General Studies 1
Components of Universe: Pole Star
A pole star is a star or a star system situated in the direction of the earth’s axis. At present, Polaris or North Star (a system of 3 stars) is the earth’s pole star. It is visible only from the … Continue reading
Components of Universe: Constellations
What is it? The stars forming a group that has a recognisable shape is called a constellation. Types of Constellations Ursa Major It is also known as the Great Bear or Saptarishi. It consists of seven bright stars, which appear … Continue reading
Components of Universe: Star Formation (Life Cycle of A Star)
Life Cycle of Star Associated Terms Nebula A cloud of gas (mostly hydrogen and helium) and dust in space. Nebulae are the birthplaces of stars. T Tauri Star A young star still undergoing gravitational contraction. It represents an intermediate stage … Continue reading
Components of Universe: Galaxy
What is it? A galaxy is a sprawling space system which is composed of stars, dust, interstellar gas, stellar remnants, and dark matter and all held together by gravity. Types of Galaxy Spiral Galaxy The most common type of galaxy … Continue reading
Universe: Big Bang Theory
Other Name: It is also called the expanding universe hypothesis. About Theory Discovery: Edwin Hubble, in 1920, provided evidence that the universe is expanding. Period: Took place 13.7 billion years ago. Findings Galaxies move further and further apart. Similarly, the … Continue reading
Nuclear Resources
Uranium in India Significance: Uranium is a primary fuel for nuclear reactors. Source: Found in the form of uranium ore, primarily processed to extract uranium oxide. Major Reserves: Jharkhand: Jaduguda: India’s first uranium mine. Narwapahar, Turamdih, Bhatin. Andhra Pradesh: Tummalapalle: … Continue reading
Renewable Energy: Tidal Energy
What is it?: Tidal energy harnesses the movement of ocean tides caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun. It is a form of renewable energy with predictable energy generation cycles compared to other renewables like wind … Continue reading
Renewable Energy: Geothermal Energy
What is it? Geothermal energy is heat from the Earth’s interior, used for electricity generation and heating. Heat is sourced from molten rock (magma) beneath the Earth’s crust, largely due to radioactive decay. Advantages Renewable: Unlimited heat from Earth’s core. … Continue reading
Renewable Energy: Solar Energy
Production: Solar energy is derived from sunlight and can meet global power demands if harnessed effectively. Applications: Include drying clothes, photosynthesis, heating homes, and power generation. Types of Solar Power Production Solar Thermal Power: Converts solar energy into electricity via … Continue reading
Renewable Energy: Wind Energy
How does it work? Wind energy uses air movement to generate electricity via wind turbines. Converts kinetic energy into mechanical energy and then into electrical energy. Global Contribution Major players: Germany, USA, Denmark, Spain, and India (80% of global capacity). … Continue reading