Geology IFS Paper 2 UPSC 2023 with Solutions

In this article, all questions of Geology Optional Paper 2 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 2 UPSC 2023 - Question Paper with Solutions 

Click on the links for the solutions

SECTION A

Geology 1a What do you understand by crystal defects? Briefly explain the types of structural defects found in crystals. (IFS 2023/8 Marks)

Geology 1b What are the types of compositional zoning? Discuss the petrogenetic significance of compositional zoning in feldspar minerals. (IFS 2023/8 Marks)

Geology 1c Explain the phenomenon of varying relief observed in calcite mineral under the plane polarised light with the help of neat well-labelled diagram. (IFS 2023/8 Marks)

Geology 1d Elaborately explain the significance of Bowen's reaction principle in petrogenetic studies. (IFS 2023/8 Marks)

Geology 1e How are diagenesis and lithification different in the process of formation of sedimentary rocks? (IFS 2023/8 Marks)


Geology 2a Describe the crystal structure, types, mineralogy, composition, physical and optical properties of amphibole group of minerals. Add a note on the uses of amphibole minerals. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 2b What is magma diversification? Explain in detail the mechanisms involved in the diversification of magma with the help of neat well-labelled diagrams, wherever required. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 2c Discuss the sedimentary basins of India with a special reference to oil and gas. (IFS 2023/10 Marks)


Geology 3a Describe in detail the classification of crystal systems based on the crystallographic axes and symmetry elements. Give examples and neat well-labelled diagrams, wherever required. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 3b What are pyroclastic rocks? Describe the textures exhibited by pyroclastic rocks with the help of neat well-labelled diagrams. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 3c What are sedimentary structures? Explain the significance of these structures. (IFS 2023/10 Marks)


Geology 4a Explain in detail the physical properties of minerals depending upon: (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 4a i Interaction with light.

Geology 4a ii State of aggregation.

Geology 4b Discuss the processes involved in the principal types of metamorphism. Add a note on the resulting rocks in each type. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 4c Discuss the sedimentary facies and their significance. (IFS 2023/10 Marks)

SECTION B

Geology 5a What is metasomatic replacement? How does it help in the formation of mineral deposits? (IFS 2023/8 Marks)

Geology 5b Explain metallogenic provinces and epochs citing examples from India. (IFS 2023/8 Marks)

Geology 5c What is the significance of mineral beneficiation? Explain the beneficiation technique used for sulphide ores. (IFS 2023/8 Marks)

Geology 5d Explain Isomorphism and Polymorphism with suitable examples. (IFS 2023/8 Marks)

Geology 5e What are the environmental impacts of urbanisation? (IFS 2023/8 Marks)


Geology 6a Discuss the mineralogy, mode of occurrence and distribution of uranium deposits of India. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 6b Name the various geophysical methods of prospecting. Explain the methods used in prospecting of oil and gas. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 6c Discuss the causes and effects of Earthquakes. Add a note on its mitigation measures. (IFS 2023/10 Marks)


Geology 7a Discuss various controls of ore localization by giving suitable examples. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 7b Discuss various conventional methods of estimation of reserves of ore bodies. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 7c Give an account of compositional diversity across Earth's different layers with a neat sketch. (IFS 2023/10 Marks)


Geology 8a Discuss various methods used for mining deep-seated ore bodies. (IFS 2023/15 Marks)

Geology 8b i Give a brief account of India's mineral policy. (IFS 2023/7.5 Marks)

Geology 8b ii What are critical minerals? Name fifteen critical minerals of India. (IFS 2023/7.5 Marks)

Geology 8c Discuss the point and non-point sources of groundwater pollution. (IFS 2023/10 Marks)