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 commonly referred to as “Laughing Gas”?
[A] Nitric oxide
[B] Nitrous oxide
[C] Nitrogen penta oxide
[D] Nitrogen
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Nitrous oxide]
Notes:
Nitrous oxide is often referred to as “Laughing Gas” due to the euphoric effect it produces when inhaled. Its chemical formula is N2O and it is an oxide of nitrogen. At room temperature, it is a colorless, non-flammable gas with a relatively sweet odor and taste. It is primarily used in dentistry and surgery for its analgesic and anesthetic properties. It is also noted for its role as a major greenhouse gas and air pollutant, as well as a natural regulator of stratospheric ozone.
2. Which gas is produced when an alkali metal, like Lithium or Sodium, reacts with water?
[A] Oxygen
[B] Hydrogen
[C] Ozone
[D] Carbon Dioxide
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Hydrogen]
Notes:
The reaction of alkali metals with water produces Hydrogen gas. These metals are part of the first group on the period table and include lithium, sodium, and potassium. They are known for their vigorous reactions with water, which results in the liberation of hydrogen gas. Along with the gas, this reaction also forms a basic alkali metal hydroxide, which gives the solution its characteristic basic or alkaline properties.
3. What are Sodium Alkyl Sulphate and Benzene Sulphate examples of?
[A] Explosives
[B] Insecticides
[C] Fungicides
[D] Synthetic Detergents
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Synthetic Detergents]
Notes:
Sodium Alkyl Sulphate and Benzene Sulphate are typical examples of Synthetic Detergents. Synthetic detergents are man-made cleansing agents that function similarly to soap. These compounds were developed during World War II when a shortage of natural oils led to a search of alternative substances. The advanced features of synthetic detergents include improved cleansing efficacy, resistance to water hardness, and the ability to function in acidic conditions.
4. Calcium Magnesium Silicate is commonly called as ________?
[A] Asbestos
[B] Borax
[C] Baking Soda
[D] Washing Soda
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Asbestos]
Notes:
CaMgO4Si is the chemical formula of calcium magnesium silicate . Calcium magnesium silicate is commonly known as Asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous silicate mineral as the substance is formed by miniature crystal fibers, these crystal are loosely attached releasing dust of silicate crystal upon small touch.
5. F block elements in the periodic table which are commonly called Lanthanides have the following atomic numbers:
[A] 57-70
[B] 57-71
[C] 58-71
[D] 58-70
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [57-71]
Notes:
The correct answer is 2. The lanthanides are a series of 15 elements in the periodic table, from atomic numbers 57 (Lanthanum) to 71 (Lutetium). They are known for their similar properties and are often found together in nature. The range of atomic numbers for lanthanides is 57 to 71, not 57-70 or 58-70.
6. How does the Isotope of Iodine, Iodine-135 plays an important role in Nuclear Power Generation?
[A] It is used as a fuel supplement in some of the modern Nuclear Reactors
[B] It is a bi-product of Nuclear Reaction which kills the neutrons and this inhibits the power formation
[C] It is a moderator used actively in the Nuclear Reactors
[D] It is an experimental substance for Nuclear Fusion
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [It is a bi-product of Nuclear Reaction which kills the neutrons and this inhibits the power formation]
Notes:
Iodine-135 is a important by-product of nuclear fission, particularly in reactors using uranium fuel. It has a high neutron capture cross-section, meaning it effectively absorbs neutrons, which can inhibit the fission process and reduce reactor power output. This property makes it crucial for managing reactor control and safety, as its presence can lead to a phenomenon known as “neutron poison,” affecting the overall efficiency of the nuclear reaction.
7. If a baby diaper is subjected to different solutions, which of the following will it absorb the maximum quantity of?
[A] Distilled Water
[B] Drinking Water
[C] Hard Water
[D] Urine
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Distilled Water]
Notes:
A baby diaper can absorb the maximum quantity of distilled water as it lacks impurities such as minerals and ions that are present in other type of water. The absorbent materials in diapers, often polymers called sodium polyacrylate, can hold up to 30 times their weight in distilled water, making them highly efficient.
8. The adsorption of hydrogen by palladium is termed as:
[A] Physisorption
[B] Chemisorptions
[C] Physical adsorption
[D] Occlusion
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [ Occlusion]
Notes:
The adsorption of hydrogen by palladium is called occlusion. Occlusion is a type of adsorption where gases are adsorbed onto metals. The hydrogen adsorbed onto palladium is called occluded hydrogen.
Palladium can absorb about 900 times its own volume of hydrogen. The hydrogen that is adsorbed is more active than normal hydrogen.
The adsorption of hydrogen on palladium occurs through a hydride formation. The chemical bonds that are formed cannot be broken easily to release the hydrogen gas from the surface of the metal.
The process of occlusion is used to purify hydrogen.
9. Which of the following is the softest metal?
[A] Cesium
[B] Lead
[C] Gold
[D] Silver
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Cesium]
Notes:
Cesium is extremely reactive metal. It reacts with water even at −116 °C (−177 °F). It is the least electronegative element. Cesium is also the softest known metal. It is so soft that it can be cut with a butter knife.
10. How many electrons can the s-orbital accommodate?
[A] 1
[B] 2
[C] 8
[D] 16
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [2]
Notes:
A the s-orbital can accommodate only two electrons, two groups (1 & 2) belong to the s-block of the Periodic Table.