Important Scientific Terms Relevant to the UPSC Exam

There are several important scientific terms that are relevant to the UPSC exam. These terms are frequently asked in the science-related sections of the exam and having a good understanding of them is crucial for scoring well. Here is a list of some of the most important scientific terms:

1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid):
- DNA is a molecule that carries the genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known living organisms.
- It consists of two long chains of nucleotides twisted into a double helix shape and contains the genetic information that determines the characteristics of an organism.

2. Gene:
- A gene is a segment of DNA that contains the instructions for building one or more specific proteins.
- Genes are the basic units of heredity and determine the traits and characteristics of an individual.

3. Mutation:
- A mutation is a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence of a gene.
- Mutations can occur naturally or can be induced by various factors such as radiation, chemicals, or errors during DNA replication.
- They can lead to changes in the structure or function of proteins, which can result in genetic disorders or diseases.

4. Evolution:
- Evolution is the process by which species of organisms change over time.
- It occurs through the accumulation of small genetic variations in populations over successive generations.
- The theory of evolution, proposed by Charles Darwin, explains how new species arise and how existing species adapt to their environment.

5. Plate Tectonics:
- Plate tectonics is the scientific theory that describes the large-scale movements of Earth's lithosphere.
- It explains the formation of continents, mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.
- According to this theory, the Earth's lithosphere is divided into several large plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere below.

6. Photosynthesis:
- Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose and oxygen.
- It is the primary means by which energy enters the food chain and is crucial for the survival of most living organisms.

7. Ecosystem:
- An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with each other and their non-living environment.
- It includes both the biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components of an environment.
- Ecosystems can be as small as a drop of water or as large as a forest or an ocean.

8. Climate Change:
- Climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other aspects of the Earth's climate system.
- It is primarily caused by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and contribute to global warming.

9. Genetic Engineering:
- Genetic engineering is the manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology techniques.
- It involves the insertion, deletion, or modification of specific genes to produce desired traits or characteristics.
- Genetic engineering has applications in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and industry.

10. Nanotechnology:
- Nanotechnology is the science, engineering, and application of materials and devices with structures and properties at the nanometer scale.
- It involves the manipulation of matter