1998 General Studies, all questions
UPSC Prelims 1998 · General Studies
Question 124: Science and Technology
The major chemical compound found in human kidney stones is
aUric acid
bCalcium carbonate
cCalcium oxalate
dCalcium sulphate
AnswerThe answer is (c).
The commonest kidney stones, about four in five, are made of calcium oxalate, formed when urine is concentrated and rich in calcium and oxalate. Less common types are made of uric acid, calcium phosphate and struvite. Calcium carbonate and calcium sulphate are not the usual constituents. Drinking plenty of water and cutting down on oxalate-rich foods reduces the risk.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Uric acid forms a minority of stones.
- (b) Calcium carbonate is not the usual stone-former.
- (c) Right: calcium oxalate is the major compound in kidney stones.
- (d) Calcium sulphate is not the usual stone-former.
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.