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Question 241

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

Which one among the following is the correct scheme followed for classification of animals?

  1. AOption (a)

    Class→  Phylum→  Order → Genus → Family→  Species

  2. BOption (b)

    Phylum → Class→  Family → Genus → Order → Species

  3. COption (c)

    Order→  Class → Phylum→  Family→  Species→  Genus

  4. DOption (d)

    Phylum→  Class→  Order → Family → Genus→  Species

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Phylum→  Class→  Order → Family → Genus→  Species

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Phylum→Class→Order→Family→Genus→Species.

Key Points

  • The hierarchical system of classification in biology is based on taxonomic ranks, which are arranged in a specific order to categorize organisms systematically.
  • The correct sequence of classification is Phylum→Class→Order→Family→Genus→Species, representing increasing levels of specificity.
  • Phylum groups organisms based on their broad structural and functional characteristics, such as body plan and organization.
  • Class is a subdivision of the phylum, grouping organisms with closer similarities (e.g., Mammalia within Chordata).
  • Order, Family, Genus, and Species represent increasingly specific categories, with species being the most specific level that identifies individual organisms.
  • This system of classification was developed by Carl Linnaeus and is widely used in biology and taxonomy.

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Class→Phylum→Order→Genus→Family→Species
  • This sequence is incorrect because Class cannot precede Phylum. Phylum is a higher taxonomic rank, encompassing multiple classes.
  • An example of correct classification: Chordata (Phylum) → Mammalia (Class) → Carnivora (Order) → Felidae (Family) → Panthera (Genus) → Panthera leo (Species).
  • Option 2: Phylum→Class→Family→Genus→Order→Species
  • This sequence is incorrect because Order must come before Family in the hierarchy.
  • Order groups families that share common traits, while Family is a narrower category containing closely related genera.
  • Option 3: Order→Class→Phylum→Family→Species→Genus
  • This sequence is incorrect because Order cannot precede Class, and Species cannot precede Genus.
  • Species represents the most specific level of classification and must follow Genus as per the Linnaean system.
  • Main Theme: Biological Classification
  • Biological classification is essential for organizing and understanding biodiversity by grouping organisms into a hierarchical structure.
  • The Linnaean system includes seven major taxonomic ranks: Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species.
  • Species is the fundamental unit of classification, representing organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.
  • This system helps in studying evolutionary relationships and ecological roles of organisms.

Question 242

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

Which one of the following is an example of airborne disease?

  1. AOption (a)

    Tuberculosis

  2. BOption (b)

    Malaria

  3. COption (c)

    Dengue

  4. DOption (d)

    Cholera

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Tuberculosis

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Tuberculosis.

Key Points

  • Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
  • It primarily spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing respiratory droplets containing the bacteria.
  • Tuberculosis primarily affects the lungs, but it can also infect other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain.
  • Symptoms of TB include persistent cough (lasting more than 3 weeks), fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue.
  • Effective treatments for TB are available, including a combination of antibiotics taken over several months. Prevention includes vaccination (BCG vaccine) and minimizing exposure to infected individuals.

Additional Information

  • Malaria
  • Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
  • It is not an airborne disease; it spreads only via mosquito bites.
  • Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to complications like cerebral malaria and organ failure.
  • Prevention includes using mosquito nets, insect repellents, and antimalarial medications in high-risk areas.
  • Dengue
  • Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti.
  • It is not an airborne disease; transmission occurs when an infected mosquito bites a person.
  • Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, and rash. Severe dengue can lead to hemorrhagic fever and organ damage.
  • Preventive measures focus on controlling mosquito populations and avoiding mosquito bites.
  • Cholera
  • Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by infection with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.
  • It spreads through the ingestion of contaminated food or water and is not airborne.
  • Symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance. If left untreated, it can be fatal.
  • Prevention includes access to clean water, proper sanitation, and good hygiene practices.

Question 243

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

What are the four human blood types in ABO blood group typing?

  1. AOption (a)

    AO, BO, A and B

  2. BOption (b)

    A, B, AB and O

  3. COption (c)

    A, AB, BO and O

  4. DOption (d)

    AB, AO, B and O

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A, B, AB and O

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is A, B, AB and O.

Key Points

  • The ABO blood group system was discovered by Karl Landsteiner in 1900 and is based on the presence or absence of specific antigens on the surface of red blood cells.
  • The four main blood types in the ABO blood group system are A, B, AB, and O.
  • Type A has the A antigen on the red blood cells and anti-B antibodies in the plasma.
  • Type B has the B antigen on the red blood cells and anti-A antibodies in the plasma.
  • Type AB has both A and B antigens on the red blood cells and no anti-A or anti-B antibodies in the plasma, making it the universal recipient.
  • Type O has neither A nor B antigens on the red blood cells and both anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the plasma, making it the universal donor.

Additional Information

  • AO and BO:
  • The options AO and BO are incorrect because these are not recognized blood groups in the ABO system. Instead, they may refer to the genetic alleles responsible for determining blood group.
  • The ABO system involves three alleles: A, B, and O. The combination of these alleles (e.g., AO or BO) determines the actual blood group (A, B, AB, or O).
  • A and B:
  • This option is incomplete as it only mentions two blood groups (A and B), excluding AB and O.
  • While A and B are two of the main blood types, the ABO blood group system encompasses all four types: A, B, AB, and O.
  • A, AB, BO and O:
  • This option incorrectly lists "BO" as a blood group. BO is not a valid blood group; it represents a genetic combination of alleles for blood type B or O.
  • The correct classification is A, B, AB, and O, based on the antigens on the red blood cells.
  • AB, AO, B and O:
  • This option incorrectly includes "AO" as a blood group, which is not valid in the ABO system.
  • The ABO blood group system is based on antigens and includes A, B, AB, and O blood types.

Question 244

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

Which one of the following is not a part of the male reproductive system in human beings?

  1. AOption (a)

    Prostate gland

  2. BOption (b)

    Testis

  3. COption (c)

    Cervix

  4. DOption (d)

    Scrotum

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Cervix

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Cervix.

Key Points

  • The cervix is a part of the female reproductive system, not the male reproductive system.
  • It is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina in females.
  • The cervix plays a key role in childbirth by dilating to allow the baby to pass through during delivery.
  • Its primary functions include facilitating the passage of sperm into the uterus and producing cervical mucus to assist or impede sperm movement depending on the menstrual cycle.
  • The cervix is also crucial for maintaining pregnancy by acting as a barrier to protect the uterus from infections.

Additional Information

  • Prostate Gland
  • The prostate gland is a part of the male reproductive system.
  • It produces a fluid that nourishes and transports sperm, which is a key component of semen.
  • Located below the bladder, the prostate gland surrounds the urethra and plays a role in the ejaculation process.
  • Testis
  • The testis (plural: testes) is a vital organ in the male reproductive system that produces sperm and testosterone, the primary male sex hormone.
  • Each testis is housed in the scrotum, which helps regulate the temperature necessary for sperm production.
  • Testosterone produced by the testes is responsible for male secondary sexual characteristics such as facial hair and a deep voice.
  • Scrotum
  • The scrotum is a sac-like structure that holds and protects the testes.
  • It plays a crucial role in temperature regulation, keeping the testes at an optimal temperature for sperm production, which is slightly lower than body temperature.
  • The scrotum contracts or relaxes to move the testes closer to or further from the body based on external temperature conditions.

Question 245

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

Which of the following are the different parts of a human brain?

  1. AOption (a)

    Forefront brain, Standard brain and. Hind brain

  2. BOption (b)

    Fore brain, Median brain and Rear brain

  3. COption (c)

    Fore brain, Mid brain and Hind brain

  4. DOption (d)

    Precursor brain, Mean brain and Hind brain

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Fore brain, Mid brain and Hind brain

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Fore brain, Mid brain and Hind brain.

Key Points

  • The human brain is divided into three main parts: the Forebrain, Midbrain, and Hindbrain, each performing specific functions crucial for survival and cognition.
  • Forebrain: It is the largest and most complex part of the brain, responsible for higher cognitive functions like decision-making, sensory processing, emotions, and voluntary movements. It includes the cerebrum, thalamus, and hypothalamus.
  • Midbrain: The midbrain acts as a relay station connecting the forebrain and hindbrain. It controls reflex movements of the eyes and ears and is involved in motor movement and auditory/visual processing.
  • Hindbrain: Located at the back of the brain, it includes structures like the cerebellum, pons, and medulla oblongata. It manages essential functions such as heart rate, breathing, balance, and coordination.
  • The three parts of the brain work together to ensure proper functioning of the body and mind, integrating sensory input, motor output, and cognitive processes.

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Forefront brain, Standard brain, and Hind brain
  • This is an incorrect division as "forefront brain" and "standard brain" are not recognized terms in neuroanatomy.
  • The correct term is "Forebrain," which includes key structures like the cerebrum and hypothalamus.
  • Option 2: Fore brain, Median brain, and Rear brain
  • This terminology is not used in standard anatomy. "Median brain" and "Rear brain" are not scientifically accurate terms.
  • The correct terminology is "Midbrain" and "Hindbrain," which refer to distinct parts of the brain with specific functions.
  • Option 4: Precursor brain, Mean brain, and Hind brain
  • "Precursor brain" and "Mean brain" are not valid anatomical terms and do not correspond to any part of the human brain.
  • The divisions of the brain are scientifically classified as Forebrain, Midbrain, and Hindbrain based on their location and functionality.
  • Understanding the Human Brain:
  • The human brain is one of the most complex organs, consisting of billions of neurons and glial cells.
  • It is protected by the skull, cushioned by cerebrospinal fluid, and divided into regions responsible for vital functions like cognition, sensation, and motor control.
  • Neuroanatomy is a critical field of study to understand diseases, brain injuries, and their treatments.

Question 246

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

Tooth enamel of humans is made up of:

  1. AOption (a)

    Calcium phosphate

  2. BOption (b)

    Sodium hydrogen carbonate

  3. COption (c)

    Sodium hydroxide

  4. DOption (d)

    Lactic acid

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Calcium phosphate

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Calcium phosphate.

Key Points

  • Tooth enamel is primarily composed of calcium phosphate in the form of hydroxyapatite, which gives it strength and durability.
  • Hydroxyapatite is a crystalline structure of calcium and phosphate ions, making enamel the hardest substance in the human body.
  • Calcium phosphate provides enamel with resistance to mechanical wear and tear, as well as protection against acidic environments.
  • The mineral content in enamel makes it non-living, meaning it cannot regenerate if damaged.
  • Proper oral hygiene and fluoride exposure help maintain calcium phosphate levels in enamel and prevent demineralization.

Additional Information

  • Sodium hydrogen carbonate:
  • Commonly known as baking soda, it is used in toothpaste to neutralize acids and freshen breath.
  • It has mild abrasive properties, helping to remove surface stains on teeth.
  • Though beneficial in oral care, it is not a structural component of tooth enamel.
  • Sodium hydroxide:
  • Also known as caustic soda, it is a highly alkaline compound used in industrial applications.
  • It is not related to the composition of tooth enamel and is not safe for direct contact with teeth.
  • Its corrosive nature makes it unsuitable for oral care purposes.
  • Lactic acid:
  • Lactic acid is produced by bacteria in the mouth during the fermentation of sugars.
  • It contributes to the demineralization of tooth enamel, leading to cavities and decay.
  • Proper brushing and flossing help reduce lactic acid production and prevent enamel damage.
  • Tooth enamel:
  • Enamel is the outermost layer of the tooth, protecting the underlying dentin and pulp.
  • It is composed mainly of inorganic minerals (approximately 96%), with calcium phosphate being the dominant component.
  • The remaining 4% consists of water and organic proteins that support enamel structure.
  • Enamel's hardness makes it essential for chewing and grinding food.

Question 247

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

The inner lining of the human small intestine has numerous finger-like projections called:

  1. AOption (a)

    Sphincter

  2. BOption (b)

    Villi

  3. COption (c)

    Enzymes

  4. DOption (d)

    Plaques

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Villi

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Villi.

Key Points

  • The human small intestine contains numerous finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area for absorption.
  • Villi are covered with epithelial cells that have microvilli, further maximizing nutrient absorption.
  • Each villus contains a network of capillaries and lacteals, which aid in the transport of absorbed nutrients, including amino acids, glucose, and fatty acids.
  • Villi are essential for efficient absorption of nutrients and play a critical role in digestion.
  • They are present in the small intestine but absent in the large intestine, as absorption of nutrients occurs primarily in the former.

Additional Information

  • Sphincter:
  • A sphincter is a circular muscle that controls the passage of substances between different parts of the digestive system.
  • Examples include the lower esophageal sphincter, which prevents acid reflux, and the pyloric sphincter, which regulates the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine.
  • Sphincters are not related to absorption but rather to the regulation of food movement within the digestive system.
  • Enzymes:
  • Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the chemical reactions involved in digestion, such as breaking down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
  • Common digestive enzymes include amylase (breaks down starch), pepsin (digests proteins), and lipase (breaks down fats).
  • Although enzymes are critical for digestion, they are not structural components like villi.
  • Plaques:
  • Plaques in the medical context often refer to fatty deposits in arteries or abnormal protein accumulations in the brain, such as in Alzheimer's disease.
  • In the digestive system, plaques are not relevant; hence, they do not pertain to the structure or function of the small intestine.
  • Main Theme:
  • The small intestine is the primary site for digestion and absorption of nutrients in the human body.
  • The presence of villi and microvilli significantly enhances the absorption process by increasing the surface area.
  • Other structures, like sphincters and enzymes, contribute to digestion and nutrient transport but are functionally distinct from villi.

Question 248

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

Which of the following represent disaccharides?

  1. AOption (a)

    Starch and glycogen

  2. BOption (b)

    Glucose and galactose

  3. COption (c)

    Maltose and lactose

  4. DOption (d)

    Ribose and xylose

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Maltose and lactose

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Maltose and lactose.

Key Points

  • Maltose is a disaccharide composed of two glucose molecules linked by an alpha-1,4 glycosidic bond. It is commonly found in germinating grains and is formed during the digestion of starch.
  • Lactose is a disaccharide made up of glucose and galactose units connected by a beta-1,4 glycosidic bond. It is the sugar found naturally in milk.
  • Disaccharides are carbohydrates made up of two monosaccharide units bonded by glycosidic linkages. Maltose and lactose are examples of disaccharides.
  • Disaccharides undergo hydrolysis during digestion to break into their constituent monosaccharides for absorption in the body.
  • Maltose and lactose are metabolized differently in the body, with lactose requiring the enzyme lactase for digestion, which is deficient in some individuals causing lactose intolerance.

Additional Information

  • Starch and glycogen:
  • Starch and glycogen are polysaccharides, not disaccharides.
  • Starch is the storage form of carbohydrates in plants, composed of amylose and amylopectin.
  • Glycogen is the storage form of carbohydrates in animals, primarily stored in the liver and muscle tissues.
  • Both starch and glycogen are broken down into glucose during digestion for energy production.
  • Glucose and galactose:
  • Glucose and galactose are monosaccharides, which are single sugar units.
  • Glucose is a primary energy source for the body, while galactose is commonly found in dairy products and converted into glucose for energy.
  • They are structural components of disaccharides like lactose but are not themselves disaccharides.
  • Ribose and xylose:
  • Ribose and xylose are monosaccharides, not disaccharides.
  • Ribose is a sugar component of RNA and other nucleotides like ATP.
  • Xylose is a sugar commonly found in plant cell walls and used in the production of xylitol.
  • Neither ribose nor xylose forms disaccharides without combining with other monosaccharides.
  • Disaccharides:
  • The main theme of this question revolves around disaccharides, which include sugars like maltose, lactose, and sucrose.
  • Disaccharides play a key role in nutrition, serving as intermediate forms of sugar before being broken down into monosaccharides during digestion.
  • They are formed by condensation reactions between two monosaccharides, releasing a molecule of water.

Question 249

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

Which one of the following organelles can be seen in a prokaryotic cell?

  1. AOption (a)

    Mitochondria

  2. BOption (b)

    Definitive nucleus

  3. COption (c)

    Ribosomes

  4. DOption (d)

    Golgi bodies

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Ribosomes

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Ribosomes.

Key Points

  • Ribosomes are non-membranous organelles found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, playing a critical role in protein synthesis.
  • Prokaryotic ribosomes are smaller (70S) compared to eukaryotic ribosomes (80S), with two subunits: 50S (large) and 30S (small).
  • In prokaryotes, ribosomes are found freely floating in the cytoplasm and are responsible for translating mRNA into proteins.
  • Ribosomes are composed of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins, and they lack a surrounding membrane, making them suitable for prokaryotic cells.
  • Prokaryotic ribosomes are essential for cellular functions, as they produce enzymes and other proteins necessary for survival and replication.

Additional Information

  • Mitochondria:
  • Mitochondria are double-membrane-bound organelles found only in eukaryotic cells and are absent in prokaryotes.
  • They are often referred to as the "powerhouse of the cell" as they generate ATP through oxidative phosphorylation.
  • Mitochondria contain their own DNA and ribosomes, enabling them to produce some of their own proteins.
  • Definitive Nucleus:
  • Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus. Instead, they have a nucleoid region where the circular DNA is concentrated.
  • In contrast, eukaryotic cells possess a definitive nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane, which stores genetic material in the form of chromosomes.
  • The absence of a definitive nucleus is a key characteristic distinguishing prokaryotes from eukaryotes.
  • Golgi Bodies:
  • Golgi bodies, or the Golgi apparatus, are membrane-bound organelles found only in eukaryotic cells.
  • They are responsible for the modification, sorting, and packaging of proteins and lipids for secretion or internal use.
  • Prokaryotic cells lack complex endomembrane systems like the Golgi apparatus.
  • Prokaryotic Cells Overview:
  • Prokaryotic cells are unicellular organisms without membrane-bound organelles.
  • They contain essential components such as the plasma membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes, and genetic material in the nucleoid region.
  • Examples include bacteria and archaea, which are simpler than eukaryotic cells but highly efficient in their functions.

Question 250

Combined Defence Services (CDS) 2025• General Knowledge

A solution with a pH value less than 7 is a/an:

  1. AOption (a)

    Neutral solution

  2. BOption (b)

    Basic solution

  3. COption (c)

    Acidic solution

  4. DOption (d)

    Hypotonic solution

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Acidic solution

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Acidic solution.

Key Points

  • A solution with a pH value less than 7 is classified as an acidic solution. It indicates a higher concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺).
  • Examples of acidic solutions include vinegar, lemon juice, and hydrochloric acid (HCl) solutions.
  • Strong acids, such as HCl or sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), have a very low pH value, typically between 0 and 3, while weak acids like acetic acid have pH values closer to 7 but still below it.
  • The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with acidic solutions occupying the range from 0 to just under 7.
  • Acidic solutions are characterized by their ability to donate protons (H⁺ ions) in a chemical reaction, according to the Brønsted-Lowry acid definition.

Additional Information

  • Neutral Solution:
  • A neutral solution has a pH value of exactly 7, indicating an equal concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻).
  • Pure water is the most common example of a neutral solution.
  • Neutral solutions are neither acidic nor basic and do not change the color of neutral litmus paper.
  • Basic Solution:
  • A solution with a pH value greater than 7 is classified as a basic (or alkaline) solution.
  • Basic solutions have a higher concentration of hydroxide ions (OH⁻) compared to hydrogen ions (H⁺).
  • Examples include solutions of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or ammonia (NH₃).
  • Strong bases, like NaOH, have pH values closer to 14, while weak bases have values just above 7.
  • Hypotonic Solution:
  • A hypotonic solution refers to a solution with a lower solute concentration compared to another solution, typically across a semipermeable membrane.
  • In biological systems, a hypotonic solution causes water to move into cells, leading to swelling or even bursting of cells (lysis).
  • This term is unrelated to the pH scale and instead pertains to osmotic pressure and solute concentrations.
  • pH Scale:
  • The pH scale is a logarithmic scale used to measure the acidity or basicity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14.
  • pH is determined using the formula: pH = -log[H⁺], where [H⁺] is the molar concentration of hydrogen ions in the solution.
  • A pH value of 7 represents neutrality, values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are basic.
  • The pH scale is critical in various fields, such as chemistry, biology, agriculture, and environmental science, for maintaining proper conditions for reactions and processes.