2000 General Studies, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2000 · General Studies
Question 106: Science and Technology
The stones formed in human kidney consist mostly of
acalcium oxalate
bsodium acetate
cmagnesium sulphate
dcalcium
AnswerThe answer is (a).
Most kidney stones are made of calcium oxalate, sometimes along with calcium phosphate. Others are formed of uric acid or cystine. They form when urine becomes concentrated and the salts crystallise. Drinking plenty of water and limiting foods rich in oxalate help prevent them.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right: calcium oxalate is the commonest material.
- (b) Sodium acetate is not a normal kidney stone constituent.
- (c) Magnesium sulphate (Epsom salt) is not a normal kidney stone constituent.
- (d) Calcium alone is not the stone; it appears combined, mainly with oxalate.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2000, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.