7 August : Daily Current Affairs Quiz

Answer:  Option A - Pascal (Pa) represents the pressure exerted when a force of one newton is applied over an area of one square meter.

Explanation:

• The Pascal (Pa) is a unit of pressure defined as one newton of force applied over one square meter of area.
• It measures the intensity of pressure exerted on a surface. For instance, 1 Pa equals the pressure resulting from a force of 1 newton distributed over an area of 1 square meter.
• This unit is crucial in various scientific and engineering applications involving pressure measurement.

Answer:  Option B - Analysing trapped electrons in quartz or feldspar grains

Explanation:

• Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating involves analysing trapped electrons in mineral grains, such as quartz or feldspar, which accumulate radiation-induced energy when buried.
• By shining blue light on these grains, the trapped electrons are released, emitting light that is measured to estimate the sample’s age.
• This method is particularly useful for dating sediments and determining the time since the grains were last exposed to sunlight or heat.

Answer:  Option A - Bt. cotton is approved for commercial cultivation by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC).

Explanation:

• The correct statement about Bt. cotton in India is that it is approved for commercial cultivation by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC).
• cotton, introduced in 2002, is a genetically modified crop designed to resist pests, particularly bollworms, which helps increase yield and reduce pesticide use.
• It is not banned, or used exclusively for organic farming, or grown for medicinal purposes.

Answer:  Option C -  Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

Explanation:

• The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), responsible for assessing and approving genetically modified (GM) organisms and products, operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
• This committee ensures that GM crops and other organisms meet environmental safety and regulatory standards before they are approved for commercial use.
• Its role is crucial in balancing technological advancement with environmental protection.

Answer:  Option B - The agriculture sector, aimed at enhancing energy and water security for farmers.

Explanation:

• The PM-KUSUM scheme is primarily associated with the agriculture sector.
• It focuses on enhancing energy and water security for farmers by promoting solar power installations for irrigation and energy needs.
• The scheme aims to reduce diesel dependence, lower environmental pollution, and increase farm income.
• It supports solar power plants, solar irrigation pumps, and the solarisation of grid-connected pumps, significantly benefiting the agricultural sector.