By the beginning of the 20th century, several hypotheses were being proposed,…
2014
By the beginning of the 20th century, several hypotheses were being proposed, suggesting a paradigm shift in our understanding of the universe. However, the clinching evidence was provided by experimental measurements of the position of a star which was directly behind our sun.
Which of the following inference(s) may be drawn from the above passage?
(i) Our understanding of the universe changes based on the positions of stars
(ii) Paradigm shifts usually occur at the beginning of centuries
(iii)Stars are important objects in the universe
(iv) Experimental evidence was important in confirming this paradigm shift
- A.
(i), (ii) and (iv)
- B.
(iii) only
- C.
(i) and (iv)
- D.
(iv) only
Attempted by 33 students.
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Correct answer: D
Answer: (iv) only. Experimental evidence was important in confirming the paradigm shift.
Key evidence: The passage says that experimental measurements of the position of a star provided the clinching evidence for the paradigm shift.
Statement (i) — Our understanding of the universe changes based on the positions of stars: Not supported. The passage describes one measurement used as evidence, not a general rule that star positions change our understanding.
Statement (ii) — Paradigm shifts usually occur at the beginning of centuries: Not supported. The passage only notes the timing of this particular shift by the start of the 20th century; it does not assert a general pattern.
Statement (iii) — Stars are important objects in the universe: Not supported as a general inference. The passage mentions a specific star used as evidence but does not make a broad claim about the importance of stars.
Statement (iv) — Experimental evidence was important in confirming this paradigm shift: Supported. The passage explicitly credits experimental measurements as the clinching evidence.
Conclusion: Only statement (iv) is directly inferred from the passage.