The TNPSC Assistant Geologist exam syllabus is designed to evaluate candidates’ expertise in geology as well as their general awareness. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the syllabus for each paper:
Paper I: Geology
1. General Geology:
- Earth’s Structure: Layers of the Earth, lithosphere, asthenosphere, and core.
- Geological Processes: Plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and mountain building.
- Geological Time Scale: Formation and division of geological time, major events, and life forms.
2. Mineralogy:
- Mineral Properties: Physical and chemical properties of minerals, classification, and identification.
- Mineral Classification: Silicates, carbonates, oxides, sulfides, and other mineral groups.
- Mineral Identification: Techniques for identifying minerals using physical and optical properties.
3. Petrology:
- Igneous Rocks: Formation, classification, and types of igneous rocks.
- Sedimentary Rocks: Processes of sedimentation, classification, and types of sedimentary rocks.
- Metamorphic Rocks: Metamorphism, classification, and types of metamorphic rocks.
4. Structural Geology:
- Geological Structures: Folds, faults, joints, and their classification.
- Stress and Strain: Types of stress, strain, and their impact on rock formations.
- Tectonics: Plate boundaries, tectonic plates, and their movement.
5. Economic Geology:
- Mineral Resources: Types of mineral resources, their formation, and economic significance.
- Ore Deposits: Formation, classification, and mining methods for ore deposits.
- Exploration Methods: Techniques for mineral exploration and resource evaluation.
6. Environmental Geology:
- Geological Hazards: Landslides, earthquakes, floods, and their impact on the environment.
- Environmental Impact Assessment: Methods for assessing the impact of geological activities on the environment.
- Resource Management: Sustainable management of geological resources.
7. Hydrogeology:
- Groundwater Resources: Distribution, movement, and quality of groundwater.
- Hydrological Cycle: Components and processes of the hydrological cycle.
- Groundwater Management: Techniques for groundwater conservation and management.
Paper II: General Studies
1. General Science:
- Physics: Basic principles, laws, and applications in everyday life.
- Chemistry: Fundamental concepts, chemical reactions, and environmental chemistry.
- Biology: Human anatomy, plant biology, and ecological principles.
2. Current Events:
- National and International Affairs: Recent events, important occurrences, and global issues.
- Government Policies and Schemes: Key policies and schemes in India and Tamil Nadu.
3. Geography:
- Physical Geography: Landforms, climate, vegetation, and natural resources of India and Tamil Nadu.
- Economic Geography: Resources, industries, and economic activities in India and Tamil Nadu.
- Regional Geography: Specific regions within India and their geographical characteristics.
4. History and Culture:
- Ancient India: Major events, civilizations, and historical figures.
- Medieval India: Political, social, and cultural developments during the medieval period.
- Modern India: Freedom struggle, post-independence developments, and contemporary issues.
- Tamil Nadu Culture: Historical and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, including literature, art, and traditions.
5. Indian Polity:
- Constitution of India: Structure, features, and amendments.
- Political System: Functions of the central and state governments, electoral systems, and public administration.
- Panchayati Raj Institutions: Structure, functions, and importance in local governance.
6. Indian Economy:
- Economic Planning: Five-Year Plans, economic policies, and growth strategies.
- Industrial Development: Key industries, economic reforms, and sectoral growth.
- Welfare Schemes: Major welfare schemes and their impact on society.
7. Indian National Movement:
- Freedom Struggle: Major events, leaders, and movements in the Indian freedom struggle.
- Post-Independence Era: Key developments and challenges faced by independent India.
8. Development Administration in Tamil Nadu:
- Policies and Schemes: Key development policies, programs, and administrative practices in Tamil Nadu.
- Administrative Structure: Organization and functioning of government departments and agencies in Tamil Nadu.
This syllabus ensures that candidates are well-prepared for the role of Assistant Geologist, with a comprehensive understanding of geological principles and general knowledge.
