Explanation: Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer that can be seen and touched, such as the monitor, keyboard, mouse, CPU, and printer. In contrast, software consists of programs and instructions that control the hardware and perform tasks.

Running water is the source of hydel power (also called hydroelectric power). The energy of flowing or falling water is converted into electrical energy using turbines and generators in dams. It is a renewable, clean, and sustainable source of energy widely used in India and worldwide.

• Thermal power: Generated by burning coal or other fuels.
• Nuclear power: Produced from nuclear fission reactions.
• None of the above: Incorrect — running water directly produces hydel power.

Explanation: Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous silicate minerals once widely used in construction and insulation. When inhaled, asbestos fibers accumulate in the lungs and pleura, leading to inflammation and scarring over years. This chronic exposure can cause asbestosis (lung fibrosis) and mesothelioma — a deadly cancer of the membrane lining the lungs (pleura) or abdomen (peritoneum).

Explanation: The term LASER stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A laser produces a highly coherent, monochromatic, and intense beam of light by amplifying light through the process of stimulated emission. In this process, atoms or molecules in an excited state emit photons in phase with incoming photons, resulting in a strong, directed beam. Lasers are widely used in medicine, communication, industry, defense, and scientific research.

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: Neutron was discovered by James Chadwick in 1932. He identified the neutron as a neutral subatomic particle present in the nucleus of an atom, having a mass nearly equal to that of a proton but no electrical charge.

Explanation: Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a base, so it does not turn blue litmus paper red. Instead, it turns red litmus paper blue. In contrast, lemon juice, acetic acid, and hydrochloric acid are acidic and turn blue litmus red.