UPSC Editorials Quiz : 29 November 2024

Introducing QUED – Questions from Editorials (UPSC Editorials Quiz) , an innovative initiative from InsightsIAS. Considering the significant number of questions in previous UPSC Prelims from editorials, practicing MCQs from this perspective can provide an extra edge. While we cover important editorials separately in our Editorial Section and SECURE Initiative, adding QUED (UPSC Editorials Quiz) to your daily MCQ practice alongside Static Quiz, Current Affairs Quiz, and InstaDART can be crucial for better performance. We recommend utilizing this initiative to enhance your preparation, with 5 MCQs posted daily at 11 am from Monday to Saturday on our website under the QUIZ menu.

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• Question 1 of 5 1. Question Consider the following statements: RNA editing uses adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) enzymes to make permanent changes to the genome. RNA editing effects are reversible and fade over time. RNA editing carries a higher risk of immune reaction compared to DNA editing. How many of the above statements is/are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: a) Only Statement 2 is correct. About RNA Editing: Definition:RNA editing involves making precise changes to RNA molecules, which carry instructions from DNA to produce proteins. This process allows scientists to correct errors in RNA before they are translated into proteins. Mechanism:One method uses enzymes like adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) to convert adenosine to inosine, which mimics guanosine, restoring normal protein function. Guide RNA (gRNA):gRNA directs ADAR enzymes to specific mRNA regions to correct mutations linked to genetic disorders. Difference Between RNA and DNA Editing: Permanency:DNA editing makes permanent changes to the genome; RNA editing makes temporary changes, reducing long-term risk. Safety:DNA editing uses proteins from bacteria, which may cause immune reactions; RNA editing utilizes ADAR enzymes already present in the human body, lowering immune risks. Flexibility:RNA editing allows effects to fade over time, enabling doctors to stop treatment if side effects arise. Incorrect Solution: a) Only Statement 2 is correct. About RNA Editing: Definition:RNA editing involves making precise changes to RNA molecules, which carry instructions from DNA to produce proteins. This process allows scientists to correct errors in RNA before they are translated into proteins. Mechanism:One method uses enzymes like adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) to convert adenosine to inosine, which mimics guanosine, restoring normal protein function. Guide RNA (gRNA):gRNA directs ADAR enzymes to specific mRNA regions to correct mutations linked to genetic disorders. Difference Between RNA and DNA Editing: Permanency:DNA editing makes permanent changes to the genome; RNA editing makes temporary changes, reducing long-term risk. Safety:DNA editing uses proteins from bacteria, which may cause immune reactions; RNA editing utilizes ADAR enzymes already present in the human body, lowering immune risks. Flexibility:RNA editing allows effects to fade over time, enabling doctors to stop treatment if side effects arise.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements:

• RNA editing uses adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) enzymes to make permanent changes to the genome.

• RNA editing effects are reversible and fade over time.

• RNA editing carries a higher risk of immune reaction compared to DNA editing.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• a) Only one

• b) Only two

• c) All three

Solution: a)

Only Statement 2 is correct.

About RNA Editing:

• Definition:RNA editing involves making precise changes to RNA molecules, which carry instructions from DNA to produce proteins. This process allows scientists to correct errors in RNA before they are translated into proteins.

• Mechanism:One method uses enzymes like adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) to convert adenosine to inosine, which mimics guanosine, restoring normal protein function.

• Guide RNA (gRNA):gRNA directs ADAR enzymes to specific mRNA regions to correct mutations linked to genetic disorders.

Difference Between RNA and DNA Editing:

• Permanency:DNA editing makes permanent changes to the genome; RNA editing makes temporary changes, reducing long-term risk.

• Safety:DNA editing uses proteins from bacteria, which may cause immune reactions; RNA editing utilizes ADAR enzymes already present in the human body, lowering immune risks.

• Flexibility:RNA editing allows effects to fade over time, enabling doctors to stop treatment if side effects arise.

Solution: a)

Only Statement 2 is correct.

About RNA Editing:

• Mechanism:One method uses enzymes like adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) to convert adenosine to inosine, which mimics guanosine, restoring normal protein function.

• Guide RNA (gRNA):gRNA directs ADAR enzymes to specific mRNA regions to correct mutations linked to genetic disorders.

Difference Between RNA and DNA Editing:

• Permanency:DNA editing makes permanent changes to the genome; RNA editing makes temporary changes, reducing long-term risk.

• Safety:DNA editing uses proteins from bacteria, which may cause immune reactions; RNA editing utilizes ADAR enzymes already present in the human body, lowering immune risks.

• Flexibility:RNA editing allows effects to fade over time, enabling doctors to stop treatment if side effects arise.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements about the benefits of peatlands: Peatlands store less carbon than the world’s forests due to their smaller area. Peatlands play a crucial role in regulating water supplies and purifying water. The waterlogged nature of peatlands makes them unsuitable for preserving archaeological sites. Which of the above statements is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 1 and 3 only d) None Correct Solution: b) Peatlands are one of the most efficient natural carbon sinks, storing more carbon than all the world’s forests combined, even though they occupy a smaller area, making statement 1 incorrect. Peatlands are also crucial for water regulation and purification, as they help maintain groundwater levels and filter pollutants, ensuring cleaner water for ecosystems and human use, making statement 2 correct. Additionally, the waterlogged conditions in peatlands create anaerobic environments, which significantly slow decomposition processes. This unique feature allows peatlands to preserve archaeological and cultural artifacts exceptionally well, contrary to statement 3, which is incorrect. Incorrect Solution: b) Peatlands are one of the most efficient natural carbon sinks, storing more carbon than all the world’s forests combined, even though they occupy a smaller area, making statement 1 incorrect. Peatlands are also crucial for water regulation and purification, as they help maintain groundwater levels and filter pollutants, ensuring cleaner water for ecosystems and human use, making statement 2 correct. Additionally, the waterlogged conditions in peatlands create anaerobic environments, which significantly slow decomposition processes. This unique feature allows peatlands to preserve archaeological and cultural artifacts exceptionally well, contrary to statement 3, which is incorrect.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements about the benefits of peatlands:

• Peatlands store less carbon than the world’s forests due to their smaller area.

• Peatlands play a crucial role in regulating water supplies and purifying water.

• The waterlogged nature of peatlands makes them unsuitable for preserving archaeological sites.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

• c) 1 and 3 only

Solution: b)

• Peatlands are one of the most efficient natural carbon sinks, storing more carbon than all the world’s forests combined, even though they occupy a smaller area, making statement 1 incorrect.

• Peatlands are also crucial for water regulation and purification, as they help maintain groundwater levels and filter pollutants, ensuring cleaner water for ecosystems and human use, making statement 2 correct.

• Additionally, the waterlogged conditions in peatlands create anaerobic environments, which significantly slow decomposition processes. This unique feature allows peatlands to preserve archaeological and cultural artifacts exceptionally well, contrary to statement 3, which is incorrect.

Solution: b)

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements regarding the applications of microplastics: Microplastics are used in air-blasting technology for cleaning surfaces. They are completely biodegradable. Synthetic textiles shed microplastic fibers during washing. How many of the above statements is/are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: b) Microplastics have various applications and unintended consequences, making them a significant environmental concern. Statement 1 is correct: Microplastics are used in air-blasting technology, where tiny plastic particles are employed to clean surfaces, particularly in industrial and maintenance settings. However, this process can release microplastics into the environment if not carefully managed. Statement 2 is incorrect: Microplastics are not biodegradable; they are made of persistent synthetic polymers that resist natural degradation. While some cosmetic products claim to be biodegradable, microplastics in these products remain pollutants that accumulate in ecosystems. Statement 3 is correct: Synthetic textiles, such as polyester and nylon, shed microplastic fibers during washing. These fibers often end up in wastewater, ultimately polluting rivers, lakes, and oceans. Incorrect Solution: b) Microplastics have various applications and unintended consequences, making them a significant environmental concern. Statement 1 is correct: Microplastics are used in air-blasting technology, where tiny plastic particles are employed to clean surfaces, particularly in industrial and maintenance settings. However, this process can release microplastics into the environment if not carefully managed. Statement 2 is incorrect: Microplastics are not biodegradable; they are made of persistent synthetic polymers that resist natural degradation. While some cosmetic products claim to be biodegradable, microplastics in these products remain pollutants that accumulate in ecosystems. Statement 3 is correct: Synthetic textiles, such as polyester and nylon, shed microplastic fibers during washing. These fibers often end up in wastewater, ultimately polluting rivers, lakes, and oceans.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the applications of microplastics:

• Microplastics are used in air-blasting technology for cleaning surfaces.

• They are completely biodegradable.

• Synthetic textiles shed microplastic fibers during washing.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• a) Only one

• b) Only two

• c) All three

Solution: b)

• Microplastics have various applications and unintended consequences, making them a significant environmental concern.

• Statement 1 is correct: Microplastics are used in air-blasting technology, where tiny plastic particles are employed to clean surfaces, particularly in industrial and maintenance settings. However, this process can release microplastics into the environment if not carefully managed.

• Statement 2 is incorrect: Microplastics are not biodegradable; they are made of persistent synthetic polymers that resist natural degradation. While some cosmetic products claim to be biodegradable, microplastics in these products remain pollutants that accumulate in ecosystems.

• Statement 3 is correct: Synthetic textiles, such as polyester and nylon, shed microplastic fibers during washing. These fibers often end up in wastewater, ultimately polluting rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Solution: b)

• Microplastics have various applications and unintended consequences, making them a significant environmental concern.

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Which of the following anthropogenic activities is the largest contributor to rising methane (CH₄) levels in the atmosphere? a) Fossil fuel combustion b) Waste management c) Deforestation d) Agricultural activities Correct Solution: d) Agriculture, particularly livestock farming, is the largest contributor to methane emissions. Ruminant animals produce methane through enteric fermentation, and rice paddies release significant amounts due to anaerobic decomposition in flooded fields. Waste management and fossil fuel extraction also contribute but are not as significant as agriculture. Incorrect Solution: d) Agriculture, particularly livestock farming, is the largest contributor to methane emissions. Ruminant animals produce methane through enteric fermentation, and rice paddies release significant amounts due to anaerobic decomposition in flooded fields. Waste management and fossil fuel extraction also contribute but are not as significant as agriculture.

#### 4. Question

Which of the following anthropogenic activities is the largest contributor to rising methane (CH₄) levels in the atmosphere?

• a) Fossil fuel combustion

• b) Waste management

• c) Deforestation

• d) Agricultural activities

Solution: d)

Agriculture, particularly livestock farming, is the largest contributor to methane emissions. Ruminant animals produce methane through enteric fermentation, and rice paddies release significant amounts due to anaerobic decomposition in flooded fields. Waste management and fossil fuel extraction also contribute but are not as significant as agriculture.

Solution: d)

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Consider the following statements about volcanic activity and its impact on climate: Volcanic eruptions release aerosols that can lead to temporary cooling of the Earth’s atmosphere. Ash and gas from eruptions may contribute to a short-term warming effect in the troposphere. The cooling effect of volcanic aerosols often lasts for decades. Which of the above statements are correct? a) 1 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) None Correct Solution: b) Volcanic activity significantly influences the climate through the release of aerosols and gases. Statement 1 is correct: Volcanic eruptions emit aerosols, primarily sulfur dioxide, which forms sulfate particles in the atmosphere. These particles reflect solar radiation, leading to temporary cooling of the Earth’s surface. For example, the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 caused global temperatures to drop for a couple of years. Statement 2 is also correct: While aerosols cool the surface, volcanic eruptions can release gases like water vapor and carbon dioxide into the troposphere, which can trap heat, causing a short-term localized warming effect. Statement 3 is incorrect: The cooling effects of volcanic aerosols are temporary, typically lasting a few years, as the aerosols eventually settle out of the atmosphere. Incorrect Solution: b) Volcanic activity significantly influences the climate through the release of aerosols and gases. Statement 1 is correct: Volcanic eruptions emit aerosols, primarily sulfur dioxide, which forms sulfate particles in the atmosphere. These particles reflect solar radiation, leading to temporary cooling of the Earth’s surface. For example, the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 caused global temperatures to drop for a couple of years. Statement 2 is also correct: While aerosols cool the surface, volcanic eruptions can release gases like water vapor and carbon dioxide into the troposphere, which can trap heat, causing a short-term localized warming effect. Statement 3 is incorrect: The cooling effects of volcanic aerosols are temporary, typically lasting a few years, as the aerosols eventually settle out of the atmosphere.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following statements about volcanic activity and its impact on climate:

• Volcanic eruptions release aerosols that can lead to temporary cooling of the Earth’s atmosphere.

• Ash and gas from eruptions may contribute to a short-term warming effect in the troposphere.

• The cooling effect of volcanic aerosols often lasts for decades.

Which of the above statements are correct?

• b) 1 and 2 only

• c) 2 and 3 only

Solution: b)

• Volcanic activity significantly influences the climate through the release of aerosols and gases.

• Statement 1 is correct: Volcanic eruptions emit aerosols, primarily sulfur dioxide, which forms sulfate particles in the atmosphere. These particles reflect solar radiation, leading to temporary cooling of the Earth’s surface. For example, the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 caused global temperatures to drop for a couple of years.

• Statement 2 is also correct: While aerosols cool the surface, volcanic eruptions can release gases like water vapor and carbon dioxide into the troposphere, which can trap heat, causing a short-term localized warming effect.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: The cooling effects of volcanic aerosols are temporary, typically lasting a few years, as the aerosols eventually settle out of the atmosphere.

Solution: b)

• Volcanic activity significantly influences the climate through the release of aerosols and gases.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: The cooling effects of volcanic aerosols are temporary, typically lasting a few years, as the aerosols eventually settle out of the atmosphere.

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