UPSC Prelims 1998 · General Studies
Question 115: Science and Technology
Match List I with List II and select the correct answer by using the codes given below the lists: List I (Special Characteristic) I. Farthest planet from the Sun II. Largest planet of the solar system III. Planet second from the Sun in the solar system IV. Planet nearest to the Sun List II (Name of Planet) A) Mercury B) Venus C) Jupiter D) Pluto E) Saturn
AnswerThe answer is (d).
At the time of the question the farthest planet from the Sun was Pluto, the largest was Jupiter, the second from the Sun was Venus, and the nearest was Mercury. So I-D, II-C, III-B, IV-A. Saturn, the second largest planet, is not in the right match.
- I. Pluto was then the farthest planet (D).
- II. Jupiter is the largest planet (C).
- III. Venus is second from the Sun (B).
- IV. Mercury is nearest the Sun (A).
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Venus is second from the Sun, not the farthest planet.
- (b) Jupiter is the largest, not the farthest planet, and Saturn is not the largest.
- (c) Mercury is nearest the Sun, not the largest planet.
- (d) Right: Pluto, Jupiter, Venus, Mercury.
Worth knowing: Pluto was reclassified as a dwarf planet in 2006, so the farthest planet is now Neptune.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1998, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.