Question

The James Webb telescope, recently launched in space, is giving humankind unprecedented access to the depths of time by imaging very old stars formed almost 13 billion years ago. Astrophysicists and cosmologists believe that this odyssey in space may even shed light on the existence of dark matter. Dark matter is supposed to interact only via the gravitational interaction and not through the electromagnetic-, the weak- or the strong-interaction. This may justify the epithet “dark” in dark matter. Based on the above paragraph, which one of the following statements is FALSE?

• A. No other telescope has captured images of stars older than those captured by the James Webb telescope.
• B. People other than astrophysicists and cosmologists may also believe in the existence of dark matter.
• C. The James Webb telescope could be of use in the research on dark matter.
• D. If dark matter was known to interact via the strong-interaction, then the epithet “dark” would be justified.

Hint:

Dark matter is invisible because it interacts only through gravity, not through strong, weak, or electromagnetic forces.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the passage.
- The James Webb telescope has captured light from very old stars (around 13 billion years ago).
- Scientists believe it may help in dark matter studies.
- Dark matter is said to interact only through gravity and not via electromagnetic, weak, or strong interactions. This is why it is termed "dark".
Step 2: Analyze each option.
- (A) Correct: No other telescope has imaged such ancient stars, consistent with the passage.
- (B) Correct: While astrophysicists and cosmologists are mentioned, it is reasonable that others may also believe in dark matter.
- (C) Correct: The telescope may indeed be useful for dark matter research, as suggested.
- (D) False: If dark matter interacted via the strong interaction, it would no longer be “dark.” The epithet “dark” is justified only because it does not interact via electromagnetic, weak, or strong forces.
\[ \boxed{\text{False statement: (D)}} \]