Geology IFS Paper 2 UPSC 2020 with Solutions

Geology Optional Paper 2 UPSC 2020 - Question Paper with Solutions 

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SECTION A

Geology 1a Draw a neat labelled sketch of a petrological microscope. Add a brief note on each part of the microscope. (IFS 2020/8 Marks)

Geology 1b Draw a labelled diagram of SiO4 tetrahedra. Give the structural classification of silicate minerals. (IFS 2020/8 Marks)

Geology 1c What are the minimum symmetry requirements for the monoclinic system? Draw stereographic projection corresponding to normal class of the system. Write names of two minerals that crystallize in this system. (IFS 2020/8 Marks)

Geology 1d Discuss briefly about indexing a crystal face. Calculate the Miller indices of a crystal face having Weiss Symbol of la, b, c. (IFS 2020/8 Marks)

Geology 1e How would you distinguish between the following pairs of rocks petrographically:

Geology 1e i Diorites and Anorthosites. (IFS 2020/4 Marks)

Geology 1e ii Carbonatites and Peridotites. (IFS 2020/4 Marks)

Geology 2a Give a brief account of primary sedimentary structures and discuss their significance. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 2b What is Pleochroism? Describe the method of determining pleochroism in hornblende. (IFS 2020/10 Marks)

Geology 2c Explain Bowen's reaction series. How do you explain corona structure with the help of this reaction series? Explain what happens when a basaltic magma assimilates granitic country rock. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 3a What is Diagenesis? Describe different processes of diagenesis with suitable examples and sketches. (IFS 2020/10 Marks)

Geology 3b What are Alkaline rocks? Discuss the petrogenesis of alkaline rocks. Give two Indian occurrences. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 3c Define Prograde and Retrograde Metamorphism. Discuss various mineral assemblages formed due to these processes involving basic igneous rocks. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 4a Define Contact Metamorphism. Explain the processes involved in the development of contact aureole. (IFS 2020/10 Marks)

Geology 4b Draw a neat labelled sketch of the Diopside-Anorthite system (1 atm, dry). Describe the crystallization behaviour of an initial melt having composition Dis0An20. Give petrogenetic significance of this system. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 4c Describe the crystal structure, types, mineralogy, composition, physical and optical properties of pyroxene group of minerals. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

SECTION B

Geology 5a How are ore deposits classified? Give the salient features of Lindgren's classification. (IFS 2020/8 Marks)

Geology 5b Explain the processes involved in the formation of skarn deposits. (IFS 2020/8 Marks)

Geology 5c "Beach placers are vital for India's nuclear energy sector." - Justify the statement. (IFS 2020/8 Marks)

Geology 5d What is Co-ordination Number? Describe with neat sketches different types of co-ordination found in minerals. (IFS 2020/8 Marks)

Geology 5e Define Enthalpy, Entropy and Gibb's free energy. What is the relationship among these thermodynamic parameters? (IFS 2020/8 Marks)

Geology 6a Discuss with neat sketches ore mineral textures formed by replacement and exsolution processes. (IFS 2020/10 Marks)

Geology 6b Give an account of the mineralogy, modes of occurrence and distribution of copper deposits of India. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 6c Explain with neat sketches the causes of landslides. What are the preventative measures to mitigate landslides? Add a short note on the landslide-prone areas of India. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 7a What is Channel sampling? Explain the steps involved in channel sampling. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 7b What are Meteorites? Give a detailed account of the classification of meteorites. (IFS 2020/10 Marks)

Geology 7c What are the widely used electrical methods of prospecting? Explain self-potential method to decipher mineral bodies. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 8a Describe the following underground mining methods with suitable diagrams: (IFS 2020/15 Marks)

Geology 8a i Room and Pillar method.

Geology 8a ii Cut and Fill stoping.

Geology 8a iii Sub-level stoping.

Geology 8b Discuss the sources of groundwater pollution. Add a detailed note on the remedial measures to prevent it. (IFS 2020/10 Marks)

Geology 8c How are coals classified based on the fixed carbon content? Add a detailed note on the distribution of coal deposits of India. (IFS 2020/15 Marks)