UPSC Prelims 2008 Q143: Science & Technology – Science & Technology History
Nobel Prize - winning scientist James
D. Watson is known for his work in which area?
- (a) Metallurgy
- (b) Meteorology
- (c) Environmental protection
- (d) Genetics
Answer: (d) Genetics
Explanation
James D. Watson's area of Nobel-winning work
This renowned scientist made a landmark contribution to a specific field of biological science.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Metallurgy | Incorrect | Not Watson's field |
| (b) Meteorology | Incorrect | Also not his field |
| (c) Environmental protection | Incorrect | Also not his field |
| (d) Genetics | Correct | James D. Watson is renowned for his work on the structure of DNA, within the field of genetics |
James D. Watson facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Field | Genetics |
| Famous for | Co-discovering the structure of DNA |
Answer: (d) Genetics.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Metallurgy is not Watson's field.
- (b) Incorrect. Meteorology is also not his field.
- (c) Incorrect. Environmental protection is also not his field.
- (d) CORRECT. James D. Watson is known for his work in genetics, particularly DNA structure.
Key point
James D. Watson is a Nobel Prize-winning scientist known for his work in genetics, particularly co-discovering the structure of DNA.
Remember
James D. Watson is known for his work in Genetics.
Common mistakes
- Confusing Watson's genetics work with unrelated scientific fields.
- Not knowing his specific DNA structure discovery.
- Mixing up different Nobel laureates' distinct fields of recognition.
Exam tip
James D. Watson = genetics (DNA structure discovery), Nobel Prize laureate. A foundational molecular biology fact.
Sources
- Nobel Prize — The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 1962 (Francis Crick, James Watson and Maurice Wilkins), press release
- James D. Watson and Francis H. C. Crick — "Molecular Structure of Nucleic Acids: A Structure for Deoxyribose Nucleic Acid", Nature, vol. 171 (1953)