Q1. After hatching by the hen, the young chicks come out of eggs within
(a) One week
(b) Two weeks
(c) Three weeks
(d) Four weeks
(UPSC Prelims 1979)
Answer: (c) Three weeks
Explanation: The incubation period for hen eggs is typically around 21 days, or three weeks, during which the embryo develops inside the egg. After this period, the chicks hatch naturally, provided the temperature and humidity are optimal.
Q2. Which one of the following is a fast growing tree ?
(a) Teak
(b) Eucalyptus
(c) Banyan
(d) Coconut
(UPSC Prelims 1979)
Answer: (b) Eucalyptus
Explanation:
Eucalyptus is known for its rapid growth rate, making it ideal for timber, pulpwood, and reforestation projects. It can reach maturity quickly, often within a few years, and is widely planted for commercial forestry.
Q3. Feeding of milk cattle with cotton seeds
(a) Increases fat content temporarily
(b) Decreases fat content temporarily
(c) May decrease or increase fat content
(d) Causes no change in fat content
(UPSC Prelims 1979)
Answer: (a) Increases fat content temporarily
Explanation:
Cotton seeds are rich in oil and protein, and when fed to milch cattle, they can temporarily boost the fat content in milk. This effect is due to the high energy content of the seeds, which influences milk composition.
Q4. Which of the following can be said as the “Theory of Darwin”
(a) Survival of the fittest and struggle for existence
(b) Weak and strong always maintain a fixed proportion
(c) Different species do not arise by genetic mutation
(d) None of these
Answer: (a) Survival of the fittest and struggle for existence
Explanation: Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution emphasizes natural selection, where organisms best adapted to their environment survive and reproduce. This concept of “survival of the fittest” and “struggle for existence” explains how species evolve over time.
