Controversies in JEE Advanced 2020 Chemistry: The BC-AC Debate

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi organized the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced 2020, which cumulatively assesses candidates based on their aptitude and skills for higher education in engineering and technology in India. Chemistry, a crucial part of the JEE Advanced, presented several challenging questions. Specifically, one question related to electrochemistry has sparked controversy among premium coaching institutes and aspirants.

Background and Dispute

During the JEE Advanced 2020, a question prompted significant debate among candidates and educators alike. The question in question is a problem in electrochemistry that involves the identification of correct buffering agents. According to the IIT Delhi-provided tentative answer, the correct answer is 'BC'. However, prominent coaching institutes like Allen and Resonance are adamant that the answer should be 'AC'.

Key Points of Disagreement

The crux of the disagreement lies in the interpretation of the given chemical equations and the understanding of how buffers function in the context of the problem. Here are the key points of contention:

Chemical Equations and Electron Transfers: The problem centers around the correct identification of the species involved in the reaction and the resulting products. Some view the transformation from the initial states to the final states as supporting 'BC' as the correct answer, whereas others argue that the process supports 'AC'. Buffer Classification: Buffer solutions are those capable of stabilizing pH by effectively neutralizing added acidic or basic substances. The confusion arises from the proposed buffer systems and their acid-base pairs. Since 'BC' adheres to known buffer systems while 'AC' does not, the validity of each option is being hotly debated. Academic Perspectives: Respected professors at IIT Delhi, who designed the question, initially stood by their design, asserting that 'BC' is the correct answer. However, with the conflicting claims from coaching institutes, the legitimacy of their assessment is being scrutinized.

Impact and Future Implications

The disagreement over this question has several implications for the future of JEE Advanced and the broader educational landscape:

Reliability of Coaching Institutes: Given that some of the top coaching institutes are contesting the official answer, this raises questions about the accuracy and reliability of their teaching materials and guidance. Credibility Crisis: The ongoing debate could lead to a perceived credibility crisis, where candidates might doubt the fairness and consistency of the examination process. Student Morale: Uncertainty surrounding the correct answer can significantly affect student morale and cause stress, further complicating the educational process.

Conclusion

The BC versus AC debate surrounding the JEE Advanced 2020 chemistry question reflects a more profound issue of trust in academic institutions and examination practices. While the IIT Delhi committee stands by their correctness, the debate serves as a reminder of the critical importance of rigorous validation and transparent communication in the educational system.

Keywords: JEE Advanced 2020, chemistry questions, answer challenges

Note: This article aims to provide an overview of the controversy and is based on publicly available information. For authoritative answers, candidates should refer to the official IIT Delhi announcements and guidelines.