UPSC CAPF Archives

21. In some viral infections, number of platelets are reduced quickly. Pla

In some viral infections, number of platelets are reduced quickly. Platelets are essential because :

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they along with red blood cells carry oxygen.

platelets are important to carry food to cells through blood.

platelets remove carbon dioxide from blood.

platelets have a role in blood clotting.

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Platelets, or thrombocytes, are small, irregular-shaped cell fragments found in blood. Their main function is to stop bleeding (hemostasis) by clumping together to form a plug at the site of injury and by releasing factors that promote blood clotting. In viral infections like dengue fever, a decrease in platelet count (thrombocytopenia) is common and can lead to increased risk of bleeding, highlighting their essential role in blood clotting.

– Platelets are involved in hemostasis (stopping bleeding).
– Platelets facilitate blood clotting.
– Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) increases bleeding risk.

Red blood cells are responsible for oxygen transport. White blood cells are part of the immune system. Plasma carries dissolved substances like nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. Carbon dioxide is transported in blood primarily as bicarbonate ions, bound to hemoglobin, or dissolved in plasma. Platelets are specifically critical for initiating and supporting the coagulation cascade, forming a blood clot.

22. Both starch and glycogen are made up of glucose, however:

Both starch and glycogen are made up of glucose, however:

starch is present in liver and glycogen is present in red blood cells.

glycogen is made in animal cells, but starch is made in plant cells.

both starch and glycogen are present in animal and plant cells.

both starch and glycogen are present in plant cells only.

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Starch and glycogen are both polysaccharides composed of glucose units, serving as energy storage molecules. Starch is the primary storage carbohydrate in plants, found in plastids like chloroplasts and amyloplasts. Glycogen is the primary storage carbohydrate in animals and fungi, mainly stored in the liver and muscles in animals. Therefore, glycogen is made and stored in animal cells, while starch is made and stored in plant cells.

– Both starch and glycogen are glucose polymers used for energy storage.
– Starch is found in plants.
– Glycogen is found in animals and fungi.

Starch exists in two forms: amylose (linear chain) and amylopectin (branched chain). Glycogen is highly branched, more so than amylopectin. The different structures affect their physical properties and rate of breakdown. Neither starch nor glycogen are typically found in both animal and plant cells in significant quantities; their roles are specific to different domains of life. Red blood cells in animals do not store glycogen as they lack the necessary organelles.

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23. The rate of an enzyme catalyzed reaction depends :

The rate of an enzyme catalyzed reaction depends :

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upon substrate concentration and pH, but not on temperature.

only on substrate concentration and pH, but not on temperature.

only on pH and temperature, but not on substrate concentration.

only on temperature, but not on pH and substrate concentration.

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The rate of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction is influenced by multiple factors. Substrate concentration is a key factor, as the rate typically increases with substrate concentration until enzyme saturation is reached (Michaelis-Menten kinetics). pH affects the ionization state of amino acid residues in the enzyme’s active site and the substrate, influencing enzyme-substrate binding and catalysis; enzymes have optimal pH values. Temperature affects the kinetic energy of molecules, increasing reaction rates with increasing temperature up to an optimum, after which the rate decreases sharply due to enzyme denaturation. Therefore, the rate depends on substrate concentration, pH, and temperature. Option A states the rate depends “upon substrate concentration and pH, but not on temperature”. While the premise that the rate does *not* depend on temperature is scientifically incorrect, among the given options, Option A acknowledges dependence on two crucial factors (Substrate concentration and pH). However, it must be stated that the rate *also* depends significantly on temperature. The phrasing of the options appears flawed as dependence on temperature is a fundamental aspect of enzyme kinetics. Assuming there is an intended correct answer among the choices, Option A includes dependencies on two critical factors, even though its exclusion of temperature is incorrect.

– Enzyme reaction rate depends on substrate concentration, pH, and temperature.
– Substrate concentration affects the frequency of enzyme-substrate collisions and active site saturation.
– pH affects the ionization states of enzyme and substrate, influencing activity.
– Temperature affects molecular kinetic energy and enzyme stability (denaturation).

The relationship between reaction rate and substrate concentration is described by models like the Michaelis-Menten equation. Temperature dependence follows the Arrhenius equation up to the optimal temperature. pH dependence is often represented by a bell-shaped curve. All three factors are interdependent and influence the overall enzyme activity and reaction rate. The provided options contain a significant scientific inaccuracy by claiming the rate does not depend on one of the listed factors. Assuming this is a question from a specific exam where A was marked correct despite the flaw, the justification focuses on the factors mentioned in A.

24. In vertebrates, smooth endoplasmic reticulum in cells of which organ p

In vertebrates, smooth endoplasmic reticulum in cells of which organ plays a crucial role in detoxification of toxic compounds ?

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Spleen

Intestine

Kidney

Liver

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The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) is involved in various metabolic processes, including lipid synthesis, steroid hormone production, and importantly, detoxification of drugs, poisons, and metabolic waste products. In vertebrates, the liver is the primary organ for detoxification, and its cells (hepatocytes) are particularly rich in SER, which contains enzymes like cytochrome P450 that metabolize these toxic compounds, often making them more soluble for excretion.

– Smooth endoplasmic reticulum is involved in detoxification.
– The liver is the main detoxification organ in vertebrates.
– Liver cells (hepatocytes) contain abundant smooth endoplasmic reticulum.

While other organs might have some detoxification capabilities or be involved in elimination (like kidneys), the liver’s role in metabolic detoxification via enzymes located in the SER is crucial and most prominent. The spleen is mainly involved in filtering blood, immune responses, and red blood cell turnover. The intestine is involved in digestion and absorption, and while it has some metabolic activity, its primary role is not systemic detoxification. The kidneys are primarily involved in filtering blood and excreting waste in urine.

25. For protein synthesis, the amino acids are recognized and carried by :

For protein synthesis, the amino acids are recognized and carried by :

mRNA

snRNA

miRNA

tRNA

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Transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules are essential components of protein synthesis (translation). Each tRNA molecule has an anticodon loop that recognizes and binds to a specific codon on the messenger RNA (mRNA). At the other end, the tRNA is attached to a specific amino acid corresponding to that codon. Thus, tRNAs act as adapters, bringing the correct amino acid to the ribosome for incorporation into the growing polypeptide chain based on the mRNA sequence.

– Protein synthesis involves mRNA, ribosomes, and tRNA.
– mRNA carries the genetic code (codons).
– tRNA carries the specific amino acid corresponding to an mRNA codon and recognizes the codon via its anticodon.

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is a structural and catalytic component of ribosomes, where protein synthesis takes place. snRNA (small nuclear RNA) is involved in splicing, while miRNA (microRNA) and siRNA (small interfering RNA) are involved in post-transcriptional gene regulation. None of these directly recognize codons and carry amino acids for translation.

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26. Which organelle other than nucleus in eukaryotic cells has its own DNA

Which organelle other than nucleus in eukaryotic cells has its own DNA, ribosomes and proteins ?

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Golgi

Mitochondria

Lysosomes

Nucleosomes

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In eukaryotic cells, besides the nucleus, mitochondria (and chloroplasts in plant cells) contain their own DNA (typically circular), ribosomes (different from cytoplasmic ribosomes), and the machinery for synthesizing some of their own proteins. This makes them semi-autonomous organelles.

Mitochondria are organelles responsible for cellular respiration and ATP production. The presence of their own genetic material and protein synthesis machinery is strong evidence supporting the endosymbiotic theory, which posits that mitochondria evolved from free-living prokaryotic organisms that were engulfed by early eukaryotic cells.

The Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and nucleosomes (which are part of the chromatin structure within the nucleus and mitochondria/chloroplasts) do not possess their own independent DNA or ribosomes and are not capable of synthesizing proteins independently of the cytoplasmic protein synthesis machinery directed by nuclear DNA.

27. Which one of the following activities was not a part of the daily time

Which one of the following activities was not a part of the daily time-table for a King as prescribed in Arthashastra ?

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Receive reports on defense

Visit the town incognito

Receive revenue in cash

Consult his Council of Ministers

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Kautilya’s Arthashastra provides a detailed daily timetable for the king, outlining specific periods for administrative, judicial, financial, and personal activities. While surveillance and intelligence gathering are crucial aspects of Kautilya’s statecraft, the specific activity of the king visiting the town *incognito* is not listed as a fixed part of his daily schedule or a primary duty of the king himself in the detailed timetable provided. This type of activity would typically be assigned to spies or agents.

The Arthashastra outlines a highly structured day and night for the king, emphasizing efficiency and attention to various aspects of governance, including receiving counsel, managing revenue, attending to state business, and judicial duties. The timetable is focused on official administrative functions and ensuring the king is accessible and informed.

The daily routine described in Arthashastra includes: hearing reports on defence and revenue, receiving citizens, consulting ministers, supervising accounts, discussing confidential matters with spies, attending to urgent matters, and personal activities. Receiving revenue in cash (or reports thereof) and consulting the council of ministers are explicitly mentioned or implied as scheduled activities. Receiving reports on defense is also a critical scheduled activity. Visiting the town incognito is more of an investigative or intelligence-gathering technique rather than a routine daily administrative task for the king himself.

28. Which one of the following statements is correct ?

Which one of the following statements is correct ?

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Brahmi, used for writing many Ashokan inscriptions, shows local variations.

The system of hieroglyphic writing was developed in ancient Mesopotamia.

The system of cuneiform writing developed around 3rd millennium BCE in Egypt.

An ancient script, Kharoshthi was widely used in the southern part of India.

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The statement that Brahmi, used for writing many Ashokan inscriptions, shows local variations is correct. While the basic structure of Brahmi script was similar across the Mauryan Empire, regional differences in letter forms can be observed in inscriptions found in different parts of the subcontinent.

Brahmi script is one of the oldest writing systems used in South Asia, and most modern Indian scripts are derived from it. Ashokan inscriptions are some of the earliest and most widespread examples of Brahmi use. These inscriptions show variations depending on the region, which provides insights into the evolution and regional diversification of the script.

B) Hieroglyphic writing was developed in ancient Egypt, not Mesopotamia. Mesopotamia developed Cuneiform writing.
C) Cuneiform writing developed in Mesopotamia (Sumerians) around the late 4th millennium BCE, not 3rd millennium BCE in Egypt.
D) Kharoshthi script was used primarily in the Gandhara region (northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent and parts of Central Asia) from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. It was not widely used in the southern part of India, where Brahmi and its derivatives prevailed.

29. Which of the following pairs are correctly matched ? (Inscripti

Which of the following pairs are correctly matched ?

(Inscription/Event)	(Time Period)
1. Prayag Prashasti by Harishena	4th century CE
2. Chinese traveller Fa Xian’s Account	6th century CE
3. Mudrarakshasa of Vishakhadatta	5th century CE
4. Harshacharita of Banabhatta	6th century CE
5. Aihole Prashasti of Ravikirti	7th century CE
6. Kavirajamarga of Amoghavarsha	8th century CE

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

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1, 2 and 3 only

2, 3 and 4 only

4, 5 and 6 only

1, 3 and 5 only

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Evaluating the time periods:
1. Prayag Prashasti by Harishena: Records the achievements of Samudragupta, who ruled the Gupta Empire in the 4th century CE (c. 335/350 – 380 CE). Correct.
2. Chinese traveller Fa Xian’s Account: Fa Xian visited India during the reign of Chandragupta II (Vikramaditya) of the Gupta dynasty, arriving around 399 CE and leaving around 412 CE. This is late 4th to early 5th century CE, not 6th century CE. Incorrect.
3. Mudrarakshasa of Vishakhadatta: This Sanskrit play dealing with the rise of Chandragupta Maurya is generally dated to the Gupta period, often placed in the 4th or 5th century CE. 5th century CE is a plausible date. Correct.
4. Harshacharita of Banabhatta: Banabhatta was the court poet of King Harsha of the Pushyabhuti dynasty, who reigned from c. 606 to 647 CE. The work describes Harsha’s life and times in the 7th century CE, not 6th century CE. Incorrect.
5. Aihole Prashasti of Ravikirti: This inscription, composed by Ravikirti, describes the achievements of Chalukya king Pulakeshin II, including his victory over Harsha. Pulakeshin II reigned from c. 610 to 642 CE. The inscription belongs to the 7th century CE. Correct.
6. Kavirajamarga of Amoghavarsha: This is the earliest surviving literary work in Kannada and is attributed to the Rashtrakuta king Amoghavarsha I, who reigned from c. 814 to 878 CE. This is the 9th century CE, not 8th century CE. Incorrect.

The correctly matched pairs are 1, 3, and 5.

Matching historical sources, inscriptions, and literary works to their approximate time periods is crucial for understanding ancient Indian history. Key figures like Samudragupta, Chandragupta II, Harsha, and Pulakeshin II are associated with specific centuries, and the works about them or from their reigns reflect those periods.

Fa Xian’s account provides valuable information about India during the Gupta period, focusing on Buddhism and social conditions. The Aihole inscription is important for establishing the synchronicity between Harsha and Pulakeshin II. Kavirajamarga marks a significant point in the history of Kannada literature.

30. Consider the following observations about the largest stupa at Sanchi:

Consider the following observations about the largest stupa at Sanchi:

1. Going by information available from the inscriptions on the railings of the stupa, the construction of part of one of its gateways was financed by the Guild of Ivory workers.
2. In its original early form, this stupa was plain except for the stone railings and the gateways, which were richly carved.
3. The panels on the four gateways contain sculptures only in the front and have no sculptures on the rear side.
4. In 1918, when the stupa was discovered, all of its four gates were intact but the mound was in poor condition.
5. Art historians have established clear connections between the sculptures of the stupa with events described in Jataka Tales.
6. War scenes have also been depicted in these sculptures.

Which of the observations given above are correct?

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1, 2, 3 and 4 only

2, 3, 4 and 5 only

3, 4, 5 and 6 only

1, 2, 5 and 6 only

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Let’s evaluate each statement based on historical and archaeological evidence related to the Great Stupa at Sanchi (Stupa No. 1):
1. Correct: An inscription on the southern gateway mentions that a part of the gateway was financed by the guild of ivory workers from Vidisha.
2. Correct: The original Stupa built by Ashoka was a simple structure. It was later enlarged and encased in stone, and the elaborate stone railings and carved gateways (toranas) were added during the Sunga and Satavahana periods, making them richly carved while the mound remained relatively plain.
3. Incorrect: The gateways (toranas) are carved on both the inner and outer faces, depicting narratives and symbols.
4. Incorrect: The stupa was rediscovered by General Taylor in 1818, not 1918. By then, the gateways had fallen, and the mound was overgrown. Extensive restoration work was carried out later, notably by Sir John Marshall from 1912 to 1919.
5. Correct: Many sculptures on the gateways depict scenes from the Jataka tales (stories of Buddha’s previous lives) and important events from the life of Buddha (e.g., the Great Departure, Enlightenment).
6. Correct: While the primary themes are Buddhist narratives, some panels can be interpreted as depicting conflicts or symbolic battles, such as the defeat of Mara’s army during the Enlightenment, which represents the struggle against negative forces. These might be considered ‘war scenes’ in a broader, symbolic sense within the context of religious struggle.

Based on this assessment, statements 1, 2, 5, and 6 are considered correct.

The Sanchi Stupa is a key example of early Indian Buddhist architecture and sculpture. Its expansion and embellishment over centuries reflect evolving artistic styles and patronage, including contributions from guilds and individuals. The sculptures are renowned for their narrative quality, depicting religious themes without anthropomorphic representation of the Buddha in the earliest phase.

The four elaborately carved gateways (toranas) facing the cardinal directions are the most striking features of the Great Stupa. They depict various scenes related to Buddhism, including Jataka stories, events from Buddha’s life (often represented by symbols like the Bodhi tree or chakra), and scenes of devotion and nature. The incorrect statements about carvings only on the front and the discovery/condition in 1918 are factual errors. The interpretation of ‘war scenes’ (Statement 6) might be debated depending on the strict definition, but depictions of conflict, particularly symbolic ones like Mara’s army, are present.