Question

The passage is primarily concerned with

• A. explaining difficulties involved in cultivating domestic fowl.
• B. explaining the origin of passive diffusion as a method of respiration.
• C. explaining the processes of gas and water diffusion in eggs.
• D. distinguishing between passive diffusion and active respiration.

Hint:

When solving passage-based questions, focus on the recurring keywords and the logical flow of the passage. Eliminate options that are mentioned only incidentally or partially.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Identify the main theme of the passage.
The passage introduces the bird egg as a self-contained system and emphasizes its need for oxygen. It then carefully explains how oxygen enters and carbon dioxide exits through diffusion. Later, it explains the water loss process, which is essential for hatching. Thus, the main focus is on the processes of gas and water diffusion. Step 2: Analyze each option.
- Option (a): Incorrect, because the passage does not discuss farming or cultivation issues.
- Option (b): Incorrect, because the passage does not trace the \emph{origin} of diffusion, it only explains its role in eggs.
- Option (d): Incorrect, because while passive diffusion is contrasted briefly with active respiration, this is not the central concern.
- Option (c): Correct, because the entire passage centers on how gases and water diffuse through the egg shell. Step 3: Confirm the reasoning.
The keywords in the passage — ``diffusion,'' ``oxygen uptake,'' ``carbon dioxide release,'' and ``water loss of 15 percent'' — all point directly to option (c). Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{(c) explaining the processes of gas and water diffusion in eggs}} \]