Explanation: Nuclear fission is the process in which the nucleus of a heavy atom, such as Uranium-235 or Plutonium-239, splits into two or more lighter nuclei when bombarded by a slow-moving neutron. This reaction releases a large amount of energy, along with additional neutrons that can trigger further fission reactions—leading to a chain reaction. This principle is used in nuclear reactors for power generation and in atomic bombs for explosive energy release.

The Green Muffler technique is used to control noise pollution. It involves planting dense rows of trees and shrubs around roads, industrial areas, and public places. The vegetation acts as a natural sound barrier by absorbing, deflecting, and refracting sound waves, thereby reducing the intensity of noise reaching nearby areas. Common plants used for green mufflers include Neem, Ashoka, Ficus, and Cassia.

Other options (for context)

• Air pollution: Controlled by measures like emission filters and afforestation, but not directly by green mufflers.
• Soil pollution: Managed by waste treatment and reduced chemical use, not vegetation barriers.
• Water pollution: Controlled by sewage treatment and reducing industrial discharge, not by plants as mufflers.

Explanation: The hard structure of bones and teeth is primarily made of calcium phosphate in the crystalline form of tricalcium phosphate (Ca₃(PO₄)₂). It provides rigidity and strength. In tooth enamel, a small portion is converted into fluorapatite, which makes teeth resistant to bacterial decay.

Tuberculosis (TB) is commonly known as the "White Plague". It earned this name because it causes extreme paleness and weight loss in affected individuals. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body. It spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Other options (for context)

• Typhoid: Caused by Salmonella typhi, affects the intestine and causes high fever.
• Malaria: Caused by Plasmodium parasite transmitted through mosquito bites.
• Plague: Caused by Yersinia pestis, historically known as the “Black Death,” not the white plague.

Explanation: White blood cells (WBCs), also known as leukocytes, are responsible for producing the immune response in the human body. They defend against infections by attacking bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders, helping to maintain the body’s immunity.

Explanation: The scientific name of Vitamin C is Ascorbic Acid. It is a water-soluble vitamin essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant and helps in the synthesis of collagen, absorption of iron, and boosting the immune system. A deficiency of Vitamin C leads to the disease Scurvy, characterized by bleeding gums, weakness, and delayed wound healing. Natural sources include citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, amla, and guava.

Chandrayaan-2, launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 22 July 2019, was designed to explore the South Pole region of the Moon. This area is of great scientific interest because it is permanently shadowed and may contain water ice and other valuable minerals. The mission included an orbiter, a lander (Vikram), and a rover (Pragyan), making it India’s first attempt at a soft landing on the lunar surface near the south pole.

Other options (for context)

• Moon North Pole: Not the target area of Chandrayaan-2.
• Moon North-West part: Incorrect — Chandrayaan-2 focused specifically on the South Pole.
• Unexplored part of the Moon: Partly true, but specifically, the unexplored South Pole region was chosen.

Explanation: Vitamins are classified into two categories based on their solubility — fat-soluble and water-soluble. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and the B-complex vitamins are water-soluble, meaning they dissolve in water and are not stored in the body. Therefore, they must be consumed regularly through diet. Deficiency of Vitamin C causes scurvy, characterized by bleeding gums and delayed wound healing.

Explanation: The heart is enclosed in a double-layered protective membrane called the pericardium. The outer fibrous layer protects the heart and anchors it within the chest cavity, while the inner serous layer secretes pericardial fluid that reduces friction during heartbeats. This fluid-filled sac ensures smooth and cushioned movement of the heart as it contracts and relaxes continuously.

Explanation: Natural gas is not a renewable source of energy because it is a fossil fuel formed over millions of years from the remains of plants and animals. Once used, it cannot be replenished quickly. In contrast, geothermal energy, flowing water, and biomass are renewable energy sources that can be naturally regenerated.