All Exams  >   Bank Exams  >   SBI PO Prelims & Mains Preparation  >   All Questions

All questions of Discovery & Inventions for Bank Exams Exam

What Galileo invented?
  • a)
    Barometer
  • b)
    Pendulum clock
  • c)
    Microscope
  • d)
    Thermometer
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Ipsita Reddy answered
Various authors have credited the invention of the thermometer to Cornelius Drebbel, Robert Fludd, Galileo Galilei or Santorio Santorio. The thermometer was not a single invention, however, but a development.
Galileo Galilei also discovered that objects (glass spheres filled with aqueous alcohol) of slightly different densities would rise and fall, which is nowadays the principle of the Galileo thermometer (shown). Today such thermometers are calibrated to a temperature scale.

What invention caused many deaths while testing it?
  • a)
    Dynamite
  • b)
    Ladders
  • c)
    Race cars
  • d)
    Parachute
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Kiran Reddy answered
Many people who tried to test the first parachutes died by jumping from high places. One attempt was a parachute hat, but the inventor broke his neck while testing it. The first successful parachute was tested from a hot air balloon in 1797, in France, by Jacques Garnerin.

Who invented Fountain Pen?
  • a)
    John J. Loud
  • b)
    Sir Frank Whittle
  • c)
    Lewis E. Waterman
  • d)
    E. Waterman
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Manasa Menon answered
The correct answer is option 'C', Lewis E. Waterman.

Fountain pens are writing instruments that use a reservoir of liquid ink to dispense ink onto the paper. They have been a popular choice for writing for many years due to their smooth and consistent ink flow. The invention of the fountain pen revolutionized the way people write, making it easier and more convenient than using dip pens or quills.

Here is an explanation of why Lewis E. Waterman is credited with inventing the fountain pen:

1. Background of Lewis E. Waterman:
- Lewis Edson Waterman was born on November 18, 1837, in Decatur, New York, USA.
- He worked as an insurance agent for most of his life, but he had a passion for improving the writing instruments of his time.

2. The Problem with Early Fountain Pens:
- Before Waterman's invention, early fountain pens had various issues like leakage, inconsistent ink flow, and difficulty in refilling.
- These problems made them unreliable and inconvenient for everyday use.

3. The Invention of Waterman's Fountain Pen:
- In 1883, Lewis E. Waterman invented a new type of fountain pen that addressed the issues faced by earlier designs.
- His key innovation was the three-channel feed system, which controlled the ink flow and prevented leakage.
- This design allowed air to enter the pen, creating a vacuum that regulated the ink flow.

4. Waterman's Patent and Success:
- In 1884, Waterman obtained a patent for his fountain pen design.
- He founded the L.E. Waterman Company in 1888 to manufacture and sell his pens.
- Waterman's pens gained popularity due to their reliability, smooth writing experience, and ease of use.

5. Legacy and Impact:
- Lewis E. Waterman's invention revolutionized the writing industry, and his company became one of the leading manufacturers of fountain pens globally.
- His innovative fountain pen design set the standard for future pen designs and influenced the development of modern writing instruments.

In conclusion, Lewis E. Waterman is credited with inventing the fountain pen due to his significant contributions in addressing the issues faced by earlier designs and his innovative three-channel feed system. His invention revolutionized the way people write and set the foundation for modern fountain pens.

In which decade was the telephone invented?
  • a)
    1850s
  • b)
    1860s
  • c)
    1870s
  • d)
    1880s
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Vijay Kumar answered
Alexander Graham Bell's notebook entry of 10 March 1876 describes his successful experiment with the telephone. Speaking through the instrument to his assistant, Thomas A. Watson, in the next room, Bell utters these famous first words, "Mr. Watson -- come here -- I want to see you".

In which decade was the first solid state integrated circuit demonstrated?
  • a)
    1950s
  • b)
    1960s
  • c)
    1970s
  • d)
    1980s
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Deepak Verma answered
The first solid-state integrated circuit was demonstrated in the 1950s.

Explanation:

Solid-State Integrated Circuit:
A solid-state integrated circuit, also known as a microchip or simply an IC, is a miniaturized electronic circuit that consists of various electronic components such as transistors, resistors, capacitors, and diodes fabricated on a small piece of semiconductor material, usually silicon. These components are interconnected to perform specific functions, such as amplification, switching, and data processing. The invention of the solid-state integrated circuit revolutionized the field of electronics by enabling the development of smaller, more efficient, and more reliable electronic devices.

The demonstration of the first solid-state integrated circuit was a significant milestone in the history of electronics. It marked the beginning of a new era of miniaturization and paved the way for the development of modern electronics.

Timeline:
- The first solid-state integrated circuit was demonstrated in the 1950s, specifically in the year 1958.
- It was developed by a team of engineers led by Jack Kilby at Texas Instruments and independently by Robert Noyce at Fairchild Semiconductor.
- Jack Kilby's design used germanium as the semiconductor material, while Robert Noyce's design used silicon.
- Both Kilby and Noyce's designs incorporated multiple transistors, resistors, and capacitors on a single chip of semiconductor material.
- This breakthrough allowed electronic components to be manufactured and interconnected on a much smaller scale, leading to the development of smaller and more powerful electronic devices.

Impact:
The demonstration of the first solid-state integrated circuit had a profound impact on various industries and everyday life. Some of the key impacts include:

1. Miniaturization: The invention of the solid-state integrated circuit enabled the miniaturization of electronic devices. This led to the development of smaller and more portable devices such as calculators, computers, and mobile phones.

2. Improved Performance: Integrated circuits allowed for better performance and increased functionality in electronic devices. They offered higher processing speeds, increased storage capacity, and improved power efficiency.

3. Cost Reduction: The mass production of integrated circuits led to a significant reduction in the cost of electronic devices. This made technology more accessible to the general public and spurred innovation in various fields.

4. Advancements in Technology: The development of integrated circuits paved the way for further advancements in technology, such as the development of microprocessors, memory chips, and other complex electronic systems.

Conclusion:
The first solid-state integrated circuit was demonstrated in the 1950s, marking a significant milestone in the field of electronics. This breakthrough revolutionized the industry by enabling the miniaturization of electronic devices, improving their performance, reducing costs, and leading to further technological advancements.

When was Monopoly created?
  • a)
    1940s
  • b)
    1930s
  • c)
    1920s
  • d)
    1950s
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Mayank Kumar answered
After the Stock Market crash, a buying and selling game created by Charles Darrow came to be. The first games were hand drawn on linoleum with streets from Atlantic City, N.J. as the property. He took the game to the Parker Brothers company, and Monopply was brought out for Christmas 1934. Everyone wanted to buy the games after Christmas, and Monopoly became a big success.

Who invented Jet Engine?
  • a)
    Sir Frank Whittle
  • b)
    Gottlieb Daimler
  • c)
    Roger Bacon
  • d)
    Lewis E. Waterman
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Sahana Bajaj answered
Dr. Hans von Ohain and Sir Frank Whittle are recognized as the co-inventors of the jet engine. Each was working separately and knew nothing of the others work. Although Whittle started first, von Ohain was first to design and develop a turbojet engine to power an aircraft.

Of the many honors received by both, the most significant honor was probably "The Charles Draper Prize" in 1992 which was given to both Hans von Ohain and Sir Frank Whittle for their efforts and contributions to aviation and mankind. "The Charles Draper Prize" is recognized as the equivalent to the Nobel Prize in technology.

Who among the following invented the small pox vaccine?
  • a)
    Robert Koch
  • b)
    Edward Jenner
  • c)
    Robert Hooke
  • d)
    Louis Pasteur
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Nikhil Saini answered
Edward Jenner invented the smallpox vaccine.

Background:
- Smallpox is a highly contagious and deadly infectious disease caused by the variola virus.
- It has plagued humanity for centuries, causing widespread epidemics and millions of deaths.
- Smallpox is transmitted through respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected individuals.
- The disease is characterized by fever, rash, and the formation of fluid-filled blisters that leave permanent scars.

Edward Jenner's Contribution:
- Edward Jenner, an English physician, is credited with inventing the smallpox vaccine.
- In the late 18th century, Jenner observed that milkmaids who had contracted cowpox, a less severe disease, seemed to be immune to smallpox.
- Cowpox is a similar disease caused by the cowpox virus, which is closely related to the variola virus.
- Jenner hypothesized that exposure to cowpox could protect against smallpox.

The Experiment:
- In 1796, Jenner conducted an experiment to test his hypothesis.
- He took material from a cowpox blister and scratched it into the arm of an 8-year-old boy named James Phipps.
- Phipps developed a mild case of cowpox but recovered fully.
- Several weeks later, Jenner exposed Phipps to smallpox, but the boy did not develop the disease.
- This experiment demonstrated that cowpox infection provided immunity against smallpox.

Impact:
- Jenner's discovery revolutionized the field of immunization and laid the foundation for the development of vaccines.
- His technique, known as vaccination (derived from "vacca," meaning cow), involved using a less harmful microorganism to stimulate immunity against a more dangerous one.
- The smallpox vaccine was the first successful vaccine ever developed and played a crucial role in eradicating the disease.
- In 1980, the World Health Organization declared smallpox eradicated, making it the first human disease to be eradicated globally.

Conclusion:
- Edward Jenner's invention of the smallpox vaccine was a groundbreaking achievement in the field of medicine.
- His work not only saved countless lives but also paved the way for the development of vaccines against other infectious diseases.
- Jenner's legacy continues to inspire scientists and researchers in the ongoing battle against infectious diseases.

What Benjamin Franklin invented?
  • a)
    Bifocal spectacles
  • b)
    Radio
  • c)
    Barometer
  • d)
    Hygrometer
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanchita Bose answered
Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, was a polymath who made significant contributions to various fields, including science and technology. One of his most notable inventions was bifocal spectacles, which provided a solution for people with both nearsightedness and farsightedness.

1. Bifocal Spectacles:
- Benjamin Franklin invented bifocal spectacles in the 1780s to address his own vision problems. He was both nearsighted and farsighted, and switching between two pairs of glasses was inconvenient for him.
- Franklin's bifocal spectacles featured lenses with two distinct optical powers. The top portion of the lens corrected distant vision, while the bottom portion corrected near vision.
- This innovation allowed users to see clearly at both distances without the need to switch between multiple pairs of glasses.
- Franklin's invention of bifocal spectacles revolutionized eyewear and laid the foundation for modern multifocal lenses.

2. Other Inventions by Benjamin Franklin:
a) Lightning Rod: Franklin is also famous for his experiments and inventions related to electricity. One of his most significant contributions was the invention of the lightning rod. By attaching a metal rod to a structure's highest point and grounding it, Franklin was able to protect buildings from lightning strikes.
b) Franklin Stove: Another notable invention by Franklin was the Franklin stove, also known as the Pennsylvania fireplace. This innovative heating device provided more efficient heating by directing the heat into the room instead of allowing it to escape through the chimney.
c) Glass Armonica: Franklin also invented the glass armonica, a musical instrument made of glass bowls or goblets of various sizes. The instrument produced ethereal and haunting sounds by rubbing wet fingers on the rims of the bowls, creating friction and producing musical tones.
d) Swim Fins: Franklin also designed swim fins to increase swimming speed. He attached wooden paddles to his hands and feet to enhance his swimming ability, making him a faster swimmer.

In conclusion, Benjamin Franklin was a prolific inventor and made significant contributions to various fields. His invention of bifocal spectacles revolutionized eyewear, providing a convenient solution for people with both nearsightedness and farsightedness. Additionally, his other inventions such as the lightning rod, Franklin stove, glass armonica, and swim fins showcased his innovative thinking and practical approach to problem-solving.

Who invented the BALLPOINT PEN?
  • a)
    Biro Brothers
  • b)
    Waterman Brothers
  • c)
    Bicc Brothers
  • d)
    Write Brothers
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Kritika Basu answered
The Hungarian brothers, Laszlo and George Biro, made the first ball point pen in 1894. It followed the first workable fountain pen which was invented by L.E. Waterman in 1884.

Who is often called the 'first African-American' inventor?
  • a)
    Bessie Blount
  • b)
    George Washington Carver
  • c)
    Benjamin Banneker
  • d)
    Elijah McCoy
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Gauri Bose answered
Banneker was a member of the planning committee that designed Washington, DC along with Pierre L'Enfant. When L'Enfant was fired Banneker recreated the plans from memory.

When was the first lawn mower invented?
  • a)
    1830
  • b)
    1854
  • c)
    1835
  • d)
    1849
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Akshara Chavan answered
The first lawn mowers were not engine powered. Invented in 1830 by Edwin Budding of England, the mowers were turning blades on wooden sticks used to cut grass. Engine powered mowers were not invented until 1919 by an American Army colonel, who used the motor from a washing machine.

Who had an explosive idea and first patented DYNAMITE?
  • a)
    J. R. Gluber
  • b)
    A. Nobel
  • c)
    G. Fawks
  • d)
    W. Bickford
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Alfred Noble patented dynamite in 1876. Nobel left $9 million in his will to be used as awards for people whose work benefit humanity - The Nobel Peace Prize etc.

This part-time race car driver invented the bucket seat in 1969. Who was he??
  • a)
    Steve McQueen
  • b)
    Harrison Frazier
  • c)
    Paul Newman
  • d)
    John Wayne
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Janhavi Bajaj answered
**Answer:**

The correct answer is option 'A', Steve McQueen.

**Explanation:**

Steve McQueen was a famous American actor and part-time race car driver. He is known for his roles in films such as "Bullitt," "The Great Escape," and "Le Mans." McQueen had a deep passion for racing and was an accomplished driver himself.

In 1969, Steve McQueen invented the bucket seat. The bucket seat is a type of racing seat that is designed to provide better support and safety for the driver during high-speed racing. It is called a bucket seat because it resembles a bucket in shape and is molded to fit the contours of the driver's body, providing a snug and secure fit.

The invention of the bucket seat revolutionized the world of racing. Before the bucket seat, most racing cars were equipped with standard seats that did not provide the necessary support and stability for the driver during high-speed maneuvers. The bucket seat, with its molded shape and increased side support, allowed the driver to stay securely in place, reducing the risk of injury and enhancing overall control and performance.

Steve McQueen's invention of the bucket seat had a significant impact on the racing industry. It not only improved the safety and comfort of race car drivers but also influenced the design and construction of seats in other types of vehicles, such as sports cars and high-performance automobiles.

Steve McQueen's contribution to the racing world extends beyond his acting career. His invention of the bucket seat showcases his innovative mindset and his dedication to improving the sport he loved. Today, the bucket seat is a standard feature in most racing cars and has become an integral part of the racing experience.

In conclusion, Steve McQueen, the part-time race car driver and renowned actor, invented the bucket seat in 1969. His invention revolutionized the world of racing, providing drivers with better support, safety, and performance.

The first hand glider was designed by...?
  • a)
    Leonardo DaVinci
  • b)
    The Wright brothers
  • c)
    Francis Rogallo
  • d)
    Galileo
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Pranab Goyal answered
Leonardo DaVinci is credited with designing the first hand glider. DaVinci was an Italian polymath and a true Renaissance man, excelling in various fields such as painting, anatomy, engineering, and architecture. His fascination with flight and his deep understanding of the principles of aerodynamics led him to design several flying machines, including the hand glider.

Designing the Hand Glider
Leonardo DaVinci's design for the hand glider was inspired by his observations of birds in flight. He carefully studied their wings and the way they moved through the air, and he sought to replicate their mechanics in his flying machines. His hand glider design consisted of a wooden frame covered in cloth, with a wingspan of approximately 33 feet.

Aerodynamic Principles
DaVinci understood the importance of lift and drag in achieving flight. He incorporated several features into his hand glider design to optimize these principles. The wings of the glider were shaped like a bird's wings, with a curved upper surface and a flatter lower surface. This shape created lift when air passed over the wings, allowing the glider to stay airborne.

Additionally, DaVinci recognized the importance of weight distribution and balance. He carefully designed the center of gravity of the glider to ensure stability in flight. By positioning the pilot's body in a prone position, he was able to distribute the weight evenly and achieve balance.

Limited Practical Application
While DaVinci's hand glider design was a significant advancement in the study of flight, it was never built or tested during his lifetime. The materials and technology necessary to construct and operate the glider were not yet available. However, his detailed drawings and writings on the subject have provided valuable insights into the early development of aviation.

Legacy and Influence
Despite not being able to see his designs come to life, Leonardo DaVinci's contributions to the field of aviation were groundbreaking. His understanding of aerodynamics and his innovative designs laid the foundation for future advancements in flight. The hand glider design is just one example of his many visionary ideas and inventions that continue to inspire and captivate people to this day.

Until Victorian times, chocolate was thought of as a drink. When did the first chocolate bar appear?
  • a)
    1828
  • b)
    1831
  • c)
    1825
  • d)
    There is no sure date
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Ameya Ahuja answered
No one knows for sure when the first chocolate bar appeared or even who made it, but an important event occurred in 1828. The Van Houten press was invented, which extracted cocoa butter from the bean - the same press that brought the Cadbury Brothers success with Cocoa Essence.

What item of apparel was invented by Ellery Chun, a Hawaiian clothing merchant, in 1931?
  • a)
    String bikini
  • b)
    Muumuu
  • c)
    Aloha shirt
  • d)
    Capri pants
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Pranab Goyal answered
Ellery Chun and the Invention of Aloha Shirt

Ellery Chun was a Hawaiian clothing merchant who invented the Aloha shirt in 1931. The Aloha shirt is a type of dress shirt that is made from colorful, printed fabric. It is often associated with Hawaiian culture and is a popular souvenir for visitors to the islands.

History of the Aloha Shirt

Ellery Chun was inspired to create the Aloha shirt after noticing that many tourists were buying plain, white dress shirts to wear in Hawaii. He thought that a more colorful and relaxed shirt would be more appropriate for the tropical climate and decided to create his own version.

Chun worked with local fabric mills to create a range of colorful, printed fabrics that he used to make his shirts. He also designed a new style of shirt that featured a relaxed fit, short sleeves, and a collar that could be worn open or buttoned up.

Initially, the Aloha shirt was marketed as a casual shirt for local men. However, it soon became popular with tourists who were looking for a unique souvenir to take home. The shirt became so popular that it was soon being exported to the mainland United States and beyond.

Legacy of the Aloha Shirt

Today, the Aloha shirt is a symbol of Hawaiian culture and is worn by people all over the world. It has been worn by celebrities and politicians, and has even been featured in movies and television shows.

In 2000, the Aloha shirt was designated the official dress shirt of Hawaii. The Aloha shirt is now available in a wide range of styles and fabrics, and is worn by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Conclusion

Ellery Chun's invention of the Aloha shirt has had a lasting impact on fashion and culture. His colorful, relaxed shirt has become a symbol of Hawaiian culture and is a popular souvenir for visitors to the islands.

Where was the yo-yo invented?
  • a)
    France
  • b)
    United States
  • c)
    Philippines
  • d)
    England
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Surbhi Rane answered
The yo-yo was first used by hunters as weapons. They were wooden disks on strings. In the 1920s, a man from the U.S. named Donald Duncan made the yo-yo into a toy after he visited the Philippines.

Who invented Gunpowder?
  • a)
    G. Ferdinand Von Zeppelin
  • b)
    Sir Frank Whittle
  • c)
    Roger Bacon
  • d)
    Leo H Baekeland
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Pranab Goyal answered
The correct answer is option 'C' - Roger Bacon.

Explanation:
- Gunpowder, also known as black powder, is considered one of the most important inventions in human history. It is a mixture of sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate (saltpeter).
- While gunpowder was not invented by a single individual, the earliest recorded discovery of gunpowder is attributed to Chinese alchemists during the Tang Dynasty (9th century AD).
- However, the question specifically asks about the person who invented gunpowder, and Roger Bacon is often credited with its invention.
- Roger Bacon was an English philosopher and Franciscan friar who lived during the 13th century. He conducted extensive research in various fields, including optics, mathematics, and alchemy.
- Bacon's work on gunpowder is documented in his writings, particularly in his book "Opus Majus" (Great Work), which he completed around 1267.
- In "Opus Majus," Bacon describes the formula for gunpowder and its potential military applications. He also experimented with different proportions of the ingredients to improve its effectiveness.
- Bacon's contribution to the development of gunpowder was significant, as his writings spread across Europe and influenced subsequent scientists and inventors.
- It is important to note that gunpowder's discovery and development were not limited to a single individual or culture. It had a complex history involving contributions from various civilizations, including China, India, and the Middle East.
- Gunpowder revolutionized warfare and had a profound impact on human civilization, leading to the invention and advancement of firearms, cannons, and explosive devices.

In conclusion, while gunpowder was discovered by Chinese alchemists, Roger Bacon is often credited with its invention due to his documented research and experimentation during the 13th century.

Who invented Gramophone?
  • a)
    Michael Faraday
  • b)
    Fahrenheit
  • c)
    Sir Alexander Graham Bell
  • d)
    Thomas Alva Edison
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Meghana Shah answered
Gramophone: Invention and Inventor

The correct answer is option D: Thomas Alva Edison. He is widely recognized as the inventor of the gramophone, which revolutionized the way music was recorded and played back in the late 19th century.

Thomas Alva Edison

Thomas Alva Edison was an American inventor and businessman who is most famous for his contributions to the field of electric power, telecommunication, and motion pictures. Born on February 11, 1847, in Milan, Ohio, Edison showed an early interest in science and technology. Throughout his career, he filed over 1,000 patents for various inventions, making him one of the most prolific inventors in history.

Invention of the Gramophone

Edison's invention of the gramophone, also known as the phonograph, was a significant milestone in the history of audio recording and playback. He developed the device in the late 1870s and received a patent for it in 1878. The gramophone was the first practical method of recording and reproducing sound using a rotating cylinder covered in tinfoil.

Working Principle and Impact

The gramophone worked by capturing sound waves through a horn and transmitting them to a diaphragm. The diaphragm would vibrate in response to the sound waves, causing a stylus connected to it to etch grooves onto the rotating cylinder. These grooves would then reproduce the sound when the cylinder was played back.

Edison's gramophone was a significant breakthrough as it allowed people to record and play back sounds, including music and voices, for the first time. Prior to its invention, the only way to experience music was through live performances or sheet music. The gramophone brought music into people's homes and allowed for the preservation and distribution of audio recordings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Thomas Alva Edison is credited with inventing the gramophone, also known as the phonograph. His invention revolutionized the way music was recorded and played back, paving the way for the development of the modern music industry. Edison's contributions to the field of audio recording and playback have had a lasting impact on society and continue to shape the way we enjoy music today.

Who is the only U.S. President to invent and patent something?
  • a)
    Abraham Lincoln
  • b)
    Theodore Roosevelt
  • c)
    Thomas Jefferson
  • d)
    Rutherford B. Hayes
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Vinod Mehta answered
In 1849 Honest Abe invented a method to aid ships that got stuck on sandbars. He called it A Device for Buoying Vessels Over Shoals. It was never used.

Which of the following was first patented by an Australian in 1889?
  • a)
    Electric Drill
  • b)
    Electric Shaver
  • c)
    Electric Fence
  • d)
    Electric Heater
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Bijoy Kumar answered
The Electric Drill was the invention of Arthur James Arnot. On 20 August 1889 he patented his design while working for the Union Electric Company in Melbourne. His original design was meant primarily for drilling rock to find coal!

Who invented Internal Combustion Engine?
  • a)
    Roger Bacon
  • b)
    Karl Benz
  • c)
    Dr. Alan M. Turing
  • d)
    Otto
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Puja Menon answered
The correct answer is option 'D', Otto.

Explanation:
The internal combustion engine was invented by Nikolaus August Otto, a German engineer, in 1876. Otto's engine was the first practical four-stroke internal combustion engine, which became the basis for most modern engines used in cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Here is a detailed explanation of Otto's invention:

1. Background:
- Before Otto, there were other inventors who made significant contributions to the development of the internal combustion engine. These include Jean Joseph Étienne Lenoir, who built the first commercially successful internal combustion engine in 1859, and Alphonse Beau de Rochas, who formulated the concept of the four-stroke cycle in 1862.

2. Invention of the Four-Stroke Cycle:
- Otto built upon the work of Lenoir and de Rochas to create an improved engine design. He developed the four-stroke cycle, also known as the Otto cycle, which consists of four strokes: intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust.
- The intake stroke draws in a fuel-air mixture into the cylinder, followed by the compression stroke that compresses the mixture.
- The combustion stroke ignites the compressed mixture, creating a rapid expansion of gases that drive the piston downward, producing power.
- Finally, the exhaust stroke expels the burned gases from the cylinder.

3. Otto's Engine:
- In 1876, Otto successfully built and patented his four-stroke engine. It featured a horizontal cylinder, a flywheel for smooth operation, and an electric spark ignition system.
- The engine used a carburetor to mix fuel and air, which allowed for better control of the fuel-air mixture.
- Otto's engine was more practical and efficient compared to previous designs, leading to its widespread adoption in the automotive industry.

4. Impact and Legacy:
- Otto's invention of the internal combustion engine revolutionized transportation and power generation. It enabled the development of automobiles, motorcycles, and later, airplanes.
- The internal combustion engine also played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution, powering factories, machinery, and generators.
- Today, variations of Otto's four-stroke cycle are still used in most gasoline engines, with continuous advancements in efficiency and emissions control.

In conclusion, Nikolaus August Otto is credited with inventing the internal combustion engine by developing the practical four-stroke cycle. His invention paved the way for modern transportation and power generation systems.

In which decade were the first successful diode and triode vacuum tubes invented?
  • a)
    1800s
  • b)
    1880s
  • c)
    1890s
  • d)
    1900s
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Suresh Khanna answered
In 1904, John Ambrose Fleming invented the first practical electron tube called the 'Fleming Valve', which is a diode rectifier. In 1906, Lee de Forest invented the audion later called the triode, which provided signal amplification.

Which scientist discovered the radioactive element radium?
  • a)
    Isaac Newton
  • b)
    Albert Einstein
  • c)
    Benjamin Franklin
  • d)
    Marie Curie
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Ipsita Reddy answered
Marie Curie discovered the radioactive element radium.

Discovery of Radium
Marie Curie, a Polish-French physicist and chemist, discovered the radioactive element radium in 1898 along with her husband Pierre Curie. They discovered radium while conducting research on uranium and its radioactive decay products. After the discovery, Marie Curie isolated radium in its pure form and determined its atomic weight.

Contribution to Science
Marie Curie's discovery of radium had a significant impact on science. It opened up new avenues of research in nuclear physics and led to the development of new medical treatments for cancer. Curie's work on radium also led to the development of radiation therapy, which is still used today to treat certain types of cancer.

Recognition and Awards
Marie Curie's contributions to science were recognized with numerous awards and honors. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, receiving the award in physics in 1903 for her work on radiation. She later won another Nobel Prize, this time in chemistry, for her discovery of radium and polonium. Curie was also the first woman to become a professor at the University of Paris.

Conclusion
Marie Curie's discovery of radium was a significant contribution to science and has had lasting impacts on medical treatments and radiation therapy. Her groundbreaking work on radioactivity and the discovery of radium led to numerous awards and honors, including two Nobel Prizes.

When was barb wire patented?
  • a)
    1874
  • b)
    1840
  • c)
    1895
  • d)
    1900
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Samarth Gupta answered
Joseph F. Glidden was born in New York on Jan. 18, 1812. He invented barbed wire in 1873 and was granted the patent on Nov. 24, 1874. After a three year battle over the patent, which he eventually won, Gidden became known as the "Father of Barbed Wire".

What Elisha Otis invented?
  • a)
    The brake used in modern elevators
  • b)
    Jet Engine
  • c)
    Turbine
  • d)
    Hydraulic Crane
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Dishani Sarkar answered
In 1853, American inventor Elisha Otis demonstrated a freight elevator equipped with a safety device to prevent falling in case a supporting cable should break. This increased public confidence in such devices. Otis established a company for manufacturing elevators and patented (1861) a steam elevator.
Many people think that he invented the elevator, but the truth is, he invented the elevator brake. He also invented the railway safety brake.

What furniture item was invented by California furniture designer Charles Prior Hall in 1968?
  • a)
    Sofa bed
  • b)
    Captain's chair
  • c)
    Waterbed
  • d)
    Hammock
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajdeep Roy answered
**The Invention of the Waterbed by Charles Hall**

**Introduction:**
The California furniture designer Charles Prior Hall invented the waterbed in 1968. This innovation revolutionized the concept of sleeping and comfort by introducing a unique and unconventional approach to bedding. The waterbed quickly gained popularity and became an iconic piece of furniture during the 1970s and 1980s.

**The Concept and Design:**
Charles Hall was inspired by the idea of using water as a cushioning material for a bed instead of traditional mattresses filled with springs or foam. He believed that a water-filled mattress would provide better support and distribute the body's weight more evenly.

The waterbed consists of a large, rectangular vinyl or rubber bladder filled with water, which serves as the primary support system. The bladder is then placed inside a wooden frame or base, which provides stability and protection. The water can be heated or cooled using a temperature control system, allowing users to adjust the bed's temperature according to their preference.

**Advantages and Disadvantages:**
The waterbed offered several advantages over traditional mattresses:

1. Support and Pressure Relief: The water-filled bladder contours to the body's shape, providing excellent support and reducing pressure on joints and muscles.

2. Temperature Control: The ability to adjust the waterbed's temperature provided personalized comfort and therapeutic benefits. It could be heated in winter for warmth or cooled in summer for a refreshing sleep experience.

3. Allergy-Friendly: Unlike traditional mattresses that can harbor dust mites and allergens, waterbeds are resistant to such issues, making them a suitable option for individuals with allergies.

However, the waterbed also had some disadvantages:

1. Maintenance: Waterbeds required regular maintenance, including adding water to compensate for evaporation, conditioning the water to prevent algae growth, and occasionally replacing the bladder.

2. Heavy and Bulky: Waterbeds were heavier and bulkier than traditional mattresses, making them more difficult to move and transport.

3. Motion Transfer: The movement of one person on a waterbed could create waves or motion, potentially disturbing the sleep of the other person sharing the bed.

**Conclusion:**
The invention of the waterbed by Charles Hall in 1968 revolutionized the bedding industry and provided a unique and unconventional approach to sleep comfort. Although the popularity of waterbeds has declined over the years, they remain an interesting part of furniture history and a testament to the innovation and creativity of Charles Hall.

When was the first elevator built?
  • a)
    1743
  • b)
    1739
  • c)
    1760
  • d)
    1785
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Krish Nambiar answered
The first elevator was built in the palace of King Louis XV. It only traveled up one floor, and was hand powered by men inside the chimney.

Chapter doubts & questions for Discovery & Inventions - SBI PO Prelims & Mains Preparation 2025 is part of Bank Exams exam preparation. The chapters have been prepared according to the Bank Exams exam syllabus. The Chapter doubts & questions, notes, tests & MCQs are made for Bank Exams 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises, MCQs and online tests here.

Chapter doubts & questions of Discovery & Inventions - SBI PO Prelims & Mains Preparation in English & Hindi are available as part of Bank Exams exam. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for Bank Exams Exam by signing up for free.

Top Courses Bank Exams