Introduction to the Topic

As aspirants gear up for the 71st BPSC Prelims, questions on Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) remain pivotal within the General Science and Technology syllabus. The 69th BPSC Prelims (2023) question on Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus, underscores the exam’s focus on cutting-edge technological advancements. Understanding such topics is crucial, given India’s push for innovation and Bihar’s increasing emphasis on digital and technological growth. This question tests candidates’ awareness of modern robotics, requiring precise differentiation between well-known robots and their developers, a skill essential for navigating the Prelims’ objective format.

Question and Options

Question: What is the name of Tesla’s humanoid robot launched in October 2022?
(A) Sophia
(B) Atlas
(C) Pepper
(D) Optimus

Explanation

This question evaluates candidates’ knowledge of Tesla’s contributions to robotics, specifically the humanoid robot unveiled at Tesla’s AI Day in October 2022. The options include names of other notable robots, serving as distractors to test clarity and precision.

• Sophia (A): Developed by Hanson Robotics, Sophia is a humanoid robot known for its lifelike expressions and discussions on AI ethics. It gained global attention, including a symbolic “citizenship” in Saudi Arabia. However, it is not associated with Tesla, making this option incorrect.
• Atlas (B): Created by Boston Dynamics (owned by Hyundai), Atlas is a highly agile humanoid robot capable of advanced movements like backflips and navigating complex terrains. It is unrelated to Tesla’s robotics initiatives, rendering this option incorrect.
• Pepper (C): Designed by SoftBank Robotics, Pepper is a social robot used for customer interactions in settings like retail and healthcare. It is a Japanese innovation, not a Tesla product, so this option is incorrect.
• Optimus (D): Tesla’s humanoid robot, named Optimus, was introduced in October 2022. Designed to perform repetitive, hazardous, or labor-intensive tasks in environments like factories or homes, it leverages Tesla’s advanced AI and machine learning technologies, adapted from its autonomous vehicle systems. This makes it the correct choice.

Key Features of Optimus: Optimus is engineered for versatility, with human-like mobility and the ability to adapt to diverse tasks. Its AI-driven capabilities enable it to learn and interact in dynamic settings, positioning it as a transformative tool in industrial and domestic applications.

Potential Pitfalls: The distractors—Sophia, Atlas, and Pepper—are well-known robots from different organizations, which could confuse candidates unfamiliar with Tesla’s specific contributions. Staying updated on recent technological developments and their creators is essential to avoid such traps.

Correct Answer

Correct Answer: (D) Optimus
Reason: Tesla’s humanoid robot, launched in October 2022, is Optimus, designed to assist with tasks requiring human-like interaction and powered by Tesla’s AI expertise. Options A, B, and C refer to robots developed by Hanson Robotics, Boston Dynamics, and SoftBank Robotics, respectively, and are unrelated to Tesla.

Five Probable Questions of Similar Difficulty

To aid 71st BPSC Prelims preparation, here are five questions of comparable difficulty, focusing on robotics and technology, with brief explanations:

1. Question: Which organization is behind the development of the humanoid robot Atlas?
   • (A) Tesla
   • (B) Boston Dynamics
   • (C) OpenAI
   • (D) SoftBank Robotics
     Answer: (B) Boston Dynamics
     Explanation: Atlas, known for its acrobatic capabilities, is developed by Boston Dynamics, not Tesla or other listed entities, testing knowledge of robotics developers.
2. Question: What is the primary function of SoftBank’s robot Pepper?
   • (A) Industrial automation
   • (B) Social interaction and customer service
   • (C) Space exploration
   • (D) Military surveillance
     Answer: (B) Social interaction and customer service
     Explanation: Pepper is designed for human-robot interaction in settings like retail, distinguishing it from industrial or military robots.
3. Question: Which technology powers Tesla’s Optimus robot, similar to its electric vehicles?
   • (A) Blockchain
   • (B) Machine learning
   • (C) Quantum computing
   • (D) Augmented reality
     Answer: (B) Machine learning
     Explanation: Optimus utilizes Tesla’s machine learning algorithms, adapted from its autonomous driving systems, for task adaptability.
4. Question: Which humanoid robot, developed by Hanson Robotics, is known for its AI-driven conversational abilities?
   • (A) Optimus
   • (B) Sophia
   • (C) Pepper
   • (D) Atlas
     Answer: (B) Sophia
     Explanation: Sophia, by Hanson Robotics, is recognized for its expressive AI interactions, unlike Tesla’s Optimus or other robots.
5. Question: What is a key goal of Tesla’s Optimus robot?
   • (A) Performing surgical procedures
   • (B) Assisting with repetitive or dangerous tasks
   • (C) Teaching academic subjects
   • (D) Exploring deep-sea environments
     Answer: (B) Assisting with repetitive or dangerous tasks
     Explanation: Optimus aims to automate labor-intensive or hazardous jobs, aligning with Tesla’s automation vision.

Key Terms Explained

• Optimus: Tesla’s humanoid robot, launched in 2022, designed for versatile tasks using AI and machine learning.
• Humanoid Robot: A robot with human-like physical features and capabilities, such as Optimus or Sophia.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Technology enabling machines to perform tasks intelligently, central to Optimus’s functionality.
• Machine Learning: A subset of AI allowing Optimus to learn from data, derived from Tesla’s autonomous vehicle tech.
• Tesla AI Day: Event in October 2022 where Optimus was introduced, highlighting Tesla’s robotics ambitions.
• Sophia: Hanson Robotics’ humanoid robot, known for expressive AI and public appearances.
• Atlas: Boston Dynamics’ humanoid robot, designed for advanced mobility and navigation.
• Pepper: SoftBank Robotics’ social robot, used for customer engagement and emotional interaction.

Preparation Tips for 71st BPSC Prelims

To excel in questions like this for the 71st BPSC Prelims, focus on the following strategies:

• Stay Updated: Follow recent developments in robotics and AI, especially from major players like Tesla, through reliable sources like tech journals or government reports.
• Understand Key Players: Memorize notable robots (e.g., Optimus, Sophia) and their developers to avoid confusion with distractors.
• Practice Objective Questions: Use mock tests to hone your ability to quickly identify correct answers under time pressure (150 questions in 2 hours, with 1/3rd negative marking).
• Link to Syllabus: Connect robotics to broader General Science topics, such as AI applications in industry or governance, relevant to Bihar’s tech initiatives.
• Revise Acronyms and Events: Note events like Tesla’s AI Day and associated technologies to contextualize advancements.

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To streamline your preparation for the 71st BPSC Prelims, follow Crack Target on various platforms:

• YouTube: Access video lectures on General Science and Technology, covering robotics and AI advancements.
• Telegram: Receive daily current affairs updates, quizzes, and concise notes on tech topics.
• Instagram/Facebook: Explore infographics and revision tips on emerging technologies.
• Website: Download mock tests, previous year papers (e.g., 69th BPSC Prelims), and comprehensive study materials.

Join Crack Target’s Dedicated BPSC Sections

Enhance your preparation by engaging with Crack Target’s BPSC-focused resources:

• Detailed Study Notes: Access in-depth materials on General Science, including robotics, AI, and their applications, tailored to the BPSC syllabus.
• Mock Tests and Practice: Sharpen your skills with objective questions mimicking the Prelims format to manage time and avoid negative marking.
• Bihar-Specific Insights: Understand technology’s role in Bihar’s digital and industrial growth, enhancing relevance for regional questions.
• Current Affairs Updates: Stay informed on global and national tech developments, critical for both Prelims and Mains.
• Expert Support: Participate in doubt-clearing sessions to clarify complex topics like robotics or AI terminology.

By leveraging Crack Target’s resources, aspirants can confidently tackle technology-related questions, ensuring a competitive edge in the 71st BPSC Prelims. For additional questions from the 69th BPSC or specific topics, please share, and I’ll provide a tailored, professional response with a varied writing style.