Maharashtra SSC Biology Answer Key 2026 (OUT) Live Updates: Science Paper 2 Solved Question Paper; Paper Difficulty Level

01 00 PM IST - 13 Mar'26

Exam Ends

The examination has concluded. Students are coming out of the examination hall. We will collect the feedback and question paper, and formulate the unofficial answer key soon. 

12 00 PM IST - 13 Mar'26

Maha SSC Science 2 Exam 2026: 1 Hour Left

Only 1 hour is left for the examination to conclude. After the exam concludes, we will collect feedback from the students and provide on this page.

11 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Exam Starts

The examination has started. Candidates have 2 hours to finish the paper.

10 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Maha SSC Science 2 Exam 2026: 1 Hour Left

One hour is left for the examination to commence. The pre-exam processes are currently ongoing.

09 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Quick Revision on Classification of Threatened Species

The IUCN Red List classifies species into:

• Endangered: (e.g., Lion-tailed macaque)
• Rare: (e.g., Red panda)
• Vulnerable: (e.g., Tiger)
• Indeterminate: (e.g., Giant squirrel)

08 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Maha SSC Science 2 Exam 2026: Quick Revision on Environmental Management and "Sacred Groves"

Sacred Groves are patches of forest conserved in the name of God by local communities rather than the forest department. These act as "sanctuaries" for rare species and are vital for maintaining local biodiversity.

07 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Quick Revision on The 28-Day Menstrual Cycle

The cycle is regulated by four hormones: FSH, LH, Estrogen, and Progesterone. If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum degenerates, the level of progesterone drops, and the uterine endometrium is shed during menstruation.

06 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Maha SSC Science 2 Exam 2026: Short Note on Essential Objectives of Disaster Management

The main goals of disaster management are to save human lives by moving people to safety, supply essential commodities, and restore normalcy. This involves three phases: the pre-disaster phase (preparedness), the warning phase, and the post-disaster phase (rehabilitation).

05 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Short Note on Significance of Stem Cell Research

Stem cells are undifferentiated, "parent" cells that can transform into any specialized cell type in the body. They are being used in regenerative therapy to treat organ failures and conditions like diabetes, myocardial infarction, and Alzheimer’s disease.

04 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Maharashtra 10th Science 2 Exam 2026: Short Note on Microbial Enzymes vs. Chemical Catalysts

Microbial enzymes are preferred in industry because they are active at low temperatures and pH, which saves energy and costs. Furthermore, these enzymes are eco-friendly as they do not require expensive purification or create toxic by-products.

03 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Short Note on The Concept of "Active" Probiotics

Probiotics are milk products that contain "active" bacteria like Lactobacillus acidophilus which help maintain the balance of intestinal microorganisms. They increase the population of useful microbes and decrease harmful ones like Clostridium in our digestive tract.

02 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Maharashtra 10th Science 2 Exam 2026: Short Note on Characteristics of Phylum Arthropoda

Arthropoda is the largest phylum in the animal kingdom, characterized by animals with jointed appendages and a chitinous exoskeleton. They are triploblastic, eucoelomate, and bilaterally symmetrical, with examples including crabs, spiders, and butterflies.

01 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Short Note on Advantages of Hydroelectric Energy

Hydroelectric power is considered "Green Energy" because it does not involve the combustion of fuel, meaning no harmful gases are released. It utilizes the potential energy of water stored in a dam, which can be replenished by the water cycle (rainfall).

12 00 AM IST - 13 Mar'26

Maharashtra 10th Science 2 Exam 2026 Today

Maharashtra 10th Science 2 Exam 2026 will be conducted today, March 13, from 11 AM to 1 PM in pen-and-paper mode.

11 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Short Note on Energy Transformation in Thermal Power Plants

In a thermal power plant, chemical energy in coal is converted into thermal energy, then into kinetic energy of steam, then into kinetic energy of the turbine, and finally into electrical energy. However, these plants are criticized for causing air pollution through the release of CO2​ and SOx​.

10 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra 10th Science 2 Exam 2026: Short Note on Classification of Threatened Species

Species are classified into four categories based on their risk of extinction: Endangered (e.g., Lion-tailed macaque), Rare (e.g., Red panda), Vulnerable (e.g., Tiger), and Indeterminate (e.g., Giant squirrel). Understanding these categories is essential for conservation planning.

09 20 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Applied Cell Biology and Organ Donation

The concept of "Organ and Body Donation" after death and its significance in saving lives is a frequently tested social-awareness topic. Study the legal and ethical aspects of donating organs like the heart, liver, and eyes to help those in need.

09 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra Class 10 Science 2 Exam 2026: Solid Waste Management and Composting

Focus on the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) and the biological decomposition process used in landfill sites to produce biogas and compost. Understanding the difference between biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste is key to answering application-based environmental questions.

08 40 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Microbiology in the Food Industry

Ensure you can describe the production processes of commercial products like Vinegar, Cheese, and Yogurt using specific bacterial strains like Lactobacillus. You should also understand the role of Probiotics in maintaining gut health and the significance of the "active" cultures within them.

08 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra Class 10 Science 2 Exam 2026: Disaster Management and First Aid

Revision must cover the essential steps of the "RICE" (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) method and the use of the "Log Roll" for spinal injuries. Additionally, understanding the different symbols used in disaster management for warning and safety is vital for the 1-mark objective section.

07 40 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Classification of Non-Chordates

Pay close attention to the unique characteristics of phyla like Porifera, Coelenterata, and Platyhelminthes, specifically their body symmetry and germ layers. Remember to link each phylum with its representative example, such as Sycon for Porifera and Liver fluke for Platyhelminthes.

07 20 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra Class 10 Science 2 Exam 2026: Asexual Reproduction in Multicellular Organisms

Focus on the specific mechanisms of fragmentation, regeneration, and budding in organisms like Spirogyra, Planaria, and Hydra. You should be able to explain how these processes differ from simple binary fission seen in unicellular organisms.

07 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Menstrual Cycle and Hormonal Regulation

Students should revise the four main phases of the menstrual cycle and the specific roles of hormones like Estrogen, Progesterone, LH, and FSH. Understanding how the uterine endometrium thickens and sheds is a common requirement for 3-mark descriptive questions.

06 40 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra Class 10 Science 2 Exam 2026: Human Male Reproductive System

This topic requires a clear understanding of the pathway of sperm through the testes, vas deferens, and urethra. It is essential to focus on the functions of the accessory glands, such as the prostate and Cowper’s glands, which provide nutrition and mobility to the sperm.

06 20 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Important QnA 16 for Study

Question: Why are "Biodiversity Hotspots" critical for the environment?

Answer: Hotspots are geographic areas that contain high levels of species diversity but are under significant threat from human activity.

• Criticality: They host many "Endemic Species" (species found nowhere else in the world).

• Protection: In India, the Western Ghats is a major hotspot. Protecting these areas ensures the survival of rare flora and fauna and maintains the ecological balance.

06 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra 10th Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Important QnA 15 for Study

Question: State the four main laws of "Disaster Management".

Answer: The primary objectives of disaster management include:

1. Prevention: Taking steps to ensure the disaster does not occur.

2. Mitigation: Reducing the impact or severity of a disaster.

3. Preparedness: Training and equipping people to handle the event.

4. Response/Recovery: Providing immediate relief and rebuilding the affected infrastructure.

05 20 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Important QnA 14 for Study

Question: Explain the process of "Vastigial" Budding in Yeast.

Answer: Budding is a form of asexual reproduction in unicellular fungi like Yeast.

• A small outgrowth called a 'bud' appears on the parent cell.

• The nucleus of the parent cell divides mitotically, and one daughter nucleus moves into the bud.

• The bud grows and eventually detaches from the parent cell to live as an independent individual.

05 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra 10th Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Important QnA 13 for Study

Question: What are "Stem Cells" and why is their preservation important?

Answer: Stem cells are special undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into any type of specialized cell (like blood, bone, or nerve cells).

• Importance: They are used in "Regenerative Therapy" to treat diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Leukemia.

• Preservation: Stem cells are often collected from the umbilical cord blood at birth and stored at very low temperatures for future medical use.

04 45 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Important QnA 12 for Study

Question: Differentiate between Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems.

Answer:

| Feature | Sympathetic Nervous System | Parasympathetic Nervous System |

| :--- | :--- | :--- |

| Function | Prepares the body for "Fight or Flight" (Stress). | Prepares the body for "Rest and Digest" (Calm). |

| Heartbeat | Increases heartbeat and blood pressure. | Decreases heartbeat and stabilizes pressure. |

| Pupils | Dilates pupils to see more clearly. | Constricts pupils. |

04 15 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra 10th Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Important QnA 11 for Study

Question: Describe the mechanism of "Energy Production" in aerobic respiration via the Krebs Cycle.

Answer: The Tricarboxylic Acid (TCA) or Krebs Cycle occurs in the mitochondria.

• Two molecules of Acetyl-CoA enter the cycle.

• During this cyclic chain of reactions, molecules of CO_2, NADH_2, FADH_2, and ATP are produced.

• These molecules then proceed to the Electron Transfer Chain (ETC) to generate a large amount of energy (ATP).

04 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Important QnA 10 for Study

Question: Explain the significance of "Vestigial Organs" in human evolution with examples.

Answer: Vestigial organs are degenerated or underdeveloped organs that have no function in the current organism but were functional in ancestors.

• Examples:

  1. Appendix: Useful for digesting cellulose in ruminants (ancestors) but useless in humans.

  2. Wisdom Teeth: Used by ancestors for chewing hard raw food.

  3. Coccyx (Tail bone): Remnant of a tail from primate ancestors.

03 45 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra 10th Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Important QnA 9 for Study

Question: What is the "Social Health" impact of Cybercrime? List three examples.

Answer: Cybercrime refers to illegal activities carried out using computers or the internet, which can severely damage an individual's mental and social well-being.

• Examples:

  1. Identity Theft: Misusing a person’s photos or personal information to create fake accounts.

  2. Phishing: Tricking individuals into revealing bank details or passwords.

  3. Cyberbullying: Spreading rumors or hateful comments online to cause mental distress.

03 30 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Quick Revision on Human Male Reproductive System Components

The male system includes testes (producing sperm and testosterone), various ducts (vas deferens, ejaculatory duct), and glands (prostate, Cowper’s). Sperm cells are produced via meiosis in the seminiferous tubules.

03 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra Class 10 Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Quick Revision on Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants

The functional unit of a plant is the flower, consisting of four whorls: Calyx, Corolla, Androecium (male), and Gynoecium (female). Double Fertilization occurs when one male gamete fuses with the egg and the other with polar nuclei to form endosperm.

02 45 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Quick Revision on Asexual Reproduction in Unicellular Organisms

Unicellular organisms reproduce asexually through Binary Fission (Amoeba dividing into two), Multiple Fission (Amoeba forming a cyst during unfavorable conditions), and Budding (as seen in Yeast).

02 30 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra Class 10 Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Quick Revision on Cell Division

Mitosis vs. Meiosis Mitosis occurs in somatic cells for growth and repair, maintaining the diploid (2n) number of chromosomes. Meiosis occurs in germ cells to produce haploid (n) gametes, involving genetic recombination through "crossing over" in Prophase I.

02 15 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Quick Revision on Anaerobic Respiration and Fermentation

In the absence of oxygen, glucose undergoes incomplete oxidation. Pyruvic acid produced through glycolysis is converted into organic acids or alcohols with the help of enzymes; this process is called Fermentation.

01 45 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra Class 10 Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Quick Revision on Energy Production through Aerobic Respiration

Aerobic respiration involves three steps: Glycolysis (glucose to pyruvic acid), Krebs Cycle (Acetyl-CoA oxidation in mitochondria), and Electron Transfer Chain (production of ATP and water). Each glucose molecule yields a total of 38 ATP.

01 30 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Quick Revision on Morphology and Anatomy as Evidence of Evolution

Evolutionary relationships are proved by Morphological Evidence (similarities in external features like leaf venation or nose shape) and Anatomical Evidence (similarities in bone structure, like the flipper of a whale and the foreleg of a bull).

01 15 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra Class 10 Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Quick Revision on The Central Dogma (Transcription & Translation)

The process of synthesis of proteins by DNA through RNA is called the Central Dogma. It involves Transcription (mRNA synthesis in the nucleus), Translation (tRNA bringing amino acids in the cytoplasm), and Translocation (ribosome moving along the mRNA).

01 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Short Note on Biodiversity Hotspots

Hotspots are highly sensitive geographical areas that host a great diversity of species, many of which are endemic (found nowhere else). In India, the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayas are recognized as major biodiversity hotspots currently under threat.

12 30 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra SSC Science 2 Exam 2026: Short Note on The Role of the Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is a natural process controlled by four hormones: FSH, LH, Estrogen, and Progesterone. If the ovum is not fertilized within 24 hours, the corpus luteum becomes inactive, leading to the shedding of the uterine endometrium and bleeding.

12 15 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Short Note on Double Fertilization in Angiosperms

In flowering plants, one male gamete fuses with the egg cell to form a zygote, while the second male gamete fuses with two polar nuclei to form the endosperm. This unique process of two fusions occurring within the same embryo sac is called double fertilization.

12 00 PM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra SSC Science 2 Exam 2026: Short Note on Asexual Reproduction via Fragmentation

Fragmentation occurs in multicellular organisms like Spirogyra where the body of the parent organism breaks up into many fragments. Each fragment starts to live as an independent new organism whenever there is plenty of water and nutrients available.

11 45 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Short Note on The Process of Glycolysis (EMP Pathway)

Glycolysis is the first step of glucose oxidation where one molecule of glucose is step-by-step oxidized to form two molecules each of pyruvic acid, ATP, NADH2​, and water. This process occurs in the cytoplasm and is common to both aerobic and anaerobic respiration.

11 15 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra SSC Science 2 Exam 2026: Short Note on Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Respiration

Aerobic respiration involves oxygen and yields a high amount of energy (38 ATP) through Glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the Electron Transfer Chain. In contrast, anaerobic respiration occurs in the absence of oxygen, yielding only 2 ATP through glycolysis and fermentation.

11 00 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Short Note on Vestigial Organs as Evidence of Evolution

Vestigial organs are degenerated or underdeveloped organs of organisms which do not perform any function in the current body but were functional in ancestors. Common human examples include the appendix, wisdom teeth, coccyx (tail bone), and auricular muscles of the ear pinna.

10 45 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra SSC Science 2 Exam 2026: Short Note on The Mechanism of Translation and Translocation

During protein synthesis, tRNA brings amino acids as per the message on mRNA, a process called translation. The ribosome then moves from one end of mRNA to the other by the distance of one triplet codon, which is known as translocation.

10 30 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Cell Biology and Applied Biotechnology

Revision should cover the commercial applications of biotechnology, specifically in the production of vaccines, antibiotics, and genetically modified crops like Bt Cotton. Additionally, understand the concept of stem cell therapy and its potential in treating various incurable human diseases.

10 15 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maha SSC Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Animal Classification and Phylum Characteristics

Memorizing the distinguishing features of major phyla like Arthropoda, Mollusca, and Echinodermata is essential for the 2-mark "Identify Me" type questions. You should also be able to explain the transition from non-chordates to chordates by identifying the presence of a notochord.

09 45 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Green Energy and Power Plant Flowcharts

Board exams frequently ask for the completion of flowcharts related to thermal, nuclear, and hydroelectric power plants. Pay special attention to the conversion of energy from one form to another, such as how kinetic energy in wind or water is converted into electrical energy.

09 30 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maha SSC Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Environmental Management and Biodiversity

Focus on the classification of various "Threatened Species" like endangered, rare, and vulnerable species with specific examples from India. Understanding the role of "Sacred Groves" and the laws protecting biodiversity will help you answer the application-based questions in Section B.

09 15 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Life Processes and Energy Production

You must thoroughly revise the steps of aerobic respiration, particularly Glycolysis and the Tricarboxylic Acid (Krebs) cycle, to explain how ATP is generated. It is also important to differentiate between aerobic and anaerobic respiration in terms of energy yield and end products.

08 45 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maha SSC Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants

The process of double fertilization is a frequent long-answer question that requires a clear understanding of pollen tube growth and embryo sac fusion. Make sure to practice the diagram of a flower showing all four whorls, as labeling is often tested in the 3-mark section.

08 30 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Evidence of Evolution and Darwin’s Theory

Revision should prioritize morphological and anatomical evidence, such as homologous and analogous organs, to explain common ancestry. Additionally, ensure you can define natural selection and list the specific objections raised against Darwin’s original theory of evolution.

08 15 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maha SSC Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Master the Mechanism of Protein Synthesis

Understanding the central dogma, specifically the stages of transcription, translation, and translocation, is crucial for the heredity and evolution chapter. You should focus on the role of RNA polymerase and the complementary base pairing that occurs between DNA and mRNA.

08 00 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Important QnA 8 for Study

Question: What are the benefits of using microbial enzymes in the industry instead of chemical catalysts?

Answer: Microbial enzymes are increasingly used in various industries (like detergents, cheese, and paper) because:

• They are active at low temperatures, pH, and pressure, which saves energy.

• They are highly specific, so fewer unnecessary by-products are formed.

• Expenses on purification are minimized because the reactions are "cleaner."

• They are eco-friendly and biodegradable, reducing environmental pollution.

07 45 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra SSC Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Important QnA 7 for Study

Question: Define "Social Health" and list the factors affecting it.

Answer: Social health is the ability of a person to establish and maintain healthy relationships with other people. Factors affecting social health include:

• Mental Stress: Due to competition or family issues.

• Addictions: Alcoholism, drugs, or excessive use of social media/gadgets.

• Incurable Diseases: Social stigma associated with diseases like AIDS or Leprosy.

• Environment: Availability of playgrounds, gardens, and clean surroundings.

07 30 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Important QnA 6 for Study

Question: Sketch and label the Human Female Reproductive System.

Answer: This system consists of a pair of ovaries, a pair of oviducts (fallopian tubes), a uterus, and a vagina.

• Ovaries: Produce ova (eggs) and hormones (Estrogen and Progesterone).

• Oviducts: Site where fertilization typically occurs.

• Uterus: The organ where the fetus develops during pregnancy.

07 00 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra SSC Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Important QnA 5 for Study

Question: Explain the concept of "Power Generation based on Natural Gas" and its environmental impact.

Answer: In these plants, natural gas is burnt in a combustion chamber with pressurized air. The high-temperature gas drives a turbine, which then rotates a generator to produce electricity.

• Efficiency: Higher than coal-based plants.

• Environmental Impact: Since natural gas does not contain sulfur, its combustion results in less pollution compared to fossil fuels like coal. However, it still releases $CO_2$, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

06 45 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Important QnA 4 for Study

Question: What are the various evidence of evolution? Explain any two.

Answer: Evidence of evolution proves that different species share common ancestors. Two major types are:

• Morphological Evidence: Similarities in external features like the shape of the nose, position of eyes, or leaf venation.

• Anatomical Evidence: Similarities in the structure of bones or joints. For example, the bone structure in a human hand, a cat’s foreleg, and a whale’s flipper is similar, suggesting a common origin.

06 30 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra SSC Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Important QnA 3 for Study

Question: Describe the double fertilization process in plants.

Answer: Double fertilization is a characteristic feature of Angiosperms.

• After a pollen grain lands on the stigma, it germinates and produces a pollen tube carrying two male gametes.

• First Fertilization: One male gamete fuses with the egg cell to form a Zygote (2n).

• Second Fertilization: The second male gamete fuses with the two polar nuclei to form the Endosperm (3n), which provides nutrition to the developing embryo.

06 15 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Important QnA 2 for Study

Question: Distinguish between Binary Fission and Multiple Fission.

Answer: | Feature | Binary Fission | Multiple Fission | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Number of offspring | Two daughter cells are formed. | Many daughter cells are formed simultaneously. | | Conditions | Occurs during favorable conditions. | Occurs during unfavorable conditions (using a cyst). | | Examples | Amoeba, Paramoecium. | Amoeba (under stress), Plasmodium. |

06 00 AM IST - 12 Mar'26

Maharashtra SSC Science Paper 2 Exam 2026: Important QnA 1 for Study

Question: Explain the process of Transcription in detail.

Answer: Transcription is the process where the sequence of nucleotides in DNA is copied into a strand of mRNA.

• It occurs in the nucleus of the cell.

• The enzyme RNA polymerase binds to a specific promoter site on DNA.

• Only one of the two strands of DNA is used as a template.

• mRNA is synthesized according to the complementarity of bases (A pairs with U in RNA). Once the mRNA is formed, it leaves the nucleus and enters the cytoplasm for translation.