Current Affairs 14-NOV-2023 (The Hindu)

Dark Matter and Dark Energy

(D,H => Pg-Science)

Dark Matter and Dark Energy

Dark matter and dark energy are two elusive and perplexing components that constitute the majority of the universe. They play crucial roles in shaping cosmic structures and influencing the overall behavior of the cosmos. While dark matter interacts through gravity and holds galaxies together, dark energy acts as a mysterious force driving the accelerated expansion of the universe.

Dark Matter

• Composition: Made up of particles without charge.
• Properties: Do not emit light, possess mass, and do not interact through electromagnetic interactions.
• Detection Challenge: Hard to detect directly.
• Indirect Detection: Inferred from gravitational effects on visible matter.
• Impact: Affects the structure and evolution of the universe.
• Composition: Unknown.

Dark Energy

• Nature: Hypothetical form of energy.
• Behavior: Exerts a negative, repulsive pressure, acting opposite to gravity.
• Effect: Responsible for accelerating the expansion of the universe.

Practice Question – Prelims

Which of the following statements regarding dark energy and dark matter is correct?

a) Dark energy constitutes the majority of the total energy content of the universe, while dark matter makes up only a small fraction.

b) Dark matter is responsible for the observed accelerated expansion of the universe.

c) Dark energy interacts with electromagnetic forces, allowing for direct detection using traditional telescopes.

d) Both dark energy and dark matter have a constant energy density as the universe expands.

Diabetes

(D,H => Pg-9)

Diabetes

Chronic disease - long-lasting conditions. Disease can be controlled but not cured.

When diabetes occurs? - when the human body can’t process the blood sugar (Glucose) properly.

Causes of Diabetes

• Insulin resistance - body cells don’t use insulin properly.
• Reasons for insulin resistance:
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Eating unhealthy food
• Hormonal imbalances
• Genetic disorders
• Pancreatic damage due to injury - pancreas can't produce insulin properly.

Steps taken by the Indian Government

• Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP): Quality generic medicines, including insulin, are given to all diabetes patients at affordable prices.
• Free Drugs Service Initiative of National Health Mission (NHM): Financial support is provided to States/UTs for providing free essential medicines, including insulin, for poor and needy people.
• Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY): Diabetes patients can avail in-patient care in any of the approved hospitals.

Prelims Practice Question

Diabetes happens because of which of these reasons?

(a) Your pancreas doesn't make enough blood sugar.

(b) Your muscles use too much blood sugar.

(c) Your body can't use blood sugar properly.

(d) Your body makes more insulin than it needs.