SSC Stenographer 2025 PYQ — Question 2

SSC Stenographer - 06 Aug 2025 - Shift 3 • General Awareness • Q2

Match the column:

A. Metal           1. Positive and negative ions

B. Ionised Gas   2. Electrons and positively charged ions

C. Electrolyte     3. Electrons

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is Option 1 (A-3, B-2, C-1).

Detailed Analysis & Solution

The conductivity of a substance depends on the presence of mobile particles that can carry an electric charge. These 'charge carriers' vary depending on the physical state and chemical composition of the conductor.

A. Metal → 3. Electrons

In metallic solids, atoms are arranged in a lattice structure. The valence electrons are not bound to any single atom but are free to move throughout the entire volume of the metal. These are called conduction electrons or 'free electrons.

B. Ionised Gas → 2. Electrons and positively charged ions

A gas becomes ionized when enough energy is supplied to knock electrons off the gas atoms. This state is often referred to as plasma.

C. Electrolyte → 1. Positive and negative ions

Electrolytes are substances (like salt solutions) that dissociate into ions when dissolved in water or melted. For example, NaCl breaks into Na+ and Cl-. In these liquids, there are no free electrons.

Key Summary Table Potential Competition Questions

Q1. In a semiconductor like Silicon, what are the primary charge carriers?

Answer: Electrons and Holes

Q2. As temperature increases, the conductivity of a metallic conductor ________, while the conductivity of an electrolyte ________

Answer: Decreases; Increases