Nanotechnology is important part of science and its syllabus. Previous Year Question (PYQ) papers are invaluable resources for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations. In this article we present important PYQ on Nanotechnology.
PYQ on Nanotechnology
Q- Consider the following statements: (2022)
- Other than those made by humans, nanoparticles do not exist in nature.
- Nanoparticles of some metallic oxides are used in the manufacture of some cosmetics.
- Nanoparticles of some commercial products which enter the environment are unsafe for humans.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 2
(d) 2 and 3
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
Statement 1: Naturally occurring nanoparticles are present in various forms such as volcanic ash, ocean spray, fine sand, dust, and biological entities like viruses. Additionally, synthetic nanoparticles exhibit a wide range of diversity, possibly surpassing their naturally occurring counterparts in variety.
Statement 2: The cosmetic industry is extensively exploring nanotechnology to enhance the effectiveness of cosmetic products. Utilizing metal and metal oxide nanoparticles like silver, gold, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, iron oxide, and carbon-based nanoparticles, cosmetics are formulated to capitalize on their unique properties. Cosmetologists with expertise in chemistry, toxicology, dermatology, rheology, and marketing are particularly interested in incorporating these nanoparticles as active ingredients, especially in sunscreens.
Statement 3: As per the National Nanotechnology Initiative, substantial quantities of silica, alumina, and ceria nanoparticles are annually utilized in ultrafine abrasive particle mixtures for the precise polishing of silicon wafers. The widespread use of nanoparticles continues to rise, raising concerns about their potential environmental impact and human toxicity. Before mass production of nanomaterials, it’s imperative to address key issues regarding their safety and environmental implications.
Q- With reference to the carbon nanotubes, consider the following statement : (2020)
(1) They can be used as the carriers of drugs and antigens in the human body.
(2) They can be made into artificial blood capillaries for an injured part of the human body.
(3) They can be used in biochemical sensors.
(4) Carbon nanotubes are biodegradable.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are cylindrical molecules composed of hexagonally arranged carbon atoms, formed by rolling up either a single sheet of graphene (single-walled carbon nanotubes, SWCNTs) or multiple sheets of graphene (multiwalled carbon nanotubes, MWCNTs). Originally believed to be chemically resistant due to their rigid structure, CNTs were later found to undergo biodegradation facilitated by enzymes like peroxidase.
NASA has demonstrated the utilization of carbon nanotube arrays as biosensors, highlighting their versatility in various applications. CNTs possess unique chemical and biological properties, boasting a large surface area for attachment of biological substances and the ability to penetrate cell membranes and tissues.
These properties make CNTs promising candidates for biomedical applications, including artificial implants like artificial blood vessels and drug delivery systems. Therefore, statements 1 and 2 are accurate.
Q- With reference to the use of nanotechnology in the health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2015)
(1) Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology
(2) Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer- Option C
EXPLANATION
Nanotechnology involves the exploration and application of methods to investigate physical phenomena and create innovative devices and materials within the size range of 1 to 100 nanometers (nm), with one nanometer equivalent to one billionth of a meter. Its influence extends across various sectors of the economy, including health, food, computing, textiles, energy, transportation, space, agriculture, and more.