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UPSC 2008: What are Rubies and Sapphires chemically known as?
(a)Silicon dioxide
(b)Aluminium oxide
(c)Lead tetroxide
(d)Boron nitride
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Not attemptedCorrect Answer: (b) Aluminium oxide
Both rubies and sapphires are crystalline varieties of corundum, whose chemical composition is aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃); trace impurities (Cr³⁺ for red, Fe/Ti for blue) give them their colours. The other options describe unrelated compounds. ([biljoissac.wordpress.com](https://biljoissac.wordpress.com/2008/11/20/prelims-2008-answers/?utm_source=openai))
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What is the correct answer to this UPSC 2008 Science & Technology question?▼
The correct answer is option (b): Aluminium oxide. Watch the detailed video explanation in our Sherlocking Prelims course on UnlockIAS.
Which year was this Materials & Engineering question asked in UPSC Prelims?▼
This question was asked in UPSC CSE Prelims 2008, GS Paper 1, as Question 113. It falls under Science & Technology > Materials & Engineering.
What is the difficulty level of this UPSC question?▼
This question is rated "easy". It tests basic recall and most well-prepared aspirants should answer it correctly.
How many UPSC Prelims questions have been asked from Materials & Engineering?▼
UPSC has asked 23 questions from Materials & Engineering (under Science & Technology) across multiple years. Visit the topic page to see the full list and year-wise trends.