I.

Physics
Measurement/Unit Details of Fundamental units :
S.No. Physical Quantity S.I. Unit Abbreviation
Notes
1. Length Metre m
• A unit of measurement is a definite magnitude of a quantity, 2. Mass Kilogram kg
defined and adopted by convention or by law. 3. Time Second s
• It is used as a standard for measurement of the same kind 4. Temperature Kelvin K
of quantity. 5. Luminous Intensity Candela cd
• Any other quantity of that kind can be expressed as a 6. Electric Current Ampere A
multiple of the unit of measurement. 7. Amount of Substance Mole mol
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

• To measure physical quantities four systems are in

Definition of Units of SI System :
application as follows :
1. Metre (m) :
1. CGS System (Centimetre - Gram - Second System) : • The path travelled by light in vacuum during a time interval
• It is a variant of the metric system based on the of 1/299,792,458 second. It is defined by taking the fixed
numerical value of the speed of light in vacuum 'c' to be
Centimetre - unit of length
299,792,458 m/s.
Gram - unit of mass
2. Kilogram (kg) :
Second - unit of time • The mass of Platinum - Iridium prototype kept at Sevres
2. FPS System (Foot - Pound - Second system) : (Paris). Generally, at 4ºC, the mass of 1 litre pure water
is 1 kilogram.
• It is also known as the British System of measurement.
According to revised definition (which came into force on
• It relates to measuring - 20th May, 2019), the kilogram is now defined in terms of the
Foot - unit of length Planck constant. It is defined by taking the fixed numerical
value of the Planck constant 'h' to be 6.62607015 × 10–34 kg
Pound - unit of mass
m2/s. Thus,
Second - unit of time
⎛ h ⎞
1 kg = ⎜ −34 ⎟
m −2 s
Note : 1 Pound is equal to 453.59 grams. ⎝ 6.62607015 × 10 ⎠
3. MKS system (Metre - Kilogram - Second system) :
3. Second (s) :
• It relates to measuring - • One second equals the duration of 9,192,631,770 periods
Metre - unit of length of the radiation corresponding to the transition between
Kilogram - unit of mass the two hyperfine levels of the unperturbed ground state
of Caesium (Cs-133) atom. It is defined by taking the
Second - unit of time fixed numerical value of the caesium frequency to be
4. SI system (International System of Units) : 9,192,631,770 Hz, which is equal to s–1.
• It is the modern form of the metric system of measurement. 4. Ampere :
• It is the most widely used system of measurement. • Given two parallel, rectilinear conductors of negligible
circular cross-section positioned 1 metre apart in vacuum,
• It was adopted during the conference on International
one ampere is the electric current which passes through
Weight and Measures, held at Paris (France) in 1960. both of them makes them attract each other by the force
• It has seven fundamental or base units. of 2 x 10-7 Newton per metre of length.

General Science General Studies G–9

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 According to revised definition (which came into force 7. Amount of Substance - Mole (mol) :
on 20th May, 2019), the ampere is defined by taking • The amount of substance composed of as many specified
the fixed numerical value of the elementary charge 'e' to elementary units (molecules)/atoms as there are atoms in
be 1.602176634 × 10–19 As (ampere second). Thus, one 0.012 kg of C-12.
ampere is the electric current corresponding to the flow of
1/(1.602176634 × 10–19) elementary charges per second. According to revised definition (which came into force on
20th May, 2019), the mole is the amount of substance of a
5. Kelvin :
system that contains 6.02214076 × 1023 specified elementary
• One degree K equals 1/273.16 of the thermodynamic
entities. This number is the fixed numerical value of the
temperature of the triple point of water.
Avogadro constant 'NA', when expressed in the unit mol–1
According to revised definition (which came into force on and is called the Avogadro number.
20th May, 2019), the kelvin is defined by taking the fixed
numerical value of the Boltzmann constant 'k' to be 1.380649 Derived units :
× 10–23 kg m2s–2K–1. Thus, • These units of measurement are derived from the 7 base
units, specified by the International System of Units.
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

⎛1.380649 ⎞⎟
1 K = ⎜⎜ −23 2 −2
⎟⎟×10 kg m s
⎜⎝ k ⎠
• These are either dimensionless or can be expressed as a
That means one kelvin is equal to the change of thermodynamic
product of one or more of the base unit, possibly scaled
temperature that results in a change of thermal energy kT by
by an appropriate power of exponentiation.
1.380649 × 10–23 Joule (kgm2s–2).
• Some of the coherent derived units in the SI are given
6. Candela (cd) :
special names. Below table lists 22 SI units with special
• The candela is the luminous intensity in a given direction
of a source that emits monochromatic radiation of names. Together with the seven base units, they form
frequency 540 × 1012 hertz and has a radiant intensity in the core of the set of SI units. All other SI units are
that direction of 1/683 w/sr. combinations of some of these 29 units.
The 22 SI derived units with special names and symbols
Derived quantity Special name of unit Unit expressed in terms Unit expressed in
of base units terms of other SI units
plane angle radian rad = m/m -
solid angle steradian sr = m /m
2 2
-
frequency hertz Hz = s –1
-
force newton N = kg m s –2
-
pressure, stress pascal Pa = kg m s –1 –2
-
energy, work, joule J = kg m s 2 –2
Nm
amount of heat
power, radiant flux watt W = kg m2 s–3 J/s
electric charge coulomb C=As -
voltage/electric volt V = kg m2 s–3 A–1 W/A
potential difference
capacitance farad F = kg–1 m–2 s4 A2 C/V
electric resistance ohm Ω = kg m s A 2 –3 –2
V/A
electric conductance siemens S = kg m s A
–1 –2 3 2
A/V
magnetic flux weber Wb = kg m s A 2 –2 –1
Vs

G–10 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 magnetic flux density tesla T = kg s–2 A–1 Wb/m2
inductance henry H = kg m2 s–2 A–2 Wb/A
Celsius temperature degree Celsius ºC = K -
luminous flux lumen lm = cd sr cd sr
illuminance lux lx = cd sr m –2
lm/m2
activity referred to becquerel Bq = s–1 -
a radionuclide
absorbed dose, kerma gray Gy = m2 s–2 J/kg
dose equivalent sievert Sv = m s 2 –2
J/kg
catalytic activity katal kat = mol s –1 -

Some derived units in the SI expressed in terms of base units vii . Astronomical Unit -
Derived quantity Derived unit expressed • Astronomical unit is usually used to measure distances
in terms of base units within our solar system.
area m2 • An astronomical unit (AU) is the average distance between
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

Earth and Sun.

volume m3
• It equals to approximately 150 million kilometre or
speed, velocity m s–1
1 AU = 1.496 x 1011 metre.
acceleration m s –2
viii . Light-year -
wavenumber m –1
• A light-year is a distance that light travels in vacuum in
density, mass density kg m–3 one Julian year.
surface density kg m–2 • It is a unit of length used to express astronomical distances.
specific volume m kg
3 –1
• 1 light-year is equal to
current density Am –2
= 3 x 108 m/s × 365.25 × 24 × 60 × 60s
magnetic field strength A m–1 = 9.461 × 1015 metre.
amount of substance concentration mol m–3 • Julian year - In Astronomy, a Julian year is a unit of
measurement of time defined as exactly 365.25 days of
mass concentration kg m –3
86400 SI seconds each.
luminance cd m–2
ix. Parsec -
Other measures of Length unit :
• A Parsec is an astronomical term used to measure large
i. 1 milimetre = 10-3 metre distances to astronomical objects outside the solar system.
ii. 1 centimetre = 10-2 metre
• A Parsec is defined as the distance at which one
iii. 1 kilometre = 1000 metre astronomical unit subtends an angle of one arcsecond,
iv. 1 Angstrom (Å) = 10-10 metre which corresponds to 648000/π astronomical units.
• A unit of length to measure very small distances like • 1 Parsec is equal to 3.0857 × 1016 metre, or
wavelength, atomic and ionic radius or size of molecules
and spacing between planes of atoms in crystals. • 1 Parsec is equal to 3.26 light-years.
v . Nanometre -
• 1 nanometre is one billionth of a metre, equal to 10-9 metre.
Question Bank
• It is used to measure extremely small objects such as 1. In the following which is fundamental physical
atomic structures or transistors found in modern CPUs. quantity?
vi . Micron - (a) Force (b) Velocity
• It is the previous name of micrometre. (c) Electric current (d) Work
• 1 micron is equal to 10-6 m. (e) None of the above/More than one of the above
• It is represented by (μ). 66th B.P.S.C. (Pre) (Re. Exam) 2020
• It is used to measure cell size. Ans. (c)

General Science General Studies G–11

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 In physics, there are seven fundamental physical quantities When a force acts to move an object, then work done by the
(which are measured in base or fundamental units) : length, force is equivalent to the product of force and displacement
mass, time, electric current, temperature, luminous intensity in the direction of force . It is a scalar quantity. The SI unit
and amount of a substance. of work is Newton metre, which is also called as joule. Joule
is also the unit of Energy.
2. The unit of power is –
(a) Hertz (b) Volts 6. Frequency is measured in
(c) Watt (d) Neutron (a) hertz (b) metre/second
U.P.P.S.C. (GIC) 2010 (c) radian (d) watt
Ans. (c) (e) None of the above / More than one of the above
64th B.P. S.C. (Pre) 2018
In physics, power is the rate of doing work or of transferring
Ans. (a)
heat or electrical energy i.e. the amount of energy transferred
or converted per unit time. The Hertz (symbol : Hz) is the derived unit of frequency in
Work (w) the International System of Units (SI system) and is defined
Power (P) =
Time (t) as one cycle per second.
The SI unit of power is watt, which is equal to joule per 7. What is measured in hertz?
second. Power is always represented in watt (W) or Kilowatt (a) Frequency (b) Energy
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

(KW). (c) Heat (d) Quality

(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
3. The unit of electric power is : 65th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2019
(a) Ampere (b) Volt Ans. (a)
(c) Coulomb (d) Watt
See the explanation of above question.
(e) None of the above / More than one of the above
65th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2019 8. The SI unit of electrical resistivity of conductor is –
64th B.P.C.S. (Pre) 2018 (a) Faraday (b) Volts
Ans. (d) (c) Ampere (d) Ohm
M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1993
Electric power is the rate, per unit time, at which electrical Ans. (*)
energy is transferred by an electric circuit. The SI unit of
Electrical resistivity is an intrinsic property that quantifies how
electric power is watt. Ampere is the unit of electric current,
strongly a given material opposes the flow of electric current.
volt is the unit of electrical potential and coulomb is the unit
A low resistivity indicates a material, that readily allows the
of electric charge in the SI system.
movement of electric charge. The SI unit of electrical resistivity
4. The unit of the force is – is ohm-meter (Ωm). It is commonly represented by the-
(a) Faraday (b) Fermi ⎡ RA ⎤
(c) Newton (d) Rutherford Greek letter ρ (rho) defined as ⎢⎢ ρ = l ⎥⎥
⎣ ⎦
M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1990 Here,
Ans. (c) R = electrical resistance of the material
l = Length, A = Cross section area, ρ = resistivity
The SI unit of Force is 'Newton' or kg.m/sec2. As per other options, Faraday is the SI unit of Capacitance,
Force = mass × acceleration Volt is the SI unit of Electric Potential, Ampere is the SI unit
In physics, something that causes a change in the motion of of Electric Current while Ohm is the SI unit of Electrical
an object is called force. The modern definition of force (an Resistance (not resistivity).
object's mass multiplied by it's acceleration) was given by 9. ‘Ohm-meter’ is unit of :
Isaac Newton in his laws of motion. (a) Resistance (b) Conductance
5. The unit of work is : (c) Resistivity (d) Charge
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
(a) Joule (b) Neutron
66th B.P.S.C. (Pre) (Re. Exam) 2020
(c) Watt (d) Dyne Ans. (c)
U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1996
Ans. (a) See the explanation of above question.

G–12 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 10. Light-year is the unit of – A light-year is the distance a beam of light travels in a single
(a) Distance (b) Time
Earth year. The speed of light is constant in a vacuum (not
(c) Speed of light (d) Intensity of light
U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2013 even affected by gravity). And that is where all the stellar
R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1997 bodies are present, in a vacuum. The speed of light is constant
M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2008 throughout the universe and is known to high precision. That
Ans. (a) is why all astronomical distances are measured in light-years.
Light-year is a unit of astronomical distance equivalent 16. A parsec, a unit of distance used to measure the distance
to the distance that light travels in one year, which is related to the stars in the sky, is equal to –
9.46 × 1015 metres. (a) 4.25 light-years (b) 3.25 light-years
11. A light-year is the – (c) 4.50 light-years (d) 3.05 light-years
(a) Year which had maximum sunlight
(b) Year in which workload was very light R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1999
(c) Distance travelled by light in one year Ans. (b)
(d) Mean distance between Sun and Earth
U.P. Lower Sub. (Mains) 2013 A parsec is a unit of length used to measure the astronomically
Ans. (c) large distances of objects beyond our solar system.
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

See the explanation of above question. 1 Parsec = 3.08 × 1016 Metres

1 Light year = 9.46 × 1015 Metres
12. Light-year is the unit of –
So, 1 Parsec = 3.256 light-years,
(a) Energy (b) Intensity
Now according to options, only (b) is close to the exact answer.
(c) Age (d) Distance
Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2013 17. PARSEC is the unit of :
Ans. (d) (a) Distance (b) Time
See the explanation of above question. (c) Light intensity (d) Magnetic force

13. 'Light-year' is a unit of : U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1997

(a) Time (b) Distance Ans. (a)
(c) Speed (d) Force
See the explanation of above question.
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
66th B.P.S.C. (Pre) (Re. Exam) 2020 18. Which unit of measurement is multiplied by 0.39 to
66th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2020
convert it to ‘inches’ ?
Ans. (b)
(a) Millimetre (b) Centimetre
See the explanation of above question.
(c) Metre (d) Decimetre
14. ‘Light-Year’ is – U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2010
(a) The year in which February has 29 days
(b) The distance travelled by light in one year Ans. (b)
(c) The time which sun rays take to reach the earth 1 Centimetre = 0.39 inch, so we can multiply centimetre by
(d) The time in which a spacecraft reaches moon from 0.39 to convert it to 'inches'.
the earth
U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2010 19. How can the height of a person who is six feet tall, be
Ans. (b) expressed (approximately) in nanometre?
See the explanation of above question. (a) 183 × 106 nm (b) 234 ×106 nm
(c) 183 × 107 nm (d) 181 × 107 nm
15. Which one of the following is a reason why astronomical I.A.S. (Pre) 2008
distances are measured in light-years?
(a) Distances among stellar bodies do not change Ans. (c)
(b) Gravity of stellar bodies does not change 1 nanometre = 10-9 metre
(c) Light always travels in straight line
1 Feet = 0.305 metre
(d) Speed of light is always same
I.A.S. (Pre) 2021 1 Feet = 30.5 × 107 nanometre
Ans. (d) 6 Feet = 6 × 30.5 × 107 nanometre = 183 × 107 nanometre

General Science General Studies G–13

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 Measuring Devices and Scales Cathetometer An instrument to measure vertical distance.
Cryometer A type of thermometer used to measure the
Notes very low temperature of an object.
Different Scientific Apparatus and its Applications Cyclotron An apparatus that accelerates charged
particles outwards from the centre along a
Apparatus Application
spiral path.
Altimeter An instrument used to measure the altitude Crescograph A device used to measure the growth in
of an object, mainly in an aeroplane. plants.
Ammeter An instrument used to measure the electric Dilatometer An instrument that measures volume
current in a circuit. changes caused by a physical or chemical
process.
Anemometer A device used for measuring wind speed and
Dip Circle A device used to measure the angle between
wind pressure.
the horizon and the Earth's magnetic field
Actiometer A device used to measure the heating power (the dip angle).
or intensity of solar radiation. Dynamo An instrument which converts mechanical
A device used for measuring the rate of water energy into electrical energy.
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

Atmometer
evaporation. Dynamometer A device used for measuring force, Torque
or power of the engine.
Audiometer An instrument used for measuring or
Electroencepha- An instrument used for recording the
evaluating hearing acuity.
lograph (EEG) electrical activity of the brain.
Barograph A type of Barometer that records the
Electrometer An electrical instrument for measuring
atmospheric pressure over time in graphical electric charge or electrical potential
form. difference.
Barometer A device used for measuring atmospheric Electroscope An instrument used to detect the presence
pressure. and magnitude of electric charge on a body.
Bolometer A device to measure the power of incident Evaporimeter An instrument used for measuring the rate
of water evaporation from a wet surface to
electromagnetic radiation via the heating
the atmosphere.
of a material with a temperature dependent
Endoscope An instrument used in medicine to look
electrical resistance.
inside the body.
Calipers A caliper is a device used to measure the Fathometer An apparatus to measure the depth of the sea.
distance between two opposite sides of an
Fluxmeter An instrument used to measure the magnetic
object. flux.
Calorimeter A calorimeter is an object used for Galvanometer An electrical instrument for detecting and
calorimetry, or the process of measuring indicating electrical current.
the heat of chemical reactions or physical Gravimeter An instrument used for measuring
gravitational acceleration.
changes as well as heat capacity.
Gyroscope A device used for measuring angular
Cardiograph An instrument for recording graphically the velocity.
movements of the heart. Hydrometer An instrument for measuring the relative
Chronometer It is a specific type of mechanical timepiece density of liquids.
tested and certified to meet certain precision Hydrophone An instrument used for recording or listening
to under-water sound.
standards. It is used by navigators in the sea.
Hygrometer An instrument for measuring the relative
Colorimeter A device used to measure the absorbance of humidity of the atmosphere.
particular wavelengths of light by a specific Hygroscope An instrument which gives an indication of
solution. the humidity of air.

G–18 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 Hypsometer A device for calibrating thermometers at Pycnometer A laboratory device used for measuring
the boiling point of water at a known height the density or specific gravity of materials
above sea level or for estimating height (liquids or solids).
above sea level by the finding temperature Pyrheliometer It is an instrument for the measurement of
at which water boils. direct beam solar irradiance.
Kymograph A device to record muscular motion, changes Pyrometer A type of remote-sensing radiation
in blood pressure and other physiological thermometer used to measure the high
phenomena. temperature of the surface.
Lactometer An instrument used to check the purity of Psychrometer An apparatus used to measure the relative
milk by measuring its density. humidity of the atmosphere.
Luxmeter An equipment that measures the brightness Rain Gauge (Udometer, Pluviometer or Ombrometer) It
of light falling on an object at a particular gathers and measures the amount of liquid
area. precipitation over a set of period.
Lysimeter A device used to measure the amount of Radiometer It is a device for measuring the radiant flux
actual evapotranspiration which is released of electromagnetic radiation.
by the plant.
Refractometer A device used for the measurement of an
Magnetometer It is also known as Magnetic sensor. It is an index of refraction.
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

instrument that measures magnetism-either

Salinometer An instrument used for measuring the
by magnetization of a magnetic material
salinity of water.
like a ferromagnet or the direction, strength
or relative change of a magnetic field at a Saccharimeter An instrument used for measuring the
particular location. concentration of sugar solutions.
Manometer A device to measure pressure of liquids or Sextant An instrument which measures the angular
gases. distance between two visible objects. It is
Microphone Its nickname is mic or mike. It is a transducer used to know the height of celestial bodies.
that converts sound waves into electrical Sphygmo- An apparatus used to measure the blood
signals. manometer pressure.
Microtome It is a tool used for cutting extremely thin Stethoscope A medical device used for listening to the
slices of materials, known as sections. Used sounds of the heart.
especially in Biology to observe the sections
under a microscope or electron microscope. Speedometer It measures & displays the instantaneous
Nephoscope An instrument for measuring the altitude, speed of a vehicle.
direction and velocity of clouds. Tachometer An instrument used for measuring rotation
Odometer An instrument for measuring the distance of the speed of a shaft or device. It is widely
travelled by a wheeled vehicle. used in automobiles & planes etc.
Ondometer An instrument for measuring the frequency/ Viscometer An instrument used to measure the viscosity
wavelength of electromagnetic waves. of a fluid.
Periscope It is an instrument for observation over, Wind vane An instrument for showing the direction of
around or through an object or condition that the wind.
prevents direct line of sight observation from
SONAR (Sound Navigation and Ranging) - A
the observer's current position.
technique that uses sound propagation
Phonograph A device for mechanical recording &
(usually underwater, as in submarine
reproduction of sound.
navigation) to navigate, communicate with
Photometer An instrument for measuring the intensity or detect objects on or under the surface of
of light. the water, such as other vessels. It uses the
Potentiometer An instrument for measuring voltage by echo principle by sending out sound waves.
comparison of an unknown voltage with a
RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) - Radar is
known reference voltage or to measure the
electromotive force (emf) - a differential an object - detection system that uses radio
potential that tends to give rise to an electric waves to determine the range, angle or
current. velocity of objects

General Science General Studies G–19

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 • The difference between speed & velocity is that speed has
Mechanics the only magnitude without any specific direction, while
Mass, Motion, Force, Acceleration, velocity has both magnitude & direction. Speed is scalar
& velocity is a vector quantity.
Momentum, Work, Power, Energy
Acceleration :
Notes • Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity of an object
• Mechanics : Mechanics is that area of science concerned with respect of time.
with the behaviour of physical bodies when subjected to
∴ Acceleration
force or displacements and the subsequent effects of the
bodies on their environment.
• Weight : Weight is the force exerted in a body by gravity. ⇒ Acceleration

• Mass : Mass represents the amount of matter in a particle If the initial velocity of object is u & after time t its velocity
or object. The mass of matter is constant at every place. is v, then
It is denoted by 'm'.
acceleration (a)
Difference between Weight and Mass
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

Its SI unit is m/sec2 or m.sec-2.

S.N. Weight (W) Mass (m)
1. Gravitational force of Earth A measurement of Newton's Laws of Motion :
the amount of matter • Newton's laws of motion are three physical laws that,
something contains together, laid the foundation for classical mechanics. They
2. It is a vector quantity. It is a scalar quantity.
describe the relationship between a body and the forces
3. Weight varies according It is constant at every
to places. place. acting upon it and its motion in response to those forces.
4. Its unit is newton. Its unit is gram or 1. Newton's First Law of Motion -
kilogram.
• Newton's first law states that every object will remain
Distance & Displacement : at rest or in uniform motion in a straight line unless
compelled to change its state by the action of an external
• In daily language Distance & Displacement are used in the
force.
same sense but in Physics both have a different meaning.
• Inertia is a tendency of matter by which it continues in its
• The length of a specific path travelled between two points
by an object is distance. existing state of rest or uniform motion in a straight line
unless that state is changed by an external force.
• A displacement is a vector whose length is the shortest
distance between the initial to the final position of a point. • The tendency of an object to resists changes in its state of
• Travelled distance has only magnitude, while displacement motion varies with mass. Mass is that quantity which is
has magnitude along with the direction. It is clear that solely dependent upon the inertia of an object. The more
distance is a scalar quantity and displacement is a vector inertia that an object has the more mass that it has. The
quantity. The travelled distance by an object is not zero, light object has less inertia.
but the final displacement may be zero. Displacement of 2. Newton's Second Law of Motion -
an object will be zero when the moving object comes to • The second law states that the acceleration of an object
its initial point. depends upon two variables - the net force acting upon
Speed & Velocity : the object and the mass of the object.
• Speed is the distance travelled per unit of time. • Thus, the acceleration of an object subject to a force is
So, speed directly proportional to the net force, in the same direction
as the net force, and inversely proportional to the mass of
It is a scalar quantity and its SI unit is metre/second. the object i.e. a = F/m
• Velocity is the distance travelled by an object per unit time
Where a is acceleration, F = force & m = mass
in a particular direction.
or F = m × a ⇒ Force = Mass × Acceleration
∴ Velocity
SI unit of force is newton.

G–26 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 • 1 newton is equal to 1 kilogram metre per second square Work :
or 1 newton of force is the force required to accelerate • A force is said to do work if, when acting, there is a
an object with a mass of 1 kilogram, 1 metre per second, displacement of the point of application in the direction
every second. of force. If no displacement occurs after applying force,
no work is done.
3. Newton's Third Law of Motion -
The value of work is equal to -
• For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
work = Force × displacement in the direction of force
• The Force imposed by the first object to other object is
or W = F × S where, W = work
known as an action while the force imposed by the second
F = force
object on the first object is known as reaction. The size of
the force on the first object equals the size of the force on S = displacement
second object. Newton's third law of motion is also known If the force (F) is not in direction of displacement, forming
as 'Action-Reaction' Law. θ angle with it, then

Momentum : work done (W) = F cos θ × S

where, F cos θ is the component of force in the direction
• Momentum is the product of the mass & velocity of an
of displacement
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

object.
∴ Momentum (P) = Mass (m) × Velocity (v)
• It is a vector quantity possessing a magnitude and
a direction. It's SI unit is kilogram metre per second
(kg.m/sec.)
Change in momentum -
• The rate of change in momentum of an object is
proportional to the imposed force on an object.
• Work is a scalar quantity. Its SI unit is joule. One joule is
• The change in momentum occurs always in the direction
defined as the amount of energy exerted when a force of
of the force. It is the other form of newton's second law
1 newton is applied over a displacement of one metre.
of motion.
1 Joule = 1 newton × 1 metre.
Force α Power :
• Power is the rate of doing work by machine or anybody.
If an object of m mass has its initial velocity u, then its
initial momentum = mu ∴ Power
Its last velocity became v, after the imposing of force (F) • Its SI unit is joule/sec. It is also called watt.
for time (t). So, the final momentum of the object = mv • Another unit of Power is Horse Power.
∴ change in momentum = mv – mu 1 Horse Power = 746 watt.
So, F Energy :
• Energy is the capacity for doing work. Different forms of
⇒ F energy are Mechanical energy, Heat energy, Light energy,
Sound energy, etc.
⇒ F α ma
• It is a scalar quantity. Its SI Unit is joule.
So, F = Kma
Mechanical Energy :
In SI units, value of constant K is 1
• Mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic & potential energy
∴ F = 1ma in an object that is used to do work. The sum of potential
⇒ F = ma and kinetic energy is called mechanical energy.
It is the Newton's second law of motion. • So, mechanical energy = kinetic energy + potential energy

General Science General Studies G–27

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 Kinetic Energy :
Question Bank
• The kinetic energy of an object is the energy that it
1. A simple machine helps a person in doing :
possesses due to its motion. If the mass of the body is m
kg and speed v m/sec. then (a) Less work
(b) The same amount of work with lesser force
K.E. mv2 (c) The same amount of work slowly
(d) The same amount of work much faster
Potential Energy : I.A.S. (Pre) 1996
• Potential energy is the energy in a body due to its position. Ans. (b)
It is clear that if any object under a force is shifted from
A simple machine helps a person in doing the same amount
one position to another position, then during it, done work
of work with less force. Few examples of simple machines
is stored as the potential energy of the object.
are pulley, lever, wheel, screw etc.
P.E. = mgh where, m = mass of the object
2. A man is standing on a sensitive balance. If he inhales
g = gravitational acceleration
deeply, the reading of the balance –
h = height (a) Increases
•
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

Elastic potential energy, gravitational potential energy, (b) Decreases

electrical potential energy etc. are different forms of (c) Remains unaffected
potential energy. (d) May increase or decrease depending on the
Transformation of Energy by Apparatus atmospheric pressure
U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2013
S.No. Name of Apparatus Transformation of Energy
Ans. (a)
1. Dynamo Conversion of mechanical
energy into electrical energy. The reading of the balance increases if the person inhales
deeply. One litre of air weighs about 1.225 g. A maximal
2. Electric motor Conversion of electrical
energy into mechanical 4.8 litre breath (average vital capacity for males) weighs
energy. approximately 5.88g. Inhaled air will add to the mass of the
man and thus his weight goes up slightly.
3. Microphone Conversion of sound energy
into electrical energy. 3. Which of the following is not a vector quantity?
4. Loudspeaker Conversion of electric energy (a) Displacement (b) Velocity
into sound energy. (c) Force (d) Volume
5. Solar cell Conversion of solar energy 45th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2001
into electrical energy. Ans. (d)

6. Tubelight Conversion of electric energy The scalar quantity is defined as the quantity that has only
into light energy. got magnitude, but not directions whereas, vector quantity
7. Electric bulb Conversion of electric energy comprises of both magnitude and directions. Displacement,
into heat energy and light velocity and force are the examples of vector quantity while
energy. volume is a scalar quantity.
8. Electric cell Conversion of chemical 4. Which of the following is a vector quantity ?
energy into electric energy. (a) Time (b) Speed
9. Candle Conversion of chemical (c) Displacement (d) Distance
energy into light & heat U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2014
energy. Ans. (c)
10. Sitar Conversion of mechanical
See the explanation of above question.
energy into sound energy.
Note : During photosynthesis in green plants, solar energy 5. Which one of the following is a scalar quantity?
is converted into chemical energy. (a) Force (b) Pressure

G–28 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 acting on the moving ball opposing its motion. If there is no Motion Under Gravity
frictional force then the ball will roll continuously.
Notes
29. What is the correct equation for finding the acceleration?
The Motion of Planets :
(a) a =
• All the planets including the earth, move around the sun
(b) a = u + vt in their orbits.
(c) a = • A natural satellite is a celestial body in space that orbits
around planets.
(d) a =
• Mercury and Venus planets have no natural satellites.
U.P.P.S.C. (Pre) 2003
• Earth has one natural satellite.
Ans. (a)
• Mars has two little satellites.
As we know v = u + at or at = v - u
• Jupiter has 79 known satellites.
• Saturn has maximum numbers of satellites i.e. 82 (After
the announcement of the discovery of 20 new moons of
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

where, v = final velocity of the particle

Saturn in October, 2019).
u = initial velocity of the particle
Kepler's Laws of Planetary Motion :
a = acceleration, t = time
• Johannes Kepler, a German astronomer, propounded three
30. The working principle of a washing machine is : laws about planetary motion around the sun.
(a) Centrifugation • These laws are as follows :
(b) Dialysis First Law -
(c) Reverse osmosis
• All planets move around the sun in an elliptical orbit,
(d) Diffusion
having the sun at one of the two foci.
I.A.S. (Pre) 1997
Second Law -
U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2004
• A radius vector joining any planet to the sun sweeps out
Uttarakhand Lower Sub. (Pre) 2010
equal areas in an equal length of time.
Ans. (a)
• The second law clears that closest planet to the sun moves
The working principle of a washing machine is based on fastest and farthest planet moves slowest.
centrifugation. Centrifugation is a technique which involves
Third Law -
the application of centrifugal force to separate particles from
• The square of the orbital period of a planet is directly
a solution according to their size, shape, density, viscosity of
proportional to the cube of the semi-major axis of its orbit.
the medium and rotor speed.
• Kepler's third law states P2 ∝ a3. It is a mathematical
31. The separation of cream from milk by churning is formula. It means that if you know the planet orbit (P =
due to – how long it takes the planet to move around the sun) then
(a) Gravitational force you can determine that planet distance from the sun (a =
(b) Cohesive force the semi-major axis of the planet's orbit).
(c) Centrifugal force Newton's Law of Gravitation :
(d) None of the above • Newton had an opinion that all the bodies of the Universe
Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2013 attract each other by a force.
Ans. (c) • This ubiquitous force is called the gravitational force.
The separation of cream from milk by churning is due to • On this basis, Newton propounded following law about
centrifugal force. gravitation -

General Science General Studies G–33

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 "The attracting force between two objects is directly • Value of 'g' does not depend upon the mass of the object.
proportional to the product of their masses and inversely • If two objects of different mass are dropped freely (in
proportional to the square of the distance between their absence of air) from the same height, equal acceleration
centres." will produce in both objects, they will reach at the same
• Newton's Law of Gravitation can be expressed time to surface of the earth.
mathematically as follows -
• Although, in the presence of air their acceleration will
If two objects whose masses are m1 and m2 respectively, vary due to upthrust force and viscosity.
and they are positioned at a distance r, then the attraction
• In this condition, the heavy object will reach prior on earth.
of force between them will be
• The value of 'g' differs at different places of Earth surface.
• The value of 'g' is minimum at equator and maximum at
poles.
• The value of 'g' also varies by going upward or downward
where G is a proportional constant known as Gravitational
from the earth surface. In both cases, it decreases.
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

constant.
Circular Motion of Satellites :
• If the objects mass is unit and distance between them is
• When a satellite revolves around Earth in an orbit, a
unit, then-
centripetal force acts on it.
• This force is gravitational force imposed by Earth on
F=G satellite.
It means that Gravitational constant is the force of
attraction between two objects with unit mass and
positioned at a unit distance.
• In SI System its value is 6.674 × 10-11 newton.metre2kg-2.
• Its value was first calculated by scientist Cavandish.
Gravity and Gravitational acceleration of Earth :
• Gravity is attraction force by which Earth attracts any If a satellite of m mass is orbiting around the Earth with r
object towards its centre. radius and by Vo speed, centripetal force on satellite will
be -
• It is a peculiar form of gravitation.
=
• When an object is thrown or dropped freely, it falls
towards the Earth due to the gravity of Earth and its falling gravitational force is centripetal force
rate is continuously increasing due to the production of
acceleration, which is known as gravitational acceleration.
It is represented by 'g'. Its unit is metre/second2.
.......... (i)
Relation between 'g' & 'G' :
where G = Gravitational constant
• Gravitational acceleration of Earth
Me = Mass of Earth
where, G = Gravitational constant we know -
Me = Mass of Earth
g=
Re = Radius of Earth

G–34 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 (c) It revolves around the earth.
Physical Properties of Matter
(d) The escape velocity of gas molecules on it is less than
the root mean square velocity here. Notes
U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012 • Generally, there are three states of matter -
Ans. (d) (i) Solid, (ii) Liquid, and (iii) Gas.
• The three states of matter have some special properties,
Moon has no atmosphere because the value of acceleration which are as follows -
due to gravity 'g' on the surface of the moon is small. 1. In solid - Elasticity.
Therefore, the value of escape velocity on the surface of the 2. In liquid - Pressure, Surface Tension, Capillarity and
moon is small. The value of root mean square velocity of Floating.
the molecules of different gases is much above the value of 3. In Gas - Atmospheric Pressure.
escape velocity on the moon. That is why all the molecules Elasticity :
of gases escaped and there is no atmosphere on the moon. • Generally, the meaning of a rigid substance is a hard solid
which has definite shape and size.
37. Given below are two statements- • But actually these can be stretched, compressed and
Assertion (A) : Lighting a candle in space does not deformed.
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

• Even though a rigid steel rod can be deformed by applying

produce a flame.
sufficient external force.
Reason (R) : A flame exists due to the pull of gravity.
• When an external force is applied on any substance, its
In the context of above, which one of the following is both shape or size are deformed.
correct? • After withdrawing force, it gains its normal shape or size.
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct • The property of any substance by which it tries to gain its
normal shape after being stretched or compressed is called
explanation of (A).
elasticity.
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct "Ability of an object or material to resume its normal shape
explanation. after being stretched or compressed" is elasticity.
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false. • On the basis of the property of elasticity, matters are of
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true. two types :
1. Perfectly elastic substance - Matter which resumes
U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2009
perfectly its normal state after withdrawing the applied
Ans. (a) force.
NASA made it clear by his experiment that gravitation is 2. Perfectly plastic substance - Matter which does not
must for lighting up a candle. In the case of microgravity resume its normal state after withdrawing the external
force, but deformed forever.
in the spacecraft, we are able to light up the flame but it
• Really no matter is perfectly elastic nor perfectly plastic
is not possible in an actual vacuum. In fact, the flickering
but lies between the limit of these two properties.
frequency of a flame is proportional to the square root of
• On whole quartz can be considered as perfectly elastic
the acceleration due to gravity to the diameter of the candle matter and wax is perfectly plastic matter.
and due to the lack of gravitational force in space, it is zero. Stress :
Thus, the correct Answer is (a). • During the application of external force on a matter to
38. In the state of weightlessness, the size of candle's flame change its shape or size, an internal reaction force of equal
amount is produced in the opposite direction on every
will be-
section.
(a) Longer (b) Smaller • This force tries to resume a normal state of matter and it
(c) Spherical (d) Constant is known as stress.
R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2005 • If force (F) is applied vertically on a transverse section
Ans. (c) with the area (A) of matter,
then
In the state of weightlessness or microgravity, the size of Stress = F/A
candle's flame will be spherical in shape. Its SI unit is newton/metre2.

G–42 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 Strain : • For example - when the capillary tube is kept stand
• When the shape or size of a matter is changed by applying in mercury, the mercury surface falls down in tube in
an external force, it is known as strain. Since, it is a ratio, comparison to the surface of external mercury.
hence it is without any unit. Examples of capillarity -
Hooke's Law - • Water and minerals absorbed by plant roots reached to
• If the strain in the matter is nominal, applied stress on the leaves and twigs through xylem tissues - which act as
matter is directly proportional to strain developed in it. capillary tubes.
The ratio of stress and strain is a constant value, known • Drawing of ink to the nib from bottom in a fountain pen.
as elasticity coefficient (E). The nib is slitted in the middle, which acts as a capillary
tube. However, refill pen writing is possible by gravity
and it does not depend upon surface tension.
Surface Tension : • Lighting candles and lamp wicks.
• Surface Tension is the elastic tendency of a fluid surface • Blotting paper used to absorb spilled liquid.
which makes it to acquire the least surface area possible. Viscosity :
It is measured in force per unit length.
• Its SI unit is - newton/metre.
• The value of surface tension of any liquid depends upon
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

its nature, temperature and the medium present on another

side of the liquid surface.
• Surface tension decreases with rise in temperature.
• It becomes zero at the critical temperature.
• If the liquid has negligible weight, its shape will be
completely spherical. For example - rainwater drops and
• A liquid is flowing in a rigid horizontal surface AB as
soap bubbles.
shown in the figure. The liquid layer which is in contact
• The reason is drops occupy that form, in which its potential
with the bottom remains constant but the velocity of the
energy is minimum.
upper layers are increasing. The uppermost layer flows
• It only surface tension is acting on drop, its potential
with maximum velocity.
energy will be minimum with less area. The rain- water
• In three horizontal layers a, b and c, a is with minimum
drop will become spherical.
velocity, b has more than a and c is with maximum
Cohesive and Adhesive Force :
velocity.
• According to molecular theory, every matter is made up
• The consequent layers, from bottom to surface try to slow
of small particles, known as molecules. These molecules
down the velocity of the layer which is just above it.
attract each other.
• An internal force acts on different layers, try to slow down
• Cohesive force is the force of attraction between molecules
of the same matter. the velocity of the layer which is just above it.
• Adhesive force is the force of attraction between molecules • An internal force acts on different layers which tries to
of different matter. oppose their relative velocity.
• The adhesive force between oil & water is less than the • This force is known as the viscous force.
cohesive force of water but higher than cohesive force of • To maintain the flow of liquid, the external force is applied
oil, so when the water dropped on oil surface, its drops against viscous force.
occupy spherical shape by shrinking, while when oil • The property of liquid which opposes the relative
dropped on the water surface, it spreads widely in form movement among different layers of liquid is known as
of the thin film. viscosity.
Capillarity : • Concentrated liquids like honey and glycerine have greater
• The capillary tube is a glass tube with a very small viscosity, so their flow stops rapidly, than a low viscosity
diameter, opened at both ends. fluid.
• The tendency of a liquid to rise or fall as a result of surface • When temperature increases, the viscosity of liquid
tension in the capillary tube is known as capillarity. decreases.
• Liquids which wet the glass, rise up and liquids which • The viscosity of gas increases by increasing in temperature.
does not wet the glass, fall down in the capillary tube. • Solids lack viscosity.

General Science General Studies G–43

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 Pressure :
Question Bank
• The pressure is a force applied perpendicularly on per unit
area surface of an object. 1. Spherical form of raindrop is due to –
(a) Density of liquid
Pressure =
(b) Surface tension
SI unit of Pressure - newton/metre2 (c) Atmospheric pressure
Pressure within liquid at any point - (d) Gravitational force
• Pressure at a point, situated at h depth from the free surface Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2003
of the liquid is - 39th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1994
P=h×d×g Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Mains) 2002
where, d is density of liquid Ans. (b)
g is gravitational acceleration.
Upthrust Force : The shape of a drop of rain is constrained by the surface
• When a solid is put into the liquid, loss in weight of object tension, which tries to give it the shape for which the surface
appears. This apparent loss is due to a force which is area is minimum for the given volume. The spherical shape
exerted by the liquid on the matter in the upper direction. has the minimum surface area. That's why rain drops acquire
This force is known as the upthrust force. spherical shape.
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

• The centre of upthrust of a matter is the centroid of the

2. A drop of water is spherical in shape. This is due to :
displaced volume of liquid.
(a) Surface tension (b) Low temperature
Archemedes' Principle :
• It states that the upward force that is exerted on a body (c) Air resistance (d) Viscosity of water
immersed in a liquid, whether fully or partially submerged, Uttarakhand Lower Sub. (Pre) 2010
is equal to the weight of the liquid that the body displaces Ans. (a)
and it acts in the upward direction at the centre of mass of See the explanation of above question.
the displaced liquid.
Law of Floatation : 3. The rain drops are spherical because –
• When a solid is in liquid, the following two forces act on it- (a) They fall from big height
1. The weight of solid acts perpendicularly inwards. (b) The air has resistance
2. Upthrust force of liquid acting upwards on solid, in (c) The water has surface tension
perpendicular direction. (d) None of the above
• The value of F (upthrust) is equal to the weight of the U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2005
liquid displaced by the solid. Ans. (c)
• The sinking or floating of any object in liquid depends
upon the relative values of these two forces. conditions See the explanation of above question.
are as follows -
4. The tendency of a liquid drop to contract and occupy
(i) If W > F - resulting force (W – F) it will act inwards -
minimum area is due to :
object will sink.
(a) Surface tension (b) Viscosity
(ii) If W = F - object will float.
(c) Density (d) Vapour pressure
(iii) If W < F - leaving object free, it will start to come upward.
• How much portion of solid will remain in liquid, it depends I.A.S. (Pre) 1997
upon the relative density of liquid and solid which can be Ans. (a)
calculated as follows - See the explanation of above question.

5. Oil spreads on water surface because –

• From the above equation, it is clear that solid will sink less (a) Oil is denser than water
in liquid with high density and will sink more in liquid (b) Oil is less dense than water
with less density. (c) Surface tension of oil is more than water
• If the density of both solid and liquid are equal, solid will (d) Surface tension of oil is less than water
float. U.P.P.S.C. (GIC) 2010
• The liquid which is having less density will float on the U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1994
liquid having more density. Ans. (d)

G–44 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 43. Why it is easier to swim in the sea than in a river?
(a) The sea water is salty
Optics
(b) The sea water is deep
Notes
(c) The sea water is heavier
(d) The sea water is lighter • Light is an electromagnetic radiation within a certain
U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2002 portion of electromagnetic spectrum. It lies between the
Ans. (a) infrared (with longer wavelengths) and the ultraviolet
It is easier to swim in sea water than in a river because, the (with shorter wavelengths).
sea water contains salts which increase the density of water • Its wavelength ranges from 3900 to 7800 or about
and also increase its upthrust so, the chances of sinking get 4 × 10 to 7 × 10 metre.
–7 –7

reduced and one can easily swim in such water.

• It is invisible in itself but helps in visibility of matter.
44. A body-weight is highest in which among the following? • It travels in a straight line.
(a) Air (b) Water • It can travel through vacuum (sound waves cannot do so).
(c) Hydrogen (d) Nitrogen
• Light has dual nature :
U.P. P.C.S. (Mains) 2017
(a) Particle nature- behaves in the form of particles.
Ans. (c)
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

(b) Wave nature- behaves in the form of waves.

The upthrust force or buoyant force in Hydrogen will be less Speed of light in different mediums
than other matters because it is the lightest gas. So, option
(c) is the correct answer. Sl.No. Medium Speed of light in m/s

45. When a ship enters a sea from a river, what happens? 1. Vaccum 3×108
(a) It rises a little 2. Water 2.25×108
(b) It remains at the same level 3. Glass 2×108
(c) It sinks a little 4. Diamond 1.24×108
(d) It immersed in the bottom of the sea. • Above chart shows that light speed differs in different
U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2004 mediums.
U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 1992
• Light speed is maximum in vacuum.
Ans. (a)
Refractive Index :
When a ship enters a sea from a river, the ship is elevated • Light speed is less in a medium with the high refractive
due to the higher density of salty sea water than the river. index.
46. Assertion (A) : When a ship enters a sea from a river, • If the refractive index of a medium is μ and light speed is
it rises a little. u and c in that medium and vacuum respectively then
Reason (R) : The density of sea water is greater than
that of river water.
In the context of the above statements, which of the • Thus, the ratio of the velocity of light in a vacuum to its
following is true : velocity in a specified medium is known as the refractive
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct index of that medium.
explanation of A. (a) Refractive index of water -1.33
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct (b) Refractive index of glass-1.50
explanation of A. • It is represented by Greek letter - (μ)
(c) A is true but R is false. • Since the light speed is maximum in vacuum, so the value
(d) A is false but R is true. of the refractive index of any medium is always more than
U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2003 1 in relation to vacuum.
U.P.U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2002
• Refractive index is also called optical density.
Ans. (a)
• Minimum the speed of light in a material, maximum is its
See the explanation of above question. optical density.

General Science General Studies G–51

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 Refraction of Light : Refraction of light in a Prism :
• Light rays travel in a straight line in a homogenous • Prism is a homogenous transparent medium surrounded
medium. by plane surface at an acute angle.
• When light rays enter from one transparent medium to • Generally it is made up of glass.
another transparent medium it deviates from its original
path.
• This phenomenon is called refraction.
• The light rays passing in the first medium is called incident
rays.
• Light rays which enter into next medium is called
refractive rays.
• Incident point is the point at which a light ray enters in an • In the above figure, light ray AB after falling on refractive
optical system. surface PQ of the prism, refracted in BC direction bending
• The angle of incidence is the angle between a ray incident towards normal line EBF. Refracted ray BC on surface
on a surface and the line perpendicular to the surface at emerges out in the air in CD direction going away from
the point of incidence, called the normal. normal line GCF. Thus, ABCD is the path of light in Prism.
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

• Angle of refraction is the angle between the normal line Dispersion of Light :
and refractive ray on the surface. • White light of the sun is a mixture of seven (7) different
• By experiments it has been observed that when light colors.
ray enters from low-density medium to higher density • These are violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange & red
medium it bends towards the normal line while entering (VIBGYOR).
from higher density medium to low-density medium it • The separation of visible light into its different colors is
goes far from the normal line. known as dispersion.
• In spectrum violet color is at lower position and the red
color is at the upper position.
• It shows that violet ray dispersed maximum and dispersion
of red ray is minimum.
• Speed of different colors of light are same in vacuum and
in the air but differs in matters.
• Thus the refractive index of any matter differs for different
colors of light.
• Speed of violet light is minimum and speed of red light is
maximum in the glass.
• So the refractive index of glass is maximum for violet light
and minimum for red light and the violet light deviates
most and red light deviates least.
• Violet ray is with lowest wavelength and highest frequency
while red ray is with highest wavelength and lowest
frequency.

Examples of Refractive Phenomenon :

(i) An immersed rod in water seems small and bent at the
surface when it is observed from outside.
(ii) A coin within a pot with water seems above from its
original position.
(iii) Twinkling of stars.

G–52 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 Critical Angle and Total Internal Reflection : • Mirrors are of two types-
• Critical angle (θc) is the angle of incidence beyond which (i) Plane Mirror
rays of light passing through a denser medium to the (ii) Spherical Mirror
surface of a less dense medium are no longer refracted Plane Mirror -
but totally reflected. • A plane mirror is a thin, flat and smooth sheet of glass
• Its value depends upon the nature of both mediums and with a shining layer of silver on one side.
color of rays. • The mirror used to see the face is a plane mirror.
• Our face image formed in the plane mirror can not be
• For critical angle light must pass from a denser medium
obtained on screen, it can only be observed in the mirror.
to rarer medium.
• So, the image formed in a plane mirror is an example of
• For glass-air surface the value of the critical angle is
virtual image.
approximately 42º and for the water-air surface it is 48.6º.
• Such an image is also known as imaginary or unreal image.
• The size of the image formed in the mirror is just equal
to the size of the object.
• The image and objects are at the same distance from the
mirror at opposite sides.
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

• The image is a laterally inverted mirror image of the object.

θc If a person is reflected in a plane mirror, the image of his
right hand appears to be the left hand of the image.
Spherical Mirror -
• The complete reflection of light ray reaching an interface • A spherical mirror is a mirror which has the shape of a
with a less dense medium when the angle of incidence piece cut out of a spherical surface.
exceeds the critical angle is known as total internal • These are of two types -
reflection. (i) Concave Mirror
(ii) Convex Mirror
Concave Mirror
• Concave mirrors have inwards curved reflecting surface.

θc

• Mirage formation is a result of the refraction and the total • Dentists use concave mirror for the examination of
patient’s teeth producing big images of teeth.
internal reflection of light in the air.
• Concave mirror are used as a reflector, for obtaining a
• Optical fibres and Endoscope function on the principle of sharp beam of light in torches, headlight of vehicles and
total internal reflection. searchlights.
Reflection : • Concave mirrors are also used for shaving to get clear
• When light falls on the surface it may be absorbed, image of face, etc.
Convex Mirror
transmitted or reflected.
• Convex mirrors have outward curved reflective surface.
• Reflection is when light bounces off an object.
• Matters with polished and shining surface reflects more
light than the rough surface of the matter.
• Silver is the better reflector of light.
Mirror :
• A smooth well polished reflecting surface is called the
mirror. • It is used as rear - view side mirrors in vehicles.

General Science General Studies G–53

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 Lens :
Question Bank
• Lens is a homogenous medium surrounded by two curved
surfaces or one curved and another plane surface. 1. Which of the following radiations has the highest
• Curved surface may be spherical, cylindrical or elliptical, energy per quantum?
but these are mostly spherical. (a) 320-400 nm (b) 200-280 nm
• Lens is of two types- (c) 280-320 nm (d) 400-600 nm
(i) Convex Lens Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2012
(ii) Concave Lens Ans. (b)
Convex Lens - Photon energy is directly proportional to the wave frequency
• Convex lens is thick in center but thin at corner. and inversely proportional to the wavelength.
where, E = energy of photon
h = Planck's constant
c = speed of light in a vacuum
= wavelength
• Convex lens is also known as a converging lens because Thus, among the given options 200-280 nm radiation
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

it converges the parallel light rays at one point. Its focal has the highest energy per quantum. Ultraviolet radiation
length is positive. Objects appear closer and larger and contains sufficient energy per quantum to damage living
their images are real and inverted through a convex lens. cells. The ultraviolet spectrum is divided into UV-A (320-
• Convex lens is used to correct far-sightedness/ 400 nm) responsible for tanning the skin; UV-B (280-320
hypermetropia, an eye defect in which near objects are nm) responsible for skin cancer and vitamin D synthesis;
not clearly visible but long-distance objects are clearly and UV-C (below 280 nm), potentially the most harmful
visible. waveband but absorbed almost completely by molecular
oxygen in the stratosphere.
Concave Lens -
• Concave lens is thin at the centre but thick at the corner. 2. The visible range of solar radiation is-
(a) 100-400 nm (b) 400-700 nm
(c) 740-10000 nm (d) None of the above
53rd to 55th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2011
Ans. (b)

• It is also known as a divergent lens because it diverges The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses all type of
radiations. The part of the spectrum that reaches earth from
the parallel light rays. Its focal length is negative. Objects
the sun is between 100 nm to 106 nm. This band is broken
appear smaller and farther through the concave lens and
into three ranges - Infrared (above 700 nm), Visible (400 to
their images are virtual. 700 nm), Ultraviolet (below 400 nm).
• Concave lens is used to correct near-sightedness/ myopia,
3. The wave length extension of visible light is -
an eye defect in which far objects are not clearly visible
(a) Between 200-900 nm (b) Between 250-850 nm
but near objects are clearly visible. (c) Between 300-800 nm (d) Between 390-780 nm
Scattering : U.P.P.C.S.(Mains) 2005
• Scattering is the phenomenon by which a beam of light is Ans. (d)
redirected in many different directions when it interacts
Visible light is that part of electromagnetic radiation which
with a particle of matter. can be seen by human eyes. Visible light is usually defined as
• Scattering occurs when a particle of light is fully absorbed having wavelengths in the range of 400-700 nm (4000-7000Å),
and then emitted, while reflection is when a wave/particle between the infrared and ultraviolet. A typical human eye will
is simply reflected off the surface without interacting. respond to wavelengths from about 380 to 750 nm. Thus,
• Light of shorter wavelength is scattered much more than among the given options, option (d) will be the right answer.
the light of longer wavelength. 4. The wavelength of visible spectrum is in the range :
• Color of sky appears to blue due to the scattering of light. (a) 1300 Å - 3900 Å (b) 3900 Å - 7600 Å

G–54 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 Resistance :
Electric Current • Resistance is a physical quality of conductor which resists
Notes the flow of electric current in the conductor.
• Its unit is Ohm (Ω).
Electric Current :
• It is represented by ‘R’.
• The rate of flow of electric charge in a conductor is termed
as electric current. Ohm’s Law :
• The direction of the flow of positive charge is considered • Ohm’s Law states that the current through a conductor
the direction of flow of electric current. between two points is directly proportional to the voltage
• Thus, the direction of flow of electric current is just across the two points.
opposite to that the direction of flow of electrons. • If V potential difference is applied at both ends of
• SI unit of electric current is Ampere. conductor and flow of electric current is I then,
1 Ampere = 1 coulomb/second.
Types of Electric Current :
• It is of two types-
(i) Direct current Where R is a constant, known as the resistance of
conductor.
(ii) Alternating current
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

(i) Direct Current (DC) - Factors Affecting the Resistance :

• An electric current flowing in one direction only. (i) By experiments, it has been observed that resistance of
conductor (R) is directly proportional to its length.
• A battery is a suitable example of DC power supply.
(ii) Alternating Current (AC) - or R L ----------------- (i)
• An electric current that reverses its direction many times a (ii) The resistance of conductor (R) is inversely proportional
second at regular intervals, typically used in power supply. to its cross-sectional area (A).
• Main advantage of AC than DC is that AC can be or ----------------- (ii)
transmitted to a long distance without much electric energy
loss. Combining (i) & (ii) equations
Electromotive Force (emf) :
• Electromotive force is the electrical intensity or pressure
developed by a source of electrical energy such as a battery
or generator.
Voltage (Electric Potential) :
• The work done to bring a unit positive charge from an Where p is a proportional constant which is known as
position to any point in the electric field is termed as the Specific Resistance or resistivity.
voltage of that particular point. • Resistivity p of any conductor depends only upon the
• Its SI Unit is Volt. nature of matter.
Potential Difference : • Its SI unit is Ohm-meter.
• The difference in electric potential between two points in Electric Power :
an electric field; the work has to be done in transferring • It is defined as the rate of consumption of electric energy
unit positive charge from one point to other. in an electrical circuit.
• Its SI unit is also Volt. Electric Power = Electric current × Potential difference
• If work W joule is done to flow q charge between ⇒ P = VI
two points, then the potential difference between these • The SI unit of electric power is Watt.
points is-

⇒ Electric energy = Power × time

• If we calculate electric power in watt and time in hour,
then the unit of electrical energy will be, watt-hour.

G–102 General Studies General Science

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf

 • For commercial purposes-kilowatt-hour- a big unit of
electrical energy is used. Energy Consumption of 100 watt electric bulb which is used
• This is known as Unit. for 10 hours = 100 ×10
• In other words- = 1000 watt hour
"1 Unit electricity is the amount of electrical energy = 1 kilowatt hour
consumed by a load of 1 kilowatt power rating in 1 hour". = 1 unit.
According to question the cost of 1 unit of electricity = Rs 5.

2. If a bulb of 100 watt burns for 10 hours, the expenditure

of electricity will be –
(a) 0-1 unit (b) 1 unit
Electric Generator : (c) 10 units (d) 100 units
• Electric Generator is a device which converts mechanical 41st B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1996
energy into electrical energy.
Ans. (b)
• Its application depends upon electromagnetic induction.
Transformer : See the explanation of above question.
• It is a device based on electromagnetic induction.
3. Five bulbs each of 100 watt capacity in a tunnel
•
Join − https://t.me/thehindu000

It increases or decreases the voltage of alternating current.

are illuminated continuously for twenty hours. The
• Transformers are of two types :
consumption of electricity will be:
(i) Step-up Transformer- it converts low voltage to high
(a) One unit (b) Two units
voltage of alternating current.
(c) Ten units (d) Twenty units
(ii) Step-down Transformer- it converts the high voltage into
the low voltage of alternating current. U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2017
• Transformers are used for such electric devices which Ans. (c)
functions on voltage differing from main's voltage. Consumption of electricity by one bulb
Electric Motor :
• An electric motor is a device that converts electrical
energy into mechanical energy, usually by employing
electromagnetic phenomena.
• Electric motors are used in electric fans, washing
machines, mixer, grinder, water pumps and many other = 2 unit
devices. Thus consumption of electricity by 5 bulbs =2×5
• Electric motors can be powered by DC sources, such = 10 units
as from batteries, motor vehicles or rectifiers, or by 4. The value of 1 kilowatt hour is -
AC sources, such as power grid, inverters or electric
(a) 3.6 × 106 J (b) 3.6 × 103 J
generators.
(c) 103 J (d) 105 J
Dynamo :
U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2006
• A dynamo is an electrical generator that creates direct
Ans. (a)
current using a commutator.
• It converts mechanical energy into electrical energy 1 Kilowatt hour = 1 (kilowatt) (1 hour)
through electromagnetic induction. = (1000 joule/sec.) (3600 sec.)
= 36 × 105 Joule
Question Bank
= 3.6 × 106 Joule
1. A 100 watt electric bulb is used for 10 hours. What will Thus, option (a) is correct.
be the cost of electricity consumed, if the consumption
5. An electric bulb of 100 watt is used for 4 hours. The
cost is Rs. 5 per unit ? unit of electric energy used is-
(a) Rs. 5 (b) Rs. 10 (a) 400 (b) 25
(c) Rs. 25 (d) Rs. 50 (c) 4 (d) 0.4
R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2012 U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2009
Ans. (a) Ans. (d)

General Science General Studies G–103

CLICK HERE - https://t.me/uppcstestseries2023pdf