About this previous year paper
This question paper is a complete and structured Engineering Chemistry exam designed as per the 70-mark university pattern. It covers all core concepts of first-year engineering chemistry including:
Molecular orbital theory
Polymers and polymerization
Water treatment (Lime–soda & Zeolite processes)
Thermochemistry and calorific value
Electrochemistry (Galvanic cell, EMF calculation)
Fuel chemistry (Coal analysis)
Nanotechnology
NMR spectroscopy
Cement, lubricants, organometallic compounds
Phase rule and liquid crystals
The paper is divided into three sections (A, B, C) and includes short conceptual questions, numerical problems, derivations, chemical reasoning, and structural predictions. This makes the paper highly valuable for exam preparation, revisions, competitive exams, and viva practice.
SECTION A – Short Answer Questions (7 × 2 = 14 Marks)
This section tests quick conceptual understanding:
Condition when GCV = NCV
Reducing power order using standard reduction potentials
Applications of nanotechnology
Bond energy order for oxygen species (O₂, O₂²⁺, O₂²⁻)
Hardness calculation from MgSO₄ equivalent
Whether acrylonitrile undergoes anionic or cationic polymerization (with reason)
Number of NMR signals in mesitylene
These short questions aim at evaluating clarity of fundamental chemical concepts.
SECTION B – Descriptive Questions (Attempt Any 3 × 7 = 21 Marks)
Molecular Orbital Diagram
MO diagram of N₂
Bond order
Magnetic properties
Polymers
Thermoplastic vs thermosetting
Addition vs condensation polymerization
Galvanic Cell
Construction & working
EMF calculation using Nernst equation
Cell reactions for Zn/Ag cell
Lime–Soda Process
Principle & reactions
Lime and soda calculations for large-scale water softening
Use of sodium aluminate (coagulant)
Bomb Calorimeter
Working principle
High & low calorific value calculation
These questions strengthen the student’s understanding of key topics and numerical problem-solving.
SECTION C – Long Questions (7 Marks Each)
Q3 – Allotropes & Liquid Crystals
Choose one:
Option (a)
Structure, bonding, properties, and applications of graphite
Option (b)
Liquid crystals
Difference between nematic & smectic phases
Applications
Q4 – Polymers & Organometallics
Choose one:
Option (a)
Organometallic compounds
Classification, preparation, applications
Option (b)
Preparation, properties, uses of:
Nylon-6
Bakelite
Q5 – Cement & Lubricants
Choose one:
Option (a)
Portland cement
Setting & hardening reactions
Option (b)
Lubricants
Fluid film theory & boundary lubrication theory
Q6 – Water Softening & Phase Rule
Choose one:
Option (a)
Phase rule
Application to water system (P-V-T diagram, triple point, degrees of freedom)
Option (b)
Zeolite softening process with regeneration
Hardness calculation using brine regeneration data
Q7 – Coal Analysis & NMR Spectroscopy
Choose one:
Option (a)
Rank of coal
Proximate analysis
Ultimate analysis
Option (b)
Shielding vs deshielding in NMR
Interpretation of given NMR signals and identification of unknown aromatic compound