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Para-jumble Sentences
Question 19: The four sentences (labelled 1, 2, 3, 4) below, when properly sequenced would yield a coherent paragraph. Decide on the proper sequencing of the order of the sentences and key in the sequence of the four numbers as your answer:
1. Complex computational elements of the CNS are organized according to a ânestedâ hierarchic criterion; the organization is not permanent and can change dynamically from moment to moment as they carry out a computational task.
2. Echolocation in bats exemplifies adaptation produced by natural selection; a function not produced by natural selection for its current use is exaptation -- feathers might have originally arisen in the context of selection for insulation.
3. From a structural standpoint, consistent with exaptation, the living organism is organized as a complex of âRussian Matryoshka Dollsâ -- smaller structures are contained within larger ones in multiple layers.
4. The exaptation concept, and the Russian-doll organization concept of living beings deduced from studies on evolution of the various apparatuses in mammals, can be applied for the most complex human organ: the central nervous system (CNS).
Solution with Explanation
Correct Answer: 2431
Detailed Explanation by Wordpandit:
The most logical and coherent flow of ideas begins with Sentence 2, which introduces key evolutionary concepts like adaptation and exaptation using examples from nature such as bats and feathers. This serves as a conceptual base for the paragraph.
Next, Sentence 4 bridges these biological principles with their application to a specific and more complex domainâthe human central nervous system (CNS). It introduces the idea that concepts like exaptation and âRussian-dollâ structural organization are useful in understanding the CNS.
Following that, Sentence 3 explains the âRussian Matryoshka Dollsâ analogy in greater detail, making the concept of hierarchical biological structure more concrete by describing how smaller structures are nested within larger ones.
Finally, Sentence 1 brings the focus fully to the CNS. It ties together all the previous ideas by describing how the CNS is organized hierarchically (as in the Russian doll analogy) and adds that this organization is dynamic and adaptiveâjust as weâd expect from a complex organ shaped by evolutionary forces.
Thus, the correct and coherent order of the sentences is 2-4-3-1.
Word-1: Computational
Context:
"Complex computational elements of the CNS are organized according to a ânestedâ hierarchic criterion." - Neuroscience Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "computational" relates to the use or operation of computers and mathematical calculations. In the context of neuroscience, "computational elements" refer to brain processes that resemble the functions of a computerâtaking in information, processing it, and producing responses. "Computational" is a technical term used frequently in science and technology fields, often describing systems or models that perform or simulate logical or numerical operations.
Meaning: Related to the process of computing or using computers, especially for complex calculations (Adjective)
Pronunciation: kom-pyoo-TAY-shun-uhl
Difficulty Level: âââ Intermediate
Etymology: From "computation" (from Latin *computare*, meaning âto calculateâ) + "-al" (forming adjectives)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
âComputationalâ is like the brain wearing a computerâs hatâitâs all about how data or information is calculated, processed, and interpreted, whether by machines or by nature-inspired systems like the human brain.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: algorithmic, mathematical, data-driven, analytical
Antonyms: intuitive, emotional, analog
Usage Examples:
- Computational models are used to simulate weather patterns.
- The brain's computational ability far exceeds that of any current supercomputer.
- Computational thinking is now taught in many schools to develop logical problem-solving skills.
- Scientists use computational tools to analyze genetic data.
Cultural Reference:
"The rise of computational neuroscience has enabled researchers to model how neurons interact to produce behavior." - *Nature Reviews Neuroscience*
Think About It:
How does understanding something in computational terms change the way we interact with or design systemsâboth natural and artificial?
Quick Activity:
Think of one natural process (e.g., digestion, vision, memory). Describe in one sentence how it might be understood as a computational system.
Memory Tip:
Break it down: "Compute" = to calculate. So "computational" = anything related to doing calculations or logical processing. Imagine a brain made of circuitsâitâs both biological and computational!
Real-World Application:
Computational methods are used in artificial intelligence, brain research, economics, biology, physics, and even artâanywhere logical or mathematical models help explain complex systems or solve problems.
Word-2: Hierarchic
Context:
"Complex computational elements of the CNS are organized according to a ânestedâ hierarchic criterion." - Neuroscience Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "hierarchic" refers to an arrangement or system where elements are ranked according to levels of importance, power, or complexity. In the given context, it describes how the computational elements of the central nervous system (CNS) are structured in layers or levels, with simpler processes building up to more complex ones. This kind of organization is common in both natural systems (like biology) and human-made systems (like governments or corporations).
Meaning: Relating to or arranged in a hierarchyâa system with levels of importance or rank (Adjective)
Pronunciation: hy-uh-RAHR-kik
Difficulty Level: âââ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek âhierarkhiaâ meaning âsacred order,â from âhierosâ (sacred) + âarkhÄâ (rule)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
âHierarchicâ is all about structureâfrom a classroom to the brain, everything can be arranged in layers of importance or function. If you imagine a pyramid with the boss at the top and others below, thatâs a classic hierarchy.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: structured, layered, ranked, tiered
Antonyms: equal, flat, decentralized, non-hierarchical
Usage Examples:
- Most corporations follow a hierarchic model with top-level executives at the top.
- The brainâs functions are hierarchic, from basic reflexes to abstract thinking.
- Ancient societies were deeply hierarchic, with rulers and commoners having very different rights.
- Hierarchic systems help manage complex processes by organizing responsibilities.
Cultural Reference:
"In traditional Japanese companies, hierarchic respect plays a crucial role in daily operations and decision-making." - Harvard Business Review
Think About It:
Are hierarchic systems always efficient, or do they sometimes limit creativity and equal opportunity?
Quick Activity:
Draw a diagram of any hierarchic structure you know (e.g., school system, government, or workplace). Identify the top and bottom levels and their functions.
Memory Tip:
Think of âhierarchicâ as a hierarchy treeâmany levels, with power or function arranged from top to bottom. Like a CEO at the top and interns at the bottom!
Real-World Application:
Hierarchic systems are used in education, government, biology (like classification of species), corporate structures, military ranks, and neural networksâanywhere layered control or function is needed.
Word-3: Exaptation
Context:
"Echolocation in bats exemplifies adaptation produced by natural selection; a function not produced by natural selection for its current use is exaptation -- feathers might have originally arisen in the context of selection for insulation." - Evolutionary Biology Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Exaptation" is a term from evolutionary biology that describes a trait that originally evolved for one function but was later co-opted for another. Unlike adaptations, which arise through natural selection for their current role, exaptations were not selected for their present use. For example, feathers may have first evolved to keep animals warm (insulation) and were later used for flight. Exaptation reveals how evolution can repurpose existing features in novel and surprising ways.
Meaning: A trait that evolved for one purpose but was later used for another (Noun)
Pronunciation: ek-SAP-tay-shun
Difficulty Level: ââââ Advanced
Etymology: Coined in 1982 by Stephen Jay Gould and Elisabeth Vrba; from "ex-" (out of, from) + "adaptation"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of "exaptation" as evolutionâs version of creative recyclingânature develops something for one role, but then uses it in a completely different way. It's a powerful concept that shows how complex and flexible lifeâs development can be.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: evolutionary co-option, repurposing (in evolutionary context)
Antonyms: adaptation, purpose-built trait (in strict biological context)
Usage Examples:
- Feathers may have been an exaptation, originally evolving for warmth and later aiding in flight.
- Language might be an exaptation of neural structures originally evolved for other cognitive tasks.
- Some evolutionary theorists study the role of exaptations in complex traits like vision or hearing.
- The repurposing of gill arches into jawbones is a classic example of biological exaptation.
Cultural Reference:
"Exaptation challenges the idea that every trait evolved strictly for its current function." - Stephen Jay Gould, *Natural History Magazine*
Think About It:
Can you think of human inventions or technologies that started with one purpose but became valuable in a completely different contextâour own versions of exaptations?
Quick Activity:
Choose one body part or feature (e.g., hands, teeth, skin) and research or imagine a past function it might have had that differs from how it is used today.
Memory Tip:
âEx-â means "out of" and âaptationâ connects to "adaptation"âso exaptation = a trait that came *out of* one use and was adapted for another!
Real-World Application:
Understanding exaptation helps scientists interpret how complex traits may evolve, even when their origins donât seem directly tied to their current use. Itâs useful in evolutionary biology, cognitive science, and even innovation studies in technology and design.
Word-4: Insulation
Context:
"Echolocation in bats exemplifies adaptation produced by natural selection; a function not produced by natural selection for its current use is exaptation -- feathers might have originally arisen in the context of selection for insulation." - Evolutionary Biology Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Insulation" refers to the process or material used to prevent the transfer of heat, sound, or electricity. In biology, insulation often describes a trait or adaptationâlike fur, fat, or feathersâthat helps organisms maintain body temperature by preventing heat loss. In the provided context, feathers may have initially evolved to insulate birds or their ancestors before being used for flight. The term is also widely used in engineering and architecture for maintaining temperature or blocking noise.
Meaning: The act of preventing the passage of heat, sound, or electricity; or the material used to do this (Noun)
Pronunciation: in-suh-LAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin *insula* (island), implying separation or isolation; later evolved to mean protection from external forces
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of insulation as a warm blanketâwhether it's feathers on a bird, foam in a wall, or gloves in winter, the goal is to keep whatâs inside warm (or cool) by blocking whatâs outside. In biology, itâs survival through protection.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: protection, shielding, buffering, padding
Antonyms: exposure, conductivity, permeability
Usage Examples:
- The thick fur of polar bears provides excellent insulation in the Arctic cold.
- Modern homes use fiberglass for thermal insulation to reduce energy costs.
- The coatâs inner layer offers strong insulation against harsh winter winds.
- Feathers originally served as insulation before evolving for flight in birds.
Cultural Reference:
"Good insulation can cut energy bills significantly, making it both an economic and environmental necessity." - *National Geographic Green Living*
Think About It:
What kinds of âinsulationâ do we create in our emotional or social lives to protect ourselves from external stress or discomfort?
Quick Activity:
List three materials used for insulation in homes or buildings. Then, list two examples of biological insulation in animals.
Memory Tip:
Think of âinsulationâ as making something like an islandâprotected and separate from its surroundings, just like feathers kept ancient creatures warm.
Real-World Application:
Insulation is crucial in biology (for thermoregulation), construction (for energy efficiency), electronics (to prevent shocks), and even psychology (emotional insulation in high-stress jobs).
Word-5: Deduced
Context:
"The exaptation concept, and the Russian-doll organization concept of living beings deduced from studies on evolution of the various apparatuses in mammals, can be applied for the most complex human organ: the central nervous system (CNS)." - Evolutionary Neuroscience Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Deduced" means to arrive at a conclusion through logical reasoning, especially by using known facts or evidence. In the context provided, it refers to scientists forming conclusions about the organization of living systems by analyzing evolutionary patterns. To deduce something is not to guess randomly, but to use reasoning based on available data to uncover something deeper or not immediately obvious.
Meaning: Concluded or inferred by reasoning from known facts or evidence (Verb â past tense)
Pronunciation: dih-DOOST
Difficulty Level: ââ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin *deducere* meaning âto lead or draw down,â from *de-* (down) + *ducere* (to lead)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
To deduce is to act like a detectiveâpiecing together clues to form a conclusion. Whether in science, literature, or daily life, deduction helps us make sense of the world through logic and evidence.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: inferred, reasoned, concluded, derived
Antonyms: guessed, speculated, assumed without basis
Usage Examples:
- From the footprints in the mud, the biologist deduced that a large animal had passed through.
- They deduced the structure of DNA by analyzing X-ray images.
- He deduced from her tone that she was unhappy, even though she didnât say it directly.
- The researchers deduced a shared ancestry between species based on fossil evidence.
Cultural Reference:
"You know my methods, Watson. Apply them." â Sherlock Holmes, famous for using logical reasoning to deduce the truth.
Think About It:
Whatâs the difference between deducing something and guessing it? Why does this distinction matter in science and daily decisions?
Quick Activity:
Look at the room youâre in and deduce three things about the people who use it regularly, based only on what you see.
Memory Tip:
Think of âdeducedâ as âled downâ a logical pathââdeâ (down) + âducedâ (led). It's how you lead your mind from facts to a conclusion.
Real-World Application:
Deduction is used in science, law, medicine, literature, and daily problem-solvingâwherever you need to make informed conclusions based on evidence and logic rather than instinct or emotion.
