SSC Stenographer 2024 PYQ — Question 91

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
Earthquakes represent a highly consequential and perilous category of (1)__________ disasters. These phenomena arise as a result of several variables and result in subsequent consequences. An earthquake refers to the abrupt release of accumulated strain (2)_________ within the Earth's crust, leading to seismic shaking that propagates outward from the (3)________. In essence, seismic activity refers to the abrupt displacement of the Earth's surface, commonly referred to as an earthquake, tremor or temblor. Earthquakes exhibit a range of magnitudes, encompassing both imperceptible tremors and catastrophic events capable of causing (4)__________ urban devastation. Seismicity refers to the occurrence, magnitude and classification of earthquakes. Earthquakes can also arise as a (5)___________ of volcanic activity. Moreover, these phenomena have diverse impacts that disrupt both individuals' livelihoods and physical assets.