CGPSC MAINS 2015 Paper-4

Points to Remember: Nuclear reactors utilize nuclear fission to generate heat. This heat is used to produce electricity or for other applications. Safety and waste disposal are crucial considerations. Different reactor designs exist, each with specific applications. Introduction: Nuclear reactors are devices that initiate and control sustained nuclear chain reactions. These reactions, primarily involving the … Read more

Points to Remember: Definition of cathode rays. Production method of cathode rays. Six key characteristics of cathode rays. Introduction: Cathode rays, discovered in the late 19th century, played a pivotal role in the understanding of atomic structure and the development of modern physics. They are streams of electrons, negatively charged subatomic particles, emitted from the … Read more

Points to Remember: Biodiversity hotspots are regions with high levels of endemic species and significant habitat loss. Biodiversity loss is driven by multiple interacting factors. Understanding the causes is crucial for effective conservation strategies. Introduction: Biodiversity hotspots are geographically defined areas characterized by exceptional levels of plant endemism and significant habitat loss. These areas are … Read more

Points to Remember: Location of alkali and alkaline earth metals in the periodic table. Characteristics of their oxides and hydroxides (acidic/basic nature, reactivity). Explanation of the diagonal relationship between lithium and magnesium, highlighting similarities and differences. Introduction: The periodic table, a cornerstone of chemistry, organizes elements based on their atomic structure and properties. Alkali metals … Read more

Points to Remember: Electric power is the rate at which electrical energy is transferred. Electrical energy is the capacity to do work using electricity. The SI unit of power is the watt (W). The SI unit of energy is the joule (J). One kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a unit of energy equal to 3.6 million joules. … Read more

Points to Remember: Auxins: Primarily involved in cell elongation, apical dominance, and root development. Gibberellins: Crucial for stem elongation, seed germination, and flowering. Cytokinins: Promote cell division, delay senescence, and influence apical dominance. Sources vary depending on the plant species and developmental stage. Synthesis often occurs in specific tissues. Introduction: Phytohormones, also known as plant … Read more

Points to Remember: INSAT’s role in communication, meteorology, and broadcasting. Evolution of INSAT generations (INSAT-1, INSAT-2, INSAT-3, GSAT). Key technological advancements and challenges faced. INSAT’s contribution to India’s socio-economic development. Future prospects and the role of GSAT series. Introduction: The Indian National Satellite System (INSAT) is a series of geostationary communication satellites launched by India. … Read more

Points to Remember: Double fertilization involves two sperm cells. One sperm fertilizes the egg, forming a zygote. The other sperm fertilizes the central cell, forming the endosperm. This process is unique to angiosperms (flowering plants). Endosperm provides nourishment for the developing embryo. Introduction: Double fertilization is a complex fertilization mechanism unique to flowering plants (angiosperms). … Read more

Points to Remember: Definition of holozoic nutrition. Types of nutrition in protozoans. Types of nutrition in spiders. Comparison of nutritional methods. Introduction: Holozoic nutrition is a type of heterotrophic nutrition where organisms ingest solid organic matter, digest it internally, and absorb the nutrients. This contrasts with other heterotrophic methods like saprophytic (feeding on dead organic … Read more

Points to Remember: IRS data provides multispectral and hyperspectral imagery. Applications range from crop monitoring to precision farming. Data accuracy and accessibility are key considerations. Integration with other technologies enhances effectiveness. Introduction: The Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) program, initiated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has significantly contributed to various sectors, including agriculture. IRS … Read more