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GS Paper IUPSC Prelims 2003
Health & Medicine
Question No. 352Interactive Test Mode
00:00
+2-0.66

Q352. The purpose of adding sodium sulphate and sodium silicate to the detergent in a washing powder is: 1. to keep the washing powder dry. 2. to maintain the alkalinity of the powder. Which of these statements is/are correct?

The purpose of adding sodium sulphate and sodium silicate to the detergent in a washing powder is:

  1. to keep the washing powder dry.
  2. to maintain the alkalinity of the powder. Which of these statements is/are correct?
Select the correct option below (or cross out options to eliminate)
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Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution

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Official UPSC Answer KeyUPSC Prelims 2003 • Science and Technology

Correct Answer: Option (C) — Both 1 and 2

Concept & Option Breakdown

Standard Reference Verified
  • Statement 1 is correct: Sodium sulphate ($Na_2SO_4$) acts as a builder/filler and moisture absorber, maintaining the powder's free-flowing dryness and preventing caking.
  • Statement 2 is correct: Sodium silicate provides buffering action, maintaining an alkaline pH essential for saponification and effective grease removal, while also protecting washing machine metal parts against corrosion.
Elimination Heuristic & Exam Approach

In commercial detergents, sodium sulphate acts as an anti-caking agent (keeps powder dry) while silicates buffer pH (maintain alkalinity).

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Question Specifications & Syllabus Mapping

Examination & YearUPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2003 (Q352)
Paper & Marking SchemeGS Paper I • 2 Marks (-0.66 Negative for incorrect response)
Syllabus Subject & TopicScience and Technology → Health & Medicine
Official Answer KeyOption (C) — Both 1 and 2

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Frequently Asked Questions — UPSC Prelims 2003 Q352

What is the official answer for UPSC Prelims 2003 GS Paper I Question 352 (Science and Technology)?

The official UPSC answer key for this 2003 Science and Technology (Health & Medicine) question is Option (C): "Both 1 and 2". Correct attempts carry 2 Marks with -0.66 Negative penalty for wrong answers.

Which UPSC Prelims syllabus topic does this 2003 question belong to?

This question belongs to GS Paper I under the subject "Science and Technology" and micro-topic "Health & Medicine". You can explore all repeated questions from Health & Medicine in Acme AI's 3D Prelims PYQ Realm or practice 50 full-length and sectional tests in the APT Prelims Test Series.

How can I solve this Health & Medicine UPSC Prelims question using option elimination?

In commercial detergents, sodium sulphate acts as an anticaking agent (keeps powder dry) while silicates buffer pH (maintain alkalinity).

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