1996 General Studies, all questions
UPSC Prelims 1996 · General Studies
Question 108: Science and Technology
It is possible to produce seedless tomato fruits by
aapplying trace elements in tomato fields
bspraying mineral solution on plants
cspraying hormones on flowers
dapplying fertilisers containing radioactive elements
AnswerThe answer is (c).
Parthenocarpy, the formation of fruit without fertilisation, can be induced by spraying plant hormones (auxins or gibberellins) on the flowers, which gives seedless tomatoes. Trace elements, mineral solutions and radioactive fertilisers do not bring about this. Remember: hormone sprays - seedless fruits.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Trace elements do not prevent seed formation.
- (b) Mineral sprays do not prevent seed formation.
- (c) Right: hormone sprays on flowers produce seedless fruit.
- (d) Radioactive fertilisers do not produce seedless fruit and are harmful.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1996, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.