SSC CGL — Set 20

Q: Which of the following elements has the lowest melting point among metals?

Mercury. Mercury is the only metal that remains in a liquid state at standard room temperature. Its melting point is approximately -38.8 degrees Celsius. Because of its high thermal expansion, it is widely used in traditional thermometers.

Q: Who was the first Indian to become a member of the Viceroy's Executive Council?

Satyendra Prasad Sinha. Satyendra Prasad Sinha was appointed as the Law Member of the council in 1909. This appointment followed the introduction of the Morley-Minto Reforms. He later served as the Governor of Bihar and Orissa.

Q: Under which Article of the Indian Constitution can the President seek the opinion of the Supreme Court?

Article 143. Article 143 grants the President power to consult the Supreme Court on matters of public importance. The advice given by the court under this article is not binding on the President. This is known as the Advisory Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.

Q: Which part of the human brain is primarily responsible for maintaining posture and balance?

Cerebellum. The cerebellum coordinates voluntary movements and manages the body's physical equilibrium. It is located at the back of the skull below the cerebrum. Damage to this area can lead to lack of muscle control and difficulty walking.

Q: The 'Dandiya Raas' is a traditional folk dance predominantly associated with which state?

Gujarat. Dandiya Raas is a vibrant folk dance performed during the festival of Navratri in Gujarat. It involves rhythmic movements using polished wooden sticks known as Dandiyas. The dance represents a mock-fight between the Goddess Durga and Mahishasura.

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Which of the following elements has the lowest melting point among metals?

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Correct Answer: B. Mercury

Mercury is the only metal that remains in a liquid state at standard room temperature. Its melting point is approximately -38.8 degrees Celsius. Because of its high thermal expansion, it is widely used in traditional thermometers.

Who was the first Indian to become a member of the Viceroy's Executive Council?

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Correct Answer: A. Satyendra Prasad Sinha

Satyendra Prasad Sinha was appointed as the Law Member of the council in 1909. This appointment followed the introduction of the Morley-Minto Reforms. He later served as the Governor of Bihar and Orissa.

Under which Article of the Indian Constitution can the President seek the opinion of the Supreme Court?

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Correct Answer: C. Article 143

Article 143 grants the President power to consult the Supreme Court on matters of public importance. The advice given by the court under this article is not binding on the President. This is known as the Advisory Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.

Which part of the human brain is primarily responsible for maintaining posture and balance?

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Correct Answer: B. Cerebellum

The cerebellum coordinates voluntary movements and manages the body's physical equilibrium. It is located at the back of the skull below the cerebrum. Damage to this area can lead to lack of muscle control and difficulty walking.

The 'Dandiya Raas' is a traditional folk dance predominantly associated with which state?

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Correct Answer: B. Gujarat

Dandiya Raas is a vibrant folk dance performed during the festival of Navratri in Gujarat. It involves rhythmic movements using polished wooden sticks known as Dandiyas. The dance represents a mock-fight between the Goddess Durga and Mahishasura.

Which of the following is the most active volcano in India?

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Correct Answer: B. Barren Island

Barren Island is the only confirmed active volcano in the Indian subcontinent. It is located in the Andaman Sea and last erupted significantly in 2017. The island is uninhabited and consists primarily of volcanic ash and lava rocks.

What is the primary reason for the 'Blue' color of the sky?

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Correct Answer: C. Rayleigh scattering

Rayleigh scattering occurs when sunlight interacts with gas molecules in the Earth's atmosphere. Shorter blue wavelengths are scattered much more efficiently than longer red wavelengths. This phenomenon is most visible when the Sun is high in the sky.

Who was the founder of the 'Shunga Dynasty' after the fall of the Mauryan Empire?

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Correct Answer: A. Pushyamitra Shunga

Pushyamitra Shunga was a general who assassinated the last Mauryan king, Brihadratha. He established the Shunga dynasty around 185 BC and patronized Vedic traditions. His reign marked a shift toward Brahmanism in the Magadha region.

In economics, 'Giffen Goods' are those for which demand increases when ________.?

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Correct Answer: B. Price increases

Giffen goods are inferior products that lack close substitutes, causing an upward-sloping demand curve. As the price rises, consumers are forced to spend more on the staple, reducing their budget for luxuries. This paradox contradicts the basic Law of Demand.

Which Indian city is the headquarters of the 'Isro' (Indian Space Research Organisation)?

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Correct Answer: C. Bengaluru

ISRO is headquartered in Bengaluru and operates under the Department of Space. It was established in 1969 to harness space technology for national development. The organization has successfully launched missions like Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan.

Which among the following is a vestigial organ in the human body?

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Correct Answer: C. Appendix

The appendix is a small pouch attached to the large intestine that has lost its original digestive function. In human ancestors, it likely helped in the digestion of cellulose from plant-based diets. It is now considered a vestigial structure though it may harbor beneficial bacteria.

Who was the Governor-General of India when the 'Doctrine of Lapse' was introduced?

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Correct Answer: B. Lord Dalhousie

Lord Dalhousie used the Doctrine of Lapse to annex Indian states without a natural male heir. States like Satara, Sambalpur, and Jhansi were brought under British rule through this policy. This administrative tactic was a major grievance leading to the 1857 Revolt.

Which of the following fuels has the highest calorific value?

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Correct Answer: C. Hydrogen

Hydrogen has a very high energy content per unit of mass compared to traditional fossil fuels. Its calorific value is approximately 150,000 kJ/kg, making it highly efficient. However, it is difficult to store and transport due to its low density.

The 'Lothal' dockyard, an ancient Indus Valley Civilization site, is located in which state?

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Correct Answer: C. Gujarat

Lothal was one of the most prominent cities of the Harappan civilization and featured the world's earliest known dock. It is situated in the Bhal region of modern-day Gujarat. The site provides evidence of thriving maritime trade with Mesopotamia.

Which Amendment of the Constitution added the words 'Socialist' and 'Secular' to the Preamble?

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Correct Answer: B. 42nd Amendment

The 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 is often referred to as the 'Mini-Constitution' due to its vast changes. It added 'Socialist', 'Secular', and 'Integrity' to the Preamble of India. These terms were included during the period of National Emergency.

Which blood vessel carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs?

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Correct Answer: B. Pulmonary Artery

The pulmonary artery is unique because it carries deoxygenated blood, unlike most other arteries. It transports blood to the lungs where carbon dioxide is exchanged for oxygen. The oxygenated blood then returns to the heart via the pulmonary vein.

The 'Sahitya Akademi Award' is given for outstanding contributions in which field?

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Correct Answer: B. Literature

Literature is the correct answer to this question. This is an important fact from the General Knowledge and Current Affairs syllabus frequently tested in Indian competitive examinations such as SSC CGL, RRB NTPC, and state-level PSC exams. A thorough understanding of Literature and related topics will help candidates score well in the GK section. Regular revision of such key facts is highly recommended for exam preparation.

Which among the following is the highest dam in India?

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Correct Answer: C. Tehri Dam

Tehri Dam is a multi-purpose rock and earth-fill embankment dam on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand. Standing at 260.5 meters, it is the tallest dam in India and one of the highest in the world. It is a major source of hydroelectricity and irrigation for the region.

Who was the author of 'Abhigyan Shakuntalam'?

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Correct Answer: A. Kalidasa

Kalidasa was a classical Sanskrit author often regarded as the greatest poet and dramatist of ancient India. 'Abhigyan Shakuntalam' tells the romantic story of King Dushyanta and Shakuntala. He was one of the 'nine gems' in the court of Vikramaditya.

In which year was the 'International Monetary Fund' (IMF) established?

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Correct Answer: A. 1944

The IMF was conceived at the Bretton Woods Conference in July 1944. It was created to ensure the stability of the international monetary system and facilitate global trade. It officially began operations in 1945 with 29 member countries.

Which of the following gases is primarily found in Biogas?

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Correct Answer: A. Methane

Biogas is produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic matter and contains 50-75% methane. It is a renewable energy source commonly used for cooking and lighting in rural areas. Carbon dioxide is the second most significant component of biogas.

Who presided over the 1924 Belgaum Session of the Indian National Congress?

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Correct Answer: B. Mahatma Gandhi

The Belgaum session was the only time Mahatma Gandhi served as the President of the Indian National Congress. This session focused on unity between the Swarajists and the No-changers within the party. It emphasized the importance of the spinning wheel and khadi.

The 'Panchayat Raj' system was first inaugurated in which state of India?

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Correct Answer: B. Rajasthan

Panchayati Raj was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru on October 2, 1959, in Nagaur district, Rajasthan. It was based on the recommendations of the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee for democratic decentralization. This three-tier system aims to empower local rural self-governance.

What is the SI unit of 'Electric Charge'?

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Correct Answer: C. Coulomb

The Coulomb is the SI unit for electric charge, named after the French physicist Charles-Augustin de Coulomb. One Coulomb is defined as the amount of charge transported by a constant current of one ampere in one second. It is a fundamental unit used in electromagnetic calculations.

Which planet is known as 'Earth's Twin' due to its similar size and mass?

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Correct Answer: B. Venus

Venus is often called Earth's twin because the two planets are almost identical in density and diameter. However, Venus has a runaway greenhouse effect and a crushing atmospheric pressure. It is the second planet from the Sun and the hottest in our solar system.

Who among the following was the founder of the 'Servants of India Society'?

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Correct Answer: B. Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Gokhale founded the society in 1905 to train Indians of different ethnicities in social service. Members were committed to working for the country's welfare regardless of caste or creed. Gokhale was also the political mentor of Mahatma Gandhi.

The 'Silent Valley National Park' is located in which state?

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Correct Answer: C. Kerala

Silent Valley is a pristine tropical evergreen forest located in the Nilgiri Hills of Kerala. It is famous for being home to the endangered Lion-tailed Macaque. The park was saved from a hydroelectric project following a major environmental movement in the 1970s.

Which Article of the Constitution deals with the 'Abolition of Untouchability'?

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Correct Answer: C. Article 17

Article 17 forbids the practice of untouchability in any form and makes it a punishable offense. This fundamental right is essential for ensuring human dignity and equality in Indian society. The Untouchability (Offences) Act was later passed in 1955 to enforce this.

What is the chemical name of 'Bleaching Powder'?

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Correct Answer: B. Calcium Hypochlorite

Bleaching powder is chemically known as Calcium Hypochlorite with the formula Ca(OCl)2. It is widely used as an oxidizing agent in industries and for disinfecting drinking water. It has a strong smell of chlorine due to its chemical composition.

Who was the first Indian woman to win a 'Grammy Award'?

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Correct Answer: B. Tanvi Shah

Tanvi Shah won a Grammy in 2010 for the song 'Jai Ho' from the film Slumdog Millionaire. She shared the award with A.R. Rahman and Gulzar for the Best Song Written for Visual Media. This achievement marked a historic moment for Indian female vocalists.

In which year was the 'Battle of Plassey' fought?

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Correct Answer: A. 1757

The Battle of Plassey took place on June 23, 1757, between the British East India Company and the Nawab of Bengal. Robert Clive led the British forces to victory against Siraj-ud-Daulah. This win is considered the starting point of British political dominance in India.

Which part of the plant is primarily responsible for transpiration?

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Correct Answer: C. Leaves

Transpiration is the process where water vapor is lost through tiny pores in the leaves called stomata. This process helps in the transport of water and minerals from the roots to the upper parts. It also aids in cooling the plant during hot weather.

Who was the first Law Minister of independent India?

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Correct Answer: C. B.R. Ambedkar

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was appointed as the first Law Minister in the cabinet of independent India. He was also the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution. His expertise was instrumental in shaping the legal framework of the new nation.

Which of the following passes is known as the 'Gateway to Srinagar'?

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Correct Answer: A. Banihal Pass

The Banihal Pass connects the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India through the Pir Panjal Range. The Jawahar Tunnel was constructed through this pass to ensure all-weather connectivity. It remains a vital strategic and commercial route for Jammu and Kashmir.

The 'Laffer Curve' represents the relationship between which two variables?

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Correct Answer: B. Tax Rates and Tax Revenue

The Laffer Curve suggests that there is an optimal tax rate that maximizes total government revenue. It theorizes that beyond a certain point, higher tax rates discourage work and reduce total revenue. This concept is a staple of supply-side economic theory.

Which instrument is used to measure the purity of milk?

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Correct Answer: B. Lactometer

A lactometer works on the principle of Archimedes' Law to measure the specific gravity of milk. It helps in detecting whether milk has been diluted with water. Pure milk has a higher density compared to water-adulterated milk.

Who was the founder of the 'Khilji Dynasty'?

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Correct Answer: B. Jalaluddin Khilji

Jalaluddin Khilji established the Khilji dynasty in 1290 after overthrowing the Mamluk rulers of Delhi. He was known for his mild and lenient policies during his short reign. He was later succeeded and assassinated by his ambitious nephew, Alauddin Khilji.

In which city is the 'Golden Pagoda' (Sun Temple) of Gwalior located?

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Correct Answer: C. Gwalior

The Sun Temple in Gwalior was built by the industrialist G.D. Birla and is modeled after the Konark Sun Temple. It is famous for its intricate red sandstone carvings and white marble interiors. The temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is a major local landmark.

Which of the following is a 'Scalar' quantity in physics?

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Correct Answer: D. Speed

Speed is a scalar quantity because it only has magnitude and no specified direction. Velocity, by contrast, is a vector quantity because it includes both speed and direction. Understanding this distinction is fundamental to solving problems in classical mechanics.

The 'Cripps Mission' visited India in which year?

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Correct Answer: B. 1942

Sir Stafford Cripps led the mission to India in 1942 to secure Indian cooperation for the British war effort. The mission failed as Indian leaders rejected the offer of 'Dominion Status' after the war. Mahatma Gandhi famously called the offer a 'post-dated cheque on a crashing bank'.