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Question 141

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which force governs the motion of planets, stars, and galaxies?

  1. AOption (a)

    Nuclear force

  2. BOption (b)

    Gravitational force

  3. COption (c)

    Magnetic force

  4. DOption (d)

    Electromagnetic force

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Gravitational force

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Gravitational force.

Key Points

  • Gravitational force is a fundamental force of nature that governs the motion of large celestial bodies like planets, stars, and galaxies.
  • It was first described mathematically by Sir Isaac Newton in his law of universal gravitation, which states that every particle in the universe attracts every other particle with a force proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.
  • Gravitational force is responsible for keeping planets in their orbits around the Sun and moons in their orbits around planets.
  • It also governs the large-scale structure of the universe, such as the clustering of galaxies and the formation of black holes.
  • Albert Einstein's general theory of relativity further explained gravity as the curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy, providing deeper insights into phenomena like gravitational waves and black holes.

Additional Information

  • Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation:
  • It is expressed as F = G * (m1 * m2) / r², where F is the gravitational force, G is the gravitational constant, m1 and m2 are the masses, and r is the distance between their centers.
  • The gravitational constant (G) is approximately 6.674 × 10⁻¹¹ N·m²/kg².
  • Einstein's General Theory of Relativity:
  • Gravity is explained as the warping of spacetime caused by mass and energy.
  • Massive objects like stars and planets create a "gravitational well" that affects the motion of other objects.
  • Predicted and confirmed phenomena include gravitational lensing and gravitational waves.
  • Role of Gravity in Astronomy:
  • Gravity is crucial for the formation of stars, planetary systems, and galaxies.
  • It governs orbital mechanics, such as the elliptical orbits of planets and the motion of comets.
  • It is responsible for phenomena like tidal forces, black hole formation, and galaxy collisions.
  • Gravitational Waves:
  • These are ripples in spacetime caused by accelerating massive objects, like colliding black holes or neutron stars.
  • First detected in 2015 by the LIGO observatory, confirming a key prediction of Einstein's theory of relativity.

Question 142

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which principle of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 ensures that entities collecting personal data must obtain explicit consent from individuals?

  1. AOption (a)

    Purpose Limitation

  2. BOption (b)

    Storage Reduction Compliance

  3. COption (c)

    Data Localization

  4. DOption (d)

    Notice and Choice Framework

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Notice and Choice Framework

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Notice and Choice Framework.

Key Points

  • The Notice and Choice Framework is a principle of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, ensuring that personal data collection entities must obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting their data.
  • The framework mandates that individuals must be provided with clear and concise notices regarding the purpose of data collection and their rights under the law.
  • Under this principle, data fiduciaries are legally obligated to ensure that users fully understand how their data will be used before granting consent.
  • Consent must be freely given, specific, informed, unambiguous, and revocable at any time to uphold the framework's integrity.
  • This principle is crucial in empowering data principals (individuals) with control over their personal data in alignment with global data protection practices such as the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).

Additional Information

  • Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
  • This act focuses on protecting personal data while ensuring the responsible use of data by fiduciaries.
  • It adopts a principles-based approach, including aspects such as purpose limitation, data minimization, and accountability.
  • The act introduces penalties for data breaches and non-compliance to ensure adherence to its provisions.
  • Purpose Limitation
  • Entities can only process personal data for specific, clear, and lawful purposes communicated to the data principal at the time of collection.
  • This ensures that data is not misused for purposes beyond what was agreed upon.
  • Data Fiduciary
  • A data fiduciary is any entity (individual, company, or organization) that determines the purpose and means of processing personal data.
  • They are required to act responsibly and transparently while handling personal data.
  • Data Principal
  • The data principal refers to the individual whose personal data is being collected, stored, or processed.
  • They have rights such as the right to access, correct, and erase their personal data under the act.
  • Global Context
  • The Notice and Choice Framework in India aligns with global data protection standards such as the GDPR (EU) and CCPA (California), emphasizing informed and explicit consent.
  • This ensures that Indian data protection laws are in harmony with international practices.

Question 143

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

The Law of Diminishing Marginal Utility states that as a consumer consumes more and more units of a commodity:

  1. AOption (a)

    Marginal utility derived from each additional unit decreases.

  2. BOption (b)

    Total utility increases at an increasing rate.

  3. COption (c)

    Total utility decreases.

  4. DOption (d)

    Marginal utility remains constant.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Marginal utility derived from each additional unit decreases.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Marginal utility derived from each additional unit decreases.

Key Points

  • The Law of Diminishing Marginal Utility states that as consumption of a commodity increases, the additional satisfaction (marginal utility) derived from each subsequent unit consumed decreases.
  • This principle is based on the fact that human wants are limited, and satisfaction diminishes as the need is progressively met.
  • Marginal utility becomes zero when total utility reaches its maximum, and it may even turn negative if consumption continues beyond a certain point.
  • The theory applies under certain conditions, such as the consumption of homogeneous units, rational behavior of the consumer, and constancy of other factors.
  • This concept plays a crucial role in explaining consumer behavior and forms the foundation of modern economic theories, such as demand and pricing.

Additional Information

  • Marginal Utility (MU):
  • It refers to the additional satisfaction a consumer gains from consuming one more unit of a good or service.
  • MU = Change in Total Utility ÷ Change in Quantity Consumed.
  • Total Utility (TU):
  • Total utility is the sum of satisfaction a consumer derives from consuming a certain quantity of a good or service.
  • As long as MU is positive, TU continues to increase, but at a decreasing rate.
  • Assumptions of the Law:
  • The units consumed must be identical in quality and quantity.
  • Consumption must occur in a continuous time frame without significant intervals.
  • The preferences and tastes of the consumer must remain unchanged.
  • Exceptions to the Law:
  • Precious goods or collectibles (e.g., rare paintings, jewelry) may not follow the law due to their unique value.
  • Goods with addictive properties (e.g., alcohol) might not exhibit diminishing marginal utility immediately.

Question 144

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which of the following rivers forms a delta along the Eastern Coastal Plains?

  1. AOption (a)

    Narmada

  2. BOption (b)

    Tapi

  3. COption (c)

    Mahi 

  4. DOption (d)

    Godavari 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Godavari 

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Godavari.

Key Points

  • The Godavari River is the second-longest river in India after the Ganga, originating from Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra.
  • It flows eastward across the Indian Peninsula and forms a large delta at its mouth before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
  • The delta formed by the Godavari is fertile and supports extensive agriculture, particularly the cultivation of paddy.
  • The Godavari Delta is one of the largest in India, covering parts of Andhra Pradesh.
  • Major tributaries of the Godavari include the Pranhita, Indravati, Sabari, and Manjira rivers.

Additional Information

  • Delta Formation
  • A delta is a landform created by the deposition of sediment carried by a river as the flow exits its mouth and enters a standing water body like an ocean or sea.
  • In India, rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, and Mahanadi form deltas due to their large sediment loads and slower flow near their mouths.
  • Eastern Coastal Plains
  • The Eastern Coastal Plains of India are located between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal.
  • They are characterized by fertile soils, extensive deltas, and major river systems such as the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri.
  • Godavari River Basin
  • The Godavari River Basin is one of India's largest river basins, covering parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh.
  • The basin supports diverse ecosystems, including forests, agriculture, and wetlands.
  • Major Rivers Not Forming Deltas
  • Rivers like the Narmada, Tapi, and Mahi do not form deltas but instead create estuaries as they flow into the Arabian Sea.
  • This is due to their relatively steep gradients and sediment transport patterns.

Question 145

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Match the following folk forms:

Column A (Folk Form)Column B
A. Sohar1. Echoed love songs sung by girls and boys on hilltops
B. Chhakri2. Sung during birth celebrations, shows cultural fusion
C. Laman3. All-night women's songs in rainy season, danced in semicircle
D. Kajri4. Kashmiri group song with rabab, sarangi, tumbaknar
  1. AOption (a)

    A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2

  2. BOption (b)

    A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1

  3. COption (c)

    A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4

  4. DOption (d)

    A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3.

Key Points

  • Sohar (A-2): Folk songs sung during birth celebrations, showcasing cultural fusion and unique traditions.
  • Chhakri (B-4): A Kashmiri group song accompanied by instruments like rabab, sarangi, and tumbaknar.
  • Laman (C-1): Echoed love songs sung by girls and boys on hilltops, reflecting emotions and nature’s beauty.
  • Kajri (D-3): All-night women's songs performed in the rainy season, danced in a semicircle, symbolizing joy and monsoon festivities.

Additional Information

  • Sohar: Originates from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, typically sung during childbirth to celebrate the arrival of a newborn.
  • Chhakri: A traditional Kashmiri folk music form often performed in groups, symbolizing unity and cultural heritage.
  • Laman: Popular in hilly regions, especially Maharashtra, these songs are an expression of love and nature’s charm.
  • Kajri: Associated with Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, Kajri songs are tied to the monsoon season, emphasizing themes of longing and joy.
  • Regional Folk Music: Folk music often mirrors the socio-cultural fabric of a region, preserving local traditions and community sentiments.

Question 146

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which of these rivers does not originate in the Peninsular Plateau of India? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Godavari 

  2. BOption (b)

    Ganga

  3. COption (c)

    Krishna

  4. DOption (d)

    Cauvery

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Ganga

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Ganga.

Key Points

  • The Ganga River originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Uttarakhand Himalayas, making it a Himalayan river, not a Peninsular river.
  • The Godavari, Krishna, and Cauvery rivers originate within the Peninsular Plateau of India and are classified as Peninsular rivers.
  • The Ganga flows through several states of northern India, including Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
  • The Ganga is considered the lifeline of northern India and holds immense religious and cultural significance in Hinduism.

Additional Information

  • Peninsular Rivers:
  • Peninsular rivers originate within the Peninsular Plateau and are largely rainfed.
  • Examples include Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, Mahanadi, and Narmada.
  • These rivers typically flow eastward and drain into the Bay of Bengal, except for rivers like the Narmada and Tapi, which flow westward.
  • Himalayan Rivers:
  • Himalayan rivers originate from glaciers and mountain ranges in the Himalayas.
  • They are perennial, fed by both glacier melt and monsoon rains.
  • Examples include the Ganga, Yamuna, Brahmaputra, and Indus.
  • Gangotri Glacier:
  • Located in Uttarakhand, it is the origin point of the Ganga River.
  • The glacier is approximately 30 km long and lies at an elevation of 7,100 meters.
  • The river emerging from the glacier is initially called Bhagirathi, which later merges with the Alaknanda to form the Ganga.
  • Significance of the Ganga:
  • It is India's longest river, stretching over 2,525 km.
  • The Ganga basin supports a large population and is a fertile agricultural region.
  • It is revered in Hinduism and hosts many pilgrimage sites like Varanasi, Haridwar, and Prayagraj.

Question 147

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which Rajput ruler defeated Muhammad Ghori in the First Battle of Tarain?

  1. AOption (a)

    Hem Chandra Vikramaditya

  2. BOption (b)

    Rana Sanga

  3. COption (c)

    Bappa Rawal

  4. DOption (d)

    Prithviraj Chauhan

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Prithviraj Chauhan

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Prithviraj Chauhan.

Key Points

  • Prithviraj Chauhan was a prominent Rajput ruler of the Chauhan dynasty who ruled over parts of modern-day Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi.
  • He defeated Muhammad Ghori in the First Battle of Tarain, which took place in 1191 CE.
  • The battle was fought near Tarain (modern-day Thanesar, Haryana), and Prithviraj Chauhan's forces successfully repelled Ghori's invasion.
  • Prithviraj’s army relied on superior cavalry tactics and coordination to overpower Ghori's forces.
  • However, Muhammad Ghori regrouped and defeated Prithviraj in the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192 CE, leading to the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate.

Additional Information

  • First Battle of Tarain (1191 CE):
  • Prithviraj Chauhan's victory in this battle is considered a major triumph in medieval Indian history.
  • Ghori's forces were decisively defeated, forcing him to retreat to Ghazni.
  • This battle highlighted the strength of Rajput warriors and their military strategies.
  • Second Battle of Tarain (1192 CE):
  • After the defeat in the first battle, Ghori returned with a larger and better-prepared army.
  • Prithviraj Chauhan was defeated, and this marked the beginning of Muslim rule in northern India.
  • The outcome of this battle paved the way for the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate.
  • Rajput Resistance:
  • Rajputs were known for their valor and resistance against foreign invasions during medieval times.
  • Despite their defeat in 1192 CE, Rajputs continued to resist foreign rule for centuries.
  • Muhammad Ghori:
  • He was a ruler of the Ghurid dynasty who aimed to expand his empire into the Indian subcontinent.
  • His invasions laid the foundation for subsequent Muslim rule in India.

Question 148

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Which Mughal Emperor issued the Deccan campaign against the Marathas and spent significant time in the region?

  1. AOption (a)

    Shah Jahan

  2. BOption (b)

    Aurangzeb

  3. COption (c)

    Jahangir

  4. DOption (d)

    Akbar 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Aurangzeb

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Aurangzeb.

Key Points

  • Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal emperor, launched an extensive Deccan campaign against the Marathas during his reign.
  • The Deccan campaign began in 1681 and lasted for nearly 27 years, until Aurangzeb's death in 1707.
  • Aurangzeb personally led the campaign and spent a significant portion of his later life in the Deccan region, managing military operations.
  • The campaign aimed to suppress the Maratha resistance under Chhatrapati Shivaji and his successors, but faced prolonged challenges due to guerrilla warfare tactics employed by the Marathas.
  • This prolonged campaign drained the Mughal empire’s resources and is considered a major factor leading to the decline of the Mughal empire.

Additional Information

  • Guerrilla Warfare:
  • The Marathas, under leaders like Shivaji and his successors, employed guerrilla tactics to counter the Mughal forces effectively.
  • These tactics included swift raids, ambushes, and retreating to strongholds in the rugged terrain of the Deccan.
  • Decline of Mughal Empire:
  • The prolonged Deccan campaign severely strained the financial and military resources of the Mughal empire.
  • Aurangzeb's focus on military conquests led to neglect of administrative and economic stability, contributing to the empire's decline.
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji:
  • Shivaji was the founder of the Maratha Empire and a key figure in resisting Mughal expansion in the Deccan.
  • He established a well-organized military and administrative system, which continued to challenge the Mughals after his death.
  • Aurangzeb’s Legacy:
  • Aurangzeb is known for his military campaigns, strict adherence to Islamic orthodoxy, and expansion of the Mughal empire to its greatest territorial extent.
  • Despite his military successes, his reign marked the beginning of the decline of the Mughal empire due to overexpansion and resource depletion.

Question 149

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

Who was the founder of the Maurya Empire?

  1. AOption (a)

    Harshavardhana

  2. BOption (b)

    Chandragupta Maurya

  3. COption (c)

    Ashoka

  4. DOption (d)

    Bindusara

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Chandragupta Maurya

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Chandragupta Maurya.

Key Points

  • Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the Maurya Empire, which was established in 321 BCE in ancient India.
  • He unified most of the Indian subcontinent under one empire, laying the foundation for centralized governance.
  • With the guidance of his advisor and mentor Chanakya (Kautilya), Chandragupta implemented administrative and economic reforms.
  • The Maurya Empire under Chandragupta’s rule extended across northern India and parts of present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan.
  • He is also known for defeating the Nanda dynasty and repelling the invasion attempts of Seleucus I Nicator, a general of Alexander the Great.

Additional Information

  • Chanakya (Kautilya):
  • Chanakya was a key advisor and strategist for Chandragupta Maurya.
  • He authored the Arthashastra, an ancient Indian treatise on politics, economics, and statecraft.
  • Chanakya played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Maurya Empire by mentoring Chandragupta and devising military and political strategies.
  • The Maurya Empire:
  • The Maurya Empire (321 BCE–185 BCE) was one of the largest empires in ancient India.
  • It was marked by centralized governance, a strong military, and advancements in trade, economics, and infrastructure.
  • Seleucus I Nicator:
  • He was a general of Alexander the Great who attempted to reclaim Indian territories after Alexander’s death.
  • Chandragupta defeated Seleucus I and secured a peace treaty that included a matrimonial alliance.
  • Legacy of Chandragupta Maurya:
  • Chandragupta’s establishment of the Maurya Empire marked the beginning of large-scale political unity in India.
  • He is regarded as one of the most significant rulers in Indian history for his role in unifying the subcontinent.

Question 150

SSC Stenographer 2025• General Awareness

What is the term for the shift of workers from agriculture to industry and services?

  1. AOption (a)

    Industrialization

  2. BOption (b)

    Urbanization

  3. COption (c)

    Occupational diversification

  4. DOption (d)

    Economic transition

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Industrialization

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Industrialization.

Key Points

  • Industrialization refers to the process by which a country transforms its economy from being primarily agricultural to one dominated by manufacturing and industry.
  • This process encourages a shift of workers from agriculture to industries and service sectors, leading to occupational diversification.
  • Industrialization typically results in increased urbanization, as workers move from rural areas to cities for employment opportunities in factories and offices.
  • It is often accompanied by technological advancements, higher productivity, and improved standards of living in society.
  • Historical examples include the Industrial Revolution in Europe and the rapid industrial growth in Asia during the 20th century.

Additional Information

  • Urbanization:
  • Urbanization is the process by which there is an increase in the population living in urban areas compared to rural areas.
  • It often goes hand-in-hand with industrialization as economic opportunities in urban centers attract rural populations.
  • Urbanization leads to infrastructural development, but can also result in challenges like overcrowding and pollution.
  • Occupational Diversification:
  • It refers to the shift of workers into diverse professions beyond traditional farming, such as manufacturing, services, and technology-related jobs.
  • This process is a marker of economic development and structural change in a nation.
  • Economic Transition:
  • Economic transition describes the shift of a country's economy from one structure to another, such as from agriculture-based to industry-based.
  • It often involves changes in employment patterns, productivity, and income distribution.
  • Industrial Revolution:
  • The Industrial Revolution (18th-19th centuries) marked the beginning of large-scale industrialization, starting in Britain and spreading globally.
  • Key innovations included the steam engine, textile machinery, and advances in metallurgy.
  • It was characterized by major social, economic, and technological changes.