General Science/Everyday Science MCQs
Topic Notes: General Science/Everyday Science
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
1
Which planet has the largest volcanic mountain in the solar system, “Olympus Mons”?
Answer:
Mars
Olympus Mons on Mars is the largest volcano in the Solar System. It is a shield volcano nearly three times the height of Mount Everest.
2
The Earth's axis is tilted at how many degrees?
Answer:
23.5°
Earth's axial tilt is approximately 23.5 degrees relative to its orbit. This tilt is the primary cause of the seasonal variations experienced across the planet.
3
The Sun makes up about what % of the Solar System’s mass?
Answer:
99.8%
The Sun is the dominant mass in our solar system, containing 99.86% of the total mass. The remaining small percentage is mostly contained within the planet Jupiter.
4
What is a 'supermoon'?
Answer:
Full Moon occurring at closest approach to Earth
A supermoon occurs when a Full Moon coincides with perigee—the Moon's closest approach to Earth. This makes the Moon appear significantly larger and brighter than usual.
5
The coldest planet in our solar system is?
Answer:
Uranus
Although Neptune is farther from the Sun, Uranus holds the record for the coldest temperature recorded in the Solar System, at -224°C, possibly due to its low internal heat.
6
What causes a comet’s visible tail?
Answer:
Sun’s heat vaporizing gases and dust
As a comet approaches the Sun, heat causes its icy core to sublimate, releasing dust and gas that form the coma and the tail illuminated by sunlight.
7
When is the Earth closest to the Sun?
Answer:
Perihelion
Perihelion is the point in Earth's orbit when it is nearest to the Sun, occurring around January each year. This is due to the elliptical nature of the orbit.
8
Which moon is famous for its thick orange atmosphere?
Answer:
Titan
Titan, Saturn's largest moon, is the only moon in the Solar System with a dense atmosphere. Its atmosphere is nitrogen-rich and contains a thick layer of orange organic smog.
9
How many natural satellites does Mars have?
Answer:
2
Mars has two small, irregular moons: Phobos and Deimos. They are thought to be captured asteroids and orbit very close to the planet.
10
Which planet has the most similar length of day to Earth?
Answer:
Mars
A day on Mars (a 'sol') lasts 24 hours and 39 minutes, making it the most similar rotation period to Earth in our solar system.