RAS Prelims MCQ Practice

Explanation

During the hot weather season, the northern plains of India experience extreme heat because of their continental location. In contrast, the peninsular plateau remains relatively cooler. This is due to its proximity to the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. These large water bodies exert a moderating maritime influence, preventing temperatures from reaching the extremes seen in the landlocked north.

Explanation

Thermal ionization is the process where atoms in a gas become ionized due to high-energy thermal collisions. Meghnad Saha’s theory explains that as temperature increases, atoms move faster and collide more violently. These collisions eventually overcome the binding energy of the electrons, causing them to be ejected. This concept is vital for understanding the plasma state found in stellar atmospheres.

Explanation

An Oudak Durg is a water fort, a fortress protected by water on all sides, like an island or river fort. It is one of the classical types of fort described in ancient texts.

Explanation

Sultan Sikandar, also known as ‘Butshikan’ (the Iconoclast), was notorious for his fanatical policies and the systematic destruction of Hindu temples in Kashmir. His reign was marked by the forced conversion or migration of the local population. It was only after his period of religious intolerance that Zain-ul-Abidin ascended the throne and restored communal harmony, earning a place in history as a benevolent and enlightened monarch.

Explanation

The commission has specific roles under various laws: monitoring RTE complaints, overseeing the implementation of the POCSO Act against sexual offenses, and ensuring the welfare of children under the Juvenile Justice Act. Its foundational mandate and broad powers to protect child rights are outlined in the parent CPCR Act of 2005. These overlapping roles make the commission a central hub for child rights enforcement in India. By monitoring the implementation of these diverse laws, it ensures that children receive the education, protection, and justice promised to them, acting as a critical oversight body for government departments and private institutions alike.

Explanation

In May, intense solar heating causes the northern plains to become extremely hot, creating localized low-pressure systems. These conditions lead to the formation of strong convection currents and rapid air uplift, resulting in frequent dust storms across Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. These storms, while often destructive, sometimes bring temporary relief by lowering temperatures through light rain or cloud cover.

Explanation

Beyond his scientific achievements, Meghnad Saha was deeply involved in national planning and civil reform. In 1952, he chaired the Indian Calendar Reform Committee, which sought to standardize the various traditional calendars used across the country. His efforts led to the adoption of the Indian National Calendar, based on scientific astronomical principles, which is still used by the government.

Explanation

The City Palace of Udaipur blends Rajasthani, Mughal, medieval, European and Chinese elements, so Statement I is correct. It was built over centuries by many Maharanas, not by Udai Singh II alone in a decade, so Statement II is incorrect.

Explanation

Maharana Kumbha of Mewar constructed the magnificent Kirti Stambha (Tower of Fame), also known as Vijay Stambha, at Chittorgarh to celebrate his victory over the Sultan of Malwa, Mahmud Khalji, in the Battle of Sarangpur. The tower is a masterpiece of Rajput architecture, covered with intricate carvings of deities and mythological scenes. It stands as a lasting symbol of Mewar’s military resilience and cultural pride in the 15th century.

Explanation

Similar to other national commissions, this body lacks the authority of a criminal court.