Current Affairs Quiz : 2 - Class 10 MCQ

Answer:
The Indian para-swimmer who won 8 medals in the 2016 International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports (IWAS) U-23 World Games is Niranjan Mukundan.
Explanation:
Niranjan Mukundan has made India proud by his incredible performance in the 2016 IWAS U-23 World Games. Here are the details of his achievement:
- Niranjan Mukundan, an Indian para-swimmer, participated in the 2016 IWAS U-23 World Games.
- He won a total of 8 medals in the competition.
- These medals include 3 gold medals, 3 silver medals, and 2 bronze medals.
- Niranjan showcased his exceptional skills and determination in various swimming events.
- His outstanding performance and dedication have made him a role model for aspiring para-athletes in India.
Conclusion:
Niranjan Mukundan, the Indian para-swimmer, won 8 medals in the 2016 IWAS U-23 World Games, showcasing his remarkable talent and becoming an inspiration for others in the field of para-sports.

TRAI Mobile App for Measuring Internet Speed
The mobile app launched by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to measure mobile internet speed is called MySpeed.
Key Points:
- MySpeed is a mobile application developed by TRAI to empower users to monitor their internet speed and quality.
- The app allows users to test their mobile internet speed and provide feedback to TRAI about their network experience.
- It provides accurate and reliable information about the download and upload speeds of an internet connection.
- Users can compare their internet speed with other users in their area and across different service providers.
- The app also displays a history of past speed tests, allowing users to track their internet performance over time.
- TRAI uses the data collected from the app to analyze and report on the performance of different service providers and take necessary actions to improve the quality of mobile internet services.
- MySpeed is available for both Android and iOS devices and can be downloaded for free from their respective app stores.
Conclusion:
The MySpeed app by TRAI is a useful tool for users to measure and monitor their mobile internet speed, as well as contribute to improving the overall quality of mobile internet services in India.

Executive Director of Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
The new Executive Director of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is Sudarshan Sen.
Details about the appointed person:
- Name: Sudarshan Sen
- Position: Executive Director of RBI
Other Options:
- Option A: Deepak Singhal
- Option C: Meena Hemchandra
- Option D: Milind Sharma
Conclusion:
- Sudarshan Sen has been appointed as the new Executive Director of Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Chancellor of Germany:
- The current Chancellor of Germany is Angela Merkel.
- She has been in office since November 22, 2005.
- Angela Merkel is a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party.
- She is the first female Chancellor of Germany.
- Merkel has played a significant role in shaping European politics and has been a key figure in international affairs.
- She has been known for her pragmatic and cautious approach to governance.
- Merkel has announced that she will not seek re-election and will step down as Chancellor in 2021.
- The next federal election in Germany is scheduled for September 26, 2021, which will determine Merkel's successor as Chancellor.
Incorrect options:
- Angelique Kerber is a German professional tennis player, not the Chancellor of Germany.
- Yelena Isinbayeva is a retired Russian pole vaulter, not the Chancellor of Germany.
- Chris Evert is a retired American tennis player, not the Chancellor of Germany.

Question:

Which of the following was annexed by Russia, which caused the UN to impose sanctions on Russia, following a referendum in 2014?

Answer:

The correct answer is D: Crimea, Ukraine.

Explanation:

The annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 resulted in the imposition of sanctions by the United Nations. Here is a detailed explanation:

1. Annexation of Crimea:

• Russia annexed Crimea, a region located in Ukraine, in 2014.


• This action was highly controversial and condemned by many countries globally.

2. Referendum in Crimea:

• A referendum was held in Crimea in 2014, shortly after the annexation.


• The referendum asked whether Crimea should join Russia or remain part of Ukraine.


• Amidst a highly disputed and contentious environment, the majority of voters favored joining Russia.

3. UN Sanctions:

• Following the annexation and the referendum, the United Nations imposed sanctions on Russia.


• These sanctions were implemented as a response to Russia's violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.


• The sanctions aimed to put pressure on Russia and discourage further aggressive actions.

Therefore, the correct answer is D: Crimea, Ukraine, as it was the region that was annexed by Russia, resulting in UN sanctions.

India will host the 2016 meet of BRICS anti-narcotics heads on July 8, 2016 to discuss issues related to narco-terrorism and money laundering among the BRICS member-nations. The one-day meeting will be hosted by Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the agenda of the high-level meeting is expected to revolve around illicit drug trafficking including diversion of precursors and chemicals, usage of new psychoactive substances, maritime drug trafficking, narco terrorism and drug money laundering. All the BRICS nations (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) will discuss ways to increase cooperation to effectively deal with these issues and keep an effective monitoring on illegal narcotics transport happening between these nations.

Answer:
The Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. Here are the details:
Location:
- The Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh.
- It is located around the Renuka Lake, which is considered to be the largest natural lake in Himachal Pradesh.
Features:
- The sanctuary is spread over an area of approximately 402.8 square kilometers.
- It is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including a variety of trees, shrubs, and wildlife species.
- The sanctuary is home to several species of animals, such as the Himalayan black bear, leopard, sambar deer, barking deer, langur, and many more.
- It also serves as a habitat for various species of birds, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.
Attractions:
- Besides its rich wildlife, the Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere.
- The Renuka Lake, located within the sanctuary, is a major tourist attraction and a place of religious significance.
- Visitors can enjoy boating in the lake and explore the surrounding natural beauty.
Conservation:
- The Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation and protection of its flora and fauna.
- Measures are taken to prevent any illegal activities like poaching and deforestation within the sanctuary.
- It is managed and maintained by the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department.
Overall, the Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and witness diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

The book "Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End" has been authored by Atul Gawande.
- Atul Gawande is an American surgeon, writer, and public health researcher.
- "Being Mortal" is a non-fiction book published in 2014.
- The book explores the limitations and failures of the medical system when it comes to end-of-life care.
- Gawande discusses the importance of understanding and prioritizing the desires and values of patients as they face mortality.
- He explores topics such as nursing homes, assisted living, hospice care, and the role of medicine in prolonging life.
- Gawande draws on both personal experiences and research to present a thought-provoking and compassionate perspective on aging and dying.
- The book has been well-received and has sparked important conversations about how society can better support individuals facing the end of life.

Guinness World Record for the Highest Catch in Cricket
The recent Guinness World Record for the highest catch in cricket was not set by Chaminda Vaas, Mustafizur Rehman, or Steve Smith. The correct answer is Nasser Hussain.
Details of the Record:
- Nasser Hussain, a former cricketer from England, set the record for the highest catch in cricket.
- The catch was taken during a charity event organized by Cricket United at the Oval cricket ground in London.
- The catch was taken from a height of 150 feet, making it the highest catch ever recorded in cricket history.
- The event aimed to raise funds for three cricket charities: Chance to Shine, Lord's Taverners, and the PCA Benevolent Fund.
Significance of the Record:
- Nasser Hussain's achievement highlights his exceptional catching skills and bravery to attempt such a high catch.
- It also brings attention to the charitable efforts of Cricket United and the importance of supporting cricket-related causes.
Conclusion:
Nasser Hussain recently set the Guinness World Record for the highest catch in cricket during a charity event organized by Cricket United at the Oval cricket ground in London. His achievement not only showcases his catching abilities but also raises awareness for cricket-related charities.

The book "When Breath Becomes Air" has been authored by Paul Kalanithi.

Paul Kalanithi was an American neurosurgeon and writer. He wrote the book "When Breath Becomes Air" while he was battling stage IV lung cancer. The book is a memoir that explores life, death, and the meaning of existence through Kalanithi's personal experiences as a physician and a patient.

The book was published posthumously in 2016, after Kalanithi's death at the age of 37. It received widespread critical acclaim and became a New York Times bestseller. "When Breath Becomes Air" is known for its profound insights into mortality, human suffering, and the pursuit of a meaningful life.

Paul Kalanithi's book continues to inspire readers with its poignant reflections and thought-provoking philosophy. It is a testament to his intellectual and emotional journey as he faced his own mortality and sought to make sense of the complexities of life and death.

Principle of Conservation of Mass: Atoms can neither be created nor destroyed
The principle of conservation of mass states that atoms can neither be created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. This concept is a fundamental principle in chemistry and was established by the British scientist John Dalton. Here is a detailed explanation of this principle:
1. John Dalton:
- John Dalton was an English chemist and physicist who lived in the 18th and 19th centuries.
- He is known for his work on atomic theory and the development of the concept of the conservation of mass.
- Dalton proposed that atoms are indivisible and indestructible particles that combine in fixed ratios to form compounds.
2. Conservation of Mass:
- According to the principle of conservation of mass, the total mass of the reactants in a chemical reaction is equal to the total mass of the products.
- This means that atoms are neither created nor destroyed during a chemical reaction.
- The rearrangement of atoms leads to the formation of new compounds, but the total number of atoms remains constant.
3. Examples:
- For example, when hydrogen gas (H2) reacts with oxygen gas (O2) to form water (H2O), the total mass of hydrogen and oxygen before the reaction is equal to the total mass of water after the reaction.
- Another example is the burning of wood. The wood reacts with oxygen in the air to produce carbon dioxide and water vapor. The total mass of the wood, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water remains the same before and after the reaction.
4. Implications:
- The principle of conservation of mass is essential in chemical calculations and stoichiometry.
- It allows chemists to predict the amount of product that will be formed in a reaction based on the mass of the reactants.
- It also helps in balancing chemical equations by ensuring that the number of atoms on both sides of the equation is equal.
Therefore, the principle that atoms can neither be created nor destroyed was given by John Dalton, making option B the correct answer.

Introduction:
Vinegar is a common household product that is used in cooking, cleaning, and many other applications. It is known for its sour taste and distinctive smell. Vinegar is actually a solution of acetic acid in water. Acetic acid is a weak acid that is produced through the fermentation of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria.
Explanation:
The aqueous solution of acetic acid is called vinegar. Here is a detailed explanation of the options:
- Oxalic acid: Oxalic acid is a strong acid that is found in certain plants and can be toxic if ingested. It is not the acid responsible for the sour taste and smell of vinegar.
- Citric acid: Citric acid is a weak acid that is found naturally in citrus fruits. It is commonly used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages. However, it is not the acid responsible for the characteristics of vinegar.
- Acetic acid: Acetic acid is a weak acid that is produced through the fermentation of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria. It is the acid responsible for the sour taste and smell of vinegar. When acetic acid is dissolved in water, it forms an aqueous solution called vinegar.
- Hydrochloric acid: Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid that is commonly used in laboratories and industrial processes. It is highly corrosive and not suitable for consumption. It is not the acid responsible for the characteristics of vinegar.
Therefore, the correct answer is Option C: Acetic acid.

Answer:
The ruler of the Delhi Sultanate who abolished the Iqtas was Alauddin Khilji. Here is a detailed explanation of the events:
Background:
- The Iqtas system was a revenue administration system in medieval India where areas were granted to military officers in exchange for their services.
- These officers were responsible for collecting revenue, maintaining law and order, and providing military support.
Alauddin Khilji's Reign:
- Alauddin Khilji ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1296 to 1316.
- He is known for his administrative and military reforms.
Abolition of Iqtas:
- Alauddin Khilji abolished the Iqtas system as part of his administrative reforms.
- He believed that the Iqtas system led to corruption and inefficiency.
- Instead, he introduced the system of direct collection of taxes by state officials.
Centralization of Power:
- By abolishing the Iqtas system, Alauddin Khilji centralized power in the hands of the state.
- This helped him maintain control over the revenue collection process and ensure a more efficient administration.
Impact:
- The abolition of the Iqtas system played a significant role in strengthening the central authority of the Delhi Sultanate.
- It also helped in curbing corruption and increasing revenue collection.
In conclusion, Alauddin Khilji, the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, abolished the Iqtas system as part of his administrative reforms. This decision helped in centralizing power, curbing corruption, and increasing revenue collection.

August 9, 1925: The Kakori Train Robbery
The incidence that is known in Indian history for August 9, 1925, is the Kakori Train Robbery. Here are the details of this historic event:
1. Background:
- The Kakori Train Robbery took place during the British Raj in India.
- It was a significant act of rebellion against British rule and became a symbol of resistance.
2. The Robbery:
- On August 9, 1925, a group of revolutionaries associated with the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) stopped the 8 Down Saharanpur-Lucknow Passenger Train at Kakori near Lucknow.
- The robbers, including Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah Khan, and Chandrashekhar Azad, aimed to loot the train to fund their revolutionary activities.
3. Execution and Aftermath:
- The revolutionaries, disguised as passengers, entered the train and looted the cash bags belonging to the British government.
- However, during the robbery, a passenger named Abdul Hafiz Mohammad Barkatullah was shot and killed mistakenly by one of the revolutionaries.
- After the robbery, the revolutionaries managed to escape, but a massive manhunt was launched by the British authorities to capture them.
4. Arrests and Trials:
- Eventually, many of the participants in the Kakori Train Robbery were arrested, including Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah Khan, and Rajendra Lahiri.
- They were put on trial and faced severe punishments.
- Bismil and Ashfaqullah Khan were sentenced to death and executed, while others received various prison terms.
5. Significance:
- The Kakori Train Robbery became a significant event in the Indian independence movement.
- It highlighted the determination and courage of Indian revolutionaries in their fight against British colonial rule.
- The incident also led to increased public support for the independence movement and inspired future generations of freedom fighters.
In conclusion, the Kakori Train Robbery is the historical event associated with August 9, 1925, in Indian history. It symbolizes the spirit of resistance against British rule and remains an important part of the struggle for Indian independence.

Answer:
The newly appointed Union Minister of Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) is Prakash Javadekar. Here are some key details about the appointment:
Background:
- The Ministry of Human Resource Development is responsible for the development of education, research, and innovation in India.
- The ministry oversees various departments and agencies related to education, including the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), and University Grants Commission (UGC).
Appointment:
- Prakash Javadekar was appointed as the Union Minister of Ministry of Human Resource Development in May 2019.
- He succeeded Prakash Javadekar, who held the position from 2016 to 2019.
- Javadekar is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has previously held various important positions in the government.
Experience and Achievements:
- Prakash Javadekar has a background in politics and has been actively involved in public service for many years.
- Prior to his appointment as the Minister of HRD, Javadekar has held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and Minister of Information and Broadcasting.
- He has also been involved in various initiatives and policies related to education, environment, and media.
Responsibilities:
- As the Union Minister of HRD, Prakash Javadekar is responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to education, research, and development.
- He plays a crucial role in shaping the education system in India and ensuring quality education for all.
Overall, Prakash Javadekar's appointment as the Union Minister of Ministry of Human Resource Development brings experience and leadership to the important portfolio. His role is vital in driving the growth and development of education in India.

The world's largest Charkha has been set up in New Delhi, India.
Explanation:
The Charkha is a traditional spinning wheel used in India to spin cotton or other fibers into thread or yarn. It holds great historical and cultural significance, particularly in relation to Mahatma Gandhi and his philosophy of self-reliance and the use of khadi (handspun and handwoven cloth).
The world's largest Charkha is a symbol of India's rich textile heritage and the importance of the Charkha in the country's history. It was installed in New Delhi, the capital city of India, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Champaran Satyagraha, a movement led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1917 against the oppressive indigo plantation system.
The Charkha is made of stainless steel and stands at a height of 30 feet. It weighs around 5 tons and is a fully functional spinning wheel. It serves as a reminder of India's struggle for independence and the values of self-sufficiency, peace, and non-violence advocated by Mahatma Gandhi.
The installation of the world's largest Charkha in New Delhi has become a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of India's cultural heritage and commitment to the principles of Gandhi.

Answer:
The first Indian satellite to be sent into space orbit was the Aryabhatta satellite. Here is a detailed explanation:
Aryabhatta:
- Aryabhatta was the first Indian satellite to be launched into space by the Soviet Union on April 19, 1975.
- It was named after the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer, Aryabhatta.
- The satellite had a total mass of 360 kg and was built to conduct experiments in X-ray astronomy, aeronomics, and solar physics.
- Aryabhatta was placed in a near-earth orbit with an inclination of 50.7 degrees and an orbital period of 96.2 minutes.
- The satellite operated for a period of 5 years and 11 months before its orbit decayed, causing it to re-enter the Earth's atmosphere and burn up.

In summary, the first Indian satellite to be sent into space orbit was the Aryabhatta satellite, which was launched by the Soviet Union in 1975.

Footballers who represented France in Euro 2016:
- Antoine Griezmann: Antoine Griezmann, a French footballer, represented France in Euro 2016. He played as a forward and made a significant impact on the tournament, finishing as the top scorer with six goals.
- Mesut Ozil: Mesut Ozil is a German footballer who did not represent France in Euro 2016. He plays as a midfielder for the German national team.
- Ashley Williams: Ashley Williams is a Welsh footballer who did not represent France in Euro 2016. He plays as a defender for the Welsh national team.
- James Vardy: James Vardy is an English footballer who did not represent France in Euro 2016. He plays as a forward for the English national team.
Conclusion: Antoine Griezmann was the only footballer listed who represented France in Euro 2016.

Euclid is known as the father of geometry.
Explanation:
- Euclid was a Greek mathematician who lived around 300 BCE.
- He is best known for his work "Elements," which is a comprehensive compilation of mathematical knowledge at that time.
- In "Elements," Euclid laid down the foundations of geometry and established many of its fundamental principles and theorems.
- He introduced the concept of axioms and postulates, which are the basic assumptions from which all other geometric proofs are derived.
- Euclid's work had a significant impact on the development of mathematics and became the standard textbook for geometry for over 2,000 years.
- His contributions to geometry include the definition of points, lines, and planes, as well as the study of angles, triangles, circles, and other geometric figures.
- Euclid's work also includes the famous Pythagorean theorem, which states that in a right-angled triangle, the square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.
- Overall, Euclid's systematic approach to geometry and his logical reasoning have earned him the title of the father of geometry.

Galileo's Contributions:
- Developed the telescope: Galileo is credited with improving and popularizing the telescope. He made his own telescopes and used them to observe celestial bodies, leading to groundbreaking discoveries.
- Discovered four satellites of Jupiter: Galileo observed and identified four of Jupiter's largest moons, now known as the Galilean moons. This discovery provided evidence for the Copernican heliocentric model of the solar system.
- Discovered that the movement of pendulum produces a regular time measurement: Galileo's experiments with pendulums led him to discover that their regular swing could be used to measure time accurately. This finding laid the foundation for the development of mechanical clocks.
Explanation:
Galileo Galilei, an Italian astronomer, made significant contributions to the field of astronomy and physics. His work revolutionized our understanding of the universe and laid the groundwork for future scientific developments. Galileo's contributions include the development of the telescope, the discovery of four satellites of Jupiter, and the realization that a pendulum's movement can be used as a regular time measurement. These achievements showcase his scientific curiosity, observational skills, and commitment to advancing knowledge. Galileo's discoveries not only expanded our understanding of the cosmos but also challenged prevailing beliefs and paved the way for the scientific revolution.

The prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award was conferred upon Ms. Kiran Bedi for her excellent contribution to which of the following fields?

• Literature: No, the award was not conferred for Ms. Kiran Bedi's contribution to literature.


• Community Welfare: No, the award was not conferred for Ms. Kiran Bedi's contribution to community welfare.


• Government Service: Yes, the award was conferred upon Ms. Kiran Bedi for her excellent contribution to government service.


• Journalism: No, the award was not conferred for Ms. Kiran Bedi's contribution to journalism.

Therefore, the correct answer is C. Government Service.

The correct answer is C: ASEAN. ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and is not directly associated with the United Nations Organization.
Explanation:
The United Nations Organization is an international organization established in 1945 to promote peace, security, and cooperation among member countries. It has several specialized agencies and programs working in various fields. Here's a breakdown of the options:
A: ILO (International Labour Organization) - The ILO is a specialized agency of the United Nations and is associated with the United Nations Organization. It focuses on labor issues, promoting decent work, and improving working conditions worldwide.
B: WHO (World Health Organization) - The WHO is a specialized agency of the United Nations and is associated with the United Nations Organization. It is responsible for international public health, coordinating responses to health emergencies, and promoting health for all.
C: ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) - ASEAN is a regional organization consisting of ten Southeast Asian countries, namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is not directly associated with the United Nations Organization.
D: All of the above - This option is incorrect because ASEAN is not associated with the United Nations Organization.
In conclusion, ASEAN is not associated with the United Nations Organization, while ILO and WHO are specialized agencies of the United Nations.

To determine which continent has the least landmass, we need to compare the land areas of Africa, Asia, Australia, and Europe. Let's analyze each continent:
Africa:
- The second-largest continent in terms of land area.
- It spans over 30.37 million square kilometers.
Asia:
- The largest continent in terms of land area.
- It covers approximately 44.58 million square kilometers.
Australia:
- The smallest continent in terms of land area.
- It occupies around 7.62 million square kilometers.
Europe:
- The second smallest continent in terms of land area.
- It encompasses approximately 10.18 million square kilometers.
Based on the given information, we can conclude that Australia has the least landmass among the listed continents.
Therefore, the answer is C: Australia.

Principal Copper Deposits in India:
- Hazaribag and Singbhum of Bihar
- Khetri and Daribo areas of Rajasthan
- Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh
- Siwaliks in Uttar Pradesh and in Karnataka
Detailed
The principal copper deposits in India are found in the following places:
- Hazaribag and Singbhum of Bihar: These areas in Bihar are known for their copper deposits. The Singhbhum Copper Belt, located in the eastern part of the state, is one of the major copper-producing regions in India.
- Khetri and Daribo areas of Rajasthan: The Khetri Copper Belt in Rajasthan is another important copper-producing region in India. The Khetri mines have been in operation for over a hundred years and have significant copper reserves.
- Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh: Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh is also known for its copper deposits. The copper deposits in this region are primarily associated with the Proterozoic rocks.
- Siwaliks in Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka: The Siwalik hills, which extend across Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka, also contain copper deposits. These deposits are primarily found in the sandstone and conglomerate rocks of the Siwalik formations.
Therefore, the principal copper deposits of India are located in Hazaribag and Singhbhum of Bihar, Khetri and Daribo areas of Rajasthan, Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh, and Siwaliks in Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka.

Answer:
The correct answer is A: Graphite.
Explanation:
Pencils use graphite as the core material. Here is a detailed explanation:
- Graphite:
- Graphite is a soft, black, and shiny form of carbon.
- It is a good conductor of electricity and has a low density.
- Graphite is made up of layers of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice structure.
- It is commonly used in pencils due to its ability to leave a mark on the paper when applied with pressure.
- The characteristic gray or black color of pencil marks is due to the presence of graphite.
- Silicon:
- Silicon is not used in pencils.
- Silicon is a chemical element with different properties from graphite.
- It is commonly used in computer chips and other electronic devices.
- Charcoal:
- Charcoal is another material used in art and drawing.
- It is made by burning organic matter, such as wood or coconut shells, in a low-oxygen environment.
- Charcoal produces dark and smudgy marks on paper, similar to graphite.
- Phosphorous:
- Phosphorous is not used in pencils.
- It is a highly reactive nonmetallic element with various industrial and biological applications.
- Phosphorous is not suitable for writing or drawing purposes.
To summarize, graphite is the material commonly used in pencils due to its ability to leave visible marks on paper. Silicon and phosphorous are not used in pencils, while charcoal is another material used in art but has different properties compared to graphite.

The members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of the legislative assembly. Here is a detailed explanation of the election process:
Election Process:
- The Rajya Sabha is the upper house of the Indian Parliament, and its members are elected by an indirect method.
- The representatives of the people, who are elected members of the legislative assembly of each state, participate in the election process.
- The election is conducted through a system of proportional representation by means of the Single Transferable Vote (STV) method.
- Each state is allocated a certain number of seats in the Rajya Sabha, which is determined based on the population of the state.
- The elected members of the legislative assembly cast their votes to elect the members of the Rajya Sabha.
- The voting process is usually conducted through a secret ballot, where the elected members mark their preferences for the candidates.
- The votes are then counted, and the candidates who secure the required number of votes are declared elected to the Rajya Sabha.
Significance of the Election:
- The election of Rajya Sabha members by the elected members of the legislative assembly ensures a representation of the states in the upper house.
- This system provides a platform for the states to have a say in the legislative process and helps in maintaining a federal structure.
- The elected members of the legislative assembly, being representatives of the people, play a crucial role in selecting candidates who can effectively represent the interests of the state.
Conclusion:
The Rajya Sabha members are elected by the elected members of the legislative assembly. This system ensures a fair representation of the states and allows for the participation of the people's representatives in the election process.

Answer:
Ricky Ponting is also known as what?
- Ricky Ponting is also known as "Punter".
- The nickname "Punter" was given to Ricky Ponting by his teammates and fans.
- This nickname reflects his aggressive and fearless batting style.
- The term "Punter" is commonly used in Australia to refer to someone who takes risks or gambles, which perfectly describes Ponting's approach to the game.
- The nickname has become synonymous with Ricky Ponting and is widely recognized in the cricketing community.
- While there are other nicknames associated with Ponting, such as "The Rickster," "Ponts," and "Ponter," "Punter" is the most commonly used and well-known.
- The nickname "Punter" has stuck with Ponting throughout his career and is often used by commentators and cricket fans when referring to him.

Explanation:
The words "Satyameva Jayate" inscribed below the base plate of the emblem of India are taken from the Mundaka Upanishad.
Here is a detailed explanation:
1. The Mundaka Upanishad is one of the primary Upanishads in Hindu philosophy.
2. It is a part of the Atharva Veda, which is one of the four Vedas, the ancient scriptures of Hinduism.
3. The Mundaka Upanishad is composed of three chapters, with each chapter containing sub-sections called Kandas.
4. The famous phrase "Satyameva Jayate" is found in the second chapter of the Mundaka Upanishad, in the first Kanda.
5. The phrase is in Sanskrit and translates to "Truth alone triumphs" in English.
6. It symbolizes the importance of truth and righteousness in life and governance.
7. The phrase was adopted as the national motto of India and is inscribed below the base plate of the national emblem.
8. The national emblem of India, also known as the State Emblem of India, features the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which is a symbol of ancient Indian culture and represents the sovereignty of the country.
9. The inscription of "Satyameva Jayate" below the base plate reinforces the values of truth, justice, and righteousness on which the nation is built.
Therefore, the correct answer is C: Mundak Upanishad.

Explanation:
The intersecting lines drawn on maps and globes are called geographic grids. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Latitudes:
- Latitudes are lines that run parallel to the equator.
- They are measured in degrees north or south of the equator.
- Latitudes are used to determine the distance from the equator and to divide the Earth into different climate zones.
2. Longitudes:
- Longitudes are lines that run from the North Pole to the South Pole.
- They are measured in degrees east or west of the Prime Meridian.
- Longitudes help in determining time zones and calculating the difference in time between different locations.
3. Geographic grids:
- Geographic grids are a system of intersecting lines of latitude and longitude.
- They form a network of squares or rectangles on a map or a globe.
- Geographic grids are used to locate specific points on the Earth's surface accurately.
- By using coordinates of latitude and longitude, any location can be identified precisely.
4. None of the above:
- This option is incorrect because the intersecting lines on maps and globes are indeed geographic grids.
Therefore, the correct answer is C: Geographic grids.

The ionosphere includes:
- Mesosphere: The ionosphere includes the mesosphere, which is the layer of the Earth's atmosphere located above the stratosphere and below the thermosphere.
- Thermosphere: The ionosphere is primarily located within the thermosphere, which is the layer of the Earth's atmosphere located above the mesosphere and below the exosphere.
- Exosphere: The ionosphere also extends into the exosphere, which is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere.
Explanation:
The ionosphere is a region of the Earth's atmosphere that contains a high concentration of ions and free electrons. It is located approximately 50 to 600 kilometers above the Earth's surface. The ionosphere is responsible for various important phenomena, such as the reflection and refraction of radio waves and the formation of the auroras.
The ionosphere is primarily located within the thermosphere, which is the layer of the Earth's atmosphere known for its high temperatures due to the absorption of solar radiation. The ionization of the thermosphere creates the ionosphere, where ions and free electrons are present.
The ionosphere also extends into the exosphere, which is the outermost layer of the Earth's atmosphere. The exosphere is characterized by extremely low densities and the presence of atoms and molecules that can escape into space. The ionosphere in the exosphere region is responsible for the loss of ions and electrons into space.
In summary, the ionosphere includes the mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere. It is a region of the Earth's atmosphere where ions and free electrons are abundant, and it plays a crucial role in various atmospheric and space phenomena.