HSA Mixed Practice Test #959

Question 1

Decomposition releases inorganic nutrients via:‌​‍

Accepted Answer

Fragmentation, leaching, catabolism, humification, mineralization — Detritivores + decomposers (bacteria, fungi). ‌​‍Temperature, moisture, O₂ affect rate.

Answer

Absorption

Answer

Transpiration

Answer

Photosynthesis

Question 2

The Indian government significantly increases the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy and wheat, aiming to ensure better income for farmers. From an agricultural economy perspective, which of the following is a likely *unintended* consequence of such a policy, particularly if sustained over several years?

Accepted Answer

A. A significant shift in cropping patterns towards paddy and wheat, potentially leading to monoculture and reduced crop diversification. — A substantial and sustained increase in MSP for specific crops like paddy and wheat often distorts cropping patterns by making these crops more profitable, leading farmers to prioritize them over others. This can result in reduced crop diversification and an oversupply of MSP-supported crops. Options B and D are incorrect as MSP generally increases procurement costs and the subsidy bill, while option C is unlikely as higher domestic prices can reduce export competitiveness.

Answer

B. A decrease in the overall cost of cultivation for farmers due to government procurement.

Answer

C. Enhanced export competitiveness of Indian agricultural products due to higher farmer income.

Answer

D. A significant reduction in the government's food subsidy bill due to market price stabilization.

Question 3

Transpiration occurs in:‌​‍

Accepted Answer

Leaves — Water loss through stomata on leaves.‌​‍

Answer

Roots

Answer

Stem

Answer

Flowers

Question 4

Monsoon trough is:‌​‍

Accepted Answer

Low-pressure belt over N India during SW monsoon — Extension of ITCZ. ‌​‍Breaks in monsoon when trough shifts to Himalayan foothills. Droughts when prolonged break.

Answer

High-pressure

Answer

Jet stream

Answer

Cyclone

Question 5

The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee President (1938) was C. Kunjikkavamma, who was notable for:

Accepted Answer

Participating in Harijan uplift and Khadi Campaign — C. Kunjikkavamma led women's wing and Harijan uplift activities.

Answer

Leading the Salt Satyagraha

Answer

Founding Yogakshema Sabha

Answer

Writing the Malabar Manual

Question 6

Which of the following functions falls primarily under the purview of the Kerala State Election Commission, as per constitutional provisions?

Accepted Answer

C. Preparation of electoral rolls and conduct of elections to Panchayats and Municipalities in the state. — The Kerala State Election Commission is a constitutional body established under Article 243K and 243ZA of the Indian Constitution, specifically tasked with the superintendence, direction, and control of the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of all elections to the Panchayats and Municipalities in the state. Option A describes the role of the Election Commission of India. Option B describes the primary function of the Kerala State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC). Option D relates to the functions of institutions like the Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA).

Answer

A. Conducting elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly within Kerala.

Answer

B. Investigation of human rights violations committed by public servants in Kerala.

Answer

D. Providing training and capacity building to elected representatives of local self-governments.

Question 7

Water formula:‌​‍

Accepted Answer

H₂O — H₂O.‌​‍

Answer

HO

Answer

H₂O₂

Answer

OH

Question 8

Ambedkar and Gandhi's Poona Pact (September 1932) addressed:‌​‍

Accepted Answer

Separate electorates for Depressed Classes (replaced with reserved seats) — British Communal Award had granted separate electorates to Depressed Classes. ‌​‍Gandhi's fast-unto-death in Yerawada; Pact gave 148 reserved seats in joint electorate.

Answer

Language issue

Answer

Partition

Answer

Currency

Question 9

Goitre is caused by deficiency of:

Accepted Answer

Iodine — Iodine deficiency impairs thyroxin production → enlarged thyroid (goitre).

Answer

Iron

Answer

Calcium

Answer

Vitamin C

Question 10

Synonym of WHIMSICAL:‌​‍

Accepted Answer

Fanciful — Playfully fanciful.‌​‍

Answer

Grave

Answer

Realistic

Answer

Serious

HSA Mixed Practice Test #959