Chapter: Reading Comprehension | Total Available: 20 Real Questions
Question 1 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Comprehension
Directions: Carefully read the given passage and answerthe questions that follow. You are required to select youranswers solely based on the contents of the passage andthe opinion of the author 'only.
Passage
People by and large are concerned with and pursue self-interest. They are unlikely to be motivated to use renewableresources in a prudent and sustainable fashion. They areunlikely to be motivated under the following conditions:if their resource catchments are vast, so that degradationof any particular portion affects them very little; or ifthey have open before them possibilities of substitutionas anyone resource element is depleted; or if their controlover the resource base is tenuous, so that others may, atany time, deplete a resource they value, even if they useit in' a restrained fashion. Indeed, exhaustive use is highlylikely when anyone of these three conditions obtains. It isonly when people perceive their resource catchments aslimited, possibilities of substitution of exhausted resourceelements as not readily feasible, and their own controlover the resource base as secure, will they be motivated touse the resources in a prudent fashion. People, rooted in alocality, and retaining control over their resource base aremost likely to fulfil all three prerequisites for sustainableresource use; and therefore to behave in ways conduciveto the conservation of biodiversity within their localities.
Why, according to the Writer can't people be motivated to use a resource prudently?
1. They feel that others may overuse the resource
2. It is possible to substitute the resource
3. Abundance of the resource availability.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
Explanation: The passage mentions all three points as reasons to why people can’t be motivated to use a resource prudently.
Question 2 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Read the following short passage:
Quantum computing harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, to perform computations far beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Unlike classical bits that can only be 0 or 1, quantum bits (qubits) can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This fundamental difference allows quantum computers to tackle certain complex problems, like drug discovery, financial modeling, and breaking modern encryption, at an unprecedented speed. While still in its nascent stages, the technology promises to revolutionize industries, though significant engineering challenges remain before widespread adoption.
Based on the passage, what distinguishes a quantum bit (qubit) from a classical bit, fundamentally enabling advanced computations?
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
✓
1. Correct Answer
Option B is correct. The passage highlights superposition as the fundamental difference.
📖 Core Concept
This question requires identifying a direct comparative distinction between two entities as explained in the passage, focusing on the fundamental characteristic that drives their differing capabilities.
💡 3. Explanation
The passage explicitly states: "Unlike classical bits that can only be 0 or 1, quantum bits (qubits) can exist in multiple states simultaneously." It further adds, "This fundamental difference allows quantum computers to tackle certain complex problems..." This directly points to the ability of qubits to exist in multiple states simultaneously (superposition) as the key distinguishing factor for advanced computations.
❌ 4. Option Analysis
•Option A: The passage does not mention the physical size of qubits or classical bits.
•Option C: The passage does not compare the energy requirements of classical bits versus qubits.
•Option D: While "breaking modern encryption" is listed as *one* application, the passage also mentions "drug discovery" and "financial modeling," indicating it's not the *only* use. Also, this is an application, not a fundamental distinction of the bit itself.
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NDA Speed-Run / Mnemonic Shortcut
When a question asks for a "fundamental distinction" or "key difference," scan for comparative language like "unlike," "whereas," or explicit statements highlighting differences between the terms in question. The passage often directly contrasts them to explain the core concept.
Question 3 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:
The Doppler Effect is a phenomenon observed when the source of waves is moving with respect to an observer. In sound waves, it causes the pitch of a siren to appear higher as it approaches and lower as it recedes. Astronomers use this effect to determine if stars are moving toward or away from Earth by analyzing shifts in the light's wavelength. This shift toward shorter wavelengths is called 'blueshift,' while a shift toward longer wavelengths is termed 'redshift.'
Question: According to the passage, which of the following statements is INCORRECT?
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
✓
1. Correct Answer
Option A is correct. The passage explicitly mentions the Doppler Effect's application to light waves in astronomy.
📖 Core Concept
The Doppler Effect describes the change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to an observer moving relative to the wave source.
💡 3. Explanation
The passage clearly states that astronomers use the Doppler Effect for light waves from stars, contradicting Option A's claim that it's exclusive to sound waves. The other options correctly reflect details from the passage: 'blueshift' for approaching stars, siren pitch changes, and astronomical applications.
❌ 4. Option Analysis
•Option A: Incorrect as the passage mentions light wave applications in astronomy.
•Option B: Correct as per the 'blueshift' definition in the passage.
•Option C: Correct description of sound wave behavior.
•Option D: Accurate representation of astronomers' methods.
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NDA Speed-Run / Mnemonic Shortcut
Look for absolute terms like 'exclusive' in options—they often indicate incorrect statements when the passage shows broader applications.
Question 4 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Read the passage and answer the question:
The aurora borealis, or northern lights, occur when charged particles from solar winds collide with Earth's atmosphere. These particles are guided by Earth's magnetic field toward the poles, where they interact with atmospheric gases, emitting light of varying colors. Oxygen produces green and red hues, while nitrogen yields blue and purple. The intensity varies with solar activity and is best viewed near the Arctic Circle during winter months.
Question: Based on the passage, consider the following statements:
1. The color variation in auroras depends solely on the type of atmospheric gas involved.
2. Solar wind particles reach Earth's poles due to gravitational pull.
3. Winter months provide optimal viewing conditions for auroras near the Arctic.
4. Auroral activity intensity remains constant regardless of solar conditions.
Which of the above statements are correct?
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
✓
1. Correct Answer
Option C is correct. Only statement 3 about winter viewing conditions is directly supported by the passage.
📖 Core Concept
Auroras result from interactions between solar particles and atmospheric gases, influenced by Earth's magnetic field and solar activity cycles.
💡 3. Explanation
Statement 3 is correct as the passage mentions optimal viewing 'during winter months.' Statement 1 is incorrect because while gas type determines color, 'solely' overstates the case (other factors like particle energy matter). Statement 2 incorrectly attributes particle guidance to gravity rather than Earth's magnetic field (explicitly mentioned). Statement 4 contradicts the passage's statement about intensity varying with solar activity.
❌ 4. Option Analysis
•Option A: Incorrect because statement 1's 'solely' makes it inaccurate.
•Option B: Incorrect as statements 2 and 4 contradict the passage.
•Option C: Correct as only statement 3 aligns with the text.
•Option D: Incorrect due to statement 1's inaccuracy and statement 4's false claim.
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NDA Speed-Run / Mnemonic Shortcut
In multi-statement questions, eliminate options containing any clearly wrong statements first—here, statements 2 and 4 are easily identifiable as incorrect.
Question 5 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Read the following passage and answer the question:
'The concept of 'biophilia' suggests that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life. This hypothesis, introduced by biologist Edward O. Wilson, argues that our affinity for natural environments is rooted in evolutionary biology, as our ancestors relied on natural landscapes for survival. Studies show that exposure to nature reduces stress and enhances cognitive function in urban populations.'
Which of the following statements is NOT supported by the passage?
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
✓
1. Correct Answer
Option B is correct. The passage does not state that urban development made humans entirely independent of nature.
📖 Core Concept
The question tests the ability to identify information that is NOT explicitly stated or implied in the passage.
💡 3. Explanation
The passage discusses the biophilia hypothesis and its evolutionary basis, as well as the benefits of nature exposure for urban populations. However, it never claims that urban development has made humans completely independent of natural environments.
❌ 4. Option Analysis
•Option A: This is supported by the passage as it mentions the evolutionary biology connection.
•Option C: This is directly stated in the passage's mention of stress reduction in urban populations.
•Option D: This aligns with the passage's discussion of ancestral reliance on natural landscapes.
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NDA Speed-Run / Mnemonic Shortcut
For 'NOT supported' questions, quickly scan for extreme statements (like 'entirely independent') that lack direct evidence in the text.
Question 6 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Read the following passage and answer the question:
'In linguistics, a morpheme is the smallest grammatical unit in a language. Unlike words, which can stand alone, morphemes may or may not be independent. For example, the word 'unhappiness' consists of three morphemes: the prefix 'un-', the root 'happy', and the suffix '-ness'. Free morphemes can function independently as words (like 'happy'), while bound morphemes must be attached to other morphemes (like 'un-').'
Which of the following examples demonstrates a bound morpheme?
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
✓
1. Correct Answer
Option C is correct. "Re-" is a bound morpheme as it cannot stand alone and must be attached to another morpheme.
📖 Core Concept
This question evaluates understanding of linguistic units, specifically differentiating between free and bound morphemes.
💡 3. Explanation
The passage defines bound morphemes as those that cannot stand alone. The prefix "re-" must attach to another morpheme (like "write") to form a complete word, making it bound. All other options are free morphemes that can function as independent words.
❌ 4. Option Analysis
•Option A: "Run" is a free morpheme as it can stand alone as a complete word.
•Option B: "Book" is a free morpheme that functions independently.
•Option D: "Dog" is a standalone word and thus a free morpheme.
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NDA Speed-Run / Mnemonic Shortcut
Remember: If it can't exist alone (like prefixes/suffixes), it's bound. If it can stand by itself (common nouns/verbs), it's free.
Question 7 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Read the following passage and answer the question:
'Negative feedback loops are regulatory mechanisms common in biological systems. In such loops, the output of a system reduces the original stimulus, maintaining homeostasis. For instance, when blood glucose levels rise after a meal, the pancreas secretes insulin, which prompts cells to absorb glucose, thereby lowering blood sugar levels back to normal.'
Which phenomenon described below operates on a similar principle to the negative feedback loop mentioned in the passage?
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
✓
1. Correct Answer
Option B is correct. A thermostat exhibits negative feedback by turning off the heater when the desired temperature is reached, mirroring the glucose regulation example.
📖 Core Concept
This assesses comprehension of negative feedback loops—systems where the output counteracts the initial change to maintain equilibrium.
💡 3. Explanation
The thermostat system parallels the biological example: when temperature (like glucose) rises above a set point, the system triggers a response (turning off heat/insulin secretion) to restore balance. Other options describe positive feedback (amplification) or uncontrolled processes.
❌ 4. Option Analysis
•Option A: This describes positive feedback (the squeal intensifies rather than being corrected).
•Option C: Shows a direct, unregulated relationship without corrective feedback.
•Option D: Demonstrates an escalating process without regulatory control.
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NDA Speed-Run / Mnemonic Shortcut
Key phrase: "Counteracts the change." If the mechanism reverses the initial effect (like brakes slowing a car), it's negative feedback.
Question 8 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Read the following passage and answer the question:
'The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a vast collection of marine debris, primarily microplastics, located in the North Pacific Ocean. Unlike a solid mass, it consists of high concentrations of plastic particles suspended throughout the water column. These microplastics result from the breakdown of larger debris and pose significant threats to marine life through ingestion and chemical contamination.'
Based on the passage, which of the following is a correct inference about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch?
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
✓
1. Correct Answer
Option D is correct. The passage states that plastic particles are "suspended throughout the water column," implying distribution at various depths.
📖 Core Concept
This tests the ability to draw accurate inferences from explicit passage details while avoiding assumptions not supported by the text.
💡 3. Explanation
The passage explicitly describes the garbage patch as consisting of particles "suspended throughout the water column," which directly supports Option D. Other options contradict the text: it's not solid (A), not natural sediment (B), and the primary threat comes from microplastics, not large items (C).
❌ 4. Option Analysis
•Option A: Contradicts the passage's clarification that it's not a solid mass.
•Option B: The passage states the debris is plastic, not natural sediment.
•Option C: The primary threat is specified as microplastics through ingestion, not entanglement by large items.
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NDA Speed-Run / Mnemonic Shortcut
For inference questions, treat the passage as absolute truth. Any option that adds unsupported details (like 'walkable island') is likely wrong.
Question 9 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Read the following passage and answer the question:
'Cryptography is the practice of securing communications through encoding. Modern encryption uses mathematical algorithms to transform plaintext into ciphertext. Symmetric-key cryptography employs the same key for encryption and decryption, while asymmetric-key cryptography uses a public key to encrypt and a private key to decrypt. The latter method enhances security but requires more computational resources.'
Consider the following statements:
1. Asymmetric-key cryptography is slower but more secure than symmetric-key cryptography.
2. In symmetric-key systems, the encryption and decryption keys are identical.
3. All cryptographic systems convert plaintext to ciphertext using only mathematical algorithms.
4. Public keys are used for decryption in asymmetric-key systems.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
✓
1. Correct Answer
Option A is correct. Statements 1 and 2 align perfectly with the passage's details about cryptography methods.
📖 Core Concept
This evaluates precise understanding of cryptographic systems by verifying multiple statements against passage details.
💡 3. Explanation
Statement 1 is correct as the passage states asymmetric methods are more secure but require more resources (implying slower). Statement 2 is verbatim from the symmetric-key definition. Statement 3 is incorrect because "only mathematical algorithms" is too absolute (other methods may exist). Statement 4 reverses the keys' roles—private keys decrypt in asymmetric systems.
❌ 4. Option Analysis
•Option B: Incorrect due to Statement 3's absolute claim about "only" mathematical methods.
•Option C: Incorrect as Statement 4 reverses the key roles.
•Option D: Incorrect because it includes Statement 3's flawed claim.
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NDA Speed-Run / Mnemonic Shortcut
For multi-statement questions, first eliminate options containing any clearly wrong statement (like Statement 4 here). Then verify the remainder.
Question 10 of 10Authentic UPSC NDA Question
Read the following short passage:
Sustainable urban planning is crucial for mitigating the environmental impact of growing cities. It involves integrating green infrastructure, promoting public transportation, encouraging mixed-use developments, and prioritizing renewable energy sources. The goal is to create cities that are not only environmentally responsible but also economically viable and socially equitable. Challenges include securing funding, overcoming political resistance, and changing long-standing urban development paradigms. Despite these hurdles, successful implementation of sustainable practices can lead to improved air quality, reduced traffic congestion, and enhanced community well-being.
Which of the following is NOT explicitly mentioned as a component of sustainable urban planning in the passage?
Step-by-Step Logic & Solution
✓
1. Correct Answer
Option C is correct. The passage does not explicitly mention "implementing smart grid technologies."
📖 Core Concept
This question tests the ability to identify what information is *not* present in the passage, requiring careful scrutiny of the details provided and distinguishing between implied and explicitly stated facts.
💡 3. Explanation
The passage lists components of sustainable urban planning as: "integrating green infrastructure, promoting public transportation, encouraging mixed-use developments, and prioritizing renewable energy sources." We need to find the option that is *not* on this list.
* **Option 1: "Promoting public transportation"** is explicitly mentioned.
* **Option 2: "Integrating green infrastructure"** is explicitly mentioned.
* **Option 3: "Implementing smart grid technologies"** is not mentioned anywhere in the passage.
* **Option 4: "Prioritizing renewable energy sources"** is explicitly mentioned.
Therefore, "Implementing smart grid technologies" is the correct answer as it is not explicitly listed as a component of sustainable urban planning in the provided text.
❌ 4. Option Analysis
•Option A: This is directly stated in the passage.
•Option B: This is directly stated in the passage.
•Option D: This is directly stated in the passage.
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NDA Speed-Run / Mnemonic Shortcut
For "NOT mentioned" questions, quickly scan the passage for each option keyword. The option whose keyword or concept is absent from the text is the correct answer. Be wary of distractors that are plausible in real-world context but not explicitly stated in the passage.
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