2009 General Studies, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2009 · General Studies
Question 72: Science and Technology
Which one of the following is used as an explosive ?
aPhosphorus trichloride
bMercuric oxide
cGraphite
dNitroglycerine
AnswerThe answer is (d).
Nitroglycerine is a powerful liquid explosive, the base of dynamite, which Alfred Nobel made safer by absorbing it in an inert material. Phosphorus trichloride is a reactive chemical but not an explosive, mercuric oxide is a compound of mercury and oxygen, and graphite is a form of carbon used as a lubricant and in pencils.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Phosphorus trichloride is a chemical reagent, not an explosive.
- (b) Mercuric oxide is a toxic compound, not used as an explosive.
- (c) Graphite is a stable form of carbon used in pencils and electrodes.
- (d) Right: nitroglycerine is a high explosive.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2009, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.