2008 General Studies, all questions

UPSC Prelims 2008 · General Studies

Question 114: Science and Technology

Which one of the following is also called Stranger Gas?

aArgon
bNeon
cXenon
dNitrous oxide

AnswerThe answer is (c).

Xenon is called the stranger gas because its name comes from the Greek xenos, meaning stranger or foreigner, as it was found as a rare trace in air. It is a noble gas, present in the atmosphere at less than one part per million, and is used in high-intensity lamps, flash tubes and as an anaesthetic. Argon and neon have different name origins.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) Argon's name means lazy or inactive.
  • (b) Neon's name means new.
  • (c) Xenon's name means stranger.
  • (d) Nitrous oxide is known as laughing gas.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2008, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.