Practice high-yield General Knowledge & World Affairs MCQs on Technology — Part 1 with worked academic solutions for PPSC, FPSC, PMS, NTS, SPSC.
Questions
40
Difficulty Level
Exam-Level
Target Exams
PPSC, FPSC, PMS...
Estimated Time
48 mins
Exam-Level PPSC FPSC PMS NTS SPSC
Verified for Commission Syllabus • Oct 14, 2026
40
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Question 1 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
In which decade was the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE) founded?
Correct Answer: Option B — 1880s
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) was formed in 1963 by the merger of the Institute of Radio Engineers (IRE, founded 1912) and the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE, founded 1884).
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 2 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
What is part of a database that holds only one type of information?
Correct Answer: Option B — Field
Detailed Academic Explanation:
A field in a database is a specific area within a record that contains only one type of information. For example, in a database of employee records, a field might hold the employee's name, while another field might hold their ID number. Each field is part of a larger structure called a record, which typically contains all the fields related to a single entity (e.g., all the details about one employee). In summary, a field is the smallest unit of data in a database, holding just one piece of information.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 3 of 40
★ PPSC
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'OS' computer abbreviation usually means ?
Correct Answer: Option C — Operating System
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The correct answer is C: Operating System . 'OS' is a very common abbreviation in the world of computers. An Operating System (OS) is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the computer's memory and processes, as well as all of its software and hardware. Think of it as the conductor of an orchestra , making sure everything works together smoothly. Option A , 'Order of Significance', doesn't relate to computers or software. Option B , 'Open Software', is related to software, but 'OS' doesn't stand for it. Option D , 'Optical Sensor', refers to a type of sensor that detects light, not the fundamental software of a computer.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 4 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
In which decade with the first transatlantic radio broadcast occur?
Correct Answer: Option D — 1900s
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Guglielmo Marconi achieved the first transatlantic radio transmission on December 12, 1901 . The signal—Morse code for the letter “S” —was sent from Poldhu, Cornwall (England) and received at St. John’s, Newfoundland (Canada) . This historic event firmly places the first transatlantic radio broadcast in the 1900s , not the 1850s–1870s when radio technology had not yet matured.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 5 of 40
★ PPSC
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In which decade was the SPICE simulator introduced?
Correct Answer: Option C — 1972s
Detailed Academic Explanation:
SPICE (Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis) was introduced in May 1972 by the University of Berkeley, California.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 6 of 40
★ PPSC
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Most modern TV's draw power even if turned off. The circuit the power is used in does what function?
Correct Answer: Option B — Remote control
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Some authorities are recommending TV's, VCR's and Stereo's be connected to power strips with switches and turned off when not in use to save energy. Your remote will not work until power is switched back on.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 7 of 40
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Which is a type of Electrically-Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory?
Correct Answer: Option A — Flash
Detailed Academic Explanation:
It's commonly used for MP3 players, computer BIOS code and "thumb" drives. Originally developed in Japan by Toshiba, it has become quite popular for products requiring non-volatile erasable memory. Flash devices have a limited number of erase cycles (typically 10,000 to 1,000,000 cycles) so they're not as good a choice for applications in which the data changes constantly. However, since it has no moving parts (unlike a hard disk) it is an excellent choice for storing the operating code for small personal electronics like PDAs, cell phones, digital cameras, and the data in items like MP3 players.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 8 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
Made from a variety of materials, such as carbon, which inhibits the flow of current...?
Correct Answer: Option C — Resistor
Detailed Academic Explanation:
So named because it resists (or inhibits) the flow of current.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 9 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
The most common format for a home video recorder is VHS. VHS stands for...?
Correct Answer: Option A — Video Home System
Detailed Academic Explanation:
JVC (Japan Victor Corporation) and Matsushita (Panasonic) developed the VHS format to compete with Sony which developed the Beta format as the first home video cassette recorder. VHS originally stood for Vertical Helical Scan, but now means Video Home System.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 10 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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What does VVVF stand for?
Correct Answer: Option D — Variable Voltage Variable Frequency
Detailed Academic Explanation:
It is a method of controlling the speed of an AC induction motor, whereby speed, current and torque can all be accurately controlled.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 11 of 40
★ PPSC
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What frequency range is the High Frequency band?
Correct Answer: Option D — 3 to 30 MHz
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The HF band is based on frequencies 3 to 30 Mhz. AM radio stations are in the HF band but normally are stated in kilohertz.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 12 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
The first step to getting output from a laser is to excite an active medium. What is this process called?
Correct Answer: Option A — Pumping
Detailed Academic Explanation:
A collection of atoms or molecules that can be excited to a higher energy state is called an active medium. Before lasing can occur, the active media is "pumped". The process of raising the atoms in the active media from a lower energy state to a higher state is like pumping water up from a well.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 13 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
Which motor is NOT suitable for use as a DC machine?
Correct Answer: Option C — Squirrel cage motor
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The squirrel cage motor is the only one without any connection to the armature.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 14 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
A given signal's second harmonic is twice the given signal's __________ frequency?
Correct Answer: Option C — Fundamental
Detailed Academic Explanation:
A given signal's second harmonic is twice the given signal's fundamental frequency. Harmonics are generated when there are non-linearities in an amplifier (there are always non-linearities). The worse the non-linearities, the more harmonics. A signal at 27.5 MHz (approximate frequency for US citizen's band) would have a second harmonic at 55.0 MHz (on US channel 2!). Can you see why there might be problems? A CB operator might do well to place a low-pass filter on his radio.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 15 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
What does the term PLC stand for?
Correct Answer: Option C — Programmable Logic Controller
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Used in manufacturing, engineering, and process operations.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 16 of 40
★ PPSC
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When measuring the characteristics of a small-signal amplifier, say for a radio receiver, one might be concerned with its "Noise..."?
Correct Answer: Option D — Figure
Detailed Academic Explanation:
"Noise figure" is one critical parameter for determining the "quality" of a low-noise, small-signal, amplifier, and perhaps more importantly, the sensitivity of the overall receiver system. It is especially important for VHF (very high frequency) - and higher frequency - designs where most of the undesired "noise" (noise that masks or overpowers the desired signals) is generated internal to the electronics itself. In HF (high frequency) applications, atmospheric noise plays a much larger role in determining overall useful sensitivity, so a circuit's "noise figure" is less important.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 17 of 40
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The sampling rate, (how many samples per second are stored) for a CD is...?
Correct Answer: Option C — 44.1 kHz
Detailed Academic Explanation:
CDs reproduce 44,100 samples per second. Which has a maximum frequency reproduction of 22,050 Hz, or just a hair past the upper limit of human hearing. In this way CDs can theoretically reproduce any frequency in the human hearing range.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 18 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
Who created Pretty Good Privacy (PGP)?
Correct Answer: Option A — Phil Zimmermann
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Phil Zimmermann created the first version of PGP encryption in 1991. Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) is a data encryption and decryption computer program that provides cryptographic privacy and authentication for data communication. PGP is often used for signing, encrypting and decrypting texts, E-mails, files, directories and whole disk partitions to increase the security of e-mail communications.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 19 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
After the first photons of light are produced, which process is responsible for amplification of the light?
Correct Answer: Option B — Stimulated emission
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The word "laser" is actually an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. Atoms or molecules of the active medium that have been excited to a higher energy level are stimulated by a passing photon to relax to a lower energy level and emit a photon that is indistinguishable from the passing photon, thereby increasing the number of photons like the incident one.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 20 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
Which is NOT an acceptable method of distributing small power outlets throughout an open plan office area?
Correct Answer: Option D — Extension Cords
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Extension cords can be a tripping hazard, and can be easily damaged, causing an unsafe situation. There are many ways of safely getting power to each work place, where wiring is protected and concealed.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 21 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
Sometimes computers and cache registers in a foodmart are connected to a UPS system. What does UPS mean?
Correct Answer: Option D — Uninterruptable Power Supply
Detailed Academic Explanation:
An uninterruptable power supply (UPS) is a backup power supply, such as a battery, that provides emergency power in the event that power is lost from the main supply.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 22 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
In the UK, what type of installation requires a fireman's switch?
Correct Answer: Option B — High Pressure Sodium Lighting
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Twisting the yoke will tilt the picture. A projection color television uses three picture tubes and yokes for red, green and blue light.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 23 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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The electromagnetic coils on the neck of the picture tube or tubes which pull the electron beam from side to side and up and down are called a...?
Correct Answer: Option B — Yoke
Detailed Academic Explanation:
PAL and SECAM are standards used in other countries. RGB stands for red, green, and blue - the colors of light used to create an image in a color tv set and is often used as a format name for computer monitors.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 24 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
In the United States the television broadcast standard is?
Correct Answer: Option C — SECAM
Detailed Academic Explanation:
This voltage often remains in storage even if the set is unplugged. Although the voltage is very high it has very low power but it can be dangerous because your body jumps if brought in contact.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 25 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
In a color television set using a picture tube a high voltage is used to accelerate electron beams to light the screen. That voltage is about?
Correct Answer: Option B — 5 thousand volts
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The flyback is usually connected to the system that pulls the electron beam across the screen in one direction to 'paint' a line of the image and then returns in the other direction much faster.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 26 of 40
★ PPSC
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★ FPSC
The transformer that develops the high voltage in a home television is commonly called as?
Correct Answer: Option B — Flyback
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The flyback is usually connected to the system that pulls the electron beam across the screen in one direction to 'paint' a line of the image and then returns in the other direction much faster.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 27 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
Which consists of two plates separated by a dielectric and can store a charge?
Correct Answer: Option B — Capacitor
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Useful in tuning and filtering circuits, it blocks DC while passing AC. How much charge a capacitor can store is its capacitance, measured in farads.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 28 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
What does AM mean?
Correct Answer: Option C — Amplitude modulation
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Amplitude modulation was the first type to be used in radio. It works well with HF and morse code.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 29 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
"FET" is a type of transistor, Its full name is ________ Effect Transistor?
Correct Answer: Option A — Field
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The terminals of FETs are called gate, drain and source. You might be more familiar with bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), which have terminals called base, collector and emitter. FETs were conceptualized first, but BJTs were easier to produce and so developed sooner.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 30 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
What are three types of lasers?
Correct Answer: Option D — Gas, solid state, diode
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The first laser was a solid state laser. Solid state refers to any solid material like a glass rod. Diode lasers are very common because they are used to read compact disks and digital video disks in computers, CD players, and DVD players. Before diode lasers, the most common type of laser may have been the helium-neon laser, in which the active medium is a combination of the two gasses helium and neon.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 31 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
What will a UPS be used for in a building?
Correct Answer: Option A — To provide power to essential equipment
Detailed Academic Explanation:
UPS stands for Uninterruptible Power Supply. Examples of equipment that may require a UPS supply are computers, fire detection systems, hospital operating theatre equipment and escape route lighting.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 32 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
Compact discs, (according to the original CD specifications) hold how many minutes of music?
Correct Answer: Option A — 74 mins
Detailed Academic Explanation:
According to many stories surrounding the origin of the compact disc, 74 minutes was settled on because it would comfortably contain all of Beethoven's 9th symphony on one disc. Although some stories reference a specific Sony higher-up who claimed this as his favorite piece of music, stories differ. All that's known for sure is that Sony insisted on this and won out over Phillips' original 60 minute proposal.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 33 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
Once the active medium is excited, the first photons of light are produced by which physical process?
Correct Answer: Option B — Spontaneous emission
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Spontaneous emission is what you see with most "glow in the dark" toys. You excite the toy by exposing it to bright light, then the toy glows in the dark by spontaneously emitting photons as the excited atoms relax back down to their normal state.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 34 of 40
★ PPSC
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The average power (in watts) used by a 20 to 25 inch home color television is...?
Correct Answer: Option A — 70-100
Detailed Academic Explanation:
About the same as as the most popular light bulb size.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 35 of 40
★ PPSC
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What does AC and DC stand for in the electrical field?
Correct Answer: Option A — Alternating Current and Direct Current
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Electricity is voltage and current. Voltage is electrical pressure, and current is the flow of charged particles. The difference between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) is that the electrons in an AC circuit regularly reverse their direction. In a DC circuit electrons always flow in the same direction.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 36 of 40
★ PPSC
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★ FPSC
In which decade was the ARRL founded?
Correct Answer: Option D — 1910s
Detailed Academic Explanation:
On April 6, 1914, Hiram Percy Maxim proposed the formation of the American Radio Relay League.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 37 of 40
★ PPSC
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Voltage is sometimes referred to as EMF, or Electromotive...?
Correct Answer: Option D — Force
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The term EMF, or Electromotive Force, its use now in decline, is attributed to Italian physicist Alessandro Volta (1745-1827). Today we generally use the term "voltage" - can you guess why we call it that?
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 38 of 40
★ PPSC
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★ FPSC
The input used by an antenna or cable to a TV set uses frequencies called:
Correct Answer: Option B — RF
Detailed Academic Explanation:
RF is radio frequency. IF is intermediate frequency used inside the TV for processing. AF is audio frequency. SAP is second audio program which may have another language or other soundtrack as an option to the main soundtrack.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 39 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
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★ FPSC
Larger buildings may be supplied with a medium voltage electricity supply, and will required a substation or mini-sub. What is the main item of equipment contained in these?
Correct Answer: Option A — Transformer
Detailed Academic Explanation:
The transformer is used to transform a medium voltage supply to a low voltage supply, e.g. from 11 000 V to 400 V. A transformer is rated in KVA, kilo-Volt-Amps, which is a measurement of electrical power.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
Question 40 of 40
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
★ PPSC
★ FPSC
What was the active medium used in the first working laser ever constructed?
Correct Answer: Option C — A ruby rod
Detailed Academic Explanation:
Theodore Maiman built the first working laser using a ruby rod while working at Hughes Research Laboratories in Malibu, California. It lased for the first time on May 16, 1960.
💡Key Conceptual Anchor:Technology
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💡Examiner's Advisory for General Knowledge & World Affairs
In competitive commission exams (FPSC, PPSC, KPPSC, SPSC, CSS, PMS), questions are frequently phrased with distractor options designed to catch rote learners. Whenever you answer an MCQ, read the Detailed Academic Explanation and Conceptual Anchor to understand why the remaining options are incorrect.