UPSC Editorials Quiz : 30 April 2025

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 regarding Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems: CSP systems typically store energy in chemical batteries similar to photovoltaic systems. They require tracking mechanisms to follow the sun’s movement. CSP systems can integrate thermal energy storage for continuous power supply after sunset. Solar paraboloids can be used in combination with Stirling engines for decentralized electricity generation. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: c) Statement 1 is incorrect because, unlike photovoltaic (PV) systems that commonly use chemical batteries (like lithium-ion) for energy storage, Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems primarily rely on thermal energy storage, typically using molten salts or other heat-retaining materials. These systems capture solar heat and store it for later conversion to electricity, enabling power generation even after sunset. Statement 2 is correct as CSP systems need sun-tracking mechanisms, especially dual-axis trackers, to focus sunlight accurately onto a central receiver, thereby maximizing thermal efficiency. Statement 3 is also correct—thermal energy storage integration is a hallmark of CSP systems, enhancing their viability for base-load power supply. Statement 4 is correct as well: solar paraboloids, which focus sunlight onto a small receiver, can be combined with Stirling engines, making them suitable for off-grid or decentralized power generation. Incorrect Solution: c) Statement 1 is incorrect because, unlike photovoltaic (PV) systems that commonly use chemical batteries (like lithium-ion) for energy storage, Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems primarily rely on thermal energy storage, typically using molten salts or other heat-retaining materials. These systems capture solar heat and store it for later conversion to electricity, enabling power generation even after sunset. Statement 2 is correct as CSP systems need sun-tracking mechanisms, especially dual-axis trackers, to focus sunlight accurately onto a central receiver, thereby maximizing thermal efficiency. Statement 3 is also correct—thermal energy storage integration is a hallmark of CSP systems, enhancing their viability for base-load power supply. Statement 4 is correct as well: solar paraboloids, which focus sunlight onto a small receiver, can be combined with Stirling engines, making them suitable for off-grid or decentralized power generation.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems:

• CSP systems typically store energy in chemical batteries similar to photovoltaic systems.

• They require tracking mechanisms to follow the sun’s movement.

• CSP systems can integrate thermal energy storage for continuous power supply after sunset.

• Solar paraboloids can be used in combination with Stirling engines for decentralized electricity generation.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: c)

• Statement 1 is incorrect because, unlike photovoltaic (PV) systems that commonly use chemical batteries (like lithium-ion) for energy storage, Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) systems primarily rely on thermal energy storage, typically using molten salts or other heat-retaining materials. These systems capture solar heat and store it for later conversion to electricity, enabling power generation even after sunset.

• Statement 2 is correct as CSP systems need sun-tracking mechanisms, especially dual-axis trackers, to focus sunlight accurately onto a central receiver, thereby maximizing thermal efficiency.

• Statement 3 is also correct—thermal energy storage integration is a hallmark of CSP systems, enhancing their viability for base-load power supply.

• Statement 4 is correct as well: solar paraboloids, which focus sunlight onto a small receiver, can be combined with Stirling engines, making them suitable for off-grid or decentralized power generation.

Solution: c)

• Statement 2 is correct as CSP systems need sun-tracking mechanisms, especially dual-axis trackers, to focus sunlight accurately onto a central receiver, thereby maximizing thermal efficiency.

• Statement 3 is also correct—thermal energy storage integration is a hallmark of CSP systems, enhancing their viability for base-load power supply.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements. Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) prevents non-nuclear-weapon states from developing nuclear weapons. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) mainly focuses on promoting disarmament negotiations among nuclear powers. Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) bans the development of civilian nuclear power plants globally. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: a) Statement 1 is correct. The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is a key international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology. It legally binds non-nuclear-weapon states (those that had not tested nuclear weapons before 1967) to refrain from developing or acquiring nuclear weapons, while promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy and encouraging disarmament efforts among existing nuclear-weapon states. Statement 2 is incorrect. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is not primarily a disarmament negotiation forum. Instead, it functions as a technical body focused on monitoring the peaceful use of nuclear energy, enforcing safeguards to prevent diversion of nuclear materials for weapons purposes. Disarmament negotiations are mainly carried out through diplomatic forums such as the United Nations Conference on Disarmament. Statement 3 is also incorrect. The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) only prohibits all nuclear explosions, whether for military or peaceful purposes. It does not ban the development of civilian nuclear power plants. Incorrect Solution: a) Statement 1 is correct. The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is a key international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology. It legally binds non-nuclear-weapon states (those that had not tested nuclear weapons before 1967) to refrain from developing or acquiring nuclear weapons, while promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy and encouraging disarmament efforts among existing nuclear-weapon states. Statement 2 is incorrect. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is not primarily a disarmament negotiation forum. Instead, it functions as a technical body focused on monitoring the peaceful use of nuclear energy, enforcing safeguards to prevent diversion of nuclear materials for weapons purposes. Disarmament negotiations are mainly carried out through diplomatic forums such as the United Nations Conference on Disarmament. Statement 3 is also incorrect. The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) only prohibits all nuclear explosions, whether for military or peaceful purposes. It does not ban the development of civilian nuclear power plants.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements.

• Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) prevents non-nuclear-weapon states from developing nuclear weapons.

• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) mainly focuses on promoting disarmament negotiations among nuclear powers.

• Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) bans the development of civilian nuclear power plants globally.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is correct. The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is a key international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology. It legally binds non-nuclear-weapon states (those that had not tested nuclear weapons before 1967) to refrain from developing or acquiring nuclear weapons, while promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy and encouraging disarmament efforts among existing nuclear-weapon states.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is not primarily a disarmament negotiation forum. Instead, it functions as a technical body focused on monitoring the peaceful use of nuclear energy, enforcing safeguards to prevent diversion of nuclear materials for weapons purposes. Disarmament negotiations are mainly carried out through diplomatic forums such as the United Nations Conference on Disarmament.

Statement 3 is also incorrect. The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) only prohibits all nuclear explosions, whether for military or peaceful purposes. It does not ban the development of civilian nuclear power plants.

Solution: a)

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements about the advantages of EEG (Electroencephalography): EEG is highly portable compared to MRI machines. EEG requires exposure to mild radiation to enhance signal capture. EEG is particularly effective in real-time brain activity monitoring. EEG results are entirely unaffected by scalp hair or skin conditions. Which of the above statements are correct? a) 1, 2 and 3 only b) 1 and 3 only c) 2, 3, and 4 only d) 1, 2, 3, and 4 Correct Solution: b) Statement 1 is correct. EEG (Electroencephalography) systems are highly portable, especially compared to large and immobile machines like MRI scanners. This portability allows for bedside monitoring, field studies, and use in emergency or intensive care settings, making EEG a convenient and accessible neurodiagnostic tool. Statement 2 is incorrect. One of the major advantages of EEG is that it is a non-invasive and radiation-free It records the brain’s electrical activity through electrodes placed on the scalp and does not involve any form of radiation exposure, making it safe even for repeated use. Statement 3 is correct. EEG is excellent for real-time monitoring of brain activity, as it captures electrical signals with millisecond precision. This real-time capability is crucial in applications such as epilepsy detection, sleep studies, and intraoperative brain monitoring. Statement 4 is incorrect. While EEG is generally effective, scalp hair and skin conditions can affect signal quality. Thick, curly, oily, or unclean hair can hinder proper electrode contact with the scalp, and dry or irritated skin may also affect electrode adhesion and signal transmission. Incorrect Solution: b) Statement 1 is correct. EEG (Electroencephalography) systems are highly portable, especially compared to large and immobile machines like MRI scanners. This portability allows for bedside monitoring, field studies, and use in emergency or intensive care settings, making EEG a convenient and accessible neurodiagnostic tool. Statement 2 is incorrect. One of the major advantages of EEG is that it is a non-invasive and radiation-free It records the brain’s electrical activity through electrodes placed on the scalp and does not involve any form of radiation exposure, making it safe even for repeated use. Statement 3 is correct. EEG is excellent for real-time monitoring of brain activity, as it captures electrical signals with millisecond precision. This real-time capability is crucial in applications such as epilepsy detection, sleep studies, and intraoperative brain monitoring. Statement 4 is incorrect. While EEG is generally effective, scalp hair and skin conditions can affect signal quality. Thick, curly, oily, or unclean hair can hinder proper electrode contact with the scalp, and dry or irritated skin may also affect electrode adhesion and signal transmission.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements about the advantages of EEG (Electroencephalography):

• EEG is highly portable compared to MRI machines.

• EEG requires exposure to mild radiation to enhance signal capture.

• EEG is particularly effective in real-time brain activity monitoring.

• EEG results are entirely unaffected by scalp hair or skin conditions.

Which of the above statements are correct?

• a) 1, 2 and 3 only

• b) 1 and 3 only

• c) 2, 3, and 4 only

• d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Solution: b)

• Statement 1 is correct. EEG (Electroencephalography) systems are highly portable, especially compared to large and immobile machines like MRI scanners. This portability allows for bedside monitoring, field studies, and use in emergency or intensive care settings, making EEG a convenient and accessible neurodiagnostic tool.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. One of the major advantages of EEG is that it is a non-invasive and radiation-free It records the brain’s electrical activity through electrodes placed on the scalp and does not involve any form of radiation exposure, making it safe even for repeated use.

• Statement 3 is correct. EEG is excellent for real-time monitoring of brain activity, as it captures electrical signals with millisecond precision. This real-time capability is crucial in applications such as epilepsy detection, sleep studies, and intraoperative brain monitoring.

• Statement 4 is incorrect. While EEG is generally effective, scalp hair and skin conditions can affect signal quality. Thick, curly, oily, or unclean hair can hinder proper electrode contact with the scalp, and dry or irritated skin may also affect electrode adhesion and signal transmission.

Solution: b)

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements regarding the UN General Assembly (UNGA): UNGA’s decisions related to peace and security issues are binding on all UN members. The UN Charter clearly defines the rights and privileges of Permanent Observers. Important decisions in the UNGA, such as budget approvals, require a two-thirds majority. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. Unlike the UN Security Council, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) does not have binding authority on matters related to peace and security. Its resolutions are recommendations, not mandatory obligations, and are meant to express collective opinions or encourage action, but they do not carry the force of international law for member states. Statement 2 is incorrect. The UN Charter does not explicitly mention or define the concept of Permanent Observers. This status has evolved through diplomatic practice. Entities such as the Holy See and Palestine are examples of Permanent Observers who may participate in General Assembly debates but do not have voting rights. Statement 3 is correct. For important questions, including budgetary issues, admission of new members, and questions related to peace and security, a two-thirds majority vote is required in the General Assembly. This ensures broader consensus on decisions of significant consequence. Incorrect Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. Unlike the UN Security Council, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) does not have binding authority on matters related to peace and security. Its resolutions are recommendations, not mandatory obligations, and are meant to express collective opinions or encourage action, but they do not carry the force of international law for member states. Statement 2 is incorrect. The UN Charter does not explicitly mention or define the concept of Permanent Observers. This status has evolved through diplomatic practice. Entities such as the Holy See and Palestine are examples of Permanent Observers who may participate in General Assembly debates but do not have voting rights. Statement 3 is correct. For important questions, including budgetary issues, admission of new members, and questions related to peace and security, a two-thirds majority vote is required in the General Assembly. This ensures broader consensus on decisions of significant consequence.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the UN General Assembly (UNGA):

• UNGA’s decisions related to peace and security issues are binding on all UN members.

• The UN Charter clearly defines the rights and privileges of Permanent Observers.

• Important decisions in the UNGA, such as budget approvals, require a two-thirds majority.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. Unlike the UN Security Council, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) does not have binding authority on matters related to peace and security. Its resolutions are recommendations, not mandatory obligations, and are meant to express collective opinions or encourage action, but they do not carry the force of international law for member states.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The UN Charter does not explicitly mention or define the concept of Permanent Observers. This status has evolved through diplomatic practice. Entities such as the Holy See and Palestine are examples of Permanent Observers who may participate in General Assembly debates but do not have voting rights.

Statement 3 is correct. For important questions, including budgetary issues, admission of new members, and questions related to peace and security, a two-thirds majority vote is required in the General Assembly. This ensures broader consensus on decisions of significant consequence.

Solution: a)

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Which of the following best explains why artificial solar eclipses are significant in solar studies? a) They allow permanent blocking of sunlight across the Earth's surface. b) They prevent solar winds from reaching the Earth. c) They help focus sunlight onto solar panels in orbit for energy generation. d) They facilitate continuous corona observations beyond the limits of natural eclipses. Correct Solution: d) Artificial solar eclipses are a powerful innovation in solar science, designed to overcome the temporal and geographical limitations of natural eclipses. In this setup, a satellite or spacecraft (the occulter) blocks the intense light from the solar disk, mimicking the Moon’s role during a natural eclipse. Another instrument (the coronagraph) observes the fainter outer atmosphere of the Sun, known as the corona, which is typically hidden by the Sun’s glare. Natural solar eclipses last only a few minutes and are visible from a narrow path on Earth. In contrast, artificial eclipses can be engineered for long-duration and stable observations, allowing for continuous and detailed study of the solar corona. This is crucial for understanding phenomena like coronal heating, solar flares, and space weather impacts on Earth. Such insights are vital for satellite safety, communication systems, and power grid management. Incorrect Solution: d) Artificial solar eclipses are a powerful innovation in solar science, designed to overcome the temporal and geographical limitations of natural eclipses. In this setup, a satellite or spacecraft (the occulter) blocks the intense light from the solar disk, mimicking the Moon’s role during a natural eclipse. Another instrument (the coronagraph) observes the fainter outer atmosphere of the Sun, known as the corona, which is typically hidden by the Sun’s glare. Natural solar eclipses last only a few minutes and are visible from a narrow path on Earth. In contrast, artificial eclipses can be engineered for long-duration and stable observations, allowing for continuous and detailed study of the solar corona. This is crucial for understanding phenomena like coronal heating, solar flares, and space weather impacts on Earth. Such insights are vital for satellite safety, communication systems, and power grid management.

#### 5. Question

Which of the following best explains why artificial solar eclipses are significant in solar studies?

• a) They allow permanent blocking of sunlight across the Earth's surface.

• b) They prevent solar winds from reaching the Earth.

• c) They help focus sunlight onto solar panels in orbit for energy generation.

• d) They facilitate continuous corona observations beyond the limits of natural eclipses.

Solution: d)

• Artificial solar eclipses are a powerful innovation in solar science, designed to overcome the temporal and geographical limitations of natural eclipses. In this setup, a satellite or spacecraft (the occulter) blocks the intense light from the solar disk, mimicking the Moon’s role during a natural eclipse. Another instrument (the coronagraph) observes the fainter outer atmosphere of the Sun, known as the corona, which is typically hidden by the Sun’s glare.

• Natural solar eclipses last only a few minutes and are visible from a narrow path on Earth. In contrast, artificial eclipses can be engineered for long-duration and stable observations, allowing for continuous and detailed study of the solar corona. This is crucial for understanding phenomena like coronal heating, solar flares, and space weather impacts on Earth. Such insights are vital for satellite safety, communication systems, and power grid management.

Solution: d)

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