The Itai-Itai disease is caused by Cadmium (Cd) poisoning. The disease was first identified in Japan, where industrial discharge of cadmium-contaminated water led to severe pollution. People consuming rice grown in this contaminated water suffered from extreme pain in bones and joints, along with kidney damage. The name "Itai-Itai" literally means "ouch-ouch" in Japanese, reflecting the severe pain experienced by victims.

Other options (for context)

• Nickel: Causes dermatitis and allergic reactions but not Itai-Itai disease.
• Chromium: Can cause skin and respiratory problems, not bone-related disorders.
• Mercury: Leads to Minamata disease, not Itai-Itai disease.

Explanation: Asbestos is a group of silicate minerals once used in insulation and construction materials. Inhalation of asbestos fibers causes severe lung disorders such as asbestosis and emphysema, leading to breathing difficulty, chest pain, and even lung cancer (mesothelioma). The fibers lodge in lung tissue and trigger inflammation and fibrosis over time.

Explanation: Gamma rays are the most dangerous type of radiation because they have very high energy and strong penetrating power. They can pass through most materials, including human tissue, and may cause serious cellular and genetic damage. Proper shielding with dense materials like lead is required for protection.

Explanation: The sour taste of a lemon is due to the presence of citric acid. Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and limes. It gives them their characteristic tangy flavor and also acts as a natural preservative.

Explanation: Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus (a member of the Paramyxovirus group). It spreads through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include fever, cough, rash, and watery eyes. Other diseases listed — scurvy, asthma, and diabetes — are non-communicable as they do not spread from person to person.

Mountaineers carry oxygen cylinders because the amount of air (and oxygen) available at high altitudes is much less than that at ground level. As altitude increases, air pressure and oxygen concentration decrease, making breathing difficult and leading to altitude sickness. Supplemental oxygen helps them breathe properly and maintain body function.

• No air above 5 km: Incorrect — air exists but is thinner.
• Lower temperature: True but not the reason for carrying oxygen.
• Higher air pressure: Incorrect — pressure decreases with height.

Explanation: Tuberculosis (TB) is not a viral disease; it is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In contrast, Polio, Swine flu, and Hepatitis are viral diseases caused by different types of viruses.

Silviculture is the branch of forestry concerned with the management, cultivation, and care of forests. It involves the practice of controlling the establishment, growth, composition, and quality of forest stands to meet diverse needs such as timber production, wildlife habitat, and environmental conservation. The term comes from Latin — silva meaning forest, and cultura meaning cultivation.

Other options (for context)

• Rivers: Managed under hydrology or water resource management, not silviculture.
• Lakes: Managed under limnology or aquatic resource management.
• Hills: May be part of forest areas, but silviculture specifically refers to forest management.