Pharmaceutical Chemistry MCQs Asked in Various Pharmacist Exam Part 1
Pharmaceutical Chemistry MCQs Asked in Various Pharmacist Exam Part 1
Preparing for Pharmacist Exams like RRB, DSSSB, Safdarjung, and UPSSSC? Look no further! In this post, we bring you a detailed collection of Pharmaceutical Chemistry MCQs that have been asked in various competitive exams. This is Part 1 of our series designed to help pharmacy students and professionals review key concepts efficiently.
The MCQs cover critical areas such as:
- Organic and Inorganic Chemistry
- Drug identification and chemical structure
- Pharmaceutical formulations and chemical reactions
This guide is a must-read for those appearing for exams such as GPAT, Drug Inspector, and state pharmacist exams. Stay tuned for more parts in this series to cover all essential topics in Pharmaceutical Chemistry.
Make sure to check out our YouTube channel, Pharmanotes, where you’ll find in-depth videos covering more MCQs, PYQs, and pharmacy exam prep tips.
Pharmaceutical Chemistry MCQs Part 1
1. Cidex is known as:
(a) 1% solution of glutaraldehyde
(b) 2% solution of glutaraldehyde
(c) 0.2% solution of glutaraldehyde
(d) 0.1% solution of glutaraldehyde
Exam: Lucknow Cantonment Board Pharmacist (05.02.2023)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Cidex is a 2% solution of glutaraldehyde, used as a high-level disinfectant.
2. Which of the following is a physical sunscreen?
(a) TiO₂
(b) Para aminobenzoic acid
(c) Methyl salicylate
(d) Silicone oil
Exam: AMC Pharmacist (05.11.2023), VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is a physical sunscreen that reflects UV rays.
3. Calamine is:
(a) Basic zinc oxide
(b) Basic zinc sulfate
(c) Basic zinc carbonate
(d) Basic zinc hydroxide
Exam: HPSSC Pharmacist (19.08.2018), ESIC Delhi Pharmacist (19.03.2016), Lucknow Cantonment Board Pharmacist (05.02.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Calamine is basic zinc oxide, commonly used to soothe skin.
4. The average salinity of seawater is:
(a) 3%
(b) 3.5%
(c) 2.5%
(d) 2%
Exam: Lucknow Cantonment Board Pharmacist (05.02.2023)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The average salinity of seawater is 3.5%, meaning 35 grams of salts per liter of water.
5. Which of the following is used to relieve dental hypersensitivity?
(a) Calcium phosphate
(b) Stannous fluoride
(c) Strontium chloride
(d) Sodium fluoride
Exam: TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019), AMC Pharmacist (05.11.2023)
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Strontium chloride is used in dental products to treat sensitivity.
6. Aqueous iodine solution is called:
(a) Lugol’s solution
(b) Bendits solution
(c) Fischer Solution
(d) Marthins solution
Exam: Lucknow Cantonment Board Pharmacist (05.02.2023), UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Lugol’s solution is an aqueous iodine solution used as an antiseptic and disinfectant.
7. Hydrogen peroxide is used as:
(a) Protective
(b) Haematinic
(c) Acidifying agent
(d) Antiseptic
Exam: GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018), AMC Pharmacist (05.11.2023)
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Hydrogen peroxide is used as an antiseptic for wounds and infections.
8. Which compound of sulfur is used in shampoos for anti-dandruff qualities?
(a) Selenium sulphide
(b) Sulphur
(c) Yellow mercuric oxide
(d) Titanium dioxide
Exam: Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023), ESIC Gujarat Jr. Pharmacist (31.08.2014)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Selenium sulphide is an anti-infective agent used to treat dandruff.
9. Itai-itai disease is associated with poisoning from:
(a) Cadmium
(b) Mercury
(c) Lead
(d) Iron
Exam: MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Itai-itai disease is caused by cadmium poisoning, particularly from industrial exposure.
10. Which of the following is a vesicular drug delivery system?
(a) Implant
(b) Liposomes
(c) Iontophoresis
(d) Collodion
Exam: MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Liposomes are vesicular drug delivery systems used for targeted drug release.
11. Borax is chemically known as:
(a) Sodium metaborate
(b) Sodium tetraborate
(c) Sodium perborate
(d) Sodium orthoborate
Exam: AMC Pharmacist (05.11.2023), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Borax is sodium tetraborate, a compound commonly used in cleaning products and as an antiseptic.
12. The main constituent of laughing gas is:
(a) Nitrous oxide
(b) Sulphur dioxide
(c) Carbon dioxide
(d) Chlorine
Exam: VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Laughing gas is nitrous oxide (N₂O), used as an anesthetic in dental procedures and surgeries.
13. The main ingredient in ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) is:
(a) Glucose
(b) Sodium chloride
(c) Potassium chloride
(d) All of the above
Exam: UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022), ESIC Delhi Pharmacist (19.03.2016)
Answer: (d)
Explanation: ORS contains glucose, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride to treat dehydration, especially in cases of diarrhea.
14. The pH of blood is approximately:
(a) 7.0
(b) 7.4
(c) 6.8
(d) 5.6
Exam: GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The normal pH of human blood is around 7.4, maintaining a slightly alkaline balance for optimal body function.
15. Which gas is used for ripening of fruits?
(a) Ethylene
(b) Acetylene
(c) Methane
(d) Nitrogen
Exam: Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Ethylene gas is commonly used for the artificial ripening of fruits like bananas and mangoes.
16. Nystatin is an antifungal antibiotic derived from:
(a) Streptomyces noursei
(b) Penicillium notatum
(c) Saccharomyces cerevisiae
(d) Aspergillus niger
Exam: MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Nystatin, an antifungal medication, is derived from Streptomyces noursei and is used to treat fungal infections.
17. The flame test for potassium gives which color?
(a) Blue
(b) Yellow
(c) Violet
(d) Green
Exam: UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Potassium imparts a violet color in the flame test, helping identify its presence in compounds.
18. Calamine lotion contains:
(a) Zinc carbonate
(b) Zinc oxide
(c) Zinc sulfate
(d) Zinc chloride
Exam: GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018), ESIC Gujarat Jr. Pharmacist (31.08.2014)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Calamine lotion contains zinc oxide, which is used to soothe irritated skin.
19. Which of the following is a laxative?
(a) Magnesium sulfate
(b) Magnesium hydroxide
(c) Magnesium trisilicate
(d) Magnesium chloride
Exam: Lucknow Cantonment Board Pharmacist (05.02.2023)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Magnesium hydroxide, also known as milk of magnesia, is used as a laxative to relieve constipation.
20. The most common preservative used in eye drops is:
(a) Benzalkonium chloride
(b) Thimerosal
(c) Sodium benzoate
(d) Potassium sorbate
Exam: ESIC Gujarat Jr. Pharmacist (31.08.2014), VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Benzalkonium chloride is a commonly used preservative in eye drops to prevent microbial contamination.
21. The deficiency of Vitamin D causes:
(a) Rickets
(b) Beriberi
(c) Scurvy
(d) Pellagra
Exam: GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018), MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: A deficiency of Vitamin D leads to rickets, a disease that affects bone development in children, causing weak or soft bones.
22. Acetone is used as a:
(a) Solvent
(b) Antiseptic
(c) Disinfectant
(d) Coagulant
Exam: ESIC Delhi Pharmacist (19.03.2016), Lucknow Cantonment Board Pharmacist (05.02.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Acetone is a common solvent used in laboratories and industries due to its ability to dissolve organic substances.
23. Copper sulfate is used as:
(a) Astringent
(b) Antifungal
(c) Anthelmintic
(d) Disinfectant
Exam: TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019), ESIC Gujarat Jr. Pharmacist (31.08.2014)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Copper sulfate is used as an antifungal agent in agriculture and for the treatment of fungal infections.
24. Which acid is used in the manufacture of aspirin?
(a) Acetic acid
(b) Benzoic acid
(c) Salicylic acid
(d) Citric acid
Exam: MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023), VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021)
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is synthesized from salicylic acid by acetylation.
25. Which one is an example of a natural polymer?
(a) Nylon
(b) Rubber
(c) Polyvinyl chloride
(d) Polystyrene
Exam: Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Rubber is a natural polymer obtained from the latex of rubber trees, used in making various products like tires and gloves.
26. Chlorine is used as a:
(a) Antacid
(b) Disinfectant
(c) Solvent
(d) Coagulant
Exam: GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018), UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Chlorine is widely used as a disinfectant in water treatment plants to kill bacteria and other microorganisms.
27. The drying agent commonly used in laboratories is:
(a) Silica gel
(b) Charcoal
(c) Aluminum oxide
(d) Sulfur dioxide
Exam: AMC Pharmacist (05.11.2023), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Silica gel is commonly used as a desiccant to absorb moisture and keep substances dry in laboratories and packaged products.
28. The common name for sodium bicarbonate is:
(a) Baking soda
(b) Washing soda
(c) Caustic soda
(d) Soda ash
Exam: Lucknow Cantonment Board Pharmacist (05.02.2023), ESIC Gujarat Jr. Pharmacist (31.08.2014)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Sodium bicarbonate is known as baking soda, widely used in baking, cleaning, and neutralizing acids.
29. Which of the following is used to treat hyperthyroidism?
(a) Potassium iodide
(b) Iodine
(c) Radioactive iodine
(d) Calcium iodide
Exam: TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019), UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022)
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Radioactive iodine is used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism by reducing thyroid hormone production through selective destruction of thyroid tissue.
30. Bleaching powder is chemically known as:
(a) Calcium chloride
(b) Calcium hypochlorite
(c) Calcium carbonate
(d) Calcium sulfate
Exam: ESIC Delhi Pharmacist (19.03.2016), VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Bleaching powder is calcium hypochlorite, used as a disinfectant and for bleaching fabrics.
31. Sodium chloride is commonly known as:
(a) Table salt
(b) Baking soda
(c) Washing soda
(d) Soda ash
Exam: UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022), AMC Pharmacist (05.11.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Sodium chloride is commonly referred to as table salt, used in food seasoning and preservation.
32. Which of the following is an example of an organic acid?
(a) Hydrochloric acid
(b) Acetic acid
(c) Sulfuric acid
(d) Nitric acid
Exam: VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Acetic acid is an organic acid found in vinegar and is used in food processing and chemical manufacturing.
33. Benedict’s solution is used to test for:
(a) Proteins
(b) Sugars
(c) Fats
(d) Vitamins
Exam: GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018), MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Benedict’s solution is used to detect the presence of reducing sugars like glucose and fructose in food.
34. Which of the following is a reducing agent?
(a) Sodium thiosulfate
(b) Hydrogen peroxide
(c) Potassium permanganate
(d) Nitric acid
Exam: Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023), UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Sodium thiosulfate acts as a reducing agent and is often used in chemical reactions and photographic fixing.
35. Calcium hydroxide is also known as:
(a) Lime water
(b) Milk of magnesia
(c) Slaked lime
(d) Epsom salt
Exam: TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019), ESIC Gujarat Jr. Pharmacist (31.08.2014)
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Calcium hydroxide is commonly known as slaked lime and is used in water treatment, soil stabilization, and as a plastering material.
36. Potassium nitrate is used in the preparation of:
(a) Gunpowder
(b) Baking powder
(c) Soap
(d) Paint
Exam: Lucknow Cantonment Board Pharmacist (05.02.2023), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Potassium nitrate, also known as saltpeter, is a key component in the manufacture of gunpowder, fireworks, and fertilizers.
37. Hydrochloric acid is secreted by:
(a) Parietal cells of the stomach
(b) Liver cells
(c) Kidney cells
(d) Salivary glands
Exam: UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022), MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Hydrochloric acid is secreted by the parietal cells in the stomach and plays a crucial role in digestion by breaking down food and killing bacteria.
38. The primary use of sodium bicarbonate is as a:
(a) Antacid
(b) Diuretic
(c) Laxative
(d) Analgesic
Exam: AMC Pharmacist (05.11.2023), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, is commonly used as an antacid to neutralize stomach acid and relieve indigestion.
39. Which of the following is used in the treatment of cyanide poisoning?
(a) Sodium nitrite
(b) Potassium permanganate
(c) Hydrogen peroxide
(d) Sodium carbonate
Exam: ESIC Delhi Pharmacist (19.03.2016), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Sodium nitrite is used in the treatment of cyanide poisoning by converting hemoglobin into methemoglobin, which binds cyanide ions.
40. Which of the following gases is used in the sterilization of medical equipment?
(a) Ethylene oxide
(b) Carbon dioxide
(c) Nitrogen
(d) Chlorine
Exam: Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Ethylene oxide gas is used for sterilizing medical equipment and surgical instruments that cannot withstand high temperatures.
41. Alum is used as:
(a) Antiseptic
(b) Astringent
(c) Analgesic
(d) Anesthetic
Exam: TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Alum acts as an astringent, which helps shrink or constrict body tissues, commonly used in wound care and to reduce bleeding.
42. The main constituent of glass is:
(a) Sodium chloride
(b) Silica
(c) Alumina
(d) Sodium carbonate
Exam: VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021), UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Silica (SiO₂) is the primary component of glass, giving it strength and transparency.
43. The use of formaldehyde solution is as a:
(a) Disinfectant
(b) Antacid
(c) Laxative
(d) Sedative
Exam: Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Formaldehyde is a strong disinfectant and preservative, used in embalming and sterilizing medical equipment.
44. The pH range of human saliva is:
(a) 2-3
(b) 6.2-7.6
(c) 4.5-5.5
(d) 8-9
Exam: MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023), ESIC Gujarat Jr. Pharmacist (31.08.2014)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The pH of saliva typically ranges from 6.2 to 7.6, helping to neutralize acids in the mouth and aid in digestion.
45. Which metal is responsible for Minamata disease?
(a) Lead
(b) Mercury
(c) Cadmium
(d) Arsenic
Exam: TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Minamata disease is caused by mercury poisoning, particularly from industrial waste dumped into water bodies, affecting the nervous system.
46. Magnesium sulfate is commonly known as:
(a) Epsom salt
(b) Glauber’s salt
(c) Common salt
(d) Rochelle salt
Exam: UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Magnesium sulfate is commonly known as Epsom salt, used to relieve muscle soreness, constipation, and magnesium deficiency.
47. Which of the following is a chemical formula for sodium thiosulfate?
(a) Na₂SO₄
(b) Na₂S₂O₃
(c) Na₂SO₃
(d) NaHSO₄
Exam: Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Sodium thiosulfate (Na₂S₂O₃) is used in medicine as an antidote for cyanide poisoning and in photography as a fixer.
48. Which one of the following is a desiccant?
(a) Silica gel
(b) Glycerol
(c) Acetic acid
(d) Ethanol
Exam: GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018), MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Silica gel is a desiccant used to absorb moisture and prevent spoilage in products, keeping them dry.
49. Sodium fluoride is commonly used in:
(a) Toothpaste
(b) Eye drops
(c) Antacids
(d) Laxatives
Exam: VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021), UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Sodium fluoride is added to toothpaste to help prevent dental cavities by strengthening tooth enamel.
50. Which acid is found in gastric juice?
(a) Hydrochloric acid
(b) Acetic acid
(c) Lactic acid
(d) Sulfuric acid
Exam: AMC Pharmacist (05.11.2023), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is secreted in the stomach and aids in digestion by breaking down food and killing harmful bacteria.
51. Sodium carbonate is commonly known as:
(a) Washing soda
(b) Baking soda
(c) Caustic soda
(d) Soda ash
Exam: UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Sodium carbonate is commonly known as washing soda, used in laundry detergents and for cleaning purposes.
52. Which gas is released during the heating of limestone?
(a) Carbon dioxide
(b) Oxygen
(c) Hydrogen
(d) Nitrogen
Exam: Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Heating limestone (calcium carbonate) releases carbon dioxide gas, which is used in various industrial processes.
53. The chemical name of common salt is:
(a) Sodium chloride
(b) Sodium carbonate
(c) Potassium chloride
(d) Magnesium sulfate
Exam: VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Common salt is chemically known as sodium chloride (NaCl) and is widely used for seasoning and food preservation.
54. Which compound is used as a refrigerant?
(a) Ammonia
(b) Hydrogen peroxide
(c) Acetic acid
(d) Sodium chloride
Exam: UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Ammonia is used as a refrigerant in cooling systems because of its high efficiency in heat absorption.
55. Which of the following is used as a fire extinguisher gas?
(a) Carbon dioxide
(b) Oxygen
(c) Nitrogen
(d) Hydrogen
Exam: MPSC Pharmacist (08.02.2023), ESIC Gujarat Jr. Pharmacist (31.08.2014)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Carbon dioxide is used in fire extinguishers because it displaces oxygen and suppresses the fire.
56. Calcium carbonate is the main constituent of:
(a) Marble
(b) Graphite
(c) Sulfur
(d) Quartz
Exam: Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Marble is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which gives it its distinctive appearance and hardness.
57. Which metal is used in the galvanization process?
(a) Zinc
(b) Copper
(c) Aluminum
(d) Lead
Exam: TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019), GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Zinc is used in the galvanization process to coat steel or iron to protect them from rust and corrosion.
58. Which compound is also known as oil of vitriol?
(a) Sulfuric acid
(b) Hydrochloric acid
(c) Nitric acid
(d) Acetic acid
Exam: VSSC Pharmacist-A (07.11.2021), Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Sulfuric acid is historically known as oil of vitriol due to its viscous, oily appearance and corrosive nature.
59. The atomic number of chlorine is:
(a) 17
(b) 19
(c) 15
(d) 20
Exam: UP NHM Pharmacist (28.12.2022), TNPSC Drugs Inspector (27.06.2019)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The atomic number of chlorine is 17, which represents the number of protons in its nucleus.
60. Which of the following is used to neutralize excess stomach acid?
(a) Sodium bicarbonate
(b) Magnesium chloride
(c) Ammonium chloride
(d) Potassium sulfate
Exam: GSSSB Jr. Pharmacist (18.02.2018), Safdarjung Pharmacist Mains (21.11.2023)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, acts as an antacid by neutralizing excess stomach acid, relieving indigestion and heartburn.
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