CGPSC MAINS 2013 Paper-4

Points to Remember: Types of nuclear pollution (radioactive vs. thermal) Sources of nuclear pollution Effects of nuclear pollution on human health and the environment Mitigation and remediation strategies International regulations and agreements Introduction: Nuclear pollution refers to the contamination of the environment with radioactive materials or the release of excessive heat from nuclear power plants. … Read more

Points to Remember: Light-dependent reactions are the first stage of photosynthesis. They convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. Water is split, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. These reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts. Introduction: Photosynthesis, the process by which green plants and some other organisms use … Read more

Points to Remember: Autotrophs produce their own food. Photosynthesis is the primary autotrophic process. Chemosynthesis is an alternative autotrophic process. Autotrophs are the base of most food chains. Autotrophs play a crucial role in maintaining the Earth’s atmosphere. Introduction: Autotrophic nutrition is a mode of nutrition where organisms synthesize their own food from inorganic substances. … Read more

Points to Remember: Kidney diseases encompass a wide spectrum of conditions affecting kidney structure and function. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent progression and complications. Lifestyle modifications and medical interventions play vital roles in treatment and prevention. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health concern globally. Introduction: The kidneys are vital … Read more

Points to Remember: The pancreas is a dual-function gland. Exocrine function involves enzyme secretion for digestion. Endocrine function involves hormone secretion for blood sugar regulation. Introduction: The human body possesses a complex network of glands responsible for hormone production and secretion. These glands can be categorized as either endocrine (secreting hormones directly into the bloodstream) … Read more

Points to Remember: Chemical composition and properties of PVC. Different types of PVC (rigid and flexible). Manufacturing process of PVC. Wide range of applications across various industries. Environmental concerns associated with PVC production and disposal. Introduction: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), also known as vinyl, is a widely used thermoplastic polymer. Its chemical formula is (C₂H₃Cl)ₙ, indicating … Read more

Points to Remember: Intermittency and variability of wind Geographic limitations Environmental impacts (birds, bats, noise) Transmission and grid integration challenges High initial capital costs Visual and aesthetic impacts Introduction: Wind energy, a renewable energy source harnessing the kinetic energy of wind, is increasingly vital in global efforts to mitigate climate change. While offering a clean … Read more

Points to Remember: Concave mirrors reflect light inwards towards a focal point. Their uses depend on their ability to converge light. Applications range from everyday objects to sophisticated scientific instruments. Introduction: A concave mirror, also known as a converging mirror, is a curved reflecting surface that is indented inwards. Unlike a plane mirror which produces … Read more

Points to Remember: Definition and characteristics of Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC). Methods of generation and applications of AC and DC. Advantages and disadvantages of AC and DC. Historical context and ongoing relevance. Introduction: Electricity, a fundamental force of nature, powers our modern world. Its practical application relies on two primary forms: Direct … Read more

Points to Remember: Frequency range of X-rays. Two properties of X-rays. Introduction: X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, meaning they are waves of energy that travel at the speed of light. Unlike visible light, which we can see, X-rays are invisible to the human eye. They are part of the electromagnetic spectrum, positioned between … Read more