UPSC Prelims 2024 · GS Paper I
Question 36: Science and Technology
In which of the following are hydrogels used ?
- 1.Controlled drug delivery in patients
- 2.Mobile air-conditioning systems
- 3.Preparation of industrial lubricants
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).
Hydrogels are water-swollen polymer networks. Because they hold large amounts of water and can release a drug slowly as they swell or break down, they are used for controlled drug delivery, and also for wound dressings and contact lenses. Mobile air-conditioning relies on refrigerants and compressors, and industrial lubricants are oils and greases, so hydrogels are not the standard materials in either. Only the first use is right.
- 1. Hydrogels release drugs slowly and are used for controlled drug delivery.
- 2. Mobile air-conditioning does not use hydrogels as a standard material.
- 3. Industrial lubricants are oils and greases, not hydrogels.
How you could have got this
- If you were sure statement 2 is not correct, (b), (c) and (d) go: each of them includes 2.
What you needed to know: Mobile air-conditioning does not use hydrogels as a standard material.
Only (a) is left. You didn’t need statements 1 or 3.
Which options go is worked out from UPSC’s key and the options, not by a model.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right: controlled drug delivery is a standard use of hydrogels.
- (b) Wrong: hydrogels are not standard in mobile air-conditioning.
- (c) Wrong: neither air-conditioning nor industrial lubricants is a standard use.
- (d) Wrong: only the first use is standard.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2024, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.