Geology 4

UPSC
LONG TERM STUDY PLAN
Target CSE/IFOS Geology Optional 2022

(SECTIONAL TEST #1)

One stop solution to all geology/ geosciences related exams conducted by UPSC

Geology for UPSC https://t.me/geo4upsc

 GEOLOGY
SECTIONAL TEST -1 PLATE TECTONICS
DECEMBER WEEK 4
Time Allowed : Three Hours Maximum Marks :200

QUESTION PAPER SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS

Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions

There are EIGHT questions in all, out of which ALL are to be attempted.

All questions carry equal marks. The number of marks carried by a question/part is indicated against it.

Neat sketches may be drawn, wherever required.

Word limit in questions, wherever specified, should be adhered to.

Attempts of questions shall be counted in sequential order. Unless struck off, attempt of a
question shall be counted even if attempted partly.

Answers must be written in ENGLISH only.

All answers should be sent in a PDF document by Thursday on geologyexams@gmail.com.

Filename should be your name. Answers sent after Thursday wont be evaluated.

Geology for UPSC https://t.me/geo4upsc

1. Write explanatory notes on the following in 150 words each : 8x5=40
a) Seafloor spreading
b) Back arc
c) trenches and mid-ocean ridges
d) Seismic belts across the world
e) Benioff zones

2. Answer following in 150 words each : 10x5=50

a) Discuss the characteristics and properties of the lithosphere and the asthenosphere.
b) What is a volcano? Briefly describe 3 positive and negative landforms.
c) Magnetic Epochs and how were they useful in defining plate tectonic theory.
d) Illustrate the layered structure of earth with emphasis on mineral composition, density and
temperature.
e) Discuss classification and global distribution of volcanoes.

3. Describe 3 ways of magma generation. 15

4. What are island arc systems? what are its major characteristics ? Draw a schematic section though
an island arc and describe all its components. Are there any island arc presently active in India ?
20

5. With help of neat diagrams, describe various types of plate boundaries and characteristic features.
Explain the various driving forces which cause plate motion with respect to gravity and mantle
dynamics. 20

6. Describe morpho-structural and physical characteristics of continental rift system. 15

7. Discuss evolution of ocean island chains. On a world map , show the position and extent of various
island chains around India along with the present position of their hotspots. 20

8. What are the main factors that lead to the development of continental drift theory. 20

Geology for UPSC https://t.me/geo4upsc