Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1.

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 soft layer of the earth's (1)____________ on which plants grow is referred to as soil. Soil includes a huge amount of both organic and inorganic (2)________. In the soil, the organic components known as humus are formed from (3)____________ plant and animal remnants. These are combined with weathered particles of various rocks to form soil. Weathering occurs as a result of different chemical and physical (4)__________ that occur on the earth's surface. Soil formation is a (5)__________ process in general. For example, the creation of a 2.5 cm thick soil layer might take more than 1000 years.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. surface.

Context: The sentence refers to the top layer of the earth where plants grow. The required word should refer to the earth's outer layer.

Meaning of the words:
Location: A place or position.
Atmosphere: The layer of gases surrounding the earth.
Surface: The topmost outer layer.
Boundary: A dividing line.

Correct word: Surface

Reason: “Surface” is the only word that logically and scientifically fits with “on which plants grow.” It clearly refers to the top layer of earth.

Final Sentence: The soft layer of the earth’s surface on which plants grow is referred to as soil.

Hence, the chosen option will be correct.

SSC Selection Post 2022 PYQ — Question 10