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Question

The four sentences (labelled 1, 2, 3, and 4) given 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. As books age, the cellulose and lignin in the paper begin to break down, releasing a mix of volatile organic compounds into the air.

2. Old books carry a scent that many people instantly recognize—and even love.

3. These compounds are benzaldehyde, which gives off an almond-like scent, vanillin, which smells like vanilla, ethyl hexanol (floral scent), toluene (sweet), and furfural (which has a slightly bready scent).

4. This familiar aroma isn't just dust or mildew; it's actually a result of slow chemical changes happening inside the paper and ink.

This question was previously asked in
CAT 2025 Question Paper with Solution (30-Nov-2025) (Slot-3)
The correct answer is

2413

Sentence 2 introduces the topic: old books have a scent that many people recognise and love.

Sentence 4 refers back to it as "This familiar aroma" and says it comes from slow chemical changes in the paper and ink.

Sentence 1 explains those changes: cellulose and lignin break down and release volatile organic compounds.

Sentence 3 begins with "These compounds" and names them with their scents, so it comes last.

Hence, 2413.

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