Read the passage and answer the questions based on it. You are required to select your answers based on the contents of the passage and opinion of the author only. For many years, ship captains navigating the waters of Antarctica have been intrigued by sightings of emerald icebergs. Scientists have now explained their mystery. There, icebergs are turned upside down. Icebergs are blocks of ice that have broken off huge slabs of frozen snow called ice shelves. Their green appearance results from seawater that has frozen at the bottom over hundreds of years. The frozen sea water has dissolved organic matter which gives it a yellow tone and the fresh water ‘ice shelf’ above has a blue tinge. When the iceberg turns upside down, it appears green through the visual mix of yellow with the blue from below.
What are icebergs?
Huge chunks of ice floating on water
Defining Icebergs Based on the Passage
This question requires us to identify the correct definition of icebergs, strictly based on the information provided in the passage about Antarctica and the phenomenon of emerald icebergs.
Understanding Icebergs from the Text
The passage provides a clear definition when discussing the composition and origin of these massive ice formations. It explicitly states: "Icebergs are blocks of ice that have broken off huge slabs of frozen snow called ice shelves." This sentence is key to answering the question.
Analyzing the Options in Detail
We need to evaluate each option against the definition and context given in the passage:
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Option 1: Huge chunks of ice floating on water
The passage defines icebergs as "blocks of ice". The phrase "huge chunks" serves as a suitable synonym for "blocks". Although the passage doesn't explicitly use the word "floating", the context of "ship captains navigating the waters of Antarctica" implies that these icebergs are indeed in the water, likely floating. This option closely matches the definition provided.
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Option 2: Frozen sea water
The passage mentions "seawater that has frozen at the bottom" as a factor contributing to the unique color of *emerald* icebergs. However, this is not presented as the general definition of an iceberg itself. The primary definition given focuses on ice originating from ice shelves.
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Option 3: Green ice
This option describes the color of specific icebergs, namely the "emerald icebergs" mentioned. The passage explains the reason for their green color. However, it does not generalize this characteristic to all icebergs. Therefore, "green ice" is not the fundamental definition of an iceberg.
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Option 4: Green yellow water below and blue above
This description relates to the visual appearance of an upside-down iceberg, as explained in the passage. It details the colour mix that makes the iceberg appear green. This is an observation about the appearance, not a definition of what an iceberg fundamentally is.
Conclusion on the Definition of Icebergs
Considering the passage's definition – "blocks of ice that have broken off huge slabs of frozen snow" – and the context of navigation in Antarctic waters, Option 1 provides the most accurate and relevant description. It correctly identifies icebergs as substantial pieces of ice found in water, aligning with the passage's information.
Similar Questions
What is the meaning of ‘intrigued’?
What are ice shelves?
When the iceberg turns upside down, it appears ________.
The use of science in its simple form has helped man to ____________
Nature now needs to be protected from man because _____________
Forests are being destroyed in order to ________
The evil effect of destroying Nature instead of using it is seen in _________
Climatic changes and soil erosion are results of _____________
Which of the following helps women most to achieve equality with men?
Why does the writer talk about the maidservant in the hotel lobby?
Important Questions from Reading Comprehension
What is the meaning of ‘intrigued’?
What are ice shelves?
When the iceberg turns upside down, it appears ________.
The use of science in its simple form has helped man to ____________
Nature now needs to be protected from man because _____________
