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IIT-JAM
Geology (GG)
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 Stratigraphy
According to Weller (1960), Stratigraphy is defined as the branch of the geology that deals with
the study and interpretation of stratified and sedimentary rocks and with the identification, description,
sequences (vertical and horizontal), mapping and correlation of stratigraphic rock units. The word “stratified”
means layered metamorphic as well as volcanic rocks. Sedimentary rocks and the fossils they contain
are the fundamental materials for understanding the stratigraphic concept.
Stratigraphy is the study of sequential arrangement of layered rocks according to their time of
formation on the surface of the Earth. It deals with succession of rocks and their mutual relationships.
The stratigraphy aims, grouping of naturally, occurring rocks and establishing the age of such
group and further correlation of these groups of different areas. The organic remains found preserved
in certain rocks play special significance for their immense utility in assigning precise age to the rocks.
At the end these all information are used to understand the evolutionary history of the Earth.

1. PRINCIPLES OF STRATIGRAPHY

Stratigraphic Laws are basic principles that all geologists use in deciphering the spatial and
temporal relationships of rock layers. These laws were developed in the 17th to 19th centuries based
upon the work of Niels Steno, James Hutton and William Smith and others. By 1900, all the intellectual
tools needed to establish the description, sequence, and correlation of strata were in place.
Steno established three cardinal principles of stratigraphic analysis and then used these to
reconstruct the geological history of Tuscany. Steno’s principles are as follows :
1. Original Horizontality : unconsolidated sediments deposited on a solid base must have
originally formed horizontal layers since the sediment particles would have ‘slithered’ to
the lowest point. Thus, consolidated strata inclined at some angle must have become
tilted after consolidation.
2. Original Continuity : layers of unconsolidated sediments deposited on a solid base
would have formed continuous sheets of material. Thus, bands of consolidated sediments
whose ends have been broken must have experienced this breakage and erosion after
consolidation.
3. Superposition : Since each layer of unconsolidated sediment deposited on a solid base
must form after the basal layer has been deposited, layers of sediment that overly other
layers are younger than the other layers.
The Scottish lawyer-gentlemen farmer James Hutton (1726–1797) made the next significant
contribution to stratigraphic principles in 1785
4. Doctrine of Uniformitarianism : Uniformitarianism, in geology, the doctrine suggesting
that Earths geologic processes acted in the same manner and with essentially the same
intensity in the past as they do in the present and that such uniformity is sufficient to
account for all geologic change. This principle is fundamental to geologic thinking and
underlies the whole development of the science of geology. This law can be summarized
in following two lines :
 The present is the key to the past
 Sometimes there are environments/conditions that do not have good modern
analogues
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 Geology (Sample Theory)

In the earliest 1800s, and Georges Cuvier in France used the successions of faunas in
stratified rocks for mapping. This led to the development of another principle called law
of faunal succession
5. Law of Faunal Succession : It is based on the observation that sedimentary rock strata
contain fossilized flora and fauna, and that these fossils succeed each other vertically in
a specific, reliable order that can be identified over wide horizontal distances. A fossilized
Neanderthal bone will never be found in the same stratum as a fossilized Megalosaurus,
for example, because Neanderthals and megalosaurus lived during different geological
periods, separated by many millions of years. This allows strata to be identified and dated
by the fossils found within.
Note : To Hutton, these erosion-deposition-uplift cycles had been repeated endlessly in Earth
history, implying that (1) the Earth itself is very old, (2) the processes we see working today (e.g.,
erosion, deposition, gradual uplift) operated in the past, (3) that the power for uplift came from
the heat generated by compaction, supplemented by heat at depth left over from the Earth’s initial
formation, and (4) the ultimate purpose of this system was to produce a self-renewing Earth that
was ‘adapted to the purposes of man.’ In particular, Hutton denied that fossils provided any
evidence for the directional passage of time because each uniformitarian cycle’s biota was
‘perfect’.
6. Law of Inclusion : The law of inclusion is a method of relative dating in geology.
Essentially, this law states that clasts in a rock are older than the rock itself. One example
of this is a xenolith, which is a fragment of country rock that fell into passing magma as
a result of stopping. Another example is a derived fossil, which is a fossil that has been
eroded from an older bed and redeposited into a younger one.
This is a restatement of Charles Lyell's original principle of inclusions and components
from his 1830 to 1833 multi-volume Principles of Geology, which states that, with
sedimentary rocks, if inclusions (or clasts) are found in a formation, then the inclusions
must be older than the formation that contains them. For example, in sedimentary rocks,
it is common for gravel from an older formation to be ripped up and included in a newer
layer. A similar situation with igneous rocks occurs when xenoliths are found. These
foreign bodies are picked up as magma or lava flows, and are incorporated, later to cool
in the matrix. As a result, xenoliths are older than the rock, which contains them.

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

7. Law of Cross Cutting : Cross-cutting relationships is a principle of geology that states

that the geologic feature which cuts another is the younger of the two features. It is a
relative dating technique in geology. It was first developed by Danish geological pioneer
Nicholas Steno in Dissertationis prodromus (1669) and later formulated by James Hutton
in Theory of the Earth(1795) and embellished upon by Charles Lyell in Principles of
Geology (1830).

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

2. DEFINITIONS

1. Stratigraphy : Stratigraphy, from Latin stratum + Greek graphia, is the description of all
rock bodies forming the Earth's crust and their organization into distinctive, useful, mappable
units based on their inherent properties or attributes in order to establish their distribution
and relationship in space and their succession in time, and to interpret geologic history.
2. Stratum (plural = strata) : Layer of rock characterized by particular lithologic properties
and attributes that distinguish it from adjacent layers.
3. Stratigraphic Classification : The systematic organization of the Earth's rock bodies, as
they are found in their original relationships, into units based on any of the properties or
attributes that may be useful in stratigraphic work.
4. Stratigraphic Unit : A body of rock established as a distinct entity in the classification of
the Earth's rocks, based on any of the properties or attributes or combinations thereof that
rocks possess.
Stratigraphic units based on one property will not necessarily coincide with those based
on another.
5. Stratigraphic Terminology : The total of unit-terms used in stratigraphic classification.
It may be either formal or informal.
(a) Formal stratigraphic terminology uses unit-terms that are defined and named
according to guidelines conventionally established.
(b) Informal stratigraphic terminology uses unit-terms as ordinary nouns in a descriptive
sense, not as a part of a specific scheme of stratigraphic classification. The use
of informal terms in published documents is strongly discouraged.
6. Stratigraphic Nomenclature : The system of proper names given to specific stratigraphic
units.
7. Zone : Minor body of rock in many different categories of stratigraphic classification. The
type of zone indicated is made clear by a prefix, e.g. lithozone, biozone, chronozone.
8. Horizon : An interface indicative of a particular position in a stratigraphic sequence.
The type of horizon is indicated by a prefix, e.g. lithohorizon, biohorizon, chronohorizon.
9. Correlation : A demonstration of correspondence in character and/or stratigraphic position.
The type of correlation is indicated by a prefix, e.g., lithocorrelation, biocorrelation,
chronocorrelation.
10. Geochronology : The science of dating and determining the time sequence of the events
in the history of the Earth.
11. Geochronologic Unit : A subdivision of geologic time.
12. Geochronometry : A branch of geochronology that deals with the quantitative (numerical)
measurement of geologic time. The abbreviations ka for thousand (103), Ma for million
(106), and Ga for billion (milliard of thousand million, 109) years are used.
13. Facies : The term "facies" originally meant the lateral change in lithologic aspect of a
stratigraphic unit. Its meaning has been broadened to express a wide range of geologic
concepts: environment of deposition, lithologic composition, geographic, climatic or tectonic
association, etc.
14. Caution against Preempting General Terms for Special Meanings : The preempting
of general terms for special restricted meanings has been a source of much confusion.
The preferable procedure is to conserve the original general meaning of a term and to seek a
more precise and less ambiguous word for the special meaning.
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 Geology (Sample Theory)

Stratotypes and Type Localities (Definitions)

Standard Definitions : Named stratigraphic units must be defined or characterized at a specified
locality where they are well exposed and developed in order that there will be a common, material
standard of reference for their identification.
Reference to a Specific Rock Section : The particular sequence of strata chosen as a standard
of reference of a layered stratigraphic unit is called a stratotype. In the case of nonlayered rocks the
standard of reference is a type locality. It may be an area of exposure (or well or mine) and is an essential
part of the establishment of a formal stratigraphic unit. In cases where the written description and the
stratotype are not the same, the data from the stratotype take precedence.
For some stratigraphic units, such as biostratigraphic range zones, the standard of the unit
cannot be tied to a specific stratigraphic section or area because the stratigraphic scope of the unit may
vary with increasing information.
However, the characterization and description of these and other biostratigraphic units can be
enhanced by the designation of one or more specific reference sections.
1. Stratotype (Type Section) : The designated exposure of a named layered stratigraphic
unit or of a stratigraphic boundary that serves as the standard of reference. A stratotype
is the specific stratal sequence used for the definition and/or characterization of the
stratigraphic unit or boundary being defined.
2. Unit-Stratotype : The type section of a layered stratigraphic unit that serves as the
standard of reference for the definition and characterization of the unit.
3. Boundary-Stratotype : The specified sequence of strata that contains the specific point
that defines a boundary between two stratigraphic units.
4. Composite-Stratotype : A unit-stratotype formed by the combination of several specified
intervals of strata combined to make a composite standard of reference.
5. Type Locality : The specific geographic locality was the stratotype of a layered stratigraphic
unit is situated. The name also refers to the locality where the unit was originally described
and/or named. In the case of units composed of nonlayered igneous or metamorphic
rocks, the type locality is the specific geographic locality where the unit was originally
defined.
6. Type Area or Type Region : The geographic area or region that encompasses the
stratotype or type locality of a stratigraphic unit or boundary.
7. Holo-, para-, neo-, lecto-, and hypostratotypes.

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

3. PRINCIPLES OF STRATIGRAPHIC CLASSIFICATION

Stratigraphic classification encompasses all rocks of the crust of the Earth. Rocks have many
tangible and measurable properties and may be classified according to any of them. Rocks may also
be classified by their time of origin or interpreted attributes, such as environment or genesis.
The stratigraphic position of change for any property or attribute does not necessarily coincide
with that for any other. Consequently, units based on one property commonly do not coincide with those
based on a different property. Therefore, it is not possible to express the distributions in the rocks of all
of the different properties with a single set of stratigraphic units. Different sets of units are needed.
However, all the different classifications are closely related because they express different aspects
of the same rock bodies and they are used to achieve the same goals of stratigraphy: to improve our
knowledge and understanding of the Earth's rock bodies and their history.
Categories of Stratigraphic Classification
Rock bodies may be classified according to many different inherent properties. Each classification
needs its own distinctive nomenclature. The following kinds of formal units are best known and most
widely used :
(A) Lithostratigraphic Units : units based on the lithologic properties of the rock bodies. These
are strictly empirical, based on observable lithologic features including composition and grain-size and
possibly including certain basic sedimentological information, such as types of sedimentary structures
and cyclic successions.
A hierarchy of units has been developed based on the formation, which is the primary
lithostratigraphic unit (NACSN 2005).
Supergroup
Group
Formation (Primary Unit) :
(I) Mappability at a scale of 1:50,000
(II) Formations should not contain major unconformities, although minor disconformities
may be acceptable
(III) The contacts of the formation should be established at obvious lithologic changes
(sharp or gradational)
(IV) Unconformity is a logical choice for a formation contact Member Tongue or lentil
Bed.

Fig. : A correlation table for a hypothetical basin fill, drawn to illustrate the various ways in which
lithostratigraphic terminology may be adapted to best capture existing stratigraphic variability.

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

(B) Unconformity-Bounded Units : bodies of rock bounded above and below by significant
discontinuities in the stratigraphic succession. They may consist of any kinds of rocks, igneous,
metamorphic or sedimentary. Unconformity-bounded sedimentary successions may be formalized using
the empirical, descriptive classification procedures of Allostratigraphy (see NACSN 2005), but increasingly
geologists now employ the interpretive procedures and models of sequence stratigraphy as the main
basis for subdivision and mapping of the basin fill.
(C) Biostratigraphic Units : Units based on the fossil content of the rock bodies. Descriptive or
empirical biostratigraphy is used in erecting zones for local or regional stratigraphic correlation and forms
the basis for a global system of chronostratigraphic subdivision.
Fossil content varies through a stratigraphic succession for two main reasons: evolutionary
changes and ecological differences, such as changes in climate or depositional environment.
Biostratigraphy should be based only on evolutionary changes, but it is always difficult to distinguish
these from changes that take place in a biostratigraphic assemblage as a result of ecological modifications,
and this problem is a cause of continuing controversy for many fossil groups.
The work of the early stratigraphers, following Smith, had clearly established the value of fossil
assemblages for the establishment of stratigraphic order and for the purposes of comparison between
stratigraphic sections. The similarity of the succession of faunas or floras between sections in different
basins, even different continents termed homotaxis was well established. In the absence of a clear
understanding of how faunas and floras changed with time, and without the tools to establish numerical
age, it remained a legitimate question whether homotaxis could be equated with synchrony. Eventually
this philosophical dilemma was resolved by developments in the understanding of the processes of
evolution, coupled with the establishment of ever more detailed systems of zonation and correlation,
which left little room for doubt regarding the reality of the principle of relative age and time correlation
based on fossil content. It is now universally accepted that formally established biozones represent
specific intervals of time. The appearance of a successful evolutionary step requires a discrete period
of time for it to spread throughout its full range. A biozone may not, therefore, have exactly the same age
range everywhere.
Concept of Zone
Albert Oppel in France (1856) defined “zones” that are characterized by more than two taxa and
having boundaries based on two or more documented first and/or last occurrences of the included
characterizing taxa. This zone is now named “Oppel zone” or “concurrent range zone”. It is a type of
assemblage zone (see below). The concept of zone allowed subdivision of stages into two or more,
smaller biostratigraphic units. “Zones” constitute the basic unit of biostratigraphic classification.

Fig. : Oppel Zone

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

Biostratigraphic Units
(i) Interval Zone : Interval zone is a body of strata between two specific, documented lowest
and/or highest occurrences of single taxa. There are three basic types of interval zones :
Taxon Range Zone : (International Stratigraphic Guide [ISG], Salvador, 1994, Fig. a as shown
below) : The interval between the lowest and highest occurrences of a single taxon.
Concurrent Range Zone and Partial Range Zone (ISG, Fig. b and c): The interval between the
documented lowest occurrence of one taxon and the documented highest occurrence of another taxon.
Concurrent range zone is used when the fossil occurrence results in stratigraphic overlap of the taxa
(Fig. b). When such occurrences do not result in stratigraphic overlap, the interval zone may be called
a partial range zone (Fig. c).
Interval Zone : The interval between documented successive lowest occurrences (Fig. d) or
successive highest occurrences of two taxa (Fig. e).

(ii) Assemblage Zone : An assemblage zone is a biozone characterized by the association of

three or more taxa. If the zone is characterized by taxa without regard to their range limits, it is called
an assemblage zone. If, on the other hand, it is characterized by more than two taxa and is further
characterized by having boundaries based on two or more documented first and/or last occurrences of
the included characterizing taxa, it is called an Oppel zone. Note that the Oppel zone is no longer
recognized as a biozone in the International Stratigraphic Guide (Salvador,1994).

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

(iii) Abundance Zone : An abundance zone is a body of strata in which the abundance of a
particular taxon or specified group of taxa is significantly greater than is usual in the adjacent parts of
the section. The term “acme zone” is no longer used by ISG.

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

(iv) Magnetostratigraphic Polarity Units : Units based on changes in the orientation of the
remanent magnetization of the rock bodies. Magnetic reversal scale based on recent volcanic rocks, is
shown in image.

(v) Chronostratigraphic Units : units based on the time of formation of the rock bodies.
Chronostratigraphic units comprise groups of strata recognized as being formed during a specific
interval of geological time. While chronostratigraphic terms are conceptual rockstratigraphic units, their
classification is mirrored by the geochronologic or time-stratigraphic classification scheme. To understand
the difference between these two scales, consider and hourglass. Sand falling through the neck of the
hourglass is deposited in the lower reservoir over a certain time interval (1 hour). A chronostratigraphic
unit is equivalent to the sand deposit while the associated geochronologic unit is equivalent to the amount
of time over which the sand deposit accumulated (1 hour). The chronostratigraphic unit accumulated
over a the time interval and can be said to represent that interval in terms of the deposit is thickness
and extent. But the sand deposit itself cannot be said to be time. Table lists the chronostratigraphic and
geochronometry unit equivalents.
Application of chronostratigraphic unit classification may be illustrated by the chronozone (equivalent
to a geochronologic chron). All stratigraphic intervals represent potential chronozones/chrons as do all
lithostratigraphic and biostratigraphic units For example, the Exus alphus biozone represents a chronozone
that begins with the stratigraphic horizon time equivalent with the speciation event of this (hypothetical)
species and ends with the stratigraphic horizon that is time-equivalent its global extinction event (Fig).
This chronozone corresponds to the chron which is defined as the time interval between this species
global speciation and extinction events. Both the chronozones and chrons are worldwide in extent,
though it may not be possible to recognize either in localities remote from the geographic range of the
species. The chronozones and chrons will also be estimates (at least for biostratigraphic zones) and
subject to revision as outlined above.

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

Table : Chronostratigraphic and geochronologic unit equivalents with an example.

Stages (equivalent to a geochronologic age) are the most common chronostratigraphic unit and
are usually defined on the basis of the chronozones of a series of biozones (e.g., the Maastrichtian
Stage/Age). Note that biozone boundaries themselves cannot be used to achieve a true chronostratigraphic
system because they are inherently diachronous. Stages may be subdivided into substages.
Systems (equivalent to a geochronologic period) are composed of a sequence of stages. For
example, the Indian, Olenekian, Anisian, Laningian, Carnian, Norian, and Rhaetian stages/ages, all of
which are defined on the basis of biochronozones, combine to form the Triassic System/Period. Similarly,
Erathems (equivalent to a geochronologic era) are composed of a sequence of systems/periods. Three
erathems eras are currently recognized, the Palaeozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic. Finally, Eonathems
(equivalent to a geochronologic eon) are composed of a sequence of ears. Thus, the Palaeozoic,
Mesozoic, and Cenozoic combine to form the Phanerozoic Eonathem/Eon. This was preceded in geological
time successively by the Proterozoic and Archean eonathems/eons.

Fig. : An example of the use of biostratigraphic units to zone a classic Upper Cretaceous suite of deep-
marine sediments in north-central Texas on the basis of their planktonic foraminiferal content. Note
chronostratigraphic series unit (Maastrichtian) and that not all subbiozones are divided into zonules.
Many other properties and attributes may be used to classify rock bodies and the way is open
to use any that show promise. Whenever this is the case, the unit-terms being used should be defined.
Though each kind of stratigraphic unit may be particularly useful in stratigraphic classification
under certain conditions or in certain areas or for certain purposes, chronostratigraphic units offer the
greatest promise for formally-named units of worldwide application because they are based on their time
of formation. Lithostratigraphic, biostratigraphic, and unconformity-bounded units are all of limited areal
extent, and thus unsatisfactory for global synthesis.
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 Geology (Sample Theory)

Magnetostratigraphic polarity units, though potentially worldwide in extent, require extrinsic data
from the other units for their recognition, and dating. For these reasons, chronostratigraphic units have
been chosen for international communication among stratigraphers with respect to position in the
stratigraphic column.
Distinguishing Terminologies for each Category
Appropriate distinguishing terms are needed for each of the various categories of stratigraphic
units. Some of the classifications are best suited to a hierarchical classification whereas in others all
categories are of equal rank.
Table : Summary of Categories and Unit-Terms in Stratigraphic Classification

Table gives terms here recommended for various categories of stratigraphic units.
Chronostratigraphic and Geochronologic Units
Chronostratigraphic units are tangible stratigraphic units because they encompass all the rocks
formed during a defined interval of time.
Geochronologic units are units of time-an intangible property-and thus intangible units, not in
themselves stratigraphic units.
Incompleteness of the Rock Record
The rock record of any one area is far from continuous or complete. It is commonly interrupted
by innumerable diastems, discontinuities, and unconformities.
Short interruptions of the record, in fact, exist in layered rocks at every bedding plane. The
evidence which the rocks carry of these missing intervals is in itself a part of stratigraphy and a very
important contribution to the understanding of Earth history.

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

4. THE SIX STEPS INVOLVED IN DATING AND CORRELATION

1. Identification of the units or stratigraphic events to be correlated, and development of

regional correlation frameworks, including the mapping of hiatuses, unconformities and
other key surfaces. Local correlations may be based on lithostratigraphy, but sequence
stratigraphic concepts and methods are now practically universal.
Correlations may be guided or constrained by supplementary data, such as biostratigraphic
zonation. Determining the position of events such as sequence boundaries may or may
not be a straightforward procedure, and requiring the application of facies mapping and
sequence mapping techniques.
2. Determining the extent and chronostratigraphic significance of unconformities.
Unconformities, including sequence boundaries, represent finite time spans which vary
in duration from place to place. In any given location this time span could encompass
the time span represented by several different sedimentary breaks at other locations.
Resolving such problems may require that some of the other steps be completed,
particularly step 3.
3. Determination of the biostratigraphic framework. One or more fossil groups is used to
assign the selected event to a biozone framework, and zones are defined and correlated
from section to section. Error and uncertainty may be introduced because of the
incompleteness of the fossil record. Graphic correlation or other quantitative techniques
may be employed.
4. Assessment of relative biostratigraphic precision. The length of time represented by
biozones depends on such factors as faunal diversity and rates of evolution. Durations of
biozones vary considerably through geological time and between different fossil groups
5. Correlation of biozones with the global stage framework. Much of the existing stage
framework was initially, with notable exceptions, built from the study of macrofossils in
European type sections, although microfossils have become increasingly important for
subsurface work and for global studies (McGowran 2005). Correlation with this framework
raises questions of environmental limitations on biozone extent, our ability to inter-relate
zonal schemes built from different fossil groups, and problems of global faunal and floral
provinciality and diachroneity.
6. Assignment of numerical (“absolute”) ages. The use of radiometric and magnetostratigraphic
dating methods, plus the increasing use of chemostratigraphy (oxygen and strontium
isotope concentrations) permits the assignment of numerical ages in years to the
biostratigraphic framework. Such techniques also constitute methods of correlation in
their own right, especially where fossils are sparse. The Geological Time Scale (GTS) has
become an instrument of considerable geological importance and practical utility in recent
years, contributing to the emergence of what Miall (2013) termed “Sophisticated
Stratigraphy”).

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 Geology (Sample Theory)

Fig. : Steps in the correlation and dating of stratigraphic events. e = typical range of error associated
with each step. a In the case of the sequence framework, location of sequence boundaries may
not be a simple matter, but depends on interpretation of the rock record using sequence principles.
b Assignment of the boundary event to the biozone framework. An incomplete record of preserved
taxa (almost always the case) may lead to ambiguity in the placement of biozone boundaries. c
The precision of biozone correlation depends on biozone duration. Shown here is a simplification
of Cox’s (1990) summary of the duration of zones in Jurassic sediments of the North Sea Basin.
d The building of a global stage framework is fundamental to the development of a global time
scale. However, global correlation is hampered by faunal provincialism. Shown here is a
simplification of the faunal provinces of Cretaceous ammonites, shown on a mid-Cretaceous
plate-tectonic reconstruction. Based on Kennedy and Cobban (1977) and Kauffman (1984). e The
assignment of numerical ages to stage boundaries and other stratigraphic events contains inherent
experimental error and also the error involved in the original correlation of the datable horizon(s)
to the stratigraphic event in question. Diagrams of this type are a standard feature of any discussion
of the global time scale (e.g., Haq et al. 1988; Harland et al. 1990). The establishment of a global
biostratigraphically-based sequence framework involves the accumulation of uncertainty over
steps a–d. Potential error may be reduced by the application of radiometric, magnetostratigraphic
or chemostratigraphic techniques which, nonetheless, contain their own inherent uncertainties
(step e)

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

Geology (GG)
Model Solved Paper

Duration : 180 minutes Maximum Marks : 100

Read the following instructions carefully.

1. This test paper has a total of 60 questions carrying 100 marks. The entire question paper
is divided into Three Sections A, B and C. All sections are compulsory. Questions in
each section are of different types.

2. Section – A contains Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ). Each MCQ type question has
four choices out of which only one choice is the correct answer. This section has 30
Questions and carry a total of 50 marks. Q.1 – Q.10 carry 1 mark each and Questions
Q.11 – Q.30 carry 2 marks each.

3. Section – B contains Multiple Select Questions (MSQ). Each MSQ type question is
similar to MCQ but with a difference that there may be one or more than one choice(s)
that are correct out of the four given choices. The candidate gets full credit if he/she
selects all the correct choices only and no wrong choices. This section has 10 Questions
and carry 2 marks each with a total of 20 marks.

4. Section – C contains Numerical Answer Type Questions (NAT). For these NAT type
questions, the answer is a real number which needs to be entered using the virtual
numerical keypad on the monitor. No choices will be shown for these type of questions.
This section has 20 Questions and carry a total of 30 marks. Q.1 – Q.10 carry 1 mark
each and Questions Q.11 – Q.20 carry 2 marks each.

5. In all sections, questions not attempted will result in zero mark. In Section – A (MCQ),
wrong answer will result in NEGATIVE marks. For all 1 mark questions, 1/3 marks will
be deducted for each wrong answer. For all 2 marks questions, 2/3 marks will be
deducted for each wrong answer. In Section – B (MSQ), there is NO NEGATIVE and NO
PARTIAL marking provisions.There is NO NEGATIVE marking in Section – C (NAT) as
well.

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

SECTION-(A) MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS (MCQ)

1. The planet having density less than 1.0 g/cm3 is

(A) Jupiter (B) Neptune
(C) Saturn (D) Uranus

2. Low velocity zone (LVZ) occurs globally at the base of

(A) Asthenosphere (B) Crust
(C) Lithosphere (D) Mantle

3. Which of the following minerals is harder than knife blade ?

(A) Calcite (B) Fluorite
(C) Gypsum (D) Quartz

4. The type of dentition found in Hippurites is

(A) Schizodont (B) Taxodont
(C) Dysodont (D) Pachydont

5. Rift valleys are bounded by

(A) Normal fault (B) Reverse fault
(C) Strike-slip fault (D) Transform fault

6. The Si : O ratio is phyllosilicates is

(A) 1 : 3 (B) 1 : 4
(C) 2 : 5 (D) 1 : 2

7. The plutonic equivalent of dacite is

(A) Diorite (B) Granite
(C) Gabbro (D) Granodiorite

8. Composition of a sandstone is :
Quartz – 55%, Feldspar – 25%;
Rock fragments – 3% Matrix – 17%
The sandstone is classified as
(A) Arkose (B) Arkosic wacke
(C) Lithic arenite (D) Quartz wacke

9. Age of Neyvelli lignite is

(A) Paleocene (B) Miocene
(C) Cretaceous (D) Eocene

10. An igneous rock containing 50% olivine, 25% orthopyroxene and 25% clinopyroxene by mode is
(A) Dunite (B) Harzburgite
(C) Lherzolite (D) Wehrlite

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

11. Arrange these events from oldest to youngest :

P. Rajmahal Volcanics Q. Deccan Volcanics
R. Panjal Volcanics S. Malani Volcanics
(A) Q P S R (B) S R Q P
(C) S R P Q (D) Q P R S

12. Which of the following statements are true for porosity of sandstone?
P. Porosity increases with sorting
Q. Porosity decreases with sorting
R. Porosity increases with mud content
S. Porosity decreases with mud content
(A) Q (B) P, S
(C) P, R (D) S

13. The {0001} section of an uniaxial mineral can be distinguished from an isotropic mineral in thin
section by
(A) Extinction angle (B) Pleochroism
(C) Relief (D) Interference figure

14. On crystallization of anorthite, Sr concentration in the magma will

(A) decrease (B) increase
(C) increase and then decrease (D) remain same

15. Match the following

List-I List-II
P. Olivine 1. Sorosilicate
Q. Quartz 2. Nesosilicate
R. Epidote 3. Phyllosilicate
S. Biotite 4. Tectosilicate
Codes :
P Q R S
(A) 2 4 1 3
(B) 2 4 3 1
(C) 2 3 1 4
(D) 4 3 2 1

16. Quartz can be optically distinguished from nepheline based on

(A) Relief (B) Birefringence
(C) Optic Sign (D) Extinction angle

17. Which of the following is an ore mineral of iron?

(A) Manganite (B) Magnesite
(C) Malachite (D) Magnetite

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

18. Which one of the following deposits is associated with glaciers ?

(A) Dune (B) Fanglomerate
(C) Moraine (D) Point bar

19. The second sillimanite isograd is marked by

(A) Absence of Muscovite and Presence of Sillimanite
(B) Absence of both Muscovite and Sillimanite
(C) Presence of both Muscovite and Sillimanite
(D) Presence of Muscovite and Absence of Sillimanite

20. Match the following :

List-I : (Locality) List-II : (Mineral)
P. Zawar 1. Chromite
Q. Hutti 2. Magnesite
R. Sukinda 3. Lead-Zinc
S. Almora 4. Gold
Codes :
P Q R S
(A) 1 2 4 3
(B) 3 2 4 1
(C) 4 2 3 1
(D) 3 4 1 2

21. A clay core is an essential part of

(A) Arch dam (B) Buttress dam
(C) Gravity dam (D) Earth dam

22. The maximum curvature of a cylindrically folded surface occurs at

(A) Axial plane (B) Fold axis
(C) Hinge (D) Limb

23. This type of structure is shown by

(A) Biotite (B) Garnet

(C) Diopside (D) Orthoclase

24. Which of the following is a texturally immature but mineralogically matured sandstone ?
(A) Arkose (B) Quartz wacke
(C) Lithic wacke (D) Quartz arenite

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

25. Point group 4 2 m belongs to

(A) Isometric (B) Tetragonal
(C) Orthorhombic (D) Monoclinic

26. Match the following :

List-I List-II
P. Opisthoparian 1. Cephalopoda
Q. Micropygus 2. Gastropoda
R. Ceratitic Suture 3. Trilobite suture
S. Spire 4. Pygidium
Codes :
P Q R S
(A) 4 2 1 3
(B) 3 4 1 2
(C) 3 1 4 2
(D) 2 1 4 3

27. Which of the following minerals are/is found in supergene enrichment zone ?
P. Chalcocite Q. Sphalerite
R. Galena S. Covellite
(A) P (B) P, Q, R, S
(C) P, S (D) Q, R

28. The ratio of Earth’s total magnetic field at Equator to that at North Pole is
1 1
(A) (B)
3 2
2 3
(C) (D)
3 4

29. Which of the following features are used to describe a lineation?

(A) Strike (B) Dip
(C) Hade (D) Plunge

30. Match the following :

List-I : (Mineral) List-II : (Si:O ratio)
P. Beryl 1. 1 : 4
Q. Amphibole 2. 1 : 3
R. Olivine 3. 2 : 7
S. Zoisite 4. 4 : 11
Codes :
P Q R S
(A) 2 4 1 3
(B) 2 4 3 1
(C) 4 3 2 1
(D) 3 4 1 2

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

SECTION-(B) MULTIPLE SELECT QUESTIONS (MSQ)

1. Which of the following are/is correctly matched ?

(A) Cuddapah Supergroup – Paleoproterozoic
(B) Vindhyan Supergroup – Neoproterozoic
(C) Burgess Shale Formation – Cambrian
(D) Siwalik Group – Jurassic

2. Which of the following flora belong to lower Gondwana ?

(A) Gangamopteris (B) Williamsonia
(C) Bucklandia (D) Buriadia

3. Which of the following elements are incompatible ?

(A) Ni (B) Cr
(C) La (D) K

4 2 2
4. Which of the following statements are NOT true about crystal class ?
m m m
(A) There are 5 mirror planes
(B) There are 4 diads
(C) There is no centre of symmetry
(D) This crystal class belongs to tetragonal system

5. Out of the 10 minerals present in Mohs scale of hardness, which of the following minerals are
‘silicates’ ?
(A) Talc (B) Apatite
(C) Topaz (D) Corundum

6. Which of the following indicate(s) pre-kinematic crystals ?

(A) Foliation wrapped around porphyroclast
(B) Pressure shadow zone
(C) Helicitic folds in internal schistosity
(D) Kink bands or folds

7. Which of the following textures are metamorphic textures ?

(A) Porphyroblastic texture (B) Mortar texture
(C) Porphyritic texture (D) Cumulate texture

8. Which of the following minerals weather faster than K-feldspar ?

(A) Pyroxene (B) Amphibole
(C) Biotite (D) Muscovite

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

9. Which of the following represents closed crystallographic forms ?

(A) Tetragonal disphenoid (B) Tetragonal pyramid
(C) Tetragonal trapezohedron (D) Tetragonal scalenohedron

10. Which of the following igneous bodies are concordant ?

(A) Laccolith (B) Dyke
(C) Phacolith (D) Lopolith

SECTION-(C) NUMERICAL ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS (NAT)

1. The S-wave velocity in the lower continental crust is 6800 m/s and its density is 3380 kg/m3. Find
its rigidity in GPa (upto 2 decimal places)

2. On a 1:10000 scale map, length of a fault trace is 5 cm. What is its length on a 1:25000 map?

3. If a radioactive isotope has a decay constant of 1.55 × 10–10 year–1, its half life is ___________
× 109 years.

4. The dip of a plane is 30°. Calculate its hade (in degrees)

5. An aquifer has a thickness of 10 m and transmissivity of 0.75 m2/day. Its hydraulic conductivity
is ______ m/day.

6. The energy released by an earthquake of magnitude 8 is _____________ times the energy

released by an earthquake of magnitude 6.

7. Structure contours of a bedding plane at 100 m interval are spaced in such a manner that
horizontal equivalent is also 100 m. Find its dip (in degree).

8. If a planet revolves around the sun with a period of 8 years, then its distance from the sun is
__________ times the distance between the Earth and sun.

9. The dip slip of a fault is 200 m. The dip amount is 30°. The throw of the fault is _______ m.

10. After decaying through 7 half life periods, the original amount of radioactive substance that
1
reduces to an amount of g is ________ g. (Give answer upto 2 decimal places)
64

11. The P-wave velocity is twice that of S-wave velocity in a medium. Calculate Poisson’s ratio (upto
2 decimal places)

12. The Fe-O bond length in Fe2O3 is 2.05 Å. The ionic radius of anion is 1.32 Å. Calculate
coordination number (CN).

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

13. A radioactive substance decays to one-third of its original value in 6 hours time. What is the half
life (in hours) ? [2 decimal places]

14. A mineral assemblage consists of fayalite, ferrosilite and quartz in equilibrium. Find the no. of
degrees of freedom in P-T space.

87 87
Sr Rb
15. A basaltic lava flow is found to have 86 ratio of 0.720 and 86 ratio of 0.750. If initial value
Sr Sr
87
Sr
of 86 ratio is 0.704, the age of the flow is ___________ × 109 years.
Sr
Given that  = 1.42 × 10–11 year–1. (Answer upto 2 decimal places).

16. Consider this reaction :

3 cordierite = 2 garnet + 4 sillimanite + 5 quartz
S = –0.0984 kJ/K
V = –15.973 kJ/Kbar
If equilibrium pressure at 25°C is 3.6 Kbar, what is the equilibrium pressure in Kbar at 650°C?
(Answer in 2 decimal places)

17. The length of a fossil increases from 5.6 cm to 7 cm due to tensional force. Calculate the
‘stretching’ value (upto 2 decimal places)

18. Given the difference in arrival time of S and P waves recorded at a station to be 10 seconds,
find the epicentral distance in km if Vp = 6.5 km/s and Vs = 3.6 km/s.
(Answer in 2 decimal places)

2
19. No. of mirror planes present in 3 crystal class are ___________ .
m

20. A silt loam has bulk density of 1.2 g/cm3 and particle density of 2.6 g/cm3. Find porosity.
(Answer in 2 decimal places)

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

ANSWER KEY

SECTION-(A) MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS (MCQ)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
C C D D A C D B B C
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
C B D A A C D C A D
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
D C C B B B C B D A

SECTION-(B) MULTIPLE SELECT QUESTIONS (MSQ)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
B,C A,D C,D A,B,D A,C A,B,D A,B A,B,C A,C,D A,C,D

SECTION-(C) NUMERICAL ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS (NAT)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
156.29 2 4.47 60 0.075 900 45 4 100 2.00
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
0.33 6 3.78 1 1.50 7.45 1.25 80.65 3 0.54

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

SOLUTIONS
SECTION-(A) MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS (MCQ)

1. (C) Planet Name Density (g/cm3)

Mercury 5.4
Venus 5.2
Earth 5.5
Mars 3.9
Jupiter 1.3
Saturn 0.7
Uranus 1.3
Neptune 1.6
Hence, (C) is the correct answer.
2. (C) Low velocity zone is present between the lithosphere and asthenosphere. So, LVZ occurs
at the base of lithosphere.
Hence, (C) is the correct answer.
3. (D) Mineral Mohs Scale of Hardness
Talc 1
Gypsum 2
Calcite 3
Fluorite 4
Apatite 5
Orthoclase 6
Quartz 7
Topaz 8
Corundum 9
Diamond 10
Hardness of knife blade = 5.5.
 (D) is the correct answer.
4. (D) Taxodont – Arca, Nucula
Schizodont – Trigonia Unio
Dyrodont – Mytilus
Pachydont – Hippurites
 (D) is the correct answer.
5. (A)

Valleys

Rift valleys are formed due to extension and are bounded by normal faults as shown.
 (A) is the correct answer

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

6. (C) Talc is a phyllosilicate.

Formula of talc is Mg3 Si4 O10 (OH)2
 Si:O = 4:10 = 2:5
Hence, (C) is the correct answer.
7. (D) Volcanic Rock Plutonic Rock
Andesite Diorite
Rhyolite Granite
Basalt Gabbro
Dacite Granodiorite
Hence, (D) is the correct answer.
8. (B) Since matrix > 15% rock is ‘wacke’. As the rock contains 25% feldspar, its composition
can be termed as ‘arkosic’.
 Rock is ‘Arkosic Wacke’
Hence, (B) is the correct answer.
9. (B) Neyveli lignite is found within Cuddalore Sandstone of Mis-Pliocene
age. So, (B) is the correct answer.
10. (C)
Olivine
Dunite
90
Wehrlite
Harzburgite Lherzolite
40

Orth
opyr
o xe n Clinopyroxene
e
Websterite
Hence, (C) is the correct answer.
11. (C) S. Malani Volcanics – Neoproterozoic
R. Panjal Volcanics – Permian
P. Rajmahal Volcanics – Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous
Q. Deccan Volcanics – Late Cretaceous
Hence, (C) is the correct answer.
12. (B) Porosity increases with sorting. If mud content in a sandstone increases, the pore spaces
between the sand grains get occupied by the finer mud particles. Hence, the porosity of
sandstone decreases with mud content.
Hence, (B) is the correct answer.
13. (D) {0001} section of an uniaxial mineral displays interference figures as this section is
perpendicular to the optic axis or c-axis.
However, extinction angle, pleochroism and relief can’t be observed.
But for an isotropic mineral, everything appears dark and we can’t observe interference
figure, pleochroism extinction angle and relief.
14. (A) Sr can replace Ca and in this way Sr enters anorthite (CaAl2Si2O8) So, Sr concentration
in the magma will decrease.
Hence, (A) is the correct answer.
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 Geology-GG (MSP)

15. (A) P. Olivine (Mg2SiO4)  Nesosilicate

Q. Quartz (SiO2)  Tectosilicate
R. Epidote  Sorosilicate
S. Biotite (KMg3Si3AlO10(OH)2)  Phyllosilicate
 (A) is the correct answer.
16. (C) Quartz  Optically (+)ve
Nepheline  Optically (–)ve
Hence, (C) is the correct answer.
17. (D) Manganite  Ore mineral of Mn
Magnesite  MgCO3
Malachite  Cu2CO3(OH)2
Magnetite  Fe3O4
Hence, (D) is the correct answer.
18. (C) Dune is formed due to deposition of sediments by air and running water. Fanglomerate
is formed in alluvial faus due to the deposition by river. Point bars are also formed in the
concave side of meandering rivers. Moraines are formed as a result of deposition by
glaciers.
Hence, (C) is the correct answer.
19. (A) Second sillimanite isograd is marked by the following reaction :
Muscovite + Qtz  Kfs + Sillimanite + H2O
In this reaction, Sillimanite appears at the cost of Muscovite.
Hence (A) is the correct answer.
20. (D) Zawar (Rajas than)  Lead-Zine
Hutti (Karnatake)  Gold
Sukinda (Orissa)  Chromite
Almora (Uttarakhand)  Magnesite
 P-3, Q-4, R-1, S-2
Hence (D) is the correct.
21. (D)

Rock Cover
Fine earth material
Boulder
Pitch
Clay core

Structure of Earth dam

Hence, (D) is the correct answer.

d2 y
22. (C) Hinge is the point of maximum curvature. At hinge, is maximum.
dx 2

Hence, (C) is the correct answer.

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

23. (C) In the given structure,

Si : O ratio is 2 : 6 = 1 : 3
Mineral Si : O ratio
Biotite 2:5
Garnet 1: 3
Diopside 1: 3
Orthoclase 1: 2
Garnet is a cyclosilicate but the given structure represents single chain silicate. Pyroxene
have single chain structure.
Diopside (CaMgSi2O6) is a clinopyroxene.
Hence, (C) is the correct answer.
24. (B) Textural Immaturity Includes :
1. High Matrix Content
2. Poor Sorting
3. Presence of angular grains.
Mineralogical Maturity means presence of robust minerals like quartz and absence of
fragile minerals like feldspar.
Hence, (B) is the correct answer.
25. (B) Crystal classes of tetragonal system include :
4  Tetragonal pyramid
4  Tetragonal disphenoid
4
 Tetragonal disphenoid
m
422  Tetragonal trapezohedron
42m  Tetragonal scalenohedron
4mm  Ditetragonal pyramid

4 2 2
 Ditetragonal dipyramid
mmm
Hence, (B) is the correct answer
26. (B) Types of Trilobite Suture :
i. Protoparian ii. Proparian
iii. Gonatoparian iv. Opisthoparian
v. Hypoparian
Types of Pygidium :
i. Micropygus ii. Heteropygus
iii. Isopygus iv. Macropygus
Types of Cephalopod Suture :
i. Orthoceratitic ii. Nautilitic
iii. Goniatitic iv. Ceratitic
v. Ammonitic
Spire - Part of the gastropod shell except the body whorl.
 P-3, Q-4, R-1, S-2 Option (B).

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

27. (C) Oxidation zone minerals are Tenorite (CuO), Cuprite (Cu2O), etc.
Supergene enrichment zone minerals are chalcocite (Cu2S), covellite (CuS), etc.
Option (C) is correct.
[Galena and Sphalerite are very rarely present in supergene sulphide enrichment zone]

28. (B) B = K 1  3 cos2 

where  = Colatitude

 = Colatitude
 
 = Latitude

For equation,  = 90
For poles,  = 0°
 Bequator = K and Bpoles = 2K
Hence, (B) is correct.
29. (D) Strike, dip and hade are used to describe a plane.
Plunge, pitch, trend are used to describe a lineation.
Option (D) is correct.
30. (A)

Mineral Type of Silicate Si : O ratio

Beryl Cyclosilicate 1: 3
Amphibole Double chain silicate 4 : 11
Olivine Nesosilicate 1: 4
Zoisite Disilicate 2:7
P-2, Q-4, R-1, S-3
Option (A) is correct.

SECTION-(B) MULTIPLE SELECT QUESTIONS (MSQ)

1. (B,C) Cuddapah Supergroup – Mesoproterozoic

Vindhyan Supergroup – Neoproterozoic
Burgess Shale Formation – Cambrian
Siwalik Group – Tertiary
Hence (B) and (C) are correct.
2. (A,D) Lower Gondwana Flora
Glossopteris, Gangamopteris, Barakaria, Buriadia, Vertebraria, Dadoxylon,
Noeggerathiopsis, Glossotheca, etc.
Upper Gondowana Flora
Ptilophyllum, Pterophyllum, Otozamites, Dictyosomites, Bucklandia, Dicroidium,
Williamsonia, Pentoxylon, etc.
Hence, (A) and (D) are correct.

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

3. (C,D) Incompatible elements prefer melt over solid and have KD < 1. Compatible elements
prefer solid over liquid and have KD > 1.
Compatible elements – Ni, Cr, Co, V etc.
Incompatible elements – K, Rb, U, Th, La, etc.
Hence, (C) and (D) are correct.
4. (A,B,D)

4 2 2
belongs to tetragonal system and the name of this crystal class is ditetragonal
m m m
dipyramid.
The properties of this crystal class are -
i. 1 tetrad (A4) at c-axis
ii. 4 diads (A2) 2 of them are at a and b axes while the other 2 are at the diagonals
iii. 5 mirror planes.
iv. Centre of symmetry (i) present.
Hence, (A), (B) and (D) are correct.
5. (A,C) Talc – Mg3Si4O10(OH)2
Gypsum – CaSO4.2H2O
Calcite – CaCO3
Fluorite – CaF2
Apatite – Ca5(PO4)3 (OH, F)
Orthoclase – KAl Si3O8
Quartz – SiO2
Topaz – Al2SiO4 (OH, F)2
Corundum – Al2O3
Diamond – C
Hence, (A) and (C) are correct.
6. (A,B,D)
If a crystal is formed before an episode of deformation, then foliation that forms later
wraps around the crystal and pressure shadow zone is formed.

Pre-kinematic
crystal

Pressure shadow zone Foliation formed

after the crystal
Kink bands also indicate pre-kinematic crystals formed prior to deformation.

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

Helicitic folds in internal schistosity characterize post-kinematic crystals.

External Schistosity Internal Schistority

This crystal has been

formed after foliation
Hence, (A), (B) and (D) are correct.
7. (A,B) Porphyroblastic Texture : Metamorphic texture in which certain large grains are formed
by recrystallization and these grains are larger than surrounding groundmass.
Mortar Texture : Metamorphic texture formed due to increased pressure. In this texture,
robust grains are set in a growd-down matrix.
Porhyritic Texture 
 Igneous Textures
Cumulate Texture 
Hence, (A) and (B) are correct.
8. (A,B,C)
Olivine

Ca  plagioclase

Pyroxene
Increasing resistance


Amphibole
to weathering


Na  plagioclase

Biotite

k  feldspar

Mus cov ite

Quartz
So, pyroxene, amphibole and biotite weather faster than k-feldspar
Hence, (A), (B) and (C) are correct.
9. (A,C,D)
Tetragonal disphenoid has 4 faces and can inclose space.
Tetragonal pyramid has 4 faces but does not enclose space.
Tetragonal trapezohedron has 8 faces and encloses space.
Tetragonal scalenohedron has 8 faces and encloses space.
[All trapezohedrons and scalenohedrons enclose space].
Hence, (A), (C) and (D) are correct.
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 Geology-GG (MSP)

10. (A,C,D)
Laccolith Lopolith

Dyke

Phacoliths

So, laccolith, lopolith and phacolith are concordant while dykes are discordant (cust
across strata)
Hence, (A), (C) and (D) are correct.

SECTION-(C) NUMERICAL ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS (NAT)

Shear Modulus( )
1. 156.29 Velocity =
Density()

 (6800)2 =
3380
 m = 156.29 GPa
2. 2 Actual length of fault trace
= (5 × 10000) cm
 Length of the fault trace on
1 : 25000 scale map
5  10000
= cm = 2 cm
25000
3. 4.47  = 1.55 × 10–10 year–1

ln 2 0.693  1010
Half life =  years
 1.55
= 4.47 × 109 years
4. 60 Hade of a plane
= (90 – dip amount)
= (90 – 30)° = 60°
5. 0.075 Hydraulic conductivity × Thickness = Transmissivity
 Hydraulic conductivity
0.75
= m/day
10
= 0.075 m/day
6. 900 Ans = 308–6 = 302 = 900
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 Geology-GG (MSP)

7. 45 AB = horizontal equivalent A B

AC = contour difference
 = dip.
 AC   100 
 = tan–1   = tan–1  
 AB   100 
  = 45° C
8. 4 We know, T2  R3
 R  T2/3 [T = time period]
2/3 3 2/3 2
Hence, answer = 8 = (2 ) = 2 = 4
9. 100 AB = heave
A B
BC = throw 
AC = dip slip = 200 m
 = dip amount = 30°
BC BC
sin  =  sin 30° =  BC = 100 m C
AC 200
10. 2.00 Let original amount be ‘x’ g

x 1 27
   x   x2
27 64 64
11. 0.33 Poisson’s ratio ()

  v p 2 
   2
1  vs 
=   2 
2  vp 
  1
  v s  
 
vp = p-wave velocity
vs = s-wave velocity

1  22  2  1 2 1
=     = 0.33
2  22  1  2 3 3
12. 6 Anionic radius = 1.32 Å
 Cationic radius = (2.05 – 1.32) Å = 0.73 Å
0.73
Radius ratio = = 0.553
1.32
Since radius ratio is between 0.414 and 0.732, coordination no. = 6
t / t1/ 2
 1
13. 3.78 N = N0   N = present no. of atoms
2
t
N  1  t1/ 2
  N0 = initial no. of atoms
N0  2 
6
1  1  t1/ 2
  t1/2 = half life
3  2 
 1 6  1
 Log    log  
 3  t1/ 2 2
 t1/2 = 3.78 hours

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 Geology-GG (MSP)

14. 1 Forsterite + Quartz = Ferrosilite

No. of components = 2
No. of phases = 3
F = C – P + 2  F = 2 – 3 + 2 = 1
87
Sr  87 Sr   87 Rb 
15. 1.50 86
    . t
Sr  86 Sr i  86 Sr 
 0.720 = 0.704 + 0.750 × 1.42 × 10–11 × t
 0.016 = (1.065 × 10–11).t
0.016  1011
 t = years
1.065
= 1.50 × 109 years
16. 7.45 We know,
dP S

dT V
x  3.6 0.0984
 
650  25 15.973
 x = 7.45
[x is the new pressure in kbar]
17. 1.25 Stretching (s) = 1 + e
  0
where e(elongation) =
0
  0 
 S = 1 +  [ = new length; 0 = original length]
0 0
7
S = = 1.25
5.6
18. 80.65 Let the epicentral distance be ‘x’ km.
x x
  = 10
3.6 6.5
 1 1 
 x    10
 3.6 6.5 
 x × 0.124 = 10
 x  80.65

2
19. 3 Properties of 3 crystal class :
m
i. 3 diads
ii. 3 mirror planes

iii. 4 no. of 3
iv. Centre of symmetry (i)
Hence, the answer is 3.
Bulk density
20. 0.54 Porosity = 1 –
Particle density
1.2
= 1 – = 0.54
2.6

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