Q1. Which of the following is a commonly mined ore of iron?
a) Bauxite
b) Hematite
c) Galena
d) Magnetite
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Correct Answer: b) Hematite
Explanation: Hematite (Fe2O3) is a primary ore of iron and one of the most abundant minerals on Earth’s surface. It typically occurs as reddish-brown to silver-gray massive or crystalline deposits. Hematite is mined extensively for its iron content, which is extracted through the process of smelting to produce metallic iron. It is widely used in the production of steel, iron alloys, and pigments.
Q2. Which mineral is primarily composed of calcium carbonate and is commonly used in the production of cement, mortar, and lime?
a) Quartz
b) Gypsum
c) Calcite
d) Feldspar
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Correct Answer: c) Calcite
Explanation: Calcite (CaCO3) is a carbonate mineral and the primary constituent of limestone, marble, and chalk. It is formed through the deposition of calcium carbonate-rich sediments and is commonly used in the production of cement, mortar, and lime. Calcite is ground into a fine powder and heated to produce lime (calcium oxide), which serves as a key ingredient in cement and mortar formulations.
Q1. Which of the following is not a source of Ancient Indian history?
a) Inscriptions
b) Coins
c) Manuscripts
d) Pottery
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Explanation: Bauxite is a major source of aluminum and is primarily composed of hydrated aluminum oxides, iron oxides, titanium dioxide, and silica. It is formed through the weathering of aluminum-rich rocks and subsequent deposition of aluminum hydroxide minerals.
Q4. Which mineral is commonly used in the production of plaster, drywall, and as a soil conditioner?
a) Quartz
b) Talc
c) Gypsum
d) Graphite
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Correct Answer: c) Gypsum
Explanation: Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) is a soft sulfate mineral commonly used in the production of plaster, drywall, and as a soil conditioner. It is found in sedimentary rock formations and is often associated with halite, sulfur, and anhydrite. Gypsum is processed into various forms, including plaster of Paris, which is used for sculpting, mold-making, and construction purposes.
Q5. Which mineral is the primary source of mercury and is commonly associated with deposits of cinnabar?
a) Hematite
b) Galena
c) Cinnabar
d) Magnetite
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Correct Answer: c) Cinnabar
Explanation: Cinnabar (HgS) is the primary ore of mercury and is commonly found in association with volcanic deposits and hydrothermal veins. It typically occurs as bright red to reddish-brown crystalline masses or as vein fillings in rock formations. Cinnabar has been mined for thousands of years for its mercury content, which is extracted through the process of roasting to release elemental mercury vapor. Mercury is used in various industrial applications, including electrical equipment, thermometers, and dental amalgams, as well as in artisanal and small-scale gold mining.
Q6. Which mineral is a primary source of lead and is commonly found in association with zinc sulfide ores?
a) Hematite
b) Galena
c) Bauxite
d) Pyrite
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Correct Answer: b) Galena
Explanation: Galena (PbS) is the primary ore of lead and is commonly found in association with zinc sulfide ores in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary deposits. It typically occurs as metallic-gray to silvery-gray cubic crystals or massive aggregates. Galena has been mined for thousands of years for its lead content, which is extracted through the process of flotation or smelting to produce metallic lead. Lead is used in various applications, including batteries, solder, radiation shielding, and construction materials.
Q7. Which mineral is commonly used in the production of ceramics, porcelain, and as a filler in paper and rubber?
a) Talc
b) Feldspar
c) Quartz
d) Mica
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Correct Answer: b) Feldspar
Explanation: Feldspar is a group of minerals that are commonly used in the production of ceramics, porcelain, glass, and as a filler in paper and rubber. Feldspars are alumino-silicate minerals containing varying proportions of potassium, sodium, and calcium ions, along with aluminum and silica. They contribute to the fluxing behavior of ceramic materials, reducing melting temperatures and promoting vitrification during firing. Feldspar also imparts strength, hardness, and resistance to thermal shock in ceramic products. In the paper and rubber industries, feldspar is used as a filler to improve product strength, durability, and dimensional stability.
Q8. Which mineral is commonly used in the production of electrical insulators, roofing materials, and friction products?
a) Graphite
b) Talc
c) Mica
d) Quartz
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Correct Answer: c) Mica
Explanation: Mica is a group of minerals known for their excellent electrical insulation properties, flexibility, and heat resistance, making them valuable in various industrial applications.
Q9. Which mineral is commonly used in the production of abrasive materials, such as sandpaper and grinding wheels?
a) Talc
b) Quartz
c) Calcite
d) Gypsum
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Correct Answer: b) Quartz
Explanation: Quartz is a hard, crystalline mineral composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) and is commonly used in the production of abrasive materials, such as sandpaper and grinding wheels. Due to its hardness and durability, quartz particles are effective for grinding, polishing, and shaping metal, stone, and other materials.
Q10. Which mineral is commonly used in the production of ceramics, refractories, and as a pigment in paint and plastics?
a) Talc
b) Kaolinite
c) Feldspar
d) Bauxite
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Correct Answer: b) Kaolinite
Explanation: Kaolinite is a clay mineral commonly used in the production of ceramics, refractories, and as a pigment in paint and plastics.