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General Studies (Paper 1) from UPSC CSE 2018 Prelims
Subject: General Studies (Paper 1) Environment & Ecology Union Public Service Commission — Civil Services Examination Last updated May 9, 2026
UPSC CSE Prelims 2018 General Studies (Paper 1)

The energy that is harnessed from the volcanic regions under the earth’s surface and is used to generate power and heat is known as

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Correct Answer: Option D — Geo-thermal Energy
The term comes from the Greek words geo (earth) and therme (heat). This energy is generated by tapping into the natural heat stored beneath the Earth's crust—often near tectonic plate boundaries or volcanic "hotspots"—where magma heats underground water into steam that can spin turbines.

Why the other options don't fit:
Wave Energy: Harnesses the kinetic energy of ocean surface waves.

Windmill Energy: Uses the flow of air (wind) to mechanicaly turn blades.

Spring Energy: Generally refers to elastic potential energy in physics (like a coiled metal spring) or, occasionally, the natural flow of groundwater, but it is not a primary source of volcanic power generation.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.

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UPSC CSE 2018 Prelims

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Exam UPSC CSE
Stage Prelims
Year 2018
Subject General Studies (Paper 1)
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