Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 30th October 2024 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is the primary greenhouse gas related to human activities, particularly from fossil fuel combustion and cement production, contributing significantly to global warming. Its long-term increase is primarily driven by these activities, making it a key focus in climate change discussions. Interestingly, CO2 levels have risen dramatically since the Industrial Revolution, underscoring the impact of industrialization on climate.

Mission Amrit Sarovar was initiated to tackle water scarcity in rural regions by constructing water bodies, specifically ponds, with a focus on community involvement and water conservation. This mission not only serves immediate water needs but also aims to create sustainable water resources for future generations. An interesting aspect of this initiative is that it engages multiple government departments to ensure a comprehensive approach to water management.

North Atlantic right whales utilize a unique feeding method known as skimming. In this process, they swim slowly through the water with their mouths partially open, allowing them to take in large clouds of plankton. The whales then filter the plankton using their long baleen plates. This feeding strategy is particularly effective in their coastal habitats, where plankton blooms are prevalent. An interesting fact is that right whales are known for their slow swimming speeds, which aids in their skimming technique.

Majoritarian politics has significantly contributed to the erosion of civil liberties in India. This shift has led to the marginalization of minority rights, particularly affecting Muslim communities. The rise of majoritarianism undermines the principles of inclusion and equality that are essential for a healthy democracy. Moreover, this trend has created an environment where the protection of civil liberties is increasingly compromised. A notable example of this is the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Act, which many perceive as discriminatory.

The primary objective of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) is to prohibit all nuclear explosions globally. This treaty aims to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and to promote disarmament by banning nuclear tests in any environment, thereby contributing to international peace and security. An interesting fact about the CTBT is that although it has been signed by many countries, it has not yet entered into force because several key states have not ratified it, which is necessary for it to become legally binding.

The 8 spokes of the Konark Wheels actually symbolize prahars, which are three-hour periods, not the hours in a day. Therefore, the feature of 8 spokes indicating the hours in a day is not part of the Konark Wheels' symbolism. The 7 horses represent the days of the week, the 12 pairs of wheels signify the months of the year, and the 24 wheels correspond to the 24 hours in a day.

The Tamil Nadu government has officially classified heatwaves as a state-specific disaster. This classification allows the government to provide immediate assistance to those affected by extreme heat, particularly during severe temperature spikes. This proactive approach aims to enhance disaster management and support for vulnerable populations during heatwaves.

A heatwave in the plains of India is declared when the maximum temperature reaches at least 45°C. This threshold is part of the criteria set by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to monitor and respond to extreme weather conditions effectively. The classification helps in mobilizing resources for relief and prevention measures.

Methane (CH4) is recognized for its significant warming potential despite its relatively short atmospheric lifespan of around ten years. It contributes approximately 16% to the radiative forcing of long-lived greenhouse gases. This is particularly concerning because methane is released during various human activities, including agriculture and fossil fuel extraction, making its reduction crucial in climate change mitigation strategies.

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a progressive and fatal neurological disorder that affects members of the cervid family, including deer, elk, and moose. The disease is caused by prions, which are abnormal proteins that lead to significant brain tissue deterioration. Symptoms can take a long time to manifest, often appearing 16 months after infection. An interesting aspect of CWD is that the prions responsible for the disease can remain viable in the environment for years, complicating efforts to manage and control the disease in wildlife populations.