Chemistry MCQs
Chemistry Objective (Multiple Choice) General Knowledge Questions & Answers for SSC-CGL, UPPSC, UPSC, NDA, CDS and UPSC Civil Services Prelims Examination.
1. Which element is responsible for the bright red color observed during the bursting of firecrackers?
[A] Strontium
[B] Sodium
[C] Sulfur
[D] Magnesium
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Strontium]
Notes:
The bright red color in fireworks is due to the presence of Strontium salts. The Strontium atom, upon yielding its energy in a quick burst upon heating, emits a brilliant red light. In fact, such properties of elements are used to identify them in a flame test, a classic method in chemistry labs across the globe.
2. Which of the following is not a common use of Graphite?
[A] Manufacturing of electrodes
[B] As a lubricant
[C] Manufacturing of crucibles
[D] In glass cutting
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [In glass cutting]
Notes:
Graphite is renowned for its conspicuous uses owing to its unique properties like its ability to conduct electricity, which makes it ideal for electrode manufacturing. It’s also used as a lubricant and in the production of crucibles, thanks to its high melting point. However, it isn’t used in glass cutting.
3. The primary part of Liquefied Petroleum Gas LPG is ______?
[A] Butane
[B] Methane
[C] Propane
[D] Butane or Propane
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Butane or Propane]
Notes:
LPG consists mainly of propane, propylene, butane, and butylene in various mixtures. The primary gas can be either Propane or Butane.
4. How many noble gases occur naturally?
[A] Three
[B] Four
[C] Five
[D] Six
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Six]
Notes:
Noble gases are characterized by their low reactivity. The reason for this is their full electron shell, which makes them very stable and unlikely to engage in chemical reactions. The six noble gases that occur naturally are helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), and the radioactive radon (Rn). Despite the inertness of noble gases, some of them like Xenon are known to form compounds.
5. Which among the following kinds of Chemical reactions cause the rocks turn red or yellowish?
[A] Hydration
[B] Oxidation
[C] Carbonation
[D] Exfoliation
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Oxidation]
Notes:
The correct answer is Oxidation. This reaction occurs when minerals in rocks, particularly iron-bearing minerals, react with oxygen. This process can lead to the formation of iron oxides, which give rocks a reddish or yellowish hue. For example, rusting of iron in rocks is a common oxidation reaction. Oxidation is a important weathering process, contributing to soil formation and landscape changes.
6. Which among the following was first human-made plastic?
[A] Bakelite
[B] Polyethene
[C] Celluloid
[D] Nylon
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Celluloid]
Notes:
The first synthetic plastic was actually celluloid, invented by Alexander Parkes in 1855. Initially, celluloid was primarily used in photographic films. However, it had limitations, not suitable for making containers or electrical insulation. The first genuine plastic, Bakelite, was invented by Leo Baekeland in 1909 and extensively used in various applications, including safely handled autos. World War I significantly contributed to the development of polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride, widely used in plumbing and electrical insulation. Later, in the 1930s, nylon was invented, and by 1950, plastic materials gained immense popularity.
7. How does vulcanization make natural rubber more durable?
[A] The long polymer chains are shortened
[B] The rubber loses water and sticky substances
[C] The short polymer chains are lengthened
[D] Cross links form between the polymer chains
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Cross links form between the polymer chains]
Notes:
Vulcanization introduces sulfur cross-links between poly-isoprene chains in natural rubber, restricting movement, which increases stiffness, elasticity, and durability. This chemical modification prevents rubber from becoming sticky or brittle, significantly improving its mechanical properties for industrial and commercial use.
8. Which of the following is correct about the atomic and ionic radii of the alkaline earth metals?
[A] it is smaller than corresponding alkali metals in the same periods
[B] it is larger than corresponding alkali metals in the same periods
[C] It is same as the corresponding alkali metals in the same periods
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [it is smaller than corresponding alkali metals in the same periods]
Notes:
The atomic and ionic radii of the alkaline earth metals are smaller than corresponding alkali metals in the same periods due to the increased nuclear charge in these elements.
9. Water Gas is a mixture of?
[A] CO and H2
[B] CO and H2O
[C] CO2 and H2
[D] None of the Above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [CO and H2]
Notes:
The mixture of CO and H2 produced is known as water gas or synthesis gas.
10. Which of the following metal has an ore named as ‘Cassiterite’?
[A] Bismuth
[B] Antimony
[C] Tin
[D] Uranium
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Tin]
Notes:
Cassiterite is a tin oxide mineral. Its chemical formula is SnO2. It is the only commercially important source of tin. Cassiterite is generally opaque.