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Question

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank. Centuries ago, Aryabhata, one of the most famous Indian mathematicians and astronomers (1)__________ the concept of zero, the base of the present (2)_______ system. With time, zero became a stepping stone to (3)_______ simplified computations, (4)______ the ways for development of algebra, algorithms and calculus, three pillars of modern mathematics, while eventually laying the (5)______ for computers.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.

This question was previously asked in
PYST : General Awareness - SSC Stenographer 2024 (Tier-I) (10-Dec-2024) (Shift 2)
The correct answer is

foundation

The correct answer is foundation.

The passage discusses the historical impact of the concept of zero, tracing its influence from its inception by Aryabhata to its crucial role in the development of modern mathematics and computing. The phrase "laying the ______ for computers" requires a word that signifies the groundwork or basis upon which something is built. "Foundation" perfectly fits this context, suggesting that zero provided the essential underlying structure for the development of computers. The other options are less suitable. "Activation" implies starting something, "creation" is too general, and "origin" while related, lacks the specific implication of providing a structural base.

The sentence implies a causal relationship between the discovery of zero and the eventual creation of computers. The word "foundation" best captures this relationship, highlighting zero's role as a fundamental building block for the development of modern computational technology. The sentence describes a process of development, and "foundation" accurately describes the foundational role zero plays in enabling this progression. Therefore, "foundation" is the most fitting and precise word to convey the crucial role of zero in the history of computing.

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