Here is a general outline of the geology optional syllabus for UPSC:
Paper I:
- General Geology:
- The Solar System, Meteorites, and Cosmochemistry
- Origin and Interior of the Earth
- Radioactivity and Radiometric Dating
- Earth’s Magnetism
- Isostasy and Gravity
- Seismology and the Earthquake Mechanism
- Earth’s Interior
- Geomorphology:
- Basic concepts
- Weathering and soil formation
- Landforms and their classification
- Geomorphic cycles
- Coastal geomorphology
- Structural Geology:
- Principles of Geology
- Folds and Faults
- Lineation and Foliation
- Joint, Unconformities, and Structures
- Palaeontology:
- Species and Speciation
- Macro and Microfossils
- Stratigraphy and Geologic Time Scale
- Evolution
Paper II:
- Mineralogy:
- Crystallography
- Classification of Minerals
- Physical and Optical Properties
- Cleavage, Twinning, and Symmetry
- Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology:
- Origin and Differentiation of Magmas
- Intrusive and Extrusive Igneous Bodies
- Classification of Metamorphic Rocks
- Regional and Contact Metamorphism
- Sedimentology and Stratigraphy:
- Sedimentary Rocks and Environments
- Stratigraphic Principles and Concepts
- Correlation Techniques
- Basin Analysis
- Economic Geology:
- Ore Minerals and Ore Genesis
- Mineral Exploration
- Geology of Energy Resources (Coal, Petroleum, and Natural Gas)
- Mineral Economics
This is a general outline and may not cover every sub-topic in detail. Candidates should refer to the official UPSC notification and syllabus for the most accurate and updated information. Additionally, it’s advisable to consult relevant geology textbooks and academic resources to prepare thoroughly for the examination