Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 23rd April 2025 - UPSC MCQ

Statement 1 is correct. The Bullseye Galaxy (LEDA 1313424) is indeed noted for having nine rings, which is an unprecedented structure among known galaxies. Most ringed galaxies feature only 2 to 3 rings, and thus, the Bullseye Galaxy's nine rings make it uniquely structured.

Statement 2 is correct. The formation of the rings in the Bullseye Galaxy is attributed to a collision with a blue dwarf galaxy approximately 50 million years ago. Such galactic interactions often result in the formation of rings due to gravitational and dynamical processes affecting the galaxies involved.

Statement 3 is incorrect. While the Bullseye Galaxy's features suggest that it may evolve into a Giant Low Surface Brightness (GLSB) galaxy, it is not currently classified as one. GLSB galaxies are characterized by low surface brightness and typically have extensive hydrogen disks with low star formation rates. The Bullseye Galaxy's current classification does not yet meet these criteria.

Thus, the correct answer is Option B: 1 and 2 Only.

Statement-I correctly describes the unique structure of the Bullseye Galaxy (LEDA 1313424) as having nine rings formed from a collision with a blue dwarf galaxy approximately 50 million years ago, as mentioned in the Key Takeaways. Statement-II accurately characterizes Giant Low Surface Brightness (GLSB) galaxies as large, diffuse galaxies with low surface brightness, lower star counts due to low hydrogen density, and significant dark matter content, as outlined in the Additional Details provided. The statement about GLSB galaxies aligns with the information presented in the text, supporting the correctness of both statements.

Statement-I correctly identifies Arctic amplification as a phenomenon where temperature rises in polar regions exceed those in other parts of the world. This is a well-established fact related to climate change dynamics.
Statement-II lists the factors contributing to Arctic amplification, including Ice-Albedo Feedback, Lapse Rate Feedback, Water Vapor Feedback, and Ocean Heat Transport. These factors indeed play crucial roles in the amplification of warming in the Arctic region.
Therefore, both statements are correct, and Statement-II provides a logical explanation for Statement-I, as the factors it mentions contribute directly to the phenomenon of Arctic amplification.

Statement-I correctly describes the use of atoms cooled to near absolute zero in the Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG) to enable them to enter wave-like states. This technology allows for precise measurements of gravitational forces.

Statement-II accurately describes the location of the Jwaneng Diamond Mine on the edge of the Kalahari Desert and mentions its use of advanced mining techniques to separate diamonds from rock. However, Statement-II does not provide information directly related to the QGG technology mentioned in Statement-I, hence it does not explain Statement-I.

The discovery of the Bullseye Galaxy (LEDA 1313424) with its nine rings indicates a potential evolution into a Giant Low Surface Brightness (GLSB) galaxy. This transformation is suggested by the galaxy's extended disk and hydrogen content, providing insights into the formation of such galaxies with unique characteristics like low surface brightness and lower star counts, impacting star formation processes.

1. QGG Technology - Measures differences in gravitational acceleration with precision up to 10^-15 m/s² over 1 meter.
This is correctly matched. Quantum Gravity Gradiometers are indeed capable of measuring very subtle variations in gravitational acceleration with high precision, such as 10^-15 m/s².
2. Application - Useful in detecting hydrocarbon deposits.
This is correctly matched. QGGs are sensitive instruments that can measure gravitational changes across locations, which can be applied in resource exploration, including detecting hydrocarbon deposits.
3. Instrument Function - Manipulates atoms at room temperature to measure gravitational forces.
This is incorrectly matched. QGGs use atoms cooled to near absolute zero, not at room temperature, to enter wave-like states and measure gravitational forces.
4. Deployment - Designed for use in high Earth orbit.
This is incorrectly matched. The QGG is intended for deployment in low Earth orbit, where it can effectively monitor changes in the Earth's mass distribution.
Thus, only pairs 1 and 2 are correctly matched, making the correct answer Option B: Only two pairs.

Cloudburst events are characterized by intense rainfall over a small area within a short duration. One of the significant consequences of a cloudburst is the occurrence of flash floods and landslides. The rapid and excessive rainfall overwhelms drainage systems, leading to sudden inundation and posing risks to lives and property in the affected region. These events are particularly challenging to predict due to their localized nature and can have devastating impacts on the environment and communities residing in the area.

1. Statement 1 is correct. The Bamiyan Buddhas were indeed carved in the 6th century CE and were representative of the Gandhara School of Buddhist Art, which is characterized by a blend of Indian, Persian, and Greco-Roman influences. This cultural amalgamation is evident in the artistic style of the statues, which embodied the confluence of various civilizations.

2. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Bamiyan Buddhas were destroyed by the Taliban in February 2001, not in 2003. The destruction was a significant act of cultural vandalism based on the Taliban's extremist interpretation of Islamic law. Following the destruction, UNESCO designated the Bamiyan Valley as a World Heritage Site in 2003 to recognize its cultural significance despite the loss.

3. Statement 3 is correct. In 2021, a 3D holographic projection was used to temporarily recreate the Bamiyan Buddhas. This initiative aimed to engage with Afghanistan's lost heritage and remind the world of the rich cultural history that was obliterated by the Taliban.

Thus, the correct answer is Option C: 1 and 3 Only.

The primary purpose of deploying Quantum Gravity Gradiometers (QGGs) on a satellite is to detect minute variations in gravitational forces. These instruments utilize cold atom-based technology to measure subtle changes in gravitational acceleration, allowing for precise monitoring of Earth's mass distribution. By detecting these variations, QGGs contribute to understanding climate change effects and other geological phenomena with high precision.

The destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas in February 2001 was a result of a terrorist attack carried out by the Taliban. This act of cultural vandalism was based on the Taliban's extremist interpretation of Islamic law, which deemed art and public expressions as un-Islamic. It marked a tragic loss of a significant cultural heritage site and sparked discussions about heritage preservation and extremism.