By the beginning of the century, several hypotheses were being proposed, suggesting a paradigm shift in our understanding of the universe. However, the clinching evidence was provided by experimental measurements of the position of a star which was directly behind our sun.
Which of the following inference(s) may be drawn from the above passage?
- Our understanding of the universe changes based on the positions of stars
- Paradigm shifts usually occur at the beginning of centuries
- Stars are important objects in the universe
- Experimental evidence was important in confirming this paradigm shift
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Answer: D
To determine which inferences can be logically drawn from the passage, let us analyze each statement individually:
- Statement (i): "Our understanding of the universe changes based on the positions of stars"
Incorrect. This is an overgeneralization. The passage mentions that the measurement of a specific star's position provided evidence for a particular paradigm shift. It does not imply a general rule that our understanding of the universe always changes based on stellar positions. - Statement (ii): "Paradigm shifts usually occur at the beginning of centuries"
Incorrect. The passage mentions a specific historical event ("By the beginning of the century..."). We cannot infer a general pattern about when paradigm shifts "usually" occur. - Statement (iii): "Stars are important objects in the universe"
Incorrect. While this is a true statement in general astronomy, it is not an inference that can be logically derived from the premise of the passage. - Statement (iv): "Experimental evidence was important in confirming this paradigm shift"
Correct. The passage states that while several hypotheses were proposed, the "clinching evidence was provided by experimental measurements". "Clinching" means decisive or confirming, directly supporting this statement.
Since only statement (iv) is a valid inference, the correct option is D.
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