Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (29-11-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: Indian Chemical Council Wins 2024 OPCW-The Hague Award |
| Economy: Govt to auction 7 seabed mineral blocks near Great Nicobar Island |
| India climbs up eleven slots to be among Top 50 Countries in Network Readiness Index 2024 |
| Science and Technology: India successfully tests K-4 nuclear-capable ballistic missile from INS Arighaat |
| Researchers from Bengaluru institute find links to sources that heat up puffed gases swirling around Milky Way |
Indian Chemical Council Wins 2024 OPCW-The Hague Award
Source: The Hindu
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2077867
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: 2024 OPCW The Hague Award
Why in News
The OPCW-The Hague Award 2024 recognized the Indian Chemical Council (ICC) for promoting chemical safety and compliance with the Chemical Weapons Convention, a global treaty with 193 member states.
Background of the Conflict
- The Indian Chemical Council (ICC)was honored with the prestigious 2024 OPCW-The Hague Award during the 29th Session of the Conference of the States Parties (CSP) of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on November 25, 2024, at The Hague, Netherlands.
- The award ceremony, which recognized the significant contributions of the ICC to the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), marked the first instance of a chemical industry body receiving this honor.
Award Presentation and Representation
- The award was presented by:
- Ambassador Fernando Arias, Director-General of OPCW.
- Mr. Jan van Zanen, Mayor of The Hague.
- Mr. D. Sothi Selvam, Director General of ICC, accepted the award on behalf of the Council.
- The ceremony witnessed the presence of:
- Delegates from the 193 States Parties to the CWC.
- Experts from the global chemical industry.
- Indian representatives, including:
- The Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India to OPCW.
- The Chairperson of India’s National Authority Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC).
Significance of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and OPCW
CWC Background:
- The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) came into effect in 1997.
- It aims to prohibit the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons.
- It has 193 member states, making it one of the most universally accepted treaties.
- India is an original signatory to the Convention.
OPCW:
- The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), headquartered in The Hague, is the implementing body for the CWC.
- Its mission is to achieve a world free of chemical weapons.
Recognition of OPCW:
- In 2013, the OPCW received the Nobel Peace Prize for its global efforts in eliminating chemical weapons.
- To commemorate this achievement, the OPCW established the OPCW-The Hague Award in 2014, in collaboration with the Municipality of The Hague.
- The award acknowledges individuals and organizations advancing the objectives of the CWC.
Indian Chemical Council (ICC)
The Indian Chemical Council (ICC) is India’s leading body representing the chemical industry:
- Represents over 80% of the $220 billion Indian chemical industry.
- Plays a key role in promoting chemical safety, security, and compliance with international norms.
Major Contributions Recognized by the Award
- Promotion of Chemical Safety and Compliance:
- ICC has actively promoted adherence to the Chemical Weapons Convention through:
- CWC Helpdesksthat assist industries in understanding compliance requirements.
- Facilitating efficient e-filing for chemical declarations, streamlining regulatory processes.
- Initiatives for Transportation Safety:
- The Nicer Globe initiative focuses on:
- Enhancing chemical transportation safety.
- Providing real-time monitoringof shipments.
- Enabling emergency response capabilitiesfor accidents or incidents.
- ‘Responsible Care’ Programme:
- ICC has implemented the ‘Responsible Care’ (RC) initiative to promote:
- Sustainable chemical practices.
- Security through the Security Code of RC, ensuring industry-wide adherence to safety protocols.
- Industry-Wide Impact:
- By fostering chemical safety, responsible industrial stewardship, and national implementation of the CWC, ICC has significantly contributed to the global goals of OPCW and the CWC.
Significance of the Award
The OPCW-The Hague Award acknowledges ICC’s outstanding commitment to:
- Enhancing industrial safety and security.
- Advancing responsible chemical practices in one of the world’s largest chemical industries.
- Supporting India’s implementation of the CWC goals.
Conclusion
- The 2024 OPCW-The Hague Awardis a landmark achievement for the Indian Chemical Council (ICC).
- It underscores the ICC’s exemplary contributions to advancing chemical safety, ensuring industry compliance with international conventions, and promoting responsible practices within the Indian chemical industry.
- This recognition not only highlights India’s role in supporting the Chemical Weapons Conventionbut also reinforces its leadership in fostering global chemical safety and security.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW):
1. The OPCW was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons. 2. The OPCW-The Hague Award was established in 2014 to recognize contributions toward achieving the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). 3. The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) has 193 member states. Which of the above statements is/are correct? |
Q. With reference to the United Nations General Assembly, consider the following statements:
Which of the statements given above are correct? A 1 and 2 only B 2 and 3 only C 1 and 3 only D 1, 2 and 3 Ans: D |
| Answer – 1 – B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is Incorrect The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013, but it was for its efforts to eliminate chemical weapons, not nuclear weapons. · Statement 2 is Correct The OPCW-The Hague Award was established in 2014 in collaboration with the Municipality of The Hague to recognize contributions toward achieving the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). · Statement 3 is Correct The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) currently has 193 member states, making it one of the most widely accepted international treaties. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Govt to auction 7 seabed mineral blocks near Great Nicobar Island
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Economy
Context: India’s First Offshore Mineral Auction
Why in News
India launched its first-ever auction of 13 offshore mineral blocks, including critical minerals like nickel, cobalt, and copper, aiming to boost clean energy manufacturing and economic growth, while addressing environmental and social concerns.
Overview
- The Ministry of Mines has initiated India’s first-ever offshore mineral block auction, marking a transformative step in exploring and utilizing the country’s seabed mineral reserves.
- This landmark initiative includes 13 blocks, comprising seven in the Andaman Sea, and six located near the coasts of Gujaratand Kerala.
- The auction is expected to attract private investment, stimulate economic development, and support India’s energy transition goals.
Offshore Mineral Blocks and Locations
- Andaman Sea (7 blocks):
- Situated on the West Sewell Ridge, east of Great Nicobar Island.
- These blocks are enriched with critical minerals such as nickel, cobalt, copper, and manganese, essential for manufacturing clean energy technologies like electric vehicle (EV) batteries and wind turbines.
- Gujarat Coast (3 blocks):
- Located near Porbandar, the blocks contain lime mud, which has extensive industrial applications.
- Kerala Coast (3 blocks):
- Positioned near Kollam, these blocks are rich in construction sand, vital for infrastructure projects.
Auction Framework and Process
- Composite Licence: Winning bidders will first conduct further exploration to assess mineral reserves before commencing mining operations.
- Reserve Price: To attract private investors, the government has set a minimal reserve price of 1% of the value of the minerals.
- Timelines:
- Tender documents will be made available on December 3, 2024.
- The deadline for bid submissions is February 27, 2025.
This structured approach ensures thorough exploration, sustainable resource utilization, and enhanced industry participation.
Economic and Strategic Implications
- Reducing Import Dependence: Minerals like nickel, cobalt, and copper are critical for clean energy manufacturing. By tapping these domestic reserves, India aims to reduce its reliance on imports and bolster its supply chain.
- Private Sector Participation: To foster innovation and efficiency, the government is encouraging private investment with favorable terms, including low royalty rates and pre-explored commercially viable blocks.
- Global Collaboration: The Ministry of Mines plans to conduct roadshows in countries such as the UK, Netherlands, and South Africa, leveraging their expertise in advanced offshore mining technologies.
Focus on Great Nicobar Island
The Great Nicobar Island, part of the Andaman Sea region, holds immense economic and geopolitical significance. It is not only rich in polymetallic nodules and crusts but also hosts a Rs 72,000 crore mega infrastructure project, which includes:
- A transshipment port to boost maritime trade.
- An airport to improve connectivity.
- Gas and solar power plants for sustainable energy production.
- Greenfield coastal cities, promoting sustainable urban development.
This ambitious project aims to transform the region into a pivotal economic hub, aligning with India’s clean energy and industrial growth objectives.
Environmental and Social Concerns
The Andaman Sea region is an ecologically fragile zone. Mining and large-scale infrastructure development may pose significant risks, including:
- Damage to coral reefs due to seabed disturbances.
- Loss of nesting habitats for vulnerable species like the leatherback turtle and the Nicobar megapode.
Impact on Indigenous Communities
The Great Nicobar Island is home to the Great Nicobarese Scheduled Tribe community, whose ancestral lands are under threat from development projects.
Ongoing Legal Challenges
The projects have faced opposition from environmentalists and local communities. In December 2024, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) is set to review petitions challenging the green clearances granted to the infrastructure project.
Conclusion
- The auction of offshore mineral blocks is a bold and visionary step in India’s efforts to harness its seabed mineral wealth, particularly for clean energy technologies.
- While the potential economic benefits are enormous, it is crucial to address environmental concerns and safeguard the rights of indigenous communities to ensure a balanced and sustainable development approach. Balancing economic aspirations with ecological stewardship will be key to the success of this initiative.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| With reference to India’s first-ever auction of offshore mineral blocks, consider the following statements:
1. All the blocks put up for auction are located near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 2. The minerals found in these blocks, such as nickel, cobalt, and copper, are crucial for clean energy technologies. 3. The auction process includes granting a composite license, requiring further exploration before mining operations commence. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements: (2019)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only Ans: (a) |
| Answer 2– B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is incorrect: The blocks are located in the Andaman Sea (7 blocks), near Gujarat’s coast (3 blocks), and near Kerala’s coast (3 blocks). · Statement 2 is correct: Critical minerals like nickel, cobalt, and copper are essential for manufacturing clean energy technologies. · Statement 3 is correct: A composite license requires further exploration before mining operations can begin. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
India climbs up eleven slots to be among Top 50 Countries in Network Readiness Index 2024
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2078014
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Economy
Context: Network Readiness Index 2024
Why in News
India improved its rank from 60th to 49th in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024, showcasing advancements in AI talent, ICT exports, and telecom infrastructure.
Key Highlights of the Event
- India has made a significant leap in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024, improving its rank from 60th in 2023to 49th in 2024 among 133 economies.
- This progress underscores India’s growing digital capabilities and its commitment to becoming a global leader in network readiness.
- The NRIis an annual report published by the Portulans Institute, a Washington-based independent non-profit research organization, which evaluates countries on their readiness to leverage information and communication technologies (ICT) for innovation and development.
Assessment Criteria and India’s Progress
- The NRI 2024evaluates countries across four main pillars:
- Technology: Focuses on the adoption and advancement of digital infrastructure and emerging technologies.
- People: Assesses the population’s digital skills and access to ICT tools.
- Governance: Reviews policies, regulations, and institutions enabling digital transformation.
- Impact: Examines the socio-economic impact of ICT on innovation and sustainable development.
- India’s overall score improved from 49.93 in 2023 to 53.63 in 2024, reflecting consistent growth in digital transformation, innovation, and telecom advancements.
India’s Global Achievements
India has emerged as a global leader in several key indicators:
1st Rank:
- AI Scientific Publications:Highlights India’s growing contribution to AI research.
- AI Talent Concentration:Indicates India’s strong workforce in AI-related skills.
- ICT Services Exports:Showcases India as a dominant player in global ICT exports.
2nd Rank:
- FTTH/Building Internet Subscriptions:Demonstrates advanced broadband connectivity.
- Mobile Broadband Internet Traffic within the Country:Reflects high domestic internet usage.
- International Internet Bandwidth:Highlights India’s robust global connectivity.
3rd Rank:
- Domestic Market Scale:Recognizes India as one of the largest and fastest-growing markets for digital services.
4th Rank:
- Annual Investment in Telecommunication Services:Reflects substantial investments in telecom infrastructure.
- India also ranks 2nd among lower-middle-income countries, following Vietnam, indicating its strong position in its economic category.
Advancements in India’s Digital and Telecom Sector
India’s rise in the NRI 2024 aligns with transformative developments in its telecom and digital sectors:
- Infrastructure Growth: Tele Density Increase:Grew from 2% to 84.69% in the last decade.
- Wireless Connections:Expanded to 119 crore, showcasing enhanced connectivity.
- Broadband Access: Internet subscribers surged from 1 croreto 94.4 crore, driven by widespread adoption of wireless internet. Expansion of broadband services to rural areas under Digital India has played a crucial role in bridging the digital divide.
Policy and Reforms:
- Spectrum Management Reforms:Improved allocation and pricing of spectrum resources.
- Ease of Doing Business:Simplified processes for investments in telecom.
- Consumer Protection Reforms:Enhanced consumer trust in the sector.
5G and Beyond:
- India launched 5G services in 2022, propelling its global mobile broadband speed ranking from 118 to 15.
- The government’s Bharat 6G Visionfocuses on positioning India as a leader in future telecom technologies.
Implications of India’s Performance
- India’s rise in the NRI 2024reflects its successful integration of digital innovation, robust telecom infrastructure, and progressive policy reforms. This achievement not only showcases India’s leadership in the digital domain but also highlights its potential to drive global technological advancements and contribute to sustainable economic development.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. With reference to the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024, consider the following statements:
1. The NRI is published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). 2. India ranked 1st globally in AI scientific publications and ICT services exports. 3. India launched the Bharat 6G Vision to enhance future telecom technology leadership. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
|
Q. Consider the following: (2022)
Which of the above are built on top of open-source digital platforms? (a) 1 and 2 only Ans: (d)
|
| Answer 3– B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is incorrect: The NRI is published by the Portulans Institute, not the ITU. · Statement 2 is correct: India secured the top rank in AI scientific publications and ICT services exports. · Statement 3 is correct: The Bharat 6G Vision aims to position India as a leader in next-generation telecom technologies. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
India successfully tests K-4 nuclear-capable ballistic missile from INS Arighaat
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology
Context: India’s Nuclear-Capable Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile Test
Why in News
India successfully tested the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from INS Arighaat, enhancing its nuclear deterrence and joining a select group of countries capable of launching nuclear missiles from land, air, and sea.
- India recently conducted a significant test of its nuclear-capable K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), marking a milestone in the country’s military capabilities and nuclear deterrence strategy.
- The test, conducted off the coast of Visakhapatnamfrom the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat, is a notable achievement for India, as it becomes one of the select countries capable of launching nuclear missiles from land, air, and sea platforms.
Key Details of the K-4 SLBM Test:
- Missile Range:The K-4 missile tested has a range of approximately 3,500 kilometers, making it a strategic weapon for enhancing India’s second-strike nuclear capability. A second-strike capability ensures that India can retaliate with nuclear weapons even after a nuclear attack, thereby maintaining a credible deterrent.
- Submarine Launch:The missile was launched from INS Arighaat, a nuclear-powered submarine of the Arihant-class, which was commissioned into the Indian Navy on August 29, 2024. This test is the first time the K-4 missile was launched from an operational submarine, which is a critical component of India’s nuclear triad (land, air, and sea-based nuclear deterrence).
- Indigenous Development:The missile system is indigenous, with its design, development, and manufacturing carried out by Indian scientists, the defense industry, and naval personnel. This marks India’s growing self-reliance in developing advanced defense technologies, including nuclear weapons and delivery platforms.
Strategic Implications:
- Enhancement of Nuclear Deterrence:The test strengthens India’s nuclear deterrence by expanding its capability to launch nuclear weapons from submarines. This allows India to maintain a survivable nuclear arsenal, even in the face of a nuclear-first strike by adversaries. Submarine-based missiles are difficult to detect and target, making them an essential part of the deterrence strategy.
- Nuclear Triad Capabilities:With the successful test of the K-4 SLBM, India joins an elite group of nations that possess the ability to fire nuclear missiles from land, air, and undersea This positions India alongside countries like the United States, Russia, China, and France, all of which have nuclear triads in place.
- Regional Security Dynamics:India’s increasing missile and submarine capabilities are particularly relevant in the context of rising tensions with China, which has been enhancing its military capabilities, including the development of advanced missiles and submarines. India’s focus on strengthening its nuclear and conventional deterrence is seen as a response to China’s growing influence and assertiveness, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Missile Development in India:Over the past few years, India has made significant progress in developing and testing a variety of advanced missiles, including long-range hypersonic missiles and SLBMs. These developments not only enhance India’s defense capabilities but also contribute to its growing reputation as a missile power on the global stage.
Other Recent Military Developments:
- In addition to the K-4 missile, India has recently successfully flight-tested a long-range hypersonic missileoff the coast of Odisha.
- Hypersonic missiles are characterized by their ability to travel at speeds greater than Mach 5(five times the speed of sound), making them difficult to intercept by existing missile defense systems.
- These missiles have the potential to carry both conventionaland nuclear warheads. India’s successful test of a hypersonic missile puts it in the same league as Russia and China, who are ahead in hypersonic missile development, with the United States also progressing on hypersonic technology.
India’s Focus on Modernizing Military Capabilities:
- India’s defense advancements are aimed at enhancing its capabilities in the face of growing regional and global security challenges, particularly those posed by China’s military expansion.
- The country’s investment in strategic assets such as nuclear-powered submarines, advanced missiles, and hypersonic technology underscores its determination to modernize its defense forces and maintain a credible deterrent against potential threats.
Conclusion:
- India’s successful test of the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile is a significant step in its ongoing efforts to enhance its strategic deterrenceand military preparedness.
- It underscores the nation’s growing technological expertise in the defense sector and reinforces its position as a key player in regional and global security dynamics.
- By investing in cutting-edge technologies like hypersonic missiles and nuclear-powered submarines, India is positioning itself as a formidable power with the ability to defend its national interests and project power in the Indo-Pacific region.
| CARE MCQ | |
| Q4. Consider the following statements regarding India’s recent K-4 missile test:
1. India became part of a select group of nations capable of launching nuclear missiles from land, air, and sea platforms. 2. The K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) was tested from the INS Arighaat submarine off the coast of Visakhapatnam. 3. The missile has a range of approximately 5,000 km. Which of the above statements is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the “Fractional Orbital Bombardment System” often talked about in media ? 2022
· A A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space; · B A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions. · C A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth. · D A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same speed and places a probe on its surface. Ans: C
|
| Answer 4- A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct as India joined a small group of nations capable of firing nuclear missiles from land, air, and undersea. · Statement 2 is correct because the K-4 missile was indeed tested from the INS Arighaat submarine off the coast of Visakhapatnam. · Statement 3 is incorrect as the K-4 missile has a range of around 3,500 km, not 5,000 km. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Researchers from Bengaluru institute find links to sources that heat up puffed gases swirling around Milky Way
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Science and technology
Context: Link Between Supernovae and Hot Gas in the Milky Way
Why in News
Astronomers from Raman Research Institute have linked the hot gas surrounding the Milky Way galaxy to heat generated by ongoing star formation and supernova explosions, shedding light on the chemical processes and dynamics of the galaxy.
Overview
- A group of astronomers from the Raman Research Institute (RRI)in Bengaluru has made significant progress in understanding the connection between the hot gas surrounding the Milky Way galaxy and the heat generated by ongoing star formation and supernovae
- Their research offers insights into the dynamic processes of star birth, death, and the interaction between these processes and the interstellar medium.
The Nature of the Hot Gas Around the Milky Way
- For decades, astronomers have known that there is a vast gaseous sphere surrounding the Milky Way, extending up to 700,000 light-yearsfrom the galactic center.
- This gas, mostly composed of hot ionized hydrogen, was initially detected as being only a few degrees Kelvin in temperature.
- However, in more recent years, more detailed observations revealed that the temperature of this gas could soar up to 10 million degrees Kelvin, making it much hotter than previously thought. The source of such high temperatures, however, had remained a mystery.
The Role of Supernovae in Heating the Gas
- In their research, the team at RRI, in collaboration with Ohio State Universityand IIT-Palakkad, studied the X-ray emissions coming from this hot gas belt surrounding the Milky Way.
- They discovered that the high temperature of the gas was primarily a result of ongoing star formationacross the galaxy’s disk, which is being accompanied by violent supernova explosions.
- These supernovae occur when massive stars reach the end of their life cycle and explode, releasing enormous amounts of energy, including X-raysand other forms of heat.
- These supernova explosionsare critical in heating the surrounding gas to temperatures as high as 10 million degrees Kelvin.
- The continuous cycle of star formation and supernovae explosions essentially injects heatinto the gas around the galactic disc, maintaining the high temperatures of the surrounding medium.
Key Findings and the Role of Alpha Elements
- While studying the emission and absorption signals from this heated gas, the researchers also found signs of certain alpha elementssuch as sulphur, magnesium, neon, and manganese.
- These elements are particularly significant because they are produced through nuclear reactionsin the cores of massive stars.
- When these stars explode as supernovae, these alpha elements are expelled into the surrounding space, enriching the interstellar medium and further contributing to the heating of the gas.
- The presence of these elements in the gas revealed new insights into the process of stellar nucleosynthesis(the creation of elements in stars). The fact that these elements are found in the heated gas suggests that nuclear reactions are occurring within the cores of the massive stars in the galaxy, and that these reactions contribute to the chemical enrichment of the galaxy.
The Turbulent Gas Dynamics
- The study also traced the dynamics of this hot gas. After being heated by supernovae, the gas becomes turbulent, rising and swirling violently around the galactic disc.
- Over time, the gas either escapesinto the surrounding space or cools down and falls back onto the galactic disc.
- This process plays a key role in the recyclingof gas and matter in the galaxy, contributing to both the stellar evolution and the chemical enrichment of the Milky Way.
Conclusion
- In summary, this research provides a deeper understanding of the interaction between star formation, supernovae, and the surrounding gasin the Milky Way.
- The study indicates that the heat generated by supernovae explosions is responsible for maintaining the high temperatures of the gaseous envelope around the galaxy, and that the chemical composition of this gas provides valuable clues about the processes occurring within stars.
- This research highlights the dynamic and interconnected nature of the galactic environment, where star birth, death, and the resulting explosions play a crucial role in shaping the evolution of the Milky Way.
- By tracing the X-ray emissions, studying the alpha elements, and observing the violent motion of the gas, the team has significantly advanced our understanding of the physical processes governing the galaxy’s interstellar medium and stellar life cycles.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5 Consider the following statements regarding the hot gas surrounding the Milky Way galaxy:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to
A Voyager-2 B New Horizons C LISA Pathfinder D Evolved LISA Ans: D |
| Answer 5- A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct. The heat in the hot gas surrounding the Milky Way galaxy is indeed caused by ongoing star formation processes and the supernova explosions of massive stars. These processes release enormous amounts of energy, which heat up the gas around the galaxy’s disc. The study by the astronomers from Raman Research Institute (RRI) confirmed this connection between star formation, supernovae, and the heated gas. · Statement 2 is correct. The researchers found that the hot gas surrounding the Milky Way galaxy contained significant amounts of alpha elements such as sulfur, magnesium, and neon. These elements are produced in the cores of massive stars and released during supernova explosions. The detection of these elements in the gas is a crucial indicator of the nuclear reactions that take place in massive stars before they explode as supernovae. · Statement 3 is incorrect. The study revealed that the hot gas surrounding the Milky Way is not stable; rather, it undergoes significant turbulence and motion. The gas is heated by the supernova explosions and then swirls violently around the galaxy’s disc. Eventually, the gas either cools and falls back onto the disc or escapes into the surrounding medium. This dynamic behavior is a key characteristic of the gas in the galaxy’s halo. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |