The formation of ozone hole in the Antarctic region has been a cause of concern. What could be the reason for the formation of this hole ?

Two important rivers - one with its sources in Jharkhand (and known by a different name in Odisha), and another, with its source in Odisha - merge at a place only a short distance from the coast of bay of Bengal before flowing into the sea. this is an important site of wildlife and biodiversity and a protected area.

Which one of the following could be this ?

Regarding "carbon credits", which one of the following statements is not correct?

Human activities in the recent past have caused the increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, but a lot of it does not remain in the lower atmosphere because of

1. its escape into the outer stratosphere.

2. the photosynthesis by phytoplankton in the oceans.

3. the trapping of air in the polar ice caps.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

In the context of ecosystem productivity, marine upwelling zones are important as they increase the marine productivity by bringing the

1. decomposer microorganisms to the surface.

2. nutrients to the surface

3. bottom-dwelling organisms to the surface.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The Himalayan range is very rich in species diversity. Which one among the following is the most appropriate reason for this phenomenon?

With reference to India, consider the following Central Acts:

1. Import and Export (Control) Act, 1947.

2. Mining and Mineral Development (Regulation) Act, 1957

3. Customs Act, 1962

4. Indian Forest Act, 1927

Which of the above acts have relevance to/bearing on the biodiversity conservation in the country ?

A layer in the Earth’s atmosphere called Ionosphere facilitates radio communication. Why ?

1. The presence of ozone causes the reflection of radio waves to Earth.

2. Radio waves have a very long wavelength.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

In the context of global oil prices, “Brent crude oil” is frequently referred to in the news. What does this term imply ?

1. It is a major classification of crude oil.

2. It is sourced from North sea.

3. It does not contain sulphur.

Which of the statements given above is/ correct?

There is a concern over the increase in harmful algal booms in the sea waters of India. What could be the causative factors for this phenomenon ?

1. Discharge of nutrients from the estauraries.

2. Run-off from the land rung the monsoon.

3. Upwelling in the seas.

Select the correct answer from the codes given below :

Biodiversity forms the basis for human Existence in the following ways :

1. Soil formation

2. Prevention of soil erosion

3. Recycling of waste

4. Pollination of crops

Select the correct answer using thew codes given below :

Among the following States. which one has the most suitable climatic conditions for the cultivation of a large variety of orchids with minimum cost of production, and can develop an export oriented industry in this field?

The 2004 Tsunami made people realize that mangroves can serve as a reliable safety hedge against coastal calamities. How do mangroves function as a safety hedge?

Salinization occurs when the irrigation water accumulated in the soil evaporates, leaving behind salts and minerals. What are the effects of salinization on the irrigated land ?

The “Red Data Books” published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) contain lists of

1. Endemic plant and animal species present in the biodiversity hotspots.

2. Threatened plant and animal species.

3. Protected sites for conservation of nature and natural resources in various countries.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

The lower Gangetic plain is characterised by humid climate with high temperature throughout the year. Which one among the following pairs of crops is most suitable for this region ?

What could be the main reason/ reasons for the formation of African and Eurasian desert belt ?

1. It is located in the sub-tropical high pressure cells.

2. It is under the influence of warm ocean currents.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct in this context?

The jet aircrafts fly very easily and smoothly in the lower stratosphere. What could be the appropriate explanation?

1. There are no clouds or water vapour in the lower stratosphere.

2. There are no vertical winds in the lower stratosphere.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct in this context?

Consider the following statements :

1. Biodivesity is normally greater in the lower latitudes as compared to the higher latitudes.

2. Along the mountain gradients, biodiversity is normally greater in the lower altitudes as compared to the higher altitudes.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?