Al-Biruni was a renowned 11th-century Islamic scholar and polymath who traveled to India. He was originally born in Khwarazm, a region corresponding to modern-day Uzbekistan.
17. Bhindi is also called:
(A) Fenugreek
(B) Okra
(C) Radish
(D) None of these
Answer:
(B) Okra
Explanation:
Bhindi is the Hindi name for the edible green seed pods of the Abelmoschus esculentus plant, which is internationally known in English as Okra or lady’s fingers.
18. Who observed that the seeds have many tiny hooks which got stuck to clothes or fur?
(A) George Mestral
(B) George Abraham
(C) Thomson
(D) Addison
Answer:
(A) George Mestral
Explanation:
Swiss engineer George de Mestral observed how burdock seeds stuck to his dog’s fur using tiny hooks. This biological mechanism directly inspired him to invent Velcro.
19. From which country Chillies came to our country?
(A) Pakistan
(B) Australia
(C) Spain
(D) South Africa
Answer:
(C) Spain
Explanation:
Although chilies originated in South America, they were widely distributed globally by Spanish and Portuguese explorers and traders who brought them to India. Note: In previous years’ papers, South America is an option, but the 2017 key marks Spain due to the colonial trade route).
20. Sprouting time of seeds may vary according to the temperature _________ of the weather.
(A) Pressure
(B) Temperature
(C) Humidity
(D) None of these
Answer:
(C) Humidity
Explanation:
Seed germination (sprouting) relies heavily on two primary environmental factors: adequate warmth (temperature) and sufficient moisture/water in the air and soil (humidity).
