UPSC Prelims 1995 · General Studies
Question 108: Science and Technology
When the same note is played on a sitar and a flute, the sound produced can be distinguished from each other because of the difference in
AnswerThe answer is (c).
A sound has three properties: pitch (frequency), loudness (amplitude) and quality, or timbre (the mix of overtones). If the same note is played on a sitar and a flute, the pitch is the same and the loudness can be the same, and the instruments differ in the overtones they add, which is quality. Remember: quality, or timbre, tells instruments apart.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Pitch is the same for the same note, so it cannot be the difference.
- (b) Pitch and loudness do not separate the instruments here.
- (c) Right: quality, set by overtones.
- (d) Loudness can be matched, so it is not the distinguishing feature.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1995, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.