Wednesday Trivia #26: May 23, 2012

by Idéfix Wed May 23, 2012 3:40 am

The usual rule: no googling please.

1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

4. The 2011 French presidential primary of the center-left Parti Socialiste, which Francois Hollande won in the end, was interesting in many ways. Six contestants sought the nomination. It was the first open primary for the party – previous primaries had only allowed active PS members to vote. It included the Dominique Strauss-Kahn drama, but he eventually did not participate. The contest was also unique at a personal level – how?

5. Abelmoschus esculentus is a flowering plant in the mallow family, and it is valued for its edible green seed pods. Originally a tropical plant, its geographical origin is disputed; India, East Africa and West Africa are suggested as possibilities with strong indications that India was the likely place of origin. The seeds of this plant have high oil content, and researchers are pursuing its potential use as a biofuel. It has at least three names that are used in the English language. Name this plant that is used in signature dishes from Japan to Brazil and Louisiana to Nigeria.

6. The Left Front led by CPI (M) came to power in West Bengal in 1977. One of their early actions in power was to change the name of Harrington Street, where the Consulate General of the United States was located. What was the new (and still current) name of Harrington Street?

7. This three digit number is considered sacred by Muslims of the Indian subcontinent, although it does not hold such meaning for most other Muslims. This number has been sported in movies by the leading stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi and Rajinikanth. What is the number, and why is it considered auspicious?

8. The name of this city means “city of the night” in Sanskrit. However, the city was never part of India, and historians think the name has nothing to do with Sanskrit. The name originated from that of an ancient ruler who founded the city. A thousand years ago, it was one of the world’s ten largest cities, and it was the birthplace of the polymath Omar Khayyam. According to George Curzon, a viceroy of India, this city was destroyed and rebuilt more times in history than any other. The city disappeared into obscurity in the 13th century CE, and became prominent in the 20th century when New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art added ancient ceramics from the city to its collection. Name the city and the country that it now part of.

9. When it was opened in 1925, this London building at the southern end of Kingsway was considered the most expensive building in the world. Built by Americans, it was dedicated “to the friendship of the English speaking peoples.” The name of the building is widely heard around the world, thanks to the building’s tenant, which is a household name in many countries. This famous tenant’s lease is finally expiring after more than seven decades in the building. Name the building and the famous tenant that is moving out.

10. Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears and Chris White started a company in 2003 in Palo Alto, CA. Before year’s end, the startup ran out of money, and one of the founders’ friends gave them $10,000 in cash in an envelope, but refused a stake in the startup. Two years later in 2005, the startup was acquired by a large public company. The name of the startup company is now widely known, although the startup never sold any products. What was the name of the startup company?

by Guest Wed May 23, 2012 3:53 am

panini press wrote:1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

amritsar express.

6. The Left Front led by CPI (M) came to power in West Bengal in 1977. One of their early actions in power was to change the name of Harrington Street, where the Consulate General of the United States was located. What was the new (and still current) name of Harrington Street?

ho chi minh sarani. Smile

renamed so to spite the americans. it has the tata steel's corporate office (a landmark building in kolkata). the britsh consulate is also in the same street!

7. This three digit number is considered sacred by Muslims of the Indian subcontinent, although it does not hold such meaning for most other Muslims. This number has been sported in movies by the leading stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi and Rajinikanth. What is the number, and why is it considered auspicious?

786. it is a substitute for the opening phrase of the koran (i don't exactly know how).

by Guest Wed May 23, 2012 4:26 am

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

Einstein?

3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

This is London....French speaking...? BBC?

5. Abelmoschus esculentus is a flowering plant in the mallow family, and it is valued for its edible green seed pods. Originally a tropical plant, its geographical origin is disputed; India, East Africa and West Africa are suggested as possibilities with strong indications that India was the likely place of origin. The seeds of this plant have high oil content, and researchers are pursuing its potential use as a biofuel. It has at least three names that are used in the English language. Name this plant that is used in signature dishes from Japan to Brazil and Louisiana to Nigeria.

Okra? (Gumbo!)

10. Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears and Chris White started a company in 2003 in Palo Alto, CA. Before year’s end, the startup ran out of money, and one of the founders’ friends gave them $10,000 in cash in an envelope, but refused a stake in the startup. Two years later in 2005, the startup was acquired by a large public company. The name of the startup company is now widely known, although the startup never sold any products. What was the name of the startup company?

Android

by Guest Wed May 23, 2012 4:29 am

blabberwock wrote:

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

Einstein?

and photoelectric effect?

by Guest Wed May 23, 2012 4:42 am

panini press wrote:3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

this is london! the french speaking to/in french! (?) don't know origin.

by Guest Wed May 23, 2012 5:04 am

Huzefa Kapasi wrote:
blabberwock wrote:

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

Einstein?

and photoelectric effect?

photoelectric effect, theory of relativity, brownian motion...?

by indophile Wed May 23, 2012 8:44 am

1. Still called Frontier Mail (I think it was painted white back in the old days). Runs bewtween Bombay and Delhi.

2. Einstein - General and special Theory of Relativity.

6. Ho Chi Minh Road in Chowrangee. I went there to get my U.S. visa originally.

7. 108, Hindu's "ashtottara-sata-namaavali" (8 over 100) archana tradition was copied by muslims.

8. Nishapur.

by indophile Wed May 23, 2012 8:53 am

[quote="blabberwock"]

]5. Abelmoschus esculentus is a flowering plant in the mallow family, and it is valued for its edible green seed pods. Originally a tropical plant, its geographical origin is disputed; India, East Africa and West Africa are suggested as possibilities with strong indications that India was the likely place of origin. The seeds of this plant have high oil content, and researchers are pursuing its potential use as a biofuel. It has at least three names that are used in the English language. Name this plant that is used in signature dishes from Japan to Brazil and Louisiana to Nigeria.
Okra? (Gumbo!)

Interesting. I thought okra's botanaical name was "Hibiscus Esculentus" from my High School Science class ("Hibiscus Micranthus" for mandaara or the Hibiscus flower plant). May be my memory failed me.

by Mosquito Wed May 23, 2012 4:54 pm

1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

>>>>>>>>>>>>>I knew it as frontier mail in 90s. Runs between Bombay & Amritsar. Travelled in that.

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

>>>>>>>>>Einstein relativity.

3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

6. The Left Front led by CPI (M) came to power in West Bengal in 1977. One of their early actions in power was to change the name of Harrington Street, where the Consulate General of the United States was located. What was the new (and still current) name of Harrington Street?

7. This three digit number is considered sacred by Muslims of the Indian subcontinent, although it does not hold such meaning for most other Muslims. This number has been sported in movies by the leading stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi and Rajinikanth. What is the number, and why is it considered auspicious?
>>>>>>>>>>>786. I dont know the reason.

8. The name of this city means “city of the night” in Sanskrit. However, the city was never part of India, and historians think the name has nothing to do with Sanskrit. The name originated from that of an ancient ruler who founded the city. A thousand years ago, it was one of the world’s ten largest cities, and it was the birthplace of the polymath Omar Khayyam. According to George Curzon, a viceroy of India, this city was destroyed and rebuilt more times in history than any other. The city disappeared into obscurity in the 13th century CE, and became prominent in the 20th century when New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art added ancient ceramics from the city to its collection. Name the city and the country that it now part of.
>>>>>>>>>>>Nishapur, Iran?

10. Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears and Chris White started a company in 2003 in Palo Alto, CA. Before year’s end, the startup ran out of money, and one of the founders’ friends gave them $10,000 in cash in an envelope, but refused a stake in the startup. Two years later in 2005, the startup was acquired by a large public company. The name of the startup company is now widely known, although the startup never sold any products. What was the name of the startup company?

>>>>>>>>>>>>>Android.

by Idéfix Wed May 23, 2012 6:35 pm

Huzefa Kapasi wrote:
panini press wrote:1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

amritsar express.

Not quite. The destination is correct, Amritsar.

Huzefa Kapasi wrote:
6. The Left Front led by CPI (M) came to power in West Bengal in 1977. One of their early actions in power was to change the name of Harrington Street, where the Consulate General of the United States was located. What was the new (and still current) name of Harrington Street?

ho chi minh sarani. renamed so to spite the americans. it has the tata steel's corporate office (a landmark building in kolkata). the britsh consulate is also in the same street!

Correct.

Huzefa Kapasi wrote:
7. This three digit number is considered sacred by Muslims of the Indian subcontinent, although it does not hold such meaning for most other Muslims. This number has been sported in movies by the leading stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi and Rajinikanth. What is the number, and why is it considered auspicious?

786. it is a substitute for the opening phrase of the koran (i don't exactly know how).

It is indeed 786, and it is for the opening phrase bismillah ("in the name of god.") The part that remains to be answered is, how does "bismillah" become 786?

by Idéfix Wed May 23, 2012 6:36 pm

blabberwock wrote:

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

Einstein?

Correct.

blabberwock wrote:
3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

This is London....French speaking...? BBC?

Yes, you are on the right track, and very close to the answer.

blabberwock wrote:
5. Abelmoschus esculentus is a flowering plant in the mallow family, and it is valued for its edible green seed pods. Originally a tropical plant, its geographical origin is disputed; India, East Africa and West Africa are suggested as possibilities with strong indications that India was the likely place of origin. The seeds of this plant have high oil content, and researchers are pursuing its potential use as a biofuel. It has at least three names that are used in the English language. Name this plant that is used in signature dishes from Japan to Brazil and Louisiana to Nigeria.
Okra? (Gumbo!)

Correct.

blabberwock wrote:
10. Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears and Chris White started a company in 2003 in Palo Alto, CA. Before year’s end, the startup ran out of money, and one of the founders’ friends gave them $10,000 in cash in an envelope, but refused a stake in the startup. Two years later in 2005, the startup was acquired by a large public company. The name of the startup company is now widely known, although the startup never sold any products. What was the name of the startup company?

Android

Correct.

by Idéfix Wed May 23, 2012 6:37 pm

Huzefa Kapasi wrote:
blabberwock wrote:

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

Einstein?

and photoelectric effect?

Yes, that was the topic of one of his four papers that the journal published in 1905. What were the other topics?

by Idéfix Wed May 23, 2012 6:40 pm

Huzefa Kapasi wrote:
panini press wrote:3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

this is london! the french speaking to/in french! (?) don't know origin.

Good translation... "this is London. The French speaking to the French" is the literal translation. (en Francais instead of aux Francais would have been "in French" instead of "to the French.") BW was correct in mentioning that BBC had something to do with the origin. What?

by Idéfix Wed May 23, 2012 6:45 pm

Huzefa Kapasi wrote:
Huzefa Kapasi wrote:
blabberwock wrote:

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

Einstein?

and photoelectric effect?

photoelectric effect, theory of relativity, brownian motion...?

Correct. Two of the four papers had to do with the special theory of relativity: one established the framework, and the other dealt with the consequential mass-energy equivalence. Einstein's Nobel was for the paper on the photoelectric effect.

by Idéfix Wed May 23, 2012 6:46 pm

indophile wrote:1. Still called Frontier Mail (I think it was painted white back in the old days). Runs bewtween Bombay and Delhi.

No, it now goes to Amritsar, and stops before the Wagah-Attari border crossing. The name has been changed, as per my knowledge.

indophile wrote:2. Einstein - General and special Theory of Relativity.

Einstein is correct. Special theory of relativity was the topic of two of his four papers in 1905; the general theory came much later, in 1916.

indophile wrote:6. Ho Chi Minh Road in Chowrangee. I went there to get my U.S. visa originally.

Yes.

indophile wrote:7. 108, Hindu's "ashtottara-sata-namaavali" (8 over 100) archana tradition was copied by muslims.

Nope.

indophile wrote:8. Nishapur.

Correct.

by Idéfix Wed May 23, 2012 6:49 pm

[quote="indophile"]

blabberwock wrote:
]5. Abelmoschus esculentus is a flowering plant in the mallow family, and it is valued for its edible green seed pods. Originally a tropical plant, its geographical origin is disputed; India, East Africa and West Africa are suggested as possibilities with strong indications that India was the likely place of origin. The seeds of this plant have high oil content, and researchers are pursuing its potential use as a biofuel. It has at least three names that are used in the English language. Name this plant that is used in signature dishes from Japan to Brazil and Louisiana to Nigeria.
Okra? (Gumbo!)

Interesting. I thought okra's botanaical name was "Hibiscus Esculentus" from my High School Science class ("Hibiscus Micranthus" for mandaara or the Hibiscus flower plant). May be my memory failed me.

No, you are right. Per Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Okra) that's another name for okra -- look under binomial name on the right-hand side panel.

by Idéfix Wed May 23, 2012 6:51 pm

PseudoIntellectual wrote:1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

>>>>>>>>>>>>>I knew it as frontier mail in 90s. Runs between Bombay & Amritsar. Travelled in that.

Amritsar is correct. They changed the name later, perhaps? May be after "the Punjab problem" was resolved. Therein lies a hint.

PseudoIntellectual wrote:2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

>>>>>>>>>Einstein relativity.

Correct.

PseudoIntellectual wrote:7. This three digit number is considered sacred by Muslims of the Indian subcontinent, although it does not hold such meaning for most other Muslims. This number has been sported in movies by the leading stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi and Rajinikanth. What is the number, and why is it considered auspicious?
>>>>>>>>>>>786. I dont know the reason.

Correct, it stands for the Arabic word bismillah or "in the name of god."

PseudoIntellectual wrote:8. The name of this city means “city of the night” in Sanskrit. However, the city was never part of India, and historians think the name has nothing to do with Sanskrit. The name originated from that of an ancient ruler who founded the city. A thousand years ago, it was one of the world’s ten largest cities, and it was the birthplace of the polymath Omar Khayyam. According to George Curzon, a viceroy of India, this city was destroyed and rebuilt more times in history than any other. The city disappeared into obscurity in the 13th century CE, and became prominent in the 20th century when New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art added ancient ceramics from the city to its collection. Name the city and the country that it now part of.
>>>>>>>>>>>Nishapur, Iran?

Correct. The one Genghis Khan reduced to rubble because the inhabitants had killed his son-in-law.

PseudoIntellectual wrote:10. Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears and Chris White started a company in 2003 in Palo Alto, CA. Before year’s end, the startup ran out of money, and one of the founders’ friends gave them $10,000 in cash in an envelope, but refused a stake in the startup. Two years later in 2005, the startup was acquired by a large public company. The name of the startup company is now widely known, although the startup never sold any products. What was the name of the startup company?

>>>>>>>>>>>>>Android.

Correct.

by Idéfix Thu May 24, 2012 12:44 am

Here is an update with hints:

1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

Hint: The train runs between Bombay and Amritsar. It was renamed in 1996 after a landmark of its new terminus.

3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

Hint: The phrase means: "This is London! The French talking to the French!" It is a widely phrase in France. Its origin is connected to the BBC. When did this phrase originate?

4. The 2011 French presidential primary of the center-left Parti Socialiste, which Francois Hollande won in the end, was interesting in many ways. Six contestants sought the nomination. It was the first open primary for the party – previous primaries had only allowed active PS members to vote. It included the Dominique Strauss-Kahn drama, but he eventually did not participate. The contest was also unique at a personal level – how?

Hint: The contestants included Francois Hollande, Martine Aubry, Jean-Michel Baylet, Arnaud Montebourg, Segolene Royal, and Manuel Valls. Segolene Royal was the party's nominee in the 2007 election. Francois Hollande did not contest the 2007 primary.

9. When it was opened in 1925, this London building at the southern end of Kingsway was considered the most expensive building in the world. Built by Americans, it was dedicated “to the friendship of the English speaking peoples.” The name of the building is widely heard around the world, thanks to the building’s tenant, which is a household name in many countries. This famous tenant’s lease is finally expiring after more than seven decades in the building. Name the building and the famous tenant that is moving out.

Hint: The building shares its name with a recent US president.

by Guest Thu May 24, 2012 12:52 am

1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

Hint: The train runs between Bombay and Amritsar. It was renamed in 1996 after a landmark of its new terminus.

Gateway of India Express? Golden Express?

9. When it was opened in 1925, this London building at the southern end of Kingsway was considered the most expensive building in the world. Built by Americans, it was dedicated “to the friendship of the English speaking peoples.” The name of the building is widely heard around the world, thanks to the building’s tenant, which is a household name in many countries. This famous tenant’s lease is finally expiring after more than seven decades in the building. Name the building and the famous tenant that is moving out.

Hint: The building shares its name with a recent US president.

Bush house - BBC

by Idéfix Thu May 24, 2012 12:54 am

blabberwock wrote:

1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

Hint: The train runs between Bombay and Amritsar. It was renamed in 1996 after a landmark of its new terminus.

Gateway of India Express? Golden Express?

Ok I have to give this to you: Golden Temple Mail.

blabberwock wrote:
9. When it was opened in 1925, this London building at the southern end of Kingsway was considered the most expensive building in the world. Built by Americans, it was dedicated “to the friendship of the English speaking peoples.” The name of the building is widely heard around the world, thanks to the building’s tenant, which is a household name in many countries. This famous tenant’s lease is finally expiring after more than seven decades in the building. Name the building and the famous tenant that is moving out.

Hint: The building shares its name with a recent US president.

Bush house - BBC

Correct. BBC World Service is moving out of Bush House, which they used to mention in their broadcasts around the world.

by Guest Thu May 24, 2012 1:03 am

panini press wrote:
blabberwock wrote:

1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

Hint: The train runs between Bombay and Amritsar. It was renamed in 1996 after a landmark of its new terminus.

Gateway of India Express? Golden Express?
Ok I have to give this to you: Golden Temple Mail.

wow! i did not know about this train. quite similarly, amritsar mail runs between howrah and amritsar. pre-independence it was called punjab mail and used to run between howrah and lahore. it is still popularly called punjab mail.

by Kris Thu May 24, 2012 10:41 am

panini press wrote:The usual rule: no googling please.

1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

>>>Einstein -- don't know the topic

3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

>>>In London, the french lecture the french. Something by de gaul?

5. Abelmoschus esculentus is a flowering plant in the mallow family, and it is valued for its edible green seed pods. Originally a tropical plant, its geographical origin is disputed; India, East Africa and West Africa are suggested as possibilities with strong indications that India was the likely place of origin. The seeds of this plant have high oil content, and researchers are pursuing its potential use as a biofuel. It has at least three names that are used in the English language. Name this plant that is used in signature dishes from Japan to Brazil and Louisiana to Nigeria.

>>>Okra

6. The Left Front led by CPI (M) came to power in West Bengal in 1977. One of their early actions in power was to change the name of Harrington Street, where the Consulate General of the United States was located. What was the new (and still current) name of Harrington Street?

>>>Karl Marx street?

8. The name of this city means “city of the night” in Sanskrit. However, the city was never part of India, and historians think the name has nothing to do with Sanskrit. The name originated from that of an ancient ruler who founded the city. A thousand years ago, it was one of the world’s ten largest cities, and it was the birthplace of the polymath Omar Khayyam. According to George Curzon, a viceroy of India, this city was destroyed and rebuilt more times in history than any other. The city disappeared into obscurity in the 13th century CE, and became prominent in the 20th century when New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art added ancient ceramics from the city to its collection. Name the city and the country that it now part of.

>>>Nishapur?

9. When it was opened in 1925, this London building at the southern end of Kingsway was considered the most expensive building in the world. Built by Americans, it was dedicated “to the friendship of the English speaking peoples.” The name of the building is widely heard around the world, thanks to the building’s tenant, which is a household name in many countries. This famous tenant’s lease is finally expiring after more than seven decades in the building. Name the building and the famous tenant that is moving out.

>>>>Grosevenor, US Embassy

10. Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears and Chris White started a company in 2003 in Palo Alto, CA. Before year’s end, the startup ran out of money, and one of the founders’ friends gave them $10,000 in cash in an envelope, but refused a stake in the startup. Two years later in 2005, the startup was acquired by a large public company. The name of the startup company is now widely known, although the startup never sold any products. What was the name of the startup company?

>>>Paypal?

by Idéfix Thu May 24, 2012 11:52 pm

Kris wrote:>>>Einstein -- don't know the topic

Correct. The topics were photoelectric effect, Brownian motion and the special theory of relativity.

Kris wrote:3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

>>>In London, the french lecture the french. Something by de gaul?

Correct, it was used during WWII by de Gaul's Free French forces in their broadcasts to the mainland from London.

Kris wrote:5. Abelmoschus esculentus is a flowering plant in the mallow family, and it is valued for its edible green seed pods. Originally a tropical plant, its geographical origin is disputed; India, East Africa and West Africa are suggested as possibilities with strong indications that India was the likely place of origin. The seeds of this plant have high oil content, and researchers are pursuing its potential use as a biofuel. It has at least three names that are used in the English language. Name this plant that is used in signature dishes from Japan to Brazil and Louisiana to Nigeria.

>>>Okra

Correct.

Kris wrote:6. The Left Front led by CPI (M) came to power in West Bengal in 1977. One of their early actions in power was to change the name of Harrington Street, where the Consulate General of the United States was located. What was the new (and still current) name of Harrington Street?

>>>Karl Marx street?

No, they named it for Ho Chih Minh to remind the Americans of Vietnam.

Kris wrote:8. The name of this city means “city of the night” in Sanskrit. However, the city was never part of India, and historians think the name has nothing to do with Sanskrit. The name originated from that of an ancient ruler who founded the city. A thousand years ago, it was one of the world’s ten largest cities, and it was the birthplace of the polymath Omar Khayyam. According to George Curzon, a viceroy of India, this city was destroyed and rebuilt more times in history than any other. The city disappeared into obscurity in the 13th century CE, and became prominent in the 20th century when New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art added ancient ceramics from the city to its collection. Name the city and the country that it now part of.

>>>Nishapur?

Correct.

Kris wrote:9. When it was opened in 1925, this London building at the southern end of Kingsway was considered the most expensive building in the world. Built by Americans, it was dedicated “to the friendship of the English speaking peoples.” The name of the building is widely heard around the world, thanks to the building’s tenant, which is a household name in many countries. This famous tenant’s lease is finally expiring after more than seven decades in the building. Name the building and the famous tenant that is moving out.

>>>>Grosevenor, US Embassy

No, it is the Bush House, home of BBC World Service.

Kris wrote:10. Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears and Chris White started a company in 2003 in Palo Alto, CA. Before year’s end, the startup ran out of money, and one of the founders’ friends gave them $10,000 in cash in an envelope, but refused a stake in the startup. Two years later in 2005, the startup was acquired by a large public company. The name of the startup company is now widely known, although the startup never sold any products. What was the name of the startup company?

>>>Paypal?

No, Android.

by Idéfix Thu May 24, 2012 11:54 pm

Just one question remains. I guess this wasn't worded well. Let me try another hint...

4. The 2011 French presidential primary of the center-left Parti Socialiste, which Francois Hollande won in the end, was interesting in many ways. Six contestants sought the nomination. It was the first open primary for the party – previous primaries had only allowed active PS members to vote. It included the Dominique Strauss-Kahn drama, but he eventually did not participate. The contest was also unique at a personal level – how?

Hint 1: The contestants included Francois Hollande, Martine Aubry, Jean-Michel Baylet, Arnaud Montebourg, Segolene Royal, and Manuel Valls. Segolene Royal was the party's nominee in the 2007 election. Francois Hollande did not contest the 2007 primary.

Hint 2: The contest was unique because of interpersonal dynamics between two of the contestants.

by Kris Fri May 25, 2012 4:12 am

Don't know. I am going to assume Segolene is a woman and that she and Hollande are divorced from each other?

by Idéfix Fri May 25, 2012 12:00 pm

Kris wrote:Don't know. I am going to assume Segolene is a woman and that she and Hollande are divorced from each other?

Yes, they were long-term partners for three decades and have four children together. They separated after the 2007 elections. I am not sure if they were married though. It's the only case I know of a national primary where two exes fought each other.

All questions have been answered now... will post the answers later today.

by Idéfix Mon May 28, 2012 9:12 pm

Here are the answers.

1. The Frontier Mail was an important express train that carried passengers and mail across British India. It ran from Bombay to Peshawar and The Times of London described it as “one of the most famous express trains within the British Empire.” This train notched up many firsts, including the first air-conditioned cars in India and the first radio service on an Indian train. What is the current name of this train, and what points does it run between?

Answer: Golden Temple Mail. between Mumbai and Amritsar.

2. Annalen der Physik (annals of physics) is one of the oldest academic journals in circulation. It started publishing in German in 1799. After the Second World War, it served primarily Communist Bloc scientists, and began to publish both English and German articles. After the reunification of Germany, it publishes exclusively in English. Max Planck served as its editor in the first half of the 20th century. This journal is most famous for launching the scientific career of one person. Name the person and the topics of the papers that launched his career.

Answer: Albert Einstein; photoelectric effect, Brownian motion and the special theory of relativity

3. The following is a well-recognized quote in the French language: “Ici Londres! Les Français parlent aux Français!” What does it mean, and what is its origin?

Answer: "This is London! The French speaking to the French!" It was the opening line used by the BBC in its broadcasts to France during the Second World War. The Free French under de Gaulle used this service to relay messages to the Resistance back home.

4. The 2011 French presidential primary of the center-left Parti Socialiste, which Francois Hollande won in the end, was interesting in many ways. Six contestants sought the nomination. It was the first open primary for the party – previous primaries had only allowed active PS members to vote. It included the Dominique Strauss-Kahn drama, but he eventually did not participate. The contest was also unique at a personal level – how?

Answer: Two of the contestants -- Francois Hollande and Segolene Royal -- were partners for over 30 years and they separated right after Royal's loss to Sarkozy in the last election. They have four children together.

5. Abelmoschus esculentus is a flowering plant in the mallow family, and it is valued for its edible green seed pods. Originally a tropical plant, its geographical origin is disputed; India, East Africa and West Africa are suggested as possibilities with strong indications that India was the likely place of origin. The seeds of this plant have high oil content, and researchers are pursuing its potential use as a biofuel. It has at least three names that are used in the English language. Name this plant that is used in signature dishes from Japan to Brazil and Louisiana to Nigeria.

Answer: okra, lady's finger, gumbo

6. The Left Front led by CPI (M) came to power in West Bengal in 1977. One of their early actions in power was to change the name of Harrington Street, where the Consulate General of the United States was located. What was the new (and still current) name of Harrington Street?

Answer: Ho Chih Minh Sarani, to remind the Americans of their then-recent defeat in the Vietnam War.

7. This three digit number is considered sacred by Muslims of the Indian subcontinent, although it does not hold such meaning for most other Muslims. This number has been sported in movies by the leading stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi and Rajinikanth. What is the number, and why is it considered auspicious?

Answer: 786, because they represent the phrase "bismillah" ("in the name of god") according to a specific numbering scheme applied to the Arabic alphabet. The number 786 is written in place of the more formal phrase on ordinary paper which may come in contact with dirty stuff.

8. The name of this city means “city of the night” in Sanskrit. However, the city was never part of India, and historians think the name has nothing to do with Sanskrit. The name originated from that of an ancient ruler who founded the city. A thousand years ago, it was one of the world’s ten largest cities, and it was the birthplace of the polymath Omar Khayyam. According to George Curzon, a viceroy of India, this city was destroyed and rebuilt more times in history than any other. The city disappeared into obscurity in the 13th century CE, and became prominent in the 20th century when New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art added ancient ceramics from the city to its collection. Name the city and the country that it now part of.

Answer: Nishapur, Iran. The city was destroyed in 1221 by the armies of Genghis Khan, and the skulls of those killed were piled into pyramids.

9. When it was opened in 1925, this London building at the southern end of Kingsway was considered the most expensive building in the world. Built by Americans, it was dedicated “to the friendship of the English speaking peoples.” The name of the building is widely heard around the world, thanks to the building’s tenant, which is a household name in many countries. This famous tenant’s lease is finally expiring after more than seven decades in the building. Name the building and the famous tenant that is moving out.

Answer: Bush House, BBC World Service.

10. Andy Rubin, Rich Miner, Nick Sears and Chris White started a company in 2003 in Palo Alto, CA. Before year’s end, the startup ran out of money, and one of the founders’ friends gave them $10,000 in cash in an envelope, but refused a stake in the startup. Two years later in 2005, the startup was acquired by a large public company. The name of the startup company is now widely known, although the startup never sold any products. What was the name of the startup company?

Answer: Android.

by Idéfix Mon May 28, 2012 9:14 pm

This week is Indo's turn to post trivia. Here is the latest schedule.

May 30: Indo
June 6: BW
June 13: PI
June 20: PP
June 27: Indo
July 4: BW
July 11: PI
July 18: PP
July 25: Indo

by Guest Wed May 30, 2012 12:20 pm

panini press wrote:The number 786 is written in place of the more formal phrase on ordinary paper which may come in contact with dirty stuff.

wow...thanks! i really did not know this bit. no wonder the back of an auto is the best place to inscribe "786."

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