Chemistry MCQs
Chemistry Objective (Multiple Choice) General Knowledge Questions & Answers for SSC-CGL, UPPSC, UPSC, NDA, CDS and UPSC Civil Services Prelims Examination.
1. What is the electrical state of a molecule, considered the smallest part of matter retaining the properties of the original matter?
[A] Positive
[B] Negative
[C] Either positive or negative
[D] Neutral
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Neutral]
Notes:
A molecule represents the smallest portion of a substance that retains the characteristics of the substance. It’s electrically neutral because it’s made up of atoms that bond together, sharing or exchanging electrons to achieve stability. This process balances out the electrical charges of the protons and electrons, rendering the molecule as a whole electrically neutral.
2. Kazimierz Funk or Casimir Funk, was a Polish biochemist, generally credited with the first formulation of the concept of which of the following ?
[A] Amino Acids
[B] DNA
[C] RNA
[D] Vitamins
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Vitamins]
Notes:
Kazimierz Funk (1884 – 1967) was a Polish biochemist, and one of the first to formulate the concept of Vitamins.
3. Which among the following is the most important characteristic of Noble metals?
[A] Luster
[B] Non reactive nature
[C] Preciousness
[D] Rare availability
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Non reactive nature]
Notes:
Noble metals, such as gold, silver, and platinum, are primarily characterized by their non-reactive nature. This means they resist oxidation and corrosion, making them ideal for use in jewelry and electronics. Unlike base metals, noble metals do not easily form compounds with other elements, which is why they maintain their luster and appearance over time. Their rarity and preciousness are secondary characteristics, but their chemical stability is what truly defines them as noble.
4. Which among the following will undergo a chemical reaction depending on the pH of the solution?
[A] Calcium Oxide
[B] Zinc Oxide
[C] Ferric Oxide
[D] Ferrous Oxide
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Zinc Oxide]
Notes:
Zinc oxide (ZnO) can undergo a chemical reaction depending on the pH of the solution. In acidic conditions, it can react to form zinc ions (Zn²⁺), while in alkaline conditions, it can form zincates. This behavior is due to its amphoteric nature, which allows it to react with both acids and bases. In contrast, calcium oxide (CaO) is basic, ferric oxide (Fe₂O₃) is generally inert in neutral pH, and ferrous oxide (FeO) is less reactive in varying pH levels.
5. Consider the following:
- Copper
- Zinc
- Tin
Gun Metal is the alloy of which among the above?
[A] 1 & 2
[B] 1 & 3
[C] 2 & 3
[D] 1, 2 & 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [1, 2 & 3]
Notes:
Gun metal is an alloy primarily composed of copper, tin, and zinc. Specifically, it typically contains about 88% copper, 10% tin, and 2% zinc. This alloy is known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for manufacturing firearms and artillery. The term “gun metal” dates back to the 15th century when it was used for cannons and other weaponry.
6. Which of the following is correct about Ammonia?
[A] The ammonia molecule is trigonal pyramidal in shape
[B] Ammonia gas is light blue in colour
[C] its aqueous solution is highly basic
[D] Ammonia gas is odorless
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [The ammonia molecule is trigonal pyramidal in shape]
Notes:
Ammonia is a colourless gas with a pungent odour. Its aqueous solution is weakly basic due to the formation of OH– ions. The ammonia molecule is trigonal pyramidal in shape.
7. In which of the following cases, components can be separated using a separating funnel?
[A] Mixture of acetone and water
[B] Mixture of oil and water
[C] Different gases in the air
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Mixture of oil and water]
Notes:
A separating funnel can be used to separate the components of the mixture of immiscible liquids. Components in the mixture of oil and water can be separated using this method.
8. Which method will is most suitable to separate the mixture of ammonium chloride and salt?
[A] Evaporation
[B] Sublimation
[C] Simple Distillation
[D] All of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Sublimation]
Notes:
Sublimation is the property of substance in which they are converted directly from solid to gas or vice versa. Ammonium chloride is a sublime solid.
9. Which of the following refining methods works on the principle that impurities are more soluble in the melt than in the solid state of the metal?
[A] Liquation
[B] Electrolytic refining
[C] Zone refining
[D] Vapour Phase refining
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Zone refining]
Notes:
Zone refining works on the principle that impurities are more soluble in the melt than in the solid state of the metal. This method is very useful for producing semiconductors.
10. What will be the number of neutrons in an atom having atomic number 35 and mass number 80?
[A] 35
[B] 45
[C] 55
[D] 80
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [45]
Notes:
The total number of nucleons is termed as mass number (A) of the atom. In this case, mass number is 80. Therefore, sum of the number of neutrons and protons is 80. As atomic number is 35, we know that number of protons is 35. Hence, number of neutrons = 80-35 = 45.
