Previous Year UPSC Questions

Explanation

Alpha-keratin is a fibrous structural protein that forms the primary component of the skin, hair, nails, horns, and hooves in mammals. It belongs to the keratin family of proteins and is rich in disulfide bonds, which provide strength, durability, and elasticity to epithelial cells. In the skin, alpha-keratin creates a protective barrier against physical damage, dehydration, and pathogens. In hair and nails, it contributes to their hardness and resistance to wear. Options (a), (c), and (d) are incorrect: Alpha-keratin is not found in blood, lymph, or eggs. These tissues have other proteins like hemoglobin (in blood) or albumin (in eggs).

Explanation

Option (a) is correct: The average fat content of buffalo milk is approximately 7.2%, significantly higher than that of cow>s milk. Buffalo milk is richer in fat compared to cow>s milk, which typically contains around 3-4% fat. The higher fat content in buffalo milk contributes to its creamy texture and makes it ideal for producing dairy products like butter, ghee, and cheese. Options (b), (c), and (d) are incorrect: 4.5% is typical of cow’s milk, while 9.0% and 10.0% are not average values for buffalo milk.

Explanation

Option (d) is correct: Fructose is the major component of honey making up about 38-40% of its composition. It is a monosaccharide and is sweeter than glucose. The high fructose content is responsible for honey>s sweetness and its resistance to crystallization compared to glucose. Options (a), (b), and (c) are incorrect:

Glucose is one of the primary sugars found in honey, but it is not the major component. Honey typically contains about 30-35% glucose. Glucose is a monosaccharide and contributes to the sweetness and crystallization of honey. Sucrose is a disaccharide composed of glucose and fructose. While it is present in honey, it is found in very small amounts (usually less than 5%). Most of the sucrose in nectar is broken down into glucose and fructose by enzymes during the honey-making process. Maltose is not a significant sugar in honey. It is also known as maltobiose or malt sugar which is a disaccharide formed from two units of glucose joined with an -bond between the glucose units.

Explanation

Option (c) is correct: Coronary arteries are responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. They ensure the heart gets the necessary oxygen and nutrients for its functioning. Options (a), (b), and (d) are incorrect:

The carotid arteries are major blood vessels in the neck that supply oxygenated blood to the brain, face, and neck. The hepatic arteries supply oxygenated blood to the liver along with the hepatic portal vein. The pulmonary arteries carry deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation.

Explanation

Option (d) is correct: The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of protein for a moderately active woman is 46 grams per day. This value is based on the average need for maintaining health, muscle repair, and proper physiological functioning. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is a modest 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. Options (a), (b), and (c) are incorrect: 30 g, 37 g, and 40 g are below the daily requirement for a moderately active woman.

Explanation

A is matched with 5: Malaria is caused by the Plasmodium parasite which infects red blood cells. The parasite multiplies in the blood leading to symptoms such as fever, chills, and anemia. B is matched with 4: Filaria, or lymphatic filariasis is caused by parasitic worms (Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, etc.) that infect the lymphatic system including lymph nodes. This leads to swelling and conditions like elephantiasis. C is matched with 2: Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain which is often caused by viral infections (e.g., herpes simplex virus, Japanese encephalitis virus). It affects brain tissue and can lead to neurological symptoms. D is matched with 1: Leukaemia is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood. It involves the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells which disrupts normal blood cell production.

Explanation

An antigen is any substance (e.g., proteins, polysaccharides, or toxins) that the immune system recognizes as foreign. When an antigen enters the body, it triggers an immune response leading to the production of antibodies and activation of immune cells like T-cells and B-cells. Options (a), (b), and (d) are incorrect:

Antigens do not have a role in regulating body temperature. Lowering body temperature is typically associated with antipyretics (e.g., paracetamol) or the body>s response to infections (fever reduction). Antigens do not destroy harmful bacteria. Instead they are recognized by the immune system which then activates immune responses (e.g., antibodies, white blood cells) to neutralize or destroy pathogens like bacteria. Antigens are not used as antidotes to poison. Antidotes are specific substances (e.g., activated charcoal, atropine) that neutralize or counteract the effects of toxins or poisons.

Explanation

The genome of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) was the first eukaryotic genome to be fully sequenced. The sequencing was completed in 1996 which marked a major milestone in genomics.

Explanation

Kula, Vamsa, and Gotra were terms associated with the social and family structure of ancient Indian society, particularly in relation to lineage and ancestry. In contrast, Kosa referred to the treasury and was a key element in state administration. Mentioned in Kautilya’s Arthashastra, Kosa was one of the seven components of Kautilya’s Saptanga policy, which included Swamin (Ruler), Amatya (Ministers), Janapada (Territory), Durg (Forts), Kosa (Treasury), Bala (Army), and Mitra (Friend or Ally).

Explanation

Assertion (A) is false: Though India’s national income increased significantly since independence, per capita income also showed considerable improvement over the same period. While rapid population growth moderated the pace of per capita income growth, there was still a noticeable rise, disproving the assertion. Reason (R) is true: A sizable proportion of India’s population (almost 36% in 1996, around 5% in 2024) continues to live below the poverty line, limiting the equitable distribution of income. Poverty reduces individual economic capabilities, there-by keeping per capita income relatively stagnant despite overall growth in national income.