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 among the following methods can be used to remove the permanent hardness in water due to calcium or magnesium sulphates?
[A] Sulphonate method
[B] Nitrate method
[C] Zeolite method
[D] None of these
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Zeolite method ]
Notes:
Zeolite is hydrated Sodium Alumino-silicate capable of exchanging reversible Sodium ions for hardness producing ions in water. It is also use as softening of water. It is used to remove the permanent hardness in water due to Calcium or Magnesium sulphates.
2. A cotton wick dipped in pure honey when ignited with a matchstick will ______?
[A] Burn steadily
[B] Burn with a cracking sound
[C] Not burn at all
[D] Burn producing a large amount of smoke
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Burn steadily]
Notes:
A cotton wick soaked in pure honey, when lit with a matchstick, will burn consistently. This is primarily due to the high sugar content of the honey acting as fuel for the flame. Contrary to common misconceptions, honey doesn’t produce much smoke or any unusual sounds during combustion.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. What is the atomic number of Transuranic elements?
[A] Greater than 90
[B] Greater than 92
[C] Greater than 91
[D] Greater than 93
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Greater than 92]
Notes:
Transuranic elements are those with atomic numbers greater than 92, which is the atomic number of uranium. These elements, including plutonium (94) and americium (95), are all synthetic and typically unstable, often used in nuclear applications and research. The term “transuranic” specifically refers to elements beyond uranium in the periodic table.
6. 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.
7. Pyrolusite, Braunite, Psilomelane, Rhodochrosite are the ores of which among the following metals?
[A] Manganese
[B] Aluminium
[C] Copper
[D] Manganese and Copper
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Manganese]
Notes:
Pyrolusite, Braunite, Psilomelane, and Rhodochrosite are all ores of Manganese. Pyrolusite is one of the most important ores due to its high manganese content. Braunite, although a significant ore, its manganese content is less than Pyrolusite. Psilomelane and Rhodochrosite also contribute as minor ores.
8. L.P.G. is a hydrocarbon consisting of a mixture of :
[A] Methane and Butane
[B] Propane and Butane
[C] Ethane and Propane
[D] Ethane and Butane
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Propane and Butane]
Notes:
L.P.G. (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) primarily consists of propane and butane. It is used as fuel for heating, cooking, and vehicles. Propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10) are both byproducts of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. LPG is favored for its high energy content and clean-burning properties.
9. Which of the following chemicals is resposible for temporary acid rain in colder regions?
[A] Hydrogen chloride
[B] Sulphur dioxide
[C] Nitric acid
[D] Nitrogen oxides
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [ Hydrogen chloride]
Notes:
Hydrogen chloride gas released from volcanic eruption is responsible for temporary acid rain in colder regions.
10. Which of the following chemicals is also known as lachrymatory agent or lachrymator?
[A] Mustard Gas
[B] Tear gas
[C] Diborane
[D] Chlorine gas
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [ Tear gas]
Notes:
Tear gas is also known as CS Gas. It acts as a lachrymatory agent. Tear gas irritate the mucous membrane of the eyes, nose, mouth and lungs, and causes tearing, coughing, burning and difficult breathing.