science and tech

What are Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)?

Context: Recent research shows that certain PAHs (like the indenyl cation, C9H7+) can cool down very quickly after absorbing high-energy light, preventing them from breaking apart. This helps explain why so many PAHs survive in space. What are PAHs (Polycyclic...

MALE Class Drones: Capabilities, Payloads and Importance

Context: The Indian government is procuring 87 MALE drones from local manufacturers under the Make in India initiative. About MALE Class Drones (Medium Altitude Long Endurance) MALE class drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that operate at medium altitudes and...

Bluetooth Mesh Networking, Key Features, Applications and Advantages

Context: Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey has introduced Bitchat, a beta-stage messaging app that uses Bluetooth mesh technology. Bluetooth Mesh Networking What is Bluetooth Mesh? A many-to-many (m:m) wireless communication protocol based on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Designed for large-scale device...

Vitamin D Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms and Health Risks

According to a recent report by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), 1 in 5 Indians suffer from Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency has reached epidemic proportions in India, due to changing improper work-life balance....

What will be the Effect of Increased Military Spending?

Context: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit in June pledged to increase military spending to 5% of the member nations’ GDP (specifically “core defence requirements as well as defence and security-related spending by 2035”). Historical Trajectory of Military Expenditures...

Vera C Rubin Observatory begins Operations in Chile

Context: The Vera C Rubin Observatory in Chile has unveiled its first test images, highlighting its capability to revolutionise astronomy by capturing millions of celestial events, tracking asteroids, and detecting dark matter signals each night. Vera C Rubin Observatory A...

Nipah Virus (NiV): Structure, Testing Methods, Symptoms, Current Trends and Outbreak Patterns

Nipah virus has resurfaced in Kerala, with two new cases reported in Malappuram and Palakkad districts. A woman in Mallapuram (Kerala) tested positive for Nipah Virus. The Nipah virus, a severe zoonotic infection, has once again drawn significant attention in...

What is Ham Radio and its Purpose?

Context: Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla recently connected with students across the country via ham radio communication from the International Space Station (ISS). About Ham Radio Ham radio, also known as amateur radio, is a licensed communication service that uses radio...

Most Commonly Used Cancer Drugs and Their Effects

Context: A major investigation revealed that commonly used cancer drugs failed quality tests before being shipped to over 100 countries, raising concerns about their safety and effectiveness. Despite targeting cancer cells, these drugs can cause severe side effects such as...

India Launched AI-Powered Traffic Management System

Context: India has launched its first AI-powered traffic management system on Delhi’s Dwarka Expressway and NH-48, utilising AI cameras and real-time alerts to monitor traffic, detect violations, and enhance road safety. AI-Powered Traffic Management System Launched Location: Dwarka Expressway and...