AFCAT 18th Feb 2024 (Shift 2) Memory Based Paper. (Previous Year Paper)

The correct answer is Option 2.

Key Points

• The passage begins with the statement: "Good society usually has good leaders. The people of the society follow the leaders, good citizens."
• This sentence directly links the presence of good leaders with people following them, resulting in good citizens.
• The structure implies that good citizens are produced when the people in a society follow their good leaders.

Thus, according to the writer, a good society has good citizens when people follow good leaders.

Additional Information

• Option 1 is not mentioned as a cause for good citizens in the passage.
• Option 3 suggests attraction, while the passage focuses on the act of "following" the leaders.
• Option 4 uses the word "definitely," which is a stronger assertion than the relationship described in the text ("follow the leaders, good citizens"). Option 2 is a more direct interpretation.

The correct answer is Option 2.

Key Points

• The passage states, "The relationship and the coordination between the leader and the followers are mostly equivocal and doubtable."
• This sentence directly links the terms "equivocal" and "doubtable".
• The word "equivocal" means ambiguous or open to more than one interpretation, suggesting uncertainty or doubt.
• Therefore, the equivocal nature of the relationship is presented as the reason or characteristic that makes it doubtful.

The passage directly states that the equivocal nature is what makes the relationship doubtful.

Additional Information

• Educational qualifications are not mentioned in relation to the doubtfulness of the relationship.
• While leaders' desire to grow (selfish achievement/personal growth) and egocentrism contribute to the negative portrayal of leaders and their relationship with followers, the passage specifically uses the term "equivocal and doubtable" to describe the relationship itself.

The correct answer is Option 3.

Key Points

• The passage explicitly states, "most of the leaders irrespective of political, religious, spiritual, business, science educational sectors are at selfish achievement and personal growth."
• "Personal growth" is directly synonymous with "Self-development".
• The phrase "selfish achievement" further emphasizes that their focus is on themselves rather than others or society.

Therefore, according to the writer, the aim of most leaders is Self-development (personal growth and selfish achievement).

Additional Information

• People’s development and Society development are contrary to the "selfish achievement and personal growth" mentioned for most leaders.
• Selfless development is the opposite of "selfish achievement" described in the passage.

The correct answer is Option 2.

Key Points

• The sentence in question is: "In a sense, of sanity and egocentrism, the rationality of both leaders and the people reached the top."
• The phrase "In a sense" here means "in a way," "in a particular respect," or "from a certain point of view."
• Considering the options provided, 'Intelligence' is the most appropriate choice as it relates to the mental faculty and way of understanding or perceiving the state described (sanity, egocentrism, and rationality).
• The word 'sense' is used to describe the perspective or the manner in which rationality, influenced by sanity and egocentrism, is perceived to have reached its peak. This relates to intellectual understanding or perception.

Thus, 'sense' is used in the context of understanding or perceiving reality, which aligns with the concept of intelligence.

Additional Information

• Desire: 'Sense' does not relate to a feeling of wanting something.
• Belief: While belief is a mental state, 'sense' here is broader, referring to the mode of understanding influenced by certain psychological traits (sanity, egocentrism).
• Comfort: 'Comfort' is unrelated to the intellectual or psychological context of the sentence.

Correct Answer: QSPR  

Solution: Sentence Q talks about how arrogant managers can evaluate themselves better than what they already are. This is what the entire paragraph rests upon and therefore must be the introductory sentence. Sentence S just carries forward the idea of Q by saying that these employees are not good at viewing the threats and opportunities. This must be the second sentence. P talks about the environmental situation faced by the organization due to the bureaucratic culture. P is the third sentence and is followed by R which comments on how the lack of leadership makes the organization crippled in such situations. It sums up the gist of the paragraph and is therefore the concluding sentence.

The correct solution is QPRS.

Q will be the first sentence as it introduces books.

It is followed by P and R which talk about ‘weather’ and how books help.

It is then followed by S, which talks about how books have helped humanity.

Thus, the correct combination is QPRS, as seen in Option 4.

The correct answer is QRPS.

Q is the first sentence as it forms the beginning, seen from ‘one night’.

It is followed by R, showing that Lakshmi tightly held the knife.

It is followed by P, showing what happened when the robber was near her bed.

It is followed by S, showing what happened when the robber was shocked.

Thus, the correct combination is QRPS, as seen in Option 3.

The erroneous segment is 'owing for'.

Key Points

• The given sentence is not grammatically correct.
• The error lies in Part A of the sentence.
• Here, the error lies in the erroneous usage of the preposition 'for' after owing.
• The correct preposition after owing is 'to'.
• If something is owing to another thing, it is a result of that thing.
• Therefore, the correct substitution for the erroneous part is 'owing to'.
• Hence, the correct answer is option 3.

The correct answer is 'If will john'.

Key Points

• The given sentence is not grammatically correct.
• The error lies in part B of the sentence.
• It should be 'if john will'.
• It is because in indirect speech, the modal 'will' should come after the subject 'john'.
• Therefore, the correct answer is option 2.
  

​Correct Sentence: John wanted to know if John will come to the college in the evening.

The erroneous part of the sentence is: hurted himself

Key Points

• Replace 'hurted' with 'hurt' to make the sentence correct.
• Hurt (verb) means to cause physical pain or injury.
• The given sentence is written in the past tense and the past and past participle form of the verb is also 'hurt'.
• There is no word such as 'hurted' in English grammar.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 2, which contains an error.

Corrected sentence: The little boy hurt himself when he fell off his bicycle.

The erroneous part of the sentence is: what l am reading 

Key Points

• Use 'was' in place of 'am' to make the sentence correct
• Am is used for the first person singular subject when the sentence is in the present tense.
• Was is used for the first and third person singular subject when the sentence is in the past tense.
• The given sentence is in the past tense, so must use was instead of am.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 2.

Corrected sentence: My cousin, Jawahar, visited me at home and asked me what I was reading.

The correct answer is option 3), i.e., 'Irreversible.'

Key Points   

• Let's look at the meanings of the given word and marked option:
• Irrevocable - not able to be changed or reversed. (अपरिवर्तनीय)
• Irreversible - not able to be undone or reversed. (अपरिवर्तनीय)
• ​Let's look at the meanings of the other given options:​
• Unmediated - without the intervention of a mediator or intermediary. (अंतरवर्ती के बिना)
• Congruent - in agreement or harmony. (समानुपातिक)
• Irresponsive - not reacting to something. (असंवेदनशील)
• Clearly, the word 'Irreversible' is closest in meaning to the given word 'Irrevocable.'
• Therefore, the correct synonym of the given word is option 3.

The correct answer is 'Admirable'.

Key Points

• The most appropriate antonym of the given word 'Abominable' is 'Admirable'.
• Abominable: घिनौना- causing moral revulsion or hatred.
• Example: The abominable act of animal cruelty is a serious offense that should be punished by law.
• Admirable: प्रशंसनीय (Prashansaniya) - deserving of respect and approval.
• Example: Her admirable work towards the betterment of society earned her many accolades.
  

Correct Answer: Admirable.

Additional Information

• Let's look at the meaning of other words:
• Worthy: महत्वपूर्ण - deserving of respect and attention.
• Delectable: सुखदायक - delicious and pleasing to taste.
• Detestable: घिनौना - deserving of hatred and disgust.

The correct answer is 'Harmony'.

Key Points

• The most appropriate antonym of the given word 'Feud' is 'Harmony'.
• Feud: झगड़ा - a prolonged and bitter quarrel or dispute between two parties.
• Example: The two families have been in a feud for generations over a piece of land.
• Harmony: समंजस - a pleasing combination or arrangement of different elements, leading to a peaceful and friendly relationship. 
• Example: The choir's performance was marked by a beautiful harmony of voices.
  

Correct Answer: Harmony.

Additional Information

• Let's look at the meaning of other words:
• Distrust: अविश्वास - a feeling of doubt or suspicion towards someone or something.
• Unfriendliness: असभ्यता - a lack of friendliness or warmth, often resulting in hostility or unpleasantness.
• Destruct: विनाश - the act or process of destroying something completely.

The correct answer is 'Lasting'.

Key Points

• Momentary is an adjective which means lasting for a very short time; brief.
• Example - He has a momentary lapse in concentration.
• The meaning of the given options are as follows - 
• Sporadic - occurring at irregular intervals or only in a few places; scattered or isolated. - The gunfire was sporadic and seemed a long way off.
• Futuristic - having or involving very modern technology or design. - The film depicts a futuristic society.
• Lasting - enduring or able to endure over a long period of time. - They left a lasting impression.
• Homogeneous - of the same kind; alike. - We prefer working and socialising with a homogeneous group.
• From the above meanings it is evident that lasting is the correct opposite for the word momentary.
• Hence, option 3 is the correct answer.

The correct answer is 'Vice'.

Key Points   

• Virtue is a noun which means behaviour showing high moral standards.
• Example - Humility is considered a virtue.
• The meaning of the given options are as follows - 
• Vice - immoral behaviour. - He thought gambling was a vice.
• ​Hence, we can see that 'virtue' and 'vice' are opposite in meaning and hence, it is the correct option*.*
• Quality - the standard of something as measured against other things of a similar kind; the degree of excellence of something. - The house has many fine qualities.
• Weakness - a fault or lack of strength, especially in a person’s character - Dexter's weakness is his inability to hide his feelings.
• Crime - an action or omission which constitutes an offence and is punishable by law. - Murder is a horrible crime.
• From the above meanings it is evident that vice is the correct opposite for the word virtue.
• Hence, option 1 is correct.

The correct answer is move the needle.

Key Points

• Move the needle: To change a situation to a noticeable degree. (किसी स्थिति को ध्यान देने योग्य डिग्री में बदलना)
• Example: We’re all hoping that the new product line will move the needle on sales—revenues have been flat lately.
• The sentence implies that the company hired a particular person to increase their sales but she was unable to change the situation to a noticeable degree.
• Thus, the most appropriate option to fill in the blank is option 1.

Correct Sentence: They hired her to increase sales, but her strategies failed to move the needle.

Additional Information

• Burn bridges: do something which makes it impossible to return to an earlier state. (कुछ ऐसा करना जिससे पहले की स्थिति में लौटना असंभव हो जाए)
• Spill the beans: to tell a person about something that should be a secret. (किसी व्यक्ति को किसी ऐसी बात के बारे में बताना जो गुप्त होनी चाहिए)
• Get a second wind: a return of strength or energy that makes it possible to continue in an activity or start again. (ताकत या ऊर्जा की वापसी जो किसी गतिविधि को जारी रखना या फिर से शुरू करना संभव बनाती है)

The correct answer is "The newly introduced car was sold to the highest bidder by the company".

Key Points

• As we can see the given sentence is in the active voice format of the simple past tense as the second form of the verb (sold) is applied in the sentence, so we have to change the active voice as per the same tense rules.
• Active voice: Subject + V2 + object
• Passive voice: Object + was/were + V3 + by + subject
• Example:
• Active voice: Maya cleaned the dishes.
• Passive voice: The dishes were cleaned by Maya.
• By following the above-mentioned rules, we have to change the active to passive by applying the third form of the verb (was sold) in the sentence.
  

Therefore, the correct answer is: The newly introduced car was sold to the highest bidder by the company.

Additional Information

• Let us take a look at the rules of simple past active passive voice:
• Active voice: Subject + V2 + object
• Passive voice: Object + was/were + V3 + by + subject
• Active voice: Subject + did + not + v1 + object
• Passive voice: Object + was/were + not + V3 + by Subject
• Active voice: Did + subject + V1 + object +?
• Passive voice: Was/were + Object + V3 + by subject +?

The correct answer is "Were you called by Rani?".

Key Points

• As we can see the given sentence is in the active voice format of the simple past tense as the past auxiliary verb (did) is applied in the sentence, so we have to change the active voice as per the same tense rules.
• Active voice: Did + subject + V1 + object +
• Passive voice: Was/were + Object + V3 + by subject +?
• Example:
• Active voice: Did Joseph clean the house?
• Passive voice: Was the house cleaned by Joseph?
• By following the above-mentioned rules, we have to change the active voice to passive voice by applying the second form of the verb (were...called) in the sentence.
  

Therefore, the correct answer is*: Were you called by Rani?*

Additional Information

• Let us take a look at the rules of simple past active passive voice:
• Active voice: Subject + V2 + object
• Passive voice: Object + was/were + V3 + by + subject
• Active voice: Subject + did + not + v1 + object
• Passive voice: Object + was/were + not + V3 + by Subject
• Active voice: Did + subject + V1 + object +?
• Passive voice: Was/were + Object + V3 + by subject +?

The correct answer is option 1) i.e. 'He proposed that they should wait for the award.'

Key Points

• The given sentence is in Direct Speech. As per the given directions, we have to change it into Indirect Speech.
• The given sentence is an imperative sentence.
• The process of transformation is as follows:
• The conjunction 'that' will be added and comma and inverted commas will be removed.
• In the Indirect speech 'said to' will be changed into 'proposed.'
• The indirect speech will begin like 'He proposed that.'
• Now we have to change the reported speech.
• Here 'let us' will be changed into 'they should'.
• Finally, the indirect speech is 'He proposed that they should wait for the award.'
• ​So, the correct answer is option 1.

Correct Sentence: He proposed that they should wait for the award.

Confusion Points

• Option 2 and 3 are incorrect as they use wrong pronouns.
• Option 4 is wrong as it uses third form of the verb after the modal verb 'should'.
• We always use first form of the verb after modal verbs.

The correct answer is 'Anita told the mother that her child had been crying since morning.'.

Key Points

• The given sentence is in direct speech.
• We need to convert it into Indirect Speech.
• The rules of conversion are :
• Reporting verb 'Said to' is coverted to 'Told'.
• Commas and Inverted commas will be replaced with 'that'.
• If personal pronouns are there in the reported speech,it will be changed according to the subject and the object of the reporting verb .
• If the sentence is in Present Perfect Progressive in Direct speech, then it will change to Past perfect progressive in Indirect speech.
• Structure :  has/have+ been+ V1+ing (direct) to had +been + V1+ing (indirect)
• ​Finally,we will get the final sentence, 'Anita told the mother that her child had been crying since morning'.
• Hence, the correct answer is option 2.

The correct answer is 'whenever.'

Key Points     

• Let us see the meanings of the given options:
• Where: "Where" is most commonly used as an adverb to define a location or position.
• It can also be used informally as a conjunction in place of the words "that" or "whereas."
• As such, "where" is commonly used to ask questions like "Where are my socks?" or make positional statements like, "Home is where the heart is."
• Whereby: "Whereby" is an adverb which is indeed similar to 'by which'.
• It can be used as an attributive clause.
• Example: A system, whereby, people could vote by telephone.
• Whenever: We use "whenever" to refer to any time or every time that something happens or is true.
• Example: She always called at the house whenever she was in the area.
• While: We can use "while" or as to talk about two longer events or activities happening at the same time. 
• We can use either simple or continuous verb forms:
• Example: We spent long evenings talking in my sitting-room while he played the music he had chosen and explained his ideas.
• ​The given sentence is stating if the person is unable to commute every day, he will try to find another employment.
• Hence, the correct answer is Option 3.
  

​

Correct sentence: I will try for another job whenever I cannot commute every day.

The correct answer is 'where.'

Key Points     

• Let us see the meanings of the given options:
• Where: We can use "where" to ask for information about place.
• We can use "where" in indirect questions.
• Example: Can you tell me where she left the keys?
• Which: We use "which" in questions as a determiner and interrogative pronoun to ask for specific information.
• Example: Which do you prefer? Lemon cake or carrot cake?
• Whose: We use "whose" to ask a question about possession.
• Example: Whose birthday is it today?
• While: We can use "while" or as to talk about two longer events or activities happening at the same time. 
• We can use either simple or continuous verb forms:
• Example: We spent long evenings talking in my sitting-room while he played the music he had chosen and explained his ideas.
• ​ The given sentence talks about a location "Delhi."
• Hence, the correct answer is Option 1.
  

​

Correct sentence: I want to know where you will stay in Delhi?

Here, the correct answer is Ragini happily thanked Tina for the beautiful birthday gift. 

Key Points 

• We need to follow these rules to convert the given sentence from direct to indirect speech:
• Indirect speech is a means of stating the content of statements, questions or other statements, without quoting them openly as is done in direct speech.
• In indirect speech, the authentic words of the speaker are changed.
• On converting a sentence from Direct to indirect the actual words are changed because of the change in time.
• In the case of optative sentences, we simply used “thanked”.
• In addition, when reporting verb is in the past tense, reported speech changes from present indefinite tense to past indefinite tense.
• The Indirect speech of She said to me; “Thank You” is she thanked me.
• As per the rules to convert into indirect we need to omit all the commas or quotation marks.
• As the words were 'said' is used, so these are changed accordingly.
• 'Thank you' changes to 'thanked'.
• Option 1 can be ruled out as it mentions the incorrect structure.
• Option 3 can be eliminated as the subjects have been reversed i.e. Tina has been used instead of Ragini and vice versa.
• Option 4 can be ruled out as it does not expresses the happiness that was felt by Ragini.
• So, the correct answer is Option 2.
  

Correct sentence: Ragini happily thanked Tina for the beautiful birthday gift.

Here the correct answer is Comprise.

Key Points

• "Comprise" is a verb that means to consist of or be made up of.
• In this sentence, we need a verb in the present participle form to match the tense of the sentence.
• "Comprise" is the correct form of the verb in this context because it is the present participle form and it is plural in nature.
• Option 1, "comprises," is the third person singular form of the verb, which would not be correct in this sentence because the subject is not singular.
• Option 2, "comprising," is the correct present participle form of the verb, but it is not in the correct tense for this sentence.
• Option 3, "comprised," is the past participle form of the verb, which would not be correct in this sentence because we need a present participle form.
• Therefore, option 4, "comprise," is the correct answer.

Correct Paragraph: The phrase non-governmental or non-profit is commonly used to refer to the various organisations that (1) comprise civil society. In general, such organisations are distinguished by the (2)______ that they operate for reasons other than financial gain. Surveys indicate that NGOs have a high degree of public (3), which can make them a useful proxy for the concerns of society and stakeholders. NGOs range from small pressure groups on specific environmental concerns or human rights (4), to educational charities, women's refuges, cultural associations, religious organisations, legal foundations, humanitarian assistance programmes – and the list could go on – to large international organisations with hundreds or even thousands of branches or members around the world.

Here the correct answer is Fact.

Key Points

• The most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2 is "fact."
• A fact is a statement that can be proven or verified through evidence or observation.
• In contrast, a value is a belief or principle that is subjective and varies from person to person.
• A clue is a piece of information that helps solve a problem or mystery. A lie is a deliberate false statement.
• In the context of filling in a blank, it is most appropriate to choose the option that fits logically and grammatically with the rest of the sentence.
• Since the sentence is asking for a statement that is true and can be supported by evidence, "fact" is the best choice.

Correct Paragraph: The phrase non-governmental or non-profit is commonly used to refer to the various organisations that (1) comprise civil society. In general, such organisations are distinguished by the (2) fact that they operate for reasons other than financial gain. Surveys indicate that NGOs have a high degree of public (3), which can make them a useful proxy for the concerns of society and stakeholders. NGOs range from small pressure groups on specific environmental concerns or human rights (4), to educational charities, women's refuges, cultural associations, religious organisations, legal foundations, humanitarian assistance programmes – and the list could go on – to large international organisations with hundreds or even thousands of branches or members around the world.

Here the correct answer is Trust.

Key Points

• The most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3 is "trust."
• ​The sentence is likely discussing a personal relationship or a situation where someone is relying on another person.
• In this context, "trust" is the most appropriate word to use as it implies a sense of reliance and confidence in the other person.
• "Thought" and "idea" do not fit the context as they are more related to mental processes and concepts, rather than interpersonal relationships.
• "Belief" could work, but it has a stronger connotation of faith or conviction in something, rather than in someone.
• Therefore, "trust" is the correct answer.

Correct Paragraph: The phrase non-governmental or non-profit is commonly used to refer to the various organisations that (1) comprise civil society. In general, such organisations are distinguished by the (2) fact that they operate for reasons other than financial gain. Surveys indicate that NGOs have a high degree of public (3) trust, which can make them a useful proxy for the concerns of society and stakeholders. NGOs range from small pressure groups on specific environmental concerns or human rights (4)______, to educational charities, women's refuges, cultural associations, religious organisations, legal foundations, humanitarian assistance programmes – and the list could go on – to large international organisations with hundreds or even thousands of branches or members around the world.

Here the correct answer is Violations.

Key Points

• The correct answer is "violations" because the other options do not fit the context of the sentence.
• It means the action of violating someone or something.
• Example: The aircraft were in violation of UN resolutions.
• The sentence is likely discussing some sort of rules or regulations, and "evaluation" and "discrimination" do not fit that context.
• "Prohibitions" could work, but it does not convey the same sense of breaking a rule or law that "violations" does.
• Therefore, "violations" is the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
  

Correct Paragraph: The phrase non-governmental or non-profit is commonly used to refer to the various organisations that (1) comprise civil society. In general, such organisations are distinguished by the (2) fact that they operate for reasons other than financial gain. Surveys indicate that NGOs have a high degree of public (3) trust, which can make them a useful proxy for the concerns of society and stakeholders. NGOs range from small pressure groups on specific environmental concerns or human rights (4) violations, to educational charities, women's refuges, cultural associations, religious organisations, legal foundations, humanitarian assistance programmes – and the list could go on – to large international organisations with hundreds or even thousands of branches or members around the world.

The correct answer is Option 3)

Key Points

• The idiom 'To leave no stone unturned' means to do everything possible to achieve something.
• This idiom is often used to describe a thorough and exhaustive effort to find or achieve something.
• It suggests that every possible effort or method has been employed to reach a goal.

Hence, the correct meaning of the given idiom is: To find the missing document, she left no stone unturned.

Additional Information

• The idiom originates from ancient Greek mythology, where the Oracle of Delphi advised a general to search under every stone for a treasure.
• It emphasizes the importance of being thorough and diligent in one's efforts.

The correct answer is Option 3)

Key Points

• The idiom "Skating on thin ice" means to be in a risky or dangerous situation. (खतरे में होना)
• Example: After failing to meet the deadline, she knew she was skating on thin ice with her boss.
• He was on thin ice after making a controversial statement correctly uses the idiom to indicate that he was in a risky situation because of his statement. (वह एक विवादास्पद बयान देने के बाद खतरे में था)
• Example: After criticizing the management openly, he realized he was on thin ice.

Therefore, the correct meaning of the given statement is 'He was on thin ice after making a controversial statement.'

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

• Option 1: They were on thin ice when they skated on the frozen lake. (जब वे जमी हुई झील पर स्केटिंग कर रहे थे तो वे खतरे में थे)
• This sentence uses the idiom literally rather than metaphorically.
• Option 2: She was on thin ice while trying to balance on a tightrope. (तंग रस्सी पर संतुलन बनाते समय वह खतरे में थी)
• This sentence confuses two idioms: "on thin ice" and "walking a tightrope".
• Option 4: They were on thin ice due to the icy conditions on the road. (सड़क पर बर्फीली स्थिति के कारण वे खतरे में थे)
• This sentence also uses the idiom literally rather than metaphorically.

The correct answer is Vaishali.

Key Points

• Vajji was an ancient Indian Mahajanapada, a federation of several republics, rather than a single kingdom.
• The federation of Vajji represents one of the world's earliest examples of a republic, dating back to the 6th century BCE.
• Vaishali, also known as Vesali or Vaiśālī in ancient texts, was the capital of Vajji Mahajanapada.
• Located in present-day Bihar, Vaishali is of significant historical and archaeological importance.
• Vaishali is also revered in Buddhism and Jainism as it was a favourite place of Lord Buddha and the birthplace of Lord Mahavir.
• Today, Vaishali is known for its archaeological sites including stupas, pillars, and ancient ruins that reflect its rich past.

Additional Information

Shortcut Trick

Remaining food duration for 300 men = 30 − 10 = 20 days.

Total men after 10 days = 300 + 100 = 400 men.

Since food is constant, Men × Days = Constant ⇒ 300 × 20 = 400 × New Days.

New Days = 6000 ÷ 400 = 15 days.

∴ The correct answer is 15 days.

Alternate Method

Given:

Initial number of men (M₁) = 300

Initial food duration = 30 days

Time elapsed = 10 days

Additional men joined = 100

Formula Used:

M₁ × D₁ = M₂ × D₂ (where M is men and D is remaining days)

Calculations:

⇒ Total food units initially = 300 × 30 = 9000 man-days.

⇒ Food consumed in 10 days = 300 × 10 = 3000 man-days.

⇒ Remaining food units = 9000 − 3000 = 6000 man-days.

⇒ Total new men (M₂) = 300 + 100 = 400.

⇒ Number of days food will last (D₂) = Remaining Food ÷ M₂

⇒ D₂ = 6000 ÷ 400

⇒ D₂ = 15 days.

∴ The correct answer is 15 days.

Additional Information

Inverse Proportion in Time and Work

The number of days a provision lasts is inversely proportional to the number of people. If people increase, the days decrease: M₁/M₂ = D₂/D₁.

Chain Rule Formula

For problems involving men, days, and hours, use (M₁ × D₁ × H₁) / W₁ = (M₂ × D₂ × H₂) / W₂, where W is the work or amount of food.

Remaining Provision Logic

Always calculate based on remaining capacity. If 'x' days have passed out of 'T' total days, the calculation becomes M₁ × (T − x) = M₂ × D_new.

Here the time difference is 9 am to 3.30 pm  = 6.30 hours.

The clock makes a 30° angle when it completes 1 hour. so 6 h = 180°

Also, the clock makes a 15° angle when it completes 30 minutes.

So, the total angle = 180 + 15 = 195°

Hence, the correct answer is 195°.

The correct option is Modern Nationalism.

Important Points

• The first clear expression of nationalism came with the French Revolution in 1789.
• France, as you would remember, was a full-fledged territorial state in 1789 under the rule of an absolute monarch.
• The political and constitutional changes that came in the wake of the French Revolution led to the transfer of sovereignty from the monarchy to a body of French citizens.
• The revolution proclaimed that it was the people who would henceforth constitute the nation and shape its destiny.

Additional Information

• From the very beginning, the French revolutionaries introduced various measures and practices that could create a sense of collective identity amongst the French people.
• The ideas of la Patrie (the fatherland) and le citoyen (the citizen) emphasized the notion of a united community enjoying equal rights under a constitution.
• A new French flag, the tricolor, was chosen to replace the former royal standard. The Estates-General was elected by the body of active citizens and renamed the National Assembly.
• New hymns were composed, oaths taken and martyrs commemorated, all in the name of the nation.
• A centralized administrative system was put in place and it formulated uniform laws for all citizens within its territory. Internal customs duties and dues were abolished and a uniform system of weights and measures was adopted.
• Regional dialects were discouraged and French, as it was spoken and written in Paris, became the common language of the nation.

Given:

Sum of money in 3 years  = Rs.1344

Sum of money in 7 years = Rs.1536

Concept used:

Amount = Principal + Interest

Calculation:

⇒ P + 3I = 1344 -------(1)

⇒ P + 7I = 1536  --------(2)

⇒ 4I = 192

⇒ I = 48

⇒ 3I = 3 × 48

⇒ 3I = 144

On putting value of 3I in equation (1) we have,

⇒ P = 1200

∴ The correct answer is Rs.1200.

According to given coding language (i.e., reverse alphabetical series):

TINY = 10 → (7 + 18) – (13 + 2) = 25 – 15 = 10

MORE = -5 → (14 + 12) – (9 + 22) = 26 – 31 = -5

Similarly,

HAND → (19 + 26) – (13 + 23) = 9

Hence, 9 is the correct answer.

The correct answer is Lord Cornwallis.

Key Points

• During the British raj, Warren Hastings laid the foundation of the Civil Services.
• Charles Cornwallis reformed, modernized and rationalized it. Hence, Charles Cornwallis is known as 'the Father of civil service in India'.
• British General Charles Cornwallis was appointed in February 1786 to serve as both Commander-in-Chief of British India and Governor of the Presidency of Fort William, also known as the Bengal Presidency.
• He had introduced the Covenanted Civil Services and the Uncovenanted Civil Services.
• The Covenanted Civil Services was created out of the Law of the Company.

Additional Information

Important events and Governor-General at that time: 

Given:

Speed of boat in still water = 6 km/hr

Speed of current in water = 1.2 km/hr

Formula used:

When distance is same,

Average speed = (2 × S1 × S2)/(S1 + S2) 

S1 = Initial speed

S2 = Final speed

Distance = Speed × Time

Calculation:

Speed in the direction of current = 6 + 1.2 = 7.2 km/hr

Speed in the direction of current = 6 - 1.2 = 4.8 km/hr

Average speed = (2 × S1 × S2)/(S1 + S2) 

⇒ A.S = (2 × 7.2 × 4.8)/(7.2 + 4.8)

⇒ A.S = (2 × 72 × 48)/1200 = 144/25 km/hr

Total travelled Distance = Average speed × time

⇒ 144/25 × 1 = 144/25 km

Distance from starting point to the place = 144/(25 × 2) = 144/50 = 2.88

∴ Distance from starting point to the place is 2.88 km.

The water image will be:

Hence, the correct answer is “option 2”

The common people deposit money to the RBI

Key Points

• Repo rate is the interest rate at which the commercial banks borrow from the RBI. Repo Rate is the rate at which the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lends money to commercial banks or financial institutions in India against government securities. The current Repo Rate in 2023 is 6.50%. If the RBI lowers the Repo Rate, it increases the money supply in the market, which can help the economy grow.

Shortcut Trick

Total Work (LCM of 15, 10) = 30 units.

Efficiency: Mia = 2, Ria = 3.

Work done by Mia in 5 days = 2 × 5 = 10 units.

Remaining work = 30 − 10 = 20 units.

Days for both together = 20 ÷ (2 + 3) = 4 days.

Total days = 5 + 4 = 9 days.

∴ The correct answer is 9 days.

Alternate Method

Given: Mia completes work in 15 days; Ria completes work in 10 days; Mia works for 5 days alone.

Formula: Total Work = Efficiency × Time

⇒ Work completed by Mia in first 5 days = 2 × 5 = 10 units

⇒ Remaining work to be done = 30 − 10 = 20 units

⇒ Combined efficiency of Mia and Ria = 2 + 3 = 5 units/day

⇒ Time taken by both to complete remaining work = 20 ÷ 5 = 4 days

⇒ Total duration of the work = Time (Mia alone) + Time (Together)

⇒ Total duration = 5 + 4 = 9 days

∴ The correct answer is 9 days.

Additional Information

Pipes & Cisterns

This concept is similar to Time & Work, where filling pipes have positive efficiency and leakage/outlet pipes have negative efficiency.

Work & Wages

Wages are distributed in the ratio of the total work done by each person, which is the product of their Efficiency and Time.

Alternate Day Work

When people work on alternate days, find the total work done in one cycle (sum of efficiencies) and divide the total work by the cycle value.

Position of Raghu from Right: 11

It is given that there are 10 peoples sit between Raghu and Linga. So, Linga cannot sit at right side of Raghu, as there are only 9 people between Raghu and Linga. So Linga will sit at the left side of Ragu.

Linga’s position from right = Position of Ragu from Right + 10 + 1 = 11 + 10 + 1 = 22

It is given that Arun is exactly between Linga and Bala but Arun, Linga and Bala are not immediate neighbours, so number of persons between Linga and Bala is cannot be determined.

Hence, number of persons sitting in the row cannot be determined

The correct answer is As a Union of States

Key Points

The Union and its Territories:

• Article 1 describes India, i.e. Bharat, as a Union of States.
• According to Article 1, the Territory of India can be classified into three categories:
• Territories of the States.
• Union Territories.
• Territories that may be acquired by the Government of India at any time.
• At present, there are 28 states and 8 Union territories in the country.
• Article 2 empowers the Parliament to admit into the Union of India, or establish new states on such terms and conditions as it thinks fit.
• It is because our constitution delegates powers to both the Centre and the State, yet more power lies with the Centre.
• After independence, India was formed by the decision of princely states who decided to join India and thus form a union of states.
• Article 1 of the constitution states that India shall be a Union of states.

 Thus, we can say that the term used by the Constitution of India to describe India is the Union of the States.

Shortcut Trick

Total distance (1) = 330 + 550 = 880 m → 11 s.

Total distance (2) = 330 + 570 = 900 m.

Time = (900 × 11) ÷ 880 = 900 ÷ 80 = 45/4 seconds.

∴ The correct answer is (45/4) seconds.

Alternate Method

Given: Train length = 330 m, Bridge₁ = 550 m, Bridge₂ = 570 m, Time₁ = 11 s.

Formula Used: Speed = (Length of Train + Length of Object) ÷ Time

Train 330 m

Bridge 550 m

Total Dist = 880 m (Case 1) Time taken = 11 seconds

⇒ Total Distance₁ = 330 + 550 = 880 m.

⇒ Speed of train = Total Distance₁ ÷ Time₁ = 880 ÷ 11 = 80 m/s.

⇒ Total Distance₂ = 330 + 570 = 900 m.

⇒ Time₂ = Total Distance₂ ÷ Speed = 900 ÷ 80.

⇒ Time₂ = 45/4 seconds.

∴ The correct answer is (45/4) seconds.

Additional Information

Relative Speed

When two trains of lengths L₁ and L₂ cross each other, total distance is always L₁ + L₂. Relative speed is S₁ + S₂ (opposite) or S₁ − S₂ (same direction).

Unit Conversion

To convert speed from km/h to m/s, multiply by 5/18. To convert from m/s to km/h, multiply by 18/5.

Train crossing a stationary point

When a train crosses a pole, tree, or man, the distance covered is equal to the length of the train itself.

The pattern followed here is,

2 + (1 × 1) = 2 + 1 = 3

3 + (2 ×  2) = 3 + 4 = 7

7 + (3 × 3) = 7 + 9 = 16

16 + (4 × 4) = 16 + 16 = 32

32 + (5 × 5) = 32 + 25 = 57

57 + (6 × 6) = 57 + 36 = 93

Hence, 93 is the correct answer.

The correct answer is West Bengal.

Key Points

• In West Bengal is the localized wind and thunderstorms associated with violent gusts and heavy rain known as ‘Kaal Baisakhi’.
• Kaal Baisakhi:
• ​It is a local rainfall and thunderstorm occur in Assam and West Bengal and in India or Bangladesh.
• It occurs in the summer season.
• It harms life and money and generally occurs in the month of Baisakh (April-May), hence it is known as 'Kaal Baisakhi'.
• It originated from the Chotanagpur Plateau.
• Since It is caused by winds coming from the northwest direction, they are also called 'norwesters'.

Additional Information

• During the summer season, strong humid winds start blowing in many places in India, which are known by different names in different places of the country:
• Norwesters in East India
• Cherry Blossoms/Coffee Showers
• It is the local humid wind of Karnataka that is helpful for the coffee plantation and flows in the hot weather season.
• Mango- shower
• It is pre-monsoon rainfall and occurs especially in parts of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
• It helps in the early ripening of mangoes and hence it is called 'Mango rain' or Mango-shower.

Given:

Ten persons average weight = 58 kg

The average weight decreases by 200 g, when one person left.

Concept used:

Average = Sum of all observations/Total number of observations

Calculation:

Total weight of 10 persons = 10 × 58

⇒ 580 kg

The average weight decreases by 200 g, when one person left.

So, new average = 58 - 0.2

⇒ 57.8 kg

Total weight of 9 persons = 9 × 57.8

⇒ 520.2 kg

The weight of the person who left the boat = 580 - 520.2

⇒ 59.8 kg

∴ The weight of the person who left the boat = 59.8 kg.

Shortcut Trick Left person's weight = Average ± average decrease/increase × New total number of persons

⇒ 58 + (200/1000) × 9

⇒ 58 + 1.8

⇒ 59.8 kg

Important Points Left person's weight = Average ± average decrease/increase × New total number of persons

 If a person goes from the group, so if there is increase in the average then take (-) sign and a decrease will take (+) sign.

In figure (X), one of the dots lies in the region common to the hexagon, the star and the square only and the other dot lies in the region common to all the geometrical shapes except hexagon. Only figure (D) consists of both types of regions.

Hence, figure (D) is the correct one.

The correct answer is MS Dhoni.

Key Points

• MS Dhoni has won the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade Award.
• Dhoni won the award for his decision to call back Ian Bell after the former England batsman was run out in a bizarre manner during a Test match in 2011.
• MS Dhoni honoured Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, India's highest honour given for achievement in sports, 2007–08.
• Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, 2018.
• Padma Shri in India's fourth-highest civilian award, in 2009.
• Team India's Achievement under Dhoni's captaincy -
• India won the 2007 ICC World Twenty20.
• The Asia Cups in 2010 and 2016.
• ICC Cricket World Cup, 2011.
• ICC Champions Trophy 2013.

Additional Information

• Virat Kohli won the Sir Garfield Sobers ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade Award.
• Sachin Tendulkar is the highest run-scorer in total in all three formats of cricket.
• Rahul Dravid is a retired legendary wicketkeeper-batsman of India.

Given:

Ram scores in Paper A = 18

Maximum Marks in paper A = 70

Ram scores in Paper B = 14

Maximum Marks in Paper B = 30

Ram scores in Paper C = 50

Maximum Marks in Paper B = 100

Formula:

Percentage of marks = $\frac{\text{Marks scored}}{\text{Total Marks}}$ × 100

Calculation:

Percentage of Marks in Paper A = $\frac{18}{70}$ × 100  = 25.7 %

Percentage of Marks in Paper B = $\frac{14}{30}$ × 100  = 46.6 %

Percentage of Marks in Paper C = $\frac{50}{100}$ × 100  = 50 %

∴ Ram scored Better marks in Paper C

In figure (X), one of the dots lies in the region common to the circle and the square only and the other dot lies in the region common to all the geometrical shapes. Only figure (D) consists of both types of regions.

Hence, figure (D) is the correct one.

The correct answer is Option 2.

In News

• News: Russia claimed its troops had captured a village in southern Ukraine, continuing its progress on the front line against a Ukrainian Army lacking troops and ammunition. “Units of the Eastern forces have liberated the settlement of Zagrine in the Zaporizhzhia region,” the Russian Defence Ministry said

Key PointsZaporizhzhia region: 

• It is located in southeastern Ukraine, the Zaporizhzhia region is significant for housing Europe's largest nuclear power plant, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station. Hence, option 2 is correct.
• Strategic Importance: The region has been a focal point due to its industrial capabilities and energy infrastructure.
• Western Ukraine and mountainous terrain: This is incorrect as Zaporizhzhia is in the southeast and not known for mountains.
• No significant industrial activity: This is incorrect as the region is heavily industrialized.
• Capital city of Ukraine: This is incorrect as the capital of Ukraine is Kyiv.
• The Zaporizhzhia region plays a crucial role in Ukraine's energy sector.
• Due to its strategic importance, the region has been a site of conflict in recent geopolitical tensions.

Given:

The radius and height of a right circular cone are increased by 25%.

Formula used:

Volume of a cone, V = (1/3)πr²h

Calculations:

Let the original radius be r and the original height be h.

Original volume, V₁ = (1/3)πr²h

New radius = r + 0.25r = 1.25r

New height = h + 0.25h = 1.25h

New volume, V₂ = (1/3)π(1.25r)²(1.25h)

⇒ V₂ = (1/3)π(1.5625r²)(1.25h)

⇒ V₂ = (1/3)π(1.953125r²h)

Increase in volume = V₂ - V₁

⇒ Increase in volume = (1/3)π(1.953125r²h) - (1/3)πr²h

⇒ Increase in volume = (1/3)πr²h(1.953125 - 1)

⇒ Increase in volume = (1/3)πr²h(0.953125)

Percentage increase in volume = (Increase in volume / Original volume) × 100

⇒ Percentage increase in volume = (0.953125 / 1) × 100

⇒ Percentage increase in volume = 95.31%

∴ The correct answer is option (1).

The correct option is Thallophyta

**Key Points:**Concept:

• Based on whether plants have a well-differentiated body and the presence or absence of specialized tissues for transport, and the ability to bear seeds Kingdom Plantae (Plant Kingdom) is can be classified into different divisions.
• Thallophyta
• The plant body is not differentiated from roots, stems, and leaves.
• They are commonly called algae.
• Bryophyta
• These are small terrestrial plants.
• They show differentiation in the body design, with stem, leaf-like structures, and root-like structures.
• Pteridophyta
• The plant body is differentiated into roots, stems, and leaves, apart from having a specialized tissue for conduction.
• Gymnosperms
• Gymnosperms are plants with naked seeds.
• Angiosperms
• Angiosperms are seed-bearing plants. Seeds develop inside tissues that get modified to form the fruit of the plant.

Explanation:

• All the plants that lack a well-differentiated body structure belong to the subgroup Thallophyta.
• Thallophytes are commonly known as algae.
• The majority of them are aquatic.
• It includes the primitive form of plant life.
• They do not have vascular tissues which help in the transportation of water and minerals, hence, they are usually found in moist places.
• Thallophyta is further divided into - Algae and Fungi.
• Chara, Lichen, and Spirogyra are examples of Thallophyta.

Given :

The length of a rectangle is increased by 20% and width is decreased by 20% .

Formula used :

Area of rectangle = l x b , where l = length and b = breadth

Calculation :

New area of rectangle = $\dfrac{100 +20}{100}\times l\times b \times \dfrac{100 -20}{100}$ = $\dfrac{24}{25}\times l\times b$

Percentage change in area = $\dfrac{25-24}{25}\times 100$ = 4%

∴ The answer is 4% .

The pattern followed is,

Consonants are increased by 4 while vowels are changed to the next vowel (A, E, I, O and U)

Similarly, 

Hence, 'WEDDING' will be as 'AIHHORK'.

The correct answer is Both 1 and 2.

In News

• News: The Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary will be the second home for cheetahs in India, after the Kuno National Park. The Madhya Pradesh government has announced that it has completed its preparations for the ambitious project.

Key PointsGandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary:

• The Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is indeed located near the Gandhi Sagar Dam on the Chambal River. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• The sanctuary was actually established in 1974.
• Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the western part of Madhya Pradesh, India. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
• The sanctuary supports a variety of wildlife including leopards, hyenas, sloth bears, and various species of deer and birds.
• It is an important ecological zone for the conservation of regional biodiversity and supports various conservation efforts aimed at protecting the habitat and wildlife within its boundaries.

Given:

Total marbles the three boys have = 82

The ratio of the marbles of Alan and Ben is 2 ∶ 5. And the ratio of the marbles of Ben and Chris is 3 : 4.

Calculation:

The ratio of marbles of Alan and Ben = 2 : 5

The ratio of marbles of Ben and Chris = 3 : 4

So, The total ratio of marble of Alan, Ben, and Chris have

⇒ 2 x 3 : 5 x 3 : 4 x 5

⇒ 6 : 15 : 20

Chris has marbles = $\dfrac{20}{6+15+20}\times 82$ = 40

∴ The answer is 40 .

'Cell' is 'fundamental unit of life'.

Similarly, 'Atom' is a 'fundamental unit of matter'.

Hence, 'Fundamental unit of Matter' is the correct answer.

The correct answer is ​1 and 3 only.

In News

• News: What has been the composition of the Council of Ministers at the Centre and in States since India became a democracy? What were the instances when the council became too large and unwieldy? How were the laws brought in to rein in this trend?

Key PointsCouncil of Ministers:

• Article 74 deals with the Council of Ministers while Article 75 deals with the appointment, tenure, responsibility, qualification, oath and salaries and allowances of the ministers.
• Article 74 provides for a council of ministers with the Prime Minister at the head to aid and advice the President in the exercise of his functions.
• The 42nd and 44th Constitutional amendment Act have made the advice binding on the President.
• In 1971 the Supreme Court held that even after the dissolution of the Lok Sabha, the council of ministers does not cease to hold office. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.
• Article 74 is mandatory and therefore the President cannot exercise the executive power without the aid and advice of the council of ministers.
• Any exercise of executive power without the aid and advice will be unconstitutional being violative of Article 74.
• Again in 1974, the court held that 'wherever the constitution requires the satisfaction of the President, the satisfaction is not the personal satisfaction of the President but it is the satisfaction of the council of ministers with whose aid and on whose advice the President exercises his powers and functions.'
• Article 75 clearly states that the council of ministers is a collective responsibility to the Lok Sabha.
• This means that all the ministers own joint responsibility to the Lok Sabha for all their acts of commission and commission.
• When the Lok Sabha passes a no-confidence motion against the council of ministers, all the ministers have to resign including those from Rajya Sabha. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• According to Article 88, every minister shall have the right to speak and take part in the proceedings of both the Houses of Parliament, any joint sitting of the houses and any committee of parliament of which he may be named a member. But s/he shall not be entitled to vote. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

Given:

Price reduced by = 20%

Total revenue increased = 60%

Formula Used:

Total Change = a + b + (a × b)/100

Calculation:

Total Revenue = x - 20 - (20 × x)/100  (We are taking 20 with negative sign because it is reduced)

⇒ 60 = x - 20 - (20 × x)/100

⇒ x = 100%

Total hours between 12 pm on Wednesday to 5 pm on Saturday = 3 days 5 hours

⇒72 + 5 = 77 hours

The clock gains = 3 + 3(36/60) = 3 + 3(3/5)

= 33/5 minutes in 77 hours

So, the clock gains 3 minutes in = (77 × 5/33 × 3)

⇒1155/33 = 35 hours

= 1 day and 11 hours

Hence, the watch is correct 2 days 2 hours after 12 pm on Wednesday, i.e. 11 pm on Thursday.

Banjul, officially the City of Banjul and formerly known as Bathurst, is the capital of The Gambia and is in a division of the same name.

Shortcut Trick

Pulp percentage in fresh fruit = 100% − 68% = 32%

Pulp percentage in dry fruit = 100% − 20% = 80%

Since the mass of pulp remains constant: Fresh weight × Fresh Pulp% = Dry weight × Dry Pulp%

75 × 32 = Dry weight × 80

Dry weight = (75 × 32) ÷ 80 = 2400 ÷ 80 = 30 kg

∴ The correct answer is 30 kg.

Alternate Method

Given:

Total mass of fresh fruits = 75 kg

Water in fresh fruit = 68% | Water in dry fruit = 20%

Calculations:

⇒ Mass of pulp in fresh fruit = (100% − 68%) of 75

⇒ Mass of pulp = 32% of 75 = (32 ÷ 100) × 75 = 24 kg

⇒ This 24 kg of pulp constitutes the non-water part of the dry fruit.

⇒ Percentage of pulp in dry fruit = 100% − 20% = 80%

⇒ Let the total mass of dry fruit be X kg.

⇒ 80% of X = 24

⇒ (80 ÷ 100) × X = 24

⇒ X = (24 × 100) ÷ 80 = 2400 ÷ 80

⇒ X = 30 kg

∴ The correct answer is 30 kg.

Additional Information

Concept of Constant Part

In problems involving evaporation or drying of substances, the quantity of the solid part (pulp) remains unchanged while only the water (liquid) content varies.

Water Evaporation Formula

Quantity of water evaporated = Total weight of fresh substance − Total weight of dry substance.

Percentage Composition

Total Weight = Weight of Water + Weight of Pulp. If water is P%, then pulp is (100 − P)%.

Calcium and Iron are examples of metals.

The correct Venn diagram representation is,

Hence, option 4 is the correct answer.

The correct answer Blue shift.

Key Points

• For visible light, the bluer part of the spectrum has shorter wavelengths, and the redder part of the spectrum has longer wavelengths.
• Thus, the Doppler effect for light is called a 'blueshift' if the light source is coming toward an observer, and a 'redshift' if it is moving away.

Additional Information

• The Doppler effect, or Doppler shift, describes the changes in frequency of any kind of sound or light wave produced by a moving source with respect to an observer.
• Waves emitted by an object traveling toward an observer get compressed — prompting a higher frequency — as the source approaches the observer, and vice versa.

Given:

Number of inhabitants, P = 64000

Population increase at the rate,r = 2.5%

Time,n = 3 years

Calculation:

Population after 3 years = $p(1+\frac{r}{100})^3$

⇒ $64000(1+\frac{2.5}{100})^3$

⇒ $64000 \times \frac{41}{40} \times \frac{41}{40} \times \frac{41}{40}$

⇒ 41 × 41 × 41 = 68921.

∴ the number of inhabitants at the end of THREE years = 68921.

All incisors are teeth and all teeth are present inside the mouth.

The correct Venn diagram representation is,

Hence, option 3 is the correct answer.

The correct answer is Nitric acid.

Key Points

• Nitric acid (HNO₃), is a highly corrosive and poisonous strong mineral acid that is normally colorless but turns yellow due to the accumulation of oxides of nitrogen when stored for long periods.
• Nitric acid is used in the purification of gold and silver.
• The acid mixture aqua regia, or royal water, dissolves gold and is used to purify scrap alloy containing gold.
• Aqua regia is a mixture of hydrochloric acid and nitric acid in the ratio 3:1.
• Nitric acid is a nitrogen oxoacid of the formula HNO₃ in which the nitrogen atom is bound to a hydroxyl group and the remaining two oxygen atoms by equal bonds.

Additional Information

• Sulphuric Acid:
• Sulphuric acid is a strong mineral acid commonly used in various industrial processes.
• It is not typically used by goldsmiths for cleaning gold and silver articles due to its highly corrosive nature.
• Hydrochloric Acid:
• Hydrochloric acid is another strong mineral acid.
• While it can dissolve some metal oxides, it is not commonly used alone for cleaning gold and silver in jewelry making.
• Hydrochloric acid is often used in combination with nitric acid to form aqua regia, a mixture with powerful oxidizing properties.
• Phosphoric Acid:
• Phosphoric acid is a weaker acid compared to nitric, sulfuric, and hydrochloric acids.
• It is often used in certain rust-removing products and as a food additive, but it is not a common choice for cleaning precious metals like gold and silver.

Goldsmiths commonly use nitric acid to clean silver articles because it reacts with impurities or other metals (like copper) that may be present in the alloy, helping to purify or clean the surface. However, pure gold does not react with nitric acid, which helps in distinguishing it from counterfeit or impure metals — this property is also used in the acid test for gold.

⚠️ Note: For dissolving gold, a mixture of nitric acid and hydrochloric acid (called aqua regia) is used — but for cleaning, nitric acid alone is often sufficient, especially for silver articles.

Given:

Radius + diameter = Length of rectangle

Breadth = 10 cm

Area of rectangle = 210 sq. cm

Formula Used:

Area of rectangle = (length) ×  (breadth)

Calculation:

Let the radius be r.

⇒ 2r + r = length

length = 3r

⇒ 3r × 10 = 210

⇒ r = 7 cm

The answer is 7 cm.

The least possible diagram for the given statements is as follows,

Conclusions:

I. Some works are water. → True (it is definitely true)

II. No work is liquid. → False (it is possible but not definite)

Hence, only conclusion I follow.

The correct answer is to search for water ice at the moon's South Pole. 

In News

• Egypt, Bahrain joined China to build a hyperspectral camera for the Chang'e-7 mission.

Key Points

• The primary objective of China's Chang'e-7 mission is to search for water ice at the moon's South Pole.
• This mission is scheduled for 2026 as part of China's ongoing lunar exploration program.
• The mission will deploy multiple scientific instruments to achieve its goal, including a hyperspectral camera developed in collaboration with international partners.
• The camera will image and analyze lunar surface materials from orbit, focusing on polar regions.
• The discovery of water ice on the moon's surface is crucial for future lunar exploration and human missions, as it can potentially be used for drinking water, oxygen, and even fuel.
• Egypt, Bahrain, Thailand, Russia, Italy, Switzerland, and the International Lunar Observatory Association are contributing payloads.
• The cooperation among these nations marks a significant step in international space collaboration.
• The finding of water ice would support long-term human presence and further manned missions to the moon.

Given:

92% of 4890 – 86% of 5200 + 42% of 4150 = ?

Formula used:

Percentage formula: Value = (Percentage × Total)/100

Calculation:

92% of 4890 = (92 × 4890)/100

⇒ 92 × 4890 = 449880

⇒ 449880 ÷ 100 = 4498.8

86% of 5200 = (86 × 5200)/100

⇒ 86 × 5200 = 447200

⇒ 447200 ÷ 100 = 4472

42% of 4150 = (42 × 4150)/100

⇒ 42 × 4150 = 174300

⇒ 174300 ÷ 100 = 1743

Now substitute the values in the equation:

92% of 4890 – 86% of 5200 + 42% of 4150 = ?

⇒ 4498.8 – 4472 + 1743

⇒ 26.8 + 1743

⇒ 1769.8

∴ The correct answer is option (3).

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. -30.6

2940 → 2940 ÷ 2 = 1470 – 6 = 1464

1464 → 1464 ÷ 3 = 488 – 12 = 476

476 → 476 ÷ 4 = 119 – 18 = 101

101 → 101 ÷ 5 = 20.2 – 24 = -3.8

-3.8 → -3.8 ÷ 6 = -0.63 – 30 = -30.6

Hence, the correct answer is -30.6

The correct answer is 176.

Key Points

• India ranked 176th among 180 countries in the 2024 Environment Performance Index.
• This ranking is slightly better than the previous EPI in which India was at the bottom.
• The index includes 58 indicators such as biodiversity, air pollution, water quality, and waste management.
• India's low rank is attributed to high emissions, poor air quality, and low biodiversity-habitat scores.

Important Points

• The EPI is released by Yale Center for Environmental Law and Policy and the Columbia Center for International Earth Science Information Network.
• The EPI assesses countries based on their progress towards environmental health and ecosystem vitality.
• India performed relatively better in categories like solid waste management, forests, and agriculture.
• Estonia was ranked number one in the 2024 EPI due to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and strong biodiversity protection.

Given:

The average of 21 consecutive natural numbers is 53.

Concept used:

1. A, (A + D), (A + 2D), ....., L is an arithmetic progression with the first term, common difference, and last term A, D, and L respectively.

Sum of the series = (A + L)/2 × N (N = number of terms in the series)

2. Total = Average × Number of entities

Calculation:

Let the first natural number of the series be N. 

So, the series = {N, (N + 1), ...., (N + 20)}

Apparently, this series is in arithmetic progression where N is the first term, (N + 20) is the last, and 1 is the common difference.

Sum of the series = $\frac {(N + 20) + N}{2} × 21$ = 21(N + 10)

According to the question,

21(N + 10) = 53 × 21

⇒ N + 10 = 53

⇒ N = 43

∴ The smallest number of these 21 numbers is 43.

The second word of the pair is obtained when you have the first.

Similarly for the second pair, autonomy is obtained after you have an independence.

Thus Independence is related to Autonomy.

Correct Answer: Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum

In News

• The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum in Bhuj, Gujarat has been shortlisted for UNESCO's Prix Versailles Award.

Key Points

• The UNESCO Prix Versailles Award is announced annually for excellence in architecture and design.
• The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum is one of the seven most beautiful museums shortlisted globally.
• Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced this achievement on social media platform X.
• This is the first time an Indian museum has received such global recognition for its expression of local culture and nature conservation.

Additional Information

• Gandhi Ashram Museum: A museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, but not shortlisted for the Prix Versailles Award.
• Kutch Museum: One of the oldest museums in Gujarat, but not shortlisted for the Prix Versailles Award.
• Sardar Patel Museum: A museum dedicated to Sardar Patel, but not shortlisted for the Prix Versailles Award.
• Prix Versailles Award: An award recognizing the best architecture and design globally, announced annually by UNESCO.
• Local Culture and Nature Conservation: The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum has been recognized for its efforts in these areas.

Concept Used:

Let the speed of two trains is u m/s and v m/s, where u>v. Then,

Relative speed in the same direction = (u - v) m/s.

Relative speed in opposite direction = (u + v) m/s.

Explanation:-

Suppose, that the length of the train is L.

So, according to the question, the speed of first train = (L / 15) m/sec

The speed of second train = (L / 21) m/sec  

Relative speed for opposite direction = $\dfrac{L}{15}+\dfrac{L}{21}$

The length of both train is same. So, total length of both the trains = 2L

Thus, the time required for trains to cross each other,

$\Rightarrow T=\dfrac{2L}{\dfrac{L}{15}+\dfrac{L}{21}}\ \Rightarrow T=\dfrac{2}{\dfrac{1}{15}+\dfrac{1}{21}}\ \Rightarrow T=\dfrac{2}{\dfrac{36}{315}}\ \Rightarrow T=17.5\rm\ sec$

So, the trains will cross each other in 17.5 seconds.

Hence, the correct option is 4.

According to the given information the, the diagram is:

Using Pythagoras theorem:

Distance between GE: √(FE)² + (GF)² : √(25 + 9) = √34 km

Distance between AC: √(BA)² + (BC)² :  √(16 + 9 = √25 km

Distance between CE: √(CD)² + (ED)² : √(9 + 9 = √18 km

Distance between BD: √(BC)² + (CD)² : √(9 + 9 = √18 km

Distance between FC: √(GC)² + (FG)² : √(4 + 9 = √13 km

Distance between GA:

√(Horizontal distance between A and G)² + (Vertical distance between A and G )² : √(36 + 9 = √45 km

Distance between BE:

√(Horizontal distance between B and E)² + (Vertical distance between B and E )² = √(36 + 9 = √45 km.

1. Distance between point G and E is greater than the distance point A and C. → True (√34 > √25)

2. Distance between point C and E is same as the distance between point B and D. → True (√18 = √18)

3. Distance between point F and C is more than the distance between point C and E. → False (√13 < √18)

4. Distance between point G and A is same as the distance between point B and E. → True (√45 < √45)

Hence, ‘Distance between point F and C is more than the distance between point C and E’.

The correct answer is Mallala Anusha

In News

• Mallala Anusha from Andhra Pradesh achieved her personal best and won the women’s triple jump crown at the National Federation athletics meet.

Key Points

• Anusha leapt to 13.53m, just 0.04m shy of the 18-year-old meet record, overcoming distractions and a tough challenge from experienced competitor Sheena N.V.
• She set the tone with a jump of 13.28m in her second attempt, while Sheena responded with 13.32m.
• Anusha faced challenges with measurements in her fourth and fifth jumps, protesting strongly over discrepancies, which were eventually rectified to her advantage.
• Despite these challenges, Anusha produced her best jump in the final attempt, securing the title comfortably.
• Additionally, Santhosh Kumar T. won the men’s 400m hurdles comfortably, clocking 50.04s, while unexpected winner Veerpal Kaur claimed gold in the women’s 400m hurdles with a time of 59.43s.
• Notable athletes like Vithya Ramraj withdrew from the race due to injury, while others like Siva S. did not compete in their respective events.

Formula used:

Effective discount = D₁% + D₂% - (D1 × D2)/100

Discount = (free product × 100)/Total product

Calculation:

For case A :

Effective discount = D1% + D2% - (D1 × D2)/100

⇒ 10 + 15 - (10 × 15)/100 = 25 - 1.5

⇒ 23.5%

For case B:

Total discount = (free product × 100)/Total product

⇒ (2 × 100)/7 = 28.56%

∴ The correct option is 2.

The pattern is:

11 × 12 × 13 = 234; it can be obtained by adding digits of every number i.e.,

11 → 1 + 1 = 2; 12 → 1 + 2 = 3; 13 → 1 + 3 = 4

Similarly,

24 × 23 × 35 = 658;

24 → 2 + 4 = 6; 23 → 2 + 3 = 5; 35 → 3 + 5 = 8

31 × 43 × 54

31 → 3 + 1 = 4; 43 → 4 + 3 = 7; 54 → 5 + 4 = 9

Therefore,

31 × 43 × 54 = 479

The correct answer is Option 3.

In News

• News: Bruhat Bengaluru Mahangara Palike (BBMP) has proposed a Solid Waste Management (SWM) Cess of ₹100 per month for each household. While the proposal has sparked debate and criticism among residents and stakeholders, it is important to understand the rationale behind SWM cess, its intended use, and the broader context of solid waste management challenges faced by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in India.

Key PointsCess:

• Cess is a tax additionally levied as a percentage of the existing tax amount or as a percentage of the value of the goods and services or a fixed amount of quantity of goods for a specific purpose. Hence, option 3 is correct.
• It is leviable by a law made by the Parliament as empowered by Article 270 of the Constitution.
• The revenue coming from cess is first credited to the Consolidated Fund of India(Article 266), and the government may then, after due appropriation from Parliament, utilise it for the specified purpose.
• The proceeds of a cess may or may not be shared with the state governments.
• A cess, generally paid by every citizen,  it is added to their basic tax liability paid as part of total tax paid.
• Cess is charged over and above direct and indirect taxes.
• Cess collected for a particular purpose cannot be used or diverted for other purposes.
• Cess is not permanent in nature it can be discontinued as when the purpose is for which it was applied is fulfilled.
• Examples: Education Cess, Swatch Bharat Cess, GST Compensation Cess, Krishi Kalyan Cess.​

Additional Information

• Octroi: Octroi is charged at the point of entry of goods into the local area for consumption, use. or sale in that area.
• Surcharge: Surcharge is an additional charge or tax levied on an existing tax. It is usually permanent in nature. The revenue earned via surcharge is solely retained by the Central Government. Unlike Cess, Surcharge has no specific purpose.
• Stamp Duties: Stamp duties are taxes levied on important documents like the Registration of Property.

Shortcut Trick

Let the original price be P.

Successive change of r% increase and r% decrease results in a net change of (r² ÷ 100)% decrease.

Multiplier for net change = (1 − r² ÷ 10000).

Latest Price = P × (10000 − r²) ÷ 10000 = 1.

⇒ P = 10000 ÷ (10000 − r²).

∴ The correct answer is Rs. 10000 / (10000 − r²).

Alternate Method

Given: Initial increase = r%, Subsequent decrease = r%, Final Price = Rs. 1.

Formulas: New Value = Original × (100 + change%) ÷ 100.

⇒ Let the original price be x.

⇒ Price after r% increase = x × (100 + r) ÷ 100.

⇒ Price after r% decrease = [x × (100 + r) ÷ 100] × (100 − r) ÷ 100.

⇒ 1 = x × (100² − r²) ÷ 10000.

⇒ 1 = x × (10000 − r²) ÷ 10000.

⇒ x = 10000 ÷ (10000 − r²).

∴ The correct answer is Rs. 10000 / (10000 − r²).

Additional Information

Successive Percentage Change

When a value is changed by a% and then by b%, the net effective change is (a + b + ab ÷ 100)%.

Algebraic Identity

The calculation uses the identity (a + b)(a − b) = a² − b² to simplify (100 + r)(100 − r).

⇒ (5 × 3) + 1 = 15 + 1 = 16

⇒ (5 × 16) + 1 = 80 + 1 = 81

⇒ (5 × 81) + 1 = 405 + 1 = 406

⇒ (5 × 406) + 1 = 2030 + 1 = 2031

Therefore, missing term is “2031”