Multiple choice

Directions: The short passage below is followed by a question based on its content. Answer the question on the basis of what is stated or implied in the passage.

The tides are enormously more complicated than all this would suggest. The influence of sun and moon is constantly changing, varying with the phases of the moon, with the distance of moon and sun from the earth, and with the position of each to north or south of the equator. They are complicated further by the fact that every body of water, whether natural or artificial, has its own period of oscillation. Disturb its waters and they will move with a seesaw or rocking motion, with the most pronounced movement at the ends of the container, the least motion at the centre. Tidal scientists now believe that the ocean contains a number of 'basins,' each with its own period of oscillation determined by its length and depth. The disturbance that sets the water in motion is the attracting force of the moon and sun. But the kind of motion, that is, the period of the swing of the water, depends upon the physical dimensions of the basin.

What is the theme of the passage?

  1. The sun and the moon cause disturbance in the ocean water, which results in tides.

  2. The tides present a striking paradox: the force that sets them in motion is cosmic but the nature of the tide of any particular place is a local matter.

  3. The waxing and waning of the moon in its monthly cycle complicates the occurrence of tides.

  4. All of the above
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

This option sums up the idea of the passage. The sun and the moon do cause “the disturbance”, but the kind of motion depends on the type of basin.

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