UPSC Geology 2026

Answer the following questions in about 150 words each : (a) What are transform and transcurrent faults? Illustrate them using neat sketches. (10 marks) (b) Discuss the different…

(a) Describe the principles of geological mapping. Using sketches, describe the different types of symbols used in geological mapping. (20 marks) (b) Discuss the relationship betw…

(a) Discuss the importance of Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) in geological mapping. Elucidate the role of RS and GIS in mineral exploration. (20 marks…

(a) What is earthquake? How is the epicenter of an earthquake determined? Discuss on the disaster risk associated with earthquakes of different magnitudes. (20 marks) (b) Discuss…

Answer the following questions in about 150 words each : (a) Discuss the conditions required for the preservation of soft parts of fossils. (10 marks) (b) Discuss the principles o…

(a) Compare the major morphological characters which differentiate Hominidae from ape-like primates. Discuss the evolutionary trend of Hominidae with example from Indian occurrenc…

(a) Discuss the stratigraphic classification and depositional environment of Cuddapah Supergroup. Add a note on the tectonic evolution of the Cuddapah Basin with suitable sketch.…

(a) What are landslides and avalanches? Discuss the causes and effects of landslides. Enumerate the remedial measures to prevent landslides. (20 marks) (b) Explain the various met…

Answer the following questions in about 150 words each. (a) Describe the classification of crystals into crystal systems, and add a note on the types of symmetry shown by crystals…

(a) Describe common minerals of igneous and metamorphic rocks, and the diagnostic features of these minerals. (15 marks) (b) Give an account of the optical properties of common ro…

(a) Discuss the petrogenesis of carbonatite rocks. (15 marks) (b) What is metasomatic replacement ? What is the role of the chemical composition of host rocks in this process ? (1…

(a) Discuss the primary processes involved in the formation of sedimentary rocks, emphasizing the role of diagenesis and lithification. (20 marks) (b) Explain how primary sediment…

Answer the following questions in about 150 words each. (a) How is the 'Law of the Sea' relevant to the management of marine mineral resources ? (10 marks) (b) Explain the causes…

(a) Explain the differences between ore, ore minerals and gangue, and discuss their significance in mineral processing. (20 marks) (b) How does the tenor of an ore influence its e…

(a) Describe Sampling. Add a note on common geological sampling methods. (15 marks) (b) Explain the ore reserve estimation procedure. How are the tonnage and grade of an ore depos…

(a) What are the causes of earthquakes and volcanic activities ? Discuss their mitigation possibilities. (20 marks) (b) What is the status of legislative measures for environmenta…