CGPSC MAINS 2015 Paper-4

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

Points to Remember: Types of nuclear reactors Working principle of nuclear reactors Advantages and disadvantages of nuclear reactors Safety concerns and regulations Future of nuclear reactors Introduction: Nuclear reactors are devices that initiate and control sustained nuclear chain reactions. These reactions release a tremendous amount of energy from the splitting (fission) of heavy atomic nuclei, … Read more

Points to Remember: Bleaching powder’s chemical composition and properties. The process of its manufacturing. Its diverse applications in various industries and households. Safety precautions associated with its handling and storage. Introduction: Bleaching powder, officially known as calcium hypochlorite (Ca(ClO)₂), is a pale yellowish powder with a strong smell of chlorine. It’s a widely used chemical … Read more

Points to Remember: Chemical formula of baking soda. Method of preparation of baking soda. Balanced chemical equation for its preparation. Introduction: Baking soda, a common household item, is a leavening agent used in baking and also finds applications in cleaning and other areas. Its chemical name is sodium bicarbonate, and it’s a white crystalline powder. … Read more

Points to Remember: Power of accommodation: The eye’s ability to adjust its focus for different distances. Far point: The farthest distance at which an object can be seen clearly. Near point: The closest distance at which an object can be seen clearly. Normal vision (emmetropia): The ability to see clearly both near and far objects … Read more

Points to Remember: Primary cells are single-use batteries. Secondary cells are rechargeable batteries. The chemical reactions in primary cells are irreversible. The chemical reactions in secondary cells are reversible. Introduction: Primary and secondary cells are both electrochemical devices that convert chemical energy into electrical energy. However, they differ significantly in their operational characteristics and applications. … Read more

Points to Remember: Definition of endemic species. Geographic distribution and factors influencing endemism. Importance of endemic species. Threats to endemic species. Conservation strategies. Introduction: Endemic species are plants and animals that are found exclusively in a particular geographic location, such as an island, region, or country, and nowhere else in the world. Their distribution is … Read more

Points to Remember: Definition and purpose of seed banks. Types of seed banks (ex situ vs. in situ). Importance of seed banks for biodiversity conservation. Challenges faced by seed banks. Future of seed banks and their role in addressing global food security. Introduction: Seed banks are facilities designed to store seeds for long periods, preserving … Read more

Points to Remember: Greenhouse effect and its role Human activities as primary contributors Consequences of global warming Mitigation and adaptation strategies Introduction: Global warming refers to the long-term heating of Earth’s climate system observed since the pre-industrial period (between 1850 and 1900) due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning, which increases heat-trapping greenhouse gas … Read more

Points to Remember: Biodiversity encompasses the variety of life at all levels, from genes to ecosystems. It includes genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. Biodiversity is crucial for ecosystem services, human well-being, and economic stability. Threats to biodiversity include habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and invasive species. Conservation efforts are vital to protect biodiversity … Read more