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Pankaj Gupta
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Poll
Pankaj GuptaScholar
Asked: 5 months agoIn:
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How many of the given statements regarding green hydrogen is/are correct?                             [2023]1.  It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion.2.  It can ...Read more

How many of the given statements regarding green hydrogen is/are correct?                             [2023]
1.  It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion.
2.  It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation.                                3.  It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles.

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environmentgreen hydrogen
  1. Pankaj Gupta
    Pankaj Gupta Scholar

    Correct Answer: All three Explanation: It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion: Correct. Green hydrogen can be used as a fuel in internal combustion engines (ICEs) with modifications. Hydrogen combusts cleanly, emitting only water vapor as a byproduct, making it a potential alternaRead more

    Correct Answer: All three

    Explanation:

    1. It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion:
      Correct. Green hydrogen can be used as a fuel in internal combustion engines (ICEs) with modifications. Hydrogen combusts cleanly, emitting only water vapor as a byproduct, making it a potential alternative to traditional fuels.
    2. It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation:
      Correct. Green hydrogen can be blended with natural gas and used in existing gas pipelines to generate heat or power. This helps reduce carbon emissions and makes use of existing infrastructure.
    3. It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles:
      Correct. Hydrogen fuel cells convert green hydrogen into electricity, which can power vehicles. This is already being implemented in hydrogen-powered vehicles, which emit only water vapor.

    Thus, all three statements are correct.

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Pankaj Gupta
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Poll
Pankaj GuptaScholar
Asked: 5 months agoIn:
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How many of the given statements regarding mercury pollution is/are correct?                           [2023]1. Gold mining activity is a source of mercury pollution in the world.2. Coal-based thermal ...Read more

How many of the given statements regarding mercury pollution is/are correct?                           [2023]
1. Gold mining activity is a source of mercury pollution in the world.
2. Coal-based thermal power plants cause mercury pollution.
3. There is no known safe level of exposure to mercury.

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environmentmercury pollutionupsc pre 2023
  1. Pankaj Gupta
    Pankaj Gupta Scholar

    Correct Answer: All three Explanation: Gold mining activity is a source of mercury pollution in the world: Correct. Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is one of the largest global sources of mercury emissions. Mercury is used in the extraction process to amalgamate gold, releasing significRead more

    Correct Answer: All three

    Explanation:

    1. Gold mining activity is a source of mercury pollution in the world:
      Correct. Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is one of the largest global sources of mercury emissions. Mercury is used in the extraction process to amalgamate gold, releasing significant amounts of mercury into the environment.
    2. Coal-based thermal power plants cause mercury pollution:
      Correct. Coal contains trace amounts of mercury. When coal is burned in thermal power plants, mercury is released into the atmosphere as a pollutant.
    3. There is no known safe level of exposure to mercury:
      Correct. Mercury is highly toxic, and even low levels of exposure can lead to serious health effects. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that there is no safe threshold for mercury exposure, particularly for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children.

    Hence, all three statements are correct.

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Pankaj Gupta
  • 1
Pankaj GuptaScholar
Asked: 6 months agoIn:
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How Does Ocean Biodiversity Impact Earth’s Health and What Happens When Marine Ecosystems Are Disturbed?

How Does Ocean Biodiversity Impact Earth’s Health and What Happens When Marine Ecosystems Are Disturbed?

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ecosystemenvironmentmarine ecosystem
  1. Pankaj Gupta
    Pankaj Gupta Scholar

    Importance of Ocean Biodiversity 1. Regulation of Climate: Marine organisms like phytoplankton produce over 50% of the Earth's oxygen and absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide, helping regulate the planet's climate. 2. Food Security: Oceans provide a primary food source for billions of peopleRead more

    Importance of Ocean Biodiversity

    1. Regulation of Climate: Marine organisms like phytoplankton produce over 50% of the Earth’s oxygen and absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide, helping regulate the planet’s climate.

    2. Food Security: Oceans provide a primary food source for billions of people worldwide. Marine biodiversity ensures the stability of fish populations and other seafood critical for human consumption.

    3. Ecosystem Services: Coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds protect coastlines from erosion and storms while supporting diverse marine life.

    4. Medicine and Resources: Many medicines, including antibiotics and anticancer drugs, are derived from marine organisms. A healthy ocean offers untapped potential for future discoveries.

    Consequences of Disrupting Marine Ecosystems

    1. Climate Imbalance: Destruction of ocean biodiversity disrupts the carbon cycle, leading to increased atmospheric CO2 and accelerating global warming.

    2. Loss of Species: Overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution lead to the extinction of marine species, causing a ripple effect throughout the food web.

    3. Economic Impact: Coastal communities reliant on fishing and tourism suffer significant economic losses when marine ecosystems degrade.

    4. Threat to Human Health: Harmful algal blooms, exacerbated by nutrient runoff and warming waters, can contaminate seafood and water supplies, posing health risks.

    How to Protect Ocean Biodiversity

    Marine Protected Areas: Expanding and effectively managing marine reserves safeguards biodiversity.

    Sustainable Practices: Reducing overfishing, curbing pollution, and adopting sustainable seafood choices are crucial.

    Global Collaboration: International efforts like the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 14 aim to conserve and sustainably use ocean resources.

    The ocean’s biodiversity is indispensable for maintaining Earth’s climate, providing resources, and sustaining life. Disrupting marine ecosystems not only harms the ocean but also poses severe challenges to global health, economy, and survival. Preserving marine biodiversity is not just an environmental priority but a necessity for humanity’s future.

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Arjita
  • 4
Poll
ArjitaBeginner
Asked: 7 months agoIn: ,
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Consider the following statements: Once the Central Government notifies an area as a ‘Community Reserve’                                                       ...Read more

Consider the following statements: Once the Central Government notifies an area as a ‘Community Reserve’                                                                                                                        [2023]
1.  The Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest
2.  Hunting is not allowed in such area.
3.  People of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce.
4.  People of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices.

 

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community reserveenvironmentpollquestionupsc pre 2023wildlife
  1. Shefali
    Shefali Explorer

    Statement 1: "The Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest." This is incorrect. As per Section 36D of the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act 2002, a Community Reserve management committee is formed by the State Government, and this committee, not the Chief WRead more

    1. Statement 1: “The Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest.”
      • This is incorrect. As per Section 36D of the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act 2002, a Community Reserve management committee is formed by the State Government, and this committee, not the Chief Wildlife Warden, is responsible for managing the Community Reserve.
    2. Statement 2: “Hunting is not allowed in such area.”
      • This is correct. As per Section 36C(2) of the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act 2002, the restrictions applicable to wildlife sanctuaries, including the ban on hunting, apply to Community Reserves as well.
    3. Statement 3: “People of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce.”
      • This is correct. The local communities are generally allowed to collect non-timber forest produce in Community Reserves, as they are designed to integrate conservation with sustainable use by the local people.
    4. Statement 4: “People of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices.”
      • This is correct. Traditional agricultural practices are permitted in Community Reserves as long as they do not harm wildlife conservation efforts.

    Conclusion:

    • Statements 2, 3, and 4 are correct.
    • Statement 1 is incorrect.

    Thus, the correct answer is Only three.

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Pankaj Gupta
  • 7
Poll
Pankaj GuptaScholar
Asked: 8 months agoIn: ,
  • 7

Consider the following statements:                                                                          ...Read more

Consider the following statements:                                                                                                         [2023]
Statement-I : Carbon markets are likely to be one of the most widespread tools in the fight against climate change.
Statement-II : Carbon markets transfer resources from the private sector to the State.

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carbon marketsenvironmentpollquestionupsc pre 2023
  1. Pankaj Gupta
    Pankaj Gupta Scholar
    This answer was edited.

    Statement 1 is accurate: Carbon markets, once considered ineffective, have finally emerged as one of the most prominent mechanisms in the battle against climate change. By the end of 2021, over 21% of global emissions were subject to some form of carbon pricing, an increase from 15% in 2020. More anRead more

    Statement 1 is accurate: Carbon markets, once considered ineffective, have finally emerged as one of the most prominent mechanisms in the battle against climate change. By the end of 2021, over 21% of global emissions were subject to some form of carbon pricing, an increase from 15% in 2020. More and more businesses are required to compensate regulators for the privilege of emitting a ton of carbon dioxide. Investor interest is also rising, as trading volumes in these markets surged by 164% last year, reaching €760 billion ($897 billion).

    Statement 2 is also accurate. Carbon markets play a crucial role in mobilizing financial resources and minimizing costs, thereby providing countries and corporations the flexibility to transition to low-carbon economies. It is projected that carbon credit trading could lower the expense of fulfilling Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by over 50%—potentially saving as much as $250 billion by 2030. In the long run, however, carbon markets may become obsolete as countries achieve net-zero emissions, reducing the necessity for emission trading.

    Therefore, the correct answer is Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.

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Pankaj Gupta
  • 6
Poll
Pankaj GuptaScholar
Asked: 8 months agoIn: , ,
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Consider the following:                                                                            ...Read more

Consider the following:                                                                                                                              [2023]
1. Aerosols
2. Foam agents
3. Fire retardants
4. Lubricants

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environmentpollquestionscienceupsc pre 2023uses of hydrofluorocarbons
  1. Pankaj Gupta
    Pankaj Gupta Scholar
    This answer was edited.

    Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are synthetic chemicals widely employed in industries, mainly for refrigeration and cooling purposes. These man-made compounds were introduced as alternatives to ozone-depleting substances that are being phased out under the Montreal Protocol. HFCs are specifically designedRead more

    Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are synthetic chemicals widely employed in industries, mainly for refrigeration and cooling purposes. These man-made compounds were introduced as alternatives to ozone-depleting substances that are being phased out under the Montreal Protocol. HFCs are specifically designed for applications in refrigeration, air-conditioning, aerosol propellants, and insulating foams, with additional, smaller roles in fire protection and as solvents. Unlike some other compounds, HFCs lack lubricating properties. Therefore, the correct option is Only three.

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Pankaj Gupta
  • 6
Poll
Pankaj GuptaScholar
Asked: 8 months agoIn: ,
  • 6

Which one of the following makes a tool with a stick to scrape insects from a hole in a tree or a log of wood?                                ...Read more

Which one of the following makes a tool with a stick to scrape insects from a hole in a tree or a log of wood?                                                                                                                                                               [2023]

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environmentpollquestionupsc pre 2023
  1. Pankaj Gupta
    Pankaj Gupta Scholar
    This answer was edited.

    Orangutans are known for their intelligence and ability to use tools. They have been observed using sticks to extract insects from holes in trees or logs, demonstrating advanced problem-solving skills and tool use in their natural environment. The correct answer is Orangutan.

    Orangutans are known for their intelligence and ability to use tools. They have been observed using sticks to extract insects from holes in trees or logs, demonstrating advanced problem-solving skills and tool use in their natural environment. The correct answer is Orangutan.

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Pankaj Gupta
  • 6
Poll
Pankaj GuptaScholar
Asked: 8 months agoIn: , ,
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Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?                              ...Read more

Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?                                                                    [2023]

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environmentpollquestionupsc pre 2023zoology
  1. Pankaj Gupta
    Pankaj Gupta Scholar
    This answer was edited.

    The correct answer is: Honey Bees. Honey bees perform the "waggle dance" to communicate the direction and distance of a food source to other members of their hive. The dance involves a series of movements, including waggling their bodies and making figure-eight patterns, to convey information aboutRead more

    The correct answer is: Honey Bees. Honey bees perform the “waggle dance” to communicate the direction and distance of a food source to other members of their hive. The dance involves a series of movements, including waggling their bodies and making figure-eight patterns, to convey information about the location of nectar, pollen, or water. This sophisticated form of communication is crucial for the foraging efficiency and survival of the colony. Neither butterflies, dragonflies, nor wasps use this method of communication.

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Pankaj Gupta
  • 6
Poll
Pankaj GuptaScholar
Asked: 8 months agoIn: , ,
  • 6

Consider the following fauna:                                                                          ...Read more

Consider the following fauna:                                                                                                                 [2023]
1. Lion-tailed Macaque
2. Malabar Civet
3. Sambar Deer

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environmentpollquestionupsc pre 2023zoology
  1. Pankaj Gupta
    Pankaj Gupta Scholar
    This answer was edited.

    Lion-tailed Macaque: This species is primarily diurnal, meaning it is active during the day and rests at night. They are known for their distinctive mane and tail tuft, and they inhabit the rainforests of the Western Ghats in India. Malabar Civet: The Malabar Civet is generally nocturnal. It is mostRead more

    1. Lion-tailed Macaque: This species is primarily diurnal, meaning it is active during the day and rests at night. They are known for their distinctive mane and tail tuft, and they inhabit the rainforests of the Western Ghats in India.
    2. Malabar Civet: The Malabar Civet is generally nocturnal. It is most active during the night and is rarely seen during the day. It is a critically endangered species native to the Western Ghats and nearby regions.
    3. Sambar Deer: The Sambar Deer is largely nocturnal or crepuscular (active during twilight). It tends to be most active during the early morning and late evening but can also be seen foraging at night.

    Given this information, two of the listed fauna (Malabar Civet and Sambar Deer) are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset. Therefore, the correct answer is: Only two.

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Pankaj Gupta
  • 8
Poll
Pankaj GuptaScholar
Asked: 8 months agoIn: , ,
  • 8

Invasive Species Specialist Group’ (that develops Global Invasive Species Database) belongs to which one of the following organisations?                                              ...Read more

Invasive Species Specialist Group’ (that develops Global Invasive Species Database) belongs to which one of the following organisations?                                                                                                            [2023] 

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botanyenvironmentinvasive speciespollquestionupsc pre 2023
  1. Pankaj Gupta
    Pankaj Gupta Scholar
    This answer was edited.

    The 'Invasive Species Specialist Group' (ISSG), which develops the Global Invasive Species Database, is a part of: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The ISSG is a specialist group of the IUCN's Species Survival Commission (SSC). It focuses on invasive species and their impacRead more

    The ‘Invasive Species Specialist Group’ (ISSG), which develops the Global Invasive Species Database, is a part of: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The ISSG is a specialist group of the IUCN’s Species Survival Commission (SSC). It focuses on invasive species and their impact on biodiversity, and its Global Invasive Species Database is a widely used resource for information on invasive species worldwide.

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