Geology IFS 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 IFS. 

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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 within 150 words each:

Geology 1a Discuss the characteristics and properties of the lithosphere and the asthenosphere. (IFS 2019/8 Marks)

Geology 1b Describe the origin of Karst topography. (IFS 2019/8 Marks)

Geology 1c Write briefly on the Global Positioning System (GPS). (IFS 2019/8 Marks)

Geology 1d What is the significance of equal area projection in solving structural geology problems? (IFS 2019/8 Marks)

Geology 1e Enumerate the strain markers in deformed rocks, with the help of neat sketches. (IFS 2019/8 Marks)


Geology 2a With the help of neat diagrams, discuss different types of plate boundaries and enumerate their characteristic features. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)

Geology 2b Highlight the advantages and limitations of remote sensing studies with respect to conventional geological field work. (IFS 2019/10 Marks)

Geology 2c Describe the different types of breaks in stratigraphic records and their identification in the field. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)


Geology 3a Briefly enumerate the principles of radiometric dating using U-Pb isotopes. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)

Geology 3b Discuss how lithology controls topography. (IFS 2019/10 Marks)

Geology 3c What is thrust fault? Explain the mechanism of development of thrust fault with neat sketches. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)


Geology 4a Elucidate the present status of Continental Drift in light of the geological and geophysical evidences. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)

Geology 4b Compare the geomorphic features along the Eastern and Western Coasts of India. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)

Geology 4c What is recrystallisation of minerals? How is it related to deformation? Explain with neat sketches. (IFS 2019/10 Marks)

SECTION B

5. Answer the following within 150 words each:

Geology 5a Explain in brief the manner of preservation of traces of animals. (IFS 2019/8 Marks)

Geology 5b In the context of Dollo's Law, discuss the different patterns of evolution observed in fossils. (IFS 2019/8 Marks)

Geology 5c Describe the depositional environments prevailing during the deposition of the Paleogene belt of Sirmur Group of Himachal Pradesh. (IFS 2019/8 Marks)

Geology 5d Describe the different techniques used to date groundwater. (IFS 2019/8 Marks)

Geology 5e Enumerate the methods of groundwater exploration and development. (IFS 2019/8 Marks)


Geology 6a Describe the lithostratigraphic succession of the Siwalik Group and comment on the paleoclimatic regime that prevailed during its deposition. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)

Geology 6b Draw neat labelled sketches to depict the evolution of toes in Equidae. (IFS 2019/10 Marks)

Geology 6c Describe various groundwater recharge structures with the help of neat diagrams. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)


Geology 7a With the help of neat diagrams, depict the evolutionary trends in Proboscideans. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)

Geology 7b Discuss the tectonic evolution of the Aravalli Craton. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)

Geology 7c Describe the various groundwater quality criteria prescribed for drinking, agriculture and industrial use. (IFS 2019/10 Marks)


Geology 8a The Permian - Triassic boundary represents a phase of mass extinction in the Earth's history. Discuss the Permian - Triassic boundary problem in stratigraphy. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)

Geology 8b Describe the evolutionary trends in the eyes of trilobites. Illustrate your answer with suitable sketches. (IFS 2019/15 Marks)

Geology 8c Discuss in detail the geotechnical parameters used for selection of tunnel sites. (IFS 2019/10 Marks)