Explanation: The speed of internet connectivity is expressed in Megabits per second (Mb/sec or Mbps). It indicates how much data is transferred per second over a network connection. One megabit equals 1,000,000 bits. Higher Mbps values mean faster internet speeds. For example, a 100 Mbps connection can transfer 100 million bits of data every second. Note that 1 byte = 8 bits, so internet speeds in Mbps differ from file sizes, which are usually measured in megabytes (MB).

Explanation: Shadows are formed when an opaque object comes in the path of light. Opaque objects do not allow light to pass through them, causing a dark region called a shadow to form on the opposite side. Transparent and translucent objects allow light to pass fully or partially, so they form faint or no shadows.

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: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is an example of a thermoplastic. Thermoplastics soften on heating and can be reshaped multiple times without undergoing any chemical change. In contrast, Bakelite and Melamine are thermosetting plastics that become hard and rigid after heating and cannot be remolded.

Graphite allows electric current to pass through it. Although it is a form of carbon, its atoms are arranged in layers with free-moving electrons, making it a good conductor of electricity. This property makes graphite useful in electrodes, batteries, and brushes of electric motors.

• Glass, Rubber, PVC: All are insulators and do not conduct electricity.

Explanation: Heavy water is chemically known as Deuterium oxide (D₂O). It is similar to ordinary water (H₂O), but the hydrogen atoms are replaced by deuterium — a heavier isotope of hydrogen containing one proton and one neutron. Heavy water is not suitable for drinking but is used as a moderator and coolant in nuclear reactors because it slows down neutrons, allowing a controlled nuclear fission reaction. It is also used in scientific research and isotope studies.

Explanation: Smallpox is a highly contagious and deadly disease caused by the Variola virus. It is characterized by high fever, fatigue, and a distinctive pustular rash on the skin. Smallpox was one of the most devastating diseases in human history, but thanks to the worldwide vaccination campaign led by the World Health Organization (WHO), it was officially eradicated in 1980. The vaccine for smallpox was first developed by Edward Jenner in 1796.

Explanation: Natural gas is a non-renewable source of energy because it is formed from fossilized organic matter over millions of years and cannot be replenished quickly. In contrast, geothermal energy, flowing water, and biomass are renewable as they can be naturally regenerated over short periods.