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SSC Selection Post 2022 PYQ — Question 6

SSC Selection Post - Graduation Level - 2 Aug 2022 - Shift 3 • English • Q6

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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.

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.

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

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. gradual.

Context: The sentence talks about soil formation and mentions that forming even a thin layer takes over 1000 years. This implies a slow and steady process, so we need a word that conveys slowness.

Meaning of the words:
Abrupt: Sudden and unexpected.
Chemical: Related to substances and reactions.
Steep: Having a sharp incline.
Gradual: Happening slowly over time.

Correct word: Gradual

Reason: Among all the options, only “gradual” fits both the idea of a long duration and the process of formation. The other words either don't fit grammatically or are unrelated in meaning.

Final Sentence: Soil formation is a gradual process in general.

Hence, the chosen option will be correct.