SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 11

Correct Answer

Silver

Explanation

Olympic gold medals are primarily made of Silver. According to the strict guidelines set by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), an Olympic gold medal must be composed of at least 92.5% silver (Sterling Silver). The "gold" aspect of the medal is actually a heavy plating layer on the outside, which must contain at least 6 grams of pure gold.

Therefore, by total mass, the medal is over 90% silver, making silver the predominant metal used in its composition rather than solid gold. The last time solid gold medals were awarded at the Olympic Games was back in 1912 at Stockholm, Sweden.

Key Points

The physical composition of an Olympic gold medal is regulated to balance tradition, prestige, and institutional manufacturing costs. An Olympic silver medal is made of pure sterling silver (92.5% silver), similar to the core of the gold medal but without the gold gilding. Olympic bronze medals are typically composed of copper, zinc, and sometimes tin (essentially brass or bronze alloys).

Important Questions and Answers

Question: According to International Olympic Committee guidelines, what is the minimum required amount of pure gold coating on an Olympic gold medal?

Answer: 6 grams.

Question: In which Olympic host city were the last solid gold medals awarded to winning athletes before the rule shifted to silver-based cores?

Answer: Stockholm (1912 Olympic Games).