Explanation: The permissible noise level in residential areas should not exceed 55 decibels (dB) during the daytime and 45 dB at night, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines. Exposure to higher noise levels can lead to stress, disturbed sleep, and hearing impairment.

Explanation: Mitochondria are double-membraned organelles found in almost all eukaryotic cells. They are known as the 'power house of the cell' because they generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through the process of cellular respiration. The inner membrane forms folds called cristae, which increase the surface area for enzyme activity related to energy production. Mitochondria also contain their own DNA and ribosomes, enabling them to produce some of their own proteins.

Key Reaction:

Glucose + Oxygen → Carbon dioxide + Water + ATP

Explanation: The HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) primarily attacks the lymphocytes, especially the CD4⁺ T-helper cells of the immune system. This weakens the body’s defense mechanism, making it vulnerable to various infections and diseases, eventually leading to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).

Explanation: Stars appear to twinkle at night due to the refraction of light by the Earth's atmosphere. As starlight passes through different layers of air with varying densities, its path bends continuously, causing the light’s intensity and position to appear to change, creating the twinkling effect.

Explanation: The Cerebrum forms about 80% of the total brain mass. It is divided into two hemispheres and is responsible for higher brain functions such as thought, action, reasoning, and emotion. The Cerebellum lies below it and controls coordination and balance, while the Medulla oblongata manages vital involuntary functions.

Explanation: Vitamin K is produced by gut bacteria (Escherichia coli) in the large intestine. It plays a vital role in the synthesis of prothrombin, a protein essential for normal blood clotting. Although some of it is obtained from food (like leafy vegetables), intestinal bacteria supply a significant portion of the body’s requirement.

Running water is the source of hydel power (also called hydroelectric power). The energy of flowing or falling water is converted into electrical energy using turbines and generators in dams. It is a renewable, clean, and sustainable source of energy widely used in India and worldwide.

• Thermal power: Generated by burning coal or other fuels.
• Nuclear power: Produced from nuclear fission reactions.
• None of the above: Incorrect — running water directly produces hydel power.

Explanation: SONAR (Sound Navigation and Ranging) is a system used in ships and submarines to determine the depth of the ocean or to locate underwater objects. It works by sending sound waves into the water and measuring the time taken for the echo to return after reflecting from the seabed or any object.

Explanation: A carnivore is an animal that primarily eats the flesh of other animals. The tiger (Panthera tigris) is a true carnivore and an apex predator in its ecosystem. It has sharp canines and retractable claws adapted for hunting and tearing flesh. Tigers play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance by controlling herbivore populations in forests.