Environment and Ecology

331. Which one among the following is the largest tiger reserve of India in

Which one among the following is the largest tiger reserve of India in terms of area of the core/critical tiger habitat ?

[amp_mcq option1=”Manas” option2=”Pakke” option3=”Nagarjunasagar Srisailam” option4=”Periyar” correct=”option3″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2018
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The correct answer is (C) Nagarjunasagar Srisailam. The Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve, spread across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, has the largest core/critical tiger habitat area among the options listed and in India. Its core area is approximately 2595 square kilometers.
Tiger reserves in India are categorized into core/critical tiger habitat and buffer areas. The core area is legally protected and managed for tiger conservation, free from human activities.
The core areas of the other listed reserves are significantly smaller: Manas (Assam) – approx. 950 sq km, Pakke (Arunachal Pradesh) – approx. 683 sq km, Periyar (Kerala) – approx. 925 sq km. The total area (core + buffer) of Nagarjunasagar Srisailam is also very large, making it the largest tiger reserve overall in India by total area as well.

332. Headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization is located in

Headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization is located in

[amp_mcq option1=”Washington” option2=”Geneva” option3=”Moscow” option4=”London” correct=”option2″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2017
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The headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is located in Geneva.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for promoting international cooperation on atmospheric science, climatology, hydrology, and geophysics. Its main office is situated in Geneva, Switzerland.
Geneva is a major global hub for international organizations, hosting the headquarters of many UN bodies and other international institutions. Washington D.C. is home to many US government agencies and international financial institutions like the World Bank and IMF. Moscow is the capital of Russia. London is a major financial center and hosts various international bodies, but not the WMO headquarters.

333. Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched ? (National Park

Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched ?
(National Park) : (Famous for)

1. Ranthambhore : Tiger
2. Periyar : Elephant
3. Manas : Lion
4. Gir : Rhinoceros

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

[amp_mcq option1=”1, 2 and 3 only” option2=”1 and 2 only” option3=”1 and 4 only” option4=”2 only” correct=”option2″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2016
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The correct answer is B) 1 and 2 only.
– Pair 1 (Ranthambhore : Tiger) is correctly matched. Ranthambhore National Park in Rajasthan is renowned for its tiger population and conservation efforts.
– Pair 2 (Periyar : Elephant) is correctly matched. Periyar National Park in Kerala is famous for its elephant reserve and tiger reserve.
– Pair 3 (Manas : Lion) is incorrectly matched. Manas National Park in Assam is known for tigers, pygmy hogs, elephants, and rhinos, but not lions. Asiatic Lions are primarily found in Gir National Park.
– Pair 4 (Gir : Rhinoceros) is incorrectly matched. Gir National Park in Gujarat is famous as the last refuge of the Asiatic Lion. Rhinoceroses (especially the Indian single-horned rhino) are found in parks like Kaziranga and Manas in Assam.
National Parks are areas designated for the protection and conservation of wildlife and biodiversity. Each park often has specific flagship species it is particularly known for, although they host a variety of flora and fauna.

334. ‘Sal’ tree is a

‘Sal’ tree is a

[amp_mcq option1=”Tropical evergreen tree” option2=”Tropical semi-evergreen tree” option3=”Dry deciduous tree” option4=”Moist deciduous tree” correct=”option4″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2016
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The correct answer is D) Moist deciduous tree.
‘Sal’ (Shorea robusta) is a commercially important timber tree in South Asia. It is a dominant species in certain types of forests. Sal trees are deciduous, meaning they shed their leaves seasonally, typically during the dry period. Based on rainfall distribution, Sal forests are predominantly classified under Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests, although Sal also occurs in drier regions where it forms Tropical Dry Deciduous forests. Moist deciduous forests receive moderate to high rainfall (typically 100-200 cm) but have a distinct dry season, causing trees like Sal to shed leaves.
Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests are a major forest type in India, found in areas like the foothills of the Himalayas, Eastern Ghats, and parts of the Deccan Plateau. These forests are less dense than evergreen forests but more dense than dry deciduous forests. Teak and Sal are two of the most important species found in this forest type.

335. Which one of the following is a conventional energy source ?

Which one of the following is a conventional energy source ?

[amp_mcq option1=”Tidal energy” option2=”Geothermal energy” option3=”Solar energy” option4=”Biomass energy” correct=”option4″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2016
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Conventional energy sources are generally considered to be those that are well-established, widely used on a large scale, and often (though not always) exhaustible. This category typically includes fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas), nuclear energy, and large-scale hydropower. Non-conventional or renewable energy sources are those that are naturally replenished and often rely on newer technologies for large-scale exploitation, such as solar, wind, tidal, geothermal, and modern biomass.
Among the given options, Tidal, Geothermal, and Solar energy are unequivocally classified as non-conventional/renewable energy sources. Biomass energy, particularly in the form of traditional uses like burning wood for fuel, has been used by humans for millennia and represents a long-established energy source, though often referred to as ‘traditional non-commercial’ energy. While modern biomass energy (e.g., bioelectricity, biofuels) is considered renewable/non-conventional, the term ‘biomass energy’ can encompass traditional use. In the context of the options provided, biomass has the longest history of widespread conventional use compared to the other listed sources, making it the most likely intended conventional source among these options, despite modern classifications.
– Conventional energy sources: Fossil fuels, Nuclear, Large Hydro.
– Non-conventional/Renewable energy sources: Solar, Wind, Tidal, Geothermal, Biomass, Small Hydro.
– The classification can sometimes be nuanced, especially regarding traditional biomass use versus modern biomass technologies.
Biomass energy refers to energy derived from organic matter. Its use ranges from traditional burning of wood and agricultural waste (especially in rural areas) to modern technologies like biogas plants, biomass power plants, and biofuel production. The long history of traditional biomass use contrasts with the relatively recent large-scale development of solar, wind, tidal, and geothermal power generation technologies. This historical context likely explains its inclusion as a potential ‘conventional’ source in this specific question, even though it falls under the ‘renewable’ category in modern classifications.

336. Which of the commonly used household item(s) release Bisphenol A (BPA)

Which of the commonly used household item(s) release Bisphenol A (BPA) which is an endocrine disruptor and bad for human health?

  • 1. Steel utensils
  • 2. Plastic coffee mugs
  • 3. Aluminium utensils
  • 4. Plastic water storage bottles

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

[amp_mcq option1=”1 only” option2=”1 and 2 only” option3=”2 and 4 only” option4=”1, 2 and 3 only” correct=”option3″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2016
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The correct answer is C) 2 and 4 only.
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Polycarbonate plastic is commonly used in making hard plastic items like reusable water bottles and some coffee mugs. Epoxy resins are often used as internal coatings for food and beverage cans and metal lids.
– **Steel utensils (1):** Typically made of stainless steel and do not contain BPA.
– **Plastic coffee mugs (2):** Many rigid plastic mugs, especially older or cheaper ones, are made from polycarbonate plastic which can leach BPA, particularly when hot liquids are used.
– **Aluminium utensils (3):** Generally made of aluminium metal. While some aluminium cans or containers might have epoxy resin linings containing BPA, standard aluminium cooking or eating utensils do not typically contain BPA.
– **Plastic water storage bottles (4):** Reusable hard plastic water bottles (often labeled with recycling code 7, though not exclusively) are frequently made from polycarbonate and are known sources of BPA leaching. Many manufacturers now produce “BPA-free” versions.
Therefore, plastic coffee mugs and plastic water storage bottles are the most likely common household items from this list to release BPA.

337. Which of the following substances are harmful for health if present in

Which of the following substances are harmful for health if present in food items?

  • 1. Pesticide residues
  • 2. Lead
  • 3. Metanil yellow
  • 4. Mercury

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

[amp_mcq option1=”1 and 2 only” option2=”1, 2 and 4 only” option3=”3 and 4 only” option4=”1, 2, 3 and 4″ correct=”option4″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2016
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The correct answer is D) 1, 2, 3 and 4.
All the substances listed – Pesticide residues, Lead, Metanil yellow, and Mercury – are considered harmful to human health if present in food items.
– **Pesticide residues:** Chemicals used to control pests can remain on or in food crops and pose health risks when consumed.
– **Lead:** A heavy metal that is highly toxic and can accumulate in the body, causing severe health problems, especially in children. It can enter food through contaminated water, soil, or processing equipment.
– **Metanil yellow:** A non-permitted food colour often used illegally to colour food items like sweets and spices. It is a harmful chemical that can cause neurological damage and other health issues.
– **Mercury:** Another toxic heavy metal. Organic mercury compounds like methylmercury can build up in fish and seafood, posing risks to humans who consume them. Inorganic mercury can also contaminate food sources.
All these substances are regulated by food safety authorities, with maximum permissible limits set for their presence in food.

338. One of the main causes of air pollution in cities is emissions from ve

One of the main causes of air pollution in cities is emissions from vehicles like cars and trucks. Cars emit various pollutants which are bad for human health when inhaled, like

  • 1. Nitrogen oxides (NOx)
  • 2. Carbon monoxide (CO)
  • 3. Carbon dioxide (CO2)
  • 4. Benzene

Which of the above pollutants are not tolerated by human beings even at very low levels ?

[amp_mcq option1=”1 and 4 only” option2=”1 and 2 only” option3=”1, 2 and 3 only” option4=”1, 2 and 4 only” correct=”option4″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2016
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The question asks which pollutants are *not* tolerated by human beings *even at very low levels*. This typically refers to substances with high toxicity or carcinogenicity at trace concentrations.
1. Nitrogen oxides (NOx): Respiratory irritants, contribute to smog. Can cause respiratory problems at relatively low concentrations.
2. Carbon monoxide (CO): Highly toxic gas. Binds to haemoglobin more strongly than oxygen, impairing oxygen transport. Even low levels in inhaled air can be dangerous, especially over time.
3. Carbon dioxide (CO₂): A greenhouse gas and a natural component of air (around 400 ppm). It is not toxic at these ambient levels. High concentrations (e.g., > 5000 ppm or more) can cause adverse health effects or suffocation, but it is tolerated at “very low levels” (ambient levels).
4. Benzene: A volatile organic compound and a known human carcinogen. Exposure to benzene, even at very low concentrations over time, is linked to increased risk of cancer (e.g., leukemia).
Considering the criteria “not tolerated even at very low levels”, CO and Benzene are clear candidates due to their high toxicity/carcinogenicity at low exposures. NOx are also significant respiratory hazards at lower concentrations than CO₂. CO₂ is relatively non-toxic at typical atmospheric concentrations. Thus, NOx, CO, and Benzene fit the description better than CO₂.
Certain pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO), benzene, and nitrogen oxides (NOx) pose health risks even at low exposure levels due to their toxicity, carcinogenicity, or irritant properties, whereas carbon dioxide (CO₂) is harmful primarily at high concentrations.
The term “tolerated at very low levels” is relative, but in the context of common air pollutants from vehicles, CO, NOx, and Benzene are regulated and considered hazardous at much lower concentrations than CO₂. CO₂ is regulated more as a climate change gas than a direct air toxic at ambient urban levels.

339. Which one among the following books is centered around ‘environment’ ?

Which one among the following books is centered around ‘environment’ ?

[amp_mcq option1=”The Late, Great Planet Earth” option2=”Silent Spring” option3=”Here I Stand” option4=”And Then One Day” correct=”option2″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2015
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‘Silent Spring’ by Rachel Carson, published in 1962, is a seminal work that documented the detrimental effects on the environment of the indiscriminate use of pesticides. It is widely credited with raising public awareness about environmental issues and helping to launch the modern environmental movement. The book focuses heavily on the impact of chemicals on ecosystems and human health.
‘Silent Spring’ is a highly influential book centered on environmental concerns, specifically the effects of pesticides.
While other books listed may touch upon environmental themes tangentially, ‘Silent Spring’ is explicitly and primarily focused on environmental science and advocacy. ‘The Late, Great Planet Earth’ is primarily a prophecy-based book. The other options are not related to environment.

340. Which one among the following statements with regard to a climate deal

Which one among the following statements with regard to a climate deal adopted between USA and China in November 2014 is not correct ?

[amp_mcq option1=”China committed to cap its output of carbon pollution by the year 2030 or earlier” option2=”China committed to increase its use of zero emission energy to 20% by the year 2030″ option3=”USA agreed to reduce its emissions by 26% – 28% below its year 2005 levels in the year 2025″ option4=”Both the countries agreed to completely phase out coal technologies by the year 2020″ correct=”option4″]

This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2015
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The US-China Joint Announcement on Climate Change made in November 2014 included commitments from both countries regarding future emissions reductions and clean energy development.
– The US committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 26%-28% below its 2005 levels by 2025. (Option C is correct)
– China committed to peaking its CO2 emissions around 2030 and increasing the share of non-fossil fuels in its primary energy consumption to around 20% by 2030. (Option A and B are correct, reflecting aspects of China’s commitment).
– There was no agreement in this announcement for either country to completely phase out coal technologies by the year 2020. Both countries continued to rely heavily on coal power in 2014 and planned transitions, not rapid phase-outs by 2020. Therefore, statement D is not correct.
The 2014 US-China climate deal set specific emissions reduction targets and clean energy goals for both countries, but did not include a complete phase-out of coal technologies by 2020.
This joint announcement was a significant step towards the eventual Paris Agreement reached in 2015, demonstrating collaboration between the world’s two largest emitters. However, transitioning away from coal remains a complex and ongoing process for both nations.
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