The establishment of LIGO-India is expected to significantly advance India's capabilities in astrophysics and fundamental physics. What is the primary scientific goal of the LIGO-India observatory?
A To detect neutrinos from distant supernovae.
B To observe gravitational waves from cosmic events like black hole mergers and neutron star collisions.
C To study the properties of dark matter using advanced lensing techniques.
D To map the cosmic microwave background radiation with unprecedented precision.
Answer: B
The primary scientific objective of LIGO-India, like its US counterparts, is to detect and study gravitational waves. These waves are ripples in spacetime predicted by Einstein's theory of general relativity and are generated by cataclysmic cosmic events such as the merger of black holes and neutron stars.
372.
LIGO-India is a planned gravitational-wave observatory that will be established in India. It is a collaborative project between which major international scientific collaborations and Indian institutions?
A CERN and TIFR
B LIGO Laboratory (Caltech/MIT) and the LIGO-India consortium of Indian research institutions
C ESA and ISRO
D NASA and DRDO
Answer: B
LIGO-India is a major undertaking by the LIGO Laboratory (managed by Caltech and MIT) in collaboration with a consortium of Indian research institutions, including IUCAA, RRI, and IISERs. It aims to establish a third LIGO detector in India to complement the existing detectors in the US.
373.
The development of the semi-cryogenic engine for the NGLV by ISRO is part of a broader strategy. Which of the following is a primary objective ISRO aims to achieve with the NGLV program?
A To exclusively cater to deep space exploration missions.
B To significantly enhance India's capability for launching heavier satellites and future human spaceflight missions.
C To reduce the cost of launching small satellites to low Earth orbit.
D To develop a reusable launch system for lunar missions.
Answer: B
The NGLV is envisioned to be a powerful and versatile launch vehicle capable of lifting heavier payloads to various orbits, including geostationary transfer orbit (GTO), and supporting future ambitious missions like human spaceflight. The semi-cryogenic engine is a key component in achieving this enhanced capability.
374.
The successful test of the semi-cryogenic engine is a crucial step for ISRO's future launch vehicle, the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). What is a key advantage of using a semi-cryogenic engine compared to traditional cryogenic engines for certain launch stages?
A Higher specific impulse, leading to greater payload capacity.
B Lower manufacturing cost and simpler ground handling procedures.
C Ability to operate at higher temperatures, reducing insulation requirements.
D Increased thrust-to-weight ratio for the engine.
Answer: B
Semi-cryogenic engines, typically using propellants like kerosene and LOX, offer advantages in terms of lower manufacturing costs and simpler ground handling compared to engines using super-cold propellants like liquid hydrogen. While specific impulse might be slightly lower than pure cryogenic engines, the overall system benefits can be significant.
375.
ISRO recently conducted a successful test of a semi-cryogenic engine. What is the primary fuel combination being tested for this engine, intended for the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV)?
A Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) and Liquid Oxygen (LOX)
B Kerosene (Indane) and Liquid Oxygen (LOX)
C Methane (CH4) and Liquid Oxygen (LOX)
D Ammonia (NH3) and Nitrogen Tetroxide (NTO)
Answer: B
ISRO's semi-cryogenic engine test for the NGLV program utilizes a combination of Kerosene (Indane) as fuel and Liquid Oxygen (LOX) as the oxidizer. This is a significant step towards developing more powerful and efficient launch vehicles.
376.
NEEDS_REVIEW
A Imposing strict capital controls
B Discouraging foreign ownership
C Streamlining regulatory processes and offering incentives
D Nationalizing all foreign-owned assets
Answer: C
Governments typically attract FDI by creating a favorable business environment, which includes simplifying regulatory frameworks, offering tax incentives, providing infrastructure support, and ensuring policy stability.
377.
NEEDS_REVIEW
A Decreased technological transfer
B Reduced domestic competition
C Inflow of capital, technology, and expertise
D Increased dependence on foreign raw materials
Answer: C
FDI in advanced manufacturing typically brings in not just capital but also cutting-edge technology, managerial expertise, and best practices, which can significantly boost the domestic manufacturing sector's capabilities and competitiveness.
378.
NEEDS_REVIEW
A Portfolio Investment
B Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
C Foreign Institutional Investment (FII)
D External Commercial Borrowing (ECB)
Answer: B
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) refers to an investment made by a firm or individual in one country into business interests located in another country, typically involving a lasting interest and significant control.
379.
What is a potential long-term economic benefit of a successful PLI scheme for green technologies?
A Increased reliance on fossil fuels
B Reduced job creation in manufacturing
C Enhanced energy security and reduced carbon footprint
D Higher import bills for green products
Answer: C
By boosting domestic production of green technologies, such a scheme can lead to reduced dependence on imports, foster innovation, create jobs, and contribute significantly to India's energy security and climate change mitigation goals.
380.
Which of the following ministries is most likely to be the nodal ministry for implementing a PLI scheme focused on advanced green technologies like renewable energy components or electric vehicle manufacturing?
A Ministry of External Affairs
B Ministry of Home Affairs
C Ministry of Heavy Industries or Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
D Ministry of Culture
Answer: C
PLI schemes for sectors like advanced green technologies (e.g., EV manufacturing, solar PV modules) typically fall under the purview of ministries such as the Ministry of Heavy Industries, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, or the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, depending on the specific focus.
