SarkariPYQ

SSC Stenographer 2024 PYQ — Question 93

SSC Stenographer - 10/12/2024 (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) • English • Q93

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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.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is option 1, i.e. “epicentre.”

The passage states: '…seismic shaking that propagates outward from the (3) _____.'

In seismology, the epicentre is the point on the Earth’s surface that lies directly above the focus (hypocentre), which is the initial point of rupture. Seismic waves radiate outward from this location ([British Geological Survey (BGS)]).

The other options (“opened,” “middleman,” “paradoxical”) are unrelated to this context.