Q. Consider the following activities:
- Spraying pesticides on a crop field
- Inspecting the craters of active volcanoes
- Collecting breath samples from spouting whales for DNA analysis
Q. At the present level of technology, which of the above activities can be successfully carried out by using drones?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer : (d) 1, 2 and 3
Question from UPSC Prelims 2020 GS Paper
Explanation:
Application of Drones in Various Tasks
Drones have become increasingly versatile tools, capable of performing a wide range of tasks across various fields. Let’s examine the feasibility of using drones for each of the activities mentioned:
Spraying pesticides on a crop field
Drones are already being used extensively in agriculture for various purposes, including the spraying of pesticides. They offer a precise and efficient means of applying pesticides, reducing the amount of chemicals used and minimizing human exposure to these potentially harmful substances. Drones equipped with spraying mechanisms can cover large areas quickly, making this task not only feasible but also increasingly common.
Inspecting the craters of active volcanoes
Drones are also used in the field of volcanology to inspect and monitor active volcanoes. They can fly into hazardous areas that are inaccessible or too dangerous for humans, collecting data and imagery that help scientists study volcanic activity, gas emissions, and predict eruptions. The use of drones in this context reduces the risk to human life and provides valuable information that might not be otherwise obtainable.
Collecting breath samples from spouting whales for DNA analysis
This is another area where drones have been successfully deployed. Researchers have used specially equipped drones, sometimes referred to as “snotbots,” to fly through the blow (the exhaled breath) of whales to collect DNA, microbiomes, and stress hormones. This non-invasive method of data collection is less stressful for the whales compared to traditional methods and provides scientists with important biological and ecological information.
Given the above, the correct answer is:
(d) 1, 2, and 3
All three activities can be successfully carried out by using drones at the present level of technology, demonstrating the versatility and utility of drones in a wide range of applications.
