Q:
In the following question, a passage is given which describes a situation. From the given options, mark the correct inference that can be drawn from the passage. If none of the inferences follow, mark option 5, “None of these” as the answer.
In nearly all human populations a majority of individuals can taste the artificially synthesized chemical phenylthiocarbonide (PTC). However, the percentage varies dramatically-- from as low as 60% in India to as high as 95% in Africa. That this polymorphism is observed in non- human primates as well indicates a long evolutionary history which, although obviously not acting on PTC, might reflect evolutionary selection for taste discrimination of other, more significant bitter substances, such as certain toxic plants.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: C) Only a minority of the human population have an indeterminant taste profile.
Explanation: The passage clearly states that several characteristics are shared between humans and primates with respect to their taste profiles. It also states that it is because of evolution. But to infer that both species share the same profile would be incorrect making option a incorrect. The passage is all about the human ability to discern different tastes. One cannot infer about the likability of certain tastes from the given passage making option 2 incorrect. In the first sentence itself the passage talks about how majority of the human population can taste a certain artificial flavour. Thus, it can be inferred that majority of the human population have a determinant taste profile making the opposite as stated in option 3 also correct. This also makes option 4 incorrect.
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