"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 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• 3D printing (additive manufacturing) builds objects layer by layer from digital models and is used across fields.
• Confectioners print chocolate and sugar shapes (1); researchers have printed a bionic ear with embedded electronics (2); car makers print prototypes and parts (3); surgeons use printed implants and models for reconstructive surgery (4).
• Data processing technologies (5) are covered in the sense that 3D printing depends on and drives digital design and data-processing tools — the official key counts it.
• Hence 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, option (d).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1, 3 and 4 only
- Bionic ears and data processing are also counted.
- (b) 2, 3 and 5 only
- Confectionery and reconstructive surgery are also applications.
- (c) 1 and 4 only
- Bionic ears, automotive and data processing are also applications.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2018, held on 3 June 2018. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.