Answer: Option C. -> Knowledge
:
C
Option C. Erudition- the word stands for deep extensive learning. The author in the line says that in the sixteenth century, many scholars with deep knowledge had modest means of living. Hence option C fits in correctly.

Answer: Option B. -> intellectuals can earn a good living
:
B
Option B The question is whether one can get quick returns of interest (make money) from the capital of knowledge and learning (from one’s education). In the passage, the author is apprehensive of the fact whether one’s intellectual abilities can earn him a good living. Hence option B.

Answer: Option B. -> feeling of helplessness
:
B
Option (B)
The last sentence states that nagging is a constant reminder to the child of his or her lack of self control. Option B is the closest to this view. Option A can be eliminated as the passage does not talk about the child reacting to such nagging. Nothing in the passage says the child will persist in the task. Option C is eliminated. Options D is beyond the scope of the passage.

Answer: Option D. -> mystery and irony
:
D
Option D. Look at the lines “ many readers are convinced that the compelling mysteries ..” and “Both novelists use a storytelling method that emphasizes ironic disjunction..”. From this we can conclude that the author recognizes mystery and irony as the notable elements of the two novels.

Answer: Option C. -> People being uncertain about some events and superstitions providing easy explanations.
:
C
Option C. The author is of the opinion that once people are not able to explain any strange event, their minds become uncomfortable. They, in the state of uncertainty, are open to any kind of explanations and superstitions provide easy explanations. Hence option C.

Answer: Option A. -> supported his theory of coaction effect.
:
A
Option (a) It has been stated in the passage clearly that Triplett’s experiment results confirmed his theory. Option (c) is not true as it was Triplett’s observation that cyclists raced harder against each other that led to his experiment in the first place. The author does not discuss about audience effect in the passage and option (d) is hence irrelevant.

Answer: Option B. -> understood the nature of celebrity
:
B
Option B.
The passage says that Einstein found fame incomprehensible, but that Chaplin was worldly-wise, and Chaplin’s response to Einstein demonstrates that he understands the nature of celebrity. Moreover the passage states that Einstein was bewildered seeing the crowds surge him but Chaplin was not. This makes option (b) correct.

Answer: Option B. -> Most compounds containing carbon are unavailable as energy sources except to some bacteria and fungi.
:
B
Option (B)
In the passage, the author says that bacteria and fungi act as catalysts in oxidation of inert products ultimately leading to release of carbon dioxide. Inert compounds are those which do not react with other compounds. As per option B, most compounds containing carbon cannot be used as energy sources by organisms except bacteria and fungi. This would strengthen the author’s opinion that bacteria and fungi play a crucial role.

Answer: Option B. -> Since hybrid vehicles use less gasoline and put fewer emissions into the atmosphere than conventional vehicles, they are better for drivers and for the environment.
:
B
The correct answer is B.
In the last paragraph, the author make these points-“Since hybrid vehicles use less gasoline than conventional vehicles, they put fewer emissions into the atmosphere than conventional vehicles do.” “Hybrid vehicles are an example of an energy–efficient technology that is good for both consumers and the environment”

Answer: Option B. -> genuine
:
B
Option(B)
Maria explains in the letter that closing the museum on Saturdays would create a hardship for Maria and other working people who can only enjoy the museum on Saturdays. Maria then offers a solution to the problem: the town could increase taxes on the residents to create enough revenue to keep the museum open. Finally, Maria asks the people of the town to contact their representatives to request more money so the museum can stay open on Saturdays. Since Maria has explained her problem and offered solutions, it can be inferred that Maria sincerely wants the museum to remain open on Saturdays. The tone of the letter is genuine. Therefore (B) is correct.