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The compass is one of the oldest navigational tools we have. Since mankind began to understand more about navigation, compasses have been crucial to the achievement of major feats such as the first transoceanic voyages and the circumnavigation of the globe. None of this would have been possible without the aid of the compass in performing navigation calculations over long distances.
Early explorers had to use local landmarks and the stars to navigate. This made it very difficult to travel to far or unknown destinations. Compasses were one of the key breakthroughs that made such voyages possible. So how exactly does a compass work ?
A compass works by detecting and responding to the Earth’s natural magnetic fields. The Earth has an iron core that is part liquid and part solid crystal, due to gravitational pressure. It is believed that movement in the liquid outer core is what produces the Earth’s magnetic field. Like all such fields, the Earth’s magnetic field has two poles - North and South. These magnetic poles are slightly off from the Earth’s axis of rotation, which is used as the basis of the geographic poles - however the magnetic and geographic poles are close enough to allow a compass to serve as a valuable navigation tool, especially when adjustments are made for the polar differences - such adjustments being referred to as declination.
In September 2019, for the first time in over 360 years, compasses at Greenwich pointed true north. Most of the time, however, compasses don’t actually point precisely towards the North Pole.
True north is the direction that points directly towards the geographic North Pole. This is a fixed point on the Earth’s globe. Magnetic north is quite different : it is the direction that a compass needle points to as it aligns with the Earth’s magnetic field.
The magnetic North Pole shifts and changes over time in response to changes in the Earth’s magnetic core : it isn’t a fixed point.
This difference between true North and the North heading on a compass forms an angle, referred to as declination. Declination varies from place to place because the Earth’s magnetic field is not uniform - it dips and undulates.
Early explorers had to use local landmarks and the stars to navigate. This made it very difficult to travel to far or unknown destinations. Compasses were one of the key breakthroughs that made such voyages possible. So how exactly does a compass work ?
A compass works by detecting and responding to the Earth’s natural magnetic fields. The Earth has an iron core that is part liquid and part solid crystal, due to gravitational pressure. It is believed that movement in the liquid outer core is what produces the Earth’s magnetic field. Like all such fields, the Earth’s magnetic field has two poles - North and South. These magnetic poles are slightly off from the Earth’s axis of rotation, which is used as the basis of the geographic poles - however the magnetic and geographic poles are close enough to allow a compass to serve as a valuable navigation tool, especially when adjustments are made for the polar differences - such adjustments being referred to as declination.
In September 2019, for the first time in over 360 years, compasses at Greenwich pointed true north. Most of the time, however, compasses don’t actually point precisely towards the North Pole.
True north is the direction that points directly towards the geographic North Pole. This is a fixed point on the Earth’s globe. Magnetic north is quite different : it is the direction that a compass needle points to as it aligns with the Earth’s magnetic field.
The magnetic North Pole shifts and changes over time in response to changes in the Earth’s magnetic core : it isn’t a fixed point.
This difference between true North and the North heading on a compass forms an angle, referred to as declination. Declination varies from place to place because the Earth’s magnetic field is not uniform - it dips and undulates.
Question: 1
Select the option that corresponds to a ‘feat’.
Select the option that corresponds to a ‘feat’.
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- The diversion of traffic
- A student’s tribute to the mentor
- An acrobatic performance
- The cancellation of a flight booking
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (C): An acrobatic performance.
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Question: 2
The writer refers to the compass as a “key” breakthrough, to highlight its ______ .
The writer refers to the compass as a “key” breakthrough, to highlight its ______ .
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- importance
- scientific nature
- ease of use
- novelty
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (A): importance.
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Question: 3
Select the option that can be used, both as a noun as well as a verb, in the given form.
Select the option that can be used, both as a noun as well as a verb, in the given form.
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- uniform, magnetic, point
- Only uniform
- uniform and core
- point, iron and core
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (D): point, iron and core.
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Question: 4
Identify the meaning of the adjective in the given line from the text.
‘..... compasses at Greenwich pointed true north.’
Identify the meaning of the adjective in the given line from the text.
‘..... compasses at Greenwich pointed true north.’
‘..... compasses at Greenwich pointed true north.’
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- aimed
- precise
- topmost
- sharp
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (B): precise.
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Question: 5
Which action suitably corresponds with ‘undulates’ ?
Which action suitably corresponds with ‘undulates’ ?
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- praying
- walking a dog
- sharing a secret
- dancing
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (D): dancing.
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Question: 6
5 towers made by civilisation X were declared to be protected heritage building. Uniquely, four of them are placed geographically such that they are the vertices of a square. The fifth is placed at the point of intersection of the two diagonals of the square. Let the towers be named A, B, C, D and E. The following information is given to you about the five towers :- C, A and B are in a straight line (in no particular order) that runs from south-east to north-west.
- If one looks directly east from B, no tower is visible. This is not true for A and D.
- If one looks directly north from D, a tower is visible.
Based on the above information, which tower is in the centre ?
5 towers made by civilisation X were declared to be protected heritage building. Uniquely, four of them are placed geographically such that they are the vertices of a square. The fifth is placed at the point of intersection of the two diagonals of the square. Let the towers be named A, B, C, D and E. The following information is given to you about the five towers :
- C, A and B are in a straight line (in no particular order) that runs from south-east to north-west.
- If one looks directly east from B, no tower is visible. This is not true for A and D.
- If one looks directly north from D, a tower is visible.
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- A
- B
- C
- Insufficient information
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (D): Insufficient information.
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Question: 7
5 towers made by civilisation X were declared to be protected heritage building. Uniquely, four of them are placed geographically such that they are the vertices of a square. The fifth is placed at the point of intersection of the two diagonals of the square. Let the towers be named A, B, C, D and E. The following information is given to you about the five towers :- C, A and B are in a straight line (in no particular order) that runs from south-east to north-west.
- If one looks directly east from B, no tower is visible. This is not true for A and D.
- If one looks directly north from D, a tower is visible.
If one seeks to travel to D from A, one has to go
5 towers made by civilisation X were declared to be protected heritage building. Uniquely, four of them are placed geographically such that they are the vertices of a square. The fifth is placed at the point of intersection of the two diagonals of the square. Let the towers be named A, B, C, D and E. The following information is given to you about the five towers :
- C, A and B are in a straight line (in no particular order) that runs from south-east to north-west.
- If one looks directly east from B, no tower is visible. This is not true for A and D.
- If one looks directly north from D, a tower is visible.
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- East
- South-east
- West
- South
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (D): South.
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Question: 8
5 towers made by civilisation X were declared to be protected heritage building. Uniquely, four of them are placed geographically such that they are the vertices of a square. The fifth is placed at the point of intersection of the two diagonals of the square. Let the towers be named A, B, C, D and E. The following information is given to you about the five towers :- C, A and B are in a straight line (in no particular order) that runs from south-east to north-west.
- If one looks directly east from B, no tower is visible. This is not true for A and D.
- If one looks directly north from D, a tower is visible.
If one seeks to travel to B from A, one has to go
5 towers made by civilisation X were declared to be protected heritage building. Uniquely, four of them are placed geographically such that they are the vertices of a square. The fifth is placed at the point of intersection of the two diagonals of the square. Let the towers be named A, B, C, D and E. The following information is given to you about the five towers :
- C, A and B are in a straight line (in no particular order) that runs from south-east to north-west.
- If one looks directly east from B, no tower is visible. This is not true for A and D.
- If one looks directly north from D, a tower is visible.
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- East
- South-east
- West
- Cannot be determined
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (B): South-east.
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Question: 9
5 towers made by civilisation X were declared to be protected heritage building. Uniquely, four of them are placed geographically such that they are the vertices of a square. The fifth is placed at the point of intersection of the two diagonals of the square. Let the towers be named A, B, C, D and E. The following information is given to you about the five towers :- C, A and B are in a straight line (in no particular order) that runs from south-east to north-west.
- If one looks directly east from B, no tower is visible. This is not true for A and D.
- If one looks directly north from D, a tower is visible.
At sunset, A’s shadow points ______ .
5 towers made by civilisation X were declared to be protected heritage building. Uniquely, four of them are placed geographically such that they are the vertices of a square. The fifth is placed at the point of intersection of the two diagonals of the square. Let the towers be named A, B, C, D and E. The following information is given to you about the five towers :
- C, A and B are in a straight line (in no particular order) that runs from south-east to north-west.
- If one looks directly east from B, no tower is visible. This is not true for A and D.
- If one looks directly north from D, a tower is visible.
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- Towards B
- Towards C
- Towards D
- Towards E
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The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (D): Towards E.
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Question: 10
A compass (circular in shape) consists of two parts : a magnetic needle that points towards the magnetic north, and a circular piece of paper with directions written on it. If, somehow, the piece of paper rotates a quarter-circle counter-clockwise, which geographic direction does needle point towards ?
A compass (circular in shape) consists of two parts : a magnetic needle that points towards the magnetic north, and a circular piece of paper with directions written on it. If, somehow, the piece of paper rotates a quarter-circle counter-clockwise, which geographic direction does needle point towards ?
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- Approximately east
- Exactly east
- Approximately west
- Exactly west
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (A): Approximately east.
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Question: 11
A is holding a compass at the time of sunrise. He points it towards the direction of the sunrise and sees that it reads “SW”. This means that the compass has rotated ______ .
A is holding a compass at the time of sunrise. He points it towards the direction of the sunrise and sees that it reads “SW”. This means that the compass has rotated ______ .
Updated On: Aug 4, 2024
- 135 degrees counter-clockwise or 225 degrees clockwise
- 135 degrees clockwise or 225 degrees counter-clockwise
- 45 degrees clockwise or 315 degrees counter-clockwise
- 45 degrees counter-clockwise or 315 degrees clockwise
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (B): 135 degrees clockwise or 225 degrees counter-clockwise.
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Question: 12
In the facts of the question above, what actual direction is “NW” on the compass pointing towards ?
In the facts of the question above, what actual direction is “NW” on the compass pointing towards ?
Updated On: Aug 5, 2024
- North
- South
- East
- West
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
The correct option is (B): South.
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Top Questions on Reading Comprehension
- Read the following passage and answer the questions given below:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed human life with innovations ranging from personalized recommendations to breakthroughs in healthcare and education. Despite these advances, experts warn about AI’s potential destructiveness if left unchecked. Au- tonomous systems, such as self-driving cars, could cause accidents due to unforeseen errors. Additionally, AI-powered surveillance systems pose risks to privacy and civil liberties, as governments and corporations might misuse them to monitor individuals.
One of the gravest concerns is the development of autonomous weapons, which could make life-and-death decisions without human oversight, leading to ethical dilemmas and potential large-scale harm. Furthermore, AI systems can perpetuate biases, resulting in unfair outcomes in hiring, credit allocation, and judicial decisions.
Efforts to address these concerns include the formulation of ethical guidelines, the promotion of transparency in AI systems, and the regulation of AI applications. Collab- oration between policymakers, technologists, and ethicists is crucial to ensure AI remains a force for good. However, as AI continues to evolve rapidly, striking a balance between innovation and responsibility remains an ongoing challenge.- CAT - 2024
- Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)
- Reading Comprehension
- As the weather changes, everyone is prone to colds and coughs. While we have all heard about the benefits of vitamin C for colds, few of us are aware of a secret solution– Zinc! Zinc is helpful as it can reduce the severity and duration of respiratory tract infections. It soothes sore throats with its anti-inflammatory properties. It plays a pivotal role in supporting various functions of the body like the immune system, wound healing and maintaining overall health. It prevents viruses from growing in the body. Zinc is also known to boost the immune system and fight infections. Notably, zinc is a vital mineral found in a variety of plant and animal foods. When consuming zinc-rich foods during a cough and cold, prioritise moderation and diversity in your diet. Include lean meats, poultry, sea food, dairy, nuts and seeds. Combine zinc-rich foods with vitamin C sources for enhanced immune support. Phytates, a substance found in unprocessed whole grains hinder the absorption of zinc, thereby making it less avail able for the body to utilise. Hence, vegetarians should follow some cooking techniques such as soaking them for 5-6 hours to reduce the phytate content and increase the bioavailability of zinc. Organic acids in fermented foods aid in higher absorption, so always include foods in your diet like buttermilk and yogurt along with some zinc-rich vegetarian sources. It is important to remember that a higher dosage of zinc supplement inhibits the absorption of other minerals. Therefore, it is always good to check with the healthcare professionals while taking supplements. Stay hydrated, choose cooking methods that preserve zinc, and be aware of factors like phytates affecting absorption.
- CUET (UG) - 2024
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- Read the passage carefully and answer the question given below by selecting the correct option:
On September 30, 2001, I (Dr APJ Abdul Kalam) found myself on a journey from Ranchi to Bokaro in Jharkhand. The helicopter carrying me crashed just before landing, its engine failing with a thud upon impact. Miraculously, all on board escaped unharmed. Grateful to God, I proceeded with my scheduled programme in Bokaro, unfazed by the incident. That night, doctors suggested a tranquilliser to ease perceived shock, leading to an early and disturbed sleep, filled with contemplation.
Amidst this intense dream, I stood in a moonlit desert with five revered figures: Mahatma Gandhi, Albert Einstein, Emperor Asoka, Abraham Lincoln, and Caliph Omar. Asoka’s reflection on the Kalinga war symbolised a shift from conquest to compassion, inspiring a doctrine of non-violence, Ahimsa Dharma.
In this profound dream-conversation, these figures shared wisdom on humanity’s deep divisions caused by violence. They emphasised peace, equality, and the significance of ethical values in human consciousness. Asoka, having witnessed the consequences of his victories, highlighted the futility of causing suffering and the triumph of a peaceful kingdom.
Awakening from this vivid dream, I contemplated the contrasting forces of good and destruction in the world. The challenges faced by humanity, from conflicts to natural disasters and terrorism, prompted deep reflection. Yet, despite these challenges, I held a determined belief
in finding an everlasting solution.
Motivated by this dream and a desire to contribute to the greater good, I made a significant decision. Shifting focus from my scientific career, awards, and teams, I aimed to discover India’s true essence in its children. This marked a transcendence of personal achievements, emphasising the importance of nurturing enlightened individuals and fostering the inner, higher self in the youth. My commitment was to contribute to the enduring intelligence of India through meaningful interaction with joyous, young minds.
APJ Abdul Kalam ’Ignited Minds’- CUET (UG) - 2024
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- Read the passage carefully and answer the question given below by selecting the correct option:
Five a Day
A new study backs up the long-standing nutritional guideline that consuming five daily servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables is linked to longevity. People who daily consumed specifically two fruits and three vegetables had a 12 per cent lower risk of death from car- diovascular disease, a 10 per cent lower risk from cancer, and a 35 per cent lower risk from respiratory disease, compared with people who ate just two daily servings.
One ’serving’ is 125 millilitres of any vegetables or fruits, or 250 millilitres of salad greens. You get the same beneficial vitamins, minerals and fibre in both, but vegetables are lower in calories and sugar, which is why the guidelines recommend higher consumption levels for them. The findings included two studies of more than 1,00,000 American men and women who were followed for up to 30 years. Those studies were then added to 24 other studies from across the globe to conduct one large meta-analysis on more than 1.8 million participants. Variety is the key, because different fruits and vegetables contain different beneficial nutrients and antioxidants. Almost all fruits and vegetables were associated with lower mortality, but there were exceptions. Fruit juices and starchy vegetables such as peas, corn, and potatoes were not associated with reduced risk of death or chronic diseases. It may be due to their higher glycaemic load.
Your five daily servings can be met from a variety of fresh, frozen or canned fruits and vegetables, whether conventional or organic. Whichever options are available, affordable, and appealing are good choices.
Studies show that freezing and canning preserves nutrients, which makes these foods even more nutrient-dense than their fresh counterparts. They are good options for people whose barriers to consuming enough servings per day include the high cost, low access, poor quality and lack of variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.- CUET (UG) - 2024
- English
- Reading Comprehension
- Read the passage and answer the question given below by selecting the correct option:
A recent study by researchers from Basel University and Munich Technical University challenges prior beliefs about the influence of different light colours on the human body’s internal clock and sleep-wake rhythm. Unlike a previous study conducted on mice, this one suggests,
that light colour may be less critical for the internal clock than originally thought.
Vision involves a complex process of perceiving various light wavelengths as colours and brightness in the brain. Photoreceptors in the retina convert light into electrical impulses, transmitted to ganglion cells in the retina and to the visual cortex in the brain. Specialised ganglion cells play a significant role in the internal clock, being sensitive to short-wavelength light at around 490 nanometers, perceived as blue. When activated by short-wavelength light, these cells signal “it’s daytime” to the internal clock.
To explore the influence of light colour on the internal clock, the researchers exposed 16 healthy volunteers to blueish or yellowish light stimuli for one hour in late evening with a white light stimulus as a control condition. The light stimuli were designed to selectively activate the colour-sensitive cones in the retina, while maintaining consistent stimulation of the light-sensitive ganglion cells in all conditions. This allowed the researchers to directly check effects of light on the respective cone stimulation and, the colour of the light.
Contrary to the findings in mice, the study suggests that the colour of light, as encoded by the cones, may not significantly influence the human internal clock and sleep-wake rhythm. The current research contradicts the earlier finding that yellowish light had a stronger influence on the internal clock than blueish light. The results, published in “Nature Human Behaviour”, imply that while light intensity and exposure duration remain crucial factors, the colour of light may not play as significant a role in influencing sleep and circadian rhythms as previously believed.- CUET (UG) - 2024
- English
- Reading Comprehension
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