SSC CHSL 2024 PYQ — Question 18

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.

For decades, humans have tried to theorise the origin and evolution of the universe. Many theories have been proposed and rejected. However, the Big Bang theory has been the most (1) ______ accepted. According to this theory, the universe began as a single point, or singularity, around 13.8 billion years ago. This singularity contained all the matter and energy that would eventually (2)______ the stars, galaxies and other structures that make up our universe today. The Big Bang theory is supported by a (3)______ of observational evidence, including the cosmic microwave background radiation, the (4)_______ of light elements in the universe and the large-scale structure of the cosmos. Despite its success, the Big Bang theory is still an active area of research, with scientists seeking to better understand the earliest moments of the universe and the (5)______ of dark matter and energy.