11. Which one among the following languages has largest number of speakers in the world? (UPSC Prelims 2003)
[A] Bengali
[B] French
[C] Japanese
[D] Portuguese
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Bengali]
Notes:
Bengali has largest number of speakers in the world.
12. Latvia does not share its borders with which one of the following countries? (UPSC Prelims 2004)
[A] Russia
[B] Estonia
[C] Lithuania
[D] Poland
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Poland]
Notes:
Latvia does not share its border with Poland because it is located between Estonia, Russia, Belarus, Lithuania, Gulf of Riga and Baltic Sea.
13. From the balance sheet of a company, which of the following is possible? (UPSC Prelims 2004)
[A] judge the extent of profitability of the company
[B] assess the profitability and size of the company
[C] determine the size and composition of the assets and liabilities of the company
[D] determine the market share, debts and assets of the company
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [determine the size and composition of the assets and liabilities of the company]
Notes:
The balance sheet displays the company’s total assets, and how these assets are financed, through either debt or equity. It can also be referred to as a statement of net worth, or a statement of financial position. The balance sheet is based on the fundamental equation: Assets = Liabilities + Equity.
14. What is the order of magnitude of electric resistance of the human body (dry)? (UPSC Prelims 2005)
[A] 102 ohm
[B] 104 ohm
[C] 106 ohm
[D] 108 ohm
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [104 ohm]
Notes:
Human body has different resistances, when dry, resistance is 100,000 ohms. When wet because of sweat or water, resistance is only 1,000 ohms.
15. Claims to the historical Macedonian territory have been a bone of contention between which of the following countries? (UPSC Prelims 2006)
[A] Portugal and Spain
[B] Bulgaria and Greece
[C] Romania and Bulgaria
[D] Portugal and Greece
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Bulgaria and Greece]
Notes:
Macedonian territory is disputed by Bulgaria and Greece.
North Macedonia, officially the Republic of North Macedonia, is a country in the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. It is one of the successor states of Yugoslavia, from which it declared independence in September 1991 under the name Republic of Macedonia.
16. Which country implemented a judicial code of conduct in 1999 known as ‘Re-instatement of Values in Judicial Life’?
[A] Pakistan
[B] Germany
[C] United Kingdom
[D] India
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [India]
Notes:
In 1999, India adopted a judicial code of conduct during a conference of chief justices, aimed at ensuring judges maintain impartiality and integrity. This code, consisting of 15 principles, emphasizes the necessity for judges to remain detached from personal biases. Other nations, like Pakistan, Germany, and the UK, also have similar codes to uphold legislative integrity, reflecting the global importance of ethical governance in judicial systems.
17. In which country is the Silent Valley National Park situated?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Nepal
[C] India
[D] Bhutan
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [India]
Notes:
Silent Valley National Park, located in India, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly its unique species of dragonflies and damselflies. Among them, the Asian Emerald dragonfly is classified as a species of least concern. Additionally, the park is home to various damselfly species, including the Black Marsh Dart and Splendid Dartlet, contributing to its ecological significance.
18. Which compound found in chili peppers is primarily responsible for their spiciness and may assist in weight management?
[A] Curcumin
[B] Capsaicin
[C] Quercetin
[D] Resveratrol
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Capsaicin]
Notes:
Capsaicin, the active compound in chili peppers, is known for its heat and potential health benefits. It can enhance metabolism and promote fat loss by increasing energy expenditure and fat oxidation. Additionally, capsaicin may help reduce appetite, making it a popular ingredient in weight loss supplements. Its anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to overall health.
19. In which country can you find the Danakil Depression?
[A] Kenya
[B] Ethiopia
[C] Sudan
[D] Somalia
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Ethiopia]
Notes:
The Danakil Depression, located in northeastern Ethiopia, is one of the hottest places on Earth, with average temperatures often exceeding 34°C (93°F). It is also one of the lowest points on the planet, lying approximately 100 meters below sea level. This unique region features active volcanoes, salt flats, and colorful hydrothermal fields, making it a fascinating geological site.
20. In which Indian state can you find the Belum Caves?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Telangana
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Belum Caves, also known as Belum Guhalu, are situated in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. These caves are over 1,000 years old and were formed by the flow of the now-dried River Chitravathi. They are the second longest cave system in India, with a length of about 3,000 meters, showcasing impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.