UPSC 1998 Prelims Questions with Answers

Explanation

The Tambalacoque tree (Sideroxylon grandiflorum), also known as the Dodo tree, usually relied on the Dodo bird for seed germination. The seeds of this tree required scarification (softening of the seed coat) through the Dodo>s digestive system. The Dodo (Raphus cucullatus), a flightless bird endemic to Mauritius, became extinct in the late 1600s due to over-hunting by humans and the introduction of non-native animals like rats and pigs. After the extinction of the Dodo, natural reproduction of the Tambalacoque tree declined significantly.

Explanation

Aerobic respiration is the process by which glucose is completely oxidized in the presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy (in the form of ATP). The overall reaction is:

C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ 6CO₂ + 6H₂O+ Energy (ATP)

Explanation

Fish, especially oily fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., EPA and DHA). These fatty acids are essential for various health benefits such as:

Reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Improving brain function and development.

Reducing inflammation.

Explanation

A is matched with 4: Malaria is Caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium (e.g., Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax), transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. India’s National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) aims to eliminate malaria by 2030 under the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). WHO has approved RTS, S/AS01 (Mosquirix) vaccine for children. B is matched with 3: Polio is caused by the poliovirus (genus Enterovirus) which spreads via contaminated food, water, or contact. Widely available vaccines (OPV and IPV) prevent polio. India’s Pulse Polio Programme launched in 1995 achieved polio-free certification in 2014. C is matched with 2: Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs and spreads through the air. The BCG vaccine provides TB prevention in children. India’s National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) offers free treatment and nutrition support under Nikshay Poshan Yojana, aiming for elimination by 2025. D is matched with 1: Ringworm is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes such as Trichophyton, Microsporum, or Epidermophyton. It affects the skin, hair, or nails, spreading through direct skin contact or contaminated surfaces.

Explanation

Haemophilia is a genetic disorder where the blood does not clot properly due to a deficiency of clotting factors (such as Factor VIII in Haemophilia A or Factor IX in Haemophilia B). This leads to excessive bleeding even from minor injuries.

Explanation

The 2004 Summer Olympics took place in Athens, Greece from August 13 to August 29, 2004. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) selected Athens as the host city in 1997, defeating cities like Rome, Cape Town, Buenos Aires, and Stockholm.