MPPSC MAINS 2018 Paper-III

Points to Remember: Chemical composition and formation of Plaster of Paris. Physical properties relevant to its uses. Diverse applications in various sectors. Safety precautions during handling and usage. Introduction: Plaster of Paris (POP), chemically known as calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CaSO₄·½H₂O), is a fine white powder produced by heating gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate, CaSO₄·2H₂O) to about … Read more

Points to Remember: The visible spectrum of sunlight, its constituent colors, and their order. Introduction: Sunlight, appearing white to the naked eye, is actually composed of a spectrum of colors. This spectrum is revealed when sunlight is passed through a prism, separating the light into its component wavelengths. Isaac Newton famously demonstrated this, showing that … Read more

Points to Remember: The body’s response to stress involves the release of specific hormones. The adrenal gland plays a crucial role in the stress response. Adrenaline (epinephrine) is the primary hormone involved in the “fight-or-flight” response. Introduction: The human body possesses a complex endocrine system responsible for regulating various physiological processes through hormones. When faced … Read more

Points to Remember: Biopesticides are derived from natural sources such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, or other naturally occurring substances. They offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides. Scientific names follow binomial nomenclature (Genus species). Introduction: Biopesticides are a class of pest control agents derived from natural materials such as microorganisms, animals, plants, or … Read more

Points to Remember: The question requires factual information regarding the causative agent and vector of the plague. No analysis or opinion is needed. The answer should provide the scientific names of both the bacterium causing the plague and the organism(s) that transmit it. Introduction: Plague, a historically devastating infectious disease, continues to pose a significant … Read more

Points to Remember: CFCs are man-made chemicals. They were widely used in various applications. They deplete the ozone layer. International agreements have led to their phase-out. Alternatives to CFCs are now available. Introduction: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are a group of man-made organic compounds that contain carbon, chlorine, and fluorine. They were once widely used due to … Read more

Points to Remember: Physical characteristics of seahorses Habitat and distribution Unique biological features (e.g., male pregnancy) Conservation status and threats Economic and cultural significance Introduction: The seahorse, belonging to the genus Hippocampus, is a small marine fish known for its distinctive equine-like head and upright swimming posture. Unlike most fish, seahorses exhibit a unique reproductive … Read more

Points to Remember: The question requires the full forms of three acronyms: UNESCO, SCOPE, and UNDP. The approach is purely factual. Introduction: This question asks for the full forms of three well-known international organizations. These organizations play significant roles in global development, education, and scientific advancement. Knowing their full forms provides a clearer understanding of … Read more

Points to Remember: Definition and causes of acid rain. Effects of acid rain on the environment and human health. Sources of acid rain pollutants. Mitigation and prevention strategies. International and national efforts to control acid rain. Introduction: Acid rain, a term encompassing any form of precipitation with acidic components, such as sulfuric or nitric acid … Read more

Points to Remember: Definition and history of pasteurization. The process of pasteurization. Types of pasteurization. Applications of pasteurization. Advantages and disadvantages of pasteurization. Impact on food safety and public health. Introduction: Pasteurization is a heat treatment process that kills harmful microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi) in food and beverages, thereby increasing their shelf life … Read more