Karnataka 2nd PUC Question Bank 2026 Geology

Department of School Education (Pre University) and Karnataka School Education and Assessment
Board

GOVERNMENT OF KARNATAKA

Department of School Education (Pre University)
18th Cross, Malleshwaram Bengaluru- 560012
Web site: https://www.pue.karnataka.gov.in/

and

Karnataka School Education and Assessment Board
6th Cross, Malleshwaram Bengaluru- 560003
Web site: https://kseab.karnataka.gov.in/

2025 – 26 II PUC QUESTION BANK

SUBJECT CODE: 37

SUBJECT NAME: GEOLOGY

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II PUC CHAPTERWISE MARKS ALLOUTMENT

TIME: 3 HOURS 37 – GEOLOGY Max Marks: 80

Units No. of Periods Marks

1. Introduction 5 5

2. Igneous rocks 25 25

3. Sedimentary rocks 10 10

4. Metamorphic rocks 15 14

5. Structural geology 25 25

6. Stratigraphy 15 15

7. Palaeontology 25 25

Total No. of Questions 120 119

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Department of School Education (Pre University), 18th Cross, Malleshwaram Bengaluru- 560012;
and

Karnataka School Education and Assessment Board, 6th Cross, Malleshwaram Bengaluru-
560003

2025 – 26 II PUC GEOLOGY QUESTION BANK DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

SI. NAME ADDRESS OF THE
NAME DESIGNATION
NO. COLLEGE
DD0007 – GOVINDRAM SEKSARIA
YOGESH M
1. LECTURER SCIENCE COLLEGE, TILAKWADI,
KUTRE
BELAGAVI -590006
DD0007 – GOVINDRAM SEKSARIA
PRIYANKA S
2. LECTURER SCIENCE COLLEGE, TILAKWADI,
SHINDE
BELAGAVI -590006

4

UNIT 1
Introduction to Geology

Multiple Choice Questions
1. What branch of geology primarily focuses on the study of rocks, their types, origin, and
occurrence?
A) Mineralogy C) Petrology
B) Geomorphology D) Sedimentology
2. Rocks are defined as:
A) Layers of soil in the Earth's crust C) Layers of decayed organic material
B) Aggregates of minerals forming D) Pure elements like gold or silver
massive solid bodies
3. According to Brainemears, rocks are considered:
A) Solely as historical artifacts C) Only as sources of construction
B) As documents of geology telling the materials
past, present, and future of Earth D) Only valuable for mining purposes
4. Which type of engineer benefits from petrological knowledge for construction and mineral
identification?
A) Electrical Engineer C) Civil Engineer
B) Chemical Engineer D) Software Engineer
5. Igneous rocks are referred to as:
A) Primary rocks C) Sedimentary rocks
B) Secondary rocks D) Metamorphic rocks
6. Which process is NOT involved in the formation of sedimentary rocks?
A) Weathering C) Metamorphism
B) Consolidation D) Deposition
7. What is an example of an igneous rock?
A) Schist C) Granite
B) Limestone D) Sandstone
8. Metamorphic rocks are primarily formed due to:
A) Consolidation of magma C) Influence of temperature, pressure,
B) Processes of weathering and and chemically active fluids
lithification D) Evaporation and precipitation
9. Which of the following is a metamorphic rock?

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A) Limestone C) Marble
B) Granite D) Sandstone
10. The rock cycle is defined as:
A) The transformation of only igneous processes
rocks over time C) A process restricted to sedimentary
B) The continuous movement of rocks rocks only
through various forms due to geological D) The solidification of lava and magma
11. Which rock type is associated with processes like weathering and transportation?
A) Igneous C) Sedimentary
B) Metamorphic D) Volcanic
12. In the rock cycle, metamorphic rocks can transform into:
A) Only sedimentary rocks C) Only igneous rocks
B) Igneous and sedimentary rocks D) Only mineral deposits
13. Granite and syenite are examples of which type of rocks?
A) Metamorphic C) Igneous
B) Sedimentary D) Volcanic
14. Metamorphism refers to:
A) The melting of rocks to form magma rocks under heat and pressure
B) The layering process of sedimentary D) The cooling of magma on Earth’s
rocks surface
C) The transformation of pre-existing
15. Which rock type is formed due to stratification and lithification?
A) Igneous C) Metamorphic
B) Sedimentary D) Plutonic
Match the Following
A B
1. Petrology A. Tells about Earth's past, present, and future

2. Rocks B. Knowledge essential for geologists

3. Igneous rocks C. Formed by weathering and lithification

4. Sedimentary rocks D. Host for mineral deposits and gas

5. Metamorphic rocks E. Formed by cooling and consolidation of magma

6. Granite F. Primary rock

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7. Sandstone G. Secondary rock

8. Rock cycle H. Continuous transformation of rocks

9. Schist I. Tertiary rock

10. Civil Engineer J. Uses petrological knowledge in construction

Fill in the Blanks
1. Petrology is the branch of geology that deals with the study of rocks, their types, origin, and
________.
2. Rocks are aggregates of ________, forming massive solid bodies of the Earth’s crust.
3. Knowledge of petrology is essential for professionals like ________, civil engineers, and mining
engineers.
4. According to Brainemears, rocks are the ________ of geology that provide information about the
past, present, and future of the Earth.
5. Igneous rocks, also called ________ rocks, form from the cooling and solidification of magma.
6. ________ is an example of an igneous rock, while ________ is another.
7. Sedimentary rocks, also called ________ rocks, are formed by processes like weathering,
transportation, and deposition.
8. Sandstone and ________ are examples of sedimentary rocks.
9. ________ rocks are formed by the transformation of pre-existing igneous, sedimentary, or other
metamorphic rocks.
10. The continuous transformation and alteration of rocks through geological processes is known as
the ________ cycle.
1 Mark Questions:
Easy Questions:
1. What is petrology?
2. What are rocks primarily composed of?
3. Why is petrology important for geologists?
4. According to Brainemears, what do rocks tell us about the earth?
5. What are rocks the host for?
6. What are igneous rocks also called?
7. Give an example of a sedimentary rock.
8. Give an example of a metamorphic rock.
Average Questions:
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9. Give an example of an igneous rock.
10. What kind of rocks are schist and marble?
11. Name one discipline where petrological knowledge is helpful.
12. What is lithification?
13. What is the rock cycle?
Difficult Question:
14. What processes lead to the formation of sedimentary rocks?
15. What is the term for rocks formed by metamorphism?
16. What causes the formation of metamorphic rocks?
17. How are sedimentary rocks formed?
18. How are igneous rocks formed?
19. Name two geological processes that contribute to the rock cycle.
20. How can sedimentary rocks transform into metamorphic rocks?

UNIT 2
Igneous Rocks
Multiple Choice Questions.
1. What term describes hot molten rock material beneath the Earth’s surface?
A) Lava C) Igneous
B) Magma D) Sediment
2. The type of lava that flows over a greater distance due to low viscosity is:
A) Acidic lava C) Viscous lava
B) Basic lava D) Vesicular lava
3. Concordant intrusive rock forms are those that:
A) Cut across country rocks C) Are parallel to bedding planes
B) Form on the Earth’s surface D) Occur in marine environments
4. Which structure is characterized by the presence of gas cavities in volcanic rocks?
A) Columnar structure C) Ropy structure
B) Vesicular structure D) Pillow structure
5. Amygdaloidal structures are characterized by:
A) Hexagonal columns minerals
B) Pillow-like formations D) Rope-like surfaces
C) Filled vesicles with secondary
6. Which texture type consists entirely of crystalline minerals?
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A) Holohyaline C) Holocrystalline
B) Merocrystalline D) Cryptocrystalline
7. Igneous rocks with grain sizes greater than 5mm are described as:
A) Aphanetic C) Coarse-grained
B) Cryptocrystalline D) Microcrystalline
8. The term for a rock with mineral grains that are unequal in size is:
A) Equigranular C) Allotriomorphic
B) Phaneric D) Inequigranular
9. What type of texture has large crystals embedded in a finer groundmass?
A) Porphyritic C) Poikilitic
B) Panidiomorphic D) Ophitic
10. Which of the following rock types is formed at greater depths and is coarse-grained?
A) Volcanic C) Plutonic
B) Hypabyssal D) Sedimentary
11. What is the primary mineral composition of basalt?
A) Quartz and feldspar C) Mica and calcite
B) Pyroxene and plagioclase D) Dolomite and augite
12. Which igneous rock is known for its very low specific gravity and porous texture?
A) Granite C) Syenite
B) Pumice D) Dolerite
13. Rocks like granite and syenite are commonly used in construction because they are:
A) Soft and porous C) Hard and durable
B) Dark-colored and low-density D) Rich in calcite
14. What does the term “phaneric” refer to in the context of igneous rock textures?
A) Crystal sizes that are visible to the C) Glassy textures with no crystals
naked eye D) Very fine crystals that require
B) Microscopic crystal sizes magnification
15. The formation of columnar structures in igneous rocks is typically a result of:
A) Rapid cooling of lava C) High-temperature eruption
B) Slow and uniform cooling of magma D) Volcanic explosive activity
Match the Following
A B
1. Magma A. Molten rock beneath Earth's surface

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2. Lava B. Magma that has erupted on Earth's surface

3. Extrusive rocks C. Igneous rock formed by volcanic eruption

4. Intrusive rocks D. Formed inside the Earth

5. Concordant forms E. Parallel to country rock layers

6. Discordant forms F. Cut across existing rock formations

7. Vesicular structure G. Rocks with cavities formed by escaping gases

8. Ropy structure H. Lava flows forming rope-like shapes

9. Granite I. Coarse-grained plutonic igneous rock

10. Dolerite J. Dark, medium-grained rock with ophitic texture
Fill in the Blanks

1. Magma is the hot ________ rock material beneath the Earth's surface.
2. When magma erupts to the Earth's surface, it is called ________.
3. Magma is primarily composed of viscous silicates, dissolved gases, and a large amount of
________.
4. Elements like oxygen, silicon, aluminum, and ________ make up 99% of magma.
5. ________ rocks are formed by the solidification of magma and lava on the Earth's surface and
include extrusive and intrusive types.
6. ________ rocks form from magma that consolidates on the Earth's surface after a volcanic
eruption.
7. Intrusive igneous rocks that are parallel to the bedding planes of country rocks are called
________, with an example being a sill.
8. ________ are discordant igneous forms that cut across pre-existing rocks and are often wall-like
structures.
9. The vesicular structure in igneous rocks is created when ________ gases escape from lava,
forming cavities or vesicles.
10. The ropy structure, also known as ________ structure, forms when low-viscosity lava flows and
appears like a rope.

1 Mark Questions:
1. What is magma?
2. What is lava?

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3. What are the primary components of magma?
4. What percentage of magma is composed of titanium and volatile matter?
5. Name two types of igneous rocks based on their formation.
6. What are extrusive rocks?
7. Name one factor that affects lava flow.
8. Name the two kinds of lava.
9. What are intrusive rocks?
10. What are concordant intrusive rocks?
11. Give an example of a concordant igneous body.
12. What are discordant intrusive rocks?
13. What is the main feature of a dyke?
14. What is vesicular structure?
15. What is amygdaloidal structure?
16. What is columnar structure?
17. What is pillow lava?
18. What is ropy structure also known as?
19. Define holocrystalline texture.
20. What is the range of coarse-grained crystals?
21. Define microcrystalline grain size.
22. What is equigranular texture?
23. What is porphyritic texture?
24. Name an example of plutonic rock.
25. What is basaltic texture?
2 Mark Questions:
Easy Questions:
1. What is the composition of magma?
2. What are extrusive and intrusive igneous rocks?
3. What are concordant and discordant forms in igneous rocks?
4. What is the difference between a sill and a dyke?
5. What is the role of volatile gases in vesicular structures?
6. What are euhedral and subhedral crystals?
7. Define poikilitic texture.
8. What is hypabyssal rock, and give one example?
Average Questions:
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9. What is the significance of columnar structure in igneous rocks?
10. What is the significance of ophitic texture in igneous rocks?
11. What is the difference between equigranular and inequigranular textures?
12. What is the difference between plutonic and volcanic igneous rocks?
13. Name the important minerals in basalt.
14. What is the texture of pumice?
15. What is the texture of granite?
16. What minerals are found in syenite?
17. What is the difference between holocrystalline and holohyaline textures?
Difficult Question:
18. Describe vesicular and amygdaloidal structures.
19. Explain the difference between phaneric and aphanetic grain sizes.
20. Explain the difference between magma and lava.
21. How does the viscosity of lava affect its movement?
22. How does slow cooling of magma affect the grain size of igneous rocks?
23. What is the relationship between magma composition and rock color?
24. What is the role of secondary minerals in amygdaloidal structures?
25. What is the economic significance of igneous rocks?
3 Mark Questions
Easy Questions:
1. What is columnar structure and where can it be found?
2. What is the difference between vesicular and amygdaloidal structures?
3. Describe the process of forming ropy (pahoehoe) structure.
4. What factors control the texture of igneous rocks?
5. Explain the difference between phaneric and aphanetic textures in igneous rocks.
6. Describe how equigranular and inequigranular textures are formed.
Average Questions:
7. What is the relationship between cooling rate and texture in igneous rocks?
8. Explain the formation of porphyritic and poikilitic textures.
9. What is the difference between allotriomorphic and panidiomorphic textures?
10. Describe the characteristics of basalt and its structures.
11. Explain the process of forming pillow lava.
12. What is the difference between plutonic and volcanic rocks?
13. Explain how igneous rocks are classified based on their formation depth.
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14. What is the significance of igneous rocks in geological studies?
15. What is the economic value of pumice and its specific properties?
16. Explain how amygdaloidal structure forms in volcanic rocks.
Difficult Questions:
17. Describe the composition and texture of granite.
18. Explain the significance of dolerite in igneous rock formation.
19. How do igneous rocks contribute to the earth's mineral resources?
20. Describe the composition and texture of syenite.
21. Explain the formation and composition of magma.
22. Describe the difference between acidic and basic lava.
23. How are intrusive rocks classified based on their orientation?
24. Describe the structure and formation of a dyke.
25. Explain how geological processes shape the features of igneous rocks.
5 Mark Questions:
Easy Questions:
1. What are columnar and ropy structures? Discuss their formation and examples.
2. What are concordant and discordant intrusive rock forms? Explain with examples.
3. Explain the types of igneous rocks based on formation and their key differences.
4. Describe the formation and types of lava, and how their movement differs.
5. Describe the different types of structures in igneous rocks and their significance.
6. How do vesicular and amygdaloidal structures form? Explain their importance.
Average Questions:
7. Explain the textural classification of igneous rocks and the factors controlling them.
8. Compare and contrast equigranular and inequigranular textures.
9. Discuss the importance of crystal shape and fabric in understanding igneous rocks.
10. How do porphyritic and ophitic textures form? Provide examples and explain their significance.
11. Discuss the classification of igneous rocks based on formation depth with examples.
12. Explain the role of grain size and mineral composition in the classification of igneous rocks.
13. Discuss the economic importance of igneous rocks in construction and industry.
14. Explain the different textures found in plutonic, hypabyssal, and volcanic rocks.
15. Discuss the uses of basalt and granite in construction and their geological significance.
16. Describe the characteristics and significance of dolerite in geological studies.
17. Explain the classification and composition of hypabyssal igneous rocks.
Difficult Questions:
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18. Discuss the significance of vesicular and amygdaloidal structures in volcanic rocks.
19. Explain the process of rock crystallization and the factors affecting crystal shape.
20. Discuss how plutonic, hypabyssal, and volcanic rocks are differentiated by their grain size.
21. Explain the importance of studying the textures and structures of igneous rocks in geology.
22. How does the cooling rate of magma affect the texture and structure of igneous rocks?
23. Discuss the significance of igneous rocks in understanding the earth's geological history.
UNIT 3
Sedimentary rocks
Multiple Choice Questions.
1. What is the primary process that leads to the formation of sedimentary rocks?
A) Recrystallization C) Volcanic activity
B) Lithification D) Erosion
2. Exogenetic sedimentary rocks are formed by:
A) Chemical precipitation within the the basin
basin C) Accumulation of organic material
B) Fragmentation of source rock outside D) Weathering within the basin
3. Which of the following is NOT a primary sedimentary structure?
A) Stratification C) Foliation
B) Cross-stratification D) Ripple marks
4. The formation of cross-stratification in sedimentary rocks is primarily influenced by:
A) Tectonic forces C) Temperature changes
B) Ocean or wind currents D) Chemical reactions
5. What type of ripple marks are created by unidirectional currents such as rivers?
A) Symmetrical C) Polygonal
B) Asymmetrical D) Concentric
6. Which of the following structures forms as a result of clay drying and cracking?
A) Stratification C) Graded bedding
B) Ripple marks D) Mud cracks
7. Rudaceous sedimentary rocks are primarily composed of grains that are:
A) Sand-sized C) Gravel-sized
B) Silt-sized D) Clay-sized
8. Roundness in sedimentary rocks refers to:
A) The degree of sorting of grains C) The degree of angularity of grains
B) The mineral composition of grains D) The chemical composition
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9. Which of the following is a clastic or mechanically formed sedimentary rock?
A) Limestone C) Breccia
B) Shale D) Oolitic limestone
10. What is the primary grain size found in arenaceous sedimentary rocks?
A) 0.1 to 2 mm C) Less than 0.01 mm
B) Greater than 2 mm D) 1 to 5 mm
11. A rock primarily composed of rounded gravel-size particles is called:
A) Sandstone C) Conglomerate
B) Breccia D) Shale
12. Which of the following is an example of an argillaceous sedimentary rock?
A) Conglomerate C) Breccia
B) Sandstone D) Shale
13. Which sedimentary rock type reacts with dilute hydrochloric acid?
A) Sandstone C) Limestone
B) Shale D) Breccia
14. Oolitic limestone is characterized by:
A) Angular grains C) Large gravel-sized particles
B) Round grains with concentric layers D) Banding of dark and light minerals
15. The presence of angular grains in a sedimentary rock like breccia suggests:
A) Long transport distance C) Chemical precipitation
B) Short transport distance D) High temperature formation

Match the Following
A B

1. Sediment A. Solid material that settles in a liquid

2. Lithification B. Process of sediment consolidation into rock

3. Stratification C. Layering of sedimentary beds

4. Ripple Marks D. Undulations on sediment from wind or water

5. Mud Cracks E. Cracks formed in drying clay material

6. Rudaceous F. Rocks with gravel-sized grains

7. Arenaceous G. Rocks with sand-sized grains

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8. Argillaceous H. Rocks with fine, clay-sized particles

9. Limestone I. Calcareous rock that reacts with HCl

10. Oolitic Limestone J. Rock with circular grains of calcite
Fill in the Blanks
1. Sedimentary rocks are formed through the processes of weathering, transportation, deposition, and
__________.
2. __________ is the process by which loose sediments are consolidated into solid rock.
3. Rocks formed from pre-existing rocks through mechanical actions are classified as __________
rocks.
4. The arrangement of sedimentary beds in layers, one above the other, is called __________.
5. __________ marks are undulations on the sediment surface created by wind or water movement
across sand.
6. __________ sedimentary rocks are composed of sand-sized particles.
7. __________ is a rudaceous rock with angular grains, indicating a short transportation distance.
8. The chemical formula for calcite, the main component of limestone, is __________.
9. The fine-grained sedimentary rock consisting mainly of clay minerals is known as __________.

10. __________ are circular or oval grains in limestone, precipitated from warm marine water.

1 mark Questions:
1. What is sediment?
2. What is a sedimentary rock?
3. What is lithification?
4. Define diagenesis.
5. Name the two broad groups of sedimentary rocks.
6. What are exogenetic rocks?
7. What are endogenetic rocks?
8. What is stratification in sedimentary rocks?
9. What causes cross-stratification?
10. What is graded bedding?
11. What are ripple marks?
12. Define symmetrical ripple marks.
13. Define asymmetrical ripple marks.
14. How are mud cracks formed?
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15. What is the Wentworth grain size classification used for?
16. What is roundness in sedimentary grains?
17. What are rudaceous rocks?
18. What is meant by arenaceous rocks?
19. Define argillaceous rocks.
20. What are clastic rocks?
21. What are non-clastic rocks?
22. What type of rock is a conglomerate?
23. What type of rock is breccia?
24. What is the grain size range in sandstone?
25. What is the grain size range in shale?
26. What is the main mineral found in limestone?
27. What happens when limestone reacts with hydrochloric acid?
28. What is an oolith?
29. What is oolitic limestone made up of?
30. What type of texture does limestone exhibit?
2 mark Questions:
Easy Questions:
1. Explain the difference between sedimentary rocks and igneous rocks.
2. Describe the process of lithification.
3. Differentiate between exogenetic and endogenetic sedimentary rocks.
4. What is the significance of primary sedimentary structures?
5. Explain the formation of cross-stratification.
6. How is graded bedding formed?
7. Define grain size and its importance in sedimentary rock classification.
8. What type of environment is likely to produce breccia?
9. What is the importance of roundness and shape in sedimentary rocks?
10. Explain the texture of shale.
Average Questions:
11. How are clastic rocks formed?
12. Describe the formation of residual sedimentary rocks.
13. What do ripple marks tell us about past environments?
14. What is the difference between mechanical and chemical sedimentary rocks?
15. Explain the classification of sedimentary rocks based on grain size.
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16. How is a conglomerate different from a breccia?
17. How is sandstone formed?
18. How are mud cracks useful in understanding sedimentary environments?
Difficult Questions:
19. How do limestone and oolitic limestone differ in texture and composition?
20. Describe how graded bedding helps in identifying the direction of sediment transport.
21. Why are ripple marks important in sedimentary geology?
22. What does the presence of mud cracks in a sedimentary rock indicate?
23. How do cross-stratification structures develop?
24. How does the process of sediment transportation affect the roundness of grains?
25. How does the chemical composition of limestone affect its properties?
3 mark Questions:
Easy Questions:
1. Describe the process of sedimentary rock formation, including weathering, transportation,
deposition, lithification, and diagenesis.
2. Explain the difference between primary and secondary sedimentary structures.
3. What are the different types of ripple marks and how are they formed?
4. Explain the importance of graded bedding in sedimentary rocks.
5. Describe how mud cracks form and what they signify about the depositional environment.
6. Discuss the classification of sedimentary rocks based on their origin, with examples.
7. Compare clastic, residual, and non-clastic sedimentary rocks.
8. Describe the importance of Wentworth's grain size classification in sedimentology.
9. Describe the formation and composition of sandstone.
Average Questions:
10. Explain the significance of grain size, roundness, and sorting in sedimentary rocks.
11. What is the importance of sedimentary structures in interpreting Earth's history?
12. Discuss the classification of sedimentary rocks based on grain size, including examples of
rudaceous, arenaceous, and argillaceous rocks.
13. What is a conglomerate, and how does it differ from breccia in terms of formation and grain size?
14. Explain the processes that lead to the formation of shale.
15. Describe the mineral composition and texture of limestone and its reaction with hydrochloric acid.
16. What is oolitic limestone, and how does it form?
Difficult Questions:

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17. How are graded bedding and cross-stratification useful for determining the direction of sediment
transport?
18. How do ripple marks and cross-stratification provide information about past environmental
conditions?
19. Describe the texture and grain size of argillaceous sedimentary rocks.
20. How does sediment transportation affect the roundness of sediment grains?
21. Discuss the significance of stratification and bedding in sedimentary rocks.
22. How do sedimentary rocks preserve evidence of ancient environments and processes?
23. Explain how lithification and diagenesis convert loose sediment into solid rock.
24. How do chemical processes lead to the formation of non-clastic sedimentary rocks like limestone?

UNIT 4
Metamorphic rocks

Multiple Choice Questions.

1. What does the term "metamorphism" refer to in geology?
A) Formation of sedimentary rocks C) Erosion of rocks by natural elements
B) Transformation of pre-existing rocks D) Only the creation of igneous rocks
through recrystallization
2. Which agent is NOT a primary agent of metamorphism?
A) Temperature C) Chemically active fluids
B) Pressure D) Gravity
3. The mesozone is characterized by which of the following conditions?
A) Low temperature and high shear stress C) High temperature and hydrostatic
B) Moderate temperature and mixed pressure
pressure types D) Low pressure and low temperature
4. What role does temperature play in metamorphism?
A) It inhibits reaction processes C) It solely influences the color of the
B) It accelerates reaction processes and rock
increases rock volume D) It decreases the rock volume
5. What type of pressure leads to a change in volume during metamorphism?
A) Directed pressure C) Uniform pressure
B) Atmospheric pressure D) Dynamic pressure
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6. In which metamorphic zone would you most likely find slate and chlorite schist?
A) Hypozone C) Epizone
B) Mesozone D) Plutonic zone
7. Dynamic metamorphism is also known as:
A) Cataclastic metamorphism C) Regional metamorphism
B) Thermal metamorphism D) Hypothermal metamorphism
8. Which type of metamorphism is associated with high temperatures but low pressure?
A) Dynamic metamorphism C) Plutonic metamorphism
B) Thermal metamorphism D) Directed metamorphism
9. What kind of structure is characterized by an essentially granular and equidimensional mineral
grain arrangement?
A) Schistose structure C) Granulose structure
B) Gneissose structure D) Cataclastic structure
10. Which metamorphic rock is known for its slaty cleavage and ability to split into thin sheets?
A) Marble C) Quartzite
B) Slate D) Gneiss
11. Which rock is primarily composed of calcite and has a granulose texture?
A) Slate C) Marble
B) Quartzite D) Charnockite
12. Gneiss is characterized by which structure?
A) Granulose C) Schistose
B) Gneissose D) Foliated
13. Which metamorphic rock is typically very hard and used in glass and construction industries?
A) Quartzite C) Gneiss
B) Schist D) Marble
14. Which kind of metamorphism involves the action of temperature, pressure, and chemically active
fluids, often leading to large-scale changes?
A) Thermal metamorphism C) Regional (Dynamothermal)
B) Plutonic metamorphism metamorphism
D) Epizonal metamorphism
15. What are the primary minerals found in the rock type known as gneiss?
A) Mica and chlorite C) Amphibole and pyroxene
B) Feldspar and quartz D) Calcite and dolomite

20

Fill in the Blanks

1. The term metamorphism is derived from a Greek word meaning "________."
2. Metamorphism involves the transformation of pre-existing rocks into new types by the ________
of their constituents.
3. ________, ________, and chemically active fluids are the three main agents of metamorphism.
4. In metamorphism, ________ pressure is generated by the overlying weight of rocks, leading to
compaction.
5. ________ is the most important chemically active fluid in the metamorphism process, as it acts as
a good solvent.
6. The zone of metamorphism generally increases with ________ due to rising temperature and
pressure.
7. The near-surface zone of metamorphism, known as the ________, has low temperature and strong
shear stress.
8. The ________ zone, at moderate temperatures, is characterized by the dynamothermal type of
metamorphism.
9. High-temperature metamorphism at great depths is characteristic of the ________, where
hydrostatic stress is dominant.
10. Plutonic metamorphism occurs under high ________ and ________, with significant burial depth
and crustal movements.

Match the Following

A B
1. Dynamic Metamorphism - a) hydrostatic pressure
2. Thermal Metamorphism - b) Heat is the dominant factor
3. Dynamothermal Metamorphism- c) regional metamorphism.
4. Plutonic Metamorphism - d) and burial at great depths.
5. Epizone - e)300∘C
6. Mesozone - f) 300∘C -550∘C
7. Hypozone - g) 550∘C -1200∘C
8. Geothermal Gradient - h) The rate of temperature increase with depth
9. Directed Pressure - i) leads to shape changes in rocks.
10. Chemically Active Fluids - j) Hot solution
21

1 mark Questions:
1. What does the term metamorphism mean?
2. What are metamorphic rocks?
3. Name any one agent of metamorphism.
4. What is the primary role of temperature in metamorphism?
5. Define dynamic metamorphism.
6. What is the most important liquid in chemically active fluids during metamorphism?
7. What is the epizone?
8. What is the temperature range of the mesozone?
9. What is the hypozone characterized by?
10. What is granulose texture?
11. Which metamorphic rock has a gneissose structure?
12. What is schistose structure?
13. What is the parent rock of marble?
14. Define slaty cleavage.
15. What is the chief mineral composition of marble?
16. What rock is quartzite derived from?
17. What type of metamorphism forms schists?
18. What kind of rock is charnockite?
19. What type of structure is typical of granulite?
20. Which agent of metamorphism involves heat as the dominant factor?
21. What is the principal mineral in quartzite?
22. What is the most common type of schist?
23. What is cataclastic metamorphism another name for?
24. Name a metamorphic rock used in road construction.
25. What are the two main minerals found in gneiss?
2 mark Questions:
Easy Questions:
1. What role do chemically active fluids play in metamorphism?
2. What are the distinguishing characteristics of mesozone?
3. What kind of stress is dominant in the hypozone?
4. What are the effects of dynamic metamorphism?
5. Describe the epizone and the typical rocks formed there.
6. What is foliated texture in metamorphic rocks?
22

7. What is gneissose structure and in which type of metamorphism is it found?
8. What is the parent rock of schist?
9. What is the primary mineral in marble?
10. What is the chemical composition of calcite, the main mineral in marble?
11. Name two common types of schist.
Average Questions:
12. Explain the concept of metamorphic zones.
13. What are the key features of charnockite?
14. How does the temperature influence the recrystallization process in metamorphic rocks?
15. Define granulose texture and give an example.
16. How is marble formed from limestone?
17. Explain the term slaty cleavage in slate.
18. How does quartzite differ from sandstone in texture and hardness?
19. How is schistose structure different from granulose structure?
20. What is the significance of metamorphic zones in geology?
Difficult Questions:
21. How is uniform pressure different from directed pressure in metamorphism?
22. How is plutonic metamorphism different from dynamothermal metamorphism?
23. What role does pressure play in dynamic metamorphism?
24. How are chemically active fluids responsible for new mineral formation during metamorphism?
25. How does directed pressure affect rock structure during metamorphism?
3-mark Questions:
Easy questions:
1. Explain how metamorphic rocks are formed from pre-existing rocks.
2. Differentiate between epizone, mesozone, and hypozone.
3. Describe granulose structure and give examples of rocks with this structure.
4. What are the primary differences between gneissose and schistose structures?
5. Explain the process of regional metamorphism and give an example.
6. Discuss the role of directed pressure in metamorphic rock formation.
7. What are the typical mineral compositions of quartzite and gneiss?
8. What is the relationship between heat and pressure in plutonic metamorphism?
9. What is the process of recrystallization in metamorphism?
Average Questions:
10. How are slates formed from argillaceous rocks?
23

11. Describe the formation of schists and their typical structures.
12. Explain the importance of temperature as an agent of metamorphism.
13. What type of rock is charnockite, and where is it commonly found?
14. Discuss the texture and structure of gneiss and its uses in construction.
15. What are the main types of metamorphism, and how are they different from each other?
16. How does pressure affect the mineral composition of metamorphic rocks?
17. How does dynamic metamorphism differ from thermal metamorphism?
Difficult Questions:
18. How do temperature, pressure, and chemically active fluids work together in metamorphism?
19. Compare and contrast marble and quartzite in terms of composition and use.
20. Discuss the importance of chemically active fluids in the metamorphic process.
21. Explain the role of tectonic activities in dynamic metamorphism.
22. Describe the characteristics and uses of marble as a metamorphic rock.
23. How is slate formed, and what is its typical structure?
24. Explain the role of metamorphism in changing rock textures and structures.
25. How does burial at great depths lead to metamorphism?
5 mark Questions:
Easy Questions:
1. Explain in detail the agents of metamorphism and how they contribute to the formation of
metamorphic rocks.
2. Discuss the different kinds of metamorphism and provide examples of each.
3. Describe the metamorphic zones (epizone, mesozone, and hypozone) and the types of rocks
associated with each.
4. Discuss the characteristics and uses of gneiss in construction.
5. Explain the formation of charnockite and its distinguishing features.
6. Discuss the process of dynamothermal metamorphism and give an example of a region where this
occurs.
Average Questions:
7. Explain the formation of metamorphic rocks in zones of high pressure and temperature, providing
specific rock examples.
8. Explain the processes involved in dynamic, thermal, and plutonic metamorphism.
9. Discuss the granulose, gneissose, and schistose structures, including how each is formed and
examples of rocks exhibiting these structures.
10. Compare and contrast the formation and characteristics of slate, marble, and quartzite.
24

11. Explain the role of chemically active fluids in metamorphism and how they lead to the formation
of new minerals.
12. Compare the textures of metamorphic rocks formed in low-grade versus high-grade
metamorphism.
Difficult questions:
13. Discuss how temperature and pressure interact to influence the texture and mineral composition of
metamorphic rocks.
14. How do chemically active fluids affect the texture and composition of metamorphic rocks?
15. Explain how the concept of metamorphic zones helps in understanding the geological processes at
different depths.
16. How do dynamic, thermal, and plutonic metamorphism differ in terms of pressure, temperature,
and chemical changes?
17. Describe the process of forming schists and give examples of common schist types.
18. Discuss how foliated and non-foliated textures are formed in metamorphic rocks, providing
examples of each.
19. Compare marble and quartzite in terms of origin, composition, and use.

UNIT 5
Structural Geology
Multiple Choice Questions.

1. What does Structural Geology primarily study?
a) Earth's atmosphere c) Earth's structures formed by internal
b) Earth's temperature variations forces
d) Earth's crust composition
2. The attitude of rock beds is expressed by:
a) Dip and fault c) Strike and joint
b) Dip and strike d) Fold and fault
3. What is the strike in geological terms?
a) The angle of inclination of the bed c) A type of unconformity
b) The line where the bedding plane d) A measure of bed thickness
intersects the horizontal plane
4. Which type of dip is perpendicular to the strike direction?
a) Apparent dip b) True dip
25

c) Horizontal dip d) Parallel dip
5. An outcrop is best defined as:
a) A fault zone c) A rock exposure on Earth's surface
b) An erosion surface d) A type of fold
6. Inliers are areas of:
a) Older rocks surrounded by younger rocks c) Rocks formed by igneous activity
b) Younger rocks surrounded by older rocks d) Rocks altered by faulting
7. What is a Brunton compass primarily used for?
a) Measuring rock color c) Measuring attitude of beds
b) Identifying rock types d) Finding minerals in rocks
8. Which of the following is NOT a use of a Brunton compass?
a) Geological mapping c) Measuring slope
b) Measuring rock density d) Field location identification
9. Conformity in geology is best described as:
a) A break in the stratigraphic sequence c) A fault line formation
b) Continuous deposition of sediments d) A series of folds in sedimentary layers
10. Unconformities in rock layers are usually formed due to:
a) Continuous sediment deposition c) Breaks in deposition and erosion
b) Faulting d) Igneous rock intrusion
11. Which type of unconformity has horizontal layers on both sides?
a) Angular unconformity c) Non-conformity
b) Disconformity d) Structural conformity
12. The presence of a younger rock overlying an older igneous rock is known as:
a) Non-conformity c) Disconformity
b) Angular unconformity d) Paraconformity
13. What are joints in geology?
a) Fractures with displacement c) Inclined rock beds
b) Smooth fractures with no displacement d) Small faults in rock formations
14. A joint set is defined as:
a) A single joint in a rock c) Joints running parallel to the dip
b) Multiple joints in a rock d) Joints along the bedding planes
15. Which type of joint runs diagonal to the strike of a bed?
a) Bedding joint c) Oblique joint
b) Strike joint d) Dip joint
26

16. Columnar joints commonly form in which type of rock?
a) Sedimentary c) Igneous, especially basalts and rhyolites
b) Metamorphic d) Sedimentary clays
17. What term describes the highest point of an upfold?
a) Trough c) Hinge
b) Axis d) Crest
18. Which type of fold is convex upwards with limbs dipping away from the axial plane?
a) Syncline c) Horizontal fold
b) Anticline d) Dome
19. A symmetrical fold has:
a) An inclined axial plane c) No axial plane
b) A vertical axial plane d) Parallel beds only
20. Faults are defined as:
a) Folds with high curvature c) Fractures with differential movement
b) Fractures with no movement d) Unconformities in rock layers
21. What is a fault line?
a) A fracture in the rock c) The fracture formed by a fault on the
b) A line showing mineral content surface
d) The fold axis in a fold
22. The hanging wall is the block:
a) Below the fault c) Parallel to the fault
b) Above the fault d) At a right angle to the fault
23. A horst structure is formed when:
a) The central block is lowered c) Faults converge downwards
b) The central block is raised between two d) Fault lines intersect at a right angle
faults
24. Step faults are characterized by:
a) Random strike directions c) Horizontal faults only
b) Faults arranged parallel with a unique d) Zig-zag formations without a pattern
strike direction
25. Which of the following best describes why geologic structures are important for hydrogeologists?
a) They are stable zones for large structures c) They influence groundwater potential
b) They reveal areas with weak minerals zones
d) They create natural disaster zones
27

Match the Following

1. Conformity a) Continuous deposition of sediments.
2. Unconformity b) Surface of erosion.
3. Angular Unconformity c) Older, inclined beds overlain by younger, horizontal beds.
4. Disconformity d) Parallel layers of older and younger rocks separated by erosion.
5. Dip Joint e) Joints running parallel to the dip of rock layers.
6. Axial Plane f) Imaginary plane dividing a fold into two symmetrical halves.
7. Anticline g) Upward convex fold
8. Normal Fault h) Fault where the hanging wall moves downward relative to the footwall.
9. Horst Fault i) Fault structure with a raised central block between two parallel faults.
10. Graben Fault j) Fault structure with a central sunken block between two parallel faults.

Fill in the blanks

1. The process of bending rock layers due to compression forces is called _______.
2. The continuous deposition of sedimentary layers one over the other in age sequence is known as
_______.
3. A surface of erosion or non-deposition that separates younger rocks from older rocks is called
_______.
4. In _______ unconformity, older, inclined layers are overlain by younger, horizontal layers.
5. The two bends located on either side of the fold axis are known as _______.
6. A _______ fault occurs when the hanging wall moves down relative to the footwall.
7. In a _______ fault, the central block is uplifted, creating a raised structure between parallel faults.
8. The highest point of an upward fold is called the _______.
9. A _______ joint runs parallel to the dip of the rock layers.
10. In a fold, the angle of inclination of the fold axis with the horizontal plane is known as the
_______.

1 Mark Questions
1. Define structural geology.
2. What is a dip?
3. What is a strike?
28

4. What is an outcrop?
5. Name the instrument used to measure the attitude of beds.
6. What are joints in rocks?
7. What is an inlier?
8. Define an anticline.
9. What is a plunge of a fold?
10. What is a fault plane?
11. What is a syncline?
12. Define graben fault.
13. What is a non-conformity?
14. What is a columnar joint?
15. What is a horst fault?
16. Define symmetrical fold.
17. What is the hinge of a fold?
18. What is a disconformity?
19. What are the parts of a Brunton compass?
20. Define oblique joint.
21. What is a bedding joint?
22. What is an angular unconformity?
23. What is the axial plane of a fold?
24. What is a crest of a fold?
25. Define reverse fault.
2 marks Questions
Easy questions:
1. What is the relation between strike and dip?
2. What are the uses of a Brunton compass?
3. Explain the term ‘unconformity’.
4. What is the difference between inlier and outlier?
5. Describe disconformity.
6. What are joint sets and joint systems?
7. What are dip and strike joints?
8. What is the trough of a fold?
9. Define normal fault.
Average Questions:
29

10. Explain the term ‘anticline’.
11. Differentiate between true dip and apparent dip.
12. Define the step fault.
13. What is meant by axial plane and axis in folds?
14. What is the role of joints in the flow of water in aquifers?
15. How are folds formed?
16. Explain symmetrical and asymmetrical folds.
17. How is a horst structure formed?
Difficult Questions:
18. How is an angular unconformity formed?
19. What are the main causes of joints in rocks?
20. What is the importance of geologic structures for hydrogeologists?
21. How does a graben fault differ from a horst fault?
22. Define and give an example of a non-conformity.
23. Explain the concept of plunge in folds.
24. Differentiate between fault plane and fault line.
25. What is the importance of unconformities in geology?
3 Marks Questions
Easy Questions:
1. How does a Brunton compass measure the attitude of beds?
2. Describe the attitude of beds and its significance in geology.
3. Explain the significance of joints in rocks in geotechnical engineering.
4. Explain the stages involved in the formation of an unconformity.
5. What are the parts of a fold, and explain each briefly?
6. Describe the characteristics of an anticline and syncline.
7. Explain the types of unconformities with examples.
Average Questions:
8. Explain the different types of joints found in rocks.
9. What is an oblique joint, and how does it form?
10. How columnar jointing is formed in igneous rocks?
11. Describe the process of folding and its significance in structural geology.
12. Differentiate between symmetrical and asymmetrical folds with examples.
Difficult Questions:
13. How do faults affect civil engineering projects?
30

14. What is a horst fault, and how does it affect the landscape?
15. How do joint sets influence groundwater flow?
16. What are the different types of faults, and how do they form?
17. Describe the importance of faults in earthquake studies.
18. Explain the formation of an inlier and outlier.
5 Marks Questions
Easy Questions:

1. Explain the types of folds and their importance in structural geology.
2. Discuss with neat labeled diagram of normal and reverse fault.
3. Describe the process of fault formation and the different types of faults with examples.
4. How are joints formed in rocks, and what is their geological importance?
5. Describe the types of unconformities and their importance in geological studies.
6. Discuss the importance of faults, folds, and joints in economic geology.
7. Explain the various types of joints in rocks and their significance in structural geology.
8. What is a Brunton compass, and how is it used to measure the attitude of beds in the field?
9. Describe the different parts of a fault.
Average Questions:
10. Explain the significance of the study of faults.
11. Explain the role of structural geology in civil engineering projects.
12. Discuss the significance of studying unconformities in geology.
13. Explain how folds are classified and the processes responsible for their formation.
14. Describe the structural features of an anticline and syncline and their geological importance.
15. Discuss the significance of structural geology in the exploration of groundwater.
16. Explain the relationship between faults and earthquake occurrence.
17. How are structural geological features important in the mining industry?
Difficult Questions:
18. How do faults impact large-scale civil engineering projects like dams and tunnels?
19. Discuss with labeled diagram the formation and significance of horst and graben structures.
20. Explain the various types of faults.
21. Explain the process of folding and the classification of folds based on their structure.
22. Describe with neat labeled diagrams the various types of joints.
23. How are geologic structures related to the exploration and extraction of petroleum?

31

UNIT 6
Stratigraphy
Multiple Choice Questions.
1. What branch of geology deals with the formation, sequence, and correlation of stratified rocks?
A) Geophysics C) Stratigraphy
B) Mineralogy D) Paleontology
2. According to the Law of Superposition, which layer in an undisturbed sedimentary sequence is the
oldest?
A) Top layer C) Middle layer
B) Bottom layer D) Any layer
3. Who proposed the concept of Uniformitarianism in 1785?
A) Charles Lyell C) Alfred Wegener
B) James Hutton D) Charles Darwin
4. What term is used for sedimentary beds formed in a continuous sequence without any breaks?
A) Unconformable C) Metamorphic
B) Conformable D) Igneous
5. The Earth is estimated to be how old?
A) 600 million years C) 2 billion years
B) 4.5 billion years D) 3 billion years
6. The Phanerozoic Eon is characterized by:
A) Visible fossils C) Only microscopic fossils
B) Absence of fossils D) High volcanic activity
7. Which of the following is the oldest era?
A) Paleozoic C) Cenozoic
B) Mesozoic D) Archean
8. What rock types are common in the Archaean succession in India?
A) Sedimentary rocks C) Limestone
B) Gneisses and schists D) Sandstone
9. The Dharwar region in India is best known for which rock type?
A) Sandstone C) Gneissic Complex
B) Quartzite D) Shale
10. Which mineral is NOT commonly found in Archaean rocks of India?
A) Mica C) Iron
B) Coal D) Manganese
32

11. Which period in the Paleozoic Era is known for the age of Trilobites and Graptolites?
A) Ordovician C) Devonian
B) Permian D) Cambrian
12. The Mesozoic Era is also called the "Age of":
A) Mammals C) Fish
B) Reptiles D) Birds
13. What major event happened to the supercontinent Pangaea during the Mesozoic Era?
A) Formation C) Splitting into Laurasia and Gondwana
B) Erosion D) Collision with Eurasia
14. Which rock type is predominant in Cenozoic formations?
A) Igneous C) Metamorphic
B) Sedimentary D) Volcanic
15. The Deccan Traps in India formed during which era?
A) Paleozoic C) Cenozoic
B) Mesozoic D) Precambrian
16. The main orogeny that created the Alps and Carpathians took place during which era?
A) Mesozoic C) Paleozoic
B) Cenozoic D) Precambrian
17. Which of the following mineral resources is NOT found in Archaean rocks of India?
A) Copper C) Manganese
B) Petroleum D) Uranium
18. The Himalayan mountains formed as a result of the collision between which two plates?
A) Indian and African C) African and Eurasian
B) Indian and Eurasian D) North American and Eurasian
19. Which period is not part of the Cenozoic Era?
A) Paleogene C) Quaternary
B) Neogene D) Triassic
20. The development of glaciation on the Antarctic continent began in which era?
A) Precambrian C) Mesozoic
B) Paleozoic D) Cenozoic

Fill in the Blanks

33

1. The branch of geology that deals with the formation, sequence, and correlation of stratified rocks is
called __________.
2. The __________ states that in an undisturbed sequence of sedimentary rocks, the rocks at the
bottom are older than those above them.
3. James Hutton's principle of __________ implies that the present is the key to the past.
4. Sedimentary beds formed in continuous sequence without interruption are termed __________.
5. The Earth is estimated to be over __________ billion years old.
6. The two main Eons in geological time are __________ and __________.
7. The Era known as the "Age of Reptiles" is the __________.
8. The Cenozoic Era is divided into three main periods: Paleogene, __________, and Quaternary.
9. The formation of the __________ mountain range was due to the collision of the Indian and
Eurasian plates.
10. The Cenozoic is known as the "__________," due to the rise and diversification of this type of
animal.

Match the Following

A B
1. Law of Superposition a. Age of Mammals
2. Uniformitarianism b. James Hutton
3. Precambrian c. Visible life
4. Phanerozoic d. First rocks with life
5. Mesozoic e. Age of Reptiles
6. Cenozoic f. Oldest rocks in India (Karnataka)
7. Archean g. Sediments without interruption
8. Conformable h. Fossil-rich sedimentary rocks
9. Paleozoic i. "Present is the key to the past"
10. Archaean Group j. Fossils limited to microscopic

1 Mark Questions
1. Define stratigraphy.
2. What is the law of superposition?
3. Who introduced the concept of uniformitarianism?
34

4. What is a conformable sequence of rocks?
5. What is an unconformable sequence of rocks?
6. What is the age of the Earth in billion years?
7. What does "Phanerozoic" mean?
8. Which is the broadest division of geologic time?
9. Name the two major Eons of Earth's history.
10. What does "Archean" mean?
11. Where are the Archean rocks best developed in India?
12. What is the Dharwar system?
13. What minerals are found in the Archaean rocks of Karnataka?
14. What is the Proterozoic era known for?
15. Which period is known for the age of Trilobites?
16. What caused the Permian extinction?
17. Name one major event of the Mesozoic Era.
18. What is the other name for the Cenozoic era?
19. What is the age of mammals?
20. Which mountains were formed in the late Cenozoic Era?
21. What type of rocks predominate in the Cenozoic?
22. Which type of fossils are common in the Paleozoic era?
23. Which famous waterfall is found on the Sharavati River in Karnataka?
24. What river does the Jog Falls belong to?
25. Name one major river in Karnataka.
2 Mark Questions
Easy questions:
1. What is uniformitarianism and who proposed it?
2. What are the two major Eons of Earth’s history?
3. What are biozones and how are they related to chronostratigraphy?
4. Mention two types of rocks found in the Archaean Group.
5. What is the significance of the Dharwar system in Karnataka?
6. What economic minerals are found in the Archaean rocks of India?
7. What is the Dharwar craton?
8. What are greenstone belts, and where are they found?
9. Name the major river systems in Karnataka.
10. What is the significance of the Phanerozoic Eon?
35

11. Name two major fossil groups found in the Paleozoic era.
12. What are the major economic uses of stratigraphy?
13. What are the two types of unconformities in stratigraphy?
14. What is the Mesozoic era known for?
Average Questions:
15. Explain the law of superposition.
16. Explain the significance of Archean rocks in Karnataka.
17. What happened during the Permian extinction?
18. Explain the significance of the Cenozoic era in terms of fauna.
19. Describe the three main geomorphic regions of Karnataka.
20. Describe two features of the Proterozoic era.
Difficult Questions:
21. Differentiate between conformable and unconformable sequences.
22. Describe one important feature of the Palaeozoic era.
23. How did the Himalayas form?
24. What are Purana basins, and where are they found in India?
25. How are the Precambrian rocks significant in India’s geology?
3 Mark Questions
Easy Question:
1. Explain the law of order of superposition with an example.
2. Discuss James Hutton's contribution to geology.
3. Discuss the importance of geologic time scales in understanding Earth's history.
4. Explain the Archean succession in India, with an example.
5. Discuss the economic importance of Archaean rocks in South India.
6. Explain the major characteristics of the Proterozoic era.
7. What are the key features of the Paleozoic era?
Average Questions:
1. Describe the different types of chronostratigraphic units.
2. Outline the classification of Dharwar rocks by B. Rama Rao.
3. What are the major tectonic events that occurred during the Mesozoic era?
4. Describe the process of continental drift during the Mesozoic era.
5. Discuss the climatic changes during the Cenozoic era.
6. Describe the stratigraphy of the Western Ghats in Karnataka.
7. Explain the role of stratigraphy in petroleum exploration.
36

8. Describe the development of flora and fauna during the Mesozoic era.
9. Describe the significance of stratigraphy in geological mapping.
10. Explain the significance of geochronologic units with an example.
Difficult Questions:
1. How does stratigraphy help in understanding the evolution of life?
2. Discuss the evolution of land vertebrates in the Paleozoic era.
3. Explain the Cenozoic orogenies that shaped modern mountain ranges.
4. What are greenstone belts, and what is their significance in Indian geology?
5. Explain how fossil records are important in stratigraphy.
6. Describe the role of stratigraphy in paleoclimatic studies.
7. How do river systems in Karnataka contribute to its geology?
8. What are Banded Iron Formations (BIFs), and why are they important?
5 Mark Questions
Easy questions:
1. Discuss the significance of stratigraphy in understanding Earth's geologic history.
2. Explain in detail the geologic time scale and its importance.
3. Discuss the classification of Archaean rocks in Karnataka and their significance.
4. Describe the economic importance of Archean and Proterozoic rocks in India.
5. Explain the process and significance of orogeny in the formation of mountain ranges.
6. Discuss the evolution of flora and fauna from the Paleozoic to the Mesozoic era.
7. What is the significance of the Deccan Traps in Indian geology?
8. Describe the tectonic and climatic changes that occurred during the Cenozoic era.
Average Questions:
9. Explain the role of stratigraphy in petroleum and mineral exploration.
10. Discuss the different zones in the classification of Dharwar rocks by B. Rama Rao.
11. Describe the major geomorphic features of Karnataka and their geological significance.
12. Explain the role of stratigraphy in understanding paleogeographic changes.
13. Discuss the formation and significance of the Himalayas in the Cenozoic era.
14. Explain the causes and effects of the Permian extinction.
15. What are the major mineral resources of Karnataka, and how are they related to its stratigraphy?
16. Outline the major events and life forms of the Paleozoic era.
Difficult Questions:
17. Explain the significance of Precambrian rocks in India’s economic geology.
18. Describe the evolution of life during the Mesozoic era, focusing on dinosaurs.
37

19. Explain the importance of the Dharwar craton in the geology of South India.
20. Discuss the different types of unconformities in stratigraphy with examples.
21. How has stratigraphy helped in understanding the formation of coal and petroleum deposits?
22. Describe the evolution of marine life during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras.
23. Explain the significance of fossils in understanding Earth's geologic past.
24. Describe the various tectonic activities that shaped the Indian subcontinent's geology.

UNIT 7
Paleontology
Multiple Choice Questions.

1. What does paleontology primarily study?
A) Ancient civilizations C) Geologic past life through fossils
B) Earth’s crust composition D) Oceanography
2. Which type of rocks are fossils most commonly found in?
A) Igneous rocks C) Metamorphic rocks
B) Sedimentary rocks D) Volcanic rocks
3. What characteristic qualifies an organism as an "index fossil"?
A) Long vertical range and wide geographic distribution
B) Short vertical range and wide geographic distribution
C) Long vertical range and narrow geographic distribution
D) High fossil preservation rate
4. Which of the following is NOT a condition for fossil preservation?
A) Possession of hard parts C) Exposure to oxygen-rich
B) Immediate burial environments
D) Rapid burial in aquatic conditions
5. Which type of fossilization is characterized by an entire organism being preserved in extreme cold?
A) Petrification C) Carbonization
B) Mummification D) Cast formation
6. Which term describes fossils formed when an organism leaves imprints such as tracks or trails?
A) Pseudofossils C) Carbonized fossils
B) Casts D) Mold fossils
7. The coral skeleton is made primarily of which material?
A) Silica B) Calcium carbonate
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C) Magnesium carbonate D) Iron oxide
8. In a typical coral structure, what is the central rod that extends through the calyx called?
A) Theca C) Columella
B) Septa D) Epitheca
9. Brachiopods can be differentiated from bivalves because they typically have:
A) Both valves of the same size C) Only one shell
B) One valve larger than the other D) No hinge area
10. What is the purpose of the divaricator muscles in brachiopods?
A) To open the shell C) For respiration
B) To close the shell D) To maintain balance
11. Which term describes the central supporting structure in gastropod shells, around which the whorls
form?
A) Pali C) Suture
B) Columella D) Aperture
12. Trilobites derive their name from their:
A) Three-part division C) Triangular body shape
B) Three sets of eyes D) Three antennae
13. What part of the trilobite's body structure is termed the "glabella"?
A) The segment of the thorax C) The tail region
B) The central part of the head D) The protective shell covering
14.Which geologic period did trilobites first appear in?
A) Devonian C) Cambrian
B) Silurian D) Carboniferous
15. The characteristic leaf fossil, Glossopteris, is found in rocks of which period?
A) Silurian C) Carboniferous to Permian
B) Devonian D) Jurassic to Cretaceous
16.What type of plant fossils are particularly useful for indicating ancient climates?
A) Algae C) Glossopteris
B) Gymnosperms D) Bryophytes

17.Which fossil type is identified by the presence of concentric growth lines and radial ridges?
A) Gastropods C) Brachiopods
B) Trilobites D) Corals
18. Fossils preserved by mineral matter replacing the original plant tissue are termed:
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A) Mummified C) Petrified
B) Carbonized D) Casts
19.Which fossil provides a characteristic indication of Middle Cambrian age?
A) Terebratula C) Paradoxides
B) Glossopteris D) Fusus
20.The term "living fossil" refers to:
A) Organisms that have existed for C) Organisms that remain unchanged
over a century since ancient times
B) Fossils that evolved recently D) Fossils that have become extinct
21. Which of the following is NOT a use of fossils?
A) Determining paleoenvironments C) Prediction of volcanic eruptions
B) Stratigraphic correlation D) Determining ancient climates
22. What characterizes a gastropod shell with a columella?
A) A spiraled opening C) A central axial pillar
B) Perforated shell structure D) An uncoiled form
23. Tracheophytes are categorized as:
A) Nonvascular plants D) Plants that lived exclusively in the
B) Marine organisms Precambrian
C) Fossil plants ranging from Silurian
to recent
24. Which fossil has a prominent midrib and tongue-shaped leaf structure?
A) Ptillophyllum C) Glossopteris
B) Terebratula D) Calceola
25. In trilobites, the thorax region consists of:
A) Fixed plates C) A single fused segment
B) Segments with movable pleurae D) Only one lateral lobe

Fill in the Blanks

1. Paleontology studies the life of the __________ past based on preserved remains of ancient
animals and plants.
2. Organisms with __________ parts, such as bones or shells, have a better chance of fossilization.
3. Quick __________ after an organism’s death helps in its preservation as a fossil.

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4. In __________, the original material of plants and animals undergoes decomposition, increasing
in carbon content.
5. Trilobites were a prominent feature in the faunas of the __________ period.
6. The part of a coral where the largest septa meet is called the __________.
7. Gasteropods have a single-piece shell and belong to the phylum __________.
8. The hinge line in brachiopods may be __________ or curved.
9. Corals have a wide geographical distribution but attained their maximum development during the
__________ period.
10. Plant fossils are studied under a branch of paleontology known as __________.

Match the Following

A B
1. Fossil remains a. Calcium carbonate
2. Mummification b. Plants and animals
3. Palaeobotany c. Middle Devonian
4. Trilobite body parts d. Conical form
5. Coral morphology e. Three lobes
6. Brachiopod hinge f. Arctic conditions
7. Fusus g. Equilateral shell
8. Calceola h. Study of fossilized plants
9. Gasteropod aperture i. Cretaceous age
10. Septa in corals j. Radiating plates

1-Mark Questions:
1. Define a fossil.
2. What are index fossils?
3. Give an example of an index fossil from the Cambrian period.
4. Which types of rocks commonly contain fossils?
5. What is carbonization?
6. What type of fossilization occurs in extremely cold conditions?
7. What is a mould in paleontology?
8. Name the phylum to which corals belong.
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9. What is the name of the depression at the base of a coral's skeleton?
10. What is the function of the septa in corals?
11. Name one example of a coral from the Devonian period.
12. What is a brachiopod's pedicle opening?
13. What type of fossil is Lingula considered?
14. What is the name of the shell's line of movement in brachiopods?
15. In what age were brachiopods most abundant?
16. What is the spire of a gastropod shell?
17. What is the suture in a gastropod shell?
18. What is the usual direction of coiling in gastropods?
19. Name a typical gastropod fossil from the Cretaceous period.
20. What does the word "trilobite" refer to?
21. What are the genal spines in trilobites?
22. Which period did trilobites first appear?
23. Name an example of a middle Cambrian trilobite.
24. What is paleobotany?
25. Name the two sub-kingdoms of the plant kingdom.
26. What type of leaf venation does Glossopteris show?
27. What is the apex shape of a Glossopteris leaf?
28. Which type of plant is classified as seed fern?
29. Which geologic periods are associated with the Glossopteris?
2-Mark Questions:
Easy Questions
1. What is meant by the term "fossilization"?
2. Describe the characteristics of an index fossil.
3. Describe petrification as a type of fossilization.
4. What is the significance of septa in corals?
5. What is the hinge line in brachiopods?
6. What is the difference between equilateral and inequivalved shells in brachiopods?
7. What is the purpose of the siphon in gastropods?
8. What are transverse ornamentations in gastropod shells?
9. What is the significance of fossil tracks and trails?
10. What are pseudo fossils? Give an example.
11. What is the geological range of the plant fossil Ptillophyllum?
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12. What is the function of the columella in gastropods?
13. Explain how the muscles in brachiopods function for opening and closing the shell.
Average Questions:
14. Why is immediate burial important for fossil preservation?
15. Explain the difference between moulds and casts.
16. What is the role of plant fossils in stratigraphy?
17. Name two environmental conditions favorable for the preservation of fossils.
18. Describe the morphology of a Fusus shell.
19. What are the three parts of a trilobite's body?
20. How are the segments of the thorax in trilobites divided?
21. What are the facial sutures in trilobites, and what is their function?
22. How are the segments of a trilobite's pygidium fused?
23. Explain the significance of trilobites in the Paleozoic period.
Difficult Questions:
24. Describe the structure of a Glossopteris leaf.
25. How can fossils help in determining paleoclimatic conditions?
26. What is the significance of the term “living fossil”?
27. How do fossils contribute to evolutionary studies?
28. What are the differences between vascular and non-vascular plant fossils?
29. Name two uses of fossils in economic geology.
30. What is mummification in the context of fossilization?
3-Mark Questions:
Easy Questions:
1. What is the importance of seed fossils in paleobotany?
2. What is the economic importance of fossilized algae?
3. What are the characteristics of Paradoxides?
4. List and briefly describe three conditions necessary for fossil preservation.
5. What are the main types of fossilization? Provide examples for each.
6. What is the significance of Glossopteris in the geological history of the Gondwana period?
7. What are "living fossils"? Provide two examples.
8. What are microfossils and their significance in stratigraphy?What are the muscular impressions in
brachiopods, and how are they formed?
Average Questions:
9. Explain how a coral’s internal structure is divided and its significance.
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10. Describe the life and habitat of corals during the Paleozoic era.
11. Explain the process of carbonization in fossil formation.
12. Describe the characteristics and distribution of brachiopods during the Paleozoic era.
13. Describe the role of trilobites as index fossils.
14. Explain the significance of the aperture in gastropods.
15. Describe the fossil specimen Fusus and its identifying features.
16. Explain the importance of glabella and axial furrows in trilobite morphology.
17. Describe the thorax and pygidium of trilobites.
18. Explain how plant fossils are used for coal formation studies.
19. Explain the difference between a mould and a cast fossil with examples.
Difficult Questions:
20. How do the ornaments of brachiopod shells contribute to their identification?
21. How can fossilized skeletons remain unchanged over millions of years?
22. How can fossilization contribute to hydrocarbon exploration?
23. Describe the basic anatomy of a trilobite and its significance for paleontologists.
24. Explain how fossils are used for geological correlation.
25. Describe the fossilization process in petrified wood.
26. Describe the different environments where gastropod fossils can be found.
5-Mark Questions:
Easy Questions:
1. Explain in detail the conditions necessary for fossil preservation, with examples.
2. Describe the various types of fossilization with examples.
3. Explain the role of index fossils in stratigraphy and provide three examples.
4. With neat labelled diagram describe the morphology of calceola.
5. Explain the morphology of gastropods.
6. Describe the morphology of trilobites.
7. Explain with neat labelled diagram morphology of corals.
Average Questions:
1. Discuss the morphology and geological range of brachiopods.
2. Differentiate between brachiopods and gastropods.
3. Discuss the evolutionary significance of trilobites.
4. Describe the significance of the Glossopteris fossil in understanding the geological history of
Gondwana.
5. Discuss how fossils can be used to reconstruct ancient environments and climate conditions.
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6. Explain the importance of Ptillophyllum fossils in the Gondwana period.
7. Discuss the economic importance of fossils in the exploration of coal and petroleum reserves.
Difficult Questions:
1. How do plant fossils contribute to the study of paleoecology and climate?
2. Discuss the role of trilobites in biostratigraphy and their use in correlating Paleozoic strata.
3. Describe the various uses of plant fossils in geological studies.
4. Explain with neat labelled diagram morphology of Terebratula.
5. Discuss how fossilization contributes to the preservation of soft versus hard body parts.
6. Discuss how the study of fossils has contributed to the theory of evolution.
7. Explain how fossils can be used as indicators of past geological events, such as continental drift.
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