1995 General Studies, all questions
UPSC Prelims 1995 · General Studies
Question 114: Science and Technology
Cryogenic engines find applications in
asub-marine propulsion
bfrost-free refrigerators
crocket technology
dresearches in superconductivity
AnswerThe answer is (c).
Cryogenic engines burn propellants such as liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, which must be kept at extremely low temperatures. They give high thrust per unit of fuel, which is what the upper stages of launch vehicles need to place heavy satellites in geostationary orbit. India's GSLV uses a cryogenic upper stage. Remember: cryogenic engines mean rocket technology.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Submarines use other propulsion, not cryogenic engines.
- (b) Frost-free refrigerators use ordinary compressors, not cryogenic engines.
- (c) Right: rocket technology.
- (d) Superconductivity research uses cold temperatures, but 'cryogenic engines' refers to rocket engines.
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.