UPSC Prelims 2024 Q48: Science & Technology – Computer & Information Technology
Which one of the following words/phrases is most appropriately used to denote "an
interoperable network of 3D virtual worlds that can be accessed simultaneously by millions of
users, who can exert property rights over virtual items"?
- (a) Big data analytics
- (b) Cryptography
- (c) Metaverse
- (d) Virtual matrix
Answer: (c) Metaverse
Explanation
Metaverse
The metaverse is a network of shared, persistent 3D virtual worlds that many people can enter at the same time, usually through VR/AR headsets.
| Feature in the question | Metaverse trait |
|---|---|
| Interoperable network of 3D virtual worlds | Users and items move between platforms |
| Accessed simultaneously by millions | Real-time, shared, always-on |
| Property rights over virtual items | Digital ownership using NFTs and blockchain |
The term comes from Neal Stephenson's novel Snow Crash (1992).
Other options compared:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Big data analytics | Finding patterns in huge data sets |
| Cryptography | Securing information with codes and keys |
| Virtual matrix | Not a standard technical term |
Answer: (c) Metaverse.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Big data analytics studies large data sets; it does not create virtual worlds.
- (b) Incorrect. Cryptography secures data; it underlies NFTs but is not the virtual world itself.
- (c) CORRECT. The metaverse is an interoperable network of 3D worlds with digital property rights.
- (d) Incorrect. 'Virtual matrix' is not a recognised name for this concept.
Key point
Metaverse = shared, interoperable 3D virtual worlds with digital ownership (NFTs); term from 'Snow Crash' (1992).
Remember
An interoperable network of 3D virtual worlds is called the metaverse.
Common mistakes
- Choosing 'virtual matrix' because it sounds like the film *The Matrix*.
- Mixing up the metaverse with plain virtual reality, which is just the viewing technology.
- Missing the clue 'property rights over virtual items', which points to NFTs in the metaverse.
Exam tip
3D worlds + millions of users + owning virtual items = metaverse. The three clues together settle it.
Sources
- Ministry of Electronics and IT — Emerging technologies briefs
- Neal Stephenson — Snow Crash (1992)