Explanation: In a parallel connection of resistances, the potential difference (voltage) across each resistor remains the same, while the current divides among the different branches according to their resistances. This property makes parallel circuits widely used in household electrical wiring.

Explanation: The Montreal Protocol, signed in 1987, is an international agreement aimed at protecting the ozone layer by phasing out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons. It is one of the most successful environmental treaties in history.

Explanation: The full form of OMR is Optical Mark Recognition. It is a technology used to detect marks made on specially designed paper forms, such as answer sheets in competitive exams or surveys. Candidates mark their answers by filling bubbles with dark ink or pencil, and the OMR scanner reads these marks by detecting reflected light. This process allows for fast, accurate, and automated data collection without manual checking, minimizing human errors and saving time.

Explanation: Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which are the air passages of the respiratory tract that carry air to and from the lungs. The condition causes coughing, mucus production, chest discomfort, and difficulty in breathing. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, long-term exposure to smoke, dust, or air pollutants. Chronic bronchitis is a serious form often associated with smoking and is part of a group of lung diseases known as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).

India’s first successful atomic device was tested at Pokhran in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan on 18th May 1974. The operation was code-named "Smiling Buddha" and was conducted by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) under the leadership of scientists like Dr. Raja Ramanna. This event marked India’s entry into the group of nuclear-capable nations.

Other options (for context)

• Bikaner: A city in Rajasthan, but no nuclear tests were conducted there.
• Barmer: Located near the Pakistan border, not the site of India’s nuclear test.
• Jaisalmer: Close to Pokhran geographically, but not the test location.

Sputnik I was the first artificial satellite to orbit the Earth. It was launched by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957. The successful launch of Sputnik I marked the beginning of the space age and initiated the space race between the USA and the USSR.

• Explorer I: First U.S. satellite, launched in 1958.
• Vanguard I: A U.S. satellite launched later in 1958.
• Discoverer I: Part of an American reconnaissance satellite program (1959).

Ocean Thermal Energy (OTE) is produced due to the temperature difference at different levels in the ocean. The surface water is warmer because it absorbs sunlight, while the deeper layers remain cold. This temperature gradient is used to run a heat engine that generates electricity — a process known as Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC).

• Tides: Related to gravitational pull, not temperature.
• Pressure difference: Exists but not used for energy generation.
• Waves: Used in wave energy systems, not OTEC.

Explanation: Carpal bones are the eight small bones that make up the wrist (also known as the carpus) in the human skeletal system. These bones are arranged in two rows — a proximal row (closer to the forearm) and a distal row (closer to the hand). They connect the bones of the forearm (radius and ulna) to the bones of the hand (metacarpals) and allow for the flexibility and movement of the wrist. The carpals are essential for various hand motions like bending, rotation, and gripping.

Explanation: Angora wool is obtained from the Angora rabbit, a special breed reared mainly for its soft, silky, and warm fur. The wool fibers are extremely fine and have a high insulating property, making them ideal for luxury clothing. It is different from Mohair (from Angora goat) and Cashmere (from Kashmiri goat).

Explanation: Athlete’s foot, scientifically known as Tinea pedis, is a fungal infection caused mainly by dermatophytes such as Trichophyton species. It thrives in warm, moist areas like the skin between the toes. Symptoms include itching, scaling, redness, and sometimes blistering. It spreads easily in communal areas like locker rooms and swimming pools. Proper hygiene and antifungal treatment can prevent and cure the infection.