Directions: Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Certain words are printed in bold to help you locate them while answering some of these. A lunar eclipse is a phenomenon that occurs when the moon moves into the earth's shadow. This occurs when the sun, earth, and moon get closely aligned . But have you ever wondered what impact this eclipse that falls on the night of a full moon, has on your health? Well, science has not been able to find any solid evidence connecting health issues with a lunar eclipse, but people across the world do feel that the eclipse poses certain risks to people's general well-being. Let's try and figure out the various assumptions related to the effects of Chandra Grahan on health.
Traditional beliefs indicate that the strong ultraviolet rays emitted during a lunar eclipse, make precooked food unsafe to consume. In fact, it is also believed that the eclipse also contaminates drinking water. It is also said that one should not look at the eclipse without protective gear as the radiation emitted could harm the eyes. But science doesn't back this theory since the moon doesn't emit strong light during a lunar eclipse hence it’s safe to look at it without any protective glass.
As per a study published in PubMed.gov, lunar eclipse does impact human sleep and is said to trigger sleep deprivation . As per the research, which was conducted on 33 people, it was found that an indicator of deep sleep was decreased by 30 percent and even the time to fall asleep was reduced by 5 minutes during a full moon. However, further research is underway to support the claim. Yet another study published in PubMed.gov titled ‘The Lunar Cycle: Effects on Human and Animal Behavior and Physiology’, claims that the lunar cycle may have an impact on human reproduction, including fertility, menstruation, and birth rate. The research indicates that the lunar cycle may also impact hormonal changes in insects and even the daily variations “in melatonin and corticosterone disappear during full-moon days in birds”. Another impact of the lunar cycle may be noted on laboratory rats when it comes to their taste sensitivity and even the ultrastructure of pineal gland cells which regulates melatonin. Several studies have shown that oysters have also fine-tuned their clock to the lunar rhythm.
What is the synonym for the word ' deprivation '?
penury
Deprivation: Understanding the Word's Meaning and Synonyms
The question asks us to identify the synonym for the word 'deprivation' as it is used in the provided passage about a lunar eclipse and its potential health impacts. Understanding the precise meaning of the word 'deprivation' is crucial to finding its correct synonym among the given options.
Defining Deprivation
The word 'deprivation' refers to the state of being without or denied something, especially something essential or important. It signifies a severe lack or absence of something needed for well-being or a comfortable life.
- In the passage, the phrase "sleep deprivation" is used, which means a lack of sufficient sleep.
- Thus, 'deprivation' in this context clearly indicates a state of not having something that is generally considered necessary.
Analyzing the Options for Deprivation
Let's examine each given option to determine which one is the most suitable synonym for 'deprivation'.
- 1. Penury: This word means extreme poverty; destitution; a severe lack of money or other resources. This meaning aligns very well with the core concept of 'deprivation', which is a severe lack or absence of something vital. Someone experiencing penury is indeed deprived of basic necessities.
- 2. Wealth: This term refers to an abundance of valuable possessions or money. This is clearly an antonym (opposite) of 'deprivation', as it signifies having a lot rather than a lack.
- 3. Possession: This refers to the state of having, owning, or controlling something. While it relates to 'having', it does not describe a lack. It is the act or state of possessing, which is contrary to being deprived.
- 4. Availability: This refers to the quality of being able to be used or obtained; readiness for use. If something is available, there is no 'deprivation' of that item. This is also an antonym to 'deprivation'.
- 5. Profit: This denotes a financial gain, especially the difference between the amount earned and the amount spent in buying, operating, or producing something. This word relates to financial gain and has no direct synonymic relationship with 'deprivation'.
Identifying the Correct Synonym for Deprivation
Based on the detailed analysis, 'penury' is the closest synonym to 'deprivation'. Both words convey a strong sense of lack, scarcity, or the state of being without something significant. While 'deprivation' can apply to various things (like sleep, rights, or resources), 'penury' specifically refers to a severe lack of resources, particularly financial, which is a direct form of deprivation.
Therefore, when seeking a word that signifies a severe lack or the state of being without, 'penury' is the most appropriate choice among the provided options.
Important Questions from Reading Comprehension
What is the meaning of ‘intrigued’?
What are ice shelves?
What are icebergs?
When the iceberg turns upside down, it appears ________.
The use of science in its simple form has helped man to ____________
