Chemistry MCQs

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Bananas contain potassium-40, a radioactive isotope of potassium, which makes them slightly radioactive. The radiation is very minor and not dangerous at all to humans, but it is enough to trigger sensitive radiation sensors. The potassium provides bananas some of their nutritional benefits as well.

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Zinc sulfate is the inorganic compound with the formula ZnSO4 and historically known as “white vitriol” Zinc sulfate is an inorganic compound and dietary supplement.

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Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is made from the monomer vinyl chloride (CH2 =CHCl). It is used for making raincoats, handbags, toys including dolls, electrical goods and as a covering of electrical wires.

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The correct answer is John Dalton. He proposed the Atomic Theory in the early 19th century, stating that matter is composed of indivisible atoms, each with a specific weight. Dalton’s work laid the foundation for modern chemistry. Notably, he also introduced the concept of atomic weights and was the first to use symbols to represent atoms of different elements.

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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.

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Mercury is a chemical element with the symbol Hg and atomic number 80. The element is also known as quicksilver for its mobility. Mercury is one of the oldest and deadliest poisons, a highly toxic metal mined from a brilliant red ore.

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Silica gel possesses hygroscopic properties, meaning it can absorb and hold water vapour. This makes it an effective desiccant or drying agent. When packaged with products, silica gel can help control humidity and prevent spoilage or degradation by absorbing excess moisture. This property is particularly valuable when shipping or storing items that can be negatively impacted by damp conditions, like electronics, food, and leather goods.

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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.

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The correct answer is Mercury. An amalgam is a specific type of alloy that primarily consists of mercury mixed with another metal, commonly used in dental fillings due to its durability and ease of use. Historically, amalgams have been used since ancient times, with the earliest known use dating back to the 9th century in China.

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Silica is also known as Silicon dioxide, is the most prevalent form of naturally occurring silicon.