Explanation: The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems — it encompasses every region of Earth where living organisms are found. It includes portions of the lithosphere (land), hydrosphere (water), and atmosphere (air) that support life. The biosphere extends from deep ocean trenches to the lower layers of the atmosphere where microorganisms can survive.

Explanation: Sodium (Na⁺) plays a crucial role in the transmission of nerve impulses in the human body. Nerve cells (neurons) transmit signals through an electrochemical process known as the nerve impulse or action potential. During this process, the movement of sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺) ions across the nerve cell membrane generates an electrical charge. The rapid influx of sodium ions causes depolarization, which allows the nerve impulse to travel along the neuron, ensuring proper communication between the brain, spinal cord, and body.

Explanation: Execution time is the period during which a job or program is actively processed by the computer’s CPU. It refers to the actual time taken to execute instructions, excluding waiting or idle times such as input/output delays or queue time.

Explanation: Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) predominantly contains methane (CH₄) in liquid form. It is produced by cooling natural gas to about −162°C, which reduces its volume for easier storage and transportation. LNG is a clean fuel with high energy efficiency and low emissions.

Explanation: The star rating system seen on electrical appliances (like ACs, refrigerators, and fans) represents the energy efficiency of the product. It is issued by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under the Ministry of Power, Government of India. The more the number of stars (up to 5), the higher the energy efficiency — meaning the appliance consumes less electricity for the same performance. However, the star rating does not indicate the lifespan or the quality checks of the appliance.

Sustainable Development refers to growth that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It aims to balance economic progress, social equity, and environmental protection by conserving natural resources and reducing pollution for long-term ecological stability.

• Green economy: Focuses mainly on eco-friendly industries.
• Holistic development: Emphasizes overall human and social growth.
• Subsistence agriculture: Involves farming mainly for self-consumption.

Explanation: A rainbow is formed in the part of the sky opposite to the Sun. It occurs when sunlight is refracted, internally reflected, and dispersed by raindrops, splitting the light into its seven constituent colors. The observer must have the Sun behind them and rain in front to see the rainbow clearly.

Explanation: Gerontology is the branch of medical and biological science that deals with the study of aging and the diseases and problems specific to old age. It focuses on understanding the physical, mental, and social changes that occur in elderly individuals, as well as methods to promote healthy aging. Gerontology includes aspects of geriatrics, which specifically involves the medical care and treatment of elderly patients.

The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. Signed in 1971 at Ramsar, Iran, it aims to preserve wetlands as habitats for biodiversity, especially for migratory birds. It promotes wise use of wetland ecosystems through local and national actions.

• Mountain: Conserved under other ecological programs.
• Grassland: Managed under terrestrial biodiversity initiatives.
• Forest: Covered under the UN Forest Forum, not Ramsar.

Explanation: Ampicillin is a semi-synthetic derivative of penicillin and belongs to the β-lactam group of antibiotics. It inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis and is effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, it is classified as a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Paracetamol is not an antibiotic, and penicillin is a narrow-spectrum antibiotic.