Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Science and Technology)
2 previous year UPSC Prelims questions on Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry (Science and Technology). Choose an option to see the answer and explanation.
Explanations state facts as of the year each question was asked; words like “recently” refer to that year.
Showing 1–2 of 2 questions
UPSC 2000Science and Technology · Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry
Q1. Which one of the following materials is very hard and very ductile?
Explanation
Nichrome is an alloy of nickel and chromium, often used in heating elements due to its high resistance to heat and corrosion. It is ductile, allowing it to be drawn into wires for use in various applications. It is considered hard relative to other ductile materials, which is why it finds applications in industrial heating where both durability and flexibility are important. Options (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect:
Carborundum (silicon carbide) is very hard but not ductile; it is brittle. It is mainly used as an abrasive material. Cast iron is hard but brittle, and it cannot undergo significant deformation without breaking. While Tungsten is harder, it is less ductile compared to Nichrome in practical scenarios. Tungsten’s brittleness increases under certain conditions, making Nichrome a more balanced choice for being both hard and ductile.
UPSC 2000Science and Technology · Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry
Q2. Consider the following statements: Hard water is not suitable for: 1. Drinking 2. washing clothes with soap 3. use in boilers 4. irrigating crops Which of these statements are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: Hard water, rich in calcium and magnesium, can contribute to dietary intake of these minerals, but prolonged consumption may lead to kidney stones and urinary tract issues, particularly for susceptible individuals. Research indicates that high calcium levels can affect renal function.
Statement 2 is correct: When hard water is used with soap, it forms soap scum, which reduces lather and makes washing less effective. Scum leaves residue on clothes, making them feel rough and unclean. This can also increase detergent usage.
Statement 3 is correct: The minerals in hard water like calcium carbonate and magnesium salts, form scale in boilers and pipes, reducing thermal efficiency and leading to energy wastage and equipment failure.
Statement 4 is correct: Continuous irrigation with hard water results in soil salinization, decreasing permeability and crop yield. Excess minerals like calcium and magnesium hinder plant nutrient absorption due to reduced soil’s permeability. Directions: The following two Items consist of statements. One labeled as the ‘Assertion (A)’ and the other as ‘Reason (R)’. You have to answer these items using the code given below: (1999)
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
1
2000
(d) Nichrome
2
2000
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry?
This page covers 2 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry (Science and Technology), asked from 1996 to 2008. Each has the correct answer and an explanation.
How should I use previous year UPSC questions for Prelims?
Attempt each question first, then open the answer and read the explanation for every option. Repeat by chapter, and track which statements UPSC reuses across years. Previous year questions show the exam pattern and difficulty level.
Which years are covered for Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry?
Questions on Chemistry: Inorganic Chemistry (Science and Technology) are available for 11 years, from 1996 to 2008. Use the Year filter to practise a single paper.
