General Studies 1
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
Renewable Energy: Hydroelectric Power
Basics of Hydroelectric Power Captures the kinetic energy of water flowing from higher to lower levels. Water flow turns a turbine, generating mechanical energy, converted into electricity by a generator. Energy is transmitted to substations, where voltage is “stepped up” … Continue reading
Non-Renewable Energy Resources: Shale Gas
Shale gas is natural gas found in shale deposits, where it is trapped in microscopic or submicroscopic pores. This natural gas is a mixture of naturally occurring hydrocarbon gases produced from the decomposition of organic matter (plant and animal remains). … Continue reading