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Topic Thermal conductivity
Asked 3 times across 2 UPSC exams over 15 years (2011–2026), peaking in 2011.
Key insights
- Most tested in CDS — 2 of 3 PYQs
- Most asked in 2011
- Recurs across 3 years (2011–2026)
How it travelled across exams
First appearance in each exam — the same idea, reframed.
CSE 2011 → CDS 2022
How the concept evolved
Rising — more than half its appearances (2 of 3) are since 2016.
Related concepts
Ideas UPSC tests alongside this one — keep exploring.
Sample questions
You've seen the pattern — here are a few of the actual PYQs.
CDS2026
Which among the following has the least coefficient of thermal conductivity ?
- A H₂ ✓
- B H₂O
- C Cu
- D Al
✓ Correct answer: (A)
Science & Technology › Physics & Chemistry
CDS2022
Which one of the following pairs of metals are very good conductors of heat?
- A Silver and Copper ✓
- B Silver and Lead
- C Copper and Mercury
- D Lead and Mercury
✓ Correct answer: (A)
Science & Technology › Physics & Chemistry
CSE2011
The surface of a lake is frozen in severe winter, but the water at its bottom is still liquid. What is the reason?
- A Ice is a bad conductor of heat
- B Since the surface of the lake is at the same temperature as the air, no heat is lost
- C The density of water is maximum at 4°C ✓
- D None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above is correct
✓ Correct answer: (C)
Science & Technology › Physics & Chemistry
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