□ Contour bunding is a traditional low-cost method of soil conservation suitable for sloping
land; it promotes water retention and helps prevent erosion. It is a proven sustainable land
management practice for marginal, sloping, and hilly land where the soil productivity is very
low. However, it has no role in carbon sequestration. Hence, 1 is not correct.
□ Relay cropping is the growing of two or more crops in the same field with the planting of
the second crop after the first one has completed its development. Row intercropping is the
cultivation of two or more crops simultaneously on the same field with a row arrangement. It has
no role in carbon sequestration. Hence, 2 is not correct.
□ No-till farming is also called zero tillage or direct drilling-It is a way of growing crops or
pasture from year to year without disturbing the soil through tillage. No-till is an a g r i c u l t u ra l
technique which increases the amount of water that infiltrates into the soil, the s o i l ’ s
retention of organic matter and its cycling of nutrients.
□ It has the potential through storage of soil organic matter in the soil of crop fields. Tilling
inverts soil layer, mixes air, and greatly increases microbial activity. Organic matter breaks down
much faster, releasing its carbon into the atmosphere. Hence, 3 is correct.
417.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ When Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is absorbed by sea water, a chemical reaction occurs and that
reduces the sea water pH, Carbonate ion concentration, and saturation states of biologically
important Calcium Carbonate minerals. These chemical reactions are termed “ocean acidification”.
□ Calcium Carbonate minerals are the building blocks for the skeletons and shells of many
marine organisms. In areas where most life now congregates in the ocean; the seawater is
supersaturated with respect to Calcium Carbonate minerals. This means there are abundant
building blocks for calcifying organisms to build their skeletons and shells. However, c o n ti n u e d
ocean acidification is causing many parts of the ocean to become under saturated with these
minerals, which is likely to affect the ability of some organisms to produce and maintain their
shells. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Many marine organisms that produce Calcium Carbonate shells or skeletons are negatively
impacted by increasing CO2 levels and decreasing pH in seawater. For example, increasing ocean
acidification has been shown to significantly reduce the ability of reef-building corals to
produce their skeletons. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ Oysters and planktons cannot calcify resulting in food web interruption. Hence, statement 3
is correct.
□ Cloud seeding and cloud formation has nothing to do with ocean acidification, as it is the
type of weather modification by dispersing substances in the air that serve as cloud condensation
or ice nuclei that alter the microphysical processes within the clouds. Hence, statement 4 is
not correct.
418.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are nontoxic, non-flammable chemicals containing atoms of
Carbon, Chlorine and Fluorine. They are widely used as refrigerants, propellants (in aerosol
applications), and solvents. The manufacture of such compounds has been phased out (and
replaced with products such as R-410A) by the Montreal Protocol because they contribute to
ozone depletion in the upper atmosphere.
□ Use of CFCs:
Refrigeration;
Making of plastic foams; Hence, statement 1 is correct.
As pressurizing agent in aerosol cans; Hence, statement 4 is correct.
As cleaning agent for electronic products. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
□ However tubeless tyre industry does not use CFCs. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
419.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Lead poisoning is caused by the absorption of Lead in the system and is characterized
especially by fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, anaemia, a dark l i n e
along the gums, and muscle paralysis or weakness of limbs.
□ Common source of lead poisoning are:
Minning
Burning of fossil fuels
Manufacturing
Smelting units; Hence, 1 is correct.
Paints and Gasoline; Hence, 3 is correct.
□ In pen, colour of the ink comes from either a dye, which can dissolve in water, or a
pigment, which is water insoluble. The dye eosin lends
red ink its color and is made by adding the element Bromine to a
fluorescent compound. Pencils contain a form of solid carbon known as graphite. Hence, 2 and 4 are
not correct.
420.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Harmful algal blooms (HABs), occur when colonies of algae (photosynthetic organisms)
that live in the sea and freshwater grow out of control while producing toxic or harmful
effects on people, fish, marine mammals, birds, etc.
□ HABs occur naturally, but human activities contribute to the increased occurrence of these
blooms.
HABs are steadily increasing in the Indian waters b of the following factors:
HAB is linked to excessive discharge of nutrients (mainly Phosphorus and Nitrogen) from sources such
as industries and farmlands flow down the river to the sea and build up at a rate that ‘overfeeds’ the
algae that exist normally in the environment. Hence 1 is correct.
There are reports that indicate presence of HABs in the aftermath of natural phenomena like sluggish water
circulation, unusually high-water temperatures and extreme weather events such as hurricanes
floods, and drought.
Run-off from the land during southwest and northeast monsoons cause some algae blooms in Indian coastal
waters. Hence, 2 is correct.
Upwelling in the sea brings up nutrients, providing conducive condition for growth of algae. Hence, 3 is correct.
Formatting of mud banks and river runoff also causes algal bloom.
Incidents of paralytic shell fish poisoning, following an algal bloom, were reported in past from Tamil Nadu,
Karnataka and Maharashtra.
421.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The atmosphere is a blanket of gases that surrounds the earth and contains life saving gas
like O2. It is held around by the earth’s gravity. The most abundant gases in terms of volume a r e
Nitrogen (N2), Oxygen (O2), Argon (Ad), Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and small amounts of other
gases.
□ CO2 has a higher density than the other gases found in air, which makes CO2 heavier than
the air and hence remains in the lower atmosphere and does not rise up or escapes in the outer
atmosphere. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ Oceans are the largest available carbon sink present on earth. The two main mechanisms
of consuming carbon are:
Carbon sequestration − when dead marine organisms get deposited beneath the surface of the oceans.
Photosynthesis by phytoplankton, which are microscopic organisms that live in water bodies, both saline and
fresh. They consume carbon dioxide, and release oxygen into the atmosphere. Hence, statement 2 is
correct.
□ The trapping of air in polar ice is not related to the storage of CO2. Hence, statement 3 is
not correct.
422.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Coal based power plants are the major contributor of the atmospheric air pollution and
contribute significantly to the global warming and adverse health effects which can u l ti m a t e l y
lead to diseases like lung cancer.
□ Toxic compounds released from the burning of coal include:
Carbon Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide; Hence, 1 is correct.
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOX); Hence, 2 is correct.
Oxides of Sulphur (SOX); Hence, 3 is correct.
Fly Ash
□ Trace elements like Mercury, Cadmium and lead are also emitted which are also health
hazards.
423.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Asphalt is a bitumen, which is obtained as a by- product from crude oil processing. It is
a dark viscous liquid found in natural deposits besides crude oil and can also be obtained
during the processing of petroleum products.
□ Asphalt is mainly used in road construction as a glue or binder to create asphalt concrete.
It is also used in waterproofing of buildings, etc.
□ Bioasphalt is made from renewable sources like household organic waste containing
vegetables, edible and non-edible oil, cereals, wastes from other agro based industry, tree
plantation products like rubber, resins, etc. It is an alternative of conventional asphalt.
Hence, statements 1 and 3 are correct and statement 2 is not correct.
□ Benefits
Asphalt is burnt to prepare a binding glue which releases harmful gases in the environment. Substituting
traditional asphalt with bioasphalt can minimize the release of harmful toxic gases in the environment
and prevent global warming.
Bioasphalt is light in color as compared to traditional asphalt which is a dark-colored petroleum product. Roads
made using traditional dark asphalt gives rise to urban heat islands because of their low albedo effect.
Formation of heat island can be prevented by using bioasphalt which is light colored and has high
albedo effect (reflect more energy). Hence, statement 4 is correct.
424.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Appropriate technologies are still not sufficiently available to combat climate change.
Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ India still being in a developing phase, investing a huge amount on research and
development might be a challenging task, since poverty, unemployment and infrastructure
development still being the core issues. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ India has strict regulatory laws regarding the establishment of polluting industries by
developed countries in India. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
425.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Inhalation of Carbon Monoxide (CO) leads to formation of Carboxyhemoglobin, a stable
complex of Carbon Monoxide and Haemoglobin.
□ Exposure to small concentrations of CO hinders the ability of Haemoglobin to deliver
Oxygen to the body, because CO has much higher affinity for Haemoglobin as compared t o
Oxygen and thus, Carboxyhemoglobin forms more readily than does Oxyhemoglobin (HbO2).
426.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Soot, also known as black Carbon, is a black, carbonaceous substance produced during
incomplete combustion of coal, wood, etc. Black Carbon contributes to climate warming in t w o
ways. First, black soot particles in the air absorb sunlight and directly heat the surrounding
air. Second, soot falling on snow changes the reflecting surfaces into absorbing ones, i.e., soot
decreases the albedo and therefore, increases the melting rate of snow and ice. Hence, 1 is
correct.
□ As per IPCC, Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6) is the most potent greenhouse gas, with a global
warming potential of 23,900 times that of CO2 over a 100 year of time period. Hence, 2 is
correct.
□ Water vapor is known to be Earth’s most abundant greenhouse gas, which results in
heating of the atmosphere. Hence, 3 is correct.
427.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Rice paddies are one of the largest anthropogenic sources of methane.
□ Anaerobic decomposition of organic material in flooded rice fields produces Methane
(CH4), which escapes to the atmosphere primarily by diffusive transport through the rice
plants during the growing season. Methane (CH4) is a greenhouse gas with a Global W a r m i n g
Potential (GWP) of 28-36 over a 100- year period. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Nitrous Oxide gets released into the atmosphere when Nitrogen based fertilizers are used
during cultivation. Among oxides of Nitrogen, Nitrous Oxide (N2O) is a greenhouse gas with
a GWP of 265-298 times that of CO2 in a 100-year time scale. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
428.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ A fluorescent lamp is a low-pressure Mercury-vapor gas discharge lamp that uses
fluorescence to produce visible light. An electric current in the gas excites Mercury vapor, which
produces short-wave ultraviolet light that then causes a phosphor coating on the inside of the
lamp to glow.
□ A fluorescent lamp converts electrical energy into useful light much more efficiently than
incandescent lamps. But, its indiscriminate disposal causes Mercury pollution in the environment.
429.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Acid rain, or acid deposition, is a broad term that includes 8ny form of precipitation with
acidic components, such as Sulfuric or Nitric Acid that fall to the ground from the atmosphere
in wet or dry forms. This can include rain, snow, fog, hail or even dust that is acidic.
□ Acid rain results when Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) are emitted into t h e
atmosphere and transported by wind and air currents. The SO2 and NOx react with water, Oxygen
and other chemicals to form Sulfuric and Nitric Acids. These then mixes with water and other
materials before falling to the ground. Hence, 2 and 3 are correct.
□ Oxide of Hydrogen, i.e., H2O does not cause acid rain on its own. It is only when it combines w i t h
Oxides of Sulphur or Nitrogen the acid rain occurs. Hence, 1 is not correct.
430.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The Climate Change Accountability Bill was submitted in the Canadian Parliament in 2 0 0 6
and eventually passed in 2008.
□ The object of the bill was to meet Canada’s global climate change obligation under
UNFCCC.
431.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Rice agriculture is a major source of atmospheric Methane. The warm, waterlogged soil
of rice paddies provides ideal conditions for methanogenesis (i.e., formation of Methane by
microbes known as methanogens). The vast majority of Methane is released into the atmosphere
through rice fields. Hence, 1 is correct.
□ Methane (CH4) is a gas formed as part of the process of coal formation. When coal is
mined, Methane is released from the coal seam and the surrounding disturbed rock strata.
Hence, 2 is correct.
□ Much of the world’s livestock are ruminants - such as sheep, goats, camel, cattle, and
buffalo - who have a unique, four-chambered stomach. In the chamber called the rumen,
bacteria break down food and generate methane as a by-product. Hence, 3 is correct.
□ Wetlands are the largest natural source of atmospheric Methane in the world, and
therefore remain a major area of concern with respect
to climate change. Wetlands are characterized by waterlogged soils and distinctive communities
of plant and animal species that have evolved and adapted to the constant presence of water.
This high level of water saturation creates conditions conducive to Methane production.
Hence 4 is correct.
PRACTICE QUESTION
432.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Ozone (composed of three atoms of oxygen) occurs both in the Earth’s upper atmosphere
(stratosphere) and at ground level (troposphere). However, in stratosphere, it occurs naturally
and forms a protective layer that shields us from the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays while in t h e
troposphere near ground level, ozone is formed when pollutants emitted by automobiles,
power plants, industrial boilers, refineries, chemical plants and other sources react in the
presence of sunlight. Hence, statement 1 is not correct and statement 2 is correct.
□ Ozone at the ground level is a pollutant with high toxic effects. It makes our eyes itch,
burn and water. It also lowers our resistance to cold and pneumonia. Hence, statement 3 is
correct.
433.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) comprises of any solid and liquid particles suspended
in the air like dust, pollen, soot, smoke and liquid droplets for an extended period of time.
Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ Major sources of SPM are vehicular emission, power plants, construction activities, oil
refineries, industries etc. An increase in concentration of SPM causes haze and reduces
visibility.
□ The finer particles, when inhaled, can lodge in our lungs and cause lung damage and
respiratory problems. Of these, particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, also known as PM
2.5, pose greater risk to health. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
434.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Air Pollution can be defined as the presence of any solid, liquid or gaseous substance
including noise and radioactive radiation in the atmosphere in such concentrations that may
be directly and indirectly injurious to humans or other living organisms, plants or interfering
with the normal environmental processes.
□ The level of air pollution can be affected by :
Increasing traffic: Vehicular emission can lead to increase in concentration of pollutants such as carbon monoxide,
suspended particulate matter (SPM), lead, nitrogen compounds, etc., that have adverse effect on
human well being. Hence, 1 is correct.
Increase in Population: Large concentrations of people and their activities can lead to increased energy
consumption, transportation/motorization, etc., thus, further increasing air pollution. Hence, 2 is
correct.
Economic Development: Economic development in the initial phase leads to increase in consumption of non-
renewable resources and, therefore, higher level of pollution to satisfy increased energy consumption.
However, after certain level of economic and scientific growth, a society begins to improve its
relationship with the environment and levels of pollution as improved technology enables higher
output with less pollution. Hence, 3 is correct.
Industrialization: Industrialization results in a shift of an economy from an underdeveloped agriculture-based to
manufacturing which results in higher level of air pollution as energy consumption is fulfilled by fossil
fuel based resources that emits harmful gases such as carbon dioxide, sulphur
dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, etc. Hence, 4 is correct.
Mining: The process of mining increases the dust particles and particulate matter in the air. Hence, 5 is correct.
435.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Ozone (composed of three atoms of oxygen) occurs both in the Earth’s upper atmosphere
(stratosphere) and at ground level (troposphere).
□ Though stratospheric ozone is found naturally, ozone in troposphere or ground-level is
formed through a complex reaction involving hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and sunlight. It is
formed when pollutants released from gasoline, diesel powered vehicles and oil-based
solvents react with heat and sunlight. Fossil fuel combustion is a primary source of pollutant
gases that lead to tropospheric ozone production. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
E NOx + VOC + Heat & Sunlight = Ozone
□ Smog is a kind of air pollution that reduces visibility. The ozone formed at the ground
level again reacts with volatile organic compounds to produce photochemical Smog. Heavy
smog results in the decrease of natural Vitamin D production, leading to a rise in the cases of
rickets as the level of air pollution is inversely related to the extent of solar ultra violet (UV) radiation
that reaches earth surface. Consequently, it leads to more pollutant areas, less UV passage and as
a result, it lowers vitamin D synthesis. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
436.
Ans. (D)
Sol. A carcinogen is any substance, radionuclide or radiation that can cause or promotes cancer
(carcinogenesis).
438.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Cyclone Separator: It is a separation device (dry scrubbers) that uses the principle of
inertia to remove particulate matter from flue gases. The device generally collects heavier
particles more efficiently.
□ Electrostatic Precipitators: An electrostatic precipitator (ESP) removes particles from a
gas stream by using electrical energy to charge particles either positively or negatively. The
emanating dust is charged with ions and the ionized particulate matter is collected and
removed. It is frequently used in boilers, furnace of thermal power plants, cement factories, etc.
□ Arrester: It is used to separate particulate matters from contaminated air.
□ Booms: Booms are floating barriers that are used to clean oil from the surface of water
and to prevent slicks from spreading.
439.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ HCFC-141b is one of the most powerful ozone-depleting chemicals after
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). It is mainly used as a blowing agent in the foam- m a n u f a c t u r i n g
industries. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ HCFC-141b is not produced domestically and all requirements are met through imports.
Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ India has successfully phased out Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC)-141b and is one of the
few countries that are pioneer in the use of non-ozone depleting technologies and have a l o w
Global Warming Potential (GWP).
□ The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) notified that the
issuance of import license for HCFC-141b is prohibited from 1st January, 2020 under O z o n e
Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control) Amendment Rules, 2019.
440.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Dissolved Oxygen is the amount of oxygen dissolved in water. It is an important parameter
in assessing water quality because of its influence on the organisms living within a body of
water. Presence of organic and inorganic wastes in water decreases the dissolved oxygen
content of the water.
□ Factors such as photosynthetic activities, oxygen consumption and decomposition of
organic matter by organisms, surface turbulence, etc., determine the amount of DO present i n
water.
□ Eutrophication is a phenomenon where a water body becomes overly enriched with
minerals and nutrients which induces excessive growth of algae or algal bloom. As the algae die and
decompose, the process consumes dissolved oxygen. Thus, it depletes oxygen concentration in
the water body. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Water having DO content below 8.0 mg may be considered as contaminated and water
having DO content below 4.0 mg is considered to be highly polluted. Hence, statement 2 is n o t
correct.
441.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Bioremediation is the use of microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) to degrade the
environmental contaminants into less toxic forms.
□ Biomagnification, also known as bioamplification or biological magnification, is a process
by which a compound (such as a pollutant or pesticide) increases its concentration in the
tissues of organisms at successively higher trophic levels or higher levels in a food chain.
□ Bioaccumulation is the gradual accumulation of substances such as pesticides or other
chemicals in an organism. It occurs when an organism absorbs a substance at a rate faster t h a n
that at which the substance is lost by catabolism and excretion.
□ Fortification can be described as a method of adding essential vitamins and minerals to
foods to increase their nutritional value.
442.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Water pollution caused by fecal contamination is a serious problem due to the potential
for contracting diseases from pathogens (disease-causing organisms). The coliform bacteria
can be used as an indicator of human fecal pollution in lakes, rivers, coastal areas estuaries a n d
within organisms like fishes. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) refers to the amount of oxygen required by
microorganisms to stabilize decomposable organic matter in one litre of polluted water. T h e
more organic matter, the greater the BOD; and the greater the BOD, the lower the amount of
dissolved oxygen available for aquatic organisms. The BOD is, therefore, a reliable gauge of the
organic pollution of a body of water. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
443.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Fly ash is the end product of combustion during the process of power generation in the
coal-based thermal power plants. ASHTRACK Mobile App has been launched by the Ministry of
Power for better management of fly ash produced by thermal power plants and b e tt e r
utilization data of thermal power plants. The App will provide an interface between fly ash
producers and potential ash users such as road contractors, cement plants, etc. Hence,
statement 1 is correct.
□ Fly ash can enhance water holding capacity of soil, as a result, crop yield also increases.
Further, it can be used as soil conditioner and amendments. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
444.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ A consequence of an action that affects someone other than the agent undertaking that
action, and for which the agent is neither compensated nor penalized. An externality can be b o t h
positive or negative.
□ When an individual, a firm or a country takes an action but does not bear all the costs
(negative externality) or all the benefits (positive externality) of the action.
□ A negative externality is a business that causes pollution that diminishes the property
values or health of people in the surrounding area. A positive externality occurs when the
consumption or production of a good causes a benefit to a third party. For example, when o n e
gets education he/she gets a private benefit. But there are also benefits for the rest of
society.
□ Health hazard caused to the person due to smoking by himself/herself is not an example
of externality as the consequence of an action of the agent is suffered by him/ her.
445.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Bharat stage (BS) Emission Standards are the emission standards instituted by the
Government of India to regulate the output of air pollutants
from motor vehicles. These regulations are based on the European (EURO) emission
standards. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ BS emission norms were first introduced in 2000 under the head “India 2000”. This was
followed by BS2 in 2001, BS in 2005 and BS4 in 2010. However, to drastically reduce v e h i c u l a r
pollution, Government skipped BS5 norms and directly introduced BS6 from 2020.
In BS-VI fuel, the volume of PM 2.5 ranges from 20 to 40 micrograms per cubic metre whereas in BS-IV fuel, it is
up to 120 micrograms per cubic metre.
BS-VI fuel will bring down sulphur content by 5 times from the current BS-IV levels. It has 10 ppm of sulphur as
against 50 ppm in BS-IV. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
Air pollutants in BS-VI fuel are much less as compared to BS-IV fuel.
BS-VI norms also seek to reduce the level of certain harmful hydrocarbons in the emissions that are produced
due to incomplete combustion of fuel.
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) are mandatory for all automobiles.
□ The Environment Ministry is responsible for deciding the fuel standard in the country and
the Central Pollution Control Board implements these standards. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
446.
Ans. (C)
Sol. Landfill gas (LFG) is a natural byproduct of the decomposition of organic material in landfills. LFG
is composed of roughly 50% methane (the primary component of natural gas) and the other
50% consists of majorly carbon dioxide (CO2) and small amounts of nitrogen, oxygen, ammonia,
sulphides, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and non-methane organic compounds (NMOCs) such as
trichloroethylene, benzene and vinyl chloride.
447.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ pH is a measure of how acidic/basic an aqueous solution is. The range goes from 0 -14 with
7 being neutral. pH of less than 7 indicate acidity whereas a pH of greater than 7 indicates a
base. pH is a measure of the relative amount of free hydrogen and hydroxyl ions In the water.
Water that has more free hydrogen ions is acidic whereas water that has more free hydroxyl i o n s
is basic.
□ This scale, however, is not a linear one but a logarithmic scale in which two adjacent
values increase or decrease by a factor of 10.
□ In a highly polluted city, air is primarily contaminated with the emissions of sulphur
dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) resulting from fossil fuel combustion. From these
gases, airborne sulphuric acid (H.SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3) can be formed and dissolved in the
water vapor in the air. So, if you subject the first rain water of a highly polluted city to a pH t e s t ,
it will show a low reading as it would in all likelihood be an acid rain.
448.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Mosses are a phylum of non-vascular plants. They produce spores for reproduction instead
of seeds and do not have flowers, wood or true roots and chiefly grow in moist, shaded areas
such as wooded areas and at the edges of streams.
□ Bioindicators are living organisms such as plants, planktons, animals and microbes which
are utilized to screen the health of the natural ecosystem in the environment.
□ Mosses are common plants in all cities and they respond to pollution or drought-stress by
changing shape, density or disappearing, allowing scientists to calculate atmospheric a l t e ra ti o n s .
Thus, they can be used as a ‘bioindicator’ to measure the impact of atmospheric change and
could prove a low-cost way to monitor urban pollution. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct.
449.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are toxic chemicals that persist in the environment
because they resist degradation, thus, they can biomagnify and have adverse affect on
human health and the environment around the world.
□ These have the following characteristics:
Lipophilic (tending to combine with or dissolve in lipids or fats) in nature, thus, can accumulate in the fatty tissue
of animals and human beings. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
Less soluble in water. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
Long-range environmental transport (LRET) that makes them spread widely in the atmosphere.
□ It is Stockholm Convention that aims to eliminate the production and use of Persistent
Organic Pollutants (POPs). Rotterdam Convention aims to promote shared responsibilities i n
relation to importation of hazardous chemicals. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
□ The Convention listed twelve distinct chemicals in three categories:
Eight pesticides (aldrin, chlordane, DDT, dieldrin, endrin, heptachlor, mirex and toxaphene)
Two industrial chemicals (poly chlorinated biphenyls and hexachlorobenzene)
Two unintended by-products of many industrial processes such as poly chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and
dibenzofurans commonly referred to as dioxins and furans.
□ Exposure to POPs can lead to cancer, damage to central & peripheral nervous systems,
diseases of the immune system, reproductive disorders and interference with normal infant a n d
child development.
450.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Quantitative pollutants are the substances which naturally occur in the
environment and get the status of pollutants when their
concentration increases due to anthropogenic activities, for example, carbon dioxide, when its
concentration increases, it causes harmful effects on the flora and fauna.
□ Insecticides and pesticides come under the category of Qualitative pollutants where
substances do not normally occur in nature but are added by anthropogenic activities.
Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ Ozone is an example of secondary pollutant and it is formed by the chemical reaction
with the primary pollutants such as oxides of nitrogen (NOx ) and Volatile Organic Compounds
(VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. Primary pollutants are those pollutants which persist in t h e
environment in the same form in which they are released into the environment like plastics, DDT,
etc. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
451.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) was launched by the Ministry of Environment,
Forest and Climate Change in January 2019, is a time-bound national level strategy for pan
India implementation to tackle the increasing air Pollution problem across the country in a
comprehensive manner.
□ It will utilise a collaborative and participatory approach involving relevant Central
Ministries, State Governments, local bodies and other Stakeholders with focus on all sources
of pollution.
□ The tentative national level target of 20%-30% reduction of PM2.5 and PM10
concentration by 2024 is proposed under the NCAP taking 2017
as the base year for the comparison of concentration. Hence,
statement 1 is not correct.
□ Under NCAP, 122 non-attainment cities across 23 states and Union territories have been
identified by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) based on the Air Quality data from (2011-
2015). The city specific action plans have been prepared which, inter-alia, include measures for
strengthening the monitoring network, reducing vehicular/industrial emissions, increasing public
awareness, etc.
□ Non-attainment cities are those that have fallen short of the National Ambient Air Quality
Standards (NAAQS) for over five years. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ Air quality of cities is monitored by State Pollution Control Boards which publish their
results from time to time.
452.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) launched the ‘Clean Seas’ programme
in 2017. It aims to engage governments, the general public, civil society and the private
sector in the fight against marine plastic by reducing the use of non-recoverable and single- use
plastics.
□ The campaign contributes to the goals of the Global Partnership on Marine litter, a
voluntary open-ended partnership for international agencies, governments, businesses,
academia, local authorities and nongovernmental organizations hosted by UNEP.
□ India is a member country of the Clean Seas campaign. With the threat of plastic pollution
mounting and its deadly impacts on marine ecosystems, India proposes to phase out of
single-use plastic items by 2022.
453.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Dissolved oxygen is the amount of oxygen dissolved in water and it is important for the
survival of aquatic organisms. Presence of organic and inorganic wastes in water decreases t h e
dissolved oxygen (DO) content of the water.
□ Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) is the amount of dissolved oxygen needed by
bacteria in decomposing the organic wastes present in water. It is expressed in milligrams
of oxygen per litre of water. Thus, it is a measure of water pollution by organic wastes. The
higher value of BOD indicates low DO content of water. Water pollution by organic wastes is
measured in terms of Biological Oxygen Demand. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ The run-offs from agricultural field contains high nutrients which enriches the water bodies
with dissolved nutrients (phosphates), stimulating the growth of aquatic plant life usually
resulting in the depletion of dissolved oxygen. The higher amounts of waste increase the ra t e s
of decomposition and oxygen consumption, thereby, decreasing the DO content of water. Hence,
statement 2 is correct.
454.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has developed less polluting
firecrackers named as safe water releaser (SWAS), safe minimal aluminium (SAFAL) and safe
the rmite cracker (STAR). These are not only environment-friendly but have the unique
property of releasing water vapour.
□ SWAS and STAR crackers eliminate usage of (KNO3) potassium nitrate and sulphur with
consequent reduction in particulate matter SO2 and NOx. It has matching sound intensity with
commercial crackers in the range of 105-110 dBA.
□ SAFAL has minimal usage of aluminium with consequent significant reduction in
particulate matter (35-40%) compared to commercial crackers. It has matching sound intensity
with commercial crackers in the range of 110-115 dBA.
455.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Fly ash is a by-product from burning pulverized coal in thermal power plants. During
combustion, mineral impurities in the coal (clay, feldspar, quartz and shale) fuse in s u s p e n s i o n
and float out of the combustion chamber with the exhaust gases. As the fused material rises,
it cools and solidifies into spherical glassy particles called fly ash. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ It consists of silica, alumina, oxides of iron, calcium and magnesium and toxic heavy
materials like lead, arsenic, cobalt and copper. If it is not captured and disposed o properly, it
can pollute air and water considerably.
□ Fly ash resembles portland cement but it is chemically different. Fly ash chemically
reacts with the by-product calcium hydroxide released by the chemical reaction between cement
and water to form additional cementitious products that improve many desirable properties
of concrete. All fly ashes exhibit cementitious properties to varying degrees depending on
the chemical and physical properties of both the fly ash and cement. Hence, statement 2 is not
correct.
□ Fly ash enhances water-holding capacity of the land and increases the crop yield. Hence,
statement 3 is correct.
□ Other applications of fly ash are bricks construction, fill materials for road embankments
and abandoned mines reclamation of waste land.
456.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Acid rain or acid deposition is a broad term that includes any form of precipitation with
acidic components such as sulphuric or nitric acid that fall to the ground from the atmosphere
in wet or dry forms. This can include rain, snow, fog, hail or even dust that is acidic.
□ Acid rain results when sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) are emitted into
the atmosphere and transported by wind and air currents. The SO2 and NOx react with
water, oxygen and other chemicals to form sulphuric and nitric acids. These then mix with water
and other materials before falling to the ground. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ SOx and NOx that create acid rain are often transported to distances far away from their
points of origin by the wind so that the adverse effects of pollution are also experienced at
places remote from the place of genesis. Acid rain can occur outside industrial areas. Hence,
statement 2 is not correct.
□ The pH determines the proliferation of any microbial soecies in a particular environment
and the rate at which it can produce. The optimum pH of most bacteria and protozoa is near
neutrality; most fungi prefer an acidic environment, most blue-green bacteria prefer an alkaline
environment.
□ Therefore, after a long spell of acid rain, microbial content of the soil and water shift from
bacteria bound to fungi bound and causes an imbalance in the microflora. This causes a delay
in the decomposition of soil organic material and an increase in fungal diseases in aquatic life
and forests. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
457.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Bioremediation is the use of microorganisms to degrade the environmental contaminants
into less toxic forms. In-situ bioremediation refers to treatment of the contaminated material
at the site whereas ex-situ techniques involve excavating pollutants from polluted sites and
subsequently transporting them to another site : for treatment.
□ In-situ bioremediation techniques are as follows:
Bioventing: This technique involves controlled stimulation of airflow by delivering oxygen to unsaturated zone
(the unsaturated zone lies immediately below the land surface, contains water and air in the open
spaces or pores) in order to increase bioremediation by increasing activities of indigenous microbes.
In bioventing, amendments are made by adding nutrients and moisture to enhance bioremediation
with the ultimate goal being to achieve microbial transformation of pollutants to a harmless state.
Hence, 3 is correct.
Biosparging: This technology uses indigenous microorganisms to biodegrade organic constituents in the
saturated zone (the saturated zone is a zone in which all the pores and rock fractures are filled with
water, it underlies the unsaturated zone). In biosparging, air (or oxygen) and nutrients (if needed) are
injected into the saturated zone to increase the biological activity of the indigenous microorganisms.
Biosparging can be used to reduce concentrations of petroleum constituents that are dissolved in
groundwater, adsorbed to soil below the water table Hence, 4 is correct.
Bioaugmentation: In this, microorganisms are imported to a contaminated site to enhance the
degradation process. Hence, 2 is correct.
□ Ex-situ bioremediation techniques include biopiles which is a bioremediation technology
in which excavated soils are mixed with soil amendments, formed into compost piles and
enclosed for treatment. The basic bio-pile system includes a treatment bed, an aeration
system, an irrigation/nutrient system and a leachate collection system. Moisture, heat,
nutrients, oxygen and pH are controlled to enhance biodegradation. Hence, 1 is not correct.
458.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ IMD has initiated Color Coded Weather Warning system to alert people ahead of severe
or hazardous weather which has the potential to cause damage, widespread disruption or
danger to life.
□ The four-color codes used by IMD are:
Green (All is well): No advisory is issued visa-vis no action is required.
Yellow (Be Aware): Yellow indicates severely bad weather spanning across several days. It also suggests that the
weather could change for the worse, causing disruption in day-to-day activities. Hence, statement
1 is correct.
Orange/Amber (Be prepared): The orange alert is issued as a warning of extremely bad weather with the
potential of disruption in commute with road and rail closures, and interruption of power supply.
Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
Red (Take Action): When the extremely bad weather conditions are certainly going to disrupt travel and power
and have significant risk to life, the red alert is issued.
□ These alerts are universal in nature and are also issued during floods, depending on the
amount of water rising above land/in a river as a result of torrential rainfall. For instance, when
the water in a river is ‘above normal’ level, or between the ‘warning’ and ‘danger’ levels, a
yellow alert is issued.
459.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ In 2009, the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF) in association
with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), New Delhi and Indian Institute of Te c h n o l o g y
(IIT), New Delhi have carried out an environmental assessment of Industrial clusters across the
country named Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI). Hence, statement 1 is not
correct
□ CEPI provides comprehensive information on the extent and types of pollution caused by a
particular industrial cluster, which then can be used to identify appropriate pollution mitigation
measures. The index captures the various dimensions of environment including air, water and l a n d .
The evaluated CEPI score reflects the environmental quality of the identified industrial
clusters and is a yardstick to assess the progress achieved in the implementation of pollution
mitigation measures. Hence, statement 2 is correct
□ The industrial clusters having CEPI greater than 70, on a scale of 0 to 100, has been
identified as critically polluted and those between 60 to
70 were classified as Severely Polluted.
460.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ Acid rains affect trees and undergrowth in the forest in several ways, causing reduced
growth or abnormal growth. Dead or dying trees are a common sight in areas effected by acid
rain. Acid rain leaches aluminium from the soil, which is harmful to plants as well as animals. Acid
rain also removes minerals and nutrients from the soil that trees need to grow.
□ At higher elevations, acidic fog and clouds strip nutrients from trees’ foliage, leaving them
with brown or dead leaves and needles. These trees are then less able to absorb sunlight, which
makes them weak and unable to withstand freezing temperatures.
□ The exchange between hydrogen ions and the nutrient cations like potassium and
magnesium in the soil cause leaching of the nutrients, making the soil infertile. Thus, the plant
growth is reduced due to the decrease in nutrients available in the soil.
461.
Ans. (A)
Sol. □ The World Air Quality Report is prepared by Swiss organisation IQAir, which assesses
PM2.5 data from log countries.
□ PM2.5 is an atmospheric particulate matter of diameter of fewer than 2.5 micrometres. It
causes respiratory problems and also reduces visibility. It is an endocrine disruptor that can affect
insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity, thus contributing to diabetes. It is very small and can only
be detected with the help of an electron microscope.
□ Key Points of World Air Quality Report, 2020:
World Capital City Ranking: Delhi has been ranked as the world’s most polluted capital city followed by Dhaka
(Bangladesh), Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia), Kabul (Afghanistan), Doha (Qatar).
World Country Ranking: Bangladesh has been ranked as the most polluted country followed by Pakistan and India.
The least polluted country is Puerto Rico, followed by New Caledonia, US Virgin Islands respectively.
World City Ranking: Hotan in China is the most polluted city, followed by Ghaziabad, Bulandshahar, Bisrakh
Jalalpur, Bhiwadi, Noida, Greater Noida, Kanpur and Lucknow.
Major sources of India’s air pollution include transportation, biomass burning for cooking, electricity
generation, industry, construction, waste burning, and episodic agricultural burning.
462.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ The Clean Seas campaign works with governments, businesses and citizens to eliminate
the needless use of disposable plastics in order to protect our rivers, seas and the ecosystems,
which sustain life on earth and our very well-being.
□ The Clean Seas campaign was launched at the Economist World Ocean Summit in Bali,
Indonesia in 2017. Indonesia pledged to reduce its plastic footprint by 70 per cent by 2025.
Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
□ The campaign represents the world’s largest global alliance for combatting marine plastic
pollution with commitments covering more than 60 per cent of the worlds coastlines. It seeks
to address the root causes of marine litter and pollution through a three-phased strategy
over five years (2017-2021). Hence, statement 2 is correct.
□ The campaign pledges to cut back on single-use plastics and microbeads, protect national
waters and encourage more recycling. It will be done through working with Governments i n
support action, private sector contribution and with all the citizens who call for an action o n
this issue. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
□ Microbeads are manufactured solid plastic particles of less than five millimetres in their
largest dimension and are used in exfoliating personal care products, toothpastes and in
biomedical and health-science research. Microbeads can cause plastic particle water pollution and
pose an environmental hazard for aquatic animals in freshwater and ocean
water. Greenpeace refers to it as a “toxic time bomb”.
□ India joined the ‘Clean Seas Campaign’ on World Environment Day in 2018. It made a
commitment to address plastic pollution upstream by banning all singleuse plastics by 2022.
463.
Ans. (D)
Sol. The acidic particles corrode metal and cause paint and stone to deteriorate more quickly. Hence, pair
1 is correctly matched.
Acid rain results in embrittlement and discoloration of Paper. Hence, pair 2 is correctly matched.
Acid rain can cause cracking in leather and rubber. Hence, pair 3 is correctly matched.
464.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ Coal gasification is the process of converting coal into synthesis gas (also called syngas),
which is a mixture of hydrogen (H2), carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2). H e n c e
statement 1 is correct.
The syngas can be used in a variety of applications such as in the production of electricity and making chemical
products, such as fertilisers.
The hydrogen obtained from coal gasification can be used for various purposes such as making ammonia,
powering a hydrogen economy. Hence statement 2 is correct.
□ The ammonia is reacted with the carbon dioxide to produce urea melt.
□ In-situ gasification of coal-or Underground Coal Gasification (UCG)-is the technique of
converting coal into gas while it is still in the seam and then extracting it through wells.
□ India has set the target that by 2030, it will gasify 100 million tonne of coal under four
major projects with an overall investment of Rs. 20,000 crore. Hence statement 3 is not
correct.
465.
Ans. (C)
Sol. □ Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM 2.5) refers to fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5
micrometers in diameter. It causes respiratory problems and also reduces visibility. It is an
endocrine disruptor that can affect insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity, thus contributing
to diabetes. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
□ National Air Quality Index (AQI) transforms complex air quality data of eight pollutants
into a single number (index value), nomenclature and colour. The measurement of air quality i s
based on eight pollutants, namely,
Particulate Matter (size less than 10 µm) or (PM10),
Particulate Matter (size less than 2.5 µm) or (PM2.5), hence, statement 2 is correct.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2),
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2),
Carbon Monoxide (CO),
Ozone (O3),
Ammonia (NH3), and
Lead (Pb).
□ AQI has six categories of air quality. These are. Good, Satisfactory, Moderately Polluted,
Poor, Very Poor and Severe.
466.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ The GOBAR (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro resources)- DHAN scheme was launched by
the ministry of Jai Shakti. Hence statement 1 is not correct.
□ The scheme is being implemented as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin). Hence,
statement 2 is not correct.
□ The Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) comprises two main components for creating clean
villages - creating open defecation free (ODF) villages and managing solid and liquid waste in
villages.
□ Aim:
Keeping villages clean, increasing the income of rural households, and generation of energy from cattle
waste.
The scheme also aims at creating new rural livelihood opportunities and enhancing income for farmers and
other rural people.
□ A Unified Portal of Gobardhan is also launched to ensure smooth implementation of
Biogas schemes/initiatives and their real time tracking. It is coordinated by the Department of
Drinking Water and Sanitation.
467.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Hydrogen is the lightest and first element on the periodic table. Since the weight of
hydrogen is less than air, it rises in the atmosphere and is therefore rarely found in its pure form.
□ At standard temperature and pressure, hydrogen is a non-toxic, non-metallic, odorless,
tasteless, colorless, and highly combustible diatomic gas.
□ Hydrogen fuel is a zero-emission fuel burned with oxygen. It can be used in fuel cells or
internal combustion engines. It is also used as a fuel for spacecraft propulsion.
□ Types of Hydrogen:
Grey Hydrogen
Constitutes India’s bulk Production.
Extracted from hydrocarbons (fossil fuels, natural gas).
By product: CO2; hence, statement 2 is not correct.
Blue Hydrogen
Sourced from fossil fuels.
By product: CO, CO2
By products are captured and stored, so better than grey hydrogen. Hence, statement 1 is not correct.
Green Hydrogen
Generated from renewable energy (like Solar, Wind).
Electricity splits water into hydrogen and oxygen.
By Products: Water, Water Vapor
□ India has a huge edge in green hydrogen production owing to its favorable geographic
conditions and presence of abundant natural elements.
□ The Government of India has announced, a National Hydrogen Energy Mission (NHM)
that will draw up a road map for using hydrogen as an energy source.
□ National Hydrogen Energy Mission
Focus on generation of hydrogen from green power resources.
To link India’s growing renewable capacity with the hydrogen economy.
India’s ambitious goal of 175 GW by 2022 got an impetus in the 2021-22 budget which allocated Rs.1500 crore
for renewable energy development and NHM.
468.
Ans. (B)
Sol. □ The Stockholm Convention is a global treaty to protect human health and the environment
from persistent organic pollutants (POPs). It became effective in 2004 and ratified by India in 2006.
□ Objectives
Support the transition to safer alternatives.
Target additional POPs for action.
Cleanup old stockpiles and equipment containing POPs.
In implementing the Convention, Governments of countries signatories to the convention will take measures to
eliminate or reduce the release of POPs into the environment.
□ Persistent Organic Pollutants: POPs are identified chemical substances that are
characterised by:
Persistence in the environment.
Bio-accumulation in the fatty acids in living organisms.
Less soluble in water.
Adverse effect on human health/ environment.
Exposure to POPs can lead to cancer, damage to central & peripheral nervous systems, diseases of the immune
system, reproductive disorders and interference with normal infant and child development.
The property of long-range environmental transport (LRET) makes them spread widely in the atmosphere.
469.
Ans. (D)
Sol. □ Carbon sequestration is the process involved in carbon capture and the long-term storage
of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and other forms of carbon to mitigate global warming
and reduce global warming. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.
□ Carbon farming is the process of changing agricultural practices or adopting agricultural
methods that increase the amount of carbon stored in the soil and reduce greenhouse gases. I t
therefore will enhance the process of carbon sequestration. Hence, statement 1 is not
correct.