Chemistry: Physical Chemistry: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Science and Technology)
2 previous year UPSC Prelims questions on Chemistry: Physical 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 1998Science and Technology · Chemistry: Physical Chemistry
Q1. Match the names of outstanding Indian scientists given in List I with area of their specialized work given in List II and select the correct answer by using the codes given below the lists:
List-I
List-II
A. Dr. Raja Ramanna
1. Plant chemistry
B. Dr. M.S. Swaminathan
2. Nuclear physics
C. Prof. U.R Rao
3. Thermodynamics & astrophysics
D. Prof. Meghnad Saha
4. Space research
5. Agricultural science
Explanation
A is matched with 2: Dr. Raja Ramanna was a distinguished Indian physicist best known for his role in the development of India’s nuclear program, including the Pokhran-I nuclear test in 1974. B is matched with 5: Dr. Swaminathan is renowned for his contributions to the Green Revolution in India, which transformed the country into a self-sufficient food producer. His focus on developing high-yield and disease-resistant crop varieties, combined with sustainable agricultural practices, earned him global recognition in agricultural science. C is matched with 4: Prof. Udupi Ramachandra Rao was a visionary space scientist who led the design and launch of India’s first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975. Also as the chairman of ISRO, he contributed significantly to advancing India’s space program. D is matched with 3: Prof. Meghnad Saha is celebrated for the Saha Ionization Equation, which explains the physical and chemical conditions in stars. He also made notable contributions to thermodynamics.
UPSC 1998Science and Technology · Chemistry: Physical Chemistry
Q2. Which one of the following elements is essential for the construction of nuclear reactors?
Explanation
Zirconium is an essential element for the construction of nuclear reactors due to its unique properties:
Low Neutron Absorption: Zirconium has a low neutron absorption cross-section, making it ideal for use in nuclear reactors as it does not interfere significantly with the nuclear chain reaction. High Corrosion Resistance: It is resistant to corrosion in the presence of coolant water, including high-temperature water, which is commonly used in nuclear reactors. Strength and Durability: Zirconium alloys are strong and durable, making them suitable for structural components like cladding for fuel rods. This combination of properties makes zirconium critical in the nuclear industry.
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
1
1998
(c) A-2; B-5; C-4; D-3
2
1998
(c) Zirconium
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on Chemistry: Physical Chemistry?
This page covers 2 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on Chemistry: Physical Chemistry (Science and Technology), asked from 1996 to 2009. 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: Physical Chemistry?
Questions on Chemistry: Physical Chemistry (Science and Technology) are available for 8 years, from 1996 to 2009. Use the Year filter to practise a single paper.
