RC: History - 5 | Verbal Ability (VA) & Reading Comprehension (RC) - CAT PDF Download

Passage

Direction: The passage below is accompanied by a set of questions. Choose the best answer to each question.
The Industrial Revolution, a period of rapid industrialization from the late 18th to the early 19th century, transformed societies from agrarian economies into industrial powerhouses. Originating in Great Britain, the revolution quickly spread to other parts of Europe and North America, fundamentally altering the global economic landscape.
The advent of new manufacturing processes and technologies, such as the steam engine, spinning jenny, and power loom, revolutionized production methods. These innovations led to the growth of factories and mass production, significantly increasing output and efficiency.
While the Industrial Revolution spurred unprecedented economic growth and technological advancement, it also brought profound social changes. Urbanization accelerated as people moved from rural areas to cities in search of work in factories. This migration resulted in overcrowded cities, often with poor living conditions.
The working class, including women and children, faced long hours, low wages, and dangerous working conditions. This exploitation eventually led to the rise of labor movements and the introduction of labor laws to protect workers' rights.
The Industrial Revolution also had environmental repercussions. The reliance on coal as a primary energy source led to increased air and water pollution, setting the stage for modern environmental challenges.
Despite its mixed legacy, the Industrial Revolution laid the groundwork for the modern world, shaping economic structures, social dynamics, and technological progress that continue to influence our lives today.

Q1: Based on the passage, which of the following statements can be regarded as true?
(a) The Industrial Revolution decreased the efficiency of production methods.
(b) The steam engine played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution.
(c) Urbanization slowed down during the Industrial Revolution.
(d) The Industrial Revolution had no impact on environmental conditions.

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Q2: Which one of the following statements, if false, could be seen as contradicting the facts/arguments in the passage? 
(a) The Industrial Revolution began in South America and spread to Asia.
(b) The introduction of labor laws was influenced by the exploitation of workers during the Industrial Revolution.
(c) Technological advancements were a hallmark of the Industrial Revolution.
(d) The Industrial Revolution only brought positive changes to society.

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Q3: "The working class, including women and children, faced long hours, low wages, and dangerous working conditions." In the context of the passage, which one of the following is not a possible implication of the quoted statement?
(a) Labor movements arose as a reaction to the exploitation of workers.
(b) All workers during the Industrial Revolution enjoyed high wages and job security.
(c) The introduction of labor laws was a consequence of the need to protect workers' rights.
(d) Children were part of the workforce during the Industrial Revolution.

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Q4: Which one of the following statements would be an accurate inference from the description of the Industrial Revolution's impact on society?
(a) The Industrial Revolution had no significant technological or economic impact.
(b) Environmental concerns were a major priority during the Industrial Revolution.
(c) The Industrial Revolution led to the growth of factories and mass production.
(d) Rural areas saw an increase in population during the Industrial Revolution.

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