SSC GD 2025 PYQ — Question 5

SSC GD Const 2025 (English) - 25 Feb 2025 - Shift 3 • English • Q5

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and
 select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
 The fact that the wetter periods in North Africa have _______1_______ every 21,000 years or so is a big clue about what ________2_________ them: variations in Earth’s orbit. Due to gravitational influences from the moon and other planets in our solar system, the orbit of the Earth _________3___________ the sun is not constant. It has cyclic ______4_______ on multi-thousand year timescales. These orbital cycles _______5_______ the amount of energy the Earth receives from the sun. On 100,000-year cycles, the shape of Earth’s orbit shifts between circular and oval

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 5.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. influence.

Context: The blank refers to how orbital cycles affect the amount of solar energy received by Earth.

Meaning of the words:
Stretch: Extend – incorrect.
Influence: Affect or alter – correct.
Return: Go back – incorrect.
Believe: Have faith – incorrect.

Correct word: influence

Reason: “Influence” properly conveys the effect of orbital cycles on solar energy.

Final Sentence: These orbital cycles influence the amount of energy the Earth receives from the sun.

Hence, the chosen option will be correct.