Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 1st February 2025 - Bank Exams MCQ

Microplastics are defined as small plastic particles that generally measure less than 5 mm in size. They are a significant environmental concern due to their persistence in ecosystems, where they do not biodegrade and can accumulate over time. Interestingly, microplastics can originate from two main sources: primary microplastics, which are intentionally manufactured for products like cosmetics, and secondary microplastics, which result from the breakdown of larger plastic items due to environmental factors. This dual origin contributes to their widespread presence in various habitats, including marine environments.

The EAST facility achieved a significant milestone by maintaining a high-confinement plasma operation for 1066 seconds, surpassing its previous record of 403 seconds. This achievement is crucial as it indicates advancements in nuclear fusion research, which is aimed at creating sustainable and clean energy. The extreme temperature reached during this operation was 100 million degrees Celsius, which is necessary for achieving fusion conditions similar to those in the sun. An interesting fact about nuclear fusion is that it has the potential to provide nearly limitless energy without the long-lived radioactive waste associated with nuclear fission.

China's EAST (Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak) set a remarkable record by maintaining plasma at a temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius for an impressive duration of 1066 seconds. This achievement is significant as it surpasses their previous record of 403 seconds, demonstrating advancements in fusion technology. Such prolonged plasma confinement is crucial for developing future fusion power plants, which aim to provide clean and virtually limitless energy. Interestingly, fusion energy has the potential to produce energy without carbon emissions, making it a key player in the quest for sustainable energy solutions.

One of the main challenges of achieving nuclear fusion is the ability of materials to withstand extreme heat and radiation. Current materials cannot endure the intense conditions indefinitely, which poses a significant barrier to the development of practical fusion reactors. This limitation is critical because reactor components must operate in an environment that reaches temperatures of over 100 million °C, making material durability essential for sustained fusion reactions. Interestingly, researchers are exploring advanced materials such as tungsten and carbon fibers to address this issue, illustrating the ongoing innovation in fusion technology.

The saffron reedtail damselfly is scientifically known as Indosticta deccanensis. This species is a part of the family Platystictidae and is characterized by its slender and delicate body. It is endemic to the Western Ghats of India, which means it is found nowhere else in the world, highlighting the ecological significance of this region for biodiversity. The presence of such species is crucial for maintaining ecological balance, and their conservation is vital for preserving their natural habitats.

The saffron reedtail damselfly primarily inhabits streams that are surrounded by dense vegetation, which provides both shelter and a clean water source essential for their lifecycle. This specific habitat is crucial as it not only supports the damselfly's needs but also indicates the health of the ecosystem, as these insects are sensitive to environmental changes. Interestingly, the presence of such species can serve as a bioindicator for the quality of freshwater habitats, making them valuable for ecological studies.

The Supreme Court of India mandated a complete ban on manual scavenging in six major cities as part of an effort to address the social and health issues associated with this practice. This ruling is significant as it emphasizes the need for modern technology in sewer cleaning and aims to protect the rights of marginalized communities, ultimately improving public health. The decision marks a crucial step towards eliminating hazardous practices that have historically discriminated against certain groups within society. Interestingly, the issue of manual scavenging has deep historical roots in India, often tied to caste-based discrimination, making this ruling a pivotal moment for social justice.

Geo-economic fragmentation is characterized by a policy-induced reversal of global economic integration. This phenomenon arises from strategic geopolitical interests, leading countries to establish trade and financial partnerships based on political alignments rather than economic merit. As a result, countries may impose trade restrictions and limit capital movements, significantly altering the dynamics of global trade and investment flows. An interesting fact is that these changes can have lasting impacts on global GDP, potentially resulting in significant economic losses for affected economies.

The rusty-spotted cat is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. This status indicates that while the species is not immediately endangered, it faces a risk of extinction in the near future due to habitat loss and other environmental pressures. Interestingly, the rusty-spotted cat is notable for being the world's smallest and lightest known cat, weighing less than 1.5 kilograms, which makes it about half the size of a typical domestic cat. This unique characteristic adds to the importance of conservation efforts for this species.

The military coup in Myanmar has led to increased civil conflict and fragmentation within the country, resulting in a chaotic environment characterized by ongoing violence and resistance against the military junta. Since the coup, there have been numerous arrests and fatalities, indicating the severity of the situation. This illustrates the challenges faced in restoring peace and stability in a nation embroiled in conflict. An interesting fact is that the National Unity Government (NUG), formed by ousted lawmakers, has been attempting to coordinate various resistance groups, showing the complexities of opposition against the junta.