[Mission 2024] Current Affairs Quiz , 26 October 2023

Solution: c)

A study conducted by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) aims to understand the connection between gravitational instabilities and galaxy evolution.

What are Gravitational Instabilities?

Gravitational instabilities refer to disruptions or fluctuations in the gravitational forces within a celestial object, such as a galaxy or a cloud of gas and dust. These instabilities can lead to the formation of structures like stars, planets, or galaxies as matter clumps together under the influence of gravity.

Findings of the study:

• The study shed light on the role of dark matter in regulating galaxy stability.
• It found that gravitational instabilities in spiral galaxies like the Milky Way rapidly convert gas into stars, depleting gas reservoirs.
• This led to higher star formation rates, lower stability, and lower gas fraction in such galaxies.

Source

Solution: a)

Only statement 1 is correct.

Researchers at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) have discovered a new species of marine tardigrade in Mandapam, south-east Tamil Nadu.

Tardigrades are tiny eight-legged animals that are extremophiles, capable of surviving in extreme conditions for up to 30 years without food or water. When faced with harsh environments, they enter a state of suspended animation called the “tun” state, where their bodies dry out and appear lifeless. Their diet primarily consists of plants, but some tardigrades are predatory carnivores. Tardigrades can be found in various ecosystems beyond just aquatic environments.

Source

Solution: b)

Statement 3 is incorrect.

A ‘food animal’ refers to an animal species that is raised and utilized for human consumption as food. This category includes livestock like cattle, poultry, and pigs, and now, in the case of the Mithun in Northeast India, certain indigenous animals have been officially recognized as suitable for human consumption.

Benefits of Recognition:

• This recognition has opened up opportunities for farmers and tribal communities to benefit commercially from the sale and processing of Mithun meat.
• Traditionally reserved for special occasions, Mithun meat can now be sold in the market, offering economic potential for farmers.
• Efforts include training farmers in better Mithun care and promoting Mithun products in regions beyond their traditional consumption areas.

Source

Solution: c)

The Agumbe Rainforest Complex (ARC) in Karnataka, known for its high rainfall, has seen a decline in its peak monsoon rainfall over the past two years, losing its reputation to lesser-known towns in the Udupi district.

Agumbe has historically been famous for receiving over 8,000 mm of rainfall during the monsoon and was nicknamed the ‘Cherrapunji of the South.’ However, towns like Nadpal and Mudradi in Udupi district have recorded higher rainfall than Agumbe recently.

Source

Solution: b)

Statement 2 is incorrect.