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UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY20235 Marks
Q31.

If water freezes, it (turn) to ice.

How to Approach

This question tests basic English grammar, specifically the correct tense usage. The approach is straightforward: identify the conditional sentence structure, understand the zero conditional, and fill in the blank with the correct form of the verb 'turn'. The answer should be concise and grammatically accurate. No complex analysis or contextualization is required. Focus on demonstrating a firm grasp of fundamental English grammar rules.

Model Answer

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Introduction

Conditional sentences are a fundamental aspect of English grammar, expressing relationships between events and their consequences. The zero conditional, in particular, describes general truths or habits – situations where one event *always* results in another. These sentences typically use the present simple tense in both the 'if' clause and the main clause. Understanding these structures is crucial for clear and accurate communication, and forms the basis for more complex grammatical constructions. This question tests the ability to correctly apply the zero conditional.

If water freezes, it turns to ice.

Explanation

The sentence is a zero conditional. Zero conditionals are used to express general truths, scientific facts, or habits. The structure is:

  • If + present simple, present simple

In this case, the 'if' clause is "If water freezes" (present simple). Therefore, the main clause must also be in the present simple. The correct form of the verb 'turn' in the present simple is 'turns'.

Why other options are incorrect:

  • "turned" – This is the past simple, which would be used in a different type of conditional sentence.
  • "is turning" – This is the present continuous, which doesn't fit the general truth context.
  • "will turn" – This is the future simple, used in first conditional sentences expressing likely outcomes.

The sentence expresses a universally accepted scientific fact: freezing water invariably transforms into ice. The use of the present simple in both clauses accurately reflects this consistent relationship.

Grammatical Structure Breakdown

The sentence follows the standard structure of a zero conditional:

Clause Tense Function
If water freezes Present Simple Condition
it turns to ice Present Simple Result

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correct completion of the sentence is "If water freezes, it turns to ice." This demonstrates a fundamental understanding of the zero conditional in English grammar, which is essential for expressing general truths and scientific facts. The accurate application of the present simple tense in both clauses ensures grammatical correctness and clarity.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Present Simple Tense
The present simple tense is used to describe habits, general truths, and facts. It is formed using the base form of the verb (or adding -s/-es for third-person singular).

Key Statistics

Approximately 71% of the Earth's surface is covered by water, much of which undergoes freezing and thawing cycles.

Source: US Geological Survey (as of knowledge cutoff 2023)

The global ice volume is estimated to be around 28.1 million cubic kilometers.

Source: National Snow and Ice Data Center (as of knowledge cutoff 2023)

Examples

Iceberg Formation

The formation of icebergs is a direct result of water freezing. Glacial ice breaks off and forms icebergs, demonstrating the principle in a large-scale natural phenomenon.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the difference between a zero conditional and a first conditional?

A zero conditional describes general truths (always happens), while a first conditional describes possible future events (likely to happen).

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