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66320d5f57bd0500186c3afa_##_Science & Technology - Compilation Notes PDF Only
66320d5f57bd0500186c3afa_##_Science & Technology - Compilation Notes PDF Only
66320d5f57bd0500186c3afa_##_Science & Technology - Compilation Notes PDF Only
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science and Technology
Lecture - 01
Introduction to the Subject,
Information Technology (Part-1)
2
Q. With reference to street lighting, how do sodium lamps differ from LED
lamps? (UPSC-2021)
1. Sodium lamps produce light in 360 degrees but it is not so in the case of LED
lamps.
2. As street lights, sodium lamps have a longer lifespan than LED lamps.
3. The spectrum of visible light from sodium lamps is almost monochromatic while LED lamps offer
significant color advantages in street lighting.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(Type Of The Question: The questions which are amalgamations of statistics and current affairs and application-
oriented.)
4
Sources:
➢ Microwaves: Microwaves are used for a variety of purposes, including radar, satellite communication,
and microwave ovens
Electromagnetic Radiation:
❖ Electromagnetic radiation is a form of energy that travels in waves. It is made up of electric and magnetic
fields that oscillate perpendicular to each other and the direction of travel.
❖ The different types of electromagnetic radiation are
classified by their wavelength, which is the distance
between two consecutive peaks of the wave.
Wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency,
which is the number of waves that pass a given point
in a given amount of time.
❖ Gamma rays have the shortest wavelength and the
highest frequency, while radio waves have the longest wavelength and the lowest frequency.
The electromagnetic spectrum is divided into seven regions, each with its unique properties and
applications:
❖ Radio waves: Radio waves have the longest wavelengths and lowest frequencies of the electromagnetic
spectrum. They are used for a variety of purposes, including broadcasting radio and television signals,
cellular phone communication, and wireless networking. Communication is possible both indoors and
outdoors. They are Omnidirectional (in all directions)
❖ Microwaves: Microwaves have shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than radio waves. They are used
for a variety of purposes, including radar, satellite communication, and microwave ovens, cellular phones.
They travel in a straight line
❖ Infrared waves: Infrared waves have even shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than microwaves.
They are used for a variety of purposes, including remote controls, night vision goggles, and infrared
cameras. They are directional. They are cheaper and easy to build. They do not pass through solid objects.
Example: TV remote
❖ Visible light: Visible light is the only region of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human
eye. It has a wide range of wavelengths, from red to violet.
❖ Ultraviolet light: Ultraviolet light has shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than visible light. It is
used for a variety of purposes, including tanning beds, sterilization, and medical imaging.
❖ X-rays: X-rays have even shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than ultraviolet light. They are used
for a variety of purposes, including medical imaging and security
screening.
❖ Gamma rays: Gamma rays have the shortest wavelengths and
highest frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum. They are
used for a variety of purposes, including cancer treatment and
medical imaging.
❖ VIBGYOR: VIBGYOR is an acronym for the seven colors of the
visible spectrum: violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange, and red.
9
❖ When white light passes through a prism, it is refracted (bent) at different angles depending on the
wavelength of the light. Violet light has the shortest wavelength and is refracted the most, while red light has
the longest wavelength and is refracted the least. This is why we see the rainbow of colors when white light
passes through a prism.
Terms:
❖ Amplitude: Amplitude is the height of a wave, measured
from the midpoint to the crest or trough.
❖ Crest: Crest is the highest point of a wave.
❖ Trough: Trough is the lowest point of a wave.
❖ Wavelength: Wavelength is the distance between two
consecutive crests or troughs of a wave. Wavelength (λ) is
the Greek letter lambda, which is used to represent
wavelength.
❖ Frequency: Frequency is the number of cycles/oscillations
of a wave that pass a point in a given time interval. The unit
of frequency is Hertz.
❖ Wavelength is inversely proportional to the frequency.
Why UV Rays, X-rays, and Gamma rays are not used for communication?
Because they are:
❖ Dangerous: Gamma rays are ionizing radiation, which means that they have enough energy to knock
electrons out of atoms and damage cells. This can lead to cancer and other health problems.
❖ Difficulty in Control and Modulation: These rays have very high frequencies, making them difficult to
control and modulate for communication purposes. This high frequency also makes them unsuitable for
transmitting information effectively.
❖ Limited Range: Their shorter wavelengths result in limited propagation distance, restricting their usefulness
for long-distance communication. They are easily absorbed by materials in the atmosphere, limiting their
range and effectiveness.
❖ Expensive to produce: Gamma rays are typically produced by nuclear reactions, which are expensive and
dangerous.
Signal:
Signals are Information or data that is converted to electric form for transmission. Signals can be analog or
digital. Analog signals are continuous in both amplitude (strength) and time. Digital signals are discrete in both
amplitude and time.
Definition A signal that is continuous in both A signal that is discrete in both amplitude and
amplitude and time. time.
Accuracy Less accurate due to noise More accurate due to less noise interference.
interference.
Examples Sound waves, radio waves, television Computer data, digital audio, digital images
signals
Terminologies:
❖ Modem: A modem is a device that connects your home network to the internet. A modem converts the
signals from your internet service provider (ISP) into a form that can
be used by your computer and other devices. A device that
modulates and demodulates signals, converting digital signals into
analog signals that can be transmitted over a telephone line or other
physical medium, and vice versa.
❖ Router: A router is a device that allows all of your wired and
wireless devices to use that internet connection at once and allows
them to talk to each other directly. A router distributes the internet
connection from your modem to all of your devices. A networking
device that forwards data packets between computer networks.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 02
Information Technology
(Part - 02)
2
Modem:
It stands for Modulator demodulator.
It converts the digital signal to an analog signal and vice versa.
The modem serves as a link between the internet service provider and the browser.
A Web Browser:
A web browser program, such as Google Chrome, is a client that connects to a web server to retrieve web
pages and other resources.
3
Internet Explorer:
It is a web browser developed by Microsoft. It was first released in 1995 and was
the most popular web browser in the world until it was surpassed by Google Chrome
in 2012. June 15, 2022, is the date that Microsoft announced that it would be
ending support for Internet Explorer.
Yahoo! is a web portal and a search engine company. It was founded in 1995 and
was one of the most popular search engines in the world until it was surpassed by
Google in 2002.
Google is a search engine company that was founded in 1998. It is now the most
popular search engine in the world.
IP address: IP address stands for Internet Protocol address. It is a unique identifier/address that is assigned
to every device that is connected to the internet. An IP address is used to route traffic between devices on the
internet. IP address allocation is the process of assigning IP addresses to devices that are connected to the
internet. This is done by internet service providers (ISPs).
Reassembling an IP address is the process of putting together an IP address that has been broken down
into smaller packets. IP address allocation is the process of assigning IP addresses to devices that are
connected to the internet.
MAC address: A MAC address is a unique identifier that is assigned to every network interface controller
(NIC). A MAC address is used to identify devices on a local network.
Website: A website is a collection of web pages and related content that is identified by a common domain
name and published on one or more web servers. Websites are typically dedicated to a particular topic or
purpose, such as news, education, commerce, entertainment, or social networking.
Networks: A network is a system that connects two or more computing devices for transmitting and sharing
information.
Types of Computer Networks:
There are many different types of computer networks, but some of the most common include:
Personal area network (PAN): A PAN is a small
network that connects devices within a person's
immediate vicinity, such as a smartphone, laptop,
and printer. PANs are often used for wireless data
transfer and file sharing. Example: Bluetooth
Local area network (LAN): A LAN is a network
that connects devices within a limited area, such
as a home, office, or school. LANs are typically
used for sharing resources such as printers, files,
and internet access. Example: Wifi, Hotspot.
Metropolitan area network (MAN): A MAN is
a network that connects devices within a
metropolitan area, such as a city or town. MANs
are often used to provide high-speed internet
access and other shared resources to businesses,
government agencies, and educational
institutions.
Wide Area Network (WAN): A WAN is a network that connects devices over a large geographic area, such
as a country or the world. WANs are often used to provide internet access, connect remote offices, and
exchange data between different organizations. Example: Internet
4
Hotspot:
The physical location of the hotspot is LAN.
It is a microwave technology
Distance covered up to 100 m.
Bandwidth: 2.4 GHz.
Wi-Fi Direct:
Wi-Fi Direct is a wireless technology that allows devices to communicate with each other directly, without
the need for a router. This makes it ideal for sharing files, streaming media, and connecting devices to a printer.
Wi-Fi Direct is supported by a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and TVs.
More about Wi-Fi Direct:
Wi-Fi Direct is a peer-to-peer wireless technology that allows devices to communicate with each other directly,
without the need for a router.
Wi-Fi Direct uses the same 2.4 GHz frequency.
Its speed is 250mb/sec.
Wi-Fi Direct has a range of up to 600 feet, but the actual range may vary depending on the environment.
Its battery life is less.
Wi-Fi Direct devices use a variety of authentication and encryption methods to protect data from being
intercepted or accessed by unauthorized users.
Note:
Bluetooth 4.0: Operate at 2.4 Ghz frequency. Its speed is approximately 25 mb/sec. It distance is approximately
200 feet. Its battery life is more than wifi direct.
Wi-Fi Router: A Wi-Fi router is a device that connects devices to a wireless network. It allows devices to share
files, stream media, and access the internet. Wi-Fi routers are available in a variety of different configurations
and price ranges.
More about Wi-Fi routers:
A Wi-Fi router is a device that connects devices to a wireless network.
Wi-Fi routers use radio waves to transmit data between devices.
Wi-Fi routers are available in a variety of different configurations, including single-band, dual-band, and tri-
band routers.
Single-band routers operate on the 2.4 GHz frequency band.
Dual-band routers operate on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands.
Tri-band routers operate on the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz frequency bands.
6
Wi-Fi Max: Wi-Fi Max accommodates a larger distance and a greater number of users
at a time. is the maximum speed that a Wi-Fi network can support. It carries a MAN
network. The maximum speed of a Wi-Fi network depends on a number of factors,
including the type of router, the frequency band that the router is using, and the
environment. It needs a base station and carries microwave access.
LiFi (Light Fidelity)/Visible light communication (VLC):
Visible light spectrum is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is
visible to the human eye. It has a wavelength range of 400 to 700 nanometers.
LiFi uses energy-efficient bulbs, such as LED bulbs, to transmit data.
LiFi cannot travel through walls, which can be a privacy advantage.
LiFi is a more private communication technology than other wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi, because it
cannot travel through walls.
Parameter LiFi WiFi
Medium Light waves Radio waves
Blocked by walls hence more Less secure and need other techniques to secure data
Privacy
privacy
Speed Faster Slower
Coverage About 10 m About 32 m
White WiFi:
White space is an unused spectrum that is allotted to television broadcasters. This spectrum can be used
to provide internet connectivity to rural and remote areas. Microsoft is developing a technology called TV
White Space (TVWS) that can use white space to beam Wi-Fi on a larger scale of 10 kilometer radius, with
a speed of 15 Mbps at a cost of Rs. 10 lakhs per router.
TVWS is a promising technology that can help to bridge the digital divide and provide internet connectivity
to underserved areas. It is still under development, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we
communicate.
7
VoWiFi:
VoWiFi stands for Voice over WiFi. It is a technology that allows you to make and receive voice calls over a Wi-
Fi network, instead of using the traditional cellular network.
Mobile phone converts voice to data and sends it to telecom tower via WiFi: When you make a VoWiFi
call, your mobile phone converts your voice into data packets and sends them to a telecom tower via a Wi-Fi
network.
No extra charges: VoWiFi calls are typically charged at the same rate as regular cellular calls. However,
some mobile operators may offer special promotions or discounts for VoWiFi calls.
No mobile app needed: VoWiFi is a built-in feature on most modern mobile phones. You do not need to
install any additional apps to use it.
Calls can be made even when mobile connectivity is zero: VoWiFi allows you to make and receive calls
even when you have no cellular signal. This is because VoWiFi uses your Wi-Fi connection to route the call.
8
Difference:
WIFI 6 WIFI 7
Frequency: 2.4 Ghz/5Ghz 2.4 Ghz/5 Ghz/6 Ghz
Speed: 9.6 Gb/sec 36 Gb/sec
Virtual Private Network
It is the mechanism of employing encryption, authentification and integrity protection.
It uses the public networka as private term.
Remote access VPN connects remote users from any location to a corporate network.
9
RFID Technology:
RFID stands for Radio-Frequency Identification. It is a technology that uses radio waves to identify and
track objects. RFID tags are small electronic devices that can be attached to or embedded in objects. RFID
tags contain a microchip and an antenna. The microchip stores the unique identifier of the object, and the
antenna transmits the data to an RFID reader.
Digital data is encoded in RFID tags or smart labels which are captured by a reader. When an RFID tag
passes through the range of an RFID reader, the reader emits a radio signal that powers up the tag and activates
the microchip. The microchip then transmits the data stored on the tag to the reader. The reader can then
decode the data and identify the object.
Applications of RFID technology:
Logistics and supply chain - increase efficiency, reduce errors, and improve quality
Inventory tracking
Tracking attendees
Increase the level of security
Real-time location system
10
FASTag:
The FASTag is a reloadable tag that allows automatic deduction
of toll without having to stop carrying out the cash transaction.
The tag uses radio frequency identification (RFID)
technology.
Fixed on the windscreen of the vehicle once active.
It is operated by NHAI (National Highway Authority of
India).
It uses the ‘National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC)’
system developed by NPCI (National Payments
Corporations of India).
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Lecture – 03
Information Technology (Part 3)
2
Advantages:
❖ Long transmission distances
❖ Faster data transfer
❖ Lower attenuation
❖ Immunity to interference
❖ Secure
Generations of Mobile Phones:
❖ 1G: The first generation of mobile phones. They could only make and receive voice calls. The technology
used was analog, which resulted in poor sound quality and limited coverage.
❖ 2G: The second generation of mobile phones. They could make and receive voice calls, as well as send and
receive text messages (SMS). They also enabled basic data services through GPRS (General packet radio
services), and EDGE (Enhanced rates for GSM evolution). Both voice and data traveled separately.
3
❖ GSM: It stands for global system for mobiles. It can use any service Provider’s SIM.
❖ CDMA: It stands for code division multiple access. It can only use the same service provider’s SIM.No
outside SIM.
❖ 3G: The third generation of mobile phones. They could make and receive voice calls, send and receive text
messages, and access the internet at relatively high speeds. They used HSPA (High-Speed Packet Access) to
transfer voice and data. The voice was converted into data before being transmitted. They also enabled
broadband data services, such as video streaming and mobile internet.
❖ 4G: The fourth generation of mobile phones. They could make and receive voice calls, send and receive text
messages, access the internet at very high speeds, and stream live video. They used LTE (Long-Term
Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over LTE) to transfer voice and data. They offered ultra-fast data speeds,
real-time video streaming and gaming, and lower latency than 3G.
5G Technology:
Applications of 5G:
❖ High-speed mobile network: 5G can provide mobile internet speeds that are up to 100 times faster than 4G.
This will enable new applications and services, such as mobile streaming of high-definition video and gaming.
❖ Entertainment and multimedia: 5G will enable new forms of entertainment and multimedia, such as
immersive virtual reality and augmented reality experiences.
4
❖ Internet of Things (IoT): 5G will make it possible to connect more devices to the internet, and to transmit
data between those devices in real-time. This will enable new IoT applications, such as smart homes, smart
cities, and connected cars.
❖ Smart cities: 5G can be used to improve the efficiency and sustainability of cities. For example, it can be used
to manage traffic, monitor energy consumption, and control public transportation.
❖ Smart farming: 5G can be used to improve the efficiency and productivity of farms. For example, it can be
used to monitor crop health, track livestock, and control irrigation systems.
❖ Telemedicine services: 5G can be used to provide telemedicine services, such as remote patient monitoring
and diagnosis. This will enable patients to access healthcare services from anywhere in the world.
❖ Controlling of critical infrastructure and vehicles: 5G can be used to control critical infrastructure, such as
power grids and transportation systems. It can also be used to control autonomous vehicles.
❖ Industrial applications: 5G can be used to improve the efficiency and productivity of industrial processes.
For example, it can be used to control robots, monitor production lines, and manage inventory.
Advantages of 5G:
❖ Enhanced mobile broadband that can meet high coverage requirements: 5G can provide faster data speeds
and better coverage than previous generations of cellular networks. This means that people will be able to
access the internet and use mobile applications more reliably, even in crowded areas.
❖ High upload and download speed: 5G can provide upload and download speeds that are up to 100 times
faster than 4G. This will make it possible to download large files, stream high-definition video, and play online
games with low latency.
❖ Can diversify services and demonstrate spectral efficiency: 5G can support a wider range of services than
previous generations of cellular networks, including mobile broadband, fixed wireless access, and mission-
critical communications. It can also make more efficient use of the radio spectrum, which means that more
devices can be connected to the network at the same time.
❖ Help cloud systems to stream software updates, music, and navigation data: 5G's high speed and low
latency make it ideal for streaming data from cloud systems. This means that people will be able to access
software updates, music, and navigation data more quickly and reliably.
❖ Incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our daily lives: 5G's high speed and low latency make it ideal for
AI applications. For example, AI can be used to power chatbots, virtual assistants, and self-driving cars.
❖ Facilitate the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem: 5G can enable the IoT ecosystem by connecting billions
of devices to the Internet. This will lead to new applications and services in a wide range of industries,
including healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing.
❖ Digital growth of the country rise of GDP à employment generation: 5G can help to drive digital growth
in countries by enabling new businesses and industries. This can lead to increased GDP and employment
generation.
Challenges of 5G:
❖ Cost Factor: 5G is a new technology, and it is more expensive to deploy and maintain than previous
generations of cellular networks. This is because 5G requires more base stations and other infrastructure.
5
❖ Infrastructural Issues: Deploying 5G infrastructure can be challenging, especially in rural and remote areas.
This is because 5G requires more base stations than previous generations of cellular networks, and these base
stations need to be placed closer together.
❖ Cyber Security: 5G networks are more complex than previous generations of cellular networks, and this
complexity makes them more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
❖ Technical Issues: 5G is a new technology, and there are still some technical issues that need to be resolved.
For example, 5G signals can be blocked by buildings and other obstacles.
5G is an amalgamation of various technologies such as:
❖ Massive multi-user MIMO (Multiple input multiple output) enabled network: MIMO uses multiple
antennas at both the transmitter and receiver to improve data rates and reliability (MIMO Diversity). 5G will
use massive MIMO, which uses hundreds or even thousands of antennas, to further improve performance
(MIMO Multiplexing).
❖ Small cell stations connect the base stations and users seamlessly: Small cell stations are smaller and less
expensive than traditional cell towers. They can be deployed more densely, which means that 5G networks can
provide better coverage and capacity.
❖ Mobile Edge Computing that brings cloud computing closer to the user: Mobile Edge Computing (MEC)
places cloud computing resources at the edge of the network, closer to the user. This reduces latency and
improves performance for applications that require real-time data processing, such as augmented reality and
self-driving cars.
❖ Beamforming allows for directional transmission or reception: Beamforming uses multiple antennas to
focus the radio signal in a specific direction. This improves signal strength and reduces interference.
Other Steps taken by the Government to boost 5G Technology:
❖ Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has formed the 5G India Forum (5GIF).
❖ National Digital Communication Policy-2018 lays out the objectives concerning 5G services in India.
❖ 5G Vertical Engagement and Partnership Program (VEPP) initiative: The Department of
Telecommunications (DoT) has invited Expressions of Interest for the initiative to enable close collaboration
between User verticals and 5G Tech stakeholders.
5G Airwave Interference
❖ Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) flagged concerns over likely interference of 5G C-Band
spectrum with aircraft radio altimeters as both operate in the mid-C-Band frequency range.
❖ A radio altimeter provides direct height-above-terrain information to various aircraft systems and the
use of altimeters in the C-band ensures highly precise measurements of a plane’s altitude.
❖ For telecom service providers, C-Band ensures coverage as well as high bandwidth, resulting in faster
internet speeds, for rolling out 5G services.
Private captive 5G networks
❖ The Union Cabinet has allowed private captive 5G telecom networks in India.
❖ A private captive 5G network is a network set up by a private entity for the use of the enterprise
concerned, and no one else.
6
Fiberisation:
❖ The process of connecting radio towers via optical fiber cables is called fiberisation.
❖ The backhaul is a component of the larger transport that is responsible for carrying data across the network.
❖ It represents the part of the network that connects the core of the network to the edge.
❖ It is necessary to increase the density of mobile towers to provide better coverage to consumers and businesses.
5G Open Radio Access Network (RAN)
Why in the News?
❖ Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), WiSig Networks Private Limited, and VVDN
Technologies Private Limited have signed an agreement to develop 5G Open RAN and other products
together.
About RAN:
❖ RAN is a part of the network that connects the main network infrastructure to end-users.
❖ It connects individual devices to other parts of a network through radio connections.
❖ It provides critical technology to connect users to the mobile network over radio waves. It acts as a bridge to
access all the key applications on the web.
❖ Current RAN technology is provided as an integrated platform of both hardware and software.
❖ It is difficult to mix vendors for different units.
❖ The idea of Open RAN is to enable operators to mix and match components from different vendors.
7
❖ Will cost more: SA 5G is more expensive to deploy and maintain than NSA 5G. This means that mobile
operators may charge more for SA 5G plans.
6G Technology:
❖ 6G technology is the next generation of cellular network technology. It is expected to be able to use higher
frequencies than 5G networks, which will allow it to provide substantially higher capacity and much lower
latency (delay). 6G is also expected to utilize the terahertz band of frequency, which is currently unutilized.
Terahertz waves fall between infrared waves and microwaves on the electromagnetic spectrum.
❖ These waves are extremely tiny and fragile, but there's a huge amount of free spectrum up there that would
allow for spectacular data rates.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 04
Information technology
(Part-4)
2
Importance of Blockchain:
❖ Blockchain can bring value addition to e-governance:
Blockchain can be used to create more secure,
transparent, and efficient e-governance systems. For
example, it can be used to store and manage land records,
digital certificates, and voting records.
❖ No Middlemen in Transaction: Blockchain can help to
reduce the need for middlemen in transactions. This can
make transactions cheaper and more efficient.
❖ Protect businesses from fraud: Blockchain can help to
protect businesses from fraud by making it more difficult
to counterfeit documents and alter data.
❖ Blockchain Business Value: The World Economic Forum (WEF) estimates that 10% of global GDP will
be stored on blockchain by 2025. This shows that blockchain is a rapidly growing technology with the
potential to revolutionize many industries.
Blockchain in News:
1. In May 2020 WEF Global Blockchain Council published (Presidio Principles", also called as
"Blockchain Bill of Rights"
The WEF Global Blockchain Council published the Presidio Principles in May 2020. These principles are also
known as the "Blockchain Bill of Rights." The Presidio Principles are a set of guidelines that are designed to protect
the rights of users of blockchain technology.
The Presidio Principles are divided into four categories:
❖ Right to information about the system: Users have the right to understand how the blockchain system works
and how their data is being used.
❖ Right to own and manage data: Users have the right to own and manage their data on the blockchain.
❖ Right to data protection: Users have the right to have their data protected from unauthorized access and use.
❖ Right to recourse: Users have the right to have any false or inaccurate data about them corrected. They also
have the right to access a grievance redressal mechanism if they have any problems with the blockchain system.
2. NITI Aayog: NITI Aayog is the premier think tank of the Government of India. It is building a platform called
"India Chain" as a common blockchain infrastructure for various government departments.
3. Andhra Pradesh: Blockchain is used for land records and vehicle registration.
4. West Bengal: Blockchain is used for birth certificates for newborns.
Challenges of Blockchain Technology:
❖ High initial investment cost in creating framework: Blockchain technology requires a significant
investment to create the initial infrastructure. This can be a barrier to entry for smaller businesses and
organizations.
5
❖ Immense use of energy (electricity) as each transaction involves thousands of nodes: Blockchain networks
are very energy-intensive. This is because each transaction needs to be verified by all of the nodes on the
network.
❖ Data privacy issue: Blockchain networks are public by design. This means that all transactions are visible to
everyone on the network. This can be a concern for businesses and individuals who want to keep their data
private.
❖ Need for legal and regulatory framework since no central authority: Blockchain networks are
decentralized, meaning that they are not controlled by any single entity. This can make it difficult to develop
and enforce legal and regulatory frameworks for blockchain technology.
❖ Irreversibility of data: Once data is recorded on a blockchain, it is very difficult to change or delete it. This
can be a problem if there is an error in the data or if the data needs to be updated.
❖ Lack of skill set and Awareness of Talent: Blockchain technology is a new and complex technology. There
is a shortage of skilled workers who have the expertise to develop and deploy blockchain applications.
Applications of 3D printing:
❖ Fashion and retail: 3D printing can be used to create custom-made clothing, accessories, and home decor
items. It can also be used to produce prototypes of new designs, which can help companies reduce time to
market and costs.
❖ Games and entertainment: 3D printing
can be used to create custom figurines, toys,
and props for games and movies. It can also
be used to create realistic prosthetics for
actors.
❖ Food: 3D printing can be used to create
custom-shaped and flavored food items. It
can also be used to print food for people
with dietary restrictions.
❖ Pop culture: 3D printing can be used to
create replicas of popular culture icons and
artifacts. It can also be used to create
custom costumes and props for fans.
❖ Medicine: 3D printing is being used to
create custom prosthetics, implants, and
surgical models. It is also being used to print biocompatible materials, which could be used to create new
organs and tissues.
❖ Engineering: 3D printing is being used to prototype new products, design new buildings, and create custom
tools. It is also being used to print complex structures that would be difficult or impossible to produce using
traditional manufacturing methods.
Examples:
1. Auto and ancillary auto
2. Motor spare part engines
3. Interior and exterior parts of luxury vehicles, or consumer electronics
4. Printed circuit boards
5. Clothing
6. Toys
7. Jewellery
8. Organs
Challenges of 3D printing:
❖ Lack of standards: There are currently no widely accepted standards for 3D
printing materials, processes, or products. This can make it difficult for
companies to adopt 3D printing and to ensure the quality of their products.
7
❖ Hesitation in adoption: Many companies are hesitant to adopt 3D printing because they are not familiar with
the technology or they are concerned about the costs.
❖ Risk of job losses: Some people worry that 3D printing could lead to job losses, as machines will be able to
do many of the tasks that are currently done by people.
❖ High cost: 3D printing can be expensive, especially for large and complex objects.
❖ Sector-specific challenges: The challenges of 3D printing vary depending on the industry. For example, one
challenge in the automotive industry is that the demand for 3D printing has slowed as new vehicle design
development has slowed.
4D printing:
❖ In recent years, 4D printing technology has enhanced the potential of cancer therapeutics such as surgery,
hyperthermia, chemotherapy, therapeutic devices etc.
About 4-D printing:
❖ A renovation of 3D printing wherein special materials are used to print objects that change shape post-
production.
❖ There is a need for Stimuli or triggers to start transformation such as moisture, temperature, light, electrical
current, stress, pH, etc.
❖ Materials used: Hydrogels, Thermo-responsive, Photo, and magneto-responsive, Piezoelectric materials,
pH-responsive, etc.
❖ Properties: Self-assembly, self-adaptability, self-healing, shape memory, self-capability, etc.
❖ Printing techniques: The printing techniques used are similar to ones used in 3D such as fused deposition
modeling (FDM), jet 3D printing (3DP), selective laser melting (SLM), direct ink writing (DIW), electron
beam melting (EBM), etc.
❖ Selective laser melting (SLM): It utilizes a high power-density laser to fully melt and fuse metallic powders
to produce near-net-shape parts with near full density (up to 99.9% relative density).
8
Internet of Things:
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical objects that
are embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies for
the purpose of connecting and exchanging data with other devices
and systems over the Internet. These devices range from simple
everyday objects, such as thermostats, doorbells, and light bulbs,
to industrial machines, medical devices, and agricultural
equipment.
Advantages of the IoT:
❖ Improved efficiency: The IoT can help to improve
efficiency in a variety of ways. For example, IoT devices can
be used to automate tasks, such as turning on and off lights, adjusting the thermostat, and locking and unlocking
doors. This can free up people's time and allow them to focus on other tasks.
❖ Reduced costs: The IoT can also help to reduce costs. For example, IoT devices can be used to monitor energy
consumption and make adjustments to reduce waste. This can lead to significant savings over time.
❖ Enhanced safety and security: The IoT can also help to enhance safety and security. For example, IoT devices
can be used to monitor homes for intruders or to track the location of vehicles. This can help to reduce crime
and improve public safety.
❖ Improved convenience: The IoT can also help to improve convenience. For example, IoT devices can be used
to control appliances and devices remotely. This can make it easier for people to manage their homes and
businesses.
Disadvantages of the IoT:
❖ Privacy and security concerns: One of the biggest concerns about the IoT is privacy and security. IoT devices
often collect a lot of data about users, and this data could be vulnerable to hacking or misuse. It is important
to choose IoT devices from reputable companies and to take steps to protect your privacy and security.
❖ Complexity: The IoT can be complex to set up and manage. This can make it difficult for people to adopt the
technology. It is important to choose IoT devices that are easy to use and that come with clear instructions.
❖ Cost: The cost of IoT devices can be high, especially for large and complex systems. This can make adopting
the technology difficult for small businesses and individuals.
❖ Reliability: IoT devices can be unreliable, especially if they are not properly maintained. This can lead to
frustration and inconvenience. It is important to choose IoT devices from reputable companies and to maintain
them regularly.
➢ For example, journalists may use the dark web to communicate with whistleblowers without being
tracked. Activists may use the dark web to organize protests against authoritarian governments. People in
countries with internet censorship may use the dark web to access websites that are blocked by their
government.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 05
Artificial intelligence
2
Artificial intelligence
Artificial Intelligence:
❖ Algorithms can analyze the data, identify patterns, and make predictions based on the patterns they find.
Machine learning:
❖ Algorithms can analyze data, identify patterns, and make predictions based on the patterns they find. For
Example: Agriculture, weather, etc.
Deep Learning:
❖ It is a subset of machine learning that uses artificial neural networks to learn from data in a way that is similar
to human brain learning.
Neural network:
❖ A method in artificial intelligence that teaches computers to process data in a way that is inspired by the human
brain.
Recurrent neural network
❖ Deep learning mode that is trained to process and convert a sequential data input into a specific sequential data
output. For Example: Facial recognition etc
➢ To promote Al that is trustworthy and respects human rights and democratic values:
4) In the USA, it is mostly self-regulation by tech giants like Google and Microsoft.
More about News
❖ Increasing popularity of generative Al programs, such as OpenAl's ChatGPT, Google's BARD A) DALL-
E, Codex, GPT-3, etc.
❖ These programs are a conversational Al language based on a deep learning model built on the transformer
architecture.
❖ Generative Al creates new and creative content with simple textual instructions known as prompts.
❖ It uses a deep neural network and is trained on a corpus of text data from the internet, allowing it to generate
human-like text and to perform various tasks like question answering, and conversation.
Generative artificial intelligence (Al)
❖ Describes algorithms that can be used to create new content like audio, code, images, text, simulations, and
videos.
❖ Achieved by training machine learning models on large amounts of data using neural networks and then
using these models to generate new, synthetic data, like already existing data.
❖ Prominent frameworks or models of generative Al like Generative adversarial networks (GANs),
Transformer-Based Models (TBMs), and Variational AutoEncoders (VAEs).
LaMDA (Language Models for Dialog Applications):
❖ LaMDA is a machine-learning language model created by Google as a chatbot that is supposed to mimic
humans in conversation.
❖ Like BERT, GPT-3, and other language models, LaMDA is built on Transformer, a neural network
architecture that Google invented and open-sourced in 2017.
❖ It is designed to be able to engage in free-flowing conditions about a virtually endless number of topics.
Generative adversarial networks (GANs):
A generative adversarial network (GAN) has two
parts:
1. The generator learns to generate plausible data.
The generated instances become negative
training examples for the discriminator.
2. The discriminator learns to distinguish the
generator's fake data from real data. The
discriminator penalizes the generator for
producing implausible results.
5
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture – 06
Crypto Currency
2
Crypto Currency
❖ No globally accepted definition: There is no single definition of a virtual currency that is universally
accepted. Different countries and organizations have different definitions.
❖ Entirely peer-to-peer regulation: Virtual currencies are decentralized, meaning they are not subject to
government or financial institution control. This is because virtual currencies use a peer-to-peer network to
verify and record transactions. In a peer-to-peer network, all participants have an equal role in verifying and
recording transactions.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Cryptocurrency:
Advantages Disadvantages
❖ Easy to use: Cryptocurrency is easy to use and ❖ Volatility in value: The value of cryptocurrencies
understand. can be volatile, meaning that it can change quickly
❖ Easy to store in digital mode: Cryptocurrency and unpredictably.
can be easily stored in digital form on a computer ❖ Money supply management is difficult (No
or smartphone. Central authority): There is no central authority
❖ People get a choice: People can choose to use that controls the money supply of
cryptocurrency instead of traditional fiat cryptocurrencies. This can make it difficult to
currencies. manage the money supply and prevent inflation.
❖ Difficult to counterfeit like physical currency: ❖ Difficult to regulate: Cryptocurrencies are
Cryptocurrency is difficult to counterfeit because difficult to regulate because they are
it is secured by cryptography. decentralized. This means that there is no single
❖ Highly secure with blockchain technology: government or financial institution that controls
Cryptocurrency is highly secure because it uses them.
blockchain technology to record transactions. ❖ Cyber frauds: Cryptocurrencies can be used for
❖ International usage: Cryptocurrency can be used cyber fraud, such as ransomware attacks.
internationally without having to go through a ❖ Misuse - Tax evasion, Money laundering:
bank or other financial institution. Cryptocurrencies can be used for illegal activities,
❖ Anti-Inflationary Currency: Cryptocurrency is such as tax evasion and money laundering.
often seen as an anti-inflationary currency ❖ Needs high energy (electricity) requirement in
because the supply of many cryptocurrencies is extraction: Cryptocurrency mining requires a lot
limited. of electricity, which can be harmful to the
environment.
❖ Irreversibility: Cryptocurrency transactions are
irreversible, meaning that they cannot be canceled
or reversed.
Cryptocurrency Mining:
Cryptocurrency mining is the process of verifying and adding transactions to a cryptocurrency ledger. Miners are
rewarded for their work with cryptocurrency.
Aspects of Cryptocurrency Mining:
❖ Data mining: Cryptocurrency mining involves using powerful computers to solve complex mathematical
problems. This process is called data mining.
4
❖ Cryptocurrency mining requires powerful computers that can perform a lot of calculations.
❖ Miners are rewarded with cryptocurrency for their work. The reward amount varies depending on the
cryptocurrency.
❖ Cryptocurrency is based on code. Miners use specialized software to mine cryptocurrency.
❖ Cryptocurrency is a digital currency. It does not exist in physical form.
❖ Cryptocurrency can be traded on exchanges for other currencies.
❖ Cryptocurrency can be used to buy goods and services.
Terms related to Crypto Mining:
❖ Proof of work: Proof of work is a consensus mechanism used by some cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin. In
proof of work, miners compete to solve complex mathematical problems. The first miner to solve a problem
is rewarded with cryptocurrency.
❖ Proof of stake: Proof of stake is a consensus mechanism used by some cryptocurrencies, such as Ethereum.
In proof of stake, miners stake their cryptocurrency to validate transactions. The more cryptocurrency a
miner stakes, the more likely they are to be selected to validate a transaction.
Cryptocurrency News:
❖ April 2018: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a circular prohibiting banks and non-banking financial
companies (NBFCs) from providing services related to virtual currencies (VCs).
❖ March 2020: The Supreme Court of India struck down the RBI's ban on VCs, ruling that they are not
commodities or real money.
❖ 2021: El Salvador became the first country in the world to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender.
❖ 2022: The Central African Republic became the second country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender.
❖ India's cryptocurrency stance: India is still working on cryptocurrency regulations. The government has
said that it is open to supporting other cryptocurrencies, but it wants to avoid copying other countries'
regulations.
Why are countries like the Central African Republic (CAR) adopting cryptocurrencies as legal tender?
❖ Strong and inclusive growth: CAR is one of the poorest and most economically fragile countries in the
world, with a population of 5 million. Cryptocurrencies have the potential to help CAR achieve strong and
inclusive growth by:
❖ Reducing inflation: Cryptocurrencies are often seen as an inflation-resistant asset class, as their supply is
limited. This makes them attractive to countries with high inflation rates, such as CAR.
❖ Promoting financial inclusion: Cryptocurrencies can be used by anyone with an internet connection,
regardless of their bank account status or financial history. This can help to promote financial inclusion in
countries like CAR, where a large portion of the population is unbanked.
❖ Boosting economic activity: Cryptocurrencies can help boost economic activity by making it easier for
people to send and receive payments, both domestically and internationally.
❖ Positive growth: Cryptocurrencies have the potential to convert inflation-related decline from legal
currencies into positive growth. This is because cryptocurrencies are not subject to the same inflationary
pressures as fiat currencies. Additionally, cryptocurrencies can help to attract foreign investment and boost
the tourism industry.
5
❖ Reduce dependency on the other country: CAR does not have its own currency. Instead, it uses the
Central African CFA franc, which is pegged to the euro. By adopting Bitcoin as legal tender, CAR can
reduce its dependency on the euro and other foreign currencies.
❖ Circumvent the sanctions: CAR is subject to sanctions imposed by the United States and other countries.
Cryptocurrencies can help CAR to circumvent these sanctions by providing a way to send and receive
payments without going through the traditional banking system.
Issues Associated with Banning Decentralised Cryptocurrencies:
❖ Brain-drain: A blanket ban on cryptocurrencies in India would lead to an exodus of blockchain experts and
businesses from the country. After the RBI's 2018 ban on cryptocurrencies, many blockchain experts
moved to countries where crypto is regulated, such as Switzerland, Singapore, Estonia, and the US.
This brain drain would deprive India of the talent and expertise needed to develop and innovate in the
blockchain space.
❖ Deprivation of transformative technology: Blockchain technology is the underlying technology behind
cryptocurrencies. It is a distributed ledger technology that has the potential to revolutionize many industries,
including finance, healthcare, and supply chain management. By banning cryptocurrencies, India would
deprive itself of the opportunity to benefit from this transformative technology.
❖ Encouraging illegitimate use: Banning cryptocurrencies would drive them underground, making them
more difficult to track and regulate. This could encourage illegitimate use of cryptocurrencies for activities
such as money laundering and terrorist financing.
❖ Contradictory policies: A ban on cryptocurrencies would be inconsistent with the National Strategy on
Blockchain, 2021, which hailed blockchain technology as transparent, secure, and efficient. The ban would
also send a mixed message to the global community about India's commitment to innovation and
technological advancement.
Way Forward:
❖ Regulation is the Solution: Banning cryptocurrencies would not be an effective solution, as it would drive
them underground and make them more difficult to track and regulate. Instead, the Indian government
should focus on regulating cryptocurrencies in order to protect consumers and investors and to mitigate the
risks associated with cryptocurrencies.
❖ Clarity on Cryptocurrency Definition: The first step in regulating cryptocurrencies is to provide a clear
and concise definition of what constitutes a cryptocurrency. This would help to reduce uncertainty and
confusion in the market.
❖ Strong KYC Norms: Know Your Customer (KYC) norms are essential for preventing money laundering
and other financial crimes. The government should require cryptocurrency exchanges and other businesses
to implement strong KYC norms for their customers.
❖ Ensuring Transparency: The government should work to ensure transparency in the cryptocurrency
market. This could be done by requiring cryptocurrency exchanges to keep detailed records of all
transactions and to submit to regular inspections. The government could also require independent audits of
cryptocurrency exchanges.
❖ Creating Job Opportunities: The cryptocurrency industry has the potential to create a significant number
of jobs in India. The government should support the development of the cryptocurrency industry to create
jobs and boost the economy.
6
❖ Igniting the Entrepreneurial Wave: The cryptocurrency industry is attracting a growing number of
entrepreneurs. The government should support the startup ecosystem and provide incentives for investors to
invest in cryptocurrency startups.
SC Garg Committee Recommendations (2019):
❖ It recommended banning anybody who mines, holds, transacts or deals with cryptocurrencies in any
form. The Union Budget 2022-2023 of India has also proposed to introduce a digital currency in the coming
financial year. It was also announced that "any income from transfer of any virtual digital asset shall be
taxed at the rate of 30%.
❖ As per the rules specified by the Indian government gains from all such crypto transactions are taxable at a
flat rate of 30%. These rules, introduced during the 2022 Union Budget, are governed by Section 115BBH
of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
CBDC or National Digital Currency:
❖ A central bank digital currency (CBDC) is a digital form of a country's fiat currency. It is issued by the
central bank of a country and is
backed by the full faith and credit
of the government.
❖ Instead of printing paper currency
or minting coins, the central bank
issues electronic tokens. These
tokens can be used to make
payments online and in stores.
❖ The Digital Rupee (eINR or E-
Rupee): The Digital Rupee is a
tokenized digital version of the
Indian Rupee, issued by the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as a
central bank digital currency
(CBDC). The Digital Rupee was
launched on 1 December 2022.
Difference between Digital Currency and Unified Payments Interface:
Digital Currency:
❖ Digital Currency not volatile: Digital currency is not volatile, meaning that its value does not change as
quickly or dramatically as the value of cryptocurrencies. This is because digital currencies are regulated by
central banks, which have the power to control the supply of money and interest rates.
❖ Regulated by RBI: Digital currency is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which is the central
bank of India. The RBI has the power to set policies and regulations for digital currency, including how it is
issued and used.
❖ Real money: Digital currency is real money, just like paper currency and coins. It can be used to buy goods
and services, and it can also be used to send and receive payments.
7
(SEBI) is using a data lake to collect and analyze data from various sources to detect and prevent market
manipulations.
➢ To catch income tax evaders: Big data can be used to identify income tax evaders. For example, the
Income Tax Department of India is using a project called Insight to identify high-risk taxpayers and to
conduct more effective audits.
➢ To improve the competence of PSBs: Big data can be used to improve the competence of public sector
banks (PSBs). For example, the Economic Survey of India 2020 suggested the creation of a PSB network
on the lines of the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) to improve the efficiency and effectiveness
of PSBs.
➢ To boost intelligence gathering: Big data can be used to boost intelligence gathering through
surveillance of communication systems. This can help to prevent crimes and terrorist attacks.
➢ Internet of Things (IoT): The IoT is a network of physical devices that are connected to the internet.
The IoT is expected to generate a huge amount of data, which can be used for a variety of purposes. For
example, the IoT can be used to improve traffic management, to reduce energy consumption, and to
monitor the environment.
Challenges of big data:
❖ Lack of data scientists: India has a shortage of data scientists, with less than 10% of the global supply. This
is a major challenge, as data scientists are essential for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting big data.
❖ Security: Ensuring the security of huge amounts of data is difficult. Big data is often stored on cloud
servers, which can be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Additionally, big data is often collected from a variety of
sources, which can make it difficult to track and protect.
❖ Invasion of privacy: Big data analytics can lead to privacy concerns. For example, big data can be used to
track people's movements, spending habits, and online activity. This information can be used to target them
with advertising or to make decisions about their employment or creditworthiness.
❖ Technical Challenges: There are several technical challenges associated with big data, such as inefficient
infrastructure for data collection and storage. Big data is often collected and stored in different formats,
which can make it difficult to analyze. Additionally, big data processing requires powerful computers and
software.
❖ Net Neutrality: the principle that internet service providers should enable access to all content and
applications regardless of the source, and without favoring or blocking particular products or websites.
Steps Taken:
❖ NITI Aayog is developing ‘National Data & Analytics Platform’ as a single source for various data
❖ Big Data Management Policy’ drafted by CAG for auditing big data generated in the public sector.
Dark patterns:
❖ Deceptive patterns refer to strategies employed by websites and apps to make users perform actions they did
not intend to or discourage behaviors that are not advantageous for the companies.
❖ These patterns often exploit cognitive biases and employ tactics such as intellect, false urgency, forced
actions, hidden costs, etc.
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1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture - 07
General Biology - Part - 1
2
Plasmid: A plasmid is a small, circular piece of DNA that is not part of the cell's main chromosome. Plasmids
can carry genes that code for different traits, such as antibiotic resistance.
Flagellum: A flagellum is a long, whip-like structure that helps the cell to move.
Pili: Pili are short, hair-like structures that help the cell to attach to other cells or surfaces.
Eukaryotic Cells have the Following Features:
They have a nucleus.
Their DNA is enclosed in a membrane.
They have multiple linear chromosomes.
Their ribosomes are bound to the endoplasmic reticulum.
They have mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Examples: Cells of multicellular organisms.(Animal cells , plant cells, fungus, protozoan)
Nucleus: The nucleus is the control center of the cell. It contains the cell's DNA, which is the genetic material
that determines the cell's structure and function.
Ribosomes: Ribosomes are tiny organelles that make proteins. They are found in the cytoplasm and on the
endoplasmic reticulum.
Endoplasmic reticulum: The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of membranes that transports proteins and
other molecules around the cell.
Golgi apparatus: The Golgi apparatus is a stack of flattened sacs that modifies and packages proteins for
export from the cell.
Mitochondria: Mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the cell. They produce energy for the cell to use.
Vacuole: The vacuole is a large, fluid-filled sac that stores water, nutrients, and waste products.
Lysosomes: Lysosomes are sacs of enzymes that break down cellular waste products.
Centrioles: Centrioles are a pair of rod-shaped structures that help organize cell division.
Plant Cells:
The main parts of the cell are labeled, including:
Cell wall: The cell wall is a rigid layer that
surrounds the cell membrane. It provides
support and protection for the cell.
Cell membrane: The cell membrane is a thin,
flexible layer that surrounds the cell wall. It
controls what enters and leaves the cell.
Cytoplasm: The cytoplasm is the jelly-like
substance inside the cell. It contains all of the
cell's organelles, as well as the cell's DNA.
Nucleus: The nucleus is the control center of
the cell. It contains the cell's DNA, which is
the genetic material that determines the cell's
structure and function.
Chloroplast: Chloroplasts are organelles that contain chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a green pigment that absorbs
sunlight and uses it to convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and glucose. This process is called
photosynthesis.
Ribosomes: Ribosomes are tiny organelles that make proteins. They are found in the cytoplasm and in the
endoplasmic reticulum.
Endoplasmic reticulum: The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of membranes that transports proteins and
other molecules around the cell.
Golgi apparatus: The Golgi apparatus is a stack of flattened sacs that modifies and packages proteins for
export from the cell.
Mitochondria: Mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the cell. They produce energy for the cell to use.
Vacuole: The vacuole is a large, fluid-filled sac that stores water, nutrients, and waste products.
Lysosomes: Lysosomes are sacs of enzymes that break down cellular waste products.
5
Mitochondria:
Mitochondria: Mitochondria are organelles that are found in the cells of most living organisms. They are
responsible for producing energy for the cell.
Cristae: The cristae are folds of the inner membrane of the mitochondria. They increase the surface area of
the membrane, which allows more ATP to be produced.
ATP: ATP is the energy currency of the cell. It is used to power all of the cell's activities, such as movement,
growth, and reproduction.
Oxidation of food: Mitochondria
produce ATP by oxidizing food
molecules. This process releases
energy, which is used to synthesize
ATP.
Semi-autonomous organelle:
Mitochondria have their DNA and
ribosomes. This means that they can
produce some of their proteins, but they
still need to rely on the cell for other
proteins.
Increase in number: The number of mitochondria in a cell can increase if the cell needs more energy. This
happens, for example, when the cell is dividing or when the cell is under stress.
Powerhouse of the cell: Mitochondria are often called the "powerhouses of the cell" because they produce so
much energy.
Breakdown of glucose: Mitochondria break down glucose molecules to produce ATP. This process is called
cellular respiration.
Energy production: Mitochondria are responsible for the production of energy in the cell. They do this by
breaking down glucose molecules and using the released energy to create ATP molecules.
Chloroplast:
Chloroplast: Chloroplasts are organelles found in plant cells. They are the site of photosynthesis, the process
by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and glucose.
Only in plant cells: Chloroplasts are only found in plant cells. This is because they contain chlorophyll, a
green pigment that is essential for photosynthesis.
Own DNA: Chloroplasts have their DNA. This means that they can produce some of their proteins, but they
still rely on the cell for other proteins and nutrients.
Ribosomes: Chloroplasts have their ribosomes. These are used to produce proteins.
Thylakoid membrane: The thylakoid membrane is a series of flattened sacs that are found inside the
chloroplast. These sacs are where the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis take place.
Grana: The grana are stacks of thylakoid membranes. They are where the light-dependent reactions of
photosynthesis are most concentrated.
Stroma: The stroma is the fluid that surrounds the thylakoids. This is where the Calvin cycle, the light-
independent reactions of photosynthesis, take place.
6
Photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and
water into oxygen and glucose.
Steps of photosynthesis: The steps of photosynthesis are:
1. Light-dependent reactions: These reactions use sunlight to split water molecules and produce oxygen
and ATP.
2. Calvin cycle: These reactions use ATP and NADPH to reduce carbon dioxide and produce glucose.
The Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):
Endoplasmic reticulum: The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a network of membranes that is found in the
cytoplasm of all eukaryotic cells. It is responsible for a variety of functions, including:
Protein synthesis: The ER is the site of protein synthesis. Ribosomes are attached to the ER, and they
produce proteins that are destined for export from the cell or for use within the cell.
Lipid synthesis: The ER is also involved in lipid synthesis. Lipids are essential for the structure and
function of cell membranes.
Transport: The ER helps to transport proteins and lipids around the cell.
Storage: The ER can store proteins and lipids.
Rough endoplasmic reticulum: The rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) is covered in ribosomes. This gives
it a rough appearance, hence the name. The RER is responsible for protein synthesis.
Smooth endoplasmic reticulum: The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) does not have ribosomes attached
to it. This gives it a smooth appearance, hence the name. The SER is involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification,
and calcium storage.
Urea: Urea is a waste product that is produced by the liver. It is transported from the liver to the kidneys,
where it is excreted in the urine.
Water: Water is essential for life. It is used in a variety of cellular processes, including protein synthesis,
metabolism, and transport.
Synthesis: The ER synthesis refers to the process of making proteins and lipids.
Detoxification: The Smooth ER is involved in detoxification by metabolizing drugs and other harmful
substances.
Calcium storage: Calcium is an important mineral that is involved in a variety of cellular processes, including
muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. The SER stores calcium, which can be released when
needed.
The Cell Wall:
Cell wall: A rigid structure that surrounds the cell membrane of plant cells, algae, and some bacteria. It
provides support and protection for the cell and helps to maintain its shape.
Plant cell wall: The cell wall of plant cells is made up of cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin, and lignin. Cellulose
is a long, fibrous carbohydrate that gives the cell wall its strength. Hemicellulose is another carbohydrate that
helps to bind the cellulose fibers together. Pectin is a gel-like substance that helps to hold the cell wall together.
Lignin is a complex polymer that makes the cell wall rigid and resistant to decay.
The cell wall is permeable, which means that it allows some substances to pass through it. However, it is not
completely permeable, so it can still help to protect the cell from harmful substances.
7
Modification and packaging of proteins: Golgi bodies are responsible for the modification and packaging
of proteins. They add sugar molecules and other post-translational modifications to proteins, which helps them
to fold correctly and function properly.
They also package proteins into vesicles
that can be transported to other organelles
or to the cell surface for secretion.
Complex Sugar: Golgi bodies are also
involved in the synthesis of complex sugars.
These sugars are used to build cell walls,
membranes, and other structures.
Lysosomes:
Lysosomes: Lysosomes are organelles
found in all eukaryotic cells. They are
responsible for the breakdown of cellular
waste products.
Function: Lysosomes contain enzymes that
break down proteins, carbohydrates, lipids,
and nucleic acids. They also help to remove damaged organelles from the cell.
In case of injury: Lysosomes can also be involved in the defense against pathogens. They can release their
enzymes to kill bacteria and other harmful microbes.
Cell Nucleus:
Parts of Cell Nucleus:
Nucleoplasm: The nucleoplasm is the fluid inside the nucleus. It contains chromosomes, nucleoli, and other
nuclear components.
Chromosomes: Chromosomes are structures that contain the genetic material of the cell. They are made up
of DNA and protein.
Nucleolus: The nucleolus is a small, dense body in the nucleus. It is responsible for the production of
ribosomes.
Nuclear membrane: The nuclear membrane is a double membrane that surrounds the nucleus. It controls the
passage of materials into and out of the nucleus.
The Following are the Important Points of the Nucleus:
The nucleus is the control center of the cell. It contains the genetic material, which controls all of the cell's
activities.
The chromosomes are the carriers of genetic information. They are made up of DNA, which is the genetic
material of the cell.
The nucleolus is responsible for the production of ribosomes. Ribosomes are the protein factories of the cell.
The nuclear membrane controls the passage of materials into and out of the nucleus. It helps to protect the
genetic material from damage.
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Organelle Function
Nucleus Contains DNA, the "Brain of the cell"
Mitochondria Energy production, "Power house of cell"
Chloroplast (only in Plant cells) Photosynthesis, (Kitchen of cell)
Endoplasmic reticulum Synthesis of proteins, and lipids, remove toxins from
the cell
Golgi bodies Modification of proteins, Packaging
Vacuole Storage (water, nutrients, waste)
Ribosomes Synthesis of proteins, protein factory of the cell
Lysosome Cell digestion, Suicidal bags of cell
Centrioles (only in Animal cells) Help in cell division
Q. Which of the following statements are correct regarding the general difference between plant and animal cells?
(2020)
1. Plant cells have cellulose cell walls whilst animal cells do not.
2. Plant cells do not have plasma membranes, unlike animal cells which do.
3. Mature plant cell has one large vacuole whilst an animal cell has many small vacuoles.
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Respiration in a Cell:
Respiration is the process by which cells break down glucose to release energy.
10
There are two main types of respiration: Aerobic respiration and Anaerobic respiration:
Aerobic respiration takes place in the presence of oxygen. It is the more efficient type of respiration and
produces more energy. The first step of aerobic respiration is glycolysis, which takes place in the cytoplasm
of the cell. In glycolysis, glucose is broken down into two molecules of pyruvate. Pyruvate is then transported
to the mitochondria, where it is further broken down in the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain. The Krebs
cycle produces carbon dioxide and water, while the electron transport chain produces ATP, the cell's energy
currency.
Anaerobic respiration takes place in the absence of oxygen. It is less efficient than aerobic respiration and
produces less energy. The only type of anaerobic respiration that is shown in the image is fermentation.
Fermentation takes place in the cytoplasm of the cell and produces ethanol or lactic acid as a byproduct.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture - 08
General Biology (Part – 02)
2
Types of Cells:
❖ Somatic cells and Gamete cells are the two main types of cells in the human body. Somatic cells make up
all of the tissues and organs in the body, while gamete cells are the reproductive cells that produce offspring.
❖ Somatic cells have 46 chromosomes, which are arranged in 23 pairs. These chromosomes are made up of
DNA, which is the genetic material that determines a person's traits. Gamete cells, on the other hand, only
have 23 chromosomes. This is because when a sperm cell and an egg cell fuse together during fertilization, the
resulting zygote has 46 chromosomes, the same number as a somatic cell.
❖ The process of cell division that produces gamete cells is called meiosis. Meiosis is a more complex process
than mitosis, the process that produces somatic cells. In meiosis, the chromosomes are paired up and then
separated. This results in four daughter cells, each with 23 chromosomes.
❖ Somatic cells are essential for the growth and repair of the body. They also play a role in many other important
processes, such as immunity and metabolism. Gamete cells are essential for reproduction. They are responsible
for passing on genetic information from parents to offspring.
Mitosis Division:
❖ Nuclear division is the process by which the nucleus of the cell divides into two daughter nuclei. This happens
in the m phase of mitosis, which is the stage where the chromosomes are duplicated and the cell prepares to
divide.
❖ The chromosomes are duplicated in the first stage of mitosis, called the prophase. In the second stage, called
the metaphase, the chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell. In the third stage, called the anaphase, the
chromosomes separate and move to opposite poles of the cell. In the fourth and final stage, called the telophase,
the nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes and the cell divides into two new cells.
❖ In the prophase stage, the chromosomes condense and become visible. The nuclear membrane breaks down
and the nucleolus disappears.
❖ In the metaphase stage, the chromosomes line up in the middle of the cell.
❖ In the anaphase stage, the chromosomes are separated and move to opposite poles of the cell.
❖ In the telophase stage, the nuclear membrane reforms and the nucleolus reappears. The cell then divides into
two daughter cells.
Three-Parent Baby or Mitochondrial Replacement
❖ Mitochondrial inheritance is the process by which mitochondria are passed on from the mother to the child.
Mitochondria are tiny organelles that are found in the cytoplasm of cells. They are responsible for generating
energy for the cell.
❖ Consider a mother cell and a father cell. The mother cell has two mitochondria, one with damaged DNA and
the other with normal DNA. The father cell does not have any mitochondria.
❖ When the mother cell and the father cell fuse together to form a zygote, the zygote inherits two mitochondria
from the mother cell. The zygote then undergoes mitosis to form two daughter cells. The two daughter cells
will each inherit one mitochondrion from the mother cell.
❖ If the mitochondria with the damaged DNA are inherited by the daughter cell, the daughter cell will not be
able to generate enough energy and will die.
❖ This is a rare condition, but it can happen. In some cases, the child may be born with a mitochondrial disease.
Mitochondrial diseases are a group of disorders that are caused by defects in mitochondria. These disorders
can affect many different parts of the body, including the heart, brain, and muscles.
4
5
Mitochondrial diseases are caused by mutations in the DNA of mitochondria, which are the energy-
producing organelles found in cells. These mutations can be passed on from mothers to their children, but only if
the mother's egg cell contains mitochondria with the mutation.
In a three-parent baby, the mitochondria from the mother's egg cell are replaced with mitochondria from a healthy
donor. This is done by removing the nucleus from the mother's egg cell and then fusing it with the cytoplasm
of a donor egg cell. The resulting cell, which has the mother's nucleus and the donor's mitochondria, is then
implanted in the mother's uterus to grow into a baby.
The different Steps Involved in a Three-Parent Baby:
❖ The first step is to remove the nucleus from the mother's egg cell. This is done by using a laser to cut the
cell in half. The nucleus is then removed from one-half of the cell.
❖ The second step is to remove the cytoplasm from the donor egg cell. This is done by using a suction device
to remove the cytoplasm from the cell.
❖ The third step is to fuse the nucleus from the mother's egg cell with the cytoplasm from the donor egg cell.
This is done by using an electric current to join the two cells together.
❖ The fourth step is to implant the resulting cell in the mother's uterus. If the cell implants and grows into a
baby, the baby will have the mother's nuclear DNA and the donor's mitochondrial DNA.
Surrogacy:
Surrogacy is a complex process in which a woman agrees to carry and deliver a child for another couple or
individual. The process typically involves the following steps:
❖ The intended parents (IPs) provide their sperm and egg cells to a fertility clinic.
❖ The clinic fertilizes the egg cells with the sperm cells in a laboratory.
❖ The resulting embryos are transferred to the surrogate's uterus.
❖ The surrogate carries the pregnancy to term and delivers the baby.
❖ The IPs take custody of the baby after the birth.
6
Blood:
The different components of blood are labeled
❖ Components of Blood: The different components of blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells,
platelets, and plasma.
➢ Red blood cells carry oxygen to the tissues.
➢ White blood cells fight infection.
➢ Platelets help blood clot.
➢ Plasma is the liquid part of blood that carries nutrients and waste products.
❖ Plasma: Plasma makes up about 55% of blood. It is a clear, yellowish liquid that contains water, proteins,
nutrients, and waste products.
❖ Hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells. It is responsible for carrying oxygen to the
tissues.
❖ Red blood cells (Erythrocytes): Red blood cells are the most abundant cells in blood. They are disc-shaped
and contain hemoglobin. These are the cells that carry oxygen to the body's tissues. They make up about
45% of blood. Red blood cells are red because they contain hemoglobin, which is a protein that binds oxygen.
❖ White blood cells (Leukocytes): White blood cells are less abundant than red blood cells. They are there
to fight infection. They make up about 1% of blood. White blood cells come in different types, each with a
different function.
❖ Platelets (Thrombocytes): Platelets are the smallest cells in the blood. They help blood clot. They make
up about 1% of blood. Platelets are small, disc-shaped cells that help blood clot by forming a mesh that traps
blood cells.
7
Note:
❖ The one Haemoglobin molecule carries four molecules of oxygen.
❖ Human beings have 5.5 liters of blood in the body.
➢ Neutrophils: These are the most abundant type of WBCs. They fight infection by engulfing and
destroying bacteria.
➢ Eosinophils: These WBCs help fight parasitic infections and allergic reactions.
➢ Basophils: These WBCs release histamine, which is a chemical that causes inflammation.
❖ Agranulocytes: These WBCs do not have granules in their cytoplasm. They include lymphocytes and
monocytes.
➢ Lymphocytes: These WBCs fight infection by producing antibodies.
➢ Monocytes: These WBCs mature into macrophages, which are large cells that engulf and destroy bacteria
and other foreign invaders.
Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection. They do this by producing
antibodies, attacking infected cells, and killing cancer cells.
There are three main types of lymphocytes: B cells, T cells, and natural killer cells.
❖ B cells produce antibodies, which are proteins that help the body fight infection. When a B cell encounters an
antigen, it will produce antibodies that are specific to that antigen. These antibodies will then attach to the
antigen and help the body's immune system destroy it.
❖ T cells attack and kill infected cells. There are two main types of T cells: helper T cells and cytotoxic T cells.
Helper T cells help other cells of the immune system, such as B cells, to function properly. Cytotoxic T cells
kill infected cells directly.
❖ Natural killer cells attack and kill infected cells and cancer cells. They do this without the need for antibodies.
Memory cells are a type of lymphocyte that remembers the specific antigens that the body has been exposed to in
the past. This allows the body to fight infection more quickly if the same antigen is encountered again.
The process of the immune system fighting infection. When the body is invaded by a foreign invader, the white
blood cells recognize the antigen on the surface of the invader. The white blood cells then produce antibodies that
bind to the antigen. The antibodies attach to the antigen and mark it for destruction.
Platelets:
❖ Platelets are essential for blood clotting. When a blood vessel is injured, platelets clump together to form a
plug that stops the bleeding. Platelets also release chemicals that help to activate the clotting cascade,
which is a series of reactions that leads to the formation of a blood clot.
❖ Platelets are the third type of blood cells, after red blood cells and white blood cells. They are also called
Thrombocytes. Platelets are small, colorless cell fragments that help blood clot.
❖ Platelets are made up of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. The proteins in platelets are essential for their
function in blood clotting. When a blood vessel is injured, platelets release chemicals that attract other platelets
to the site of the injury. The platelets then form a mesh that traps blood cells and helps to stop the bleeding.
❖ The clot that forms when blood clots is called a Fibrin Clot. The fibrin clot is made up of a protein called
fibrinogen. Fibrinogen is converted into fibrin, which forms the mesh that traps blood cells.
❖ Blood clotting is a complex process that involves many different factors. Platelets are just one of the factors
involved in blood clotting. Other factors include proteins, blood vessels, and the nervous system.
Blood Groups:
The blood groups are determined by the presence or absence of certain antigens on the surface of red blood cells.
The most common blood groups are A, B, AB, and O.
9
Q. A married couple adopted a male child. A few years later, two boys were born to them. The blood
group of the couple is AB positive and O negative. The blood group of the three sons is A positive, B
positive, and O positive. The blood group of the adopted son is (2011)
(a) O positive (b) A positive
(c) B Positive (d) Cannot be determined on the basis of the given data
O B or O A or B A or B O
❖ Blood group is inherited from parents in a Mendelian fashion. This means that each parent passes on one of
their two blood group alleles to the child. The child's blood type is determined by the combination of the alleles
they inherit from their parents.
11
❖ The table shows the possible blood types of a child based on the blood types of the parents.
❖ For example: If the mother has blood type A and the father has blood type O, the child can have blood
type A or O. This is because the mother can pass on either her A allele or her O allele to the child, and the
father can only pass on his O allele to the child.
❖ The table is divided into four sections, one for each blood type (A, B, AB, and O). Each section shows the
possible blood types of the child if the mother and father have the blood types listed at the top of the section.
❖ The table is a useful tool for predicting the possible blood types of a child. However, it is important to
remember that the table is not always accurate. There is a small chance that the child's blood type will be
different from what is predicted by the table.
Classification Of Organisms:
Five Kingdom Classification of Living Organisms
by R.H. Whittaker in 1969
12
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture – 09
Human Health and Diseases
2
Zoonotic Diseases: Zoonotic diseases are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to people. Examples of
zoonotic diseases include Rabies, Lyme disease, and COVID-19.
Disease:
Disease means any harmful deviation from the normal structural or functional state of an organism
1. Diseases which can be passed from one person 1. Cannot be passed from one person to another.
to another.
Microbes: Very small living things and are sometimes called Microorganisms. Microbes cannot be seen with
the naked eye.
Pathogens: Disease causing microbes are Pathogens.
Tuberculosis (TB):
❖ Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease caused by
bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It most
commonly affects the lungs (pulmonary TB), but can also
affect other parts of the body, such as the bones, kidneys,
and brain.
❖ Transmission: TB is spread through the air when an
infected person coughs, sneezes, or spits. The bacteria can
travel up to 10 feet, so it is important to avoid close contact
with people who are sick with TB.
❖ Symptoms: The symptoms of TB can vary depending on the part of the body that is infected. Common
symptoms of pulmonary TB include:
➢ Coughing
➢ Sputum (mucus) that may contain blood
➢ Chest pain
➢ Weakness
➢ Weight loss
❖ Treatment: TB is a treatable and curable disease. The standard treatment for TB is a 6 -month course of
antibiotics. It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if you start to feel better, to prevent
the bacteria from becoming resistant to antibiotics.
❖ Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) is a form of TB that is
resistant to the first-line drugs used to treat TB. MDR-TB is more
difficult to treat and requires longer and more expensive treatment.
❖ Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) is a more serious form
of MDR-TB that is resistant to even more drugs. XDR-TB is very
difficult to treat and there is no standard treatment available.
❖ Initiatives by India:
➢ The Nikshay Ecosystem: This is a web portal that is used to
monitor TB cases in India. It helps to track the progress of TB
control efforts and identify areas where more work is needed.
5
➢ Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY): This scheme provides financial support to TB patients in India. It helps
to cover the cost of treatment and other expenses, such as transportation and food.
➢ TB Harega Desh Jeetega Campaign: This is a national campaign that was launched in September 2019
to raise awareness about TB and to encourage people to get tested and treated.
➢ The Saksham Project: This project provides psycho-
social counseling to DR-TB patients in India. It helps to
improve their mental health and well-being during
treatment.
❖ Vaccine:
➢ BCG: This is a vaccine that is used to protect against TB.
It is given to children at birth in many countries,
including India.
❖ TruNat: This is a rapid TB test that can give results in one
hour. It is used to diagnose TB in people who are at high
risk of the disease.
❖ DOTS treatment: This is a treatment regimen for TB that is
supervised by a healthcare worker. It helps to ensure that patients take their medication correctly and
complete the full course of treatment.
The challenges in eliminating tuberculosis (TB) in India:
❖ COVID-19: The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted TB control efforts, as resources have been diverted to
address the new disease.
❖ Underreporting: TB is often underreported, making it difficult to track the disease and allocate resources
effectively.
❖ Underdiagnosis: TB can be difficult to diagnose, especially in its early stages. This can lead to delays in
treatment and increased risk of transmission.
❖ Drug resistance: Drug-resistant TB is a growing problem, making it more difficult to treat and increasing
the risk of transmission.
❖ High poverty rates: Poverty is a major risk factor for TB, as it can lead to poor nutrition, overcrowding, and
lack of access to healthcare.
❖ Migration: Migration can also contribute to the spread of TB, as people who are infected with TB may
move to new areas without being aware of their infection.
❖ India accounts for roughly 28% of TB cases in the world, as per the Global TB Report 2022.
❖ India TB Report 2020:
➢ 8% of TB cases can be attributable to tobacco usage.
India’s Target:
❖ Eliminating TB by 2025, five years ahead of the global target by the World Health Organisation
(WHO) i.e. 2030.
❖ World Tuberculosis Day observed on 24 th March
❖ Theme for 2023: Yes! We can end TB!
Typhoid:
❖ Typhoid is a serious illness caused by the bacteria Salmonella typhi. It is spread through contaminated food
and water, and can cause fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. Typhoid can be fatal if not treated, but it
is a treatable and curable disease.
❖ Transmission: Typhoid is spread through contaminated food and water. The bacteria can live in water for
several weeks, and can also survive in food that has been contaminated with human feces.
❖ Symptoms: The symptoms of typhoid can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Common
symptoms include:
➢ Fever
➢ Headache
➢ Cough
➢ Muscle aches
➢ Fatigue
➢ Loss of appetite
➢ Vomiting
➢ Diarrhea
➢ Rose-colored spots on the chest and abdomen
❖ Treatment: Typhoid is treated with antibiotics. The standard treatment is a 7-day course of antibiotics, but
some cases may require longer treatment.
❖ Vaccines and antibiotics available: There are two
typhoid vaccines available: the live attenuated vaccine
(Ty21a) and the typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV). The
live attenuated vaccine is given orally, while the TCV
is given by injection. Both vaccines are effective in
preventing typhoid, but the TCV is more effective in
children.
❖ News:
➢ Typbar TCV: This is the world's first typhoid
conjugate vaccine that has been prequalified by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is made in
India by Bharat Biotech.
7
➢ Pakistan: Pakistan is the first country in the world to introduce the WHO-recommended Typbar TCV.
Viruses:
❖ Viruses are microscopic organisms that can infect and replicate inside living cells. They are made up of a
simple structure: a genetic core (either DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat. Viruses are not
alive on their own, but they can come alive and reproduce once they enter a host cell.
❖ Viruses are very diverse and can infect a wide range of hosts, including humans, animals, plants, and
bacteria. They can cause a variety of diseases, from mild to severe. Some common viral diseases include the
common cold, influenza, AIDS, and Ebola.
❖ There are no cures for most viral diseases, but there are treatments that can help to relieve symptoms and
reduce the severity of the disease. Vaccines can be used to prevent some viral diseases by exposing the body
to a weakened or inactivated form of the virus, which allows the body to develop immunity to the viru s.
❖ Wild poliovirus type 2 was eradicated globally in 1999, and Global Commission for the Certification of
Poliomyelitis Eradication (GCC) declared WPV3 to be globally eradicated in 2019
❖ However, wild poliovirus type 1 remains in circulation in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
❖ There is no cure for polio, but it can be prevented through immunization. The polio vaccine is a safe and
effective vaccine that has helped to reduce the number of polio cases worldwide by more than 99%.
The Oral polio vaccine (OPV) and Injectable polio vaccine (IPV) are two different types of vaccines that are
used to protect against polio.
The following table summarizes the key differences between OPV and IPV:
As per the (WHO, since 1980, the cases of wild poliovirus have decreased by over 99.9% as a result of
vaccination efforts made around the world.
Polio in India:
❖ India received polio-free certification by the WHO in 2014, after three years of zero cases.
❖ successful pulse polio campaign in which all children were administered polio drops.
❖ The last case was detected on 13th January 2011.
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome):
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV attacks the body's immune system, making it difficult for the body to
fight off infections.
There are two types of HIV:
❖ HIV-1: This is the most common type of HIV and is found all over the world.(Group M is major)
❖ HIV-2: This type of HIV is less common and is mostly found in West and Central Africa.
HIV weakens the immune system by attacking CD4 + T cells. CD4+ T cells are a type of white blood cell that
plays a key role in the immune response. By destroying CD4+ T cells, HIV weakens the immune system and
makes the body more susceptible to other infections.
There is no cure for HIV, but there are treatments that can suppress the virus and prolong the lives of people
with HIV. These treatments are called antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART is a combination of drugs that work
together to block different stages of the HIV replication cycle.
9
❖ COVID-19 is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets
produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to
severe and can include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, sore throat,
congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.
The Structure of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus:
❖ Spherical Shape: The SARS-CoV-2 virus is spherical
in shape. This means that it is round like a ball.
❖ Size 50-200 nanometer (nm): The SARS-CoV-2 virus
is very small. It has a diameter of 50-200 nanometers.
This means that it is too small to be seen with the
naked eye.
❖ RNA Genetic Material: The SARS-CoV-2 virus has
RNA genetic material. This means that its genetic
material is made up of ribonucleic acid (RNA). RNA is
a molecule that is similar to DNA, but it has a different
structure.
❖ RBD (Receptor binding domain): The SARS-CoV-2
virus has a receptor binding domain (RBD) on its spike
protein. The RBD is the part of the virus that binds to
the ACE-2 receptor on host cells.
❖ ACE-2 on Host Cell: The ACE-2 receptor is a protein that is found on the surface of many human cells.
The ACE-2 receptor is the main way that the SARS-CoV-2 virus enters cells.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture - 10
Health and Diseases
(Part - 2), Vitamins
2
Q. Which of the following diseases can be transmitted from one person to another through tattooing?
(2013)
1. Chikungunya
2. Hepatitis B
3. HIV-AIDS
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Diseases Caused By Virus:
Influenza:
Targets Severity Type
Humans and animals Severe, Extremely harmful, Epidemic Type A (avian flu
virus)
Humans Common, less severe, occasionally very harmful, non-pandemic Type B
Humans Mild, rare, non epidemic Type C
Influenza A has:
subtypes H1, H2, and H3 as swine flu, and
subtypes H5, H7, and H9 as bird flu/avian influenza.
Influenza viruses are classified into subtypes based on two surface
➢ Proteins, Hemagglutinin (HA) and Neuraminidase (NA)
➢ Avian influenza virus subtypes include A (H5N1), A(H7N9), and A(H9N2).
4
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) virus occurs mainly in birds and is highly contagious among
them.
Asian H5N1 is especially deadly for poultry.
India’s Status:
Previously in 2019, India was declared free from Avian Influenza (H5N1), which had also been notified
to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE).
The status will last only till another outbreak is reported.
Outbreak Jan 2021 – H5N8
Two viral diseases successfully eradicated globally:
1980 - Smallpox, a viral disease to humans
2011 - Rinderpest, a viral disease in cattle, buffalo, etc.
Q. Consider the following diseases (2014)
1. Diphtheria
2. Chickenpox
3. Smallpox
Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None
Monkeypox:
Monkeypox is a rare but serious viral illness that can be transmitted from person to person and from
animal to person. The virus is related to smallpox, but it is less severe. Monkeypox can cause a range of
symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches,
backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and
a rash. The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads
to other parts of the body. The rash can look like pimples
or blisters at first, but it eventually turns into pus-filled
sores.
Monkeypox can spread through close contact with an
infected person or animal. This can happen through
contact with respiratory droplets produced when an
infected person coughs or sneezes, contact with skin
lesions, or contact with contaminated objects.
The best way to prevent monkeypox is to get vaccinated.
There is a vaccine available that is safe and effective.
The vaccine is recommended for people who are at high
risk of exposure to monkeypox, such as healthcare workers
and people who live with or care for someone who is infected with monkeypox.
5
Human Papillomavirus:
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus that is the leading cause of cervical cancer.
In India, cervical cancer accounted for 9.4% of all cancers and 18.3% of new cases in 2020. However, cervical
cancer can be eliminated if all prepubertal girls are given HPV vaccination globally.
HPV vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect against HPV infection and cervical cancer. It is
recommended for all girls and boys between the ages of 9 and 14. The vaccine can also be given to older adults
who have not been vaccinated.
In addition to HPV vaccination, there are other things that can be done to reduce the risk of cervical cancer,
such as getting regular Pap tests and screening for HPV. Pap tests and HPV screening can detect early changes
in the cervix that can lead to cancer.
6
Tomato Flu:
It has been reported from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, and Odisha.
It is caused by a virus and shows symptoms similar to those of COVID-19 but is not related to SARS-
COV-2.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine available for the disease.
Langya Henipavirus:
It was reported in China
It is a Zoonotic virus.
It is also detected among domestic goats and dogs.
Symptoms: Fever, fatigue, cough, loss of appetite etc. with health
impacts such as Renal and Liver Failure.
Nipah Virus:
It is a Zoonotic virus
The organism that causes Nipah Virus encephalitis is an RNA or Ribonucleic acid virus of the family
Paramyxoviridae, genus Henipavirus, and is closely related to Hendra virus.
It first broke out in Malaysia and Singapore in 1998 and 1999.
The disease is named after a village in Malaysia, Sungai Nipah, where it was first detected.
It first appeared in domestic pigs and has been found among several species of domestic animals including
dogs, cats, goats, horses and sheep.
Transmission:
It spreads through fruit bats or ‘flying foxes,’ of the genus Pteropus, which are natural reservoir hosts of the
Nipah and Hendra viruses.
The virus is present in bat urine and potentially, bat feces, saliva, and birthing fluids.
Symptoms:
The human infection presents as an encephalitic syndrome marked by fever, headache, drowsiness,
disorientation, mental confusion, coma, and potentially death.
Prevention:
There are no vaccines for both humans and animals.
8
Prevention of Lymphatic Filariasis: The best way to prevent lymphatic filariasis is to avoid being bitten
by mosquitoes. This can be done by:
Using insect repellent
Wearing protective clothing, such as long pants and long-sleeved shirts
Avoiding areas where mosquitoes are known to be present
Government Initiative:
Hathipaon Mukt Bharat:
The Indian government launched the Hathipaon Mukt Bharat
campaign in 2015 to eliminate lymphatic filariasis from the
country. The campaign involves mass drug administration,
which is the distribution of medication to everyone in an area,
regardless of whether they have symptoms of the disease.
2. Kala Azar:
It is also known as Leishmaniasis, Black fever or Dum Dum fever
It is the second biggest parasitic killer in the world after Malaria
It accounts the Half of global cases in India
It spreads through female sand fly.
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3. Malaria:
It is Caused by the parasite Plasmodium.
It Spread by female Anopheles Mosquito
World Malaria Day 2023 theme ‘Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, implement’.
Malaria is a leading cause of human morbidity and mortality.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 11
Biotechnology (Part-1)
2
Biotechnology (Part-1)
Vitamin: It is an organic non-protein substance that is required by an
organism for normal metabolic function but cannot be synthesized in
sufficient quantity by that organism.
Folic acid (B9) Important for the production of red Megaloblastic anemia
blood cells.
Biotin (H) Important for the metabolism of Hair loss, skin problems
carbohydrates and fats.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Important for protecting cells from Vitamin E deficiency is rare.
damage.
Sources:
❖ NCERT Class XII – Biology
➢ Chapter 11 - Biotechnology: Principles and Processes
➢ Chapter 12 - Biotechnology and its Applications
➢ Chapter 6 - Molecular basis of inheritance
❖ Newspapers – The Hindu, Indian express
What is DNA?
❖ DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms.
❖ Nearly every cell in a person’s body has the same DNA.
Structure of DNA:
❖ DNA is a molecule that contains the genetic information needed to build and maintain an organism. It is made
up of two strands of nucleotides, which are twisted into a double helix shape. The nucleotides are the
basic building blocks of DNA, and they each contain a sugar group, a phosphate group, and a
nitrogenous base.
❖ The four types of nitrogenous bases in DNA are adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T).
❖ The two strands of DNA are held together by hydrogen bonds between the nitrogenous bases. Adenine
pairs with thymine, and guanine pairs with cytosine. This pairing of bases is known as complementary
base pairing.
❖ DNA is arranged in a circular structure called a chromosome. Chromosomes are found in the nucleus of
every cell.
❖ The structure of DNA is essential for its function. The genetic information is encoded in the sequence of
the nitrogenous bases in the DNA strands. This sequence is different for every organism, and it determines
the organism's unique characteristics.
Detailed Explanation of the Different Parts:
❖ DNA double-stranded helical structure: This is the overall structure of DNA, which is made up of two
strands of nucleotides twisted into a spiral shape.
❖ Strand: Each of the two strands of DNA is made up of individual nucleotides.
❖ Nucleotide: The basic building block of DNA. Each nucleotide contains a sugar group, a phosphate group,
and a nitrogenous base.
❖ DNA→Antiparallel: This means that the two strands of DNA run in opposite directions, with the 5' end of
one strand facing the 3' end of the other strand.
❖ Sugar: The sugar group in DNA is deoxyribose.
❖ Phosphate: The phosphate group in DNA is what links the nucleotides together to form a strand.
❖ Adenine, Guanine, Cytosine, and Thymine: These are the four types of nitrogenous bases found in DNA.
Adenine pairs with thymine, and guanine pairs with cytosine.
Structure of RNA:
❖ RNA is a single-stranded molecule made up of nucleotides. Nucleotides are the basic building blocks of
RNA, and they each contain a sugar group, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The four types of
nitrogenous bases in RNA are adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and uracil (U).
5
Nitrogenous bases Adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine Adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C),
(C), and thymine (T) and uracil (U)
Q. In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the
news, refers to (2017)
(a) a range of enzymes used in genome editing
(b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
(c) the description of the mechanism of gene expression
(d) a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells
7
Central Dogma:
The central dogma is a theory that describes the flow of genetic information in a cell. It states that genetic
information flows from DNA to RNA to protein, but not in the reverse direction.
The central dogma can be divided into two main steps: transcription and translation.
❖ Transcription: Transcription is the process of copying DNA into RNA. RNA is a molecule that is similar to
DNA, but it is single-stranded and contains the base uracil instead of thymine.
❖ Translation: Translation is the process of converting RNA into proteins. Proteins are the molecules that are
responsible for building and maintaining cells.
The central dogma is essential for life because it ensures that the genetic information in DNA is correctly translated
into proteins. Proteins are essential for all of the life processes that occur in a cell, such as growth, repair, and
reproduction.
Transcription:
❖ Transcription takes place in the nucleus of the cell. The first step in transcription is the binding of a protein
called RNA polymerase to a promoter region on the DNA. The promoter region is a sequence of DNA that
tells the RNA polymerase where to start transcribing.
❖ Once the RNA polymerase is bound to the promoter region, it begins to move down the DNA strand,
transcribing it into RNA. The RNA polymerase adds RNA nucleotides to the new RNA molecule in a
complementary fashion. This means that the adenine (A) bases in the DNA are transcribed into uracil (U) bases
in the RNA, and the guanine (G) bases in the DNA are transcribed into cytosine (C) bases in the RNA.
❖ When the RNA polymerase reaches the end of the gene, it releases the RNA molecule. The RNA molecule
is then processed into a mature mRNA molecule, which is then transported out of the nucleus and into the
cytoplasm of the cell.
❖ Image shows that DNA is located in the nucleus of
the cell, while RNA is found in both the nucleus and
the cytoplasm of the cell. Proteins are found in the
cytoplasm of the cell.
❖ The arrows in the image show the flow of genetic
information from DNA to RNA to protein. The
arrows are one-way arrows, which indicates that the
flow of genetic information is irreversible.
Translation:
❖ Translation takes place in the cytoplasm of the cell. The first step in translation is the binding of the mRNA
molecule to a ribosome. The ribosome is a protein complex that is responsible for translating the mRNA
molecule into a protein.
❖ The ribosome moves down the mRNA molecule, one codon at a time. A codon is a sequence of three RNA
nucleotides that codes for a specific amino acid. The ribosome uses a molecule called tRNA (transfer RNA)
to bring the correct amino acid to the ribosome.
❖ The tRNA molecule has an anticodon, which is a sequence of three RNA nucleotides that is complementary
to a codon on the mRNA molecule. When the anticodon on the tRNA molecule matches the codon on the
mRNA molecule, the amino acid is attached to the growing protein chain.
❖ The ribosome continues to move down the mRNA molecule, translating it into a protein until it reaches a
stop codon. A stop codon is a sequence of three RNA nucleotides that tells the ribosome to stop translating.
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❖ Once the ribosome reaches a stop codon, it releases the protein chain. The protein chain is then folded into its
three-dimensional structure, and it is now ready to perform its function in the cell.
Transcription and translation are essential processes for life. These processes allow cells to convert the genetic
information in DNA into proteins, which are the molecules that are responsible for building and maintaining cells.
What is Biotechnology?
Biotechnology uses living processes, organisms, or systems to manufacture products or technology. Biotechnology
is the use of living organisms or their products to make or modify products or processes for specific use.
Biotechnology has been used for centuries to produce products such as bread, beer, and wine. However, in recent
years, biotechnology has become much more sophisticated and is now used to produce a wide range of products,
including medicines, vaccines, biofuels, and industrial enzymes.
Biotechnology can be divided into four main categories:
❖ Blue biotechnology (marine and aquatic application): This category includes biotechnology applications
that use marine and aquatic organisms and resources. Examples of blue biotechnology products include omega-
3 fatty acids, marine pharmaceuticals, and biofuels from algae.
❖ Green biotechnology (agriculture processes): This category includes biotechnology applications that use
plants and other agricultural organisms. Examples of green biotechnology products include genetically
modified crops, biopesticides, and biofertilizers.
❖ Red biotechnology (medical): This category includes biotechnology applications that use human and animal
cells and tissues. Examples of red biotechnology products include vaccines, therapeutic proteins, and gene
therapy.
❖ White biotechnology (industrial): This category includes biotechnology applications that use industrial
enzymes and microorganisms to produce chemicals, fuels, and other products. Examples of white
biotechnology products include bioplastics, biofuels, and biodetergents.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 12
Biotechnology (Part - 2)
2
Biotechnology (Part - 2)
Recombinant DNA Technology (RDT)
Recombinant DNA technology (RDT) is a process of altering genetic material outside an organism to
obtain enhanced and desired characteristics in living organisms or as their products.
It is a powerful tool that has revolutionized the fields of biology, medicine, and agriculture.
RDT is based on the ability to cut and paste DNA from different organisms. This is done using a variety of
enzymes, including restriction enzymes, polymerases, and ligases.
Restriction Enzymes:
Restriction enzymes are enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences. They are found naturally in bacteria and
archaea, where they protect the bacteria from infection by viruses. Restriction enzymes are used in RDT to cut
DNA into pieces that can be recombined with DNA from other organisms.
Polymerases:
Polymerases are enzymes that synthesize DNA. They are used in RDT to amplify DNA sequences and to
create new DNA sequences.
Ligases:
Ligases are enzymes that join DNA fragments together. They are used in RDT to join DNA fragments from
different organisms together to create recombinant DNA molecules.
Action of Restriction Enzymes:
Restriction enzymes are enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences. They are found naturally in bacteria
and archaea, where they protect the bacteria from infection by viruses. Restriction enzymes work by
recognizing a specific sequence of DNA and then cutting the DNA at that sequence. The sequence of DNA
that a restriction enzyme recognizes is called its recognition sequence. Restriction enzymes typically have a
recognition sequence that is four to eight base pairs long.
Once a restriction enzyme has recognized
its recognition sequence, it cuts the DNA
at that sequence. Restriction enzymes can
cut DNA in a blunt-end fashion or in a
staggered-end fashion. In a blunt-end
fashion, the restriction enzyme cuts the
DNA straight across, leaving blunt ends
on the DNA fragments. In a staggered-
end fashion, the restriction enzyme cuts
the DNA at a slight angle, leaving
staggered ends on the DNA fragments.
Restriction enzymes are essential tools in
recombinant DNA technology. They are
used to cut DNA into pieces that can be
recombined with DNA from other
organisms. Restriction enzymes are also
used to create restriction maps, which are maps of the restriction sites on a piece of DNA.
The image shows a restriction enzyme called EcoRI cutting DNA at its recognition sequence, GAATTC.
EcoRI cuts DNA in a staggered-end fashion.
3
Biotechnology Principle:
The image shows a diagram of the recombinant DNA technology (RDT) process. RDT is a process of altering
genetic material outside an organism to obtain enhanced and desired characteristics in living organisms or
as their products.
It is a powerful tool that has revolutionized the fields of biology, medicine, and agriculture.
The RDT process can be summarized as follows:
1. Isolation of DNA: The first step in RDT is to isolate the DNA of the organism of interest. This can be done
using a variety of methods, such as phenol-chloroform extraction or silica column purification.
2. Restriction digestion: The next step is to cut the DNA into pieces using restriction enzymes. Restriction
enzymes are enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences. The sequence of DNA that a restriction enzyme
recognizes is called its recognition sequence.
3. Gel electrophoresis: Gel electrophoresis is a technique used to separate DNA fragments based on their size.
The restriction-digested DNA is loaded onto an agarose gel and subjected to an electric field. The smaller
DNA fragments will move through the gel faster than the larger DNA fragments.
4. Ligation: Ligation is a process of joining DNA fragments together. Ligases are enzymes that catalyze the
ligation reaction. The restriction-digested DNA fragments are ligated together to form recombinant DNA
molecules.
5. Transformation: Transformation is a process of introducing recombinant DNA into a host organism. The
host organism can be a bacterium, yeast, plant, or animal cell. The recombinant DNA is introduced into the
host organism using a variety of methods, such as electroporation or chemical transformation.
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6. Selection: Once the recombinant DNA has been introduced into the host organism, the host organism is
selected for the desired trait. This can be done using a variety of methods, such as antibiotic resistance or color
selection.
7. Expression: The recombinant DNA is expressed in the host organism to produce the desired product. This
can be a protein, vaccine, or other product.
The RDT process is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide variety of products. It is used to produce
therapeutic proteins, vaccines, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and other products.
Transformation Methods:
Microinjection:
Microinjection is a technique used to introduce DNA directly into the nucleus of a cell. It is done using
a very thin needle, which is inserted into the nucleus and used to inject the DNA.
Microinjection is often used to
transform plant and animal cells.
It is also used to create transgenic
animals, which are animals that have
had their genetic material altered to
include DNA from another
organism.
Gene Gun:
A gene gun, also known as a biolistic
particle delivery system, is a device
used to introduce DNA into cells by
shooting tiny metal particles coated
with DNA into the cells. Gene guns are relatively easy to use and can be used to transform a wide variety
of cells, including plant cells, animal cells, and bacteria.
Gene guns are often used to transform plants and to create transgenic animals. They are also used to
deliver vaccines and other drugs to cells.
Heat Shock Therapy:
Heat shock therapy is a technique used to introduce
DNA into cells by briefly exposing them to a high
temperature. Heat shock therapy causes the cells to take
up DNA from the surrounding environment.
Heat shock therapy is a relatively simple and inexpensive
technique, but it is not as efficient as microinjection or
gene gun transformation.
Heat shock therapy is often used to transform bacteria
and yeast cells. It is also used to transform plant cells,
but it is less efficient than gene gun transformation.
Biotechnology In India:
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) was set up in 1986 (Ministry of Science and Technology).
DBT has also set up a BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) agency to strengthen
strategic research and innovation.
5
India is among the top 12 destinations for biotechnology in the world, with approximately 3% share in the
global Biotechnology industry.
The sector is divided into five major:
Biopharma: This segment includes the development and production of vaccines, drugs, and other
biological products.
Bio-services: This segment includes research and development (R&D) services, contract research
organizations (CROs), and other services that support the biotechnology industry.
Bio-agri: This segment includes the development of genetically modified (GM) crops, biofortification,
and other agricultural biotechnology applications.
Bio-industrial: This segment includes the use of microbes in industrial processes, such as paper and pulp
production, textiles, and biofuels.
Bioinformatics: This segment includes the development and application of computational tools and
algorithms to analyze biological data.
How Can Biotechnology Be Used To Address Various Issues In India?
1. Food Security:
Developing crops that are resistant to pests and diseases: This can help to reduce crop losses and
improve yields. For example, Bt cotton is a genetically modified cotton plant that is resistant to a common
pest called the bollworm. This has helped to increase cotton yields and reduce the use of pesticides.
Developing crops that are tolerant to drought and other abiotic stresses: This can help to ensure that
crops can continue to grow even in harsh environments. For example, scientists are developing drought-
tolerant rice varieties that can grow in areas with limited rainfall.
Improving the nutritional value of crops: This can help to reduce malnutrition and improve public
health. For example, golden rice is a genetically modified rice variety that contains beta-carotene, a
precursor to vitamin A. This can help to prevent vitamin A deficiency, which is a major problem in
developing countries.
Biotechnology is also being used to develop new food processing methods and to produce new food
products. For example, enzymes are being used to improve the quality and shelf life of food products.
And microbes are being used to produce biofuels and other industrial products from food waste.
2. Adapting To Climate Change:
Produce crops that are resistant to the effects of climate change: Climate change is already having a
significant impact on agriculture, and is expected to have an even greater impact in the future. By
producing crops that are resistant to drought, heat, pests, and diseases, we can help to ensure that there is
enough food to feed the world's growing population in the face of climate change.
Decrease carbon-based fertilizers: Carbon-based fertilizers contribute to greenhouse gas emissions,
which are the main cause of climate change. By decreasing our use of carbon-based fertilizers, we can
help to mitigate climate change.
3. Tackling Diseases:
To find solutions to threats the like Zika virus and rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria: New and emerging
diseases, such as Zika virus, and the rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria, pose a major threat to global
health. By developing new vaccines and treatments, and by finding ways to reduce the spread of antibiotic
resistance, we can help to protect people from these diseases.
6
4. Bioenergy:
Bioenergy is a renewable energy source because it can be produced from organic matter that is constantly
being replenished. Bioenergy is also a relatively clean energy source, as it produces fewer emissions than
fossil fuels.
Bioenergy has a number of advantages over other energy sources. It is a renewable energy source, which
means that it can be produced without depleting natural resources. Bioenergy is also a clean energy
source, as it produces fewer emissions than fossil fuels. Additionally, bioenergy can be produced from a
variety of sources, such as plants, animals, and waste products. This makes it a versatile energy source
that can be used in a variety of applications.
Different ways that bioenergy can be produced, including:
Biogas: Biogas is a methane-rich gas that is produced by the anaerobic digestion of organic matter.
It can be used to generate electricity, heat homes and businesses, and power vehicles.
Bioethanol: Bioethanol is an alcohol fuel that is produced from the fermentation of sugars. It can
be blended with gasoline to produce a cleaner-burning fuel.
Biodiesel: Biodiesel is a diesel fuel substitute that is produced from vegetable oils and animal fats.
It can be used to power vehicles and generators.
Solid biofuels: Solid biofuels, such as wood pellets and briquettes, can be used to generate
electricity and heat homes and businesses.
5. Advancement In Drugs:
Cost advantage in the manufacture of drugs: Biotechnology can be used to produce drugs more
efficiently and at a lower cost than traditional methods. For example, biotechnology can be used to
produce large quantities of proteins that are used in many drugs. This can help to make drugs more
affordable for patients.
6. Animal Biotechnology:
Improve the productivity of livestock: Biotechnology can be used to improve the productivity of
livestock in a number of ways. For example, biotechnology can be used to develop livestock that are
more resistant to diseases, that produce more meat or milk, or that have a faster growth rate. This can
help to reduce the cost of food production and make food more accessible to people around the world.
Development of affordable new generation vaccines and diagnostics against animal diseases:
Biotechnology can be used to develop new and more affordable vaccines and diagnostics for animal
diseases. This can help to reduce the spread of animal diseases and improve the health of livestock.
7
7. Bioremediation:
It is a waste management technique in which microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, fungi), plants (termed
phytoremediation), or biological enzymes are used to consume and break down environmental pollutants.
Example: oil zappers.
DMH-11 mustard has been shown to yield 28% more than the national check and 37% more than
the zonal checks. This could significantly increase mustard production in India and help to reduce the
country's reliance on imported mustard oil.
The process used to develop DMH-11 mustard:
The Indian mustard variety 'Varuna', which had been modified to express the Barnase gene, was
crossed with the East European 'Early Heera-2' mutant, which had been modified to express the
Barnase Inhibitor gene.
The offspring of this cross were screened to identify plants that expressed both the Barnase and
Barnase Inhibitor genes.
These plants were then crossed to produce DMH-11 mustard.
The Science Behind The Flavr Savr Tomato:
Tomatoes ripen and soften due to the production of an enzyme called polygalacturonase (PG). PG breaks
down the cell walls of the tomato fruit, which makes the tomato softer and more susceptible to spoilage.
The Flavr Savr tomato was engineered to contain a gene from a fish that encodes an antisense RNA molecule.
Antisense RNA molecules are complementary to specific messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules. When an
antisense RNA molecule binds to its complementary mRNA molecule, it prevents the mRNA molecule from
being translated into protein.
In the Flavr Savr tomato, the antisense RNA molecule binds to the mRNA molecule that encodes PG. This
prevents PG from being produced, which slows down the ripening process and extends the shelf life of the
tomato.
10
In 2002, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) approved the commercial release of Bt
cotton in India. Since then, Bt cotton has become the dominant cotton crop in India, with over 95% of the
country's cotton area under Bt cotton cultivation.
India is the fourth largest producer of genetically modified (GM) crops in the world, after the United States,
Brazil, and Argentina. The majority of GM crops grown in India are Bt cotton and herbicide-tolerant cotton.
The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the apex body constituted in the Ministry of
Environment and Forests under ‘Rules for Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous
Microorganisms/Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells, under the Environment Protection Act,
1986.
Issues Involved:
1. Threat to biodiversity:
Cross-pollination in GM crops can lead to the development of herbicide-resistant superweeds. This is
because the genes that confer herbicide resistance in GM crops can be transferred to wild plants through
cross-pollination.
The development of herbicide-resistant superweeds can be a major problem for farmers, as it can make
it more difficult and expensive to control weeds.
Herbicide-resistant superweeds can also have a negative impact on biodiversity, as they can outcompete
other plants for resources.
2. Nutrition issues:
Bt brinjal is a GM brinjal that has been engineered to produce a protein that is toxic to the fruit and shoot
borer, a major pest of brinjal.
There have been concerns that the Bt protein in Bt brinjal may pose a risk to human health, as it is similar
to a protein that is used in some antibiotics.
Some people worry that exposure to the Bt protein from Bt brinjal could make people resistant to these
antibiotics.
There is also a concern that the Bt protein in Bt brinjal could form new toxins and allergens.
3. Implications for consumers and farmers:
Patent laws give companies that develop GM crops the exclusive right to sell those crops. This can lead
to increased dominance of food production and supply by a few companies.
Some people worry that this increased dominance by a few companies could lead to higher prices for
consumers and less choice.
Benefits of GM Crops:
1. Cost-beneficial: GM crops can be more cost-effective than traditional crops for farmers, as they can reduce
the need for pesticides and herbicides, and can increase crop yields.
2. Better tolerance: GM crops can be engineered to be more tolerant of harsh climatic conditions such as cold,
heat, drought, and salinity. This can help to improve crop yields in areas that are affected by these conditions.
3. Improved crop protection: GM crops can be engineered to be resistant to pests and diseases. This can help
to reduce crop losses and improve crop yields.
4. Increased tolerance towards herbicides: GM crops can be engineered to be tolerant of herbicides. This
allows farmers to use herbicides to control weeds without harming the crop.
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5. Increased food security for growing population: GM crops can help to increase food production and
improve food security for the growing global population.
6. Improved agricultural performance (yields): GM crops can produce higher yields than traditional crops.
This can help to reduce food prices and improve food security.
7. Less labor input and less cost input: GM crops can help to reduce labor and cost inputs for farmers, as they
can reduce the need for pesticides and herbicides, and can increase crop yields.
8. Reduced waste and lower food costs to the consumer: GM crops can help to reduce food waste and lower
food costs to the consumer, as they can produce higher yields and can be stored for longer periods of time.
9. Reduced usage of pesticides and herbicides: GM crops can help to reduce the use of pesticides and
herbicides, as they can be engineered to be resistant to pests and diseases. This can have environmental
benefits, such as reducing water pollution and protecting biodiversity.
Policy Framework For GM Crops:
1. Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex):
It is a joint FAO/WHO intergovernmental body that develops international food standards, guidelines
and codes of practice to protect consumer health and ensure fair practices in the food trade.
In 2003, Codex developed principles for the human health risk analysis of GM foods. These principles
provide a framework for assessing the safety of GM foods and for developing regulations for their
production and trade.
2. Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)
The GEAC is the apex body in India responsible for approving the commercialization of GM crops.
The GEAC has a rigorous process for evaluating GM crops before they are approved for commercial
release. This process includes scientific assessments of the potential risks and benefits of the GM crops.
3. GM food imports require approvals under two laws, Environment Protection Act of 1986 and the Food
Safety and Standards Act of 2006.
The Environment Protection Act of 1986 is the primary legislation that governs the environmental
safety of GM crops and other genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in India.
Under the Environment Protection Act of 1986, the GEAC is required to approve the import of
GM food products.
The Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 is the primary legislation that governs the safety of food
in India.
Under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
(FSSAI) is responsible for regulating the import and sale of GM food products.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science and Technology
Lecture - 13
Biotechnology (Part -3)
2
❖ Iron-biofortification of rice, beans, sweet potato, cassava, and legumes: Iron deficiency is a common
micronutrient deficiency that can lead to anemia, fatigue, and impaired cognitive development. Iron-
biofortified crops have been developed to contain higher levels of iron, which can help to improve iron intake
and reduce the risk of iron deficiency.
❖ Zinc-biofortification of wheat, rice, beans, sweet potato, and maize: Zinc deficiency is another common
micronutrient deficiency that can lead to stunting, impaired immune function, and increased risk of infection.
Zinc-biofortified crops have been developed to contain higher levels of zinc, which can help to improve zinc
intake and reduce the risk of zinc deficiency.
❖ Provitamin A carotenoid-biofortification of sweet potato, maize, and cassava: Vitamin A deficiency is a
major cause of blindness and childhood mortality. Provitamin A carotenoid-biofortified crops have been
developed to contain higher levels of provitamin A carotenoids, which can be converted to vitamin A in the
body. This can help to improve vitamin A intake and reduce the risk of vitamin A deficiency.
❖ Amino acid and protein-biofortification of sorghum and cassava: Sorghum and cassava are staple crops
that are consumed by millions of people in developing countries. However, they are relatively low in protein
and some essential amino acids. Amino acid and protein-biofortified sorghum and cassava have been
developed to contain higher levels of protein and essential amino acids. This can help to improve the nutritional
quality of these staple crops and improve the health of people who consume them.
❖ Golden rice with Vitamin A: Golden rice is a genetically engineered rice variety that has been modified to
produce beta-carotene, a provitamin A carotenoid. Golden rice has the potential to help reduce vitamin A
deficiency in developing countries. However, golden rice has been controversial, and it is not yet commercially
available.
Methods of Biofortification:
Biofortification is the process of breeding crops to increase their nutritional value. This can be done through
conventional breeding methods, such as crossing different varieties of crops, or through genetic engineering.
1. Identify the target nutrient: The first step is to identify the nutrient that you want to increase in the crop.
This could be a vitamin, mineral, or amino acid.
2. Find a donor source: Once you have identified the target nutrient, you need to find a donor source of the
nutrient. This could be another plant variety, a microorganism, or even an animal.
4
3. Transfer the gene: The next step is to transfer the gene for the target nutrient from the donor source to the
crop. This can be done through conventional breeding methods or through genetic engineering.
4. Select and breed the biofortified crop: Once the gene for the target nutrient has been transferred to the crop,
you need to select and breed the biofortified crop. This involves selecting plants that have the highest levels of
the target nutrient and crossing them to produce offspring with even higher levels of the nutrient.
5. Test and evaluate the biofortified crop: Once you have selected and bred the biofortified crop, you need to
test and evaluate it to make sure that it is safe and nutritious. This involves testing the crop for its nutritional
content, its ability to grow in different environments, and its resistance to pests and diseases.
6. Release the biofortified crop to farmers: Once the biofortified crop has been tested and evaluated, it can be
released to farmers to grow and distribute.
Importance of Biofortification:
❖ Improving the overall health of humans: Biofortified crops are bred to have higher levels of vitamins,
minerals, and other essential nutrients. This can help to improve the overall health of humans, especially those
who are at risk of micronutrient deficiencies.
❖ Often more resilient to pests, diseases, higher temperatures, and drought: Biofortified crops are often
more resilient to pests, diseases, higher temperatures, and drought. This makes them a more reliable source of
food in times of climate change and other environmental stresses.
❖ Provide a high yield: Biofortified crops can provide high yields, which means that they can produce more
food on less land. This is important for meeting the food needs of a growing global population.
❖ It provides a food-based, sustainable, and low-dose alternative to supplementation: Biofortified crops
provide a food-based, sustainable, and low-dose alternative to supplementation. This means that people can
get the nutrients they need from the food they eat, rather than from expensive and often inaccessible
supplements.
❖ It does not require behavior change: Biofortified crops
do not require behavior change. People can eat
biofortified crops without having to change their eating
habits. This makes them a more sustainable and culturally
acceptable way to address micronutrient deficiencies.
❖ Can reach the poorest sections of society: Biofortified
crops can reach the poorest sections of society.
Biofortified crops can be grown and consumed by people
of all income levels. This is important for addressing
micronutrient deficiencies in developing countries.
❖ Supports local farmers: Biofortified crops support local
farmers. Farmers can grow and sell biofortified crops, which can help to improve their livelihoods.
❖ It is highly cost-effective and sustainable: Biofortified crops are highly cost-effective and sustainable.
Biofortified crops can be grown using traditional farming methods, and they do not require expensive inputs.
This makes them a sustainable and affordable way to improve public health.
5
Note: Not identical: Despite having the same genetic material clones do not always look identical as the
environment also plays a role in deciding the physical feature of an organism.
7
Transgenic Animal:
❖ Animals that have had their DNA manipulated to possess and express an extra (foreign) gene are known as
transgenic animals.
❖ Transgenic rats, rabbits, pigs, sheep, cows and fish have been produced
❖ Although over 95% of all existing transgenic animals are mice, they have numerous utilities. Here are a few
examples:
➢ Mice are used in research because their genome is very similar to the human genome. This means that
findings from research on mice can often be translated to humans.
➢ Mice are relatively small and easy to handle. This makes them convenient and cost-effective research
animals.
Applications Of Transgenic Animals:
❖ Study of normal physiology and body functioning: Transgenic animals can be used to study how genes
work and how they contribute to normal physiology and body functioning. For example, transgenic mice with
the human apolipoprotein E gene are used to study the development of Alzheimer's disease.
❖ Study of diseases: Transgenic animals can also be used to study diseases and develop new treatments. For
example, transgenic mice with the Huntington's disease gene are used to study the disease process and develop
new drugs.
❖ Production of human milk: Transgenic goats have been engineered to produce human milk. This could
provide a valuable source of milk for babies who are allergic to cow's milk or who do not have access to breast
milk.
❖ Production of therapeutic proteins: Transgenic animals can be used to produce therapeutic proteins that can
be used to treat diseases. For example, transgenic rabbits have been engineered to produce human factor IX, a
protein that is used to treat hemophilia B.
❖ Production of vaccines: Transgenic animals can be used to produce vaccines. For example, transgenic
chickens have been engineered to produce vaccines against avian influenza (bird flu).
❖ Xenotransplantation: Transgenic animals could potentially be used as donors for xenotransplantation, which
is the transplantation of organs and tissues from one species to another. For example, transgenic pigs have
been engineered to have organs that are more compatible with the human immune system, making them
potential donors for xenotransplantation.
Genetic Manipulation Techniques:
Genetic manipulation techniques are used to change the genetic makeup of an organism. This can be done for a
variety of purposes, such as improving crops or livestock, developing new medical treatments, or creating new
scientific knowledge.
(1) Gene editing:
The manipulation of the genetic material of a living organism by deleting, replacing, or inserting a DNA sequence,
typically with the aim of improving a crop or farmed animal or correcting a genetic disorder. Gene editing is a type
of genetic manipulation that allows scientists to make precise changes to DNA. This can be done using a variety of
techniques, but one of the most common is CRISPR-Cas9.
8
❖ CRISPR-Cas9:
➢ CRISPR-Cas9 is a system that bacteria use to defend themselves against viruses. Scientists have adapted
this system to allow them to make precise cuts in DNA. To do this, they use a guide RNA molecule to
direct the Cas9 enzyme to the desired location in the genome. The Cas9 enzyme then cuts the DNA at
that location.
Applications of gene editing:
➢ Improving crops and livestock: Gene editing can be used to develop crops and livestock with improved
traits, such as resistance to pests and diseases or increased nutritional value.
➢ Developing new medical treatments: Gene editing can be used to develop new treatments for genetic
diseases and other conditions.
➢ Creating new scientific knowledge: Gene editing can be used to study gene function and to develop new
models of human disease.
3. Ribozyme Technology:
➢ RNA molecules with catalytic ability are known as
ribozymes.
➢ Some ribozymes act by cleaving other
➢ Thus ribozymes may be engineered to recognize and
destroy any target messenger RNA molecule.
➢ Ribozymes are RNA molecules that have catalytic
activity, meaning they can speed up chemical
reactions. Some ribozymes can cleave other RNA
molecules. This means that ribozymes can be
engineered to recognize and destroy any target
messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule.
➢ mRNA molecules are the instructions for making
proteins. By destroying specific mRNA molecules,
ribozymes can be used to control protein production.
This has the potential to be used to develop new
treatments for diseases. For example, ribozymes could be used to target and destroy mRNA molecules
that are involved in cancer cell growth or viral replication.
Xenotransplantation:
Animal organs to human patients (Xenotransplantation):
❖
❖ Xenotransplantation involves the transplantation of nonhuman
tissues or organs into human recipients.
❖ The first successful transplant of a pig's heart into a human
being.
The challenges that need to be addressed :
❖ Rejection: The risk of rejection is a major challenge for all
organ transplants, including pig-to-human transplants.
Researchers are developing new ways to reduce the risk of
rejection, but more research is needed.
❖ Infection: Pig organs can carry viruses that could infect
humans. Researchers are developing new ways to prevent infection, but more research is needed.
❖ Long-term effects: The long-term effects of pig-to-human transplants are unknown. Researchers need to
follow patients who have received pig heart transplants for many years to learn about the long-term risks and
benefits.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture - 14
Biotechnology(part - 4)
Vaccines and Antibodies
2
2. Using parts of the virus or bacterium that trigger the immune system
This approach is becoming more common, as it allows scientists to develop vaccines that are more
targeted and less likely to cause side effects.
In this approach, scientists identify the parts of the virus or bacterium that are most important for
triggering an immune response. These parts of the virus or bacterium are then produced and used to make
the vaccine.
Examples of vaccines that are made using this approach include:
Whooping cough
Tetanus
Diphtheria
3. Using just the genetic material of the virus or bacterium
This is the newest and most advanced approach to vaccine development. In this approach, scientists use
the genetic material of the virus or bacterium to create a vaccine.
This is done by inserting the genetic material into a harmless virus or bacterium. When this harmless
virus or bacterium is injected into the body, it triggers an immune response to the virus or bacterium that
is being targeted.
Examples of vaccines that are made using this approach include:
mRNA vaccines for COVID-19
DNA vaccines for COVID-19
Other approaches to making a vaccine:
Toxoid Vaccine:
A toxoid vaccine is made by inactivating the toxin that causes disease symptoms. The toxin is a poisonous
substance produced by bacteria or viruses. When the toxin is inactivated, it is no longer able to cause disease,
but it can still trigger an immune response.
Toxoid vaccines are very effective at preventing diseases caused by toxins.
Examples of toxoid vaccines include:
Diphtheria vaccine
Tetanus vaccine
Pertussis vaccine (the "T" in DTaP and Tdap)
Conjugate Vaccine:
A conjugate vaccine is made using a combination of two different components: Polysaccharide and a
Protein carrier.
A polysaccharide is a type of sugar molecule that is found on the surface of many bacteria. A protein carrier
is a protein that is very good at triggering an immune response.
Polysaccharides on their own are not very good at triggering an immune response in young children. However,
when they are conjugated to a protein carrier, they become much more immunogenic.
Conjugate vaccines are very effective at preventing diseases caused by bacteria that have polysaccharides on
their surface.
Examples of conjugate vaccines include:
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13)
Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY)
5
When a helper T cell is activated by a dendritic cell presenting a vaccine antigen, it releases cytokines.
Cytokines are signaling molecules that help to regulate the immune response. The cytokines released by helper
T cells activate B cells and promote their differentiation into antibody-producing plasma cells and memory B
cells.
Plasma cells produce and secrete antibodies, which are proteins that bind to specific antigens. Antibodies can
neutralize antigens, preventing them from infecting cells. Memory B cells remain in the body after the primary
immune response has subsided. They can quickly produce antibodies if the body is exposed to the same antigen
again.
The primary immune response to a vaccine typically takes several weeks to develop. During this time, the
body is not fully protected from the infection that the vaccine is designed to prevent. However, the primary
immune response primes the immune system to respond more quickly and more strongly to the infection if the
body is exposed to it again in the future.
Secondary immune response
The secondary immune response to a vaccine is the body's second response to the vaccine antigens. It is
initiated by memory B cells. When a memory B cell encounters a vaccine antigen, it quickly divides and
produces antibodies against the antigen.
The secondary immune response is much faster and stronger than the primary immune response. This is
because the memory B cells are already programmed to produce antibodies against the vaccine antigens. The
secondary immune response typically develops within a few days of exposure to the vaccine antigens.
Importance of primary and secondary immune responses to vaccines
The primary and secondary immune responses to vaccines are essential for protecting the body from infectious
diseases. Vaccines work by triggering a primary immune response to the vaccine antigens. This helps to
prepare the body to fight off the infection if it is exposed to the antigen again in the future.
The secondary immune response is responsible for the long-lasting immunity that is provided by vaccines.
When the body is exposed to the vaccine antigens again, the memory B cells quickly produce antibodies
against the antigen, preventing the infection from developing.
Booster shots
Booster shots are given to maintain the body's immunity to a particular infection. Booster shots are typically
given several years after the primary vaccination series. They are important because the levels of antibodies
in the blood can decline over time. Booster shots help to ensure that the body has a high enough level of
antibodies to protect against infection.
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Antibody:
An antibody, also known as an immunoglobulins (Ig).
It is Y-shaped protein
It helps to identify and neutralize foreign objects such as pathogenic bacteria and viruses (Antigens).
Antibodies are Y-shaped proteins that are produced by B cells in response to infection. They bind to specific
antigens (foreign invaders) and help to neutralize them.
IgA: IgA is the most common type of antibody in the body. It is found in the blood, saliva, tears, and breast
milk. IgA protects the body from infection by preventing pathogens from attaching to the surfaces of cells.
IgD: IgD is found on the surface of B cells, which are a type of white blood cell. IgD helps to activate B cells
when they encounter a pathogen.
IgE: IgE is involved in allergic reactions. It binds to mast cells and basophils, which are types of white blood
cells that release histamine and other chemicals during an allergic reaction. Histamine and other chemicals
cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and hives.
IgG: IgG is the most abundant type of antibody in the blood. It is responsible for long-term immunity to
infection. IgG antibodies can cross the placenta, which means that they can protect a baby from infection
before and after birth.
IgM: IgM is the first type of antibody that the body produces in response to infection. IgM antibodies are very
effective at neutralizing pathogens, but they are not very good at activating other immune cells.
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The image shows how plasma convalescent therapy works to treat COVID-19. The image shows a COVID-19
patient who is receiving a transfusion of plasma from a donor who has recovered from COVID-19. The plasma
contains antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. The antibodies bind to the virus and
neutralize it, preventing it from infecting cells.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science and Technology
Lecture - 15
Biotechnology (Part-05)
2
Biotechnology (Part-05)
Biopharmaceuticals:
❖ Biopharmaceuticals are medical drugs produced using biotechnology, which means they are made from
living cells or organisms. They do not contain any synthetic materials or chemicals.
❖ Biopharmaceuticals can be made from a variety of substances, including proteins (such as antibodies),
nucleic acids (such as DNA and RNA), and cells. They are used to treat a wide range of diseases, including
cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases.
❖ Biopharmaceuticals are often more targeted and effective than traditional drugs, but they can also be more
expensive and difficult to produce.
Genetically Engineered Hormones:
Human insulin production by genetic engineering:
Genetic engineering is a technique used to insert a gene from one organism into another. In this case, the human
insulin gene is inserted into a bacterium, such as E. coli. The bacteria are then grown in a large fermentation tank,
where they produce human insulin.
The diagram shows the following steps involved in human insulin production by genetic engineering:
1. Extraction of human insulin gene: The human insulin gene is extracted from pancreas cells.
2. Insertion of human insulin gene into a plasmid vector: A plasmid vector is a small piece of circular DNA
that can be used to carry genes into other organisms. The human insulin gene is inserted into the plasmid vector
using restriction enzymes.
3. Transformation of E. coli
with the recombinant
plasmid vector: The
recombinant plasmid
vector is then introduced
into E. coli cells. This
process is called
transformation.
4. Growth of E. coli cells in
a fermentation tank: The
transformed E. coli cells
are grown in a large
fermentation tank, where
they produce human
insulin.
5. Purification of human insulin: The human insulin is then purified from the E. coli cells.
The purified human insulin is then ready to be used as a medication for people with diabetes.
3
Recombinant Vaccines:
❖ Recombinant vaccines are vaccines that are produced using recombinant DNA technology. This technology
allows scientists to combine DNA from different organisms to create new DNA molecules. Recombinant
vaccines are often safer and more effective than traditional vaccines.
❖ Recombinant vaccines are often more effective and safer than traditional vaccines because they are more
specific to the target pathogen and are produced in a more controlled environment. Recombinant vaccines also
do not contain live virus or bacteria, which reduces the risk of side effects.
Examples of Recombinant Vaccines
❖ Hepatitis B vaccine
❖ Covishield vaccine (COVID-19 vaccine)
❖ HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine
Recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine:
Hybridoma technology is a technique used to produce monoclonal antibodies, which are antibodies that are all
identical and bind to the same specific antigen. Monoclonal antibodies are used in a variety of research and
therapeutic applications, including cancer diagnosis and treatment, autoimmune disease treatment, and infectious
disease prevention and treatment.
To produce monoclonal antibodies using hybridoma technology, the following steps are involved:
1. A mouse is immunized with the target antigen. This stimulates the mouse's immune system to produce
antibodies against the antigen.
2. The mouse's spleen is removed and the B cells are extracted. B cells are the type of white blood cell that
produce antibodies.
3. The B cells are fused with myeloma cells, which are cancer cells that can produce monoclonal antibodies. This
fusion creates hybridoma cells.
4. The hybridoma cells are cultured and screened for the production of antibodies against the target antigen.
5. The hybridoma cells that produce the desired antibodies are cloned and cultured to produce large quantities of
monoclonal antibodies.
Advantages of hybridoma technology for monoclonal antibody production:
❖ Hybridoma serves as an immortal source of monoclonal antibodies. This means that hybridomas can be
cultured indefinitely to produce monoclonal antibodies, which is not possible with other methods of antibody
production.
❖ Same quality of the antibody is maintained amongst the different production batches. This is because
hybridomas are clones of a single parent cell, which means that all of the hybridomas produce identical
antibodies.
❖ Highly reproducible and scalable unlimited production source. Hybridoma technology is a highly
reproducible and scalable process, which means that large quantities of monoclonal antibodies can be produced
consistently and efficiently.
❖ Can produce antibodies when needed. Hybridoma technology allows for the production of monoclonal
antibodies on demand, which is important for research and therapeutic applications.
❖ No need to worry about maintaining the animals. Hybridoma technology does not require the use of live
animals, which eliminates the need to worry about animal welfare and housing.
❖ Antigen or immunogen need not be pure. Hybridoma technology can be used to produce monoclonal
antibodies against a wide range of antigens, including those that are impure.
Disadvantages of using monoclonal antibodies:
❖ Cost: Monoclonal antibodies can be very expensive to produce, due to the time and effort required to develop
and maintain hybridoma cultures.
❖ Antigen recognition: Monoclonal antibodies may not be able to recognize small peptide and fragment
antigens, or the original antigen if it is modified or presented in a different way.
❖ Contamination: Hybridoma cultures are susceptible to contamination, which can ruin the production batch.
❖ Limited animal species: Hybridoma technology has only been well developed for mice and rats, not for other
animals.
7
❖ Low yield: More than 99% of the cells do not survive during the fusion process, which reduces the range of
useful antibodies that can be produced.
Gene Therapy:
Gene therapy is a technique that modifies a person's genes to treat or cure disease. It works by replacing a disease-
causing gene with a healthy copy of the gene, inactivating a defective gene, or introducing a new or modified gene
into the body.
There are three main types of gene therapy:
❖ Replacing a disease-causing gene with a
healthy copy of the gene: This approach
is used to treat diseases caused by
mutations in a single gene. For example,
cystic fibrosis is caused by a mutation in
the CFTR gene. Gene therapy can be used
to replace the mutated CFTR gene with a
healthy copy of the gene, which can
correct the defect and improve the patient's
symptoms.
❖ Inactivating a disease-causing gene that is not functioning properly: This approach is used to treat diseases
caused by over-expression of a gene. For example, some types of cancer are caused by over-expression of
genes that promote cell growth. Gene therapy can be used to inactivate these genes, which can slow or stop
the growth of the cancer.
❖ Introducing a new or modified gene into the body to help treat a disease: This approach is used to treat
diseases that are not caused by a single gene mutation or over-expression. For example, gene therapy can be
used to introduce genes that encode therapeutic proteins into the body. These proteins can then help to treat
the disease.
There are two main types of gene therapy:
❖ Somatic gene therapy: Somatic gene therapy
involves modifying genes in cells other than
gametes (eggs and sperm). Any changes made
to the genes in somatic cells will not be passed
on to the next generation.
❖ Germline gene therapy: Germline gene
therapy involves modifying genes in gametes.
Any changes made to the genes in gametes will
be passed on to the next generation.
8
Advantages Disadvantages
Regulations in India:
❖ In March 2019, the Union Health Ministry had notified the 'New Drugs and Clinical Trial Rules, 2019')
which state that stem-cell- derived products are to be used as "new drugs".
❖ This means that any doctor who uses stem-cell therapy needs to take permission from the government.
❖ In India as well as globally, only blood stem cells from
bone marrow to treat blood cancers and different blood
disorders are permitted.
❖ The clinical use in any other disease or use of any stem
cells other than these is still in the research stage.
Pharmacogenomics:
❖ Pharmacogenomics is the study of how genes affect a
person's response to drugs. It is a combination of two
different streams: pharmacology (the science of drugs)
and genomics (the study of genes and their functions).
A drug receptor is a protein molecule that is located on the
surface of a cell. It is responsible for the binding of drugs to
the cell, which causes them to release the drug into the cell.
HER2 Receptor:
The HER2 receptor, also known as ERBB2,
is a protein that is located on the surface of
many types of cells, including breast cancer
cells. The HER2 receptor is a member of the
epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)
family of proteins. EGFR family proteins are
involved in cell growth and division.
When the HER2 receptor is activated, it sends
signals to the cell that tell it to grow and divide. This is a normal process that occurs in all cells. However, in some
cases, the HER2 receptor can be overexpressed or mutated, which can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer.
The receptor has three parts:
❖ Extracellular domain: The extracellular domain is the part of the receptor that is exposed to the outside of
the cell. It binds to HER2 ligands, which are proteins that activate the receptor.
❖ Transmembrane domain: The transmembrane domain is the part of the receptor that spans the cell
membrane. It anchors the receptor to the cell membrane and allows it to transmit signals from the outside of
the cell to the inside of the cell.
❖ Intracellular domain: The intracellular domain is the part of the receptor that is located on the inside of the
cell. It contains tyrosine kinase activity, which means that it can phosphorylate other proteins and initiate
signaling pathways that lead to cell growth and division.
11
The HER2 receptor is a target for cancer treatment. Drugs that target the HER2 receptor can be used to block the
receptor's activity and prevent cell growth and division. HER2-targeted therapies are used to treat breast cancer,
gastric cancer, and other types of cancer.
In the future, pharmacogenomics will be used to develop tailored drugs to treat a wide range of health problems,
including cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer disease, cancer, and asthma.
Slide
The RT-PCR Process:
Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is a technique used to amplify and detect RNA targets.
RT-PCR is commonly used to detect and quantify the expression of specific genes, or to detect the presence of
RNA viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
Detailed explanation:
❖ Step 1: Reverse transcription: The RNA template is combined with reverse transcriptase, primers, and other
components in a reaction tube. The reaction tube is then heated to a temperature that is optimal for reverse
transcription. Reverse transcriptase converts the RNA template into cDNA.
❖ Step 2: PCR amplification: The cDNA is combined with primers, Taq polymerase, DNTPs, MgCl2, and
buffer in a reaction tube. The reaction tube is then placed in a PCR machine. The PCR machine cycles through
a series of steps, including heating, annealing, and extension. During the heating step, the double-stranded
DNA is denatured into single-stranded DNA. During the annealing step, the primers bind to the single-stranded
DNA. During the extension step, Taq polymerase synthesizes a new strand of DNA complementary to the
template strand. The PCR cycle is repeated many times, resulting in the amplification of the cDNA.
❖ Step 3: Detection: The amplified cDNA is detected using a variety of methods, such as gel electrophoresis,
fluorescence detection, or real-time PCR.
12
Q. With reference to 'stem cells', frequently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
(2012)
1. Stem cells can be derived from mammals only.
2. Stem cells can be used for screening new drugs.
3. Stem cells can be used for medical therapies.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
mRNA Vaccines:
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines represent a
revolutionary approach to vaccination. They work
by delivering a critical piece of genetic
information directly to our cells, instructing them
to produce a specific viral protein, typically the
spike protein displayed on the outer surface of a
virus. This protein then triggers the immune
system to develop defenses against the actual
virus, preparing the body to effectively combat
infection.
Advantages of mRNA Vaccines:
1. Rapid Development: A significant advantage of mRNA vaccines lies in their rapid development process.
Because they only require the genetic sequence of a viral protein, mRNA vaccines can be designed and
manufactured much faster compared to traditional vaccines. This expedited development timeline is crucial
for effectively responding to emerging pathogens and outbreaks.
2. Flexibility and Adaptability: Another key strength of mRNA vaccines is their inherent flexibility. The
mRNA sequence encoding the viral protein can be readily modified to target new variants or strains of a virus.
This adaptability allows for the rapid development of updated vaccines to address evolving threats.
3. Enhanced Safety Profile: mRNA vaccines offer a high degree of safety. They do not contain live viruses,
which eliminates the risk of causing the very disease they are intended to prevent. Additionally, mRNA
vaccines do not integrate into the recipient's DNA. This is because mRNA is a transient molecule that degrades
naturally after delivering its instructions.
4. Minimal Risk of Insertional Mutagenesis: Traditional viral vector vaccines use modified viruses to deliver
genetic material into cells. There is a rare theoretical risk of these vectors accidentally integrating into the host
genome and causing unintended mutations. mRNA vaccines, by not using any viral vectors, completely
eliminate this potential risk.
13
5. Potent Immune Response: Studies have shown that mRNA vaccines can induce a robust immune response,
including the production of antibodies and T cells, which are crucial for effectively combatting infections.
6. Scalable Production: The manufacturing process for mRNA vaccines is relatively straightforward and can be
scaled up quickly to meet large-scale vaccination needs. This scalability is critical for ensuring widespread
vaccine availability during pandemics.
7. Broader Applications: The technology underlying mRNA vaccines holds immense potential beyond
infectious diseases. Researchers are exploring the use of mRNA vaccines for cancer immunotherapy, where
the mRNA can be designed to target tumor-specific antigens and stimulate the immune system to attack cancer
cells.
Nobel Prize: Physiology Or Medicine 2023
❖ The groundbreaking discovery earned Katalin
Kariko and Drew Weissman the 2023 Nobel Prize
in Physiology or Medicine. Their work focused on
modifying messenger RNA (mRNA) to make it
more suitable for therapeutic applications,
particularly in the development of vaccines.
❖ Unmodified mRNA, when introduced into the body,
triggers an inflammatory response due to the
presence of uridine (U), one of the RNA bases. This
immune reaction can hinder the effectiveness of
mRNA-based therapies.
❖ Kariko and Weissman discovered that replacing uridine with pseudouridine (Ψ) significantly reduces the
inflammatory response. This modification makes mRNA more tolerable to the body's immune system,
allowing it to effectively deliver instructions for protein synthesis without triggering an unwanted immune
reaction.
❖ Their discovery paved the way for the development of mRNA vaccines, including the highly successful
COVID-19 vaccines. The ability to modify mRNA and reduce its immunogenicity has revolutionized vaccine
development and holds immense promise for treating various diseases.
14
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture – 16
Space Technology (Part - 1)
2
❖ Orbits
❖ Launch Vehicles
❖ Types of Satellites
❖ PYQs
Genome Sequencing:
❖ Genome sequencing is the process of determining the order of the nucleotides in a genome.
❖ The genome is the complete set of genetic instructions for an organism.
❖ Sequencing the human genome: In 2023, an international team of scientists published the first complete
Human Genome Sequence.
❖ This was a significant achievement, as previous sequencing efforts had been incomplete due to limitations in
DNA sequencing technologies, and couldn’t read much of the Genome.
Human Genome Project:
❖ The Human Genome Project was an international research effort to determine the DNA sequence of the
entire human genome.
❖ It began in 1990 and was completed in 2003.
❖ The project was coordinated by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States and the
Department of Energy (DOE) in the United States.
❖ India was not a part of it.
❖ It was analyzed that there were less than 25,000 Genes in the body that are functional.
Various Initiatives Taken for Genome Sequencing in India:
❖ IndiGen program: The IndiGen program aims to undertake whole genome sequencing of 1000 Indian
individuals representing diverse ethnic groups from India. The program is funded by the Council of
Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
❖ Genome India Project: The Genome India Project aims to collect 10000 genetic samples from citizens
across India to build a reference genome. The project is led by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
Indian Biological Data Center (IBDC):
❖ The Indian Biological Data Center (IBDC) is the first national repository for life science data in India.
❖ It was established at the Regional Centre of Biotechnology (RCB) in Faridabad in collaboration with the
National Informatics Centre (NIC).
3
Topics Covered:
Satellite:
❖ A satellite is an artificial body placed in orbit around the earth moon or another planet in order to collect
information or for communication.
Basic Orbits:
5
❖ Lower Earth Orbit (LEO): It is the region of space closest to Earth. It extends from the Earth's surface to
an altitude of about 10,000 kilometers. LEO satellites are typically used for communication, earth
observation, and navigation purposes.
❖ Medium Earth Orbit (MEO): It is the region of space between LEO and GEO. It extends from an altitude
of about 15,000 kilometers. MEO satellites are typically used for navigation and communication purposes.
❖ Geostationary Orbit (GEO): (Altitude of about 35,786 kilometers) It is a special type of MEO where the
satellite orbits the Earth at the same speed as the Earth rotates. This means that the satellite remains
stationary above a fixed point on the Earth's surface. GEO satellites are typically used for communication
and broadcasting purposes.
Geostationary Satellites:
❖ Geostationary Satellites orbit the Earth at the same speed as
the Earth rotates, which means that they remain stationary
above a fixed point on the Earth's surface.
❖ This makes them ideal for many applications, such as
communication, broadcasting, and weather monitoring.
❖ Geostationary satellites are typically located at an altitude of
about 35,786 kilometers (22,236 miles) above the Earth.
❖ Angle of Inclination: 0 Degree.
❖ Orbital Height: 36, 000 km.
❖ Orbital Period: 24 Hours.
❖ Purpose: Majorly Communication. Geostationary orbit
Geosynchronous Satellites:
❖ Geosynchronous satellites are similar to geostationary satellites, but they do not necessarily orbit the
Earth at the same speed as the Earth rotates.
❖ This means that they may move slightly over time. Geosynchronous satellites are typically used for
navigation and communication purposes.
❖ All Geostationary Orbits are Geosynchronous Orbits.
❖ All Geosynchronous Orbits are Geostationary Orbits.
❖ All Geostationary Satellites in Geostationary Orbits are Geosynchronous too, but all Geosynchronous
Satellites in Geosynchronous Orbits are not Geostationary.
❖ Geostationary is a subtype of Geosynchronous Orbit.
Geosynchronous orbit
6
Polar Satellites
❖ Polar satellites orbit the Earth from pole to pole. This gives them a unique view of the Earth's surface,
including the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
❖ Polar satellites are typically used for Earth observation and environmental monitoring.
Polar Orbit
Sun Synchronous Orbit:
❖ A Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) is a nearly polar orbit around a
planet, in which the satellite passes over any given point of the
planet's surface at the same local mean solar time.
❖ More technically, it is an orbit arranged so that it processes through
one complete revolution each year, so it always maintains the same
relationship with the Sun.
Launch Vehicles:
7
Types of Satellite
1. Astronomical satellites/Space observatory:
➢ Astronomical satellites/space observatories are telescopes that are placed in orbit around Earth so they
can see the universe without the interference of Earth's atmosphere.
➢ India's ASTROSAT is an astronomical satellite that was launched in 2015. It has five telescopes that
can see the universe in different types of light, including X-ray, ultraviolet, visible, and infrared.
8
➢ The Hubble Space Telescope is the most famous astronomical satellite. It was launched in 1990 and
has taken iconic images of deep space objects, such as the Pillars of Creation and the Hubble Deep
Field.
Types of Satellites
SLV (Satellite Launch Vehicle):
❖ The first launch of SLV launching rockets was done in 1980.
❖ It was India's first experimental launch vehicle.
❖ It can carry a 40 Kg payload to Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
❖ It is a 4-stage all solid rocket system.The solid fuels are HTPB (Hydroxy Terminated Poly-Butadine).
ASLV (Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle):
❖ The first launch of ASLV launching rockets was done in 1987.
❖ It was India's second experimental launch vehicle.
❖ It can carry 150 Kg payload to 400 km Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
❖ It is a 5-stage solid rocket system.
❖ PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle):
❖ The first launch of PSLV launching rockets was done in 1994.
❖ It was India's first functional launch vehicle.
❖ It can carry 1750 Kg payload to Polar Orbit and 1425 Kg payload to Geosynchronous orbit which is
approximately 36000 Km above the surface of the earth.
❖ It is known as the workhorse of ISRO.
Variants of PSLV:
❖ PSLV-G (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle – Generic):
➢ It was launched in 1994 for the first time.
➢ It is a 4-stage launch vehicle.
➢ The first stage has an additional rocket attached to it. The first stage has six Strap On Motors (SOM).
➢ The first and the third stage is solid whereas the second and the fourth stage has a liquid fuel.
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➢ VIKAS engine is used for the liquid fuel. No engine has to be used for the solid fuel.
❖ PSLV-CA (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle – Core Alone):
➢ It was developed in 2007.
➢ It is a 4-stage launch vehicle. The six SOM present in PSLV-G are absent here.
➢ The technology is simplified and we don’t need to attach a fixed rocket to the first stage.
➢ Hence, operational ease and flexibility has increased. PSLV-CA is easy to launch. Hence, it replaced
the PSLV-G.
❖ PSLV-XL (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle – Hexa Lift):
➢ It was developed in 2008.
➢ It is the most powerful PSLV.
➢ Six SOM are added to the first stage of PSLV-CA.
❖ PSLV-QL (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle – Quad Lift):
➢ It was developed in 2019.
➢ It is a PSLV-CA with four SOM.
❖ PSLV-DL (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle – Dual Lift):
➢ It was developed in 2019.
➢ It is a PSLV-CA with two SOM.
Summary: PSLV Variant
Variant Year Stages Strap-On Motors Fuel Type Notable Features
Developed (SOM)
PSLV-G (Polar Satellite 1994 4 6 SOM attached 1st and 3rd First use of PSLV,
Launch Vehicle – to the first stage stages: VIKAS engine for
Generic) Solid liquid fuel, improved
payload capacity.
PSLV-CA (Polar Satellite 2007 4 None Simplified Enhanced operational
Launch Vehicle – Core technology ease, no fixed rocket
Alone) attached to the first
stage.
PSLV-XL (Polar Satellite 2008 4 6 SOM attached 1st and 3rd Most powerful PSLV
Launch Vehicle – Hexa to the first stage stages: variant with increased
Lift) Solid payload capacity.
PSLV-QL (Polar Satellite 2019 4 4 SOM attached Simplified Improved payload
Launch Vehicle – Quad to the first stage technology capacity compared to
Lift) the CA variant.
PSLV-DL (Polar Satellite 2019 4 2 SOM attached Simplified Enhanced payload
Launch Vehicle – Dual to the first stage technology capacity compared to
Lift) the CA variant.
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Achievements of PSLV
❖ PSLV is one of the most versatile and reliable launch vehicles for polar orbit.
❖ Till now 59 launches have been made out of which only two missions were unsuccessful. Thus, it has an
impeccable track record.
❖ PSLV has launched around 375 foreign satellites from about 35 different countries, which indicates
reliability and popularity of PSLV.
❖ Chandryaan 2008, Mars Orbitor Mission 2013, Astrosal 2015, and Aditya L1 2023, all launched from
the PSLV.
Types of Satellite
1. Astronomical satellites/Space observatory:
➢ Astronomical satellites/space observatories are telescopes that are placed in orbit around Earth so they
can see the universe without the interference of Earth's atmosphere.
➢ India's ASTROSAT is an astronomical satellite that was launched in 2015. It has five telescopes that
can see the universe in different types of light, including X-ray, ultraviolet, visible, and infrared.
➢ The Hubble Space Telescope is the most famous astronomical satellite. It was launched in 1990 and
has taken iconic images of deep space objects, such as the Pillars of Creation and the Hubble Deep
Field.
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DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture - 17
Space Technology (Part - 2)
2
ACHIEVEMENTS OF ISRO
ISRO has reputation of launching cost-effective space missions.
Communication: INSAT and GSAT satellites.
Remote sensing: Cartosat series, Bhuvan portal
Navigation (IRNSS and GAGAN
Defence:
RISAT-2 (2009) for border surveillance
GSAT-7 (2013) for Navy; GSAT-7A (2018) for Army and Air Force
EMISAT (2019) for electronic intelligence gathering
Astronomy Astrosat (2015) India's first multi-wavelength space observatory
Space Exploration: Chandrayaan-1,2 & 3), MOом
International Relations: South Asia Satellite (GSAT-9) for SAARC pore countries, launched in 2017; used
for DTH, telemedicine, tele-education, disaster management support, etc.
Education: EDUSAT) (2004) (GSAT-3) exclusively for distance- education
Commercialization: satellite launches for private sector and foreign companies through ANTRIX and
NewSpace.
Outreach programs:
Village Resource Centres to work with panchayats and NGOs.
Young Scientist program to give knowledge about space to school students.
Samvad with students where the ISRO chairman interacts with students.
Launching satellites made by students, like Anusat Studsat
UPCOMING MISSIONS OF ISRO
2024 - Gaganyaan 1 - Human Spaceflight - The first test flight of the Gaganyaan spacecraft, designed to carry
three astronauts and equipped with rendezvous and docking capabilities.
2024- NISAR - Earth Observation - A joint project with NASA to launch a dual-frequency synthetic aperture
radar satellite for remote sensing is not…
Mid-2025- Gaganyaan 2 - Human Spaceflight
2025 - Venus Orbiter Mission (Shukrayaan) - Planetary ExplorationLunar Exploration
2026 - Mars Orbiter Mission 2 (Mangalyaan 2)- - Planetary Exploration
2026- Lunar Polar Exploration Mission
2026 - Gaganyaan 3 - Human Spaceflight
2028 - Chandrayaan-4
2028- 2035 - Bharatiya Antariksha Station
TBD - AstroSat-2 - Astronomy and Astrophysics
CHALLENGES OF ISRO
Low global share: India has just 2% share in global space industry ($7 billion of $350 billion)
Dependent on government support:
Countries like USA have huge private participation (Falcon rocket of SpaceX, Boeing Starliner).
NASA has a Tipping Point program for partnerships with private companies.
Attracting talented youth: Talented youth prefers high-paying MNC jobs.
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Dhruva Space: is known for creating small satellite systems for commercial and government markets.
Mission Prarambh: Involved launch of Vikram-S (VKS), India's first privately built rocket by Hyderabad
based Skyroot Aerospace.
The Vikram-S rocket is a single-stage sub-orbital launch vehicle which would carry three customer payloads.
Help test and validate the majority of the technologies in the Vikram series of space launch vehicles
VKS is a single-stage spin-stabilized (using (3-D printed solid thrusters) solid propellant rocket.
Skyroot has been working on three different Vikram rocket versions
India's first private launch pad unveiled at Sriharikota:
Designed by Agnikul (a startup) and executed in support of ISRO and IN-SPACE.
It is specifically built to support liquid-stage controlled launches.
The facility has two parts:
Agnikul launchpad
Agnikul mission control centre
Agnibaan Launch Vehicle
Two-stage launch vehicle
Capable of taking payloads of up to 100 kilograms to a low-earth orbit around 700 kilometres from the surface
of the Earth.
Agnilet is the world's first_single-piece 3-D printed engine fully designed and manufactured in India and was
successfully test-fired in early 2021, making Agnikul the first company in the country to test its engines at
ISRO.
Agnilet rocket is a "semi-cryogenic" engine that uses a mixture of liquid kerosene and supercold liquid oxygen
to propel itself.
New Space India Limited((NSIL)
It is country's first public sector undertaking in the space sector and commercial arm of ISRO aimed at
production and marketing of space-based services empowered to own the operational launch vehicles and
space assets of ISRO.
Indian Space Association (ISPA):
Launched in 2021, it is the apex, non-profit industry body exclusively working towards the development
of the private and public Space Industry in India.
Antrix Corporation Limited:
Marketing arm of ISRO to handle ISRO's commercial deals
Space Entrepreneurship & Enterprise Development (SEED)
Early-stage encouragement programme to startups and MSMEs in focus areas of interest to ISRO.
SPACE RESEARCH INSTITUTES
Specialty
Design and development of launch vehicle technology
Design, development and integration of satellites
Spaceport of India, provides Launch Base Infra
Manned missions
Remote Sensing Satellite data processing
Space University (Asia's first, 2007)
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Institute
Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre
Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala)
U R Rao Satellite Centre
Satish Dhawan Space Centre
Human Space Flight Centre
National Remote Sensing Centre
Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology
Place
Bengaluru (Karnataka)
Sriharikota (Andhra Pradesh)
Challakere (Karnataka)
Hyderabad (Telangana)
Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala)
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DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture - 18
Space Technology (Part - 3)
2
Could be used as a pit stop for future space explorations: The Moon's south pole is located in a region of
space known as the cislunar gateway, which is a relatively stable gravitational environment. This makes it a
good potential location for a future space station or other infrastructure that could be used to support further
exploration of the Moon and beyond.
Huge resource of water: The Moon's south pole is thought to contain a large amount of water ice in its craters.
This water could be used to support future human
habitation on the Moon and to produce rocket fuel.
Chandrayaan 2:
It was launched On 22 July 2019 from Satish Dhawan
Space Centre, Sriharikota.
Core Objective: To map the location, and abundance of
lunar water.
It is equipped with different kinds of cameras to create
high-resolution three-dimensional maps of the surface.
First set of data from the Chandrayaan-2 mission is now
being released for the wider public use through the
PRADAN portal hosted by Indian Space Science Data
Centre (ISSDC) in Dec 2020.
The site where the Chandrayaan-2 lander crash-landed on the
Moon's surface in 2019 would be known as Tiranga Point.
Chandrayaan 3:
Launch date: 14th July 2023
Rocket: Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre
Soft Landing: 23rd Aug 2023. India became the 4th country to
soft-land a spacecraft on the moon.
Spacecraft component: Rover
Operator: (ISRO)
Manufacturer: (ISRO)
No orbiter in Chandrayaan -3
The spot where the Chandrayaan-3 Vikram
lander made a soft landing would be named Shiv
Shakti Point.
August 23, the day the Chandrayaan-3 lander
touched down on the lunar surface, would be
celebrated as ‘National Space Day’.
Key Findings:
Temperature: Chandra's Surface
Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) payload
onboard Vikram Lander measured the
temperature profile of the lunar topsoil to understand the thermal behavior of the Moon's surface, it is 70
degrees centigrade.
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Elements on the moon: Laser-induced breakdown Spectroscopy instrument onboard Pragyan rover
‘unambiguously confirmed’ the presence of sulfur on the lunar surface near the south pole.
Other elements like Aluminum(Al), Calcium(Ca), Iron(Fe), Chromium(Cr), Titanium(Ti),
Manganese(Mn), Silicon (Si), and Oxygen (O) were also detected.
Thin plasma: The ‘Langmuir probe’ (an instrument that measures the properties of plasmas) finds that there
is thin plasma (fourth state of matter) on the surface of the moon.
The discovery signifies that radio waves can easily pass through space, an important feature for
communication between lunar missions.
Natural seismic activity: Recording from the Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) payload
indicates a possibility of a quake on the moon, but its
exact nature is currently under investigation.
Crater: Chandrayaan-3 Rover identified a 4-meter
diameter crater on the moon’s surface.
Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (Lupex):
Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LuPEx) is a joint
lunar mission by the Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO) and the Japan Aerospace
Exploration Agency (JAXA). The mission is planned to
be launched in 2025 and will explore the south pole of
the Moon.
Artemis (NASA):
The full form of ARTEMIS is Acceleration, Reconnection, Turbulence, and Electrodynamics of the
Moon’s Interaction with the Sun.
It is a NASA mission.
It is aimed to help in future space missions, like for Mars manned missions.
Artemis 1 was an uncrewed moon orbiting mission launched in 2022 and was successful.
Artemis 2 is a crew moon orbiting mission scheduled to be launched in 2025.
News: NASA announces graduating class of 11 astronauts for upcoming space missions including the
Artemis Mission.
The team includes an Indian American- Raja Chari.
Orion is the spacecraft that will carry humans.
The Space Launch System is the rocket that will take spacecraft to space. (like India has GSLV/PSLV)
Gateway is a small spaceship that will orbit around the Moon, like ISS (International Space Station)
orbits around Earth.
The first woman and the next man to the Moon by the year 2024, which it plans on doing through the
Artemis lunar exploration program.
Moon History:
Total 12 men have landed on the moon: Only 12 people have ever walked on the Moon, and all of them
were American astronauts.
The USA is the only country to have sent humans to the moon: The United States is the only country to
have sent humans to the Moon. The Apollo program, which ran from 1961 to 1972, landed 12 astronauts on
the Moon.
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No human has ever been to the south pole: No human has ever been to the south pole of the Moon. The
Apollo missions all landed on the near side of the Moon, which is the side that faces Earth.
First rover on moon: USSR Luna 1 and 2 in 1959: The first rovers to land on the Moon were the Soviet Luna
1 and 2 probes in 1959. These probes were hard landers, meaning that they crashed onto the Moon's surface.
First was Neil Armstrong, last was Gene Cernan: Neil Armstrong was the first person to walk on the Moon,
and Gene Cernan was the last. Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the Moon on July 20, 1969, during the
Apollo 11 mission. Cernan walked on the Moon on December 11, 1972, during the Apollo 17 mission.
First on Apollo 11: 20 July 1969 (Tranquility base) The first Apollo mission to land on the Moon was Apollo
11. The mission landed on July 20, 1969 at Tranquility Base.
Last on Apollo 17: 14 December 1972 The last Apollo mission to land on the Moon was Apollo 17. The
mission landed on December 11, 1972.
Apollo 11: Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission, while Michael
Collins remained in orbit in the Command Module.
News:
In December, 2020, Israel launched the Beresheet 2
project aimed at landing an unmanned craft on the
moon in 2024.
Earlier, Israel’s Beresheet 1 probe crash landed
on the Moon. It was launched in February 2019,
using a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral
(USA) and arrived in lunar orbit in April 2019. It
suffered an engine failure as it prepared to land and
crashed abruptly on the surface of the moon.
China has launched an unmanned spacecraft to bring back
lunar rocks, the first attempt by any nation to retrieve
samples from the Moon in four decades. The Long March-
5 Y5 rocket, carrying the Chang’e-5 spacecraft, was launched from
Wenchang Space Launch Center (China), November 2020
Mission:
1. To drill 2 meters beneath the moon’s surface and scoop rocks and debris
to be brought back to Earth.
2. To determine Moon’s origins
3. Volcanic activity on its surface and its interior
4. Protecting any form of life from the sun’s radiation dissipated.
This mission would make China only the third country to have
retrieved lunar samples, joining the United States and the Soviet
Union.
Japan’s Moon-lander mission, called SLIM, finally took off on 6th Sept 2023 morning. SLIM, or Smart
Lander for Investigating Moon, took a uniquely long route to the Moon and entered lunar orbit on 25th Dec
2023 and landed on 19th Jan 2024. This made Japan the 5th country to soft-land a spacecraft on the moon.
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Mars Exploration:
Why study Mars?
It is the planet that is closest and most similar to earth.
To learn about changes that can fundamentally change a planet.
To establish a future home for humans.
To expand human understanding of planetary evolution; solar system, universe.
Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM):
India's First Interplanetary Mission: The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), also known as Mangalyaan,
marked India's first foray into interplanetary exploration. It was a significant milestone for the Indian Space
Research Organization (ISRO).
Unmanned Mission: MOM was an unmanned spacecraft, meaning it didn't carry human astronauts. It was
remotely controlled from Earth.
No Lander/Rover: Unlike some other Mars missions, MOM was an orbiter only. It didn't include a lander
or rover to descend to the Martian surface. Its
primary objective was to study Mars from
orbit.
Launch and Arrival: MOM was launched by
the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in
November 2013 and reached Mars' orbit in
September 2014.
Historical Achievements: MOM's successful
entry into Mars' orbit made India the fourth
country globally to reach the Red Planet, after
the United States, Russia, and the European
Space Agency. It was also Asia's first Mars
mission and the first to succeed on its maiden
attempt.
Orbiter Payloads: The orbiter was equipped
with five scientific payloads that served various
purposes:
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Atlas and Albedo Mapping: MOM's detailed images of Mars allowed it to prepare an atlas and albedo
map, providing insights into the planet's surface characteristics and reflectivity.
Moons of Mars: The orbiter captured close-distance photos of Mars' two moons, Phobos and
Deimos, helping scientists understand more about these celestial bodies.
Dust Storm Observations: MOM's data indicated that dust storms on Mars could rise to significant
altitudes, providing valuable information about the Martian atmosphere.
Hope Mission:
The United Arab Emirates' (UAE’s) first-ever interplanetary Hope Probe mission has successfully entered
orbit around Mars.
‘Hope’ was developed by UAE scientists in the USA and was launched in July 2020 from the Tanegashima
Space Centre in Japan.
Life of UAE’s Mars mission is around one Martian year (687 days on Earth).
Significance:
The UAE becomes the 5th entity to reach the Red Planet, joining NASA, the Soviet Union, the
European Space Agency and India.
Help UAE in building a knowledge-based economy, leading to more investment in Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) for young Emiratis.
The probe reached Mars in the year the UAE celebrates its 50th
anniversary.
Arab world's first interplanetary mission.
Mars 2020 Mission:
NASA’s mission; launched in July 2020;
It has a ‘Perseverance’ rover and ‘Ingenuity’ helicopter drone.
Aim is to look for bio-signatures and habitable conditions for
humans.
MOXIE (Mars Oxygen In-Situ Resource Utilization Experiment) will make
oxygen from CO2 (95% of Mars' atmosphere has CO2).
NOTE: It has generated oxygen for the 16th and final time aboard NASA's
Perseverance rover. (06-Sep-2023)
NASA’s Perseverance rover has landed on Mars.
Launch: 30th July, 2020
Landing: 18th February, 2021
Landing Site: Jezero Crater (an ancient river delta that has rocks and minerals
that could only form in water).
Recently, it placed a titanium tube containing a rock sample on the surface of Mars.
Igneous rock samples were collected from Mars Jezero Crater called South Séítah.
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Removal:
Active debris removal: Active debris removal involves using spacecraft to capture and remove space
debris from orbit. This is a complex and expensive operation, but it is the most effective way to remove
large pieces of space debris.
Net capture, Harpoon capture, etc.: There are a number of different methods that can be used to capture
space debris. One method is to use a net to capture the debris. Another method is to use a harpoon to
capture the debris.
Management
Track the debris: It is important to track the
location and movement of space debris. This
will help to identify potential collisions and to
avoid them.
Avoid collision by steering satellites: Satellites
can be maneuvered to avoid collisions with
space debris. This is a complex task, but it is
possible to do so with the right technology.
Use graveyard orbits for non-functional
satellites: When a satellite reaches the end of its useful life, it can be moved to a graveyard orbit. This is
a high orbit where the satellite is less likely to collide with other objects.
Ban anti-satellite tests: Anti-satellite tests create a lot of space debris. Banning these tests would help
to reduce the amount of space debris in orbit. India successfully demonstrated anti-satellite (ASAT)
weapon technology in a test known as "Mission Shakti”.
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DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 19
Space Technology (Part – 4)
2
Gaganyaan Mission:
News: Recently, the Prime Minister announced the names of the four astronauts (all men) who will fly to low
earth orbit as part of the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Gaganyaan Mission.
Gaganyaan mission is a space mission to demonstrate ISRO’s human spaceflight capability by launching a human
crew to an orbit of 400 km and bringing them safely back to earth.
❖ It will circle Earth at a low-earth-orbit at an altitude of 300-400 km from earth.
❖ Gaganyaan is India's first manned spaceflight program.
❖ Under the Gaganyaan schedule:
1. Three flights will be sent into orbit.
2. There will be two unmanned flights and one human spaceflight.
3. The Gaganyaan system module, called the Orbital Module will have three Indian astronauts, including
a woman for five to seven days.
❖ Various precursor missions are planned for demonstrating the Technology Preparedness Levels before
carrying out the actual Human Space Flight mission. These demonstrator missions include:
1. Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT)
2. Pad Abort Test (PAT)
3. Crew Escape System (Ganganyaan TV-D1 test was conducted in October 2023 to test this technology)
4. Test Vehicle (TV) flights.
❖ The payload will consist of:
1. Crew module: Spacecraft carrying human beings.
2. Service module: Powered by two liquid propellant engines, and usually
burns up during atmospheric re-entry.
❖ It is equipped with emergency escape and emergency mission abort.
❖ Launch Vehicle: LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3)
❖ Gaganyaan will carry a number of payloads, including a robot named
Vyommitra.
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❖ HLM3 consists of Crew Escape System (CES) powered by a set of quick acting, high burn rate solid motors
which ensures that Crew Module along with crew is taken to a safe distance in case of any emergency either
at launch pad or during ascent phase.
❖ The C25 stage is a cryogenic stage, which comprises a cryogenic engine and fuel tanks that hold tons of
frozen fuel — liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen, along with its related systems
❖ With the success of Ganaganyaan, India will become the fourth country in the world to do human space
flight.
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Training in Russia:
❖ In June 2019 ISRO and the Russian government-owned Glavkosmos signed a contract for the training
❖ It includes Russian support in the selection of candidates, their medical examination, and space training.
❖ Training held on Soyuz manned spaceship of Russian spacecraft. It carries people and supplies to and from
the space station.
❖ The technical assistance in the Ganganyaan mission was also given by France and USA.
Evolution of the Mission:
❖ 2004: The ISRO Policy Planning Committee, recommendation for a manned space mission
❖ 2006: Preliminary studies , generic name Orbital Vehicle
❖ 2007: Spaced capsule recovery experiment
❖ 2008: An initial design of a fully autonomous vehicle was finalized.
❖ 2014: Successful testing of experimental flight of GSLV MK-III was carried out, crew module atmospheric
re-entry
❖ July 5, 2018: First successful flight -crew escape system was carried out. It is an emergency measure designed
to quickly pull the crew module along with the astronauts to a safe distance from the launch vehicle in the
event of a launch abort.
❖ August 15, 2018: Prime Minister promised a manned mission before 2022 when India completes 75 years of
independence. It has been delayed due to the Covid-19 induced lockdown.
Significance:
❖ Enhance the Science and Technology levels in the country: The Gaganyaan mission will require the
development of new technologies and capabilities in areas such as human spaceflight, spacecraft design, and
life support systems. This will boost India's overall scientific and technological prowess.
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❖ Inspire Youth: The Gaganyaan mission is a bold and ambitious undertaking, and it is sure to inspire the next
generation of scientists, engineers, and astronauts. It will send a message to Indian youth that anything is
possible if they set their minds to it.
❖ Improve Industrial Growth: The Gaganyaan mission will provide a boost to the Indian aerospace industry.
Many Indian companies are involved in the development and construction of the Gaganyaan spacecraft and
other related infrastructure. This will create new jobs and opportunities in the sector.
❖ Boost Private Sector Participation in Space: The Gaganyaan mission is being developed in close
collaboration with the Indian private sector. This will help to build a more robust and sustainable Indian space
program.
❖ Help in the development of technology for social benefits: Many of the technologies developed for the
Gaganyaan mission can also be used to develop new products and services for the benefit of society. For
example, the water purification systems developed for the Gaganyaan spacecraft could be used to provide
clean drinking water to rural communities.
❖ Improve International Collaboration:The Gaganyaan mission is an opportunity for India to collaborate with
other countries on space exploration. This will help to strengthen India's international ties and promote
scientific cooperation.
❖ Limitation of ISS: One International Space Station (ISS) put up by multiple countries may not be enough.
Regional ecosystems will be needed and Gaganyaan will focus on regional needs: food, water and energy
security.
Challenges for Ganganyaan Mission:
❖ Human Survival Technologies: ISRO will have to develop all the technologies required for human survival
from scratch, making it time consuming.
❖ Human Training: Due to lack of adequate facilities in India, astronauts shortlisted for the Gaganyaan mission
have been trained overseas.
❖ Cost Effectiveness: The mission must not just be successful, but it must also be cost-effective.
❖ Human Safety: Safely escorting human astronauts back to Earth will be the biggest challenge going forward.
❖ Apart from that, the long term
impact of space conditions on the
human body cannot be ignored.
Aditya-L1 Mission (ISRO):
❖ Recently (2nd Sept 2023) , the ISRO
has accomplished the launch of
Aditya L1, its inaugural Solar
Mission.
❖ The launch was conducted using the
PSLV-C57 rocket.
❖ The PSLV's fourth stage was fired
twice, a first in ISRO's history, to
precisely insert the spacecraft into
its elliptical orbit.
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Significance:
❖ Understand Our Solar System: The Sun is the central body of our solar system, and understanding its
behavior is essential to understanding the solar system as a whole. Aditya-L1 will provide new insights into
the Sun's atmosphere, corona, and solar flares, which can impact Earth's space environment and climate.
❖ Space Weather Prediction: Solar activities, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections, can disrupt
satellite communications, power grids, and even aircraft navigation. Aditya-L1 will help us to better understand
and predict these solar activities, so that we can mitigate their impact on Earth.
❖ Advancing Solar Physics: The Sun is a complex and dynamic object, and scientists are still learning about its
behavior. Aditya-L1 will provide new data that will help us to better understand the Sun's magnetic fields,
heating mechanisms, and plasma dynamics. This knowledge will contribute to fundamental physics and
astrophysics, and it could also lead to new technologies in areas such as energy production and space travel.
❖ Enhancing Energy Research: The Sun is a source of vast amounts of energy (due to nuclear fusion reaction),
and Aditya-L1 could help us to develop new ways to harness this energy. For example, solar flares can
accelerate particles to very high energies, and these particles could be used to produce fusion energy.
❖ Improving Satellite Operations: Aditya-L1 data could be used to develop better spacecraft design and
operation procedures. For example, satellites can be shielded from the harmful effects of solar radiation, and
they can be designed to withstand solar storms.
What Is Geotail?
❖ Geotail is the long tail-like region of the Earth's magnetosphere that is formed on the nightside of Earth by
the solar wind. The solar wind is a continuous stream of charged particles that is emitted by the Sun. These
particles are embedded in the extended magnetic field of the Sun. Earth has a magnetic field that obstructs the
solar wind, but the solar wind is so powerful that it pushes the Earth's magnetosphere into a long tail shape
on the nightside of Earth.
❖ The geotail is a dynamic region where the solar wind and the Earth's magnetic field interact. This interaction
can produce a variety of phenomena, such as auroras, magnetic storms, and plasma waves. The geotail is also
a region where charged particles from the solar wind can be trapped and accelerated to high energies.
❖ The geotail is an important region for scientific study because it can provide us with insights into the
interactions between the Sun and Earth, and the fundamental physics of plasmas and magnetic fields. Geotail
research has also helped us to better understand space weather phenomena, which can have a significant impact
on our technologies and infrastructure.
❖ The Moon's surface also interacts with the Geotail. The solar wind and
other charged particles from the Sun can bombard the Moon's surface.
This interaction can produce X-rays and other radiation. Scientists can
study this radiation to learn more about the composition of the Moon's
surface.
The Key Points:
❖ The Geotail is the long tail-like region of the Earth's magnetosphere that
is formed on the nightside of Earth by the solar wind.
❖ The Moon passes through the Geotail for about 6 days each month.
❖ When the Moon is in the Geotail, it is within the Earth's magnetic field.
❖ This interaction can produce a variety of phenomena, such as auroras, magnetic storms, and plasma waves.
❖ The Moon's surface also interacts with the Geotail, producing X-rays and other radiation.
❖ Scientists can study this radiation to learn more about the composition of the Moon's surface.
Sun Spots:
❖ Sunspots are dark spots on the Sun's surface that have a lower temperature than the surrounding area.
❖ Sunspots are caused by strong magnetic fields.
❖ Sunspots usually follow an 11-year cycle, known as the solar cycle.
Solar Maxima:
❖ Solar maxima is the period of greatest solar activity. This occurs when there are a large number of sunspots
and solar flares.
❖ Solar flares are powerful explosions on the Sun that can release large amounts of energy and charged particles.
Solar Minima:
❖ Solar minima is the period of lowest sun activity.
❖ It occurs when the number of sunspots and solar flares is at its lowest. Solar minima can also have an impact
on Earth, causing cooler temperatures and less rainfall.
❖ The relationship between sunspots, solar flares, and Earth's temperature is complex. However, it is generally
understood that solar maxima leads to an increase in Earth's temperature, while solar minima leads to a
decrease in Earth's temperature. This is because solar flares can release more heat and radiation into space
during solar maxima.
Voyager Program (NASA):
❖ Heliosphere:
➢ Extends from the Sun to the planets,
forming a vast protective bubble around
the solar system.
❖ Heliopause:
➢ Marks the outermost boundary of the
heliosphere, considered the edge of the
solar system.
➢ Beyond this point lies interstellar space,
where the influence of the Sun diminishes.
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❖ Interstellar Space:
➢ The region outside the heliopause, where the solar wind from the Sun no longer dominates, and interstellar
matter prevails.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture - 20
Space Technology (Part - 5)
2
The U.N. Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) oversees five international treaties:
❖ The Moon Agreement (1979): establishes the principle of the common heritage of mankind.
❖ The Outer Space Treaty (1967): prohibits the stationing of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in outer space,
bans military activities on celestial bodies, and outlines legally binding rules for peaceful space exploration
and utilization.
❖ The Rescue Agreement (1968): mandates States to provide assistance to astronauts in case of accidents,
distress, emergencies, or unintended landings.
❖ The Liability Convention of 1972: sets standards of liability for damages caused by space objects.
❖ The Registration Convention: provides rules for the registration of space objects.
Black Hole:
The different stages of the evolution of black holes:
❖ Stellar Cloud: Stars form from clouds of gas and dust. These clouds are called stellar nurseries.
❖ Protostar: When a cloud of gas and dust collapses under its own gravity, it forms a protostar. A protostar is a
hot, dense object that is still in the process of forming into a star.
❖ Main Sequence Star: Once a protostar has begun fusing hydrogen into helium at its core, it becomes a main
sequence star. This is the most stable phase of a star's life. The Sun is currently a main sequence star.
❖ Red Giant: When a main sequence star has exhausted the hydrogen fuel in its core, it begins to fuse hydrogen
in a shell around the core. This causes the star to expand and cool, becoming a red giant.
❖ Planetary Nebula: Some red giants expel their outer layers into space, forming a planetary nebula. A planetary
nebula is a glowing cloud of gas and dust that surrounds a hot, white dwarf star.
❖ White Dwarf: A white dwarf is the remnant core of a red giant star. It is a very dense star with a small radius.
❖ Neutron Star: If a star is more massive than about 1.4 times the mass of the Sun, it will collapse into a neutron
star at the end of its life. A neutron star is incredibly dense, with a mass about equal to that of the Sun but a
radius of only about 10 kilometers.
❖ Black Hole: If a star is more
massive than about 3 times the mass
of the Sun, it will collapse into a
black hole at the end of its life. A
black hole is so dense that its gravity
is so strong that nothing, not even
light, can escape.
The different regions around the black
hole and how light and matter behave
in those regions.
❖ Event Horizon: The event horizon
is the boundary around the black
hole beyond which nothing, not even
light, can escape. The event horizon
is represented by the black circle in
the diagram.
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❖ Singularity: At the center of a black hole is the ultimate no man's land—a place where matter is compressed
down to an infinitely tiny point, and all conceptions of time and space completely break down.
❖ Accretion Disk: A thin band around a black hole made up of all the stellar debris, dust, and matter that pass
through the event horizon. This band of matter is at the edge of the horizon and has not fallen into the black
hole.
Tidal Disruption Events (TDEs):
❖ In 2018, scientists observed a black hole ripping a star into shreds because it got
too close.
❖ TDE refers to an event when a black hole violently rips apart stars that get too
close.
❖ When a star comes close to a black hole, gravitational forces will stretch or
"spaghettify" the star.
❖ The elongated material then spirals around the black hole, gets heated up, and
creates a flash that can be detected by us millions of light years away.
In The News:
❖ The black hole Sagittarius A* at the center of the Milky Way galaxy was
photographed for the first time.
❖ Sagittarius A* (pronounced "Sagittarius A-star") is a supermassive black hole located at the center of the Milky
Way galaxy. It is about 26,000 light-years from Earth and has a mass of about 4 million times the mass of the
Sun.
❖ Sagittarius A* is the smallest object in the image, but it is also the most massive. It is so dense that its gravity
prevents any light from escaping. This is why Sagittarius A* appears as a black hole in the image.
❖ The bright ring around Sagittarius A* is caused by the bending of light by the black hole's gravity. This bending
of light is called gravitational lensing. Gravitational lensing causes the light from the hot gas and dust around
the black hole to be focused into a bright ring.
5
❖ Sagittarius A* is called Sagittarius A* because it is located in the constellation Sagittarius, and it is the
brightest and most compact radio source in the region. The asterisk (*) is used to denote an excited state of an
atom, and it
was added to
the name
Sagittarius A
to indicate
that the radio
source is
very active.
❖ Black hole
M87 is a
black hole of
another
galaxy and it
was the first black hole to be photographed in 2019.
❖ The first photograph of Sagittarius A*, a
supermassive black hole situated at the
center of the Milky Way, was revealed by
astronomers of the Event Horizon
Telescope (EHT).
❖ EHT is an international collaboration (of
observatories) capturing images of black
holes using a virtual Earth-sized telescope.
❖ In 2019, astronomers captured the first
ever photograph of a black hole M87 in
a distant galaxy called Messier 87.
6
Dark Matter:
A test run of the LZ detector in the U.S. has shown it to be the most sensitive dark matter detector yet created.
About Dark Matter:
❖ Dark matter is made up of particles that do not have a charge.So, these particles are “dark”, namely because
they do not emit light, which is an electromagnetic phenomenon, and “matter” because they possess
mass like normal matter and interact through gravity.
❖ Only 5% of the entire visible universe is made up of all matter and the rest of 95% is dark matter and
dark energy.
❖ So far gravitational force is less understood as its extremely weak force, and that's why it's not easy to detect
any particle which interacts with gravitational force.
❖ Scientists study dark matter by looking at the effects it has on visible objects.
❖ It is believed that dark matter is what gives galaxies extra mass, generating extra gravity they need to stay
intact.
❖ The LZ detector consists of a huge titanium tank filled with extremely pure liquid xenon. Liquid xenon is a
good choice for a dark matter detector because it is very dense and it can produce a bright flash of light when
it is struck by a WIMP.
❖ The center of the LZ detector is one of the purest places on Earth. This is because the liquid xenon is filtered
to remove any impurities, and the detector is surrounded by a shield to block out radiation.
❖ The LZ detector is a collaboration of scientists and institutions from the United States, the United Kingdom,
Portugal, and Korea. The detector is designed to operate for 10 years, and it is expected to collect enough
data to either detect WIMPs or rule them out as a candidate for dark matter.
Q. Recently Scientists observed merger of two black holes billions of light year away from earth. What
is the significance of such observation? (2019)
(a) Higgs boson particles detected
(b) Gravitational waves detected
(c) Possibility of intergalactic space travel through wormhole was confirmed
(d) Enabled scientists to understand singularity
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 21
NanoTechnology (Part - 01)
2
Exo-Moons:
Recently scientists at Indian Institute of Astrophysics have developed a model to trace habitable exo-moons
with help of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
Exo-moons are natural satellites that revolve around exoplanets.
Exoplanets: Exoplanets are planets that orbit around other stars other than the sun.
So far, more than 5000 exoplanets have been discovered by using several telescope (Kepler Hubble Space
Telescope).
Nanotechnology:
Nanotechnology is the design, production, and application of structures, devices, and systems by manipulation
of size and shape at the nanometer scale.
1 cm = 10–2 m
1 µm = 10–6 m
1 nm = 10–9 m
3
When the materials at their atomic and molecular levels are modified, some unusual and useful properties are
generated.
Nanotechnology involves the ability to control individual atoms and molecules.
Example:
1. Bandage made of Silver Nanoparticles that cures burns
2. Nano lasers in optical communication to transfer large data rapidly
Quantum Size Effect:
The quantum size effect is a phenomenon in which properties (physical or chemical) of the material changes
due to reduction of material from macro scale to nano scale. This is because the behavior of material at the
nanoscale is governed by quantum mechanics, which is different from the classical mechanics that applies at
the macroscale.
Examples:
Material Macro Scale Properties Nano Scale Properties
Opaque, Good conductor of electricity and Transparent, quantum size effects
Copper
heat
Inert (Not reacting with other element), good Highly reactive, catalytic properties
Platinum
conductor of electricity and heat
Stable, lightweight, good conductor of Combustible material, Quantum size
Aluminum
electricity and heat effects
Gold Solid Liquid,quantum size effects
Silicon Insulator (do not pass electricity) Conductor, quantum size effects
Two Main Approaches To Making Nanoparticles:
Top-down approach: Top-down approaches involve breaking down larger materials into nanoparticles.
Methods used for the top down approach such as milling, lithography, and etching.
Bottom-up approach: Bottom-up approaches involve building nanoparticles from individual atoms or
molecules. Methods use for the bottom up approach are chemical vapor deposition, sol-gel synthesis, and
hydrothermal synthesis.
History of Nanotechnology:
1959: First theory given by Dr. Richard P. Feynman. According to him, there's "Plenty of Room at the
Bottom," in which he outlines the basic concepts of nanotechnology.
1981: Eric Drexler published a paper called "Molecular Nanotechnology", which talks about the idea of
nanotechnology and its uses.
1981: The first fullerene was discovered in 1981 which was known as Buck Minster. It is an organic
structure made up from 60 Carbon atoms. They are the first smallest known stable carbon nanostructures.
1994: In 1994, the term "nanotechnology" was first used by Japanese Scientist Norio Taniguchi.
1996: Sir Harold W. Kroto, Robert F. Curl Jr., and Richard E. Smalley won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry
for the discovery of fullerenes.
2000: Use of passive nanostructures in Aerosols, Coatings started.
2005: Starting of Active nanostructure such as Targeted drugs, Biodevices.
2010: Systems of nanosystems, such as 3D networking and robotics, began to be developed.
2015 Onwards: Systems of nanosystems are being designed to create new functions.
4
Properties of Buckminsterfullerene:
Buckminsterfullerene is a type of fullerene, which is a carbon molecule
that is arranged in a spherical or ellipsoidal shape.
Buckminsterfullerenes are named after Richard Buckminster Fuller, an
American architect who was known for his geodesic domes.
Other names of buckminsterfullerene are Buckyball, Pentagonal and
Hexagonal rings.
Buckminsterfullerene molecules are made up of 60 carbon atoms; they are
arranged in a truncated icosahedron structure.
Buckminsterfullerene Properties:
High tensile strength: Buckminsterfullerenes are very strong for their size. They have a tensile strength
that is comparable to steel, but they are much lighter than steel.
Allotrope of carbon: Buckminsterfullerenes are one of the three allotropes of carbon, along with graphite
and diamond. Carbon atoms can be arranged in different ways to form different allotropes with different
properties.
Bounce back to original shape: Buckminsterfullerenes is very elastic. They can be stretched and then
they can spring back to their original shape.
Note:
Allotropes:
If a chemical element or compound exists in two or more different forms are called allotropes and such
behavior is known as Allotropy.
Allotropes have the same chemical properties, but different physical properties such as color, density,
and hardness. Examples Of allotropes of carbon are fullerenes,Graphite, Carbon nanotube, Graphene,
Diamond.
Applications of Buckminsterfullerene:
Surface Coating: Buckminsterfullerenes can be used to coat surfaces which makes them stronger and more
resistant to wear and tear.
Conducting: Buckminsterfullerenes can be used to create conducting devices.
Molecular Networks: Buckminsterfullerenes can be used to create molecular networks, which are used to
store energy and deliver drugs.
Medical: Buckminsterfullerenes can be used for targeted delivery of drug. They can also be used to create
medical implants or specific disease treatments such as cancer.
Protection against Ultraviolet Radiations (UV): Buckminsterfullerenes can absorb ultraviolet (UV)
radiation, which can protect the skin from damage caused by the sun.
Cosmetics: Buckminsterfullerenes are used in cosmetics products, such as sunscreens.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture - 22
Nanotechnology
(Part - 02)
2
Carbon Nanotubes:
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are cylindrical molecules made up of carbon atoms.
They are very strong and lightweight, and they have a wide range of potential applications.
Properties of carbon nanotubes:
Fullerene family structure: CNTs are related to fullerenes, which are
spherical or ellipsoidal carbon molecules. However, CNTs are cylindrical
in shape.
Varying physical and chemical properties: The properties of CNTs can
vary depending on their structure. For example, some CNTs are good
conductors of electricity and heat, while others are semiconductors.
100 times stronger than steel: CNTs are extremely strong. They are
estimated to be about 100 times stronger than steel, but only about 1/6th as
dense.
Strong, hollow, tubular, and caged structure: CNTs have a hollow,
tubular structure. This makes them very strong and lightweight.
Conductivity: Some CNTs are good conductors of electricity and heat. This makes them useful for a variety
of electronic and energy applications.
Applications of carbon nanotubes:
Cancer treatment: CNTs can be used to deliver drugs to cancer cells without harming healthy cells.
Solar cells: CNTs can be used to create solar cells that are more efficient and less expensive than traditional
solar cells.
Transistors: CNTs can be used to create transistors, which are the basic building blocks of electronic devices.
CNT transistors could be smaller, faster, and more efficient than traditional transistors.
Lightweight boat design: CNTs can be used to create lightweight and strong materials for boats. This could
make boats more fuel-efficient and faster.
Designing spacecraft: CNTs can be used to create lightweight and strong materials for spacecraft. This could
make spacecraft more fuel-efficient and allow them to carry more cargo.
Applications of Nanotechnology:
Applications of Nanotechnology in Medicine
Development of diagnostic devices: Nanotechnology can be used to
develop new diagnostic devices that are more sensitive and accurate
than traditional devices. For example, nano biosensors can be used
to detect diseases such as cancer at an earlier stage.
Drug delivery vehicles to precise cells: Nanotechnology can be used
to develop drug delivery vehicles that can deliver drugs to specific
cells in the body. This can help to reduce the side effects of drugs and
improve their effectiveness. For example, Nanomicelles can be used
to deliver drugs to cancer cells without harming healthy cells.
Scope for repairing damaged tissue: Nanotechnology can be used to develop new materials and techniques
for repairing damaged tissue. For example, Nanofibers can be used to create scaffolds for tissue
engineering.
4
Other applications:
Nanochips to check plaque in
arteries: Nanochips can be used to
detect plaque in arteries, which can help
to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Diabetic pads for regulating blood
sugar levels: Diabetic pads can be used
to monitor blood sugar levels and
deliver insulin as needed.
Nanoparticles for drug delivery to the
brain for therapeutic treatment:
Nanoparticles can be used to deliver
drugs to the brain, which can be used to
treat diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Nano-sponges used for absorbing toxins from the bloodstream:
Nano-sponges can be used to absorb toxins from the bloodstream,
which can be used to treat conditions such as kidney failure and
liver failure.
Nano-bots are robots for specific drug delivery: Nano-bots are
robots that can be used to deliver drugs to specific cells in the body.
This is still in the early stages of development, but it has the potential to revolutionize drug delivery.
Applications of Nanotechnology in Food Industry/Agriculture:
Nanotechnology is the study and manipulation of matter at the atomic and molecular scale. It has the potential
to revolutionize many industries, including the food industry and agriculture.
The potential applications of nanotechnology in the food industry and agriculture:
Contamination sensors: Nanotechnology can be used to develop sensors that can detect contaminants
in food quickly and accurately. For example, a flash of light can be used to reveal the presence of
bacteria.
Antimicrobial packaging: Nanoparticles of zinc and calcium can be used to create antimicrobial
packaging that can kill bacteria. This can help to extend the shelf life of food and reduce foodborne
illness.
Nano-enhanced barrier: Nanotechnology can be used to create a nano-enhanced barrier that can keep
oxygen-sensitive food fresh. This can help to reduce food waste.
Nano-encapsulation: Nano-encapsulation can be used to improve the solubility of vitamins,
antioxidants, and other nutrients. This can make them more bioavailable and easier for the body to
absorb.
Food color, texture, and flavor: Nanotechnology can be used to improve the color, texture, and flavor
of food. For example, it can be used to create new food colors and flavors, and to improve the
texture of food products.
Nanosize powders to increase absorption of nutrients: Nanosize powders can be used to increase the
absorption of nutrients in food. This can be beneficial for people who have difficulty absorbing nutrients,
such as people with malnutrition or digestive disorders.
5
Nano-barcodes: Nano-barcodes can be used to tag individual food products and trace outbreaks of
foodborne illness.
Nano-emulsions to kill bacteria: Nano-emulsions can be used to kill bacteria without harming plants.
This can be used to develop new pesticides that are more effective and environmentally friendly.
Nano-capsules for effective penetration of herbicides, chemical fertilizers, and genes: Nano-capsules
can be used to deliver herbicides, chemical fertilizers, and genes to specific parts of plants. This can help
to improve crop yields and reduce the use of chemicals.
Nano agrotechnology can be applied in various aspects of agriculture, including soil management, water
management, and the utilization of nanosensors, fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides.
It can also be used to enhance crop productivity, insects, and pest resistance, ultimately used for crop
management.
Applications of Nanotechnology In Electronics:
Computers are already working on a nanoscale.
It can help in reducing the size of the integrated circuits' transistors.
Example: Nano-transistors.
It can help in improving the display screens of electronic devices.
It can help in reducing power consumption, weight, and thickness
of the electronic devices. Example: Nano-chips
Quantum Dots:
Quantum Dots (QDs) are manufactured nanoscale crystals that can transport electrons. When UV light hits
these semiconducting nanoparticles, they can emit light of various colors.
Quantum dots are crystals made up of semiconductor particles of several nanometers in size.
It has the property that the wavelength of light
emitted changes depending on the size of the
crystal.
Nobel Prize In Chemistry Of 2023
In the early 1980s, Ekimov demonstrated the
existence of quantum dots using glass materials.
Later, Bruce demonstrated the existence of
quantum dots using liquids.
In 1993, Bawendi developed a method for
producing high-quality quantum dots and put it
into practical use.
8
Note:
A conductor is a material that allows the flow of electrical current due to abundant free electrons. An
insulator is a material that impedes the flow of electrical current due to its high resistance.
Applications Of Quantum Dots:
Biomedical Imaging: Quantum dots are transforming biomedical imaging, enabling high-resolution
visualization of biological structures, medicine, and drug distribution. Their unique ability to emit bright
and stable light in various colors makes them ideal for labeling cells, tracking molecules, and providing real-
time imaging of biological events.
Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment: Quantum dots are emerging as powerful tools for cancer diagnosis and
treatment. They can target and illuminate tumors with high specificity, enabling early detection and precise
surgical removal. Additionally, quantum dots can be used to deliver targeted therapies directly to cancer cells,
minimizing side effects and improving treatment efficacy.
Environmental Monitoring: Quantum dots are revolutionizing environmental monitoring, providing
sensitive detection of pollutants in water and air. Their ability to change color in response to specific
contaminants allows for real-time monitoring of environmental quality and early warning of potential hazards.
Optoelectronic Devices: Quantum dots are enhancing the performance of optoelectronic devices, such as
LEDs and displays. Their tunable light emission and high color purity enable more accurate color
reproduction and brighter, more vivid displays. Quantum dot LEDs are also more energy-efficient than
conventional LEDs.
9
Solar Cell Efficiency: Quantum dots are improving the efficiency of solar cells by converting a broader range
of the solar spectrum into electricity. Their ability to absorb light across a wide range of wavelengths can boost
solar cell efficiency and reduce energy costs.
Quantum Computing: Quantum dots are promising candidates for building quantum computers due to their
potential as stable qubits, the basic units of quantum information. Their ability to maintain quantum
coherence for extended periods could enable the development of powerful quantum computers capable of
solving complex problems beyond the reach of classical computers.
Telecommunication: Quantum dots are enabling advancements in telecommunication technologies. Their
ability to emit light in specific wavelengths can be used to develop high-speed optical communication systems
with increased bandwidth and data transmission rates.
Energy Storage: Quantum dots are being explored for energy storage applications, such as batteries and
supercapacitors. Their ability to store and release energy efficiently could lead to more compact and powerful
energy storage devices for portable electronics and electric vehicles.
Drug Delivery: Quantum dots are being investigated for targeted drug delivery, offering the potential to
deliver therapeutic agents directly to diseased cells while minimizing side effects. Their ability to be
functionalized with specific targeting molecules could revolutionize drug delivery and improve treatment
outcomes.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 23
Computers
2
Computers
Topics to be covered
COMPUTERS
Basic Compilation Organisation
Primary Memory:
❖ The contents of RAM (Random Access Memory) are no longer available once the computer is turned off.
❖ ROM (Read Only Memory) is typical memory which can only be read and contents of which are not lost
even when the computer is switched off.
❖ ROM contains manufacturer’s instructions.
❖ ROM also stores an initial program called the ‘bootstrap loader’ whose function is to start the operation of
the computer system once the power is turned on.
5
Secondary Memory:
❖ These include devices that are outlying and are connected and controlled by the computer to enable permanent
storage of programs and data.
❖ Secondary storage devices are of two types:
1. Magnetic: Magnetic devices include hard disks. Hard disks are composed of rigid material and are usually
a stack of metal disks sealed in a box. These are rewritable
2. Optical: Optical storage devices are CDs, DVDs.
Q. With reference to the categories of computer memory, consider the following statements:
1. Primary memory is directly accessible to the central processing unit (CPU) and holds data and
instructions that are currently in use.
2. Secondary memory provides short-term storage for data and programs not actively in use.
Which of the above statements is/are not correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1&2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Option (b) is correct:
❖ Statement 1 is correct: Primary memory, also known as main memory, is directly accessible to the central
processing unit (CPU) and holds data and instructions currently in use. It is characterised by its volatility,
meaning it loses its contents when the computer is turned off.
❖ Statement 2 is not correct: Secondary memory also known as auxiliary memory, provides long-term
storage for data and programs not actively in use. It is non-volatile, meaning it retains its contents even
when the computer is powered off.
6
Computer Viruses/Malware
❖ It is a Self-replicating program and can be
transmitted by email or by inserting copies of itself
into other programs.
❖ Most viruses or worms are malicious programs
designed to pollute and gain control over a computer
without the owner’s knowledge.
❖ It spreads through a computer system, or network
when it is activated.
❖ After it gets activated, these viruses look for certain
programs to infect.
Computer Malware
❖ Malware is the shortened form of malicious software.
❖ This is any program or file that is harmful to a computer user.
❖ The term refers to software that is deployed with malicious intent.
❖ These malicious programs can perform a variety of functions, including stealing, encrypting, or deleting
sensitive data, altering or hijacking core computing functions, and monitoring users’ computer activity
without their permission.
Types of Malware:
❖ Adware: It is the least dangerous and most lucrative Malware. Adware displays ads on your computer.
Example: Fireball, DeskAd.
❖ Spyware: Spyware is software that spies on you, tracking your internet activities to send advertising (Adware)
back to your system.
➢ Example: Pegasus: Developed by the Israeli company NSO Group. In 2019 many politicians in India
were spied. NSO sells this software only to governments
❖ Spam: Spamming is a method of flooding the Internet with copies of the same message. Most spam are
commercial advertisements that are sent as an unwanted email to users.
❖ Worm: A program that replicates itself and destroys data and files on the computer. Worms work to “eat” the
system operating files and data files until the drive is empty.
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Extra Information:
Types of Phishing:
1. Smishing (SMS Phishing): Attackers send text messages posing as legitimate entities, often containing
links to fake websites or phone numbers to call. These messages typically aim to trick recipients into
providing sensitive information or downloading malware onto their devices.
2. Whaling: Targeted phishing attacks aimed at high-profile individuals or executives within
organizations. These attacks often involve personalized emails that appear to come from senior
management or trusted contacts, tricking recipients into disclosing sensitive data or initiating fraudulent
transactions.
3. Angler Phishing: Attackers create fake customer support accounts on social media platforms or
messaging apps to lure victims into providing personal information or downloading malware.
Q. With reference to the Types of Cyber Threats, consider the following statements:
1. Spamming is a method of flooding the Internet with copies of the same message.
2. Worms is a program that replicates itself and destroys data and files on the computer.
3. Phishing is a deceptive practice that aims to trick users into revealing sensitive information.
How many statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All the above (d) None
Q. With reference to the the Types of Cyber Threats, consider the following statements:
1. Voice Phishing (Vishing)is when phishing is done with the help of a telephonic system.
2. Phishing attacks which are directed towards specific senior executives and other high profile targets is
called Whaling.
3. Smishing is a fraudulent practice of sending text messages purporting to be from reputable companies.
How many statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All the above (d) None
Extra Information
❖ Racoon Stealer : It's a Malware that steals various data from an infected computer.
❖ Lack bit - It’s a Ramsamware : target mac device both new and old device.
❖ It’s a category of Cryptovirus.
❖ Payment is through cryptocurrency.
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❖ Anti spyware declaration : This declaration involved a group of countries including the United States,
Australia, Denmark , France , Canada , Norway , Sweden, Costa Rica, New Zealand, United Kingdom and
Switzerland. India is not part of it.
❖ Delhi declaration on cybersecurity : National Cybersecurity coordination ( NCSC) — drafted with the
help of Microsoft Corporation. It’s a series of commitments taken by G- 20 member countries. It’s an
existing nonbinding norm. Enhance the global cyber secure world.
❖ Crypto jacking : victims' computers and resources are used for mining cryptocurrency .
❖ Acoustic side Channel Attack: This is a cyber attack only. Cyberattack where Artificial Intelligence is
used to decode password by analysing sound produced by Keystrokes.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Lecture – 24
Computers (Part 2)
2
Computers (Part 2)
Classical Computer:
❖ The smallest unit of classical computers is a bit.
❖ Classical computers are based on the classical physical theory.
❖ Language: Binary language in the form of 0 or 1 is used in computers.
Quantum Computers:
❖ Quantum computers are based on the principle of quantum mechanics.
❖ An electron in an atom or ion has four quantum numbers to describe its state.
❖ Quantum Mechanics: Quantum mechanics is a fundamental theory in physics that describes the physical
properties of nature at the scale of atoms and subatomic particles. It helps to understand the wave or particle
nature of the light simultaneously. Due to such a double function, it is also known as Dual.
❖ Quantum computer has multiple values due to the continuous motion of electrons. solve mathematical
problems.
❖ Just like a binary bit is the basic unit of information in classical (or traditional) computing, a qubit (or
quantum bit) is the basic unit of information in quantum computing.
❖ Quantum computing uses quantum phenomena such as superposition and entanglement to perform
computation.
❖ Einstein called entanglement a “spooky action at a distance.”
Quantum Numbers:
❖ Quantum numbers consist of four numbers that describe the unique properties of electrons in an atom. These
numbers help to determine the location and energy of electrons within an atom's electron.
❖ Principal Quantum Number (n): The principal quantum number, represented by 'n,' determines the electron's
energy level or shell. It can have positive integer values starting from 1, indicating the increasing distance of
the electron from the nucleus.
❖ Orbital Angular momentuml Quantum Number (l): The azimuthal quantum number, denoted by 'l,' defines
the shape of the electron's orbital within a given energy level. It can have integer values ranging from 0 to n-
1, representing different subshells or orbital shapes.
❖ Magnetic Quantum Number (ml): The magnetic quantum number, represented by 'ml,' specifies the
orientation of the electron's orbital in space. It can have integer values ranging from -l to +l, indicating the
different orientations of the orbital within a subshell.
❖ Spin Quantum Number (ms): The spin quantum number, denoted by 'ms,' describes the intrinsic angular
momentum or spin of the electron. It can have two possible values, +1/2 or -1/2, representing the two possible
spin states of an electron.
Quantum Computing:
❖ Superposition: Superposition represents multiple values either 0 and 1 simultaneously or between 0 and 1, or
any combination of these states. This property of superposition allows quantum computers to store and process
exponentially more information than classical computers. Qubits, the basic units of information in quantum
computing, can exist in a superposition of states. superposition allows quantum computers to store and process
more information than classical computers.
❖ Entanglement: Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where two or more qubits are linked, even when
separated by vast distances. This means changes in one entangled qubit instantly determine the state of the
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other, regardless of their physical separation. Entanglement enables quantum computers to perform complex
calculations that are impossible for classical computers.
❖ Qubits: Qubits is the smallest unit of quantum computing that can represent multiple values simultaneously.
This property of qubits allows quantum computers to handle more complex information and computations
Quantum Satellite/Communication:
QUESS (Quantum Experiments at Space scale)
❖ QUESS (Quantum Experiments at Space Scale): A Chinese initiative exploring the application of quantum
physics in space technology.
❖ Long-range secure communication: Enabling secure communication over vast distances using the principles
of quantum mechanics.
❖ Micius: The world's first quantum-enabled satellite, launched by China in 2016, spearheading quantum
communication advancements.
❖ Quantum Cryptography: Quantum cryptography uses laws of quantum physics for unbreakable encryption.
The no-cloning theorem ensures that any attempt to read encoded data quantum state will be changed. Hence,
it is not possible to decipher such message.
❖ Unbreakable Cryptographic Protection: Micius has been instrumental in establishing quantum encryption
for long-range communication, providing robust protection against malicious attacks, including blinding
telescopes with other light signals.
❖ China's Quantum Advantage: China's pioneering efforts in quantum satellite communication have
positioned the country at the forefront of this cutting-edge technology, offering unparalleled security for
sensitive data transmission.
5
News:
❖ In 2019, Google’s quantum computer, named Sycamore, claimed “quantum supremacy”.
❖ It reportedly did the task in 200 seconds that would have apparently taken a supercomputer 10,000 years to
complete.
What is “quantum supremacy”?
❖ The phrase “quantum supremacy” was coined in 2012 by John Preskill.
❖ Quantum supremacy refers to a quantum computer solving a problem that cannot be expected of a classical
computer in a normal lifetime.
❖ India does not have any quantum computers, but R&D is going on.
Supercomputers:
A computer with a high level of computing performance compared
to the general-purpose computers. Supercomputers are the most
powerful computers in the world, capable of performing complex
calculations and simulations that are too difficult for regular
computers.
❖ Performance is measured in FLOPS (floating-point
operations per second).
❖ Supercomputers are very fast, with performance measured
in petaflops (1 followed by 15 zeros).
❖ They have vast amounts of memory, up to 250,000 times more
than a typical home computer.
❖ Supercomputers require specialized housing in large clean rooms with high airflow to keep them cool.
❖ They are used to solve complex problems in various fields, including scientific research, weather forecasting,
and drug discovery.
6
Supercomputers In India:
❖ The first supercomputer assembled indigenously, called Param Shivay, was installed in IIT (Banaras
Hindu University).
➢ Param Shakti installed at IIT-Kharagpur
➢ Param Brahma installed by IISER, Pune
➢ Param Pravega was installed by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore in 2022. It has a
supercomputing capacity of 3.3 petaflops.
➢ They are equipped with applications from domains like Weather and Climate, Computational Fluid
Dynamics, Bioinformatics, and Material science
❖ India set up C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing) in 1988, which in 1991, unveiled
the prototype of PARAM 8000, benchmarked at 5 Gflops. This supercomputer was the second -fastest in the
world at that time.
❖ As of January 2018, Pratyush and Mihir are the fastest supercomputers in India with a maximum speed
of 6.8 Peta Flops.
❖ As of June, the AIRAWAT supercomputer is the fastest in India, having been ranked 75th fastest in the world
in the TOP500 supercomputer list. It is installed at the Center for Development of Advanced Computing(C-
DAC) in Pune.
❖ AIRAWAT PSAI (AI Research, Analytics, and Knowledge Assimilation) is India's largest and fastest AI
supercomputing system, with a remarkable speed of 13,170 teraflops.
❖ AIRAWAT's supercomputer has been manufactured by Netweb Technologies. The supercomputer runs on
Ubuntu 20.04
Applications of Supercomputers:
❖ Academic research: Supercomputers are instrumental in academic research, enabling scientists to explore
complex phenomena like the origins of the universe.
❖ Provide accurate weather and climate modeling: They provide accurate weather and climate modeling by
analyzing multiple factors and their interrelationships.
❖ Drug discovery: Supercomputers aid in drug discovery by simulating protein folding and other biological
processes.
❖ Big data mining: Big data mining is facilitated by supercomputers, supporting the Digital India mission's
data-driven initiatives.
❖ Enhancement in oil and gas exploration: Oil and gas exploration is enhanced by supercomputers, ensuring
India's energy security.
❖ Aerospace research and development: Aerospace research and development benefit from supercomputers,
leading to safer and more efficient transportation.
❖ Nuclear fission and fusion simulations using supercomputers contribute to improved nuclear infrastructure
and energy security.
❖ Molecular dynamics simulations on supercomputers pave the way for developing innovative materials for
future technologies.
National Supercomputing Mission:
❖ The national supercomputing mission was launched in 2015 to enhance the research capacities and capabilities
in the country by connecting them to form a supercomputing grid, with the National Knowledge Network
(NKN) as the backbone.
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❖ Data sovereignty and privacy: Edge computing enhances data sovereignty by keeping sensitive data closer
to the source, reducing the risk of data breaches or unauthorized access to information stored in remote cloud
servers.
Difference Between Cloud Computing And Edge Computing:
Cloud Computing Edge Computing
Non-time-sensitive data processing Real-time data processing
Reliable internet connection Remote locations with limited or no internet connectivity
Dynamic workloads Large datasets that are too costly to send to the cloud
Data in cloud storage Highly sensitive data and strict data laws
Web 3.0:
The evolution of the Internet
through three distinct phases:
Web 1.0 (1990-2000):
❖ Basic HTML and emails: This
era marked the early days of the
internet, characterized by static
web pages, basic HTML coding,
and email communication.
❖ Information-centric: The focus
was on providing access to
information, with limited user
interaction or content creation.
Web 2.0 (2000-2020):
❖ Informative and interactive:
The internet became more dynamic and interactive, with the rise of social media, user-generated content, and
online collaboration platforms.
❖ User-centric: Users became active participants in creating and sharing content, shaping the online experience.
Web 3.0 (2020 onwards):
❖ Decentralized, private, and secure: Web 3.0 envisions a decentralized internet built on blockchain
technology, emphasizing user privacy, data ownership, and secure transactions.
❖ User-centric: The focus remains on empowering users with control over their data and personalized
experiences.
❖ It is also known as the Semantic Web. It allows for more intelligent, context-aware, and personalized
interactions between humans and computers.
Note:
The semantic web allows combining information from various websites to create new and authentic knowledge
resources.
❖ It advocates a decentralized data storage system.
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DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science and Technology
Lecture - 25
Robotics
2
Robotics
Robotics:
Robotics is the branch of technology that deals with the design, construction,
operation, structural depositions, manufacture, and application of robots.
❖ The word Robot is derived from the word Robota which means slave or
bonded labour.
❖ In 1920 negative description of robots was given by Karel Capek.
Because it was said that robots are killing humans.
❖ The word Robotics was given by Issac Asimov. He gave a positive
description of robots as they were seen as the helpers of humans.
❖ Evolution:
➢ Machine
➢ A combination of machines and Computers are known as Automated
robots.
➢ Self-controlled robots are based on machines, Computers, and sensors.
Robotics Laws:
❖ A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.
❖ A robot must obey the orders given to it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the
First Law.
❖ A robot must protect its existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Laws.
❖ Zero Laws: Asimov enacted another law above these three laws known as the Zero law which says that robots
will never harm humanity and that humanity is more important than human beings.
Robotic process automation (RPA):
❖ Robotic process automation (RPA) is the use of software with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning
capabilities to handle high-volume, repeatable tasks that previously required humans to perform.
❖ These tasks can include queries, calculations, and maintenance of records and transactions.
Practitioners divide RPA technologies into three broad categories:
❖ Probots are bots that follow simple, repeatable rules to process data.
❖ Knowbots are bots that search the internet to gather and store user-specified information.
❖ Chatbots are virtual agents who can respond to customer queries in real time.
Components of Robotics System:
❖ End Effector: The end Effector is a peripheral device that attaches to a robot's wrist, allowing the robot to
interact with its task. Most end effectors are mechanical or electromechanical and serve as grippers, process
tools, or sensors.
❖ Manipulators: The arm-like structure of an industrial robot is known as a robot manipulator. This component
is responsible for completing the tasks the robot is programmed to perform. Also known as a robot arm, the
manipulator mounts to the robot's body and consists of multiple links and joints.
❖ Locomotion Devices: Robot locomotion is the collective name for various methods that robots use to transport
themselves from place to place. Locomotion is the method of moving from one place to another place. The
mechanism that makes a robot capable of moving in its environment is called robot locomotion.
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❖ Controller (Computer): Robotic programming is the process of defining specific commands of an application
for an industrial robot to automate.
❖ Sensors: Sensors are used in robotics to calculate the condition and environment of robots, using functions
similar to the human sensory organs. A variety of sensors are required by different robots to navigate their
environment while performing tasks.
Types of Robots:
❖ Based on Locomotion:
➢ Fixed
➢ Mobile
❖ Based on Working Abilities:
➢ Type 1: They can perform a task better than human beings. Examples, cutting and drilling.
➢ Type 2: They cannot perform the task better than humans but save the life of humans from dangerous
situations. Examples are Space exploration and Deep sea exploration, Vyommitra is a female -looking
spacefaring humanoid robot developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) to function on-
board the Gaganyaan, a crewed orbital spacecraft in the Gaganyaan Mission.
❖ Based on Shape:
➢ Mechanical
➢ Animal
➢ Human
Timeline Vision of Robotics in India:
❖ Report of National Institute of Science and Technology Policy (NISTEP), 2030:
➢ By 2013-2014: Agricultural robots
➢ By 2013-2017: Robots that care for elderly
➢ By 2013-2020: Nano Rabots
➢ By 2015: To have one third of its fighting capacity provided by Robots
➢ By 2017: Medical Robots performing low invasive surgery
➢ By 2017-2019: Household Robots
➢ By 2035: To have first completely autonomous Robot Soldiers on the battlefield.
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Applications of Robotics:
❖ Machine loading: Robots automate the loading and unloading of materials onto machines, enhancing
efficiency and reducing labor costs.
❖ Pick and place operation: Robots perform precise pick-and-place tasks, moving objects with accuracy and
speed, streamlining production processes.
❖ Welding: Robots execute welding tasks with consistency and precision, ensuring high -quality welds and
reducing human error.
❖ Painting: Robots apply paint evenly and efficiently, improving finish quality and minimizing paint waste.
❖ Inspection: Robots perform visual or sensor-based inspections, detecting defects or irregularities in products
or components.
❖ Sampling: Robots collect samples for testing or analysis, ensuring consistent and reliable sampling
procedures.
❖ Assembly operation: Robots assemble components with precision and speed, reducing assembly time and
improving product quality.
❖ Manufacturing: Robots automate various manufacturing processes, enhancing productivity, consistency, and
safety.
❖ Surveillance: Robots monitor areas for security purposes, providing continuous surveillance and alerting
authorities to potential threats.
❖ Medical applications: Robots assist in surgery, rehabilitation, and patient care, improving precision, reducing
surgeon fatigue, and enhancing patient outcomes.
❖ Assisting disabled individuals: Robots provide support and assistance to individuals with disabilities, aiding
in daily tasks and promoting independence.
❖ Hazardous environments: Robots operate in hazardous environments, such as nuclear facilities or disaster
zones, minimizing human exposure to risks.
❖ Underwater, space, and remote locations: Robots explore and perform tasks in underwater, space, or remote
locations, extending human reach into challenging environments.
Benefits of Robotic Surgery:
❖ Less Tissue Damage
❖ Less time and less trauma or pain
❖ Less chances of infection
❖ Fast post-surgery recovery
❖ Better accuracy
Benefits of Robotics in the Industrial Sector:
❖ Enhance the productivity of industrial production
❖ Product quality will be improved because there is no chance of human error.
❖ Reduction in cost of production
❖ Suitable to work in a hazardous environment.
❖ Compliance with safety standards and regulations.
Examples:
Healthcare sector:
❖ C-ASTRA: C-Astra medical robots are designed to provide surgeons with a high level of precision and control
during surgical procedures, which can lead to better outcomes for patients. It can take the temperature and
sanitize the room.
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❖ MITRA: It can check the temperature and connect the patient to family members through video calls.
❖ RoboDoc: It can connect patients to doctors virtually and provides health-related information to the doctor
hence, it provides contactless treatment.
Robots in Defence:
❖ Daksh: It is developed by (DRDO) Defense Research and Development Organization. It is one of the most
current military robots of India, it can also scan objects using its portable X-ray Device.
❖ Nishant: It is an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) developed by India’s ADE (Aeronautical Development
Establishment), a branch of DRDO for the Indian Armed Forces.
➢ The Nishant UAV is primarily tasked with intelligence gathering over enemy territory and also for
reconnaissance, training, surveillance, target designation, artillery fire correction, and damage assessment.
➢ It is for the Indian Army.
❖ AGRIBOT: It is an Agriculture Robot. It provides admirable agricultural aid for the farmer.
❖ Kitchen Robots: The SpotMini robot from Boston Dynamics is a versatile quadruped robot designed for
various tasks, including kitchen assistance.
Challenges in Robotics:
❖ Job displacement: The increasing adoption of robots in various industries raises concerns about job
displacement, particularly for workers performing repetitive tasks that can be automated.
❖ Ethical dilemmas: The growing capabilities of robots raise ethical questions about their rights and
responsibilities. Should robots be considered as property, tools, or entities with certain rights?
❖ Devaluation of Labour: Human has value for their skill but the introduction of robots will lead to a decrease
in the labour value.
❖ Security threats: As robots become more sophisticated and interconnected, they may pose security threats if
hacked or manipulated, potentially causing physical harm or disrupting critical systems.
❖ Social implications: Over-reliance on robots for companionship and emotional support could weaken human
relationships and social structures, potentially leading to isolation and erosion of family bonds.
Robots in Disaster Management:
❖ Robots are attached to advanced sensors.
❖ Robots can be small-sized and flexible.
❖ Robots can work in dangerous and hostile conditions.
❖ Hyderabad Science Society has developed a robotic system that can enter into the collapsed building wreckage
and it can detect the person trapped inside.
❖ Indian startup Gen Robotics has developed a sewer-cleaning robotic system Bandicoot. which is being used
by many municipal corporations in India.
All India Council for Robotics and Automation:
❖ It is a not-for-profit organization established in 2014.
❖ It sets up standards in the robotics & automation and education industry, helping organizations and
professionals to solve difficult technical problems.
❖ It is engaged in various activities to promote and build an ecosystem for robotics and automation in India.
Recent Development:
Artificial Humans -NEONs
❖ Artificial Humans: NEONs are heralded as the world's first artificial humans, representing a
groundbreaking advancement in artificial intelligence and computer graphics.
❖ Created by Samsung Star Labs headed by Pranav Mistry, a India-born scientist.
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❖ Virtual Humans: NEONs are not physical robots but computationally generated virtual humans, as indicated
by their name, a combination of NEO (new) and humaNs.
Xenobots (Living Robot):
❖ World's First Living Robots: Scientists in the United States have made a groundbreaking discovery by
creating the world's first "living robots" called xenobots.
❖ Frog Cell Construction: These tiny robots are constructed from the cells of the African-clawed frog,
specifically utilizing skin cells and heart cells.
❖ Unique Design and Function: The skin cells provide a rigid support structure, while the heart cells generate
rhythmic contractions, enabling the xenobots to move and navigate their environment.
❖ Its applications include searching out nasty compounds or radioactive contamination, gathering microplastic
in the oceans, traveling in arteries to scrape out plaque, etc
Astro Robot:
❖ Home Monitoring and Assistance: Amazon's Astro robot is designed to assist customers with a range of
tasks, including home monitoring, keeping in touch with family, and providing companionship.
❖ Mobile Navigation: Astro can autonomously navigate around the home, using its wheels and sensors to avoid
obstacles and move from room to room.
❖ Pet Monitoring: Astro can keep an eye on pets while owners are away, providing peace of mind and ensuring
their furry friends are safe and sound.
❖ Integrated Technology: Astro combines the capabilities of an Echo Show smart speaker with a sophisticated
Ring security camera, offering both communication and surveillance features.
❖ Facial Recognition: Astro can recognize faces and analyze them, enabling personalized interactions and
potential security applications
Spot Robot:
❖ MIT and Boston Dynamics Collaboration: Researchers from Boston
Dynamics, of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT-USA) and
Boston Dynamics have joined forces to explore the potential of the Spot
robot in healthcare settings, particularly for COVID-19 patients.
❖ Remote Vital Sign Monitoring: Spot can measure vital signs, including
skin temperature, breathing rate, pulse rate, and blood oxygen saturation,
from a distance of 2 meters, reducing the risk of exposure for healthcare
workers.
Robotics in Pandemics:
❖ Disinfecting Surfaces: Robots equipped with ultraviolet (UV) light or
disinfectant sprayers can effectively disinfect surfaces in hospitals, public
spaces, and other high-traffic areas, reducing the spread of pathogens.
❖ Contact Tracing: Robots can assist in contact tracing efforts by collecting
and analyzing data from individuals' smartphones or wearable devices, identifying potential exposure risks and
helping to contain the spread of infection.
❖ Testing for Coronavirus: Robots can perform nasopharyngeal swabs or other testing procedures for
coronavirus, reducing the burden on healthcare workers and minimizing their exposure to the virus.
❖ Medicine Delivery: Robots can deliver medications, medical supplies, and other essential items to patients in
isolation or quarantine, reducing the risk of transmission and ensuring patients receive necessary care.
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❖ Cloud Minds Robots in Wuhan: In Wuhan, China, CloudMinds robots played a crucial role in delivering
food, drinks, and medicine to patients during the COVID-19 outbreak, minimizing direct contact and reducing
the risk of infection.
❖ Social Robots: Social robots can provide companionship, social stimulation, and emotional support to
individuals experiencing isolation or loneliness during pandemics, improving mental well-being and reducing
the negative impacts of social distancing.
Robotics in India:
❖ In India, the application of robots is mainly related to the electronics, automobile, and medicine industries.
❖ According to the World Robotics Report 2022 released by the International Federation of Robotics, around
35 lakh industrial robots have been installed in various industries in the world in 2021.
❖ In total, global robot installations are expected to grow by more than 10% in 2022.
❖ Majority of industrial robots are installed in the electronic and automobile sectors.
❖ In 2021, more than half of the industrial robots were installed in China.
❖ Despite lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic constraints, and geopolitical conflict, global
adoption of robotics is constinuing to grow.
❖ The new World Robotics 2023 Industrial Robots and Service Robots report said that 553052 industrial robots
were installed in factories around the world in 2022, a year-over-year growth rate of 5%.
❖ By region, 73% of all newly deployed robots were installed in Asia, 15% in Europe, and 10% in the Americas,
according to the International Federation of Robotics.
Government Initiatives:
1. Center for Development of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR): This is a government-backed
dedicated research center for the development of robotics in India. CAIR has developed many robotic systems
including GARUDA robots which are used by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for aircraft making.
2. All India Council for Robotics and Automation (AICRA): It was established in 2014 as a nonprofit
organization to provide a conducive environment, administrative help, technological support, and financial
assistance to start-ups and new companies in robotics.
3. Startups and companies working in the field of robotics are Gen Robotics, Asimov Robotics, and Team Indus.
4. A subsidiary of TATA, TAL has developed India's first industrial robot, BRABO which is very popular in
both the domestic and international market.
5. Laxmi: Laxmi is the first banking robot installed in the City Union Bank Chennai.
6. ERA: This is the second banking robot installed in HDFC Bank, Mumbai.
7. Invento Robotics Robot Mitra is installed in the shopping malls.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science and Technology
Lecture - 26
Health
2
Health
Traditional Medicine:
❖ It is the total of the knowledge, skill, and practices based on the
theories, beliefs, and experiences indigenous to different cultures,
whether explicable or not.
❖ It is used in the maintenance of health as well as in the
prevention, diagnosis, improvement, or treatment of physical
and mental illness.
❖ India’s Traditional and Complementary Medicines (T&CM) are
also called AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and
Homeopathy).
❖ It is regulated by the Ministry of AYUSH which was formed in
2014.
Mainstreaming of T&CM:
Advantages Challenges
❖ SECURE: It is the first dedicated mechanism to expand access in low and low-middle-income
countries(LMICs) to essential antibiotics which goes beyond access to a single product.
❖ AWaRe: It is an online tool aimed at guiding policy-makers and health workers to use antibiotics safely and
more effectively. Launched by WHO.
AMR in India:
❖ The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) identified AMR as one of the top 10 priorities
❖ National Action Plan on AMR (NAP-AMR) (2017-21) by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
(MoHFW) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) as the key surveillance body.
❖ India’s Red Line campaign demands that prescription-only antibiotics
❖ Antibiotic stewardship program: ICMR has initiated this pilot project across India to control the misuse and
overuse of antibiotics in hospital wards and ICUs.
❖ Schedule H-1 has been incorporated in Drug and Cosmetic rules to regulate the sale of antimicrobials in the
country.
❖ Mission Indradhanush to ensure full immunization with all available vaccines for children up to two years
of age
Way Forward:
❖ Need for a holistic approach: AMR is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive solution. This
includes investing in research and development of new antibiotics, improving infection prevention and control,
and promoting the wise use of antibiotics.
❖ Need of regulatory mechanism: Stringent regulations are needed to limit the use of antimicrobials in
livestock and food animals. This includes banning the use of antibiotics as growth promoters and using
antibiotics only to treat sick animals under veterinary supervision.
❖ Need for a One Health Approach in addressing AMR: AMR is a global problem that affects human, animal,
and environmental health. It is important to take a One Health approach to address AMR, which means
recognizing that human, animal, and environmental health are interconnected.
❖ Spreading awareness: It is important to raise awareness of AMR among the public, healthcare professionals,
and veterinarians. This can help to reduce the misuse and overuse of antibiotics.
❖ Antibiotics given to animals should be under veterinary supervision and vaccinated animals to reduce the need
for antibiotics
Biofilms:
❖ Biofilms are an aggregation of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, protozoa, etc, that grow on a surface
and are enclosed in a self-produced extracellular matrix.
❖ The biofilm matrix is composed of extracellular polymeric substances(EPS) which are secreted by the
microorganisms and provide structural integrity and protection.
❖ Biofilms can form on both biotic and abiotic surfaces.
❖ Common surfaces include teeth, bones, implants, ship hulls, pipelines, rocks etc,
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Mo Mo Pregnancy:
❖ A Mo Mo pregnancy is one where there is one placenta and one amniotic sac for both babies
❖ Mo Mo is a shortened form of monochorionic monoamniotic.
❖ Monomatic twins are identical or semi-identical twins that share the same amniotic sac within their mother's
uterus.
❖ Monoamniotic twins are always monochorionic and are usually termed monoamniotic monochronic twins.
❖ They share a placenta but have two separate umbilical cords.
Amniocentesis:
❖ Amniocentesis is done to remove amniotic fluid and cells from the uterus for testing or treatment. Amniotic
fluid surrounds and protects a baby during pregnancy.
❖ Amniocentesis can provide useful information about a baby's health. But it's important to know the risks of
amniocentesis
❖ It is banned in India.
Sickle Cell Anemia:
❖ Sickle cell Anemia is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders that affect hemoglobin, the protein that
carries oxygen through the body.
❖ In sickle cell anemia, red blood cells become crescent or “sickle” shaped due to a genetic mutation.
❖ These sickled red blood cells do not bend or move easily and can block blood flow to the rest of the body.
News:
❖ The U.S. has approved the first CRISPR-based GEne therapies to treat patents with sickle cell disease(SCD).
❖ Cagey and Lyfgenia is the first cell-based gene therapies is approved for the treatment of SCD in patients of
age and older.
❖ India has also launched the National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission to tackle SCD.
About the National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission to Tackle SCD:
❖ Objective: Provide affordable and accessible care and eliminate it before 2047.
❖ Strategy: Consists of three pillar health strategy namely Health Promotion, Prevention, Holistic Management,
and Continuum of Care.
❖ Beneficiaries: 0 to 18 years old age and shall incrementally include the entire population up to 40 years as a
part of the National Health Mission (NHM).
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Lecture – 27
Alternative Energy
2
Alternative Energy
Biofuel:
❖ Biofuel is a type of renewable energy that is made from organic matter, such as plants, animals, and
waste. Biofuels are made up of carbon and its compounds. Biofuels can be used to generate electricity, power
vehicles, and to heat homes and to do businesses.
❖ It is hydrocarbon fuel that is produced from an organic matter.
The Main types of Biofuels are Solid, Liquid, and Gaseous:
❖ Solid biofuels include wood, dried plant material, and manure. These
biofuels can be burned directly to produce heat or electricity.
❖ Liquid biofuels include bioethanol and biodiesel. Bioethanol is a type of
alcohol that can be made from sugar or starch crops, such as corn,
sugarcane, or wheat. Biodiesel is a type of diesel fuel that can be made
from vegetable oils or animal fats.
❖ Gaseous biofuels include biogas and biomethane. Biogas is a mixture of
methane, carbon dioxide, and other gasses that is produced by the
anaerobic digestion of organic matter. Biomethane is a purified form of
biogas that is almost pure methane.
The Biofuel Development Process:
❖ The process begins with the cultivation of biomass, which can be any type of plant or animal material that can
be used to produce energy. Once the biomass is harvested, it is processed into a feedstock, which is a material
that can be converted into biofuel. The feedstock can be processed in a variety of ways, depending on the
type of biofuel being
produced.
❖ The biofuel development
process for bioethanol and
butanol production from
lignocellulosic biomass.
Lignocellulosic biomass is a
type of plant material that is
made up of three main
components: lignin, cellulose,
and hemicellulose.
❖ The biofuel development
process begins with the
collection and processing of lignocellulosic biomass. The biomass is then pretreated to break down the lignin
and cellulose into smaller molecules that can be converted into sugars.
❖ The sugars are then fermented by yeast to produce ethanol and butanol. The ethanol and butanol are then
distilled to separate them from the other components of the fermentation both.
❖ The distilled ethanol and butanol can then be used as biofuels or as feedstocks for the production of
other chemicals and products.
3
Generations Of Biofuels:
Biofuels can be Classified into three Generations,
based on the type of Feedstock Used to Produce Them:
❖ First-Generation Biofuels: First-generation
biofuels are produced from food crops, such as
corn, sugarcane, and soybeans. These biofuels are
relatively easy to produce using existing technology,
but they have been criticized for competing with food
production and for their negative environmental
impacts.
❖ Second-Generation Biofuels: Second-generation
biofuels are produced from non-food biomass, such
as agricultural waste, woody crops, jatropha
seeds. Second-generation biofuels are more
sustainable than first-generation biofuels, but they are also more expensive to produce and the technology is
still under development.
❖ Third-generation biofuels: Third-generation biofuels are produced from algae . Third-generation biofuels
have the potential to be even more sustainable than second-generation biofuels, but they are still in the early
stages of development.
❖ Fourth-generation biofuels: Fourth-
generation biofuels are produced from
advanced feedstocks, such as genetically
modified crops.
Second-Generation biofuels:
❖ Biofuel production from jatropha seeds.
❖ Jatropha is a drought-tolerant plant that can
grow in marginal lands, making it a
promising source of biofuel.
❖ The process begins with the collection of
jatropha seeds. The seeds are then dried and
crushed to extract the oil. The oil is then
processed using a chemical process called
transesterification to produce biodiesel.
❖ Transesterification is a reaction between a
triglyceride (such as jatropha oil) and an
alcohol (such as methanol) to produce fatty
acid esters (biodiesel) and glycerol. The
reaction is catalyzed by a base, such as
sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide.
❖ The biodiesel is then separated from the
glycerol and purified. The biodiesel can then
be used in vehicles or blended with
petroleum-based diesel fuel.
4
Fourth-Generation Biofuels:
❖ Fourth-generation biofuels are
produced using genetically
modified (GM) organisms,
such as algae, cyanobacteria,
and yeast. These organisms
are engineered to produce
more biomass or to produce
biomass that is easier to
convert into biofuel.
❖ The fourth-generation biofuel
production process typically
begins with the cultivation of
the GM organisms in a
bioreactor. The bioreactor is a
controlled environment that provides the organisms with the nutrients and sunlight they need to grow. Once
the organisms have grown, they are harvested and processed to extract the biofuel.
❖ The biofuel can be extracted using a variety of methods, including fermentation, transesterification, and
pyrolysis. Fermentation is a process that uses yeast to convert sugars into ethanol. Transesterification is a
process that uses an alcohol and a catalyst to convert triglycerides into biodiesel. Pyrolysis is a process that
uses heat to convert biomass into biochar and other products.
❖ The extracted biofuel can then be purified and used in vehicles or blended with petroleum -based fuels.
Bioethanol as Biofuels:
❖ It is derived from corn and sugarcane using the
fermentation process.
❖ A liter of ethanol contains approximately two
thirds of the energy provided by a liter of
petrol.
❖ When it is mixed with petrol, it improves
combustion performance and lowers the
emissions of carbon monoxide and sulfur
oxide.
Biodiesel as Biofuels:
❖ It is derived from vegetable oils like soybean oil
or palm oil, vegetable waste oils, and animal
fats by a biochemical process called "Trans-
esterification".
❖ It produces very less or no amount of harmful
gasses as compared to diesel.
❖ It can be used as an alternative to conventional
diesel fuel.
❖ There is no need to make much changes in engines for use of Biodiesels.
6
Biogas:
❖ It is produced by anaerobic decomposition of
organic matter like sewage from animals and
humans.
❖ Major proportions of biogas are methane and
carbon dioxide, though it also has small
proportions of hydrogen sulfide, hydrogen,
carbon monoxide and siloxanes.
❖ It is commonly used for heating, electricity and
for automobiles.
The disadvantages of biogas:
❖ Biogas is difficult to transport for long distances
because it is a mixture of gasses.
❖ It is difficult to fill cylinders with biogas because it is a low-pressure gas.
❖ Biogas is a mixture of gasses that is produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic matter. Organic
matter is any material that contains carbon, such as food scraps, manure, and agricultural waste.
Biohydrogen
❖ Biohydrogen, like biogas, can be produced
using a number of processes such as
(pyrolysis, gasification) or biological
fermentation.
❖ It can be the perfect alternative for fossil fuel.
❖ Biohydrogen is a type of hydrogen gas that is
produced from biomass sources, such as
agricultural waste, forestry waste, and
municipal solid waste.
❖ The two main types of biohydrogen
production processes are thermochemical
processes and biological processes.
➢ Thermochemical processes use heat to
convert biomass into biohydrogen. The
two most common thermochemical
processes for biohydrogen production are pyrolysis and gasification.
➢ Pyrolysis is a process that heats biomass in the absence of oxygen. This process produces a mixture of
gasses, including hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and methane. The hydrogen can then be separated from
the other gasses and purified.
➢ Gasification is a process that heats biomass in the presence of a limited amount of oxygen. This process
also produces a mixture of gasses, including hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide. The
hydrogen can then be separated from the other gasses and purified.
➢ Biological processes use microorganisms to convert biomass into biohydrogen. The most common
biological process for biohydrogen production is fermentation.
7
➢ Fermentation is a process that uses microorganisms to break down organic matter into simpler molecules.
This process produces a variety of gasses, including hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and methane. The
hydrogen can then be separated from the other gasses and purified.
Advantages Of Biofuels:
❖ Availability: Biofuels can be produced from a variety of raw materials, which are widely available in many
parts of the world. This makes biofuels a more sustainable option than fossil fuels, which are a limited
resource.
❖ Source material: Biofuels can be produced from a variety of source materials, including plants, algae, and
waste products. This gives us more flexibility in how we produce biofuels and allows us to reduce our reliance
on food crops.
❖ Environmental pollution: Biofuels produce less pollution than fossil fuels when burned. This helps to
improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
❖ Energy security: Biofuels can help to improve energy security by reducing our reliance on imported oil.
This is important for both economic and environmental reasons.
❖ Economic stimulation: The biofuel industry can create jobs and boost the economy. This is especially
beneficial in rural areas, where farmers can grow biofuel crops as an additional source of income.
Disadvantages Of Biofuels:
❖ Energy efficiency: Biofuels are not as energy-efficient as fossil fuels. This means that it takes more biofuel to
produce the same amount of energy as fossil fuels.
❖ Cost: Biofuels are typically more expensive to produce than fossil fuels. This is due to the high costs of land,
water, and energy required to produce biofuels.
❖ Food shortage: Biofuels can compete with food crops for land and resources. This can lead to food
shortages and higher food prices.
❖ Water use: Biofuel production can consume a lot of water. This can be a problem in areas where water is
scarce.
8
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science and Technology
Lecture - 28
Nuclear Technology
2
Nuclear Technology
Nuclear Technology:
❖ Nuclear technology encompasses the manipulation of atomic nuclei through nuclear reactions.
❖ Prominent applications of nuclear technology include nuclear reactors for power generation, medical
procedures in nuclear medicine, and the development of nuclear weaponry.
Isotopes:
❖ Isotopes are forms of an element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, affecting
their mass and stability.
❖ They exhibit similar chemical properties but vary in physical characteristics.
❖ Some isotopes are stable, while others are unstable and emit radiation.
Note:
❖ Fissile Material: Fissile materials are substances capable of sustaining nuclear fission reactions, crucial
components in the construction of nuclear weapons and other explosive nuclear devices. Among the most
commonly utilized materials in nuclear weaponry are highly enriched uranium, particularly the U-235
isotope.
❖ Fertile Material: A substance that isn't inherently fissile (able to undergo fission with thermal neutrons),
yet can be converted into a fissile material through irradiation within a reactor, with uranium-238 being one
of the primary examples.
Nuclear Fission:
❖ The process in nuclear physics in which the nucleus of an atom splits into two daughter nuclei.
❖ When the Uranium -235 atom is bombarded with a neutron, it splits into two lighter nuclei Barium, and
Krypton.
❖ Upon neutron bombardment, the unstable uranium-235 nucleus fragments into smaller nuclei, barium-144
and krypton-89, releasing a surge of energy and additional neutrons. These liberated neutrons can trigger a
chain reaction, perpetuating the fission cycle and generating a continuous stream of energy. This harnessed
energy forms the basis of nuclear power generation.
3
❖ The image depicts the working mechanism of a nuclear reactor, a complex system that harnesses the energy
released during nuclear fission to generate electricity. The process begins in the fission chamber, where
fuel rods containing fissile material, typically uranium-235, undergo controlled nuclear fission. This
fission releases a tremendous amount of heat, along with neutrons that can initiate further fission reactions,
creating a self-sustaining chain reaction.
❖ To control the rate of fission and prevent a runaway reaction, control rods made of neutron-absorbing
materials like cadmium or boron are inserted into the reactor core. These rods can be adjusted to either
slow down or accelerate the fission process, ensuring a controlled and stable energy output.
❖ The heat generated by fission is transferred to a coolant, usually water, which circulates through the reactor
core and absorbs the thermal energy. This heated coolant then flows through a heat exchanger, where it
transfers its heat to a secondary water loop, turning the water into steam.
❖ The high-pressure steam is directed towards a turbine, causing it to rotate. This rotational energy is then
converted into electricity by an electric generator coupled to the turbine. The spent steam is then condensed
back into water and recirculated through the system.
❖ The entire process is carefully monitored and controlled to ensure safety and efficiency. Shielding around the
reactor core prevents harmful radiation from escaping, and multiple safety systems are in place to shut down
the reactor in case of any malfunction or emergency.
Note:
❖ In nature, Uranium-235 comprises approximately 0.7% of the total uranium, whereas Uranium-238
makes up about 99%.
4
❖ Fusion reactions take place in a state of matter called plasma, a hot, charged gas made of positive ions and
free-moving electrons with unique properties distinct from solids, liquids, or gasses.
❖ The image illustrates the concept of nuclear fusion, a process that releases enormous amounts of energy by
combining lighter atomic nuclei into heavier ones. This process powers the sun and other stars, and
scientists are working to harness it as a potential source of clean and abundant energy on Earth.
❖ The image depicts two isotopes of hydrogen, deuterium and tritium, fusing together to form a helium nucleus,
releasing a high-energy neutron in the process. This reaction is represented by the equation:
Deuterium + Tritium → Helium + Neutron + Energy
❖ The energy released in this fusion reaction is significantly higher than that produced by nuclear fission, making
it a promising alternative for future energy production. However, achieving controlled nuclear fusion on Earth
is a significant technological challenge due to the extremely high temperatures and pressures required to
initiate and sustain the fusion process.
Conditions required to achieve fusion:
❖ Temperature of more than 100 million degrees Celsius.
❖ Maintaining a high enough density for a long enough time so that the rate of fusion reactions will be large
enough to generate the desired power.
Challenges to Fusion:
❖ Strong repulsive electrostatic forces between the positively charged nuclei prevent them from getting close
enough together to collide and for fusion to occur.
When does it happen:
❖ If the attractive nuclear force (which binds protons and neutrons together in atomic nuclei) between the nuclei
outweighs the repulsive (electrostatic) force, then a fusion reaction can occur.
➢ Such conditions can occur when the temperature increases, causing the ions to move faster and
eventually reach speeds high enough to bring the ions close enough together.
Advantages of Nuclear fusion reaction:
❖ Abundant energy: Nuclear fusion reactions release an enormous amount of energy from a small amount of
fuel, providing a virtually limitless source of power.
❖ Fusion fuels are widely available, and nearly inexhaustible: The primary fuels for fusion, isotopes of
hydrogen, are abundant in nature, particularly in water, ensuring a long-term supply.
❖ Environmentally friendly/No CO2: Fusion does not produce carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gasses,
making it a clean energy source that does not contribute to climate change.
❖ No long-lived radioactive waste: Fusion produces significantly less radioactive waste compared to nuclear
fission, and the waste it does produce has a much shorter half-life, reducing long-term storage concerns.
❖ Cost-effective fuel or Cheaper raw material: The raw materials for fusion are relatively inexpensive and
readily available, making it a potentially cost-effective energy source.
❖ No Risk of Meltdown: Fusion reactions are inherently safe and cannot undergo uncontrolled chain reactions
like fission, eliminating the risk of meltdowns.
6
ITER:
❖ International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is an agreement of 7 (China, the European Union,
India, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and the United States.)members launched in 1985.
❖ ITER Agreement (2006), seven members will share the project construction, operation and decommissioning
cost.
❖ It is located in France.
❖ It aims to build the world's largest tokamak to prove the feasibility of fusion as a large-scale and carbon-
free source of energy.
Tokamak:
❖ The tokamak is an experimental machine designed to harness fusion energy.
❖ Inside a tokamak, the energy produced through the fusion of atoms is absorbed as heat in the walls of the
vessel.
7
❖ Like a conventional power plant, a fusion power plant uses this heat to produce steam, and then electricity by
way of turbines, and generators.
❖ Inside the Tokamak, we heat the fuel to produce a plasma(superheated gas) in the fourth state of matter.
❖ Once a stage is generated, the strong magnetic field traps the plasma.
❖ It aims to hold it stable for long enough for fusion reactors to occur within the plasma.
Applicable Principle:
❖ The project is based on fusion which is also an energy source for the Sun, and Stars.
❖ Every fusion reaction in the sun, in which two hydrogen atoms fuse into one helium atom, releases two
neutrinos.
Participation:
❖ International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) members include China, the European Union,
India, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and the United States.
❖ ITER Agreement (2006), seven members will share the project construction, operation, and decommissioning
cost.
❖ The European Union (EU) is responsible for the largest portion of construction costs (45.6 %), the remainder
is shared equally by China, Japan, South Korea, Russia, the USA including India (9.1% each).
Related News
❖ India has supplied four km of Cryolines for the ITER project in France.
❖ The Institute for Plasma Research (IPR), an aided institute of the Department of Atomic Energy, is India's
collaborating agency.
❖ Other than supplying cryolines, IPR has also supplied ITER with about six km of return lines for warm gasses,
manufactured in India.
❖ SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors with a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit.
Advantages of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs):
❖ Smaller footprint: SMRs can be sited in locations not suitable for larger nuclear power plants. ↑
❖ Affordable: Prefabricated units of SMRs can be manufactured and then shipped and installed on-site.
❖ Savings: SMRs offer savings in cost and construction time.
❖ Longer refueling interval: only need to refuel every three to seven years, as opposed to every one to two
years for traditional plants.
❖ Compact design: Efficient, small layout maximizing functionality within minimal space.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Tech
Lecture - 29
Intellectual Property
Right
2
Lithium-Ion Battery:
News:
❖ Recently the Union Government constituted an expert panel to probe the recent series of battery explosions in
electric vehicles(EV).
❖ Lithium is found in Jammu and Kashmir.
❖ Issues: Lack of technological advantage for extraction of lithium.
Lithium:
❖ Lithium is the lightest solid metal. It is currently produced from hard rock or brine mines.
❖ Australia is the world's biggest supplier with production of lithium from hard rock mines while Argentina,
Chile, and China(Triangle) are producing it from salt lakes.
❖ Anode is negative in an electrochemical cell because it has a negative potential with respect to the solution
while anode is positive in an electrolytic cell because it is
connected to the positive terminal of the battery.
❖ A Lithium-ion battery is a rechargeable battery in which
lithium ions move from the negative electrode to positive
electrode during discharge and back when charging.
❖ Materials used as electrodes: Lithium cobalt oxide(cathode),
lithium manganese oxide( used in electric automobiles), and
lithium iron phosphate.
❖ Lion batteries use ether (a class of organic compounds) as an
electrolyte.
❖ Solid state batteries have excellent potential energy density.
❖ A solid state battery uses solid electrolyte not liquid.
Lithium in India:
4
Patent:
❖ Exclusive Rights to Inventions: A patent grants the inventor exclusive rights to their invention, providing
control over its use and commercialization.
❖ Legal framework:The patent Act of 1970, amended in 2005, governs patent protection in India, ensuring
investors rights and promoting technological advancements.
❖ Duration of Patent Protection: Patents in India provide protection for twenty years from the date of filing
the patent application, ensuring a period of exclusivity for the inventor.
❖ Scope of Patentable Subjects: Patents encompass a broad range of inventions, including:
➢ Novel inventions that represent a significant advancement in technology
➢ Innovative improvements to existing inventions that enhance their functionality or efficiency
➢ Original processes or methods for creating products or achieving specific outcomes.
Patents (Amendment) Rules, 2021:
❖ Extension of Expedited Examination System:
➢ The fastest granted patent is the one which was granted in 41 days after filing of such request.
➢ This facility of Expedited Examination system was initially provided for patent applications filed by
Startups.
❖ Introduction of Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH): The PPH initiative facilitates accelerated patent
prosecution by enabling information sharing between participating patent offices, streamlining the process for
applicants.
❖ Reduced Patent Fees for Educational Institutions: To encourage innovation in academia, patent filing and
prosecution fees have been significantly reduced for educational institutions, promoting research and
development activities.
Trademark:
❖ It is a sign capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one enterprise from those of other enterprises.
❖ It dates back to ancient times when artisans used to put their signature or "mark" on their products.
Industrial Design:
❖ It constitutes the ornamental or aesthetic aspect of an article.
❖ A design may consist of three-dimensional features, such as the shape or surface of an article, or of two-
dimensional features, such as patterns, lines or color.
Geographical Indications (GI):
❖ GI and appellations of origin are signs used on goods that have a specific
geographical origin and possess qualities, a reputation or characteristics
that are essentially attributable to that place of origin.
❖ Most commonly, a geographical indication includes the name of the place
of origin of the goods.
❖ GI is given for 10 years.
7
➢ CL is permitted under the WTO’s TRIPS (IPR) Agreement provided conditions such as ‘national
emergencies, other circumstances of extreme urgency and anti-competitive practices’ are fulfilled.
❖ Special 301 Report and Priority Watch List: The USTR's Special 301 Report identifies countries with
intellectual property rights (IPR) protection deficiencies. India has been placed on the Priority Watch List,
indicating serious IPR concerns requiring increased attention.
❖ Weak Enforcement of Copyright Act: Despite having a comprehensive Copyright Act, India faces
challenges in effectively enforcing it, leading to widespread copyright infringement and piracy, particularly in
digital content.
TRIPS (Trade-Related Intellectual Property Rights )
❖ It is a legal agreement between all the member nations of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
❖ It establishes minimum standards for the regulation by national governments of different forms of intellectual
property (IP) as applied to nationals of other WTO member nations.
❖ It is the most comprehensive multilateral agreement on intellectual property to date.
1
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 30
Defence Technology
2
Defence Technology
Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme
❖ IGMDP was the brainchild of renowned scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
❖ It was intended to attain self-sufficiency in the field of missile technology.
❖ After considering the requirements of various types of missiles by the defense forces, the program recognized
the need to develop five missile systems.
❖ The IGMDP formally got the approval of the Indian government on 26 July 1983.
Missiles Developed Under IGMDP:
❖ Prithvi: A short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile designed for tactical strikes against enemy targets.
❖ Range:
1. Prithvi 1: 150km, one stage
2. Prithvi 2: 250km, one stage
3. Prithvi 3: 350km, Two-stage
❖ Agni: An intermediate-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile capable of delivering nuclear warheads.
❖ Trishul: A short-range low-level surface-to-air missile designed to intercept incoming aircraft and missiles.
❖ Akash: A medium-range surface-to-air missile providing defense against medium-range air targets.
❖ Nag: A third-generation anti-tank missile designed to destroy enemy armored vehicles.
Agni Missile:
❖ India's Agni missile family, was developed under the Integrated
Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).
❖ The successful training launch of the Agni-3 Intermediate
Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) reaffirms India's defense
capabilities.
❖ The Agni-3 IRBM boasts an impressive range exceeding 3,000
kilometers and can carry a substantial payload of over 1.5
tonnes.
3
News:
❖ Recently, India successfully carried out the night trials of the Agni-
V nuclear−capable ballistic missile.
❖ This advanced surface-to-surface missile was developed under the
IGMDP.
❖ Agni 5 missile has multiple Independently Targeted Re-entry vehicle
(MIRV) technology.
❖ MIRV: The MIRV technology means a single missile can carry
multiple warheads. It ensures that a single missile can deploy
multiple warheads at different locations.
❖ Developed by DRDO under Diyastra Mission.
❖ The Agni-V missile employs fire-and-forget technology, enabling
it to self-navigate toward its target after launch.
❖ Top Speed of Agni-V: 24 Mach ( 1 Mach = 760 miles/hr)
Types of missiles based on speed:
❖ Subsonic missile: Missiles that travel slower than sound are called subsonic missiles.
❖ Supersonic: Missiles that travel faster than the speed of sound (Mach 1) but less than Mach 5 are called
"supersonic.
❖ Hypersonic missile: The term "hypersonic" means that the speed of missiles should be at least five times faster
than the speed of sound (over Mach 5).
Agni 2 2000 km
Agni 4 4000 km
BrahMos:
❖ BrahMos is a universal long-range supersonic cruise missile system that can be launched from land, sea, and
air against surface and sea−based targets.
❖ It is a collaboration between India (DRDO) and Russia (NPO Mashinostroyenia).
❖ Its name represents the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers.
❖ It is a two-stage missile with a solid propellant booster engine as the first stage and a liquid ramjet as
the second stage.
❖ It operates at the fire-and-forget principle.
Why in the news?
❖ Recently, the Philippines signed a deal for the purchase of BrahMos
supersonic cruise missiles.
❖ Recently, the Ministry of Defense signed a Rs 1700 crore contract with
BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd to buy additional dual−role capable BrahMos
missiles for the Indian Navy.
❖ In April 2022, an anti−ship version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile
was successfully test-fired jointly by the Indian Navy and the Andaman and
Nicobar Command.
❖ In January 2022, an extended-range sea-to-sea variant of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile was test-fired
from stealth-guided missile destroyer INS Visakhapatnam.
5
❖ Israel’s Sea Breaker, the 5th generation long-range, autonomous, precision-guided missile system, is meant
to hit high−value maritime and land targets.
❖ P-800 Oniks/Yakhont is a Russian supersonic anti−ship cruise missile that has an effective guidance
system and is a fire−and−forget missile.
6
S-400:
❖ India is on track for sanctions waiver from the US for buying the
Russian S−400 missile system.
❖ S−400 is a mobile long-range surface-to-air missile (LR-SAM)
system.
❖ Equipped with four different missiles, it can engage enemy aircraft,
ballistic missiles, and Airborne Warning And Control System
(AWACS) planes at 400 km, 250km, medium−range 120km and short-
range 40km.
❖ It can engage 80 targets at one time with a response time of 9-10 seconds.
❖ In October 2018, India signed a 5 billion $ deal with Russia to buy five units of the S-400 air defense missile
systems.
❖ The Biden administration is not about to sanction India anytime soon for buying S−400 air defense missile
systems from Russia (March 2023)
Barak:
❖ This is a Ship-to-Air missile developed jointly by India and Israel.
❖ Its strike range is up to 150 Km.
❖ This air defense system has been deployed on Indian warships and can protect
them from airborne targets.
Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM):
❖ DRDO successfully test-fired indigenously developed laser-guided ATGMs from Main Battle Tank
(MBT) Arjun.
❖ ATGM employs a tandem high explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead to defeat Explosive reactive armor
(ERA) protected armored vehicles.
❖ Also, it has a multi-platform launch capability.
Other Anti-Tank Missiles:
❖ Nag: It is a third-generation fire-and-forget missile developed for mechanized formations to engage heavily
fortified enemy tanks.
❖ Helina: It has a maximum range of seven kilometers and has been designed and developed for integration on
the weaponized version of the ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter).
7
❖ The missile system has all-weather, day, and night capability and can defeat battle tanks with conventional
armor as well as explosive reactive armor.
Project Sanjay:
❖ The Indian army aims to transform into a “future-ready, lethal, agile and technology-driven armed force” for
which it has initiated Project Sanjay which shall develop an automated and dedicated intra-communication
system.
❖ Aim to build the Indian army’s Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS) and provide commanders and staffers
with a composite operational picture that shall help in fast decision-making.
Thermo-barbaric bomb:
DAILY
CLASS NOTES
Science & Technology
Lecture - 31
Miscellaneous Topics
2
Miscellaneous Topics
Polymers:
Types of Bonds:
❖ Covalent Bonds: A covalent bond is made from sharing electrons between atoms.
❖ Ionic Bond: Ionic bond is a type of chemical bond that involves a transfer of electrons from one atom or
molecule to another atom or molecule.
❖ Hydrogen Bonding: Hydrogen bonds are weaker than covalent and ionic bonds.
3
Applications of Polymers:
❖ Polystyrene (PS):
➢ A versatile polymer widely used in the packaging sector.
➢ PS finds applications in bottles, toys, containers, trays, disposable tableware, television cabinets, and lids.
➢ It also serves as an excellent insulator.
❖ Polyvinyl chloride (PVC):
➢ PVC is commonly used for manufacturing sewage pipes.
➢ Also utilized in electric wires as an insulator.
❖ Polypropylene (PP):
➢ PP is used in textiles, packaging, stationery, plastics, aircraft, construction, rope, and toys due to its high
strength, chemical resistance, and lightweight properties.
❖ Urea-formaldehyde resins:
➢ A versatile synthetic resin with applications in adhesives, molds, laminated sheets, and unbreakable
containers. Its strength, durability, and resistance to heat make it suitable for these applications.
❖ Bakelite: Bakelite is used in electrical switches, food items, toys, jewelry, guns, and insulators due to its
durability and resistance to heat and chemicals.
Samudrayaan Mission:
❖ According to the Ministry of Earth Science, the Samudrayaan Mission is expected to be realized by 2026.
❖ The mission aims to send three personnel to a 6000-meter depth in a vehicle called ‘MATSYA 6000’ to
explore deep-sea resources like minerals.
❖ 'The MATSYA 6000' vehicle is being designed and developed by the National Institute of Ocean
Technology (NIOT), Chennai under the Ministry of Earth Science.
❖ It is India's first unique manned ocean mission and part of the Rs 6000-crore Deep Ocean Mission.
Particle Physics:
4
❖ The Standard Model comprises 17 fundamental particles. Only the electron and the photon were known a
century ago.
❖ These 17 fundamental particles are categorised into two groups: fermions and bosons.
Fermions:
❖ Fermions are subject to the Pauli Exclusion Principle which states that no particle can exist in the same state
in the same place at the same time. Thus Fermions are solitary.
❖ Only one Fermion may occupy any quantum state – the Fermionic solitariness of electrons is responsible for
the structure of molecular matter (in fact for all ‘structure’ in the universe).
❖ The degeneracy pressure that stabilizes white dwarf and neutron stars is a result of fermions resisting further
compression towards each other.
❖ Fermions are usually associated with matter while Bosons are the force carriers.
Bosons:
❖ All Bosons have either zero spin or an even integer spin.
❖ Bosons are gregarious(present everywhere).
❖ Bosons may occupy the same quantum state as other bosons, for example in the case of laser light which is
formed of coherent, overlapping photons.
❖ The more bosons there are in a state the more likely that another boson will join that state (Bose condensation).
❖ The name boson was coined by Paul Dirac to commemorate the contribution of the Indian physicist Satyendra
Nath Bose in developing, with Einstein, Bose-Einstein statistics—which theorizes the characteristics of
elementary particles.
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Higgs Boson:
❖ Peter Higgs published in Physical Review Letters(PRL) that proposed that
spontaneous symmetry breaking in electroweak theory could explain the
origin of mass of elementary particles in general and of the W and Z bosons
in particular.
❖ This Higgs mechanism predicted the existence of a new particle, the Higgs
boson.
❖ It is the fundamental particle associated with the Higgs field, a field that
gives mass to other fundamental particles such as electrons and quarks.
❖ Without it, atoms wouldn’t stick together, and there would be no stars,
planets, or us.
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❖ According to the Standard Model of particle physics, particles gain their mass by interacting with a field called
the Higgs field.
❖ The Higgs field is hypothesized to exist everywhere in space, even in a vacuum, and has a non-zero value.
❖ Particles like photons, which make up light, interact weakly with the Higgs field and have no mass.
❖ Particles like electrons and quarks, which make up protons and neutrons, interact strongly with the Higgs field
and acquire mass.
❖ Experiments conducted at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN in 2012 confirmed the existence of the
Higgs boson.
❖ The Higgs boson could lead to discoveries of new particles or reveal connections between forces we never
knew existed.
Large Hadron Collider (LHC) :
❖ World’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator.
❖ European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) built LHC
between 1998 and 2008 in collaboration with over 10,000
scientists from hundreds of universities and laboratories.
❖ It lies in a tunnel 27 kilometers in circumference and as deep as
175 meters beneath the France-Switzerland border near Geneva.
❖ Inside LHC, two high-energy particle beams of protons are
directed at each other at nearly the speed of light and made to
collide in the 27- kilometer ring of superconducting magnets.
❖ They are guided around the accelerator ring by a strong magnetic
field maintained by superconducting electromagnets.
❖ These collisions generate new particles and using detectors
scientists study their properties and interactions, providing
insights into the fundamental laws of the universe.
❖ The ATLAS experiment (short for "A Toroidal LHC Apparatus") detects the tiny subatomic particles created
after beams of particles smash into each other at near-light speed at the LHC.
Nemastocyst:
❖ Nematocysts or cnidocysts represent the common feature of all cnidarians.
❖ Nematocysts or cnidocytes are large organelles produced from the Golgi apparatus as a secretory product
within a specialized cell, the nematocyte or cnidocyte.
❖ Nematocysts are predominantly used for prey capture and defense, but also for locomotion.
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Saas Technology:
❖ The data can be accessed with an internet connection or web browser on any device at any location.
❖ The fundamental distinction between SaaS delivery and the On-premise model is that, in SaaS, customers have
to maintain hardware and not worry about upgrades and data security.
❖ Users’ pay for SaaS is more cost-effective instead of purchasing multiple software licenses for multiple
computers. This is a very cost-effective advantage.
❖ SaaS has many business applications. It includes file sharing, email, calendars, customer retention
management, and human resources.
Nobel Prize:
❖ 2022 Nobel Prize was awarded for the development of click chemistry and bioorthogonal chemistry.
❖ Awardees: The prize was given to Carolyn R. Bertozzi (USA), Morten Meldal (Denmark), and K. Barry
Sharpless (USA).
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Click Chemistry:
❖ Click chemistry, pioneered by K. Barry Sharpless, introduced a new concept for chemical reactions,
emphasizing simplicity, efficiency, and selectivity.
❖ This approach has transformed the way chemists synthesize new compounds, accelerating the discovery of
novel drugs and materials.
❖ K. Barry Sharpless and Morten Meldal have laid the foundation of click chemistry.
❖ Instead of trying to make carbon atoms react with each other, click chemistry focuses on using smaller
molecules that already have a complete carbon frame.
❖ One such reaction is Copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) which is now widely used in
medicinal chemistry
Bioorthogonal Chemistry: Exploring the Living World with Precision
❖ Carolyn R. Bertozzi and Morten Meldal expanded the concept of click chemistry into the realm of biology,
introducing bioorthogonal chemistry.
❖ This approach allows for the selective labeling and modification of biomolecules within living systems without
interfering with their natural functions.
Significance of the Work:
❖ Expanding Pharmaceutical Possibilities: Click chemistry has facilitated the development of enzyme
inhibitors, receptor ligands, and various pharmaceuticals, including anticancer agents, antimicrobials,
herbicides, and photo stabilizers. It has revolutionized the synthesis of complex molecules with potential
therapeutic applications.
❖ Unveiling Biological Mysteries: Click and bioorthogonal chemistry have enabled the mapping of intricate
biological processes, such as DNA replication and protein synthesis. These techniques have provided
unprecedented insights into the inner workings of living systems.
❖ Probing Cellular Secrets: Bioorthogonal reactions have opened a window into the functioning of cells,
allowing scientists to track biological processes with precision. These tools have revolutionized the study of
cellular dynamics and signaling pathways.
❖ Enhancing Cancer Therapy: The development of click and bioorthogonal chemistry has led to improved
targeting of cancer pharmaceuticals, enhancing their effectiveness and reducing side effects. These techniques
have revolutionized cancer treatment strategies.
Nobel Prize: Physiology Or Medicine 2022:
❖ The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2022 was awarded jointly
to Svante Paabo, a Swedish biologist, for his discoveries concerning
ancient DNA.
❖ His groundbreaking work has revolutionized our understanding of human
evolution and shed light on the genetic connections between modern
humans and extinct hominin relatives.
❖ He developed innovative techniques to isolate and amplify ancient DNA,
enabling scientists to study the genomes of extinct species like
Neanderthals and Denisovans.
❖ By comparing the genomes of modern humans with those of extinct
hominins, he has revealed the extent of interbreeding between these
groups and identified genetic traits that have been passed down from our ancient ancestors.
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❖ Global Distribution of Neanderthal and Denisovan DNA: The image shows that Neanderthal DNA is more
prevalent in Eurasian populations, while Denisovan DNA is more concentrated in Oceanian populations. This
distribution reflects the geographical locations where these hominin groups were primarily found.
Physiology Or Medicine 2023:
❖ Discovery earned Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman the 2023 Nobel Prize in
Physiology or Medicine. Their work focused on modifying messenger RNA
(mRNA) to make it more suitable for therapeutic applications, particularly in the
development of vaccines.
Quantum Material: Quantum material allows us to exploit some of the unique properties of quantum physics.
Examples are Quantum computing and material science.
Artemis Accord:
❖ It is established by the U.S. State Department and NASA with seven other founding members: Australia,
Canada, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom in 2020 for setting
common principles to govern civil exploration and use of outer space, the moon, Mars, comets, and asteroids,
for peaceful purposes.
❖ It builds upon the foundation of the Outer Space Treaty of 1967.
➢ It is a multilateral pact under the United Nations, and serves as the foundation for international space law.
➢ The treaty emphasizes space as a shared resource for humanity prohibits national appropriation, and the
peaceful use of space.
❖ Recently, India's Prime Minister announced India's decision to join the Artemis Accords during a visit to the
United States. India became the 27th country to sign the nonbinding Artemis Accords.
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❖ It is a 2,800 kilograms satellite consisting of both L-band and S-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)
instruments, which makes it a dual-frequency imaging radar satellite.
❖ While NASA has provided the L-band radar, GPS, a high-capacity solid-state recorder to store data, and a
payload data subsystem.
❖ ISRO has provided the S-band radar, the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) launch system
and spacecraft.
Applications:
❖ Earth Science
❖ Disaster Management
❖ Agriculture: Soil moisture, land use
❖ Infrastructure monitoring: urbanization, deforestation
❖ Climate change
Reusable Launch Vehicle Technology:
❖ Recently, ISRO successfully demonstrated a precise landing experiment for a Reusable Launch Vehicle
(RLV) at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR), Chitradurga, Karnataka.
❖ Development of essential technologies for a fully reusable launch vehicle to enable low-cost access to space.
❖ In the future, this vehicle will be scaled up to become the first stage of India’s reusable two-stage orbital
(TSTO) launch vehicle.
❖ Recently ISRO successfully landed” Pushpak” India's first reusable vehicle.
❖ The RLV-TD will be used to develop technologies like hypersonic flight (HEX), autonomous landing (LEX),
return flight experiment (REX), powered cruise flight, and Scramjet Propulsion Experiment (SPEX).
❖ By using RLVs the cost of a launch can be reduced by nearly 80% of the present cost.
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Additional content:
❖ The RLV that ISRO is building has only two stages to propel the vehicle into orbit. Once the fuel in the first
stage has been expended, the vehicle will shed it, and carry on with the second stage.
❖ Once it has been shed, the first stage will autonomously re-enter the atmosphere and land at a predetermined
location. After some maintenance, it will be available for reuse.
Zero Orbital Debris:
POEM:
❖ developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).
❖ It repurposes the fourth stage of a PSLV rocket into a stable orbital station for conducting in-space scientific
experiments with diverse payloads.
❖ Its inaugural use occurred during the PSLV-C53 in June 2022.
❖ According to ISRO, POEM has a dedicated Navigation Guidance and Control (NGC) system for attitude
stabilization, which stands for controlling the orientation of any aerospace vehicle within permitted limits.
❖ It was launched as part of the PSLV C-58 mission on 1st January 2024.
❖ After deploying the XpoSat satellite, the fourth stage was transformed into POEM-3 and lowered to a 350-km
orbit, significantly reducing the risk of space debris generation.
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❖ XPoSat is only the world's second mission dedicated to X-ray polarization in the medium X-ray band.
❖ NASA's Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), launched in 2021, was the first such mission by a space
agency.
❖ Entirely built by two Bengaluru-based institutes—ISRO’s UR Rao Satellite Centre and Raman Research
Institute—XPoSat's development began in 2008, with a formal agreement signed with ISRO in 2015.
❖ XPoSat is designed to study X-ray polarization in the medium X-ray band, offering insights into celestial
sources' radiation mechanisms and geometry.
❖ The satellite carries two main payloads, POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays) and XSPECT (X-ray
Spectroscopy and Timing).
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