1. The magnetic poles are defined by the axis around which the planet rotates, and are fixed.
2. The origin of Earth’s magnetism lies in its outer core, a more than 2,000 km layer of liquid iron and some other metals like nickel that surrounds the central core.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: B

Explanation:
• The Earth has two pairs of North and South poles. The geographic poles are defined by the axis around which the planet rotates, and are fixed. The Earth behaves like a giant bar magnet and this behaviour defines its magnetic north and south poles, which are not static.
• The magnetic North Pole or South Pole does not coincide with the geographical north or South Pole. Currently, the magnetic North Pole is located somewhere over northern Canada, a fact discovered in 1831 by Sir James Clark Ross.
• The origin of Earth’s magnetism lies in its outer core, a more than 2,000 km layer of liquid iron and some other metals like nickel that surrounds the central core, or the innermost part. This liquid iron is in constant motion due to Earth’s rotation and various other reasons, and this motion produces a magnetic field.

Purpose of the Question:
The magnetic North Pole has reportedly been moving across the Canadian Arctic towards Russia, and has moved hundreds of miles over the last several decades. Scientists have now realized the pace of this movement has suddenly increased, quite significantly.

Source: Indian Express

Question:

Consider the following statements vis-à-vis recently released Corruption Perceptions Index 2018 :

1. Corruption Perceptions Index is released annually by the World Economic Forum.
2. India has been ranked below China in the Corruption Perceptions Index.

Choose the correct answer from the code given below:

A. Only 1
B. Only 2
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: D

Explanation:
• Corruption Perceptions Index is released by Transparency International, an international non-governmental organization which is based in Berlin, Germany. India has improved its ranking from 81 in 2017 to 78 in 2018 (out of 180 countries). Nordic countries have occupied the top slots.
• China slipped by 10 ranks to 87th place in Transparency International''s 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index.

Source: Economic Times