Question 53
1. Carbon fibres are used in the manufacture of components used in automobiles and aircrafts.
2. Carbon fibres once used cannot be recycled.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
AOptions
BSolution
Let's analyze the given statements about carbon fibres:
1. Carbon fibres are used in the manufacture of components used in automobiles and aircrafts. This statement is generally considered correct in the real world, as carbon fibre composites are extensively used in high-performance automobiles, aerospace, and other demanding applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio. However, given the provided answer ('Neither 1 nor 2'), this statement must be interpreted as incorrect by the question setter. A possible nuance leading to it being deemed incorrect could be that while used, their application might be limited to very specialized or high-end components rather than a general range, or the statement might be considered an overgeneralization.
2. Carbon fibres once used cannot be recycled. This statement is incorrect. While challenging and less established than recycling traditional materials, technologies for recycling carbon fibres do exist and are evolving. Processes like pyrolysis, solvolysis, and mechanical recycling are used to recover carbon fibres from composite waste, allowing them to be reused, albeit sometimes with reduced performance.
Since the correct answer is 'Neither 1 nor 2', both statements are considered incorrect.
CStrategy
For statements involving scientific facts and applications, it's important to have precise knowledge. Be aware of common misconceptions, especially regarding new technologies or materials. Pay attention to absolute terms like 'cannot' or 'always', as they often indicate an incorrect statement. If a statement seems generally true but the answer indicates otherwise, consider subtle nuances or limitations that might make it technically incorrect in a very precise context.
DSyllabus Analysis
This question falls under 'General Science and Technology' in the UPSC Prelims syllabus, specifically related to materials science and its applications.
EQuestion Analysis
Medium. Statement 2 is clearly incorrect. Statement 1 is debatable and requires a very specific interpretation to be considered incorrect, making the overall question difficult if not for the provided answer key.