Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify the "odd one out" from a list of four types of snakes. This requires classifying the snakes based on a common characteristic and finding the one that does not fit the classification.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The most common and significant way to classify snakes, especially in a general context, is by whether they are venomous or non-venomous.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze each snake based on its venom:
- (A) Cobra: Cobras are highly venomous snakes, part of the Elapidae family, known for their neurotoxic venom.
- (B) Krait: Kraits are also highly venomous snakes, belonging to the same Elapidae family as cobras, and possess a potent neurotoxin.
- (C) Rat Snake: Rat snakes are non-venomous snakes. They are constrictors, killing their prey by squeezing them. They are common in many parts of the world and are often beneficial as they control rodent populations.
- (D) Viper: Vipers are a family of highly venomous snakes (Viperidae) found worldwide. They are known for their long, hinged fangs and hemotoxic venom.
The common property among Cobra, Krait, and Viper is that they are all highly venomous snakes. The Rat Snake is the only non-venomous snake in the list.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The Rat Snake is the odd one out because it is non-venomous, while the other three are venomous. This corresponds to option (C).