UPSC Indian Forest Services

Previous year questions compilation 2014-2023

Geology Optional: Paper I
Section – A
1. General Geology
The Solar System, Origin and Interior Of The Earth

2017 Protoplanetary hypothesis and its relationship to the Solar Nebula.

2017 Discuss the internal structure of the Earth and comment on S and P- waves shadow zones
with suitable diagrams. 10 marks

2019 Discuss the characteristics and properties of the lithosphere and the asthenosphere. 8
marks

2020 Briefly describe the interior of the earth based on compositional layering and seismic
discontinuities. Illustrate your answer with neat label sketch. 15 marks

2021 How do we come to know that the core of the earth is chiefly made up of iron? How do we
estimate the age of core formation? 4 + 4 marks

2022 Critically evaluate the different theories of origin of Earth and explain in detail the most
accepted theory. Illustrate your answer with suitable sketches. 15 marks

2023 Describe giving reason the difference between terrestrial and outer planets. 8 marks

Radioactivity and Age Of The Earth

2014 Describe different radioactive methods applied for determination of the age of the Earth.
15 marks

2019 Briefly enumerate the principles of radiometric dating using U - Pb isotopes. 15 marks

2021 Elucidate with example the principle of determination of absolute age of rocks. 10 marks

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Volcanoes-Causes and Products, Volcanic Belts

2015 What are volcanoes? Discuss critically causes and products of volcanoes. 10 marks

2018 What is a volcano? What are the different types of volcanoes based on the types of eruption
and places where the eruption occurred? 15 marks

2020 What is a volcano? Briefly describe elevated and depressed volcanic landforms (three each).
10 marks

2022 Discuss the characteristics and location of global volcanic belts. On an outline map of world,
show the volcanic belts by hatch marks over the terrain. 15 marks

2023 Describe different types of volcanoes. How does composition of lava regulate the shape of
landform built by them and the eruptive style of volcano? 15 marks

Earthquakes-Causes, Effects, Earthquake Belts, Seismicity Of India, Intensity

And Magnitude, Seismographs

2014 Write on the causes of earthquake. Describe briefly the earthquake belts of the world and
seismic zones of India. 15 marks

2014 Richter scale and modified Mercalli scale 8 marks

2015 Write critical notes on the following: 8 marks each

(i) Causes of earthquakes and global seismic belts

2016 Write critical notes, within 150 words each, on the following: 8 marks each

(i) Recent large magnitude earthquakes in India

(ii) Relation between heat flow and topographic relief of the sea-floor

(iii) Soil types and soil conservation in India

(iv) Sun energy interaction with atmosphere

(v) "Mirror-image" type fold interference pattern

2018 What is an earthquake? Discuss the causes and effects of an earthquake. List the major
geographic distribution of earthquakes worldwide. 15 marks

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2020 What are seismic waves? Give a detailed account on different types of seismic waves.
15 marks

2021 How do earthquakes cause damage? How do we reduce the risk of damage by earthquakes?
15 marks

2022 Mark the different seismic zones on the outline map of India. 8 marks

2023 Enumerate the tectonic settings along which majority of earthquakes occur. Where are deep
and shallow focus earthquakes located? 8 marks

Island Arcs, Deep Sea Trenches, And Mid-Oceanic Ridges

2015 Mid ocean ridges

2020 Write explanatory notes on the following within 150 words each: 8 marks each

(i) Island arc and Volcanic arc

2023 Describe the mid-oceanic ridge. Illustrate your answer with suitable diagram. 10 marks

Continental Drift - Evidences And Mechanisms.

2017 Explain the geological and paleontological evidences of continental drift and comment on the
mechanism of plate separation and collision. 15 marks

2019 Elucidate the present status of Continental Drift in light of the geological and geophysical
evidences. 15 marks

2023 Discuss the evidences of continental drift. 8 marks

Seafloor Spreading

2014 Write critical notes, within 150 words, each on the following: 8 marks each

(i) Seafloor spreading

2017 Discuss the evidences of seafloor spreading and explain with illustrative diagrams how
earthquakes and subduction processes are related to each other. 15 marks

Plate Tectonics

2014 Explain the theory of plate tectonics. Describe different kinds of plate boundaries. 15 marks

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2015 Draw the labelled diagrams to explain the mechanism of different plate boundaries. 15
marks

2016 Describe the morpho-structural and physical characters of continental rift system. 15 marks

2016 Critically analyze the role of different forces associated with the lithospheric plates.

2019 With the help of neat diagrams, discuss different types of plate boundaries and enumerate
their characteristic features. 15 marks

2021 What are the evidences in favour of the theory of plate tectonics? 8 marks

Isostasy, Orogeny And Epeirogeny

2018 What is isostasy? Discuss three different theories of isostasy. What are the merits and
limitations of these theories? 10 marks

2022 Distinguish between the Pratt, Airy, and Vening Meinesz isostasy models. How can perfect
isostatic equilibrium be attained? 8 marks

Continents And Oceans

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 2. Geomorphology and Remote Sensing
Basic concepts of geomorphology

Weathering and Mass Wasting

2015 What is mass wasting? Describe the different types of mass wasting. 15 marks

2018 What are the differences between weathering and erosion? Discuss four different types of
mechanical weathering. 10 marks

2021 What do you understand by Mass Wasting? Describe different processes of mass wasting.
What are the preventive measures to mitigate the risk of hazards due to mass wasting?
15 marks

2021 What is Weathering? Describe different processes of weathering with suitable examples.
10 marks

2023 Describe weathering and its types. How does it influence climate and relief? 15 marks

Landforms, Slopes, And Drainage

2015 Discuss various types of drainage patterns, illustrate your answer with suitable sketches.
15 marks

2016 Mention different drainage anomalies and comment on their significance. 10 marks

2020 Explain the major drainage patterns and their controlling factors. 10 marks

Geomorphic Cycles And Their Interpretation

Morphology And Its Relation To Structures And Lithology

2014 Critically evaluate the role of lithology and structure in the development of landforms. 15
marks

2017 Describe the formation of sand dunes with a suitable sketch. 10 marks

2017 Describe the difference between alluvial fan, floodplain, and delta. 10 marks

2018 What is a moraine? Discuss different types of moraines. 8 marks

2018 Discuss four erosional and four depositional landforms associated with a river. 15 marks

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2019 Describe the origin of Karst topography. 8 marks

2019 Discuss how lithology controls topography. 10 marks

2020 Which factors control floods in rivers? 8 marks

2022 Elucidate the erosional features of aeolian landforms. 8 marks

2023 Describe the remnant landforms that indicate occurrence of past glacial activity over a region.
How are the records of moraines useful in interpreting past changes in climate? 15
marks

Coastal Geomorphology

2016 Critically analyze the patterns of deltas associated with major river systems in the east coast
of India. 15 marks

2019 Compare the geomorphic features along the Eastern and Western Coasts of India. 15 marks

Applications Of Geomorphology In Mineral Prospecting, Civil Engineering,

Hydrology And Environmental Studies
2017 Using case studies, explain the application of geomorphology in mineral prospecting. 15
marks
2022 Critically assess the role of geomorphology in evaluating the ancient and modern
hydrological regime of a terrain. Elucidate your answer by taking examples from Indian
fluvial systems. 15 marks
Geomorphology Of Indian Sub-Continent
2017 Geomorphic features along the eastern coast of India 8 marks

Aerial Photographs And Their Interpretation -Merits And Limitations

2014 What are aerial photographs? Discuss their utility in interpretation of geological structures
and important rock types. 15 marks
2015 Describe the different types of key-elements for interpretation of satellite images. 15 marks
2015 Types of aerial photographs 8 marks
2018 Discuss the spectral and spatial resolution of a satellite image. 8 marks
2018 Explain in detail about panchromatic, multispectral, and hyperspectral remote sensing
images with example. 10 marks

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2020 Describe the different types of aerial photographs. Comment on the utility of these in
geological studies. Illustrate your answer with neat label sketches. 15 marks
2021 What are the principles of recognizing lithology from aerial photographs? 8 marks
The Electromagnetic Spectrum
Spectral Reflectance
2016 Explain the concept of "spectral reflectance" and add a note on the spectral reflectance
pattern of vegetation and water bodies. 15 marks
Orbiting Satellites And Sensor Systems
2014 Multispectral scanner (MSS)

2017 Salient characters of geostationary and polar orbiting satellites

2017 Describe the components and working principles of

(i) Cross-track scanners, and
(ii) RISAT
2020 Sensors used in IRS series satellites and their characteristics
2022 Describe the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites and their typical applications. 15 marks
Indian Remote Sensing Satellites
2020 What are the geomorphic criteria used in mineral prospecting? 8 marks

2022 Discuss the spectral range, ground resolution, and image swaths of IRS series sensors.
10 marks
Satellite Data Products
2022 Describe False Colour Composite (FCC) data products and their interpretation basics.
8 marks
Applications Of Remote Sensing In Geology
2017 With the help of a case study, describe the methodology for using satellite imagery and GIS
to identify potential zones of groundwater. 8 marks
2019 Highlight the advantages and limitations of remote sensing studies with respect to
conventional geological field work. 15 marks
2020 Discuss the applications of remote sensing in Geology. 10 marks
2023 Describe the application of remote sensing in Geology. 15 marks

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The Geographic Information System (GIS) And Global Positioning System
(GPS)
2014 Write briefly on Geographic Information System (GIS). How is GIS applied in environmental
monitoring. 10 marks
2015 Global Positioning System (GPS) 8 marks
2019 Write briefly on the Global Positioning System (GPS). 8 marks
2023 Describe the working of Global Positioning System (GPS). 8 marks
2023 Discuss the utility of thematic maps in GIS. 10 marks

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 3. Structural Geology
Principles Of Geologic Mapping And Map Reading
2017 Enumerate the tools and equipment required to undertake geological mapping. Explain the
importance of geological mapping. 10 marks
Projection Diagram
2014 Stereographic projection 8 marks
2015 Discuss the importance of stereographic projections in structural analysis. 10 marks
2018 Discuss about stereographic projections for structural analysis with neat diagrams. 15 marks
2019 What is the significance of equal area projection in solving structural geology problems?
8 marks
2022 Distinguish between the Wulff and Schmidt net used in creating projection diagrams. Add a
note on their relative advantages and disadvantages 8 marks
Stress And Strain Ellipsoid
2014 Flinn diagram 8 marks
Stress-Strain Relationships Of Elastic, Plastic, And Viscous Materials
2015 Discuss critically on stress and strain relationships in plastic and elastic rock materials. 10
marks
2017 How are stress and strain related to each other? Explain the stress-strain curves in terms of
brittle, ductile and viscous materials. 15 marks
2023 Discuss the three major plastic deformation mechanisms affecting rocks and minerals. 15
marks
Strain Markers In Deformed Rocks
2019 Enumerate the strain markers in deformed rocks, with the help of neat sketches. 10 marks
2020 What are the various evidences of strain recorded in deformed rocks? How is the amount of
deformation calculated? 10 marks
Behaviour Of Minerals And Rocks Under Deformation Conditions
2014 Define stress and strain and wite on the behaviour of rocks under deformation condition. 10
marks
2016 Discuss the strain significance of different tectonites. 10 marks
2016 Discuss the criteria to determine the sense of shearing in ductile and brittle shear zones with
neat sketches 10 marks

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2019 What is recrystallization of minerals? How is it related to deformation? Explain with neat
sketches. 10 marks
2022 Describe the deformation mechanisms of minerals and rocks, and add a note on their
characteristic features 15 marks
2022 Define tectonites and describe the three types of tectonites with examples. Explain how
each type of tectonite can be used to decipher strain. 15 marks
2023 Explain how the sense of shear in deformation zones can be determined from pressure
shadows. 8 marks
Folds And Faults - Classification And Mechanics
2014 Describe the genetic classification of faults based on the nature of relative movement. 15
marks
2015 Describe transform and transcurrent faults, and their differences with diagram. 15 marks
2015 Give an account on classification of faults and critically comment on the mechanism of
faulting. 15 marks
2015 Classification of folds with respect to axial plane orientation 8 marks
2016 Explain the mechanism and development of disharmonic folds. 15 marks
2017 Classification of folds on the basis of orientation of axial plane

2018 What is a fold? Draw neat sketches and discuss Ramsay's classification of fold based on dip
isogon. 15 marks
2018 What is a fault? Draw a neat diagram and discuss different terminologies associated with a
fault plane. Discuss four criteria for recognizing fault in a field. 15 marks
2019 What is thrust fault? Explain the mechanism of development of thrust fault with neat
sketches. 15 marks
2020 Genetic classification of faults based on relative movement 8 marks

2020 Discuss how the depths of a fold can be calculated. Enlist the assumptions in the
calculation. 15 marks
2021 Distinguish between Strike-slip fault and Dip-slip fault. Illustrate with diagram the effect of
erosion on rock blocks having apparent movement. 15 marks
2022 Explain how parasitic folds are used in interpreting large-scale folding. 10 marks
2023 Describe dip isogon method of fold classification with suitable illustrations.

Structural Analysis Of Folds, Faults, Foliations, Lineations, Joints

And Unconformities

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2014 Define foliation. How does foliation help to decipher associated major structures? Explain.
10 marks
2017 Describe unconformities and their types, and give the various criteria to distinguish them
from faults. 10 marks
2018 Describe strike, dip direction and dip amount of a bed. Can the strike and dip be measured
in all types of orientation of beds? How are strike, dip direction and dip amount of horizontal,
tilted, and vertical strata represented on a map? 8 marks
2019 Describe the different types of breaks in a stratigraphic record and their identification in the
field. 15 marks
2020 Illustrated the relation between cleavage and schistosity to major structures. 15 marks
2020 Different kinds of unconformities 8 marks
2021 How would you distinguish between an unconformity and a fault? 8 marks
2021 Illustrate the genetic classification of joints with suitable sketches. 10 marks
2021 Describe different types of planar structures in folded strata. How do you use cleavage to
determine structures in three dimensions? 15 marks
2021 What is nappe? Describe the structure of window and klippe. How do they differ from outlier
and inlier structures? Explain with suitable diagrams. 15 marks
2023 During fieldwork in the Southern Granulite Terrain, rectangular, lenticular, and barrel-shaped
boudins were encountered. Sketch these boudins and describe the conditions that led to
their formation. 15 marks
Superimposed Deformation
Time-Relationship Between Crystallization And Deformation
2022 Explain with the help of sketches how microstructures in porphyroblasts can be used to
determine post-crystallization deformation. List five other features which are also indicative
of such deformation. 15 marks.
Introduction To Petro-Fabrics
2017 Petrofabric analysis. 8 marks

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 4. Paleontology
Species Definition And Nomenclature
2021 Briefly describe the species concept and problems of adopting biological species concept in
paleontology. 8 marks
Megafossils And Microfossils
2016 Discuss the method of separation of microfossils from shaly rocks. 15 marks
2016 Give a critical comment on "dimorphism among foraminifers". 10 marks
2018 How are abiotic conditions reflected in the test ornamentation of microfossils? Enumerate
with example. 8 marks
2018 What is 'dimorphism' in foraminiferal reproduction? How is dimorphism established through
the features in foraminiferal tests? Discuss the evolutionary changes of foraminifers through
geological ages. 15 marks
Modes Of Preservation Of Fossils
2019 Explain in brief the manner of preservation of traces of animals. 8 marks
2022 Explain the effects on the dead organism before burial. 8 marks
Different Kinds Of Microfossils
2017 Write explanatory notes within 150 words each, on the following: 8 marks each
(i) Mineral-walled microfossils and their applications in a stratigraphic correlation.

2022 Describe the important groups of microfossils, their composition, and applications. 10 marks
Application Of Microfossils In Correlation, Petroleum Exploration,
Paleoclimatic And Paleoceanographic Studies
2014 Right critical notes within 150 words each on the following: 8 marks each
(i) Use of microfossils in correlation and paleoclimatic study
2017 Briefly describe organic walled microfossils. Discuss their applications in petroleum
exploration. 15 marks
2021 Discuss the palaeoecological significance of foraminifera and add a note on their uses in oil
exploration. 10 marks
2023 Why do we study paleontology in Geology? 15 marks

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Morphology, Geological History And Evolutionary Trend In Cephalopoda,
Trilobita, Brachiopoda, Echinoidea, And Anthozoa
2014 Discuss the evolutionary trends of Trilobites during Lower Palaeozoic Era. 15 marks
2014 Describe precisely the evolutionary trends of the tabulate corals. 10 marks
2015 Write critical notes: 8 marks each
(i) Morphology of trilobites
2016 Write critical notes, within 150 words each, on the following: 8 marks each
(i) Septa and Sutures in Cephalopods with neat sketches
(ii) Musculatures among Brachiopods with neat sketches
2017 Describe using diagrams the morphology of Graptolites and comment on the significance of
Graptolites in the evolution of vertebrates. 15 marks
2017 Discuss the geological history of Trilobites with specific description of the abundance,
decline and extinction of the group through the Palaeozoic Era. 15 marks
2018 Which paleogeographic condition is generally indicated by the presence of brachiopods.
How is 'habitat shifting' represented by brachiopods in rocks throughout time? Discuss about
major features of brachiopod shells. 15 marks
2019 In the context of Dollo's Law, discuss the different patterns of evolution observed in fossils.
8 marks
2019 Describe the evolutionary trends in the eyes of trilobites. Illustrate your answer with suitable
sketches. 15 marks
2020 Write on the following within 150 words each: 8 marks each
i. Evolution of suture in Ammonoidea

2020 Describe in detail the morphology of Echinoids. Illustrate your answer with suitable sketches.
15 marks
2021 Discuss with the help of need diagram morphology of Brachiopod. Add a note on their
development of deltidium. 15 marks
2021 Explain in detail morphology Graptolites. What are the characteristic features that make
them index fossils for the Lower Palaeozoic? 15 marks
2022 Describe the morphology of trilobites with the help of neatly labelled diagrams. Comment on
the geological history and stratigraphic importance. 15 marks
2023 Differentiate between Pelecypoda and Brachiopoda. 8 marks

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2023 Define facial suture line and its types with neat diagrams. 8 marks
2023 Differentiate between regular and irregular echinoids. 10 marks
Evolutionary Trend In Hominidae, Equidae, And Proboscidae
2015 Discuss the evolutionary trends in Proboscidea, answer with suitable sketches. 15 marks
2015 Discuss the evolutionary trends in Hominidae. 15 marks
2016 Write brief notes on the dental formula and molar dentation among hominids with neat
sketches. 15 marks
2018 What is orthogenesis? Comment on the progressive trend of evolution from Hyracotherium
to Equus. 8 marks
2019 Draw neat labelled sketches to depict the evolution of toes in Equidae. 15 marks
2019 With the help of neat diagrams, depict the evolutionary trends in Proboscideans. 15 marks
2020 Briefly describe the evolution of brain capacity in Hominidae. 10 marks
2021 With the help of neat diagram describe evolutionary trends in Equidae. 8 marks
2022 Discuss in brief the evolutionary trends in Hominidae. 15 marks
2023 Discuss in brief the evolutionary trends in Equidae. 15 marks
Siwalik Fauna
2014 Describe briefly the Siwalik fauna. Add a note on evolution of Hipparion and Equus during
the Siwalik period. 15 marks
Gondwana Flora And Fauna And Its Importance
2015 Discuss the importance of Gondwana flora in paleoclimatic interpretation. 15 marks

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 5. Stratigraphy and Geology Of India
Classification Of Stratigraphic Sequences
Lithostratigraphy, Biostratigraphy, Chronostratigraphy And
Magnetostratigraphy And Their Interrelationships
2015 Lithostratigraphy
2016 Critically analyze the nomenclature in biostratigraphic classification. 10 marks
2017 Define lithostratigraphy and comment on the criteria for lithostratigraphic classification and
description of various rank terms. 15 marks
2020 . Lithostratigraphic classification and description of rank terms 8 marks
2021 What are chronostratigraphic units? Illustrate the methods of chronostratigraphic correlation.
10 marks
2022 Describe the different concepts of zone. 8 marks
2023 Describe chronostratigraphic and time units. 15 marks
Distribution And Classification Of Precambrian Rocks Of India
2015 Discuss briefly stratigraphy of Dharwar Supergroup of rocks. 2016 Discuss the Precambrian
rocks of the Dharwar supergroup. 10 marks
2019 Discuss the tectonic evolution of Aravalli Craton. 15 marks
2020 Discuss in detail the stratigraphy of the Aravalli Supergroup. 15 marks
2021 Discuss in detail the Precambrian stratigraphy of the Singhbhum craton. 15 marks
2022 Describe the stratigraphy of Dharwar Craton. Explain the tectonic boundary of Dharwar
Craton. 15 marks
Study Of Stratigraphic Distribution And Lithology Of Phanerozoic Rocks Of
India With Reference To Fauna, Flora, And Economic Importance
2014 Describe the stratigraphic succession and palaeontology of the Jurassic rocks of Kutch.
15 marks
2015 Permo-Triassic Event
2016 Phanerozoic volcanic activities in the Kashmir basin and their impact on paleoclimate
2017 Discuss the stratigraphy and distribution of marine depositional episodes in the Gondwana
sequence of India. 10 marks
2017 Paleogeographic reconstruction of India during Gondwana times using suitable diagrams.

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2018 Discuss about the two-fold classification of Gondwana group of rocks, mentioning the stages
and their ages. Comment on the important floras. of Lower Gondwana and Upper
Gondwana basins. 15 marks
2018 In Indian stratigraphy, Cuddapah system plays a dominant role. Attempt the stratigraphic
classification of the Cuddapah group of sediments. Add a note on the age of these rocks
with special reference to the economic potential associated. 15 marks
2019 Describe the depositional environments prevailing during the deposition of the Paleogene
belt of Sirmur Group of Himachal Pradesh. 15 marks
2019 Describe the lithostratigraphic succession of the Siwalik Group and comment on the
paleoclimatic regime that prevailed during its deposition. 8 marks
2020 Discuss the mammalian fossil record of Lower and Upper Siwaliks. Comment on the
reasons for decline in fossils from the Upper Siwalik Boulder Conglomerate Formation.
15 marks
2021 Describe the stratigraphy of Mesozoic of Kuchh mentioning characteristic fossils from each
unit. 15 marks
2022 Discuss the lithology of Krol formation and add notes on age and fossil contents. 8 marks
2022 Explain the term Gondwana and its classification. Add notes on its sedimentation and
paleoclimate. 10 marks
2023 Discuss the lithology of the Blaini Formation and add notes on the age and depositional
paleoenvironment of the Formation. 8 marks
2023 Describe the lithostratigraphic succession of the Sausar Group and add notes on its
structural setup and economic importance. 10 marks
2023 Discuss the Paleozoic sequence of Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh and its fossil contents.
15 marks
Major Boundary Problems Cambrian/Precambrian, Permian/Triassic,
Cretaceous/Tertiary, And Pliocene/Pleistocene
2014 Discuss the Cretaceous/Tertiary boundary problem in Indian stratigraphy. 15 marks
2016 Precambrian-Cambrian boundary sections in India through geological ages 8 marks
2018 What do you mean by stratigraphic boundary problems? How do you substantiate the
observation on Pakhal controversy? 10 marks
2019 The Permian - Triassic boundary represents a phase of mass extinction in the Earth's
history. Discuss the Permian-Triassic boundary problem in a stratigraphy. 15 marks
2020 Pliocene-Pleistocene boundary problem
2021 Describe in brief Cretaceous/Tertiary boundary problem with reference to India. 15 marks

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Study Of Climatic Conditions, Paleogeography, And Igneous Activity In The
Indian Sub-Continent In The Geological Past
2017 Chronological order of volcanic events in the Indian Plate, and explanation of causes and
manner of Deccan volcanism.
2018 What is paleogeography? How does the present petrographic domain reconstruct the past
events? 8 marks
Tectonic Framework Of India
2020 Describe the structure of Western And Eastern Continental Margins of India. 15 marks
Evolution Of The Himalayas
2014 Write on evolution of the Himalayas based on modern concepts. 15 marks
2015 Describe the stratigraphic succession of Palaeogene rocks of North Western Himalaya. 10
marks
2017 Tabulate the Palaeozoic stratigraphic succession and their equivalents in Spiti, Kashmir, and
Kumaon basins of the Himalayas. 10 marks
2018 What is Himalayan Orogeny? Briefly describe the structure and tectonic history of
Himalayas. 15 marks
2020 Discuss the Devonian stratigraphic succession of Garhwal Himalaya.10 marks
2022 Discuss the Palaeozoic sequence of Kumaun-Garhwal Himalaya and its fossil contents.
15 marks

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 6. Hydrogeology And Engineering Geology
Hydrogeologic Cycle And Genetic Classification Of Water
2018 With the help of a neat sketch, draw a labelled diagram of hydrological cycle. 8 marks
2020 Briefly describe the genetic classification of water. Comment on the different types of
aquifers. 15 marks
Movement Of Subsurface Water
Springs
2022 Describe the different types of thermal springs. Add a note on the current utility of these
geothermal resources. 10 marks
Porosity, Permeability, Hydraulic Conductivity, Transmissivity, And Storage
Coefficient
2015 Hydraulic Conductivity
2018 What do you understand by the terms hydraulic conductivity and storage coefficient? 10
marks
2021 What is Darcy's law? What are its limitations? 10 marks
2023 In an aquifer with hydraulic conductivity of 10 m/day and effective porosity of 0.10,
determine the velocity of groundwater flow between two locations with elevation difference
of 12 m, separated by 12000 m. 8 marks
Classification Of Aquifers
Water-Bearing Characteristics Of Rocks
2017 Elaborate the procedure for 'Aquifer Performance Test' and estimation of hydraulic
properties of aquifers. 15 marks
2022 Discuss in brief different geological formations as aquifers. 8 marks
Groundwater Chemistry
2020 Importance of groundwater chemistry
2021 What is the hardness of a groundwater which contains 20 mg/L of calcium and 5 mg/L of
magnesium? 8 marks
2023 Describe the Hill-Piper diagram for representation of groundwater chemistry data and
illustrate the answer with diagrams, labelled with different hydrogeochemical facies.
15 marks
Salt Water Intrusion

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2015 Discuss the problems on seawater intrusion as coastal aquifers. 10 marks
2016 Saltwater intrusion in coastal aquifers 8 marks
2017 Ghyben-Herzberg relationship 8 marks
2021 What is the Ghyben-Herzberg relationship between fresh and saline waters? 15 marks
Types Of Wells
2020 What are the different types of groundwater wells? Discuss the characteristics of each well.
10 marks
Drainage Basin Morphometry
2022 Describe the utility of drainage basin morphometric indices in evaluating the tectonic impact
in fluvial geomorphology. 15 marks
Exploration For Groundwater
2016 Discuss the major fracture systems and different groundwater provinces of India. 15 marks
2019 Describe the different techniques used to date groundwater. 8 marks
2019 Enumerate the methods of groundwater exploration and development. 8 marks
2023 Differentiate between Schlumberger and Wenner electrical resistivity methods for
groundwater exploration. Illustrate the answer with suitable diagrams of electrode
positioning. 10 marks
Groundwater Recharge
2014 Critically evaluate the processes and rock properties to be considered for artificial recharge
of groundwater. 15 marks
2019 Describe various groundwater recharge structures with the help of neat diagrams. 15 marks
Problems And Management Of Groundwater
2015 Describe the challenges and management strategies for effective use of groundwater. 15
marks
2017 How does the urbanization affect groundwater recharge? How can the recharge be
increased? 10 marks
2018 Write about the source, speciation, and fixation of 'Arsenic Contamination' in groundwater
with special emphasis to the Indian context. 8 marks
2019 Describe the various groundwater quality criteria prescribed for drinking, agriculture, and
industrial use. 10 marks
Rainwater Harvesting

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2018 What is rainwater harvesting? Enumerate the different types of structures constructed for
rain water harvesting. 10 marks
Engineering Properties Of Rocks
2017 Give a detailed account of the field and laboratory tests carried out to determine the
engineering properties of rocks. 15 marks
2018 Define the terms Rock Quality Designation and Rock Mass Rating (RQD & RMR). How are
these parameters useful in the analysis of the design of roof support system in tunnel
excavations? 15 marks
2022 Elucidate the important physical properties of rocks tested for different civil engineering
uses.15 marks
Geological Investigations For Dams, Tunnels, Highways, Railway, And Bridges
2014 Describe the salient geological features required for selection of a tunnel site. 10 marks
2016 Critically discuss the geological factors for selection of a dam site. 15 marks
2019 Discuss in detail the geotechnical parameters used for selection of tunnel sites. 10 marks
2020 Describe the different types of dams and the forces acting on these. 15 marks
2021 Describe the different terminologies of a dam and explain various types of dams. Which
geologic investigations need to be carried out for construction of a successful dam?
15 marks
2021 Which geologic factors need to be considered for tunneling in consolidated rocks? 8 marks
2023 Discuss the factors that ensure safety, stability, and cost-effectiveness of dam projects.
15 marks
Rock As Construction Material
2023 Discuss the properties of laterite which make it useful as a building stone. s8 marks
Landslides Causes, Prevention And Rehabilitation
2014 What are the causes of landslide? Mention about the preventive measures of landslide
giving Indian examples. 10 marks
2015 Describe the different types of landslides and the possible rehabilitation measures. 10 marks
2017 Prevention of Landslides
2018 What is creep, solifluction, and landslide? Enumerate their significance that leads to mass
scale devastation.15 marks
Alkali-Aggregate Reaction
2017 Causes, effects, and mitigation measures of concrete cancer.

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Earthquake Resistant Structures
2016 Describe the earthquake resistant structures. 10 marks
2017 Describe the geological considerations for designing and constructing earthquake resistant
structures. 10 marks
2020 Various aspects of earthquake resistant structures 8 marks

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 Geology Optional: Paper 2
Section - A
1. Mineralogy
Classification Of Crystals Into Systems And Classes Of Symmetry
2014 Describe the symmetry elements and unit forms of the normal class of Tetragonal system.
Mention the names of common minerals that crystallize in this class. 8 marks
2014 Discuss the plane of symmetry in Rotation, Translation, Reflection and Glide Reflection with
neat sketches. 8 marks
2016 Write symmetry elements shown by normal class in isometric system and that of
orthorhombic system. Briefly write on the international system of crystallographic notation.
6+4 marks
2017 What are the two crystal systems in which Mg-Fe and Ca-pyroxene crystallize? How do
these two types of pyroxenes be distinguished based on their optical properties? 8 marks
2018 Explain the symmetry configuration of 'Normal Class' of 'Orthorhombic System' and discuss
the characteristic forms. 15 marks
2019 Elaborate the symmetry elements of 'Normal Class' of cubic system with the help of neat
well-labelled diagrams. 10 marks
2020 What are the minimum symmetry requirements for the monoclinic system? Draw
stereographic projection corresponding to normal class of the system. Write names of two
minerals that crystallize in this system. 8 marks
2021 What are 'Symmetry elements' in crystallography? Write the symmetry elements of normal
class of tetragonal system. 8 marks
2022 Explain the characteristics of crystallographic axes and holding position of crystals belonging
to various systems. 15 marks
2023 Describe in detail the classification of crystal systems based on the crystallographic axes
and symmetry elements. Give examples and neat well-labelled diagrams, wherever
required. 15 marks
International System Of Crystallographic Notation
2020 Discuss briefly about indexing a crystal face. Calculate the Miller indices of a crystal face
having Wiess Symbol of 1a, b, c . 8 marks

Use Of Projection Diagrams To Represent Crystal Symmetry

2014 Discuss in brief angles, axis, faces and type of lattice defects using stereographic projection
in crystal system. 15 marks

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2017 Which crystallographic system does the crystal represented by the stereogram below belong
to? What faces constitute pinacoid form? What form do the general faces (hk/) belong to?
Which of the projected faces are parallel to the c-axis? 8 marks

Crystal Defects
2023 What do you understand by crystal defects? Briefly explain the types of structural defects
found in crystals. 8 marks
Elements Of X-Ray Crystallography
2016 Discuss how X-ray diffraction patterns are used for identification of minerals. 10 marks
2022 Explain diffraction of X-rays in minerals and derive Bragg's law. 15 marks
Physical And Chemical Characters Of Rock Forming Silicate Mineral Groups
2018 How are amphibole and pyroxene distinguished based on crystal structures and optical
properties. 10 marks
2019 Describe the crystal structure, types, mineralogy, composition, physical and optical
properties of mica group of minerals. 15 marks
2020 Describe the crystal structure, types, mineralogy, composition, physical, and optical
properties of pyroxene group of minerals. 15 marks
2021 Discuss the crystal structure, classification, composition, physical and optical properties of
feldspar group of minerals. 15 marks
2022 Compare and contrast the structure of SIO, and feldspar group. 8 marks

Page 23
2023 What are the types of compositional zoning? Discuss the petrogenetic significance of
compositional zoning in feldspar minerals. 8 marks
2023 Describe the crystal structure, types, mineralogy, composition, physical and optical
properties of amphibole group of minerals. Add a note on the uses of amphibole minerals.
15 marks
2023 Explain in detail the physical properties of minerals depending upon:
(i) Interaction with light
(ii) State of aggregation 15 marks
Structural Classification Of Silicates
2015 What is the fundamental unit of silicate structure? Discuss and classify different types of
silicate structures. 20 marks
2018 Classify the various 'silicate structures' with neat diagrams. 8 marks
2019 Discuss the diagnostic physical, optical, and chemical characteristics of two common rock-
forming minerals each from inosilicates and nesosilicates. 15 marks
2020 Draw a labelled diagram of SiO4 tetrahedra. Give the structural classification of silicate
minerals. 8 marks
2021 Describe inosilicate structures with examples. 8 marks
2022 Explain the trioctahedral and dioctahedral groups of phyllosilicate citing suitable examples.
10 marks

Common Minerals Of Igneous And Metamorphic Rocks

2015 Based on mineralogy, distinguish basic and ultrabasic rocks.10 marks
2017 Olivine crystallizes in space group Pbnm. What crystallographic information do you derive
from this space group symbol? How does olivine in a mid-oceanic ridge basalt alter? Mineral
formula of an olivine is given below. Express this in end-member composition. 10 marks
2+ 3+
Fe0.61Fe0.04 Mg1.80Si0.96 Al0.4O4

Minerals Of The Carbonate, Phosphate, Sulphide, And Halide Groups

2014 Briefly discuss the most abundant minerals of phosphates and sulphates and their
mineralization in the Earth's crust. 10 marks
Petrological Microscope And Accessories
2020 Draw a neat labelled sketch of a petrological microscope. Add a brief note on each part of
the microscope. 8 marks

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Optical Properties Of Common Rock Forming Minerals
2015 Distinguish between uniaxial and biaxial minerals. 20 marks
2016 How can 'hornblende' and 'augite' be distinguished based on their optical properties? Write
the names of any three sulphide minerals and two carbonate minerals (with their chemical
compositions). 10 marks
2017 Explain in brief the optical properties of minerals in thin sections that can be studied under
transmitted light using a petrological microscope. 10 marks
2022 Give the diagnostic properties of the following minerals as observed under petrological
microscope: 10 marks
(i) Quartz
(ii) Albite
(iii) Augite
(iv) Olivine
2023 Explain the phenomenon of varying relief observed in calcite mineral under the plane
polarized light with the help of neat well-labelled diagram. 8 marks
Pleochroism, Extinction Angle, Double Refraction, Birefringence, Twinning
And Dispersion In Minerals
2015 Describe various types of twinning in minerals. Comment upon causes of twinning. 8 marks
2016 What do you mean by extinction angles of minerals? Give your answer with suitable
sketches. What are the petrographic changes that take place when the basaltic magma
assimilates a granite country rock? 10 marks
2018 What are biaxial interference figures? Explain how interference figures are obtained under
conoscopic conditions and add a note on types of biaxial interference figures. 15 marks
2019 Explain briefly about the extinction angle of augite, hornblende, and hypersthene with
suitable diagrams. 8 marks
2019 Why do anisotropic minerals exhibit interference colours between crossed polars? Explain
with the help of neat sketches. 8 marks
2020 What is Pleochroism? Describe the method of determining pleochroism in hornblende. 10
marks
2021 Discuss the process of extinction in anisotropic minerals. Describe the different types of
extinction in minerals with examples. 10 marks
2021 Give a detailed account of the twinning in minerals. 15 marks

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 2. Igneous And Metamorphic Petrology
Generation And Crystallization Of Magmas
2015 Using reaction principle, discuss about crystallization of basaltic magma. 20 marks
2015 What is eutectic crystallization? 10 marks
2018 What is eutectic crystallization? Show the behaviour of eutectic crystallization in the binary
system, giving appropriate example. 10 marks
Crystallization Of Albite - Anorthite, Diopside-Anorthite And Diopside -
Wollastonite-Silica Systems
2016 Using crystallization behaviour of basic magma with the help of albite- anorthite system,
explain normal and oscillatory zoning in plagioclase. 10 marks

2017
In the given Albite-Anorthite phase-diagram liquid of A composition begins to crystallize at
1500° C. What would be the composition of first crystallized feldspar? What would be the
composition of liquid and solid at the last stage of crystallization under equilibrium condition?

Page 26
 If the equilibrium between liquid and solid is not maintained, what texture of plagioclase is
likely to result? 10 marks
2020 Draw a neat labelled sketch of the Diopside-Anorthite system (1 atm, dry). Describe the
crystallization behaviour of an initial melt having composition Di80An20. Give petrogenetic
significance of this system. 15 marks
2022 Diopside-Anorthite binary phase diagram represents a simple binary system with no solid
solution. Describe the crystallization behaviour of two melts with composition equivalent to
Di90An10 and Di25An75 focusing on the textural differences of the crystallized rocks. 15 marks
2022 Describe the phenomena of solid solution and exsolution in minerals with suitable examples.
8 marks

Bowen's Reaction Principle

2014 Discuss the Bowen's reaction principle and explain its mineral series of chemical composition.
8 marks
2020 Explain Bowen's reaction series. How do you explain corona structure with the help of this
reaction series? Explain what happens when a basaltic magma assimilates granite country
rock. 15 marks
2023 Elaborately explained the significance of Bowen's reaction principle in petrogenetic studies. 8
marks
Magmatic Differentiation And Assimilation
2014 Explain the magmatic differentiation during crystallization of magma and its petrogenetic
significance. 8 marks
2017 Describe magmatic differentiation and epithermal mineral characters. 8 marks
2019 Explain the factors responsible for the diversification of magma in igneous systems. 10 marks
2021 What is magmatic differentiation? Discuss various differentiation processes involved in
magma modification. 15 marks
2023 What is magma diversification? Explain in detail the mechanisms involved in the
diversification of magma with the help of neat well- labelled diagrams, wherever required. 15
marks
Petrogenetic Significance Of The Textures And Structures Of Igneous Rocks
2015 Distinguish perthites and antiperthites and conditions of their formation. 10 marks

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2016 Write notes on porphyritic and poikilitic texture of igneous rocks (with suitable labelled
sketches). Comment on their petrogenetic significance. 10 marks
2016 Describe with neat sketches the following structures of igneous rocks: 10 marks
(i) Pillow structure
(ii) Rapakivi structure
2018 Compare the texture and mode of emplacement of gabbro, dolerite, basalt, and komatiite. 8
marks
2018 Write an elaborate note with neat diagram on mineralogical composition and texture of
common mafic and felsic igneous rocks. 15 marks
2019 Discuss the significance of texture in understanding the origin and formation of igneous rocks
with the help of suitable sketches. 15 marks
2020 How would you distinguish between the following pairs of rocks petrographically: 8 marks
(i) Diorites and Anorthosites
(ii) Carbonatites and Peridotites
2022 What are the fundamental differences between textures of plutonic igneous rocks and volcanic
rocks? Illustrate your answer with sketches. 8 marks
2023 What are pyroclastic rocks? Describe the textures exhibited by pyroclastic rocks with the help
of neat well-labelled diagrams. 15 marks
Petrography And Petrogenesis Of Granite, Syenite, Diorite, Basic And Ultrabasic
Groups, Charnockite, Anorthosite, And Alkaline Rocks, Carbonatites
2016 Write briefly on the origin of alkaline rocks. 10 marks
2018 Write mineral composition and texture of the following rocks charnockite, phosphorite and
limestone. 15 marks
2019 How would you distinguish between the following pairs of rocks petrographically? 8 marks
(i) Granite and Gabbro
(ii) Syenite and Charnockite.
2020 What are Alkaline rocks? Discuss the petrogenesis of alkaline rocks. Give to Indian
occurrences. 15 marks
2021 Petrographically differentiate between the following rock types: 8 marks
(i) Granite and Syenite
(ii) Basalt and Anorthosite

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2022 Describe carbonatites and their common rock associations. What are the non-carbonate
minerals generally present in carbonatites? 8 marks
Deccan Volcanic Province
2019 Discuss briefly about the geographical distribution, tectonic setting, and petrogenetic aspects
of Deccan Volcanic Province. 8 marks
Types And Agents Of Metamorphism
2020 Define Contact Metamorphism. Explain the processes involved in the development of contact
aureole. 10 marks
2021 Write a note on agents of metamorphism. 8 marks
2022 What are the different types of regional metamorphism? Describe the characteristic
differences in the metamorphic rocks which result from these. 8 marks
2023 Discuss the processes involved in the principal types of metamorphism. Add a note on the
resulting rocks in each type. 15 marks
Metamorphic Grades And Zones
2014 Write a brief discussion on metamorphism and deformational effects on Phyllites. 8 marks
2015 Define facies and grades of metamorphism. 10 marks
Phase Rule
2018 Explain 'Gibbs Phase Rule' and its applications in geothermobarometry. 8 marks
Facies Of Regional And Contact Metamorphism
2018 Differentiate between the textures and mineral assemblages developed during regional
metamorphism of pelitic sedimentary rock to amphibolite and granulite facies. 8 marks
2018 Explain the concept of metamorphic facies with suitable diagram and write a note on
metamorphic facies related to contact metamorphism. 15 marks
ACF And AKF Diagrams
2016 Write on the following: 8 marks each
(i) ACF diagram
(ii) Charnockite
(iii) Beach Placer Deposit of India
(iv) Marine pollution
(v) Cosmic abundance of elements

Page 29
2017 How can mineral assemblage of a basaltic rock be shown on a triangular ACF diagram?
Explain the rationale behind the calculation of A in the ACF diagram. What is the maximum
number of phases possible in a two component system according to the standard phase-rule?
10 marks
2021 Write a brief account of ACF diagram. 10 marks
2022 Justify the titles of 'pseudocomponent', 'chemographic', 'phase' and 'compatibility' diagrams
for AKF diagrams. Show the fields of the following assemblages in AKF diagrams:
(i) Muscovite + biotite + cordierite + quartz
(ii) Muscovite + andalusite + cordierite + quartz
Are these compatible assemblages? 10 marks
Textures And Structures Of Metamorphic Rocks
2016 Write a brief note on textures and structures of metamorphic rocks. 10 marks
2017 What metamorphic structures and textures a rock of basaltic composition would develop
during progressive regional metamorphism? 10 marks
Metamorphism Of Arenaceous, Argillaceous, And Basic Rocks
2014 Discuss in brief metamorphism on sandstone. What are the reproductive rocks and what is
their economic importance with respect to mineralization? 10 marks
2014 What are argillaceous rocks? What are the metamorphic conditions in contact with other
lithological units? 10 marks
2016 Write notes on possible mineralogical changes observed during regional metamorphism of
aluminous shale. 10 marks
2019 Define the term 'cataclastic metamorphism and describe the important products formed due
to cataclastic metamorphism. 15 marks
Minerals Assemblages
2017 A rock of pelitic composition containing muscovite, chloride, quartz, and Na-plagioclase would
belong to which metamorphic facies? How does this mineral assemblage change on
progressive metamorphism to higher grade? 10 marks
2022 Describe the changes in mineral assemblages in transformation of basic rocks from
greenschist facies to amphibolite facies. What are the typical assemblages of these two facies
for the intermediate P-T series? Display these in typical chemographic sketch diagrams. 15
marks
Prograde And Retrograde Metamorphism
2016 Write a brief note on prograde metamorphism of basaltic rocks. 10 marks

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2020 Define Prograde and Retrograde Metamorphism. Discuss various mineral assemblages
formed due to these processes involving basic igneous rocks. 15 marks
Metasomatism And Granitization, Migmatites
2021 What is metasomatism? Write a brief account of metasomatic processes. 10 marks
2023 What is metasomatic replacement? How does it help in the formation of mineral deposits?
8 marks
Granulite Terrains Of India
2016 Write briefly on 'granulite terrains' of India. 10 marks

Page 31
 3. Sedimentology
Sedimentary Rocks: Processes Of Formation
Diagenesis And Lithification
2015 Describe the matrix and cement of sedimentary rocks. 10 marks
2016 Write a brief essay on diagenesis and lithification. 10 marks
2018 Describe the changes that take place during transformation of sediments to sedimentary
rocks. 8 marks
2020 What is Diagenesis? Describe different processes of diagenesis with suitable examples and
sketches. 10 marks
2021 Differentiate between: 5 + 5 + 5 marks
(i) Matrix and Cement
(ii) Diagenesis and Lithification
(iii) Clastic and Non-clastic sedimentary rocks
2023 How are diagenesis and lithification different in the process of formation of sedimentary rocks?
8 marks
Properties Of Sediments
2014 Discuss the geologic processes, environmental conditions, and types of deposited sediments
during depositional environments. 10 marks
Clastic And Non-Rocks -Their Classification, Petrography, And Depositional
Environment
2014 Write a brief explanation on organic sedimentary rock types and their economic importance,
with Indian examples. 10 marks
2015 Distinguish between arkose and greywackes and comment upon environment of their
formation. 10 marks
2016 Give the classification scheme of limestone by Folk. Comment on the advantage and
disadvantage of this classification. 10 marks
2017 A sedimentary sequence of 2 km thickness shows shallow water deposition from top to
bottom. How do you explain it? 10 marks
2017 How depositional environment is determined from sedimentary rocks? 8 marks
2017 Describe the classification of sedimentary rocks based on grain size. 10 marks
2018 Elaborate the classification scheme and petrographic characteristics of sandstone. 10 marks

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2019 Write the mineral composition, texture, and petrological characteristics of conglomerate and
shale.. 10 marks
2021 Discuss the depositional environment of carbonate rocks. 10 marks
2021 Give the classification of sandstone based on its detrital component and matrix. 8 marks
Sedimentary Facies And Provenance
2016 What is sedimentary facies? Narrate the important facies types that form in different parts of
deltaic sedimentary environment. 2+8 marks
2022 Draw and label an ideal beach and shoreface cross-section. Discuss the sediment
characteristics for each zone. 15 marks
2023 Discuss the sedimentary facies and their significance. 10 marks
Sedimentary Textures, Structures And Their Significance
2014 Enumerate the different types of sedimentary structures with origin and occurrence of different
mineralization. 10 marks
2015 How are sedimentary structures useful to establish the dynamics of deposition of sediments?
20 marks
2015 What do you understand by sphericity and roundness of sedimentary rocks? 10 marks
2016 Write brief notes on cross-bedding and their significance. 10 marks
2017 Describe the sedimentary structures. How they can be used to determine the order of
superposition? 10 marks
2018 Discuss five criteria to recognize the top of a bed by primary features. 8 marks
2018 What are primary sedimentary structures? Write a note on the significance of ripple marks in
terms of sedimentary environment. 15 marks
2019 Briefly explain the secondary structures of sedimentary rocks with suitable diagrams. 8
marks
2020 Give a brief account of primary sedimentary structures and discuss their significance. 10
marks
2021 What are sedimentary structures? Describe the sedimentary structures produced on top of
the bedding plane. 15 marks
2022 Discuss the morphological parameters used to characterize clastic grains in the sedimentary
rocks. 8 marks
2022 Give the criteria adopted for classification of sand ripples. Discuss the variety of ripples and
their significance.10 marks
2023 What are sedimentary structures? Explain the significance of these structures. 10 marks

Page 33
Heavy Minerals And Their Significance
2017 What is the use of heavy minerals in sedimentology? 10 marks
2019 Explain the significance of heavy minerals in relation to mineral stability during transit and
intrastratal solution. 15 marks
Sedimentary Basins Of India
2014 List out and discuss briefly Proterozoic sedimentary basins of India and their mineral
economics. 10 marks
2016 Describe the Proterozoic sedimentary basins of India and their economic significance. 15
marks
2017 How are foreland basin is formed at the foot of a mountain belt? 8 marks
2019 Describe the sedimentary basins of India and mention their types, area, hydrocarbon
prospects and regions. 15 marks
2023 Discuss the sedimentary basins of India with a special reference to oil and gas. 10 marks

Section - B

Page 34
 4. Economic Geology
Ore, Ore Mineral And Gangue, Tenor Of Ore
Classification Of Ore Deposits
2014 Explain the economic importance of hydrothermal ore deposits. 10 marks
2020 How are ore deposits classified? Give the salient features of Lindgren's classification. 8 marks
Processes Of Formation Of Mineral Deposits
2014 Briefly discuss on precious metalliferous deposits with origin and occurrence in Indian
deposits. 10 marks
2015 Answer the following: 8 marks each
(i) Significance of gossan
(ii) Podiform and stratiform chromite deposits
(iii) Use of pathfinder elements in mineral exploration
(iv) Radioactive waste disposal
(v) Coordination number and cite mineral examples
2015 Discuss the mechanism for the formation of placer deposits and add a note on their
provenance. 10 marks
2017 What are the characteristics of Volcanics-associated Massive Sulphide (VMS) deposits?
Discuss about the mineralogy and texture of VMS deposits. 10 marks
2018 How are early and late magmatic ore deposits distinguished? Give your answer with suitable
examples. 10 marks
2019 Write briefly about the origin of ore minerals from residual liquid of magma. 8 marks
2020 Explain the processes involved in the formation of skarn deposits. 8 marks
2021 Describe the conditions necessary for the formation of hydrothermal ore deposits. 8 marks
2022 Draw a schematic diagram of a sulfide-bearing vein showing supergene enrichment. Explain
the processes of formation of such deposits. 8 marks
Controls Of Ore Localisation
2014 Write a brief note on the volcanic and back arc collisional belts and their economic importance
in relation to mineralization. 10 marks
2014 How are the mineral deposits associated with the mechanism of concentrating oceanic
spreading ridges? Discuss. 10 marks

Page 35
2014 Write a brief explanation on Aulacogen mineralization through hot spots, rifts, and failed rift
environment. 10 marks
2014 Explain briefly mid-oceanic ridge setting and passive continental orogeny and their
mineralization. 10 marks
2015 Enumerate the controls of over localization. 20 marks
2017 Why Banded Iron Formations (BIF) are restricted to Precambrian time? Enumerate the
characters of Lake Superior type BIF. 10 marks
2018 Give a brief account of mineral resources in Exclusive Economic Zone' (EEZ) of India. 10
marks
2021 Define Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Add a note on the law of the sea (UNCLOS). 10
marks
2023 Discuss various controls of ore localization by giving suitable examples. 15 marks
Ore Textures And Structures
2014 Describe the different types of crystal textures formed during main solidification stage of ore
minerals. 10 marks
2016 Write short notes on common ore textures and structures. 10 marks
2019 Discuss briefly the nature and morphology of concordant ore bodies with suitable sketches. 8
marks
2020 Discuss with neat sketches ore mineral textures formed by replacement and exsolution
processes. 10 marks
Metallogenic Epochs And Provinces
2014 Write a brief explanation on metallogenic epochs. 8 marks
2014 Write a note on metallogenic provinces in relation to plate tectonic environment. 10 marks
2023 Explain metallogenic provinces and epochs citing examples from India. 8 marks
Geology Of The Important Indian Deposits Of Aluminium, Chromium, Copper,
Gold, Iron, Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Titanium, Uranium, And Thorium And
Industrial Minerals
2014 Discuss in brief morphology and mode of occurrence of massive sulphide deposits in marine
conditions. 10 marks
2014 Briefly explain the origin and occurrence of economically important gem variety precious
stones, with Indian examples. 10 marks

Page 36
2014 Discuss on origin and occurrence with geologic conditions and ore reserves of Hutti-Muski
Schist belt. 8 marks
2014 Briefly discuss on ore reserves, structure, geologic conditions, and mineral occurrence in
copper deposits of Mosabani in Purbi Singhbhum district. 8 marks
2014 Explain in brave geological conditions and mode of occurrence of abrasive minerals in India.
8 marks
2016 Write a note on Malanjkhand copper deposit.10 marks
2016 Briefly describe the iron ore deposits of Singhbhum region. 10 marks
2017 What are the major minerals of manganese? Write a note on manganese deposits of Sausar
Group, India. 10 marks
2017 What are the major ore minerals of aluminium and why do their composition vary with time?
Discuss about the controls of over localization of bauxite through residual concentration.
10 marks
2017 What are the characteristic features to recognize any Proterozoic-type carbonate-hosted Pb-
Zn deposit? Write a note on the sulphide deposits of Rajpura-Dariba Rajasthan. 10 marks
2018 Write a note on geographical distribution, mineralogy, mode of occurrence and origin of lead-
zinc (Pb-Zn) ore deposits in India. 15 marks
2019 Give a brief account of mineralogy, modes of occurrence and distribution of gold deposits in
India. 15 marks
2019 What are industrial resource minerals? Mention their applications with examples. 10 marks
2020 "Beach placers are vital for India's nuclear energy sector." - Justify the statement. 8 marks
2020 Give an account of the mineralogy, modes of occurrence and distribution of copper deposits
of India. 8 marks
2021 Give a brief account of mineralogy, classification, and distribution of iron-ores in India.
15 marks
2022 Describe the major types and different facies of Banded Iron Formation (BIF). 8 marks
2022 Give a detailed account of mineralogy, geological setting, and distribution of aluminium
deposits in India. 15 marks.
2022 Why is magnesite considered as an industrial mineral? Discuss the types, lithological
association, and origin of magnesite deposits. 15 marks
2023 Discuss the mineralogy, mode of occurrence, and distribution of uranium deposits of India. 15
marks

Page 37
Deposits Of Coal And Petroleum In India
2014 Discuss in brief coal formation in India with geological set-up and distribution. 10 marks
2014 Explain in brief geology, mode of occurrence and origin of Ankleshwar petroleum deposit
10 marks
2015 Describe geological setting in oil potential of Bombay High. 10 marks
2016 In a sketch map of India, show the distribution of petroliferous basins of India with proper
labelling. Add a brief note on each of such basins. 10 marks
2017 How does coal form in nature? Why economic deposit of coal is not expected to develop in
Precambrian formations? Briefly describe the distribution of Gondwana Coal in Peninsular
India. 10 marks.
2018 What is coalification process and how is it related to different ranks of coal? 15 marks
2018 Elaborate the process of origin, migration, and trapping conditions for hydrocarbons. 15
marks
2019 Write the necessary conditions for the formation of oil pool and also mention the kinds of oil
and gas traps. 15 marks
2020 How are coals classified based on the fixed carbon content? Add a detailed note on the
distribution of coal deposits in India. 15 marks
2021 Describe the Petroleum deposits of India. 15 marks
National Mineral Policy
2018 What are the salient features of 'National Mineral Policy'? Discuss with special emphasis on
'Strategic Minerals". 8 marks
2019 What are the main objectives and highlights of National Mineral Policy approved in 2019?
10 marks
2023 Give a brief account of India's mineral policy. What are critical minerals? Name 15 critical
minerals of India. 15 marks
Conservation And Utilization Of Mineral Resources
Marine Mineral Resources And Law Of Sea
2016 Write on marine mineral resources. 10 marks
2017 Write short notes on the following: 8 marks each
(i) Red Sea Mineralization
(ii) Supergene alteration of sulphide deposits
(iii) Placer deposits

Page 38
 (iv) Coordination number and its relation to the cation-anion radius ratio in a crystal structure
(v) Uttarakhand natural disaster of 2013
2019 Mention briefly about the important types, depth, and resources of important marine miners.
8 marks
2022 Describe the nature, composition, and occurrence of polymetallic nodules on seafloor.
10 marks

Page 39
 5. Mining Geology
Methods Of Prospecting-Geological, Geophysical, Geochemical And
Geobotanical
2014 Discuss the metal detecting and metalliferous mineral prospecting in relation to Geological,
Geochemical, and Geophysical methods. 15 marks
2014 Explain the geophysical exploration method in mineral exploration. 10 marks
2015 How are soil geochemical prospecting methods useful in the detection of secondary
dispersion pattern of copper deposits? 20 marks
2015 Describe the electrical well-logging as applied to the prospecting of ore deposits. 10 marks
2016 Write in detail on different methods of geophysical prospecting. Illustrate your answer with
suitable sketches. 20 Marks
2017 Describe the important aspects of geochemical prospecting. 10 marks
2018 Write the salient points of interpretation of electrical resistivity data and discuss suitability of
the electrical resistivity method for groundwater exploration. 15 marks
2019 Discuss various principal methods used in geophysical investigation with suitable diagrams
and examples. 15 marks
2020 What are the widely used electrical methods of prospecting? Explain self-potential method to
decipher mineral bodies. 15 marks
2021 What are Pathfinder Elements? Give a detailed account of geobotanical prospecting. 15
marks
2022 Describe the field evidence of ore mineralization useful in mineral. prospecting. 10 marks
2022 What are the types of geochemical anomalies observed in bedrocks? How are geochemical
anomalies recognized in bedrock geochemical survey? 15 marks
2023 Name the various geophysical methods of prospecting. Explain the methods used in
prospecting oil and gas. 15 marks
Techniques Of Sampling
2018 What are the different methods of sampling practiced during mineral exploration and mining?
Give reasons for choice of sampling method followed in different types of ore deposits. 2020
What is channel sampling? Explain the steps involved in channel sampling. 15 marks
2021 What is sampling? Describe briefly the techniques of sampling in mineral exploration.
15 marks

Page 40
Estimation Of Reserves Of Ore
2016 How will you do or reserve estimation? 8 marks
2018 Assuming the specific gravity of 4.1 and average grade of 54.1% Fe, calculate the total
tonnage of iron ore and metallic iron content in a 10 m thick and 50 m wide iron ore body with
a strike length of 500 m. 10 marks
2021 Describe the methods of ore reserve estimation. 8 marks
2022 A wolframite deposit contains 78500 tons of ore having an average grade of 0.21 wt% WO. If
the ore recovery is 70% how many tons of wolframite concentrate containing 65 wt% WO3
can be produced from this deposit?
2022 In a bauxite prospect, nine vertical boreholes were drilled in square grid pattern at 100 m
interval along latitude and longitude. The thickness (in m) of bauxite and assay value (wt%
Al2O3) measured in these boreholes are given below. The specific gravity of ore is 2.60:
Borehole Thickness (m) Assay (wt% Al₂O₃)
1 11.3 38.6
2 14.8 42.3
3 9.3 40.5
4 6.8 43.6
5 17.4 41.2
6 16.6 42.8
7 8.4 36.2
8 10.6 39.5
9 13.2 42.1
Calculate the tonnage and grade of the ore body by extended area method. 15 marks
2023 Discuss various conventional methods of estimation of reserves of ore bodies. 15 marks
Methods Of Exploration And Mining - Metallic Ores, Industrial Minerals, Marine
Mineral Resources And Building Stones
2019 Discuss in detail about the classification of mining methods with the help of suitable diagrams
and examples. 15 marks
2020 Describe the following underground mining methods with suitable diagrams: 15 marks
(i) Room and Pillar method
(ii) Cut and Fill stopping Sub-level stopping

Page 41
2023 Discuss various methods used for mining deep-seated ore bodies Mineral Beneficiation And
Ore Dressing. 15 marks
2014 Discuss what are the methods and processes adopted for mineral mining, mineral dressing,
and mineral beneficiation. 10 marks
2015 Discuss the role of floatation reagents in mineral beneficiation. 10 marks
2021 What is ore beneficiation? Briefly explain floatation method of separation. 15 marks
2023 What is the significance of mineral beneficiation? Explain the beneficiation technique used for
sulphide ores. 8 marks

6. Geochemistry and Environmental Geology

Cosmic Abundance Of Elements
2021 Discuss the structure, composition, and elemental distribution of our solar system. 15 marks
Composition Of the Planets And Meteorites
2016 Discuss the characteristic morpho-structural features and radioactive mineral characters of
the sites of large meteorite impact. 15 marks
2018 What is a meteorite? Describe different types of meteorites. 8 marks
2018 Write briefly about classification and geochemical distribution of the elements in the Earth’s
crust. 8 marks
2018 Distinguish between 'Chondrite' and 'Achondrite' and describe the 'Carbonaceous Chondrite'.
10 marks
2020 What are Meteorites? Give a detailed account of the classification of meteorites. 10 marks
2021 How would you distinguish between different types of meteorites based on composition,
mineralogy, and texture? How do meteorite studies improve our understanding of the
evolution of the Earth? 10+5 marks
2022 Describe the classification of meteorites. How are meteorites useful in understanding the
interior of the earth? 15 marks
2023 Give an account of compositional diversity across Earth's different layers with a neat sketch.
10 marks
Structure And Composition Of Earth And Distribution Of Elements
2015 Discuss geochemical classification of elements. Comment upon the role of trace elements in
magmatic crystallization. 20 marks

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Trace Elements
2014 Briefly discuss on compatible and incompatible trace elements. 8 marks
2017 Trace elements can be classified into compatible and incompatible elements. What is the
basis of such classification? 10 marks
2019 Discuss the geochemical classification of trace elements and explain the role of HFSE (high
field strength elements) in magmatic crystallization. 10 marks
Elements Of Crystal Chemistry Types Of Chemical Bonds, Coordination Number
2016 Discuss briefly on various types of chemical bonds that are found in minerals. 10 marks
2019 Discuss briefly any four Pauling's rules related to crystal structures. 8 marks
2019 Mention briefly about the various types of chemical bonds found in minerals, giving suitable
examples and neat sketches. Also throw light on chemical bonding and diamond and graphite.
15 marks
2020 What is Co-ordination number? Describe with neat sketches, different types of co-ordination
found in minerals. 8 marks
2022 Describe the factors that determine the coordination number of a cation in a crystal structure.
Illustrate with examples from rock-forming minerals. 10 marks
Isomorphism And Polymorphism
2019 What do you understand by polymorphism? Also add a note on different types of
polymorphism. 8 marks
2021 Differentiate between: 5 + 5 +5 marks
(i) Isomorphism and Polymorphism
(ii) Planar and Rotational Slides
(iii) Magnitude and Intensity of Earthquake
2023 Explain Isomorphism and Polymorphism with suitable examples. 8 marks
Elementary Thermodynamics
2020 Define Enthalpy, Entropy, and Gibb's free energy. What is the relationship among these
thermodynamic parameters? 8 marks
Natural Hazards-Floods, Landslides, Coastal Erosion, Earthquakes, And
Volcanic Activity And Mitigation
2015 What are the earthquake parameters and causes of earthquake? 10 marks
2016 What are the various causes responsible for landslides? What are the suggested measures
to mitigate effects of landslides? 10 marks

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2017 How does volcanic activity affect climate? What types of volcanoes are more hazardous and
how? 10 marks
2019 Discuss the causes and impacts of an earthquake on mankind. Mention the measures to be
taken to reduce the disaster during the earthquake. 15 marks
2020 Explain with neat sketches the causes of landslides. What are the preventive measures to
mitigate landslides? Add a short note on the landslide-prone areas of India. 15 marks
2022 Enumerate the probable causes of landslides and add a note on the preventive measures for
landslides. 8 marks
2022 Explain the causes of coastal erosion and discuss the remedial measures. 10 marks
2023 Discuss the causes and effects of earthquakes. Add a note on its mitigation measures. 10
marks
Environmental Impact Of Urbanization, Open Cast Mining, Industrial And
Radioactive Waste Disposal, Use Of Fertilizers, Dumping Of Mine Waste And
Fly-Ash
2015 Explain the impact of mining on groundwater quality. 2016 Discuss the environmental impacts
of urbanization. 10 marks
2016 Briefly discuss on the environmental impact caused due to dumping of mine waste and fly
ash. 10 marks
2017 Describe the basis for open cast and underground mining. 10 marks
2017 What is a radioactive waste and why is it hazardous? Discuss the waste isolation versus waste
disposal strategies for the radioactive waste. 10 marks
2018 What is acid mine drainage? Briefly explain its environmental consequences and controlling
measures. 10 marks
2018 Write a note on methods of radioactive waste disposal with special reference to geological
parameters. 10 marks
2021 Discuss the strategy adopted for the storage and disposal of radioactive waste. 8 marks
2021 Discuss the hazards caused due to industrial waste. 8 marks
2021 Discuss the environmental hazards caused due to: 5 + 5 + 5 marks
(i) Open cast mining
(ii) Use of fertilizers
(iii) Unplanned urbanization
2022 Describe the environmental impact associated with fly ash. 8 marks

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2023 What are the environmental impacts of urbanization? 8 marks
Pollution Of Ground And Surface Water, Marine Pollution
2020 Discuss the sources of groundwater pollution. Add a detailed note on the remedial measures
to prevent it.
2023 Discuss the point and non-point sources of groundwater pollution.
Environment Protection - Legislative Measures In India
2021 Describe the various environmental protection laws of India. 10 marks

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