Geology IAS Paper 1 UPSC 2019 with Solutions

In this article, all questions of Geology Optional Paper 1 are answered. Click on the question links to view the answers.
This article is part of Synopsis IAS Geology Optional Course for UPSC IAS. 

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Geology Optional Paper 1 UPSC 2019 - Question Paper with Solutions 

Click on the links for the solutions

SECTION-A

1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:

Geology 1a Discuss three indirect methods and three direct methods of dating geological formations and geological events. UPSC 2019, 10 Marks

Geology 1b What are the characteristics of glacio-fluvial deposits? Discuss five glacio-fluvial depositional landforms with neat diagram. UPSC 2019, 10 Marks

Geology 1c Explain the differences between satellite remote sensing and aerial photographs. What are their mutual advantages and limitations? UPSC 2019, 10 Marks

Geology 1d Draw a cross-section from north to south and discuss the tectonic framework of the Himalaya. UPSC 2019, 10 Marks

Geology 1e How do you differentiate between brittle and ductile deformation in rocks? UPSC 2019, 10 Marks


Geology 2a What are folds? Describe the morphology of the folds. Discuss the criteria of their recognition in the field. UPSC 2019, 20 Marks

Geology 2b What are the evidences supporting 'continental drift' theory and what are its limitations? UPSC 2019, 15 Marks

Geology 2c Describe the spatial, spectral, radiometric and temporal resolutions of a satellite image. Discuss the spatial and temporal resolutions needed for geological, climatological, emergency response and meteorological study. UPSC 2019, 15 Marks


Geology 3a Briefly describe Global Positioning System (GPS) and its characteristics, its different segments and GPS satellite signals. List any five applications of GPS. UPSC 2019, 20 Marks

Geology 3b With the help of neat sketches, describe the effect of faults on outcrop pattern. UPSC 2019, 15 Marks

Geology 3c What is volcano? Discuss four positive relief features and four negative relief features associated with a volcano. UPSC 2019, 15 Marks


Geology 4a What are 'island arc' systems? What are its major characteristics? Draw a schematic section through an island arc system and describe all its components. UPSC 2019, 20 Marks

Geology 4b What is meant by the term 'drainage pattern'? Draw neat diagrams and illustrate four different drainage patterns, and discuss their significance with respect to lithology and structure. UPSC 2019, 15 Marks

Geology 4c What is rock cleavage? Give the significance of cleavage in deciphering the structure of a folded area. UPSC 2019, 15 Marks

SECTION-B

5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:

Geology 5a Define index fossils and give the characteristics of a good index fossil. UPSC 2019, 10 Marks

Geology 5b Describe the mammalian fauna in the Siwalik Supergroup and add a note on the age. UPSC 2019, 10 Marks

Geology 5c Give a short geological account of 'Deccan volcanic province'. UPSC 2019, 10 Marks

Geology 5d Describe the geological factors to be considered in the construction of tunnels. UPSC 2019, 10 Marks

Geology 5e Describe different types of aquifers and list the characteristics of a good aquifer.UPSC 2019, 10 Marks


Geology 6a Define microfossil. Describe the characteristics like ecology, shape, size, composition and age range of Foraminifera. UPSC 2019, 20 Marks

Geology 6b What are cratons? Give a brief account of stratigraphy and evolution of any one Indian craton. UPSC 2019, 15 Marks

Geology 6c What are the factors that must be considered during the geological investigation for locating a dam site? UPSC 2019, 15 Marks


Geology 7a Describe the groundwater provinces of India and comment on their hydrogeological potential. UPSC 2019, 20 Marks

Geology 7b Write short notes on the following: UPSC 2019, 15 Marks

Geology 7b i Lower Vindhyan Group

Geology 7b ii Talchir Formation

Geology 7b iii Upper Siwalik Group

Geology 7c Describe the evolution of Equidae from Eohippus to Equus. UPSC 2019, 15 Marks


Geology 8a Give an account of stratigraphy of the Aravalli Supergroup. UPSC 2019, 20 Marks

Geology 8b Define 'specific yield' and 'specific retention' of aquifers. Explain how they are related to porosity with the help of equations. UPSC 2019, 15 Marks

Geology 8c What are the objectives of the scientific nomenclature of species? Describe the binomial nomenclature. UPSC 2019, 15 Marks