Apply Now Student Hub Feedback
JKPSC · Prelims · 2021
General Studies (Paper 1) from JKPSC JKAS 2021 Prelims
Subject: General Studies (Paper 1) General Science Jammu & Kashmir Public Service Commission Last updated May 9, 2026
JKPSC Prelims 2021 General Studies (Paper 1)

German silver is an alloy of 

Answer & Explanation

Click "Check Answer" to reveal
Correct Answer: Option D — Copper, zinc and nickel
Key Facts About German Silver
Despite its name, German silver contains no actual silver. It is named "silver" only because of its bright, silvery-white appearance.

Composition: It typically consists of about 60% copper, 20% nickel, and 20% zinc.

Properties: It is highly valued for its hardness, toughness, and excellent resistance to corrosion.

Common Uses: Because it looks like silver but is much cheaper, it is frequently used for:

Tableware and cutlery (often as a base for silver plating).

Musical instruments (like flutes and saxophones).

Jewelry and decorative items.

Zippers and keys.

Why the other options are incorrect:
A) Copper and tin: This is the composition of Bronze.

B) Zinc, silver, and copper: While these metals are used in various alloys, they do not define German silver (which specifically lacks silver).

C) Copper and nickel: This is known as Cupronickel, often used in silver-colored circulation coins. While German silver contains these, it must also include zinc to be classified as such.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.

About this question

JKPSC JKAS 2021 Prelims

Details

Exam JKPSC
Recruitment JKAS
Stage Prelims
Year 2021
Subject General Studies (Paper 1)
View all questions from this paper

More General Studies (Paper 1) questions

From across UPSC, JKPSC, and JKSSB papers — same subject, different years.

Practice 1,142+ more PYQs interactively

Filter by subject, year, and exam in real time. Get instant feedback, detailed explanations, and track your progress.

Open practice portal