Environment PYQ

1. In the context of ecosystem productivity, marine upwelling zones are important as they increase the marine productivity by bringing the ⏩ 1. Decomposer microorganism to the surface. ⏩ 2. Nutrients to the surface. ⏩ 3. Bottom-dwelling organisms to the surface. ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2011]

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3

(d) 3 only

2. Human activities in the recent past have caused the increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, but a lot of it does not remain in the lower atmosphere because of ⏩ 1. Its escape into the outer stratosphere. ⏩ 2. The photosynthesis by phytoplankton in the oceans.⏩ 3. The trapping of air in the polar ice caps. ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2011]

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3

(d) 3 only

3. When the bark of a tree is removed in a circular fashion all around near its base, it gradually dries up and dies because _____________ [UPSC 2011].

(a) Water form soil cannot rise to aerial parts

(b) Roots are starved of energy

(c) Tree is infected by soil microbes

(d) Roots do not receive oxygen for respiration

4. There is a concern over the increase in harmful algal blooms in the seawaters of India.⏩ What could be the causative factors for this phenomenon?⏩ 1. Discharge of nutrients from the estuaries.⏩ 2. Run-off from the land during the monsoon.⏩ 3. Upwelling in the seas.⏩ Select the correct answer from the codes given below: [UPSC 2011]

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

5. A sandy and saline area is the natural habitat of an Indian animal species. The animal has no predators in that area but its existence is threatened due to the destruction of its habitat. Which one of the following could be that animal? [UOSC 2011]

(a) Indian wild buffalo

(b) Indian wild ass

(c) Indian wild boar

(d) Indian gazelle

6. Regarding 'carbon credits', which one of the following statements is not correct? [UPSC 2011]

(a) The carbon credit system was ratified in conjunction with the Kyoto Protocol

(b) Carbon credits are awarded to countries or groups that have reduced greenhouse gases below their emission quota

(c) The goal of the carbon credit system is to limit the increase of carbon dioxide emission

(d) Carbon credits are traded at a price fixed from time to time of the UNEP

7. When the bark of a tree is removed in a circular fashion all around near its base, it gradually dries up and dies because____________. [UPSC 2011]

(a) Water form soil cannot rise to aerial parts

(b) Roots are starved of energy

(c) Tree is infected by soil microbes

(d) Roots do not receive oxygen for respiration

8. Human activities in the recent past have caused the increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, but a lot of it does not remain in the lower atmosphere because of ⏩ 1. Its escape into the outer stratosphere. ⏩ 2. The photosynthesis by phytoplankton in the oceans. ⏩ 3. The trapping of air in the polar ice caps. ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2011]

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3

(d) 3 only

9. In the context of ecosystem productivity, marine upwelling zones are important as they increase the marine productivity by bringing the ⏩ 1. Decomposer microorganism to the surface. ⏩ 2. Nutrients to the surface. ⏩ 3. Bottom-dwelling organisms to the surface. ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2011]

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3

d) 3 only

10. If a tropical rain forest is removed, it does not regenerate quickly as compared to a tropical deciduous forest. This is because _______________. [UPSC 2011]

(a) The soil of rain forest is deficient in nutrients

(b) Propagules of the trees in a rain forest have poor viability

(c) The rain forest species are slow growing

(d) Exotic species invade the fertile soil of rain forest

11. The Himalayan Range is very rich in species diversity. Which one among the following is the most appropriate reason for this phenomenon? [UPSC 2011]

(a) It has high rainfall that supports luxuriant vegetative growth

b) It is a confluence of different bio-geographical zones

(c) Exotic and invasive species have not been introduced in this region

(d) It has less human interference

12. How does National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) help in protecting the Indian Agriculture? ⏩ 1. NBA checks the biopiracy and protects the indigenous and traditional genetic resources. ⏩ 2. NBA directly monitors and supervises the scientific research on genetic modification of crop plants. ⏩ 3. Application for Intellectual Property Rights related to genetic/biological resources cannot be made without the approval of NBA. ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2012]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

13. The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 was enacted in consonance with which of the following provisions of the Constitution of India? ⏩ 1. Right to healthy environment, construed as a part of Right to life under Article 21. ⏩ 2. Provision of grants for raising the level of administration in the Scheduled Areas for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes under Article 275(1). ⏩ 3. Powers and functions of Gram Sabha as mentioned under Article 243(A). ⏩ Select the correct answer using the codes given below: [UPSC 2012]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

14. Consider the following kinds of organisms: ⏩ 1. Bacteria ⏩ 2. Fungi ⏩ 3. Flowering plants ⏩ Some species of which of the above kinds of organisms are employed biopesticides? [UPSC 2012]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

15. Biomass gasification is considered to be one of the sustainable solutions to the power crisis in India. In this context, which of the following statements is/are correct? ⏩ 1. Coconut shells, groundnut shells and rice husk can be used in biomass gasification. ⏩ 2. The combustible gases generated consist of hydrogen and carbon dioxide only. ⏩ 3. The combustible gases generated from biomass gasification can be used for direct heat generation but not in internal combustion engines. ⏩ Select the correct answer using the codes given below: [UPSC 2012]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

16. Which of the following is the chief characteristic of 'mixed farming'? [UPSC 2012]

(a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops.

Rain(b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field.

(c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together.

(d) None of the above.

17. What would happen if phytoplankton of an ocean is completely destroyed for some reason? ⏩ 1. The ocean as a carbon sink would be adversely affected. ⏩ 2. The food chains in the ocean would be adversely affected. ⏩ 3. The density of ocean water would drastically decrease. ⏩ Select the correct answer using the codes given below: [UPSC 2012]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

18. With reference to the food chains in ecosystems, which of the following kinds of organism is/are known as decomposer organism/organisms? ⏩ 1. Virus ⏩ 2. Fungi ⏩ 3. Bacteria ⏩ Select the correct answer using the codes given below: [UPSC 2013]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

19. Photochemical smog is a resultant of the reaction among [UPSC 2013 ]

(a) NO2, 03 and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of sunlight

(b) CO, 02 and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of sunlight

(c) Co, CO2 and NO2 at low temperature

(d) high concentration of NO2, 03 and CO in the evening

20. Which of the following adds/add nitrogen to the soil? ⏩ 1. Excretion of urea by animals ⏩ 2. Burning of coal by man ⏩ 3. Death of vegetation ⏩ Select the correct answer using the codes given below: [UPSC 2013]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

21. Which one of the following is the correct sequence of ecosystems in the order of decreasing productivity? [UPSC 2013]

(a) Oceans, lakes, grasslands, mangroves

(b) Mangroves, oceans, grasslands, lakes

(c) Mangroves, grasslands, lakes, oceans

(d) Oceans, mangroves, lakes, grasslands

22. In the grasslands, trees do not replace the grasses as a part of an ecological succession because of [UPSC 20123 ]

(a) insects and fungi

(b) limited sunlight and paucity of nutrients

(c) water limits and fire

(d) None of the above

23. On the planet earth, most of the freshwater exists as ice caps and glaciers. Out of the remaining freshwater, the largest proportion [UPSC 2013]

(a) is bound in atmosphere as moisture and clouds

(b) is found in freshwater lakes and rivers

(c) exists as groundwater

(d) exists as soil moisture

24. Which one of the following is the correct sequence of a food chain ? [UPSC 2014 ]

(a) Diatoms-Crustaceans-Herrings

(b) Crustaceans-Diatoms-Herrings

(c) Diatoms-Herrings-Crustaceans

(d) Crustaceans-Herrings-Diatoms

25. If a wetland of international importance is brought under the 'Montreux Record', what does it imply? [UPSC 2015]

(a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference.

(b) The country in which the wetland is located should enact a low to prohibit any human activity within five kilometres from the edge of the wetland.

(c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed.

(d) It is given the status of 'World Heritage Site'.

26. With reference to 'Global Environment Facility', which of the following statements is/are correct? [UPSC 2015 ]

(a) It serves as financial mechanism for 'Convention on Biological Diversity' and 'United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change'.

(b) It undertakes scientific research on environmental issues at global level.

(c) It is an agency under OECD to facilitate the transfer of technology and funds to underdeveloped countries with specific aim to protect their environment.

(d) Both (a) and (b)

27. What can be the impact of excessive/inappropriate use of nitrogenous fertilizers in agriculture? ⏩ 1. Proliferation of nitrogen- fixing microorganisms in soil can occur. ⏩ 2. Increase in the acidity of soil can take place. ⏩ 3. Leaching of nitrate to the ground water can occur. ⏩ Select the correct answer using the codes given below. [UPSC 2015 ]

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

28. Which one of the following regions of India has a combination of mangrove forest, evergreen forest and deciduous forest ? [UPSC 2015 ]

(a) North Coastal Andhra Pradesh

b) South-West Bengal

c) Southern Saurashtra

d) Andaman and Nicobar Islands

29. Which one of the following is associated with the issue of control and phasing out of the use of ozone-depleting substances? [UPSC 2015 ]

(a) Bretton Woods Conference

(b) Montreal Protocol

(c) Kyoto Protocol

(d) Nagoya Protocol

30. Which one of the following National Parks has a climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, temperate and arctic? [UPSC 2015 ]

(a) Khangchendzonga National Park

(b) Nandadevi National Park

(c) Neora Valley National Park

(d) Namdapha National Park

31. The term 'Intended Nationally Determined Contributions' is sometimes seen in the news in the context of [UPSC 2016 ]

(a) pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East

(b) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change

(c) capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank

(d) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals

32. In which of the following regions of India are you most likely to come across the 'Great Indian Hornbill' in its natural habitat? [UPSC 2016 ]

(a) Sand deserts of northwet India

(b) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir

(c) Salt marshes of western Gujarat

(d) Western Ghats

33. With reference to 'Red Sanders', sometimes seen in the news, consider the following statements: ⏩ 1. It is a tree species found in a part of South India. ⏩ 2. It is one of the most important trees in the tropical rain forest areas of South India. ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2016 ]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

34. What is 'Greenhouse Gas Protocol'? [UPSC 2016 ]

(a) It is an international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify and manage greenhouse gas emissions.

(b) It is an initiative of the United Nations to offer financial incentives to developing countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to adopt eco- friendly technologies

(c) It is an inter- governmental agreement ratified by all the member countries of the United Nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to specified levels by the year 2022

(d) It is one of the multilateral REDD+ initiatives hosted by the World Bank

35. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for [UPSC 2017 ]

(a) Measuring oxygen levels in blood

(b) Computing oxygen levels in forest ecosystems

(c) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystems

(d) Assessing oxygen levels in high altitude regions

36. If you want to see gharials in their natural habitat, which one of the following is the best place to visit? [UPSC 2017 ]

(a) Bhitarkanika Mangroves

(b) Chambal River

(c) Pulicat Lake

(d) Deepor Beel

37. In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply? [UPSC 2017 ]

a) It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger.

(b) It no longer exists in the wild, a few individuals are under captive protection; and not it is impossible to prevent its extinction.

(c) It is endemic to a particular region of India.

(d) Both (b) and (c) stated above are correct in this context.

38. Recently there was a proposal to translocate some of the lions from their habitat in Gujarat to which one of the following sites? [UPSC 2017 ]

(a) Corbett National Park

(b) Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary

(c) Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

(d) Sariska National Park

39. From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats? [UPSC 2017 ]

(a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve

(b) Nallamala Forest

(c) Nagarhole National Park

(d) Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve

40. Which of the following statements best describes 'carbon fertilization'? [UPSC 2018 ]

(a) Increased plant growth due to increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

(b) Increased temperature of Earth due to increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

(c) Increased acidity of oceans as a result of increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

(d) Adaptation of all living beings on Earth to the climate change brought about by the increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere

41. The Partnership for Action on Green Economy (PAGE), a UN mechanism to assist countries transition towards greener and more inclusive economies, emerged at ________________. [UPSC 2018 ]

(a) The Earth Summit on Sustainable Development 2002, Johannesburg

(b) The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development 2012, Rio de Janeiro

(c) The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate change 2015, Paris

(d) The World Sustainable Development Summit 2016, New Delhi

42. Consider the following statements: ⏩ 1. Most of the world's coral reefs are in tropical waters. ⏩ 2. More than one-third of the world's coral reefs are located in the territories of Australia, Indonesia and Philippines. ⏩ 3. Coral reefs host far more number of animal phyla than those hosted by tropical rainforests. ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2018 ]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

43. 'Momentum for Change : Climate Neutral Now' is an initiative launched by [UPSC 2018 ]

(a) The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

(b) The UNEP Secretariat

(c) The UNFCCC Secretariat

(d) The World Meteorological Organization

44. In which one of the following States is Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary located? [UPSC 2018 ]

(a) Arunachal Pradesh

(b) Manipur

(c) Meghalaya

(d) Nagaland

45. In India, 'extended producer responsibility' was introduced as an important feature in which of the following? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) The Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998

(b) The Recycled Plastic (Manufacturing and Usage) Rules, 1999

(c) The e-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011

(d) The Food Safety and Standard Regulations, 2011

46. Consider the following statements: The Environment Protection Act, 1986 empowers the Government of India to ⏩ 1. state the requirement of public participation in the process of environmental protection, and the procedure and manner in which it is sought ⏩ 2. lay down the standards for emission or discharge of environmental pollutants from various sources ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

47. As per the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 in India, which one of the following statements is correct? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) Waste generator has to segregate waste five categories.

(b) The Rules are applicable to notified urban local bodies, notified towns and all industrial townships only.

(c) The Rules provide for exact and elaborate criteria for the identification of sites for landfills and waste processing facilities.

(d) It is mandatory the part of waste generator that the waste generated in one district cannot be moved to another district.

48. Consider the following statements: As per the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Central (Amendment) Rules, 2018 ⏩ 1. if rules for fixed-term employment are implemented, it becomes easier for the firms/companies to lay off workers ⏩ 2. no notice of termination of employment shall be necessary in the case of temporary workman ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

49. In the context of which of the following do some scientists suggest the used of cirrus cloud thinning technique and the injection of sulphate aerosol into stratosphere? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) Creating the artificial rains in some regions

(b) Reducing the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones

(c) Reducing the adverse effects of solar wind on the Earth

(d) Reducing the global warming

50. In the context of which one of the following are the terms 'pyrolysis and plasma gasification' mentioned? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) Extraction of rare earth elements

(b) Natural gas extraction technologies

(c) Hydrogen fuel-based automobiles

(d) Waste-to-energy technologies

51. Which of the following are in Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

(b) Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam and Wayanand Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Silent Valley National Park

(c) Kaundinya, Gundla Brahmeswaram and Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Mukurthi National Park

(d) Kawal Venkateswara Sanctuaries; and Sri Wildlife and Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

52. Why is there a great concern about the 'microbeads' that are released into environment? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.

(b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children.

(c) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields.

(d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.

53. Which one of the following National Parks lies completely in the temperate alpine [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) Manas National Park

(b) Namdahpa National Park

(c) Neora Valley National Park

(d) Valley of Flowers National Park

54. Consider states: the following ⏩ 1. Chhattisgarh ⏩ 2. Madhya Pradesh ⏩ 3. Maharashtra ⏩ 4. Odisha. ⏩ With reference to the States mentioned above, in terms of percentage of forest cover to the total area of State, which one of the following is the correct ascending order? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) 2-3-1-4

(b) 2-3-4-1

(c) 3-2-4-1

(d) 3-2-1-4

55. Which of the following statements are correct about the deposits of 'methane hydrate? ⏩ 1. Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits. ⏩ 2. Large deposits of 'methane hydrate' are found in Arctic Tundra and under the seafloor. ⏩ 3. Methane in atmosphere oxidizes to carbon dioxide after decade or two. ⏩ Select the correct answer using the code given below. [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

56. Consider the following: ⏩ 1. Carbon monoxide ⏩ 2. Methane ⏩ 3. Ozone ⏩ 4. Sulphur dioxide . ⏩ Which of the above are released into atmosphere due to the burning of crop/biomass residue? [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

(c) 1 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

57. In India, the use of carbofuran, methyl parathion, phorate and triazophos is viewed with apprehension. These chemicals are used as [UPSC 2019 ]

(a) pesticides in agriculture

(b) preservatives in processed foods

(c) fruit-ripening agents

(d) moisturizing agents in cosmetics

58. With reference to India's Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct? ⏩ 1. It is spread over two districts. ⏩ 2. There is no human habitation inside the Park. ⏩ 3. It is one of the natural habitats of Great Indian Bustard. ⏩ Select the correct answer using the code given below: [UPSC 2020 ]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

59. Consider the following statements: ⏩ 1. 36% of India's districts are classified as 'over-exploited' or 'critical' by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA). ⏩ 2. CGWA was formed under the Environment (Protection) Act. ⏩ 3. India has the largest area under groundwater irrigation in the world. ⏩ Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2020 ]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 2 only

(d) 1 and 3 only

60. Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under 'Critical Tiger Habitat'? [UPSC 2020 ]

(a) Corbett

(b) Ranthambore

(c) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam

(d) Sunderbans

61. If a particular plant species is placed under Schedule VI of The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, what is the implication? [UPSC 2020 ]

(a) a license is required to cultivate that plant.

(b) Such a plant cannot be cultivated under any circumstances.

(c) It is a Genetically Modified crop plant.

(d) Such a plant is invasive and harmful to the ecosystem.

62. With reference to India's biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are ______________. [UPSC 2020 ]

a) Birds

(b) Primates

(c) Reptiles

(d) Amphibians

63. Which one of the following protected areas is well- known for the conservation of a sub-species of the Indian swamp deer (Barasingha) that thrives well on hard ground and is exclusively graminivorous? [UPSC 2020 ]

(a) Kanha National Park

(b) Manas National Park

(c) Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

(d) Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary

64. Which of the following are the most likely places to find the musk deer in its natural habitat? ⏩ 1. Askot Wildlife Sanctuary ⏩ 2. Gangotri National Park ⏩ 3.Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary ⏩ 4. Manas National Park ⏩ Select the correct answer using the code given below: [UPSC 2020 ]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 and 4 only

(d) 1 and 4 only

65. R2 Code of Practices' constitutes a tool available for promoting the adoption of [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) environmentally responsible practices in electronics recycling industry

(b) ecological management of 'Wetlands of International Importance' under the Ramsar Convention

(c) sustainable practices in the cultivation of agricultural crops in degraded lands.

(d) 'Environmental Impact Assessment' in the exploitation of natural resources

66. What is blue carbon? [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) Carbon captured by oceans and coastal ecosystems

(b) Carbon sequestered in forest biomass and agricultural soils

(c) Carbon contained in petroleum and natural gas

(d) Carbon present in atmosphere

67. In the nature, which of the following is/are most likely to be found surviving on a surface without soil? ⏩ 1. Fern ⏩ 2. Lichen ⏩ 3. Moss ⏩ 4. Mushroom ⏩ Select the correct answer using the code given below. [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) 1 and 4 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3

(d) 1, 3 and 4

68. Which one of the following is used in preparing a natural mosquito repellent? [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) Congress grass

(b) Elephant grass

(c) Lemongrass

(d) Nut grass

69. Consider the following kinds of organisms: ⏩ 1. Copepods ⏩ 2. Cyanobacteria ⏩ 3. Diatoms ⏩ 4. Foraminifera. ⏩ Which of the above are primary producers in the food chains of oceans? [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 3 and 4

(d) 1 and 4

70. Consider the following animals: ⏩ 1. Hedgehog ⏩ 2. marmot ⏩ 3. Pangolin, to reduce the chance of being captured by predators, which of the above organisms rolls up/roll up and protects/protect its/their vulnerable parts? [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1 and 3

71. Which one of the following is a filter feeder? [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) Catfish

(b) Octopus

(c) Oyster

(d) Pelican

72. In case of which one of the following biogeochemical cycles, the weathering of rocks is the main source of release of nutrient to enter the cycle? [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) Carbon cycle

(b) Nitrogen cycle

(c) Phosphorus cycle

(d) Sulphur cycle

73. Which of the following are detritivores? ⏩1. Earthworms ⏩2. Jellyfish ⏩3. Millipedes ⏩4. Seahorses ⏩5. Woodlice ⏩Select the correct answer using the code given below. [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) 1, 2 and 4 only

(b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

(c) 1, 3 and 5 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

74. The 'Common Carbon Metric', supported by UNEP, has been developed for [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) assessing the carbon footprint of building operations around the world

(b) enabling commercial farming entities around the world to enter carbon emission trading

(c) enabling governments to assess the overall carbon footprint caused by their countries

(d) assessing the overall carbon foot-print caused by the use of fossil fuels by the world in a unit time

75. Which of the following have species that can establish symbiotic relationship with other organisms? ⏩ 1. Cnidarians ⏩ 2. Fungi ⏩ 3. Protozoa ⏩ Select the correct answer using the code given below. [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

76. With reference to 'palm oil', consider the following statements: ⏩ 1. The palm oil tree is native to Southeast Asia. ⏩ 2. The palm oil is a raw material for some industries producing lipstick and perfumes. ⏩ 3. The palm oil can be used to produce biodiesel. ⏩ Which of the statements given above are correct? [UPSC 2021 ]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

77. Among the following crops, which one is the most important anthropogenic source of both methane and nitrous oxide ? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) Cotton

(b) Rice

(c) Sugarcane

(d) Wheat

78. 'System of Rice Intensification' of cultivation, in which alternate wetting and drying of rice fields is practised, results in : ⏩1. Reduced seed requirement ⏩2. Reduced methane production ⏩3. Reduced electricity consumption. ⏩Select the correct answer using the code given below : [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

79. Among the following crops, which one is the most important anthropogenic source of both methane and nitrous oxide ? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) Cotton

(b) Rice

(c) Sugarcane

(d) Wheat

80. 'System of Rice Intensification' of cultivation, in which alternate wetting and drying of rice fields is practised, results in : ⏩1. Reduced seed requirement ⏩2. Reduced methane production 3. Reduced electricity consumption. ⏩Select the correct answer using the code given below: [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

81. 'Climate Action Tracker', which monitors the emission reduction pledges of different countries is a ____________. [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) Database created by coalition of research organisations

(b) Wing of 'International Panel of Climate Change'

(c) Committee under 'United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change'

(d) Agency promoted and financed by United Nations Environment Programme and World Bank

82. 'If rainforests and tropical forests are the lungs of the Earth, then surely wetlands function as its kidneys.' Which one of the following functions of wetlands best reflects the above statement? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) The water cycle in wetlands involves surface runoff, subsoil percolation and evaporation.

(b) Algae form the nutrient base upon which fish, crustaceans, molluscs, birds, reptiles and mammals thrive.

(c) Wetlands play a vital role in maintaining sedimentation balance and soil stabilization.

(d) Aquatic plants absorb heavy metals and excess nutrients.

83. With reference to 'Gucchi' sometimes mentioned in the news, consider the following statements: ⏩1. It is a fungus. ⏩2. It grows in some Himalayan forest areas. ⏩3. It is commercially cultivated in the Himalayan foothills of north-eastern India. ⏩Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2022]

(a) 1 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 2

(d) 2 and 3

84. With reference to 'Polythylene Terephthalate', the use of which is so widespread in our daily lives, consider the following statements: ⏩ 1. Its fibres can be blended with wool and cotton fibres to reinforce their properties. ⏩ 2. Containers made of it can be used to store any alcoholic beverage. ⏩ 3. Bottle made of it can be recycled into other products. ⏩ 4. Articles made of it can be easily disposed of by incineration without causing greenhouse gas emissions. ⏩ Which of the statements given above are correct? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) 1 and 3

(b) 2 and 4

(c) 1 and 4

(d) 2 and 3

85. Which of the following is not a bird? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) Golden Mahseer

(b) Indian Nightjar

(c) Spoonbill

(d) White Ibis

86. Which of the following are nitrogen-fixing plants? ⏩1. Alfalfa ⏩2. Amarnath ⏩3. Chickpea ⏩4. Clover ⏩5. Purslane (Kulfa). ⏩ 6. Spinach ⏩Select the correct answer using the code given below: [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) 1, 3 and 4 only

(b) 1, 3, 5 and 6 only

(c) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only

(d) 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6

87. 'Biorock technology' is talked about in which one of the following situations? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) Restoration of damaged coral reefs

(b) Development of building materials using plant residues

(c) Identification of areas for exploration/extraction of shale gas

(d) Providing salt licks for wild animals in forest/protected areas

88. The 'Miyawaki method' is well known for the: [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) Promotion of commercial farming in arid and semi-arid areas

(b) Development of gardens using genetically modified flora

(c) Creation of mini forests in urban areas

(d) Harvesting wind energy on coastal areas and on sea surfaces.

89. Consider the following: ⏩ 1. Carbon monoxide ⏩ 2. Nitrogen oxide ⏩ 3. Ozone ⏩ 4. Sulphur dioxide. ⏩ Excess of which of the above in the environment is/are cause(s) of acid rain? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 2 and 4 only

(c) 4 only

(d) 1, 3 and 4

90. Certain species of which one of the following organisms are well known as cultivators of fungi? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) Ant

(b) Cockroach

(c) Crab

(d) Spider

91. With reference to Indian laws about wildlife protection, consider the following statements: ⏩1. Wild animals are the sole property of the government. ⏩2. When a wild animal is declared protected, such animal is entitled for equal protection whether it is found in protected areas or outside. ⏩3. Apprehension of a protected wild animal becoming a danger to human life is sufficient ground for its capture or killing. ⏩Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3

(d) 3 only

92. Which one of the following best describes the term 'greenwashing'? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) Conveying a false impression that a company's products are eco-friendly and environmentally sound

(b) Non-inclusion of ecological/environmen tal costs in the Annual Financial Statements of a country.

(c) Ignoring the disastrous ecological consequences while undertaking infrastructure development.

(d) Making mandatory provision for environmental costs in a government project/programme.

93. Which one of the following statements best describes the 'Polar Code'? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) It is the international code of safety for ships operating in polar waters.

(b) It is the agreement of the countries around the North Pole regarding the demarcation of their territories in the polar region.

(c) It is a set of norms to be followed by the countries whose scientists undertake research studies in the North Pole and South Pole.

(d) It is a trade and security agreement of the member countries of the Arctic Council.

94. Which one of the following has been constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) Central Water Commission

(b) Central Ground Water Board

(c) Central Ground Water Authority

(d) National Water Development Agency

95. Consider the following statements: ⏩1. The India Sanitation Coalition is a platform to promote sustainable sanitation and is funded by the Government of India and the World Health Organization. ⏩2. The National Institute of Urban Affairs is an apex body of the Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs in Government of India and provides innovative solutions to address the challenges of Urban India. ⏩Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2022 ]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

96. Consider the following statements: Once the Central Government notifies an area as a 'Community Reserve' ⏩1. the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest ⏩2. hunting is not allowed in such area ⏩3. people of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce ⏩4. people of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices. ⏩How many of the above statements are correct? [UPSC 2023 ]

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) Only three

(d) All four

97. Consider the following statements: ⏩Statement-I: Marsupials are not naturally found in India. ⏩nStatement-II: Marsupials can thrive only in montane grasslands with no predators. ⏩Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? [UPSC 2023 ]

a) Both Statement-I and nStatement-II are correct and Statement- Il is the correct explanation for Statement-I

(b) Both Statement-I and nStatement-II are correct and Statement- Il is not the correct explanation for Statement-l

(c) Statement-I is correct but Statement- II is incorrect

(d) Statement-I is incorrect but nStatement-II is correct

98. Invasive species Specialist Group' (that develops Global Invasive Species Database) belongs to which one of the following organizations? [UPSC 2023 ]

(a) The International Union for Conservation of Nature

(b) The United Nations Environment Programme

(c) The United Nations World Commission for Environment and Development.

(d) The World Wide Fund for Nature

99. Consider the following fauna: ⏩ 1. Lion-tailed Macaque ⏩ 2. Malabar Civet ⏩ 3. Sambar Deer ⏩ How many of the above are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset? [UPSC 2023 ]

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

100. Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food? [UPSC 2023 ]

(a) Butterflies

(b) Dragonflies

(c) Honeybees

(b) Both Statement-l and Statement-ll are correct and Statement- Il is not the correct explanation for Statement-l

(c) Statement-I is correct but Statement- Il is incorrect

(d) Statement-l is incorrect but Statement-ll is correct

114. Consider the following statements: ⏩1. In India, the Biodiversity Management committees are key to the realization of the objectives of Nagoya Protocol. ⏩2. The Biodiversity Management committees have important functions in determining access and benefit sharing, including the power to levy collection fees on the access of biological resources within its jurisdiction. ⏩Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [UPSC 2023 ]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2