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Exams   »   SSC MTS Expected General Science Questions...

SSC MTS Expected General Science Questions with Solutions

Preparing for the SSC MTS 2025 exam? Well, it requires a strong grasp of General Science, as it forms an important part of the General Awareness section. Questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are often asked to test the candidate’s basic understanding of everyday scientific concepts. To help aspirants strengthen their preparation, we have compiled a list of 40 SSC MTS Expected General Science Questions with Solutions. These questions are based on the latest exam trends and previous year papers. Practicing them will not only improve accuracy but also boost confidence in tackling science-related questions during the actual exam. Let’s get started!

SSC MTS Expected General Science Questions with Solutions

Who introduced the term ‘triads’ in the classification of elements?

  1. Dmitri Mendeleev
  2. Johann Dobereiner
  3. AEB de Chancourtois
  4. John Newlands

Answer: B

Sol:

The correct answer is (b) Johann Dobereiner

  • The term ‘triads’ in the classification of elements was introduced by Johann Dobereiner, a German chemist, in the early 19th century.
  • Dobereiner observed that when elements were arranged in groups of three (triads), the atomic mass of the middle element was approximately the average of the other two elements. This led to the development of his Triad Law, where he grouped elements with similar properties in sets of three.
  • His work was one of the precursors to the modern periodic table, and although the concept of triads was eventually superseded by Mendeleev’s periodic table, it laid the foundation for understanding periodic relationships between elements.

Information Booster:

  • Johann Dobereiner’s Triad Law:
    • Dobereiner’s triads were sets of three elements that had similar properties. For example, in the triad of chlorine, bromine, and iodine, the atomic mass of bromine is nearly the average of chlorine and iodine.
    • This concept helped establish the idea that elements could be grouped based on recurring patterns in their properties, leading to the development of the periodic law.
  • Dmitri Mendeleev:
    • Mendeleev is best known for creating the periodic table of elements in 1869. He arranged the elements based on their atomic mass and chemical properties, and he predicted the discovery of several elements.
  • AEB de Chancourtois:
    • Chancourtois introduced the concept of the periodicity of elements in his telluric helix model, where he arranged elements in a helical manner based on atomic weights. Though his work was important, it was Mendeleev’s periodic table that gained more recognition.
  • John Newlands:
    • John Newlands introduced the Law of Octaves in 1865, where he noticed that every eighth element shared similar properties when arranged by atomic weight. His work contributed to the development of the periodic table but was limited due to the arrangement based on atomic weight rather than atomic number.

Additional Information:

  • Triad Concept in Chemistry:
    • The concept of triads was one of the early attempts to classify elements based on their chemical properties and atomic masses. Although Dobereiner’s triad system had limitations (it only worked for some groups of elements), it significantly influenced future developments in the periodic classification of elements.
  • Periodic Table Evolution:
    • The periodic table has undergone several transformations since Dobereiner’s time. Modern chemistry now uses atomic number rather than atomic mass to classify elements, as proposed by Mendeleev and later refined by Henry Moseley in the early 20th century.

What is the temperature of the triple point of water on the Celsius scale?

  1. 0°C
  2. -273.15°C
  3. 100°C
  4. 0.01°C

Answer: D

Sol.

  • The triple point of water is the temperature and pressure at which water coexists in its solid, liquid, and gas phases in equilibrium.
  • The temperature of the triple point of water on the Celsius scale is 0.01°C.

The correct answer is (D) 0.01°C.

Information Booster:

  • The triple point of water is a fundamental concept in thermodynamics and is used to define the Kelvin scale.
  • The triple point temperature of water is a precise reference point used in the definition of the Kelvin unit.
  • It occurs at a specific pressure of approximately 611.657 pascals.
  • The triple point of water is used in the establishment of standard scientific measurements and is a key calibration point for thermometers.

What is required for the generation of a sound wave?

  1. Vacuum only
  2. Electromagnetic carrier wave only
  3. Vibration and an elastic medium only
  4. Air molecules only

Answer: C

Sol:

The correct answer is (C) Vibration and an elastic medium only.

Explanation:

  • Sound waves are generated when a source causes vibrations. These vibrations create disturbances in a surrounding elastic medium (such as air, water, or solids).
  • The elastic medium allows the vibrations to propagate as longitudinal waves, carrying sound energy through the medium.
  • Sound cannot travel through a vacuum because there are no molecules to transmit the vibrations. Therefore, an elastic medium like air, water, or a solid material is necessary for sound wave propagation.
  • Vibrations create alternating regions of compression and rarefaction, which form the sound wave.

Information Booster:

  • Elastic medium: This is any material that can return to its original shape after being deformed, such as air or water, which allows the propagation of sound waves.
  • Sound waves are longitudinal waves, meaning the particles of the medium move parallel to the direction of wave propagation (back and forth along the same line).
  • Sound cannot propagate in a vacuum, as there are no particles to transmit the mechanical vibrations.

Additional Information:

  • Option A is incorrect because a vacuum does not support the transmission of sound waves due to the absence of molecules.
  • Option B is incorrect because electromagnetic waves (like light) do not require an elastic medium; they can propagate through a vacuum.
  • Option D is incorrect because air molecules are not the only requirement—vibrations and an elastic medium are key components.

As the temperature increases, the kinetic energy of particles of matter ______

  1. becomes zero
  2. decreases
  3. increases
  4. remains the same

Answer: C

Sol:

The correct answer is: (C) increases

Explanation:

As the temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the particles of matter increases. Temperature is directly proportional to the average kinetic energy of particles in a substance. The higher the temperature, the faster the particles move due to increased energy.

Information Booster:

  • Temperature is a measure of average kinetic energy of particles.
  • In solids, increased temperature causes more vibrational motion of particles.
  • In liquids and gases, higher temperature results in faster movement of molecules.
  • This concept is foundational in kinetic theory of matter.
  • Melting, boiling, and sublimation occur due to increased kinetic energy.

The relation is directly proportional:

KE∝Temperature (T)

Which among the following is the gel-like fluid inside the cell and is the medium for chemical reaction?

  1. Nucleus
  2. Cytoplasm
  3. Nucleolus
  4. Cell membrane

Answer: B

Sol:

The correct answer is: (B) Cytoplasm

Explanation:

  • The cytoplasm is the gel-like fluid inside the cell, located between the cell membrane and the nucleus.
  • It serves as the medium for chemical reactions and contains various organelles like the mitochondria, ribosomes, and endoplasmic reticulum that perform essential functions for the cell.
  • The cytoplasm plays a crucial role in cellular processes such as metabolism, protein synthesis, and transportation of materials within the cell.

Information Booster:

  • The cytoplasm is composed of a mixture of water, salts, and organic molecules.
  • Chemical reactions that occur in the cytoplasm are vital for the cell’s energy production and overall function.
  • Cytoplasm is often referred to as the cell’s “soup”, where various biochemical processes take place.

Additional Information:

  • Nucleus: The control center of the cell that contains the cell’s genetic material (DNA) but is not the site of chemical reactions.
  • Nucleolus: Found within the nucleus, its main function is the production of ribosomes, not chemical reactions.
  • Cell membrane: Acts as a protective barrier around the cell and regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, but it does not function as a medium for chemical reactions.

The crest of a wave is the point where the disturbance is at:

  1. constant point
  2. zero point
  3. maximum point
  4. minimum point

Answer: C

Sol:

The correct answer is (C) maximum point

Explanation:

  • The crest of a wave is the point where the disturbance is at its maximum point.
  • In a transverse wave, the crest is the highest point above the equilibrium (rest) position.
  • It represents the maximum amplitude of the wave, where the displacement of particles is at its greatest from the equilibrium position.

Information Booster:

  • The trough is the opposite of the crest and represents the minimum displacement (lowest point) of the wave.
  • Waves are characterized by their amplitude (maximum displacement from equilibrium), wavelength (distance between two consecutive crests or troughs), and frequency (how often a wave passes a point in a given time).

Additional Information:

  • Option A (constant point) is incorrect because the crest represents the maximum displacement, not a constant point.
  • Option B (zero point) is incorrect as the zero point refers to the equilibrium position, not the crest.
  • Option D (minimum point) refers to the trough of the wave, not the crest.

​What organic compounds are fats and oils composed of?

  1. ​Carbon and nitrogen
  2. ​Carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen
  3. ​Carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen
  4. ​Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen

Answer: D

Sol:

The correct answer is: (d) Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen

Explanation:

  • Fats and oils are types of lipids, which are organic compounds composed mainly of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O).
  • They are triesters formed from glycerol (a 3-carbon alcohol) and fatty acids.
  • These elements are the same found in carbohydrates, but fats contain much less oxygen, making them more energy-dense.

Information Booster:

  • Fats and oils are also called triglycerides (glycerol + 3 fatty acids).
    • They serve as energy reserves, thermal insulation, and protection for organs.
    • Fats are solid at room temperature; oils are liquid (due to unsaturated fatty acids).
    • They provide 9 kcal/gm of energy, more than carbohydrates or proteins.
    • Lipids are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like ether.

​Which type of protein causes coagulation in milk during the cheese-making process?

  1. ​Casein
  2. ​Gluten
  3. Gelatin
  4. ​Ovalbumin

Answer: A

Sol:

The correct answer is: (A) Casein

Explanation:
• Casein is the main protein in milk that coagulates during the cheese-making process.
• It forms curds when treated with rennet or acidic substances, separating from the liquid whey.

Information Booster:
• Casein makes up about 80% of milk protein.
• Rennet (an enzyme) or acid causes casein to clot, forming cheese curds.
• The structure of casein allows it to trap fat and water, creating the texture of cheese.
• Casein is rich in essential amino acids and calcium.
• It is insoluble in water and exists in micelle form in milk.

Additional Information:
• Gluten: Found in wheat, not related to milk or cheese.
• Gelatin: A protein derived from collagen, used as a gelling agent, not involved in cheese-making.
• Ovalbumin: The main protein in egg whites, unrelated to milk or cheese.

Which of the following is NOT a metalloid?

  1. Silicon
  2. Antimony
  3. Arsenic
  4. Selenium

Answer: D

Sol:

The correct answer is (d) Selenium.

  • Selenium is a non-metal, whereas Silicon, Antimony, and Arsenic are classified as metalloids (semi-metals) because they exhibit properties intermediate between metals and non-metals.
  • Metalloids have characteristics such as semiconductivity and appear along the “stair-step” line in the periodic table.

Information Booster:

  • Silicon is widely used as a semiconductor in electronic devices due to its metalloid properties.
  • Antimony and Arsenic are metalloids used in alloys and various industrial applications.
  • Selenium is chemically closer to non-metals like sulfur and tellurium and is used in photocells and glass production.
  • Metalloids generally have physical and chemical properties between metals and non-metals.

Additional Information:

  • (a) Silicon – Correct metalloid.
  • (b) Antimony – Metalloid.
  • (c) Arsenic – Metalloid.
  • (d) Selenium – Non-metal, hence not a metalloid.

Which of the following molecules is diatomic in nature?

  1. Helium
  2. Oxygen
  3. Argon
  4. Phosphorus

Answer: B

Sol:

The correct answer is: (b) Oxygen

Explanation:

  • Oxygen (O₂) is a diatomic molecule, meaning it consists of two atoms bonded together.
  • In nature, elemental oxygen exists as O₂ because this configuration is more stable than single oxygen atoms.
  • Diatomic molecules include gases like O₂, N₂, H₂, Cl₂, etc.

Information Booster:

  • Diatomic gases = molecules made of two atoms (same or different elements).
  • Common elemental diatomic molecules: H₂, N₂, O₂, F₂, Cl₂, Br₂, I₂.
  • O₂ is essential for respiration and combustion.
  • Diatomic molecules are generally more stable than monoatomic forms.
  • O₂ has a double covalent bond between atoms.
  • Exists as a paramagnetic gas due to unpaired electrons.

Additional Information:

  • Helium – A noble gas, monoatomic in nature (exists as single atoms).
  • Argon – Another noble gas, also monoatomic.
  • Phosphorus – Exists as P₄ (tetra-atomic molecule) in its elemental form, not diatomic.

The chemical formula of propene is:

  1. C3H6
  2. C2H2
  3. C3H4
  4. C2H4

Answer: A

Sol:

The correct answer is (a) C₃H₆

  • Propene (also called propylene) is an alkene with the chemical formula C₃H₆.
  • It is a colorless gas at room temperature and is commonly used in the production of plastics and chemicals.
  • Propene has a double bond between carbon atoms in its structure, which classifies it as an unsaturated hydrocarbon.

Information Booster:

  • C₂H₂: This is the chemical formula for acetylene, an alkyne, which has a triple bond between carbon atoms.
  • C₃H₄: This formula does not correspond to any stable compound commonly known.
  • C₂H₄: This is the formula for ethylene, an alkene, which has a double bond between two carbon atoms and is used in the production of plastics.

Which of the following is a unit of the dimension ‘length’?

  1. Joule
  2. Metre
  3. Ampere
  4. Kilogram

Answer: B

Sol:

The correct answer is (b) Metre.

  • Metre (m) is the SI unit of length, a fundamental physical quantity that measures distance or displacement.
  • It represents the dimension [L], and is used universally for expressing all linear measurements.

Information Booster:

  • SI Base Unit of Length: Metre (m)
  • Other Derived Units of Length: Kilometer (km), centimeter (cm), millimeter (mm), nanometer (nm)
  • 1 metre: Defined as the distance traveled by light in vacuum in 1/299,792,458 seconds.
  • Length is a scalar quantity, having magnitude but no direction.

Additional Information (Why Other Options Are Incorrect):

  • (A) Joule: Unit of energy or work, dimensionally [ML²T⁻²].
  • (C) Ampere: Unit of electric current, dimensionally [I].
  • (D) Kilogram: Unit of mass, dimensionally [M].

Select the correct option related to the function regulated by ovaries.

  1. Stimulates growth in all organs
  2. ​Menstrual cycle​
  3. ​Stimulates pituitary glands​
  4. ​Regulates metabolism​

Answer: B

Sol:

The correct answer is (b). Menstrual cycle

Explanation:

Ovaries are the primary female reproductive organs that produce ova (eggs) and secrete hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.

These hormones play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the body for pregnancy.

The menstrual cycle consists of four phases:

  1. Menstrual Phase (Shedding of the uterine lining)
  2. Follicular Phase (Follicle growth & estrogen release)
  3. Ovulation (Egg release from the ovary)
  4. Luteal Phase (Progesterone release for pregnancy support)

Information Booster:

  • Estrogen: Helps in the development of secondary sexual characteristics and regulates the menstrual cycle.
  • Progesterone: Maintains the uterine lining for possible pregnancy.
  • The menstrual cycle is controlled by the interaction between hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries.

Additional Knowledge:

  • Growth hormone from the pituitary gland regulates growth.
  • The hypothalamus controls the pituitary gland.
  • Regulates metabolism: Thyroid hormones (T3, T4) regulate metabolism.

What is the primary contributor to the sour taste in foods like lemons, vinegar and yoghurt?

  1. Alkaloids
  2. Salts
  3. Bases
  4. Acids

Answer: D

Sol:

The correct answer is:(d) Acids

Explanation:
The sour taste in foods like lemons, vinegar, and yoghurt is primarily due to the presence of acids. For example:

  • Lemons contain citric acid.
  • Vinegar contains acetic acid.
  • Yoghurt contains lactic acid, which is produced during the fermentation of milk.

These acids activate the sour taste receptors on the tongue, giving these foods their characteristic tangy flavor.

Information Booster:

  • Acids like citric acid, lactic acid, and acetic acid are common organic acids found in various foods.
  • pH level: Foods with a low pH (below 7) typically taste sour, as acids lower the pH of the food.
  • Sourness from acids is a natural preservative effect, helping to inhibit bacterial growth.

Additional Information:

  • (a) Alkaloids: Alkaloids are bitter-tasting compounds, not responsible for sourness.
  • (b) Salts: While some salts can enhance flavors, they do not primarily contribute to the sour taste.
  • (c) Bases: Bases taste bitter, not sour.

Which of the following age durations is considered as Early Adulthood stage of human life?

  1. Starts around 25 years until around 45 years
  2. Starts around 18 years until 25 years
  3. Starts at 6 years and continues till the onset of puberty
  4. Begins with the onset of puberty until 18 years

Answer: B

Sol:

The Correct Answer is: (b) Starts around 18 years until 25 years

Explanation:
The stage of Early Adulthood begins around the age of 18 and continues till 25 years. This is a transitional phase where individuals shift from adolescence to adulthood.

Psychologists often refer to this phase as “emerging adulthood”, characterized by exploration and personal growth.

Information Booster:
• Early Adulthood (18–25 years) is characterized by emotional maturity, physical peak, and identity formation.​
• The brain, especially the prefrontal cortex, continues to develop into the mid-20s, aiding decision-making.​
• Term “Emerging Adulthood” was coined by Jeffrey Arnett.

Additional Information:

  • Begins with the onset of puberty until 18 years – Known as adolescence, characterized by physical, emotional, and psychological changes.

The tendency of an atom or a functional group to attract a shared pair of electrons toward itself is known as:

  1. electro-positivity
  2. electron affinity
  3. electro attraction
  4. electronegativity

Answer: D

Sol:

The correct answer is: (d) Electronegativity

Explanation:
Electronegativity is the tendency of an atom or a functional group to attract a shared pair of electrons towards itself when it is part of a covalent bond. It is a measure of the ability of an atom in a molecule to attract electrons.

The higher the electronegativity, the stronger the atom’s pull on the electrons in the bond.

Information Booster:

  • Electronegativity is often measured using the Pauling scale, with fluorine being the most electronegative element.
  • It plays a key role in determining the polarity of a covalent bond. If the electronegativity difference between two atoms is large, the bond is polar.
  • The electronegativity trend in the periodic table shows that electronegativity increases across a period (from left to right) and decreases down a group (from top to bottom).

Additional Information:

  • Electro-positivity: Refers to the ability of an atom to donate electrons, typically seen in metals.
  • Electron affinity: Is the amount of energy released when an atom gains an electron, which involves attracting electrons in a bond.

Oxalic acid is naturally present in which of the following kitchen ingredients?​

  1. Lemon
  2. Vinegar
  3. Spinach
  4. Milk

Answer: C

Sol:

The correct answer is (C) Spinach

Explanation:

Oxalic acid is naturally found in spinach and several other vegetables. It is an organic compound that can form insoluble salts when combined with calcium, often referred to as calcium oxalate. While oxalic acid is present in many plants, spinach is particularly known for having a significant amount.

Information Booster:

  • Oxalic acid in spinach can affect the absorption of minerals like calcium and iron.
  • It is found in other foods like rhubarb, beets, and kale as well.
  • Oxalic acid can contribute to kidney stone formation in sensitive individuals when consumed in large quantities.
  • Cooking spinach can reduce its oxalic acid content.
  • It is a naturally occurring substance, not artificially added to food.

Additional Information:

  • Lemon: While lemon is acidic, it does not contain oxalic acid. Its main acid is citric acid.
  • Vinegar: Vinegar contains acetic acid, not oxalic acid.
  • Milk: Milk is rich in calcium but does not contain oxalic acid.

What does the horizontal row in the periodic table represent?

  1. Groups
  2. Columns
  3. Periods
  4. Blocks

Answer: C

Sol:

Correct Ans is (c)Periods

Sol.

  • The horizontal rows in the periodic table are called Periods.
  • Each period represents a new electron shell being filled with electrons as you move from left to right.
  • There are 7 periods in the periodic table, each corresponding to the filling of a new electron shell.

Information Booster:

  • Periods indicate the number of electron shells present in the atoms of elements.
  • The properties of elements change progressively across a period.
  • The first period contains only 2 elements (H and He), while the seventh period is the longest, containing 32 elements.
  • As you move across a period, the atomic number increases, and the elements tend to become less metallic.
  • The number of valence electrons increases as you move from left to right across a period.
  • Periods help in determining the overall electron configuration of elements.

Additional Information:

Periodic Table

  • Atomic Number: Elements are arranged by increasing atomic number, which represents the number of protons in an atom’s nucleus.
  • Periods: There are 7 periods (horizontal rows). As you move from left to right across a period, elements become less metallic and more non-metallic.
  • Groups: There are 18 groups (vertical columns). Elements in the same group share similar chemical properties due to having the same number of valence electrons.
  • Blocks: The periodic table is divided into 4 blocks based on electron configuration:
    • s-block: Groups 1 and 2.
    • p-block: Groups 13-18.
    • d-block: Transition metals (Groups 3-12).
    • f-block: Lanthanides and Actinides.

What is the nature of the wavefront from a point source in an isotropic medium?

  1. Cylindrical
  2. Spherical
  3. Elliptical
  4. Plane

Answer: B

Sol:

The correct answer is (B) Spherical

Explanation:

  • In an isotropic medium, when a point source emits waves, the wavefronts spread out equally in all directions from the point source. This results in the formation of spherical wavefronts.
  • The waves propagate outward, forming concentric spheres with the point source at the center.
  • An isotropic medium means that the properties of the medium are the same in all directions, so the wavefronts are spherical, maintaining symmetry in all directions.

Information Booster:

  • Wavefronts are surfaces of constant phase, and the nature of wavefronts depends on the shape of the source.
  • For a point source, the waves propagate outward in all directions, leading to spherical wavefronts.
  • This is in contrast to other wavefronts like plane wavefronts (from a distant source) or cylindrical wavefronts (from a line source).

Additional Information:

  • Option A (Cylindrical): Cylindrical wavefronts form when the source is a line, not a point.
  • Option C (Elliptical): This would occur in special cases, such as in elliptical mirrors, not from a point source in an isotropic medium.
  • Option D (Plane): Plane wavefronts occur when the source is far away, effectively acting like a point source at infinity.

In the context of ecology, what is symbiosis?

  1. The process of photosynthesis
  2. A close and long-term interaction between different species
  3. Competition between organisms for resources
  4. Random movement of organisms in their habitat

Answer: B

Sol:

The correct answer is: (B) A close and long-term interaction between different species

Explanation:

In ecology, symbiosis refers to a close and long-term biological interaction between two different species. These species may live together for an extended period and can have positive, negative, or neutral effects on each other. Symbiosis can take various forms, including mutualism (both species benefit), commensalism (one benefits, the other is unaffected), and parasitism (one benefits at the expense of the other).

Information Booster:

  • Mutualism: A form of symbiosis where both species benefit from the interaction. For example, bees and flowers – bees get nectar, and flowers get pollinated.
  • Commensalism: One species benefits, while the other is neither helped nor harmed. For example, barnacles on a whale – barnacles benefit from being transported to nutrient-rich waters, while the whale is unaffected.
  • Parasitism: One species benefits at the expense of the other. An example is ticks on mammals, where ticks feed on the host’s blood, harming the host.
  • Symbiosis can occur in a variety of ecosystems, from marine environments to terrestrial ecosystems.

Additional Knowledge:

  • Photosynthesis: This is the process by which plants produce food using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water.
  • Competition between organisms for resources: This is an ecological interaction where species fight for the same resources (like food or space).
  • Random movement of organisms in their habitat: This describes a form of movement or distribution of organisms.

Which of the following is an example of a chemical change?

  1. Burning wood
  2. Cutting paper
  3. Boiling water
  4. Melting ice

Answer: A

Sol:

  1. Ans. (a)

Sol.
The correct answer is burning wood, as it is an example of a chemical change. In a chemical change, the composition of the substance changes, and new substances are formed. When wood burns, it reacts with oxygen in the air to form new substances such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and ash. This is a chemical reaction, and the original substance (wood) is altered at the molecular level.

Information Booster:

  1. Chemical changes often involve the release or absorption of energy in the form of heat, light, or sound.
  2. Burning involves a combustion reaction where oxygen reacts with a fuel to produce heat and new products.
  3. Chemical changes are usually irreversible; once wood has burned, it cannot be turned back into its original form.
  4. Common examples of chemical changes include rusting of iron, baking a cake, and digestion of food.
  5. In chemical changes, the atoms rearrange to form different molecules, unlike in physical changes, where the molecules remain the same.
  6. The formation of a precipitate or a color change can also indicate a chemical change.

Additional Information:

  • The incorrect options:
    • (b) Cutting paper: Cutting is a physical change because the paper’s composition remains unchanged.
    • (c) Boiling water: Boiling is a physical change because water is still H₂O, and only its state (from liquid to gas) changes.
    • (d) Melting ice: Melting is also a physical change where only the state of matter changes from solid to liquid.

Which element is the first element in group 13 of the periodic table?

  1. Boron
  2. Indium
  3. Aluminium
  4. Gallium

Answer: A

Sol:

The correct answer is (a) Boron
· Boron is the first element in Group 13 (also called boron group) of the periodic table.
· It is a metalloid, showing properties of both metals and non-metals.
· Boron has atomic number 5 and electronic configuration 1s² 2s² 2p¹.
· Group 13 elements show a gradual metallic character down the group.
· Boron is essential in glass, detergents, and agriculture.
· It is rare in nature and mostly found in borax.
Information Booster:
• Group 13 elements: Boron, Aluminium, Gallium, Indium, Thallium.
• Boron is trivalent and forms covalent compounds.
• Used in semiconductors and borosilicate glass.
• Forms boric acid, used as an antiseptic.
• Shows diagonal relationship with Silicon.
• Exists as boron fibers, boranes, and boron carbide.
Additional Information:
• Indium – Soft metal, below Gallium in group 13.
• Aluminium – Second element in group 13.
• Gallium – Third in group, known for melting in hand.

What are the units for base quantities called?

  1. Standard basic units
  2. Fundamental or base units
  3. Basic constants
  4. Derived basic units

Answer: B

Sol:

The correct answer is (B) Fundamental or base units

Explanation:

  • The units for base quantities in the International System of Units (SI) are referred to as fundamental or base units. These base units represent the fundamental physical quantities and are the building blocks for all other measurements.
  • The seven base quantities and their respective units in the SI system are:
    1. Length – meter (m)
    2. Mass – kilogram (kg)
    3. Time – second (s)
    4. Electric current – ampere (A)
    5. Thermodynamic temperature – kelvin (K)
    6. Amount of substance – mole (mol)
    7. Luminous intensity – candela (cd)

Information Booster:

  • Base units are defined independently and are not derived from other units.
  • All other units, known as derived units, are combinations of these base units, such as velocity (m/s), force (kg·m/s²), etc.

Additional Information:

  • Option A (Standard basic units): This is not the commonly used term. The correct term is fundamental or base units.
  • Option C (Basic constants): Constants such as the speed of light or Planck’s constant are not related to the basic units of measurement.
  • Option D (Derived basic units): Derived units are combinations of base units but are not considered base quantities themselves.

The liver belongs to which organ system in the human body?

  1. Digestive system
  2. Nervous system
  3. Respiratory system
  4. Circulatory system

Answer: A

Sol:

The correct answer is: (a) Digestive system

Explanation:

  • The liver is a vital organ in the digestive system.
  • It plays a crucial role in digestion, including the production of bile, which helps break down fats in the digestive process.
  • The liver also metabolizes nutrients absorbed by the intestines, detoxifies harmful substances, and stores vitamins and minerals.
  • Additionally, it produces proteins necessary for blood clotting and regulates blood sugar levels.

Information Booster:

  • Liver Functions: Detoxifies harmful substances, produces bile, and stores glycogen.
  • Bile Production: Bile helps in the digestion and absorption of fats.
  • Metabolism: The liver metabolizes carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for energy.
  • Storage: It stores essential nutrients like glycogen, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Detoxification: The liver filters out toxins from the blood, including drugs and alcohol.

Additional Information:

  • Option (b) Nervous system: Incorrect, as the liver is not part of the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
  • Option (c) Respiratory system: Incorrect, the respiratory system is responsible for gas exchange and includes organs like the lungs and trachea.
  • Option (d) Circulatory system: Incorrect, the circulatory system involves the heart and blood vessels, not the liver.

What does PCB stand for in electronics?

  1. Power Circuit Board
  2. Personal Control Board
  3. Portable Control Base
  4. Printed Circuit Board

Answer: D

Sol:

The correct answer is (d) Printed Circuit Board

  • In electronics, PCB stands for Printed Circuit Board. It is a flat board that mechanically supports and electrically connects electronic components using conductive tracks, pads, and other features etched from copper sheets laminated onto a non-conductive substrate.

Information Booster:

  • PCBs are used in almost all electronic devices, from smartphones to industrial machinery.
  • Components like resistors, capacitors, and microchips are soldered onto PCBs.
  • Common types of PCBs include single-layer, double-layer, and multi-layer boards.
  • PCB design software includes tools like Eagle, KiCad, and Altium Designer.
  • PCBs replaced traditional point-to-point wiring, improving reliability and reducing manufacturing costs.

Which of the following physical quantities has the dimension [M L−³]?

  1. Energy
  2. Density
  3. Pressure
  4. Work

Answer: B

Sol:

Correct Ans is (B) Density

Explanation:

The dimension of density is given by [M L⁻³], which represents mass per unit volume.

  • Density (ρ) = Mass/Volume = [M]/[L³] = [M L⁻³].

Information Booster:

  • Energy (A): The dimension of energy is [M L² T⁻²] (mass × distance² / time²), not [M L⁻³].
  • Pressure (C): The dimension of pressure is [M L⁻¹ T⁻²] (force per unit area), not [M L⁻³].
  • Work (D): The dimension of work is also [M L² T⁻²], which is the same as energy.

Conclusion:

  • Density is the only physical quantity among the options with the dimension [M L⁻³].

For which discovery in 1932 was James Chadwick best known?

  1. Wave theory of light
  2. Thermal ionization
  3. Neutron
  4. Electron

Answer: C

Sol:

The correct answer is (c) Neutron

  • In 1932, James Chadwick discovered the neutron, a neutral subatomic particle located in the nucleus of an atom.
  • This discovery was critical in explaining the atomic mass of elements and understanding nuclear reactions, including nuclear fission.
  • Before Chadwick’s discovery, the atom was thought to consist only of protons and electrons.
  • Neutrons helped explain why atoms of the same element could have different masses (isotopes).

Information Booster:
• Neutrons are uncharged particles with mass slightly greater than that of protons.
• Neutron discovery enabled advancements in nuclear physics and atomic bombs.
• Chadwick was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1935 for this discovery.
• The discovery completed the modern picture of the atomic nucleus.
• Neutrons are key in chain reactions in nuclear reactors.
• Neutron number determines the isotope of an element.

In holozoic nutrition, the first essential step for complex organisms is ______.

  1. egestion
  2. absorption
  3. ingestion
  4. assimilation

Answer: C

Sol:

The correct answer is (C) Ingestion

Explanation:

  • Ingestion is the first essential step in holozoic nutrition, where complex organisms take in food through the mouth.
  • It involves the physical intake of solid or liquid food, which is then processed through various stages like digestion, absorption, and assimilation.
  • After ingestion, the food is broken down into simpler forms that can be absorbed and utilized by the body.

Information Booster:
• Holozoic nutrition is a type of nutrition in which organisms ingest solid food, digest it, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste.
• The process begins with ingestion, followed by digestion, absorption, assimilation, and finally egestion.
• Ingestion is essential for complex organisms, as it provides the raw material needed for further processing.
• Organisms like humans, animals, and some fungi exhibit holozoic nutrition.
• The digestive system plays a key role in breaking down ingested food into absorbable components.

Additional Information:
• Option (A) Egestion: Incorrect. Egestion is the process of eliminating undigested food from the body, and it occurs after digestion and absorption.
• Option (B) Absorption: Incorrect. Absorption takes place after digestion, where nutrients from digested food enter the bloodstream.
• Option (D) Assimilation: Incorrect. Assimilation refers to the incorporation of absorbed nutrients into the body’s cells, which occurs after absorption.

How is the image formed by a plane mirror?

  1. Erect and inverted
  2. Laterally virtual
  3. Virtual and inverted
  4. Virtual and erect

Answer: D

Sol:

The correct answer is: (d) Virtual and erect
Explanation:
· A plane mirror always forms an image that is virtual (not real), erect, and of the same size as the object.
· It also causes lateral inversion, meaning the left and right sides are reversed.
Information Booster:
· The distance of the image behind the mirror is equal to the distance of the object in front.
· Images are laterally inverted, not vertically.
· Used in periscopes, dressing mirrors, and optical devices.
· Cannot be formed on a screen (non-real).
· Law of reflection applies: angle of incidence = angle of reflection.
· The image is laterally inverted but still upright (erect).
Additional Information:
· Erect and inverted – Contradictory; image can’t be both.
· Laterally inverted and virtual – Partially true but not complete.
· Virtual and inverted – Inverted image is not formed by a plane mirror.

The hormone used as a oral contraceptive is .

  1. Cortisone
  2. Progesterone
  3. Testosterone
  4. Aldosterone

Answer: B

Sol:

The correct answer is:(B) Progesterone

Explanation:

  • Progesterone is the hormone commonly used in oral contraceptives (birth control pills).
  • It works by preventing ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus, and altering the uterine lining, making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.

Information Booster:

  • Progesterone is often used in combination with estrogen in oral contraceptives to enhance their effectiveness.
  • Progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone, is also used in many hormonal birth control methods, including pills, IUDs, and implants.
  • Oral contraceptives are a popular and reliable method of birth control when used correctly.
  • Progesterone can also be prescribed for hormonal replacement therapy in postmenopausal women.

Additional Information:

  • Cortisone: A steroid hormone used to treat inflammation, not related to contraception.
  • Testosterone: The primary male sex hormone, not used in contraceptives.
  • Aldosterone: A hormone involved in salt and water balance, not related to contraception.

What is the name of the solution that is employed to identify the existence of starch in food?

  1. Copper sulphate solution
  2. Ammonium chloride
  3. Iodine solution
  4. Chlorine solution

Answer: C

Sol:

The correct answer is: (c) Iodine solution

Explanation:
· Iodine solution is used to test for the presence of starch in food.
· When iodine comes in contact with starch, it turns blue-black, confirming its presence.
· This is a standard qualitative test used in laboratories and educational demonstrations.
Information Booster:
· Starch is a complex carbohydrate found in foods like rice, potatoes, and wheat.
· The blue-black color is due to iodine molecules fitting into the helix of amylose (starch).
· Iodine test is not suitable for proteins or fats.
· This test is often performed in schools for food identification.
· It is a non-destructive and simple test.
· The reagent is typically iodine dissolved in potassium iodide.
Additional Information:
· Copper sulphate solution: Used in Benedict’s or Biuret test for proteins and reducing sugars.
· Ammonium chloride: Used in fertilizers and various lab reactions, not for starch testing.
· Chlorine solution: Disinfectant, not used in food testing for starch.

The caloric theory replaced which older theory of heat and combustion?

  1. Thermodynamic theory
  2. Entropy theory
  3. Kinetic theory
  4. Phlogiston theory

Answer: D

Sol:

The correct answer is (d) Phlogiston theory.

  • The caloric theory of heat, which suggested that heat was a fluid called “caloric” that flowed from hotter objects to cooler ones, replaced the phlogiston theory in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
  • The phlogiston theory posited that combustion occurred because a substance called “phlogiston” was released during burning, and materials that could burn contained phlogiston.
  • Caloric theory gained widespread acceptance after discoveries by scientists such as Antoine Lavoisier, who showed that combustion involved the combination of oxygen with a substance, rather than the release of phlogiston.
  • Later, the caloric theory itself was replaced by the modern kinetic theory of heat and the laws of thermodynamics, which explain heat as the result of the motion of molecules, rather than a substance like caloric.

Information Booster:

  • The phlogiston theory was widely accepted in the 17th and early 18th centuries, particularly in Europe, but was eventually disproven by experiments conducted by Lavoisier.
  • The kinetic theory and thermodynamic theory both explain heat in terms of energy and molecular motion, concepts that were developed in the 19th century.
  • Lavoisier’s experiments with combustion led to the identification of oxygen as the key element involved in burning, rather than the release of phlogiston.

Additional Information:

  • Option A is incorrect because the thermodynamic theory was developed after the caloric theory, not before.
  • Option B is incorrect because entropy theory relates to the second law of thermodynamics, developed much later than the caloric theory.
  • Option C is incorrect because the kinetic theory replaced the caloric theory, but it was developed after the caloric theory, not in place of it.

Which kitchen process is an example of osmosis?

  1. Placing raw mango in a concentrated salt solution
  2. Grinding spices together
  3. Flushing food items with nitrogen
  4. Boiling pasta in milk

Answer: A

Sol:

The correct answer is:(a) Placing raw mango in a concentrated salt solution

Explanation:
Osmosis is the process through which water molecules move from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration across a semipermeable membrane. In the case of placing raw mango in a concentrated salt solution, the water from inside the mango moves out into the salt solution (which has a higher concentration of salt), resulting in the mango becoming soft and dehydrated. This is an example of osmosis because the water moves through the mango’s cell membranes to balance the concentration of salt inside and outside the mango cells.

Information Booster:

  • Osmosis typically occurs in foods like fruits or vegetables when they are placed in solutions of varying concentrations.
  • This principle is used in pickling, where salt or sugar draws water out of fruits or vegetables, preserving them.
  • Osmosis helps in understanding various food preparation processes, including marinating and dehydrating foods.
  • The process of osmosis is also fundamental in biological systems, including the movement of water in plant roots.

Additional Information:

  • (b) Grinding spices together: This is a mechanical process and does not involve osmosis.
  • (c) Flushing food items with nitrogen: This is used for preserving food by freezing or oxygen deprivation, not osmosis.
  • (d) Boiling pasta in milk: This involves heat transfer and absorption of liquid by the pasta, but not osmosis.

Which of the following is NOT a use of baking soda in the kitchen?

  1. For food colouring
  2. In fire extinguishers
  3. As a leavening agent
  4. As an ingredient in antacids

Answer: A

Sol:

The correct answer is: (a) For food colouring

Explanation:

  • Baking soda (chemical name: sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO₃) is not used for food colouring.
  • It is widely used in the kitchen as a leavening agent in baking (helps dough rise), in antacids to relieve acidity, and even in fire extinguishers due to its ability to release CO₂ when heated.
  • However, food colouring requires dyes or pigments, not baking soda.

Information Booster:

  • Baking soda reacts with acids like vinegar or lemon juice to release carbon dioxide (CO₂).
  • It is commonly used in baking cakes, muffins, and bread.
  • Acts as a fire suppressant by releasing CO₂ to smother flames.
  • Used in antacids to neutralize excess stomach acid.
  • It has mild abrasive and deodorizing properties for cleaning as well.

For the domestic tariff, one unit of electrical energy consumption is equal to:

  1. 1 kilowatt-hour
  2. 1 volt ampere hour
  3. 1 kilojoule hour
  4. 1 milliamp hour

Answer: A

Sol:

The correct answer is: (a) 1 kilowatt-hour
Explanation:
· One unit of electricity is defined as 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh), which equals 1000 watts used for 1 hour.
· It is the standard billing unit for domestic electricity consumption.
Information Booster:
· 1 kWh = 1000 watt × 3600 seconds = 3.6 × 10⁶ joules.
· Calculated as: Power (kW) × Time (hr).
· Used by power companies for billing and tariff.
· Measured using an electricity meter.
· Common appliances: 1 kWh = ~ usage of 1 ton AC for 1 hour.
· Monitored by State Electricity Boards (SEBs).
Additional Information:
· Volt ampere hour – Used in AC circuit apparent power, not energy.
· Kilojoule hour – Non-standard for energy billing.
· Milliamp hour – Used in battery capacity, not energy consumption.

Buccal cavity in humans is a part of which system?

  1. Circulatory
  2. Excretory
  3. Digestive
  4. Respiratory

Answer: C

Sol:

The correct answer is (c) Digestive

  • The buccal cavity (mouth) is the entry point of the digestive system in humans.
  • It is where food intake, chewing (mastication), and initial digestion by saliva occur.
  • Salivary glands in the buccal cavity secrete enzymes like amylase that begin the breakdown of carbohydrates.
  • Buccal cavity also plays a minor role in speech and respiration but primarily functions in digestion.

Information Booster:

  • The digestive system includes organs such as the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas.
  • The buccal cavity helps in mechanical digestion through teeth and chemical digestion via enzymes.
  • The respiratory system starts from the nasal and oral cavities but the buccal cavity is mainly for digestion.
  • The circulatory system is responsible for the transport of nutrients and oxygen, not involved with the buccal cavity.
  • The excretory system handles the removal of waste products through the kidneys and bladder, unrelated to the buccal cavity.

What happens to the motion of the particles as the temperature rises?

  1. The particles move in the same direction
  2. The particles slow down
  3. The particles move faster
  4. The particles stay stationary

Answer: C

Sol:

The correct answer is (c) The particles move faster

  • As the temperature increases, the kinetic energy of particles increases.
  • This leads to faster movement of the particles in all states of matter (solid, liquid, gas).
  • In gases, particles move much faster and farther apart as temperature rises.
  • In liquids, particles move more freely, increasing fluidity.
  • In solids, particles vibrate more vigorously at higher temperatures.

Information Booster:

  • Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of particles.
  • Higher temperature → more energy → faster particle motion.
  • Particle motion explains expansion in solids and evaporation in liquids.
  • Faster-moving particles may lead to state changes (like melting or boiling).
  • This principle is used in thermometers, heating systems, and thermal expansion devices.

Which type of wave is primarily formed on a stretched string when plucked or disturbed?

  1. Electromagnetic wave
  2. Surface wave
  3. Torsional wave
  4. Transverse wave

Answer: D

Sol:

The correct answer is: (d) Transverse wave

Explanation:

  • When a stretched string (like a guitar or violin string) is plucked or disturbed, the wave that travels along it is a transverse wave.
  • In a transverse wave, the particles of the medium (string) move perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
  • The vibrations of the string go up and down, while the wave energy moves horizontally along the string.
  • This behavior is characteristic of strings under tension and is a foundational concept in wave mechanics.

Information Booster:

  • Transverse waves have crests and troughs.
  • Examples: Light waves, ripples on water, and vibrations on a stretched string.
  • The speed of a transverse wave on a string depends on the tension and the mass per unit length of the string.
  • Standing waves (stationary waves) on strings are formed by the superposition of two opposite transverse waves.
  • Only transverse waves can be polarized.
  • Transverse waves do not require a medium in the case of electromagnetic waves, but string vibrations do.

Additional Information:

  • Electromagnetic wave: These are transverse but do not require a medium; found in light, radio, etc., not applicable to string vibrations.
  • Surface wave: These occur at the interface of two media, like water waves, and involve both longitudinal and transverse motion.
  • Torsional wave: Involves twisting motion around the axis, seen in rods or shafts — not typically seen in strings.

​Which artificial sweetener is approximately 550 times sweeter than cane sugar?

  1. ​Saccharin
  2. ​Sucralose
  3. ​Aspartame
  4. ​Alitame

Answer: A

Sol:

The correct answer is: (a) Saccharin

Explanation:

  • Saccharin is an artificial sweetener that is approximately 300 to 550 times sweeter than cane sugar (sucrose).
  • It is one of the oldest known artificial sweeteners and is used in diet sodas, sugar-free products, and tabletop sweeteners.
  • Despite being extremely sweet, it has no caloric value and is not metabolized by the body.

Information Booster:

  • Saccharin was discovered in 1879 by Constantin Fahlberg.
    • It is commonly used in beverages, toothpaste, and baked goods.
    • Saccharin is heat-stable and suitable for cooking and baking.
    • It was once banned due to cancer concerns but later declared safe by major food safety agencies.
    • Common brand names include Sweet’N Low and Sweet Twin.

Additional Information:

  • Sucralose – Around 600 times sweeter than sugar; used in Splenda; heat-stable.
    • Aspartame – About 200 times sweeter than sugar; not suitable for baking as it breaks down at high temperatures.
    • Alitame – Roughly 2000 times sweeter than sugar; not widely approved or used globally.
    • Saccharin remains one of the most cost-effective and widely used sweeteners due to its strong sweetness and low cost.

Which of the following physicists is renowned for their groundbreaking research on natural radioactivity?

  1. Marie Curie
  2. Enrico Fermi
  3. J.J. Thomson
  4. Niels Bohr

Answer: A

Sol:

The correct answer is: (a) Marie Curie
Explanation:
· Marie Curie conducted pioneering research on radioactivity, discovering the elements polonium and radium.
· She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different sciences (Physics and Chemistry).
Information Booster:
· She coined the term “radioactivity”.
· Won Nobel in Physics (1903) and Chemistry (1911).
· Contributed to medical applications of radiation.
· Her research laid the foundation for nuclear physics.
· She died of aplastic anemia, likely due to radiation exposure.
· Her notebooks are still radioactive today.
Additional Information:
· Enrico Fermi: Worked on artificial radioactivity and nuclear reactors.
· J.J. Thomson: Discovered the electron, not linked to radioactivity.
· Niels Bohr: Developed the atomic structure model, not focused on radioactivity.

SSC MTS Expected General Science Questions with Solutions_4.1

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FAQs

What type of General Science questions are asked in SSC MTS?

SSC MTS General Science questions are basic and concept-based, mostly from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology relevant to everyday life.

How many General Science questions appear in the SSC MTS exam?

Around 5–7 questions from General Science are usually asked in the General Awareness section of the SSC MTS exam.

SSC MTS Expected General Science Questions with Solutions_5.1
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