24 June 2026

Carbon isotopes in comet 3I/ATLAS

While the discovery provides scientific context regarding space exploration and the capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope, it lacks a direct connection to Indian space missions or specific policy applications required for a direct UPSC question.

Questions

1. How do interstellar objects like 3I/ATLAS serve as scientific tools for understanding the primordial conditions of the universe and the evolution of planetary systems? 150 words
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Prelims

1. What is the primary significance of measuring carbon isotope ratios in interstellar objects like 3I/ATLAS?

   1. A To measure the rate of radioactive decay of the object's core.
   2. B To identify the composition of the interstellar gas cloud that gave rise to its home planetary system.
   3. C To calculate the current velocity of the object relative to the Sun.
   4. D To determine the exact distance the object has traveled from its home star.

2. Based on the study of 3I/ATLAS, how does its formation environment compare to that of the bodies in our solar system?

   1. A It formed in a much warmer environment approximately 4.5 billion years ago.
   2. B It formed in an environment with identical chemical composition to the early solar system.
   3. C It formed in a significantly colder environment (-243C) roughly 12 billion years ago.
   4. D It formed in a similar temperature environment but at a much earlier time.