The MP SET is an important exam for those who aspire to become professors in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The exam is conducted by the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MPPSC) and covers various subjects, including Chemical Science. The MP SET Chemical Science syllabus is designed to assess the knowledge, teaching aptitude, and subject-specific expertise of candidates. Understanding the syllabus thoroughly is key to effective preparation for the exam.
In this blog, we will break down the MP SET Chemical Science syllabus, discussing its structure, topics, and important areas to focus on during preparation. This guide will help candidates get a clear idea of what to expect in the exam and how to prepare efficiently.
Overview of MP SET Exam Pattern
Before proceeding to the syllabus, it would be great to know the pattern of the MP SET exam for Chemical Science.
The MP SET exam has two papers:
- Paper I: It is a general paper. The questions are for assessing the teaching and research aptitude of the candidates. These include questions on reasoning, comprehension, divergent thinking, and general knowledge. This paper is common for all subjects.
- Paper II – This is subject-specific and for candidates taking the paper to test knowledge related to the topics covered in Chemical Science. Multiple choice questions that test the knowledge of a candidate in the sphere of chemistry have been framed.
Each paper has a duration of 2 hours. The number of questions is also different. So, the total marks for this examination are 200 marks. Of these, the first paper carries 100 marks, and the second also 100 marks.
Paper I: Teaching and Research Aptitude
Even though the paper is the same for all subjects, its understanding is imperative for all applicants. Some key topics included in Paper I are the following:
- Teaching Aptitude: The section examines how well the candidate knows teaching methods and approaches along with the significance of teaching in higher education.
- Research Aptitude: Questions test the ability and the acumen of the candidate of all kinds of research methods and methods along with their knowledge and its applications through various research tools.
- Comprehension: Comprehension passages with a view to answering some questions from them.
- Logical Reasoning: Questions of problems are to be answered with logical reasoning and mathematic aptitude.
- Data Interpretation: The candidate needs to interpret the data, chart and graphs.
Paper II: Break Up of Chemical Science Syllabus
The syllabus of Paper II in Chemical Science comprises a wide range of topics related to the subject with an aim to test the candidate’s deep understanding of chemical principles and practical knowledge. The syllabus is divided into several units, which focus on different aspects of chemistry.
1. Inorganic Chemistry
- Inorganic Chemistry is one of the basic branches of chemistry, and it is very important in the MP SET syllabus. The major topics are as follows:
- Atomic Structure and Bonding: This includes the study of atomic models, quantum chemistry, chemical bonding, and the theories behind bonding like hybridization, VSEPR theory, etc.
- Coordination Chemistry: Focuses on the structure, bonding, and properties of coordination compounds, along with their applications in various fields.
- Stereochemistry: Study of spatial arrangements of atoms in molecules that focuses on isomerism, chirality, and optical activity.
- Periodic Table and Periodicity: Periodic trends in ionization enthalpy, electron affinity, atomic radio, and significance of these properties in the prediction of the chemical behavior of elements.
2. Organic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry is the other important component of the syllabus, and it covers:
- Reaction Mechanisms: Understanding the mechanism of various organic reactions, including nucleophilic substitution, electrophilic addition, elimination reactions, etc.
- Functional Groups: Detailed study of the properties and reactions of different functional groups like alcohols, ethers, aldehydes, ketones, acids, and bases.
- Organic Synthesis: Study of synthetic methods used for constructing complex organic molecules from simpler ones.
- Aromatic Compounds: Chemistry of benzene, derivatives, and numerous reactions related to aromatic compounds such as electrophilic substitution and aromaticity.
3. Physical Chemistry
Physical Chemistry is one of the significant parts of the MP SET Chemical Science syllabus and encompasses:
- Thermodynamics: Thermodynamic laws, enthalpy, entropy, free energy, and their applications in chemical reactions.
- Chemical Kinetics: The study of the rates of chemical reactions, factors influencing reaction rates, rate laws, and mechanisms.
- Electrochemistry: The relationship between electricity and chemical reactions, including concepts like cell potential, conductivity, and Nernst equation.
- Surface Chemistry: Adsorption, Catalysis, Colloids, and their Industrial applications.
- Quantum Chemistry: Overview of quantum mechanics, Wave Functions, Schrödinger Equation, and Importance of the former in explaining molecular phenomena.
4. Analytical Chemistry
Analytical Chemistry deals with the methods adopted for analyzing the composition of substances. It is a key area of emphasis within the syllabus. Main topics are:
- Chromatography: Separation and identification of chemical substances using techniques such as paper chromatography, gas chromatography, and liquid chromatography.
- Spectroscopy: Understanding of UV-Visible, IR, NMR, and Mass Spectrometry with applications in structural determination.
- Titration: Study of various titrimetric techniques applied to the determination of analyte concentration.
5. Biochemistry and Environmental Chemistry
Topics at the overlap between chemistry and biology and where chemistry appears in environmental studies
- Biochemistry: The chemistry of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. Function of these in living systems and biochemical pathways
- Environmental Chemistry: Chemistry in relation to natural phenomena including pollution and waste management; green chemistry
6. General Chemistry Topics
Some of the basic topics to which all candidates should have an acquaintance include:
- Chemical Equilibrium: It is the study of reversible reactions and equilibrium constants, Le Chatelier’s principle, and applications.
- Colloids and Solutions: Properties and behavior of colloidal systems and different kinds of solutions, including Raoult’s law, molarity, molality, and normality.
- Solid-State Chemistry: Study of solid-state structures, types of solids, and properties of crystalline and amorphous solids.
Preparing for MP SET Chemical Science Exam
Syllabus knowledge is one of the major components required for effective preparation in MP SET exams. There are a few tips which could help candidates prepare efficiently:
- Understanding the Syllabus: Read and understand the complete syllabus. Focus on important topics and ensure that you cover all units systematically.
- Study Material: Choose the best books and study materials recommended for the MP SET exam. NCERT textbooks for basic concepts, along with reference books, will help in understanding the core ideas.
- Practice Past Papers: Regular practice of previous years’ question papers is essential to get familiar with the exam format and types of questions.
- Time Management: Plan the study schedule so that there will be time for all of the topics. Focus more on weak areas and revise it regularly.
- Mock Tests: Prepare for regular mock tests for tracking progress and areas requiring improvement. This also helps with time management during the final exam.
Conclusion
The syllabus of MP SET Chemical Science is very vast and needs proper preparation. A thorough understanding of the syllabus and following a systematic approach will make the candidate confidently face the exam. The main emphasis should be on the mastery of core concepts in Inorganic, Organic, Physical, and Analytical Chemistry. The latest trends in Biochemistry and Environmental Chemistry must also be followed. Consistent effort, smart study techniques, and practice can definitely make success in the MP SET Chemical Science exam.
Good luck with your preparation!