UPSC Prelims 2023 - Science & Technology Questions [2013-2022]

Science & Technology UPSC Prelims Questions 2022
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Science & Technology IAS Prelims Questions 2022

The Civil Services Prelims S&T Questions of the year 2022, are given below:

1. Consider the following:

1. Aarogya Setu
2. COWIN
3. DigiLocker
4. DIKSHA

Which of the above are built on top of open-source digital platforms?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

2. With reference to Web 3.0, consider the following statements:

1. Web 3.0 technology enables people to control their own data.
2. In Web 3.0 world, there can be blockchain based social networks.
3. Web 3.0 is operated by users collectively rather than a corporation

Which of the following given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

3. With reference to “Software as a Service (SaaS)”, consider the following statements:

1. SaaS buyers can customise the user interface and can change data fields.
2. SaaS users can access their data through their mobile devices.
3. Outlook, Hotmail and Yahoo! Mail are forms of SaaS.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

4. Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the “Fractional Orbital Bombardment System” often talked about in media?

(a) A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space.

(b) A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions.

(c) A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.

(d) A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same surface. speed and places a probe on its

5. Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?

(a) Cloud Services

(b) Quantum Computing

(c) Visible Light Communication Technologies

(d) Wireless Communication Technologies

6. Consider the following communication technologies:

1. Closed-circuit Television
2. Radio Frequency Identification
3. Wireless Local Area Network

Which of the above are considered of the Short-Range devices/technologies?

(a) 1 and 2 only.

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

7. Consider the following statements:

1. Biofilms can form on medical implants within human tissues.
2. Biofilms can form on food and food processing surfaces.
3. Biofilms can exhibit antibiotic resistance.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

8. Consider the following statements in respect of probiotics :

1. Probiotics are made of both bacteria and yeast.
2. The organisms in probiotics are found in foods we ingest but they do not naturally occur in our gut.
3. Probiotics help in the digestion of milk sugars.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3

(d) 2 and 3

9. In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements:

1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen based vaccine.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

10. If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?

1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5 only

(b) 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only

(c) 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7

11. Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?

(a) They protect the environmental allergens. body

(b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.

(c) They act as immunosuppressants in the body.

(d) They protect the body from the diseases caused by pathogens.

12. Consider the following statements:

1. Other than those made by humans, nanoparticles do not exist in nature.
2. Nanoparticles of some metallic oxides are used in the manufacture of some cosmetics.
3. Nanoparticles of some commercial products which enter the environment are unsafe for humans.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 2

(d) 2 and 3

13. Consider the following statements: DNA Barcoding can be a tool to:

1. assess the age of a plant or animal.
2. distinguish among species that look alike.
3. identify undesirable animal or plant materials in processed foods.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 2

(d) 2 and 3

Candidates can download the UPSC Prelims 2022 Question Papers for GS I and GS II from the linked page.

Answers to S&T Questions of IAS Prelims 2022

UPSC Science and Technology Questions in Prelims 2022 – Answers
1. d	8. c
2. d	9. b
3. d	10. c
4. c	11. d
5. b	12. d
6. d	13. d
7. d

Candidates can download the UPSC Prelims 2022 Answer Keys for GS I and GS II from the linked page.

The Civil Services Prelims S&T Questions of the year 2021, are given below:

Questions that were asked in prelims 2021 are given below:

1. Water can dissolve more substances than any other liquid because.
(a) It is dipolar in nature.
(b) It is a good conductor of heat
(c) It has high value of specific heat
(d) It is an oxide of hydrogen

2. With reference to street lighting, how do sodium lamps differ from LED lamps?
1. Sodium lamps produce light at 360 degrees but it is not so in the case of LED lamps.
2. As street lights, sodium lamps have a longer life span than LED lamps.
3. The spectrum of visible light from sodium lamps is almost monochromatic while LED lamps offer significant colour advantages in street lighting.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

3. The term “ACE2” is talked about in the context of
(a) genes introduced in the genetically modified plants
(b) development of India’s own satellite navigation system
(c) radio collars for wildlife tracking
(d) spread of viral diseases

4. Bisphenol A (BPA), a cause of concern, is a structural/key component in the manufacture of which of the following kinds of plastics?
(a) Low-density polyethylene
(b) Polycarbonate
(c) Polyethylene terephthalate
(d) Polyvinyl Chloride

5. “Triclosan” considered harmful when exposed to high levels for a long time, is most likely present in which of the following?
(a) Food preservatives
(b) Fruit ripening substances
(c) reused plastic containers
(d) Toiletries

6. Which one of the following is a reason why astronomical distances are measured in light-years?
(a) Distance among stellar bodies do not change
(b) Gravity of stellar bodies does not change
(c) Light always travels in straight line
(d) Speed of light is always same

7. With reference to recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements:
1. Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines.
2. Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

8. In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements:
1. Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondrial replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of the egg.
2. A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from the mother and not from the father.
Which of the statements given above is’/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

9. Bollgard I and Bollgard II technologies are mentioned in the context of
(a) Clonal propagation of crop plants
(b) Developing genetically modified crop plants
(c) Production of plant growth substances
(d) Production of biofertilizers

10. In a pressure cooker, the temperature at which the food is cooked depends mainly upon which of the following?
1. Area of the hole in the lid
2. Temperature of the flame
3. Weight of the lid
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1,2 and 3

11. Consider the following:
1. Bacteria
2. Fungi
3. Virus
Which of the above can be cultured in an artificial/ synthetic medium?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1,2 and 3

12. Consider the following statements:
1. Adenoviruses have single-stranded DNA genomes whereas retroviruses have double-stranded DNA genomes.
2. Common cold is sometimes caused by an adenovirus whereas AIDS is caused by a retrovirus.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

13. Which one of the following is used in preparing a natural mosquito repellent?

a) Congress grass
b) Elephant grass
c) Lemon grass
d) Nut grass

Answers to S&T Questions of IAS Prelims 2021

UPSC Prelims Science & Technology Questions – Answer Key
1. A	8. A
2. A	9. B
3. D	10. C
4. B	11. A
5. D	12. B
6. D	13. C
7. C

Year-Wise Science and Technology IAS Prelims Questions 

The Civil Services Prelims S&T Questions for the IAS Exam are provided year-wise below:

(1) Plant cells have cellulose cell walls whilst animal cells do not.

(2) Plant cells do not have plasma membranes unlike animal cells which do.

(3) Mature plant cell has one large vacuole whilst an animal cell has many small vacuoles.

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 2. In the context of recent advances in human reproductive technology, ‘Pronuclear Transfer” is used for

(a) Fertilization of egg in vitro by the donor sperm

(b) Genetic modification of sperm producing cells

(c) Development of stem cells into functional embryos

(d) Prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring

Q 3. What is the importance of using Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in India?

(1) These vaccines are effective against pneumonia as well as meningitis and sepsis.

(2) Dependence on antibiotics that are not effective against drug-resistant bacteria can be reduced.

(3) These vaccines have no side effects and cause no allergic reactions.

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 4. With reference to the carbon nanotubes, consider the following statement :

(1) They can be used as the carriers of drugs and antigens in the human body.

(2) They can be made into artificial blood capillaries for an injured part of the human body.

(3) They can be used in biochemical sensors.

(4) Carbon nanotubes are biodegradable.

Which of the statements given above are correct ?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only 

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Q 5. Consider the following statements :

(1) Genetic changes can be introduced in the cells that produce eggs or sperms of a prospective parent.

(2) A person’s genome can be edited before birth at the early embryonic stage.

(3) Human induced pluripotent stem cells can be injected into the embryo of a pig.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 6. With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?

(1) Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units

(2) Create meaningful short stories and songs

(3) Disease diagnosis

(4) Text-to-speech conversion

(5) Wireless transmission of electrical energy

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

(b) 1, 3, and 4 only {?}

(c) 2, 4, and 5 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Q 7. With reference to visible light communication (VLC) technology, which of the following statements are correct?

(1) VLC uses electromagnetic spectrum wavelengths 375 to 780nm

(2) VLC is known as long-range optical wireless communication

(3) VLC can transmit large amounts of data faster than Bluetooth

(4) VLC has no electromagnetic interference

Select the correct answer using the code given below

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 1, 2 and 4 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(d) 2, 3 and 4 only

Q 9. In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of

(a) Digital security infrastructure

(b) Food security infrastructure

(c) Health care and education infrastructure

(d) Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure

Q 10. Consider the following activities :

(1) Spraying pesticides on a crop field

(2) Inspecting the craters of active volcanoes

(3) Collecting breath samples from spouting whales for DNA analysis

At the present level of technology, which of the above activities can be successfully carried out by using drones ?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 11. The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to

(a) Voyager-2

(b) New Horizons

(c) LISA Pathfinder

(d) Evolved LISA

Q 12. With reference to solar water pumps, consider the following statements:

(1) Solar power can be used for running surface pumps and not for submersible pumps,

(2) Solar power can be used for running centrifugal pumps and not the ones with piston.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Get the notes on the topics that cropped up in the 2020 prelims examination from the links below. These topics are important from the CSE syllabus perspective:

Types of Vaccines	Anti-Immunization Propaganda
Nanotechnology in India	What is Genome?
Artificial Intelligence

Q 1. The word ‘Denisovan’ is sometimes mentioned in media in reference to

(a) fossil of a kind of dinosaurs

(b) an early human species

(c) a cave system found in North-East India

(d) a geological period in the history of Indian subcontinent

Q 2. With reference to the recent developments in science, which one of the following statements is not correct?

(a) Functional chromosomes can be created by joining segments of DNA taken from cells of different species.

(b) Pieces of artificial functional DNA can be created in laboratories.

(c) A piece of DNA taken out from an animal cell can be made to replicate outside a living cell in a laboratory.

(d) Cells taken out from plants and animals can be made to undergo cell division in laboratory petri dishes.

Q 3. ‘RNA interference (RNAi)’ technology has gained popularity in the last few years.why?

(1) It is used in developing gene silencing therapies.

(2) It can be used in developing therapies for the treatment of cancer.

(3) It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.

(4) It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to virtual pathogens.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1, 2 and 4

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 1 and 3

(d) 1 and 4 only

Q 4. Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?

(1) Genetic predisposition of some people.

(2) Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases.

(3) Using antibiotics in livestock farming.

(4) Multiple chronic diseases in some people.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1,3 and 4

(d) 2,3 and 4

Q 5. What is cas9 protein that is often mentioned in the news ?

(a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing.

(b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients.

(c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant

(d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in generally modified crops

Q 6. Which of the following statements is not correct?

(a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.

(b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.

(c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.

(d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.

Q 7. With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference/differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?

(1) LTE is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE is commonly marketed as advanced 3G.

(2) LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.

Select the correct answer using the code given below

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q 8. In The context of digital technologies for entertainment, consider the following statements :

(1) In Augmented Reality (AR), a simulated environment is created and the physical world is completely shut out.

(2) In Virtual Reality (VR), images generated from the computer are projected onto real life objects or surroundings.

(3) AR allows individuals to be present in the world and improves the experience using the camera of a smart-phone or PC.

(4) VR closes the world, and transposes an individual, providing a complete immersion experience.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 and 4

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) 4 only

Q 9. Consider the following statements about a digital signature:

(1) An electronic record that identifies the certifying authority issuing it.

(2) Used to serve as a proof of identity of an individual to access information of server on the Internet.

(3) an electronic method of signing an electronic document and ensuring that the original content is unchanged.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 only 

(d) 1,2 and 3 

Q 10. In the context of wearable technology, which of the following tasks is/are accomplished by wearable devices?

(1) Location identification of a person

(2) Sleep monitoring of a person

(3) Assisting the hearing impaired person

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 11. Recently, scientists observed the merger of giant ‘blackholes’ billions of light-years away from the earth. What is the significance of this observation?

(a) ‘Higgs boson particles’ were detected.

(b) ‘Gravitational waves’ were detected.

(c) Possibility of intergalactic space travel through ‘wormhole’ was confirmed.

(d) It enabled the scientists to understand ‘singularity’.

Candidates can download the notes on the topics that were in the Science segment of IAS Prelims  2019 from the links below: 

RNA Interference and Antisense Technology	DNA
Antimicrobial Resistance	Gene-Editing
Diseases and Causing Agent	5G
Augmented Reality	Gravitational Waves

Q 1. Consider the following phenomena

(1) Light is affected by gravity.

(2) The Universe is constantly expanding.

(3) Matter warps its surrounding space-time.

Which of the above is/are the prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in media ?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 2. Consider the following pairs of Terms sometimes seen in news vs Context /Topic: (Pre18 Set-D)

(1) Belle II experiment: Artificial Intelligence

(2) Blockchain technology: Digital/ Cryptocurrency

(3) CRISPR — Cas9: Particle Physics

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched ?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 3. Consider the following statements:

(1) The Earth’s magnetic field has reversed every few hundred thousand years.

(2) When the Earth was created more than 4000 million years ago, there was 54% oxygen and no carbon dioxide.

(3) When living organisms originated, they modified the early atmosphere of the Earth.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 4. Consider the following:

(1) Birds

(2) Dust blowing

(3) Rain

(4)Wind blowing. 

Which of the above spread plant diseases? (Pre18 Set-D)

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 3 and 4 only

(c) 1, 2 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Q 5. With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements : (Pre18 Set-D)

(1) GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest-resistance to a wide variety of pests.

(2) GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridization.

(3) GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 6. Which of the following leaf modifications occur(s) in the desert areas to inhibit water loss?

(1) Hard and waxy leaves

(2) Tiny leaves

(3) Thorns instead of leaves

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

(a) 2 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 7. When the alarm of your smartphone rings in the morning, you wake up and tap it to stop the alarm which causes your geyser to be switched on automatically. The smart min-or in your bathroom shows the day’s weather and also indicates the level of water in your overhead tank. After you take some groceries from your refrigerator for making breakfast, it recognises the shortage of stock in it and places an order for the supply of fresh grocery items. When you step out of your house and lock the door, all lights, fans, geysers and AC machines get switched off automatically. On your way to office, your car warns you about traffic congestion ahead and suggests an alternative route, and if you are late for a meeting, it sends a- message to your office accordingly. 

In the context of emerging communication technologies, which one of the following terms best applies to the above scenario? 

(a) Border Gateway Protocol

(b) Internet of Things

(c) Internet Protocol

(d) Virtual Private Network

Q 8. In which of the following areas can GPS technology be used? 

(1) Mobile phone operations

(2) Banking operations

(3) Controlling the power grids

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 9. The terms ‘Wanna Cry, Petya and Eternal Blue’ sometimes mentioned in the news recently are related to 

(a) Exo-planets

(b) Crypto-currency

(c) Cyber attacks

(d) Mini satellites

Q 10. “3D printing” has applications in which of the following? 

(1) Preparation of confectionery items

(2) Manufacture of bionic ears

(3) Automotive industry

(4) Reconstructive surgeries

(5) Data processing technologies

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

(a) 1, 3 and 4 only

(b) 2, 3 and 5 only

(c) 1 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Q 11. The identity platform ‘Aadhaar’ provides open “Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)”. What does it imply?

(1) It can be integrated into any electronic device.

(2) Online authentication using iris is possible.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q 12. With reference to the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consider the following statements : (Pre18 Set-D)

(1) IRNSS has three satellites in geostationary and four satellites in geosynchronous orbits.

(2) IRNSS covers entire India and about 5500 sq. km beyond its borders.

(3) India will have its own satellite navigation system with full global coverage by the middle of 2019.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) None

Q 13. With reference to India’s satellite launch  vehicles, consider the following statements:

(1) PSLVs launch satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.

(2) Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.

(3) GSLV Mk III is a four-staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct.?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 1 and 2

(d) 3 only

Candidates can download the notes on the topics that were in the Science segment of IAS Prelims  2018 from the links below: 

Cryptocurrency	Bitcoin – Regulation in India
Zoonotic Diseases	Genetically Modified Crops
Internet of Things (IoT)	Cyber Attacks
IRNSS-NAVIC	Satellite Launch Vehicle Program

Q 1. Consider the following pairs:

Commonly Used / Unwanted or controversial chemicals	consumed materials likely to be found in them
1. Lipstick	Lead
2. Softdrinks	Brominated Vegetable Oils
3. Chinese Fast Food	Monosodium Glutamate

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 2. Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) are used to create digital displays in many devices. What are the advantages of OLED displays over Liquid Crystal displays?

(1) OLED displays can be fabricated on flexible plastic substrates.

(2) Roll-up displays embedded in clothing can be made using OLEDs.

(3) Transparent displays are possible using OLEDs.

Select the correct answer using the code given below

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) None of the above statements is correct

Q 3. What is the application of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology?

(a) Production of biolarvicides

(b) Manufacture of biodegradable plastics

(c) Reproductive cloning of animals

(d) Production of organisms free of diseases

Q 4. In India, it is legally mandatory for which of the following to report on cyber security incidents?

(1) Service providers

(2) Data centres

(3) Body corporate

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 5. What is the purpose of the ‘evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA)’ project?

(a) To detect neutrinos

(b) To detect gravitational waves

(c) To detect the effectiveness of missile defence system

(d) To study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems

Q 6. The term ‘Domestic Content Requirement’ is sometimes seen in the news with reference to

(a) Developing solar power production in our country

(b) Granting licences to foreign T.V. channels in our country

(c) Exporting our food products to other countries

(d) Permitting foreign educational institutions to set up their campuses in our country

Q 7. The terms ‘Event Horizon’, ‘Singularity’, `String Theory’ and ‘Standard Model’ are sometimes seen in the news in the context of

(a) Observation and understanding of the Universe

(b) Study of the solar and the lunar eclipses

(c) Placing satellites in the orbit of the Earth

(d) Origin and evolution of living organisms on the Earth

Q 8. With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of `genome sequencing’, often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future?

(1) Genome sequencing can be used to identify genetic markers for disease resistance and drought tolerance in various crop plants.

(2) This technique helps in reducing the time required to develop new varieties of crop plants.

(3) It can be used to decipher the host-pathogen relationships in crops.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 9. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Smart India Hackathon 2017?

(1) It is a centrally sponsored scheme for developing every city of our country into Smart Cities in a decade.

(2) It is an initiative to identify new digital technology innovations for solving the many problems faced by our country.

(3) It is a programme aimed at making all the financial transactions in our country completely digital in a decade.

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 2 and 3 only

Candidates can download the notes on the topics that were in the Science segment of IAS Prelims  2017 from the links below: 

Genetic Engineering	Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)
IRS-I A	Viruses
Cyber Security	Big Bang Theory
Cosmos

Q 1. Project Loon’, sometimes seen in the news, is related to

(a) waste management technology

(b) wireless communication technology

(c) solar power production technology

(d) water conservation technology

Q 2. With reference to ‘Li-Fi’, recently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?

(1) It uses light as the medium for high-speed data transmission.

(2) It is a wireless technology and is several times faster than ‘WiFi’.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q 3. With reference to `Astrosat’, the astronomical observatory launched by India, which of the following statements is/are correct?

(1) Other than the USA and Russia, India is the only country to have launched a similar observatory into space.

(2) Astrosat is a 2000 kg satellite placed in an orbit at 1650 km above the surface of the Earth.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q 4. India is an important member of the  ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India?

(a) It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation

(b) It can attain a global role in satellite navigation

(c) It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation

(d) It can build fusion reactors for power generation

Q 5. Consider the following statements: The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

(1) is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission

(2) made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA

(3) made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 6. In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to

(a) a range of enzymes used in genome editing

(b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism

(c) the description of the mechanism of gene expression

(d) a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells

Q 7. Which of the following statements is/are correct? Viruses can infect

(1) bacteria

(2) fungi

(3) plants

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Candidates can find the similar topics from IAS Prelims 2016 in the links below:

4G vs 5G	ASTROSAT
Project Miniature Sun	Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM)
mRNA Vaccine

 Q 1. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee is constituted under the

(a) Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006

(b) Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999

(c) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

(d) Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

Q 2. In which of the following activities are Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites used?

(1) Assessment of crop productivity

(2) Locating ground water resources

(3) Mineral exploration

(4) Telecommunications

(5) Traffic studies

Select the correct answer using the code given below

a) 1, 2 and 3 only

b) 4 and 5 only

c) 1 and 2 only

d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Q 3. The term ‘IndARC’ sometimes seen in the news, is the name of?

a) an indigenously developed radar system inducted into Indian Defence

b) India’s satellite to provide services to the countries of Indian Ocean Rim

c) a scientific establishment set up by India in Antarctic region

d) India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region

Q 4. H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases?

(a) AIDS

(b) Bird flu

(c) Dengue

(d) Swine flu

Q 5. With reference to ‘fuel cells’ in which hydrogen-rich fuel and oxygen are used to generate electricity, consider the following statements :

(1) If pure hydrogen is used as a fuel, the fuel cell emits heat and water as by-products.

(2) Fuel cells can be used for powering buildings and not for small devices like laptop computers.

(3) Fuel cells produce electricity in the form of Alternating Current (AC).

Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 6. With reference to ‘fly ash’ produced by the power plants using the coal as fuel, which of the following statements is/are correct?

(1) Fly ash can be used in the production of bricks for building construction

(2) Fly ash can be used as a replacement for some of the Portland cement contents of concrete

(3) Fly ash is made up of silicon dioxide and calcium oxide only, and does not contain any toxic elements.

Select the correct answer using the code given below

a) 1 and 2

b) 2 only

c) 1 and 3

d) 3 only

Q 7. With reference to the use of nanotechnology in the health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct?

(1) Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology

(2) Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

a) 1 only

b) 2 only

c) Both 1 and 2

d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q 8. In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news :

(1) It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.

(2) It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter

(3) It is buried deep in the ice.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only

b) 2 and 3 only

c) 1 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3 only

Q 9. With reference to ‘Near Field Communication (NFC) Technology’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

(1) It is a contactless communication technology that uses electromagnetic radio fields

(2) NFC is designed for use by devices which can be at a distance of even a metre from each other

(3) NFC can use encryption when sending sensitive information.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 3 only

c) 1 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 10. Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2014 was given to which of the following?

a) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre

b) Indian Institute of Science

c) Indian Space Research Organization

d) Tata Institute of Fundamental Research

Q 1. Which of the following pair(s) is/are correctly matched? (2014)

Spacecraft	Purpose
Cassini-Huygens	Orbiting the Venus and transmitting data to the Earth
Messenger	Mapping and investigating the Mercury
Voyager	Exploring the outer solar system

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 2. Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2014)

(1) It is a surface-to-surface missile.

(2) It is fuelled by liquid propellant only.

(3) It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 3. In addition to fingerprint scanning, which of the following can be used in the biometric identification of a person? (2014)

(1) Iris scanning

(2) Retinal scanning

(3) Voice recognition

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 4. Consider the following diseases (2014)

(1) Diphtheria

(2) Chickenpox

(3) Smallpox

Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) None

Q 5. Consider the following pairs

Vitamin	Deficiency Disease
Vitamin C	Scurvy
Vitamin D	Ricket
Vitamin E	Night Blindness

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) None

Q 6. Which of the following is/are the example/examples of chemical change? (2014)

(1) Crystallization of sodium chloride

(2) Melting of ice

(3) Souring of milk

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) None

Q 1. Fruits stored in a cold chamber exhibit longer storage life because 

(a) exposure to sunlight is prevented

(b) concentration dioxide in the is increased of carbon environment

(c) rate of respiration is decreased

(d) there is an increase in humidity

Q 2. Many transplanted seedlings do not grow because

(a) the new soil does not contain favorable minerals

(b) most of the root hairs grip the new soil too hard

(c) most of the root hairs are lost during transplantation

(d) leaves get damaged during transplantation

Q 3. Recombinant DNA technology (Genetic Engineering) allows genes to be transferred 

(1) Across different species of plants.

(2) From animals to plants.

(3) From microorganisms to higher organisms.

Select the correct Solution using the codes given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 4. Mycorrhizal biotechnology has been used in rehabilitating degraded sites because mycorrhiza enables the plants to (2013)

(1) Resist drought and increase absorptive area

(2) Tolerate extremes of PH

(3) Resist disease infestation

Select the correct Solution using the codes given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q 5. Consider the following phenomena: (2013)

(1) Size of the sun at dusk

(2) Colour of the sun at dawn

(3) Moon being visible at dawn

(4) Twinkle of stars in the sky

(5) Polestar being visible in the sky

Which of the above are optical illusions?

(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 3, 4 and 5

(c) 1, 2 and 4

(d) 2, 3 and 5

Q 6. Rainbow is produced when sunlight falls on drops of rain. Which of the following physical phenomena are responsible for this? 

(1) Dispersion

(2) Refraction

(3) Internal reflection

Select the correct Solution using the codes given below.

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

The answers of IAS Prelims Science & Tech Questions asked in Prelims from the year 2013 to 2020 are given in the tables below:

Solutions of Science & Technology Questions in UPSC Prelims 2020
1. C	7. C
2. D	8. A
3. B	9. D
4. C*	10. D
5. D	11. D
6. D

Candidates can refer to the linked article to access the official UPSC Answer Key for 2020. 

Solutions of Science & Technology Questions in UPSC Prelims 2019
1. B	7. D
2. A	8. B
3. A	9. D
4. D	10. D
5. A	11. B
6. B

Solutions of Science & Technology Questions in UPSC Prelims 2018
1. D	8. D
2. B	9. C
3. C	10. D
4. D	11. C
5. B	12. A
6. D	13. A
7. B

Solutions of Science & Technology Questions in UPSC Prelims 2017
1. D	6. A
2. C	7. A
3. C	8. D
4. D	9. B
5. B

Solutions of Science & Technology Questions in UPSC Prelims 2016
1. B	5. C
2. C	6. B
3. D	7. D
4. D

Solutions of Science & Technology Questions in UPSC Prelims 2015
1. C	6. A
2. A	7. C
3. D	8. D
4. D	9. C
5. D	10. C

Solutions of Science & Technology Questions in UPSC Prelims 2014
1. B	4. B
2. A	5. A
3. D	6. B

Solutions of Science & Technology Questions in UPSC Prelims 2013
1. C	4. D
2. C	5. C
3. A	6. A

Get all the previous years’ UPSC Question Papers in the linked article. 

Know in detail about UPSC 2022 in the linked article.

Kickstart your CSE preparation now and complement it by referring to the success stories of previous year IAS Toppers.

UPSC Preparation Links:

UPSC Mains GS 1 Strategy, Syllabus and Structure	Geography Questions of UPSC Mains
NCERT Geography Notes for UPSC	UPSC Geography Notes
Geography Syllabus for UPSC	Topic-Wise UPSC Prelims Questions PDF