- UPSC LABS
- February 8, 2025
- 6:35 pm
- Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Science and Technology Notes for UPSC and state exams
✅ Topics and Sub-topics: 300+
✅ Prelims Relevance: ✰✰✰✰✰
✅ Mains Relevance: ✰✰✰✰✰
✅ Average student rating: ✰✰✰✰✰
✅ Difficulty Level: Moderate
✅ Usefulness: ✰✰✰✰✰
Evolution of the Earth and Processes
◐ Theories of the origin of the Earth: Nebular Hypothesis, Planetesimal Theory, and The Big Bang Theory.
◐ Divisions of Geological Time Scale: Eons, Eras, Periods, and Epochs.
◐ Precambrian Time: Hadean, Archean, Proterozoic & Phanerozoic.
◐ Phanerozoic Eon: Paleozoic Era, Mesozoic Era, and Cenozoic Era.
◐ Key periods in the Geological Time Scale: Cambrian, Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Quaternary periods.
◐ Geological Time Scale in India: History and key geological events.
Biotechnology
◐ Genetic Engineering: Principles, Tools, and Applications
◐ Recombinant DNA Technology: Tools, processes, and applications
◐ CRISPR-Cas9: Mechanism, ethical considerations, and applications in gene editing
◐ Synthetic Biology: Designing and constructing new biological systems
◐ Gene Therapy: Types, Mechanisms, and Advancements
◐ Genome Sequencing: Types, Techniques, and Implications
◐ Human Genome Project: Achievements and prospects
◐ Biofilms: Structure, functions, Formation, Challenges, and Applications
◐ Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Types, Principles and Applications
◐ Marker-Assisted Breeding: Accelerating crop improvement.
◐ Biofortification: Enhancing nutritional value in crops (e.g., Golden Rice).
◐ Waste Management: Composting, biodegradation, and recycling
◐ RNA Interference (RNAi): Mechanism and Applications
◐ Enzyme Technology: Production and industrial applications (e.g., detergents, food processing)
◐ Biopharmaceuticals: Production of insulin, vaccines, and monoclonal antibodies
◐ Bioplastics: Sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics
◐ DNA Barcoding: Techniques, Principles, and Uses
◐ DNA Fingerprinting: Principles, Techniques, and Applications
◐ Applications of Biotechnology in Medicine: Diagnostics, Therapeutics, and Pharmacogenomics
◐ CAR T-Cell Therapy: Principles, Mechanism and Applications
◐ Biotechnology in Disease Management: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Vaccine Development
◐ Stem Cell Technology: Types, Principles, and Applications
◐ Bioinformatics: Tools and Applications
◐ Biotechnology in Food Processing: Fermentation and Food Preservation
◐ Biotechnology in Climate Change Mitigation: Carbon Capture and Climate-Resilient Crops
◐ Biotechnology in Space Exploration: Astrobiology and Space Agriculture
◐ Emerging Trends in Biotechnology: Synthetic Vaccines, Organ-on-a-Chip, and AI in Biotechnology
◐ Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) of Biotechnology
NanoTechnology
◐ Fundamentals of Nanotechnology: Introduction, Nanoscale Science, and types of Nanomaterials
◐ Nanotechnology in Medicine: Nanomedicine, Targeted Drug Delivery, Nanobot, and Theranostics
◐ Nanotechnology in Manufacturing: Nanoelectronics, Nanomaterials, and Smart Textiles
◐ Nanotechnology in Agriculture: Nanofertilizers, Nanopesticides, and Nanosensors
◐ Nanotechnology in Energy: Batteries, Supercapacitors, Water Purification, and Carbon Capture
◐ Nanoparticles: Types, Synthesis, and Applications
◐ Nanotechnology and Biotechnology: Convergence, DNA Tech, and Nanobiomaterials
◐ Nanotechnology in Environmental Remediation: Pollution Control and Waste Management
◐ Nanotechnology in Electronics and Computing: Quantum Dots, Nanochips, and Spintronics
◐ Nanotechnology in Defense and Security: Nanosensors, Lightweight Armor, and Surveillance
◐ Nanotechnology in Space Exploration: Spacecraft Materials, Radiation Shielding, and LSS
◐ Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) of Nanotechnology
Biology
Cell Biology
◐ Cell Organelles: Plant Cell & Animal Cell
◐ Cell Membrane Structure and Function
◐ Transport: Diffusion, Osmosis, Active Transport
◐ Signal Transduction and Cell Communication
◐ Apoptosis and Programmed Cell Death
◐ Cellular Respiration and Energy Production
◐ Photosynthesis: Light and Dark Reactions
Human Physiology
◐ Human Digestive System
◐ Human Respiratory System
◐ Human Circulatory System
◐ Blood and blood groups
◐ Human Excretory System
◐ Endocrine glands and Hormones
◐ Human Brain and Nervous System
◐ Muscular and Skeletal System
◐ Human Reproductive System
◐ Human Immune System
Microbiology
◐ Diseases Caused by Microorganisms
◐ Microbes in Human Welfare & Useful Microbes
◐ Antibiotic Resistance and Its Mechanisms
◐ Virology: Structure and Classification of Viruses
◐ Bacteriology: Structure and Function of Bacteria
◐ Mycology: Study of Fungi and Their Applications
Animal Biology
◐ Animal Tissues: Epithelium, Connective Tissues
◐ Classification of Animal Kingdom (Animalia)
◐ Classification of Vertebrata (Phylum Chordata)
◐ Comparative Anatomy and Physiology
◐ Animal Behavior and Ethology
◐ Animal Adaptations to Extreme Environments
Human Health and Nutrition
◐ Balanced Diet and Nutritional Requirements
◐ Malnutrition: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
◐ Food Fortification and Biofortification
◐ Nutrigenomics and Personalized Nutrition
◐ Gut Microbiome and Its Role in Health
Emerging Topics in Biology
◐ Synthetic Biology and Artificial Life
◐ Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
◐ Systems Biology and Network Analysis
◐ Epigenetics and Gene Regulation
◐ Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine
◐ Space Biology: Effects of Space on Living Organisms
◐ Astrobiology: Search for Extraterrestrial Life
Biomolecules
◐ Biomolecules: Carbohydrates, Monosaccharides, Polysaccharides
◐ Proteins, Amino Acids, and Enzymes
◐ Lipids: Trans Fat, Saturated & Unsaturated Fats, Healthy & Unhealthy Fats
◐ Nucleic Acids: DNA, RNA, and Recombinant DNA
◐ Vitamins, Minerals, and Deficiency Diseases
◐ Water: Structure, Properties, and Biological Importance
Genetics and Molecular Biology
◐ Mitosis, Meiosis, Cell Cycle, and Cell Division
◐ Inheritance: Mendel’s Laws of Inheritance
◐ Chromosomal Theory & Human Genome Project
◐ Sex Determination & Genetic Disorders
◐ Molecular Basis of Inheritance: DNA Replication, Transcription, and Translation
◐ Genetic Engineering: Processes and Applications
◐ CRISPR-Cas9 and Genome Editing
Plant Biology
◐ Plant Parts and Their Functions
◐ Plant Kingdom: Thallophytes (Algae), Bryophytes, & Pteridophytes
◐ Plants with Seeds: Gymnosperms and Angiosperms
◐ Plant Tissue: Meristematic, Simple, Complex Permanent Tissue
◐ Plant Nutrition: Photosynthesis, Nitrogen Cycle and Fixation
◐ Sexual and Asexual Reproduction in Plants
◐ Plant Hormones and Their Functions
◐ Plant Defense Mechanisms Against Pathogens
◐ Insectivorous Plants of India: Drosera, Pitcher Plant, and Utricularia
Diseases and Health
◐ Diseases: Acute, Chronic, Communicable Diseases
◐ AIDS: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
◐ Cancer: Causes of Cancer
◐ Drugs and Alcohol Abuse
◐ Non-Communicable Diseases: Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases
◐ Zoonotic Diseases and One Health Approach
◐ Vaccines: Development and Mechanisms of Action
◐ Biological Pest Control and Integrated Pest Management
◐ Aquaculture and Sustainable Fisheries Bioenergy and Biofuels: Production and Challenges
◐ Bioplastics and Sustainable Materials
◐ Biological Warfare and Biosecurity
Ethical and Social Issues in Biology
◐ Ethical Issues in Genetic Engineering and Cloning
◐ Biopiracy and Intellectual Property Rights in Biology
◐ Biosafety and Regulatory Frameworks
◐ Public Perception and Awareness of Biotechnology
Chemistry
Basic Concepts of Chemistry
◐ Atomic Theory – Structure of an Atom
◐ Elements, Metalloids, Compounds, Mixtures vs. Compounds
◐ Molecule, Ion, Molecules of Elements & Compounds, Atomicity
◐ Laws of Chemical Combination: Law of Conservation of Mass, Law of Definite Proportions
◐ Dalton’s Atomic Theory and Its Limitations
◐ Modern Periodic Table: Trends and Periodicity
States of Matter
◐ Solid State: Crystalline and Amorphous Solids
◐ Liquid State: Properties and Behavior of Liquids
◐ Gaseous State: Gas Laws, Kinetic Theory of Gases
◐ Plasma and Bose-Einstein Condensate
Atomic Structure and Chemical Bonding
◐ Subatomic Particles: Protons, Neutrons, Electrons
◐ Quantum Mechanical Model of the Atom
◐ Electronic Configuration and Aufbau Principle
◐ Types of Chemical Bonds: Ionic, Covalent, Metallic
◐ Hydrogen Bonding and Its Significance
◐ VSEPR Theory and Molecular Geometry
Redox Reactions
◐ Oxidation and Reduction
◐ Balancing Redox Reactions
◐ Electrochemical Cells and Electrolysis
◐ Corrosion and Its Prevention
Surface Chemistry
◐ Adsorption and Absorption
◐ Catalysis: Homogeneous and Heterogeneous
◐ Colloids and Their Properties
◐ Emulsions and Their Applications
Chemical Kinetics
◐ Rate of Reaction and Factors Affecting It
◐ Rate Law and Order of Reaction
◐ Activation Energy and Arrhenius Equation
◐ Catalysts and Their Role in Reactions
Industrial Chemistry
◐ Chemical Industries: Fertilizers, Pesticides, Dyes
◐ Petrochemicals and Their Applications
◐ Cement, Glass, and Ceramics
◐ Pharmaceutical Chemistry: Drug Design and Development
Nuclear Chemistry
◐ Radioactivity: Alpha, Beta, and Gamma Decay
◐ Nuclear Reactions: Fission and Fusion
◐ Applications of Radioisotopes
◐ Nuclear Power and Its Environmental Impact
Nanochemistry
◐ Synthesis of Nanoparticles
◐ Properties and Applications of Nanomaterials
◐ Nanotechnology in Medicine and Industry
Chemical Reactions and Equations
◐ Types of Chemical Reactions: Combination, Decomposition, Displacement, Redox
◐ Balancing Chemical Equations
◐ Stoichiometry and Mole Concept
◐ Limiting Reagents and Percent Yield
Thermodynamics and Thermochemistry
◐ Laws of Thermodynamics
◐ Enthalpy, Entropy, and Gibbs Free Energy
◐ Heat Capacity and Specific Heat
◐ Thermochemical Equations and Hess’s Law
Chemical Equilibrium
◐ Reversible and Irreversible Reactions
◐ Le Chatelier’s Principle
◐ Equilibrium Constant and Its Applications
◐ Acid-Base Equilibria: pH, pOH, and Buffers
Acids, Bases, and Salts
◐ Arrhenius, Bronsted-Lowry, and Lewis Theories
◐ Properties of Acids and Bases
◐ pH Scale and Its Importance
◐ Types of Salts and Their Uses
Organic Chemistry
◐ Classification of Organic Compounds
◐ IUPAC Nomenclature
◐ Isomerism: Structural and Stereoisomerism
◐ Functional Groups and Their Reactions
◐ Hydrocarbons: Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes
◐ Aromatic Compounds and Huckel’s Rule
Polymers
◐ Classification of Polymers: Natural and Synthetic
◐ Polymerization Reactions: Addition and Condensation
◐ Important Polymers: Polyethylene, PVC, Nylon, Teflon
◐ Biodegradable Polymers and Their Applications
Biomolecules
◐ Carbohydrates: Monosaccharides, Disaccharides, Polysaccharides
◐ Proteins: Amino Acids, Peptide Bonds, Structure of Proteins
◐ Enzymes: Mechanism of Action, Factors Affecting Enzyme Activity
◐ Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA
◐ Lipids: Fats, Oils, and Waxes
Emerging Topics in Chemistry
◐ Supramolecular Chemistry
◐ Computational Chemistry and Molecular Modeling
◐ Green Synthesis and Sustainable Chemistry
◐ Chemistry of Renewable Energy Sources
Physics
Mechanics
◐ Laws of Motion: Newton’s Laws, Inertia, Momentum
◐ Work, Energy, and Power
◐ Gravitation: Universal Law of Gravitation, Kepler’s Laws
◐ Rotational Motion: Torque, Angular Momentum, Moment of Inertia
◐ Oscillations: Simple Harmonic Motion, Pendulum
◐ Waves: Types of Waves, Wave Equation, Superposition Principle
Thermodynamics
◐ Laws of Thermodynamics
◐ Heat Transfer: Conduction, Convection, Radiation
◐ Thermal Expansion and Specific Heat
◐ Carnot Engine and Thermodynamic Cycles
◐ Kinetic Theory of Gases
Electromagnetism
◐ Electrostatics: Coulomb’s Law, Electric Field, Gauss’s Law
◐ Capacitance and Dielectrics
◐ Current Electricity: Ohm’s Law, Kirchhoff’s Laws, Electrical Circuits
◐ Magnetism: Magnetic Field, Lorentz Force, Biot-Savart Law
◐ Electromagnetic Induction: Faraday’s Law, Lenz’s Law
◐ Alternating Current: AC Circuits, Transformers
Optics
◐ Ray Optics: Reflection, Refraction, Lenses, Mirrors
◐ Wave Optics: Interference, Diffraction, Polarization
◐ Optical Instruments: Microscope, Telescope, Human Eye
◐ Dispersion of Light and Prisms
Modern Physics
◐ Quantum Mechanics: Photoelectric Effect, de Broglie Hypothesis
◐ Atomic Structure: Bohr’s Model, Quantum Numbers
◐ Nuclear Physics: Radioactivity, Nuclear Reactions, Half-Life
◐ Particle Physics: Fundamental Particles, Standard Model
◐ Relativity: Special and General Theory of Relativity
Solid State Physics
◐ Crystal Structure and Lattice Arrangement
◐ Band Theory of Solids: Conductors, Insulators, Semiconductors
◐ Semiconductor Devices: Diodes, Transistors, Integrated Circuits
◐ Superconductivity and Its Applications
Fluid Mechanics
◐ Properties of Fluids: Pressure, Buoyancy, Viscosity
◐ Bernoulli’s Principle and Its Applications
◐ Surface Tension and Capillary Action
◐ Fluid Dynamics: Streamline Flow, Turbulence
Astrophysics and Cosmology
◐ Solar System and Celestial Bodies
◐ Stars and Their Life Cycle
◐ Galaxies and the Universe
◐ Big Bang Theory and Cosmic Microwave Background
◐ Black Holes and Gravitational Waves
Electronics
◐ Basic Electronic Components: Resistors, Capacitors, Inductors
◐ Digital Electronics: Logic Gates, Binary Systems
◐ Communication Systems: Modulation, Demodulation, Satellite Communication
◐ Microprocessors and Microcontrollers
Biophysics
◐ Physics of the Human Body: Biomechanics, Blood Flow
◐ Medical Imaging Techniques: X-rays, MRI, Ultrasound
◐ Radiation Therapy and Its Applications
Nanophysics
◐ Nanomaterials and Their Properties
◐ Applications of Nanotechnology in Physics
◐ Quantum Dots and Nanostructures
Acoustics
◐ Sound Waves: Propagation, Speed, Reflection
◐ Doppler Effect and Its Applications
◐ Ultrasonics and Its Uses
Geophysics
◐ Earth’s Structure and Composition
◐ Seismology: Earthquakes and Seismic Waves
◐ Geothermal Energy and Its Extraction
Plasma Physics
◐ Properties of Plasma
◐ Applications in Fusion Energy
◐ Plasma in Space and Astrophysics
Computational Physics
◐ Numerical Methods and Simulations
◐ Modeling Physical Systems
◐ High-Performance Computing in Physics
Emerging Topics in Physics
◐ Quantum Computing and Information
◐ Dark Matter and Dark Energy
◐ String Theory and Multiverse
◐ Advances in Photonics and Optoelectronics
Information and Communication Technology
◐ Wi-Fi Technology: Principles, Standards, and Applications
◐ Bluetooth: Working Mechanism and Use Cases
◐ 4G Technology: Features, Advantages, and Limitations
◐ 5G Technology: Architecture, Benefits, and Challenges
◐ Satellite Communication: Types, Orbits, and Applications
◐ Broadband Technology: DSL, Fiber Optics, and Wireless Broadband
◐ Internet Protocols: IPv4 vs. IPv6, TCP/IP, UDP
◐ Cloud Computing: SaaS, PaaS, IaaS, and Edge Computing
◐ Internet of Things (IoT): Smart Devices and Connectivity
◐ Artificial Intelligence (AI) in ICT: Chatbots, Automation
◐ Blockchain Technology: Decentralization and Cryptography
◐ Cybersecurity: Threats, Encryption, and Firewalls
◐ Digital Payments: UPI, Mobile Wallets, and Aadhaar Payments
◐ E-Governance: Digital India, MyGov, and UMANG
◐ Social Media: Impact on Communication and Society
◐ Data Privacy and Protection: GDPR, Data Localization
◐ Quantum Communication: Principles and Future Prospects
◐ Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in ICT
◐ ICT in Disaster Management: Early Warning Systems and Coordination
Space Technology
◐ Basics of Space Technology: Rockets, Satellites, and Orbits
◐ Indian Space Program: ISRO’s History and Achievements
◐ Types of Orbits: LEO, MEO, GEO, and Polar Orbits
◐ Launch Vehicles: PSLV, GSLV, and SSLV
◐ Satellite Technology: Communication, Remote Sensing, and Navigation
◐ Chandrayaan Missions: Lunar Exploration by India
◐ Mangalyaan: India’s Mars Orbiter Mission
◐ Gaganyaan: India’s Human Spaceflight Program
◐ Remote Sensing: Applications in Agriculture, Forestry, and Disaster Management
◐ Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS): GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and NavIC
◐ Space Debris: Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
◐ Reusable Launch Vehicles: ISRO’s RLV-TD Program
◐ Cryogenic Technology: Importance in Space Missions
◐ Space Stations: ISS, Tiangong, and Future Indian Space Station
◐ Planetary Exploration: Missions to Mars, Venus, and Beyond
◐ Astronomy and Astrophysics: Telescopes and Observatories
◐ Space Telescopes: Hubble, James Webb, and AstroSat
◐ Solar Missions: Aditya-L1 and Study of the Sun
◐ Space Weather: Solar Flares, Geomagnetic Storms, and Their Impact
◐ Satellite Communication: VSAT, DTH, and Telemedicine
◐ Military Applications of Space Technology: Surveillance and Reconnaissance
◐ Space Tourism: Current Developments and Future Prospects
◐ Private Space Industry: SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Indian Startups
◐ International Collaboration in Space: Artemis Accords, ISRO-NASA Partnerships
◐ Space Law and Policy: Outer Space Treaty, UNOOSA
◐ Space-Based Solar Power: Concept and Feasibility
◐ Quantum Communication via Satellites: ISRO’s Experiments
◐ Asteroid Mining: Potential and Challenges
◐ Space Colonization: Moon and Mars Habitats
◐ Emerging Technologies: AI in Space Exploration, Space Robotics
Nuclear Technology
◐ Basics of Nuclear Technology: Atomic Structure and Nuclear Reactions
◐ Nuclear Energy: Fission and Fusion Processes
◐ Nuclear Power Plants: Working Principles and Components
◐ India’s Nuclear Program: Three-Stage Nuclear Power Program
◐ Nuclear Reactors: Types (Pressurized Water Reactor, Fast Breeder Reactor)
◐ Nuclear Applications in Medicine: Radiotherapy and Imaging
◐ Nuclear Applications in Agriculture: Mutation Breeding and Pest Control
◐ Nuclear Waste Management: Challenges and Solutions
◐ Nuclear Safety and Security: IAEA Guidelines and India’s Protocols
◐ Global Nuclear Agreements: NPT, CTBT, and India’s Stand
Emerging Technologies
◐ Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machine Learning and Deep Learning
◐ Internet of Things (IoT): Smart Devices and Connectivity
◐ Blockchain Technology: Decentralization and Cryptography
◐ 5G Technology: Features, Applications, and Challenges
◐ Quantum Computing: Principles and Potential Applications
◐ Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
◐ Robotics: Automation and AI-Driven Robots
◐ Biotechnology: CRISPR, Synthetic Biology, and Gene Editing
◐ Nanotechnology: Applications in Medicine, Energy, and Environment
◐ 3D Printing: Additive Manufacturing and Its Uses
◐ Autonomous Vehicles: Self-Driving Cars and Drones
◐ Renewable Energy Technologies: Solar, Wind, and Hydrogen Fuel Cells
◐ Energy Storage: Advanced Batteries and Supercapacitors
◐ Smart Cities: IoT, AI, and Sustainable Urban Development
◐ Cybersecurity: AI-Driven Threat Detection and Prevention
◐ Space Technology: Reusable Rockets and Satellite Constellations
◐ Advanced Materials: Graphene, Metamaterials, and Smart Alloys
◐ Digital Twins: Virtual Models for Real-World Systems
◐ Edge Computing: Decentralized Data Processing
◐ Biometric Technology: Facial Recognition and Fingerprint Scanning
Achievements of India in Science and Technology
Indian Space Program: ISRO’s Milestones (Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, Gaganyaan)
Launch Vehicles: PSLV, GSLV, and SSLV
NavIC: India’s Indigenous Navigation Satellite System
Aryabhata: India’s First Satellite
Nuclear Technology: Three-Stage Nuclear Power Program
Pokhran Tests: India’s Nuclear Capability
Thorium-Based Nuclear Reactors: Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR)
Biotechnology: Development of Indigenous Vaccines (Covaxin)
Green Revolution: Agricultural Innovations and High-Yield Crops
White Revolution: Operation Flood and Dairy Development
Information Technology: IT Boom and Global Software Exports
Aadhaar: World’s Largest Biometric ID System
Digital India: Initiatives like UPI, BHIM, and DigiLocker
Supercomputing: PARAM Series and National Supercomputing Mission
Renewable Energy: Solar and Wind Power Leadership
Tejas: Indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)
INS Vikrant: India’s First Indigenous Aircraft Carrier
BrahMos: Supersonic Cruise Missile Development
Biotechnology: Bt Cotton and Genetically Modified Crops