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 of the following does not increase when we move from left to right along a period in the periodic table?
[A] Oxidising Power of elements
[B] Electronegativity
[C] Non-metallic Character
[D] Reducing power
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Reducing power]
Notes:
The oxidizing power of elements increases on moving left to right along a period in the periodic table. This is because electronegativity and the non-metallic character increases from left to right.
2. Which among the following gases is used in production of Vanaspati ghee from vegetable oils?
[A] Nitrogen (N2)
[B] Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
[C] Hydrogen (H2)
[D] Neon (Ne)
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Hydrogen (H2)]
Notes:
Hydrogen (H2) gas is utilized in the manufacture of Vanaspati ghee from vegetable oils. The process involves hydrogenation, a chemical reaction between molecular hydrogen (H2) and another compound or element. Hydrogenation of vegetable oils helps to convert them into a semisolid form that resembles ghee, often used as a cheaper alternative to butter or ghee in cooking.
3. What is the primary use of Phenolphthalein in chemistry?
[A] A Solvent
[B] A Dye
[C] A Catalyst
[D] A Detergent
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [A Dye]
Notes:
Phenolphthalein is commonly employed as a pH indicator in titrations due to its distinct color change in varying pH levels. At pH 8.2, it appears colorless but turns pink as the pH increases to 10. It is not used as a solvent, catalyst or detergent. It also finds applications in forensic science for detecting latent blood stains.
4. Which among the following can be used as a preservative in Tomato Juice?
[A] Sodium Chloride
[B] Sodium carbonate
[C] Sodium benzoate
[D] Sodium Lauril Sulphate
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Sodium benzoate]
Notes:
Sodium benzoate is commonly used as a preservative in food and beverages, including tomato juice. It inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria, extending shelf life. It is effective in acidic environments, such as those found in tomato products, where the pH is typically below 4.6. Sodium chloride (salt) can also act as a preservative but is primarily used for flavor. Sodium carbonate and sodium lauryl sulfate are not suitable preservatives for tomato juice.
5. 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.
6. Which of the following is not a metalloid?
[A] Boron
[B] Silicon
[C] Germanium
[D] Titanium
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [ Titanium]
Notes:
The most commonly recognised metalloids are boron, silicon, germanium, arsenic, antimony and tellurium. The other less recognised metalloids are: carbon, aluminium, selenium, polonium and astatine.Titanium is a lustrous transition metal with a silver color, low density and high strength.
7. Which of the following alkali metal ions has the highest hydration enthalpy?
[A] Lithium
[B] Sodium
[C] Potassium
[D] Caesium
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Lithium]
Notes:
Lithium ions has maximum degree of hydration and for this reason lithium salts are mostly hydrated.
8. Which of the following is correct about the first ionization enthalpy of alkaline earth metals?
[A] It is higher than corresponding Group 1 metals
[B] It is lower than corresponding Group 1 metals
[C] No fix pattern exist
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [It is higher than corresponding Group 1 metals]
Notes:
The first ionization enthalpy of these metals is higher than corresponding Group 1 metals due to the small size of these elements compared to the corresponding alkali metals. The second ionization enthalpy of these metals is lower than corresponding alkali metals.
9. Which of these compounds is also known as wood spirit?
[A] Ethanol
[B] Methanol
[C] Propanol
[D] None of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Methanol]
Notes:
Methanol, CH3OH, also known as ‘wood spirit’. It was produced by destructive distillation of wood.
10. Which of the following is the composition of vinegar?
[A] 65-75% solution of acetic acid in water
[B] 45-60% solution of acetic acid in water
[C] 28-35% solution of acetic acid in water
[D] 5-8% solution of acetic acid in water
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [5-8% solution of acetic acid in water]
Notes:
5-8% solution of acetic acid in water is called vinegar and is used widely as a preservative in pickles