How can we estimate the mass of the atmosphere?

Is religion of value whether or not there is a God?

What can historians not find out about the past?

These are just some of the potentially perplexing questions you would be expected to answer if you want to study at Oxford University.

Prospective students could also be asked to explain the different ways in which they listen to music, how many different molecules can be made from six carbon atoms and twelve hydrogen atoms, or to tell the interviewer what a rock which is handed to them ‘looks like’.

The list of head scratchers, which are all linked to the course the student has applied for, were released this week after the deadline for next year’s applications closed.

The university has also released advice on how best to go about answering the questions with the aim of giving next year’s cohort an idea of what to expect at interview.

According to the university however, interviewers don’t necessarily expect students to give the ‘right’ answer straight away, but instead hope to prompt discussion and see students keen to engage with the topic.

Dr Samina Khan, director of admissions and outreach said: “We want to underscore that every question asked by our tutors has a purpose, and that purpose is to assess how students think about their subject and respond to new information or unfamiliar ideas.

“No matter what kind of educational background or opportunities you have had, the interview should be an opportunity to present your interest and ability in your chosen subject, since they are not just about reciting what you already know.”