Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution
Ready to check the official UPSC Answer Key?
Click any option above to test yourself under exam conditions, or reveal the explanation directly.
Correct Answer: Option (A) — Hydrogen
Concept & Option Breakdown
Standard Reference VerifiedHydrogen has the highest calorific / fuel value among all known chemical fuels, yielding approximately $140\text{ to }150\text{ MJ/kg}$, compared to natural gas ($50–55\text{ MJ/kg}$), gasoline ($44–47\text{ MJ/kg}$), and charcoal (~$30\text{ MJ/kg}$).
Hydrogen has the highest energy per unit mass of any chemical fuel due to its low molecular weight and high heat of combustion.
Practice Full-Length & Sectional Prelims Mocks on this Interface
50 simulated tests in the APT Prelims Test Series (₹1,493) or 1-on-1 Mentorship with Avinash Sir.