Geology IAS Paper 2 UPSC 2024 with Solutions

Geology Optional Paper 2 UPSC 2024 - Question Paper with Solutions 

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SECTION A 

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

Geology 1a What are the different types of rotational axes of symmetry present in a crystal? What are the different types of twinning observed in quartz? IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 1b How does one define "Double refraction" and "Birefringence" of an anisotropic mineral? Write with the help of suitable sketches. IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 1c Show diagrammatically the characteristics of binary eutectic system under 1 atmosphere (1 atm pressure). How does one explain the formation of porphyritic basic rock with phenocryst of plagioclase in a groundmass with plagioclase and clinopyroxene with the help of a suitable binary eutectic system? IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 1d Explain the processes involved in magmatic differentiation. IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 1e With the help of suitable diagrams, describe Folk's graphic classification of carbonate rocks. IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 2a What are the symmetry elements present in the normal class of an isometric system? Write the Hermann-Mauguin notation of the normal class of isometric system. Plot the face (hkl) and deduce the form generated by operation of symmetry elements from the face (hkl) on a stereogram of the normal class of isometric system. IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 2b Draw and describe the structure of mica group of minerals. Describe the chemical composition and optical properties of minerals of mica group. IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 2c Define polymorphism and discuss different types of polymorphic transitions. What are the different types of polymorphs of SiO2 and Al2SiO5? IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 3a Describe the mineral reactions in prograde metamorphism of argillaceous sedimentary rocks with appropriate diagrams. IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 3b Write the mineralogy and texture of basalt. How does basaltic magma form in deep earth? IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 3c Hows Discuss the process of magma generation in the Earth's interior and its causes. IAS 2024, 20 Marks

Geology 4a Discuss the various factors that control the composition of sandstone. IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 4b What do you understand by facies model? Describe the facies and facies association produced in a fluvial environment. IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 4c What are heavy minerals? Describe methods of their separation and comment on the utility of heavy mineral suite in provenance interpretation.  IAS 2024, 20 Marks

SECTION B 

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

Geology 5a Give an account of the geology and the process of formation of aluminium mineral deposits of India. IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 5b What are the Iron-Titanium oxides associated with igneous rocks? Add an account of their mineral associations and textures. IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 5c What is the difference between prospecting and exploration? Explain the various techniques of sampling. IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 5d Discuss briefly about the abundance of elements in the Universe. State Oddo-Harkins rule with examples. IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 5e Describe the natural hazards due to earthquakes. Discuss the mitigation aspects of earthquake hazards. IAS 2024, 10 Marks

Geology 6a Explain the various peculiarities inherent in the mineral industry. IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 6b What is mineral conservation? Explain how it can be achieved. IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 6c Describe the classification of magmatic deposits and add a note on "late magmatic deposits". IAS 2024, 20 Marks

Geology 7a i What is the difference between a sample and a specimen? IAS 2024, 5 Marks

Geology 7a ii Describe the classification of mineral reserves. IAS 2024, 5 Marks

Geology 7a iii What are the different marine mineral resources? IAS 2024, 5 Marks

Geology 7b What is the principle and nature of construction of Wilfley Table? Which mineral product is separated in tabling? IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 7c What do you know about 'Neyveli Lignite Mine'? Enumerate the methodology of mining and machinery under use in this mine, with neat sketches. IAS 2024, 20 Marks

Geology 8a What are the different layers in the Earth's interior? How is the layered structure of the Earth determined? Name two most abundant elements of each layer of the Earth. IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 8b Define major, minor and trace elements. Write briefly about the characteristics of lithophile, chalcophile, siderophile and atmophile elements with examples. Why are trace elements considered more efficient than major elements in understanding the Earth's processes? IAS 2024, 15 Marks

Geology 8c Discuss in detail the pollution of surface water and groundwater due to mining activities. IAS 2024, 20 Marks