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TEST BOOKLET

GENERAL STUDIES (P) 2020 – Test–2970

C
Time Allowed: Two Hours Maximum Marks: 200

INSTRUCTIONS

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provided alongside. Do NOT write anything else on the Test Booklet.

4. This Test Booklet contains 100 items (Questions). Each item is printed in English. Each item comprises four
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feel that there is more than one correct response with you consider the best. In any case, choose ONLY ONE
response for each item.

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1. With reference to animal and plant 4. In the polar regions, small-sized animals are
biodiversity on earth, consider the following rare. What is the reason behind this?
statements: (a) Small animals have less fur than large-
sized animals.
1. Animals constitute more than two-thirds
(b) The lack of vegetation in the polar
of the total species on earth.
regions is a challenge as small animals
2. There are more types of fishes than types are primarily herbivorous.
of insects. (c) Small sized animals easily fall prey to
3. India is one of the megadiverse countries their larger counterparts and thus their
in the world with 20 percent of the total population cannot flourish.
(d) Small-sized animals have a larger
global species diversity.
surface area relative to their volume and
Which of the statements given above is/are
thus they tend to lose heat very fast.
correct?
(a) 1 only 5. With reference to National Board for
(b) 2 only Wildlife, consider the following statements:
(c) 2 and 3 only 1. It has been constituted under the
(d) 1 and 3 only Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
2. It is headed by Minister
of Environment, Forest and Climate
2. An intermediate stage found in ecological
Change.
succession in an ecosystem depicting the 3. Its recommendations are binding on the
diversity of species of organisms, an union government.
increase in the number of species and Which of the statements given above is/are
organism as well as an increase in total correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
biomass in a given area is termed as
(b) 2 and 3 only
(a) Sere
(c) 1 only
(b) Hydrarch Succession (d) 1, 2 and 3
(c) Xerarch Succession
(d) Ecological niche 6. With reference to the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species
3. Photoperiod is the duration of light received of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), consider
the following statements:
daily and seasonally by living organisms. It
1. It aims to ensure that international trade
impacts:
in specimens of wild animals and plants
1. Coordination of opening of buds and does not threaten their survival.
flowers in a plant 2. It was adopted under the aegis of United
2. Migration cycles of birds Nations Framework Convention on
3. The breeding time of mammals Climate Change.
3. It is legally binding on the Parties.
Select the correct answer using the code
Which of the statements given above is/are
below.
correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 3 only (c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3

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7. Which of the following species are extinct? 10. Consider the following statements regarding
1. Dodo corals:
1. They are mainly found in tropical oceans
2. Quagga
and seas.
3. Passenger Pigeon 2. Most fishes lay eggs in coral colonies.
4. Steller’s Sea Cow 3. Coral reefs have greater biodiversity
Select the correct answer using the code than tropical rainforests.
given below. Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 3 and 4 only (c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 2 and 3

11. Consider the following statements regarding

8. Which of the following is/are examples of
Biosphere Reserves:
ex-situ conservation methods? 1. They are areas of terrestrial and coastal
1. National parks ecosystems promoting balance between
2. Botanical gardens their conservation and sustainable use.
3. Zoological parks 2. The "Man and the Biosphere (MAB)
Programme" for establishing a
Select the correct answer using the code
coordinated World Network of
given below. biosphere reserves is an initiative of
(a) 1 and 2 only Convention on Biological Diversity
(b) 3 only (CBD).
Which of the statements given above is/are
(c) 2 and 3 only
correct?
(d) 1,2 and 3
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
9. Consider the following pairs: (c) Both 1 and 2
Microbes Used in (d) Neither 1 nor 2

production
12. With reference to Zoological Survey of India
of acid
(ZSI), consider the following statements:
1. Aspergillus : Acetic acid 1. It is a statutory body under Ministry of
niger Environment, Forest and Climate
2. Clostridium : Lactic acid Change.
2. It undertakes Environmental Impact
butylicum
Assessments with regard to fauna.
3. Saccharomyces : Ethanol
3. It prepares the Red Data Book, Fauna of
cerevisiae India and Fauna of States.
Which of the pairs is/are correctly matched? Which of the statements given above is/are
(a) 1 and 2 only correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

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13. Emissions from which of the following 16. In the context of environment and
sources can cause acid rain? ecology, Surangam and Zing are:
1. Volcanoes (a) living root bridges made by the Khasi

2. Swamps and Jaintia tribes of the mountainous

terrain along the southern part of the
3. Plankton in the ocean
Shillong Plateau.
4. Power generation from fossil fuels
(b) traditional water harvesting practices
Select the correct answer using the code
used in the Western Ghats and Ladakh
given below.
respectively.
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (c) shifting cultivation practices in Manipur
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only and Nagaland.
(c) 1 and 4 only (d) terrace farming practices in the hilly
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 regions of Shiwaliks.

14. With reference to the agricultural practices,
consider the following statements:
1. Inter-cropping method involves growing
different crops simultaneously within the
same plot.
2. Mulching is the practice of cultivation of
leguminous crops between the cropping
seasons.
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
(a) 1 only
30
17. Consider the following statements:
1. The total amount of water received in
the form of rainfall over an area is called
rainwater harvesting potential.
2. The amount of water that can be
effectively harvested out of total water
received is called rainwater endowment.
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2

(b) 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2

03
45

(c) Both 1 and 2

60
88

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 18. With reference to homeostasis, consider the

S
ER

following statements:
N
N

1. It refers to the maintenance of the

U

15. Which among the following is the main

ER

constancy of an organism’s internal

AG

assumption of the Limits to Growth theory?

IM

environment despite varying external

(a) Environment cannot support rising
environmental conditions.
resource utilization beyond its carrying
2. Only mammals are capable of
capacity.
maintaining homeostasis.
(b) Certain animal species cannot grow Which of the statements given above is/are
beyond their population threshold. correct?
(c) Landforms do not degrade beyond the (a) 1 only
base level. (b) 2 only
(d) Environmental degradation limits the (c) Both 1 and 2
growth of flora of Tropical rain Forests. (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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19. Which of the following statements regarding 22. Consider the following statements:
the effects of gaseous air pollutants 1. While eurythermal organisms are those
is not correct? organisms which can survive in a wide
(a) Sulphur Dioxide causes stiffness of range of temperatures, stenothermal
flower buds which fall off from the organisms are restricted to a narrow
plants range of temperatures.
(b) The red haze in traffic is due to 2. While all vertebrates are stenothermal,
existence of oxides of Nitrogen all invertebrates are eurythermal.
(c) Hydrocarbon pollutants are formed by Which of the statements given above is/are
incomplete combustion of fuel correct?
(d) Carbon dioxide binds with haemoglobin (a) 1 only
in blood to form carboxyhaemoglobin (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
20. Sacred Groves in India can be best defined (d) Neither 1 nor 2
as
(a) The patches in Sunderban mangroves 23. Which of the following are non-point
where maneater tigers are worshipped sources of pollution in rivers?
out of fear. 1. Surface drains carrying municipal
(b) The plantation of trees like coconut and sewage
banana that produce fruits which are 2. Run-off from agricultural fields
used as offerings to deities. 3. Dumping of un-burnt/half-burnt dead
(c) Tracts of forest in which all the trees and bodies
wildlife within are venerated and given 4. Dhobi ghats
total protection 5. Effluents from industries
(d) Forests where wild animals are Select the correct answer using the code
sacrificed as a part of a ritual. given below.
(a) 1, 4 and 5 only
21. Which of the following microbes can be (b) 2 and 3 only
used as an insecticide? (c) 2, 3 and 4 only
1. Bacteria (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
2. Fungi
3. Virus 24. Rain-soaked Meghalaya forests, deep ocean
Select the correct answer using the code trenches, torrential streams and boiling
given below. thermal springs are examples of:
(a) 1 only (a) Populations
(b) 1 and 3 only (b) Ecotones
(c) 1, 2 and 3 (c) Realms
(d) 3 only (d) Habitats

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25. Communities rich in species diversity are 28. With reference to inter-species interaction,
considered as stable communities. Which of consider the following pairs:
the following is/are features of stable Interaction type Effect
communities?
1. Mutualism : Both the species
1. High variation in productivity from year
to year. benefit
2. Resistance to occasional anthropogenic 2. Predation : One species benefits
disturbances. and other is harmed
3. Resistance to invasion by alien species 3. Amensalism : One species benefits
Select the correct answer using the code
and other is
given below.
unaffected
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only Which of the pairs given above is/are
(c) 3 only correctly matched?
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
26. Consider the following pairs : (c) 2 and 3 only
International Focus (d) 1, 2 and 3
initiative
1. Kyoto Protocol : Reduction of 29. With reference to Grazing Food Chain
greenhouse gases (GFC) and Detritus Food Chain (DFC),
2. Stockholm : Reduce the
consider the following statements:
Conference movements of
1. GFC begins with producers while DFC
hazardous waste
begins with dead organic matter.
between nations
3. Sendai : Disaster 2. In a terrestrial ecosystem, a larger
framework Management fraction of energy flows through the
Which of the pairs given above is/are GFC than through the DFC.
correctly matched? Which of the statements given above is/are
(a) 1 and 2 only correct?
(b) 2 and 3 only (a) 1 only
(c) 3 only (b) 2 only
(d) 1 and 3 only (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
27. Which of the following form abiotic
components of an ecosystem?
30. In the context of biodiversity, the ‘rivet
1. Temperature
popper hypothesis’ is used to explain the
2. Moisture
(a) movement of nutrients and energy for an
3. Soil
Select the correct answer using the code ecosystem.
given below. (b) process of ecological succession.
(a) 1 and 2 only (c) impact of loss of species richness on
(b) 2 and 3 only biodiversity.
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) features adopted by organisms to adjust
(d) 1, 2 and 3 to the climate change.

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31. With reference to tropical and temperate 34. With reference to the photochemical smog,
forests, consider the following statements: consider the following statements:
1. Tropical Forests consists of very high 1. It occurs in a cool humid climate.

tree species as compared to temperate 2. It is formed by the action of sunlight on

unsaturated hydrocarbons and nitrogen
forests.
oxides.
2. Temperate forests have a thin canopy of
3. Ozone is an important component of
trees whereas tropical forests have a
Photochemical smog.
thick canopy. Which of the statements given above are
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
correct? (a) 1 and 2 only
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) 1, 2 and 3

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

35. Consider the following statements regarding
the Basel Convention, 1989:
32. Which of the following are examples of the
1. It regulates the import and export of
sedimentary biogeochemical cycle?
hazardous waste among the parties to it.
1. Nitrogen cycle 2. It establishes a legally binding
2. Carbon cycle agreement for waste management.
3. Sulphur cycle Which of the statements given above is/are
4. Phosphorous cycle correct?
Select the correct answer using the code (a) 1 only
given below. (b) 2 only
(a) 1 and 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3 only
36. Consider the following statements
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only
regarding Photosynthetically Active
Radiation (PAR):
33. Which of the following micro organisms are 1. It is part of the electromagnetic radiation
used as bio-fertilizers? in the range from 400 nm to 700 nm.
1. Nostoc 2. Plants need to absorb at least 80-85% of
2. Anabaena PAR to sustain the entire living world.
3. Cyanobacteria 3. PAR changes seasonally and varies
4. Oscillatoria depending on the latitude and time of
day.
Select the correct answer using the code
Which of the statements given above are
given below.
correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 2 and 3

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37. With reference to the biotic community, 40. Consider the following statements:
consider the following statements: 1. An ecosystem is a functional unit of
1. Phagotrophs are organisms that consume nature where living organisms interact
among themselves and also with the
producers directly or indirectly.
surrounding physical environment.
2. Saprotrophs are organisms that obtain
2. There is an exchange of materials and
nutrition from the dead organic matter. energy within the ecosystem as well as
Which of the statements given above is/are between adjoining ecosystems.
correct? 3. The vast network of all the
(a) 1 only interconnected ecosystems constitutes a
(b) 2 only niche.
Which of the statements given above are
(c) Both 1 and 2
correct?
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
38. Consider the following statements regarding (c) 2 and 3 only
Humus: (d) 1, 2 and 3
1. It serves as a reservoir of nutrients.
2. It is highly resistant to microbial action. 41. With reference to Compressed Natural Gas
(CNG), consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are
1. It is a mixture of hydrocarbons
correct?
consisting of approximately 80 to 90
(a) 1 only percent methane in gaseous form.
(b) 2 only 2. It is lead-free and lighter than air.
(c) Both 1 and 2 Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
39. Consider the following statements, with
(c) Both 1 and 2
reference to Environment Protection Act,
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
1986:
1. The act empowers the Central 42. Consider the following statements regarding
government to coordinate actions of biodiversity hotspots:
State Governments and lay down 1. Biodiversity hotspots are biogeographic
standards for the quality of the regions where mostly exotic species of
environment. plants are found.
2. Globally, the total number of
2. National parks, Sanctuaries, Tiger
biodiversity hotspots has witnessed a
reserves and Biosphere reserves are set
decline over the years.
up by the Government of India under 3. The Himalayas and the Western Ghats
this act. are the only two biodiversity hotspots in
Which of the statements given above is/are India.
correct? Which of the statements given above
is/are not correct?
(a) 1 only
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) 3 only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) 1, 2 and 3

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43. World Conservation Strategy, adopted in 46. Consider the following statements regarding
1980 aimed at : bioremediation:
1. Maintenance of essential ecological
1. It is a process which uses micro-
processes.
organisms to detoxify the pollutants in
2. Protection of genetic diversity.
3. Sustainable use of species and soil.

ecosystem. 2. It is a technique used to clear oil spills.

Select the correct answer using the code Which of the statements given above is/are
given below. correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1,2 and 3 (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
44. With reference to the primary productivity of
an ecosystem, consider the following 47. Which of the following statements best
statements: describes the term ecology?
1. Gross primary productivity is the rate of
(a) It is the study of human beings and their
formation of biomass or organic matter
immediate surroundings.
during photosynthesis.
2. Net primary productivity is the rate of (b) It is the scientific study of plants and
formation of new organic matter by animals in relation to each other and to
consumers. their environment.
Which of the statements given above is/are (c) It refers to the scientific study of plants,
correct?
their classification and economic
(a) 1 only
importance.
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) It is the study of wild animals and birds
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 in their natural habitats only.

45. With reference to hibernation, consider the 48. Eutrophication in a pond ecosystem can lead
following statements: to:
1. It refers to temporary movements of
1. burgeoning of plant and animal lives
organisms from the stressful habitat to a
2. reduction in the lake's temperature
more hospitable area.
2. The temperature of the animal body 3. increase in the depth of the lake
increases during hibernation. Select the correct answer using the code
Which of the statements given above is/are given below.
correct?
(a) 1 only
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(c) Both 1and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) 2 and 3 only

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49. With reference to the Neritic zone of the 52. In the context of biodiversity, 'The Evil
marine ecosystem, consider the following Quartet' refers to the set of four:
statements:
1. It extends between the highest high tide (a) events of mass extinction in the
and lowest low tide levels. Geological Timescale.
2. This area is rich in density and diversity
(b) major countries which have witnessed
of organisms due to the presence of light
and nutrients. maximum biodiversity loss in the last
Which of the statements given above is/are ten years.
correct?
(c) types of industries which emit the
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only maximum greenhouse gas emissions.
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) major causes of biodiversity loss.
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

53. Which of the following is/are constituents of

50. Consider the following statements regarding
'Agenda 21': fly ash?
1. It was adopted in the Earth Summit at 1. Black soot
Rio de Janeiro in the year 1992.
2. Lead
2. It is a plan to encourage sustainable
development in the 21st century. 3. Cadmium
3. It emphasises on the role of 'women' and 4. Nickel
'indigenous people' to achieve
Select the correct answer using the codes
development-related goals.
Which of the statements given above are given below.
correct? (a) 1 only
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

51. With reference to primary and secondary

succession, consider the following 54. Consider the following pairs:
statements: Temperate grasslands Location
1. Primary succession takes place in areas
which have lost all the living organisms 1. Veldts : Hungary
that existed there whereas secondary 2. Pustaz : South Africa
takes place in areas where no living
organisms ever existed. 3. Pampas : Argentina
2. Rate of secondary succession is much Which of the pairs given above is/are
slower compared to primary succession.
correctly matched?
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct? (a) 3 only
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) 1 and 3 only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) 1, 2 and 3

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55. Which of the following statements best
describes the term 'Antibiosis'?
(a) It is a type of interaction in which one
organism is unaffected but the other is
damaged or killed by a chemical
secretion.
(b) It is a type of interaction in which one
organism kills to feed on the other.
(c) It is a type of interaction which is
beneficial for both species where they
totally rely on one another.
(d) It is a type of association which is
58. Which of the following statements are
correct regarding the ozone layer?
1. Ozone layer present in the upper
troposphere acts as a protective layer
against harmful ultraviolet rays.
2. The polar stratospheric clouds prevent
the spread of the ozone hole.
3. The thickness of the ozone layer is
measured in terms of Dobson units
(DU).
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?

beneficial for both species but is not (a) 1 and 2 only

essential for their survival. (b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
56. Consider the following statements:
1. Coal gas is a mixture of methane, carbon
59. With reference to the decomposition of
monoxide and hydrogen.
detritus or dead matter, consider the
2. Coke is a coal-derived product which
following statements:
burns without smoke.
1. Low temperature (<10 degree Celsius)
Which of the statements given above is/are
with a high soil moisture content favours
correct?
high rate of decomposition.
(a) 1 only
2. The presence of nitrogen in detritus
(b) 2 only
increases the decomposition rate.
(c) Both 1 and 2
Which of the statements given above is/are
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
correct?
(a) 1 only
57. Which of the following was/were provided
(b) 2 only
by 'Wildlife Protection Act 1972 '?
(c) Both 1 and 2
1. Captive breeding programmes for (d) Neither 1 nor 2
critically endangered species.
2. A complete ban on trade and commerce 60. 'Access and Benefit Sharing Agreement' is a
of wildlife species. core part of which of the following treaties
3. Strengthening management and or conventions?
protection of infrastructure of National (a) International Treaty on Plant Genetic
parks and sanctuaries. Resources for Food and Agriculture
Select the correct answer using the code (b) International Plant Protection
given below: Convention
(a) 1 and 2 only (c) Convention on Biological Diversity
(b) 2 and 3 only (d) Convention on International Trade in
(c) 1 only Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
(d) 1 and 3 only Flora
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61. Consider the following statements regarding 64. Consider the following sources:
' Central Pollution Control Board ': 1. Cosmic rays
1. It has been established as an autonomous
2. Nuclear Fuels in atomic reactors
body under the Environment Protection
3. X-ray waste
Act, 1986.
2. It coordinates the activities of state Which of the sources given above cause
pollution control boards and resolves Radioactive pollution?
disputes among them. (a) 1 and 2 only
Which of the statements given above is/are
(b) 1 and 3 only
correct?
(c) 2 and 3 only
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 65. In the context of environment and ecology,
what is common between ladybird beetle,
62. Which of the following are adaptive features syrphid fly, and soldier beetle?
in plants to minimize the loss of water?
(a) They are categorised under the list of
1. Presence of thick cuticle on the leaf
extinct species of the International
surface
2. Absence of leaves in some plants Union for Conservation of Nature
3. Arrangement of stomata in deep pits (IUCN) Red list.
Select the correct answer using the code (b) They are species endemic to the Western
given below.
Ghats.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(c) These are used as effective predators to
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only control agricultural pests.
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) They are species found helpful in
segregating wastes.
63. With reference to estuaries, consider the
following statements:
66. Which of the following statements regarding
1. These are transitional zones between the
the Ozone layer is not correct?
sea and rivers.
2. They are nutrient-rich regions. (a) Ozone layer is the product of UV
3. The fauna in the estuary regions has the radiations acting on dioxygen molecules
ability to maintain salt and water (b) Ozone layer is thermodynamically
balance.
unstable and decomposes into molecular
Which of the statements given above is/are
oxygen
correct?
(a) 1 only (c) The main reason for Ozone layer

(b) 2 and 3 only depletion is the release of Freons

(c) 1 and 3 only (d) Depletion of ozone layer (i.e.Ozone
(d) 1, 2 and 3 hole) was first reported in North Pole

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67. Which of the following type of living 70. Which of the following is/are regarded as
organisms are not invertebrates? particulate pollutants?
1. Bacteria
(a) Crustaceans
2. Fungi
(b) Molluscs
3. Algae
(c) Insects 4. Dust
(d) Reptiles Select the correct answer using the code
given below.
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
68. Oceans contain vast quantities of materials
(b) 2 and 4 only
that presently serve as major resources for
(c) 4 only
humans. Which of the following resources (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
is/ are found in the oceans?
1. food resources 71. Consider the following statements regarding
captive breeding:
2. fuel minerals
1. It is the process of breeding animals
3. building or construction materials
outside their natural environment in
4. non-conventional energy resources restricted areas like zoos and aquariums.
Select the correct answer using the code 2. The sole aim of captive breeding
given below. programs is to exhibit interesting
species.
(a) 3 and 4 only
3. The Nandankanan Zoological Park is the
(b) 1 and 2 only only zoological park to have captive-
(c) 3 only bred white tigers in India.
(d) All the given resources are found in the Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
oceans
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
69. Which of the following can be classified as
(c) 3 only
natural disasters? (d) 1 and 3 only
1. Building fires
2. Volcanic eruption 72. Consider the following pollutants:
1. Carbon Monoxide (CO)
3. Avalanche
2. Oxides of nitrogen (NOX)
4. Drought
3. Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM)
Select the correct answer using the code 4. Unburnt hydrocarbons
given below. Which of the pollutants given above are

(a) 2 and 4 only released from vehicular emissions?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

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73. Consider the following statements regarding 76. Consider the following pairs:
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Mechanism to Targeted
1. The rules for EIA have been notified control air pollution Pollutant
under the provisions of the
1. Electrostatic : particulate
Environment(Protection) Act, 1986.
precipitator matter
2. National Biodiversity Authority is the
nodal authority to review the 2. Scrubber : Sulphur Dioxide
EIA application for all new projects. 3. Catalytic converters : unburnt
3. It is mandatory to involve the public hydrocarbon
while making the environment impact Which of the pairs given above is/are
assessment. correctly matched?
Which of the statements given above is/are
(a) 1 only
correct?
(b) 1 and 2 only
(a) 1 only
(c) 3 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
77. "This is one of the zones of the pond
ecosystem. This zone is found in the deep-
74. Consider the following statements regarding
Sanitary Landfills: water part of the pond. This zone is cold and

1. Depletion of organic matters takes place dense. Little light reaches this zone. The
under anaerobic condition. fauna in this zone eat dead organisms and
2. Carbon dioxide and Hydrogen use oxygen for cellular respiration."
sulphide are generated in the depletion Which of the following is described in the
process. paragraph above?
Which of the statements given above is/are (a) Littoral Zone
correct? (b) Limnetic Zone
(a) 1 only (c) Profundal Zone
(b) 2 only (d) None of the above
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 78. Which of the following projects uses "Run
of the river systems" for the purpose of
75. Which of the following certification marks generating electricity?
issues quality mark for food products?
1. Tidal energy project
1. Agricultural Marketing (Agmark)
2. Small-scale hydro power project
2. ISI mark by Bureau of Indian Standards
3. Large reservoir based hydro power
(BIS)
project
3. Fruit Product Order Mark
Select the correct answer using code given
Select the correct answer using the code
below.
given below.
(a) 1 and 3 only (a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3

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79. Which of the following statements best
describes the term catabolism?
(a) It refers to the degradation of detritus
into simpler inorganic substances.
(b) It is the transformation of larvae into
full-grown insects.
(c) It is the act of consumption of another
individual of the same species.
(d) It is the process of fat accumulation in
living organisms.
80. Consider the following statements with
respect to Ecological Pyramid:
82. With reference to the photovoltaics, consider
the following statements:
1. This method uses the principle of
photosynthesis to generate electricity.
2. Traditional solar cookers employ this
technology for heating food.
Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
83. Which of the following statements is correct

1. The pyramid of biomass in a sea regarding the 'Environmental Pollution

(Prevention and Control) Authority?
is generally inverted.
(a) It was established under Water
2. The pyramid of energy in any ecosystem
(Prevention and Control of Pollution)
can never be inverted.
Act, 1974 to oversee pollution by
Which of the statements given above is/are industries.
correct? (b) It is a Supreme court mandated body to
(a) 1 only control air pollution in National capital
(b) 2 only region.
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) It has been established as an interm body

(d) Neither 1 nor 2 for management of Compensatory

Afforestation Fund.
(d) It was established by Central
81. Which of the following part of
government in 1994 in aftermath of Rio
electromagnetic spectrum of sunlight is/are
Earth Summit.
responsible for heating of solar cooker and
solar water heater? 84. 'Joint Forest Management ' initiated by the
1. Infrared waves Government of India, aims at
2. UV-A waves (a) collaborating with neighboring countries
3. UV-B waves to protect and manage forests.
4. UV-C waves (b) collaborating with private sector in
Select the correct answer using the codes forest conservation projects.
(c) joint implementation of forest
given below
conservation programs by Central and
(a) 1 only
state governments.
(b) 1 and 2 only
(d) working closely with the local
(c) 2 and 3 only
communities for protecting and
(d) 2, 3 and 4 only managing forests.

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85. In the context of biodiversity in India, which 89. Which of the following are examples of a
of the following species is not an invasive lentic water ecosystem?
alien species?
(a) Water hyacinth 1. Ponds
(b) Carrot grass 2. Marshes
(c) African catfish
3. Rivers
(d) Red hibiscus
4. Springs

86. Which of the following are the possible Select the correct answer using the code
impacts of Climate Change? given below.
1. Improved agricultural yield in higher
(a) 1 and 2 only
latitudes
2. Reduction in biodiversity in the alpine (b) 1 and 3 only
regions (c) 2, 3 and 4 only
3. Reduction in corals in the tropical
oceans (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Select the correct answer using the code
given below. 90. Consider the following statements regarding
(a) 1 and 3 only
the harmful effects of water pollutants:
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only 1. Fluoride causes erosion of bones and
(d) 1, 2 and 3 teeth.
2. Lead is associated with liver and kidney
87. In the context of environment and ecology,
'standing crop' refers to: damage.
(a) the mass of living material at a particular 3. Blue-baby syndrome is associated with
time at any trophic level.
potassium contamination.
(b) a community of herbs and shrubs.
(c) a growing crop ready for harvest. Which of the statements given above are
(d) the mass of inorganic nutrients found in correct?
an ecosystem
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
88. With reference to Gene Therapy, consider
the following statements: (c) 1 and 3 only
1. It involves the delivery of a normal gene (d) 1, 2 and 3
into the individual to compensate for the
non-functional gene.
2. It allows correction of a gene defect that 91. Which of the following is the correct
has been diagnosed in an embryo. sequence of food chain in an
Which of the statements given above is/are
Agroecosystem?
correct?
(a) 1 only (a) Mustard crop-aphid-beetle-bird
(b) 2 only (b) Mustard crop-beetle-aphid-bird
(c) Both 1 and 2
(c) Mustard crop- aphid-bird-beetle
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(d) Mustard crop-beetle-bird-aphid

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92. Consider the following statements regarding 95. Consider the following statements regarding
Thermal Pollution: Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD):
1. The polluted water has less BOD than
1. Thermal power plants release recycled
cleaner water.
hot water into rivers leading to thermal 2. It is a measure of chemical and organic
pollution. pollutants.
2. The dissolved oxygen level decreases Which of the statements given above is/are
correct?
with the increase in water temperature.
(a) 1 only
Which of the statements given above is/are (b) 2 only
correct? (c) Both 1 and 2
(a) 1 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 96. Consider the following statements:
1. Food adulteration means the addition of
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
any substance to a food item to improve
its flavour, colour and shelf life.
93. Consider the following pairs: 2. Currently there is no act to regulate food
Food Adulterant adulterants in India.
Which of the statements given above
1. Black Pepper : Papaya seeds
is/are correct?
2. Turmeric : Metanil yellow (a) 1 only
3. Milk : Urea (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
Which of the pairs given above is/are
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 3 only 97. Which of the following was the first
(b) 2 only conference/convention on the depletion of
(c) 1 and 2 only the Ozone layer?
(a) United Nations Framework Convention
(d) 1, 2 and 3
on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
(b) Saving the Ozone Layer conference
94. What is/are the significance(s) of wetlands in (c) Convention on Biological Diversity
an ecosystem? (d) Vienna Conference
1. They are breeding and nesting areas for
98. The correct sequence of the following
birds and animals.
Greenhouse Gases in order of increasing
2. They protect coastlines from erosion and global warming potential (in a time horizon
reduce damage from storms and of 20 years) is:
cyclones. 1. Methane
2. Carbon dioxide
3. They help in purifying water.
3. Nitrous Oxide
Select the correct answer using the code 4. Sulphur hexafluoride
given below. Select the correct answer using the code
(a) 1, 2 and 3 given below.
(b) 1 and 2 only (a) 1-2-3-4
(b) 2-1-3-4
(c) 1 only
(c) 4-3-2-1
(d) 2 and 3 only (d) 3-1-2-4

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99. Macronutrients are important components 100. It is a potent greenhouse gas. The
required by living organisms. In this context,
transpiration and evaporation increase its
consider the following pairs:
concentration in the atmosphere. Its
Macronutrient Function
1. Potassium : Major solute in concentration greatly varies from season to
animal cells
season and region to region. It is one of the
2. Magnesium : The structural
highest contributors to the warming of the
component of
Chlorophyll earth due to its capacity to absorb both
3. Calcium : Regulator of cell incoming and terrestrial radiation.
permeability
The greenhouse gas being described here is:
Which of the pairs given above is/are
correctly matched? (a) Chlorfluorocarbons(CFCs)

72
&
(a) 1 only
(b) Nitrogen oxide

0
67
(b) 1 and 2 only

97
16
(c) 2 and 3 only (c) Water vapour

82
,9
(d) 1, 2 and 3

24
(d) Carbon dioxide

31
92
10
99
2,
04
38
05
54
,9
00
31
80
800
,8
30
03
45
60
88
S
ER
N
N
U
ER
AG
IM

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